《I'm Sorry My Love Novel》


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1


    ¡®Happy third wedding anniversary! Doe home earlier. I think you¡¯ll like the surprise I¡¯ve prepared.¡¯


    After sending the message out, Leanna McKinney ced her phone down before reentering the


    kitchen. She turned the stove off and proceeded to slice the vegetables while still having fun despite


    the busy moments of preparing a special dinner. It was as if the ignored message did not affect her


    mood at all. A servant who was standing beside Leanna then offered her assistance. ¡°Madam, let me


    help you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright. You can work on other things. I want to personally cook for him tonight.¡± In


    response, the servant replied enviously, ¡°Madam, you and Master really do love each other very much.¡±


    Leanna did not respond as she pursed her lips. Do Aidan and I look in love? More like an act rather


    than love¡­ At 7.00PM, the servant cleared the area knowingly as the man of the house, Aidan


    Pearson, arrived home. Just as Leanna finished setting up the table, the heat radiating from the man


    shrouded her from behind before he held her jaw and violently kissed her lips. Stunned for a split


    second, she then quickly pushed him away. While holding onto her waist, Aidan pinched her chin and


    uttered emotionlessly, ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me to get back earlier for this?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t. It¡¯s our third wedding


    anniversary today, so I really do have a present for you.¡± Her voice was melodious when she exined.


    After hearing that, he let go of her before adjusting his slightly wrinkled shirt and said, ¡°I don¡¯t need any


    presents from you. After all, you¡¯ve given me more shocks than surprises.¡± At that, she could only smirk


    as she went into the kitchen instead of rebuking him. Soon, thest dish made its way to the table.


    Leanna sat opposite Aidan as she poured red wine for him, then for herself. With her ss raised in the


    air, she stated, ¡°Cheers to our third anniversary.¡± Under the light, one could see the man¡¯s handsome


    features with his pursed lips and slight frown, which hinted that he was not satisfied about this. Yet,


    Leanna only smiled at this as she did not expect any response from him, so she raised the ss and


    drank it all at once. After downing the winess, she poured another serving for herself. Just like that,


    she kept on drinking ss after ss¡­ In the end, the tipsy Leanna plopped on the dining table and


    looked at the stoic man before slurring her words at him, ¡°Hey, Aidan. Can¡¯t you even give me a smile


    on a day like this?¡± ¡°What do you expect me to do? Get drunk and crazy like you? Or continue sitting


    through this extremely boring anniversary?¡± ¡°How is this boring? Not everyone gets to celebrate their


    wedding anniversaries, you know? Perhaps, this might even be ourst one.¡± Aidan snorted lightly like


    he had heard a joke. ¡°Will you let that happen, then?¡± Waving the cup in her hand, Leanna became


    teary-eyed. ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t think I will.¡± At that moment, the man had had enough of this conversation and


    stood up to head upstairs. Pulling his tie off in frustration, he took off his suit jacket and wanted to


    remove his shirt before a pair of soft hands held him, apanied by a strong scent of alcohol.


    Standing behind him, Leanna drunkenly said, ¡°Don¡¯t be in such a rush. You haven¡¯t got my present


    yet¡­¡± Her words made Aidan turn around with his hands in his pocket while he looked at her silently.


    With reddened cheeks, she gazed at him innocently with her puppy eyes, forming an irresistible eye


    contact. Aidan could not help but instinctively gulp at the sight of that. As much as he tried not to admit


    it, the woman in front of him was a true beauty that would make any man¡¯s heart skip a beat.


    Otherwise, he would not have found himself caught in her trap back then. As he looked down, his eyes


    landed on her luscious lips that were dyed even redder by the wine. The moment her hands slipped


    under his shirt, Aidan immediately lifted her chin and smacked her lips apart with his. The slight pain


    made Leanna groan softly. Once they were on the bed, her gaze became lost as her hands were


    merely holding onto his neck. The man then held her sides and raised his eyebrow with a hint of silent


    mockery. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you don¡¯t want this?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you know that a woman always says the opposite


    of her wishes?¡± With a coldugh, he kissed her again. Leanna was being extra proactive tonight as


    she had torn his lips with her teeth while the two kissed in the faint smell of blood. This kiss was more


    like a fight in which whoever won would take the lead. Just as he was about to retrieve the condoms


    from the nightstand, she suddenly announced, ¡°Aidan, let¡¯s divorce.¡± The man on top of her stopped in


    his tracks. ¡°What did you say?¡± Although she knew he had heard it loud and clear, she still repeated,


    ¡°Let¡¯s get a divorce.¡± In an instant, Aidan lost all interest as he rose slowly from the bed and replied in a


    cold tone, ¡°How much do you want this time?¡± The tricks up her sleeve just to get money from me¡­ I


    swear. ¡°I don¡¯t want a single penny.¡± From under her pillow, Leanna took out a document of divorce


    agreement. ¡°Have a look at it. If everything¡¯s in order, then you can just sign it.¡± With a solemn look on


    his face, Aidan warned, ¡°You better stop this now, Leanna McKinney. I¡¯m not in the mood for games.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that there¡¯ll be a surprise tonight? See, isn¡¯t this something worth celebrating?¡± He


    looked at her emotionlessly while feeling strangely annoyed at the smile on her face. She then


    continued with augh, ¡°I wish you a happy life after divorce, Aidan.¡± After a few seconds of thought, he


    finally replied, ¡°Are you being serious right now?¡± Leanna nodded. ¡°Now, this really is a surprise, isn¡¯t


    it?¡± ¡°Alright. Make sure you don¡¯t regret it.¡± After leaving this statement, he mmed the door shut and


    left coldly. Looking down at the divorce agreement that Aidan did not even spare a nce at, she finally


    let out a grin after a long while. I also wish you a happy life after divorce, Leanna. That same night,


    Leanna had finished packing her stuff, which only filled up one luggage bag. As for all the shoes, bags,


    essories, and clothes that Aidan bought for her, she did not even take one of those. After all, they


    were given to her unwillingly. Upon their divorce, she found these morous objects to be


    ostentatious. In her eyes, they were useless. Before she left, Leanna looked at the divorce paperwork


    left on the cold table, which she then chose to pick up eventually. While passing through the dining


    area, she took a look at the dining table and found that Aidan¡¯s cutleries were squeaky clean as if it


    was not even touched at all. It seemed like this year¡¯s wedding anniversary was not as eptable as


    she imagined. Fortunately, this is also our divorce anniversary. Aidan might even get augh out of this


    when he looks back on this in the future. This might have been the most satisfying thing she had done


    in a long while after she was married. As she was sitting in the cab and staring at the passing scenery


    outside the window, she finally felt a sense of burden being released. After being a rich and glorious


    knock-off Madam for the past three years, it was time to return to the slums. Where I belong.


    Next Chapter

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2


    After knowing that Leanna requested a divorce, as her best friend, Zoe Hart took about ten minutes of


    her time cursing the heck out of Aidan before she finally asked, ¡°That b*stard really didn¡¯t offer you a


    single penny? Do you know how much he pays those models he¡¯s screwing around with? He¡¯s actually


    such a miser to his own wife.¡± ¡°He¡¯s not a miser. Besides, I have been taking quite an amount of money


    from him thesest three years. It¡¯s actually quite fortunate that he didn¡¯t want it all back.¡¯ ¡°You can¡¯t


    possibly think like that. You guys are husband and wife; his money is yours and your money is still


    yours! Besides, he screws you for free everyday, so what¡¯s wrong with spending a bit of his money?¡±


    Leanna felt her eye twitch. ¡°Can you tone it down?¡± After Zoe calmed down, she responded, ¡°I


    apologize for not controlling my rage.¡± While lying on the couch, Leanna cursed angrily as she could


    not suppress the urge anymore. ¡°Do you know what that son of a b*tch told me today when I asked for


    the divorce? He asked me how much I wanted from him! He didn¡¯t even care to nce at the divorce


    paper and yet, he had the audacity to assume my greed over his assets? Did he have to go that far?¡±


    ¡°That reminds me, why did you want a divorce? You should just drag this on and see who gives up


    first.¡± After hearing that, Leannaposed herself and replied, ¡°Oh. That¡¯s because Mia¡¯s pregnant.¡±


    Mia rk was a model on the rise recently and she had been getting a bit too intimate with Aidan to the


    point where even the blind knew something was up. After marrying for three years, Leanna knew just


    how much he detested her as it was considered very generous of him toe home twice every


    month. Even when they were doing the deed, it was purely physical without an ounce of feeling. He


    wanted to make her suffer by any means possible. Since Mia was not the first woman to have intimate


    rtionships with him, Leanna did not really care for this. Yet, this all changed when she was happily


    picking out a present for their third anniversary a week prior before Mia suddenly appeared in front of


    her with a pregnancy report and stated haughtily, ¡°I¡¯m pregnant now, so it¡¯s time for you to vacate the


    position of Mrs. Pearson to me.¡± After seeing the pregnancy report, Leanna found that the years of


    deceiving herself hade back to haunt her. Those memories washed over her as if they were telling


    her something. Leanna, don¡¯t you think that this woman in front of you is shameless and disgusting?


    But wait. Didn¡¯t you get married to Aidan by using the same method? A child for a marriage in


    return. You made him feel disgusted too. Now, it was just another person using her methods. However,N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Zoe was livid upon hearing this. ¡°How are these two matters the same? When you were married to


    Aidan, he was still single back then. On the other hand, Mia knew about the two of you, yet she chose


    to do this. She¡¯s just a shameless hussy!¡± ¡°Whatever. It all doesn¡¯t matter anyway,¡± Leanna concluded.


    ¡°Actually, I haven¡¯t had a good night¡¯s sleep in the three years I¡¯ve been married to him. No matter how


    you spin it, he was indeed forced to marry me back then. It¡¯s quite nice now that we¡¯re divorced as I


    don¡¯t owe him anything.¡± After insulting both Mia and Aidan for half an hour, Zoe finally brought the


    sleepy Leanna to the bedroom. ¡°You can stay here for now since my boyfriend isn¡¯t around anyway. I¡¯m


    actually kind of scared to live in such a huge house alone.¡± A yawning Leanna nodded. ¡°Goodnight.¡±


    The next afternoon, the divorce agreement appeared on Aidan¡¯s office table. With Leanna¡¯s signature


    at the bottom of the paper, it felt like a protest remark at him. Jonathan Stoll looked at his employer¡¯s


    stern expression before he stepped up and said, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯ve just confirmed with the


    personnel at Castor Vi. They mentioned that the madam moved out yesterday night. Besides her


    personal belongings, she didn¡¯t take anything else.¡± Closing the divorce documents, Aidan threw it to


    one side. ¡°Moving out without taking a single thing? Tell me, what game do you think she¡¯s ying at


    this time?¡± Yet, Jonathan did not respond to him. It¡¯s not like she¡¯s my wife. How would I know anything


    about that? Since he did not expect to hear anything constructive from Jonathan, he faintly instructed,


    ¡°You can leave now.¡± After taking two steps forward, Jonathan turned back and informed, ¡°President


    Pearson, the custom ne from Aeras has arrived. Do you still¡­¡± This ne was supposed to


    be a gift from Aidan to Leanna for their third anniversary. Clearly, it looked like they would not be


    needing it anymore. ¡°Dump it.¡± There were no emotions found in those words. Jonathan replied,


    ¡°Understood.¡± After he exited the room, Aidan picked up the divorce agreement again and looked at the


    signature before sneering coldy. A woman who would sacrifice herself just to y out a perfect ploy to


    trap me into saving her¡­ and forcing me to marry her because of a child¡­ How could a person as evil


    and calctive as her ever have a turn of heart? She must have had a new intention, a new goal per


    se. Not hesitating to crush the document into a bundle, he promptly threw it into the trash can. ¡­ On


    the other hand, Leanna, who had been waiting at home for a few days now, did not receive any reply


    from Aidan as her message was left unseen. On the first day, she wrote, ¡®Did you receive the divorce


    documents? I¡¯ve already signed it. Please tell me when you have the time so that we can go to the Civil


    Bureau Affairs to officiate it. Okay?¡¯ The text was polite and caring. On the second day came another


    message. ¡®Hello. Did you see my message? Is there anything you¡¯re unhappy about the divorce


    terms?¡¯ The words were bolder as it prodded at his reaction. On the third day¡­ ¡®President Pearson, I


    know you¡¯re a busy man, but could you please take some time out to go through this divorce with me?¡¯


    Leanna still chose to maintain her patience. On the fourth day¡­ ¡®Aidan Pearson, can you not drag this


    on any longer than it needs to? If you really hate my guts that much, then just get on with this and I


    promise you that we¡¯ll never see each other again. Thank you!!!¡¯ If I can¡¯t bear it anymore, then I simply


    don¡¯t have to. On the fifth day¡­ ¡®You have been temporarily blocked by this user. Please try again


    later.¡¯ Hmph. B*stard. cing her phone down, Leanna immediately stood up and decided to head to


    Patheon Club. However, it seemed that she was out of luck as she failed to bump into Aidan. Instead,


    she bumped into his soon-to-be wife. Mia, who was originally here to eat with her friends, arrived at the


    entrance only to see Leanna standing there. With a sneerugh, she walked over in her heels and


    mocked, ¡°Oh, no. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re still not over Aidan and are here to search for him?¡± Leanna


    nced at her without saying a word. Yet, her subdued attitude only made Mia bolder. ¡°How can you


    be this shameless? I already told you I¡¯m pregnant, but you¡¯re still clinging onto the position of Mrs.


    Pearson. Gosh, do you know just how pathetic you look?!¡±

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3


    ¡°Oh, really? Well, perhaps I am¡­ But I will never be as shameless as a hussy who¡¯s a homewrecker¡­¡±


    Only a few secondster did Mia finally react to Leanna¡¯s calm pback. With an awful expression, she


    raised her hand and intended on striking Leanna. Yet, Leanna grabbed onto her wrist and gave her a


    tight p in return. ¡°The only reason why I kept myposurest time was because of Aidan¡¯s child


    that you¡¯ve sessfully carried. That¡¯s on you and I give you credit for that. But, that doesn¡¯t mean you


    get to brag about it in my face all the darn time. What, you think that being a mistress should be


    something to be proud of now?¡± At that moment, the p had gathered the attention of the bystanders.


    Embarrassed yet still angry, Mia wanted to withdraw her hand from Leanna, but she could not seem to


    overpower her. Out of helplessness, she shouted in fury, ¡°How dare you nder me like this! I¡¯m not


    some mistress! You¡¯re the one who¡¯s been hogging the status of being his wife! Do you know how


    much Aidan hates you?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you think your wordsck a little sense? Regardless whether I¡¯m


    hogging the status or not, I am still Aidan¡¯s legal wife. On that topic, I do have to thank you though,


    seeing how the baby in your womb is a perfect proof of his infidelity. Do you want to wager if I can win


    thewsuit? I can even make him go bankrupt if you¡¯re interested in ying this game.¡± In utter


    disbelief, Mia stared back at her. ¡°You wouldn¡¯t da¡ª¡± ¡°Oh, I would.¡± Although it was at the height of


    summer, the masculine voice that suddenly came from behind Leanna sent shivers down her spine,


    making her feel like it was winter instead. The stunned Leanna then let go of Mia¡¯s hand. Mia, who


    immediately ran to Aidan¡¯s side, held her cheek that was still hot from the p as tears were streaming


    down her pitiful face. After taking a look at her, Aidan directed his gaze toward Leanna. With a cold


    piercing stare, he uttered emotionlessly, ¡°Do you need my help to introduce awyer to you?¡± Smirking


    in response, she replied, ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± Are you kidding me? Where do I have the money to afford


    thiswsuit that will not only waste my time but also my strength?! All she wanted was to scare Mia a


    bit. Taking a step toward her, he lowered his head slightly and whispered, ¡°So, this is what you meant in


    the divorce agreement? By leaving this marriage without a single penny?¡± Leanna looked up only to


    see the undisguised mockery in his gaze, which instantly made her understand his words. ¡°That¡¯s not it.


    I¡ª¡± She tried to rebuke before getting interrupted. ¡°Now that money can¡¯t satisfy you anymore, what


    you want is the entire Pearson Group, right?¡± Aidan continued without waiting for her to reply,


    ¡°Otherwise, why would you go through all the trouble with this so-called divorce?¡± Why else but to favor


    you two lowlifes? ¡°Leanna, aren¡¯t you overestimating yourself? If I was to sign the agreement, you


    would only stand to lose.¡± Please, just be like a man. Give me the release I need and not just empty


    promises. She then met his mocking gaze and smiled. ¡°Then, I would like you to quickly sign it,


    President Pearson. I¡¯ll see you at the Civil Affairs Bureau.¡± Aidan rebuked coldly, ¡°What are you going


    to do after I sign it? Are you going to sue me using the divorce agreement as evidence?¡± While


    maintaining her smile, Leanna exined, ¡°I think you¡¯re overthinking this yourself, President Pearson.


    Can¡¯t we just stop tormenting each other at this point? If you really feel uneasy about this, I can draft a


    guarantee that states that I won¡¯t be asking even a penny from you under any use or aim. I¡¯ll even


    stamp it with my thumbprint and sign my full signature. Such a legal document should satisfy you, no?¡±


    Surprised by her eagerness to draw lines with him, Aidan felt like she was in a rush to get away from


    him. As such, his brows slightly furrowed and his lips pursed in silence. Seeing how long they had been


    arguing, Mia went up to him and intercepted, ¡°President Pearson, let¡¯s go¡­ I¡¯m feeling a bit sick.¡± At


    last, Leanna took a nce at Mia and reminded her, ¡°Miss rk, I suggest you lose the high heels,


    lighten your sultry makeup and go easy on your perfume before these lustful, lowly men end up


    messing you and your baby up.¡± Aidan did not react to this. Who is she really talking about? With that,


    Leanna retrieved her gaze at them and walked away in style. The moment she left, Mia¡¯s friends, who


    were all watching this from the sidelines, came up to tter them. ¡°Mia, President Pearson is so


    protective of you. It was so satisfying to see that woman¡¯s expression.¡± ¡°I agree. President Pearson is


    so cool. I really envy you, seeing how you have a boyfriend that is so willing to stand up for you.¡± ¡°In my


    opinion, Mia¡¯s right. That woman really is shameless. You¡¯re already pregnant now, yet she still doesn¡¯t


    want a divorce¡­¡± To this, Aidan only gazed at the people in front of him and asked, ¡°Say, are you all in


    your right minds?¡± No matter how much he detested Leanna, he would not create such a scandal like


    cheating. This made everyone present including Mia shocked as they did not know how they offended


    him. He then continued, ¡°About the pregnancy thing. Exin.¡± His words were directed at Mia. She


    gripped her skirt tightly before stuttering, ¡°I-I-I kept hearing that you hated that woman, s-s-so I¡­ I


    found an excuse and wanted her to divorce¡ª¡± As he cut her off, all that was left on Aidan¡¯s expression


    was coldness. ¡°I¡¯m not clueless as to what you¡¯re trying to do. It¡¯s enough that I already had Leanna


    forcing me into a marriage with the exact tactic! If I hear another word of this floating around, you will


    bear the consequences.¡± Mia bit her lips without finding the courage to speak. It was not until Aidan left


    that her friend breathed a sigh of relief before asking her, ¡°Mia, isn¡¯t President Pearson your boyfriend?


    Why did he talk like that to you?¡± Mia was ghastly pale at this point. During this period, he did attend


    numerous banquets with her in tow, so there were a lot of rumors surrounding their rtionship.


    Naturally, this led her to assume that she was his woman. That was precisely why she approached


    Leanna and wanted her to divorce Aidan¡ªby faking a pregnancy report. However, after hearing his


    words¡­ On the same night, Mia finally managed to catch wind of Aidan and Leanna¡¯s marriage.


    Apparently, Leanna¡¯s father was hugely indebted to the loan shark, so she was sold to the Patheon


    Club by the debtors. After she escaped, she ran into Aidan and begged him to save her. However, the


    unthinkable happened when two months after the event, Leanna knocked on his door with a pregnancy


    report in hand. Since the Pearsons were a renowned family and cared highly about their reputations,


    they did not want to smear dirt onto their name by making a fuss out of this. On top of that, she was


    already pregnant, so they eventually let Aidan marry Leanna. Strangely, the baby in her womb was


    suddenly gone in less than two months of their marriage. From the start till end, it all had been an act


    yed by Leanna. From getting drugged in the club, meeting Aidan and forcing a marriage via fake


    pregnancy; it was all for the goal to marry into the Pearson Family.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4


    The Pearsons, who disliked Leanna from the beginning, came to detest her even further after the fake


    pregnancy came to light. Due to that, they had been treating Leanna as if she did not exist. No wonder


    Aidan was so angry. It turns out that I touched on the wrong subject. ¡­ After heading back, Leanna


    waited another few days for Aidan¡¯s response. Yet, there was still no news from him. Their brief


    meeting at Patheon Club that night made her suspect the reason why he was so desperately dragging


    this on; it was clearly to spite her so that she would be recognized as someone¡¯s wife who was being


    cheated on. Is he using this to take revenge against what I did to him in the past? Even though he was


    willing to drag this out, she was not. She only nned on taking action for her future after settling the


    matters of the divorce. Still, she had to live her own life instead of sitting around like this. After hearing


    that Leanna was seeking a job, Zoe put down the bag of chips in her hands and said excitedly, ¡°Come


    work for our magazine! I heard that they are searching for a designer in hopes of establishing a brand.¡±


    Despite being hyped up by her friend, Leanna frowned upon hearing it. ¡°Can I¡­ even do it? I haven¡¯t


    published anything in three years.¡± ¡°Sweetie, you can do it. Besides, you can always try. It¡¯s not like you


    have anything to lose.¡± Thinking that her words made sense, Leanna nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± Due to Zoe being


    the type to immediately act on what she said, she brought Leanna¡¯s work from three years ago to the


    editor-in-chief¡¯s office the next day. After looking through everything, Harvey Mancini, the head editor


    saw the signature in the design and stated, ¡°McK¡¯s your friend?¡± ¡°Yes. She¡¯s super capable and her


    designs are all very unique. We¡¯ll only stand to lose if we do not sign her.¡± Of course, Harvey knew how


    capable she was. McK¡¯s appearance in the field of jewelry design resembled a rose bloom which


    appeared for a fleeting moment before disappearing. Some said that she lost her inspiration after


    getting the award, so she stopped producing any more designs. Some also said that a wealthy


    individual fancied her, so she married into money and lived a quiet life ever since. All in all, there were


    all sorts of rumors floating around. However, he did not expect that after three years, she would return


    just as everybody was about to forget her existence. With that, Harvey asked, ¡°Is she free tonight?


    Let¡¯s discuss this over dinner.¡± Knowing well that this was already a done deal, Zoe nodded instantly.


    ¡°She is. I¡¯ll tell her right now.¡± ¡­ At dinner, Leanna and Harvey were getting along fairly well. Even


    though she kept emphasizing the fact that she had not drawn anything these three years, he stated that


    he did not bother him as he only wanted her to create a rough sketch based on a specific style within


    the week. If the big boss approved of the idea, then they would proceed with signing the contract. The


    night was no longer young after they had finished their meal, so Harvey offered his kindness. ¡°It isn¡¯t


    easy to hail a cab around these areas. Just to be safe, I should send you two back.¡± ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll go to the


    toilet first.¡± Zoe looked at Leanna. ¡°Nana, do you need to use the toilet too?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Out of courtesy,


    Zoe responded, ¡°Please wait for us for a bit, Mr. Mancini. We¡¯ll be back soon.¡± The smiling Harvey


    replied, ¡°It¡¯s okay. Take your time.¡± After exiting the stall, Zoe washed her hands while saying, ¡°This is


    great! We¡¯ve seeded!¡± Leanna, who did not think that things would progress so smoothly, was still a


    bit uneasy. ¡°I¡¯m just worried that the design Ie up with might not meet your boss¡¯ standard. If that


    happens, I would be so sorry to you and Mr. Mancini.¡± To this, Zoe only replied, ¡°You¡¯re thinking too


    much, sweetie. Our boss is a happy-go-lucky old man. He¡¯s very sweet and doesn¡¯t really manage


    anything. So, Mr. Mancini basically calls the shots in our magazine. Just treat it as a formality. Since Mr.


    Mancini values you so much, it¡¯s almost a done deal.¡± Just as she was finished, the sound of high heels


    came from the toilet¡¯s entrance. The next moment, Mia appeared in front of them. As both parties did


    not expect to meet each other here, they were all stunned as Mia snorted afterward. ¡°What a leech,


    following us wherever we go.¡± While using a tissue to dry her hands, Leanna retorted nonchntly, ¡°If


    you¡¯re looking for a beating, just say it. You don¡¯t have to say things like this.¡± ¡°You¡­¡± Since thest


    incident, Mia knew that she would not win against Leanna when it came to a fight. Besides, there were


    two of them now, so her chances of winning were minimized. Zoe added, ¡°What were you going to say?


    Do you want me to promote what a mistress looks like over here with a megaphone?¡± A sneering Mia


    rebuked, ¡°Leanna, aren¡¯t you shameless? Have you forgotten about how you got married to Aidan in


    the first ce? Calling me a mistress? I don¡¯t see how you¡¯re much better than me. What, you really


    think that after you¡¯ve moved up in society, you can be a righteous b*tch?¡± However, just as Zoe was


    about to snap back, Leanna held her back. Looking at Mia calmly, Leanna asked, ¡°Did Aidan tell you


    this?¡± Since Mia was not the sharpest tool in the shed, Leanna concluded that she only knew of this


    recently as Mia did not utilize this as her weapon during theirst two meetings; not to mention how


    smug she was lookingpared to before. ¡°That¡¯s right. He said that he loathed women like you andN?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    that it was his biggest regret meeting you at the club. You¡¯re just like dog sh*t. After washing it away,


    you would still stink of it. I would rather scrub my skin off if I came into contact with you.¡± After her


    round of dissing battle, Mia only felt fear as she noticed that Leanna was emotionless. With that, Mia


    took a step back to prevent another p on her face again. To her surprise, all Leanna did was throw


    the used tissue in the trash can and exited the toilet, no longer having any intention to interact with her


    at all. Seeing this, Zoe followed her. ¡°Nana, don¡¯t mind what that woman said. That shameless couple;


    they both deserve to rot. Just think of her words as dog barks¡­ or farts! Promise me you won¡¯t be


    mad¡­¡± Before she could finish her sentence, she saw the shameless man standing not far away from


    them while he was chatting with someone. Leanna, who treated him invisibly, did not even spare him a


    nce and walked away briskly. Oscar Woodley felt a sense of bloodlust behind his back and turned


    around only to see the approaching woman before questioning, ¡°Isn¡¯t that your wife? What¡¯s she doing


    here?¡± Looking at who Oscar was referring to, Aidan frowned as a speck of impatience shed across


    his eyes. She even followed me here, yet she¡¯s still talking about a simple divorce? When has this


    woman sunk deeper? Seeing that she was approaching them, Aidan was just about to speak before


    Leanna passed them without any signs of stopping or even a nce at him. She emotionlessly brushed


    past him like a gust of wind. Naturally, he was caught speechless at that sight. On the contrary, it was


    Zoe, who was following Leanna, that stopped and opened her mouth. At that moment, she was about


    to tell him off, but sensing that it might not be the best time, she chased after her friend again. As the


    whole situation was witnessed by Oscar, he could onlyugh somewhat awkwardly. ¡°Did I recognize


    the wrong person?¡± Aidan did not like his wife. In fact, one could even say that he detested her. This


    was a fact that everybody in the upper society knew.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5


    This was why Aidan basically never went out with her in tow. Even Oscar had only seen Leanna twice.


    Once because Aidan had forgotten to bring a document and Leanna, who was afraid that it might affect


    his work, delivered it to his office for him. Although Aidan treated her very coldly in return and she was


    disappointed, she did not whine about it. She certainly looked very obedient and sensible. The second


    time was at the birthday banquet of Old Master Pearson, Gordon. It also happened to be the second


    year of Leanna and Aidan¡¯s marriage. At the same time, it was evident that everyone from the


    Pearsons did not treat her kindly as nobody bothered to introduce her to anyone. That night, Leanna


    was no different to a servant of the Pearson Family. Even though she ran around busily, no one praised


    her for it. On the contrary, they all found her irritating and meddlesome. After that, she stood in a corner


    while facing everybody¡¯s mockery. Despite that, she did not rebuke as she only lowered her head and


    stayed further away from the event. In Oscar¡¯s recollection, Aidan¡¯s wife was someone whom anyone


    could pick on as she did not retort even after being bullied. The fierce looking woman tonight cannot be


    her. A speechless Aidan was still looking into the direction that Leanna had gone to. With a few coughs,


    Oscar changed the subject. ¡°I bumped into Harvey at the entrance.¡± Aidan asked, ¡°Who?¡± ¡°The head


    editor of Lux Jewelry.¡± ¡°I think I might know him.¡± Since the Pearson Group had worked with Lux


    Jewelry a few times prior, Aidan was acquainted with their head editor. Oscar continued, ¡°Harvey told


    me earlier that they found McK. If everything goes well, she¡¯ll be the designer of their magazine.


    You remember who McK is, right?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± Why should I have to remember people I have nothing to


    do with? With that, he exined it to Aidan, ¡°Then, you should at least remember about the seventh


    Emerging Designer Competition you sponsored three years ago, right? It was McK who came first


    ce that year. Originally, she would have been sponsored by yourpany to further her studies in


    Aeras. But for some unknown reason, she gave up on the opportunity.¡± ¡°I heard that she found the


    person-in-charge of thepetition and asked if they could give her cash in lieu of the sponsorship.


    However, you rejected it after the person-in-charge inquired about it to you. She vanished after that.


    Too bad, she really was a talented designer.¡± Slowly focusing his gaze back at Oscar, Aidan was


    thinking about something else and did not hear a word that was said. ¡°Oh. Can¡¯t recall.¡± On thedies¡¯


    way back, Harvey could obviously feel Leanna¡¯s mood had soured after the dinner. Since it would beContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    awkward to ask her outright, he raised his eyebrows at Zoe instead to do the questioning. Yet, she


    lightly shook her head, signaling that it was hard to exin. The car was parked at the entrance of


    Zoe¡¯s apartment block before Harvey gushed, ¡°Miss McKinney, I¡¯m looking forward to what you¡¯lle


    up with and I hope we can achieve a fruitful coboration.¡± Leanna, who had somewhat calmed down,


    composed herself and nodded. ¡°Thanks, Mr. Mancini. I¡¯ll work hard for it.¡± The smiling editor concluded,


    ¡°I won¡¯t take up anymore of your time then. Get going. I¡¯ll see you guys around.¡± When they arrived


    home, Zoe initiated the topic. ¡°Nana, are you angry over those two?¡± A bit dazed, Leanna reacted only


    after a few seconds. ¡°I¡¯m not. I was thinking about the design.¡± The theme Harvey gave her this time


    was ¡®first love¡¯. Zoe told her that this was the first series their magazine would push after they signed


    their first designer as they were aiming to break through the youth market. Therefore, the product this


    time was very pivotal to them. Still, ¡®first love¡¯ was something that had be very alien to Leanna.


    The blissfulness that came along when spending time with the one you adored had disappeared in the


    three years of her marriage. ¡°Speaking of this, I wanted to ask you this. Hasn¡¯t Zayn contacted you at


    all?¡± Zoe said. In response, Leanna shook her head. Three years ago, she had gotten the chance to


    further her studies in Aeras when she won first ce in thepetition, however, she rejected it. Back


    then, Zayn Bat visited her a few times to ask her reasons for refusing. In his expression was doubt,


    loneliness and also disappointment. Even so, she did not have the guts to tell him the truth even until


    the end and went as far as to delete his contact. What could she have said? Could I have told him that


    on the night of winning first ce in thepetition¡ªjust as I was immersed in joy¡ªI would receive


    the news that my father, Jethro, had owed the loan sharks one million? Even till now, she found it hard


    to get over that shock. Sighing, Zoey against the couch. ¡°I still think that it was a pity between you


    and Zayn. Back then, you two were supposed to be the perfect pair. Even the blind could see that both


    of you liked each other. You were so close to being with him. I thought that you two would be together


    after going to Aeras. Who knew that kind of thing would happen¡­ Sigh. Fate really does work in


    mysterious ways.¡± It was only after a while did Leanna respond, ¡°It¡¯s all in the past now.¡± ¡°Hey, let¡¯s


    change the subject. Oh right, you wanna know gossip concerning Mia? Let me tell you, when she first


    entered the industry for a magazine shoot, she didn¡¯t even know what a fill light was, so she actually¡­¡±


    That evening, Zoe spent the first half of the night making her best friendugh with jokes and


    exaggeration before proceeding to curse at the shameless couple for the rest of the night. However,


    when Leannay on bed, her mind was repeating the words that Mia had said to her in the toilet. As


    much as she knew that those ugly and undignified words would nevere out of Aidan¡¯s mouth, she


    admitted that his description of her would not be too far off. Knowing that it was her who dragged Aidan


    down, she had tried her best to be the perfect wife during their marriage. Regardless of the insults or


    mockery from the Pearsons that were hurled at her, never had she onceined about it. She also


    knew how much he hated her. Despite her tough front, she still felt pain after being on the receiving end


    of countless viciousments and insults. That night, Leanna curled up in her nket and recalled


    something in a drowsy state. Three years ago, after knowing that Jethro had a debt of one million, she


    tried to get money in any way she could¡ªgoing so far as to let down her pride and ask the person-in-


    charge of thepetition to see if she could exchange the chance of going to Aeras with cash. Even till


    now, she remembered clearly what the person told her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss McK, but our boss has said that


    the chance is given to people who really have a passion for design and not someone who seeks


    mary gain.¡± After hearing this, she was stunned for so long before cursing the so-called boss the


    entire night while crying at home. Who are they looking down at? Who doesn¡¯t have a pure and simple


    dream? With Jethro¡¯s disappearance, the debtors came knocking on their door a few dayster, forcing


    a choice against Leanna. It was either they slice one of her brother¡¯s hands or she went with them


    willingly. Left with no choice, Leanna followed the debtors silently while ignoring Louis no matter how


    hard he screamed for her. The debtors sold her to the Patheon Club, a ce where the wealthy went. It


    was a destination where pleasure, debauchery and thrill met. One night, her drink was spiked. Although


    she was mentally prepared for this, the moment a fat middle-aged man entered the room, she suddenly


    thought of Zayn and their promise to meet at Aeras; a promise that never came true. Mustering her


    strength she never knew she had, Leanna pushed the man aside and stumbled out the room. Promptly,


    there were a bunch of people chasing after her. After escaping and running for an unknown amount of


    time, she finally saw a blurry figure before her eyes. Crashing onto the ground, she tugged on his


    expensive-feeling suit pants. ¡°I beg you. Please, save me¡­¡±

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6


    Having said that, she lost consciousness. Once she opened her eyes, she found herself in an


    unfamiliar room with a man lying next to her. The scattered clothes were enough to tell what had


    happenedst night. Feeling her parching throat, she quelled the sorrow byforting herself. At least


    this man is a thousand times better than that swine. Recalling the incident that had transpiredst


    night, Leanna was worried about Louis. She hastily wore her clothes to take her leave first. Just as she


    was about to depart, the man on the bed suddenly frowned due to the noise. Covering the nket atop


    him, she patted the fabric lightly and cooed, ¡°Shh¡­ It¡¯s alright. Just go to sleep.¡± After lulling him to


    sleep as if he was a child, she made herself scarce. It was fortunate that the house was empty when


    the creditor had found their way to their doorstep; Louis was not home at that time as he went out to


    search for her. Leanna gave him a call to assure him about her safety as well as to inform him to stay


    at his friend¡¯s ce for the time being. Since it was best for them to stay under the radar for now, she


    had gone to Zoe¡¯s ce as well. After hiding for two months, Leanna found out that she was pregnant.


    ¡­ It was 4.00AM when Leanna woke up. After drinking a ss of water, she began binge watching the


    latest dramas and movies regarding first love in the living room, attempting to reacquaint herself with


    the feeling of the first dawn of love that had struck upon her. ¡­ On the third day of cooping in her room,


    an inspiration fleeted across her mind. Before she could even start drawing it, her phone rang; it was


    an unknown number. Sheid down the pencil and answered the call. ¡°Hello. Who is this?¡± The


    unknown person took a long pause. ¡°Madam, I¡¯m Jonathan Stoll, President Pearson¡¯s secretary. He will


    be going on a business trip to Archend. Do you know where his blue striped shirt is?¡± Leanna was


    vexed to have someone interrupt her at such a ¡®lightbulb¡¯ moment, let alone for this kind of trivial


    matter. Suspecting that Aidan was doing it on purpose, she snapped, ¡°Is he crazy? We¡¯re already


    divorced, so what does it have to do with me? Ask the nanny.¡± With that being said, she terminated the


    call without a second thought. Yet, her phone rang again after a couple of minutes. Looking at the


    name ¡®Aidan¡¯ on the screen, she pondered momentarily before answering the phone. ¡°Leanna


    McKinney, get back here in half an hour.¡± ¡°I¡ª¡± He ended the call before she could even finish her


    words. Holding the phone, Leanna was cursing him in her head out of rage. She then took a deep


    breath to regain herposure before leaving the room. Zoe saw her and asked, ¡°Leanna, where are


    you going at this hour? It¡¯s alreadyte.¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to strangle that b*stard!¡± Leanna¡¯s impulsive


    comment rendered Zoe speechless. Nevertheless, it was nothing more than empty words; Leanna


    knew that she stood no chance against Aidan. By the time she arrived at Castor Vi, the ce was


    engulfed by silence as the maids had gone to rest. She headed straight to the bedroom upstairs, only


    to see Aidan sitting on the couch in his casual clothes while leafing through some documents. Even if


    he had heard the footsteps, he did not spare her a single nce. Leanna entered the cloakroom and


    rummaged through the wardrobe before she managed to find the shirt that Jonathan had previously


    mentioned. Gazing at the shirt, she was stunned. It was for the reason that it was the very piece which


    she had specially bought for Aidan before he went on a business trip to Alcay in the first year of their


    marriage. It was perfect for beachwear, but he merely gave her a cold look when she gave it to him.


    ¡°Don¡¯t try to butter me up with this kind of lowly method. I can see through your schemes easily.¡±


    Although Leanna herself was oblivious of her so-called schemes, that was thest day she had ever


    bought anything for him. Still, why is he calling me back to search for the thing that he has once


    abandoned? What else can it be other than to take revenge and pick on me? She left the cloakroom


    and ced the shirt on the bed. Right when she wanted to speak to him, she realized that he had been


    on the phone all the while. His voice was so calm while hepletely ignored her presence as if he


    was alone in the room. At first, she intended to bring up the divorce to him; however, she ended up


    leaving instead, considering that it was not the right time to do so. Akin to how she came in a hurry, she


    left without any hesitation. It was not until Leanna had left the room that Aidan finally lifted his head to


    look at her back figure. Since he did not expect her to leave that soon, he said on the phone,


    ¡°Hmm. Alright. I¡¯ll hang up for now.¡± When she reached the living room, he called out for her from the


    staircase while looking at her with an indifferent look. ¡°Have you found the shirt?¡± ¡°It¡¯s on your bed.¡±


    ¡°What about the other?¡± Leanna did not understand. ¡°What do you mean?¡± He frowned in displeasure.


    ¡°I¡¯m going for a week. Do you think that piece of shirt is enough?¡± Words failed her as she recalled the


    past. She was in charge of packing his luggage for his uing business trips when she used to stay


    at Castor Vi. Never in her wildest dream would she imagine that her dutiful side had done nothing


    good other than indulging his cocky behavior. Still, Leanna tried to talk to him with equanimity.


    ¡°President Pearson¡ªI mean, Mr. Pearson, allow me to repeat this once more. We¡¯re divorced. So, I¡¯m


    not obliged to look for your clothes or pack the luggage for you. Please ask your maids or your future


    wife to do so, and do not summon me for these matters. Thank you.¡± Aidan¡¯s face remained pallid as


    he descended the stairs to stand before her. ¡°Allow me to remind you about this as well¡ªthat we


    haven¡¯t signed the papers yet. So, you¡¯re the only one who can do this as my legal wife.¡± Leanna bit


    her lips. ¡°Is that final?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t make me repeat myself twice.¡± She pursed her lips and took out her


    phone. ¡°Fine. Since you like ordering people so much, I¡¯ll call Mia over to pack your things. She¡¯ll be


    rushing all her way here for sure.¡± Before she could even dial the number, Aidan snatched her phone


    as his face darkened. ¡°Leanna McKinney, you¡¯ve taken too much liberty from me.¡± Looking at her


    empty hand, she sniggered. ¡°Watch your words, President Pearson. I have no right to do that to you.¡±


    The glint in his eyes simmered. ¡°Stop fooling around, McKinney. Quit testing my patience and just tell


    me what you want.¡± Leanna paused after hearing that before continuing, ¡°President Pearson, I believe


    I¡¯ve told you that I want the Pearson Group. Are you going to give me that?¡± ¡°Impossible.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s


    divorce, then. I don¡¯t want anything else.¡± Frowning in agitation, Aidan delved his hand into his pocket.


    ¡°I¡¯m starting to get annoyed at your constant use of the d-word.¡± He was a hard nut to crack for her;


    ever since the beginning, he was the one always trying to get rid of her, yet he made it seem like she


    had to get on her knees for a divorce.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7


    ¡°I know you have suspicion that I¡¯m up to something, but as I¡¯ve mentioned previously, I¡¯m willing to


    write a covenant. You can even hire awyer and cameraman to witness and record the entire process


    when we sign the divorce paper. That will be enough to prove that I¡¯m the one who¡¯s asking for it


    without demanding a single penny from you.¡± Leanna¡¯s determined stance quelled Aidan as he pursed


    his lips into a thin line. ¡°Or¡­ are you afraid that I¡¯ll bring up the divorce to ruin your family¡¯s name? You


    can put your worries to a rest because I, Leanna McKinney, promise that I will never take advantage of


    you on this matter. I¡¯ll be damned if I break my promise.¡± A couple of minutester, he finally


    responded, ¡°How am I supposed to believe in you?¡± A vexed Leanna huffed, ¡°What do you want me to


    do then? Is it your wish to see your wife and mistress on good terms? Aidan Pearson, I¡¯m telling you,


    I¡¯d rather die than raise someone else¡¯s child.¡± Aidan merely snorted at that. Without words, she knew


    well that hemunicated contempt as he was certain that she was no less different from Mia,


    deeming her to be in no position toment about others. When she was about to give herst-ditch


    effort, he piped up, ¡°I¡¯m going on a business trip tomorrow. Let¡¯s talk after I¡¯m back.¡± Leanna smiled


    instantly. ¡°That¡¯s not a problem. I¡¯ll wait no matter how long it takes. Just inform me once you¡¯re back.¡±


    As her attitude did a one-eighty, his face dimmed before heading upstairs. What a shameless


    woman! Time flew as Leanna sent the designs to Harvey just as when the one-week deadline was


    approaching. On the night of that very same day, he sent her a text that his boss had approved of it and


    she was required toe over tomorrow to sign the contract. While reading his message, she heaved


    a sigh of relief as she was afraid that her work would not meet their standard. This project of Lux


    Jewelry had been going on for a while now. Ever since they had decided to release their first collection,


    a designer was all that they needed. Now that Leanna would being onboard, they wished to see


    some advances in its progress because thepany¡¯s anniversary was just one month ahead. In


    conjunction with the celebratory asion, the magazine intended to hold a press conference to


    announce their brand to the press. Aside from Leanna¡¯s ne, the other mainstay products


    included the bracelet and ring. Once the drafts were approved by the magazine, they could proceed


    with the refinement prior to the production. Therefore, it would be hectic to finish everything within a


    month; they were left with not much time. In order to not ruin the press conference, Leanna was always


    on her toes as she had been sketching at home besides choosing the materials for the jewelry. She


    needed to make the final product herself before sending it to the factory for mass production after the


    press conference. Thus, she was so busy that she had forgotten about the divorce, let alone knowing


    of Aidan¡¯s return. Regardless of the circumstances, he did not contact her this whole time. Deciding to


    take some rest, Leanna set down the pencil when her phone atop the table vibrated. Her brows knitted


    tightly the moment she realized that it was Jethro. She picked up the phone when he called for the


    second time. ¡°Leanna, Louis is going to sit for the SAT next year. We need some money for his tuition


    fees.¡± ¡°How much is it?¡± ¡°Let me recall the amount¡­ The tuition fees are very expensive. Why don¡¯t


    you give me thirty thousand? I¡¯ll save the bnce for his next semester.¡± Leanna remained calm. ¡°First


    of all, Louis will be taking the exam this year; secondly, he¡¯s the top schr in town, so he doesn¡¯t need


    tuition;stly, I¡¯ve never heard of any tuition center that charges that much.¡± As his schemes were seen


    through like a ss, Jethro was livid. ¡°Enough of the excuses. Can¡¯t you just give me the money?¡± ¡°I¡¯m


    broke.¡± ¡°But you got your rich husband. Thirty thousand means nothing to him.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no free lunch


    in this world. No matter how rich he is, it has nothing to do with me. Besides, we¡¯ve signed the divorce


    papers, so I have no reason to ask him for money.¡± ¡°What?!¡± He flipped out. ¡°Who said that you¡¯re


    allowed to divorce? Have you even discussed it with me? Even if you have divorced, he will give you


    half of his assets. There¡¯s no way that you have nothing! Leanna McKinney, are you going to let your


    father rot to death?! Transfer me the money right this instant! Otherwise, you¡¯ll never get away with it!¡±


    ¡°I have nothing. Not even a cent.¡± Having said that, she ended the call right away. Soon, Louis rang


    her. ¡°Did Jethro ask you for money? Don¡¯t give it to him matter what he says. He went to gamble again


    lately and ended up owing a few thousands. He¡¯s hiding somewhere at the moment.¡± ¡°I know. I¡¯m not


    nning to give him anything.¡± On the day Leanna paid off Jethro¡¯s hundreds of thousands worth of


    debt, she had mentioned that she would not give a fig about his matters anymore even if he was dead.


    Still, not everyone turned over a new leaf that easily; he had been trying to deceive her all these years


    by lying that he needed surgery for his broken leg or to settle a fight involving Louis. Jethro knew her


    character well; even though she would ignore him, she would never ignore the issue when it came to


    Louis. Consequently, the siblings had fallen for his ruse twice. Now that they had learned their lessons


    the hard way, they would not feel a thing in the face of his whining and tantrums. ¡°Have you thought of


    which university you want to go to?¡± inquired Leanna. ¡°Yeah.¡± She paused a moment before adding,


    ¡°Louis, do you wanna study abroad? I still have enough money to pay for the tuition fees. You can also


    apply for schrships¡ª¡± She wished she could send Louis away from their toxic father, so that Louis


    would not be stuck in the gutter like she was. ¡°No, I¡¯m going to stay in the country. I¡¯m not going


    anywhere,¡± interrupted Louis. Knowing his temper, she let out a silent sigh. ¡°You can pick wherever you


    want. Tell me when you need money.¡± ¡°Save the money for yourself. I can earn it on my own.¡± Louis


    suddenly asked, ¡°Has he been nice to you?¡± The conversation went silent for a while when Aidan was


    brought into the topic. ¡°Hmm. Yeah. Louis, I¡¯m going to file a divorce.¡± Leanna smiled. Louis held his


    tongue for a moment as though the announcement was not a surprise to him. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll take care of


    you in the future.¡± She grinned. ¡°Why do I need that when I have hands and legs to fend for myself?


    Just focus on your studies.¡± After hanging up the call, Leanna went out of her room to see a pale Zoe


    slumping on the couch wearily. ¡°Zoe, what¡¯s wrong? Are you not feeling well?¡± Zoe shook her head


    while wheezing, ¡°I¡¯m on my menstruation. I¡¯ll be fine after taking some rest.¡± Leanna poured Zoe a


    ss of warm water. ¡°That won¡¯t do. I¡¯ll buy a hot water bottle and some painkillers downstairs. Would


    you like to have something to eat?¡± At the mention of food, Zoe regained her energy and ordered


    something for herself. ¡°Leanna, you¡¯re the best. That b*stard must be blind for not loving you.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8


    Leanna rose to her feet while smiling. ¡°Enjoy your movie.¡± After buying the things needed from the


    drugstore downstairs, she went to the grocery store to purchase a few things that Zoe wanted. Looking


    at the sanitary pads on the rack, she suddenly recalled that it had been two months since shest had


    her menstruation. Ever since the miscarriage that happened three years ago, she had her menstruation


    every two or three months due to irregr menstruation. Assuming that her menstruation woulde


    soon, she took a few packs of sanitary pads. Just as she was about to leave upon making the payment,


    a woman bumped into her at the entrance, causing Leanna¡¯s stuff to scatter around the floor. The


    woman then dusted off her clothes in contempt. ¡°Watch where you¡¯re going.¡± Leanna lifted her head


    and gave the woman an indifferent look. ¡°Did you not learn how to walk like a human?¡± The woman


    was none other than Anna Pearson, whose eyes were rife with disdain and arrogance toward Leanna.


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you. What are you doing here at this hour? Are you meeting another man behind Aidan¡¯s


    back?¡± Leanna could not care less about Anna as she began to gather the fallen paper bags. ¡°Anna


    Pearson, you should¡¯ve stayed abroad. Don¡¯t you know that I hold grudges and will take revenge on


    others?¡± When Anna heard that, her expression changed before taking a few steps back. ¡°What are


    you going to do?¡± Leanna arched her brow. ¡°Nothing in particr, but you better not get pregnant in this


    lifetime. Otherwise, you¡¯ll have to watch out all the time. Who knows? I might be in the mood to have


    some fun with you and approach you regardless of what it takes. Furthermore¡­¡± As her voice trailed


    off, her ambiguous gaze scanned Anna from head to toe. Anna, who was not even pregnant, quailed at


    Leanna¡¯s gaze. ¡°You must be out of your mind. You¡¯re the only one who knows whether you¡¯re


    pregnant. Don¡¯t even think about putting the me on me just because I bumped into you! Besides, my


    family won¡¯t let you off the hook if youy a finger on me! I-I¡¯m sure that Aidan will file a divorce and


    drive you out of the house. You won¡¯t get anything you want!¡± ¡°Try me. I have nothing to lose anyway.¡±


    ¡°Crazy woman!¡± Anna then strode away with guilty and nervous steps before heading toward a Land


    Rover outside of the grocery store. Noticing her paleplexion, the man next to her asked, ¡°I thought


    you¡¯re going to buy some water?¡± As though she had been waiting for that very question, she


    grumbled, ¡°Zayn, do you still remember the woman who faked her pregnancy to force a marriage with


    Aidan? I ran into her by chance. It must be my bad day.¡± However, he merely responded, ¡°If you¡¯re not


    going to buy anything, then let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Zayn, you¡ª¡± She stopped halfway when she noticed that he was


    staring at something outside their car. Following his gaze, she peered outside, but there was nothing.


    Before she could voice out her curiosity, he abruptly alighted from the car and dashed toward a


    direction. Anna followed suit and yanked Zayn, who was searching for something amongst the crowd.


    ¡°Zayn, what¡¯s wrong? Are you searching for something?¡± ¡°Nothing. I must be mistaken.¡± Zayn gathered


    himself as he dropped his gaze onto the ground. The silhouette was simr to the one he had been


    missing this whole time. ¡°Let¡¯s go, then,¡± she suggested. At that moment, he removed her hand from


    his. ¡°Anna, I¡¯ll call a cab for you. I have something urgent to do. I¡¯ll send you home next time.¡± ¡°But


    you¡¯ve clearly promised¡ª¡± Unfazed by her pestering, he took out his phone and called for a cab. ¡°I¡¯ve


    sent the license te to you. Bye.¡± Atst, he left the scene, leaving Anna behind as she yelled for his


    name. ¡­ Leanna arranged the groceries into the fridge before handing the hot water bottle to Zoe, who


    was quite frankly suffering from the menstruation cramp. She took it over and brandished her phone at


    Leanna, seeming all excited with those bright eyes. ¡°Guess who just messaged me?¡± ¡°Zac Efron?


    Harry Styles?¡± ¡°I¡¯m being serious right now.¡± She showed Leanna the screen to reveal the messages


    received. ¡®I¡¯m Zayn Bat.¡¯ ¡°Do you have any news about Leanna?¡± Leanna stared at the messages


    until the screen turned ck. After a while, Zoe broke the silence. ¡°Zayn is back in the country and he¡¯s


    searching for you everywhere. I¡¯m not sure who gave him my contact number, though. Should I tell him


    that we¡¯re living together at the moment? Or should I consign you to him?¡± Leanna shook her head


    instinctively. ¡°No. Not right now¡­¡± Knowing what her friend was concerned about, Zoe did not push her


    further and sighed. In the end, Zoe covered for Leanna. ¡®It¡¯s been a long time since Ist met her, but


    I¡¯ll inform you once I hear of her news.¡¯ On the other side, Zayn ended the conversation with a ¡®Thanks¡¯.


    No one had a clue whether he bought her lies or not. Lying on the bed, Leanna did not catch a wink as


    her mind was a mess. It was not until the sky lit up that she finally closed her eyes. Still, her peaceful


    sleep did notst long when her phone vibrated non-stop. Her hands fumbled around before picking up


    the phone. A man¡¯s voice resounded from the other side of the line. ¡°Madam, there¡¯s an issue in the


    company. I think it¡¯s best if you stop by for a moment.¡± He continued, yet she did not catch a single


    word clearly. The grogginess faded only after ten minutes upon hanging up the phone. Company?N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Whatpany? Checking her phone once again, Leanna realized that it was a call from Jonathan,


    Aidan¡¯s secretary. Her fingers raked through her hair as she got up to have a shower before taking a


    cab to Pearson Group. It was 12.10PM when she arrived at her destination, which was filled with


    passersby due to lunchtime. The busybody onlookers were watching something at the entrance of the


    building. ¡°Don¡¯t you dare touch me! I¡¯m the father-inw of your president. You¡¯ll be fired with one word


    from me! Tell Aidan Pearson that he has to at least give us half of his assets even if it¡¯s a divorce. My


    daughter has been married to him for three years and sleeps on the same bed every day. Yet, he¡¯s not


    giving us any money? He should at least act like a man!¡± Meanwhile, Leanna happened to hear thest


    sentence upon arriving. Color drained from her face as a huge wave of embarrassment swept over her.


    She desperately wished the floor would open up to swallow her. Right when she was about to take her


    leave, Jonathan appeared next to her out of nowhere and whispered, ¡°Madam, your father has been


    causing a ruckus for the past thirty minutes. It¡¯s doing damage to thepany. President Pearson


    hope that you can settle it within three minutes or else¡­ he¡¯ll use legal force.¡±

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9


    Leanna raised her head to look at the building. Although she could not see through the ss wall, she


    was able to feel the piercing gaze upon her which sent cold chills to her spine. Due to the unforeseen


    commotion, she bet that Aidan was resenting her more and even had the heart to kill her once and for


    all. She squeezed herself through the jostling throng to see her father under the security guards¡¯


    assistance. Fatigue swarmed her almost instantly at the sight of him rolling and tossing on the ground


    like a kid throwing a tantrum. ¡°What exactly do you think you¡¯re doing?¡± Jethro dusted his clothes as


    soon as he saw his daughter. ¡°You¡¯vee just at the right time. Call Aidan right now to discuss the


    property division.¡± ¡°I clearly told you that his money has nothing to do with me.¡± He raised his voice


    after hearing that. ¡°Nonsense! He has slept with you for the past three years, so how can we let him go


    just like that when he has a mistress? Stop joking around with me.¡± Leanna parted her lips, but nothing


    was uttered as she had nothing to say to him. She nonchntly turned toward Jonathan. ¡°Please call


    the police.¡± Jonathan nodded under her behest and she was going to leave until Jethro thwarted her.


    ¡°How can you leave like this? I¡¯m doing this for you! I¡¯ll take a part of the money and you can have the


    others. Yet, this is how you¡¯re repaying me? Insolent brat!¡± She pushed him arm away from hers. ¡°You


    know whose sake you¡¯re doing this for. If you¡¯re not going to leave, suit yourself then. I can enjoy two


    days peacefully if you¡¯re taken into custody anyway. Oh, right. Neither I nor Louis will bail you out this


    time, so you can stay in the police station for good. They¡¯ll provide meals and you won¡¯t be chased by


    the creditors. Amazing, isn¡¯t it?¡± Furious, Jethro pped her in the face and red at her. ¡°Is this how


    you talk to your father? I¡¯ve brought up both of you for so many years and this is how you¡¯re treating


    me? You must be looking down on me after marrying a rich man.¡± ¡°Whatever.¡± Given that the crowd


    was turning into a mob, Leanna had no intention of staying any longer as she lowered her head and


    withdrew herself from the people. Now that Aidan was not to be moved and Leanna had gone without a


    care for him, Jethro was aware that he would be in real trouble once the police came. He glowered at


    the security guards. ¡°Tell your president that I¡¯ll be back in a few days!¡± The crowd dispersed the


    moment Leanna left. Jonathan entered the building and marched toward the man, who was standing


    before the French window. ¡°President Pearson, Mr. McKinney is gone.¡± Aidan thrusted his hand into his


    pocket while holding his phone with the other one, exuding an aloof and cold disposition. ¡°What aboutContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna?¡± ¡°She¡¯s gone too.¡± Aidan snorted. ¡°Gone?¡± ¡°Yes, and she was¡ª¡± pped in the face. Aidan


    interrupted his secretary before he could finish. ¡°Adjourn the afternoon meeting to tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°Understood,¡± Jonathan responded. An expressionless Aidan unlocked his phone screen before texting


    Leanna. ¡®3.00PM. At the Civil Affairs Bureau.¡¯ He received a reply only after ten minutes. ¡®Okay.¡¯ Sitting


    on the bench by the street, Leanna kept her phone in the bag after replying to Aidan¡¯s message. She


    then hugged her legs and buried her head into her knees. If only I could go somewhere where no one


    knows who I am. That way, I can start afresh. No Jethro, no Aidan and no embarrassing insults. After a


    long while, she wiped off the tears on her face and intended to go to the Civil Affairs Bureau to wait for


    Aidan. However, the second she rose to her feet, everything was turning upside down before her eyes


    and soon, she fainted. The next time Leanna opened her eyes, the smell of infectants wafted through


    her nose, telling her that she was at the hospital. She kneaded her head while checking on the time.


    Realizing that it was already 4.30PM, she was rendered speechless. Great. I¡¯m totally screwed. Just as


    she was going to contact Aidan to exin her circumstances, a smiling nurse pulled the curtain apart.


    ¡°You¡¯re awake. The doctor has done a check-up on you. You didn¡¯t have your breakfast earlier and


    you¡¯re currently low on sugar. It¡¯s nothing serious. You can take a rest before being discharged.¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡°Oh, you¡¯re pregnant too, but since your body is quite weak, you should


    be extra careful especially for the first three months. If you¡¯re free these two days, it is advised for you


    and your husband toe for a pregnancy checkup.¡± The nurse broke the mind-blogging news and


    left. The first sentence put Leanna into a trance, the shock and helplessness were no less better than


    the night she found out that Jethro had passed the buck of an enormous debt to her. It was as if


    someone had built up a towering wall in front of the exit when there was only one step left to take


    before breaking free from the darkness. No matter how much she tried, she could never surmount it.


    She got off the bed and went to the OB-GYN, putting Aidan to the back of her mind. When the checkup


    had ended, the gynecologist said, ¡°You are pregnant for about 40 days. The baby is fine, but your body


    is quite weak for not resting well after a miscarriage. It¡¯s a miracle to see you pregnant right now.


    However, there¡¯s nothing to be nervous and anxious about. All you have to do is to recover your body.¡±


    With nk eyes, Leanna questioned, ¡°What if¡­ I don¡¯t want the baby? Is it possible for me to have an


    abortion?¡± The doctor was stunned for a moment, for it was not the reaction she had expected. ¡°It¡¯s


    possible, but I advise you to reconsider it. It¡¯s not easy for you to be pregnant due to your body


    condition. Thus, the abortion will inflict long term damage to your body. You might not be able to¡ª¡± ¡°I


    might not be able to get pregnant in the future?¡± ¡°You can, but it will be hard. It depends on how your


    body is.¡± Leanna lowered her head in silence. The doctor then suggested, ¡°Please reconsider your


    decision. It¡¯s highly inadvisable to have a surgery right now due to your poor health anyway. If you¡¯ve


    made up your mind, pleasee after two weeks.¡± ¡°Okay, thank you.¡± At the end of the day, Leanna


    did not even know how she managed to leave the hospital in such a state of mind. The idea of telling


    Aidan shed across her head, but she deemed it unnecessary. In addition to his abhorrence to the


    idea of pregnancy, he was still suspecting that she had ulterior motives for wanting a divorce. If she


    was going to level with him, it would only give him all the more reason for her ¡®crime¡¯. Furthermore, he


    would never wee the baby as it would only fuel his resentment. Leanna surfed the Inte along


    her way home to realize that birth control was not a hundred percent safe. And who can I me for


    this? When Zoe returned home at night, the house was dark. It was not until she turned on the lights


    did she notice that Leanna was sitting on the couch like a stationary monument in a quail. Zoe seated


    herself next to Leanna before waving her hand in front of her friend. ¡°Are you meditating?¡± Leanna


    slowly opened her eyes; with serenity, she dropped the bomb. ¡°I¡¯m pregnant.¡±


    Next Chapter

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10


    ¡°That¡¯s good news. You¡¯re pregnant¡ª¡± Zoe came to her senses as her eyes widened. ¡°Is it Aidan¡¯s?¡±


    ¡°Hmm.¡± ¡°Sh*t! What are you going to do? Are you going to tell him about it?¡± Leanna shook her head.


    ¡°No. We¡¯re going to divorce anyway.¡± Zoe paused for a moment before asking, ¡°Then¡­ are you going


    to keep the baby?¡± Silence dawned upon both parties, for Leanna did not know the answer to that


    question. When she found out about her pregnancy, her first reaction was resorting to abortion.


    However, after ruminating on it, she figured that the baby had nothing to do with the bad blood between


    her and Aidan; the baby was innocent. Every single time she closed her eyes, she could feel how that


    baby¡¯s life was dissipating from her body three years ago. She would not want to experience it twice,


    but if she ever decided to keep the child¡­ In the end, she answered, ¡°I¡¯m not sure yet. Let¡¯s talk about


    it after some time.¡± Knowing that Leanna did not wish to continue that topic, Zoe veered the subject.


    ¡°Right, there¡¯s good news. The ne and ring of the First Love collection have been receiving


    positive responses from our magazine team. There are internal reservations too! I¡¯m sure that it¡¯ll sell


    like hot cakes once it¡¯s on sale. The only thing left is the bracelet¡­ There¡¯s still one week left before


    the press conference. Do you think you can make it in time?¡± ¡°Yeah. I need three days at most.¡± Zoe


    heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant, though. Can you handle the production yourself? You¡¯ll be


    exposed to chemical substances in the process. I think it¡¯s best to hand it over to the factory.¡± ¡°It¡¯s


    alright. I can wear a mask and gloves.¡± ¡°Then, you gotta be careful. Just inform me if you can¡¯t handle it


    on your own.¡± Leanna smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. There won¡¯t be any problem.¡± Coming out of the bathroom,


    she held her phone in hesitation for a long time before dialing Aidan¡¯s number. Once the line got


    through, Mia¡¯s smug voice could be heard. ¡°President Pearson is with me right now, so try not to make


    a fool of yourself.¡± ¡°Oh.¡± Leanna hung up the phone without a second thought. On the other end, Aidan


    came out of the restroom and happened to see Mia shoving his phone into his clothes. He strode over


    to take the clothes and questioned indifferently, ¡°Did someone call?¡± Her eyes wavered. ¡°N-No¡­¡± He


    checked the contact history, only to see the iing call from Leanna one minute ago. He lifted his


    gaze onto Mia, who exined, ¡°President Pearson, Leanna asked for your whereabouts, but I covered


    for you since I know that you don¡¯t wanna see her anyway. I didn¡¯t tell her anything else.¡± He kept his


    phone while brushing off her silly ploy. At that moment, his business partner came over while beamingOwned by N?velDrama.Org.


    with delight. ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯m d that you¡¯re still here. I¡¯ve booked a private room at Patheon


    Club. Let¡¯s enjoy ourselves for a while.¡± Aidan replied, ¡°Miss rk is the protagonist of the


    coboration. Do enjoy yourselves without me.¡± Mia called him instantly, ¡°President Pearson¡­¡± After


    giving a polite nod to the business partner, he exited the ce and hopped into the car. The driver


    inquired, ¡°President Pearson, do you wanna go to the apartment or Castor Vi?¡± Aidan looked down at


    his phone and his calm voice sounded, ¡°To Castor Vi.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± He alighted from the car after the


    thirty minute ride when his phone suddenly rang; it was Leanna. Although he had answered the call,


    she did not say a thing. Impatient, he undid his tie while sitting on the couch before asking, ¡°What is it?¡±


    Atst, she questioned cautiously, ¡°Are you¡­ still busy?¡± In fact, it took her a lot of courage to make


    this phone call. If she did not exin to Aidan about her situation, he might take the wrong idea that


    she was just goofing around, which would make it more difficult for her to have a divorce. Still, it felt


    nice to be able to get in the way of his affair with just one call. ¡°Busy with what?¡± Leanna remained


    silent for a while before steering the topic. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for today. Something urgent came up. It wasn¡¯t on


    purpose.¡± ¡°Leanna McKinney, I waited for an hour.¡± His voice was frosty. ¡°I¡¯m terribly sorry about it, but I


    really had something urgent to attend to. What about tomorrow? Any time works fine for me. Why don¡¯t


    I wait for you at the Civil Affairs Bureau early in the morning? You can stop by when you¡¯re free.¡± ¡°I¡¯m a


    busy man. I gotta go on a business trip to Gend.¡± She was disheartened by the news. ¡°Oh, then¡­


    let¡¯s talk after you¡¯re back.¡± This was the downside of having a president as one¡¯s husband¡ªone


    needed to book an appointment in order to sign the divorce papers. As the call had not ended yet,


    Aidan inquired, ¡°Do you want chocte?¡± Leanna was taken aback by the sudden question. ¡°Hmm?¡±


    He repeated himself impatiently, ¡°I¡¯m going to Gend. Do you want chocte?¡± She recalled that the


    business partner in Gend had once gifted him a few boxes of their local chocte specialties, which


    were simply ced on the desk by him in the end. Although he was not into sweets and snacks, she


    loved them. Thus, he supposed that it would be better to dispose of the chocte by giving it to her


    instead of throwing it into the trash bin. After a while, she responded, ¡°No, thanks.¡± He snorted coldly


    before terminating the call. Just as Leanna was about to sleep, Aidan rang her this time. ¡°Where¡¯s the


    aspirin?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll find it in the kitchen. It¡¯s in the top drawer of the third cupboard from the left. There¡¯s


    plenty of medicine in there. If you¡¯re not sure which it is¡­¡± His breathing sounded calm, as though he


    was waiting for her to finish her words. ¡°You can wake one of the maids up.¡± He ended the call at the


    very next second and she pouted her lips while putting her phone aside before flopping into bed. No


    wonder he¡¯s unusually gentle today. He¡¯s been drinking. Alcohol never failed to make Aidan more


    patient and approachable. Whenever she was told off by him, she wished she could force him to gulp


    down a few bottles of alcohol before he stepped into the house. Of course, she had the heart but not


    the guts to do so. ¡­ Rather than waking up the maids, Aidan kneaded his hurting temples and drank a


    ss of cold water before heading upstairs. When he entered the bedroom to grab some clothes, his


    eyesnded upon thedy¡¯s apparels that were left untouched for a long time. It had been a month


    since Leanna had moved out. This afternoon, he asked Jonathan at the entrance of the Civil Affairs


    Bureau, ¡°Other than money, why would a woman insist on a divorce?¡± Recently, Aidan was indeed


    irritated by how things were turning out. Leanna imed that she did not want money but purely a


    divorce, which was totally preposterous given how her father yed havoc at thepany. Even so,


    her attitude was firm, for she did not take advantage of him through the divorce. He could not


    understand the reasons behind her decision. ¡°President Pearson, is it possible that Madam is just


    throwing a tantrum with you?¡± Jonathan voiced out his assumption after a long pause. ¡°Throwing a


    tantrum?¡±

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11


    ¡°Exactly. Girls are more or less the same; they tend to keep it to themselves when they¡¯re angry


    sometimes, trying to attract the man¡¯s attention through other matters. Perhaps, Madam is waiting for


    you tofort her by bringing up a divorce?¡± Aidan sniggered upon hearing Jonathan¡¯s guess. ¡°In her


    dreams.¡± She should know her ce and get rid of such a ridiculous idea. Jonathan continued,


    ¡°President Pearson, I don¡¯t think that Madam is a money-minded person. When her father was making


    a fuss at thepany, she said that your money has nothing to do with her. She even got pped in


    the face.¡± Aidan¡¯s brows furrowed unconsciously. ¡°She¡¯s hurt?¡± ¡°Yeah. It¡¯s quite serious. There¡¯s even a


    mark on her face.¡± After a few seconds of contemtion, Aidan said, ¡°Check how much his debt is.


    Give him the money and warn him to stay out of my sight from now on.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s head back to the


    company.¡± It was only 3.10PM when he said that. Aidan stared at the blue striped shirt, which was hung


    at the most conspicuous spot in the bedroom. Vexed, he decided to throw both Leanna and the shirt


    out of the house if she continued her act after he returned from Gend. ¡­ Time flew by in a blink of


    an eye. It was the day where the press conference of Lux Jewelry would be held. Leanna was currently


    adjusting the length of the ne around the model¡¯s cor backstage. Harvey came up to her at that


    moment. ¡°McK, many renowned designers and big names are invited today. I¡¯m sure that your work will


    take the center stage and many of them will know about you.¡± She smiled. ¡°The honor belongs to Lux


    Jewelry. I¡¯m just a nobody.¡± It was her genuine opinion, for no one would spare their time just to see the


    work of a small fry if it was not for Lux Jewelry¡¯s influence. Zoe happened to walk by and overheard the


    conversation. ¡°Leanna, be more confident with yourself! It is our honor, isn¡¯t it, Mr. Mancini?¡± He


    nodded with a smile. ¡°You¡¯re right. It can¡¯t be done without everyone¡¯s contribution, anyway.¡± Once he


    left the scene, Zoe pulled Leanna¡¯s hand and said in undertone, ¡°Leanna, I¡¯ve something to tell you, but


    you mustn¡¯t freak out.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°I saw Zayn.¡± Thud. The hair clip, which Leanna was going to put


    on the model, fell onto the ground. Zoe quickly picked it up. ¡°Actually, he¡¯s been searching for you.


    Since it¡¯s youreback in three years after winning The Emerging Designer Competition, Lux Jewelry


    has used it to draw the public attention. It¡¯s no wonder that he has found all his way here.¡± It took


    Leanna a while to gather her thoughts, but she did not know how to respond. Zoe patted her shoulder


    infort. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to worry about. Don¡¯t think too much about it. Just go with the flow. You¡¯re


    divorced anyway, so why not start your life anew?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not it¡­ I¡¯m just thinking about the interview


    regarding ¡®First Love¡¯.¡± It was such a lovely yet sensitive word for anyone. She had agreed to an


    interview with the magazine team to discuss the inspiration of her designs as long as there would not


    be any questions pertaining to her or her first love. Any tactless question might cause the people


    involved unnecessary trouble. Forget about her marriage and divorce, it would be a big trouble if Zayn


    had a girlfriend and she saw the interview. Zoe smacked her own head at the realization. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re


    right! I¡¯ll speak to the media just in case. Don¡¯t worry, I got your back!¡± In spite of that, Leanna could not


    focus at all during the rest of the preparation. ¡­ As Harvey had mentioned, there were a lot of well-


    known figures attending the press conference, including Oscar and Aidan, who was back from his


    Gend business trip. Even Harvey was confused to see Aidan around. Why is he here? Oscar smiled


    while exining the situation, ¡°Mr. Mancini, I heard that First Love is your main collection and that its


    designs were stunning. So, President Pearson is here to buy it for his wife.¡± Harvey let out a wry smile,


    forsaking the idea of telling the truth that none of the products disyed in the showcase were for sale.


    After all, there was no need to offend someone influential like Aidan. However, if Aidan insisted on


    purchasing it after the press conference, Harvey figured that he could try to persuade the designer.


    ¡°Please suit yourselves. The press conference is going tomence soon.¡± Oscar nodded in return.


    ¡°Sure. Go ahead.¡± Now that Harvey had gone off somewhere else, Oscar turned to Aidan. ¡°I thought


    you didn¡¯t like your wife. This series is called ¡®First Love¡¯. Aren¡¯t you afraid that she would


    misunderstand your intention?¡± Aidan replied nonchntly, ¡°That will only mean that she thinks too


    highly of herself. I just feel like buying it.¡± Oscar was at a loss for words, for he was not buying it. If it¡¯s


    true, why did youe all the way here from the airport without heading home first? You can buy


    something else like a rocket if you¡¯re really in the mood of shopping. Just as he was going to retaliate,


    he noticed a familiar figure entering the entrance. ¡°Isn¡¯t that Anna? Since when did she return to the


    country?¡± Aidan cast a glimpse on her before answering, ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± In contrast to Aidan¡¯s apathy,


    Oscar was quite interested in her, who was trailing closely behind a man like his shadow. The ever


    arrogant and prideful woman was acting so obediently to please the man. Before long, she saw them


    too and yanked the man over to greet them. ¡°Aidan, Oscar, why are you guys here?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve got business


    to do here,¡± replied the taciturn Aidan. Oscar was grinning. ¡°Anna, long time no see.¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± She


    linked arms with the man. ¡°Right, let me introduce him to you guys. He¡¯s Zayn. I met him while studying


    abroad.¡± Zayn withdrew his arm from hers before stretching it out toward Oscar. ¡°Zayn Bat.¡± Oscar


    naturally shook hands with him. ¡°Ah, we¡¯ve met before. Mr. Bat said that you¡¯ve been out of the


    country for the past three years. Have you just returned?¡± Zayn nodded before looking at Aidan.


    ¡°President Pearson, I heard so much about you.¡± After Aidan shook his hand out of courtesy, Anna


    finally had the chance to join the conversation. ¡°So, you guys know each other. Zayn¡ª¡± Suddenly, the


    lights were turned off when she was halfway through her words. The host announced, ¡°Ladies and


    gentlemen, please be seated as the press conference will be starting soon.¡± Noticing the empty seats


    in front of Aidan and Oscar, Anna pulled Zayn. ¡°Zayn, let¡¯s sit over there.¡± However, his sole purpose of


    coming here was to find someone and hence the excuse. ¡°I¡¯ve got something else to do. You can sit


    there by yourself.¡± Then, he seated himself somewhere far from her.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12


    The flustered Anna could not help but chase after him. ¡°Zayn, please don¡¯t ignore me. I promise I won¡¯t


    bother you.¡± Zayn knitted his eyebrows as he started to feel a sense of helplessness, not knowing what


    to say. The entire scene was settled down at this point. Everyone was propped in their seats, so he had


    no choice but to remain seated and tolerate it for the rest of the night. That very sight was caught by


    Oscar and he clicked his tongue before sneering, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Anna to have such a sweet side, but


    I¡¯ve always wondered why she suddenly ran away without any notice and took so long to return.¡± ¡°You


    have so many questions about her. Why don¡¯t you ask her personally?¡± Aidan responded. ¡°I¡¯m just


    wondering.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Aidan had no interest in her life at all as he happened to be on a business


    trip to Dellshore when she left for abroad; both of them had not crossed each other¡¯s paths until now.


    Soon, the press conference had begun. The founder of Lux Jewelry took the stage first to exin the


    history of entrepreneurship, followed by Harvey, who discussed the subsequent development strategy


    while stating that the first three models of the First Love series were merely the beginning; hence, more


    styles and series would beunched in the future. After the speech was the long-awaited fashion show.


    ¡°Zayn, this series looks so good. I want them all,¡± Anna told her plus-one. However, he paid no


    attention to her. He merely looked at the exhibits on the models and took a peek backstage several


    times. ording to Lux Jewelry, the designer would make an appearance today. Oscar, on the other


    hand, added, ¡°McK truly lives up to her reputation as these are stunning pieces of art. I believe all the


    girls would love it. I can already feel the sweet and sour taste of first love emanating from these works.¡±


    However, Aidan ignored him and focused his attention on the ne around the model¡¯s neck. With


    Leanna¡¯s fair skin, lean neck, and stunning corbone, this ne would look spectacr on her.


    Perhaps no one else could look better than her with that ne on¡­ Subsequently, his gaze lowered


    to the ring on the model¡¯s hand. If Leanna doesn¡¯t always cross the line, I don¡¯t mind giving her a


    ring¡­ ¡°Let us wee Miss McK, the designer of Lux Jewelry¡¯s ¡®First Love¡¯ series, with the warmest


    apuse!¡± The host invited her after the models had left the stage. Following the apuse, a figure


    gradually appeared in front of the stage. ¡°Hello, everyone. My name is McK and I work as a contract


    designer for Lux Jewelry.¡± ¡°Holy sh*t, isn¡¯t that your wife?¡± Oscar eximed in shock. A frowning Aidan


    was speechless while gazing deeply toward the stage. On stage, Leanna exined the product¡¯sOwned by N?velDrama.Org.


    design concept and materials under the guide of the host. ¡°As we all know, the series ¡®First Love¡¯


    targets younger consumers, so what does first love mean to you, Miss McK? Or, do you have any good


    memories of your first love?¡± the host asked. Taken aback by the public exposure, Leanna was


    disoriented and had no idea where to look. She regained herposure after being reminded by the


    host and then answered, ¡°To me, first love is innocent and sweet. It will feel different each time you


    reminisce about it. As for memories, I believe that the most beautiful memories of first love are those


    that are kept hidden in the heart.¡± Aidan, who had been silent for a long time, calmed down and pointed


    out as if he made a discovery, ¡°She is expressing her love for me.¡± Oscar was baffled by his tant


    words. ¡°She has no other first love other than me,¡± the now suddenly talkative Aidan exined. ¡°Are


    you being serious?¡± Aidan hooked his lips and looked around the stage leisurely. Not bad¡­ She does


    know how to please me. At this point, the media in the audience seized the opportunity by asking,


    ¡°When was your first love, Miss McK?¡± After a long pause, she finally responded, ¡°During my university


    days.¡± As if there were crickets in Aidan¡¯s seat, Oscar was also dumbfounded by that. Wow. ¡°Miss McK,


    since you can¡¯t get him out of your mind, that person must be someone exceptional, right?¡± another


    reporter in the audience asked. After noticing Zoe, who was seated among the audience, signaling with


    her eyes continuously, the host finally reacted by axing the questions. ¡°We won¡¯t pry too deeply into


    Miss McK¡¯s personal matters due to privacy. Let us continue with jewelry-rted questions.¡± The host


    then led the conversation and shifted the topic. With that, everyone naturally stopped questioning about


    her first love and the focus returned to the press conference. Seated below the stage was Anna, who


    gritted her teeth and muttered in anger, ¡°What¡¯s the deal with her? This woman is revolting! She


    married my cousin, but she still pines for her first love!¡± After hearing her words, Zayn cocked his head


    and asked, ¡°What did you say?¡± ¡°Zayn, she is the woman I told you about! The woman who forced my


    cousin to marry her by faking her pregnancy, so don¡¯t be fooled by her appearance. She schemes a lot


    and even my cousin has fallen for her tactics again.¡± The ¡®deceived party¡¯ seated in the corner wore a


    cold face and the corners of his lips pursed enough to show that he was suppressing his anger at the


    time. Beside him was Oscar, who was holding in hisughter for dear life in fear that he would burst


    into hysterics right at his seat. Just a moment ago, Aidan boldly showed off by saying, ¡°She is


    expressing her love for me.¡± The next thing he knew, his wife pped him across the face with a reality


    check. After the press conference, the lights in the auditorium were turned back on and two figures


    stood up almost simultaneously. ¡­ As Leanna made her way to the backstage, her chest felt tight and


    her stomach was churning with a sign to vomit. After she took a sip of water, Zoe ran over immediately


    and gushed, ¡°Nana, the conference was a sess! The number of pre-sales is growing and the total


    pre-sale for our three products has surpassed a hundred thousand! This is crazy!¡± Hearing the good


    news, Leanna exhaled a sigh of relief. At least the oue is favorable. ¡°Has Zayn left?¡± Leanna


    inquired. She could not see anything as the lights in the auditorium were dim. ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I haven¡¯t


    seen him earlier, but I don¡¯t think he left. He¡¯ll definitelye backstage to look for you¡­¡± At that


    moment, a tall and slender figure appeared at the door just as Zoe finished speaking. Aidan¡¯s face was


    icy and his entire body was engulfed in a chilling aura. Leanna and Zoe exchanged nces with the


    same thought in mind upon his arrival. Why is he here? A few secondster, Zoe felt the atmosphere


    getting more tense, which made her stutter a little. ¡°I¡­ Nana, I¡¯ll meet you at the door. Both of you can


    chat first.¡± She bolted after saying that. At that moment, only the two of them were left in the dressing


    room. Aidan cast a light nce at the various pieces of jewelry on the table, then marched forward with


    his slender legs. ¡°Are you going to give me an exnation?¡± Leanna had no idea where his terrifying


    aura came from. When she saw him approaching, she took two steps back and leaned against the


    table. ¡°What¡­ exnation?¡± Coming to a halt before her, he took the ne ced behind her and


    narrowed his dark, enticing eyes. ¡°What do you think?¡±

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13


    ¡°As you can see, I am one with a proper career. Would it be so outrageous for me to return to my


    roots?¡± Leanna answered with the assumption that Aidan was referring to the contract-signing with Lux


    Jewelry. ¡°Did I ask you about this?¡± he asked with a low tone. ¡°Then, what were you talking about?¡±


    She was perplexed. ¡°You said¡­¡± Just as Aidan was about to continue, Leanna felt nauseated all of a


    sudden and she quickly covered her mouth. However, the muffled sound of retching was still loud and


    clear. ¡°President Pearson, please stay away from me. I¡¯m feeling a little sick,¡± she warned while


    stretching out her other hand to push him away. ¡°Keep up with your act,¡± he said nonchntly. What a


    show you¡¯re putting on just to avoid the topic. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m exposed. Haha. What is it really that you wanted


    to ask? If there¡¯s nothing, I¡¯ll excuse myself to the bathroom, President Pearson.¡± Since the day before


    yesterday, her morning sickness had been overwhelming. After a few retches earlier, she was really


    about to vomit this time. Aidan gripped her wrist tightly and asked in a cold voice, ¡°What happened to


    your first love?¡± Leanna was taken aback for a moment as she did not expect this to be the question he


    wanted to ask. ¡°It was just¡­ first love,¡± she answered. She looked up at him after finishing her


    sentence and solemnly added, ¡°President Pearson, this better not be a fuss you¡¯re trying to make.


    Don¡¯t you think that it¡¯s ironic to bring this up again, given the state of our current rtionship?¡± At that,


    he frowned and tightened his grip on her wrist even harder. ¡°What is our rtionship, then?¡± ¡°In the


    midst of a divorce.¡± ¡°Leanna McKinney, quit challenging my patience.¡± I don¡¯t understand; all I want is


    for him to agree with the reasonable, legal, and non-aggressive divorce that I¡¯m proposing. How am I


    challenging his patience? That uneasy feeling returned just as she was about to ask, but he was still


    gripping her hand tightly. In a hurry, she grabbed a trash can nearby and vomited into it. Even though


    Aidan quickly retracted his hand, a few drops of vomit inevitably stained the cuffs of his shirt. ¡°Leanna!¡±


    he eximed while his face darkened instantly. After she finished throwing up, she picked up a ss of


    water and rinsed her mouth before apologizing, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I couldn¡¯t hold back.¡± Aidan removed his suit


    jacket and tossed it aside before opening the window to get rid of the odor in the room. ¡°President


    Pearson, if you don¡¯t mind, I really need to leave. Or¡­ if you have time to divorce today, I¡¯ll let Zoe


    handle the magazine¡¯s affairs ande with you.¡± He turned around and looked at her


    expressionlessly; his face a little colder than when he first arrived. Leanna was confused. Can¡¯t he just


    wait a few moments? At this fraction of a moment, there was a knock on the door before Zoe¡¯s voice


    sounded, ¡°Have you finished chatting, Nana? The editor-in-chief, Lany, is looking for you.¡± ¡°Okay. I¡¯m


    almost done,¡± she replied. With that, she turned to Aidan and excused herself. ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯ll


    get going first. Please wait for me outside for a while.¡± Zoe dragged Leanna out of the dressing room


    and wanted to run, but because Leanna was pregnant, they could only power walk. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say the


    editor-in-chief is looking for me?¡± Leanna inquired. ¡°It¡¯s a lie. Lany is currently socializing with those


    dignitaries. If I don¡¯t do that, how could I have saved you from that b*stard?¡± This left Leanna


    speechless. Still, she¡¯s right. As they approached the door, a voice from the side called out, ¡°Leanna.¡±


    Both thedies came to a halt at the same time. What¡¯s meant toe will alwayse¡­ ¡­ ¡°How¡­


    have you been, Leanna?¡± After a long silence at the hotel¡¯s entrance, Zayn could not help but ask. ¡°I¡¯m


    good,¡± Leanna replied while pursing her lips. ¡°It¡¯s been about half a month since I returned and I¡¯ve


    been looking everywhere for you. Everyone¡¯s telling me that they haven¡¯t heard from you for a long


    time.¡± To that, Leanna remained silent. Three years ago, she severed contact with not only Zayn, but


    also with all of her previous ssmates. She did not want to tell anyone about the unspeakable. As a


    human, it was natural of her to want to preserve her meager, ridiculous dignity. ¡°Will you be leaving


    again this time?¡± she asked with a smile after a while. Zayn stared at her and shook his head. ¡°Leanna,


    I¡ª¡± ¡°Zayn!¡± At that moment, Anna appeared out of nowhere and squeezed in between them. Caught


    off-guard, Leanna took a step back against the wall behind as she barely managed to keep her


    bnce. ¡°Anna!¡± Leanna eximed with her pounding heart. ¡°Leanna, your voice is unbearably loud.


    My cousin, Aidan, is right inside and you¡¯re here seducing another man in public? Are you not


    embarrassed?¡± Anna roared at her. Leanna could not be any paler at this point as her blood seemed to


    freeze from head to toe. She had never considered hiding her marriage from Zayn, but she also had


    not anticipated the reveal to turn out like this. From the mouth of Anna! Zayn, who had always been


    good-tempered, became enraged and flung Anna¡¯s hand away before questioning, ¡°Anna, what are you


    doing here?¡± Taken aback once again by his attitude at her, Anna¡¯s eyes instantly turned red and sheContent is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    yelled angrily, ¡°This is for your own good, Zayn! Why don¡¯t you ask her what she did to my cousin? Is


    she brave enough to admit it?¡± ¡°There¡¯s nothing I¡¯m not willing to admit,¡± Leanna stated calmly, ¡°But


    Anna, I did warn you; if you¡¯re still so ipetent in walking like a normal human being, maybe it¡¯s


    time I teach you.¡± Anna had been dazzled by jealousy to the point where she could no longer reason.


    She had never seen Zayn speak to her so gently, yet he was doing it to Leanna. ¡°You¡¯re no relic in a


    museum. Do you think you¡¯re untouchable?¡± Anna challenged Leanna as she was about to push her


    again when Zayn intervened. ¡°Stop it, Anna.¡± ¡°Zayn, how long have you known her? Why don¡¯t you


    believe my words?¡± ¡°Leanna and I have been friends for three years. I don¡¯t need you to tell me who


    she is.¡± Anna¡¯s eyes widened with surprise. ¡°You guys¡­ If that¡¯s the case, what kind of woman was she


    like?¡±

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14


    Chapter 14 You Refused A cold and indifferent voice that was devoid of emotion engulfed from behind.


    Leanna sighed and closed her eyes. This is going to be a bloodbath. At the sight of Aidan, Anna¡¯s act


    of restraint onlysted a second before she added fuel to the fire, thinking that her cousin would back


    her up. ¡°Aidan, look at Leanna! She is so shameless.¡± With that, he gave Leanna a cold look. On the


    other hand, Zayn stood in front of Leanna the moment Aidan cast a nce on her.


    Seeing this, Aidan questioned with a chuckle, ¡°What are you doing, Mr. Bat?¡± Stunned and


    speechless, poor Zayn had not even recovered from the fact that Leanna and Aidan were married.


    Leanna then reached out her hand and gently pushed Zayn to the side before letting out a dry chuckle.


    ¡°Nothing, he¡¯s just a friend. We¡¯re just greeting each other. If there are no other issues, I¡¯ll be the first to


    leave.¡± She had only taken a few steps when her wrist was grabbed. She reacted quickly by retching


    out loud. The hand was withdrawn within a second. Just like that, Leanna fled the scene like a sh.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe was resting her eyes and listening to music in the car when she noticed the car door suddenly


    opened. ¡°You¡¯re done so soon? I expected you two to talk a little longer.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t mention it. Anna knew


    Zayn, then Aidan came. Fortunately, I ran quickly or else I might be dead on the spot.¡± Leanna sighed.


    ¡°Anna? The girl¡­¡± Zoe frowned and asked. Before she finished her words, Leanna understood what


    she was trying to say and nodded lightly. ¡°Didn¡¯t she flee the country immediately after the ident?


    She does have the guts to return, doesn¡¯t she? Is she really not afraid of karma?¡± At that moment,


    Leanna suddenly vomited again, so she quickly took out a peppermint candy from her bag and stuffed


    it into her mouth. ¡°Zoe, let¡¯s go to the hospital,¡± she said. ¡°Have you¡­ thought about it?¡± ¡­ ¡°Everything


    is normal. The reason for your severe morning sickness this time is also due to your body. The reaction


    will be rtively relieved if you eat lightly and go for more walks,¡± the doctor exined after Leanna¡¯s


    checkup. ¡°There is no problem with the rest. Please return after twelve weeks for a pregnancy


    checkup,¡± the doctor concluded and she nodded lightly. ¡°I see, thank you.¡± When Zoe saw Leanna


    exiting the doctor¡¯s office, she ran over and asked, ¡°Nana, how did it go?¡± ¡°Everything is fine, ording


    to the doctor.¡± After hearing that, Zoe breathed a sigh of relief. She suddenly remembered that this was


    not what she wanted to ask. However, after seeing Leanna¡¯s face, she did not ask any further. ¡°Then,


    let¡¯s go back.¡± On their way back, Zoe received a call from the magazine stating that the total sales


    volume had surpassed one million.


    Lany mentioned that Leanna was the star of tonight¡¯s celebration banquet and inquired as to where she


    had gone. ¡°She¡¯s not feeling well, so I took her home. Please notify Mr. Mancini that we will not be


    attending the afterparty,¡± Zoe told the editor-in-chief. She then turned to face Leanna after hanging up


    the phone. ¡°Nana, are you okay?¡± The pregnant woman leaned her head against the car window in


    deep thoughts. It took her a while toe back to her senses after hearing Zoe¡¯s words. ¡°I want to


    keep this child,¡± she uttered. Earlier on, she was lying in the hospital bed when she noticed a small dot


    with the size of a soybean on the monitor; it was then when a strange feeling arose in her heart. It was


    as if her child from three years ago had returned to her side. I can¡¯t possibly kill my baby again. ¡°Okay,


    I¡¯ll raise the child with you and when you get remarried in the future; let that b*stard¡¯s child calls another


    man ¡®daddy¡¯ to piss him off!¡± Zoe said in a rxed manner. ¡°Yeah, thinking about that face of his makes


    me feel good,¡± Leanna said as a smile stered on her pale face. Upon the decision of keeping the


    child, her first thought was to keep it a secret from Aidan.


    At least not right now. Despite the fact that their marriage was disgraceful, she hoped the divorce would


    at least be pleasant. Leanna¡¯s phone rang as soon as the car stopped downstairs. ¡°Hello, who is it?¡±


    she asked as she picked up the phone while looking at the string of unfamiliar numbers. ¡°Hey, Leanna.


    It¡¯s me.¡± She remained silent while holding the phone despite hearing the familiar voice. ¡°I was in a


    hurry just now and I didn¡¯t have time to say anything,¡± Zayn added. ¡°Zayn,¡± she called out his name.


    ¡°What Anna said is true. I¡¯m married and I wormed my way into the Pearson Family.¡± ¡°Leanna, I know


    that¡¯s not who you are. I don¡¯t believe Anna and it doesn¡¯t matter to me why you married Aidan. I¡¯m just


    curious about what happened three years ago and why you decided to turn down the chance for Aeras.


    I thought we promised.¡± ¡°What¡¯s past is past. It¡¯s time we move on,¡± she responded. ¡°Then¡­ have you


    moved on from us too?¡± ¡°I¡¯m married.¡± ¡°I know there¡¯s no love between you and Aidan. I can wait for


    you.¡± At this moment, Leanna suddenly felt the phone bing hot. Her eyshes fluttered nervously


    and she finally said, ¡°Don¡¯t. I¡¯m not worth your wait.¡± She hung up the phone without hesitation after her


    last word. Zayn used to be a beam of bright light in her barren life. He was self-maintained, excellent,


    bright, and he often sparked her hope when she was about to give up. Perhaps she was dazzled by his


    beautiful character, but she really dreamed of them being together. The Bats and Pearsons were


    both well-known, therefore, how could they ever ept someone like her into their families? Three


    years ago, both her dream and the fantasy she was deeply immersed in was dampened and destroyed.


    When she awoke from her dream, everything between her and Zayn had ended. ¡­ Lux Jewelry


    established its own brand and had been very sessful in entering the jewelry markettely, despite it


    being their first. Not only that, theunch had also won acim from all around the world.


    Other than celebrating Lux Jewelry¡¯s brave first step into the world, the discussion also centered


    around McK, their up and rising contract designer. Everyone took notice of this young and vibrant


    designer when she won first ce in the Emerging Designer Competition three years ago. This time


    round, theunch of Lux Jewelry¡¯s First Love series had allowed her to stand out in the design world


    once again; hereback was indeed breathtaking. However, what everyone wanted to know was the


    reason for her disappearance three years ago. While the rest of the world was debating, Oscar sat on


    the couch in Patheon Club with his phone while eagerly watching the news. ¡°Take a look at these so-


    called exclusive juice; they can literally make up any story and let it stick till it bes a fact.


    Some im that she was taken care of by wealthy businessmen after she became famous and that she


    was an underground lover for three years. Soon after, the wealthy businessman¡¯s wife tracked her


    down, beat her, and drove her away. Hereback was due to her loss of ie after leaving the


    wealthy businessman.¡± Aidan, who was sitting next to him, sipped his wine without uttering a word


    while his chiseled jawline was showcased under the dim light. At this moment, a person inquired, ¡°Mr.


    Woodley and President Pearson, would you like to y?¡± In the midst of his hectic scrolling, Oscar


    raised his head and smiled at the person. ¡°You guys go ahead. President Pearson has just returned


    from a business trip, so he¡¯s tired. I¡¯m just going to sit with him for a while.¡± Oscar was now engrossed


    in the pleasure of reading the spilled tea, so he had no time to y cards.


    These illogical revtions are getting more and more interesting. After a long while, Aidan asked


    abruptly, ¡°Did you mention that she made a request to the person-in-charge of thepetition to


    convert the study aid into cash?¡± ¡°Yup, but you refused.¡± Just like that, Aidan remained silent and


    pondered for the rest of the night with a wine ss in his hand.


    Next Chapter

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15


    Chapter 15 An Unexpected Punch in the Face ¡°Ask Xavier to find out what happened back then,¡± he


    ordered Jonathan after a few moments. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Jonathan nodded and walked away. I knew she


    needed money badly, hence why she even schemed me in the first ce. But I didn¡¯t realize there was


    so much going on even before that¡­ If she had known I was the sponsor all this while, does that mean


    our first meeting was also part of the scheme? ¡­


    ¡°Hey, I noticed Mia was just here. She¡¯s been running around here a lottely,¡± one of the waiters at the


    Patheon Club¡¯s staff loungemented as he was switching shifts. ¡°Take a look at who¡¯s here today. It


    would be odd if she didn¡¯t show up.¡± ¡°Did you witness the incident in front of Patheon Club a while ago?


    Mia is extremely brave. She hides the fact that she is pregnant with President Pearson¡¯s child and she


    even ran to his wife to show off and make a fuss. She really wants the whole world to know that she¡¯s a


    mistress,¡± another waiter said.


    In the midst of the conversation, a figure in the corner came to a halt. ¡°We¡¯re talking about President


    Pearson¡¯s mistress here. She shamelessly rides on his coattails and now she¡¯s pregnant. Mia is


    working hard to get Mrs. Pearson out of the way so she can join the Pearson Family. Once she enters


    the Pearsons, her social status is gonna elevate to the sky; that¡¯s what mistresses are capable of.¡± ¡°It¡¯s


    also strange to see that President Pearson frequently visits the Patheon Club with Mr. Woodley and the


    others, but he never brings his wife here. Is their rtionship that terrible?¡±


    ¡°I bet you don¡¯t know about this. Leanna, his wife, wormed her way into the Pearsons. I heard from our


    manager that she was sold to the Patheon Club and ended up in his bed. She forced him to marry her


    because she was expecting his child. The Pearsons didn¡¯t want to make a big deal out of it because


    they didn¡¯t want to jeopardize their family¡¯s reputation, so they let her marry into their family.¡± ¡°Yes, I


    heard about that as well. I¡¯ve also heard that President Pearson despises her. He usually avoids


    touching her. Otherwise, howe they have been married for three years and have yet to have a


    child? You must understand how much wealthy families value a descendant. Now that Mia is


    pregnant¡­ tsk tsk, I believe Leanna¡¯s status is insecure.¡±


    Bang! At that moment, someone mmed the locker door shut with a great force. A gloomy young man


    emerged from the corner and cast a cold nce at them before walking away with a nk expression.


    ¡°What¡¯s with the tantrum? It¡¯s not like anyone offended him,¡± a disgruntled voice muttered.


    ¡°He¡¯s only a part-timer, but he¡¯s arrogant just because he¡¯s the manager¡¯s blue-eyed boy.¡± ¡°I know right.


    I heard the manager say he¡¯s the provincial champion this year. He¡¯s attractive and it¡¯s natural for him


    to be a little crazy.¡± A man approached the bar just as the manager had requested someone to deliver


    drinks to Aidan¡¯s private room. ¡°I¡¯ll deliver it instead,¡± Louis said as he went up to the manager.


    His colleague, who happened to have diarrhea, allowed him to take over the shift. ¡°Louis, I heard that


    President Pearson is not in a good mood today. You should be more careful. Exit the room after you¡¯ve


    delivered their drinks.¡± ¡°Roger that.¡± When Louis pushed open the private room door, he saw Mia was


    sitting next to Aidan, attempting to lean against him. Louis then mmed the wine on the table and said


    in a harsh tone, ¡°The wine you ordered has arrived.¡± Mia was startled and her movements came to a


    halt. It had been a long while since shest saw Aidan. When she heard that he would be at the


    Patheon Club today, she quickly dashed over to meet him. However, Mia was confused about her


    status at this point.


    Sure, Aidan brought her along on several asions before, but all she did was merely stand beside


    him with no further progress. She expected Aidan to be furious after her previous fake pregnancy was


    exposed, however, he only warned her with a few words. The resources he had given to her still


    remained as usual, thus proving that she still had a chance. Everyone was anticipating for her to make


    a fool out of herself; the words were that she was nothing more than Aidan¡¯s whim and that she was


    unqualified to sleep in his bed at all. Therefore, she made it a point that she must gain something from


    him today. After being startled by Louis, she kept her cool and uttered softly to Aidan, ¡°President


    Pearson, you seem to be a little drunk. Why don¡¯t I take you back¡­ Ah!!!!¡± All of a sudden, a ss of


    wine poured over her before she reacted and jumped. ¡°What are you doing?!¡±


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, my hand slipped,¡± Louis apologized nonchntly as he picked up the ss that had fallen


    on the table. Mia could not express her rage as the waiter in front of her was surprisingly attractive.


    Oscar, who was watching the fun aside, was about to head to the bathroom when he abruptly asked,


    ¡°Why are you so enraged, young man? I saw everything you did just now.¡± ¡°Oh, it was on purpose.¡±


    This time, not only Mia but Aidan also raised his eyes and cast a nce at him. She scolded, ¡°You


    must be crazy! Did I offend you?¡± ¡°Who said you have to provoke me for me to bother you?¡± ¡°You¡­¡±


    The raging Mia was so furious that she could not speak for a few moments. At this point, the manager


    who had heard about themotion came quickly to apologize, ¡°President Pearson and Miss rk,


    I¡¯m very sorry. This is our new part-timer and he crossed the line due to his ignorance.¡± ¡°Ignorance?


    I don¡¯t think he¡¯s ignorant at all! In fact, I think he knows exactly what he¡¯s doing; he just said it himself


    that he did it on purpose. If you don¡¯t exin yourself today, don¡¯t you think about leaving!¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry,


    Miss rk. This is our fault,¡± the manager said as he dragged Louis over before whispering, ¡°Louis,


    quick! Apologize to Miss rk.¡± However, Louis stood motionless and his gaze fixed on the man sitting


    on the couch. Aidan stood up with no intention of dealing with the matter, so he uttered lightly to Oscar


    before leaving, ¡°I¡¯ll go first.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll send you off, President Pearson¡­¡± At the sight of Aidan¡¯s departure,


    the anxious Mia no longer cared about the offensive part-timer and went after him instead. However,


    her foot was caught as soon as she took a step. Stumbling and struggling in the air, she was then


    instantly rescued by a helping hand. She looked up to find the man who had just poured wine over her


    smirking mockingly while looking at her with coldness in his eyes.


    The helping hand happened to be one who also tripped her. At the peak of her volcanic eruption, Mia


    was just about to rage before Louis shook off her hand and strode away. Now, she had nowhere to vent


    her rage; all she could do was stomp her feet angrily and flee. Outside of the private room, Aidan was


    holding his phone in one hand while his slender finger was resting on a number he never ended up


    dialing. At the thought of Leanna¡¯s reminiscence toward her first love at the press conference earlier, he


    realized she was up to no good. Isn¡¯t it ironic to talk about first love at this age?


    This became the very reason why he refrained from making the call. As a result, he ced his phone


    into his pants pocket and¡­ Pow! Before he knew it, he just took a punch in his face. He stumbled back


    and wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth with his thumb before raising his head slowly.

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16


    Chapter 16 Mia Is Not Pregnant It was the part-timer again. Neither of them said anything as they


    stared at each other. Just as Louis was about to step forward again, Aidan¡¯s bodyguard appeared and


    quickly subdued him. Mia and the Patheon Club¡¯s manager rushed over just as the bodyguard was


    asking Aidan on how to proceed with the situation. Aidan did not seem to have the patience to further


    drag this on before coldly instructing, ¡°Call the police.¡±


    As such, the manager instantly rushed forward and pleaded, ¡°President Pearson! President Pearson,


    there must be some misunderstanding here. Louis doesn¡¯t usually do this. Hey, Louis. Apologize to


    President Pearson now¡­¡± Although Louis was restrained, he did not appear embarrassed; instead, he


    replied coldly, ¡°I won¡¯t apologize. He knew what he did.¡± ¡°Well, you tell me. What did I do?¡± Louis gave


    Mia a side-eye before looking at Aidan and scoffed, ¡°Everyone knows about your scandals.


    Do I have to spell it out for you?¡± Mia¡¯s gaping mouth was hanging in the air just as she was about to


    refute, but she ended up swallowing her words upon meeting with Aidan¡¯s indifferent gaze. ¡°President


    Pearson, when Miss rk and¡­ When she made a fuss at the entrance of Patheon Club previously,


    many people witnessed it,¡± the manager admitted in embarrassment. Aidan returned his gaze to Louis


    before raising his hand to motion the bodyguards to take him away. ¡°Hand me his information,¡± Aidan


    said to the manager. With Louis¡¯ temper, he did not seem like a righteous man ying a white knight in


    the eyes of Aidan. As soon as the manager left, Mia hurriedly called out, ¡°President Pearson, I¡­¡± ¡°Just


    take what I gave you while I¡¯m still nice and don¡¯t even dream about other things bying at me with


    your pathetic ruses.¡± With that, he went straight into the empty private room next to him. Biting her


    lower lip nervously, Mia was left standing alone and confused. How?


    How can Leanna marry into the Pearson Family by worming her way in and when ites to me, I


    receive nothing? Soon enough, the manager arrived at the private room with Louis¡¯ information.


    ¡°President Pearson, here¡¯s all the information you asked for.¡± Aidan cast a nce on the document and


    spit out two words, ¡°Louis McKinney.¡± ¡°Yes, President Pearson. He¡­¡± ¡°Does he have a sister?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t


    know about that. I haven¡¯t heard him mention it,¡± the manager was perplexed. After that, Aidan set the


    document down and gave the manager a phone number. ¡°Phone this number and ask.¡± ¡­ It was


    11.00PM and Leanna was lying on her bed after taking a shower. She was about to listen to music


    before going to bed when her phone rang. ¡°Hello. May I speak to Miss McKinney?¡± asked the person


    on the other end of the phone. ¡°Yes, speaking. May I know who this is?¡± ¡°I¡¯m the manager of Patheon


    Club. Miss McKinney, is Louis your brother?¡±


    The word ¡®Patheon Club¡¯ showered her a sense of difort, followed by her brother¡¯s name which


    led her to be stunned and concerned. ¡°Yes, he is. What happened?¡± ¡°Louis is a part-timer here, but he


    hit a guest while he was working earlier and I might need you toe over, Miss McKinney,¡± the


    manager exined politely. As such, Leanna immediately lifted her sheets and answered, ¡°I¡¯ll be right


    there!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Miss McKinney. Take your time.¡± For a moment, she was silent. Leanna hurriedly


    changed her clothes after hanging up the phone. As soon as she walked out of the bedroom, Zoe


    asked, ¡°Nana, where are you going at this hour?¡±


    ¡°Louis has beaten someone, so I have to go over to the Patheon Club,¡± she replied quickly. ¡°F*ck. Wait


    a minute, I¡¯ll get changed and drive you there.¡± Zoe immediately became alert and offered to


    apany her friend. Twenty minutester, their car stopped at the entrance of Patheon Club. Leanna


    and Zoe entered one after another, but one of them was stopped by the manager when they arrived at


    the VIP room on the second floor. ¡°Only Miss McKinney is needed.¡± A concerned Zoe wanted to say


    something before she was assured by her friend of her safety. ¡°Wait for me here, Zoe.¡± After saying


    that, Leanna looked at the smiling manager and had a gut feeling that something was sketchy.


    ¡°Call the cops if I don¡¯te out in ten minutes,¡± she told Zoe. ¡°Miss McKinney, please,¡± the manager


    said as he pushed open the private room door. The private room door was shut after she entered.


    Looking at the closed door, Leanna clenched her phone nervously and slowly walked further into the


    room. After only a few steps, she noticed a man with a lowered gaze sitting alone on the couch. At that


    sight, she could not be any more speechless. ¡°President Pearson,¡± she addressed Aidan as she came


    to a halt. However, he remained motionless as if he was asleep. ¡°If there is nothing much, I will leave


    first,¡± she said after about thirty seconds of silence. ¡°Leanna McKinney.¡± ¡°First, it was your father. Now,


    it¡¯s your brother. Why don¡¯t you just tell me what you want?¡± Aidan opened his eyes calmly to look at


    her in an indifferent manner. ¡°I have no idea¡­¡± ¡°If youe clean to me now, I might consider fulfilling


    your pathetic wishes, but if you haven¡¯t had enough of this game, don¡¯t me me for being ruthless.


    ¡± Leanna pursed her lips, unclear on what to say for a moment. Judging from the way he acted and the


    sly attitude of the manager earlier, she thought that Aidan deliberately nned this to trick her into


    coming here. However, based on his words, that was clearly not the case. She squinted in the dim light


    and saw that the corner of his mouth appeared to be bruised with a red scab. ¡°Did Louise to see


    you?¡± she asked after a brief silence. ¡°What do you think?¡± He stood up and approached her. After


    being forced into the corner, she could finally see the wound on the corner of his mouth and the bruise


    on his face much clearer. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know he¡¯de to look for you,¡± she apologized. ¡°Do you


    think I¡¯d buy this?¡± Aidan¡¯s eyes were half-squinted while his long fingers were pinching her chin and


    raising it slightly. ¡°I can¡¯t do anything if you don¡¯t believe me.


    Louis knows I¡¯m getting a divorce. Maybe he thinks you did me wrong, so¡­¡± Meeting his cold gaze,


    Leanna tried to exin herself. ¡°Then, tell me. How did I do you wrong?¡± She fell silent once again, but


    this time avoiding eye contact. Don¡¯t you know what you have done? Do I have to spell it out? Are you


    so proud of the things you¡¯ve done to me, then? Seeing that she was too embarrassed to respond, he


    spoke for her instead, ¡°Your brother believes that I have cheated on Mia and gotten her pregnant. Don¡¯t


    you think the same?¡± After a moment, Leanna finally gave a patronizing smile. ¡°Haha! President


    Pearson, it¡¯s a joke. There¡¯s no such thing.¡± For someone like him, the act of cheating might even be


    justified as seeking for one¡¯s true love. So, who was her to criticize him? ¡°Come on here,¡± Aidan


    responded while turning and walking toward the couch. She knew that she was in the wrong in this


    case, so she obediently followed suit. Then, Aidan sat down on the couch with his slender legs


    crossed.


    While looking at the medicine box on the table, he raised his chin to signal. Upon receiving his signal,


    Leanna pouted and took the cotton swabs and iodine from the medicine box. She then dutifully treated


    his wound while muttering, ¡°If I had arrivedter, your wound would have been healed.¡± He raised his


    gaze slowly and looked into her eyes. ¡°Mia is not pregnant.¡± Just like that, he dropped the bomb.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17


    Chapter 17 Would You Like to Give These to Madam Right Now? Leanna¡¯s hand trembled a little, but


    her expression remained unchanged. ¡°There was a coboration previously, so I just took her to a few


    events.¡± ¡°Oh.¡± ¡°I¡¯m trying to exin it to you as clearly as I can. What¡¯s with your attitude?¡± Aidan


    responded impatiently while holding her wrist. ¡°I¡¯m grateful that you think you owe me an exnation,


    but¡­ Actually, you didn¡¯t have to exin anything to me since we¡¯re already going through the divorce


    process anyway,¡± she replied solemnly.


    ¡°You divorced me because you thought she was pregnant and that I was cheating.¡± Previously, he


    assumed that Leanna wanted to divorce because she had other malicious intentions, but Jonathan


    thought otherwise as he believed that her action was only out of spite, which could be solved with


    Aidan¡¯s coaxing. At that time, he could not think of why she was at loggerheads¡­ until her brother


    showed up today. When Aidan noticed her silence, he emphasized again, ¡°Why don¡¯t you trust me,


    Leanna?


    I will never allow any women, including you, to be impregnated with my child. Understand?¡± With that,


    his words had pierced her heart like an invisible needle. Of course, I understand. During theirst three


    years of marriage, he had never once forgotten to use contraception regardless of the circumstances.


    Leanna was also aware that not only was this his reluctance to have children, it was also a form of


    mockery toward her cunning n back then. After a few seconds of silence, Leanna announced, ¡°I¡¯m


    pregnant.¡± ¡°Leanna!¡± At that moment, Aidan¡¯s pupils could be seen dted and his grip instantly


    tightened. His voice was no longer rxed and turned cold, bringing down the temperature of the entire


    room. ¡°Aren¡¯t you always asking me what I want all this time, Aidan?


    I¡¯m pregnant and I need to n for the future of my child. I want half of all the property that¡¯s under your


    name as well as Pearson Group¡¯s shares¡­¡± ¡°Enough!¡± He swatted her hands away vehemently.


    Knowing that he would not believe her again, Leanna took the pregnancy test form from her bag and


    handed it to him. Without any hesitance, Aidan shredded the form without sparing a nce at it. ¡°How


    many times do you have to use this tactic? Leanna, do you think I¡¯m that dumb to be duped by you


    again?¡± She looked at the scattered paper shreds on the ground and squeezed out a smile. ¡°You saw


    right through me so quickly. It appears that I will have to change my tactics next time.¡± ¡°There won¡¯t be


    a next time.¡± He rose to his feet and coldly said, ¡°Tomorrow at 9.00AM at the Civil Affairs Bureau.


    I don¡¯t want to hear any excuses from you this time.¡± Leanna sat still and remained deafeningly quiet


    until he left the private room. It was not until then did she finally bent down and picked up the shredded


    pieces on the ground slowly. Frankly, it had not been an ¡®unfruitful¡¯ three years for her as she knew


    exactly when and how to push Aidan¡¯s buttons. For example, pregnancy was a sensitive subject for


    him. If anyone was to touch on the subject, he would explode with a bang. After ten minutes, Zoe, who


    was as nervous as an ant on a hot pan, was restricted to remain outside the private room as the


    manager next to her was fully blocking the entrance. Counting down by every second, she was about


    to call the cops when the private room door unexpectedly opened, revealing Aidan, who had a dark


    face and gloomy aura before he strode away quickly.


    This time, it was not just Zoe as even the manager refrained from saying anything rash. Not long after


    he left, Leanna also exited. ¡°Nana, what¡¯s going on?¡± Zoe exhaled and asked, ¡°That bast*rd¡­ Why is


    he inside?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll tell you when we get home.¡± After replying to her, Leanna questioned the manager,


    ¡°Where¡¯s my brother?¡± ¡°Miss McKinney, pleasee with me,¡± the manager replied. ¡­ Louis had been


    locked in the Patheon Club¡¯s storeroom since the ident. However, he made no noise nor caused


    any trouble. As the door opened, he rose to his feet and was surprised to see his sister standing before


    him.


    ¡°Why are you here?¡± he asked while frowning. Zoe, who had followed behind, took the lead to


    approach Louis and sighed. ¡°Oh, Louis, my dear! Why are you so badly hurt? Did the bast*rd attack


    you?¡± Averting his gaze, he remained silent. Leanna looked at him and exined that Aidan had been


    beaten by him, but it looked more like he was being kicked by Aidan¡¯s bodyguard instead. As a matter


    of fact, his face was even more bruised than Aidan¡¯s. ¡°Let¡¯s go, Louis,¡± Leanna said softly. He then


    went to the locker room to pack his belongings before returning to the manager. The manager was


    surprised to learn of his resignation, but he thought it was reasonable. After going through so much for


    the night, the manager could basically figure out their chaotic interpersonal rtionship; Louis was Mrs.


    Pearson¡¯s younger brother, which he was unaware of; now that he knew, how could he let Louis work in


    the Patheon Club?


    That would be no different than tarnishing the Pearsons¡¯ reputation, right? ¡°What I did today was


    impulsive. I¡¯m sorry. I will bear all the losses,¡± Louis apologized. In response, the manager patted him


    on the back andforted, ¡°It will be a shame if you tell me this, Louis. Your loss would be the punch


    you gave President Pearson. This issue could have gotten worse, but he let you off the hook, didn¡¯t he?


    Your sry for the past few days will still be paid to you.¡± Louis pursed his lips upon hearing this. He


    did not object, instead, he bowed slightly and thanked the manager before departing. After exiting the


    Patheon Club, he saw Leanna and Zoe waiting at the entrance. He walked over and lowered his head


    in regret, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± ¡°Why did you have to apologize to me? It¡¯s not your fault,¡± Leanna said with a


    smile. ¡°Did you divorce Aidan because he cheated on you?¡± ¡°Well¡­ Not really. However, he just told


    me that he and Mia are not in that kind of rtionship.¡± ¡°You believe him when he says it?¡±


    Louis asked incredulously with furrowed brows. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter whether I believe it or not; we¡¯re


    going to separate soon anyway,¡± she responded. At that moment, Zoe brightened the mood quickly by


    saying, ¡°Okay, let¡¯s not bring up those annoying people. Louis, I heard you came first in the exam within


    the entire province! I haven¡¯t had time to congratte you. It¡¯s better to celebrate today, so let¡¯s go


    somewhere! You choose the location and I¡¯ll bring you there!¡± ¡°No, thanks. I have to find work when I


    return,¡± he grumbled. He had only been out of school for a little over a month. Since his job at Patheon


    Club was no longer avable, he had to find another. Zoe was just about to stuff Louis money without


    having to work for it when Leanna nudged her arm in secret


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    . Therefore, she simply said, ¡°It¡¯s alright. We¡¯ll celebrate next time.¡± She had almost forgotten that he


    had wanted to be strong ever since he was a child; let alone receiving money from her for free, he


    would not even ask Leanna for a penny. ¡°Remember to treat the wound when you get home and don¡¯t


    get infected,¡± Leanna reminded him. ¡°Let¡¯s get in the car. We¡¯ll take you home,¡± Zoe said. ¡°I don¡¯t stay


    at home anymore because Jethro has returned.¡± Leanna was taken aback for a moment before asking,


    ¡°Those debtors didn¡¯t look for him?¡± ¡°No, he appears to have settled the debt.¡± ¡°How did he get that


    money?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure. He¡¯s been quite happytely. He probably has a lot of money on him¡­


    Alright then, I¡¯m leaving. Get going,¡± Louis said as he wore his bag. With that, he left in the opposite


    direction. ¡°This kid is getting more and more stubborn. He is exactly like you,¡± Zoe uttered while looking


    at his back. Chuckling at her remark, Leanna concluded, ¡°Let¡¯s go,¡± Inside the Rolls-Royce, Jonathan


    looked across the street, then at the beautifully packaged gift boxes on the passenger seat before


    asking quietly, ¡°President Pearson, would you like to give these to Madam right now?¡±

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18


    Chapter 18 The Truth Behind The Designer Seated in the back row, Aidan did not even bother to open


    his eyes as he eximed coldly, ¡°Give it to the dogs, then.¡± Jonathan paused for a moment before


    reminding Aidan gingerly, ¡°President Pearson, choctes are poisonous to dogs.¡± Aidan was caught at


    a loss of words by that. ¡­ Leanna arrived at the Civil Bureau Affairs one hour before the meeting and


    patiently waited there. She had made an estimation of all the possible scenarios on the road, so she


    made her way here earlier to avoid beingte for the appointment.


    The Registration of Marriage counter by the side was filled with blissful and happy couples on their way


    to embark on their journey as husband and wife. Inparison, the counter for processing divorce


    procedures was significantly deserted with several couples with numb or angry expressions.


    Consequently, the staff manning the counter were also feeding off from their energy of misery.


    Meanwhile, Leanna tried hard toe up with a stiff smile upon noticing the scene in front of her.


    There was no bitterness or hatred between her and Aidan, but the atmosphere during their registration


    of marriage had been quite unpleasant previously. As such, she decided that it was time for a change


    as it would be unnecessary to maintain a vengeful expression during their divorce.


    At the thought of this, the smile on her face widened and she was determined to be the happiest


    person getting a divorce today. Aidan arrived just then and he caught sight of that coincidentally. He


    paused in his tracks for a moment and directed an indifferent look at her silently. After quite some time,


    the smile she tried hard to maintain gradually stiffened and disappeared.


    She lowered her head to check her watch for the time whileining under her breath, ¡°B*stard.


    How can you bete to sign the divorce papers? Even our country¡¯s President is not half as busy as


    you!¡± Aidan felt a vein pulsating on his temple and he pursed his thin lips while striding forward on his


    long legs. After hearing some footsteps, she quickly turned around and her eyes brightened as soon as


    she saw him. ¡°President Pearson, there you are!¡± He grunted coldly in response and asked, ¡°Have you


    waited long?¡±


    ¡°No, I haven¡¯t. I¡¯m quite touched that you would spare some time in your busy schedule toe over


    and sign the divorce papers. I don¡¯t mind waiting at all.¡± He noticed the suddenplete change in her


    character that happened so naturally and became scornful. It¡¯s such a waste of her talents to not


    pursue a career in acting. They sat down in front of the divorce counter and Aidan shot a look at


    Leanna, who had swiftly signed her name on the papers without any hesitation. At that moment, he


    tightened his grip on the pen and suddenly voiced out, ¡°Leanna, I¡¯m going to give you onest chance.


    Is the pregnancy true?¡± She paused in her movement and lifted her head to look at him with a smile. ¡°I


    thought that you saw the pregnancy test report I showed you?¡± Under the sun, her bright smile felt quite


    ring. For a moment there, Aidan could not seem to tell the extent of the sincerity of her smile.


    His voice gradually turned cold. ¡°Three years ago, you showed me the same thing too and I trusted you


    back then.¡± Suddenly, there was a slight change in Leanna¡¯s expression. The smile on her face waned


    slightly and she did not even bother to rebuke his words. Instead, she merely said, ¡°You¡¯ve


    remembered to use protection every single time.¡± That was exactly the reason why he was unable to


    tolerate her repeated lies and exploitations. If she had suddenly changed her words and admitted that


    she had lied to him about being pregnant, then he would easily find it within himself to forgive her once


    more. However, she was totally unrepentant and repeated the same mistake again. He retracted his


    gaze and scrawled his name with a flourish on the bottom of the page. After Leanna walked out of the


    Civil Bureau Affairs, she carefully stored the divorce papers before intecing her fingers together. With


    a smile, she mentioned, ¡°Aidan, happy divorce day.¡± Aidan merely nced at her expressionlessly. She


    piped up again, ¡°President Pearson, in order to show that we went through an amicable divorce,


    shouldn¡¯t you wish me a happy divorce as well right now?¡±


    ¡°You can enjoy it all by yourself then.¡± After he had said that, he strode off immediately and bent down


    to enter the Rolls-Royce parked in front. She raised her eyebrows and took out the divorce papers from


    her bag before voicing out solemnly, ¡°Leanna, I wish you a happy divorce.¡± Regardless of how badly


    Aidan misunderstood her and reckoned that she had plotted to gain this divorce, right now, she had


    finallypleted the final process. Overtime, it would be proven that she simply wanted a divorce; that


    was all. ¡­ In the afternoon, Leanna arrived at Lux Magazine. She had turned up this time to discuss


    with Harvey the subsequent products to be released in the ¡®First Love¡¯ series.


    The first three items released in this series were big hits. Lux had intended to make full use of the


    poprity from this series ande up with subsequent designs. Halfway through their meeting, one


    of their staff suddenly walked in and spoke softly in Harvey¡¯s ears. His expression changed slightly


    before he got up to tell Leanna, ¡°There¡¯s been an urgent situation, so I¡¯ll have to go out for a moment.¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°Sure.¡± Harvey had just walked off and Leanna suddenly sensed amotion outside


    the meeting room. The people out there had different expressions on their faces and some of them


    even nced in her direction as they discussed amongst themselves. She could clearly sense their


    mocking and spective looks through the ss walls. Because of that, she immediately sent a text


    message to Zoe to ask what was going on. Even after waiting for more than ten minutes, she did not


    get a response from Zoe at all.


    At that point, Leanna had a niggling sense that something major must have urred. Half an hour ago,


    the number of preorders for the jewelry pieces in the ¡®First Love¡¯ series, which had been increasing


    steadily, suddenly halted. Subsequently, there was a sharp decline in the pre-orders. Furthermore,


    there were a huge number of people who requested a refund. In order to ensure their production


    numbers to be maintained, Lux Jewelry had contacted several sub-contractors to operate all of theirContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    factories at the same time; the subcontracted factories had also started working overnight toe up


    with the final product after the press conference yesterday.


    If the influx in requests for refunds persisted at this stage, it would definitely be a huge financial loss to


    Lux Jewelry. The main reason for this to be happening came from a post that appeared on the Inte


    one hour ago. This was different from everyone¡¯s selfish guessesst night and the post had listed out


    a detailed description of the timing and urrences of it. As such, the credibility of this post was well-


    proven. The post pointed out that the reason for the sudden disappearance of the newly-appointed


    designer for Lux Jewelry, McK, three years ago was because¡ª ¡®After she won thepetition, she


    swiftly became entangled with a wealthy man. After she realized that the man was married, she didn¡¯t


    give up but schemed hard and ended up getting pregnant instead. Subsequently, she turned up at the


    person¡¯s house with a child in her womb and forced him to marry her. The wife of the wealthy man


    couldn¡¯t stand the humiliation, so she divorced the man.


    That¡¯s why McK seeded in marrying him.¡¯ ¡®But then, not long after climbing up the socialdder, she


    somehow lost the child she was carrying out of the blue. The man sensed that he had been tricked, so


    he gave her the cold shoulder from then on and refused to acknowledge her presence. He started to


    seek thepany of other women outside. The reason for her appearance this time is because the


    wealthy man haspletely lost interest in her, therefore, he told her to pack her belongings and


    leave.¡¯ At the end of the post, there was another statement issued stating that after Lux Jewelry


    officially appointed her and signed the employment contract with her, the first series that they came up


    with was a grave insult to the term ¡®first love¡¯. In the post, it was stated that McK was a corrupted


    personcking morality. She was a homewrecker for going after a married man, so she did not have


    the right to mention anything about first love nor did she have the right to be a jewelry designer.


    Although Leanna was not part of the entertainment industry, Lux Jewelry remained widely known in the


    country for being a top magazine.


    They had coborated with plenty of top celebrities in the country, hence the magazine was practically


    a part of the entertainment business. Furthermore, they were currently in this informational age where


    even the most mundane topic could end up being viral. There were always plenty of nosy people widely


    interested in the affairs of others. ¡®I used to love the First Love series and I bought all three designs in


    their initial release. I can¡¯t believe that their designer is such a horrible person. I¡¯m so disgusted by that!


    Luckily, I applied for a refund almost instantly after the news broke.¡¯

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19


    Chapter 19 Bird in a Gilded Cage ¡®Lux Jewelry is too dumb. How can they not do a background check


    on their designer before signing the contract? How can they hire a homewrecker to be in charge of the


    First Love series? This is such a horrible reflection of it.¡¯ ¡®They have ruined such a great opportunity.


    I reckon that this will be Lux Jewelry¡¯s biggest flop since the start of their business.¡¯ ¡®Have everyone


    stopped finding out information on McK? I¡¯m quite keen to dig more information about her. Be a sleuth


    and find out more about the wealthy guy too. We must ensure that this despicable duo ends up in


    disrepute.¡¯ Thements on the inte became increasingly intense and Leanna¡¯s background was


    revealed entirely. However, there was not even a mere mention of the alleged wealthy man¡¯s identity at


    all. At that moment, Harvey quickly rounded up the staff and called an urgent meeting to try and find a


    solution to diffuse this situation in the shortest time possible.


    Nheless, this matter was clearly a pre-arranged plot with someone fuelling the mes behind the


    scene. As soon as they removed the matter from the trending chart, there would be trolls on the


    inte who would create another hashtag and make the matter resurface on the trending chart. The


    force of this scandal seemed to be pressurizing Lux Jewelry toe up with a statement announcing


    their termination of contract with Leanna; in other words, they intended to keep this up until the


    protagonist was ruined. Leanna could clearly tell that this was a malicious n toward her, therefore,


    Lux Jewelry evidently realized this too.


    However, the termination of Leanna¡¯s contract was not the major issue here. If this matter was allowed


    to persist and nothing was resolved, then thispletely unjustified nder would tarnish Lux


    Jewelry¡¯s reputation significantly. Still, thements on the inte varied and no matter what action


    Lux Jewelry took, they would still be used of siding with Leanna. Perhaps most people did not even


    care about finding out the truth, but they were much keener to see the situation turn out to be what


    urred in their minds, a well-written plotline per se. Harvey spent the entire afternoon in his office


    without stepping out at all and Lux Jewelry was bombarded by enquiring phone calls from the media.


    They were asked whether they were aware of this matter prior to the scandal. Furthermore, some press


    members even tried hard to gain the first interview regarding this incident. Leanna sat in the meeting


    room and looked at the condemningments on the Inte written for her. Suddenly, she had a


    vision of herself in possession of a million fans, though all of them were, in fact, anti-fans. Truth be told,


    this matter was rather straightforward as she could easily figure out who was the puppeteer behind;


    there were only a handful of people who knew about her former marriage. Besides, that entire piece on


    the Inte was mainly dissing her and throwing shade at her character.


    Furthermore, the author also uncovered the usual casino that Jethro frequented. However, there was


    not a single mention of the wealthy man. As such, it was quite clear that the person who wrote that


    piece not only knew her in person, but Aidan as well. The other party was intent on ruining her without


    revealing an ounce of Aidan¡¯s identity, which was why the person ndered her for being a


    homewrecker. He had never been married prior to this, so there was no way anyone could have linked


    him to this. At the same time, inside the president¡¯s office of Pearson Group, Aidan was browsing


    through the alleged whistleblowing articles posted on the Inte. His dark eyes were cold and


    unfeeling. After a short while, he reacted, ¡°Has Lux Jewelry responded to this?¡± ¡°So far, they haven¡¯t


    given a response. Perhaps they were caught by surprise by the suddenmotion that was brought


    about by this matter.¡± At that point, he remained silent and no one knew what was going on in his mind.


    As such, Jonathan mentioned, ¡°President Pearson, although this matter has no implication at all to


    Pearson Group, right now, Mrs. Pearson¡¯s personal information has been leaked. Therefore, there


    could be a chance that thepany would be implicated in the future.¡± ¡°Continue your words.¡±


    Jonathan continued to b with a serious look in his eyes, ¡°We¡¯ve worked together with Lux Jewelry


    before and we¡¯ve maintained a great partnership.


    If we could help them and Madam get through this crisis this time, not only can we nip the malicious


    comments in the bud before things fester and get out of hand, but naturally, Lux Jewelry would owe us


    a huge favor too. Regardless of which aspect we look at, we would definitely be on the winning side.¡±


    Aidan grunted his approval before shutting the webpage on hisputer. ¡°Send them our PR team.¡± If


    Pearson Group hadn¡¯t worked with Lux Jewelry before, then I would not have cared about Leanna at


    all! She would have to sort out her own mess then! Jonathan heaved a sigh of relief after leaving the


    room and thought, I have such a tough life! I can¡¯t believe that I managed toe up with such a great


    excuse to give President Pearson a way out to offer Madam help. ¡­ At the moment, as trouble


    continued to brew on the inte, Harvey suddenly received a phone call from the PR department


    stating that the PR team from Pearson Group had contacted them and that they were willing to help


    Lux Jewelry ovee this crisis.


    The PR team of Pearson Group was one of the top ones in the country. Although Pearson Group had


    business involving the entertainment industry, their PR department had never provided their services


    for any celebrity at all; their only role was to maintain the reputation of Pearson Group. Suddenly,


    Harvey was anxious when faced with such a rare and valuable opportunity that had somehow


    materialized. He had encountered Aidan before and he realized that Aidan was not a phnthropic


    person who would offer help out of the blue. However, the current situation was a pressing one and


    they could not figure out a better solution than this for the time being. Harvey was just about to go over


    and discuss the issue with the PR team sent by Pearson Group when Leanna suddenly appeared at


    the entrance of the meeting room. She spoke softly, ¡°Mr. Mancini, I¡¯m willing to ept the media¡¯s


    interview and exin this entire matter.¡±


    Zoe, who was standing by the side, attempted to stop Leanna, ¡°Nana¡­¡± Leanna continued, ¡°I¡¯ve


    considered everything carefully and I know that this might not be the most appropriate action right now,


    but if this matter is to fester, then it would affect Lux Jewelry¡¯s reputation adversely.¡± Harvey agreed


    with her suggestion. Lux Jewelry was one of the top magazines in the country and they were different


    from a celebrity in the entertainment industry. As they faced this nderous situation that had arisen


    suddenly, nothing could resolve the matter better than letting the party involved toe clean and


    make a public statement; it would even be much more effective than having a great PR team, one


    might say. Soon after that, Lux Jewelry called for a private press conference. After Jonathan answered


    the phone call, he went and knocked on the door of the president¡¯s office with trepidation.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan didn not even bother to lift his head as he spoke in an indifferent tone, ¡°Has the issue been


    resolved?¡± ¡°President Pearson, Lux Jewelry has rejected our help offer. They stated that they¡¯ve found


    a solution to settle this matter.¡± Aidan shut the document folder in front of him and lifted his head slowly.


    There was not even the slightest hint of emotion in his cold features. ¡°What¡¯s their solution for this?¡±


    ¡°They have organized a press conference to rify this matter.¡± Aidan ced down his fountain pen


    and snorted. Leanna was the main reason for this rise of scandal, so obviously, there would be no one


    else but her to rify this matter in front of the media. Does she enjoy being exposed in the public eye


    so much? Her private information is all over the inte! At that moment, Jonathan thought that Aidan


    would lose his temper, but the president merely replied calmly, ¡°I get it. You can leave the room now.¡±


    Jonathan had just walked out when Aidan¡¯s phone went off; it was a phone call from the Pearson


    Family Estate. ¡°What¡¯s the deal with the rumors on the Inte?¡± Aidan expressed himself calmly, ¡°It is


    exactly as what you saw. It¡¯s all just rumors.¡± Gordon¡¯s low voice rang out, ¡°I know that it¡¯s just rumors,


    of course! My question is, what¡¯s Leanna trying to do?! She should just stay home and not create such


    a mess outside!¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s not a bird that I keep in a gilded cage, so she¡¯s free to do whatever she wishes to.¡± Fortunately,


    Gordon did not make this call with the sole intention of talking about this matter. He paused for a


    moment before continuing, ¡°Aidan, I heard that the woman you¡¯re seeing is pregnant with a child. Since


    Leanna hasn¡¯t gotten pregnant for the past three years, why don¡¯t you spare some time and get the


    divorce finalized with her? She shouldn¡¯t be allowed to retain the position of Mrs. Pearson and yet not


    bring any benefit to the family.¡±

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20


    Chapter 20 Blocked List Aidan¡¯s deep voice became significantly colder. ¡°For you, would you ept


    any woman to marry into the family as long as they carry my child?¡± ¡°I¡¯m doing this for your own good.


    Otherwise, do you intend for your child to be born out of wedlock? In the past, you¡ª¡± ¡°I don¡¯t need your


    reminder. I won¡¯t let this happen again.¡± After Aidan said that, he hung up the phone instantly. His eyes


    remained glued to the divorce papers on the table for quite some time before he suddenly stood up and


    ced them in his pocket. Subsequently, he tookrge strides and left the office. ¡­ Meanwhile at Lux


    Jewelry, during the entire press conference, Leanna behaved very calmly the whole time and did not


    flinch from the stinging, barbed questions from the press members.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    She was not a celebrity nor did she need the publicity. Besides, she did not have any public image to


    maintain. Her main goal was to prove her innocence and restore the reputation for herself and Lux


    Jewelry before any irrevocable damage was done. One of the reporters asked, ¡°Miss McK, since


    you¡¯ve just mentioned that the post on the Inte calling you a homewrecker is just a rumor, then


    could you exin why you disappeared from the public eye all of a sudden three years ago?¡± ¡°I got


    married.¡±


    ¡°Then, is your husband the wealthy man mentioned in the post?¡± Leanna replied, ¡°I¡¯m very sorry, but I


    can¡¯t disclose any information regarding my ex-husband. All I have to say is that both my ex-husband


    and I were single from the moment we met each other and until we wedded.¡± Several reporters


    perceptively picked up the word ¡®ex-husband¡¯ from her statement and they continued to ask her


    questions rted to her marriage. However, she smiled and responded indifferently, ¡°I think that we¡¯re


    all seated here at the moment for me to rify the untruth rumors on the inte, so forgive me, but I¡¯m


    not prepared to disclose anything further regarding my personal life.¡±


    Her words rendered the reporters speechless. Nheless, her words made perfect sense. She was


    not in fact a public figure, hence, there was no need for her to front up to the public about her personal


    life. As for right now, the reason there was such a huge fuss about this matter was mainly because


    everyone reckoned that she was a shameless homewrecker who had seeded in advancing her


    social status. Therefore, it essentially became a boycott campaign toward her as a designer. Currently,


    she came forward to face the media to rify things while Lux Jewelry backed her words too.


    As for the reporters in attendance today, they were generally on good terms with Lux Jewelry and


    hence, no one was nning to offend them. After the press conference ended, there were various


    articles published soon after that. Lux Jewelry also issued a statement at the same time, debunking the


    rumors on the Inte. Lux Jewelry would be acting on behalf of their designer to seek criminal


    charges against the parties who ndered their employee. They would also ept every request of a


    refund and hopefully, they would be able toe up with further designs that were to the public¡¯s liking.


    After the release of this statement, there was a barrage of fashion bloggers and celebrities who came


    forward to indicate their support for Lux Jewelry. Soon enough, the sales of the three pieces in the First


    Love series soared significantly instead of dropping. The increase in sales was three times higher than


    before the incident urred and it was sufficient to cover the entire loss from the refund process. As


    soon as the press conference ended, Leanna rushed to the toilet instantly. Zoe waited worriedly by the


    entrance for ten minutes before Leanna finally came out. ¡°Nana, are you alright?¡± Leanna shook her


    head with her pale face.


    ¡°Could you help me let Mr. Mancini know that the incident today is entirely my fault and that I¡¯m very


    sorry for everything? If the magazine intends to terminate our contract, then I don¡¯t mind signing the


    termination letter right now.¡± ¡°What are you on about? Everyone can clearly see that this was a plot to


    sabotage you. There is no way that Mr. Mancini would terminate your contract because of this!


    Besides, if he intended to terminate your contract, then what¡¯s the point of him going through all this


    hassle to organize a press conference to rify things? He could have just released a statement and


    pushed the me on you.¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Leanna had just spoken one word when she suddenly felt a nauseous sensation. However, she


    did not end up vomiting despite her difort. She rubbed her stomach resignedly and thought,


    You¡¯re such a bad-tempered naughty little thing. Zoe handed over a ss of warm water to Leanna.


    ¡°Nana, I¡¯ll send you home first.¡± At that moment, some staff from Lux Jewelry walked past them and


    whispered amongst themselves. ¡°Hey guys, why do you think Pearson Group offered to help us this


    time?


    They actually sent their renowned public rtions team to us. Not even Daphne has received such


    help.¡± ¡°Yeah. Daphne¡¯s actually one of the most popr actresses. She¡¯s the top star of Pearson


    Group; back then, her scandals spread like wildfire, but the PR department of Pearson Group did not


    even step in.¡±


    ¡°I heard from a friend that Daphne¡¯s team sought help from the president of Pearson Group and


    requested to use the resources of the PR department, but guess what the president said? He


    responded by saying, ¡®Sort out your own mess. If you can¡¯t resolve the issue, then leave the industry¡¯.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s quite harsh of him.¡± ¡°Hey, your news is outdated. The issue with Daphne happened two years


    ago. Right now, the president of Pearson Group is quite protective of her.¡± Instantly, the others were


    quite keen to find out more gossip. Even Leanna and Zoe could not help being drawn into the topic.


    The person who was busy revealing the secrets continued, ¡°You guys must know Mia rk, right?


    She¡¯s the young model that Pearson Group is currently focused on grooming. She¡¯s actually President


    Pearson¡¯s beloved one. Previously, her team was quite keen to be on our cover page, but Mr. Mancini


    found her unsuitable, therefore rejecting their request. However, I heard that when we were preparing


    for the First Love series, Mia got wind of this and wanted to work with us to promote the series as the


    cover girl.¡± ¡°Yes, that¡¯s right. I heard of this too. In the end, Mr. Mancini rejected her request.


    However, President Pearson turned up at the press conference yesterday, right? I heard that he was


    there to buy the pieces in the First Love series as a gift for someone. Could it be for Mia? He must be


    doing that to help her gain the chance of being on the cover page.¡± ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then the reason


    why Pearson Group sent their PR department over to help us this time must be because they wanted


    Lux Jewelry to owe them a favor. As such, it would be easier to pave the way for Mia. President


    Pearson has done so much to help her.¡± The people walked off further as they continued the


    conversation.


    Zoe could not hold in andined, ¡°How dare that nasty couple show their affections for each other


    so tantly! Darn it!¡± Meanwhile, Leanna merely reached out to touch the divorce papers in her bag as


    she thought, There are two sentences that really are such an apt description. The words spoken by


    males can¡¯t be trusted; you¡¯d be much better to depend on yourself than to rely on a man. I definitely


    don¡¯t believe that there¡¯s nothing going on between him and Mia! Finally, Leanna came back to her


    senses and mentioned, ¡°Zoe, you should go and deal with your work. I¡¯ve got something else to do, so


    I¡¯ll be leaving somewhere now.¡± Although this incident was resolved sessfully and the crisis had


    been averted, there were some scores that she had to settle regardless.


    However, as soon as she left thepany, her cell phone went off. She nced at the flickering


    screen silently, but she did not end up answering the call. After quite some time, her phone finally


    stopped ringing. Leanna had already made things clear; regardless of the reason, there was no longer


    any point for her to be in contact with Zayn. She was just about to hail a cab when her phone went off


    again. She took a look at her phone and was even more reluctant to take this call. He¡¯s such an


    inconsistent man! This is annoying! With that, she instantly pressed the ¡®block contact¡¯ option.

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21


    Chapter 21 If You¡¯ve Regretted We¡¯re divorced, so what¡¯s the point of him calling me? Is he trying to


    mock me? He blocked me on WhatsApp, so I¡¯m just doing the same thing by blocking his number on


    my phone. We¡¯ve both done the same thing once, so fair and square. ¡­ After shooting thest scene


    at the studio, Mia bowed to the staff from the productionpany and voiced out sweetly, ¡°Thanks


    everyone for the great effort. I¡¯ve ordered some drinks for everyone and it¡¯s right outside. You can take


    one each when you¡¯re on the way out.¡± ¡°Thanks, Mia. You¡¯ve worked very hard too.¡±


    ¡°I mainly stood there and posed for a few shots, so my job¡¯s not as tough as yours. You guys should go


    back and get some good rest. I¡¯m looking forward to our next coboration.¡± It seemed that her shoot


    was not over as she was still putting on an act of courtesy in front of everyone; as soon as she turned


    around, her face shifted instantly. She quickened her footsteps and headed back to her dressing room.


    Subsequently, she mmed the headpiece in her hands onto the table. Bang!


    ¡°These bunch of so-called professionals must be idiots! They took so long toplete a few simple


    shots! Did they think that we¡¯re filming a movie here?¡± As she spoke, she turned around to berate her


    personal assistant, ¡°I¡¯ve told you so many times not to ept such cheap and low advertisement jobs!


    Do you think that I¡¯m not worthy of better gigs?¡± Prior to this, she had just obtained a chance to appear


    on an international tform. She had also gained ambassadorship for a renowned brand by relying on


    Aidan¡¯s influence. Right now, by choosing this inferior advertisement, it would be a significant drop in


    her status.


    Her personal assistant silently replied, ¡°This advertisement would provide a huge exposure and it would


    be very helpful in building up your poprity.¡± ¡°What¡¯s the point of gaining poprity? I don¡¯t need


    something insignificant like this. They should honestly review themselves. They¡¯re not worth my time at


    all!¡± Her personal assistant stopped speaking as she thought, Mia was the one who personally asked to


    be part of the advertisement three months ago. She had basically forsaken her image to beg for this


    chance.


    However, ever since she became entangledwith President Pearson, she¡¯s had aplete change in


    character. She seems to think that she¡¯s better than everyone now. After Mia¡¯s tirade, she took out her


    cell phone to check out the publicments on the Inte.


    However, as soon as she clicked on Twitter, she saw Leanna¡¯s response to the matter and the


    statement that Lux Jewelry posted. Mia clenched her teeth and thought, I can¡¯t believe that Leanna¡¯s


    still well and fine after such a hugemotion! She was about to create some more trouble for Leanna


    when suddenly, a sharp woman¡¯s voice rang out in the silent dressing room. ¡®I¡¯ve told you so many


    times not to ept such cheap and low advertisement jobs! Do you think that I¡¯m not worthy of better


    gigs?¡± ¡®What¡¯s the point of gaining poprity? I don¡¯t need something insignificant like this.


    They should honestly review themselves. They¡¯re not worth my time at all!¡¯ Mia was stunned beyond


    words upon hearing that and she clearly did not expect her words from earlier to have been recorded.


    She stood up abruptly and asked, ¡°Who¡¯s out there? Come out right now!¡± Meanwhile, Leanna smiled


    and beckoned her by waving in the corner. The smart woman held a phone in her hands, which was


    the very source of the voice recording that was yed. ¡°Excuse me, I intended toe over and greet


    you, but you were too loud and domineering as soon as you entered the room, so I didn¡¯t get a chance


    to speak,¡± Leanna apologized insincerely. At that point, Mia¡¯s face turned as pale as a sheet.


    She clenched her fist tightly by the side of her thighs and her fingernails were deeply embedded into


    her flesh. ¡°Leanna, you¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯m not going to do the same thing as you did and create false rumors to


    nder others. Neither will I upload this recording onto the Inte to make it known to the public. I¡¯ll


    just¡­¡± Leanna locked her phone and spoke calmly, ¡°Send this to the boss of thepany for this


    advertisement that you¡¯ve justined about as being inferior.¡± Although this advertisement that


    Mia just participated in was not a high-end one, it was still considered to be a popr brand in the


    country. That was also the reason why she had put in so much effort to ingratiate herself with the


    company for this gig in the first ce.


    This time, the main reason why she wasining about the job¡¯s quality was that she had found


    herself a much more powerful support in Aidan, therefore, she was now in possession of better


    resources. However, if these words were to leak, then her reputation in this industry would be


    tarnished. It would have a huge adverse impact on her. ¡°Leanna, you¡¯re wicked!¡± She clenched her


    teeth. The smiling Leanna responded, ¡°I thought that you¡¯ve realized this before. Have I evere


    across as someone who¡¯s as kind as Mother Teresa?¡± ¡°I finally understand why President Pearson¡¯s so


    disgusted by you! Your actions of plotting behind one¡¯s back are indeed extremely malicious. You


    deserve to be abandoned!¡± Meanwhile, the other woman only responded calmly, ¡°I¡¯ve got to remind you


    that you¡¯re the one who started to plot behind my back. I was just giving you a taste of your own


    medicine.


    Here¡¯s another reminder, you better not cross my path again from now on. You do realize that I¡¯m


    capable of forcing Aidan into marrying me, so it would be a piece of cake for me to deal with you.¡± After


    she finished those ruthless words, she was about to turn around and leave with flourish when she saw


    a strapping figure standing silently by the door. The person had a cold look on his expressionless face.


    Leanna was rendered speechless at that point. Aidan pulled his thin lips into a sneer as he voiced out


    coldly, ¡°Miss McKinney, you¡¯re so amazingly capable. Shall I give you a round of apuse?¡±


    She paused for a moment before responding, ¡°Well¡­ That¡¯s not necessary.¡± I must be so darn unlucky!


    Why am I always caught red-handed by him whenever I deliver my sharp words?! She had finallyContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    managed to shrug off the stereotypical impression he had of her by going through the divorce process


    but in a blink of an eye, her efforts had gone down the drain. Whatever! It doesn¡¯t matter even if he


    misunderstands me. We¡¯re divorced, so why should I care about that? ¡°President Pearson.¡± Mia


    instantly switched to an aggrieved expression and the tears welled up in her eyes as she bit her lips.


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure why Miss McKinney approached me in such a confronting manner. I don¡¯t quite know in


    what way have I ever offended her. Miss McKinney, if you¡¯re displeased with me in any way at all, then


    just tell me and I¡­¡± As Mia spoke, the tears streamed down her face and she sniffled. Aidan nced at


    her from the side of his eyes and there was an indifferent look on his face. Meanwhile, Leanna looked


    at the despicable couple in front of her and she felt goosebumps on her arms. She was just about to


    leave when she heard Aidan say, ¡°I clearly remember warning you not toe up with stupid schemes


    that are more see-through than a ss.¡± As soon as Mia heard that, she stopped sniffling instantly and


    the tears magically stopped while remaining stuck around her eyshes. At that point, Leanna couldn¡¯t


    help it and burst out intoughter.


    It looks like Adan¡¯s indeed a cold and unfeeling person. This guy is hopeless. She paused for a


    moment as she tried hard to stifle herughter before striding off, not batting an eysh at them. I¡¯ll just


    leave them to their own performance. However, as she walked past Aidan, he grabbed hold of


    Leanna¡¯s wrist and shot a look at Mia before uttering, ¡°Get out.¡± Mia bit hard on her lip and nearly drew


    blood. She did not even get the chance to collect her belongings as she fled the dressing room. The


    room descended into silence as soon as the door was shut from the outside. Leanna remained silent


    for a moment before exhaling loudly. ¡°I wasn¡¯t targeting you with the words I said earlier. I just meant¡­¡±


    That the two of you are rubbish!!! However, he interrupted her and asked coldly, ¡°Did you block my


    number?¡± At that point, she remained silent. He frowned. ¡°Answer my question.¡±


    Perplexed by his current behavior, she tried tough off the tension after a moment of silence. ¡°Haha.


    President Pearson, you must be trying to joke around with me, huh? We¡¯re divorced, so why should we


    keep each other¡¯s contact details? Did you think we would need that so that we can make a toast at


    each other¡¯s funerals?¡± He was rendered speechless by her words. ¡°Besides, you¡¯ve blocked me on


    WhatsApp too. So, isn¡¯t that a clear indication that you wish to sever all ties with me?¡± He pursed his


    thin lips and thought, Every single message that she sent back then was to ask for a divorce, so of


    course, I was annoyed! ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant.¡± She relented quite quickly. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ve misunderstood


    you, but this isn¡¯t a deterrent for us to block each other since we¡¯ve actually gotten a divorce anyway.


    We should sever all ties and proceed with our own lives happily.¡± The impatient Aidan annoyingly


    replied, ¡°You¡¯ve mentioned the word ¡®divorce¡¯ repeatedly.


    Is that the only thing that you care about?¡± She paused and reminded him gently, ¡°President Pearson,


    have you forgotten that we just signed the divorce papers this morning? I still have the divorce papers


    in my bag.¡± The frown on his face deepened and his slender fingers twitched slightly. Gradually, he


    released his grip on her hands. Leanna lowered her eyes and nced at her reddened wrist due to his


    tight grip. This b*stard! Does he think that he¡¯s grabbing hold of a criminal? He exerted so much force!


    ¡°President Pearson, if you¡¯re done here, then I¡¯ll leave now¡­¡± Calmly, he responded, ¡°If you¡¯ve


    regretted your decision, I can consider giving you another chance.¡±

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22


    Chapter 22 You Seem to Have Forgotten Something Leanna was confused. ¡°Regarding the divorce.¡±


    ¡°No, thanks. That¡¯s not necessary.¡± After saying so, she turned around and left without any hesitation.


    As soon as she walked out of the door, she sensed a hateful look shot at her from the corner, however,


    she disregarded that and strode off purposefully. After heading downstairs, Leanna asked Zoe for the


    contact number of the staff in charge of the advertisement today.


    After receiving the information she needed, Leanna instantly sent over a copy of the recording. She


    was not a generally kind person, hence, she was not here to solely bicker with Mia out of boredom this


    time round; she was determined to settle every score with each person that crossed her path. ¡­ Half a


    monthter, the First Love series was officially released and the response from the public was positive.


    Everyone continuously pestered them to release the other pieces in the series as soon as possible.


    After several meetings that Leanna had attended, she stated that she was able to maintain her past


    record of producing three pieces of jewelry each month.


    However, Harvey wanted her to rx for the time being. After all, each product would have its own


    market value and it was fine to just produce new pieces continuously over time. As for this stage, there


    was a more pressing matter, which was the International Fashion Week held next month. Lux Jewelry


    was the organizer for the event this year and Leanna was the designer for Lux Jewelry. Hence, if


    everything went perfectly with this event, then there would be a high chance that her design would be


    showcased on an international tform.


    This would mean that international recognition would garner for her design. However, if this was the


    case, then not only would Leanna be in charge of the design for the subsequent pieces in the First


    Love series, but she would also be in charge of all the jewelry designs in the show. That would


    inherently mean a significant increase in her workload. Fortunately, Harvey had assigned a personal


    assistant to her and she could just focus oning up with new designs. Her personal assistant would


    deal with everything else rted to the fashion show¡ªfrommunicating with the costume models to


    the selection of gemstones. For the past few weeks, Zoe was slightly worried to see her working till the


    wee hours of the day. ¡°Nana, don¡¯t you feel exhausted from working so much? You¡¯re currently


    pregnant too!¡± Leanna stroked her baby bump and smiled.


    ¡°This little one has been a good kid recently and hasn¡¯t been fussing much, so I¡¯m fine.¡± Zoe knew that


    Leanna had been forced to give up her dream of pursuing a career in design three years ago, which


    was why Leanna was exceptionally appreciative of this opportunity by giving her best foot forward.


    After a short while, Zoe mentioned again, ¡°Other than focusing on work, you should consider things for


    yourself too. Zayn has contacted me several timestely. I reckon that he¡¯s very close to appearing at


    the entrance of our magazine in order to get hold of me. Anyway, you¡¯re already divorced from Aidan


    and Zayn¡¯s quite persistent, so why don¡¯t you¡­¡± Leanna shook her head.


    ¡°Things have ended between me and Zayn.¡± ¡°Why don¡¯t you reconsider him? Give him and yourself


    another chance.¡± ¡°Zoe, I¡¯m pregnant right now. Do you think that Zayn would ept being a


    stepfather?¡± At that point, Zoe was at a loss for words. She tried several times to say something, but


    she ended up remaining silent with a torn look. That b*stard Aidan is such a troublemaker even after


    their divorce! ¡­ Inside Patheon Club at the card tables, a person nced in the direction of the man


    drinking silently by himself at a corner and whispered his question, ¡°President Pearson seems to be in


    a foul moodtely. Each time he¡¯s here, he would just be drinking by himself and not join our game at


    all. What happened?¡± Being the only person who knew the exact details of the scenario, Oscar replied,


    ¡°What else could have happened? He¡¯s gotten a divorce.¡±


    As soon as everyone at the card table heard that Aidan had gotten a divorce, they could not contain


    themselves. The men tried to find out more information out of curiosity while the women were impatient


    to make a move. ¡°President Pearson doesn¡¯t like his wife, right? Shouldn¡¯t he be happy after the


    divorce, then?¡± ¡°Yeah, he¡¯s very happy. He¡¯s happily celebrating by himself, isn¡¯t he?¡± At that point, the


    crowd was rendered speechless. Oscar flicked his deck of cards on the table and announced, ¡°I¡¯ve won


    the game. Pay up, guys.


    ¡± While getting bored of winning halfway through the game, Oscar gave up his spot for someone else


    and took a seat next to Aidan before pouring himself a drink. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you? Why are you


    drinking by yourself here everyday? Don¡¯t tell me that you¡¯ve suddenly realized you can¡¯t bear to lose


    your wife after the divorce.¡± Aidan paused in his action of lifting his ss and sneered, ¡°You must be


    delirious.¡± ¡°Then, what is this that you¡¯re doing right now?¡± ¡°I seem to have been tricked by her.¡± Over


    the past few days, Aidan had calmed down significantly and considered the situation. From the start of


    Leanna¡¯s request for divorce, she had been the one manipting the situation¡ªincluding lying about


    the second pregnancy. She must have predicted urately that he would be angered by that, so she


    had purposely done that to provoke him.


    She knew him very well and this was evident by the moves she made. That was also why she got what


    she wanted and she seeded in gaining a divorce. Oscar was confused. ¡°Isn¡¯t this great for you? She


    wasn¡¯t after your money and she didn¡¯t scheme for anything else other than getting a divorce.¡± Aidan


    snorted, ¡°When she needed money, she tried her best to trap me into a marriage. Now that she no


    longer needs me, she did everything she could to get a divorce. I¡¯m just like an idiot who was tricked


    repeatedly by her.¡± There¡¯s no other woman on earth as despicable as Leanna. Oscar racked his brain


    as he considered the situation. Finally, he came up with a fairly neutral opinion, ¡°Why don¡¯t you pursue


    her once more, and after restoring the marriage and allowing her to experience some sweet moments,


    ask for another divorce. That¡¯s the easiest way to get back at her.


    ¡± As soon as Aidan heard the words ¡®restore the marriage¡¯, he swallowed a lump in his throat


    involuntarily and tightened his grip on his ss of drink. He found the suggestion to be usible. He


    grunted an approval, ¡°She deserves that.¡± As for Oscar, he thought, What?! I was just cracking a joke.


    Did he take it seriously?!? As the drunken Aidan arrived home at Castor Vi, his servant noticed his


    condition and quickly went to prepare a drink for his hangover cure. However, the servant opened the


    cupboard and realized that there was none left. The servant then revealed the bad news to Aidan, but


    he was unperturbed. He remained seated on the couch with a finger pressed in between his eyes.


    Subsequently, he spoke up calmly, ¡°Give her a call.¡± Two minutester, Leanna received a phone call


    from Castor Vi. ¡°Mrs. Pearson, we¡¯ve run out of the drink to cure hangovers¡­¡± Leanna pursed her


    lips and corrected her nicely, ¡°Aidan and I are divorced, so please stop addressing me as Mrs.


    Pearson. I¡¯m no longer in charge of his hangover cure.¡±


    The servant replied awkwardly, ¡°But then¡­ Mr. Pearson said that the drink you bought is very effective


    and the others don¡¯t work for him.¡± Suppressing her temper, she took a deep breath. Of course, it¡¯s


    effective! I brewed it personally! That b*stard scoffed at it previously, didn¡¯t he? Oh, now, he finally


    realizes how magically effective it is!? After Leanna calmed down, she took into consideration that they


    had gone through an amicable divorce after all, therefore, she gave the servant the entire ingredient list


    and procedures to make her homemade hangover cure.


    However, before she could finish her instruction, someone grabbed the phone away. Subsequently,


    Aidan¡¯s cold and hoarse voice rang out, ¡°Leanna, you seem to have forgotten something.¡± Forgotten to


    kill you off beforemitting suicide? He continued his sentence slowly, ¡°I¡¯ve got an IOU here from you


    for the two million you owe me.¡± At that point, Leanna was rendered speechless for at least three


    minutes. On the other end of the line, Aidan waited patiently for three minutes too. ¡°I¡¯ll prepare the drink


    right away and send it over. Wait for me.¡± After she had said that, she hung up the phone instantly and


    plopped herself onto her bed. She had nearly forgotten that matter.


    Three years ago, after marrying Aidan, she had finally mustered up the courage and asked him for a


    loan. At that point, Jethro¡¯s debt from the loan sharks had reached an astronomical figure of two million


    due to thepounding interest.Owned by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23


    Chapter 23 Do You Think I¡¯m Cracking a Joke? Leanna held an IOU in her hand as she knocked on the


    door to his study room gingerly. Subsequently, she insisted repeatedly that she would definitely find a


    way to repay the money she owed him. Throughout the entire process, Aidan stared at her coldly with a


    hint of mockery and disdain in his eyes.


    During that period, she had been practically bedridden every day as he left marks all over her body


    revengefully. After he finally gave her the money, he did not mask his contempt at all as he said, ¡°You


    don¡¯t have to repay me. I thought that was the main purpose of you scheming so hard to marry me?¡± Of


    course, she did not respond to that. It¡¯s all thanks to that entrepreneur who criticized me for not having


    any goals. It¡¯s quite true that I don¡¯t have the money to repay him right now. It was one thing for Aidan


    to state that she was exempted from repaying him the money, but she insisted on leaving the IOU with


    him. It does make sense for him to seek repayment from me after our divorce. Zoe was happily


    catching up on a TV series in her room when she suddenly heard nging noises in the kitchen.


    Zoe went over and asked, ¡°Sweetie, what are you chopping up there?¡± ¡°Aidan!¡± ¡°Huh?¡± Leanna nced


    at the piece of ginger in smithereens before her and finally, she regained her senses. ¡°It¡¯s no big deal.


    I¡¯m heading outter, so don¡¯t wait up for me. You should go to bed early.¡± Zoe knew without even


    taking a guess that it was Aidan causing trouble for Leanna. With a frown, she asked, ¡°What does he


    intend to do again? You guys are divorced, so why can¡¯t he just leave you alone?!¡± ¡°Forget about it. I


    owe it to him in the first ce.¡± ¡°Well, it might be fine right now, but it won¡¯t be when your baby bump


    shows up in two months. You wouldn¡¯t be able to hide things by then.¡± Leanna held a knife in her hand


    and left it suspended in mid-air without any wordsing out from her mouth. Yeah.


    The two million debt hasn¡¯t been paid off, so I would be indebted to him the entire time until I pay it off. I


    wouldn¡¯t be able to get away from him. Judging by Aidan¡¯s personality, if he realized that she was


    pregnant, there was a high chance that she might be escorted to the operation table by force just to


    avoid the same situation as before; he did not want the child to be used as a guilty weapon against him


    in exchange for another marriage. After quite some time, Leanna finally responded, ¡°I¡¯ll sort everything


    out with him tonight.¡± One hourter, she arrived at Castor Vi. As soon as the doorbell sounded, the


    servant, who had been waiting perilously for her arrival, instantly rushed to open the door.


    The relieved smile froze on her face as soon as she saw the person standing at the door. Aidan walked


    down the stairs to see the servant lead a young man holding a thermos sk into the room. Needless to


    say, Aidan¡¯s expression had turned ashen. The man was clearly in shock by the tense atmosphere and


    he spoke with a stammer, ¡°E-Excuse me¡­ Are you Mr. Pearson? This is a delivery order from Miss


    McKinney. There should be a delivery code sent to your phone number. C-Could I have that code


    please?¡±


    Aidan was silent as he pursed his thin lips, trying hard to suppress his anger while reaching for his


    phone. As soon as the young man obtained the code, he swiftly fled the scene subsequently. Less than


    two minutes after the young man left, thendline to Castor Vi went off. The servant heard the phone


    go off, but she did not dare to answer it. Instead, she came up with an excuse and left the scene. The


    phone went off repeatedly until it was nearly cut off and Aidan finally answered it then. Soon, Leanna¡¯s


    voice rang out, ¡°President Pearson, have you received the drink? I didn¡¯t have enough ingredients, so I


    made one batch for you.


    If you need more of it, then I¡¯ll make another batch and send it over to you via delivery services.¡± She


    paused before continuing, ¡°As for the two million I owe you, can we discuss this matter further?¡± He


    sneered coldly. ¡°Discuss the matter? Is this how you show your sincerity?¡± Knowing his personality, she


    knew that he must be annoyed because she had sent the drink to him via delivery services, but Zoe


    was right. It was fine at the moment for her to deliver it to him, but after two to three months, what was


    she to do if he persisted in pestering her? As such, rather thaning up with an excuse further down


    the road, she might as well set the boundaries from the start. She replied, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but it¡¯s quitete


    at night.


    I¡¯m a pretty young woman after all, so it would be dangerous for me to be out and about at this time of


    the night. Anyway, you¡¯ve received the drink and it will deliver the same effect.¡± He was speechless for


    a moment before he responded, ¡°Leanna, since when have you be so shameless?¡± ¡°Plenty of


    people seem to think so too. This is not news to me.¡± At that point, Aidan stopped talking. Realizing that


    he had yet to hang up the phone on her, Leanna took the chance and mentioned probingly, ¡°I¡¯ve got


    some money right now. I can pay you back a portion of the total amount first and the remainder by


    installment.


    How does that sound?¡± ¡°Do I look like a bank?¡± She knew that it was not going to be easy to convince


    him. ¡°Then, what would you prefer?¡± ¡°Pay me back the lump sum.¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Before she could finish her


    sentence, Aidan spoke calmly, ¡°Or perhaps, you cane over every day to cook for me and tidy the


    ce up from now on until you clear the debt.¡± She paused for a moment before asking, ¡°How much is


    a day¡¯s work worth?¡± ¡°That would be one hundred thousand per month.¡± ¡°President Pearson, are you


    sure that you want to do this? This isn¡¯t a fair deal for you.¡± He snorted in response and thought, She¡¯s


    finally found her conscience. She continued, ¡°All the chores that you mentioned were chores that I did


    every day since our marriage; so, if I get one hundred thousand per month, then I would be entitled to


    one point two million each year.


    The total I would get for three years is three point six million, so you would still owe me one point six


    million.¡± At that point, he was at a loss for words. However, before he jumped to the wrong conclusion,


    she quickly added, ¡°I¡¯m not asking for one point six million from you by saying all this. I¡¯m just tallying


    things up, that¡¯s all. You don¡¯t have to pay me anything. Let¡¯s just consider that everything¡¯s settled


    between the two of us.¡± She reckoned that she had sorted out everything logically and perfectly.


    However, he responded in a calm voice, ¡°Leanna, do you think I¡¯m cracking a joke?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I


    thought you were being very serious about this here.¡± We¡¯ve divorced and yet he wants me to go back


    and serve him every day?!


    If this isn¡¯t a joke, then he must be out of his mind. On the other end, he remained silent for several


    seconds before speaking up once again, ¡°I expect payment within the next month and I don¡¯t ept


    payment by installment.¡± She responded, ¡°Okay.¡± He hung up the phone as soon as he heard her reply.


    Where can she get that amount of money within a month? By then, she would naturally have toe


    back to me, begging on her knees. ¡­ Lately, Gordon had gotten word somewhere that Aidan and


    Leanna had divorced. After phoning Aidan up several times to ask about it to no avail, Gordon


    redirected his sights on Mia. After further investigation, he realized that Mia was not pregnant at all.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Though slightly disappointed and ceased action for several days, he started to find an excuse to make


    Aidane home in order to arrange another marriage for him. Due to that, Aidan was frustrated


    beyond words. Hence, he went on consecutive business trips to several cities just to be away from


    Highside for nearly half a month. After he disembarked from the flight, he pressed in between his brows


    and mentioned naturally, ¡°Store the presents in my luggage into paper bags and find some time to send


    it over to Leanna.¡± As soon as he said that, Jonathan froze and replied awkwardly, ¡°President Pearson,


    you¡¯ve divorced Mrs. Pearson¡­¡±


    Jonathan had held the position of Aidan¡¯s personal assistant for many years now and he clearly knew


    that Aidan would always have the habit of buying presents for Leanna no matter where he went for the


    past three years. However, Aidan never handed it over to Leanna in person because he imed that


    she was too schemeful to receive anything from him. If he was to treat her slightly better than usual,


    then she would think that she could take advantage of him and get ahead of herself. Pretending to


    believe Aidan¡¯s ridiculous excuse, Jonathan brought home the expensive gifts and unwrapped the


    original packaging before rewrapping them with the usual store-bought packaging. The final step would


    be to hand them over to Leanna when he met her.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24


    Chapter 24 Forgotten About Their Divorce Typically, Jonathan was able toe up with various


    reasons; it was usually either a standard gift from theirpany that everyone received or he imed


    that it was a gift from thepany they coborated with. Inside the Rolls-Royce, the atmosphere


    suddenly became eerily silent. Aidan opened his eyes and they were full of coldness. It had been more


    than a month, but he kept forgetting about their divorce. There were some habits that were deeply


    entrenched in him, so it was pretty much impossible to change within this timeframe. However, Leanna


    was the exact opposite as she was able to move on swiftly. Jonathan spoke, ¡°President Pearson, Lux


    Jewelry is organizing a show next week. Since we have previously coborated with them, should we


    send them gifts to express our congrattions? We don¡¯t have to send gifts to the entirepany. We


    can just focus on the editors, the photographers, and¡­ perhaps their designer as well?¡± Aidan


    remained silent for several seconds before suddenly mentioning, ¡°There are some artists from Pearson


    Group involved in the show, so we should actually send them gifts.¡± Finally, Jonathan heaved a sigh of


    relief and started preparing gifts for everyone else. As such, three dayster, the staff from the personal


    assistant office of Pearson Group arrived at Lux Jewelry and started to distribute gifts. Harvey was


    confused to receive the gift and he was momentarily stunned. What¡¯s going on here? Why did Aidan


    suddenly turn into such a friendly guy? Some of the photographers that received the gifts were shocked


    as well. This is unexpected! Leanna, the only contracted designer of Lux Jewelry, was the only person


    who kept her cool and maintained aposed look upon seeing the present, which had gone through


    so many hurdles to arrive in her hands. The pantry was located next to Leanna¡¯s desk and there were a


    few staff furiously gossiping about the matter at the moment. ¡°Look! I was right indeed! Pearson Group


    has been giving ourpany preferential treatmenttely. It must be because they¡¯re attempting to


    pave the way for Mia. President Pearson¡¯s done so much just to win over a woman and his actions are


    one of a kind!¡± ¡°It¡¯s no wonder then¡­ I recently heard that Mr. Mancini had the notion of changing the


    ambassador for the First Love series. Mia has found Pearson Group to back her and they¡¯re a well-


    establishedpany, so it¡¯s no wonder that Mia was able to defeat so many other impressive models


    and be selected for the show.¡± ¡°I heard that President Pearson¡¯s wife is quite pretty and her looks are


    reason why, then I can reveal it to you right now,¡± she mentioned briefly, ¡°During the day that I won the


    award, I received news that my dad had owed one million to the loan sharks. I wanted to trade the


    opportunity to go to Aeras for cash, but my request was rejected. Subsequently, you must have also


    heard about everything else that happened from Anna.¡± Zayn maintained a deep furrowed look on his


    face and was shocked to hear the reason to be out of his expectation. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me the truth


    directly? I could have helped¡­¡± Leanna interjected, ¡°How could you have helped? By giving me money


    to pay off the debt? Zayn, we aren¡¯t rted to each other, so how could I possibly get you to help me


    pay off the debt?¡± ¡°Leanna, you should know how I feel about you. We were so close to getting


    together with each other. It wasn¡¯t a huge sum, so you could have just asked me directly for it.¡± She


    smiled and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m thankful that we didn¡¯t end up getting together back then. At least we


    retained that pure rtionship we had. I didn¡¯t want you to see the type of environment I grew up in. I


    didn¡¯t want you to know that I had such a horrible father either. You¡¯re right; perhaps you wouldn¡¯t mind


    at all giving me money to pay off his debts once or twice, but if this went on over time, are you sure that


    you wouldn¡¯t get frustrated?¡± ¡°Am I actually that unreliable in your eyes?¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t a matter of


    reliability. Most of the time, I can¡¯t even take this myself. I wanted to run off to somewhere where no


    one knows me, but then there are some things that I¡¯ll never ever be able to get away from.¡± Zayn


    replied, ¡°What about right now? I know that you¡¯re divorced from Aidan. You could at least turn around


    and take a look. I¡¯m honestly¡ª¡± However, Leanna spoke in a soft voice, ¡°You¡¯ve seen where I just


    came out from, right?¡± At that point, he slowly clenched the hand he ced on the table and formed a


    fist. Of course, he saw that. However, he tried toe up with all sorts of excuses in his mind to


    convince himself. Perhaps she¡¯s just there to keep her friendpany? Or she could be there just to


    visit someone? However, with the truth ced in front of him right now, there was no way he could


    continue to deny it. Zayn was slightly resigned. ¡°Does Aidan know about this?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t n to let him


    know, so could you keep this a secret for me?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± After Leanna left, Zayn walked out of the


    cafe and he was seen significantly dejected. He thought, If only I made a move back then to enter into


    a rtionship with Leanna before thepetition and didn¡¯t insist on fulfilling the promise in Aeras,


    then things might have been different right now. She wouldn¡¯t have married Aidan and we wouldn¡¯t


    have let so much get past us. ¡°Zayn, why did you leave toe here?¡± Carly Bat called out his


    name and reached out her hand to wave in front of him upon noticing his daze. ¡°What¡¯s going on in


    your mind?¡± Zayn came back to his senses, ¡°Carly.¡± Meanwhile, his sister huffed, ¡°Hey! You promised


    toe with me to the pregnancy checkup, but then you disappeared in a blink of an eye. If Georgina


    hadn¡¯te along today, it would be so dangerous for me to walk about in such a heavily pregnant


    state. What if something happened to me?¡± Next to Carly was Georgina who helped her around before


    letting out a smile. ¡°Carly, don¡¯t say that. The doctor mentioned that the baby is growing well inside, so


    nothing will happen to you.¡± ¡°See, Gina¡¯s the best. It would be great if only you¡¯d be willing to marry


    Zayn. It¡¯s too bad that the two of you have never seen eye to eye since you were kids. Gosh. This kid


    here is getting older by the day, but he has never brought a girlfriend home with him. My parents are


    worried sick.¡± Georgina responded, ¡°Carly, I heard that the prettydy from the Pearson Family seems


    to be pursuing Zayntely.¡±Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25


    Chapter 25 You Were Harsh Meanwhile, Carly shot a teasing look at Zayn. ¡°You guys are childish.


    Maybe it¡¯s just a game to her. What do you think, Zayn?¡± To that conversation, he felt a looming


    headache descended upon him. ¡°Carly, I¡¯ll drive the car over.¡± ¡°Okay, then. Go ahead and we¡¯ll wait for


    you right here.¡± After he walked off, Carly asked, ¡°Gina, what about you? What¡¯s your n?¡± Georgina


    lifted her brow.


    ¡°What sort of ns can Ie up with anyway? I can¡¯t force anyone into a rtionship.¡± ¡°Stop giving


    me excuses. I heard that Aidan has gotten a divorce and the Pearsons are nning another marriage


    for him. You must havee back this time because of this, right?¡± Georgina neither admitted nor


    denied it. Although she was not childhood buddies with Aidan, their families were pretty close to each


    other.


    Furthermore, she was very close in age to him, so everyone had always assumed that they would be


    the best match for each other. However, never would she have expected that Aidan would suddenly


    enter into a marriage silently, moreover, the woman was one from Patheon Club. After she found out


    about this, she had been enraged at home for quite some time. However, she subsequently had a


    change of mind and realized that the two of them were indeed a perfect match for each other. After all,


    one was an illegitimate son while the other was just a worthless woman sold into providing services.


    Georgina had thought that she could forget about everything that had happened here after moving


    abroad, but none of the men she encountered wereparable to Aidan at all.


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    Furthermore, over the past three years, he had evidently taken control of Pearson Group. He was now


    rich, powerful, and handsome, so he had everything it took to win a woman¡¯s affection. His brilliance


    had overshadowed his identity of being an illegitimate son. Besides, there were not that many people in


    this world who knew that he was born out of wedlock. As soon as she heard the news of his divorce,


    she rushed back home. Finally, after waiting for three years, she could now fulfill her dream at this


    point. ¡­


    It was 11.00pm and past the peakmuting time for the busymercial hub. At that point, the


    streets seemed significantly emptier. A figure stumbled out from the corner and ran straight in the


    direction of the tallest building. There was a group of men chasing after him with bats in their hands.


    Soon after that, they caught up with him and pressed him to the ground before beating the turd out of


    him. At that moment, Aidan walked toward his car and paused in his tracks before turning around to


    watch the riotous scene not too far from him. Jonathan caught on to Aidan¡¯s intention and he quickly


    went forward. From the words spoken by the person being beaten, he could catch the gist of the


    situation and his expression became silent as he went back to Aidan.


    ¡°President Pearson, it¡¯s Madam¡¯s father.¡± Under the warm street lights, Aidan¡¯s features were cold as


    he strode over on his slender legs. Amongst the crowd, Jethro clutched his head protectively as he


    received blows from the men. His weak voice rang out, ¡°My son-inw is the president of Pearson


    Group, so the money¡­¡± The thugs noticed that someone was heading in their direction and was just


    going to yell out threats. As soon as they noticed the other party¡¯s attire and the aura he exuded, they


    realized that he must be an important person.


    Furthermore, there were bodyguards trailing after him, so the men swiftly retreated and parted a path


    for him. Jethro suddenly realized that the blows had stopped miraculously, so he quickly lifted his head


    and noticed a pair of ck leather shoes in front of him. He supported himself up to take a look; sure


    enough, he was instantly overjoyed and grabbed Aidan¡¯s pants. ¡°He¡¯s my son-inw. He¡¯s got plenty of


    money, so you guys can get it from him. He¡¯ll be able to afford however much you ask for.¡± Meanwhile,


    Aidan lowered his gaze and looked at Jethro¡¯s grimy, bloody hand. He squatted down in front of Jethro


    while speaking in a cold, indifferent voice, ¡°I remember I told you to never appear in front of me again


    since thest time I gave you money.¡± Jethro waspletely indifferent to all this. He got up from the


    ground and wiped the grime and blood off his face. ¡°Aidan, I know exactly how much you¡¯re worth, so


    how can you possibly dismiss me by just giving me a mere half million?¡±


    He had just realized that it would be much easier to ask for money directly from Aidan than to seek


    money from Leanna. The rich are very generous indeed. He can easily just give out half a million with


    the flick of his fingers. Aidan lifted his head and scanned at the bunch of men waiting by the side. ¡°How


    much do you need this time?¡± At that point, Jethro lifted a finger. ¡°Hehe! It¡¯s not that much. I just need


    one million.¡± In response, the man in suit snorted and rose to his feet. ¡°I don¡¯t do charity.¡± ¡°Aidan, one


    million isn¡¯t even arge sum for you.¡± Jethro got up from the ground too and inched closer to Aidan as


    he spoke softly, ¡°Back then, Nana was sold to Patheon Club for the same amount too.


    They were very generous and didn¡¯t bargain at all. If you hadn¡¯t taken her with you afterward, then all


    that money would have been mine. I¡¯m just collecting some interest from you right now, so I don¡¯t think


    that¡¯s too much.¡± Aidan¡¯s expression instantly turned cold. ¡°Get out of my sight now.¡± ¡°Anyway, Aidan. I


    know that you¡¯ve gotten divorced with Nana. She¡¯s beautiful and there would be plenty of others


    interested in taking possession of her. If you don¡¯t give me the money, then I¡¯ll go and seek it from the


    others. Just make sure not to regret your decision afterward.¡± Aidan directed a sharp look at Jethro and


    pursed his thin lips while radiating a cold aura. Just as Jonathan thought that Aidan was about to lose


    his temper, suddenly, Aidan¡¯s cold voice rang out, ¡°Give him two million.¡±


    As soon as Jethro heard that, he beamed widely and reached out to pat Aidan on the shoulders


    smugly. ¡°Great! That¡¯s exactly how it should be, Aidan.¡± He brushed Jethro¡¯s hand off and warned him


    slowly, ¡°Take this money and hold onto it. Don¡¯t you dare target Leanna, ¡¯cause otherwise, I¡¯ll make


    sure that you¡¯d only get to spend it on your funeral!¡± At that point, the smile froze on Jethro¡¯s face but


    soon enough, he was back to his usual self. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. I promise I¡¯ll definitely take the


    money and get as far away as I can. I swear I won¡¯t bother you.¡± Not bothered to cast another look at


    Jethro, Aidan turned around and entered the Rolls-Royce parked by the side. After Jonathan had


    handled the matter with Jethro and returned to the car, a bone-chilling voice rang out from behind


    before he could even warm his seat. ¡°How did it go with Xavier?¡± Jonathan swiftly responded, ¡°Mr. Hall


    reported that Madam had gone to him back then and mentioned that she urgently needed some


    money.


    He found her design to be inspiring, so he didn¡¯t want her talent to go to waste. He lodged a request


    with you, but you rejected it. You were quite harsh with yourments about Madam¡¯s suggestion as


    you said, ¡®This chance is meant for someone who truly dreams of being a designer and not one who


    only wants mary value out of it.¡¯¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡± At that moment, Aidan was at a loss for words. Jonathan


    was oblivious that his words had struck a chord. He was just worried that Aidan would find him cking


    in his job, so he repeated the statement word by word. After all, Jonathan was proud of himself for


    being a responsible, obedient, and diligent little personal assistant that wished to not be doubted.


    He continued, ¡°Mr. Hall said that Madam was very saddened to hear it and she looked very dejected as


    she left without a word. Soon after that, Madam was sold to Patheon Club. Mr. Hall got wind of it and


    realized that it must have been rted to the family matter she had mentioned before.


    He went to Patheon Club to investigate the matter and found that Madam had been forcefully sold into


    service by her father¡¯s loan shark debtors. However¡­¡± He paused for a moment before exining, ¡°I


    went to Patheon Club to investigate the matter and someone mentioned that he saw Jethro there as


    well when Madam was sold to the club. Therefore, it¡¯s quite likely that he was in collusion with his


    debtors¡­¡±

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26


    Chapter 26 She Never Got Pregnant Again At this moment, Aidan shut his eyes and interrupted


    Jonathan, ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Earlier on, he had already guessed the whole story after hearing the


    disgusting words from Jethro. Jonathan then tactfully zipped his mouth. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me about


    this earlier?¡± To that, he responded, ¡°You signed the divorce papers with Madam the day after you told


    me to investigate the matter.


    That afternoon, I reminded you about it¡­ But you said that the two of you were divorced, so anything


    to do with her was unrted to you at all.¡± Back then, Aidan waspletely taken over by fury and


    even the act of hearing Leanna¡¯s name irritated him. As such, he did not bother to listen to what


    Jonathan had to say. After quite some time, Aidan slowly voiced out, ¡°Inform Lux Jewelry that anyone¡ª


    regardless of their position¡ªwho performs well in this fashion show will receive support in their career


    from Pearson Group.¡±


    I owe her for this matter from three years ago, hence this is what I¡¯ll do topensate her. Whatever it


    is though, she did fabricate a pregnancy report and force me into marrying her, so that¡¯s something


    that¡¯s irrevocable. ¡­ In less than two days after the saga of unexpected gifts, Lux Jewelry was once


    again in a buzz. ¡°Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! President Pearson¡¯s so infatuated with Mia. I can¡¯t believe


    that he actually resorted to all this for her!¡± ¡°This is such a lucrative reward! He¡¯s offered to provide


    support in our career with the help of Pearson Group! That means we would get to choose the best


    resources avable. President Pearson is outrightly trying to support Mia to achieve the highest


    position. This is so sweet of him.¡± Someone else suggested otherwise, ¡°Well, this statement mentioned


    that it would apply to any person in any position, so it doesn¡¯t necessarily point to Mia.


    Everyone involved in this fashion show would be a possible candidate.¡± ¡°No one would believe such a


    tant excuse. It¡¯s clearly just an excuse came up by those capitalists to appease the public. President


    Pearson has been providing ourpany with so many benefits all this while for Mia¡¯s sake and it¡¯s


    quite clear to everyone.¡± Meanwhile, as the news spread to the editor¡¯s office, Harvey remained silent


    for quite some time. He had been in contact with Mia several times, but he did not like her at all; he was


    perplexed as to why Aidan was so infatuated with her. However, herey the issue; if Aidan was to


    persist in his actions, no one would be able to resist or reject him. Soon enough, Mia would likely


    be a permanent fixture at Lux Jewelry. Zoe had justpleted a shoot when she heard of this


    matter.


    Enraged, she felt that the despicable couple was starting to step over the line. Since she realized that


    this would solely benefit Mia, she did not bother to let Leanna know about this frustrating matter. ¡­¡­


    ¡­ Ever since Aidan had specifically instructed Leanna to repay two million within a month, she had


    been busying up with solutions over the past few days. She refused to lose her remaining bit of


    self-esteem, which was why she agreed to his words without any hesitation. However, reality striked


    and she realized that two million was an overbearing figure for her. There was no way she coulde


    up with that much money in such a short time. The contract she signed with Lux Jewelry specified that


    she would be bound to thepany and in return, she would receive six hundred thousand a year.


    As such, this indicated that she would not be able to take up any other frence jobs outside.


    Furthermore, she could not possibly request an advance in wages that amounted to the work for the


    next few years after freshly signing her contract. After a long while of calmness and consideration, she


    finally came up with a decision. However, before she could actually enforce the matter, she suddenly


    received a friend request notification. As she nced at the familiar cool-tone profile picture, she was


    perceptive about the situation.


    There could only be one reason why Aidan had added her again after blocking her for some time. My


    debt. In actuality, she felt rather frustrated about the situation. Ever since their divorce, she no longer


    wanted to be entangled with him. She realized that she had to repay the money she owed him, but at


    the same time, she was afraid her baby secret might be discovered if they were to keep in contact


    frequently. However, if she refused to approve his friend request, then it might seem that she was trying


    to default on the debt. After more than half an hour, Leanna finally approved his friend request with the


    catch that they would only be able tomunicate via messaging, thanks to her change of settings.


    She was prepared to block him as soon as she repaid the money. On the other end, Aidan was seated


    at the dining table at home when he noticed Leanna¡¯s profile picture reappear on his chat list. ¡°I see


    work has been quite rxing for youtely, so you shoulde home more often during your spare


    time. I don¡¯t like having to call you repeatedly just to get you to return.¡± His eyes were glued onto his


    phone as he tried to think of something to send to her.


    He wanted to find a way to remind that ungrateful woman that she could actually beg help from him.


    Meanwhile, Gordon noticed that Aidan had beenpletely ignoring his words all this time. ¡°Aidan! I¡¯m


    talking to you right now. Did you hear me?¡± he growled. Subsequently, Aidan ced his phone face-


    down atop the table and took a sip of the water in front of him. ¡°I heard you,¡± he replied as calmly as he


    could. Gordon¡¯s anger simmered upon noticing his grandson¡¯s indifferent attitude. However, he was


    wary of the power Aidan held at the moment, so he did not dare to speak harshly at Aidan. In the end,


    he changed the topic instead. ¡°You should carefully consider the matter that I mentioned to you. You¡¯re


    turning thirty soon; you¡¯re not exactly young, so you should think about your future. It¡¯s just nice that


    you¡¯ve divorced Leanna. Anyway, she¡¯s not worthy of carrying a child for the Pearson Family.


    This time, you have to choose a well-reputed¡­¡± ¡°I don¡¯t n on having kids.¡± The shocked Gordon


    yelled angrily, ¡°What did you just say?!¡± However, Aidan maintained a calm voice. ¡°I don¡¯t care who I


    marry, but I don¡¯t n on having kids.¡± ¡°What sort of nonsense is this?! How could you possibly not


    have kids?!¡± ¡°To me, kids are just essories to parents and not a necessity in life. If you¡¯re that keen


    on kids, then you can have another one yourself.¡± After Aidan said that, he did not even bother to cast


    eyes on Gordon before he rose to his feet and left. Meanwhile, the old man panted furiously while on


    the brink of copsing. After Aidan had walked out of the front door, Sienna Zielinski, who had been


    silent all this while, ced her cutlery down and wiped her mouth gracefully before sneering, ¡°It looks


    like your wish is not going toe true.¡±


    For the past few years, Gordon had developed a notion of grooming another sessor ever since


    Aidan had taken over Pearson Group and became harder to rein in. Ironically, Gordon was also wary of


    Aidan as he did not want to arrange a political marriage for him; he was afraid that Aidan would gain


    more power and dominance from that, which would inevitably be harder for Gordon to control him.


    As such, when Leanna appeared with the pregnancy report, Gordon, who had been in a dilemma,


    finally saw hope. That was also why the Pearsons did not even bother to validate the authenticity of


    Leanna¡¯s pregnancy as it was not important at all. In other words, even if she was not pregnant,


    Gordon did not mind helping her to hide the truth until she was impregnated for real. After all, it would


    just be a matter of time for a newly wedded couple. However, he clearly did not expect what was about


    to happen next, which eventually led Leanna to not get pregnant anymore.


    After Sienna left to head upstairs, Gordon remained lost in thoughts with a furrowed look. At that


    moment, he seemed even more convinced that it was the wrong decision to bring Aidan back to the


    family. After all, Aidan was an unrestrained horse and there was no predicting on what he would do. On


    his way back, Jonathan asked, ¡°President Pearson, do you wish to head back to Castor Vi?¡± Aidan


    shut his eyes and grunted yes. Jonathan noticed his weary look and asked probingly, ¡°Should I ask


    Madam where she bought the painkiller? The one that¡¯s always readily avable in our medication kit.¡±N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27


    Chapter 27 That¡¯s Too Bad Aidan remained silent for a moment before replying, ¡°That¡¯s not necessary.¡±


    He was not keen to see her right now. Ever since he was brought back to the Pearson Family as the


    illegitimate son, he had been disgusted by the so-called blood ties and bloodline. That was even more


    so when he stepped through the doors of the Pearson Family Estate and saw Justin Pearson, who was


    paralyzed in a wheelchair with eyes that were nothing but darkness.


    Thevishness of the ce could not even mask the corruption and inferiority that was radiated in the


    air. With that, Aidan was suffocated by the sight of it. As such, Leanna¡¯s action of using her unborn


    child as a bargaining chip had undoubtedly crossed the line for him. Aidan took out his phone and


    unlocked it once again before staring at the nk chatbox. Since he had deleted Leanna¡¯s contact


    previously, he could no longer look back on the precious texts sent by her.


    No concerning texts, no more incessant nagging words nor any ¡®I¡¯m waiting for you¡¯ messages. Just¡­


    nk. He tapped on the input box with his slender fingers and typed a sentence before slowly


    backspacing it again. An hourter, the phone rang by Leanna¡¯s bedside just as she was about to go to


    sleep. She nced at her phone with half-opened eyes and noticed the cold words sent by the b*stard.


    ¡®You¡¯ve got twenty-five days left.¡¯ At that moment, she was rendered speechless. Does he really need


    to send me a countdown at this time of the night? She considered the situation for a moment and could


    not be bothered to reply to that. She merely responded with an emoji of an OK sign. Her reply was


    proper and solemn, which signified her determination to repay him the money on time.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    However, she was significantly displeased by his action of disrupting her sleep, so she instantly


    changed his name from ¡®b*stard¡¯ to ¡®stingy man¡¯. Subsequently, she ced her phone down and went


    to sleep contentedly. Meanwhile, Mia had also gotten word of the rumors from Lux Jewelry. After a bout


    of self-doubt, she became convinced about one thing; she was convinced that President Pearson


    appeared to be coldly indifferent toward her, but actually cared so much for her. Now that she had


    recalled their moments carefully, Aidan only chided her whenever she was trying to win him over by


    shaming Leanna and her schemes; however, not only did he not punish her afterward, he had also


    made his way to obtain the best resources of Lux Jewelry for her.


    Therefore, Mia concluded that Aidan was a person who highly detested schemes and tricks, thanks to


    Leanna. If that was the case, then there would be no need for her to scheme and plot at all. As long as


    she behaved herself, then naturally, she would not be associated with someone as shameful as


    Leanna; hence, Aidan would fancy her even more! With this in mind, Mia merely scoffed coldly and left


    after bumping into Leanna backstage at the fashion show. Without her mockery and rudeness this time


    round, it seemed that she had taken the higher road. A stilted Zoe clicked her tongue upon seeing that.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t she pounce at you like a rabid dog today?¡± Leanna tidied the jewelry in front of her.


    ¡°Perhaps she got her rabies shot today.¡± Although Zoe did not mention to Leanna about Mia being the


    uing star of the fashion show, Leanna had heard plenty of discussions regarding what Aidan had


    done for Mia when she went to see Harvey at Lux Jewelry days ago. Not only was the staff at Lux


    Jewelry impressed by that, but even the models and designers involved in this show had expressed


    their admiration.


    As a model, it would be wonderful to have the chance to pick and select from all the great resources.


    Meanwhile, if a designer received this opportunity, then they would undoubtedly possess the chance to


    showcase their talents on various tforms. Not only that, they might even gain the opportunity of


    coborating with internationally-acimed designers or seek pointers from them; that would be the


    biggest break for them in gaining recognition. However, this was a chance that clearly seemed


    achievable yet way out of reach in reality. One could not help butment the despicable qualities of


    capitalists. Inparison, Leanna was indifferent to all of that. If this had happened three years ago,


    then perhaps she would choose to put up a fight and try for it. However, the harshness of reality had


    struck her hope down to nothing. Furthermore, she was criticized three years ago for being one who


    lacked goals. At this stage, she merely intended to repay Aidan¡¯s debt as soon as possible and bring


    up the child in her womb to be safe and healthy.


    As for Aidan and Mia¡¯s public disy of affections, that had nothing to do with her at all. However,


    when she saw the ne that she had ved day and night to design worn on Mia¡¯s neck, Leanna


    could not quite contain her impulse tomit a crime against her. Mia was seated in front of the mirror


    and casually tweaked the ne on her neck as she spoke indifferently, ¡°If it wasn¡¯t for Lux Jewelry,


    you will never see me wearing anything designed by an unknown designer, even if they were to beg me


    on their knees.¡± Meanwhile, Zoe was taking BTS shots of another model backstage for the content next


    week. As soon as she heard Mia, she calmly replied, ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re very popr indeed. I wonder who¡¯s


    the one that was involved in an ad shoot not long ago and had her contract canceled by the advertising


    company before the ad was even released.¡±


    As soon as Mia heard that, her expression turned and she was ready to rebuke. It¡¯s all because of that


    b*tch, Leanna! However, as she realized that she had an image to maintain around the surrounding


    crowd, she sat down abruptly after standing up. Then, she snorted coldly, ¡°Well, at least it¡¯s much better


    than being despised by one¡¯s husband.¡± Zoe was just about toe to blows with her when Leanna


    quickly stopped Zoe. ¡°The show¡¯s starting soon. Let¡¯s go.¡± Seeing that Mia was Aidan¡¯s favorite right


    now, they would clearly be at a disadvantage if they offended her. ¡­ As the fashion show was held in


    Highside and Lux Jewelry being the organizer, there were plenty of reputable attendees from various


    fields. There also happened to be well-known celebrities from the entertainment industry in attendance.


    Naturally, Daphne¡ªbeing the most popr actress¡ªwas present too.


    She was also one of the artists of Pearson Group, so she was arranged to be seated next to Aidan.


    After the show started, the lights were dimmed. After watching the show for a while, Daphne started to


    feel bored and she yawned while trying to start up a conversation. ¡°President Pearson, I heard that you


    sent out the infamous PR team from Pearson Group in order to win the affection of your new target.¡±


    Aidan shot a sideways nce at her and his features were fuzzy under the dim lights. At that moment,


    his voice was exceptionally cold. ¡°What sort of nonsense are you on about?¡± ¡°Was that untrue?


    Recently, I received a lot of sympathetic private messages tofort me. It sounded legit, so I didn¡¯t


    think that it was a rumor.¡± ¡°Why did they send youforting words?¡± Aidan wore an indifferent look.


    ¡°Are you sad that you¡¯re not my new target?¡± At that point, she was rendered speechless. Still, she


    pulled a forced smile on her lips. ¡°President Pearson, you¡¯re so funny.¡±


    This b*stard sent out the PR team for Mia and caused me to be sympathized by the public. So why


    can¡¯t I ask about it, huh? How dare he mock me! Just as Daphne thought that the topic had ended,


    Aidan suddenly voiced out on his ord, ¡°She¡¯s not my new target. She never was a target.¡± The


    speechless Daphne thought, What sort of deluded words is he speaking? Even though she was ready


    to snap back at him, she chuckled perfunctorily as he was still her boss after all. ¡°Haha! Is that so?


    That¡¯s too bad, then.¡±

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28


    Chapter 28 ncing Furtively at Me Aidanmented rudely, ¡°How did you manage to win with such


    bad acting? Were the judges from that year blind?¡± At that point, Daphne was rendered speechless. He


    retracted his gaze and looked at the woman beside the stage who was busy with work before he


    casually ced one hand on the handle of the chair and tapped his fingers.


    The term ¡®new target¡¯ seemed strange to be used to refer Leanna. Although he refused to admit it,


    regardless whether she was his ¡®new target¡¯ or ¡®past lover¡¯, he seemed to find that the title of Mrs.


    Pearson suited her much better. As soon as he thought of that, he was slightly frustrated. Why hasn¡¯t


    she begged me for mercy? Is one month actually too long? On the other end, Leanna was extremely


    busy with work. One of the models suddenly fell sick and was hospitalized. However, there was an


    issue rising as every model¡¯s attire and jewelry length were custom-made to fit each of them.


    Furthermore, it was about time for the show to start, so it would be practically impossible to now find a


    model who could catwalk. What more to say, one who would be the perfect fit. Just as Leanna and the


    other fashion designers were at a loss for what to do, suddenly a person piped up, ¡°McK, why don¡¯t you


    take the stage? You¡¯re about the same shape as that model and regarding your height¡­ You can just


    put on a pair of high heels.¡± To that random suggestion, she was slightly dumbfounded. ¡°But then¡­


    I¡¯ve never done a catwalk before.¡± Another designer replied, ¡°Right now, experience isn¡¯t the main


    issue. It would be good enough for us just to fill that spot. If we screw up this show, we¡¯re not the only


    ones who¡¯ll be theughingstock of the industry; even Lux Jewelry will be ridiculed by everyone.¡±


    Leanna kept silent for a moment as she considered the situation. Previously, Lux Jewelry had been


    embroiled in bad publicity because of her. Although the situation had been defused on time, there were


    inevitably some consequences to thepany. Not to mention, the show was extremely important to


    Lux Jewelry and this was evident from how hard each and every single staff member had worked to


    make this show a sess during the entire process. If this show was ruined, then everyone¡¯s efforts


    would have gone down the drain. As such, she nodded in agreement.


    ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡± Leanna nced at the pair of stilettos after having her makeup applied backstage and


    she felt a wave of nausea hit her. She grabbed a ss of water and took a few sips to suppress the


    nauseousness as she tried to regte her breathing. It seemed that her little one was expressing his


    protest. Ever since she had found out about her pregnancy and was told by the doctor to be careful,


    she had not worn heels since then. She usually avoided the kids in the area when she went for a walk


    around her housing estate and walked along t-wide surfaces. At that moment, one of the staff rushed


    through the doors. ¡°Everyone¡¯s waiting for thest model! Are you ready?¡±


    Under everyone¡¯s gaze, Leanna put on the pair of stilettos and answered, ¡°I¡¯m ready.¡± Regardless of


    the oue, she knew that she had to brave herself and face the music. She ced a hand on her


    baby bump and silently breathed out. Little one, let¡¯s do this together! Meanwhile, Mia had just


    completed the first round and she was heading backstage for a change of clothes when she brushed


    past Leanna who was about to go onstage. Mia was significantly pleased with her performance and


    she felt that Pearson Group was intentionally trying to give her an award for being the best performer


    tonight; since no one else could object to it anyway and her performance had surpassed her usual.


    However, as soon as she saw Leanna, she instantly had her guards up. After all, Leanna¡¯s seductive


    looks were wless and now that she was all dressed up, she looked¡­


    ¡°Why is she going onstage?!¡± Mia remained frozen in her original spot and trembled with anger as her


    voice turned shriller by the minute. The staff standing by the side then whispered, ¡°It seems that there


    has been an issue with one of the models.¡± ¡°What a perfect excuse. It must be that b*tch who wants to


    show off.¡± Mia clenched her teeth as she looked into the direction that Leanna walked off. I¡¯ll be the star


    of tonight¡¯s show and Aidan¡¯s mine too! I won¡¯t let Leanna get her way! ¡­ At the fashion show, Aidan


    pressed in between his brows and lowered his eyes to nce at his watch. He wanted to find out how


    long it would take for the show to end. He was looking forward to seeing Leanna¡¯s expression upon


    realizing that she was tonight¡¯s star candidate for the show. He wondered whether she would be joyful


    or surprised by that. Or perhaps¡­ At that moment, his mind wandered further and suddenly, he felt


    slight dryness in his throat as his eyes darkened significantly. After all, Leanna used to jump into his


    arms and wrapped her arms around his waist coyly during a moment of joy. Come to think about it, it


    was quite enjoyable actually.


    As such, his mind wandered off further and further away from the fashion show when suddenly, a loud


    commotion erupted in the originally quiet scene of the show. He lifted his eyes and looked intently


    toward the T-shaped stage. Leanna was dressed in a ck maxi dress and she stood three meters


    apart from where he was seated. The lights glimmered brightly onstage and the sequins that adorned


    the back of her dress looked like glittering stars in the gxy. Although she was generally known to be


    a beauty, each time she left the house, including during the press conference to introduce the ¡®First


    Love¡¯ series, she hardly ever dressed up or put on makeup properly. Right now, she was adorned in an


    elegant dress and looked exquisitely beautiful with makeup while essorized by her jewelry; each of


    these enhanced her beauty. The ck maxi dress was very fashionable and her beauty shone through


    with aggression. She seemed to be the most attractive one onstage.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna was originally anxious onstage and she tried to regte her breathing several times. Suddenly,


    her eyes met a deep calm gaze and after a slight pause, she subconsciously clenched her fist tightly. I


    must not ruin the show for the sake of that two million! I can¡¯t let the despicable couple watch me make


    a fool of myself! She took a deep breath and forcefully shifted her eyes. Meanwhile, Aidan pursed his


    lips and took a sip from the bottle of water he had just opened before asking, ¡°Was she ncing


    furtively at me earlier?¡± Daphne replied, ¡°Somehow, I think she was ring at you, though.¡± ¡°If your


    eyes aren¡¯t working well, then perhaps it would be much better to give it up to someone else who


    needs it better.¡± She stopped speaking at that point. After Leanna left the stage, everyone at the show


    erupted into discussions among themselves and they asked around about the identity of the woman.


    Some imed that she was a model while others imed that she was a celebrity; there were even


    some who imed her to be their future wife. However, the staff of Lux Jewelry proudly imed,


    ¡°That¡¯s our contracted designer.¡±


    Amongst the bustling crowd, Aidan got up silently and headed backstage. After getting off the stage,


    Leanna could barely feel her legs. Fortunately, Zoe was there to support her just in time. ¡°Nana, are


    you alright?¡± Her hands and feet were icy cold. ¡°I-I¡¯m fine.¡± Zoe reckoned that Leanna did not seem


    fine; there were two more roundster on and clearly, she would not be able to handle it. She had just


    removed her shoes when a wave of nausea hit her all of a sudden. Without managing to change out of


    her clothes, she rushed to the toilet and threw up. Zoe grabbed a mug from the table and filled it with


    some warm water before rushing over in a haste. After Leanna finished vomiting, she finally felt much


    better as she weakly leaned against the wall. ¡°Nana, have some warm water.¡± She felt much better


    after drinking the water as she had just emptied her stomach¡¯s content.


    At that moment, Harvey walked over in a rush. ¡°I¡¯ve arranged for someone to find another model. It


    would take them at least twenty minutes to get here and she would need at least half an hour to get


    make-up done¡­¡± As such, Leanna had toplete another round. He nced at her deathly pale face


    and frowned. ¡°McK, are you unwell?¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine. I can still go on.¡± She shook her head. At that point,


    Harvey was met with no other way, so he mentioned, ¡°Hold on for a bit more. I¡¯ll get them to hurry up.¡±


    Leanna did not even get the chance to answer him when suddenly, a cold male voice rang out from


    behind, ¡°Hold on what?¡± At that moment, Harvey turned around and saw Aidan¡¯s figure. The editor then


    pressed in between his brows and exined, ¡°President Pearson, we¡¯ve encountered some slight issue


    here, but we¡¯re sorting it out right now.¡±

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29


    Chapter 29 Our President Values Miss McKinney Can he not help Lux Jewelry at this troublesome time


    in the name of love? Aidan looked concernedly at Leanna. ¡°Where are you feeling unwell? I¡¯ll call the


    doctor.¡± However, she only replied strugglingly. ¡°Haha, I was just pretending to be sick.¡± Aidan, Zoe and


    Harvey were all speechless. Not nning on letting her off the hook just like that, Aidan grabbed her by


    her wrist and forcefully led her into the resting room beside. A shocked Harvey gasped, ¡°What is going


    on?¡±


    Zoe¡¯s smile stiffened up. ¡°Uhm, it¡¯s just¡­ lover¡¯s quarrels.¡± Inside the resting room, Leanna swung her


    hand off his. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, President Pearson. The money I owe you will be repaid by me when the


    show ends. I won¡¯t try to escape either.¡± Therefore, he didn¡¯t have toe backstage during the interim


    just to remind me of this! Why didn¡¯t I realize how pushy he is before? We¡¯ve already agreed on a


    month, but he really needs to get another hobby aside from reminding me day and night. ¡°I¡¯m not¡­¡±


    Aidan stopped and looked at her with raised eyebrows. ¡°Where did you get the money from?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not


    from robbing, stealing or cheating anyone. I earned the money with my own effort legally.¡±


    Seeing her confidence made him a little upset as he sneered, ¡°Since you¡¯re so capable, why did you


    force me to marry you in the first ce?¡± Leanna pouted and uttered after quite a while, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡± Her


    pale face frustrated Aidan. ¡°Where exactly are you feeling unwell?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± She nonchntly


    continued, ¡°It might be because I have never been on a runway before, so I was a bit nervous.


    Whenever I get nervous, I tend to have the tendency to puke. It¡¯ll be alright after it passes.¡± She then


    reassured him further, ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry, President Pearson. This won¡¯t affect me repaying you


    the debt.¡± Ignoring thetter half of her sentence, he questioned, ¡°Who told you to walk the runway?¡±


    ¡°There was an ident and one of the models went to the hospital. So, in the heat of the moment, I


    could only stand in for her.¡± ¡°What does it have to do with you? You¡¯re just a designer.¡± The smirking


    Leanna mocked, ¡°You¡¯re right. I am just a designer who¡¯s unlike you, the great President Pearson who


    doesn¡¯t care about anything or anyone.¡± Aidan replied after a few seconds, ¡°Looks like you were faking


    your sickness. Since you¡¯re acting so spritely, I don¡¯t see why you would be unwell.¡± ¡°You see right


    through me, President Pearson.¡±


    Feeling his patience exhausted, he left without a single word. Not after two minutes since his departure,


    Harvey received a call from Daphne¡¯s manager. They stated that they heard about the incident


    backstage and that if they needed it, Daphne could stand in for the next two sets. Even though she was


    an actress, she had been invited to countless fashion shows. It was no exaggeration to say the number


    rivals a hundred. Besides, the control and familiarity she had on stage is unmatched by normal models.


    Considering Leanna¡¯s current condition, Harvey agreed with almost zero hesitation. Just like that,


    Daphne became one of the models. Soon enough, the employees of Lux burst into heated discussion


    upon hearing this. ¡°President Pearson actually arranged this for the sake of Leanna.


    This is Daphne we¡¯re talking about. She¡¯s the queen when ites to actresses. Now, she¡¯s actually


    here to help out with the runway.¡± ¡°I¡¯m so touched by their love.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t say. I also believe they have


    something going on after being brainwashed for so long.¡± Sitting alone in the resting room, Leanna was


    oblivious to all thosements as she sighed with the chance to finally take a breather now. After two


    minutes of rest, she was about to leave the room when she felt paining from her abdomen. It was


    so painful that sweat formed on her forehead instantly. Clenching her teeth, she stood up and searched


    for her phone in hopes of contacting Zoe when Zayn suddenly called her. ¡°Leanna, I have something to


    tell you.¡± ¡°Zayn¡­¡± One could hear the difort from her tone as she gripped the phone with her


    pallid fingertips. Sensing that something was off, Zayn asked, ¡°Leanna, are you sick? Where are you?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m at¡­¡± she answered in a scramble, ¡°Please, call Zoe for me and tell her that I¡¯m in the resting room


    backstage.¡± ¡°Wait for me. I¡¯ming over right now!¡± After hanging up, she used the table to prop


    herself up as she felt her vision going blurry. Clutching her stomach, she screamed inside. No, no¡­


    Please don¡¯t let anything happen! After a few minutes, the door opened and Zayn rushed in. ¡°Leanna!¡±


    Before she could utter a word, she went into unconsciousness. ¡­ As two hours remained until the end


    of the show, Aidan had run out of patience, so he had Jonathan to find Harvey. Jonathan had already


    prepared what he was going to say before he politely repeated it to Harvey, ¡°Mr. Mancini, we¡¯ve


    discovered that the designer of Lux Jewelry is very talented after observing the show.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Therefore, the Pearson Group has decided to sponsor her. Regardless of local or international


    tform, she would have the chance to show off her designs on stage. Also, if there¡¯s anything she


    needs, she would have the full support of ourpany.¡± Harvey was fairly confused at all this.


    Summarizing everything, Jonathan concluded, ¡°In other words, our president values Miss McKinney a


    lot.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not catching your drift¡­ Isn¡¯t Mia the person your president wants to nurture?¡± Even though


    Leanna was dragged away by Aidan not long before, this small interlude did not obstruct the solid


    foundation that Mia had with Aidan. So, even if he really is with Leanna, this would only prove that he is


    a cheating son of a b*tch. This time, it was Jonathan that was confused. ¡°Since when did the president


    want to nurture Mia?¡± Harvey frowned at his question. ¡°Sending out the PR team of yourpany;


    giving presents to our employees; showing great support at this show¡­


    Isn¡¯t this all just to earn our goodwill for Mia?¡± The speechless Jonathan epted the twisted truth after


    a while as he perplexedly asked, ¡°Does¡­ the wholepany think that way?¡± Of course, he was


    asking whether this included Leanna or not. Since he had to preserve his employer¡¯s dignity,


    Jonathan¡¯s well thought-out effort of this ploy had turned out to bepletely misunderstood. By the


    entirepany. If the president catches wind about this, he will kill me. Harvey asked otherwise, ¡°Is it


    not?¡± Seeing Jonathan speechless, he sighed and continued, ¡°Oh, right. Even if the person that


    Pearson Groups decides to support is McK, I doubt she¡¯ll ept your kind intentions.¡± ¡°Why¡¯s that?¡± At


    this moment, Aidan walked in. Harvey replied, ¡°A few days ago, McK signed a new contract with our


    company. It¡¯s a ten year contract with some specific conditions¡­¡±


    Since this concerned their internal workings, he did not finish his sentence. Also, this contract was


    rather one sided, so it would not be all that dignified for him to say it out. From now on, McK must only


    design for Lux Jewelry for the next ten years. Not only barring her from entering fashion shows, Lux


    Magazine would also prevent her designs from publication.

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30


    Chapter 30 You¡¯ve Got The Wrong Person The support of Pearson Group meant that she could better


    expand her horizons and ideas, yet Lux Jewelry was a freshly established brand. As she was also the


    designer of ¡®First Love¡¯, there was no way that thepany was about to let her go. Besides, this


    contract was one where they were obviously out to squeeze all they could from her current reputation


    and inspiration.


    Thus, the moment she could not produce any more designs, thepany would proceed on finding the


    next famous designer while McK would be casted away. Even though Harvey argued with his boss for


    quite a long while, it was his superior who said McK agreed to this herself. Naturally, businessmen


    valued profits more than anything, so there was no space for negotiations. Seeing his hesitation, Aidan


    thought about Leanna¡¯s ability to repay her debt now. As his expression darkened, he spoke in a cold


    tone, ¡°How much did she want?¡± Although Harvey did not want to disclose such private information, the


    situation did not permit him to hide this fact any further.


    Finally, he said, ¡°McK only asked to pay her two million first. As for the others¡ª¡± ¡°Mr. Mancini. Mr.


    Mancini!¡± A personnel came running toward them and stated in between breaths, ¡°This is not good.


    McK has been hospitalized!¡± Frowning, Harvey wanted to leave when he remembered that Aidan was


    still here. Yet, before he could greet him, Aidan was already heading for the exit. Jonathan, who


    followed Aidan, quickly turned back and whispered to Harvey, ¡°Mr. Mancini, everything that the


    president did was not for Miss rk. He did this all for¡­ Anyway, I hope I can clear this matter up to


    you the next time you¡¯re free.¡± ¡­ After an initial checkup at the hospital, the doctor confirmed that she


    had been poisoned, so he instructed the nurse, ¡°Prepare for gastricvage.¡± At that moment, the


    unconscious Leanna grabbed onto the doctor¡¯s arm and mumbled, ¡°No¡­


    Don¡¯t do that¡­ I¡¯m¡­¡± Not hearing her clearly, the doctor was about to close in before Zayn pursed his


    lips and stated, ¡°She¡¯s pregnant.¡± The doctor immediately changed his mind. ¡°Do a blood test.¡± After


    ten minutes, the report was out. Fortunately, she was only mildly poisoned, so the gastricvage


    procedure could be held off. However, the toxins had to be purged through vomiting, otherwise it might


    harm the baby in her womb. Between the lines of consciousness, Leanna heard the doctor and hardly


    sat up. Since she had already vomited her breakfast, all that was left in her stomach was water. Yet,


    she forced herself to puke no matter how hard it was. Zayn was right by her side as he gently patted


    her back with a face of uneasiness. When Aidan rushed to the hospital, this was the intimate scene that


    he witnessed. Standing on the spot, he waspletely emotionless yet immense bloodlust seeped


    around him, which made Jonathan take a step back.


    Oh no, someone¡¯s going to die today. In the end, Leanna could not differentiate whether it was tears


    flowing from her face or sweat. There were moments where she thought she would be better off dead.


    After an unknown amount of time, she finally could not withstand it anymore and fainted. Yet, just as


    Aidan closed in, Zayn discovered his presence and frowned without bothering to disguise his enmity


    whatsoever. ¡°What are you doing here, President Pearson?¡± ¡°Do I have to answer that?¡± Blocking his


    way, Zayn replied, ¡°I hope you haven¡¯t forgotten that you and Leanna have already divorced, President


    Pearson.¡±


    His words were like a stake that drove deep into Aidan¡¯s heart as he coldly nced at the unconscious


    Leanna before looking at Zayn and smirked. ¡°So, this is why.¡± I can¡¯t believe that I absurdly believed


    Leanna only wanted a divorce because she was jealous and throwing a temper tantrum. No wonder


    she did not want a single penny and was in such a hurry to get rid of me. It turns out that she is seeing


    Zayn. Not knowing what he was thinking of, Zayn only knew that if not for Aidan, Leanna would not be


    going through such sufferings right now. With that, he chased Aidan away. ¡°Leanna needs rest right


    now. If there¡¯s nothing else, I would like you to leave, President Pearson.¡± To this, Aidan only nced at


    him coldly before leaving. In his ck Rolls-Royce, Aidan¡¯s lips were pursed before he asked, ¡°When


    did Leanna meet Zayn?¡± Fearful of not answering him, Jonathan replied, ¡°Mr. Bat attended the


    same university as Madam. He was also her first love.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    At that time, everybody said that they were a pair made in heaven¡ª¡± Up to this point, Aidan interrupted


    him and said, ¡°Did I ask?¡± Clearing his throat, Jonathan continued, ¡°Madam only entered The Emerging


    Designer Competition due to Mr. Bat¡¯s suggestion three years ago. At that time, the Bats had


    scheduled to have him study in Aeras and Madam could have gone there too with ourpany¡¯s


    sponsorship¡­ if not for the unfortunate events that happened. So, I think that they might have agreed


    upon¡­¡± ¡°Are you saying that I came between them?¡± Jonathan did not dare to answer this. I think that


    half of it falls onto her father and the other half¡­ you. If the president had approved of Madam¡¯s


    request back then, she might have even gone there after clearing the debt and lived a sweet, happy life


    with Zayn. When the car was about to arrive at Castor Vi, Aidan suddenly instructed, ¡°Go back to the


    hospital.¡± Three years ago, it was Leanna who came to him first. Today, you want me to wish these two


    happiness? Impossible! After Mia had gone off stage at the runway, she could not find Aidan anywhere.


    However, she had received the information she longed for.


    Leanna is hospitalized. Since she had done this in secret and the resting room was one where a lot of


    people came and went, even if Leanna were to suspect her, she would not have any evidence to back


    that im up. However, in the midst of her own thoughts, she heard the personnels discussing, ¡°Mr.


    Mancini said earlier that Mia isn¡¯t the person whom Pearson Group was nurturing and told us to stop


    our discussion.¡± ¡°What? Are you serious? But I heard Mia¡¯s people saying that she has vastly


    advertised the alleged surpriseter tonight at the show; she even has her speech for the prize


    eptance ready.¡± ¡°Do you think that Mr. Mancini would lie about this? Also, I think that Mia¡¯s


    performance was mediocre tonight. If it was up to me, I would choose McK. Even though she only


    walked once, everybody agreed that she was absolutely stunning and had an auraparable to a


    professional model. I haven¡¯t even mentioned Daphne, who overshadowed Mia in every way possible.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what I think too. Perhaps Pearson Group only withdrew their support for Mia after witnessing


    this scene for themselves.¡± After hearing these remarks, Mia almost gritted her teeth into dust. This is


    all Leanna¡¯s fault. This is happening all because of that shameless b*tch!!! I should have increased the


    dosage and poisoned her to death! ¡­ In the ward, Leanna was lying silently while steadily breathing on


    the bed with an IV drip.


    ¡°Thank you for today. If it wasn¡¯t for you, things would have gotten a lot worse¡­¡± Zoe told Zayn. ¡°You


    don¡¯t have to be this courteous. This is what I should¡¯ve done.¡± He only went to the fashion show to find


    Leanna yet he had a revtion. After a brief moment of silence, he asked, ¡°Has Leanna been staying


    with you?¡±

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31


    Chapter 31 Do You Think That I¡¯m Here for Money? ¡°What? Right¡­¡± ¡°Thank you for taking care of her.¡±


    Zoeughed awkwardly without knowing what to say. Back when Leanna told her that she had met up


    with Zayn to clear things up, Zoe assumed that he had already moved on from the past. However, it


    seemed to be the opposite case after what she had witnessed. Rather than saying he had let go, it


    would be more appropriate to conclude that he had sunk deeper than before. For half an hour, they


    remained as they were until Zoe took notice of Zayn, who seemed to have no intentions of leaving.


    ¡°I think you should head back first. I can apany Nana by myself since the doctor said that it¡¯s


    nothing major. She just has to rest up after this.¡± In actuality, she and Zayn were not really well-


    acquainted as she had only met him through Leanna a few times. However, it was just too awkward for


    Zoe to stay in silence with someone whom she had not seen for three years. Zayn, who wanted to


    reject her notion, could not find a suitable reason to stay, so he stood up and replied, ¡°Please inform


    me when Leanna awakes.¡± ¡°No problem. I¡¯ll tell you the moment she wakes up.¡± Nodding, Zayn was


    about to leave when Zoe whispered to him, ¡°About that¡­


    I think you know about Nana¡¯s circumstances, since she should¡¯ve told you everything. She just


    escaped from a failed marriage; so if you can¡¯t give her a future, I would suggest you stop contacting


    her¡­¡± Although Zayn understood her words, how could he just give up on the one he had loved all


    these years? He could persuade himself to treat her marriage as something that never happened, but


    as a man, he could not get over the fact that Leanna was pregnant with Aidan¡¯s child. Yet, he could not


    withstand the desire to be by her side.


    To that, he replied, ¡°I willpose my thoughts before Ie to her again.¡± It was after Zayn left that


    Zoe finally breathed a sigh of relief. At that moment, Harvey¡¯s call came to ask which ward Leanna was


    in, so she went down to meet up with him. Two minutes after she exited, the door to the ward was


    opened once again. Aidan looked at the pale woman lying on the bed as his gaze was no longer cold


    like before. Walking over to her, he sat down on the couch beside the bed. It was after a while before


    he uttered coldly, ¡°Leanna, were you pleased when you saw my signature on the divorce paper?¡±


    Were you pleased that you have sessfully deceived me yet again? Were you pleased to finally be


    with Zayn this time? Yet, the person lying on the bed did not respond to him as the whole room was


    eerily quiet. He continued, ¡°Is your heart made of rock? How could you still think about him when we


    were married for three years? Where have I done you wrong?¡± Her wardrobe was always filled with the


    latest fashion items; the chauffeur would always drive her to any where she wanted and she could send


    anything she bought to his tab. Aside from giving her money, he did not spare any expenses on her. At


    that moment, Aidan¡¯s gazended on her pale lips which reminded him of the gentle scene where Zayn


    took care of her. Pursing his lips, he felt a wave of anger washed over him.


    Aidan held her chin and was about to press his lips against hers. However, all that came out of his


    mouth was vexation. ¡°This is all your fault, Leanna!¡± After meeting up with Harvey, the wide-eyed Zoe


    was about to open the door to the ward when she saw this shocking scene. This b*stard! He¡¯s actually


    taking advantage of her! Standing behind her was Harvey who also witnessed the scene and managed


    to cover her mouth before she could make a sound. Leading her away, Harvey only asked Zoe upon


    making sure they were a distance away from the ward. ¡°What is the rtionship between President


    Pearson and McK?¡± Unlike before, he was one of the many who thought that Aidan only helped out Lux


    Jewelry to support Mia. Yet, after hearing Jonathan¡¯s words and what he saw for himself, this all proved


    that there would always be two sides of a coin. To this, Zoe could only touch her lips andugh


    awkwardly, knowing that the cat was out of the bag as even the blind could detect something was up.


    ¡°Uhm¡­ President Pearson is actually the ex-husband of Nana. They divorced about a month ago.


    ¡± Harvey was baffled at this. Finally, everything makes sense now. It makes sense why Pearson Group


    would send out a PR team after McK¡¯s incident; why they would send gifts to the photographers and


    designers of Lux and give out an outstanding award at our fashion show¡­ This all had absolutely


    nothing to do with Mia. In the ward. Aidan, who was still angry after biting her lips, pried it open and bit


    it even harder until Leanna frowned out of pain; only then did he let go of her and sat back down.


    Because of his actions, she woke up soon after. Opening her eyes, Leanna woke up to find a ceiling


    before her eyes while still battling with her dizziness. Yet, before she could determine where this was,


    she saw a cold-gazed Aidan sitting not too far away. Immediately, she sat up and tried to find her


    phone.


    Since she had promised to return the money to him after the show, she would not dy this even if it


    was a second. It¡¯s already dark outside. No wonder he¡¯s here. However, Aidan assumed that her


    immediate action of grabbing the phone upon awakening was to message Zayn, leading him to be


    instantly furious. ¡°Leanna McKinney, are you ignoring my existence here?¡± Of course, I see you. I¡¯m not


    blind, so I¡¯m returning the money to you as fast as I can. After inputting her password, the money was


    then transferred before she raised her phone and showed it to him, motioning that she had already


    repaid him. Yet, Aidan took this series of actions as a means to show off her capability and that he


    should note between her rtionship with Zayn. With that, Aidan stared back at her coldly.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing that there was no reaction, Leanna was still thinking about how to clear her name when he


    uttered impatiently, ¡°Talk.¡± Due to the excessive puking just now, her throat was too sore for her to


    speak. She then opened WhatsApp and wrote him a message, ¡®I have a sore throat right now. The


    money has been transferred to you.¡¯ The phone in his pocket vibrated as he took it out to read it, only


    for his face to turn even more solemn. At that moment, another message came. ¡®You¡¯ve worked hard,


    President Pearson. If the amount is correct, you should quickly head home and rest.¡¯ She then followed


    up with a ¡®thank you¡¯ emoticon. ¡°Do you think that I¡¯m here for money?¡± The man¡¯s icy voice echoed in


    the ward, which shocked Leanna to raise her head at him. Isn¡¯t he here for that? I don¡¯t buy that he¡¯s


    here for my well-being.


    The doubt in her gaze intensified the veins on Aidan¡¯s temples as he roared out her name, ¡°Leanna


    McKinney!¡± Helpless, she did not know when and how she offended him. Fortunately though, she


    managed to escape answering him, thanks to her terrible sore throat. Just leave. You have your money


    now. Why are you still hanging around here? What an eyesore.

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32


    Chapter 32 The Reason for Our Divorce For the first time in his life, it felt like the hardest task ever for


    Aidan tomunicate with her. The worst thing is¡­ she looks like she doesn¡¯t even know what she did


    wrong! This had only fueled his anger more. With zero ounce of patience remaining, he stood up and


    left.


    Leanna sighed helplessly as she watched his outraged silhouette departing. As expected, I was too


    late in repaying him¡­ A short whileter, Harvey entered the room with Zoe. Since there was still lots


    of work pending at the show, he did not stay for long as he merely chatted for a short while and told


    Leanna to rest up before leaving. Sitting by her side, Zoe sighed, ¡°You¡¯re finally awake, Nana. You


    scared the life out of me. What happened? Why were you poisoned?¡± Unsure of the source of


    poisoning, Leanna shook her head. After she arrived at the fashion show, she did not ingest anything


    and her stomach was cleared after puking everything she had for breakfast and lunch. If she had to


    take a guess, then it must be the water that she had ingested. But, everybody was drinking from the


    same source. So, why am I the one with the problem? Zoe quickly took her phone out to text someone.


    ¡°Oh right, Zayn told me to inform him once you wake up.¡± Closing her eyes, Leanna knew that if it was


    not for Zayn, she would have been in big trouble and her baby would be endangered. After Zoe sent


    the message, she patted Leanna on the shoulder. ¡°Okay now. You shouldn¡¯t carry any burdens too.


    Regarding the two of you¡­You should just let fate decide and not force anything. But, don¡¯t escape


    from it either.¡± In reality, she and Zayn should have been together way back then, yet fate had other


    ns for them. Noticing that Leanna had a heavy expression, Zoe added, ¡°The doctor mentioned that


    the baby is safe. But, they will still observe you closely for the next few days, so just rest up. Do not,


    and I repeat, do not let this happen again.¡± The woman in bed slightly nodded and uttered, ¡°Just head


    back and rest. I¡¯m fine now.¡± Her voice was rather hoarse. Although her throat was sore, it did not mean


    that she could not speak; she just merely did not want to talk with Aidan.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to do that. I¡¯ll stay here and keep youpany,¡± Zoe replied. ¡°You don¡¯t have to. If I need


    anything, I can ring the nurses for help. There must still be a lot to deal with at the show. Quickly, go


    on.¡± Recently, restlessness did not only catch up to Leanna but Zoe as well. Still, Leanna was able to


    catch a few winks more than her friend as she had a baby to take care of. On the other hand, Zoe had


    not gotten some shuteye for quite a long time now. After thinking it through, she conformed. ¡°Okay,


    then. I¡¯lle tomorrow. Remember to press the bell if you need anything and don¡¯t try to stand up.¡±


    Leanna smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡± After Zoe left, Leanna absent-mindedly sat on the bed for quite a while.


    Some time had passed before her thoughts slowly came back to her as her stomach rumbled loudly.


    Hungry¡­ She was so hungry that she could not sleep. Since the time waste, Leanna felt


    embarrassed to ring the bell for this. She sat up cautiously and slowly walked with the help of the wall,


    thinking that she could seek help at the nurse¡¯s station.


    However, she had reached the entrance of the ward when the door suddenly opened. Caught off


    guard, she fell backward in shock. At that moment, her wrist was grabbed and an upset voice


    questioned, ¡°Why are you walking around?¡± She was speechless at this sight. Why hasn¡¯t he left yet?


    After stabilizing herself, she licked her dry lips and stated, ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡± Shooting a nce at her, Aidan


    replied, ¡°Go lie back down.¡± From his gaze, she could tell that he found her troublesome. Still, she


    lacked the strength to argue with him right now, so she could only use the wall and slowly retraced her


    steps. ¡°Stay there. I¡¯ll be back soon,¡± he reminded before closing the door. Leanna did not reply to him.


    God, why is heing back again! After the brief interruption, hunger had taken over her body and she


    had started to feel numb about it. At the thought of Aidaning byter, she did not even have the


    mood to eat as she pulled her sheets and decided to sleep instead. Just as she was entering deep


    sleep, the nket covering her was tossed aside. ¡°Eat before you sleep.¡± Looking up, she was shocked


    to see the food located beside her. Did he buy food for me? ¡°Do you need me to mouth feed you?¡± he


    asked sarcastically after receiving no reaction. Leanna¡¯s mouth twitched as she did not want food given


    to her out of pity. ¡°I suddenly remembered that I was poisoned, so I should not be able to eat yet¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve already inquired with the doctor. You¡¯re suffering from mild poisoning. If you feel better after


    waking up, then you can eat solid foods.¡± He then pursed his lips and continued, ¡°Seeing that you


    moved around just to find food, that means that you should be fine.¡±


    Gripping the bed sheet involuntarily, she became alert after hearing that he had consulted the doctor.


    ¡°You consulted the doctor? What¡­ did he tell you?¡± ¡°What else is there besides mild poisoning?¡± His


    words relieved her as sheughed awkwardly to disguise her true concern. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Since my


    stomach is sick, I thought that the doctor would forbid me from eating.¡± Aidan looked at her before


    retrieving a box of food from the bag and ced it in front of her. ¡°It¡¯s nothing too serious. Eat up.¡± Truth


    was, he went straight to the doctor¡¯s office after he exited angrily from her ward. It might have been


    because Zayn was alongside Leanna when she was admitted to the hospital, so the doctor had


    assumed that he was the husband and father of the baby. Therefore, when the actual baby¡¯s father had


    come to ask about her condition, the doctor assumed that he was merely a co-worker who was


    assigned to visit, based on his cold look. Hence, he only stated about her mild poisoning while


    withholding the information that she was pregnant. While staring at the box of food before her, Leanna


    found her stomach rumbling again. My baby must be famished too.


    At that, she stopped hesitating and picked up the spoon to eat. However, she noticed that not only did


    Aidan not leave, but he sat back down on the couch and started sifting through documents on his


    phone. Confused by his actions, she identally choked onto her food. ¡°Am I affecting your appetite


    here?¡± Themotion had him looking up and asking. ¡°That¡¯s not it. It¡¯s sote now, though¡­ Aren¡¯t


    you returning home, President Pearson?¡± ¡°What home?¡± After mocking himself, he then directed his


    gaze at her. ¡°After your meal, I have something to ask you.¡± What he meant was that she should be


    eating quicker and not waste his time. In actual fact, Leanna did not catch on to what he said in the


    former part of his sentence as he was speaking too softly though what she did hear at the end of his


    sentence had made her lose appetite for her meal. What is he going to pin on me this time? Did I forget


    about anything else besides owing him money?


    This inherently caused Leanna to eat her food in a sour mood. When she finished, she put the spoon


    down and asked, ¡°What do you want to ask about, President Pearson?¡± ¡°The reason for our divorce.¡±


    Not this again¡­ After all, this was thest thing that she expected him to ask after all the effort he


    spent to stay outte and buy food for her. Still, she was just ready to speak when Aidan interrupted, ¡°I


    don¡¯t wanna hear any excuses. I¡¯ve known everything.¡±Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33


    How Much Did He Borrow? Leanna froze. He knows everything¡­ Peering at her, Aidan lowered his


    cold and solemn, ¡°In order to marry me, you used every trick possible in the book; when ites to our


    divorce, you did the very same. Leanna McKinney, do you feel a sense of aplishment whenever I


    fall for your trap¡­ over and over?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I never thought of it like that. I just¡­¡±


    She lowered her head in response. ¡°Just want to be with Zayn now that he¡¯s back?¡± ¡°What?¡± He


    crossed his legs and continued, ¡°I think you¡¯re dreaming, Leanna. Did you really think that the Bats


    would approve of him marrying a divorced woman?¡± Before she could even think of a reply for hisst


    question, she sneered at his verbal attacks, ¡°I don¡¯t really get what you mean, President Pearson. So


    what if a woman is divorced? Does that mean she should be looked down upon? If so, how can a


    divorced man be so shameless as to cheat his wife even before they were divorced?¡± ¡°I dare you to


    repeat that,¡± Aidan answered. Not foolish enough to argue with him, Leanna only blinked innocently.


    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m not talking about you, President Pearson. That was just a mere example.¡± He pursed


    his lips while trying to suppress his anger. ¡°Did you want to ask me about this, President Pearson?¡± she


    asked.


    ¡°What else do you think I wanted to ask?¡± he questioned. ¡°Then¡­ Can you leave after your question?


    I¡¯m a bit sleepy now.¡± Why is this b*stard asking so many weird questions? We¡¯ve already divorced for


    so long now. Does he want to frame me for something else? He¡¯s acting so weird. After Leanna


    finished, she was taken aback at his emotionless expression. Just as she was about to direct her gaze


    elsewhere, he held her chin and warned her, ¡°Leanna McKinney, quit thinking so highly of yourself. You


    should be grateful that I¡¯m not bringing up your past deeds. If you really want to y me for a fool,


    you¡¯re wee to try.¡±


    Without waiting for her reply, he proceeded to let her go and left. Lying back onto the bed, Leanna had


    zero idea as to what line she had crossed this time. Good news was, she could not sleep in peace


    knowing that the two million she owed him had been cleared within the time limit. She took her phone


    and tapped on Aidan¡¯s profile before pressing the delete button with no hesitation. Since we have


    settled all our differences, let¡¯s consider ourselves even from now on. Setting her phone down, she


    went back to sleep. The next morning, she opened her eyes to the sight of Louis reading by the


    window. ¡°Louis, why are you here?¡± Leanna asked him. Turning his head, he replied, ¡°Miss Hart told


    me that you were sick, so I¡¯m here to take care of you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing serious.¡± She sat up and


    continued, ¡°What about your part-time job?


    You should get going. You don¡¯t need to stay here.¡± ¡°I¡¯m working the night shift today. I¡¯ll leave when


    Miss Hartes.¡± Massaging her temples, Leanna knew just how stubborn her brother could be, so


    she did not persuade him any longer. He then helped her to the toilet to wash up, ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you


    outside. Let me know when you¡¯re done.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± After she opened the packaged toothbrush and


    toothpaste Zoe bought for her yesterday, she looked in the mirror only to notice the corner of her lips to


    be torn and scabbed. She finally understood why it hurt when she was having soupst night. Yet, she


    could not ascertain where she got this wound from, so she dismissed it as an ident.


    Since Louis had brought breakfast for her on the way, it was just the right temperature for her when she


    exited the toilet. A nurse came for her checkup just as Leanna finished her meal. After the checkup, the


    nurse reminded her to rest properly for a few days and not leave the bed unless she needed to go to


    the toilet. As the nurse was administering IV for Leanna, Louis took a look at her medication and


    frowned. After the nurse left, it was only the two of them left when he suddenly questioned, ¡°Are you


    pregnant?¡±


    ¡°How do you¡­¡± She had nearly forgotten that not only was her brother a science major student, he was


    also extremely smart. Some of the medication that the nurse gave her was meant for pregnancy, which


    was deciphered by Louis at a nce. After a few seconds of silence, Leanna nodded. ¡°He divorced you


    even though you¡¯re pregnant? He¡¯s going to get a taste of this!¡± As soon as he took his first step, she


    grabbed onto him and uttered, ¡°Louis, it is me who wanted the divorce. I didn¡¯t tell Aidan about my


    pregnancy because I don¡¯t want him to know.¡± ¡°So, you¡¯ve already decided to keep the baby?¡± he


    asked. She nodded. ¡°I¡¯m going to raise the baby by myself.¡± Louis was at a loss for words all of a


    sudden. It was after a while before he asked, ¡°Did Jethro ask you for money recently?¡± ¡°No. Why?¡±


    Shaking his head, he stated, ¡°He has been acting strangely.¡± Typically, Jethro would always look drunk


    and pathetic whenever he appeared in all sorts of casinos or poker events.


    The debtors would thene knocking every two to three days inevitably. However this time, he


    seemed like he had struck gold daily as he stopped drinking and gambling recently. Instead, he slicked


    his hair back and even carried a briefcase, looking like a professional. Yesterday, when Louis came


    back to retrieve some clothes, Jethro threw a pile of money onto the table. ¡°Louis, your father¡¯s rich


    now. Take this and buy some branded clothes for yourself. You better not embarrass me and your


    sister.¡± Louis ignored him and left after packing his things. Then, he continued, ¡°He even bought a car


    valued over half a million. I asked around and he paid them all upfront.¡± ¡°Where did he get so much


    money? Did he borrow it from loan sharks again?¡± she asked with a frown on her face. Pursing her lips,


    Leanna knew that this possibility existed too. She recalled that before the one million debt incident,


    Jethro alsovishly spent for a period of time and their home was filled with stuff he purchased. Still, it


    was not as exaggerated as this time. How much did he borrow?


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Leanna stated, ¡°Louis, you should pack everything away once you head back today. Don¡¯t ever return


    there.¡± He nodded in agreement as he also had nned to sever his ties with Jethro once he started


    attending university; for the past two months, he had been slowly moving out his belongings in


    preparation. In the afternoon, Zoe arrived. Before Louis left, he told Leanna that he would visit again


    after his night shift. During this period, Jethro had been acting peculiarly, so Louis was afraid that


    Jethro might go into hiding when the loan sharks came knocking to target Leanna. On the bright side,


    Zoe brought some good news to Leanna. After yesterday¡¯s show had ended, Mia left silently.


    Even though it was her own idea to add in a speech for the award, she canceled it without any omen


    and became the butt of everyone¡¯s joke. At that, Leanna stated, ¡°Since Aidan threw so many resources


    at her, this show is nothing but a public announcement to show their support. In the end, they¡¯ll still


    provide her with what they have promised.¡±

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34


    Chapter 34 Leanna Blocked Aidan on Twitter After hearing that, Zoe recalled the scene she witnessed


    in the ward by chancest night and she was hesitating whether to tell Leanna about how that b*stard


    kissed her while she was fast asleep. As such, she decided to test the waters first. ¡°I saw Aidan


    yesterday. Did he say anything to you?¡± Leanna felt helpless at the mention of him. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. He


    told me to return his money and that Zayn will never marry a divorc¨¦e like me.¡± ¡°Has he lost his mind?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    ¡°To be honest, I think he¡¯s been acting strange after the divorce.¡± Knock. Knock. A knock resounded on


    the door, interrupting the conversation and drawing their attention. Standing by the door was a woman


    carrying a bouquet while wearing a pair of sunsses and a mask. Zoe stared at the unknown woman


    for a while before recognizing her identity. ¡°Daphne?¡± Daphne took off the mask before closing the door


    and waving at them. ¡°Hey guys. I¡¯m here to visit.¡± She and Zoe had worked together before for a few


    cover shoots and advertisements. Although they were not that close, they could be considered as


    acquaintances. Even so, she had nothing to do with Leanna, which confused Zoe as to why she would


    visit. Daphne arranged the flowers into the vase while exining, ¡°I heard that the designer of Lux


    Jewelry has been hospitalized, so I decided to pay her a visit as I have some free time today. How are


    you feeling?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. Thanks.¡± Leanna nodded as she was well-informed of how Daphne had lent a hand for the


    last two rounds of the runwayst night. In actuality, Daphne was only doing someone a favor.


    Jonathan spent the whole night racking his brain in order toe up with a solution. Yet, the


    employees, including Leanna, had totally mistaken that Aidan¡¯s feelings were directed to Mia instead of


    Leanna. Therefore, Jonathan had to exin the situation to Leanna before leveling with his boss.


    Otherwise, he might be pushed off the building by a furious Aidan from the president¡¯s office. Thus,


    Daphne, who was merely roaming around in thepany before her vacation, became hisst strand


    of hope.


    Given how she would retaliate against Aidan at times, Jonathan reckoned that she and Leanna would


    manage to get along well. Moreover, Leanna would definitely treat her with courtesy due to her


    contributionst night. As for Daphne, Aidan¡¯s sudden yet confident statement of how someone was


    peeking at him in addition to the call for helpst night had sessfully piqued her interest. Her


    purpose of stopping by was to simply quench her curiosity. ¡°Don¡¯t be such a stranger. My schedule is


    quite lenient today anyway. By the way, I heard that the Pearson Group had chosen the designer as the


    winner. Did you receive anything?¡± She grinned. Leanna and Zoe were equally baffled by the question.


    Zoe responded first, ¡°Isn¡¯t that bast¡ªPresident Pearson trying to support Mia with that superficial


    reason? Why would he give it to the designer?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure either. I heard it by chance.¡± ¡°You must¡¯ve


    got it wrong. That bast¡ªPresident Pearson has been offering a lot of benefits to Lux Jewelry because


    of Mia. He¡¯s not that generous.¡± ¡°True.¡± Daphne nodded approvingly before saying implicitly, ¡°But he did


    help Lux Jewelry through sending the PR team as help. It¡¯s proof that he¡¯s kind-hearted and he knows


    how to make up for his mistakes.¡± Her abrupt assertion had sessfully made both Leanna and Zoe


    speechless. Still, she could not find a better way to put it into implicit words.


    It was either Jonathan¡¯s way of expression was confusing or she was not clever enough to read it


    between lines. ¡®Let Leanna know that President Pearson is doing all these for her, but do not tter her


    vanity.¡¯ Is this even humannguage? It¡¯s obvious that Aidan is the one sending the message.


    Meanwhile, Leanna kept silent for a moment before veering the subject. ¡°Would you like some


    grapes?¡± No matter what kind of feelings Aidan had for Mia, she was not curious in the slightest as both


    of them were toxic enough to make a good match for themselves. Daphne was stunned, but soon


    comprehended her intentions.


    ¡°Yes.¡± She took a seat and after that, the trio no longer mentioned Aidan and Mia. Even though


    Daphne¡¯s hands were busy shoving the grapes into her mouth, her brain cells were being fried as she


    was trying to find a way to bring up that sensitive topic. Yet, she was not a professional negotiator; she


    did not have the ability to convey the message properly without straining the atmosphere. Besides,


    Leanna¡¯s avoidance was not helping at all. Thus, Daphne figured that it would be tactless of her to rub


    salt to the wound as a mere visitor. A couple of minutester, a burdened Daphne was full because of


    the grapes. ¡°I gotta go now. Wishing you a speedy recovery.¡± Leanna smiled. ¡°Thanks for dropping by.¡±


    Zoe rose from her seat. ¡°I¡¯ll send you off.¡± After leaving the room, Daphne could not smother her


    curiosity any longer. ¡°Does Miss McKinney despise President Pearson that much?¡± ¡°Not to that extent,


    but she doesn¡¯t want to have anything to do with him anymore.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s understandable, judging by how selfish he can be sometimes. The way he speaks and deals


    with things is always extreme. Anyone with a fragile heart will surely cry after talking to him for two


    seconds.¡± Knowing that Daphne would talk bad about Aidan behind his back, Zoe spoke up for Leanna,


    ¡°Not only that, he only has his eyes for money. I¡¯ve never seen someone as thrifty as him. I can¡¯t wait to


    see his son calling another man ¡®daddy¡¯.¡± Daphne was surprised by the sudden news. ¡°Huh?¡± It was not


    until then did Zoe realize that she had almost let it slip through her tongue at the spur of the moment.


    She tried to gloss it over by adding, ¡°It¡¯s just an analogy. Anyway, karma will find its way to him and


    Mia!¡± At longst, Daphne¡¯s footsteps came to a halt as she attempted to give thest shot to


    aplish her mission once again. ¡°I heard that there¡¯s nothing going on between President Pearson


    and Mia.


    She¡¯s not the reason to why he¡¯s been favoring Lux Jewelry these days, but¡ª¡± ¡°I know. He¡¯s trying to


    drive Leanna out of Lux Jewelry, isn¡¯t he? That exins why he¡¯s so eager about it.¡± Zoe was serious.


    Why can¡¯t he just let her go even after the divorce? Ridiculous. At that, Daphneughed half-heartedly.


    Is it such a traumatic experience to be with President Pearson? It seems like¡­ the n of dropping by


    has backfired, though. She ryed the disheartening news to Jonathan, who had the urge to jump off


    the building from the president¡¯s office by himself without dirtying Aidan¡¯s hands. After a whole thirty


    minutes, he mustered the courage to knock on the door to the president¡¯s office. He reported today¡¯s


    work before informing very gingerly, ¡°President Pearson, about the Lux Jewelry¡ª¡± ¡°Why do you keep


    bringing up a coboration from a few years back?


    If you like that ce that much, I¡¯ll be d to receive a resignation letter from you.¡± Jonathan zipped his


    lips immediately. President Pearson is in a bad mood today. When the poor Jonathan left the office with


    careful steps, Aidan ced the pen down and tore the paper, which had his name wrongly written on,


    before crumpling and tossing it into the trash bin. Leanna McKinney, do you think that the score is


    settled after returning the money? How dare you block me on Twitter!

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35


    Throughout the Three-Year-Marriage With Him I seriously don¡¯t get her. In a cold voice, Aidan spoke


    over the inte, ¡°Contact Lux Jewelry to know how much Leanna McKinney¡¯s termination fee is.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± He received a report from Jonathan in no time. ¡°Madam has previously signed the


    contract with their boss in person, so he¡¯s the only one that knows the details.¡± However, the boss of


    Lux Jewelry was currently on vacation in Cazkavia.


    Without hesitation, Aidan grabbed his coat and rose to his feet. ¡°Book thetest flight ticket to


    Cazkavia.¡± Jonathan did as he was told at the drop of the hat. The contradicting sight of his boss¡¯


    impatience reminded him about the person who scolded him for mentioning Lux Jewelry and the so-


    called coboration that had ended years ago just ten minutes earlier. A weekter, Leanna was being


    discharged from the hospital. Although she had almost recovered, Zoe and Louis advised her to rest for


    a few days longer. Still, she could feel her limbs degenerating after spending days in bed in the


    hospital.


    Besides, she did not expect to see Zayn at the hospital. They were left alone after the sensible Zoe


    pulled Louis away. Silence filled the atmosphere until Leanna wore a smile. ¡°Thank you for everything


    that you¡¯ve done.¡± ¡°Leanna, you don¡¯t have to say those two words to me. Ever,¡± Zayn replied. She


    sighed as the awkwardness lingered in the air, making her want to flee the scene as soon as possible.


    ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else important, I¡ª¡± ¡°Leanna, I have something to tell you. Do you know who was the


    sponsor for The Emerging Designer Competition three years back?¡± Before she could even answer, he


    recounted, ¡°Koyote Group is a subsidiary of Pearson Group.¡± She paused. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°I


    know that you went to see Mr. Hall with the hope of changing the sponsorship to Aeras into cash. He


    did help you with the appeal, but it was rejected. In other words, Aidan Pearson was the one who


    rejected the appeal.


    ¡± During the next two minutes of silence, Leanna digested the fact that Aidan, the sponsor, was the very


    person whomented on her as someone without a dream. She then smiled lightly. ¡°So what if I


    know now? It¡¯s been three years. What¡¯s done is done. Besides, it¡¯s not like he owes me anything. It¡¯s


    reasonable for him to reject the appeal.¡± Zayn grabbed her shoulders with red-rimmed eyes. ¡°Leanna, if


    it wasn¡¯t for him, you wouldn¡¯t have to go through these. We could¡¯ve¡ª¡± ¡°Zayn, it looks like I haven¡¯t


    straightened things out with you. Even if I didn¡¯t get married to Aidan, we wouldn¡¯t havested till the


    end anyway.¡± She removed his hands calmly. ¡°Why not?¡± ¡°I was too innocent back then. I failed to see


    the huge gap between us.¡± His brows creased tightly. ¡°Leanna, that¡¯s not a problem.¡± Still, she insisted.


    ¡°It is a problem and a very big one. I might still have hope for the future if it wasn¡¯t for him, but after


    marrying him, I finally learned that a rag-to-riches story ain¡¯t as easy as I thought. I don¡¯t wanna be on


    everyone¡¯s lips and suffer from pointing fingers anymore.¡± ¡°That¡¯s because he doesn¡¯t love you. You


    wouldn¡¯t be treated that way if he had loved you.¡±


    The truth rendered her speechless. Even if she hade to terms with it, her stomach still churned


    when someone else pointed it out. The moment she parted her lips, someone dashed into the scene


    and pped her in the face. ¡°Leanna McKinney, you shameless b*tch!¡± The metallic taste spread


    across Leanna¡¯s mouth as she prodded the bleeding area with her tongue and returned the p. Anna,


    who had not foreseen Leanna¡¯s counterattack, paralyzed in shock before attempting to fight back, only


    to be stopped by Zayn. He warned sternly, ¡°Anna Pearson, behave¡­ or else, I don¡¯t know what I¡¯m


    going to do to you.¡± ¡°Zayn, she pped me. You¡ª¡± ¡°Check who barked first, woman,¡± interrupted


    Leanna coldly. Anna snapped, but he pulled her hand, which made her face flushed red. ¡°Leanna


    McKinney, I told you that Zayn is mine. Only mine! Don¡¯t you dare seduce him!¡± He pursed his lips upon


    hearing that. ¡°Anna, I repeat. There¡¯s nothing going on between you and I.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true! Our families are already nning for our marriage. It¡¯s just a matter of time before we


    get together.¡± His patience was wearing thin as she had been pursuing him round the clock after


    returning to the country. It was true that Zayn did not like her parents, but he ended up agreeing with


    the engagement for reasons that he himself was oblivious of. Resultantly, Anna presumed that they


    would get married on her own volition, therefore, pestering him more as days passed. Leanna did not


    bother her and bid him goodbye, ¡°I¡¯ll go ahead first.¡± ¡°Leanna¡­¡± After watching her leave, he lowered


    his head as he was aware that he was in no position to ask her to stay when he failed to settle his own


    mess. At the same time, Anna linked arms with him. ¡°Zayn, let¡¯s go shopping.


    I pre-ordered a bag a few days ago. It should¡¯ve arrived¡ª¡± ¡°Anna, you¡¯re a girl and I don¡¯t wanna say


    nasty things to you. But I don¡¯t like you and have no intention of marrying you either. If you keep acting


    up like that to Leanna¡¯s face, don¡¯t me me for not warning you when the timees.¡± He shoved


    her hands in the meantime. She red at him in resentment. ¡°It¡¯s because of Leanna, isn¡¯t it? You don¡¯t


    like me because of her! If it wasn¡¯t for her, you¡­ I should¡¯ve pushed her harder and killed her back


    then!¡± He frowned. ¡°What did you just say you did?¡± At that moment, her gaze skittered around


    frantically upon realizing that she had made a blunder with her words before pushing him away.


    ¡°Nothing! I did nothing to her. She had iting! It¡¯s because she got married to Aidan without knowing


    her ce and now even flirting with you. That¡¯s why.¡± Having said that, she scurried away, leaving him


    standing alone with tightly fisted hands. ¡­ On the way home, Leanna leaned against the window while


    staring at the view outside. The glint in her eyes simmered, rendering her thoughts undecipherable.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe endeavored to enlighten the mood, but Louis stopped her in figuring that it would be best to leave


    her alone for the time being. As Leanna herself had told Zayn, Aidan did not owe her anything. Hence,


    it was reasonable for her appeal to be dismissed. Still, no matter how much she reminded herself that


    sometimes life would not work out as one wished, her reasoning would diminish little by little as time


    passed. It¡¯s not even a hard request. What¡¯s wrong with trying to ask for the things I need when I¡¯m the


    winner? I doubt that it¡¯s an unreasonable request. It¡¯s not like I don¡¯t wanna go to Aeras. Reality doesn¡¯t


    allow me to do so.


    Due to that, Leanna¡¯s action that was deemed valueless had be the reason tobel her as


    someonecking a dream. Had it not been the cruel reality, everyone would wish to have the chance to


    embark the journey to achieve their dreams. Throughout the three-year-marriage, she had familiarized


    herself with Aidan¡¯s aloof and cruel disposition. Never once had she wished something from him. Not at


    all.

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 36


    There Was No Way Out Realizing that the one who rejected her request three years ago was the same


    person who put her down every single day for forcing a marriage with him just for money made


    Leanna¡¯s heart ache. It was as if someone was using a rusty de to pierce her heart little by little. It


    was bitter and painful.


    Thankfully, they had divorced for good. Otherwise, she might suffocate Aidan with a pillow someday


    while sharing the same bed at night when emotions got the best of her. It was probably due to


    pregnancy that had worsened her mood swing; it took her a long time to rpose herself. She woke


    up at midnight only to find her pillow sodden with tears. The more she thought about it, the more vexed


    she was. Impulsively, she took her phone out to post something on her social media ount. ¡®XXX is


    the most disgusting man in this world!!!¡¯ The three exmation marks indicated how furious she was.


    Amongst the concerned people in thement section, Jonathan, who was still working overtime, was


    the only one who hit the ¡®like¡¯ button. As if he was attempting to say, I know who you¡¯re talking about


    and I feel you. Leanna remained silent for a moment before regaining herposure. Initially, she


    thought of deleting the post, but it did not matter because she had previously blocked Aidan¡¯s Twitter


    ount. After all, she did not expose the person¡¯s identity. Even if he assumed that she was


    insinuating him after reading it, she could not do anything about it. After sleeping for long hours for the


    past few days in addition to the fuming rage, she waspletely awake. Thus, she figured that it would


    be better to use the time to sketch another design. On the other side, Daphne was on Twitter and


    stumbled across some hrious content by chance. She screenshotted it before forwarding to a group


    chat to share it with her fellow crew members. Everyone had fun gushing about it until she received a


    private message from Aidan out of the blue. ¡®What did Leanna post?¡¯ She did not understand the


    question as she replied to him with a question mark. ¡®Look at the bottom of the screenshot. What did


    she write about?¡¯ He was evidently impatient.


    It was not until then did she notice that the funny content was just right above Leanna¡¯s Tweet.


    Although Leanna¡¯s name was in the screenshot, the written content was not included. Surprised,


    Daphne asked her assistant as to when Aidan was added to that group chat, only to be informed that


    he had always been there since the incident that had happened two years ago. It was just that he never


    texted in the group. Silence struck upon her. Does that mean this evil sponsor has been watching me


    talk sh*t about him this whole time? Feeling the cold sheen behind her back, Daphne checked


    Leanna¡¯s post again before reconfirming with Aidan. ¡®President Pearson, are you sure you wanna


    know?¡¯ ¡®Take a screenshot for me.¡¯ He was rather cool about it. Soon, the insinuating statement was


    disyed on Aidan¡¯s phone. In order to let Leanna¡¯s post stand out in the picture, Daphne cropped out


    the irrelevant information such as the ¡®Jonathan liked this Tweet¡¯ banner as well as her own reply


    below. She personally thought that the ¡®XXX¡¯ was amendable move by Leanna.


    It was inming yet solemn due to the firm and reserved way of expression. Even if the used person


    saw it, he would not be able to find anything wrong from it unless he himself admitted that he was the


    so-called spiteful b*stard. Receiving zero responses from Aidan, Daphne thought that he would not


    reply anymore. Yet, the moment she ced her phone aside to sleep, her phone buzzed again.


    ¡®Screenshot everything that she tweets and send them to me from now on.¡¯ Daphne was speechless by


    the sudden mission. ¡®You can have a one-week break.¡¯ ¡®I¡¯m not the kind of person who would betray my


    friend for such a short break!¡¯ ¡®Two weeks.¡¯ ¡®Okay, boss. Thank you, boss.¡¯


    Then, she apologized to Leanna for betraying her under her boss¡¯ coercion. She was obliged to


    screenshot every update on Leanna¡¯s Twitter ount to Aidan from today onward. Leanna, the victim,


    was at a loss for words. How can he be so shameless! Therefore, she wrote for two days straight in her


    Twitter Circle, consisting of only Daphne, with insulting content directed at Aidan, allowing her to ry


    the messages so that he could digest things on his own. Just the mere thought of his expression after


    reading the content made Leanna feel refreshed as though she had sessfully taken her revenge.


    Right when her mood had reached its full swing, she received a call from Lux Jewelry. The boss¡¯


    secretary stated that there was a problem with the contract and hence the need for her to stop by the


    company. Noel Whitlock, who was the boss of Lux Jewelry, poured Leanna a cup of tea with a smile.


    ¡°Leanna, Harvey told me that you¡¯ve been hospitalized a while ago. How are you feeling right now?¡±


    She smiled in return. ¡°I¡¯ve fully recovered. Thank you for your concern, President Whitlock.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m d to hear that. I¡¯ve heard so much about your performance on the showcase. If it wasn¡¯t for you,


    the sweat and tears poured in to make ready for it might¡¯ve gone down the drain. You¡¯re truly our


    savior.¡± ¡°You¡¯re ttering me, President Whitlock. I just did what I could.¡± They were running out of time


    back then. Besides, all she did was walk the runway once and Daphne did the rest. As the


    straightforward person he was, Noel opened a kraft paper envelope before proffering a document in


    front of her. ¡°This is the contract that we both had signed earlier, but let¡¯s terminate it. I think it¡¯ll be


    better to just have the one you¡¯ve signed with us from the beginning.¡± Leanna was surprised. ¡°But I¡­¡±


    She had not expected thepany to end the contract just because she helped to walk the runway


    once, much less when she had already received two hundred thousand. Needless to say, the


    termination fee was arge sum of money. Noticing her doubts, he exined, ¡°I know what you¡¯re


    thinking. Actually, the original n was to repay you with other means, not like this.


    But¡­ now that I¡¯ve received the termination fee, I can¡¯t just let it be, can I?¡± Confusion crossed her


    features. ¡°You¡¯ve received the fee?¡± ¡°Yeah, it¡¯s been a week.¡± Noel took a sip of coffee before


    eximing, ¡°I was enjoying my holiday in Cazkavia when President Pearson came to visit me out of the


    blue to pay the termination fee. Given how you¡¯ve helped the showcase, I figured that it¡¯s alright to


    receive the money.¡± Silence engulfed her as she did not know how to respond to that. Leanna had


    basically sold herself to Lux Jewelry by signing that contract in order to get two hundred thousand to


    clear her debt with Aidan. Yet, he returned the money back to Noel in addition to the termination fee,


    which was worth almost a million of dors. Her head hurt at the thought of this plot-twist. As soon as


    she stepped out of Noel¡¯s office, Harvey approached her to inform that Pearson Group had selected


    their winning candidate. Considering that she was free from any constraint, she had the choice to


    contact Pearson Group and get any resources that she needed. Leanna pursed her lips into a thin line


    without uttering a word as her intuition said that Aidan was merely making fun of her.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Does he hate me this much? It¡¯s been so long since we¡¯ve divorced, but he¡¯s still not done with his


    revenge yet. It¡¯s turning brutal as time passes. Back then, there was no way out and she did not wish


    for her baby to suffer with her¡­ That was the only reason why she decided to discard her pride and


    seek help from him.

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37


    Leave the IOU and Repay Me in Installments It would only take a word from Aidan¡¯s lips for Leanna to


    give up her baby back then. It was just as easy as that. So, tell me. What exactly have I terribly done


    wrong? After leaving Lux Jewelry, Leanna took a cab to the Pearson Group.


    Without any registration needed, the Pearson Group¡¯s receptionist had only asked herst name before


    leading her directly to the president¡¯s exclusive elevator as if they had been expecting her. Leanna


    recalled the scenario when she was here to deliver some documents to Aidan a long time ago. At that


    time, she was afraid to tell any of the employees that she was his wife for fear that it would make his


    blood blood. Hence, what she ended up doing was standing quietly at the reception desk like a fool


    until the receptionist was avable to tend to her. Only then was her arrival reported to their superior. In


    the end, that b*stard even gave her an attitude. When Leanna exited the elevator, Jonathan was


    already waiting for her. ¡°Madam, President Pearson is in a meeting. He invited you to wait in his office,¡±


    he stated.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    However, Leanna could not help but correct him, ¡°Please refrain from calling me Madam. I don¡¯t


    deserve that title.¡± Struck by her words, Jonathan remained silent. Well, that was self-deprecating of


    her to say. He tried to cough off the awkwardness before extending his arm. ¡°Ma¡ªMiss McKinney,


    please.¡± As she sat in Aidan¡¯s office, she said to Jonathan while looking at the coffee he brought,


    ¡°Could you help get me a cup of hot water? The kind that can scald people if you spill it?¡± ¡°Miss


    McKinney¡­ You have a great sense of humor.¡± ¡°Not as great as President Pearson,¡± she responded


    while smiling.


    The quick-witted Jonathan instantly recognized Leanna¡¯s demeanor as a sign to denounce Aidan¡¯s act


    of charity and he had no idea where Aidan had the impression that she was here to express her


    gratitude. Still, Jonathan reced her coffee with a cup of hot water that did not burn. He reasoned


    carefully that if Aidan was to really be sshedter, at least in water would be better-looking than


    coffee on his suit. Leanna, on the other hand, was simply venting her rage and had no intention to pour


    water on the man. At that moment, the baby in her stomach was causing amotion which resulted


    in her to retch a few times. Thankfully, she was relieved after drinking some water.


    By the time Aidan returned, her ss was already empty. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± he asked indifferently as


    he unbuttoned his suit and sat opposite her in a business-like manner. This man is a total jerk. He¡¯s


    aware of the reason yet he still asked. Without wasting her time on arguing, she took a new IOU from


    her bag and said, ¡°The way you meddle around, your inconsistent words and deeds, and your


    duplicitous acts¡­¡±


    When she was halfway through her sentence, she felt the temperature in the office drop abruptly. In


    spite of the change of atmosphere, she continued her words with unchanging expressions, ¡°I truly


    admire your way of doing things, especially how you kill without spilling blood.¡± Tired of listening to her


    nonsense, he rudely interrupted her, ¡°Cut the bullsh*t.¡± ¡°To put it simply, even though I find your actions


    to be heinous, I don¡¯t think I¡¯ll be able to sleep in peace knowing I have an enormous debt on my


    shoulders.


    So, here I am swallowing my pride and writing you an IOU today.¡± Precisely what the b*stard desires.


    Raising his gaze, he revealed his stern and emotionless face at her. ¡°How are you going to pay this


    time?¡± As she was parting her pursed lips, he took a wild guess as to what was about toe out of


    her mouth. Before she could say anything, he slowly interjected, ¡°I don¡¯t ept installments.¡± This


    rendered Leanna speechless. I knew this evil capitalist would not show his mercy! ¡°Since you have


    carried out such a detailed n to embarrass me, let me be honest with you then, President Pearson. I


    don¡¯t have the money to pay you back, so you are free to tell me whatever you want now,¡± Leanna


    stated.


    ¡°So, you think I did all this just to embarrass you?¡± Aidan¡¯s beautiful brows frowned slightly as he


    asked. ¡°Isn¡¯t that right? I¡¯m honestly not sure what I have to do for you to be satisfied. If what you really


    want is for me to leave Lux Jewelry, I promise you I¡¯ll terminate the contract today and flee to


    somewhere you can¡¯t see me.¡± ¡°Leanna, are your brains made out of mud?¡± Running out of patience,


    Aidan asked in his deep and cold voice, ¡°I¡¯ve sent a PR team to Lux Jewelry, provided a candidate from


    the show with full resources from Pearson Group, and requested Daphne to fill the vacancy on stage.


    Do I look like I did all these just to get you out of my sight?¡± ¡°You did all those things for Mia. What does


    it have to do with me?¡± ¡°For her? Why would I even do things for her? She doesn¡¯t have anything to do


    with me.


    ¡± Not to be outdone, she retorted, ¡°But she has everything to do with your body.¡± Out of anger, he let


    out a frustratingugh and his tone softened. ¡°Leanna, I have told you this so many times. Eat less junk


    and more berries; your brain needs it.¡± Guilty as charged, Leanna was rendered speechless. Back


    then, she used to order boxes of pizza and her favorite stinky blue cheese as dessert at home.


    Whenever Aidan returned, he would throw everything into the trash bin outside before pressing her to


    the sink to brush off all the oiliness and pungent smell. Hold up. Is this the right time to be talking about


    this?She brought the conversation back on track by asking, ¡°How should I pay you back, then?¡± Aidan


    raised his brows without saying anything and lightly tapped the armrest of the couch with his slender


    fingers. The phrase ¡®beg me¡¯ was practically written all over his body. Leanna, on the other hand, knew


    that this b*stard would not be satisfied solely from her pleas, but he thoroughly had no idea what he


    was up to. When he noticed her bowing her head in silence, he uttered slowly, ¡°Leanna, I¡¯ve said


    before that if you ever regret it, I can give you another chance.¡± She responded quickly this time as she


    knew exactly what he was referring to.


    ¡°Why?¡± she asked at first instance. ¡°No reason.¡± She smiled as she knew the exact reason why. He¡¯s


    retaliating. During their loveless marriage, she could bear to be unlucky, despised, and disgusted, or


    even a wife who could only sit quietly at home and wait for her husband¡¯s return. Now that she was


    divorced, there was no way she was going to reduce herself to that level anymore. I can do whatever I


    desire now, but I guess this isn¡¯t what he wants to see. Sure enough, Leanna was the one who dragged


    him into the grave of marriage three years ago, so how could she just brush it off and walk away?


    ¡°Although I was once criticized by some arrogant jerk for not having dreams¡­¡± she finally said after a


    long pause. Aidan went silent upon hearing this. ¡°But I always knew what I wanted and what I could


    achieve within my capability,¡± she added. ¡°After three years of failed marriage, I really thought I could


    rely on my own efforts to pursue my dream again. But¡­


    if you¡¯re truly unwilling to let go of me, I shall give up my hands and you will never see me holding


    another graphite oring up with any designs ever again. If that still doesn¡¯t satisfy you, hire a


    murderer and finish me.¡± Shutting his eyes, Aidan unwillingly voiced out, ¡°Get out of my sight. Leave


    the IOU and repay me in installments.¡± ¡°All right. Goodbye, President Pearson.¡± Leanna carefully


    picked up her bag and exited. As she approached the door, she came to a halt. ¡°President Pearson, I


    will transfer the money I owe you to your ount on time every month. If you require anything else, just


    have Jonathan contact me.


    My phone works around the clock.¡± The implication was that she would not add his contact information


    back on her phone. However, after leaving the Pearson Group, her mood did not improve just because


    she had gotten what she wanted¡­ The damn installments.

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38


    I Will Take Good Care of You in the Future Intended to save money for her future child, Leanna was


    suddenly saddled with a massive debt. For this, she could not tell if the b*stard was generous or stingy.


    Say he¡¯s generous¡­ But he even made sure to guard before my hospital bed until I had repaid the


    debt!! Say if he¡¯s stingy¡­ But he did pay nearly ten million in exchange for my freedom as a designer¡­


    As much as the situation looked favorable on the surface, the debt still returned to her, hence


    concluding that Aidan was both generous and stingy. ¡­ After Leanna was gone for a long time, Aidan


    realized that he had been deceived by her once again. She was such a cunning and calcted woman.


    There¡¯s no way she would give up her hands. This is all just a ruse. Then, he made an internal phone


    call to summon Jonathan. ¡°What¡¯s the deal about Mia?¡± he asked coldly. Jonathan sensed impending


    disaster as soon as Aidan raised the inevitable question. Atst, he finally exined the entire


    situation. When it came to the end, Jonathan added earnestly, ¡°I was going to tell youst time, but I


    didn¡¯t have time. You mentioned that our coboration with Lux Jewelry was history and that I shouldn¡¯t


    bring them up¡­¡±


    At that, Aidan raised his cold eyes. Taken aback by his stare, Jonathan quickly proposed a solution.


    ¡°President Pearson, I will head to Lux Jewelry right now to rify.¡± ¡°There is no need for that.¡± Now that


    Leanna was outrightly cursing at him, she might turn self-righteous all of sudden after knowing about


    the truth. At least that was what Aidan assumed. Although everything he did was for the sake of Lux


    Jewelry, she would get carried away thinking that this was all for her! Perhaps one day she would be


    daring enough to walk over him and do whatever she wanted. Aidan was about to rise to his feet when


    he noticed a medicine bottle left on the couch where Leanna was sitting. Reaching out to retrieve it, he


    saw two words on the bottle¡ªfolic acid. ¡°Why is she eating this?¡± He pondered. ¡°It is said that eating


    this during pregnancy can effectively prevent neural tube defects in the fetus,¡± Jonathan replied


    cautiously. At that moment, Aidan¡¯s face sank as he clutched the bottle in his palm, shuddering.


    Pregnant? Have she and Zayn made such progress already??


    After three years, Leanna intends to marry into the Bat Family using the same method! ¡­ Along


    the way home, Leanna was feeling depressed. She pushed open the door when she arrived home.


    ¡°Baby, you¡¯re back! Surprise!¡± Confetti wasunched into the air as a man was holding a bouquet of


    roses in front of her. Speechless she was when she saw that it was Anthony Lester. Simrly, he stared


    back at her in silence. They were both looking at each other embarrassingly. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I thought you


    were Zoe.¡± Heughed awkwardly as he slowly put the roses in his hand away. ¡°The magazine has


    been quite busy recently,¡± Leanna said before adding, ¡°So Zoe may not be able to return untilter.¡±


    ¡°Ah¡­ It¡¯s my fault. I wanted to surprise her.¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright, I won¡¯t tell her. She will be overjoyed to see the


    surprise you have nned for her. I should get out of your way then.¡± ¡°I think I¡¯ll just forget it. If Zoe


    knew about it, she will give me a lecture,¡± Anthony utter quietly.


    ¡°I just happen to have something to do. Please let Zoe know that I won¡¯t be back tonight.¡± Leanna


    chuckled. ¡°Then, let me send you off.¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯ll just hail a cab.¡± She left wisely after finishing their


    brief talk. Anthony was Zoe¡¯s boyfriend whom she had been dating since university. The couple had


    always gotten along well. He was sent abroad by hispanyst year with the intention of staying for


    at least two years, so it appeared that he had returned earlier than scheduled. There must be so much


    to say and so much to do after not seeing each other for ages. It would be embarrassing for Leanna to


    be their third wheel. Therefore, she found a nearby cafe and began browsing the rental listings.


    Gradually, the sky had be darker. She stretched her neck and went in search of a restaurant.


    When she was halfway through her meal, she received a call from Zoe.N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    ¡°Nana, where are you?¡± ¡°I¡¯m eating out. Have you returned?¡± ¡°Yes¡­ That jerk, Anthony took me by


    surprise. He nearly scared me to death! My fists were clenched tight because I thought a thief broke


    in.¡± Although sheined, it was clear that her tone was pleasant. ¡°Don¡¯t give him a hard time. Let¡¯s


    celebrate tonight since he¡¯s back,¡± Leanna proposed as she chuckled. ¡°We¡¯ve been dating for about


    four or five years. We¡¯re like an elderly couple. What is there to rejoice about? Nana, you shoulde


    home and spend the night. I¡¯ll send him to the hotel.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll just stay out tonight.


    Your girl doesn¡¯t wanna be a third-wheel here¡­¡± ¡°What are you talking about¡­ Then you have to be


    careful when you¡¯re staying out by yourself. Send me the address of your hotelter,¡± Zoe said a little


    shyly. ¡°Okay. Go get busy.¡± After Zoe hung up, Anthony wrapped his arms around her waist and


    worriedly asked, ¡°She won¡¯te back, will she?¡± ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me when you came back? It¡¯s so


    embarrassing now,¡± she mumbled angrily while patting his arm. ¡°I had no idea she lived with us at the


    time. I wanted to give you a surprise. I would not have done it if I had known beforehand. Well, it¡¯s all


    my fault, baby. Don¡¯t be mad.¡± She turned around and hugged him. ¡°I don¡¯t me you, but I¡¯m worried


    about her staying outside alone.¡± ¡°She¡¯s a grown-up. There¡¯s nothing to be concerned about. Now,


    enough about her. You haven¡¯t seen me in a long time. Don¡¯t you miss me?¡± He started fiddling around


    her body. ¡°I was about to ask you. You mentioned that you will only return in at least two years.


    Why are you back in less than a year?¡± A slight change of expression shed across his face as he


    tried to gloss it over with augh. ¡°It¡¯s because I miss you! I requested it several times to thepany


    before they finally agreed for me to return. You don¡¯t know how much I suffered there alone.¡± It was


    difficult for Zoe to notice the difference in his expression as the light in the living room was switched off


    to produce a candle-lit scene. ¡°Alright alright, I know you¡¯ve suffered a lot. I will take good care of you in


    the future,¡± she gently soothed. ¡°Not the future. Do it now,¡± Anthony said eagerly as he kissed her lips.


    All that remained in the living room was the flickering candlelight. ¡­ Leanna took a bath andy on the


    bed after checking inte at the hotel. She took a look at her bnce and transferred Aidan every cent


    she had excluding the money she saved for her rent and daily expenses.\


    She also deleted all her Tweets about Aidan which were only visible to Daphne. What¡¯s the point of


    insulting him when I am yed by him again after all? She then drank a cup of hot water before going


    to bed. She wanted to take some folic acid but could not seem to find it anywhere in her bag.


    Sitting on the bed with her bare strength, she felt her nerves twitching and hurting. After dropping by


    several locations today, she had no idea where her medicine had gone. More importantly, Aidan¡¯s office


    was one of them. As such, she decided to try calling him after calming down for a while. After


    unearthing Aidan¡¯s phone number from the cklist, she dialed it from the hotel¡¯sndline but it took a


    long while to connect. ¡°President Pearson¡­ It¡¯s me.¡±

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39


    I Don¡¯t Want Anything Else ¡°Speak.¡± In a straightforward manner, Aidan shot his words in a gruff voice.


    Leanna licked her lips before asking cautiously, ¡°I just found out that my gastric pills are gone. I wonder


    if I left it in your office¡­¡± ¡°No.¡± Without waiting for her response, he hung up the phone immediately


    after his brief reply. She was left speechless by his action. He could have simply declined nicely. Why


    did the b*stard have to be so obnoxious? Although she deliberately referred to her bottle of folic acid as


    gastric pills, she could not help but think that the b*stard would infinitely assume she was scheming her


    way to him again by leaving her bottle of folic acid at his office.


    I can already imagine his mocking face and tone, Leanna thought as shey on her bed. For the entire


    night, worry got the best of her as she was not able to sleep well at all. As such, she woke up early the


    next morning and went back to the cafe and restaurant to inquire again but to no avail. She could only


    hope her medicine was dropped on her way home. In the afternoon, she was not idle either. Instead,


    she scheduled some appointments to visit a few houses as she intended to sign a contract to move in


    today if she found a suitable one. ¡­ At the office of Pearson Group, Aidan sneered as the IOU and


    folic acid pills next to him drew his attention away from the pile of documents. I can¡¯t believe she


    described it as her stomach meds. With that thought, he pursed his thin lips slightly and finally took out


    his phone to dial Leanna¡¯s number after a long time. He was curious to see her expression when she


    retrieved the ¡®gastric pills¡¯ bottle from him as well as to hear some new excuses she could concoct.


    When the call was answered, a gentle female voice sounded, ¡°Good day, this is Worthington Hotel.


    How may I assist you?¡± Hearing that, he raised an eyebrow. Hotel? I thought she was staying at her


    friend¡¯s house. Why is she in a hotel? Aidan¡¯s expression changed as he considered a particr


    possibility and his gaze went cold as if a thinyer of frost covered his ck pupils. After hanging up


    the phone, he rose to his feet and exited the office. Not forgetting to bring the medicine, he retraced his


    steps back to the table and ced it into his pocket after reaching the door initially. Jonathan quickly


    followed Aidan upon seeing him. ¡°President Pearson¡­¡± ¡°We¡¯re going to Lux Jewelry,¡± Aidan uttered,


    with his voice slightly taut. ¡°Yes.¡± In the midst of their journey while Jonathan was driving, he received a


    call and his expression turned solemn.


    ¡°President Pearson, the Bats came to visit the Pearson Family Estate. They are said to be


    discussing Mr. Bat and Miss Anna¡¯s marriage.¡± After a few seconds, Aidan replied, ¡°Head there.¡±


    His chilling facial features were devoid of emotion. With that, the Rolls-Royce made a U-turn and drove


    toward the Pearson Family Estate. ¡­ Georgina was among those who visited the Pearson Family


    Estate this time, in addition to Zayn¡¯s parents and Carly. The Crossleys and Pearsons had known each


    other for over two generations. Georgina was gentle, quiet, and knowledgeable, so Sienna had always


    liked her. After Georgina greeted the elders, she knew that such an asion was inappropriate for her


    to be present, so she said, ¡°Old Master Pearson and Mrs. Pearson, I went to Europe and bought a few


    ssical records. I¡¯m sure Justin will enjoy it. I¡¯ll give these to him.¡±


    ¡°Go ahead and look for him in the garden. He hasn¡¯t seen you in quite some time. He¡¯ll sure be ecstatic


    to see you,¡± Sienna gushed with a smile. Originally, this was a meeting between Anna and Zayn. By


    right, Anna was simply the daughter of Sienna¡¯s sister. Even though herst name had been changed


    to Pearson, she was not one of the Pearson Family. Therefore, her marriage should be decided by her


    parents. However, both families were well-aware that Anna was just a pawn in chess; what essentially


    would be facilitated and improved this time was the rtionship between the Pearsons and the


    Bats. As a result, it was natural for Gordon and Sienna to emerge and preside over the entire


    situation. Not to be strange, but this type of political marriage wasmon among wealthy families. On


    the other hand, the sweet-mouthed Anna was also well-behaved in front of the elders.


    Zayn¡¯s parents assumed herck of cunningness was due to the fact that she had been spoiled since


    she was a child. However, things might change after the wedding. The two parties discussed the


    marriage on their own terms and with the assistance of Anna, the process moved quickly. Just as


    everything was about to be settled, Aidan appeared. Everyone went silent and frozen upon his arrival


    as if someone had pressed the pause button. ¡°Aidan, Zayn and I are about to get engaged and no one


    will be able to steal him away from me anymore!¡± Anna cheered despite the silence. ¡°I n to schedule


    the wedding next month and the location will be at the Pearson Group¡¯s Harbor View Hotel,¡± Gordon


    stated, ¡°What do you think, Aidan?¡± ¡°I disagree.¡± Aidan, who was sitting on the couch, replied softly.


    When Anna heard his words, she became anxious. ¡°Aidan¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure why President Pearson disagrees,¡± Carly said before adding, ¡°Can you tell us more about


    it?¡± ¡°Zayn is having an affair, so he¡¯ll be the most aware of what¡¯s going on.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t bber


    nonsense, President Pearson. Zayn is a man with moral integrity who will never cause trouble outside


    of the house.¡± Mr. Bat defended with a frown. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Gordon asked in a quiet voice.


    ¡°It¡¯s that woman who has been bothering Zayn. He was duped by her!¡± Anna blurted. ¡°Which woman?


    Make it clear, Anna.¡± Sienna demanded an answer. ¡°It¡¯s Miss McKi¡ª¡± At that moment, Aidan locked his


    cold intense gaze onto her as she was merely halfway through her words. ¡°Anyway, Zayn has nothing


    to do with her. I will only marry him!¡± She gritted her teeth while stomping her feet. ¡°Although Anna is


    your cousin, the parents are in charge of the marriage matters. You appear to be meddling too much,


    President Pearson,¡± Carly rebutted at the time. At that, Aidan¡¯s thin lips twitched and his tone became


    even colder. ¡°I honestly don¡¯t really care and I have no say in Anna¡¯s marriage. However, once she¡¯s


    married, all of her shares will be returned to the Pearsons.¡±Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    As soon as these words were uttered, the entire living room fell silent again. He stated unequivocally


    that using this marriage to consolidate their control over the Pearson Family with the Bats would be


    futile. This implied that the Pearsons would not coborate with the Bats. In the end, this political


    marriage would be for naught. Sienna¡¯s expression was unappealing. ¡°You¡¯re taking it too far,¡± she


    hollered.


    The very reason why Anna had changed herst name at Sienna¡¯s request was in order to obtain the


    Pearson¡¯s shares. However, Aidan¡¯s actions undeniably shattered all of her ns. Still, the Bat


    Family was rich and powerful. Although marrying into the Pearsons was very advantageous for them,


    his words were too harsh for them to bear. ¡°Since this is a family issue, we¡¯ll leave for you guys to


    discuss first,¡± Mr. Bat said as he bid his farewell. Anna was worried, so she dashed over to make


    him stay. ¡°Aidan didn¡¯t mean that, Mr. Bat. Mrs. Bat, if you can persuade Mr. Bat, I will¡­¡±


    ¡°Anna, let¡¯s wait for your family to discuss the matter before we settle the marriage.¡± Mrs.


    Bat yanked her hand away and proimed. With that, Zayn departed as well. After thatmotion,


    only a few of them remained in the living room. ¡°I don¡¯t want anything else, Aidan. I just want to be with


    Zayn¡­¡± Anna was enraged, but she could only mutter uneasily. ¡°Shut up, Anna,¡± Gordon yelled.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40


    Chapter 40 Nobody Can Control Me Aidan didn¡¯t want the children, and he was about to lose his


    leverage, but luckily, a golden opportunity¡ªthe Bat Family¡ªwas right in front of his eyes. He had


    no intention of passing up this opportunity that hade knocking on his door. ¡°Uncle Gordon!¡±


    Holding her arm, Sienna assured. ¡°Anna, don¡¯t worry. There¡¯s always a solution for all problems.¡±


    Knowing Aidan¡¯s personality, Gordon wanted to facilitate the Pearson-Bat marriage because it was


    the most important thing right now. So, he spoke to him in a conciliatory tone. ¡°Aidan, no matter what,


    Anna is your sister. If you do this, what position do you put her and the Pearsons in?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t have a


    younger sister. You should know this the best,¡± Aidan answered calmly. ¡°What nonsense are you


    saying?¡± Gordon snapped angrily. Then, Sienna interjected in time. ¡°Aidan, we don¡¯t owe you anything.


    As the heir of the Pearsons, you¡¯ve received everything we can give you. Now, I only want Anna to be


    married into the Bat Family with dignity. Are you against this small request too?¡± With his


    expression remaining unchanged, Aidan said casually, ¡°How will it be dignified when Zayn Bat


    doesn¡¯t like her?¡± ¡°Feelings can be nurtured over time. Back then, weren¡¯t you against it as well when


    your father wanted you to marry Leanna?¡± The look on Aidan¡¯s face turned a little colder, but he didn¡¯t


    say a thing. He couldn¡¯t figure out what Leanna liked about Zayn; while dating her, he was speaking


    about marriage with another woman. Did she really like to be abused so much? Right when both


    parties were in a stalemate with no one willing to give in, a gentle voice that carried a light jovial tone


    belonging to a man echoed. ¡°Looks like I arrivedte. Is the discussion over?¡±


    ¡°Aidan doesn¡¯t agree to my marriage,¡± Annained in disgruntlement. Justin was sitting in a


    wheelchair, and behind him, Georgina was pushing the wheelchair. When Justin heard this, he was a


    little surprised, but he quickly smiled again and said, ¡°Anna, he doesn¡¯t agree, and there¡¯s a good


    reason for that. Don¡¯t make trouble for him here; he has enough trouble taking care of thepany.


    ¡°But I¡ª¡± ¡°Anna, marriage is based on mutual agreement.¡± Sienna moved her lips as if she wanted to


    talk, but she never opened her mouth. ¡°Justin, you aren¡¯t young anymore. I didn¡¯t force you previously,


    but it¡¯s time for you to think about marriage,¡± Gordon said, annoyed by what Justin had said. Justin said


    slowly, in the same friendly way he always did, ¡°I¡¯m just a useless cripple. No one would want to marry


    me.¡± Gordon¡¯s expression froze momentarily, and he remained silent. Sienna rose up, a bit agitated,


    and said, ¡°None of this is your fault; the only one to me is the one who stole everything from you!¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough!¡± Gordon warned, looking incredibly grim.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t we speaking about Anna¡¯s marriage? What are you speaking about now?¡± Sienna sneered and


    then turned to go upstairs, followed by Gordon, who went to the study. Anna stomped out of the room,


    upset and irritated. In the end, everyone left unhappily. The expression on Aidan¡¯s face was icy and


    indifferent, and his eyes had a hint of sarcasm in them. As he was getting ready to go, Justin called out


    to him in a friendly tone, ¡°Aidan,e talk to me.¡± In the garden, Justin sat in his wheelchair and


    pruned the nts in front of him. ¡°Don¡¯t take what Mom said to heart. As you are aware, since my


    ident, she has been mentally unstable, and the fact that I have gone to several doctors doesn¡¯t


    seem to be helping the situation at all.¡± Aidan, who was standing behind him, hummed in agreement


    and then sneered at himself. ¡°She¡¯s right, though, isn¡¯t she?¡± ¡°Aidan.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    After putting down the scissors in his hand, Justin turned his wheelchair toward him. ¡°After so many


    years, are you still unable to let go of this? I¡¯ve already moved on, so you should do the same and look


    forward to what is ahead. Maybe all of this is meant to happen. I¡¯m blessed to be alive.¡± Leaning on the


    stone fence, Aidan lit up a cigarette between his lips without saying anything. Unlike Aidan, whom


    Gordon and Sienna tried to control in the beginning for their own interests until they realized he couldn¡¯t


    be ced under their control and tried to reduce his influence while looking for someone else to


    rece him, Justin knew he was hopeless for that position after he became paralyzed, and he had


    always taken it so lightly that he was disillusioned with the world and had no grudges at all. Instead of


    carrying on the topic, Justin changed to another one. ¡°I heard that you¡¯re divorced. Did you have an


    argument?¡± Perhaps Aidan wasn¡¯t expecting this because he was dumbstruck for a few seconds before


    finally saying, ¡°Why would you say that?¡±


    Smiling, he answered, ¡°I feel that you kinda like your wife, so it¡¯s probably not because you didn¡¯t get


    along with her emotionally. Aidan, your personality is too haughty. Girls need to be pampered a little


    more.¡± ¡°You got it wrong. I don¡¯t like her.¡± Then, he added, ¡°She¡¯s always reminded me of my dislike for


    her.¡± With a smile on his face, Justin shook his head, turned his wheelchair back to the scissors and


    continued to prune the nts. ¡°Sometimes, when you¡¯re in love, everyone around you has already


    noticed it but you¡¯re the only one still in the dark.¡± He wasn¡¯tpletely off the mark with his assertions.


    A few years ago, Aidan went back to the Pearson Family Estate with Leanna. The guests treated her


    like a servant and made fun of her, making her run around and do things all night without stopping. The


    moment Aidan learned about it, he tossed his jacket at her. ¡°Hold this and don¡¯t go anywhere so that I


    can find you when I need my jacket.¡± If he truly despised her, he might have allowed others to boss her


    around and mock her.


    Instead, he gave her his jacket in order to inform everyone on the scene that the woman carrying his


    jacket was his wife. ¡°Will you fall in love with a woman who used a fake pregnancy to coerce you into


    marriage?¡± Aidan questioned calmly. ¡°Nobody can be sure when ites to feelings.¡± ¡­¡­ When


    Aidan left, Georgina, who had been waiting off in the distance, went after him. ¡°Aidan¡­¡± He came to a


    halt, turned around, and said calmly, ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± She bit her lower lip, oddly anxious as she


    faced him. ¡°We haven¡¯t seen each other in a long time. Do you not want to chat with me?¡± ¡°No.¡±


    Georgina was taken aback since she hadn¡¯t expected him to be that frank. ¡°Can¡¯t you simply make


    small chats with me out of politeness?¡± His expression remained constant. ¡°You asked whether I


    wanted to talk with you, and the decision is entirely up to me. It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t want to make small


    talk with you, but it¡¯s unnecessary.¡± She said with a chuckle, ¡°You¡­ haven¡¯t changed at all.¡±


    ¡°If this is what you want to talk to me about, I¡¯m leaving first.¡± ¡°Aidan.¡± Once again, she stopped Aidan.


    ¡°I heard that you¡¯re divorced.¡± He was irritated and thought, why is everyone asking me about his


    divorce? Is this so honorable that everyone needs to know about it, and that¡¯s all they ask me when


    they meet? Then, Georgina added, ¡°I¡­ actually came back for you this time. Three years ago, we


    should have been talking about marriage.


    If that woman hadn¡¯t intervened, we would have¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯m not Zayn Bat. Nobody can control me.¡±

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41


    Chapter 41 It Only Makes One Feel Disgusted His long legs carried him away after the sentence.


    Georgina froze for a long time before she responded. Did he mean topare her to Anna?


    Georgina¡¯s face turned pale as she bit into her lower lip. He was the one who didn¡¯t want to marry


    Leanna three years ago.


    What was the difference between Leanna, who coerced him into marrying despite the fact that she was


    expecting, and Anna, who coerced Zayn into marrying her by means of an alliance? Why should they


    bepared to her? ¡­¡­ Leanna finally found a decent room, but thendlord said the contract


    couldn¡¯t be signed until the next day, so she had to stay another night in the hotel. She had to return to


    Zoe¡¯s ce to grab a change of clothes, wash her clothes, and pack her suitcase at the same time.


    Zoe was hesitant as Leanna pulled her luggage behind her. ¡°Why don¡¯t you continue to live here,


    Nana? There is an additional room. I¡¯ve already talked to Anthony about it, and he is not against it.¡±


    Leanna replied with a smile, ¡°What are you thinking about? You are both so loving with one another,


    and I don¡¯t want to be an eyesore for the two of you.¡± ¡°But you¡¯re alone and pregnant¡ª¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I


    still have Louis. I¡¯ll be fine.¡± Knowing that Leanna already made up her mind, Zoe sighed and said, ¡°I¡¯ll


    send you to the hotel, then. You have so much stuff and it¡¯s difficult to carry them alone.¡± Leanna


    nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± When they arrived at the hotel, Zoe plopped into the bed and rolled around while


    hugging the nket. ¡°It¡¯s sofy. I should just stay a night here with you.¡± While unpacking, Leanna


    said, ¡°If you stay for the night, Anthony will probablye and pick you up.¡± Her words made Zoe


    blush a little. ¡°After his return this time, it¡¯s as though he¡¯s a changed man, and he¡¯s very clingy to me,


    just like a sticky candy.¡± ¡°Well, you haven¡¯t seen each other for almost a year.¡± Pausing, Leanna then


    asked, ¡°You guys are probably going to get registered now that he¡¯s back, right?¡±


    A shy Zoe nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking at wedding dresses and venues today, and I¡¯m just waiting for his


    proposal.¡± After saying that, it suddenly struck her that she seemed to have said something


    inappropriate. Back when Leanna married that jerk, they only signed the registration papers without


    any other formalities;there was not even an exchange of wedding rings. However, Leanna didn¡¯t have


    much reaction to that and merely chuckled as she said, ¡°At that time when you¡¯re getting married, I¡¯ll


    design all your jewelry for you.


    ¡± Throwing herself at her, Zoe hugged her tightly. ¡°My dear Nana, I love you so much!¡± ¡°Alright, alright.


    Go home quickly, or Anthony will be worried if he can¡¯t find you at home.¡± ¡°Okay, you take care, then.


    Don¡¯t forget to lock the doors properly before going to bed at night.¡± ¡°Alright, be safe on your way


    home.¡± After getting out of the hotel, Zoe received a text from Anthony just a few seconds after she got


    into the car. ¡®I¡¯m sorry, baby, but I can¡¯t be home tonight to apany you because of a business


    dinner. Rest early for the night, alright?¡¯ ¡®Okay. Don¡¯t drink too much.¡¯ As Anthony had just returned


    from abroad, there were many things at work that he needed to catch up on, and he also needed to


    build up a lot of connections. Without giving it any more thoughts, Zoe set her cell phone aside and


    drove home.


    Even though she told him to drink less, she reckoned that it would be hard to control the intake over the


    dinner table. So, she had to return home to prepare some hangover cure for him when he came home,


    otherwise she could have stayed behind with Leanna tonight. ¡­ After Zoe was gone, Leanna went to


    the pharmacy to buy folic acid and then some snacks from the grocery. On the way back to the hotel,


    she passed by a street stall selling some snacks, and she bought some, too. When she arrived at the


    hotel, she noticed a ck Rolls-Royce parked outside the front door. It was that jerk¡¯s car!


    What was he doing here? She felt her goosebumps because he didn¡¯te all the way to ask her to


    repay the money, right? Surely, she thought, they had already agreed for her to return the money via


    installment! Furious, she marched forward and gave the back of the car a hard kick before running


    away in a hurry. Meanwhile, Aidan, who was in the car, was speechless as his hand was halfway ready


    to open the car door. Literally fleeing back to her own room, Leanna then locked the door carefully and


    spent ten minutes to calm herself. When she was sure that Aidan didn¡¯t give chase, only then did she


    open up her snacks from the street stall. Who would have thought that the doorbell would ring after she


    had taken a bite and greeted by the sound of a girl speaking, ¡°Miss McKinney, someone has imed


    that he picked up something belonging to you and I would want to check with you.¡± Leanna observed


    the hotel staff waiting outside her door through the peephole and debated whether or not to open it.


    When the hotel staff didn¡¯t hear a reply, she became worried that there could be an ident and


    pressed the doorbell again.


    ¡°Miss McKinney, are you inside?¡± Letting out a sigh, Leanna pulled the door open. ¡°I¡¯m here.¡± Forget it,


    I can¡¯t hide even if I try, she thought. If Aidan was really here to ask for the money back, she couldn¡¯t


    hide from him forever. Handing her a small bag, the hotel staff asked, ¡°Miss McKinney, please check if


    this belongs to you.¡± Leanna opened the bag and took out a bottle with the words ¡®folic acid¡¯ written


    clearly on it. After a couple of seconds, she muttered rather reluctantly, ¡°It¡¯s mine.¡± My guess was


    wrong, she thought. Aidan isn¡¯t here for the money but he purposely came here with this to humiliate


    me. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say that it¡¯s gastric pillsst night?¡±


    A stoic voice belonging to a man echoed from the side, and Leanna turned her head stiffly to the


    source only to see Aidan leaning against the wall next to them. His dark eyes were cold and deep as


    they stared at her emotionlessly, and she chuckled dryly a couple of times. The hotel staff nced


    between both of them. ¡°Miss McKinney¡­¡± ¡°We know each other. Thank you so much.¡± ¡°Okay, I¡¯m


    going, then. If you need anything, just give a call to the receptionist, Miss McKinney.¡± In reply, Leanna


    gave her a nod, and her heart sank to the bottom of her stomach. Lonely and powerless, she wondered


    if she should tell him the truth. However, even without saying it, she already knew what the oue


    would be.


    As the father of the child in her womb, Aidan had the right to decide the fate of it, but she was really


    incredibly reluctant. Just when she had slipped into a huge struggle, Aidan frowned, brushed past her


    and went into her room. ¡°Get me a ss of water.¡± Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath, and when


    she was out with a ss of water, he was already seated on the couch, and looking exhausted. After


    she ced the ss on the coffee table in front of him, she asked cautiously, ¡°President Pearson,


    please speak your mind if you have anything to say.¡± Aidan picked up the ss, raised his head and


    drank the water. Running his slender finger around the rim of the ss absent-mindedly, he spoke in


    such a cold voice that there wasn¡¯t a single shard of emotion, ¡°Isn¡¯t Zayn Bat with you tonight?¡± A


    confused Leanna asked, ¡°Why should he be with me?¡± He smirked. ¡°That¡¯s true. He¡¯s busy with


    another woman and doesn¡¯t have the time to be bothered about you.¡±


    ¡°What exactly are you trying to say, President Pearson?¡± Looking at her, he asked, ¡°Leanna McKinney,


    people from the Bat Family went to visit the Pearson Family today. Do you know why?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t


    know.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll tell you, then.¡± Getting up, he paced toward her step by step. ¡°The person whom Zayn


    Bat wants to marry is Anna. Even if you¡¯re pregnant with his child as you wish, it will only be an


    illegitimate child. Don¡¯t you know that it only makes others feel disgusted if you use the same trick


    twice?¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42


    Chapter 42 Do My Words Make You Sick? Sensing danger approaching, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but step


    backward until she had no more room to retreat and the cold wall was pressed against her back. The


    word ¡®disgusted¡¯ snapped her back to her sensespletely, and her voice was calm as she spoke,


    ¡°You¡¯ve got it wrong.


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    There¡¯s nothing going on between me and Zayn.¡± Clearly unconvinced, Aidan held her chin and


    narrowed his eyes as he said coldly, ¡°Why are you taking folic acid, then? Aren¡¯t you preparing for


    pregnancy?¡± Speechless, Leanna finally understood why he had such a reaction when he saw her


    taking folic acid. A few times, she wanted to refute him by telling him that nobody had set the rule


    saying that folic acid was only meant for pregnancy preparation. However, she thought that it wasn¡¯t


    bad if that was what he thought.


    At least, he wouldn¡¯t suspect that the baby was his. Seeing that she was silent, he squeezed her chin


    tightly. ¡°At which stage are you with Zayn Bat now? Or should I ask, how many times have you


    done it with him already?¡± Never before had Leanna felt this offended, and she was annoyed and


    frustrated as she snapped, ¡°Do you think everyone acts like an animal in heat like you? There¡¯s nothing


    going on between me and Zayn. No¡­ It¡¯s all thanks to you. If it wasn¡¯t because of you, I would have


    been with him a long time ago, and maybe, our children would be running around now!¡± ¡°So, you¡¯re


    really missing him,¡± Aidan said sarcastically. ¡°Should I be missing you instead, then?


    Don¡¯t you forget this, President Pearson. We¡¯re already divorced, so even if I meet up with Zayn and do


    whatever, it¡¯s none of your business. I¡ªUh!¡± Lowering his head, he covered her lipspletely with


    his, pushing back all the words she wanted to say. Leanna lifted her hands and wanted to push him


    away, but he pinned her against the wall instead. Tightening his grip on her chin, he forced her mouth


    open and the tip of his tongue pried her lips apart easily.


    Instantly, her eyes turned red. Forget the fact that this jerk gave her a hard time when they were


    married, now that they were divorced, he was still acting so brazenly, and she had really had enough!


    Struggling with all her might, she then tasted the taste of iron that was spreading between their mouths.


    Slowly, Aidan got away from her, but his hands were still in control of her as he spoke in a husky voice,


    ¡°Is it not pleasurable how I¡¯m serving you? Why are you biting me so hard?¡¯ Controlling herself from


    shaking, Leanna said emotionlessly, ¡°President Pearson, I think you should look for someone to let off


    your steam if you¡¯re doing something so inhumane because you¡¯ve been abstinent for too long and


    your energy is building up.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here to look for you, aren¡¯t I?¡± he answered. It had been almost three months since she brought up


    the divorce, and he hadn¡¯t touched her for a long time, so of course he had the urge. Meanwhile, she


    took a deep breath and thought, This jerk really sounds so justified! While she was on the edge of


    passing out from fury, she said, ¡°President Pearson, I hope you can keep your beastly behavior under


    control. We¡¯re already divorced, and I have no obligations to you as your wife. If you continue this, I¡¯ll


    sue you for sexual abuse.¡± Aidan grimaced glumly, ¡°Don¡¯t mention the word ¡®divorce¡¯ to me.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯ve already terminated the legal rtionship established by the equalities and volitionality between


    a man and a woman.¡± Using his thumb, he wiped off the blood that was smudged on the corner of his


    lips. ¡°Why didn¡¯t I realize before this that you have such a sharp tongue?¡± ¡°That¡¯s because you didn¡¯t


    understand me in the past.¡± ¡°Marrying me obstructed you from developing?¡± Silently, Leanna thought,


    Is there a problem with this jerk? Just a second ago, he was fierce and mean to me, and now, he¡¯s


    telling me a stupid joke which isn¡¯t funny at all. Before she could say anything, Aidan added, ¡°Leanna


    McKinney, someone said that I like you.¡± He paused and asked, ¡°Do you believe this?¡± While she


    remained speechless, he said, ¡°I don¡¯t even believe this myself. Or perhaps, do you think this is


    possible?¡± Look for the person who said something so ridiculous! she thought furiously.


    Why are you here acting so sarcastic with me? Unable to tolerate him anymore, she was about tosh


    out at him when she smelled the faint scent of tobo and alcohol on him. During their three years of


    marriage, she could count the times when he smoked on one hand, unless he encountered something


    frustrating. However, this had nothing to do with her, and just because he was in a foul mood, it didn¡¯t


    mean that he could humiliate her brazenly. Not hearing an answer from her for a long while, Aidan


    released her hand. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a chance to exin the folic acid.¡± Leanna pursed her lips; she should


    really thank the heavens that he was giving her this chance, and he said again, ¡°Leanna McKinney, I¡¯ll


    believe you if you answer me this time.


    So, you better think carefully before giving me an answer.¡± Thinking of her debt of ten million, she


    conceded in the end and lied with a straight face, ¡°That¡¯s not mine; it¡¯s Zoe¡¯s. She¡¯s going to get


    married to her boyfriend soon, and they¡¯re preparing for a baby.¡± ¡°Why is her stuff in your bag?¡± ¡°I¡¯m


    living with her and we¡¯re working at the same ce together. She forgot to bring it when she left the


    house in a hurry. Is there a problem if I bring it to her?¡± Aidan was quiet, and Leanna didn¡¯t know


    whether he believed it or not. After a couple of seconds, he asked, ¡°Aren¡¯t you living with her? Why are


    you in a hotel now?¡±


    Annoyed, she snapped, ¡°Can¡¯t you think with your brains? Do you think it¡¯s appropriate for me to live


    there when she¡¯s preparing to have a baby with her boyfriend?¡± Her answer got him speechless, and


    she continued, ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else, President Pearson, may you just leave now? People will gossip


    if a single man and woman share a room¡­ I don¡¯t want someone tobel me as disgusting for no


    reason again.¡± ¡°As long as people have mouths, gossip can be spread no matter how.¡± And isn¡¯t this all


    your f*cking fault?! she thought furiously. He stated casually, ¡°If you don¡¯t want others to gossip about


    us, I¡¯m willing to put up with some annoyance and agree to have our marriage again.


    Nobody has the right to criticize as long as we are in an equal and legal rtionship.¡± After the words


    left his lips, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but retch. Immediately, Aidan¡¯s face turned sour and he tightened his


    jaw as he growled, ¡°Leanna McKinney!¡± With little time to waste, she pushed him aside, ran to the


    bathroom, and puked furiously while grasping the toilet. She emerged from the bathroom after a long


    time to find him still standing in the same location, his gorgeous features buried by a coating of icy mist.


    ¡°Why? Do my words make you sick?¡± he asked with a stony face. ¡°I¡¯m just feeling a little unwell, but if


    that¡¯s what you think, I have nothing to ¡ª¡± A loud sound of the door closing reverberated before she


    finished her sentence. Sniggering sheepishly, Leanna then returned to the couch, but the food in front


    of her had already turned cold, and she lost her appetite. Sighing, she cleared up the things simply and


    went to bed. This had been an exhausting evening for her. Feeling her the edge of her lips which was


    chafed, she suddenly felt mad.


    That jerk must be acting out because he had too much to drink tonight, and she blocked him on all


    possible contact methods. The further she stayed away from Aidan, the better it was for her, but she


    was still unable to avoid him venting out his frustration on her. Just what kind of person have I


    offended? she wondered to herself, tossing around with her hand on her abdomen. Fortunately, he had


    believed the story about the folic acid, at least. Even if he didn¡¯t, it didn¡¯t even ur to him that she was


    taking it because she was pregnant.

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43


    Chapter 43 It¡¯s¡­ Him? The next day after getting her house, Leanna moved into her rented ce with


    whatever little belongings she had. Zoe and Louis didn¡¯t allow her to do the cleaning, as they told her to


    sit and take a rest. Plopped on the couch, she ordered some afternoon snacks for them while thinking


    that she was actually kind¡­ With such a kind godmother and uncle, the baby will receive very good


    care once it¡¯s born.


    With that thought in mind, she lowered her head and ced her hand softly on her abdomen. She


    wasn¡¯t sure if she had gained weight recently or the baby was growing, but her belly was slightly


    swollen. As Zoe still had a shoot in the afternoon, she could only ask for a few hours away from work


    for the day. Before leaving, she bought a bunch of daily necessities for Leanna. ¡°Nana, I can¡¯t take care


    of you after this, so you must take good care of yourself. Don¡¯t you ever starve yourself.¡± Coming out of


    the kitchen, Louis said, ¡°I¡¯ll take care of my sister.¡± With a giggle, Leanna said, ¡°That¡¯s enough, both of


    you. I¡¯m not a child, so don¡¯t worry about me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not a child, but you have a baby inside,¡± Zoe said, going closer to her belly. ¡°Little baby, be


    good and don¡¯t give your mommy a hard time. Otherwise, I¡¯ll smack your little butt once you¡¯re born.¡±


    Soon after she had left, Leanna said to Louis, ¡°You should get going as well. I¡¯ll take care of the rest


    myself.¡± ¡°No,¡± he answered. ¡°I¡¯ll stay with you for a few days and will leave after you¡¯ve familiarized


    yourself with the surroundings.¡± A chuckle escaped her lips. ¡°Did you really take me for a child? I¡¯m


    your sister.


    ¡± His face was very earnest when he answered, ¡°I¡¯m only staying for a few days so that the others are


    aware that there¡¯s a man in your house and won¡¯t bully you because you¡¯re a girl living alone.¡± The


    smile on her face stiffened, and she didn¡¯t turn him down anymore. ¡°I¡¯ll buy a single bed for you, then.


    It¡¯s more convenient for your visits afterward.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll just sleep on the couch,¡± he said, taking out


    a bag of trash. ¡°I¡¯m going home to pack some clothes. What would you like to eat? I¡¯ll buy it on the way


    back.¡± ¡­ A monthter. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry to trouble you, Gina since I¡¯m asking you to apany me every


    time.¡± Holding Carly¡¯s arm, Georgina smiled softly and said, ¡°Carly, you don¡¯t need to be courteous with


    me.


    I have nothing to do at home, anyway, and I can take a breather outside when I¡¯m out with you.¡± Carly


    sighed. ¡°Because of the marriage with the Pearsons, Zayn has been in an argument with the rest of the


    family recently. If I had known this would happen, I wouldn¡¯t have agreed to this marriage at that time.


    Look at the situation now, the Pearsons despise us and Zayn is unhappy as well. Neither side is


    happy.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve got it wrong, Carly. Aidan doesn¡¯t have anything against you guys; he¡¯s just¡ª¡±


    Speaking about Aidan, Carly lowered her voice and posed the following question. ¡°I¡¯ve been wanting to


    ask you something, Gina. I¡¯ve heard rumors that Aidan Pearson is not Mrs. Pearson¡¯s child, but rather


    the illegitimate son of Gordon Pearson and an outsider.


    Since you frequently visited Pearson Family Estate when you were younger, is this true?¡± Aidan was


    seven when he was brought back to the Pearson Family, and they told others that Aidan had been


    recuperating abroad because he was unhealthy since he was born. In addition, Gordon had used some


    of his influence, and nobody spoke about this anymore after that. At the same time, when Aidan was


    brought back to the Pearson Family, Justin was involved in a car ident that left him crippled on both


    legs. As a result, Justin was unable to be the sessor to the Pearson Group. All this happened within


    two months.


    If everything before this was just groundless usations, then Carly had all the reason to have doubts


    after witnessing the brutal situation at the Pearsons¡¯ thest time. Casting her an apologetic smile,


    Georgina answered, ¡°I haven¡¯t heard about this. You¡¯re thinking too much, Carly. Actually, it makes


    sense why Aidan doesn¡¯t agree to the marriage between Zayn and Anna. Think about it, Anna is


    infamous for being bossy and arrogant. If she doesn¡¯t restrain herself after she marries Zayn and


    bes more brazen instead, there will be problems for two families and twopanies at that time.


    Aidan has always hated trouble. In addition, Anna is only his cousin, and he definitely doesn¡¯t want to


    take care of her mess for her.¡± Thinking that she has a point, Carly said helplessly, ¡°I don¡¯t like Anna


    Pearson that much, either, but my dad thinks that it¡¯s a good opportunity that our families can be tied by


    marriage.


    He was hopping mad with Aidan¡¯s attitude previously, so I think this matter will just be forgotten in the


    end.¡± Georgina nodded in agreement. ¡°Zayn is an amazing person, and there must be countless girls


    who like him. He¡¯ll definitely find someone more suitable than Anna¡ª¡± Before she could finish her


    sentence, she suddenly caught sight of a familiar figure at the entrance. ¡°What is it?¡± Looking away,


    she uttered, ¡°I think I saw a¡­ friend.¡± ¡°A friend?¡± Following her gaze, Carly only saw unfamiliar faces,


    and she asked, ¡°Is your friend here for a maternity check as well?¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°This ce is for maternity


    checks. How long has your friend been pregnant? Should I introduce my doctor to her?¡± Shaking her


    head, Georgina took her arm and led her out. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯ve probably mistaken someone else for her.


    Let¡¯s go, Carly.¡± Without a doubt, she had seen it right; the person earlier was Leanna. Even though


    she had only seen pictures of Leanna before, she could definitely recognize Leanna¡¯s face. After they


    reached the car, she stopped. ¡°Carly, I suddenly remembered something and won¡¯t be going back with


    you.¡± ¡°Okay, but where are you going? I¡¯ll ask my driver to drop you off.¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine because it¡¯s just


    somewhere nearby.¡± After saying goodbye to Carly, Georgina returned to the hospital, and when she


    reached the obstetrics department, she happened to see Leannaing out of the gynecologist¡¯s


    office. She had the identical obstetrics report folder in her hands as Carly. As Georgina watched


    Leanna from the back, she frowned slightly. ¡­ In the meantime, Leanna had just left the hospital when


    she received a call from Harvey.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    A client went to Lux Jewelry and had specifically asked for her because he wanted a set of custom-


    designed jewelry. ¡°I¡¯ming over right now,¡± she answered. Following the debut of ¡®First Love,¡¯ Lux


    Jewelryunched a number of new pieces of jewelry, all of which received enormously positive reviews.


    Many magazine firms, including well-known jewelry brands, approached Leanna at this time period, but


    she turned them all down. Harvey was akin to her lucky star; when she had nothing and needed


    recognition the most, he had signed her up despite the risks. So, she wouldn¡¯t leave Lux Jewelry at this


    time. Harvey briefly described the scenario to her upon her arrival at Lux Jewelry as they made their


    way to the VIP lounge.


    ¡°Even though we¡¯ve never epted custom orders before this, we had nned to develop in various


    ways back then when we decided to set up our independent brand. But don¡¯t worry, we¡¯re only


    epting high-quality clients for custom designs.¡± To put it simply, the advantage of doing this was that


    Leanna could open up a market for high-quality clients for herself and thepany, and the


    remuneration could also be very high. She nodded.


    ¡°I¡¯ll do a good job.¡± At the door of the conference room, Harvey knocked and opened the door. ¡°Mr.


    Pearson, our designer is here.¡± When the person in front of her turned around, the smile on Leanna¡¯s


    face turned stiff. What ¡­ It¡¯s him?

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44


    Chapter 44 How Many Times Has She Hinted at Him? ¡°McK, this is Mr. Justin Pearson.¡± After a simple


    introduction, Harvey then left the room because of other work. Justin was seated on the wheelchair,


    and he wore a polite and gentle smile. ¡°Leanna, so you¡¯re the famous designer of Lux Jewelry.¡± ¡°Jus¡ª¡±


    Tin, she finished in her head and paused. ¡°Hello, Mr. Pearson.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to be so awkward and


    formal with me.


    Like Aidan, just call me Justin,¡± he said. ¡°I don¡¯t think so because Aidan and I are already divorced.¡± He


    chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re right. But it¡¯s just a way of addressing someone, and I¡¯m only a year older than you,


    so it¡¯s okay if you call me by my name.¡± The edges of Leanna¡¯s lips turned up, and she didn¡¯t continue


    to fuss over this issue with him anymore. ¡°What type of jewelry would you like to custom design, Mr.


    Pearson?¡± ¡°I almost forgot about this.¡± From the folder which he was always carrying with himself,


    Justin took out a few pieces of paper and ced them on the table. ¡°My mother¡¯s birthday is next week,


    and I would like to have a ne specially designed for her. Previously, I nned to design it myself,


    but as you can see, none of these are presentable.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    Once again, Leanna felt that she couldn¡¯t hold the smile on her face. Isn¡¯t his mother also Aidan¡¯s


    mother? That aloof and elegant woman, who exuded a regal air around her, was incredibly


    unapproachable. Seeing the odd look on her face, Justin apologized, ¡°This is a little difficult for you,


    isn¡¯t it? I only came here to give it a shot after my friend told me that the new designer Lux Jewelry had


    signed is very talented and smart. If it¡¯s too much to ask for, then just forget it¡­¡± At the end of his


    sentence, there was an obvious trace of regret in his voice, and after a couple of seconds, Leanna


    said, ¡°It¡¯s not too difficult.


    What kind of style would you prefer, Mr. Pearson?¡± Since Leanna was the one who pointed out that she


    was divorced from Aidan, it would seem as though she was still brooding over it if she turned Justin


    down because of this. Furthermore, this was work, and she shouldn¡¯t include her personal feelings into


    it. After Justin had exined the style he wanted to her, he said again, ¡°Next week is my mother¡¯s


    birthday, so maybe you¡¯ll have toe up with the draft within the next three days and the final product


    has to be finished before her birthday. The time is a little rushed, eh? It¡¯s my fault for dying too much


    time before this. Even though I know that I¡¯m not capable, I insisted on giving it a try.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t have any other work at hand now, so I can make it in three days. Once the design draft is ready,


    I¡¯ll ask Mr. Mancini to contact you, Mr. Pearson.¡± ¡°Actually, I¡¯m not that familiar with Mr. Mancini. If it¡¯s


    convenient for you, let¡¯s leave our contact details with each other.¡± ¡°Sure,¡± Leanna said. As this was


    work, this was a reasonable request from the client. After they had added each other on WhatsApp,


    Leanna kept the papers on the table back into the folder and returned it to Justin, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll see you


    out, Mr. Pearson.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± When they were outside of Lux, Justin¡¯s driver came to greet them and


    took over the handles of Justin¡¯s wheelchair from Leanna. ¡°It¡¯s alright; you can go. I won¡¯t hold you from


    your work,¡± Justin said. Smiling, Leanna replied, ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Pearson.¡±


    In the elevator going up, Leanna was thinking that if she had to mention someone who was kind to her


    from the Pearsons, then there was only Justin. A few years ago at that party when people kept ordering


    her around and were being mean to her, he was the only one who offered her a ss of water, saying


    gently, ¡°Take a break for a while. You don¡¯t have to be bothered by the things that they said. As long as


    Aidan regards you as his wife, then nothing anyone else says matters.¡± Quietly, Leanna thought to


    herself, The man¡¯s precisely the one who denies me the most. Holding the ss, she thanked him


    meekly instead. Afterward, Justin was also the one who helped her out when Anna came to humiliate


    and pick a fight with her.


    At that time, she couldn¡¯t understand why both of them had such different personalities even though


    they were brothers. If Aidan was one-tenth as gentle as Justin, Leanna could even smile in her sleep.


    Back at Lux, Zoe trotted over and asked in a whisper, ¡°I heard from Mr. Mancini that the client¡¯sst


    name is Pearson. Is the samest name by coincidence, or is it someone rted to Aidan Pearson?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s Aidan¡¯s elder brother,¡± Leanna answered. Surprised but confused, she gasped. ¡°Aidan Pearson


    has a brother?¡±


    In recent years, Justin hadn¡¯t appeared in any public events and would leave home on very rare


    asions. Moreover, Aidan was the onepletely in charge at the Pearson Group, so it made sense


    that many people on the outside didn¡¯t know about Justin. Leanna nodded in response. ¡°Is he asking


    for you to design the jewelry just so he can humiliate you on purpose because of Aidan?¡± ¡°No, he¡¯s


    much kinder than Aidan, and he¡¯s more friendly as well. However¡­¡± Then, Leanna told Zoe how Justin


    wanted her to design a ne for his mother, and Zoe¡¯s eyes grewrge. ¡°Did you turn him down?


    You must have turned him down, haven¡¯t you?¡± ¡°I agreed to it.¡± In fact, Leanna had only met Sienna


    twice.


    The first time was before Leanna was married to Aidan and he had brought her home. Standing in front


    of his parents, she was embarrassed and awkward. At a loss of what to do, she just wanted to find a


    hole and crawl in. The second time was at a party at the Pearson¡¯s, and during both times, Sienna¡¯s


    attitude toward her was aloof beyond words. Luckily, Leanna only had to submit the design draft


    because Justin would get others to find the materials andplete the final product. Presently, Zoe


    sighed. ¡°That¡¯s right, you don¡¯t have to meet her, anyway. I heard from Mr. Mancini that he quoted a


    very high price.


    I should have asked Mr. Mancini to fleece the man off badly if I had known that he¡¯s Aidan¡¯s elder


    brother.¡± Then, she asked, ¡°By the way, what did the doctor say when you went for your maternity


    check today?¡± A smile spread across Leanna¡¯s face unwittingly. ¡°The doctor said that everything is


    normal with the fetus and it¡¯s developing well. I even heard the heartbeat today.¡± ¡°Really? Did you really


    hear it? I want to hear it as well!¡± Zoe eximed and ced her head on Leanna¡¯s belly. With augh,


    Leanna said, ¡°You can¡¯t hear it like this.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s more than four months now, right? At the most, there¡¯s another six months and I can meet my little


    baby. Have you thought about names already?¡± ¡°It¡¯s too early for that. I don¡¯t even know if it¡¯s a boy or a


    girl, and it¡¯s not toote if I think about it once the baby is born.¡± ¡°Leave this to me. I¡¯ll think of a few


    names for boys and girls so you can pick.¡± Leanna giggled. ¡°You can think of some names for yourself.


    Hasn¡¯t Anthony proposed to you yet?¡± Zoe¡¯s lips turned into a pout. ¡°Don¡¯t bring this up. I¡¯ve already


    hinted at him so many times this month.


    He¡¯s usually romantic and passionate, but at the mention of this, he¡¯ll turn into a block of wood.


    Moreover, he has to be at a business dinner almost every other day, so he¡¯s quite busy. I can¡¯t keep


    bothering him because of this.¡± ¡°Give it more time, then. Maybe once he¡¯s not so busy anymore after


    this period, he¡¯ll propose to you.¡± ¡°Yeah. Are you going home now? I¡¯m going for an outdoor shoot now.


    Let me drop you off.¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright. I still have to report the work to Mr. Mancini. Get going with your


    work.¡± On the way home after she had reported her work to Harvey, Leanna remembered that she was


    running out of groceries at home. Hence, she asked the cab to drop her off at a mall nearby.


    Soon after she had entered the mall, she saw a baby products store. The tiny clothes and shoes inside


    were especially adorable, and she couldn¡¯t take her eyes off them. After she was done buying a few


    onesies and came out of the store, she was about to buy something else when she saw a couple


    walking past her as they hugged each other intimately. The woman held a soft drink in her hand as she


    lifted her head and flirted with the man, and Leanna jerked her head toward them suddenly. That guy¡­


    Fishing out a face mask from her handbag, she hurriedly went after them.

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45


    Chapter 45 One More Kiss Before Leaving Soon, both of them stopped at a luxury store, and while the


    woman was browsing through the clothes and bags, the man was replying to messages on his phone.


    Hiding outside the store, Leanna could clearly see the man¡¯s face from this angle, and she gritted her


    teeth. Anthony Lester? In the luxury store, Jete Boulogne held a handbag in front of Anthony.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Honey, I like this very much. Will you buy it for me?¡± The salesgirl next to themplimented, ¡°You


    have very good taste, miss. This is thetest design this season and there are only two pieces in the


    entire Highside. Both of them are in this store.¡± Hearing that, Jete liked it even more, and she


    tugged on Anthony¡¯s arm as she acted like a spoiled child. ¡°I want this. Pretty please?¡± Anthony


    pinched her nose adoringly. ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll buy it for you,¡± he said and passed his card to the salesgirl.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have two of them? I¡¯ll buy the other one as well.¡± With a smile, the salesgirl took the card


    from him. ¡°Sure. Please wait a moment.¡± However, Jete, who was all smiles earlier, instantly lost


    her temper and released Anthony¡¯s arm. ¡°Are you going to buy it for that woman again? You¡¯re always


    buying a present for her every time you buy me one. If you¡¯re thinking about her so much, just stop


    seeing me, then.¡± cing his arm over her shoulders, Anthony hugged her. ¡°Alright baby, don¡¯t be mad.


    I was basically with you the whole month since I¡¯m back, and it¡¯s only right that I buy her something as


    compensation. If there¡¯s something else you like in the store, just take it. I¡¯ll buy it only for you and not


    for her this time.¡± Poking a finger into his chest, Jete said flirtingly, ¡°That¡¯s better.¡± After the duo


    came out of the luxury store, they left the mall. Then, Anthony ced the beautifully wrapped box into


    the car and went to the hotel next to the mall while holding Jete¡¯s waist. The whole time, Leanna


    was following them quietly, and she realized that this adulterous couple was so engrossed in the


    exhration of having an affair that they didn¡¯t even notice her.


    At the hotel, while many were using the elevator, she took the chance and followed them in, hiding in a


    corner. When they went downstairs, she tagged along as well, trailing slowly behind them. Perhaps


    Anthony had noticed something, so he turned to look behind his shoulder. The moment he spun his


    head around, Leanna ducked into a door next to her, but she didn¡¯t expect that the door behind her was


    not closed properly, and it flung open directly when she bumped into it. At first, she thought that she


    would have a hard fall or bang right into a wall.


    However, she fell into a warm embrace instead. Upon lifting her head, her eyes met the dark eyes of a


    man. D*mn it, I must have woken up on the wrong side of the bed today! Holding his cell phone, Aidan


    stared at herposedly. Through his emotionless and impassive eyes, she could almost guess what


    was on his mind. This *sshole must be thinking that I¡¯m in such a rush to throw myself at him just


    because we haven¡¯t met in a month.


    Before her thoughts could mature, she saw his lips moving slightly, as though he wanted to speak his


    mind. However, all Leanna could think about was that Anthony was still out there, and if she was


    discovered by him because of a small move, she wouldn¡¯t be able to catch hold of the proof that he


    was cheating. A second before Aidan opened his mouth, she hurriedly ced her hand over it and


    closed the door at the same time. The entire room fell into an eerie silence, and only a rustling voice


    echoed from Aidan¡¯s phone.


    ¡°President Pearson? Are you still listening?¡± Aidan lowered his gaze, and Leanna immediately reacted,


    anxiously drawing away her hand which was so hot that it was about to burn. ¡°Yeah,¡± he said into the


    phone. ¡°About the development of a resort hotel in Seymora¡­¡± ¡°Send theplete proposal of the


    project to my office within two days,¡± Aidan instructed and hung up. All of a sudden, the room fell silent


    again; he didn¡¯t speak and neither did Leanna. It was the first time they had met in a month since they


    parted ways unhappily after a heated argument in the hotel. In the end, it was Leanna who sumbed


    to the pressure in the air and chuckled dryly. ¡°President Pearson, what a coincidence.¡±


    ¡°It is a coincidence for you to run into me in my hotel.¡± The sarcasm in his voice was beyond words,


    and she was speechless. Could it be that all the jerks in the world had something inmon? One jerk


    owned a hotel while another brought his mistress to have fun in it. ¡°President Pearson, I didn¡¯t know


    that this hotel belonged to you. I followed someone else here,¡± she exined. ¡°I see,¡± he uttered. What


    the f*ck do you mean by that? Make yourself clear whether you believe me or not! Taking a deep


    breath, Leanna said calmly, ¡°Just think whatever you want. I¡¯m not here to look for you, anyway.¡±


    Narrowing his dark eyes, Aidan asked, ¡°Tell me, then. Who are you looking for in a hotel?¡± She opened


    her mouth but suddenly, she jerked back to her senses. Initially, she wanted to snap at him, asking why


    she should tell him this and she was free to look for whoever she wanted, which was something


    completely unrted to him. However, she quickly weighed the severity of this statement in her mind.


    No matter what, she owed a huge loan to the person in front of her, and it was better to save some face


    for both of them. In case she ran into any unforeseen circumstances in the future and needed to dy


    a month of payment, maybe there would still be room for negotiations. If she was too harsh with her


    words, she would have more to lose than to gain. Only an idiot will go head-on with a capitalist, Leanna


    thought and put on a friendly smile. ¡°I¡¯m here to look for a friend. What about you, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°This has nothing to do with you.¡± Dumbfounded, she told herself, It¡¯s okay. It was just a casual


    question. He kept his phone away, looking a little annoyed. ¡°How long do you n to hold me up here?¡±


    He was here at the hotel this time for a regr meeting, but he received another work-rted call at


    thest moment and had randomly opened a door to a room. However, Leanna had unexpectedly


    barged in. There was no way that Aidan would believe in such a coincidence. It seemed like leaving her


    alone to fend for herself for a month had worked a little.


    Only then did Leanna recall that she wasn¡¯t here to argue with him, and Anthony had probably entered


    the room already. Taking a couple of steps backward, she said, ¡°Sorry, I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡± At the same


    time, Anthony was feeling a little uneasy today; it was probably because the thief always had a guilty


    conscience. Even though he didn¡¯t see anyone when he looked back earlier, his rationale was nagging


    at him not to hang around any longer. But when he mentioned that he wanted to leave, Jete


    hugged him reluctantly. ¡°You can just have a showdown with that woman, at the worst.


    Then, you can be with me openly.¡± Chuckling, Anthony didn¡¯t answer her directly. Clearly, he wanted to


    keep both women apart without interfering with each other as he pulled her hand away. ¡°Alright, baby.


    I¡¯ll spend the day with you again tomorrow, but I really need to go back today.¡± When he was at the


    door, Jete held his waist again. ¡°One more kiss before you go.¡± Holding her, Anthony kissed her.


    When Leanna walked out of the hotel room, she happened to bump into this scene, and she quickly


    snuck back. In desperation, she had no time to exin to Aidan as she reached out and pushed him


    back into the room before she quickly felt for her cell phone and took a picture as proof.

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46


    Chapter 46 Do You Want a Child? After the kiss ended, Anthony left abruptly. When Leanna wanted to


    keep her phone away, an indifferent voice came from behind her. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you have an


    interest like this.¡± At a loss for words, Leanna decided not to exin anything to him and hurriedly left


    after chuckling stiffly. Just as Aidan was about to leave, he stepped on something, and he lowered his


    head to take a look.


    The brand of a certain maternal and child productpany was printed on the paper bag. Without


    flinching, he crouched down and picked up the bag. Meanwhile, after Leanna had left the hotel and


    wanted to give Zoe a call, it struck her that thetter was in a shoot now. So, she opened the chat


    window and typed in something, but every time, she would delete it. The longer time passed, the


    heavier her heart felt. Zoe and Anthony had been dating for several years, and their rtionship had


    always been very good.


    Anthony was a remarkable person and he did notck admirers, but no matter how women threw


    themselves at him, he only had Zoe in his eyes. At that time, there were even people joking that he was


    Zoe¡¯s tail, following her wherever she went, but he was happy about it. However, everything had


    changed after he went abroad for only a year. Zoe is still waiting for his proposal. So, does love fade


    away so easily? Leanna wondered. In the end, she lowered her phone lifelessly, as she had no idea


    how she should break this news to Zoe. After taking a few steps, she suddenly realized that her hands


    felt a little empty.


    I should be carrying something in my hands¡­ Suddenly, she looked down and saw that the baby¡¯s


    clothing she had bought earlier were nowhere to be found. Rooted to the spot in stunned silence for a


    few seconds, she then slowly epted the fact that she had left the clothes in the hotel room earlier.


    Her head was about to explode. Finally, after one peaceful month, why were the unfortunate events


    happening one after another? She had totally lost the courage to return to look for her stuff, not to


    mention the mood to argue with Aidan. After she returned to her apartment, Leannaid in bed for a


    long time. When her emotions had subsided and calmed down, she got out of bed and started


    designing the ne for Sienna. In the evening, a servant from Castor Vi gave her a call.


    ¡°Madam, Master said that he picked up something belonging to you. If you still need it, thene over


    to pick it up. Otherwise, he¡¯ll dispose of it.¡± Leanna really wanted to say that she didn¡¯t want them


    anymore, but since that jerk had deliberately informed her, it showed that he had some ideas on his


    mind again. If she didn¡¯t go, it would just deepen his suspicions. In Castor Vi, the servant ced


    down the phone. ¡°Master, Madam says that she¡¯sing right now.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± he muttered calmly. ¡°You


    can take a rest now.¡± Nodding, the servant bowed slightly and left. Loosening his tie, Aidan then picked


    up the bag on the couch and went to the second floor. Half an hourter, Leanna pushed open the door


    of Castor Vi.


    The lights on the first floor were turned on, but there was no one around. She pursed her lips and could


    only go upstairs slowly. Standing outside the bedroom door, she extended her hand and knocked on it.


    ¡°Are you in there, President Pearson?¡± When there was no reply, she suppressed her temper and


    raised her voice a little. ¡°President Pearson, are you in?¡± A few secondster, a stoic voice of a man


    came from inside. ¡°Come in.¡± Pushing the door open, she then took a few cautious steps inside while


    Aidan came out of the bathroom dressed in casual clothes with his hair wet. After peering at Leanna,


    he went straight to the couch, took a seat and pointed with his chin. ¡°That¡¯s your stuff.¡± In hurried steps,


    she scurried over and held the bag in her arms. ¡°Thank you, President Pearson.


    I¡¯ll be leaving now if there¡¯s nothing else. Have an early rest. Good night.¡± ¡°Hold it right there.¡± Stiffly,


    she froze in her tracks, and he lifted his gaze gently. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to exin to me about the stuff


    in there?¡± Holding her body in a stiff position, Leanna told him the lie she had prepared earlier without


    even batting an eyelid. ¡°Zoe is preparing for a baby, isn¡¯t she? As the baby¡¯s godmother, it¡¯s¡­ normal


    that I¡¯m buying these things.¡± Reasonable, well-founded and consistent, her story was so convincing


    that she almost believed it herself. Chortling, Aidan asked, ¡°Leanna McKinney, do you really think that


    I¡¯m an idiot?¡± His words made her heart skip a few beats, and she forced the stered smile on her


    face. ¡°Everything I said is true, and I can¡¯t help it if you don¡¯t believe it.¡±


    Aidan was quiet, while Leanna¡¯s heart drummed against her chest. Unsure of how far his suspicions


    went, she didn¡¯t dare to open her mouth rashly. However, judging from his expression, it didn¡¯t seem


    like he was going to skin her alive. In contrast, there was an inexplicable sense of despondency and


    gloominess. Some time passed before he finally asked slowly, ¡°Leanna, do you want a baby?¡± When


    she clearly knew that there was nothing going on between him and Mia and Mia wasn¡¯t pregnant as


    well, Leanna still insisted to divorce him and even lied to him that she was pregnant in order to provoke


    him. Hence, Aidan thought that Leanna was most probably testing him at that time. She wanted a baby


    but he couldn¡¯t give it to her, so she threw a tantrum with him and wanted a divorce because of this?


    The edge of her lips twitched, and Leanna¡¯s heart, which had almost skipped out from her body, fell


    back to its ce. ¡°I don¡¯t have such a thought.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Aidan asked nonchntly, as though implying


    that she shouldn¡¯t deny it anymore because he could read her like a book. Dumbfounded, she then


    said, ¡°Even if I want a child, it has nothing to do with you, and I don¡¯t know why you had to ask me over


    to ask me about this now. However, I would like to remind you that you¡¯re the one who said that you


    won¡¯t allow any woman to be pregnant with your child, including me.¡± A knot appeared between his


    brows. ¡°Did I really say that?¡± Speechless, Leanna thought, This *sshole really is shameless!


    Then, he said, ¡°Even if I said it before, that¡¯s the truth. You should know very well that I don¡¯t n to


    have a child.¡± ¡°Oh,¡± she muttered. What the hell has this got to do with me? Hearing the disappointment


    in her voice, he pursed his lips for a second and added, ¡°At least not for the next two years, but I may


    consider it in the future.¡± He would never allow his child to be someone else¡¯s puppet after being born,


    not to mention grow into a life that was already pre-nned. ¡°You can discuss this with your future


    partner, President Pearson. There¡¯s no need to tell it to me,¡± Leanna said calmly. Casting her a


    disgruntled look, Aidan once again felt that Leanna didn¡¯t know what was better for her. He had already


    made things so clear and even took a step back, but why was she still being so difficult? Indeed, give


    this woman an inch and she will take a yard after having a taste of sweetness, he thought.


    Although Leanna didn¡¯t really understand the dangerous look in Aidan¡¯s eyes, she didn¡¯t want to ask


    him about it either, and merely said with a smile, ¡°I won¡¯t disturb you then, President Pearson. Good¡ª¡±


    Harshly, he broke her off. ¡°Take all your things with you.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± she blurted. What else do I have? ¡°All


    the things in your wardrobe. Take all of them away.¡± ¡°But those aren¡¯t mine¡­¡± Basically, all the clothes,


    bags and shoes in the closet were delivered directly from the stores, and she had literally not used


    them before.Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47


    Chapter 47 Did I Ever Say So? Aidan said, ¡°Do they look like they¡¯re my stuff? Move them away. It


    annoys me just by looking at them.¡± Leanna was silent for two seconds before she said, ¡°President


    Pearson, I guess we¡¯ll just have to throw them away if you don¡¯t want them.¡± After hearing that, he


    involuntarily reprimanded her after he heard her words, ¡°Do you think I hire servants just for the sake of


    helping you take out the trash?


    Take them outside and throw them yourself!¡± As soon as she heard that, she was speechless. Then,


    she grumbled after a while, ¡°But they¡¯re too much. I can¡¯t take that much.¡± Even so, he was still being


    insensitive. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that you cane over every day and throw them away little by little?¡±


    Seeing that Aidan was in no way willing topromise with her, Leanna took a deep breath. ¡°Fine. But


    I have some work on hand right now, so I hope you can be merciful and give me a few more days to


    settle this matter.¡± Immediately after she spoke those words, silence took over the atmosphere


    surrounding them.


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    The silence continued after a few seconds until Aidan reluctantly hummed through the tip of his nose.


    ¡°Well then, I shall take my leave first. Goodbye, President Pearson.¡± With that, Leanna moved her feet


    and walked away. However, Aidan¡¯s voice came from behind just when she took a few steps forward.


    ¡°Let the driver send you home.¡±


    Hearing his voice, Leanna halted her tracks for a moment. Then, she declined his offer by saying,


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to be so troublesome. I¡¯ll head outside and take a taxi by myself.¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you ever say


    that it¡¯s unsafe for someone so loveable and gorgeous like you to walk on the streets alone at night?¡±


    The words that escaped Aidan¡¯s lips surprised Leanna and made her unable to respond swiftly. After a


    long while, she finally reacted and let out a hollowugh. ¡°Did I ever say so?¡± However, it was clear that


    Aidan wasn¡¯t interested in continuing the conversation. Thus, he withdrew his gaze and ignored her.


    When Leanna noticed that, she rubbed her nose awkwardly and left. Once she arrived downstairs, the


    driver appeared in front of her just as she was about to head outside. ¡°Madam, Master has asked me to


    send you home.¡± Upon hearing the way the driver addressed her, Leanna patiently corrected, ¡°Don¡¯t


    address me as Madam anymore. Aidan and I have already divorced, remember?¡± Nevertheless, the


    driver was obviously not as tactful as Jonathan. He held himself back for a while before saying, ¡°Yes¡­


    Madam.¡± On her way back, Leanna leaned against the car window while holding a paper bag. Thinking


    about Aidan, she breathed out a long sigh. Fortunately for me, that b*stard, Aidan¡¯s mind always


    functions very differently from others.


    When he saw the folic acid, he suspected that Zayn and I were trying to get me pregnant. Then, when


    he saw the baby clothes, he suspected that I wanted a child. In short, he never once suspected that I


    might actually be pregnant right now. Regardless, I¡¯m d I managed to escape another catastrophe


    again this time. At the same time, Leanna also realized one thing through the lessons she learned after


    she faced two incidents. It will be hard for me to keep this a secret from Aidan. He¡¯ll find out sooner or


    later if I stay here any longer. With that in mind, she wished to find Harvey and see whether she could


    ask for his permission to leave Highside after she was done with the jewelry customization order this


    time.


    I¡¯m basically just designing anyway, so it¡¯s fine for me to not go to work in the magazine unless there¡¯s


    something major. Although she didn¡¯t know how long she could hide this secret from Aidan this way, it


    didn¡¯t matter much to her now. The most important thing now was to keep Aidan in the dark for as long


    as she could. Besides¡­ At that moment, Leanna remembered Aidan¡¯s words from tonight. He has


    clearly said that he didn¡¯t want children, and if he ever finds out that I¡¯m pregnant one of these days,


    the life of this little bean in my belly will certainly be in danger. Once she got home, Leanna sat in front


    of her design for a while before she took out her phone to call Zoe.


    As soon as the call went through, Zoe asked, ¡°Sweetie! What¡¯s wrong?¡± In the meantime, Leanna could


    sense the tinge of happiness in Zoe¡¯s voice. Not only that, she could also hear the noisesing from


    her side of the phone. Holding her phone, Leanna said, ¡°Oh, nothing much. By the way, where are you


    now?¡± ¡°I¡¯m at the amusement park. It¡¯s rare that Anthony got off work on time and didn¡¯t have to attend


    any social engagements today, so he decided to take me to have fun at the amusement park. Would


    you like toe over and join us?¡± Leanna declined after hearing those words. ¡°No, it¡¯s fine.


    Have fun and enjoy yourself.¡± Ever since she found out that Anthony was cheating on Zoe, Leanna had


    always wanted to find the right time to tell her friend. However, as Zoe¡¯s close friend, Leanna couldn¡¯t


    bring herself to dampen Zoe¡¯s spirit and ruin her mood when she was feeling so happy. For someone


    who had gone through a divorce, Leanna knew all too well the heartbreaking feeling of being betrayed


    by your loved ones. In the meantime, Zoe walked to a quiet ce as there was something that she


    wanted to tell Leanna. Covering her phone¡¯s speaker, she whispered to Leanna.


    ¡°Nana, between us, I have a hunch that Anthony will propose to me tonight. His behavior is just so


    unusual today. Oh, what should I do? Do you think I should just agree to his proposal right away? Or


    should I restrain myself and reject him?¡± Just as Leanna was about to speak, Anthony¡¯s voice came


    from the other end of the phone. ¡°Baby, who are you on the phone with?¡±

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48


    Chapter 48 Didn¡¯t You Say You¡¯re Loveable and Gorgeous? When Zoe heard Anthony¡¯s voice, she


    turned to him and said, ¡°I¡¯m on the phone with Leanna.¡± After that, she returned to her call with Leanna


    and said, ¡°Okay, okay. I got to go first. I¡¯ll share with you the process of his marriage proposal again


    later!¡± With that, Zoe hastily ended the call. Staring at her phone screen that went ck, Leanna parted


    her lips and felt powerless for a moment. Presently, she wasn¡¯t afraid that Anthony would propose to


    Zoe.


    Knowing Anthony wasn¡¯t someone with a good personality, Leanna knew that he wanted to continue


    being with Zoe as he kept things up with his mistress. Zoe has already given him obvious hints


    countless of times before, yet he pretends to act dumb and rejects her idea of marriage. Isn¡¯t it obvious


    that Anthony simply wants the best of both worlds? Therefore, he¡¯ll definitely not propose to Zoe in


    order to avoid his responsibility. It was just that Leanna still didn¡¯t know how to tell Zoe about Anthony


    cheating on her. As expected, Zoe sent Leanna a disappointed text message after half an hour.


    ¡®I¡¯ve guessed wrong. He didn¡¯t propose to me. He only gave me a bag.¡¯ Reading Zoe¡¯s text message,


    Leanna thought of the two bags that Anthony bought in the store today. At once, the rage within her


    was unleashed. Enraged, her fingers started tapping on the phone screen and she typed out a few


    words. However, she deleted them again. She continued doing so for the next few minutes, and God


    knew how many times she had deleted the text that she wanted to send. Soon, Leanna received


    another message from Zoe. ¡®It seems like I still can¡¯t rush into this matter. Sigh. I guess I¡¯ll just go with


    the flow, then. Anthony asked me to follow him back to his home for the next month¡¯s holiday, and I


    think it should be about discussing matters rting to marriage. By the way, I have my eyes on a few


    wedding dresses recently, and I really like them.


    Hold on, I¡¯ll send the pictures to you.¡± Immediately afterward, Leanna received the pictures of wedding


    dresses sent over by Zoe. After sending Leanna those pictures of the wedding dresses, Zoe texted her,


    asking for her opinion. ¡®Nana, what do you think? Which one of these wedding dresses looks good?¡¯


    Looking at the question asked, Leanna deleted the words that she had originally typed out. Then, she


    reced them with a simple text. ¡®I think they all look nice.¡¯ Feeling delighted with Leanna¡¯sment,


    Zoe texted back excitedly. ¡®How about you bing my bridesmaid when the timees? You must


    be the most beautiful bridesmaid in the world!¡¯


    Reading at Zoe¡¯s request, Leanna smiled. Then, she replied. ¡®Silly. I¡¯m a divorc¨¦e, remember? I don¡¯t


    want to jinx your wedding.¡¯ Despite excluding this part in her text, she still thought to herself, What¡¯s


    more, my marriage was still a very unhappy one. When Zoe saw that reply, she immediately texted


    back. ¡®What about being a divorc¨¦e? Besides, you¡¯re not the cause of that unhappy marriage of yours.


    It¡¯s Aidan, that b*stard, who didn¡¯t know how to appreciate an outstanding wife like you.¡¯ Before Leanna


    could reply back, Zoe sent her another text again. ¡®Hey, I¡¯ve got to go. Anthony is calling for me. Go


    ahead with your work, and I¡¯ll catch up with you againter.¡± After Leanna read that message, she put


    down her phone and rested her arm and head on the table. Thinking about the incident when she found


    out Anthony was cheating, she couldn¡¯t help but feel angry again.


    What the hell is going on?! Why are there so many b*stards in the world?! Several minutester,


    Leanna¡¯s phone rang again. As Leanna alreadyfortably rested her head and arm on the table, she


    found herself toozy to move. Then, she reached out her hand and grabbed her phone. Looking at


    who the sender might be, she saw it was Daphne. She had sent her a textining about Aidan. In


    the message, Daphne told her that she had just booked a flight to go shopping abroad. However, Aidan


    had already requested her to ept a drama deal before she could recover from her excitement. Not


    only that, Daphne even added in her text that Aidan¡¯s sudden request was like taking away her


    freedom. With that, Leanna replied to her, and soon they started chatting with each other. After they


    chatted for a while, Leanna asked carefully,


    ¡®I have a friend, and uh¡­ her friend¡¯s boyfriend cheated on her, so she asked me how she should tell


    her friend. Do you have any good ideas?¡¯ When Daphne saw her text, she swiftly replied, ¡®Ask your


    friend to tell that friend of hers to give her boyfriend hints saying she wants a bouquet of yellow roses,


    or keep sharing quotes about cheating.¡¯ Then, Leanna replied again. ¡®But my friend¡¯s friend has been


    with her boyfriend for so many years, and their rtionship is very deep. She¡¯ll surely be very sad if she


    finds out.¡¯ Shortly after, their topic of conversation changed from reprimanding Aidan to scolding a


    b*stard who cheated. Also, it was during this time that Leanna came to find out the details of the


    scandal that had been spreading uproariously about Daphne before. Well, that was another story about


    another b*stard.


    Back then, there was a rich guy who was an outsider in the entertainment industry who vigorously


    pursued Daphne. At first, Daphne ignored him. However, she eventually couldn¡¯t resist the b*stard¡¯s


    inquisitiveness and thoughtfulness. Over time, his thoughtful gestures moved her, and she became


    enamored. And just like that, the two got together and became a couple. However, things took a drastic


    turn when the two were only a few months into their rtionship. Out of the blue, Daphne became a


    trending search figure for no reason. Not only did she be a trending search figure, but the


    scandals and real-time news that trended along with her name were the ones that could blow


    someone¡¯s mind.ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49


    Chapter 49 President Pearson Asked if You Have Finished Working It turned out that the rich guy had


    been married a long time ago. Daphne didn¡¯t know the rich guy was married at first. It was until his wife


    came out and ndered Daphne that she discovered that he had long been married. Thinking Daphne


    was the one who seduced her husband, the rich guy¡¯s wife condemned her on the Inte by posting


    many intimate pictures of the two of them going out for dinner, hugging, and kissing.


    The woman kept getting on Daphne¡¯s tail. She adamantly wanted to force her out of the entertainment


    industry. Hence, besides posting intimate pictures of Daphne and the rich guy, she even hired paid


    posters and ounts to nder and make malicious remarks toward Daphne. And because of this


    incident, Daphne kept a low profile for a long time. Finally, Daphne replied, ¡®Sadness is inevitable, but I


    believe she¡¯s more reluctant to be kept in the dark than feeling sad.¡¯ Drifting back from her thoughts,


    Leanna read Daphne¡¯s reply and texted back. ¡®Got it. I¡¯ll find a suitable time to tell her.


    ¡® Putting down her phone, Leanna went into the bathroom. She sshed her face with some cold water


    and patted her cheeks, trying to wake herself up a little. No, I can¡¯t be decadent like this anymore. I


    need toplete the design drawing in three days! Keeping that in mind, Leanna then got down to her


    design task. She thought it would take her to the veryst second toplete the design drawing, but


    in reality, it only took her two and a half days toplete the sketch for the design. Then, she


    immediately sent it to Justin, thinking she should leave another half a day for her to make some


    amendments.


    Unexpectedly, Justin promptly responded to her after she sent the sketch. ¡®This is fine. Well done! I¡¯ll


    have someone take it for processing.¡¯ Leanna replied to him, ¡®Sure. I¡¯ll send you the drawing of theConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    ¡®What I have in mind is that my mother would be happier if the designer of this piece of jewelry can


    come and exin the meaning of the jewelry to her in person. But I also won¡¯t force you as I


    understand your concerns.¡¯ Upon seeing that, Leanna replied, ¡®I won¡¯t be going to the birthday party.


    Do with Mrs. Pearson happy birthday.¡¯ The next day, Leanna headed to the Lux Magazine to find


    Harvey to report to work. As soon as she arrived at the magazine, she was pulled aside by Zoe. ¡°Nana,


    can you spare me some time tonight?¡± ¡°Yeah. What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°Well, it¡¯s Anthony. It¡¯s been a while


    since he returned to Highside, so he wants to throw a party and invite some friends to a get-together.


    He had always wanted to organize one, but he couldn¡¯t because he was busy with work. Since it¡¯s rare


    for him to have some free time, he wants to throw one now that he¡¯s free. So I was thinking that we can


    go together if you¡¯re free tonight.¡± As Zoe spoke, she muttered again, ¡°I don¡¯t know most of the friends


    he invited this time. I¡¯ll feel better if you go.¡± Looking at Zoe¡¯s upset state, Leanna found it hard to reject


    her. Since she also wanted to take tonight¡¯s opportunity to talk things out with her, she eventually


    decided to attend the party. Therefore, Leanna nodded lightly after a while.


    ¡°Sure! I¡¯ll go with you.¡± At once, the smile on Zoe¡¯s face returned. Giving Leanna a big hug, she said,


    ¡°That¡¯s great! Okay, hurry up and go to Mr. Mancini. I have a photo shooting task today, so I¡¯ll get going


    first.¡± When Leanna arrived at Harvey¡¯s office, she saw a woman sitting in the office with Harvey. Upon


    seeing Leanna enter, Harvey said to her, ¡°McK, you came just in time. Here, let me introduce you to


    Lux Magazine¡¯s newly signed designer, Queenie Wojzicki.¡± Without waiting for Harvey to continue with


    the introduction, Queenie stood up. Smiling, she reached out her hand to Leanna. ¡°Pleased to meet


    you, McK. I¡¯ve heard so much about you.¡± Leanna knew who this woman in front of her was,


    considering Queenie was the runner-up in The Emerging Designer Competition three years ago and


    also the person whoter took her ce to study in Aeras. Politely reaching out her hand, Leanna said,


    ¡°Pleased to meet you too.


    ¡± After they greeted each other, Harvey said, ¡°McK, you¡¯ll continue to be in charge of the ¡®First Love¡¯


    jewelry series, as well as the privately customized jewelry. Queenie, you will be in charge of the new


    series¡ª¡± ¡°Mr. Mancini.¡± Halfway through speaking, Queenie interrupted Harvey. ¡°I have a proposal.¡±


    Feeling surprised, Harvey paused for a moment before he continued, ¡°Tell me.¡± ¡°I, too, wish to get


    involved with business regarding privately customized jewelry.¡±As Queenie spoke, she smiled at


    Leanna. ¡°Don¡¯t get me wrong, McK. I¡¯m not intending to rob you of your business. It¡¯s just that the


    personal jewelry customization requests that I had epted while I was abroad were all private high-


    end orders. I should know the styles that rich women anddies like better.¡± ¡°Uh¡ª¡± Then, Queenie


    added again, ¡°By then, we can each produce a design drawing, and whose design that gets selected


    will take the order.¡± Being a good sport, Leanna simply put on a faint smile on her face.


    ¡°Sure.¡± Seeing that Leanna had already agreed, Harvey didn¡¯t say anything more. ¡°In that case, we¡¯ll do


    things that way. I¡¯ll contact you two if there¡¯s anything rted to work.¡± Little did Queenie know, Harvey


    didn¡¯t tell her that all the clients who signed up for the privately customized jewelry orders with Lux


    Magazine now were because of Leanna. After leaving the office, Queenie called out Leanna¡¯s name


    and stopped her when she was about to leave. ¡°We¡¯ll be colleagues as well aspetitors in the


    future. I won¡¯t be merciful toward you.¡± Halting her tracks, Leanna turned around and looked at the


    other woman. ¡°I won¡¯t either.¡± ¡°In that case, we¡¯llpete based on our own abilities then.¡± After


    leaving Lux Magazine, Leanna went to the studio where Zoe was shooting and waited for her. During


    the photo shooting interval, Zoe came over to gossip with Leanna.


    ¡°Hey, I just heard that Lux Magazine seems to have signed a new designer. It¡¯s said that she came


    back from Aeras and had participated in several fashion shows. She¡¯s quite well-known in the industry,


    but she¡¯s very arrogant. It¡¯s best not to provoke someone like her and avoid confrontation with her


    when you see her in the future, because someone like her will only annoy the sh*t out of you.¡± To Zoe¡¯s


    surprise, Leanna replied to her by saying, ¡°We already met.¡± ¡°Huh?! When?¡± ¡°We met in Mr. Mancini¡¯s


    office.¡± Upon hearing that, Zoe had aplicated expression on her face. Just as she was about to ask


    what happened in Harvey¡¯s office, the staff in the studio asked her to go over and continue with the


    photoshoot, as the celebrity had finished changing their outfit and came out.


    And thus, Zoe whispered to Leanna, ¡°The photoshoot will end in a while. Wait for me.¡± Leanna nodded


    in response. ¡°Sure, go and do your work first.¡± Not long after, Leanna received a message on her


    phone. It was a message from Jonathan. ¡®Miss McKinney, President Pearson asked if you have


    finished with work?¡¯ Reading the message, Leanna became speechless as she grumbled to herself,


    Did this b*stard install surveince on me?! He can¡¯t seem to enjoy seeing me resting. All he knows is


    hounding me every day! Burning with rage from her thoughts, Leanna typed out all the words hard and


    replied. ¡®No! Tell him I¡¯m busy and not free for his bullsh*t at the moment!¡¯ Shortly after, Jonathan texted


    back, ¡®President Pearson asked how busy you are.¡¯ Gritting her teeth, Leanna replied, ¡®I¡¯m so busy that


    I didn¡¯t eat for two days. In fact, I¡¯m so busy that I didn¡¯t even wash my hair for a week!


    ¡® A whileter, she received another reply from Jonathan. ¡®President Pearson said you work rather


    hard, so¡­ good luck!¡¯ When Leanna saw the reply sent by Jonathan, she put down her phone hard.


    Then, she took a deep breath to calm herself down. Will I be in a 10 million debt if it wasn¡¯t him who


    framed me?! Yet he still dares to wish me luck?! To hell with his good luck! ¡­ After Zoe finished her


    work in the studio, both she and Leanna headed their way toward the venue of Anthony¡¯s get-together


    party. That night, Anthony had reserved a private room inside a high-end restaurant, where only the


    rich woulde and enjoy their meal. By the time Zoe and Leanna arrived at the restaurant, most of


    the people were already present. Meanwhile, Anthony was wandering inside the private room. When


    he saw their figures, he immediately came over to greet them. ¡°Zoe, youdies are finally here.


    ¡± As he spoke, he looked at Leanna. Then, he apologized to her by saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry about the incident


    that took cest time. I¡¯ve always wanted to treat you to a dinner, but I was too preupied with


    work¡ª¡± Halfway through the conversation, a woman came over and said to Leanna, ¡°So this is your


    girlfriend, Anthony? She looks so pretty.¡± Anthony¡¯s expression became a little embarrassed. ¡°No. This


    is my girlfriend,¡± said Anthony while pointing at Zoe, who was next to him. ¡°Well, I¡¯ve always heard you


    say that your girlfriend is very pretty, so I thought this one¡¯s your girlfriend.¡± As the woman spoke, she


    stuck her tongue out, acting cute.


    Then, she said to Leanna again, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry.¡± In the meantime, the expression on Leanna¡¯s face


    remained unchanged. Upon hearing the woman¡¯s apology, she said calmly, ¡°It¡¯s okay, Miss Boulogne.¡±


    With that, Jete smiled and said, ¡°Let¡¯s not be strangers. I¡¯m Anthony¡¯s colleague, so you can just


    call me by my name¡ª¡±

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50


    Chapter 50 A Shameless Woman Suddenly, the expressions on both Jete and Anthony¡¯s face


    changed subtly at the same time. Furthermore, Anthony was even more frightened that Zoe would find


    out that he was cheating on her. In a fit of panic, he tried toprehend the situation in front of him.


    Logically speaking, Leanna couldn¡¯t have known Jete. But if so, how did she know herst name is


    Boulogne?


    Feeling puzzled, Anthony tried to look at Leanna. However, he saw a trace of warning in her gaze when


    he met her eyes again. Like a greased lightning, he reacted swiftly and said to Jete, ¡°Look! They¡¯re


    calling for you to go over and have fun with them. Sorry, I have to apany my girlfriend.¡± Upon


    hearing that, Jete retracted her gaze. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re all that great just because you have a


    partner?¡± As soon as she spoke those words, she moved her feet and left. Once Jete left, Anthony


    immediately went to cheer Zoe up. ¡°Baby, don¡¯t be angry. That¡¯s just her nature. She likes joking


    around with us. But it¡¯s also my fault for not introducing you clearly.¡± Pulling his hand off her, Zoe said,


    ¡°Why should I be angry? Alright, that¡¯s enough. Don¡¯t worry about me. Just go and apany your


    friends.¡±


    ¡°They can keep themselvespany, so why should they deserve mypany? You¡¯re my girlfriend,


    so of course I¡¯ll apany you.¡± Then, Anthony whispered something in Zoe¡¯s ear before dragging her


    outside. After taking a few steps, Zoe turned around and said, ¡°Nana, wait for me for a while. I¡¯ll be right


    back.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Not long after they left, Jete appeared next to Leanna again. Holding two sses of


    wine, she said, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry. In order to express my apology, I¡¯ll drink a ss as a forfeit.¡± However,


    Leanna said, ¡°I don¡¯t drink.¡± Feeling embarrassed, Jete sheepishly withdrew her hand. ¡°I heard


    Anthony say that you¡¯re a jewelry designer. In that case, you should be quite awesome.


    How about you design a piece of jewelry for me? Then, I¡¯ll help you spread the word to my friends and


    let them take care of your business.¡± Upon hearing that, Leanna smiled. ¡°Sure. The privately


    customized jewelry starts at 200,000. Miss Boulogne, you can pay the deposit now if you want to.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Jete widened her eyes, and her facial expression took a drastic turn.


    ¡°200,000?!¡± Following her shock, she involuntarily condemned Leanna in her heart. She¡¯s not even a


    renowned jewelry designer!


    I thought the most she would charge was 10,000 to 20,000, but she¡¯s actually charging 200,000!


    Looking at Jete¡¯s shocked face, Leanna said in a very friendly tone, ¡°Oh, 200,000 is just the design


    fee. It doesn¡¯t include the price for the jewelry materials yet.¡± As Jete held the wine ss, there


    was an obvious change in her attitude. Suddenly, she wasn¡¯t as enthusiastic as earlier, and she said


    perfunctorily, ¡°In that case¡­ I will think about it.¡± However, Leanna¡¯s voice came from behind just as


    she was about to leave.


    ¡°Miss Boulogne, your method of sowing discord is really disreputable.¡± After Leanna finished speaking,


    she ignored her and left straightaway. When she walked to the door, she happened to stumble upon


    Anthony, who came back with Zoe. Clearly, Anthony seeded in coaxing Zoe. When she saw


    Leanna, she asked, ¡°Nana, where are you going?¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to the washroom.¡± ¡°Then I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Anthony became noticeably nervous as soon as Zoe finished saying that. In a fit of panic, he hurriedly


    said, ¡°Zoe, didn¡¯t we agree that you¡¯ll let me take you to meet my friends and colleagues? They haven¡¯t


    met you yet.¡±


    Feeling that something was off, Zoe looked at him. ¡°I¡¯m just apanying Nana to the washroom.


    Won¡¯t it be the same if I meet them now and when I meet them after Ie back from the washroom?¡±


    Currently, Anthony was so on the edge that he couldn¡¯t respond to her question promptly. Looking at


    Anthony as if he was facing a great enemy, Leanna curled the corners of her lips into a sneer. He


    wasn¡¯t afraid when he first decided to cheat on her. Yet he¡¯s on tenterhooks now that he finally realizes


    his cheating action will be exposed. The more Leanna thought about it, the more she despised him.


    Hence, she decided to ignore him and only looked at Zoe. ¡°Zoe, I¡¯ll just go by myself. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll be


    back in a while.¡± ¡°Okay, then.¡± Even so, Zoe was still worried about her.


    Thus, she exhorted, ¡°The bathroom¡¯s floor is a little slippery, so be careful.¡± ¡°Got it.¡± After Leanna left,


    Anthony grabbed Zoe and ranted, ¡°Baby, you care more about her than me.¡± Thinking Anthony was


    being unreasonable, Zoe said snappishly, ¡°You¡¯re a grown man! Why should I care so much about you?


    Not to mention that Nana is pregnant now¡ª¡± Halfway through her speaking, Zoe stopped abruptly.


    Nheless, Anthony still heard her. Thus, he started asking her one question after another. ¡°She¡¯s


    pregnant? But isn¡¯t she divorced? Speaking of which, who¡¯s her husband anyway?


    They¡¯ve been married for three years, yet I haven¡¯t seen him once.¡± Pushing him off, Zoe didn¡¯t answer


    any of his questions. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough. Stop asking so many questions. Go ahead with whatever it


    is that you¡¯re going to do.¡± After that, she walked off. With a thoughtful expression on his face, Anthony


    watched Zoe¡¯s silhouette as she walked off. If she¡¯s really married, is she really that ashamed of her


    marriage? Unless¡ª ¡­ Minutester, Leanna came out of the washroom and washed her hands. Just


    as she was about to leave, she bumped into an acquaintance. When Anna saw her, she was so


    enraged that she wished she could go ballistic. ¡°Why are you here?!¡± ¡°Why can¡¯t I be here? Does your


    family own this restaurant?¡± However, Leanna felt regret as soon as those words escaped her lips.


    There might be a chance that the Pearson Family really owns this restaurant! Fortunately, Anna didn¡¯t


    give her a sarcastic smile. Instead, she red at her angrily. ¡°Did youe here with Zayn?! How can


    you be such a shameless woman?! I would have been engaged to Zayn long ago if it wasn¡¯t for you!¡±


    ¡°What does that have to do with me? Aren¡¯t your parents the ones who have the final say in your family


    members¡¯ marriage affairs? What do you take me for?¡± Anna was stunned for a while before realizing


    that Leanna was taking advantage of her. In an instant, her face flushed with anger. Just as she was


    about to act against her, she suddenly thought of something. Hence, she stopped and withdrew her


    hand. ¡°Leanna, this is a warning for you. The person you¡¯ll see next time won¡¯t be me if you don¡¯t know


    your ce and keep pestering Zayn!¡± Even though Anna was usually impulsive, she was no fool.


    During this period, she could clearly see that she wasn¡¯t the only one who wished for this marriage to


    work out. Besides Anna, her uncle seemed to wish for her to get married to Zayn more than she did.


    Unfazed by Anna¡¯s warning, Leanna simply replied with a grunt. Never once did she care about who


    Anna would marry. However, she would really feel it was unfair for Zayn if it turned out to be him.


    Seeing that she was indifferent, Anna gritted her teeth and uttered, ¡°Just you wait and see, Leanna!


    First, you unscrupulously got married to Aidan. Now, you¡¯re going to great lengths to seduce Zayn!


    People like you will definitely be punished!¡± Nevertheless, Leanna was still unfazed, and she smiled


    indifferently. ¡°Tell me¡ªwhat kind of karma will someone like you receive, then? Anna, you can deny


    everything that you have done. But I hope you won¡¯t forget the real taste of the ¡®karma¡¯ that you talked


    about.¡± There was a slight change in Anna¡¯s facial expression when she heard that. However, Leanna


    had already left before she could counterattack. Meanwhile, Georgina nced at Leanna¡¯s stomach


    when she passed by her side. She had her suspicions, but she was unsure if Leanna was truly


    pregnant.


    Leanna had been wearing baggy clothes ever since she was pregnant. However, her pregnant belly


    wasn¡¯t that visible yet as she was only in her first trimester. Besides, she was originally someone with a


    slim figure. Therefore, one hardly noticed anything strange about her belly. Regardless, the more she


    dressed like that, the more she incited people¡¯s suspicions. Walking up to Anna, Georgina asked,


    ¡°Anna, who did you just chat with?¡± Upon hearing that, Anna said bitterly, ¡°A shameless woman!¡±


    ¡°Enough.


    There¡¯s no need to get angry about irrelevant people. Do you still want to go and see Zayn?¡± Upon


    hearing that, only then did Annae back to her senses. That¡¯s right! I¡¯m here to see Zayn! Zayn has


    been avoiding me recently, and I can¡¯t find him anywhere. Thanks to Georgina, I immediately rushed


    over after she told me that Zayn is here to discuss business with people today. But I didn¡¯t expect that


    I¡¯ll meet that b*tch, Leanna!Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51


    Chapter 51 There May Be Something Wrong Later, Leanna returned to the private room. When she


    arrived at the door, she heard a gentle voiceing from behind just as she was about to enter.


    ¡°Leanna.¡± Upon hearing the voice, she paused mid-action. Then, she turned around after a few


    seconds. The moment Leanna turned around, she saw the owner of that gentle voice. It was Zayn. At


    the same time, Zayn didn¡¯t expect that person he thought was Leanna turned out to be Leanna indeed.


    Thus, he excitedly walked up and said, ¡°Leanna, what brings you here?¡± As for Leanna, she greeted


    him calmly like he was an old friend. ¡°I¡­ I have a dinner gathering with my friend here. How about


    you?¡± In an instant, a sudden realization hit her as she looked at Zayn. I should¡¯ve thought of this! I


    should¡¯ve expected that Zayn would be here after I saw Anna show up here and barked madly at me.


    ¡°I¡¯m here with my friends too. Are you and your friend almost done with your dinner?


    If it¡¯s ending soon, why don¡¯t we¡ª¡± Before Zayn could finish speaking, someone opened the door to


    the private room behind him. Instantly, both of them looked to the door and saw it was Anthony.


    Likewise, Anthony also saw them. After Anthony saw Zayn, he was stunned for a long time before he


    could react. ¡°Zayn?¡± Retracting his gaze, Zayn nodded politely at him. Since Anthony and Zoe had


    been together since they were in college, he also had met Zayn several times. However, they were not


    that close. ¡°Hey! We haven¡¯t seen each other for so many years.¡± With that, Anthony threw his arm


    around Zayn¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Could it be that we¡¯re fated to meet today? Come on, pleasee in and


    chat together with us for a while.¡±


    Just as Leanna was about to decline Anthony¡¯s offer on behalf of Zayn, she saw him smile at her


    instead. Shortly after, he entered the private room with Anthony. Once Zayn entered the private room,


    Anthony immediately introduced him to his friends in the room. ¡°Everyone,e and meet my buddy


    from college. Not only is he my buddy, but he was also our college hunk during our batch.¡± As soon as


    the group of people heard that, they quickly gathered around and gave Zayn a toast. Suddenly,


    someone looked at Zayn and asked with uncertainty, ¡°Are you Mr. Bat from the Bat Group?¡±


    Upon hearing that, Zayn nodded slightly. ¡°Hello.¡± As soon as he said that, the astonishment that


    centered on Anthony began to spread out. Just like his friends, Anthony was also surprised when he


    found out Zayn¡¯s identity. Having known Zayn for years, he only knew that he came from a well-off


    family. However, he didn¡¯t expect that Zayn was actually someone rted to the Bat Group. After


    that, the person who just spoke said again, ¡°Mr. Bat has been abroad for the past few years, and I


    only saw you from a distance at an event before. So I thought I might have misidentified. I didn¡¯t expect


    you to be Anthony¡¯s friend. This is truly fate.¡± As soon as these words escaped the person¡¯s lips,


    everyone¡¯s gaze on Anthony changed. They were either filled with envy or jealousy. Anthony is nothing


    but a mere white-cor worker, yet he¡¯s actually buddies with the son of Bat Group!


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    From everyone¡¯s perspective, it was just a matter of time for Anthony to rise to prominence. In contrast,


    Anthony was the only one in a state of panic. At this moment, he was tremendously nervous and his


    heart was beating fast. He feared that Zayn would expose him on the spot by telling everyone that they


    weren¡¯t actually close. To Anthony¡¯s relief, Zayn just smiled and said, ¡°We¡¯ve known each other for


    years.¡± Meanwhile, on the other side, Zoe walked up to Leanna. Seeing Zayn being surrounded by a


    group of people like he was an A-list celebrity, she asked in doubt, ¡°Why is he here?¡±


    Rubbing the spot between her eyebrows, Leanna answered. ¡°I met him at the entrance earlier, and


    Anthony invited him in.¡± Upon hearing that, Zoe tsked. Then, she added, ¡°He¡¯s lucky that Zayn has a


    good temper. If it was¡ª¡± Zoe only spoke half of what she wanted to say. Even so, a name appeared in


    their mind at the same time. Instantly, the both women shivered out of fright. I can¡¯t even imagine what


    would happen. Zoe then grumbled, ¡°Do you think there¡¯s something wrong with Anthony¡¯s colleague?


    First, she made a scene at the entrance. Then, she came to me and said some inexplicable words


    moments ago. Oh, someone is trying hard to show me that she¡¯s a real b*tch. Leanna, who was in a


    trance, came back to her senses. Remembering the purpose she attended the party tonight, she


    thought for a while before she finally started speaking, ¡°Zoe, I think there may be something wrong


    between you and Anthony¡ª¡± However, Zoe interrupted her before she could say the reason.


    ¡°Ha! I know Anthony too well. He isn¡¯t a lionheart, so he wouldn¡¯t dare to cheat on me. Not to mention


    that the suspect in question is a beauty without a brain. Perhaps I might really have my suspicions if


    she¡¯s smarter.¡± Upon hearing the affirming tone in Zoe¡¯s voice, Leanna became silent. Deep down, she


    had a feeling that Zoe was already suspecting Jete. It was just that Zoe didn¡¯t want to confront it


    yet. Well, I can¡¯t me her, though. It¡¯s really hard for anyone to believe that their partner of so many


    years will cheat on them. At this moment, Anthony turned around and saw both Zoe and Leanna talking


    to each other. For fear that Leanna had exposed his cheating to Zoe, the rm inside him instantly


    went off. After saying a few words to the others, he walked over to them with Zayn. Hugging Zoe


    nervously, he smiled and said, ¡°Since we haven¡¯t seen each other for so many years, why don¡¯t the four


    of us find a ce to sit and chat?¡± Bewildered by Anthony¡¯s words, Zoe muttered, ¡°What¡¯s the purpose


    of you calling so many friends over tonight? Are you nning to just ditch them like that?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, they¡¯ll be fine. I can meet these friends at any time. Besides, they have enjoyed


    themselves for quite a while now. Just let them continue to stay here if they don¡¯t want to leave. Worst


    comes to worst, I¡¯ll be backter to clean up after them.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s inappropriate for you to do


    that?¡± Even so, Anthony said indifferently, ¡°What¡¯s so inappropriate about it? We¡¯re all friends, so they


    won¡¯t mind. What do you think, Zayn? Shall we find a ce to sit and chat?¡± Zayn inadvertently took a


    nce at Leanna and he stated, ¡°I¡¯m fine with anything.¡± ¡°Well, then¡ª¡± Before Anthony could say


    anything more, Leanna voiced out. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, so I¡¯ll go back first. You all go ahead.¡±


    At the same time, Zoe also said, ¡°Then let me send you back. I can take this chance to get some fresh


    air.¡± Once Leanna left, Zayn naturally wouldn¡¯t stay any longer. After nodding at Anthony, he also


    followed Leanna and left. Watching as all three of them left, Anthony subconsciously clenched his firsts


    and quickly followed. After leaving the private room, Zayn pursed his lips and said, ¡°Leanna, are you


    mad at me?¡± Leanna was stunned before she realized what he was referring to. ¡°No, I¡¯m not. I¡¯m just¡­


    feeling a bit sick.¡± Despite saying so, that wasn¡¯t the words Leanna intended to say.


    In reality, she wanted to say that she didn¡¯t want to see that hypocrite Anthony anymore. Upon hearing


    that, Zayn looked at her inconspicuous belly. ¡°Does he still not know?¡± Leanna smiled and shook her


    head gently in response. Soon, Anthony was able to catch up with them. Grabbing onto Zoe, he said,


    ¡°Zoe, how about you not following them out?¡± Once again, Zoe was confused by Anthony¡¯s behavior.


    Hence, she asked, ¡°Why can¡¯t I¡ª¡± Knowing Zoe would ask him that, Anthony swiftly answered before


    she could speak out the full sentence. ¡°Leanna and Zayn haven¡¯t seen each other for so long, so I¡¯m


    sure they must have a lot to catch up with each other. Why would you be third-wheeling them? Won¡¯t


    you be interrupting their date if you follow them?¡± ¡°What nonsense are you talking about?¡±


    At that point, the pent-up uneasiness within Anthony had infuriated himpletely. Hence, he spoke


    incoherently, ¡°Who said I¡¯m talking nonsense? Haven¡¯t they always had feelings for each other?¡± Upon


    hearing the words spoken by him, she frowned. Then, she entuated the tone of her voice and


    shouted, ¡°Anthony Lester!¡± After being silent for two seconds, Zayn paused slightly when he spotted a


    person not far away. Nheless, he still replied to Anthony. ¡°Yes! I have always liked her all along.¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t expect that he would answer Anthony in such a way. Therefore, she raised her head


    slightly and looked up. However, she discovered that Zayn¡¯s gaze was fixated on one ce. She


    subconsciously followed his gaze and looked in that direction too. What came into her sight instantly


    made her scalp tingle. Is today Friday the 13th?!


    How is it possible that all of us meet on the same night?! Besides, why are there so many people


    gathering at this ce tonight?! Not far away, Aidan was looking at them coldly. As he stared at them,


    there wasn¡¯t an ounce of warmth in his eyes. Seeing that there was something wrong with Leanna¡¯s


    facial expression, Zoe also turned around. When she saw Aidan, she instantly gasped with shock. Are


    we in hell? After staring at each other for brief seconds, Aidan retracted his gaze calmly, looking as if


    he didn¡¯t know them at all.


    Striding with his pair of long legs, he walked away directly. Seeing him pass by them while looking


    steadily forward, Leanna finally breathed a sigh of relief. However, before she could puff out her sigh,


    Aidan suddenly stopped. Slowly turning his head around, he first nced at Anthony and Zoe. before


    he fixed his gaze on Leanna. ¡°How long are you going to keep dragging on this matter? You haven¡¯t


    thought of how to tell her?¡± At once, Leanna¡¯s heart skipped a beat. However, Aidan¡¯s voice sounded


    again before she could ask him to shut up. Without the slightest tinge of warmth in his voice, he added,


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you record a video? Just show it to her.¡±

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52


    Does It Affect Your Date With Zayn? In the meantime, Zoe was staring at Aidan. For some reason, she


    kept having the feeling that the meaning behind Aidan¡¯s words was pointing at her. Therefore, she also


    turned to look at Leanna. ¡°What is it, Nana?¡± As for Leanna, her mind was currently a mess. ¡°It¡¯s


    nothing. I¡ª¡± Seeing Leanna¡¯s state, Aidan merely snorted. Then, he retracted his gaze and strode


    away. When Leanna saw Aidan leave after stirring up chaos, she flipped outpletely.


    Not only that, she even had the urge to stab him and perish together with him. He dares to turn and


    f*cking leave after triggering the situation to its climax with a few words! Zoe wasn¡¯t a fool either.


    Sensing something was really off, she quickly pieced together Aidan¡¯s words, Jete¡¯s provocation,


    Anthony¡¯s inexplicable behavior today, and Leanna¡¯s reminder from not long ago. And just like that, she


    came up with a conclusion. She quickly calmed down. ¡°Nana, show me the video.¡± Without a doubt,


    Anthony was the first who was panic-stricken.


    It took him byplete surprise that Leanna would possess crucial evidence like recording a video.


    Therefore, he hurriedly went to pull Zoe away. ¡°Baby, let¡¯s go back¡ª¡± However, Zoe shook him off with


    force. Raging with fury, she yelled, ¡°Don¡¯t touch me!¡± With her eyes gazing straight at Anthony, she


    smiled and said, ¡°Seeing you¡¯re wrapped in nervousness, I don¡¯t think I need to watch the video


    anymore. So are you going to confess it yourself? Or do you want me to bring that side chick of yours


    over, and I¡¯ll confront you two at the same time on this matter?¡± ¡°Baby, it¡¯s not like what you think.


    There¡¯s really nothing going on between me and her. I just¡ª¡± At once, Zoe abruptly cut him off. ¡°Just


    can¡¯t keep it in your pants? Anthony, you sure are something. You dare to cheat right under my nose!¡±


    Regardless, Anthony still attempted to make his final struggle in getting Zoe back to his side. ¡°Listen to


    me¡ª¡± Thinking she had enough of this, Zoe took a deep breath. Then, she said coldly, ¡°It¡¯s either you


    leave, or I¡¯ll go in and announce to everybody in there about what the two of you have been secretly up


    to behind my back. When that happens, you¡¯ll lose your job too. Upon hearing that, Anthony gritted his


    teeth.


    Within seconds, he had made his choice. He chose to leave. After he left, Leanna called out softly,


    ¡°Zoe¡ª¡± Looking at them, Zoe forced a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s better for me to learn about his


    true colors now than finding out after¡ª¡± Even though Zoe didn¡¯t finish her sentence, Leanna knew what


    she wanted to say. After all, she knew how much Zoe was looking forward to getting married during this


    period. Zoe then mumbled, ¡°I¡¯ll head home first. I still have to clean up Anthony¡¯s stuff and throw them


    out overnight. Zayn, I¡¯ll entrust you to send Leanna home.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Just as Zoe was about to leave,


    Leanna grabbed Zoe¡¯s hand and held her back. ¡°Zoe, let me apany you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡±


    Zoe smiled. ¡°It¡¯s just being cheated on. No big deal about that. Besides, you should go home and get a


    good early rest. Don¡¯t worry about me. I can settle this myself.¡± After that, she ran away while waving


    her hand. Despite Zoe saying she was fine, Leanna still noticed the sadness and tears in her friend¡¯s


    eyes. Therefore, she couldn¡¯t help but feel concerned about her. Seeing the worried look on Leanna¡¯s


    face, Zaynforted, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. She can sort it out.¡± Leanna nodded, yet she didn¡¯t know what to


    say. Nheless, she was still a witness to the love that blossomed between Zoe and Anthony.


    However, it never once crossed her mind that their love would end up being this tragic. Just as Leanna


    wasmenting the tragic ending of Zoe¡¯s rtionship, Zayn¡¯s phone suddenly rang. With that, he took it


    out and looked at the caller ID. He saw it was a call from Anna.


    Tch! She¡¯s probably calling because she can¡¯t find me anywhere in this restaurant. Staring at the phone


    screen, Zayn frowned and hung up swiftly. In the meantime, Leanna snapped out of her thoughts and


    said, ¡°You don¡¯t have to send me home. I¡¯ll just go back by myself.¡± ¡°Leanna¡ª¡± However, she only


    smiled at him and said, ¡°I¡¯ll go first.¡± Seeing Leanna was leaving, Zayn wanted to chase after her.


    However, his phone rang again when he was about to catch up with her. Because of this sudden


    interruption, Leanna was already in the elevator. Therefore, he could only watch as she left. ¡­


    Meanwhile, Jonathan stood in the courtyard of the restaurant. When he caught sight of Leanna¡¯s figure,


    he greeted her promptly, ¡°Miss McKinney.¡± ¡°Where¡¯s President Pearson?!¡± Sensing the murderous aura


    in her eyes, Jonathan discreetly took a step back. ¡°President Pearson is waiting for you in the car.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Leanna made her way toward the most conspicuous Rolls-Royce without looking


    back. When Leanna opened the car door, she saw Aidan dealing with some documents with his head


    down. He didn¡¯t even shift his gaze away from those documents even when he noticed the car door


    was opened. After ring at him for a few seconds, Leanna bent over and got into the car. Wanting to


    express her anger, she shut the door with a bang. Upon hearing the bang, Aidan frowned slightly.


    Finally, he looked up from the documents in his hands and looked at her with a dissatisfying


    expression. ¡°President Pearson, I know you have always done things your own way and don¡¯t have the


    slightest care about other people¡¯s feelings, but don¡¯t you think you¡¯re being a little nosy?¡± Listening to


    the words that came out of her mouth, the man decided to stop dealing with the documents in his


    hands for a moment.


    He slowly closed the document in front of him and said in a calm manner, ¡°Are you here to interrogate


    me?¡± Leanna sneered, ¡°It¡¯s not really an interrogation. I simply think that you were not being respectful


    to Zoe just now. You don¡¯t even know her situation, yet you randomly¡ª¡± Since Aidan wasn¡¯t interested


    in listening any further, he immediately cut her off. ¡°I thought you¡¯re here to exin the words you¡¯ve


    spoken to Jonathan before. So you haven¡¯t eaten for two days? You didn¡¯t wash your head for a week?


    Care to exin what¡¯s going on?¡± When Leanna heard that, she was silent. Darn it! I almost forgot


    about this matter! At once, her imposing manner weakened a little. Hence, she lied through her teeth,


    ¡°I-I¡¯m out here tonight simply because I haven¡¯t eaten for two days.¡±


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Upon hearing that, Aidan sneered, ¡°Leanna, are you really taking me as a fool?¡± Once again, Leanna


    became silent. ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll move them out tomorrow.¡± ¡°No. You¡¯re going now.¡± ¡°But it¡¯s sote¡ª¡± As soon


    as Leanna said that, Aidan immediately interrupted her. ¡°What¡¯s the matter? Does it affect your date


    with Zayn?¡± Feeling she was about to blow up, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but scold him in her heart. The


    tone in this b*stard¡¯s words are quite strident! Unwilling to let herself get outdone by Aidan, Leanna


    lashed out, ¡°Yes!¡± As soon as she finished saying that, the temperature in the Rolls-Royce instantly


    chilled. Even Jonathan who stood ten meters away couldn¡¯t help shivering.


    Perhaps because pregnant women¡¯s bodies had a generally high body temperature, Leanna didn¡¯t


    notice anything unusual about the surroundings at all. Not only did she not notice something was off


    with her surroundings, but she even asked incredulously, ¡°Then can I leave now? I¡¯m still waiting to go


    on my date.¡± With his icy cold voice, Aidan said, ¡°So you¡¯re admitting to it?¡± ¡°Admitting to what?¡±


    ¡°Admitting that the reason you and I divorced was because you wanted to be together with Zayn.¡±


    Leanna was stunned for a while before saying, ¡°I can¡¯t help it if you want to think of it that way.¡± Just


    when the atmosphere in the car became more and more tense, Georgina came out of the restaurant.


    When she saw that Aidan¡¯s car was here and his assistant was also waiting beside the car, she


    excitedly made her way toward the car. When Jonathan saw her, he nodded slightly. ¡°Miss Crossley.¡±


    ncing at the ck Rolls-Royce, Georgina said, ¡°Is Aidan here too?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Jonathan answered respectfully. ¡°That¡¯s great. I happened to have something that I needed to


    discuss with him.¡± However, Georgina didn¡¯t expect that Jonathan would stop her just as she took a


    step forward. ¡°Miss Crossley, President Pearson is having a discussion with¡­ Mrs. Pearson.¡± ¡°Mrs.


    Pearson?¡± Georgina frowned. Shortly after, she realized who he was referring to. ¡°Didn¡¯t they divorce?¡±


    Jonathan didn¡¯t answer her as he couldn¡¯t exin Aidan¡¯s unpredictable thoughts to her. Just as he


    was trying toe up with a reply, the door of the Rolls-Royce was opened. Looking at Leanna¡¯s back,


    Georgina pursed the corners of her lips slightly. The sight disyed in front of her made her so green


    with envy that she subconsciously tightened her fingers and slowly clenched them into a fist.


    But they¡¯re clearly divorced! Why is Leanna still pestering Aidan?! Could it be¡ª At that moment,


    Georgina remembered the scene where she stumbled upon Leanna in the hospital. In an instant, her


    eyes darkened a little. If she¡¯s truly pregnant after marriage and the child is Aidan¡¯s, one can imagine


    the intensity of her schemes. She was able to force Aidan to marry her three years ago because of her


    pregnancy. There¡¯s no guarantee that she won¡¯t make any more unduly demands three yearster.


    Not wishing to let the situation turn awkward, Jonathan said, ¡°Please wait for a moment, Miss Crossley.


    I¡¯ll inform President Pearson now¡ª¡± ¡°On second thought, that won¡¯t be necessary.¡± Georgina smiled.


    ¡°It¡¯s not something very important either. I suddenly remembered that I had left something behind


    upstairs, so I¡¯m going to retrieve it back.¡± Although Jonathan was a little bewildered, he didn¡¯t ask any


    further. Instead, he simply said, ¡°Alright, Miss Crossley. Have a wonderful evening.¡±

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53


    Do You Need a Partner After a long walk, Leanna felt a chill run down her spine. She never noticed that


    Aidan had so much free time on his hands. He actually went out of his way to ask if she had her dinner,


    if she had bathed, and even if she was dating someone. His behaviour was getting more confusing.


    She got a taxi and went to Zoe¡¯s ce. The front door was ajar when she came, and she heard sounds


    of quiet sobbinging from inside. She waited for a few minutes and left silently. Leanna could


    understand because she would love to be alone too if she was in the same ce.


    She came back home and sat behind her desk, spacing out at a nk piece of paper. A feeling she


    never had before started bubbling within her. Zoe had dated Anthony for five years, so she probably


    never thought he would cheat on her. Leanna herself was the same. For three years, she acted as a


    good wife for Aidan in their marriage. She knew he despised her, so she knew what she should and


    should never do.


    She never did ask for anything else. However, she was not an emotionless robot. She had lived with


    him for three years, and she might have done it for the rest of her life, until Mia showed up. Aidan was


    never hers. No matter how badly or nicely he treated Leanna, he was never hers. Looking back, she


    actually cared about the marriage, but she knew it was useless to care about it. She thought the


    divorce and new life would make things better, but Aidan had no ns on letting her go though with it.


    He was like a thorn inside her heart, but she could not remove it even though she knew it was there. ¡­


    The next day, she came to Castor Vi while Aidan was working. The maid was terrified when she saw


    Leannaing in with some movers and gave an excuse. ¡°Madam, we can¡¯t let any unauthorised


    personnel in. It¡¯s the master¡¯s orders.¡± Leanna understood his temper and said, ¡°They¡¯re noting in.


    I¡¯m taking my stuff down.¡± She went upstairs with her empty luggage. The maid followed her, trying to


    calm her down. She thought they were just having a lover¡¯s quarrel. ¡°Why don¡¯t you move after the


    Masteres back, Madam? We don¡¯t want him to be angry.¡± ¡°Is there ever a time when he isn¡¯t


    angry?


    He simply feels like my things are taking up his space and getting in his way, so I¡¯m moving everything


    away to see what else he can say.¡± ¡°But Madam¡­¡± The maid tried to dissuade her, but it failed. She


    sneaked away and called Aidan instead. Leanna entered the closet room and looked at her closet. She


    could feel her veins popping. The clothes that lined the wall were made to fit her, but she had never


    worn them before, and not a single one of them belonged to her. She could understand why Aidan


    wanted her to move these clothes, though.


    Another woman might move into the vi soon, and she might get upset if she saw Leanna¡¯s clothes


    still around in the closet. He¡¯s a capitalist, alright. Don¡¯t let anything go to waste. Her luggage was full


    just after she put some clothes in, and she had a lot left in the closet. She regretted being so impulsive


    and decided to move everything herself. She couldn¡¯t even take the luggage downstairs, let alone


    move everything in the closet. Just when she was in a dilemma, the maid came back with the phone.


    ¡°The Master wants to talk to you, Madam.¡± Leanna took the phone and said weakly, ¡°President


    Pearson, I¡ª¡± The man said warmly, ¡°You don¡¯t have to move anymore.¡± Leanna was surprised he


    would offer her that.


    She froze for a moment. ¡°Huh?¡± Aidan snorted coldly. ¡°Zayn should have enough clothes for you.¡± He


    hung up before she could say anything. She held her phone, still out of the loop. What is he doing this


    time? A long whileter, she heaved a sigh of resignation and took out the clothes from her luggage,


    then she hung them back on the closet. The maid said, ¡°I know you two are still fighting. You know how


    the Master¡¯s temper is, but I¡¯m sure he misses you otherwise he wouldn¡¯t¡ª¡± She turned around and


    smiled. ¡°We¡¯re not fighting. We¡¯re already divorced.¡± The maid froze up. She had no idea things were


    so serious.


    While she was distracted, Leanna had already unpacked her clothes and went down with her luggage.


    She did not have to move anymore, but the movers dide with her. She paid them the money and


    asked them to go back. ¡­ At Pearson Group, Jonathan came knocking on the office¡¯s door. ¡°President


    Pearson, someone from the main house called. It¡¯s the chairman¡¯s wife¡¯s birthday this Saturday, and


    they want you to be there.¡± Aidan grunted without even looking up. ¡°Prepare the present,¡± he said.


    ¡°Yes.¡± Jonathan hesitated for a moment, and he said, ¡°Sir, Mr. Justin went to Lux Jewelry a while ago.¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    The mention of Lux Jewelry made Aidan frown. Jonathan realized that it was the wrong thing to say. He


    quickly added, ¡°It¡¯s nothing big, really. I¡¯ll be preparing the present now.¡± Aidan looked up at him. ¡°Talk,¡±


    he said curtly. ¡°Mr. Justin asked Miss McKinney to design a ne for Mrs. Pearson. It¡¯s probably a


    gift for her.¡± ¡°And she designed it?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Aidan did not speak while tapping his fingers on the desk. A


    moment of tensionter, Jonathan asked, ¡°Should I get you a date for the uing birthday banquet,


    sir?¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine with anything,¡± Aidan answered, then he went back to his work. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Jonathan left,


    and the weight on his shoulders suddenly increased. No refusal? Then, that means yes. And he¡¯s


    certainly not fine with just anything. Right, so the problem is how I should trick Leanna into going.


    Jonathan was unavable for the afternoon and the receptionist called his assistant.


    They stated that a designer from Lux Jewelry had requested to meet with President Pearson. Since


    Jonathan was responsible for managing the connection andmunication with Leanna and Lux


    Jewelry, the other assistants were at a loss for what to do and decided to head over to the president¡¯s


    office for verification. Aidan put his pen down and massaged his forehead. ¡°Let her in.¡± So, she¡¯s


    surrendering. Good. She¡¯s not a total idiot then. Someone knocked on his door ten minutester. He


    said, ¡°Come in.¡± When someone really came in, Aidan stood up and went to the couch without even


    looking at her. He was trying to intimidate the visitor. ¡°Get me a cup of coffee.¡±

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54


    The Lion, the Witch, and the Audacity of This B*tch Thedy froze. ¡°But I don¡¯t know where the pantry


    is.¡± Aidan stopped in his tracks and looked at the guest. She was a woman he had never seen before.


    He frowned. ¡°Who are you?¡± Queenie was a little anxious. Her hands were clenched tightly, and her


    cheeks were pink. ¡°I¡¯m Queenie, a designer working for Lux Jewelry. I want to thank you for¡ª¡± Aidan


    was getting a little upset at that point. ¡°You¡¯re here alone?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Queenie bit her lip.


    She had no idea how to break the ice, but then she remembered his order, and it sounded like a great


    way to get closer to him. She asked, ¡°You wanted a cup of coffee, right? I can make one right¡ª¡± ¡°No.¡±


    He sat down and crossed his legs before he asked coldly, ¡°What do you want?¡± She closed the door


    and approached him. The mere sight of him was already making her blush. ¡°I¡¯m Queenie Wojzicki.


    Do you remember me, sir?¡± ¡°No,¡± he answered coldly. Aidan¡¯s patience had run out. She bit her lip and


    exined, ¡°I was the champion of The Emerging Designer Competition three years ago. Yourpany


    sponsored my studies in Aeras. I just came home a while ago. Now, I¡¯m working as Lux Jewelry¡¯s top


    designer. I¡¯m here to thank you, sir. If it weren¡¯t for you¡ª¡± Aidan interrupted her icily, ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the


    champion be Leanna?¡± Queenie was surprised that he knew who Leanna was, but she hid her shock


    immediately. ¡°Yes. I was the runner-up, but you disqualified her. You said she was just an opportunist


    who only saw thepetition as a way to make money. I took her ce.¡± Aidan didn¡¯t say anything for


    a while. He then asked, ¡°Are you done thanking me?¡± Queenie didn¡¯t respond. ¡°Excuse me?¡±


    ¡°If you¡¯re done thanking me, you can go.¡± She was not surprised that he would chase her away. She


    knew the kind of person he was long before she came. ¡°I¡¯d love to have lunch with you, President


    Pearson. Do you have some time to spare?¡± In a look that could only be described as icy, Aidan lifted


    his eyes and said, ¡°Are all of Lux Jewelry¡¯s designers that free these days?¡± Queenie believed he felt


    she had failed the Pearson Group, which had sponsored her studies abroad, because she came out


    during working hours: ¡°I¡­ I just started working at Lux Jewelry, and now all of the projects are


    overseen by another designer; I also took a day off today¡ª¡± Aidan stood up. ¡°That¡¯s none of my


    business.¡± Queenie had expected a refusal, so she was not surprised. ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving then.


    You are wee to contact me whenever you have the time.¡± Before leaving, she mustered the


    courage to ce her business card on the coffee table. She left the office, whereupon Aidan rang the


    personal assistant office. ¡°Where¡¯s Jonathan?¡± he asked coldly. ¡°He¡¯s gone out, sir.¡± Aidan said coldly,


    ¡°Next time, if the designer of Lux Jewelryes back, tell her to leave immediately and don¡¯t bother


    me.¡± Those who should being aren¡¯t even doing so whereas those who should not be here are not


    even polite. The assistant replied nervously, ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Aidan looked at his documents in frustration and


    he called Oscar thereafter. ¡°What has Zayn been up totely?¡±


    ¡°He appears to be taking over the Bat Group¡¯s business.¡± Oscar continued, ¡°I¡¯ve heard that Old


    Master Pearson spoke with the Bats again in private, and Saturday¡¯s birthday banquet should


    confirm this.¡± Aidan was not surprised, and his tone lightened slightly. ¡°The old man¡¯s been up to


    somethingtely.¡± ¡°However, I believe Zayn does not wish to take over thepany. Should I approach


    him and offer him a helping hand?¡± ¡°Mind your own business. And tell Anna all about his itinerary.¡±


    Oscar was speechless.


    Is he crazy? ¡­ Leanna called Zoe on her way back, but she could not get through. Worried, she told


    the driver to turn around, and she texted Louis. As soon as Leanna got off the elevator, she heard


    Anthony say, ¡°Zoe, can you give me another chance? I promise to break up with her¡­¡± ¡°There¡¯s


    nothing else to say between us. Weren¡¯t you happy when you first cheated? What chance do you want


    with me now?¡± ¡°What can I do? I¡¯ve been abroad for a year and you¡¯re not with me, but don¡¯t worry,


    Zoe; I no longer have affection for her as I only like you.¡± Zoe was angry at him andughed: ¡°You don¡¯t


    want to be alone and can¡¯t control the lower half of your body, but is it my fault in the end? Get lost right


    now; I don¡¯t want to see you again!¡± ¡°I only cheated once, so what about Leanna?


    She has been a covert mistress for another man for three years. Now that Zayn is back, she turned her


    head and hooked him, and I didn¡¯t say anything to Zayn for your sake. ¡°Anthony, do you truly believe


    that you are something? Is Zayn aware of who you are without Leanna¡¯s words? Also, they have a


    marriage certificate; do you believe everyone is as vain as you?¡± ¡°If she was already married, why did


    she never bring this up? I¡¯m doing this for your own good, Zoe. Don¡¯t be deceived by Leanna as she¡¯s


    only interested in finding a putative father for the illegitimate child in her womb¡­¡± As Anthony¡¯s words


    became more offensive, Zoe was unable to take it any longer and gave him a hard smack while yelling,


    ¡°Get out of here!¡±


    When Anthony dashed out, he ran into Leanna. He halted, but was unashamed that he had talked


    badly of others and been caught by them as he only scoffed and hurried away. Zoe tossed his


    belongings away, but noticed Leanna standing there. ¡°You hear everything, Nana¡­ He is just trying to


    find someone to me, so don¡¯t take it to heart.¡± Leanna knew that he med her for causing Zoe to


    break-up with him, which was why he had criticized her. ¡°Is there anything I can help you with?¡± she


    said, smiling. Zoe shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s all packed up, and it looks like he doesn¡¯t n to take it.¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    The elevator door reopened at this point, showing Louis¡¯ figure. As soon as he received Leanna¡¯s text


    message, he sought a recement for his shift and rushed over. He looked at the pile of stuff by the


    door and asked, ¡°Are you all right?¡± Zoe said, ¡°It¡¯s okay, Louis. You just made it in time to help me take


    the trash down to the trash can. The garbage should stay where it belongs. Let¡¯s eat once we¡¯ve


    moved it!¡± He looked at the situation and realized that something must have happened. Since they


    didn¡¯t want to talk about it, he didn¡¯t ask anything either and just did his job in silence.

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55


    Pay the Price Before the dishes could be served at dinner, Zoe was a little tipsy and asked in a daze,


    ¡°How long until Louis starts school?¡± ¡°Next week.¡± ¡°Ah¡­¡± Zoe gave a hup. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to


    enter high school so quickly; the first time I saw you, you were this height, not even my shoulders; in


    the blink of an eye, you¡¯ll be old enough to call me Mom.¡± Louis was speechless. Leanna scratched her


    head. This drunkenness is a bit ridiculous. Zoe was now drunk because she eventually started singing


    and dancing. He found himself asking, ¡°Is she really okay?¡± ¡°Just let her vent.¡±


    Zoe always had a carefree demeanour whereby she did not take anything to heart. If she encountered


    something unpleasant, her disposition would be restored the following day after consuming alcohol.


    The fact that she was currently acting like this demonstrated that the pain she experienced this time


    was far more severe. After she was drunk and passed out on the table, Leanna helped Zoe up to her


    feet and said softly, ¡°Zoe, we¡¯re going home.¡± Zoe stared at her with tears in her eyes and eximed,


    ¡°Oh, I don¡¯t have a home anymore since that scumbag cheated on me¡­ Nana, I don¡¯t have a home


    anymore.


    ¡± Leannaforted her by hugging her. After Zoe cried to the point where she was close to being


    unconscious, Leanna and Louis sent her back. Once they ced her on the bed, he asked, ¡°Do you


    girls always look like this during a breakup?¡± Leanna answered, ¡°Yes, you always need to vent.¡± ¡°Then,


    why didn¡¯t you cry?¡± She froze. ¡°Huh?¡± Louis looked at her. ¡°Don¡¯t keep holding it like this; it¡¯s not good


    for the baby in your belly.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m alright, Louis.¡± ¡°I can tell that you have something on your mind. Did Aidan bother you again


    recently?¡± Leanna gently shook her head andughed. ¡°What kind of trouble could he have looking for


    me?¡± She was only¡­ After all, Anthony¡¯s remarks continued to linger in her heart. Indeed, what he said


    was correct. A marriage that cannot be disclosed to others is fundamentally equivalent to having a


    mistress who cannot reveal her identity. The only distinction is that the other mistress has money to


    take whilst she merely suffers all day. Being pregnant is so annoying because it makes one emotional.


    Leanna said, ¡°It¡¯ste, Louis. You should go home. I can take care of her myself.¡± Louis wanted to say


    something, but Zoe woke up and hurled in the bathroom.


    N?velDrama.Org ? 2024.


    He sighed. ¡°I¡¯ll be going now, but call me if you need anything.¡± Leanna spent the night with Zoe and


    Anthony returned once, but he couldn¡¯t get in since Zoe had changed the passcode. As a result, he had


    to knock on the door, to which Zoe wanted to dash out with a kitchen knife, but Leanna stopped her.


    After Zoe finally fell asleep at around midnight, Leanna began to react to her pregnancy whereby she


    threw up many times. Such a reaction was making things intolerable for her. She sat on the couch for a


    while and after some time, she thought of the culprit. Then, she grabbed Zoe¡¯s house phone and


    dialled a number.


    The call was answered after several rings and Leanna preemptively asked, ¡°President Pearson, are


    you awake?¡± A man¡¯s deep, husky voice could be heard over the phone: ¡°Hm?¡± ¡°Let me tell you a joke.


    Once upon a time, there was a toothpick walking down the road. He walked and walked and saw a


    hedgehog. Then, he¡ª¡± ¡°Leanna.¡± In a raspy voice, the man interrupted her, ¡°You can¡¯t sleep?¡± ¡°Thank


    you for exposing the scumbag¡¯s true face. My friend had too much to drink and threw up all night long. I


    have to apany her.¡± Aidan stayed silent. Just when she thought Leanna was going to hang up the


    phone, he said softly, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to tell your jokes?¡± She had already forgotten what her joke was


    after he interrupted her. Then, she inquired, ¡°Do you have any jokes you want to tell, President


    Pearson?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°What about a bedtime story?¡± Come on. At least tell one to your son and make him


    sleep. ¡°No.¡± It was the same answer. Leanna could hear that he was almost awake.


    Goalpleted. Then, she yawned. ¡°Forget it. I¡¯m tired. Good night, President Pearson.¡± She hung up


    before he could say anything. She even avoided returning the receiver to the cradle just to keep him


    from calling back, after which she slept peacefully on the couch. The following morning, when Leanna


    awoke, Zoe was still asleep. She made the hangover cure and poured it in a thermos. Then, she left a


    message for Zoe and made breakfast before going to Lux Magazine. As soon as she helped Zoe file


    for absence leave, she heard colleagues discussing that President Pearson of Pearson Group had


    arrived.


    Was this miserable man so petty to this degree? Didn¡¯t she call him in the middle of the night yesterday


    to wake him up? He didn¡¯t even care about hispany and came here first thing in the morning to


    severely chastise her! Just as Leanna tried to sneak away, Harvey¡¯s assistant came up to her and said,


    ¡°Miss McK, Mr. Mancini asked you to go to the conference room.¡± Leanna pressed her temples


    because she felt that she waspelled to pay for his own stubbornness. In the conference room,


    Aidan took a seat in the chair in stoess without any sign of emotion. Harvey sat there and realized


    for the first time that it would be arduous for him to back down from the scenario. It would have been


    alright if he was unaware of Leanna¡¯s rtionship with President Pearson, but he was aware of the


    connection. As a result, this was the conflict that the couple had to deal with. If President Pearson


    obtained the position in an elegant manner, McK would still be hesitant to ept it, which gave rise to a


    problematic overall situation. He had a feeling that this conference room would soon turn into a


    battlefield. Soon after, there was a knock on the conference room door.


    Leanna pushed the door open and deliberately disregarded the other person inside. ¡°Mr. Mancini, are


    you looking for me?¡± Harvey coughed and then introduced in a respectful manner, ¡°This is President


    Pearson of the Pearson Group.¡± Leanna looked at him. ¡°Hello, President Pearson.¡± Aidan gave her a


    nce but said nothing. This miserable man is very good at drawing attention to himself. ¡°It¡¯s like this,


    McK. In the previous show, Pearson Group provided Lux Magazine with a spot where he could provide


    support.


    President Pearson is here about this matter.¡± Leanna stayed silent for a few moments, then she said,


    ¡°Thanks for the offer, President Pearson. I think my performance was mediocre at best. You should


    give that chance to someone with more potential.¡± Aidan retorted coolly, ¡°If you know your skills are


    mediocre, then that¡¯s all the more reason to improve yourself.¡± She thought, Who in the heck said my


    skills are average? He continued, ¡°Nobody¡¯s good enough to get this slot except Daphne. Including


    you. I don¡¯t want to give this slot to mediocre designers, but I have a promise to fulfill, get it?¡±

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56


    Is It Worth It? Aidan was telling her that he did not want to give her that chance. He was only doing it


    because of a promise he made. In other words, he was telling her to be grateful. Leanna refused to


    budge, however, as she replied indignantly, ¡°If you¡¯re so unhappy with how we did at the show, I think


    nobody will object if you rescind your promise, will they?¡± Aidan turned his sights to Harvey. ¡°Is that


    what you think as well, Mr. Mancini?¡± he asked coldly. Mancini felt himself sweating, and heughed


    dryly.


    ¡°It¡¯s not as serious as McK made it out to be. But if you do think nobody¡¯s up to par, then it¡¯d be


    questionable if we still get the slot in the end. Still, thank you for giving us and our designers a chance,


    sir.¡± ¡°Somebody here doesn¡¯t sound grateful, Mr. Mancini, though,¡± Aidan said indifferently. Can¡¯t you


    two just close the door and argue slowly when you get home? Leanna refused to waste any more time.


    ¡°Thanks for the offer, President Pearson, but I¡¯m not good enough for it.¡± She turned to Harvey. ¡°If there


    is nothing else, Mr. Mancini, I will go first.¡± Aidan stood up with a snort after she left.


    ¡°Is everyone here that arrogant?¡± Harvey had no idea what to say to that, so he kept quiet. Queenie


    had been waiting for a long time. She approached Aidan the moment he came out. ¡°We meet again,


    President Pearson,¡± she said sheepishly. Aidan looked impatient, frowned, and asked the woman


    blocking the way, ¡°Have we met?¡± She was stunned for a while before saying, ¡°I went to your office


    yesterday. I¡¯m Lux Magazine¡¯s designer, do you remember?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± he said coolly as he almost forgot


    that Leanna was not the only designer in thepany. He turned to Harvey. ¡°She can have that slot.¡±


    Harvey did not realise what had happened just yet. ¡°What?¡± Aidan, on the other hand, didn¡¯t appear to


    want to repeat his words and departed with his long legs. Queenie was as bbergasted as Harvey as


    well. Slot? What slot? Harvey massaged his temples a few momentster. Well, this won¡¯t be easy to


    settle. Aidan is providing us with top resources for designers, but McK refused him again. He got mad


    and Queenie bumped into him, so he tossed everything to her like they¡¯re trash. But he told me she can


    have it, so I guess I have to do this. He told Queenie, ¡°Come to my office.¡± ¡­


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Leanna went downstairs right away. Just when she was about to get a taxi, someone said, ¡°Leanna.¡±


    She looked up at the guy who called out to her. ¡°Why are you¡ª¡± Zayn smiled. ¡°I¡¯m here to see you.¡±


    ¡°Do you need anything?¡± ¡°It¡¯s almost lunchtime. Wanna get something to eat together?¡± Leanna


    reflexively refused. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡ª¡± He interrupted, ¡°I need to talk to you. It won¡¯t take long, and I¡¯ll


    leave as soon as I¡¯m done.¡± She had no reason to refuse after he told her that. As a result, she nodded.


    ¡°Okay then.¡± The first thing Aidan saw when he came out of the elevator was Leanna leaving with


    Zayn.


    He said coldly, ¡°Well, she¡¯s married to him now. She can have anything she wants.¡± Jonathan was


    standing behind him and took a few steps back. Aidan said, ¡°Call Anna.¡± He turned around and headed


    to the ce where they were heading. Zayn picked a quiet restaurant for the little chat they were about


    to have. After he made the orders, he rified, ¡°These are your favorites, aren¡¯t they?¡± Leanna pursed


    her lips as she wondered what she should say. She could guess what he wanted to tell her. After the


    waiter was gone, Zayn said, ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking about this, Leanna. I keep asking myself how I feel


    about you and whether I can take care of you.¡± Leanna had to stop him, ¡°Zayn¡ª¡± Zayn interrupted her,


    ¡°Let me finish. I¡¯ve asked myself if I mind your past. I¡¯ve thought about it for a long time, and this is my


    answer. I know what you¡¯re worried about, Leanna. I won¡¯t force you to choose. If you want the child,


    then I promise I¡¯ll treat him like he¡¯s my own.¡± Sheughed. ¡°Is that really worth it?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the point. The point is I like you. I¡¯ve lost you for three years, and I don¡¯t want that to happen


    again.¡± He was not there when she needed him three years ago and he had no idea what happened.


    He could not change the past, so he wanted to cherish the present and future. Leanna said slowly, ¡°You


    might not mind, but what about your parents? Do they think so too?¡± Most families in their society


    would forbid their sons from dating a woman who had another man¡¯s kid, let alone an aristocratic one


    like the Bats. ¡°I¡¯ll talk to them,¡± Zayn answered in a gentle but firm manner. Leanna shook her head


    with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s over between us. You don¡¯t have to go that far.¡± ¡°It¡¯s never over, Leanna.


    We¡¯ve never even started.¡± She felt sadness bubbling within her that filled her eyes with tears. Zayn


    was a terrific man. She would date him if she could turn back time. s, she had no such power. They


    could never go back in time and change anything. Anna hade to the restaurant and the sight of


    Leanna and Zayn together made her furious. She was about to storm in when someone stopped her.


    ¡°Hello, Miss Anna.¡± Anna was already blinded by rage and barked, ¡°Piss off!¡± Jonathan made way for


    her, but he said, ¡°Mr. Pearson is here as well.


    Keep your anger in check, Miss Anna.¡± Anna clenched her fists and calmed down a lot. Zayn had been


    avoiding her like the gue. She had to avoid acting like a scorned woman or she would never bridge


    the gap between them. Jonathan was relieved to see Anna calm down so much, after which he


    retreated into the corner. He looked at the man who was skimming the menu. ¡°She calmed down, sir.¡± ¡°I


    see.¡±

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57


    Only I Can Decide Leanna was about to leave, and then she saw Annaing to her. Goddammit. Is


    everyone in their family a stalker? Anna approached Zayn, ignoring Leanna. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you take my


    call, Zayn?¡± Zayn was a gentle soul, but even he was annoyed by Anna¡¯s incessant stalking. Over the


    last couple of days, no matter where he went, she would appear not long after for some reason.


    He said coldly, ¡°Miss Pearson, I don¡¯t want you in my sights. Get it?¡± Anna¡¯s face fell and she red at


    Leanna. ¡°It¡¯s because of her, isn¡¯t it? You were nicer to me before you came back. That b*tch¡ª¡±


    ¡°Enough!¡± Zayn stood up. ¡°Anna, stop acting like a child! I¡¯ve had enough of your tantrums!¡± ¡°Tantrums?


    But we¡¯ve met each other¡¯s parents! We¡¯ll be engaged sooner orter! I should¡ª¡± He replied coldly, ¡°I¡¯ll


    never get engaged with you.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Please know your ce, Miss Pearson. You don¡¯t want to embarrass your family.¡± Before Anna could


    answer, Aidan said coldly, ¡°I see you hate being disturbed as well. So, why are you doing the same


    thing to Leanna, Mr. Bat?¡± The voice of Aidan made Leanna¡¯s heart skip a beat. He¡¯s here? Since


    when? And how much did he hear? Anna was about to bristle, but she calmed down. ¡°Hi, Aidan,¡± she


    whispered. Aidan gazed at her before he turned his attention to Zayn. Zayn pursed his lips and stared


    at him as well. Jonathan was standing far, far away, but he could still feel sparks flying in the air. Zayn


    said, ¡°I thought you already divorced her, Mr. Pearson. Why are you here? Do you have something in


    mind?¡± Aidan said nothing. He licked his lips as the look in his eyes changed. God. Why¡¯d I even jump


    into this feud anyway? And why¡¯d Aidan show up out of nowhere? Leanna whispered, ¡°Let¡¯s go, Zayn.¡±


    Zayn looked away. ¡°Okay.¡± They were about to leave and Anna wanted to chase after them, but Aidan


    hissed, ¡°Hold it right there.¡± She turned around. ¡°But Aidan¡­¡± She was in a hurry. Aidan looked at her.


    ¡°This is your final warning. Don¡¯t insult Leanna and don¡¯t give her an attitude either.¡± He went around


    her and left the restaurant. Leanna and Zayn had left the restaurant. Then, she remained silent for a


    moment and bade goodbye, ¡°I¡¯ll be going now.¡± ¡°Leanna.¡± He stopped her. ¡°Please consider my


    proposal.¡± She smiled at him. ¡°I¡¯m honored that you¡¯re still on my side even now, but a lot has


    happened over the years. Sometimes I wish nothing ever happened.¡± A long silenceter, Zayn asked,


    ¡°Leanna, do you like Aidan?¡± ¡°Sorry?¡± Leanna froze. She had no answer for that. However, her silence


    was as good an answer for him as any. He smiled because he could finally let go.


    ¡°I see. I won¡¯t bring this up again, but I¡¯ll still be your friend. That will never change.¡± A long timeter,


    she said, ¡°Thank you.¡± ¡­ Leanna went to Zoe¡¯s ce after they went their separate ways. She texted


    her a few times, but Zoe did not answer. Probably still asleep. She leaned against the car window,


    spacing out at the scenery outside. Leanna was out of it all the way. She was still thinking about Zayn¡¯s


    question and almost missed a step on the staircase.


    By the time Leanna arrived at Zoe¡¯s ce, she stood outside for a few moments and smacked her


    cheeks to sober up. Zoe had changed the passcode ever since she found out about Anthony¡¯s affair.


    They unlocked the door with her fingerprint the night before, so she did not know what the passcode


    was. Leanna rang the doorbell a few times to wake Zoe up. She might not hear that. She took her


    phone out and was about to call Zoe, but someone held her wrist before she could make the call.


    Aidan then pinned her against the wall, and her eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°What are you doing?¡± He


    had a dangerous look in his eyes while he held both her wrists with one hand and raised her chin with


    the other. Then, he squinted. ¡°Zayn didn¡¯t give you a ride home?¡± What the hell is he talking about?


    Leanna struggled to break free. ¡°None of your business!¡± ¡°Pity. He should have taken you home


    himself.¡± ¡°Why you¡ªhmmph!¡± He pressed his lips against hers and chomped down on her lips. Leanna


    cried from the pain, but she could not escape his grasp.


    She was too weak. Is he mad? Aidan noticed her tears and he loosened up a little. He nibbled on her


    lips and slowly deepened the kiss. Zoe suddenly opened the door. Her hair was unkempt and she


    looked groggy, but when she looked up, what she saw shocked her. He stopped the kiss and shot her


    an icy re with a hint of impatience. A few secondster, she said stiffly, ¡°Whoops. You guys can go


    ahead.¡± She closed the door, after which Leanna pushed Aidan away with tears that swam in her eyes.


    ¡°Are you crazy, Aidan?¡± Aidan wiped the blood off his lips and slowly looked at her. ¡°I gave you a lot of


    chances to turn back.¡±


    But you smacked it away every single time. ¡°I don¡¯t need your stupid chances. We¡¯re divorced! Which


    part of ¡®divorce¡¯ don¡¯t you get? You don¡¯t get to kiss me without my consent!¡± A frown of displeasure


    furrowed his brows. ¡°But you brought the divorce up, not me.¡± ¡°Yeah, and you signed the papers, you


    prick!¡± ¡°And I am taking that decision back,¡± he said without missing a beat. Leanna froze. She did not


    expect him to give her that answer. Her tears hung on her eyshes for a moment, as if they too were


    too shocked to fall. Aidan continued coldly, ¡°Only I get to end this marriage, not you.¡±


    ¡°Sorry, but we¡¯re way past that point now,¡± she said as she was starting topose herself again. He


    pursed her lips. He was about to say something, but Zoe opened the door again. She had woken up


    completely and pulled Leanna inside before Aidan would do anything. Then, she closed the door and


    locked it. ¡°Are you alright, Leanna?¡± she whispered as she shot Leanna a nce. Leanna¡¯s hair was


    unkempt while her eyes were red and her lips were swollen. She did not look alright at all. She shook


    her head. She wanted to say something, but she was too tired to do so.

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58


    Fight Meanwhile, at Patheon Club, Oscar walked into the private room to find Aidan nursing a drink


    alone. The room was so silent he could almost hear a pin drop. He sat down opposite Aidan and


    poured himself a ss as he asked, ¡°What happened?¡± Aidan said nothing. When Oscar spotted


    Aidan¡¯s busted lip, he snorted. He got the picture without having to ask any further. They drank in


    silence for some time before Oscar asked atst, ¡°Is it that hard for you to admit that you like her?¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan¡¯s hand froze mid-air, still holding his ss. He threw Oscar an icy stare. ¡°What are you talking


    about?¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter what I¡¯m saying. It matters what your heart¡¯s thinking. You keep saying that


    you hate your ex-wife, but everything you do screams otherwise.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not true.¡± ¡°Then, why did you


    get someone to keep an eye on Zayn Bat?¡± After a pause, Aidan stated coolly, ¡°She tried her


    hardest to get a divorce so that she could marry into the Bat Family. Do you think I should just let


    her get her way?¡± Oscar had nothing to say in response. There was no use trying to convince someone


    who was lying to themselves.


    ¡­ As soon as Anna returned to the Pearson Family Estate, she went straight to her room and started a


    rampage. Soon, the floor was littered with fragile items. The servants gathered outside the door. None


    of them had the courage to go in to stop her, so they decided to inform Sienna about it. Sienna frowned


    when she heard what the servants told her. ¡°Who pissed her off this time?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure. It started as


    soon as Miss Anna got home.¡± ¡°Is Old Master Pearson back yet?¡± ¡°Not yet.¡± Sienna nodded in


    acknowledgment and got to her feet. ¡°I¡¯ll go and take a look. Get a few servants to clean up her room.¡±


    Anna¡¯s temper had grown wilder over the past few years. When it came down to it, she was not truly a


    Pearson, so Gordon was less than keen to put up with her. He probably would have chased her out of


    the house by now, if not for the marriage alliance with the Bats. When Sienna came to Anna¡¯s room


    and saw the horrid mess, she felt a headacheing on. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± The moment Anna saw


    her, she began to wail. ¡°Aunt Sienna¡­¡± she called out aggrievedly. ¡°Stop crying and tell me what


    happened.¡±


    ¡°I went to see Zayn today, but that woman was pestering him again.¡± Sienna¡¯s expression soured at


    once. ¡°What woman?¡± ¡°That¡­ Aidan won¡¯t let me say,¡± Anna mumbled. ¡°You¡¯re not going to tell me just


    because he said not to? Don¡¯te crying to me then.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll tell you! I¡¯ll tell you, Aunt Sienna.¡± Anna bit


    her lip and added, ¡°It was Leanna McKinney.¡± ¡°Why was she pestering him?¡± Sienna frowned. ¡°I don¡¯t


    know why¡­ Ever since she divorced Aidan, she¡¯s been hanging around Zayn all the time. I don¡¯t know


    what¡¯s gotten into Aidan either. I just said some things about that woman and he scolded me for it.¡±


    ¡°They¡¯re birds of a feather,¡± Sienna snorted. ¡°Aunt Sienna¡ª¡± ¡°Enough of that,¡± Sienna cut her off.


    ¡°Anna, you¡¯re not a little girl anymore. You should learn to hold your temper. How do you expect Zayn


    to like you if you continue to act this way once you¡¯re married to him?¡± Anna¡¯s eyes lit up at once.


    ¡°Does this mean you¡¯ll help me, Aunt Sienna?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t concern yourself with all these unnecessary


    things. Just focus on preparing for your future wedding.¡± ¡°Thank you, Aunt Sienna!¡± After exiting Anna¡¯s


    room, Sienna instructed the servants who stood in wait outside, ¡°Hurry up and get her room all cleaned


    up.¡±


    Sienna was just about to leave when Justin popped up from around the corner. He asked softly, ¡°Mom,


    are you really nning on marrying Anna off to the Bats?¡± ¡°Under the circumstances, do you think


    he¡¯d agree if I decide against the marriage now?¡± Sienna asked. ¡°Aidan¡¯s the best candidate to be


    the nextpany president. I¡¯ll talk to Dad about this.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t you understand? He doesn¡¯t want to find


    a sessor. He wants to find a puppet who would do his bidding. You don¡¯t need to trouble yourself


    with this.


    Aidan¡¯s just a puppet that is no longer under hismand. He doesn¡¯tpare to you at all.¡± Justin


    had a helpless expression on his face. ¡°Mom, no matter what, Aidan is still my brother.¡± ¡°The likes of


    him? He¡¯s not worthy,¡± Sienna sneered. He could only sigh. ¡°Don¡¯t bother yourself with all these. Go


    back to your room and rest,¡± she said. ¡­ Leanna sat wordlessly on the couch while Zoe sat across


    from her. She cupped her hands around the cup as she threw furtive nces at Leanna, but she did


    not say anything either. It seemed like forever before Leanna finally came out of her spell. ¡°Are you


    feeling any better?¡± she asked slowly. Zoe replied at once, ¡°Yes, a lot better. My head doesn¡¯t hurt at all


    after drinking the hangover cure you prepared for me.


    ¡± Leanna seemed to be caught up in her thoughts once more as she fell silent again. Zoe scratched her


    head. She could not make head or tail of the situation, so she did not know what to say to Leanna.


    After a few minutes, Leanna said, ¡°Since you¡¯re fine, I¡¯ll head back now. Call me if you need anything.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I go with you?¡± Zoe was worried about her. ¡°Anthony¡¯s going to keep showing up every


    couple of days, so I¡¯ll get some peace and quiet if I stayed with you instead.¡± Leanna gave it some


    thought and figured that Zoe had a point. ¡°Sure.¡± Once they arrived at Leanna¡¯s home, Leanna sat


    down at her desk to work on her designs. She worked for hours without moving an inch. As for Zoe,


    she plopped herself down on the couch and had a few snacks before falling asleep.


    Once she woke up, she started eating again, and the cycle repeated itself. At midnight, Zoe was


    startled awake by the sound of a phone ringing in the study. She watched as Leanna¡¯s expression


    changed as soon as she answered the phone. Leanna grabbed her jacket and charged out of the


    study. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Zoe asked. ¡°Louis is at the police station.¡± ¡°Oh, crap. What happened? I¡¯ll go


    with you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll go by myself.


    On the call, they said that Louis was the victim, so it¡¯s probably nothing major.¡± ¡°Okay then. Call me if


    you need anything,¡± Zoe said. Leanna rushed out after nodding in acknowledgment. Once she arrived


    at the police station, she saw a few rough-looking men sitting on a bench. All of them looked up with


    unfriendly gazes once they heard someoneing in. Louis was seated not too far away, and his


    handsome face was covered in bruises. She gasped as she walked over. ¡°What happened?¡± He


    frowned once he saw her. ¡°Why did they call you?¡± ¡°I¡¯m your sister. Who else are they going to call?¡±


    Just then, a police officer walked over with a notebook in hand. ¡°Are you Louis McKinney¡¯s next-of-


    kin?¡± Leanna turned around and nodded. ¡°I¡¯m his sister. What happened?¡±


    ¡°Those bunch of men rushed into your brother¡¯s workce and they got into a fight that turned


    physical,¡± the police officer stated. ¡°It¡¯s up to you now to see how you n on resolving this. Do you


    wish to settle it out of court, or do you want to press charges?¡± Louis got up all of a sudden. ¡°Let¡¯s just


    leave it. We don¡¯t need to press charges.¡± ¡°So sorry about this, but could you please give me a moment


    to discuss this with him?¡± Leanna said to the police officer. He nodded and walked off. Leanna pulled


    Louis aside. ¡°Louis, tell me everything that happened, and don¡¯t leave anything out.¡±

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59


    Picked Off the Streets After receiving 300 thousand from Aidan, Jethro indulged in all the luxuries of


    life. He got himself all spiffed up and strutted about proudly as his self-esteem soared thanks to all the


    ttery he received. It was right around this time that he heard about a business opportunity.


    300 thousand was a pittancepared to Jethro¡¯s greed, so once he heard about the possibility of


    making millions from it, he immediately handed all his money over. He still needed a few dozen grand,


    so he decided to get in touch with some loan sharks and offered to partner with them. Clearly, this was


    a trap. Once the others managed to squeeze everyst drop of cash out of him, the loan sharks came


    knocking on his door again. Jethro caught wind of it and went into hiding once more. Somehow, the


    loan sharks found out about Louis working at a convenience store, so they came looking for him


    instead.


    There was no way that Louis would give them any money, so they became physical. After hearing


    everything, Leanna could feel the veins along her forehead throbbing violently. She did have a feeling


    that something bad would happen¡­ He frowned at her silence. ¡°You don¡¯t need to bother with this. His


    matters have nothing to do with us.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not true, boy. Isn¡¯t it a given to repay a debt? How can you


    say you¡¯re not going to bother with this?¡± A man called out from behind them, and Leanna¡¯s grip


    tightened around Louis¡¯ arm as she turned around to look at him. This man was the same one that


    stormed into their house three years ago and forced her to make a decision while clutching Louis¡¯ arm.


    Louis recognized him too. The air around him seemed to freeze as he tried to rush at the man, but


    Leanna held him back. Ron Sedley gave Leanna a sly grin. ¡°What a coincidence.


    I never thought I¡¯d see you again.¡± Her lips thinned into a straight line without responding. Louis shoved


    Leanna behind him. There was a menacing expression on his handsome face as he said, ¡°Go and look


    for Jethro if you want your money back.¡± ¡°Oh? Look who it is that got his panties in a wad. So, you¡¯re


    Jethro¡¯s son, huh? You¡¯ve grown so much taller after three years.¡± Ron turned to the bunch of


    hooligans behind him and said, ¡°Guys, take a look. That¡¯s a state-level top scorer over there! You


    should get some of his good luck.¡± The bunch of hooligans howled withughter. The noise caught the


    attention of the police officer, who walked over andmanded, ¡°Stop your ruckus, all of you! Where


    do you think you are?!¡± Ron waved his hand and asked his men to quieten down before saying, ¡°Rx,


    officer.


    We¡¯re just congratting the top scorer in the entire state over here.¡± After so many years of running a


    loansharking business, all the police stations in the area had a standing record of him. The police


    officer eyed him and warned, ¡°Don¡¯t get coy with me. Get to the point.¡± ¡°Sure thing, officer. It¡¯s a private


    matter, so we¡¯ll settle it ourselves. We won¡¯t be needing your help.¡± However, Leanna spoke up. ¡°I want


    to press charges.¡± When everyone turned to look at her, she repeated, ¡°I want to press charges against


    those men whoid a hand on my brother.¡± Ron¡¯s expression hardened. He was about to speak when


    she added, ¡°You want money, right? I can give it to you, but I won¡¯t just let you get away with hitting


    him.¡± He broke out into a smile at once. ¡°That¡¯s reasonable.¡±


    The bunch of hooligans spent all their time in and out of fights anyway, so spending a few nights at the


    detention center was nothing to them. ¡°When are you going to give me the money?¡± Ron asked. ¡°Three


    days. I need time to gather enough money.¡± ¡°Sure. I like how cooperative you are. It¡¯s a deal.¡± Louis


    grabbed Leanna. ¡°You can¡¯t give him the money!¡± She muttered in reply, ¡°Louis, stay out of this.¡± Ron


    nced at Louis and snorted. ¡°Little boy, your sister is a lot more decisive than you are. If I were you, I


    would¡¯ve rather have my hand broken than to let her¡ª¡± Bang! Louis¡¯ fist crashed right into Ron¡¯s face.


    All of Ron¡¯s men stood up at once, but Ron waved them down. He massaged his face and said,


    ¡°Fellows, no need to get so worked up. This little top scorer over here is just a coward who hides


    behind his sister¡¯s back. It¡¯s no biggie to let him vent a little.¡± Leanna grabbed Louis once more and


    said calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s go, Louis.¡±


    Louis was starting school next week, so she did not want things to blow out of proportion. After leaving


    the police station, he was sullen and did not speak. She gged a taxi down and asked the driver to


    head for the nearest hospital. After that, she said to Louis, ¡°We need to get your injuries checked, and


    take an x-ray too, to see if you¡¯re hurt anywhere else.¡± He stared out the window for quite some time


    before asking, ¡°Are you really going to give them the money?¡± Leanna snorted. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m that


    dumb? I¡¯m not a doormat. In any case, where would I get all that money?¡± There was no way they were


    going to be able to get away tonight if she did not agree to give them the money. Louis unclenched his


    fists. ¡°What are we going to do now?¡± He was not worried about himself, but since those men could find


    out where he worked, sooner orter, they would know where she was staying too. ¡°First, we need to


    find Jethro.¡± ¡°He has obviously gone into hiding. How can we find him?¡±


    After so many years of dodging debt collectors, Jethro had be quite the expert at staying in hiding.


    As long as he holed himself up somewhere, there was no way of finding him, not unless he showed up


    on his own ord. ¡°I¡¯ll find a way,¡± Leanna said softly. ¡°But¡ª¡± ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about these


    things, okay? It¡¯ll be fine. I can handle it. You can just focus on school.¡± Louis had a grim expression on


    his face since there was nothing he could say. Ron was right; Louis could not do anything when it came


    to money, and he had to rely on Leanna to carry the burden herself. At least something was different


    this time.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Unlike three years ago, this time, he had time to figure something out. After a while, Louis suggested,


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you go home first? I can go to the hospital alone.¡± Leanna was exhausted, so she epted


    his suggestion. He asked the driver to drop Leanna off at her house before directing him to Patheon


    Club. ¡­ When Leanna arrived home, Zoe asked at once, ¡°What happened? Is Louis alright?¡± ¡°He was


    injured a little, but he¡¯s on his way to the hospital now.¡± ¡°What on earth happened?¡± Leanna took a


    deep breath and said, ¡°Jethro got himself into a pile of debt and ran off again.¡± Zoe cursed under her


    breath as soon as she heard that. In all her years, she had never met anyone as vile as Jethro who


    threw his children to the wolves time and time again. He was not fit to even be considered human, let


    alone a father. Sometimes, she truly wondered whether Leanna and Louis were just children that the


    man picked off the streets somewhere.


    ¡°Zoe, I don¡¯t feel too good. I¡¯m going to go to bed,¡± Leanna said. Zoe snapped out of her thoughts.


    ¡°Yeah, go ahead.¡± Once Leanna returned to her room, she climbed into bed and stared at the ceiling as


    a feeling of helplessness washed all over her. Although she told Louis that she would find a way to lure


    Jethro out of hiding, deep down inside, she waspletely at a loss. Even if she managed to lure him


    out this time, what about next time? Jethro¡¯s greed was insatiable. There would never be an end to this.


    Plus, if they did manage to lure him out, would she be able to stand and watch as the loan sharks beat


    him half to death?

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60


    Get It Over With ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Leave this to me. I¡¯ll get a good price.¡± Louis nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡± The


    manager of Patheon Club said, ¡°You don¡¯t need to be so courteous with me, but¡­ are you sure you


    won¡¯t regret this?¡± ¡°What¡¯s there to regret? Compared to this, money¡¯s more important right now.¡± The


    manager sighed. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll get it done as soon as I can.¡± ¡°Alright,¡± Louis said before turning to leave.


    The manager moved away, but when he spotted the man standing nearby, he walked over at once. ¡°Mr.


    Pearson.¡±


    Aidan stood there quietly, dressed in a in white shirt. His hands were stuck in his pants pockets as


    he stared in the direction where Louis had gone. ¡°What does he need money for?¡± he asked inly.


    The manager was breaking out in cold sweat as he recalled that Louis had hit Aidan before, but he


    could not leave Aidan¡¯s question unanswered. ¡°His family seems to have run into some trouble.¡± ¡°How


    much does he want?¡± ¡°150 thousand¡­¡± Aidan snorted. He forgot how greedy that entire family was as


    it was always at least six figures.


    He said nothing, and the manager¡¯s heart was about to beat out of his chest in silence. Eventually, the


    manager said, ¡°I¡¯ll get going now if there¡¯s nothing else, Mr. Pearson.¡± ¡°Go on.¡± Once the manager


    walked off, Oscar appeared from the side. ¡°You¡¯re not going to ask what happened?¡± ¡°Not interested,¡±


    Aidan retorted coolly as he walked off. After leaving Patheon Club, Aidan received a call from a number


    not on his contacts list. He frowned and answered the call, only to hear Leanna¡¯s careful voice. ¡°Are


    you busy right now, Mr. Pearson?¡± ¡°Say what you want.¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Leanna hesitated for the longest time


    about what to say.


    The moment she heard Aidan¡¯s icy voice, she regretted making the call. Aidan got impatient. ¡°Why


    don¡¯t I say it for you?¡± Leanna was startled. ¡°Huh? I¡ª¡± ¡°How much do you want? 150 thousand? 300


    thousand?¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what I meant. I just wanted¡ª¡± He cut her off. ¡°Leanna McKinney, did I do


    something today to let you assume that you cane to me and ask for money?¡± She fell silent. She


    did not know what to say. ¡°You¡¯re not an eighteen-year-old girl who¡¯s innocent and gullible.


    You don¡¯t think that a kiss proves that I like you, right?¡± Aidan questioned coolly. ¡°We¡¯ve slept together


    so many times now. If I was ever going to like you, I would¡¯ve by now, don¡¯t you think?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t think


    that,¡± Leanna said tersely. ¡°Good. There¡¯s no point even if you had such thoughts.¡± Aidan ended the


    call at once. Less than two minutester, Jonathan was put out of his misery when he received a text


    from Aidan telling him that he did not need a femalepanion anymore. This¡­ Did they get into a


    fight again? ¡­


    Leanna clutched her phone and sat by the window for the longest time. She had only meant to ask if


    she could dy this month¡¯s repayment to next month instead. Who would have known that he was in


    such a foul mood? She had not even said anything to set him off, but he exploded at her and assumed


    the worst of her. She would have to be insane before she would even think that he liked her. After


    a while, Leanna called Jethro, but sure enough, the call did not go through. She sent him a text before


    tossing her phone aside and closing her eyes to rest. After waiting for three days, she finally received a


    call from him and he seemed to be using some sort ofndline. He sounded frantic but fairly pleased as


    he asked, ¡°My beloved daughter, do you mean it? Are you going to give me some money?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. Come and take it tomorrow.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s not wait until tomorrow. Where are you staying? I¡¯lle to


    you now.¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t gathered it yet. Come tomorrow, or else, don¡¯te at all.¡± ¡°Sure, sure. Tomorrow


    it is,¡± Jethro agreed at once. Leanna gave him an address and hung up at once without wasting any


    more of her breath. The next day, as soon as she walked out of her door, she saw Louis standing in


    front of her. ¡°I¡¯ming with you,¡± Louis dered. ¡°Don¡¯t do anything reckless, okay? No matter what,


    don¡¯t get into a fight with them.¡± ¡°Got it.¡± Once they arrived at the agreed-upon location, Ron and his


    men were already waiting for them. When he spotted Leanna, he got up and asked, ¡°Did you bring the


    money?¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    She took a card out. ¡°It¡¯s in here.¡± Ron stuck his hand out to take it from her, but she said, ¡°Hang on.


    We need to wait for one more person.¡± He frowned. ¡°Are you trying to pull some kind of trick on me?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s just the two of us. What tricks can we pull?¡± ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll give you ten minutes.¡± Leanna stood


    there in silence with a cold expression. Ron could not help himself from scrutinizing her. Three years


    ago, when he went to collect Jethro¡¯s debt, she left a deep impression on him. She was beautiful,


    intelligent, and quick on her feet. She would have had a bright future ahead of her had she not ended


    up with such a father. It was a pity. A few minutester, the door opened and Jethro called out


    cheerfully, ¡°Leanna, the money¡­¡±


    He paused when he spotted the men, after which his expression changed and he immediately turned to


    run. Ron reacted at once. ¡°Get him!¡± Jethro had not gone very far before he was pushed to the ground


    and given a kick in the abdomen. Once he lost all the fight in him, he was carted off into the private


    room. As soon as he was ushered in, he began to yell, ¡°Leanna McKinney, you rotten b*tch! I¡¯m the one


    who raised you, but you worked with these guys to set a trap for me?! I¡¯m¡­¡± He received a punch to


    the stomach before he could finish his sentence. Ron looked over at Leanna.


    ¡°Ready to hand over the money now?¡± She passed the card over to him with a straight face. He was


    about to get one of his men to check the amount inside the card when she said, ¡°Don¡¯t bother checking.


    There¡¯s only 7,500 in there.¡± Ron¡¯s expression darkened at once. ¡°Are you toying with me?¡± ¡°That¡¯s all


    the money I could gather.¡± Leanna nced at Jethro. ¡°He¡¯s the one who owes you money. I lured him


    out for you now, so shouldn¡¯t you be asking him for money?¡± Ron and Jethro did not expect that this


    was her n as Jethro began to curse at once.


    His mouth was so foul that even Ron became annoyed. Jethro settled down after taking a few more


    punches. Leanna said coolly, ¡°If you don¡¯t want the 7,500, fine. Just beat him up and get it over with. I¡¯ll


    finally get some peace back in my life.¡± ¡°Little girl, that¡¯s not how it works.¡± Ron narrowed his eyes and


    stepped closer to her. Louis stepped in front of Leanna and red at Ron.


    He was half a head taller than Ron, which made Ron seem a lot less intimidating inparison.


    Without even turning to look, he called out to his men, ¡°Beat him up.¡± At once, the room was filled with


    Jethro¡¯s agonized cries. Leanna forced herself to not see what was happening, but she heard all his


    screams nheless. She felt a surge of nausea, but she clenched his fists and bit her lip, forcing


    herself to stay quiet.

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61


    Chapter 61 Survival of the Fittest At the end of the day, all Ron wanted was money and not Jethro¡¯s


    life. When the shouting behind him fainted, he instructed his men to stop. Sweeping his gaze past


    Jethro, who was half-dead, Ron then turned to Leanna. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be quite ruthless. You¡¯re


    just watching, even though he¡¯s your father.¡± Leanna¡¯s throat felt a little dry, and after a few seconds,


    she uttered, ¡°If he still had me and my brother in his heart, he wouldn¡¯t have done something like this


    today.¡±


    This point was difficult to disagree with and Ron was quiet. ¡°So, what do you n to do now?¡± he asked


    instead. Taking a breath, she answered, ¡°Take this 50,000. As for the rest, no matter if you¡¯re asking


    him to repay you throughbor or any other way, that¡¯s between the both of you and nothing to do with


    me.¡± Only by making one clean break like this would Jethro¡¯s other creditors know that it was useless to


    look for her for the money he owed. After thinking for a few seconds, Ron looked at Louis, who was


    quiet the whole time. ¡°What about you? Are you washing your hands off this, too?¡± With a stone-cold


    face, Louis said, ¡°He reaps what he sows. I don¡¯t care.¡± Then, he grabbed Leanna¡¯s hand. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    Watching them as they walked out of the room, a man asked, ¡°Boss, are you going to let them leave


    like this? What about our money?¡± Turning his head, Ron gestured to Jethro on the floor.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t there another person here?¡± Previously, Jethro was hounded by creditors as well, but he


    managed to catch hold of two million from somewhere afterward. Since he had channels like that, Ron


    didn¡¯t have to worry about not getting the money. Crouching down on the floor, he said to Jethro, ¡°I¡¯ll


    give you a few more days, but you better consider it carefully because the interest grows daily. Don¡¯t


    even think about escaping. I¡¯ll have someone follow you all the time, and if you make even the slightest


    move¡­ Since I won¡¯t get my money, anyway, so don¡¯t me me for not keeping you alive at that time.¡±


    After walking out of the main entrance, Leanna suddenly felt weak at her knees. If Louis wasn¡¯t there to


    hold her, she would have stumbled to the ground. A long whileter, she croaked, ¡°Louis, I shouldn¡¯t


    have done this, should I? After all, he¡¯s¡ª¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you already say that if he still cared about us, he


    wouldn¡¯t have done this? If he could have no bottom line, why can¡¯t we do the same?¡± Louis argued.


    Leanna kept quiet and didn¡¯t say a thing. Although she and Louis were numb to the things Jethro did,


    when she saw him being walloped to a pulp by a group of people, she couldn¡¯t help but feel very


    uneasy in her chest. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, he¡¯ll be fine,¡± Louis assured.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you already give them money?¡± Even though 50,000 wasn¡¯t a big amount, it was enough to


    guarantee his life. ¡°I hope so.¡± The past few days, she had asked for information about Ron. He was a


    loan shark, so he was smart and meticulous. So, he would never kill someone because he was mad


    that he couldn¡¯t get his money, which was a bad and uneconomical deal. When they arrived at


    Leanna¡¯s ce, Louis took out a card from his backpack and passed it to her. Leanna was taken


    aback, and she didn¡¯t take it from him. ¡°What¡¯s this?¡± ¡°There¡¯s some money in this card. I don¡¯t usually


    need this, so you can take it.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t the semester starting soon? You¡¯ll need money for everything, and


    you should keep it for yourself. Why are you giving it to me?¡± Despite what she said, he stuffed the card


    into her hands.


    ¡°I¡¯ve set aside money for sses, and this is for you. You¡¯re pregnant, and there¡¯s no one by your side


    to take care of you. Just buy yourself whatever you want to eat.¡± However, Leanna wanted to return it


    to him. ¡°I don¡¯t need it, really. You¡ª¡± Before she could finish her sentence, he already spun around and


    ran away. As she watched him from behind, a faint smile appeared on her face. ¡­ Ever since Queenie


    hit the jackpot offered by the Pearson Group, she had been in a good mood for several days. It seemed


    like Aidan was only kidding when he said that he didn¡¯t know her. If the Pearson Group didn¡¯t hold her


    in high regard, they wouldn¡¯t have sent her abroad to study in Aeras for three years or even focus on


    training her. One should know that the Pearson Group provided all the top-notch resources, something


    that many designers couldn¡¯t have even after working hard for more than a decade.


    In spite of that, this good mood of hers onlysted until she identally overheard people speaking in


    the pantry. As it turned out, this opportunity by Pearson Group was originally meant for Leanna, but she


    had rejected the offer, and that was how it ended up with Queenie. All of a sudden, Queenie¡¯s face


    turned sour. Leanna McKinney again! Three years ago, Leanna was the one who turned down the first


    spot in The Emerging Designer Competition, and thus, the chance to study abroad went to Queenie


    instead. Unexpectedly, things were the same three yearster! Why was she always the one tagging


    behind Leanna and receiving charity from her? Back to the office, she whisked out her cell phone and


    called a number. ¡°I asked you to find out about Leanna McKinney¡¯s ex-husband. How are things going


    with that?¡± ¡°I can¡¯t find anything. Are you sure that she was married? Could it be just a cover story?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s possible, too.¡± Even though Leanna had rified this with the media before, a homewrecker


    wouldn¡¯t admit that she was one. If she was really married, why would she hide it from others? People


    who had no idea might assume that her husband was some real bigshot. In the afternoon, she went to


    Harvey¡¯s office with the design drafts for the new jewelry series. With the best resources, she had


    studied design abroad for many years, so of course, she had the ability andpetence, but she was


    a little eager for quick sess because it could be seen in her designs that she wanted to overwhelm


    Leanna with all aspects. Massaging his temples, Harvey said, ¡°There¡¯s no problem with your designs,


    but Lux Jewelry already has the ¡®First Love¡¯ series, so you can give some other styles a try.¡± Obviously,


    Queenie hade prepared, and she answered, ¡°I have to admit that the poprity of the ¡®First Love¡¯


    series is quite high now, and this goes to show that the market likes this type of style. Furthermore, the


    style isn¡¯tpletely the same. Once the finished product is released for sale to the public, we can also


    see which one receives a better response. Then, we¡¯ll know what¡¯s the choice of the market.¡± ¡°So, you


    mean to say that if your series receives a better response than ¡®First Love¡¯, then we can stop the


    production and sale of ¡®First Love¡¯?¡± ¡°Of course. It¡¯s the survival of the fittest.¡± Out of the blue, HarveyConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    broke into a chuckle. ¡°Queenie, I know that you want to surpass McK in everything, but you have to be


    clear about one point. This is Lux Jewelry, and we¡¯re in the jewelry business, not apetition


    between employees.¡±


    His tone was calm and gentle, but his words were a little piercing. ¡°Lux is a top-tier magazine in the


    country. Because of this, all the more, you should know that you can only improve yourself by


    constantly surpassing others. Those who can¡¯t keep up will be eliminated,¡± she argued instead. ¡°Then,


    did it ur to you that you might be the one getting surpassed?¡± Harvey asked. ¡°That¡¯s impossible. I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Just because you¡¯ve studied abroad in Aeras for three years, you think that you¡¯re more outstanding


    than McK in all aspects?¡± he interjected harshly. ¡°Honestly speaking, there are times when no amount


    of hard work can bepared to natural talent.¡± The look on Queenie¡¯s face fell a little, and he


    continued slowly and casually, ¡°That¡¯s the survival of the fittest. Do you understand it now?¡±

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62


    Chapter 62 My Ex-husband¡¯s Mother When Leanna arrived at thepany, she saw Queenieing


    out of Harvey¡¯s office wearing a glum face with an indignant look in her eyes. After a few steps,


    Queenie caught sight of her as well, and she went to her with her heels clicking on the floor. ¡°I heard


    that the initial person Pearson Group wanted to focus on training was you.¡± ¡°Maybe,¡± Leanna answered


    curtly. ¡°Why did you turn it down?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid I won¡¯t be able to sleep peacefully at night if I ept something which I didn¡¯t get through


    my own effort.¡± Leanna really didn¡¯t know what Aidan wanted to do by setting up this position. First, it


    was said that he wanted to support Mia, then the official exnation was that the Pearson Group was


    interested in her talents. How could she believe such a high-sounding excuse when she wasn¡¯t an


    inexperienced youngdy? However, Queenie interpreted her answer as mockery; the fact that she had


    the chance to go to Aeras three years ago wasn¡¯t because of her own effort but because she had


    snatched it from her. ¡°Leanna McKinney, don¡¯t overestimate yourself. Do you think you¡¯re very noble


    and different from the rest by rejecting Pearson Group¡¯s offer? Any designer would never let the


    opportunity for their works to be disyed on the international walkway slip past them,¡± Queenie said,


    sneering as she nced at her.


    ¡°Oh, pardon me. I almost forgot that you gave up such an opportunity three years ago. A person like


    you isn¡¯t even fit to be a designer.¡± When she finished speaking, Leanna repliedposedly, ¡°If you


    think you don¡¯t deserve it, you can reject it, too.¡± Why are you speaking so much? So annoying. Tsk!


    After speaking, she left the spot right away. On the other end, Queenie¡ªnot expecting such an answer


    ¡ªstood rooted to the spot in a daze for a few seconds beforeing back to her senses. Chewing on


    her bottom lip, she looked incredibly indignant. In the meantime, after Leanna made her work


    arrangement with Harvey, she asked for leave on Zoe¡¯s behalf. ¡°How¡¯s she doing now?¡± Harvey asked.


    ¡°Maybe she still needs some time to get over it.¡± Harvey wasn¡¯t a man who would usually ask about his


    employees¡¯ private lives, and he told Leanna to leave after asking about it simply. A few seconds after


    she was out of his office, she heard her colleagues discussing something in a soft whisper, but before


    she could even hear what they were saying, a middle-aged man in a suit appeared before her. ¡°Miss


    McKinney, Madam would like to meet you.


    ¡± For a moment, Leanna couldn¡¯t figure out who he meant by ¡®Madam¡¯ until she saw Sienna standing


    behind him. ¡­ In the conference room, Sienna looked away from the window and turned back. ¡°I didn¡¯t


    expect you to be working here.¡± Seated right there, Leanna held her hands together subconsciously as


    an inexplicable sense of anxiety washed over her. After a while, she heard her own voice saying, ¡°Is


    there anything I can help you with, Mrs. Pearson?¡± Casting her a look, Sienna uttered tly, ¡°It¡¯s been a


    while since you divorced Aidan. As his mother, shouldn¡¯t I care about this a little?¡± In all honesty,


    Leanna couldn¡¯t tell that she was here to care about the bogus marriage between her and Aidan. In


    contrast, it seemed like she was here for a confrontation. A few secondster, she said, ¡°The divorce


    settlement ispleted. I didn¡¯t take a single penny, and President Pearson didn¡¯t have any opinions,


    either.¡± ¡°Oh, really?¡± No expression could be read from Sienna¡¯s face. ¡°But it makes sense if you think


    about it. You won¡¯t be able to get anything from him, anyway.


    ¡± Before waiting for Leanna¡¯s reply, she added, ¡°How much can you earn in a month here?¡± ¡°Mrs.


    Pearson, I¡ª¡± ¡°I won¡¯t negotiate with you anymore.¡± From her handbag, Sienna took out an envelope


    and tossed it on the table. ¡°This is a ticket to Lachstein and a check for ten million.¡± Furrowing her


    brows, Leanna didn¡¯t quite catch on to what was going on. ¡°I don¡¯t really understand what you mean.¡±


    With a smile, Sienna answered, ¡°I know that you need money. Didn¡¯t you marry Aidan back then


    because of money? Or is this too little for you?¡± Gently, Leanna pursed her lips. ¡°Rest assured, since


    I¡¯ve already divorced Aidan, I won¡¯t pester him anymore, and I have no thoughts of coveting any ofContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Pearson¡¯s properties.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve misunderstood me.¡± In a cold tone, Sienna continued, ¡°What happens


    between you and Aidan is unrted to me. I want you to never meet Zayn Bat again.¡±


    It was beyond Leanna¡¯s expectation that Sienna made this trip for Zayn instead of Aidan, and she was


    a little taken aback. ¡°Excuse me?¡± ¡°I believe you¡¯ve also heard that Zayn will be engaged to Anna soon,


    but your existence seems to cause difort for others. I¡¯m only here to speak that much with you for


    the sake that you were once a Pearson. Take the money and leave this country. This will do everyone


    good.¡± Very quickly, Leanna calmed herself. ¡°Mrs. Pearson, there¡¯s nothing between Zayn and me, so


    I¡¯m not going to ept this money. Also, pardon me for saying this. Since Zayn doesn¡¯t like Anna, it¡¯s


    pointless for you to look for me.¡± ¡°Because he¡¯s born into a family like this, his marriage isn¡¯t something


    he can decide for himself. I believe you understand this, don¡¯t you?¡± Her words made Leanna¡¯s face a


    little paler. The reason why Aidan married her years ago was also because of his parents. At that time,


    the Pearsons wanted a child, but what would they want now? Furthermore, if it was only her guess that


    she could sense that Sienna carried an aloof attitude toward Aidan, then her guess could be proven


    true today.


    Sienna didn¡¯t care about Aidan at all. No matter if he was married, divorced, or what kind of woman he


    married, it all seemed to have nothing to do with her. But isn¡¯t Aidan¡­ her son? Leanna wondered.


    Standing up, Sienna announced, ¡°You should think about it. I don¡¯t need your answer so soon, but you


    should know that with your job now, nobody would dare to hire you with just a word from me. Taking


    this ten million and leaving is the best option for you. How about this? It happens to be my birthday the


    day after tomorrow. Come on that day and tell me your answer at that time.¡± Leanna¡¯s heart shuddered,


    and when she wanted to turn down Sienna¡¯s invitation, thedy had already left the room. Leanna had


    always been reluctant to contact those from the so-called upper ss, and she knew that all of them


    looked down on her. When the time came, she was worried that they woulde up with ways and


    means to humiliate her. At the same time, Sienna, who knew this, invited her instead, which was clearly


    a trap for her. Picking up the envelope from the table, Leanna felt her temples throbbing, and when she


    walked out of the conference room, she felt the people around her throwing odd looks at her.


    A photographer assistant, who was usually on good terms with her and whom she had spoken a few


    times with, approached her and asked tentatively, ¡°McK, who¡¯s that person earlier?¡± From the look on


    her face, Leanna could roughly guess the situation. Even though she had made it clear before, there


    were still some people in thepany who thought in private that she was the mistress of a rich man.


    Now that Sienna came to look for her, they must have assumed that the legal wife visited to have a


    confrontation with the mistress. Feeling annoyed and amused at the same time, Leanna blurted, ¡°She¡¯s


    my ex-husband¡¯s mother.


    ¡± When they heard that, they were even more unconvinced. In addition, setting aside the fact that


    Sienna was oozing with opulence from inside-out, just the handbag hanging on her arm was an haute


    couture from a certain luxury brand, and only a member of the brand who had spent tens of millions in


    the store was eligible to purchase it.

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63


    Chapter 63 Celebrating Him Coming Last Every Time? Rather than saying such a person is my ex-


    husband¡¯s mother, those who are rubbernecking are more willing to believe that it¡¯s a scene where the


    legal wife settles ounts with the mistress. Parting her lips, Leanna wanted to exin herself.


    However, she didn¡¯t do so because she felt that all her exnations would end up in vain. Therefore,


    she allowed their imaginations to run wild.


    I can¡¯t even shut Aidan¡¯s mouth up, let alone the mouths of these hundreds of people here. After


    leaving Lux, she headed to Pearson Group since she wanted to pass the envelope to Aidan. At this


    juncture, she didn¡¯t want to care about the fuss in the Pearson Family. When Leanna arrived at


    Pearson Group, she discovered that the front desk seemed to have changed to a new group of staff


    members. After she had written her name on the registry, the front desk politely said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.


    President Pearson gave us an order a few days ago, saying he won¡¯t meet all Lux Magazine¡¯s


    designers.¡± After hearing the front desk¡¯s words, Leanna became silent as she was too dumbfounded


    to react for a moment. Feeling her effort toe here had all gone down the drain, she couldn¡¯t help


    but criticize Aidan inwardly, This b*stard is bing grouchy day by day. Seeing that there was


    nothing that she could do to see Aidan in person, Leanna pursed her lips and took out the envelope. ¡°In


    that case, can you please help me pass this to him?¡± Unexpectedly, the front desk declined her request


    and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. We can¡¯t ept gifts of any kind.¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t a gift. It¡¯s¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m very sorry, Ma¡¯am.


    These are the rules here, so I can¡¯t help you too.¡± Hence, Leanna could only ce the envelope back


    into her bag. ¡°That¡¯s fine. Sorry for the trouble.¡± Sigh. Guess I can only take this troublesome envelope


    back with me again. ¡­ In the meantime, Aidan was busy working in the president¡¯s office of Pearson


    Group. Just as he was focusing on his work on hand, Jonathan came knocking on the door. After that,


    he came in and reported, ¡°President Pearson, the birthday present we¡¯ve prepared for the chairman¡¯s


    wife is ready. Would you like to see it?¡± Without raising his head to look up, Aidan responded, ¡°No need


    for that.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± After replying, Jonathan didn¡¯t leave immediately. Instead, he stood in ce and looked


    somewhat hesitating to speak. ncing up slightly, Aidan asked, ¡°Do you have anything else that you


    wish to report on?¡± ¡°The security had caught a guy sneaking around on the second floor of the


    basement¡ª¡± Jonathan didn¡¯t get to continue when he sensed Aidan¡¯s unfriendly stare. With an


    indifferent expression, Aidan looked at him without uttering a word. It was as if he wanted to reprimand


    Jonathan¡¯s ability toe to him only to ask the way to deal with this trivial matter. Trying to get a grip


    of himself, Jonathan coughed and continued, ¡°It¡¯s Madam¡¯s father.¡± Even though Aidan¡¯s expression


    didn¡¯t change after he heard that, there was a slight sense of chill in the words he spoke. ¡°Don¡¯t you


    know that I¡¯m divorced?¡± In an instant, Jonathan felt his back break in a cold sweat. He had no idea


    what Aidan was trying to do. Thus, he quickly backtracked. ¡°Yes¡ªMiss McKinney¡¯s father is moring


    to see you.¡± ¡°What does her father have to do with me? Send that person directly to the police station if


    we catch someone who has a misdemeanor. Do you still need me to teach you such simple logic?¡±


    ¡°Yes, President Pearson. I¡¯ll handle it at once.¡± After leaving the president¡¯s office, Jonathan felt like he


    had taken a trip to hell and barely escaped death. I don¡¯t know how Madam offended President


    Pearson this time, but he does seem to be furious. Meanwhile, Aidan, who was in the office, put down


    the pen in his hand and rubbed his temples. Not long after, his phone rang, after which he picked up,


    and Oscar¡¯s voice came from the other end of the phone. ¡°Care to join me for a drink?¡± ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°Patheon Club.¡± ¡­ When Aidan arrived at the private room, he saw a group of people opening


    champagne and celebrating enthusiastically. Then, he took a seat on the couch and sat with his pair of


    long slender legs crossed. After that, he asked casually, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Holding the wine ss,


    Oscar replied, ¡°I¡¯m not sure either. It seems like that good-for-nothing son of the Yenington Family is


    about to start college, and his father invited a lot of people to celebrate for him.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Celebrate? What¡¯s there to celebrate? Celebrating himingst every time?¡± While talking, Victor


    Yenington, the head of the Yenington Family, saw Aidan. With his face full of smiles, he came over with


    a ss of wine. ¡°President Pearson, I didn¡¯t expect you toe. Come,e,e. Thank you for


    coming and celebrating this joyous asion with us. Here, let me give you a toast.¡± As he spoke, he


    took the ss and drank the wine in one shot. At this time, someone came over and threw his hand on


    Victor¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Victor, I heard that your son has enrolled in Southfork University.


    That truly is an amazing achievement!¡± The Yeningtons¡¯ fortunes were mainly new money, so the entire


    family was deemed uncultured. Many in Highsideughed and mocked them because of their barbaric


    behavior. However, Victor only had one son. He couldn¡¯t and was in no way able to make his son


    reborn as a genius, no matter how bad his grades were. However, Victor suddenly announced that his


    son had been admitted to the top-ranked university in the country just when everyone looked down on


    them. Not only that, he even invited many people to celebrate this rejoiceful event. Since Oscar¡¯s


    company and Victor had business dealings, he naturally received this invitation. Yet, he didn¡¯t want to


    attend the event all by himself and listened to these people¡¯s hypocritical touts.


    Therefore, he tricked Aidan so that he could attend the party with him. Hearing that person¡¯s praise,


    Victor said modestly, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect this son of mine who looks like a loafer on usual days would


    outperform himself at crunch time. Well, at least he didn¡¯t embarrass our family.¡± ¡°Then, it seems like


    Mr. Frank is a sensational person indeed.¡± ¡°Oh, not at all. It¡¯s all thanks to my good supervision. I often


    teach him by personal precept and example. Otherwise, he wouldn¡¯t have scored such good results.¡±


    During the time they were touting, Aidan gave Oscar a cold look that resulted in Oscar quickly looking


    away. Impatience was written all over Aidan¡¯s deep and stern facial features. Just as he got up and was


    about to leave, their voices continued to sound. ¡°Since Mr.


    Frank has entered Southfork University, his score must be excellent.¡± With his face full of smiles, Victor


    said, ¡°It¡¯s still fine. I think he scored 1550 something on his SAT, and he¡¯s a few points behind to get a


    full score. I don¡¯t understand why this son of mine doesn¡¯t really work hard on usual days. Look at how


    much joy it is to score well on a test.¡± ¡°1550? That¡¯s an excellent result! I heard that the provincial


    champion of our district this year also scored more than 1550. Could it be your son who is the


    provincial champion?¡± Aidan, who walked to the door, paused slightly and nced sideways. Realizing


    that he had made a slip of the lip, Victor immediately changed the subject. ¡°What century are we living


    in now? Is bing a provincial champion that important? Come,e, let¡¯s keep drinking.¡±


    Meanwhile, Oscar caught up in Aidan¡¯s footsteps. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± With an indifferent demeanor,


    Aidan said, ¡°Do you think his son is able to be admitted to college with his grades?¡± ¡°Forget about


    college. Victor had to donate the money to build a few buildings just to enroll his son into high school.¡±


    ¡°Then, how did he get into Southfork University?¡± For a moment, Oscar was at a loss for words. ¡°Uh¡ª¡±


    Seeing Oscar¡¯s reaction, Aidan frowned slightly. Then, he instructed with a cold voice, ¡°Bring the


    manager here.¡± Five minutester, the manager pushed open the door of another private room and


    said cautiously, ¡°President Pearson, President Woodley, what can I do for you two?¡±


    Looking up at the manager, Aidan said, ¡°Why did Louis meet up with you a few days ago?¡± ¡°President


    Pearson, didn¡¯t you ask me before? Louis needs money¡ª¡± Before the manager could finish his


    sentence, Aidan immediately interrupted. ¡°Did he get the money?¡± The manager held back for a long


    time before saying, ¡°Yeah, he got it.¡± When Aidan heard that, the expression on his face became even


    colder. ¡°Who gave it to him?¡± At once, the manager felt he was weak on his knees and didn¡¯t know how


    to answer for a moment. Louis came to me at that time because he wanted to sell his college


    admission letter. Although it¡¯s illegal, there are indeed many rich people doing this. After those rich


    people bought admission letters, they naturally had their own way of making this thing their own. When


    Louis was still working at Patheon Club, someone had asked him about him. However, Louis ignored


    them.


    It¡¯s until something happens to his family this time that he has the intention to sell his college admission


    notice. Initially, the Yeningtons didn¡¯t want to spend so much money. Nevertheless, the value of that


    college admission letter is simply too precious. Hence, they paid a million for it.

 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64


    Chapter 64 What¡¯s There for Me to Like? Since the manager didn¡¯t know how to answer Aidan, he


    hesitated for a long time. Not only that, he was also confused as to why Aidan would take care of this


    matter. Didn¡¯t he also ask me the same questionst time? He knew Louis needed money, yet he didn¡¯t


    say anything that time¡ª When Aidan saw the manager¡¯s reaction, his facial expression was as cold as


    ice.


    It was at that moment he knew he didn¡¯t have to ask further because his suspicion had been proven


    right. ¡°Get out.¡± ¡°Yes. Yes.¡± Feeling as if he had taken a trip to hell and barely came back from the


    dead, the manager breathed a sigh of relief and fled. Once the door of the private room was closed,


    Oscar asked, ¡°Did your brother-inw sell his admission notice?¡± With an unreadable expression,


    Aidan looked over and sent him death res. At once, Oscar changed his words and corrected them


    rigorously. ¡°Your ex-wife¡¯s younger brother.¡± Retracting the gaze heid upon Oscar, Aidan then poured


    himself a ss of wine. After that, he said calmly, ¡°It¡¯s none of my business.¡± Upon hearing that, Oscar


    couldn¡¯t help but snort.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Tsk! Like I will believe that! If it¡¯s none of his business, why will he seek Patheon Club¡¯s manager out of


    his mere guess? At this moment, Jonathan knocked on the door and came in. ¡°President Pearson, Ma


    ¡ªMiss McKinney¡¯s father followed us here. He kept shouting that he wanted to see you, saying that the


    creditor limits him to repay the money within three days.¡± Without even bothering to look up, Aidan


    yelled with an indifferent tone, ¡°Make him leave!¡± ¡°Yes.¡± With that, Jonathan left. Once again, the door


    of the private room was closed. Aidan clenched his knuckled fingers into a fist, and his handsome facial


    features seemed to have been covered with a thinyer of frost, making people unable toprehend


    his emotions. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you still think I like her, do you?¡±


    As Oscar thought he had heard it wrong, he was stunned. ¡°What?¡± ¡°Three years ago, she gave up the


    opportunity to go to Aeras for money. Three yearster, her brother gave up the admission letter for


    money. Tell me: what¡¯s there for me to like in mercenary people like them?¡± ¡°But¡ªthey had their


    reasons, right?¡± Upon hearing that, Aidan sneered, ¡°Regardless of the reason, it still can¡¯t change the


    fact that they have given up on their own future. Still, they expect us to take pity on them?¡± ¡­ At home,


    Leanna hung up the phone, and Zoe came over with snacks. With her face full of envy, she said,


    ¡°That¡¯s great. I also want to have a younger brother who is a provincial champion. At least I can still rely


    on my younger brother in the future if I can¡¯t depend on men. So what did Louis say to you on the


    phone?¡±


    Leanna smiled. ¡°He said that he¡¯ll start his college life tomorrow, and then he¡¯ll have military training for


    half a month. So he asks me to take care of myself.¡± ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right. I totally forgot that young men of


    Louis¡¯ age are required to undergo military training ording to Highside¡¯s governmentalw. Man, that


    will be a total nightmare.¡± Zoe thought for a while. ¡°If not, let¡¯s see Louis off at the college tomorrow. We


    can take a good look at his college. Plus, we can also check if there are any handsome men in his


    dormitory.¡± Upon hearing that, Leanna looked at Zoe, feeling speechless at herst sentence.


    She stayed silent for a while before saying, ¡°Forget it. Louis doesn¡¯t want us to go.¡± Lying on her bed,


    Zoe added, ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. Just like you, his personality can be really stubborn sometimes. Let¡¯s


    visit some other times when we have the chance.¡± After a while, Leanna asked softly, ¡°Did Anthony


    look for you recently?¡± ¡°I blocked his contact information a long time ago. My guess will be he¡¯s now


    having a good time with that b*tch, Jete, right now. I wish for them to keep lovey-dovey with each


    other, always keep each otherpany, and not be able to die a natural death.¡± Shocked at Zoe¡¯sst


    part of the speech, Leanna was silent for a while. After that, she said, ¡°If¡ªAnthony¡¯s mother invites you


    to attend her birthday banquet, will you go?¡± Upon hearing that, Zoe sneered, ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll go!


    Not only that, I¡¯m going to tell his mother what kind of a lowlife she had been raising in front of his


    rtives and friends. Then, I¡¯ll print the things the two did on a flyer and give out a copy to each and


    every rtive and friend present.¡± Once again, Leanna was speechless at the words that escaped


    Zoe¡¯s lips. Letting out a sigh, she thought to herself, Forget it. Here I thought I could at least get some


    meaningful advice from Zoe. Well, her words possess no reference value for me at all. Besides,


    Sienna¡¯s attitude is very oppressive this time. I don¡¯t think I can just ditch the invitation even if I want to.


    Sigh. I guess that¡¯s just how things function in their family, habitually criticizing others from a subjective


    perspective and habitually forcing others to do things they don¡¯t like to do at the same time. Perhaps


    the world of the rich is in unreasonable and self-centered.


    The next afternoon, Leanna was drawing her design when she received an unfamiliar number. ¡°Miss


    McKinney, I¡¯m here to pick you up to attend her birthday party on the order of Madam. Do you want to


    go downstairs by yourself, or do I go upstairs to fetch you?¡± Pursing her lips, Leanna said, ¡°I¡¯lle


    down by myself. Wait a moment.¡± ¡°Yes, Miss McKinney.¡± After hanging up the phone, she looked at the


    untouched envelope on the table. Taking a deep breath, she then got up and left. Downstairs, the


    middle-aged man nced at Leanna from top to bottom. ¡°Miss McKinney, are you just going to wear


    this to the party?¡± At the moment, Leanna wore loose clothes and put on some light makeup out of


    courtesy. Upon hearing the man¡¯s question, she said, ¡°I¡¯m just going to go and wish Mrs. Pearson a


    happy birthday. I¡¯ll leave as soon as I return this thing to her. ¡± With that, the middle-aged man nodded


    slightly and opened the car door for her without further words.


    Sienna¡¯s birthday party was held in the Pearson Family Estate. The atmosphere in the estate was


    different from the deserted atmosphere in the past. On that day, there were a lot of luxury cars parked


    on the estate. With the arrival of various guests, the ce instantly became boisterous. When they


    arrived, Leanna got out of the car. Looking at the ce that was ipatible with her, she lowered her


    eyes and looked down. She turned around, only to find that the middle-aged man who drove her here


    had disappeared. Left alone, she could only meet Sienna when she passed through this courtyard


    where the honorable guests gathered. At this point, Leanna already understood the real meaning


    behind Sienna¡¯s invitation. Is this her purpose for inviting me over to her party? So in her perspective,


    she believes that I¡¯ll only stop getting my hands on the things that don¡¯t belong to me after I witness the


    social gap between me and them? Did she honestly forget that I was once married to Aidan? Not only


    that, she strongly believes that my conscience will be awakened with every step I take into the house


    today. But little does she know, I have always been rational, and there¡¯s nothing going on between


    Zayn and me.


    What she does humiliates me! Thinking of that, Leanna clenched her hands into fists and walked in


    step by step. The guests around were all dressed up. Seeing her dressed like this, many people looked


    at her and discussed the topic in a low voice. Some of these people recognized her as Aidan¡¯s wife,


    while some didn¡¯t know who she was. After walking through the courtyard, Leanna stopped and stood


    by the door, pursing her lips slightly. At this moment, a gentle male voice suddenly came from behind


    her. ¡°Leanna.¡± Upon hearing the voice, Leanna turned her head. ¡°Mr. Pearson.¡± Smiling lightly, Justin


    approached her in his wheelchair. ¡°Did youe here with Aidan?¡± Leanna shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m here


    to find Mrs. Pearson.¡± Upon hearing that, Justin felt a little surprised. Out of the blue, Leanna took out


    the envelope from her bag. ¡°Thank goodness I stumbled upon you here. Can you please pass this on


    to Mrs. Pearson for me? I¡¯m not going in.¡± ¡°Uh¡ª¡± Justin didn¡¯t reach out to take the envelope. Instead,


    he simply asked, ¡°Did my mother ever look for you? Was it because of Anna?¡±


    ¡°Yes, Zayn and I are just friends and nothing else. It¡¯s really unnecessary for Mrs. Pearson to treat me


    like this.¡± Looking around, Justin gradually said, ¡°You rarelye here, so why the rush? Stay a while


    longer, and push me to the back for a walk.¡± Seeing that he had made such requests, Leanna had no


    choice but to put the envelope into her bag again. Then, she pushed Justin to the back garden. The


    farther they made their way toward the garden, the fewer people there were. Suddenly, Justin said, ¡°I¡¯m


    guessing you must be feeling very curious as to why my mother didn¡¯t oppose the marriage when you


    married Aidanst time, yet she keeps making your life difficult because of the marriage affairs


    between Anna and Zayn.¡±

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 65


    Chapter 65 It¡¯s Just Crushing Someone¡¯s Spirit When Leanna heard Justin¡¯s words, she simply pursed


    her lips and said nothing. It was indeed true that she really didn¡¯t understand the Pearsons¡¯ family


    situation. However, she wasn¡¯t that bothered about them either. When he saw how silent Leanna was,


    he continued, ¡°There might be something that Aidan didn¡¯t tell you, but we are actually half-brothers.¡± It


    felt like a bombshell had dropped on her; Leanna was stunned and didn¡¯t know how to answer for a


    moment.


    ¡°My father had Aidan outside with his mistress.¡± Justin turned his wheelchair and said slowly, ¡°I had a


    car ident when I was ten years old. My legs became disabled, and I wouldn¡¯t be able to stand up


    again for the rest of my life. However, the Pearson Family needed someone to inherit their empire.


    Hence, my father brought Aidan back when he was only seven years old. Since my mother always felt


    that Aidan had stolen what should be rightfully mine, she didn¡¯t like him very much.¡± As Justin spoke,


    he smiled. ¡°Although I shouldn¡¯t me Aidan for my car ident, my mother¡¯s thoughts are a bit


    extreme. As such, I can only try to be the mediator between them. In addition, Pearson Group has


    developed rapidly ever since Aidan took over and joined thepany. Even my father began to fear


    him.


    The reason why they are so anxious to get Anna and Zayn engaged is because they want to use the


    strength of the Bat Family to slowly transfer their shares in Aidan¡¯s hands.¡± Although Justin was


    very obscure with words, Leanna still understood a little. Aidan is actually the illegitimate son of the


    Pearson Family. Because of this, he had a hard time in this family. Outwardly, he may look like the


    mighty Aidan Pearson, but in reality, his father has begun training others for fear that Aidan would steal


    his limelight, and he¡¯s afraid that he won¡¯t be able to keep Aidan under his control one day. All of a


    sudden, Leanna understood why Aidan¡¯s parents disregarded Aidan¡¯s opposition three years ago and


    desperately wanted her to marry into the Pearson Family. What they really want is the baby in my


    womb.


    Subconsciously, Leanna put her hand on her stomach, and she felt cold sweat on her back at the


    thought of that. No wonder Aidan refuses to have a child. If the Pearson Family knows about the


    existence of this baby, they will definitely go to great lengths and take this child away from me. Justin


    then added, ¡°I grew up watching Aidan. Although he has a cold temper and doesn¡¯t often show mercy


    when he speaks, he doesn¡¯t have the insidiousness and shrewdness someone has in this circle. He¡¯s


    always been sober and knows exactly what he wants on this bloody battlefield.¡± ¡°Perhaps because of


    his living environment since childhood, Aidan is used to seeing anyone as evil. This also leads to the


    fact that even if he wants to care about a person in his heart, the words thate out of his mouth


    might sound indifferent. Sometimes, you can¡¯t just listen to what he says; you have to see what he


    does.


    That¡¯s the real him.¡± However, Leanna wanted to tell Justin that the things Aidan did were no better


    than the words he spoke. Be it his words or actions, they¡¯re both inhumane. Also, it was apparent that


    Justin still harbored brotherly love toward Aidan. Seeing that she didn¡¯t speak, Justin added once more,


    ¡°I know it may be inappropriate for me to tell you this, but Aidan will never bring up this matter himself. I


    just don¡¯t want you to misunderstand him, causing you two¡ª¡± Leanna showed a smile. ¡°Mr. Pearson, I


    understand what you mean by telling me these words, and I thank you for trusting me so much and


    telling me the Pearson Family¡¯s deepest secrets.


    However, Aidan and I have already divorced, and it has nothing to do with whether he has a heart of


    gold despite seldom smiling, or whether he is firm in speech but soft at heart. Don¡¯t worry, Mr. Pearson,


    I won¡¯t tell anyone a word of what you¡¯ve said today.¡± ¡°I heard from the servant that you¡¯re here. You¡ª¡±


    As she spoke, Sienna saw Leanna standing behind Justin. In an instant, her facial expression turned


    cold. Leanna greeted her, saying, ¡°Mrs. Pearson.¡± Sienna nced at Justin before looking at her.


    ¡°Judging from your face, I see that you have already considered my words.¡± ¡°Mrs. Pearson, when you


    came to see mest time, I already told you that Zayn and I are not in the kind of rtionship you think


    we¡¯re in. Also, I¡¯m not that powerful, so I can¡¯t possibly interfere in Zayn¡¯s marriage with Anna.¡± When


    Leanna was about to take out the envelope, Justin said, ¡°Leanna, Aidan didn¡¯t give you anything when


    you divorced himst night. Here, take this money. Take it aspensation from the Pearson Family.¡±


    It was better for Justin not to say those words, because the moment he said them, Leanna felt as if her


    hands had touched something hot. Therefore, Leanna hurriedly said without thinking much, ¡°No, I can¡¯t


    ¡ª¡± Nevertheless, it was still toote. ¡°You¡¯vee here for this, huh?¡± Behind her, a man¡¯s voice


    sounded cold and ironic. Leanna stayed silent, feeling beyond shocked. As for Sienna, it was clear that


    she refused to see Aidan. As soon as he came, she turned around and left. Upon seeing that, Justin


    sighed silently.¡±Aidan, you¡¯ve misunderstood. Leanna didn¡¯te here for this. I was the one who


    asked her to ept the money.¡± With his tall and straight figure standing on the spot, Aidan answered


    coldly, ¡°You don¡¯t have to exin on her behalf. I know exactly how her character is.¡±


    ¡°Aidan¡ª¡± Just as Justin was about to speak, the old housekeeper came over. ¡°Young Master Justin,


    Old Master Pearson wants to discuss something with you.¡± Before he left, Justin exhorted, ¡°Aidan, talk


    it out nicely if you have something to say.¡± For a moment, only the two of them were left in the huge


    garden. Leanna turned around slowly. She smiled lightly and said, ¡°President Pearson.¡± After ncing


    at her, Aidannded his gaze on the envelope in her hand. ¡°How much is it this time? Is it enough to


    pay up the money you owe me?¡± When she heard that, Leanna clenched her fingers slowly. At this


    moment, her face was looking rather pale. ¡°You were right about one thing. We have divorced, and I


    don¡¯t want to see you again. Pay me back my money, and don¡¯t show up in front of me ever again.¡± The


    tone in Aidan¡¯s voice was calm. In fact, there wasn¡¯t an ounce of sarcasm. However, it still made people


    shiver to the core. Seeing that Leanna didn¡¯t speak for a long time, Aidan said again, ¡°What¡¯s theConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    matter? Is the money not enough? You even demanded half of Pearson Group¡¯s property. Do you think


    I¡¯ll believe that you¡¯d be easily eased out with this amount of money?¡±


    It took a long time for Leanna to refute him lightly, ¡°President Pearson, you¡¯re thinking too far ahead.


    Mrs. Pearson gave me this money in exchange for leaving Zayn. Not even half a dime has anything to


    do with you.¡± Upon hearing that, Aidan became silent for a moment. In the meantime, Leanna was


    actually feeling good for being able to shut Aidan up for once. Come on! It¡¯s just crushing someone¡¯s


    spirit. Does he honestly think I can¡¯t grasp the essence of his argument? Sure enough, Aidan¡¯s


    expression instantly turned cold and frightening, and his whole body exuded a chilling vibe. Leanna felt


    nauseous for a while, so she didn¡¯t want to continue the stalemate with him here. After putting the


    envelope on the small tea table next to him, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll put the things here. It doesn¡¯t matter if you


    don¡¯t ry the message. You can also think of it as I¡¯ve taken this money. After all, you all always like to


    judge others with your own perspective.¡± Just as Leanna took a step, she heard Aidan¡¯s indifferent


    voice. ¡°Does your brother know that you treat money like sh*t?¡± At once, Leanna stopped and turned to


    look at him. ¡°What do you mean?¡± Aidan smirked coldly and said, ¡°Take a guess using your pure and


    wless thoughts.¡± Even though she was quite calm on the outside, deep down, she was fuming with


    rage. To hell with guessing!

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 66


    Chapter 66 Making the Dumbest Choice for Money As he nced at the front hall with a faint gaze,


    Aidan said, ¡°The party is about to start.¡± Then, he moved his legs and made his way toward the second


    floor. In the meantime, Leanna was utterly confused at his iprehensible sentence. ¡°President


    Pearson¡ª¡± However, Aidan didn¡¯t halt in his tracks. What was more, he walked away without looking


    back and only left his stern back silhouette facing her. When she saw how the man ignored her, Leanna


    gritted her teeth.


    She then clenched her hand into a fist and followed him. Once they arrived on the second floor, Aidan


    pushed open the bedroom door and headed straight into the walk-in closet. Leanna followed behind


    him without any second thoughts. ¡°President Pearson, can you please tell me clearly what happened to


    my brother? Please, I¡¯m begging you.¡± To Leanna¡¯s dismay, Aidan didn¡¯t answer her at all. Instead, his


    finger started moving through the ties he had in the closet as he chose which one he was going to wear


    to the party. While choosing the right tie, Aidan suddenly parted his lips, making Leanna think he


    wanted to tell her about Louis. However, he merely said coldly, ¡°This is a private area, miss. Please


    leave, or I¡¯ll call the police.¡± In an instant, Leanna became speechless.


    At this rate, it was actually merciful of Leanna not to kill Aidan. Is there something wrong with this guy?!


    ¡°President Pearson, please tell me what happened to my brother. I promise I¡¯ll leave immediately, and I


    won¡¯t stay around for a second longer.¡± ¡°Your brother? Tsk! He¡¯s just like you, making the dumbest


    choice for money.¡± Automatically, Leanna thought of the card Louis had given her, and the feeling of


    unease spread in her heart. Presently, she had no time to worry about other things, so she raised her


    hand and grabbed Aidan¡¯s arm. ¡°President Pearson!¡± When he felt the woman¡¯s touch, Aidan looked


    down and nced at her hand. Meanwhile, Leanna hurriedly withdrew her hand when she saw that.


    Just as she was about to speak, a tie was handed into her hand. With an indifferent tone, he said, ¡°The


    most urgent thing now is the party downstairs.¡± As she gritted her teeth, Leanna wished she could use


    this tie to strangle him on the spot. She was helping him with his tie when Aidan¡¯s emotionless gaze fell


    on her face. ¡°Zayn is about to get engaged today.


    He should be very happy to see you here.¡± The woman couldn¡¯t bear it any longer, and she tightened


    the tie around him. In response, Aidan¡¯s beautiful eyebrows frowned slightly. Leanna hurriedly adjusted


    the tie. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. My hands are a little out of practice.¡± Sure enough, Aidan saw through her little tricks.


    He sneered, turned around, and took out a skirt from the closet. ¡°Put it on.¡± Leanna was slightly


    startled. ¡°Me?¡± With an impatient look on his face, Aidan said, ¡°Who else? Should I put it on instead?¡±


    As she looked at Aidan, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but feel weird about his behavior. Why is this b*stard


    getting so agitated today? She stayed silent for a while before saying, ¡°President Pearson, I just want


    to know what happened to my brother. I¡¯ll leave as soon as I get the answer.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t feel like talking


    about it now,¡± Aidan said. Shortly after, he added, ¡°If you don¡¯t have much patience, you can always go


    straight to your brother and ask him.¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    At this point, Leanna was so annoyed that she felt her temples were about to explode. Would I still be


    here looking at your face if I had gotten an answer from Louis?! After thinking thoroughly, Leanna said,


    ¡°President Pearson, I don¡¯t wish to go. Can¡¯t you¡ª¡± Can¡¯t you request something else? As he leaned


    against the closet, Aidan spoke after a few seconds. ¡°Do you think I want to go?¡± Leanna was silent.


    Then, she remembered what Justin had told her not long ago. Suddenly, she realized she had enough


    reason to suspect that Aidan was dragging her into this, making her his shield that blocked Sienna¡¯s


    wrath. Leanna said softly, ¡°I can¡¯t wear these dresses.¡± ¡°All of them are your size.¡± Leanna exined


    while blushing, ¡°I-I have gained a few pounds recently.¡± Aidan looked at her silently for a while. He then


    sneered and said, ¡°It seems like you¡¯ve been living every aspect of your life well after the divorce.¡± In


    truth, Leanna¡¯s arms and legs still looked the same as before.


    However, these dresses were well-fitted at the waist, hence her slightly bulging stomach would be very


    obvious if she wore them. Leanna tugged on her pants and said, ¡°Why don¡¯t I just wear this?¡± After all,


    they¡¯re going tough at me anyway. It doesn¡¯t matter what I wear, for it¡¯ll only be an added joke for


    them to talk about. ¡°Suit yourself.¡± After he finished speaking, Aidan moved his feet and left the room.


    Meanwhile, Leanna could only keep a certain distance and followed behind him step by step. At this


    moment, all the guests had gathered in the front hall, and the atmosphere was boisterous. Since there


    were plenty of people in the hall, Leanna soon lost sight of Aidan¡¯s figure. Looking at the direction he


    last disappeared to, she parted her lips, wanting to say something. However, she eventually stood in a


    corner to lower her presence at the party. At that moment, she simply wished that the party could end


    soon. After thinking about it, she took out her phone and called Louis. However, no one picked up, and


    she kept being directed to voicemail. Leanna pursed her lips and sent a message to Zoe, asking her to


    visit Louis¡¯ college. Although Leanna didn¡¯t know what happened to the man, she had a feeling that it


    wasn¡¯t good news based on the tone in Aidan¡¯s voice earlier. Not long after, Leanna suddenly felt a little


    acid reflux. It looks like the little guy in my belly is making a fuss again.


    Therefore, she went to the washroom on the first floor while no one was paying attention. When


    Leanna was washing her hands, a girl came by and looked at her several times. Noticing the girl¡¯s


    constant stares, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but think they were acquaintances. However, she didn¡¯t


    remember ever seeing her. Hence, she felt that the girl¡¯s behavior was a little inexplicable. When her


    eyes met with the girl¡¯s, she nodded politely and turned to leave. After she left, Georgina gradually


    retracted her gaze. At this moment, Carly came over with her big belly. ¡°Gina, what¡¯s taking you so


    long?¡± Upon hearing Carly¡¯s voice, Georgina turned around and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just saw


    something incredible.¡± Carly sighed. ¡°Say, do you think Zayn and Anna will sessfully get engaged


    today?¡±


    Although today was Sienna¡¯s birthday party, in reality, it was simply a situation that the two families had


    arranged in advance. Later on, they would announce Zayn and Anna¡¯s engagement in front of all the


    guests. The situation was nned in such a way that Zayn didn¡¯t need to agree with the engagement.


    Moreover, Aidan would also have no way to back down. Even though the two families agreed to the


    marriage, in truth, the fate of the current Pearson Family stilly in Aidan¡¯s hands. If one could put this


    marriage in nice terms, it would be a marriage between the Pearson and Bat Family. However, if


    one wanted to describe this marriage in more realistic and ugly terms, it would be a coboration


    between twopanies. After listening to Carly¡¯s concerns, Georgina said, ¡°Since Zayn has shown up


    to the party today, it means that he has acquiesced.¡± Even so, Carly still looked exasperated.


    ¡°Considering the current situation at home, this is already ourst resort.¡± Perhaps the outside world


    couldn¡¯t see it, but the Bat Family¡¯s business had obviously been going downhill in the past two


    years. Even though Dous had tried a lot of methods, it still didn¡¯t improve the situation much. For


    that reason, the Bat Family still disregarded Zayn¡¯s wishes and forcibly agreed to the conditions on


    Pearson¡¯s side when they saw there was a chance to have an alliance marriage with the Pearson


    Family this time. Even if they knew about Anna¡¯s arrogant and stubborn nature, they still epted the


    Pearson Family¡¯s marriage proposal. Last night, Zayn¡¯s parents called him into their room to have a


    chat. They reassured him that there was a clear division between interests and feelings in this sort of


    commercial marriage.


    They even told him that he could file for divorce immediately after the cooperative ties were over if he


    really didn¡¯t have feelings for Anna. Up until now, marriage was nothing but the most superficial and


    superficial excuse for these rich families to expand their business empires. In fact, whether it was Aidan


    or Anna, they were nothing more than Gordon¡¯s chess pieces in strengthening his empire. When he


    could no longer control one chess piece like he was controlling a puppet, he would immediately rece


    that chess piece with another to achieve his own goal.


    After sending Carly back to the party hall, Georgina saw Anna walking toward her with an awful


    expression on her face just when she wanted to find out where Leanna was. Thus, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s


    the matter?¡± Anna gritted her teeth and said in anger, ¡°That shameless woman is actually here! I swear


    that she must¡¯ve known about my engagement with Zayn today, so she¡¯s deliberately here to sabotage


    us! I¡¯d chase her out if not for the fact that Aidan is here!¡±

 Chapter 67

    Chapter 67


    Chapter 67 We Won¡¯t Be in Touch Anymore Georgina asked thoughtfully, ¡°Doesn¡¯t Aidan hate her?¡±


    ¡°Yes, but I don¡¯t know what¡¯s happened recently. Aidan warned me not to provoke her again.¡± After


    picking up the wine ss, Georgina said casually, ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s because she¡¯s pregnant.¡± When she


    heard that, Anna suddenly widened her eyes in shock. ¡°What?! She¡ª¡± Georgina added softly, ¡°I saw


    her going for a maternity check in the hospital before. My instincts say that she¡¯s pregnant, but I can¡¯t


    prove it.


    I¡¯ve tested my theory several times, and I can conclude that there¡¯s at least an eighty percent chance


    that she¡¯s pregnant. However, don¡¯t announce anything yet, Anna. I know she and Aidan have


    divorced, so it¡¯s still unclear as to who the child might belong to.¡± Although Georgina euphemistically


    said those words, she had sessfully conveyed a hidden meaning. In an instant, hatred rose on


    Anna¡¯s face. That shameless woman has been pestering Zayn recently, and she suddenly showed up


    again today! She must be nning to threaten us using the child in her stomach! I bet she¡¯ll force Zayn


    to marry her in front of everyone! No! I shall never let this happen!¡± Enraged with her thoughts, Anna


    turned around and went to find Leanna. Meanwhile, Georgina stared at her silhouette and slowly drank


    the wine from the ss. Meanwhile, Leanna was still waiting to receive news from Zoe. As time


    passed, her panic and unease gradually grew stronger. At this moment, someone shouted to her, ¡°Hey,


    you there!


    Come over and clean up this ce.¡± At that, Leanna looked over. When she saw the wine stains on the


    floor, she thought, Someone¡¯s child must¡¯ve identally knocked over the wine ss while ying,


    and the red wine stains are all over the floor now. The person noticed that she hadn¡¯t moved, so they


    said again, ¡°What are you doing? Don¡¯t you know how important all the guests are today? Are you


    going to take responsibility if anyone slips?¡± ¡°Leanna.¡± Suddenly, Zayn¡¯s voice came from the side.


    When the person who was behaving arrogant earlier saw Zayn, their attitude changed drastically. Then,


    the person stepped forward to greet him, saying, ¡°Mr. Bat, I have long heard about you. I¡¯m¡ª¡± Zayn


    side-eyed him, and the gentleness between his eyebrows had long since disappeared. After walking up


    to Leanna, he then dragged her out of the front hall. When they got to the pool, Zayn said, ¡°Why are


    you here, Leanna?¡±


    Leanna replied, ¡°I have some matters to attend to.¡± She contemted if she should ask him the next


    question, and she paused for a while. Eventually, she asked, ¡°Are you preparing to get engaged to


    Anna?¡± Zaynughed upon hearing that. ¡°Was Aidan the one who told you?¡± As he spoke, he looked at


    his surroundings. He stayed silent for a long time before saying, ¡°For me, it doesn¡¯t matter who I end up


    with if I don¡¯t marry the person I like.¡± At that moment, Leanna didn¡¯t know what to say tofort him.


    ¡°Zayn¡ª¡± If Zayn gets engaged to someone else, I will sincerely congratte him as a friend. However,


    I know Anna¡¯s character all too well. No matter what, I still hope Zayn considers his decision. Sensing


    Leanna¡¯s silence, Zayn quickly said, ¡°Leanna, you don¡¯t have to me yourself. Last night, I learned


    that Anna isn¡¯t actually the one who wants to get engaged to me. Instead, the Bat Family is in dire


    need of this alliance marriage.¡± All of a sudden, Leanna became speechless as the realization hit her.


    That¡¯s right, how can feelingse first in business cooperations that easily cost hundreds of millions?


    The rich and powerful just look bright and beautiful on the surface, but they¡¯re actually vicious and


    greedy on the inside. ¡°Leanna, I hope you¡¯ll find someone you like who¡¯s equally devoted to you in the


    future.¡± Weren¡¯t we like this before? We keep missing the chance to be together repeatedly. Lately,


    Zayn had been thinking about him and Leanna. If there was no such thing as breaking the Aeras


    agreement; if I had been less calm and rational; and if I confessed what was in my heart earlier, we


    might not have ended up like this. After a long time, Leanna smiled faintly. ¡°There should never be such


    a person anymore.¡± Zayn was silent for a while before he said, ¡°You and Aidan¡ª¡± ¡°There¡®s no


    possibility between me and him.


    There are just some debts that have not been settled yet. After the settlement is clear, we will be


    completely indebted to each other, and we won¡¯t be in touch anymore.¡± ¡°That¡¯s good. The Pearson


    Family is far moreplicated than I imagine. Plus, he¡¯s not a good person either.¡± Since Zayn still had


    a lot of things to deal with tonight, he didn¡¯t stay around for too long. Leanna didn¡¯t want to go back to


    the ce that was suffocating her, so she stood by the pool and enjoyed the breeze. As she stared at


    the sparkling swimming pool in a trance, she waspletely unaware that the person she had just


    mentioned was standing not far away, looking at her with a cool and quiet look. His stern facial features


    were shrouded in the night, showing the slightest emotion.


    As he looked at Leanna while she stood by the pool, Aidan fell into deep thought as he had overheard


    her conversation with Zayn. She sure has some daring thoughts. Does she think that she¡¯ll be debt-free


    once she pays everything off? After staring at Leanna for a really long time, Aidan retracted his gaze


    coldly. Then, he turned around and strode away with his pair of long legs. At the same time, Leanna


    received a call from Zoe. Zoe had gone to Louis¡¯ college, but the administration department told her


    that no one by the name Louis McKinney had reported to school today. Since Zoe knew the truth, she


    didn¡¯t believe the administration department and went around asking other people. Louis was the


    provincial champion and had the highest score among the college freshmen, so it was not difficult to


    ask around. Things unexpectedly became suspicious when Zoe found the college¡¯s high score list. She


    discovered that the first-ce candidate scored the same marks as Louis, but it wasn¡¯t his name.


    The person in charge of the college rushed over after getting wind of this. When he heard that Zoe was


    looking for Louis, he kept his mouth shut. The only thing he told her was that there was no such person


    in the college. After that, he asked the security guard to escort her out. Leanna closed her eyes while


    holding her phone. At this juncture, she already had a rough idea of what was going on. Meanwhile,


    Zoe still hadn¡¯t figured out the situation on the other end of the phone. ¡°Nana, what¡¯s going on? I can¡¯t


    reach Louis, and it seems like the people I¡¯ve talked to at the college aren¡¯t that credible. In fact, I¡¯m


    thinking if I¡¯ve really made a mistake.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll exin it to you when Ie back.¡± Leanna pursed her lips


    and continued, ¡°Head over to the convenience store where Louis previously worked and see if he¡¯s still


    there.¡±


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    ¡°Sure, I¡¯ll head over right now.¡± After hanging up the phone, Leanna suddenly felt a little powerless.


    Never once did she think that Louis would actually sell his college admission letter. Does he truly know


    what that admission letter means to him?! At this moment, Leanna suddenly heard footstepsing


    from behind her. For some reason, the wind around her was inexplicably chilling for a few minutes. In


    an instant, her heart tightened, and her blood ran cold. Just as she was about to turn back, she felt


    someone hit her hard. Due to the movement of the wind, waves were formed in the swimming pool.


    With a thud, Leanna fell into the pool. At once, she felt water gushing into her ears and nose from all


    directions, making her hard to breathe and see. Out of reflex, she wanted to struggle. However, she


    couldn¡¯t grab hold of anything except water. As her body gradually sank, Leanna slowly lost all her


    strength. For some unknown reason, she suddenly wanted to give up when she looked at the endless


    darkness in front of her. At times, I feel that it¡¯s quite tiring to be alive. ¡­ As soon as Aidan arrived


    outside the front hall, he heard a servant behind him shout, ¡°Someone is drowning!¡±


    After hearing that, he paused slightly and stopped in his tracks. When he turned around, he realized


    that the person standing by the pool had disappeared. At that very moment, the feeling of fear


    shrouded him, and Aidan¡¯s pupils shrank abruptly. Very quickly, he turned back and walked toward the


    swimming pool. By the time he came to the pool, the water had begun to calm down. He jumped


    directly into the water with zero hesitation. Amid the chaos, Leanna felt that someone was hugging her


    and keeping her alive by giving her air to breathe.

 Chapter 68

    Chapter 68


    Chapter 68 Still A Duplicitous Man After an unknown amount of time, she seemed to feel a ray of light


    in front of her, and she could breathe in the fresh air again. Aidan patted her face while his beautiful


    brows furrowed, ¡°Leanna, wake up.¡± The person lying on the ground did not respond at all. He leaned


    over to listen to her breathing and started pumping her chest again. After Leanna coughed out a


    mouthful of water, Aidan was just about to press her abdomen and make her spit out all the water when


    Zayn, who heard the news and rushed over, suddenly grabbed his hand.


    Aidan growled in a deep and cold voice, ¡°Go away.¡± There were already many people who heard the


    news and gathered around to watch the scene, so Zayn pursed his lips without any exnation. ¡°The


    doctor will be here soon.¡± Aidan shook off his hand and reemphasized, ¡°I¡¯m saying this again: go away.¡±


    At this moment, there was a tug at his other hand, following a soft muffle, ¡°I¡­ Mmm¡­ I¡¯m fine¡­¡± When


    he looked down, Leanna was already awake. Her delicate little face was now pale and her brows were


    slightly wrinkled, but he could not tell which part of her was hurting. After two seconds, Aidan withdrew


    his gaze, pulled his hand back, nced at Zayn nkly again, and got up to leave.


    After he left, Zayn stepped forward and held Leanna in his arms, saying, ¡°Leanna, I¡¯m taking you to the


    hospital.¡± As soon as he carried her up, Carly rushed over from the crowd to stop him. ¡°Zayn, what are


    you doing?¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to the hospital.¡± ¡°Why are you going to the hospital?! Don¡¯t you know what


    asion it is tonight?!¡± She nced at the person in his arms and questioned, ¡°Even Aidan doesn¡¯t


    care about her. Why do you care? Don¡¯t forget what you promised our parents before you came. If


    things go wrong tonight, the Bat Family will be doomed!¡± Carly added, ¡°Since she¡¯s already awake,


    it shouldn¡¯t be a big deal. She just has to go to the hospital for a check-up. Hand her to me.


    I¡¯ll take good care of her. You can be rest assured.¡± While saying that, she instructed the bodyguard


    behind her to carry Leanna from Zayn¡¯s arms. Just as they were about to take her away, Zayn¡¯s voice


    rang, ¡°Carly, you are also a mother. You should be able to understand her.¡± Carly froze when she heard


    his words. ¡°What do you mean?¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing, I can hand her to you, but if the child in her stomach


    disappears without a sound, I will not agree to this marriage even if we fall out with the Pearsons.¡±


    ¡°She¡­ Zayn¡­¡± Zayn added, ¡°The child is not mine. I just don¡¯t want anything to happen to her.¡± Soon,


    the ambnce arrived at the door. After watching Leanna being ced into the car, Zayn slowly


    retracted his gaze. In the car, Carly sat next to Leanna and could not help biting her lip.


    Twenty minutes ago, Anna was looking around in the crowd but could not find Leanna. Carly saw her


    furious look and went up to ask her what happened. Anna told Carly that Leanna married into the


    Pearson Family with a fake pregnancy, and after the divorce, she became entangled with Zayn. Now,


    she was trying to repeat the same trick, and she nned to use the child in her stomach as a token to


    destroy Anna¡¯s engagement with Zayn. Carly was a few years older than Anna, and her personality


    was not as impetuous and impulsive as hers. She merely reassured Anna that tonight¡¯s engagement


    would be held as scheduled and that she would handle the rest. After appeasing Anna, Carly called the


    bodyguard and asked if anyone saw Zayn.


    The bodyguard said that he saw him and a woman walking toward the swimming pool. She


    immediately came up with a n. She had already figured out what time to head over and save


    Leanna. She was not trying to kill Anna; she merely wanted to kill the child in Anna¡¯s stomach. This


    was originally a temporary n, so there was no careful nning at all. She never expected that


    Leanna would be noticed by a maid when she fell into the water, and Carly did not expect Aidan to


    show up so soon either. Fortunately, Aidan seemed to hate his ex-wife, so he left after saving her.


    Before Zayn said that, Carly thought that she would send Leanna to the hospital, secretly abort the


    child from her stomach, and lie that she lost her child because she fell into the water. It would be a


    seamless lie. Unexpectedly, Zayn saw through her intentions¡­ ¡­ When Aidan went back to his room,


    he removed his tie, took off his soaked shirt, and went into the bathroom. Aftering out with


    changed clothes, he saw Justin waiting in the corridor. ¡°Is something wrong?¡± Aidan questioned


    indifferently. Justin looked at him and answered, ¡°I heard that Leanna fell into the water.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    How is she now?¡± ¡°Survived. She didn¡¯t die.¡± Justin was a little helpless and said with a smile, ¡°Aren¡¯t


    you going to see her?¡± Aidan¡¯s tone was cold as he replied, ¡°I¡¯m not a doctor. What¡¯s the use of seeing


    her?¡± ¡°It¡¯s different.¡± Justin sighed. ¡°Aidan, don¡¯t act on impulse, and don¡¯t do things that you¡¯ll regret.¡±


    ¡°Regret? The thing I regret most in my life is meeting her.¡± Aidan did not seem to want to talk about her


    anymore, so he took his leave. ¡°I¡¯ll be leaving now.¡± On such asions, he would only have to show


    his face. Staying any longer would be hypocritical, which would only make both parties feel sick.


    ¡°Aidan.¡± Justin¡¯s voice came from behind him. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, even if Anna and Zayn are engaged, it


    won¡¯t affect your position in the Pearson family.¡± Aidan curled his lips disdainfully, ¡°Of course.¡± He never


    cared about the Bat Family. No matter what Gordon wanted to do with the Bat Family, he did


    not care. ¡­


    When the ck Rolls-Royce slowly drove out of the carved gate, Jonathan peeked at Aidan several


    times in the rearview mirror, but he was hesitant to say anything and did not dare to speak. Aidan


    closed his eyes and wanted to take a snooze, but he raised his hand to rub his brows, urging


    impatiently, ¡°Speak if you have something to say.¡± Jonathan sat down immediately and hesitated before


    saying, ¡°I heard Lea¡­ Someone saw youing out of the swimming pool and was all wet. The


    weather is quite chilly these days, and it¡¯s easy to catch a cold. Do you want me to send you to the


    hospital?¡± Aidan answered in a deep cold voice, ¡°No.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Jonathan held his breath and kept quiet


    throughout the journey. When the car was about to arrive at Castor Vi, Aidan slowly opened his eyes


    and pressed his long fingers to his temple, ordering, ¡°Turn around.¡±


    Jonathan did not catch him, so he asked, ¡°What?¡± ¡°I have a headache. Send me to the hospital.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± came the reply after a momentary silence. Sure enough, he was still a duplicitous man. In the


    hospital, Carly left after sending Leanna. When Aidan arrived, the doctor had just pushed her to the


    ward and was reminding the nurse of things to take note of.


    Aidan stood at the door of the ward but did not go in. He merely looked at her from a distance, and


    there was no emotion on his face. Leannay on the hospital bed, breathing evenly. Her face seemed


    haggard like she had lost a lot of weight. She said that she had gained a few pounds, but Aidan could


    not tell where the extra weight went.

 Chapter 69

    Chapter 69


    Chapter 69 No Reason to Stay When the doctor and nurse left, they saw Aidan. Then, the doctor


    asked, ¡°You must be the patient¡¯s family. She¡ª¡± Aidan retracted his gaze and answered coldly, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°So, who might you be?¡± ¡°Just a passerby.¡± The doctor was rendered speechless. If you were just a


    passerby, why would you stand here for so long? Just as the doctor was about to leave, Aidan


    suddenly spoke, ¡°She has an upset stomach. Please check on her.¡± The doctor was stunned before


    asking, ¡°Upset stomach? What are the specific symptoms?¡± ¡°Nauseous and constant feeling of wanting


    to puke.¡±


    He smiled gently and replied, ¡°Those are indeed symptoms of an upset stomach, but the patient has


    been pregnant for four months. Nausea and vomiting are normal pregnancy reactions, so don¡¯t be too


    anxious.¡± Aidan was initially looking at Leanna, but when he heard those words, his eyes squinted into


    icy des. Exuding a cold aura, he questioned, ¡°What did you say?¡± ¡°N-Nausea and vomiting are


    normal pregnancy reactions, so don¡¯t¡­ be anxious.¡± ¡°The previous sentence.¡± The doctor asked


    tentatively, ¡°The patient is four months pregnant?¡± Aidan suddenly fell into a daze and the words


    Leanna had told him started emerging in his mind, sentence by sentence. ¡°Don¡¯t you always ask me


    what I want this time? Aidan, I¡¯m pregnant. I have to n for the future of the child in my womb. I want


    half of all the property under your name. ¡°Maybe it¡¯s because I¡¯ve never been on the runway, so I¡¯m a


    little nervous. When I¡¯m nervous, I be nauseated and want to vomit. I¡¯ll be fine after this.¡±


    ¡°I just found out that I¡­ I lost my gastric pills. I¡¯m not sure if I left it in your office¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s not mine. It¡¯s


    Zoe¡¯s¡­ She and her boyfriend are about to get married and are trying to conceive.¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you


    Zoe is trying to get pregnant? I¡¯m the child¡¯s future godmother, so it¡¯s¡­ normal for me to buy these


    things.¡± He could not believe that he trusted her clumsy lies. After the doctor left, Aidan closed the door


    of the ward and strode inside with his long legs. He sat in front of Leanna¡¯s hospital bed with an


    indifferent expression while mocking her, ¡°Leanna, you think I¡¯m a fool, don¡¯t you?


    Knowing what kind of person you are, I still get fooled by you every time.¡± On the hospital bed, Leanna


    did not respond at all. Aidan looked down and noticed that her hand was always on her abdomen. Even


    though she was not conscious, she was always protective of the child in her belly. It had been four


    months. She hid it so well. ¡­ Leanna did not know how long she had slept. When she woke up, she


    felt groggy and ufortable. After taking a few seconds to regain consciousness, she recalled falling


    into the water and frantically reached for her belly. Feeling that her child was still in there, she breathed


    a sigh of relief. However, when she turned around to see where she was, she met a pair of dark and


    cold eyes.


    Their eyes met for a few seconds and she bounced off the bed with strength that came out of nowhere.


    Sitting on the edge of the bed with the nket in her arms, she stammered nervously, ¡°Pres¡­ Why are


    you here, President Pearson?¡± Aidan¡¯s voice was light as he answered, ¡°I don¡¯t know. I could just be


    passing by.¡± Suddenly, she remembered that it seemed to be Aidan, who had rescued her from the


    swimming pool. She could not help clenching the nket with her fingers and inquired cautiously, ¡°Did


    you send me to the hospital?¡± He looked at her with deep and dark eyes without speaking.


    Leanna looked away ufortably. Why was that b*stard looking at her like that? She could not help


    but shiver. After a while, she looked out of the window and saw the pale sky. Picking a random topic,


    she asked, ¡°I must have slept for a night. Sorry for the trouble. I will contact my friend toe over.¡±


    Aidan questioned, ¡°Which friend?¡± ¡°Erm¡­ Zoe. You¡¯ve met her before.¡± He hummed indifferently,


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you say she was preparing to get pregnant? Is she pregnant now?¡± Leanna was not sure why


    he suddenly switched topics. Feeling a little nervous, she blurted, ¡°I¡­ I guess so?¡± ¡°Can she stille


    to the hospital to care for you if she¡¯s pregnant?¡± ¡°Huh? It¡¯s fine if she doesn¡¯t. I just choked on water,


    so it shouldn¡¯t be a big problem. I should be able to leave the hospital in the afternoon.¡±


    After she finished speaking, he uttered, ¡°If I remember correctly, her boyfriend seems to have cheated


    on her. Is she still willing to give birth to his child? It seems that your friend is more generous than you.


    You should learn from her.¡± Leanna was confused. This b*stard must have gone crazy. At this moment,


    there was a knock on the door. Aidan retracted his gaze and said lightly, ¡°Come in.¡± Soon, Jonathan¡¯s


    figure appeared in the ward. He took a kraft paper bag in his hand and ced it in front of Aidan.


    ¡°President Pearson, it¡¯s all taken care of.¡± ¡°Okay. You may leave.¡± After Jonathan greeted Leanna with


    a nod, he left quickly. The door to the ward was closed, and the two of them were left in the room


    again. This was the first time Leanna could not figure out what Aidan was thinking.


    His expression was so calm that it sent chills down her spine. He threw the kraft paper bag beside her


    and instructed, ¡°Open it.¡± ¡°What is this?¡± Aidan did not answer, and his poker face remained. Leanna


    picked up the kraft paper bag and opened it. When she took out the materials, Aidan¡¯s emotionless


    voice sounded, ¡°This is half of all the property under my name. Sign it, and it¡¯ll all be yours.¡± Hearing


    that, she stopped moving. She tilted her head upward and questioned with a hoarse voice, ¡°What do


    you mean?¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it what you asked for? You requested for half of the property under my name, or do


    you regret it now and want more?¡± Leanna remembered clearly when she made this request. No


    wonder Aidan asked her about Zoe¡¯s pregnancy preparations earlier. He was doing it on purpose!


    Judging from that, he must have found out. She slipped the half-exposed documents back into the bag


    and went silent for a while before saying, ¡°What do you want me to do?¡±


    Without a second of hesitation, he stated with a cold voice, ¡°Abort it.¡± Even though she already knew


    what the answer would be, Leanna still felt that something sharp had pierced through her heart that she


    could hardly breathe. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be so generous. You¡¯re willing to pay such a high price forContent ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    a child who is yet to be born.¡± ¡°Yes. You won¡¯t lose anything.¡± Not only did she not lose anything, it was


    also a generous offer! ¡°Then, what if¡­¡± Leanna bit her lip tightly until she could taste blood before


    inquiring in a raspy voice, ¡°I want to keep it?¡±


    Aidan¡¯s expression remained unchanged as he insisted, ¡°You have no reason to keep it.¡± She smiled.


    To him, the reason she approached him was always for money, no matter if she faked the pregnancy,


    or not. Now that he offered half of the property in his name to abort a child, she had no reason to refuse


    either.

 Chapter 70

    Chapter 70


    Chapter 70 Perhaps, It Was Her Fate Aidan got up and said indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ll give you three days to


    think about it. If you have other requests, tell me all at once. If you miss this chance, you will never


    have the chance anymore.¡± After walking to the door, Aidan stopped in his tracks and added, ¡°If you


    had made the right choice earlier, your brother wouldn¡¯t have sacrificed his own future for the mere cost


    of one hundred thousand dors.¡± Leanna gritted her teeth, and her eyes turned scarlet, but she


    controlled herself not to cry.


    After he left, she pulled out the IV drip needle on the back of her hand. While walking out of the


    hospital, she called Zoe, but Louis no longer worked at the previous convenience store. She could not


    find him after searching all night. When Leanna reunited with Zoe, she was startled to see Leanna¡¯s


    pale face and red eyes. ¡°Nana, what happened?¡± Leanna shook her head and answered, ¡°Let¡¯s look for


    Louis first.¡± When it was getting dark, he finally answered the call. She calmly asked, ¡°Louis, where are


    you?¡± ¡°I¡¯m in military training¡ª¡± ¡°Give me the address.¡± Louis, on the other end of the phone, was silent


    before saying, ¡°Outsiders can¡¯te in during the military training.¡± ¡°Pass the phone to your teacher or


    instructor, and I¡¯ll tell them.¡± This time, he stopped talking. Leanna was exhausted and asked


    repeatedly, ¡°Louis, where are you?¡± Louis was looking for a job near Southfork University.


    He thought that if Leanna came to look for him, he could tell her that he was working part-time here.


    Yet, he did not expect that she would find out so quickly. After a while, he uttered, ¡°Don¡¯t run around. I¡¯ll


    go to you.¡± While he was on the way, Zoe learned from Leanna what happened earlier and was


    rendered speechless. Zoe knew that Jethro was not a human being, so Leanna and Louis had been


    dependent on each other since childhood. She was aware that Leanna¡¯s most important person in life


    was her younger brother. Now that Louis sold his admission letter and gave up on his future, it made


    sense for Leanna to be angry and anxious. Half an hourter, Louis showed up at Leanna¡¯s house.


    Zoe thought it was not appropriate for her to stay any longer, so she came up with an excuse to buy


    something and left the house. She took out the card Louis gave her before and ced it on the coffee


    table, asking, ¡°Is it because of Jethro?¡± Judging from the time Louis gave her the money, it happened to


    be exactly the same two days. Louis stood on the spot without asking how she knew. He merely


    exined, ¡°I¡¯m afraid they won¡¯t let us off the hook so easily. They¡¯re people who don¡¯t have limits. If


    we have this amount of money, we can protect ourselves no matter what situation we¡¯re in.¡± ¡°Louis¡ª¡±


    He uttered nonchntly, ¡°It¡¯s best if we don¡¯t help Jethro pay his debt. I told you I¡¯m going to support


    you. There¡¯s not much here, but I think it¡¯ll be enough for the time being. After this, I¡¯ll¡ª¡± Leanna


    interrupted him, ¡°Louis, do you know what it means to give up on going to college?¡±


    After a pause, he countered, ¡°Didn¡¯t you also give up the opportunity to go to Paris?¡± ¡°It¡¯s because I¡¯ve


    given up once and know what I¡¯ve lost, so I don¡¯t want you to regret it.¡± ¡°There¡¯s nothing for me to


    regret. Even if I don¡¯t go to college, I can also¡ª¡± ¡°You¡¯re only eighteen now. If you don¡¯t go to college,


    what are you going to do?¡± She stared at the card in front of her. ¡°There¡¯s no use returning the money


    now, is it?¡± Louis nodded. A hundred thousand might be nothing in the eyes of rich people, but for


    them, it was apleted transaction that was impossible for them to take back. ¡°I will handle this


    matter, Louis. Wait for my news,¡± uttered Leanna. He could not help but frown.


    ¡°How are you going to do that?¡± ¡°I¡¯ll think of a way. You just have to remember that you don¡¯t have to


    give up your future for me or anyone else. If¡­ If I seed, you can go back to school. No buts.¡± When


    Louis wanted to argue, Leanna beat him to it. ¡°We¡¯ll stop the discussion here. I¡¯m going to sleep now.


    You should head home too.¡± When Louis walked to the door, he halted in his steps and turned around


    as if realizing something. ¡°This is my own choice, so I can bear the consequences. You don¡¯t have to


    beg him.¡± She smiled. ¡°Who told you that I¡¯m going to beg him? It¡¯s just a normal deal.¡± ¡°What deal?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry about the adults¡¯ affairs. You¡¯re just a student, so focus on your studies.¡± He could not


    argue with her anymore. ¡­ When Zoe came back, Leanna was sitting on the couch in a trance. Zoe


    could not tell what she was thinking. Walking over, she inquired in a low voice, ¡°Nana, have you settled


    it with Louis?¡± Leanna was pulled back to reality as she replied, ¡°Yeah. I¡¯ll meet Aidan tomorrow. There


    should be no problem.¡± ¡°Will that b*stard agree? I hope he doesn¡¯t pull a trick on you.¡± She stared


    nkly ahead and said after a few seconds, ¡°Maybe.¡± After she finished speaking, she stood up. ¡°Zoe,


    I¡¯m a little sleepy. I¡¯m going to bed first.¡± ¡°Okay. Good night,¡± responded Zoe. Suddenly, she asked, ¡°Are


    you supposed to go for a maternity checkup in two days? I¡¯lle with you.¡± Leanna paused in her


    footsteps and did not look back, but her voice was soft, ¡°Let¡¯s talk about itter.¡±


    After returning to the room, she opened the closet to get a change of clothes, but she could not help


    but look to the side. She took out all the baby clothes and shoes and sat on the bed, watching them for


    a long time. Ever since she knew the existence of this child, Leanna never expected Aidan to be kind


    enough to keep him. No matter what his response was, it was within Leanna¡¯s expectations, but when it


    actually happened, she discovered what she was most afraid of. Herst child also died in her belly


    around four months old, which was almost the same age as the current one in her belly¡­


    Perhaps, it was her fate. Without this child, she could draw the line between her and Aidanpletely.


    The next day, Leanna arrived at Aidan¡¯spany with the documents Aidan gave her. When she


    arrived, Queenie was entangled with the front desk. ¡°What do you mean designers from Lux Jewelry


    aren¡¯t allowed to enter? Why didn¡¯t you have this rule when I camest time?¡± The front desk politely


    apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am. I don¡¯t know the specifics.¡± ¡°Can¡¯t you ask if you don¡¯t know? I have


    business affairs to discuss with President Pearson!¡± ¡°President Pearson has an important meeting


    today. No one is allowed to disturb him.¡± ¡°You¡ª¡± Queenie was so mad that she was about to pick


    another time toe again when she turned around to see Leanna standing quietly not far away.


    Biting her lower lip, she wondered what Leanna was doing here. Did she regret turning down this


    opportunity? Just as she was about to step forward, she saw a maning out to bring Leanna in.


    Queenie¡¯s eyes widened as she questioned the front desk, ¡°She is also a designer of Lux Jewelry. Why


    is she allowed to go in?!¡± ¡°Ma¡¯am, she went in with Mr. Stoll, which is beyond our purview.¡± Queenie


    clenched her fists, but she had no choice but to leave.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 71

    Chapter 71


    Chapter 71 I Hope Your Family Line Perishes After bringing Leanna to the president¡¯s office, Jonathan


    informed her, ¡°Miss McKinney, President Pearson is in a meeting. Please wait a moment.¡± Leanna


    nodded lightly. ¡°Thank you.¡± He poured a cup of water for her and reminded her warmly, ¡°President


    Pearson is in a meeting with the board of directors, and the chairman is also here, so it might turn out


    unpleasant. If he loses his temper andshes at youter, please don¡¯t take it to heart¡­¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine.


    Even if he grabs a rope and strangles me on the spot, I won¡¯t be surprised.¡± Jonathan was left


    speechless.


    He subconsciously felt an itch in his neck and quickly left. The board of directors of Aidan was held


    much longer than expected. The previous night, Gordon announced the marriage of Zayn and Anna at


    Sienna¡¯s birthday party. After the Pearson Family and the Bat Family were officially married,


    Gordon could not wait to make use of the situation to alter the Pearson Family and slowly take over


    Aidan¡¯s power. Leanna waited from the morning until it was dark. While waiting, she became hungry


    but just as she thought about going downstairs to grab a quick meal, she recalled the new regtions


    that targeted Lux Jewelry. If she had not contacted Jonathan beforehand, she might have been


    stopped downstairs. Fortunately, Jonathan also kept an eye on her. Not only did he bring lunch to her,


    he even dropped some snacks for her. For a moment, Leanna doubted whether she came here to


    negotiate. After eating thest mini cake, she cleaned up the trash on the table andy on the couch.


    Well, it was better to have a full stomach than an empty stomach if she were to fightter.


    Once she was full, she would easily be drowsy. When Aidan returned to the office, he saw her


    lying on the couch sleeping soundly. He was also amused to find leftover food packaging in the trash


    can in front of her. Sitting across from her, he loosened his tie and turned his gaze to her belly, which


    was covered by baggy clothes, which caused his eyes to darken. Leanna had not slept a winkstProperty ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    night. Now that she was fully fed and content, she fell asleep on the couch like it was her own home.


    When she rolled over in her slumber, she suddenly felt like half of her body was dangling in the air. She


    immediately flung open her eyes to see a man standing in front of her. After a few seconds, she


    realized where she was. Aidan sat back on the couch again and questioned coldly, ¡°Have you gotten


    enough sleep?¡± Leanna rubbed her temples, adjusted her posture quickly, and sat upright. ¡°Hello,


    President Pearson.¡± ¡°It hasn¡¯t been three days yet. Are you sure you have thought it through?¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips. ¡°It¡¯s useless for me to think about it anymore when you¡¯ve already found out


    everything. There are no other offers you might suggest to me anymore, President Pearson.¡± Leanna


    pushed the kraft paper bag in front of Aidan. ¡°I don¡¯t want this since it doesn¡¯t belong to me. I also


    believe that even if I sign it, you have your ways to make this contract void.¡± Aidan was nomittal


    and sneered, ¡°You are smart when you should be. You never disappoint me.¡± Although this document


    gave Leanna half of the property in his name, it was actually simr to the existence of a primary card


    and a sub-card. She had the right to use it, but she did not have the right to make a final decision.


    If he did not authorize it, she would not be able to do anything. She ignored the ridicule in his words


    and continued, ¡°I have two conditions. If you will agree to them, I will also¡­ agree to your request.¡±


    ¡°Tell me.¡± ¡°First, the money I owe you is written off. From now on, I owe you nothing.¡± Aidan looked at


    her with dark eyes, and after a few seconds, he answered coldly, ¡°Okay.¡± Leanna clenched her hands


    before continuing, ¡°Secondly¡­ I hope you will help me solve the issue with my brother. I know you


    have a solution.¡± Aidan withdrew his gaze and had a poker face. ¡°Why do you think that I will offend


    others for your sake?¡±


    ¡°It is not for me, but for yourself.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± ¡°You should be aware that if I visit your parents at Pearson


    Family Estate and tell them my requests, they will give me whatever I want.¡± He was stunned for a


    moment before a thunderstorm shed in his dark eyes. Leanna felt the temperature in the room


    plummet and she could not help shivering from the cold. Despite that, she did not take her words back.


    If she showed weakness in the negotiation, she would lose badly and would not be able to save


    anything. After a long time, Aidanughed out loud. ¡°You¡¯re a smart one, Leanna.¡± Although he was


    smiling, there was a biting chill in his eyes. ¡°I only have these two conditions. It couldn¡¯t be easier for


    you,¡± uttered Leanna. ¡°I promise you.¡± She felt that the heavy stone in her heart had finally fallen.


    Lowering her eyes, she asked, ¡°When do you think I should¡­¡± Aidan¡¯s voice was cold as he decided,


    ¡°Tomorrow.¡± Leanna probably did not expect it to be so fast, so she choked a little, unable to speak for


    a while. He looked at her coldly. ¡°Why? Are you regretting it?¡± ¡°No.¡± Leanna shook her head gently.


    ¡°Thank you for giving me a night to prepare.¡± ¡°I¡¯m just not free now.¡± With that, Leanna got up. ¡°I¡¯ll be


    heading off now and won¡¯t be taking your time anymore.¡± After she took a few steps, Aidan¡¯s voice


    came from behind, ¡°Is there anything else you want to say?¡± She stopped and smiled.


    ¡°I have a lot to say, but you might not be willing to listen.¡± Aidan tapped the couch with his slender


    fingers and uttered leisurely, ¡°I¡¯ll give you a chance.¡± ¡°If you want to hear it so much, I¡¯ll tell you.¡± She


    continued, ¡°To be honest, even though there are many things I wanna say, all of them carry the same


    meaning. It is my sincere blessing to you. I hope your family line perishes.¡± Aidan waspletely


    dumbfounded upon hearing that. After Leanna finished speaking, she left without looking back. The


    biggest reason was that she feared the b*stard would throw her downstairs in a fit of rage. After leaving


    Pearson Group, she could finally let out a breath of relief. Just as she was about to take a cab, the road


    in front of her was blocked. Leanna raised her head and her pupils dted as she took two steps back.


    Jethro had a bandage on his head and his smile was crooked, which gave him a creepy and terrifying


    expression. ¡°My lovely daughter, I knew it was right to wait for you here,¡± he said. ¡°You¡ª¡± As soon as


    Leanna opened her mouth, she felt someone covering her mouth and nose from behind. She did not


    even have time to call for help before she was dragged into the van next to her. He was obviously


    prepared this time. In the car, Leanna¡¯s hands were tied together. Staring at Jethro coldly, she


    questioned, ¡°What are you doing?!¡± He replied, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Nana. I am your father. Why would I hurt


    you? But since you are divorced, I am naturally obliged to help you find another husband.¡± She felt a


    bone-chilling sensation before scolding incredulously, ¡°Do you even know what you¡¯re doing?!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t


    make such a big fuss. If it wasn¡¯t for me, could you have married into the Pearson Family? I¡¯m doing


    this for your own good.¡±

 Chapter 72

    Chapter 72


    Chapter 72 Have You Really Treated Me as Your Daughter Before? Over at the president¡¯s office,


    Aidan opened the kraft paper bag and took out the documents within. After skimming through it with his


    eyes, he tossed it on the coffee table, and someone knocked on the door a few minutester.


    ¡°President Pearson, the directors have all left separately,¡± Jonathan reported. ¡°Okay,¡± Aidan answered


    softly.


    ¡°Send someone to keep an eye on them. The old man won¡¯t give up.¡± ¡°Got it.¡± The moves Gordon


    made were very obvious now, and it could be said that the power-siege had reached a never before


    seen stage. Any sudden and unexpected situation could change the oue of this in the end. A short


    while after Jonathan left Aidan¡¯s office, the head of the security department came to him anxiously. ¡°Mr.


    Stoll, there¡¯s a situation.¡± ¡°What happened?¡± The head of department took out a cell phone and showed


    him a surveince clip. This surveince camera was set up a bit further away outside the main


    entrance of Pearson Group, but with a wider view. Even though the faces of the people couldn¡¯t be


    seen clearly, Jonathan could recognize Leanna¡¯s outfit from this evening with just one look, as well as


    Jethro, whose head was wrapped in bandages and had been hanging around outside the building for a


    few days.


    Without further ado, Jonathan grabbed the cell phone and dashed into the president¡¯s office. An


    annoyed Aidan lifted his eyes and was about to say something when Jonathan said anxiously,


    ¡°President Pearson, Madam has been taken away by Jethro McKinney!¡± In an instant, Aidan¡¯s


    expression became solemn and he rose to his feet as he headed out. ¡°When did this happen?¡± ¡°Ten


    minutes ago.¡± ¡°Immediately send men to look for them. Don¡¯t miss out on any of the ces that Jethro


    always visits.¡± The muscles on Aidan¡¯s jaw tightened, and ayer of ice seemed to be wrapped around


    his voice. ¡°Especially Pantheon Club. If you find Jethro, catch him immediately.¡± ¡­ Meanwhile, Jethro


    had brought Leanna to the outside of an underground casino. After sealing her mouth with tape, he


    used a strip of cloth to bind her hands, saying, ¡°Sweetie, don¡¯t me me for doing this. Speaking of


    being ruthless, you¡¯re the one who¡¯s truly ruthless. If you hadn¡¯t tricked me to that ce, they wouldn¡¯t


    have beaten me up to this state and almost killed me, but don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m not as heartless as you. I¡¯ve


    found you someone who¡¯s not so difficult to take on.¡± When Jethro got out of the car, Ron was already


    waiting there for him. ¡°Did you bring the money?¡± he asked. Rubbing his palms together, Jethro


    sniggered and said, ¡°I brought it. Of course I did.¡±


    Then, he looked in the direction of the car. ¡°Isn¡¯t that money?¡± Following his gaze, Ron saw a pair of


    beautiful but emotionless eyes through the car window. ¡°What do you think? My daughter is worth more


    than a million, isn¡¯t she?¡± Jethro said. A frowning Ron grumbled, ¡°Are you pulling the same trick again?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by that? As my daughter, shouldn¡¯t she pay for my debts?¡± Inching closer, Jethro


    ced a palm next to his cheek as he whispered, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve already made the contacts and the


    meeting point is in the hotel next door. Later, I¡¯ll immediately pass you the money once he gives it to


    me.


    I won¡¯t default on my debt.¡± Ron lit up a cigarette. ¡°It¡¯s a first for me to meet a father like you. I don¡¯t


    think anyone will believe it when you tell them that she¡¯s your daughter.¡± Rolling his eyes, Jethro


    snapped, ¡°How can you say that? Of course she¡¯s my daughter since my blood is flowing in her. She¡¯s


    not destined for a wealthy and easy life. It¡¯s her destiny that she¡¯s born as my daughter!¡± Twisting his


    head the other way, Ron let out a snort. Secondster, Jethro received a call; his contact person had


    arrived, and he wanted him to take Leanna there. Answering the call politely, Jethro then said to Ron


    after he hung up, ¡°Did you see that? The money will be in my hands soon! If you help me to get her


    inside, I¡¯ll share another 100,000 with you.¡± ¡°Forget it. I don¡¯t want those ill-gotten gains of yours.¡±


    However, Jethro didn¡¯t look one bit bothered. ¡°I¡¯m only offering this to you because of the fact that


    we¡¯ve known each other for years. Forget it if you don¡¯t want it.¡± After that, he opened the car door and


    dragged Leanna out. ¡°Come on, sweetie.¡± There wasn¡¯t any emotion in her eyes when she looked at


    him, except for indifference. When they had walked away, Ron looked away and put out his cigarette


    under his shoe.


    It¡¯s just her luck to have a father like Jethro. At the hotel entrance, Jethro noticed that Leanna wasn¡¯t


    making a scene or a fuss, which set his mind at ease. At the same time, he thought that she looked


    really bad right now, so he removed the tape on her face. However, he was a wily and crafty person,


    and he was worried that she would run away, so he didn¡¯t release the cloth binding around her hands.


    Unexpectedly, Leanna, who had been silent the whole time, suddenly asked for help from the reception


    after entering the hotel. A shocked Jethro hurriedly dragged her away and exined with a sheepish


    smile, ¡°She¡¯s my daughter, but she¡¯s not right in her head.¡± Then, he warned Leanna in a whisper,


    ¡°Don¡¯t think about those useless things because you won¡¯t be able to escape tonight no matter what.


    Be good. If it¡¯s them, they won¡¯t care about the rtionship we have as father and daughter like I do


    with you.¡± The nonchnt and indifferent look in the receptionist¡¯s eyes already made Leanna give up


    completely. This ce was right opposite of the underground casino, and it went to show just how often


    these shameful and illegal deals were happening here usually. After listening to Jethro, she sneered,


    ¡°Have you really treated me as your daughter before?¡± ¡°Sweetie, I have no other choice as well. This


    can only be med on Aidan Pearson. Tell me, what¡¯s the problem if he gives me another million since


    he¡¯s so rich? It will be great if he¡¯s as easygoing as thest time. Then, none of this would have


    happened today.¡± ¡°When did he give you one?¡± she asked with knitted brows. ¡°Well, that¡¯s two months


    ago. I can only ask him for money since you¡¯re not giving it to me,¡± he answered,ughing in


    indifference. ¡°He made it sound so goodst time, telling me to leave you alone. I thought he liked you


    very much, but it doesn¡¯t seem that way from the looks of it now.¡± Startled, Leanna thought, Aidan has


    never mentioned this to me before. That jerk has such a vengeful personality, but why didn¡¯t he tell meConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    about this? While they were speaking, he had brought her to the room that was agreed upon before,


    and two men in suits were standing outside the door.


    Pushing Leanna forward, Jethro said, ¡°I¡¯ve brought her here. Where¡¯s the money?¡± A man tossed a


    card to him, and he furrowed his brows in disgruntlement. ¡°Be nicer to me. Maybe I¡¯m going to be


    the father-inw of your boss in the future!¡± With the card in his hand, he said to Leanna, ¡°Sweetie,


    don¡¯t worry. Half of the money here is for you. I won¡¯t mistreat you.¡± In response, Leanna shut her eyes,


    refusing to look at him again, and after he was gone, one of the two men in suits shoved her into the


    room. As both her hands were tied together, she staggered a few steps and raised her head to look at


    the set up inside.


    This was a room made for y and fun, showered in deep purple lights that made one¡¯s head spin, but


    the boss they mentioned wasn¡¯t here. All of a sudden, she had the urge to throw up, and she ran to the


    bathroom. However, nothing came out of her even though she retched at the toilet a few times. Looking


    around, she saw the phone in the room, and she rushed to it and dialed the police number. Right when


    she was about to finish the dial, someone ripped out the phone cables.

 Chapter 73

    Chapter 73


    Chapter 73 Spending Money for Some Peace


    In the meantime, Jethro went downstairs delightfully after he received the money, and a ck Rolls-


    Royce suddenly came to a stop in front of him.


    The car door swung open, and Aidan stepped out of the car with a deadpan expression. From the


    corners of his eyes, he nced at Jethro with what looked like a storm brewing in his dark eyes.


    A shiver ran down Jethro¡¯s spine as he stumbled backward a few steps. When he wanted to open his


    mouth to justify himself, Aidan had already stepped past him and headed into the hotel in big strides.


    Following behind him closely, Jonathan made a call and received the urate location. ¡°President


    Pearson, the ninth floor.¡±


    Without stopping, Aidan went straight for the elevators, but the receptionist hurriedly asked, ¡°What are


    you guys doing¡ª¡±


    Right then, the hotel manager had dashed over and shook his head at her with all his might.


    On the ninth floor, Aidan¡¯s men swiftly took care of the two men guarding the door, and he turned to the


    manager who hade along with them. ¡°Open the door,¡± he instructed coldly.


    ¡°Y-Yes.¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Without wasting a second, the manager opened the door in a fluster.


    In the room, Leanna was slumped on the floor in a seated position next to the bed with a forlorn


    expression while her clothes were in a mess. The moment the door was opened, she seemed to snap


    back to her senses and her grip on the blood-stained ashtray tightened.


    When Aidan appeared before her eyes, she was a little stunned, as though she wasn¡¯t expecting to see


    him here.


    Standing on the spot, Aidan instructed without even looking back, ¡°Wait at the door.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Jonathan answered.


    Taking off his jacket, Aidan crouched down in front of her, ced the jacket over her shoulders and


    reached for the ashtray in her hand, but she didn¡¯t release it as she merely kept her eyes fixed on him.


    ¡°I¡¯m here. Everything is okay now,¡± he said.


    Quietly, Leanna thought, It¡¯s not like that. Should I knock him in the head as well using this opportunity?


    With a little force, he pried open her fingers and pulled her to her feet from the waist after he tossed it


    aside.


    At the door, Aidan stopped in his tracks and nced back into the room. ¡°Take care of this.¡±


    Jonathan nodded in reply.


    All the way from the hotel until the car, Leanna didn¡¯t say a word as she rested in his embrace with


    unreadable thoughts in her mind.


    After Aidan ced her into the backseat, he said to the driver. ¡°To the hospital.¡±


    Out of reflex reaction, she jerked her head up. ¡°I¡¯m not going!¡±


    Aidan turned to face her, whereupon Leanna realized that her reaction was a little strong. Pulling the


    clothes tighter around herself, she murmured softly, ¡°Didn¡¯t you already say that we¡¯re going tomorrow?


    You can¡¯t go back on your words.¡±


    For a moment, he was so mad that he had no words to say. Does she think that I came all the way here


    to bring her to the hospital because of that?


    Then, he looked away and replied in an aloof voice, ¡°Whatever.¡±


    The most helpless person was the driver seated in the front. In the end, none of them told him where


    they wanted to go and he didn¡¯t have the guts to ask them either when the atmosphere was brewing


    with tension. So, he made his own judgment and drove toward Castor Vi.


    Curled up in a corner, Leanna felt her head getting dizzier with every passing second for some


    unknown reason, and her body was reacting in a strange way as well.


    After a while, she stretched her neck a little and looked out the window. ¡°My house isn¡¯t in this


    direction.¡±


    Looking at her from the corners of his eyes, Aidan asked, ¡°Then, where¡¯s your house?¡±


    ¡°My house is at¡­¡± she began, and lowered her head. ¡°Forget it. I don¡¯t have a home. I have nothing at


    all.¡±


    Next to her, Aidan couldn¡¯t be bothered with her and the Rolls-Royce stopped at Castor Vi half an


    hourter. In a t tone, he ordered, ¡°Get out of the car.¡±


    Supporting herself with the car door, Leanna got out slowly and after Aidan had taken a few steps, he


    turned around and peered at her. ¡°Why are you standing there? Do you want me to carry you?¡±


    If I really have such an outrageous idea, I¡¯ll be the first to nip my head off.


    Just then, a voice echoed next to them. ¡°Mrs. Pearson, let me help you.¡±


    Turning to the source, Leanna saw that the one standing next to her was Aidan¡¯s private doctor.


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Barely a few stepster, Leanna felt her limbs turning weak and her vision turned ck. When she was


    about to pass out, the man who was walking in the front suddenly turned back, carried her without a


    word and headed inside.


    She forced her eyes open. ¡°I didn¡¯t ask you to carry me¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    ¡­


    On the second floor, after the doctor had examined Leanna, he paced to the door. ¡°Mr. Pearson, Mrs.


    Pearson is fine, so is the child in her womb. She¡¯s just a little shocked, but she¡¯ll be alright after resting


    for a few days.¡±


    Aidan took a look at the drowsy Leanna on the bed and asked with a frown, ¡°Why is she acting like


    that?¡±


    Clearing his throat, the doctor exined, ¡°Judging from her condition, I think she¡¯s drugged. In


    addition¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s probably a small amount of aphrodisiac in the drug.¡± Quickly, the doctor added, ¡°But don¡¯t


    worry, Mr. Pearson. The dose is very light. If you¡¯re worried that it will affect the baby, you can have a


    thorough checkup at the hospital tomorrow.¡±


    Aidan pursed his lips and answered, ¡°I got it.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m taking my leave, then,¡± the doctor said.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Before leaving, the doctor said in a hushed tone, ¡°Mr. Pearson, it¡¯s fine to have intercourse after three


    months of pregnancy if you just control the strength.¡±


    Silently, Aidan closed the door after the doctor left and he strode to the bed with his hands in his


    pockets.


    Staring from above at the woman on the bed, he saw that Leanna still hadn¡¯t woken up. Her face,


    which was a little pale earlier, had an unnatural blush with her cherry-red lips while her eyshes kept


    fluttering.


    His Adam¡¯s apple rolled up and down his throat in small movements before he looked away. His eyes


    then fell on her wrists which were bound together with cloth strips before, and from the mottled and


    dried up blood stains, he reckoned that she had struggled very hard.


    Turning into the bathroom, he then came out with a hot towel and wiped off the blood stains on her


    wrists. After that, he used a few band-aids on her wounds.


    Without him realizing, Leanna woke up and watched him quietly. After a long while, she uttered,


    ¡°President Pearson?¡±


    Keeping his head lowered, Aidan barked, ¡°Speak.¡±


    She pursed her lips. ¡°Did you give money to Jethro?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the same if I give it to him or you.¡± He tossed the band-aid wrapper into the bin. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I


    promised you that we¡¯ll settle the debt you owe me between us, and that¡¯s including his as well. I won¡¯t


    ask it back from you.¡±


    ¡°Why did you give it to him?¡±


    She knew that even for a rogue like Jethro, Aidan could deal with him easily. By right, given his


    personality and dislike for her, Jethro wouldn¡¯t have been able to threaten him.


    Aidan cast her a look. ¡°I¡¯m just spending money to buy some peace.¡±


    Looking away, Leanna stared at the ceiling and muttered, ¡°Okay. I just didn¡¯t think that your peace


    would cost so much money.¡±


    ¡°Well, I also didn¡¯t think that you¡¯re rather ruthless.¡±


    Although she knew what he was speaking about, she merely said casually, ¡°If you have someone you


    wish to protect, you won¡¯t have such thoughts in your mind anymore.¡±


    Peering at her belly, he asked, ¡°Protect? So, if I had brought you to the hospital tonight, were you


    nning to smash my head as well?¡±


    She was quiet, and from her silence, he knew that he had hit the bullseye.


    Next Chapter

 Chapter 74

    Chapter 74


    Chapter 74 Aren¡¯t You Overreacting a Little?


    Leanna cleared her throat and shifted her eyes away unnaturally. Something like this which is clear to


    everyone should be left unsaid, she thought. It¡¯s so awkward to say it out loud.


    Fixing his cold eyes on her, Aidan didn¡¯t have a single shard of emotion on his handsome face.


    A few secondster, she lifted the nket and said, ¡°Sorry to trouble you today, President Pearson. I¡¯m


    going home now¡­¡±


    Standing in front of the bed, he had his hands in his pockets and a stoic face.


    As she was dizzy and weak to begin with, she had almost exhausted all her energy trying to force


    herself out of the bed, and the second her footnded on the floor, her vision turned ck.


    Subconsciously, she held on to something to stop herself from passing out.


    When she had recovered a little, her eyes traced along her arm and she saw the thing she had


    grabbed onto¡ªAidan¡¯s shirt.


    An awkward chuckle escaped her lips and she withdrew her hand, but after she lost her support, she


    couldn¡¯t help but fall backward. Raising his arm, Aidan held her around her waist, but the great inertia


    toppled both of them onto the bed.


    Leanna blinked, her cheeks blushing brightly as her eyes teared up.


    Supporting himself with both hands, he looked into her eyes and asked in a husky voice, ¡°What do you


    mean with those eyes?¡±


    Looking away, she asked herself, What eyes? I just feel my body burning, and I can¡¯t help but want


    to¡­ get closer to him.


    Holding her chin, he forced her to look into his eyes. ¡°Tell me, what would you like to do?¡± he saidzily.


    However, Leanna didn¡¯t answer him and merely thought that even though they were so close, she


    couldn¡¯t seem to tell what was on his mind.


    At the office today, Aidan was like a block of ice which could never be melted¡ªcold and feelingless.


    However, in a blink of an eye, he rushed over to save her and appeared in a ce where he shouldn¡¯t


    be.


    In an attempt to intensify his revenge against her, he had done all that was possible, and just a small


    ploy from him could make her bear tens of millions in debt. Despite that, he never mentioned that


    Jethro had asked him for money.


    Three years of marriage and Leanna thought that she more or less knew Aidan a little, but she realized


    now that she never knew the man.


    Seeing that she was in a daze, Aidan knitted his brows in annoyance. ¡°Say something.¡±


    Slowly, she uttered, ¡°Nothing. I just suddenly feel that you¡¯re quite good-looking, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan was speechless, and she suddenly raised her arms, circled them around his neck and lifted her


    head a little as she ced her lips on his.


    She had stretched out her arms and hugged him around his neck to kiss him as his dark eyes gradually


    dimmed. It had been four months since she filed for divorce, and he hadn¡¯t touched her for a very long


    time.


    Everything proceeded naturally and at thest step, Leanna held his hands in reflex. ¡°You¡­ Be gentle.¡±


    As he gazed into her teary eyes, his heart softened without a reason, and he said in a hoarse voice,


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Since she was a little terrified and nervous, she couldn¡¯t help but moan softly when he approached her.


    An expressionless Aidan peered at her. ¡°Aren¡¯t you overreacting a little?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not¡­ It hurts.¡±


    ¡°You didn¡¯t seem to hurt this much when it was your first time.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s different¡­¡±


    At that time, she was drugged and had lost consciousness. So, how could she have felt the pain?


    ¡°Should I get you something to make things more thrilling for you?¡± he asked.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna was quiet while thinking, This jerk is so demanding.


    Kissing her forehead, Aidan softened his voice as he said, ¡°Bear with it a little, okay?¡±


    In reply, she whimpered from her throat and clenched his arms tightly.


    ¡­


    When it was over, she waspletely knocked out from exhaustion, and even when he carried her for


    a wash in the bathroom, she didn¡¯t look like she was going to wake up at all.


    Pulling over the bath towel, he then dried her and ced her on the bed. Without the clothes as cover,


    the small bump on her belly was now more obvious.


    Lowering his eyes, he went on one knee next to the bed and ced his hand softly on it.


    Even though Leanna was fast asleep, she lifted her hand subconsciously because she could sense


    someone drawing close.


    p!


    The crisp, clear sound of a p echoed in the room and stunned Aidan. Immediately, he looked up with


    eyes so cold that it could turn one into ice. However, Leanna didn¡¯t notice it at all. After murmuring a


    little, she rolled over and curled up her body in a protective position.


    Gritting his teeth tightly, he sprang up and left in a huff. Initially, he wanted to m the door loudly to


    wake up that heartless woman who didn¡¯t know what was good for her, but when the door swung close,


    he reduced his strength and closed it gently instead.


    After that, he went to the study and called a number.


    Jonathan¡¯s voice quickly echoed from the phone. ¡°President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°How did it go?¡± Aidan asked curtly.


    ¡°It¡¯s all clear. The illegal money lender wanted Jethro to pay up within three days, and after many


    fruitless attempts to look for you, he started to have his designs on Madam again. Moreover¡­ he had


    nned this entirely by himself.¡± Then, Jonathan added, ¡°There¡¯s another thing, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°Tell me.¡±


    ¡°Before this, the money lender first went to look for Madam¡¯s younger brother, and they ended up in the


    police station after a heated argument. As the money lender couldn¡¯t find Jethro, he asked Madam for


    money instead, and that was the same night when Madam¡¯s brother went to Pantheon Club¡­¡±


    And that was how the incident of selling admission notices came about.


    Aidan gazed out the window with unreadable thoughts in his mind. After pausing for a few seconds, he


    said, ¡°Don¡¯t let him appear before Leanna again.¡± Subsequently, he continued, ¡°There¡¯s a problem at


    Lachstein. Book a ticket for tomorrow because I¡¯m making a trip there myself.¡±


    Even though Jonathan was aware that there was not a single problem with the coboration in


    Lachstein since everything was progressing smoothly, he didn¡¯t expose Aidan and asked tentatively,


    ¡°Tomorrow morning or afternoon?¡±


    Without much emotion, Aidan answered, ¡°Eight in the morning.¡±


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll book it right away.¡±


    ¡°Hang on.¡± He paused for a while and said, ¡°When I¡¯m not around, send someone to follow Leanna and


    don¡¯t let the Pearsons find out that she¡¯s pregnant.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    After hanging up, he stood in the study for quite some time before returning to the bedroom. On the


    bed, Leanna was balled up on the side of the bed, taking up such a small space that it seemed like she


    would fall off any time.


    Aidan went to the bed,y down and pulled her over, which made her squirm in difort. However,


    he held her in his arms firmly, and in the end, she could only stick her head out at a spot where she


    could breathe.


    Watching her pitiful face, he smirked unwittingly, and his mood was incredibly good. A long whileter,


    he said in a low voice, ¡°I hope that by the time I¡¯m back, you¡¯ll give me a satisfactory answer.¡±

 Chapter 75

    Chapter 75


    Chapter 75 Your ount Has Not Been Verified


    When Leanna opened her eyes the next morning, there was no trace of Aidan in the room.


    The servant, who was standing outside the room, knocked. ¡°Madam, are you awake?¡±


    Leanna massaged her temples and rose to her feet before she responded in a hoarse voice, ¡°Yup.¡±


    Then, the said servant quickly entered. ¡°Madam, breakfast is ready. Do you want me to bring it up? Or,


    would you being down to eat it?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯lle down instead.¡±


    ¡°Alright,¡± the servant responded before she turned to make her way down.


    Leanna sat on the bed once again to regain her strength. She could no longer wear the clothes that


    she had on her yesterday, so she had no choice but to head to her wardrobe to select a new attire.


    As she sat on the table to wait for breakfast to be served, the servant brought out the dishes and


    noticed that Leanna looked weary. Then, she softly asked, ¡°Madam, are you alright?¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°It¡¯s nothing; I just feel a bit dizzy.¡±


    The servant borated, ¡°Before he left, Master instructed me to apany you to the hospital for a


    visit. When do you intend to go, Madam?¡±


    The word that Leanna hated to hear the most at the current moment was hospital. As she took the


    cutleries, it took her a while before she asked, ¡°What about him?¡±


    ¡°Master has gone interstate. He¡¯ll be back after a week at the earliest.¡±


    ¡°Interstate?¡±


    Leanna had no idea what Aidan was up to. Didn¡¯t he say that we were going to the hospital today? Or


    did he regard this hopsital visit as unimportant and simply found a reason to ask someone to


    apany me there?


    The servant nodded. ¡°Yes, that¡¯s correct. Master even added that I¡¯ll be looking after you in his


    absence, Madam.¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips in the silence. Being taken care of sounds nice.


    This b*stard is really something. How could he be so heartless? It¡¯s one thing for him not to want the


    child, but is it so difficult for him to be a tad bit responsible?


    Throughout the entire time, he did not even pull his weight and even went on a business trip.


    Everything would be over once he returned and he would not be burdened by his conscience.


    He is extremely evil.


    Leanna swallowed the food that she chewed and mmed the cutlery in her hand.


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    The frightened servant gingerly asked, ¡°Madam?¡±


    After taking a deep breath, Leanna replied, ¡°I¡¯ve had enough.¡±


    ¡°Oh, wait for a while then. Let me gather everything and we¡¯ll head to the hospital together.¡±


    When Leanna peeked outside, she noticed that the driver was already waiting for her. There was no


    way of running from the inevitable.


    ¡°Okay.¡± She could only nod.


    While they were on their way to the hospital, she remained silent as she had her gaze focused outside


    the car window.


    From Aidan¡¯s point, he did not do anything wrong because there was a difference between casually


    sleeping with someone and truly loving someone.


    Leanna ran a temperaturest night and for the weirdest reason, she felt that she still could mediate


    the sitaution. She originally intended to have a discussion with Aidan about this, but who would have


    expected him to not recognize her after wearing his pants? Moreover, in his effort to prevent her from


    regretting, he even split town not long after he woke up.


    The servant was only aware that Aidan instructed her to apany Leanna for a checkup without


    knowing how or where Leanna was ufortable. The moment they arrived at the hospital, she broke


    the silence. ¡°Which department are we going to do, Madam?¡±


    Leanna was already surveying her surroundings to plot an escape. Hearing the question, she


    responded, ¡°Any department is fine.¡±


    As the servant realized that Leanna hadined of a headache, she wondered whether it was the


    symptom of a cold and decided to head for the outpatient clinic.


    After heading there and walking to the consultation room, Leanna suddenly stopped in her tracks and


    calmly exined, ¡°I need to head to the toilet, so please wait for me here.¡±


    The servant nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±


    The moment Leanna entered the toilet, she poked her head out the door to double check that she had


    not been followed. Once she was sure, she hurriedly left in another direction.


    Leaving through the hospital¡¯s back route, she hailed a cab and informed that she wanted to head to a


    specific apartment.


    As she sat in the cab, she opened the window and breathed a sigh of relief.


    She never expected that Aidan would be so unsuspecting as to not take precautions, which allowed her


    to escape with such ease. To him, I really don¡¯t have any reason to keep the child.


    But it¡¯s also for the best. At least it gave me an opportunity to escape.


    Now that she was back at her apartment, she packed her luggage and decided to skip town.


    As a result, Leanna did not inform anyone of her next move. Then, she located a bus station that did


    not require any form of identity verification before she boarded a bus which had seen better days and


    hazily headed to another city.


    Meanwhile, after waiting for thirty minutes, the servant finally realized that something was fishy. By the


    time she wanted to search for Leanna, Leanna was no longer in the hospital.


    Aren¡¯t we here to see a doctor? Is it such a taboo to seek treatment?


    ¡­


    It was 9.00PM at Lachstein.


    Aidan stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows when he received a call from Highside. ¡°Master,


    Madam is missing¡­¡±


    The servant rted the entire incident from the time she apanied Leanna for her pregnancy


    checkup, Leanna¡¯s excuse of wanting to use the toilet, up until the moment when she discovered that


    Leanna was missing.


    He wasn¡¯t surprised at the turn of events and merely responded, ¡°I¡¯m aware of it.¡±


    After he hung up, he shoved the cell phone in his pocket and observed the quiet scenery through the


    window. No one knew what he was thinking.


    Half an hourter, his phone vibrated. It was a text from Leanna on WhatsApp.


    ¡®President Pearson, you mentioned that I don¡¯t have a reason to keep this child, right? I admit, I don¡¯t


    have a reason, but as a mother, I don¡¯t have a valid reason to abort it either. I promise that I¡¯ll take this


    child with me and disappear from your sight. I¡¯ll also ensure that you would not be bothered by his


    presence.¡¯


    Aidan gazed at the message before replying, ¡®Suit yourself.¡¯


    Not long after that, he received a notification.


    ¡®Your ount has not been verified by the other party. Please send a friend request. Once it has been


    approved by the other party, you may send a message.¡¯


    Aidan was speechless. The veins on his temple were throbbing as he closed his eyes to take a breath,


    after which he threw his phone onto the couch next to him. It was obvious that he had lost his temper.


    A whileter, his phone vibrated again. It was a text from Oscar.


    ¡®The matter has been dealt with. Victor didn¡¯t say anything because of your reputation, but it¡¯s evident


    that he is not happy.¡¯


    ¡®Arrange for his son to head abroad. When I¡¯m back, I will try to discuss our coboration with him


    again.¡¯


    Oscar clicked his tongue as he forced the words that he wanted to say down his throat. Aidan was the


    type who would let things slide if nothing was mentioned. However, the more something was being


    commented on, the more extreme he would. Aidan had no choice because only such a method would


    prove that he did not have the hots for Leanna.


    After a pause, he added, ¡®Investigate Leanna¡¯s current location. Send someone to protect her in secret


    and don¡¯t let her find out.¡¯


    ¡®Okay, understood.¡¯


    At this moment, there was a knock on the door, after which Jonathan entered. ¡°President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Aidan asked as he kept his phone away.


    Jonathan replied, ¡°Old Master Pearson has asked for a directors¡¯ meeting as he wants to have


    members of the Bat Family on the board.¡±


    Now was the period of seizing power and Aidan¡¯s timely departure merely provided them with an


    excellent opportunity to overthrow him.


    An indifferent Aidan probed, ¡°Has anyone agreed?¡±


    ¡°At the moment, three directors are supporting Old Master Pearson while the rest are observing the


    situation. Do we have to head back, President Pearson?¡±

 Chapter 76

    Chapter 76


    Chapter 76 The Lowlifes Are Vengeful


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    It took Leanna a week to settle down.


    Even though it was a small city and less vibrant than Highside with its bright lights, it had not been


    urbanized, which allowed it to retain the uniqueness of a small town.


    When she gave Zoe a call, Zoe was surprised and didn¡¯t understand why Leanna would suddenly skip


    town.


    Leanna had always wanted to live in a ce where no one knew her after her divorce, but her ns


    were dyed by matters that kept cropping up. If it hadn¡¯t been for this time where Aidan gave her the


    opportunity to flee, she might not have been able to make such a decision.


    It¡¯s lovely here. Not only is the atmosphere fresher here, the people are friendly and warm too.


    She had also agreed with Harvey that if there were any issues at work, they wouldmunicate via


    telephone. She was only in charge of producing her artwork and sending it to him via email.


    It was just that Leanna had no idea how long this period of serenity wouldst because she was well


    aware that it was a piece of cake for Aidan to locate her current whereabouts.


    Aidan was not ruthless toward her, probably because his conscience had finally triggered a sense of


    kindness in him.


    She loved heading to the river and sitting on the bench every afternoon until it was sunset before she


    would make the slow return home.


    Herndlord was an older woman with a quirky personality. She was obviously in her 40s to 50s, but


    loved to dress like she was a senior citizen. She was aloof and hated smiling while having the habit of


    reading the financial newspapers every morning.


    Leanna was curious, but never had the courage to ask. Thendlord lived on the first floor while she


    was on the second, so it was rather evident that they did not wish to disturb each other.


    When she returned, she shouted in the direction of the house, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, I bought a bouquet of


    flowers. Is there any vase for me to use?¡±


    An indifferent female voice sounded from inside. ¡°You can search it for yourself in the yard.¡±


    As there were many assorted bottles and vases at the small yard, Leanna was able to locate a suitable


    vase to store her flowers. After watering them, Naomi walked out with a tray. ¡°Your meal is waiting for


    you inside. Help yourself.¡±


    Leanna broke into a smile. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    Although they had expressly mentioned that they would not disturb each other when they signed the


    tenancy agreement, Naomi would still prepare an extra share for Leanna whenever she made her


    meals.


    Sitting at the table, Leanna licked her lips and praised, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, your dishes are delicious.¡±


    Naomi nced at her. ¡°You are the first person topliment my cooking.¡±


    ¡°Huh? I really think that it¡¯s delicious, though.¡± Then, Leanna took a sip of the chicken soup. ¡°I disagree


    with whoever says that your cooking is not tasty.¡±


    ¡°Well.¡± Naomi chuckled. ¡°My son has said that eating the dishes that I have cooked is akin to eating


    tree leaves. I never expected that you would think so highly of me.¡±


    It was enough to render Leanna speechless. Such a description deserves a beating. Then, she


    casually asked, ¡°Does your son visit often, Ms. Fletcher?¡±


    Naomi paused for a while before she answered, ¡°I haven¡¯t seen him in years.¡±


    ¡°Since it¡¯s been years, I¡¯m sure your cooking has improved. If your son were to sample your cooking


    again, he¡¯ll be so stunned that he can¡¯t speak.¡±


    Naomi spoke in a self-deprecating manner. ¡°It¡¯s alright; he¡¯s never been one to speak well of people.


    He hates me now, so how would he sample my cooking?¡±


    Leanna gently shook her head. ¡°Nah, there is no deep animosity between parents and children. Even if


    there is some kind of misunderstanding, it can be resolved bymunication.¡±


    Now that she was with child, she was able to understand the emotions of a mother. In this world, there


    was no mother who didn¡¯t want the best for her child to the point where she could sacrifice herself to


    make it happen.


    ¡°What do you know?¡± came Naomi¡¯s response.


    ¡°I just know.¡±


    ¡°Then, why did you run from home? Did you have an argument with your parents or something?¡±


    Such a statement was enough to make Leanna pause for a few brief moments.


    ¡°Look, I¡¯m merely asking.¡± Naomi turned away. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to talk about it, it¡¯s fine.¡±


    Leanna gave a light chuckle. ¡°I didn¡¯t argue with my parents. My mother died inbor when she


    delivered my brother. I was only a few years old at that time, so I have long forgotten how she looked. I


    didn¡¯t run away from home; I merely wanted a change of environment.¡±


    Naomi served yet another bowl of chicken soup. ¡°Alright, I don¡¯t want to hear bullsh*t. Let¡¯s eat.¡±


    That night, as Leanna rested in bed and observed the moonlight, she couldn¡¯t sleep because she


    suddenly realized that she had forgotten something important.


    She took out a card from her drawer and hesitated for a long time before she finally made the call.


    It was only when she wanted to cut the call that the line was answered. With a gentle voice, she


    greeted, ¡°It¡¯s me, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°Speak.¡± The man¡¯s voice sounded hoarse, as if he was rudely awoken from his sleep.


    Leanna grabbed her nket and resisted his usual sarcasm to tentatively say, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯m


    aware of our agreement, but I am serious with my promise. I won¡¯t show up in front of you ever again.


    As for my brother¡¯s matter, can I beg you¡ª¡±


    ¡°Beg me for what?¡±


    She gritted her teeth and answered, ¡°I know it¡¯s a shameless request, but I think that you¡¯ll agree.¡±


    On the other end of the line, Aidanughed. ¡°You know that you are shameless by making such a


    request and you still want to say it?¡±


    ¡°About the The Emerging Designer Competition three years ago, I think you have misunderstood you. I


    know that you probably are regretful after learning of the truth, which was why Pearson Group has


    coborated with the designers from Lux. I don¡¯t want such an opportunity. And if you really want to


    make amends, President Pearson¡ª¡±


    He interrupted her. ¡°Didn¡¯t you refuse the offer a long time ago?¡±


    Leanna lied, ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you meant well back then, but I¡¯m finally aware of it now. I hope you


    won¡¯t be calctive with such a person like me, President Pearson.¡±


    There was a moment of silence, in which Aidan took his time to reply. ¡°You are right; it¡¯s shameless.¡±


    She pursed her lips and did not refute. ¡°So, I¡¯ll take it that you are in agreement?¡±


    He said nonchntly, ¡°You can take it as such because I can choose to disagree.¡±


    It was enough to make Leanna stunned in speechlessness. Can¡¯t this b*stard say something nice?


    Quickly, Aidan followed up on his response. ¡°Leanna, if you want to call me in the middle of the night


    next time, do not ever think that I¡¯ll agree to your requests in the future.¡±


    She quickly apologized, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, it¡¯s my fault.¡±


    ¡°Is there anything else?¡±


    Leanna looked out the window and mentioned after a few seconds, ¡°Nope. Goodbye, President


    Pearson. Have a good night¡¯s sleep.¡±


    Just as she was about to hang up, his voice sounded over the phone. ¡°You aren¡¯t wishing for my family


    line to end?¡±


    She was at a loss of words. D*mn, he is vengeful.


    Then, sheughed. ¡°Where did you hear about this, President Pearson? How can it be a blessing to die


    without the continuity of your family line? Of course I wish you to have a long life where you¡¯ll have a


    prosperous family line for five generations¡ª¡±


    Aidan hung up in that instant.

 Chapter 77

    Chapter 77


    Chapter 77 A Misunderstanding


    The next day, Jonathan rushed over to speak to Aidan the moment Aidan came downstairs. ¡°Bad news,


    President Pearson,¡± Jonathan uttered.


    Zayn had always been cold and hostile toward Anna, even after they got engaged. Furthermore, both


    the Bat and Pearson families treated their marriage as a mere business partnership¡ªno one cared


    about Zayn and Anna¡¯s rtionship. Anna was probably the only person who took the engagement


    seriously.


    Previously, Anna might have kept her behavior in check because she was worried that Zayn would call


    the marriage off if she tested his limits. However, now that they were engaged, Anna no longer had


    much to be afraid of. Leanna¡¯s pregnancy was like a thorn in Anna¡¯s heart, and she med Leanna for


    how cold and distant Zayn acted around her. Leanna didn¡¯t get pregnant after being married to Aidan


    for three years. How could she get pregnant right after she got a divorce? I suspect that the child might


    be Zayn¡¯s, Anna thought.


    So, Anna started a whole fuss about this matter at breakfast that morning. She was smart enough not


    to bring up Leanna¡¯s name at all. She simply mentioned that there was a woman who was pregnant


    with Zayn¡¯s child before begging Gordon to deal with this for her. If Gordon happened to find out that


    the woman in question was Leanna, his realization would have nothing to do with Anna.


    Gordon lost his cool upon hearing this news. He didn¡¯t care if Anna and Zayn were in love with one


    another, but he cared about the reputation of the Bat Family! Furthermore, for such a thing to


    happen right after Zayn and Anna got engaged¡­ The Bat and Pearson families¡¯ partnership would


    be affected if such an incident were to be exposed to the public.


    ¡°Old Master Pearson wants to discuss this matter, and the Bats are already on the way to the


    Pearson Family Estate,¡± Jonathan exined. The look in Aidan¡¯s eyes didn¡¯t seem to carry any


    emotion as he spoke. ¡°How did Anna find out about this?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. I¡¯ll investigate this matter,¡± Jonathan replied.


    ¡°Forget it.¡± Aidan parted his long legs to walk out. ¡°We¡¯ll find out if we go over to question her,¡± he


    uttered with a tone as cold as ice.


    ¡­


    Gordan sat on the couch in the Pearson Family Estate, with both his hands resting on his walking stick


    and a grim look on his face. Anna was seated opposite him, and she had been crying for a while by


    then. Soon enough, Gordon lost his patience. ¡°What¡¯s done is done. What¡¯s the use of you crying? You


    were the one who insisted on getting married to Zayn even when you knew he didn¡¯t fancy you. It was


    only a matter of time before he started seeing some other woman.¡±


    Anna responded in a meek voice, ¡°But that woman¡¯s the one who keeps pestering him. Now, they even


    have a kid. They¡¯ve never considered my feelings at all!¡±


    ¡°Why does the kid matter? I don¡¯t think Zayn will have the guts to actually have the child and bring it


    into the Bat Family!¡± Gordon barked. Right then, Sienna took a gaze at the front entrance before


    she interrupted to make ament. ¡°Yeah. Not every illegitimate child lives a good life, you know.¡±


    Momentster, the maid¡¯s voice filled the hall. ¡°Hello, Young Master Pearson!¡±


    Aidan responded with an unimpressed grunt. There was no sign of emotion on his face, yet the whole


    hall was filled with pin-drop silence the moment he stepped in. The air around them seemed to turn a


    few degrees colder. Even Anna stopped crying when she saw Aidan walking in. She tried her best to


    contain her sobs. This was the scene that Justin was greeted with the moment he came down. ¡°Let¡¯s


    take a walk at the park, Aidan. There are some things I¡¯d like to talk to you about, anyway,¡± Justin


    uttered with a sigh.


    After they left, Gordon frowned and red at Sienna. ¡°Did you have to trigger him at a time like this?!¡±


    Sienna scoffed. ¡°Who did I trigger? I¡¯m just telling the truth.¡± Then, she turned to Anna before she


    continued speaking. ¡°Regardless of what happens, you shouldn¡¯t overlook the capabilities of an


    illegitimate child, Anna. You never know¡ªan illegitimate child might snatch your entire life away at


    some point in time.¡±


    Anna didn¡¯t know anything about their family¡¯s history, so she simply nodded in agreement. However,


    she felt more determined than ever to get rid of the child that was in Leanna¡¯s belly.


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Soon enough, the Bats arrived, with Zayn leading the way. Gordon tried his best to control his


    anger as he confronted Zayn. ¡°Tell me. What¡¯s this about? Who¡¯s that woman?¡±


    Zayn shot Anna a re. ¡°There¡¯s nothing going on.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to be in such a hurry to deny this matter. We¡¯re not trying to put the me on you.


    You¡¯re here because we want toe up with a solution for this,¡± Gordon replied.


    ¡°I trust my son. He would never do such a thing.¡± Dous spoke up for Zayn.


    ¡°Tell us what happened. Was there some sort of misunderstanding, Zayn?¡± Marilyn added.


    Anna immediately shot to her feet and shouted at them upon hearing their words. ¡°How could this be a


    misunderstanding?! I saw it with my own eyes! They¡¯ve already had tons of secret meetings, and Zayn


    is always so protective toward that woman!¡± she cried.


    ¡°You can¡¯t judge things based on your own observations, Anna. You need to provide concrete


    evidence,¡± Marilyn uttered exasperatedly.


    ¡°Well, the evidence is the kid in that woman¡¯s belly! Forget it. I¡¯m not going to further pursue this matter


    as long as that woman aborts the child. I can just forget that this ever happened,¡± Anna uttered.


    ¡°Are you done, Anna?¡± Zayn couldn¡¯t hold his temper back for much longer. Tears trickled down Anna¡¯s


    face when she heard the way he spoke to her. ¡°Look at that, guys. He¡¯s still protecting that woman right


    now. Why would he show such huge reactions if he didn¡¯t have something going on with that woman?


    Why would he care if that child wasn¡¯t his?¡±


    Marilyn hastily tugged on Zayn¡¯s sleeve while frowning. ¡°Calm down, Zayn. You should speak in a more


    civil manner. Since Anna is making such ims, then I¡¯m sure there¡¯s something going on. You should


    just exin yourself.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s a friend. Sure, I do like her, but she has already rejected my feelings for her. Are you happy with


    this answer?¡± Zayn shot Anna a re.


    Anna hadn¡¯t expected Zayn to openly admit his feelings for Leanna, and she felt both ashamed and


    furious when she heard the wordsing out of his mouth. ¡°I knew it! I knew you liked her. What¡¯s so


    great about that woman? She has gotten youpletely mesmerized. Even Aidan is¡ª¡± She knew that


    she messed her words up the moment she uttered Aidan¡¯s name, so she hastily pped her hand over


    her mouth.


    Gordon frowned when he realized this. ¡°What are you talking about, Anna? What¡¯s up with Aidan?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s up with me?¡± Aidan¡¯s voice came from behind the crowd. His tone was t, yet it sent chills


    down Anna¡¯s spine. She no longer spoke with the firm tone she had earlier. ¡°I-It¡¯s nothing¡­¡± she


    muttered.


    ¡°Well, we now know that it¡¯s all a misunderstanding, Anna. So, I don¡¯t think it¡¯s necessary to continue


    fussing over this matter,¡± Justin said. ¡°You should apologize to Mr. and Mrs. Bat for rushing all the


    way here over such a tiny matter.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± Anna protested.


    ¡°It¡¯s just an engagement. You can always call the wedding off,¡± Zayn uttered calmly. Anna no longer


    said anything after that, but her eyes were filled with dissatisfaction. In the end, Justin had to apologize


    to the Bats in order to make sure that there were no hard feelings. Although Justin didn¡¯t have


    much of a presence in the Pearson Family, he was one of the kindest and most polite ones in the


    household. If it hadn¡¯t been for the disability in his legs, the Pearson Family would be in apletely


    different situation. Aidan wouldn¡¯t be the one calling all the shots.

 Chapter 78

    Chapter 78


    Chapter 78 I¡¯ll Kill Her!


    Zayn took a long look at Aidan as he was about to leave the house. He wasn¡¯t sure if Aidan knew about


    Leanna¡¯s pregnancy. ¡°Mr. Bat,¡± Aidan called. ¡°I hope this doesn¡¯t happen again,¡± he told Zayn.


    Hearing Aidan¡¯s words, Zayn halted his footsteps and contemted Aidan¡¯s words before responding,


    ¡°Are you saying this because you¡¯re worried about Anna?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s my cousin, after all. Don¡¯t you think I should be concerned?¡± Aidan asked in return.


    ¡°Well, that¡¯s surprising. You might not be a good husband, but it seems like you¡¯re a good cousin, huh,


    President Pearson,¡± Zayn uttered. His words made Aidan¡¯s gaze darken for a moment. While Aidan


    fixed his angry gaze on Zayn, Zayn simply nodded before walking away.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, Aidan turned back to find Anna standing close to him. Gordon and Sienna were both sitting on


    the couch, and they didn¡¯t look too pleased. This entire incident was supposed to be Zayn¡¯s fault, but


    after the fuss they created, and since Anna didn¡¯t have evidence, it now seemed as if the Pearsons


    were just stirring up some drama.


    ¡°I want you to tell me everything from the start, Anna. Is Zayn hiding something, or are you creating


    something out of nothing?!¡± Gordon growled.


    ¡°I¡ª¡± Anna was afraid to overdo anything when Aidan was right beside her. Fortunately for her, Justin


    spoke up at that very moment to save her. ¡°Anna¡¯s young, and she ces a lot of value on her


    rtionships. Misunderstandings are bound to happen in rtionships, right? It¡¯s great that we¡¯ve


    rified things. The Bats no longer have an issue with this matter either,¡± he said.


    Then, Justin shifted his gaze to Anna. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t do this in the future, Anna. Both you and Zayn are


    adults. If you want to be with him for a long time, then you should learn tomunicate your issues


    and talk things out with him. You shouldn¡¯t get both families involved¡ªyou¡¯d just be causing more


    havoc,¡± he said.


    ¡°I got it,¡± Anna uttered with her head hanging low.


    Since Justin had made his statement, Gordon felt like it was no longer appropriate to continue losing


    his temper. Instead, he let out a cold scoff before he hobbled up the stairs with the support of his


    walking stick. He was still filled with anger, but he couldn¡¯t find an outlet for it.


    After Gordon left, Sienna followed along behind him. As she stood up, she gave Anna a stare and


    turned to look at Aidan before walking away. She looked as if she were considering something as she


    headed off. ¡°Send me back to my room, Anna,¡± Justin ordered. Anna looked as if she had just won a


    prize after she heard what Justin said, and she hastily agreed to his orders before pushing his


    wheelchair to the elevator.


    However, Anna had just calmed her nerves when she bumped into Aidan while on the way to Justin¡¯s


    room.


    ¡°A-Aidan¡­¡± she muttered. He had his hands stuck into his pockets, and there wasn¡¯t any warmth in his


    gaze. ¡°Follow me,¡± he ordered. Anna followed him to the park, and she bit her lip in hesitation before


    she finally spoke up. ¡°I didn¡¯t talk bad about her, and I didn¡¯t mention how she¡¯s rted to¡ª¡±


    Aidan interrupted her words. ¡°When did you find out that she¡¯s pregnant?¡± he asked icily. Anna was


    taken aback as she hadn¡¯t expected him to ask her this question. She panicked for a moment¡ªshe


    knew that she couldn¡¯t mention the recent birthday party. Leanna fell into the water that day, so Aidan


    will suspect that something¡¯s fishy if he finds out that I found out on the same day.


    ¡°Just two days ago, I heard Zayn saying¡ª¡± Anna uttered at an unusually quick pace. ¡°Did he tell you


    about it himself?¡± Aidan asked with the same emotionless look on his face.


    Anna bit her tongue before nodding excessively. ¡°He said that Leanna¡¯s pregnant with his child and that


    he wouldn¡¯t leave her even if he married me.¡±


    Aidan stood as still as a statue. There wasn¡¯t even a hint of emotion on his face, so Anna couldn¡¯t tell if


    he trusted her words or not. ¡°Aidan¡­¡± Anna muttered in a cautious tone. ¡°The baby in her belly belongs


    to Zayn. Are you going to let her give birth to it?


    He shot Anna a side re before responding in an icy tone. ¡°Whether or not she gives birth to the child


    is none of my business,¡± he uttered.


    ¡°W-Well, that¡¯s true. I just thought you guys might remarry since you seem pretty nice to her recently,¡±


    she replied. He scoffed in response to this, but he then parted his long legs to leave without saying


    anything else. He had only taken a few steps before he stopped and spoke in a dangerous tone. ¡°I


    don¡¯t want anyone else in the Pearson Family to know about the details surrounding her pregnancy,¡± he


    warned.


    She froze for a moment as an icy sensation spread from her toes all the way up to her face. ¡°I¡­ I won¡¯t


    say a single thing.¡± She only felt herselfing back to life after Aidan was long gone¡ªshe was too


    stunned to move before that. She was just about to head back to her room when she saw Sienna


    walking down the corridor.


    ¡°D-Did you hear everything, Sienna?¡± Anna felt like her heart was about to leap out of her mouth.


    Sienna crossed her arms in front of her chest before speaking in a hostile voice. ¡°Were you nning to


    keep this a secret from me if I didn¡¯t overhear your conversation?¡±


    ¡°No, but it was Aidan who told me not to say¡­¡± Anna protested. Sienna scoffed¡ªshe didn¡¯t care about


    Aidan¡¯s opinion at all. ¡°If you¡¯re so afraid of him, then where did you find the guts to push Leanna down


    the stairs?¡±


    ¡°Sienna!¡± Anna let out a sharp cry. She was worried that Aidan would overhear them if he was still


    nearby. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ve already settled everything that happened in the past, so he¡¯ll never find out


    about it,¡± Sienna replied.


    Anna bit her bottom lip. She was pale from the fear that she felt. Back then, when Leanna had been


    lying on the ground, there was a pool of blood that surged out of her lower area. Even though Anna had


    insisted that Leanna¡¯s pregnancy was a lie back then, Anna questioned her own words after seeing all


    that blood¡­ Aidan will kill me if he ever finds out about this!


    Sienna continued talking before Anna could respond to her. ¡°You should know that this child of


    Leanna¡¯s has to be disposed of, right, Anna?¡±


    ¡­


    Achoo! Leanna rubbed her nose after sneezing. The weather had been gloomy and wet over the past


    two days, and the temperature in the city had gone down. However, all the clothes that Leanna packed


    were short-sleeved outfits for summer, and she would need time to purchase new clothes.


    So, Naomi passed Leanna a few of her own clothes, ¡°I used to wear all of these, but you can have


    them if they match up to your standards.¡± Although the clothes had rtively old and traditional


    designs, they didn¡¯t seem too out-of-trend when Leanna wore them. It looked more like a retro-themed


    outfit.


    All of the clothes were clean and neatly folded¡ªthey looked like they had just been brought out of


    storage. ¡°Thank you, Ms. Fletcher.¡± Leanna¡¯s good looks enhanced the overall aesthetics of her outfit


    after she put on Naomi¡¯s skirt and knitted outerwear. She looked like a country girl¡ªshe looked simple


    yet beautiful. ¡°How does it look, Ms. Fletcher?¡± Leanna lifted her skirt to make a full turn in front of


    Naomi.


    A look of satisfaction shed across Naomi¡¯s face when she saw how the other girl looked.


    ¡°Not too bad,¡± Naomi uttered with a nod.


    ¡°I¡¯ll head out now, then. Is there anything that you need, Ms. Fletcher? I¡¯ll help you run errands if you


    need me to.¡±


    ¡°You can get me some yarn,¡± Naomi replied.


    ¡°Sure. What color do you want?¡± Leanna nodded.


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you,¡± Naomi replied.


    Leanna happened to leave the house at the same time as Naomi¡¯s other male tenant. When he saw


    Leanna leaving, he greeted her with a friendly tone. ¡°Where are you going, Miss McKinney?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to walk around and buy some stuff,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s quite a long walk from here to the city. Why don¡¯t I drive you there?¡± he offered.


    Leanna rejected him with a smile. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I can walk over myself.¡± He had no choice but to leave with


    a longing look in his eyes. The weather was nice and cool after the rain, and there were glimpses of


    sunlight that were peeking through the gaps in the clouds. The golden rays spilled all over the city


    streets, giving life to everything that they touched.


    After Leanna went to purchase Naomi¡¯s yarn, she went to the hospital for a checkup.

 Chapter 79

    Chapter 79


    Chapter 79 No Time for Her


    Perhaps her life and her mood had shown some positive change after she moved over¡ªthe doctor told


    her that the child in her belly was developing in a normal and healthy manner. All she had to do was wait


    patiently for a few more months, and the baby would be in her arms.


    When Leanna got home, she saw a copy of the finance column of a newspaper on the front porch. She


    ced her other things aside and was about to hand the yarn to Naomi when a few words in the


    newspaper caught her eye. ¡®Pearson Group¡¯ was written inrge letters.


    After the Pearson Family¡¯s recent engagement with the Bats, there had been distinct changes in the


    power distribution of their management team with the news dominating the headlines for days. Aidan¡¯s


    probably swamped with work. No wonder he doesn¡¯t have any spare time to care for me.


    Right then, Naomi walked out of the house to find Leanna looking at the finance news. ¡°What is it? Are


    you interested in this?¡± she asked.


    Leanna hastily looked away before smiling at Naomi. ¡°No. I was just taking a look at it.¡±


    Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.


    Naomi nced at the papers and thought about it for a moment before smiling. ¡°You¡¯re from Highside,


    right?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Leanna nodded.


    Naomi looked as if she had more follow-up questions after that, but she held her words back in the end.


    ¡°Have you bought the yarn?¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Leanna handed the bag to Naomi. ¡°Ms. Fletcher, I bought some clothes on the way back. I¡¯ll


    wash yours and return them to youter.¡±


    ¡°Forget it. You can have them. I can¡¯t wear those clothes anymore, anyway,¡± Naomi said before turning


    and heading back to the house. That night, the male tenant next door knocked on their door. ¡°Miss


    McKinney, Ms. Fletcher, I bought some desserts earlier. Ms. Shaffer and I couldn¡¯t finish them, so I


    thought we¡¯d bring some over to you guys.¡± The people around the neighborhood often brought small


    gifts over for one another, so Leanna took his offering without thinking much about it.


    The next day, she bought some fruits on her way home and brought them to their ce in return. But to


    her surprise, things started to get out of hand.


    ¡°Miss McKinney, my mother sent some local delicacies over from my hometown. You and Ms. Fletcher


    should try them out.¡±


    ¡°Miss McKinney, my friend has just returned from abroad and he got these choctes for me. I don¡¯t


    have a sweet tooth, so I figured that girls might appreciate this gift a little more.¡±


    ¡°Miss McKinney, my department handed us movie tickets. If you have time tomorrow, perhaps we could


    catch a movie at night.¡±


    Regardless of how insensitive of a person Leanna might be, she was still able to tell that something was


    right. After Harry left, Leanna turned and walked back into the house with the movie tickets in her hand


    and a dazed look on her face. Naomi was sitting at the desk and knitting a sweater. ¡°This is the fifth time


    he brought something over in the past two days, isn¡¯t it?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I think so¡­¡± Leanna muttered.


    ¡°He¡¯s a decent guy. I heard that his parents are teachers and that he¡¯s working for a state-owned


    enterprise. That¡¯s a solid and steady ie we¡¯re talking about. He¡¯s a reliable man!¡± Naomi uttered.


    Leanna sat down beside the other woman. She was at a loss for words.


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to consider him?¡± Naomi looked up and gazed at Leanna.


    Leanna smiled. ¡°You don¡¯t understand my situation, Ms. Fletcher. I¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re pregnant, right? What¡¯s the big deal?¡± Naomi asked.


    Leanna¡¯s eyes widened upon hearing the other woman¡¯s words. ¡°How did you find out about that?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the surprise? There is a bunch of middle-aged women living in this area, and we¡¯ve all given


    birth to our own children. We knew about your pregnancy from the day you moved in. You came here


    because you wanted a fresh start, right? Why do you care so much about the past, then? I can tell that


    Harry genuinely likes you. If you¡¯re interested in him, perhaps you could talk to him about this while you


    guys watch the movie tomorrow. A rtionship involves two-way effort, so there¡¯s no harm in taking the


    first step to try things out,¡± Naomi advised.


    ¡°I don¡¯t think any man can ept a woman who¡¯s pregnant with someone else¡¯s child, right?¡± Leanna


    said after a long pause.


    ¡°There are always going to be exceptions to the norm. You¡¯ll never find out until you try him out. You


    should make things clear, and you should help him to understand why you rejected him. If he¡¯s able to


    ept you for who you are, he¡¯lle looking for you. If he doesn¡¯t ept it, that¡¯s still good news! At


    least he wouldn¡¯t pester you anymore,¡± Naomi uttered.


    Leanna stared at the other woman quietly. That sounds simple and straightforward. It does sound like the


    most effective n, she thought. She had never intended to keep her pregnancy her secret in her new


    residential area. She simply didn¡¯t have a reason to announce it to everyone¡ªshe figured that everyone


    would know about it when her belly got bigger. However, she hadn¡¯t foreseen someone like Harry to pop


    up at a time like this.


    ¡°I¡¯ll rify things with him tomorrow,¡± Leanna finally said after giving it some thought.


    ¡°How does it look?¡± Naomi held up the knitwear that she had been working on in the past two days, and


    Leanna immediately realized what it was. It was a pair of baby socks!


    ¡­


    At 6.30PM the next evening, Leanna showed up at the front entrance of the cinema in one of Naomi¡¯s


    dresses. Soon enough, Harry jogged over with his forehead covered in sweat. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry! There was a


    jam on the way here, and I had to run as I was worried that I would bete. I¡¯m notte, am I?¡±


    Leanna beamed at him. ¡°No. We still have ten minutes until the movie starts, so we¡¯re just in time.¡± He let


    out a sigh of relief after hearing her words. ¡°Great. Let¡¯s go in, then.¡± However, Leanna didn¡¯t move


    immediately. ¡°I have something to tell you, Harry,¡± she uttered instead.


    ¡°We can talk about itter. My colleague told me that this movie is really amazing,¡± he replied.


    She thought about it for a moment before nodding. ¡°Okay.¡±


    This was the first time Leanna hade to the movies alone with someone who wasn¡¯t Zoe. Throughout


    the process, Harry didn¡¯t speak much¡ªhis gaze was fixed on the screen. When the movie was over, he


    stretched his limbs while turning to look at the woman. ¡°Are you hungry? Let¡¯s have a meal,¡± he


    suggested.


    ¡°I am rather hungry. Sure,¡± she replied. Leanna paid for dinner, but Harry insisted on paying her back


    when he found out that she had paid. ¡°I¡¯m the one who asked you out. How can I expect you to pay for


    me?¡±


    Leanna smiled at his words. ¡°It¡¯s fine. You paid for the movie tickets, so it¡¯s reasonable for me to pay for


    dinner.¡± Harry understood where she came from, but he protested against her logic anyway. ¡°My


    department was the one who gave us these movie tickets, so I didn¡¯t pay anything¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine. It¡¯s the same thing,¡± she replied. After they got out of the restaurant, Harry addressed Leanna in


    a gentle tone. ¡°Miss McKinney, is it¡­ okay if I call you by your first name?¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± she replied.


    ¡°L-Leanna, I¡¯m 29 years old this year. My parents are teachers working in my hometown, and they have


    sufficient savings to retire and grow old on their own. I¡ª¡± Leanna interrupted him before he could go on.


    ¡°Harry, thank you for telling me about all this. However, I¡¯m not looking for anything romantic right now. I


    just want to focus on taking care of the baby in my belly,¡± she uttered.


    Harry seemed rather anxious after hearing her words. ¡°But you¡¯re a girl, and it¡¯s really hard to care for a


    kid all on your own. I¡¯m willing to do it with you,¡± he offered. Leanna wasn¡¯t surprised that he was already


    aware of her pregnancy. ¡°We¡¯ve only known each other for two weeks, and we don¡¯t know much about


    one another. Furthermore, your parents would never agree to this,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Well, rtionships are built with time, aren¡¯t they? My parents¡­ I can just tell them that the baby is


    mine. They¡¯ll be so happy!¡± he cried.


    But she shook her head. ¡°You¡¯re just infatuated with the new girl in the neighborhood¡ªyour feelings


    aren¡¯t going tost for long,¡± she told him.


    ¡°But¡ª¡± he started.


    ¡°Thank you for the movie. I¡¯ll leave now.¡±


    After finishing her words, Leanna turned around to leave. The moon was especially bright that night, and


    its light seemed to spill onto the ground as Leanna took a stroll along the river nearby. She was kicking a


    pebble that she had found on the ground, and she was having a lot of fun with it.


    However, all of a sudden, the pebble skipped andnded right beside a granite stool. There was a man


    seated on the chair.

 Chapter 80

    Chapter 80


    Chapter 80 He¡¯s Not Going to Let Her Go


    The dim glow from the moon illuminated the man¡¯s sharp nose, thin lips, and defined jaw. He tilted his


    head up a little to look at the sky, but he didn¡¯t seem to realize her presence. Leanna¡¯s first instinct was


    to turn and run away, but she saw Jonathan standing some distance away from her. He gave her a curt


    nod.


    Leanna was speechles; she had no choice but to walk toward Aidan before stopping in front of him.


    ¡°What are you doing here, President Pearson?¡± she asked.


    He didn¡¯t move from his seating position and simply spoke in a voice that sounded even more sinister


    than usual. ¡°Did you tell Jonathan to send you my schedule?¡±


    She didn¡¯t know what to say in response. He can just say that he doesn¡¯t want to share it if he doesn¡¯t


    feelfortable with the idea. Why is he being so petty? Leanna didn¡¯t know what he wanted from her,


    so she stood around for a while before questioning him again. ¡°When did you get here, President


    Pearson? Have you eaten? If you haven¡¯t, we could¡ª¡±


    ¡°When he said his parents were teachers back in his hometown,¡± Aidan stated out of nowhere. Leanna


    frowned as she processed his words for a moment. ¡°Were you eavesdropping on our conversation?¡±


    Aidan gradually turned around before staring at her nkly. ¡°I just happened to overhear you guys


    talking. If you were so afraid of being heard, you guys should have whispered to each other behind


    locked doors,¡± hemented. Leanna had to take a deep breath to calm herself down. She didn¡¯t want


    to get all petty with him.


    ¡°I¡¯m surprised to see that you actually seem attractive to other men. There was that engagement with


    Zayn a while ago, and there¡¯s now a man who¡¯s willing to take responsibility for the baby. Men are just


    streaming into your life!¡± Aidan continued.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s still nothing inparison to all the women you have in your arms, President Pearson,¡± she


    retorted. He was speechless for a moment, but he then scanned the outfit that she was wearing before


    pressing his brows together. ¡°What are you wearing?¡±


    She flicked her hair back and looked away while speaking. ¡°It¡¯s fashion¡ªyou wouldn¡¯t understand it.¡±


    He scoffed and stood up to fix his shirt before walking past her and leaving the site. She stood in her


    spot for a few more seconds before she turned around. By then, Aidan was already bending down to


    get into the ck Maybach that was parked nearby. She was still rather dazed even after the car drove


    off. Did he leave just like that? Didn¡¯t hee here to interrogate me? Or did he juste here to


    criticize me because he was in a bad mood? I don¡¯t understand, she thought.


    When Leanna got home, Naomi was watering the nts on the front porch.


    ¡°Did you rify things with that person?¡± Naomi asked without looking at the woman who had just


    walked into the house.


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Leanna replied after some silence.


    Naomi stood up straight. ¡°Well, if my guess is right, you rejected Harry, didn¡¯t you? Why do you still


    seem so gloomy if everything has been dealt with?¡±


    Leanna parted her lips as if she wanted to say something, but she hesitated for a long time without


    finding the right words. ¡°I bumped into my ex-husband on the way home,¡± she finally uttered.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Did you guys get into a fight?¡± Naomi asked.


    Leanna shook her head. ¡°He just showed up out of nowhere and made some oddments before


    leaving. I don¡¯t even know what he was doing there.¡±


    ¡°Maybe he misses you,¡± Naomi uttered tly.


    Leanna gazed at Naomi quietly. ¡°Don¡¯t say that, Ms. Fletcher. You¡¯re scaring me,¡± Leanna finally said.


    ¡°Well, you guys are divorced, yet he came all the way to Highside just to see you, didn¡¯t he?¡± Naomi


    said.


    Leanna sat on the chair and looked up to the skies before sighing. ¡°I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on in his


    mind. He often acts in an iprehensible manner, yet he¡¯ll somehow find a way to rationalize it. One


    way or another, it¡¯s a fact that he hates me.¡±


    ¡°Are you an idiot? Why would he marry you if he hates you?¡± Naomi asked while she continued


    watering her ns.


    ¡°Well, things were¡­plicated back then. I got pregnant, and his parents forced him to get married.


    This made him see me as a maniptive, scheming woman who went out of her way to get what she


    wanted,¡± Leanna exined.


    ¡°Did you rify things with him after that?¡± Naomi asked.


    ¡°I did, but he doesn¡¯t trust me. He still thinks I¡¯m finding excuses for myself,¡± Leanna replied. Naomi let


    out an exasperated sigh. ¡°Well, I guess the divorce is good news if he doesn¡¯t trust you.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true.¡± Leanna sprawled on the table and gazed into the distance as she spoke. ¡°But I have a


    feeling that his attitude toward me has changed after we divorced¡ªhe¡¯s even weirder nowadays. I can¡¯t


    understand him at all,¡± she uttered.


    ¡°How immature,¡± Naomimented with a smile. Leanna nodded in response. That b*stard is pretty


    immature sometimes, she thought.


    ¡­


    The next morning, Leanna heard the sound of hushed voices outside the window the moment she


    woke up. Everyone seemed to be discussing some serious matter as they all had stern looks on their


    faces. After she got out of bed and washed up, she headed out to join the group of middle-aged women


    who were chit-chatting outside. ¡°What is it?¡± she asked.


    Wendy, thedy next door, responded in a whisper. ¡°I heard that there¡¯s a developer who¡¯s about to


    purchase ournd and turn it into a resort.¡±


    ¡°This is way too sudden. I¡¯ve never heard any news about this in the past. If they demolish this area,


    then where are we going to stay?¡± anotherdy asked.


    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯ve stayed here for decades, and our children are no longer in town. Where are we supposed


    to stay?¡± someonemented.


    ¡°This area is definitely going to change if this building is turned into a resort. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll be hard to


    find another ce like this that¡¯s suited for retirees,¡± onedy uttered.


    ¡°I know, right? The air is clean, and the environment here is so good. I don¡¯t want to leave!¡± someone


    said. Leanna seemed to realize something after hearing all their words. I think I know why Aidan came


    yesterday. He isn¡¯t going to set me free, after all. Leanna pressed her lips together as she turned


    around to leave.


    She had only taken a few steps away when Naomi came out of their house. ¡°Where are you going this


    early in the morning?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I¡­ have some stuff to deal with,¡± Leanna replied. ¡°I¡¯ll head out now, Ms. Fletcher. Don¡¯t count me in for


    lunch.¡±


    Naomi nodded. ¡°Slow down. What¡¯s the rush?¡± Leanna slowed down and took a breath upon hearing


    Naomi¡¯s words. Her footsteps were no longer as hurried after that. She texted Jonathan to ask him


    where they were, and Jonathan seemed to have been prepared for this question¡ªhe sent her the


    location of a hotel almost immediately.


    Leanna gritted her teeth as she waited by the side of the road to hail a cab. Once she got to the


    entrance of the hotel, she was about to go in when she saw Aidaning out with a group of people


    around him. She caught sight of Harry in the group.


    However, Harry didn¡¯t seem to notice her. He received the news from his superiors once he arrived at


    work that morning¡ªa huge figure from Highside had the thought of building a resort in the area. Harry¡¯s


    leader sent him and a few other colleagues to escort the well-known person paying a visit.


    When Leanna saw therge group of people, she took a step back and hid in a corner before texting


    Jonathan again. ¡®When will you guys be done?¡¯ she asked.


    ¡®Not any time soon. It¡¯ll probably end at night,¡¯ Jonathan replied. ¡®President Pearson says that you can


    wait for him in his room if you have something to say,¡¯ he added.


    Leanna was speechless. Who does this guy think I am? she thought. After taking a deep breath, she


    jabbed her fingers against her phone screen to type her message. ¡®Thank you for the offer. I don¡¯t need


    it!¡¯ After texting the text, she stormed off angrily.


    After sending her text, she stormed back in the direction she came from. When she got to her next


    destination, she emerged from the cab to find that there were about 8 ck cars waiting around by the


    two sides of the peaceful river. One of the cars was the ck Maybach that Aidan had sat in the day


    before.

 Chapter 81

    Chapter 81


    Chapter 81 Waking up in Anger Even After Falling Asleep


    With her head hanging low, Leanna pushed the gate open and sat on a chair by the courtyard.


    Then, Naomi came out of the house and saw Leanna. ¡°Didn¡¯t you say you needed to be somewhere?


    Why did youe back so soon?¡±


    Shaking her head, Leanna sighed. ¡°It should be fine.¡±


    She already assumed that Aidan was here to get back at her. After all, Jonathan replied to her instantly,


    saying that that man was waiting for her toe begging. However, she hadn¡¯t expected that that man


    woulde at her with such a grandiose project. Looking at the current situation, her begging him


    would amount to nothing in the end. Just the kind of pettiness I¡¯d expect from that scum, she thought.


    After a few moments passed, she said, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, do you know they¡¯ll be tearing this ce down?¡±


    With a nod, Naomi sat beside her and sorted the clutter there. ¡°I¡¯ve heard about it.¡±


    ¡°Then, where do you n to go?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Since the project is still in the nning phase, there¡¯s still plenty of time for me to think


    about it. After all, they will still need more time to start work even after they¡¯ve finished the proposal.¡±


    Halfway through listening to Naomi, Leanna started having a headache as her belly growing bigger day


    by day would make finding a ce to move into an inconvenience.


    Then, Naomi looked Leanna in her eyes and said, ¡°If you¡¯re troubled with where you would go, how


    about living with me?¡±


    With Naomi¡¯s offer, Leanna¡¯s eyes lit up with her spirits perked up instantly. ¡°Is that okay?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just one person anyways. Adding you into the mix wouldn¡¯t be a bother.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ms. Fletcher,¡± Leanna said with a smile. Although she now had a n for the move, she


    had a feeling that her days offort and peace would soone to an end with Aidan¡¯s appearance.


    Just then, there was amotion outside the house. With no idea what was going on, Leanna turned


    her attention over to the fences crawled with green vines with a thoughtful look, which prompted Naomi


    to ask, ¡°Want to go take a look?¡±


    However, Leanna looked away from the fences and shook her head. As she didn¡¯t want to go, she said


    with a smile, ¡°There wouldn¡¯t be anything interesting to see since it¡¯s just the developers¡¯ arrival that


    caused themotion.¡±


    Naomi was even more so, as she hadn¡¯t the slightest interest. She had always preferred peace and


    quiet and would never be present in such a lively atmosphere.


    Soon after, themotion gradually faded further away from the two in the courtyard. Then, Wendy


    from next door entered their courtyard with a smile. ¡°Oh, Leanna, Naomi, why are the two of you just


    sitting still here when it¡¯s so lively out there?¡±


    If Leanna¡¯s memory served her right, Wendy was beside herself with worry when she heard that the


    area was going to be developed into a resort hotel. So, why does she look so happy now?


    Oblivious to Leanna¡¯s thoughts, Wendy sat with the two and said with glee, ¡°That developer who came


    looked so young and handsome. He is ways better looking than the celebrities you see on TV. If I were


    20 years younger, I would¡¯ve¡­! Oh dear, it¡¯s so embarrassing just thinking about it!¡±


    Although Leanna was speechless at the sight of Wendy giddy as a schoolgirl, she asked, ¡°Ms. Shaffer,


    have you forgotten the fact that that man¡¯s here to develop thend you¡¯ve been staying for ten years


    into a resort hotel?¡±


    Wendy pped her thigh. ¡°Oh yes, how did that even slip my mind? Ah, but forget it. This street is


    really old, after all. Few years ago, the government had already said they would be nning to develop


    thisnd. However, they¡¯ve dyed submitting the proposal time after time. If not this handsome


    developer, then there would be another developer that wille instead. At the very least, I can still fall


    asleep if it was this developer.¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips, holding herself back from remarking. She wanted to tell Wendy that she would


    wake up in anger even if she fell asleep upon hearing what that man would say.


    ¡°Naomi, where would you be moving to? Vivian and Susan will be staying with their sons. Unfortunately


    for me, since my son married a calcting wife, I dislike the idea of living under the same roof as her.


    What say you and I be neighbors again?¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Wendy was relieved after hearing Naomi¡¯s reply. After a short moment of pondering, Wendy then


    asked, ¡°Oh, now that I think about it, I¡¯ve never seen your son before even though you¡¯ve been here all


    these years. What does he do for a living?¡±


    After Wendy¡¯s question, Naomi stopped sorting the clutter briefly. Just as she was about to answer her,


    Wendy continued, ¡°Don¡¯t you dare deny it. I saw just how handsome that little boy was in the photo.¡±


    ¡°He stays with his father,¡± Naomi said indifferently.


    Realizing she had stepped on andmine, Wendy cleared her throat before she continued, ¡°Hey, it¡¯s


    just a divorce. No big deal. However, even though that boy lives with his father, he should at least visit


    you here. I mean, it¡¯s already been twenty years since you came here.¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t know I¡¯m here.¡±


    Wendy shook her head and sighed. ¡°Then, you¡¯re really¡­¡±


    Leanna remained silent the entire time, but she could more or less understand just how Naomi was


    feeling.¡±


    A moment¡¯s silenceter, Wendy pped her thigh again. ¡°Oh right! Leanna!¡±


    What is it now? Leanna thought, slightly taken aback.


    ¡°The neighbors came together and decided to hold a dinner party for the developers, but you should


    know most of us are already in our fifties. We¡¯ll just be treated as a joke if we¡¯re the ones


    apanying them. That¡¯s why we¡¯ve all decided that you should attend the dinner as the


    representative of our neighborhood.¡±


    Leanna¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. ¡°He agreed?¡±


    ¡°Why wouldn¡¯t he? This is a perfect opportunity for them to build a good rtionship with the


    neighborhood, after all.¡± Then, Naomi lightly patted Leanna¡¯s thigh before she continued, ¡°Don¡¯t worry,


    Leanna. We¡¯re not trying to trick you into anything. We¡¯re just trying to uphold our dignity here. Harry


    and his leader would be there as well, so you¡¯ll be in good hands. After you¡¯re done with dinner, you


    can even ask him to send you home.¡±


    Leanna wasn¡¯t worried about whether she would be losing out, so to speak. Rather, she was worried


    whether it was in Wendy¡¯s intention to set her up with Harry Mills. After seconds passed, she said, ¡°I¡ª¡±


    However, before Leanna could finish her sentence, Wendy stood up and patted Leanna on her


    shoulder, as though she was entrusting her with a heavy responsibility. ¡°Leanna, I¡¯ll leave the rest to


    you.¡±


    After Wendy took her leave, Leanna immediately looked at Naomi in bewilderment, which prompted the


    latter to say, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to go, then don¡¯t go.¡±


    Contrary to Naomi¡¯s assumptions, Leanna was willing to attend the dinner party, as she wanted to ask


    Aidan about what was going on. She was bewildered, as she thought just how the meeting would be¡­


    a touchplicated.


    In the evening, Leanna was all dressed and was about to leave the house when she remembered


    Aidan had a dissatisfied expression upon seeing the clothes she was wearing the night before. She


    then went back upstairs to her room, changed into the most vintage-looking dress she had, and put on


    retro makeup. After that, she went through the pile of old items Naomi had given her and found a


    hairband and earrings that were clearly dated in fashion. With the two essories finishing her outfit,


    she left the room satisfied.


    When Leanna left the house, she found Wendy standing by the entrance to her house. Wendy came up


    to Leanna and sang praises. ¡°Leanna, you look so beautiful! Back in the old days, you would have


    been a celebrity, a household name!¡±


    Leanna smiled. ¡°Thank you, Ms. Shaffer.¡±


    ¡°Dear, it should be me who should be thanking you. I¡¯m ashamed to have you represent us even


    though you¡¯ve only moved here not too long ago, but you¡¯re the prettiest in this neighborhood.¡±


    ¡°You shouldn¡¯t say those words, Ms. Shaffer. You and Ms. Fletcher have taken good care of me


    throughout my time here.¡±


    Listening to Leanna, Wendy nodded in relief. ¡°Since you have said this much, Leanna, I¡¯ll also be


    straightforward with you as well. Harry is¡ª¡±


    Before Wendy could carry on, Leanna immediately interrupted her. ¡°I¡¯ll bete if I leave anyter, so I


    have to go now. Bye-bye, Ms. Shaffer!¡±

 Chapter 82

    Chapter 82


    Chapter 82 What Do You Think, Miss McKinney?


    The neighborhood held the dinner at a famous local restaurant. When Leanna arrived downstairs, she


    saw Harry waiting for her by the entrance. Thetter noticed her arrival and waved at her. ¡°Leanna,


    over here.¡±


    ¡°Sorry I¡¯mte, there was some traffic on the way here,¡± Leanna said after she walked over to Harry.


    Coyly, Harry had his hand on the back of his head, as though he was still embarrassed over what


    happened the night before. ¡°It¡¯s fine, don¡¯t worry about it. President Pearson and the others still haven¡¯t


    arrived yet. It¡¯s cold outside, so let¡¯s go in first.¡±


    Harry then took her into a private room filled with other upper-ranked leaders. After he introduced


    Leanna to everyone present, his direct leaderughed and said, ¡°I¡¯ve heard Harry mention Miss


    McKinney before this. As expected, she¡¯s really a beauty.¡± Saying that, the man patted Harry¡¯s shoulder


    and said softly enough for only Harry¡¯s ears, ¡°You¡¯re real lucky, kid.¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Hearing his leader¡¯s remark, Harry smiled sheepishly. The rest of the leaders in the room, who had


    heard of Leanna, beganplimenting Harry as well, saying that he was young and had a promising


    future.


    In such a situation, Leanna couldn¡¯t bear to refute this fact in front of the leaders even though she had


    already made things clear with Harry. Hence, she casually remarked, ¡°I also think he¡¯s a good man.¡±


    As soon as she made that remark, the room became silent. Harry¡¯s direct leader immediately went over


    to the door and said, ¡°President Pearson.¡± The rest of the leaders followed suit and gave their greetings


    as well with only Leanna staying still in silence.


    Aidan remained indifferent to the leaders and finallyid his eyes on Leanna.


    Noticing this, one of the leaders said, ¡°President Pearson, she is one of the residents of Underwood


    Lane, Leanna, who is also Harry¡¯s neighbor.¡±


    Aidan only grunted in acknowledgment before he passed her by. The leader who spoke up cleared his


    throat and followed suit. ¡°President Pearson, please have a seat here.¡±


    At the round table, Aidan would naturally be seated at the head position of the table with the highest-


    ranked leaders sitting to his left. With ranking as the order of seating, Leanna sat next to Harry.


    During the meal, Harry noticed Leanna hadn¡¯t moved her utensils, which was why he kept putting food


    on her te. ¡°Leanna, you should try this. This is one of the most famous local dishes here. It¡¯s very


    delicious.¡±


    Leanna turned her head to him and smiled. ¡°Thank you.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± Saying that, he put another type of dish on her te. ¡°This is delicious too. Here,


    give it a try.¡±


    Unsure whether it was her own delusion, Leanna was ufortable, as she felt a pair of cold eyes on


    her. However, when she took a nce at the room, Aidan was talking business with the people next to


    him with his usual indifferent expression. She lightly touched her nose in self-reproach. How could I


    have imagined for that man to be looking at me, she thought.


    Just then, Harry¡¯s immediate leader said, ¡°Harry, you shouldn¡¯t be solely entertaining Leanna. Everyone


    here is watching, you know?¡± Although he was criticizing Harry, he was teasing him in actuality.


    Harry then stood up with a ss in his hand. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for this, everyone. I will punish myself with a


    toast.¡± Saying that, everyone somehow joined in the toast as well.


    Throughout the dinner, Leanna stayed seated and was in a daze halfway through. Just then, a voice


    said to her, ¡°Leanna, here. A toast to you.¡±


    Coming back to her senses, she turned her attention toward the direction of the voice to find a man


    looking at her. Just as she was about to speak, Harry interrupted, ¡°Zack, unfortunately, Leanna can¡¯t


    hold her alcohol well. I¡¯ll drink in her stead.¡±


    Perhaps the man known as Zack had a little too much to drink, as he said, ¡°Ah, what¡¯s so interesting in


    drinking with a man? Leanna, I do not wish to make this difficult for you too, so just drink one ss with


    me. I won¡¯t bother you after this.¡±


    When Zack raised his ss, Leanna said gently, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but since I¡¯m pregnant, I can¡¯t have any


    alcohol.¡±


    As soon as Leanna said she was pregnant, everyone at the table made eye contact with one another.


    Only Aidan remained still with no visible changes in his usual expression. Some had even whispered to


    another, ¡°That fast? Harry¡¯s got some moves¡­¡±


    Leanna then said, ¡°However, I will toast to you all with this tea in ce of alcohol.¡±


    With that, no one in the room could find fault with Leanna. As a result, the lively atmosphere died down.


    Just then, an indifferent male voice said, ¡°I heard that both your parents are teachers, Mr. Mills?¡±


    Hearing that voice, Leanna almost spat out the tea she was drinking.


    Not knowing why that business tycoon put him in the spotlight, Harry nodded hurriedly. ¡°Yes. My


    parents have been teaching for many years back in our hometown.¡±


    Aidan then sighed deeply. ¡°It¡¯s good that your parents are teachers, as the children they raise would


    turn out to be just as selfless as Mr. Mills who is part of the pir of the nation.¡±


    Due to his nervousness, Harry couldn¡¯t process what Aidan had said and could only understand the


    man wasplimenting him. Then, he replied bashfully, ¡°You tter me, President Pearson. I don¡¯t


    deserve such praise.¡±


    With a smile, Aidan gently held the ss in front of him. ¡°No need for such modesty. You are worthy of


    such praise. What do you think, Miss McKinney?¡±


    Leanna kept her calm, as she knew that man woulde at her like this. Calmly, she replied, ¡°Harry is


    excellent even though he¡¯s still so young. He¡¯s indeed much better than some that hold a holier-than-


    thou attitude while being domineering to everyone.¡±


    As soon as Leanna said that, the room fell silent once more. However,pared to the silence from


    before, the silence this time was a suffocating one. Although she didn¡¯t point out who she was


    describing, everyone in the room felt that it was inappropriate to be saying such a thing on such an


    asion.


    Just as everyone held their breath and fully anticipated Aidan to rage, Aidan sneered, ¡°Miss McKinney


    is such a beauty. Too bad that doesn¡¯t hold true for her mouth.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for thepliment, President Pearson,¡± Leanna replied.


    The crowd in the room became speechless at how Leannapletely disregarded thetter part of


    Aidan¡¯s sentence. Just how mentally strong is she to manage that? With the atmosphere growing


    heavier by the second, some of them braced themselves and tried to bring up topics of their own to


    diffuse the situation.


    After three rounds of toast, Leanna left for the restroom, as she saw the crowd hadn¡¯t the intention to


    disperse yet.


    Seeing her leaving the room, Harry followed suit and said, ¡°Leanna, it¡¯s gettingte. Why don¡¯t I take


    you home first?¡±


    Leanna turned back toward Harry. ¡°Is it okay for you to just leave?¡±


    Scratching his head coyly, Harry replied, ¡°I¡¯lle back after sending you home. They won¡¯t be


    wrapping up anytime soon.¡±


    With a smile, Leanna said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll just head home by myself. You just stay here and


    apany them.¡±


    Harry knew that it would not be a good idea for him to just leave now, and so he nodded in affirmation.


    ¡°Then, please send me a message when you get home.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°Say, Leanna.¡± Harry stopped her once more. ¡°You were being so bold just now. Aren¡¯t you afraid he


    would be angry?¡±


    Leanna replied indifferently, ¡°Even if that man gets angry, he¡¯ll only give a few words of criticism at


    most. I doubt he would do any more than that in front of others. You also needn¡¯t worry about the


    partnership since that man has always been profit-oriented. These small grievances wouldn¡¯t amount to


    anything in his eyes.¡±


    After listening to her exnation, Harry stared at Leanna nkly. ¡°How are you so sure?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t all businessmen like that? For that man toe so far out here from Highside only shows how


    important this project is to him.¡±

 Chapter 83

    Chapter 83


    Chapter 83 Don¡¯t Push Your Luck


    Hearing that, Harry let out a sigh of relief and said with a dry smile, ¡°So that was the case. I thought for


    a second there you knew President Pearson well.¡±


    Leanna was about to answer when a cold male voice sounded from behind. ¡°I also think that Miss


    McKinney knows me quite well.¡±


    She fell silent.


    Harry hurriedly said, ¡°President Pearson, Leanna didn¡¯t mean it that way¡­¡±


    ¡°Leanna?¡± Aidan scoffed coldly. ¡°From the way you¡¯re calling each other by your first names, it seems


    that you two are very close.¡±


    His words made Harry extremely flustered. ¡°I¡­ Leanna and I¡­¡±


    Leanna looked at Aidan calmly and said, ¡°President Pearson, if you have anything to say about me,


    you can just say it. Don¡¯t always take it out on others.¡±


    He slowly looked toward her, his gaze turning frosty.


    At the sight of their tense conversation, although Harry wanted to speak up several times, the words


    faded into nothing whenever he tried to open his mouth.


    After a few seconds, Aidan said coldly, ¡°Miss McKinney, you must think of yourself as someone very


    important.¡±


    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll be taking my leave first,¡± Leanna replied with a slight nod at him. Then, she turned


    and left.


    ¡°Leanna¡­¡± Harry hurriedly called out before he turned back and said to Aidan, ¡°I¡¯m really sorry,


    President Pearson. I¡¯lle back after I escort Leanna to the car.¡±


    She had already walked to the entrance and was waiting for the car. When she saw Harry following


    after her, she said, ¡°I can go back alone. You don¡¯t have to send me back.¡±


    Harry replied, ¡°It¡¯s fine; I¡¯ll wait until you get into the car.¡±


    Hearing that, Leanna couldn¡¯t reject him either, so she nodded.


    Just by standing next to her, Harry could feel anger emanating all over her body and he hesitated for a


    while before asking, ¡°Leanna, do you and President Pearson know each other?¡±


    Leanna was taken aback and didn¡¯t know what to say all of a sudden.


    He continued, ¡°Both of you are from Highside. Did you two have any kind of misunderstanding in the


    past?¡±


    As a matter of fact, it wasn¡¯t a tough guess either. The reason for their animosity toward each other had


    to be that they had a grudge or they just didn¡¯t get along, but an extremely powerful and busy man like


    Aidan wouldn¡¯t constantly be finding fault with a girl he had met for the first time and causing trouble for


    her.


    On the other hand, during the two weeks since Leanna moved to Underwood Lane, she was always


    sweet, good-tempered, and full of smiles toward everyone, and Harry had never seen her talking to


    anyone in this tone.


    Leanna didn¡¯t know how to exin things to him either. Then, a cab arrived and she said, ¡°Let¡¯s


    continue this tomorrow. I¡¯ll be leaving first.¡±


    Harry nodded. ¡°Then, send me a text when you get home.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡±


    After watching the cab drive away, Harry slowly retracted his gaze. When he returned to the private


    room, the leader asked unhappily, ¡°Harry, where have you been?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, you don¡¯t have to exin. President Pearson has left, so let¡¯s end things here today.¡±


    ¡­


    When Leanna got home, Naomi was already asleep, and her surroundings were quiet, with only the


    asional chirps of insects ringing in her ears. She sat in the yard, holding her head and looking


    above her. In the distant sky, the moon slowly showed itself before it was quickly covered by the


    clouds.


    Falling into deep thought, she sighed silently. When she retracted her hand, she found that her left ear


    was empty, and her earring had fallen off without her realizing. She had really brought her misfortune


    home. Every time she bumped into Aidan, no good came out of it.


    Just as she was about to return to her room with a tired expression, there was a knock on the door,


    causing her to pause and look over subconsciously. It was alreadyte, and her neighbors were all


    asleep, so it couldn¡¯t be them.


    Leanna asked softly, ¡°Who is it?¡±


    However, the person outside the door did not answer. She was about to ignore them, but as soon as


    she took two steps into the house, a knock sounded again.


    Soon after, she heard Jonathan¡¯s voice. ¡°Miss McKinney, it¡¯s me.¡±Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Speechless, she opened the door and was met with Jonathan¡¯s polite smile. Next to him, a slender and


    tall figure with his hands in his pockets faced her sideways, looking at the night scenery in the distance.


    Leanna suppressed her temper. ¡°It¡¯ste. Do you need anything?¡±


    Jonathan coughed. ¡°Miss McKinney, didn¡¯t you have something to speak to President Pearson about in


    the morning? He has time now.¡±


    ¡°Oh, it¡¯s nothing now.¡±


    With that, she took a step back and was about to close the door when Aidan looked back at her with an


    unhappy expression. ¡°Leanna, don¡¯t push your luck.¡±


    Leanna answered calmly, ¡°President Pearson, what are you talking about? I always know my ce.


    Pushing my luck is something that doesn¡¯t exist to me.¡±


    Seeing that the two seemed to be in a stalemate again, Jonathan could only try to smoothen things out


    between them. ¡°Miss McKinney, you must¡¯ve been looking for President Pearson about the resort hotel,


    weren¡¯t you? However, you seem to have misunderstood. This project was settledst year, but we


    didn¡¯t expect that you¡¯d coincidentally move here.¡±


    At his words, Aidan grumbled impatiently, ¡°Why are you telling her that?¡±


    Jonathan backed away and stopped talking, thinking to himself, If you don¡¯t want me to tell her, why


    didn¡¯t you interrupt at the beginning? Why did you wait for me to finish talking instead?


    However, Leanna didn¡¯t react much to his words. Judging from the situation, she knew that Aidan was


    not here for her, and she had nearly assumed things again. Fortunately, she didn¡¯t have time to see him


    in the morning or she would inevitably be met with more of his mockery.


    She replied, ¡°I understand. Thank you foring all this way to exin it to me, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan looked even unhappier. ¡°Who said I¡¯m here to exin to you? Leanna, I don¡¯t think that the word


    shameless is sufficient to describe you anymore.¡±


    She paused at his words. ¡°In that case, President Pearson¡­¡±


    Aidan took out the hand that had been inside his pocket and flung it lightly, causing something to fly


    toward Leanna. She caught it subconsciously, and when she took a closer look at the thing in her palm


    under the light, she was slightly taken aback. He found it?


    In the few seconds that she spent spacing out, Aidan had already crossed the threshold and walked


    past her into the yard.


    He measured his surroundings indifferently. ¡°What is so good about this ce? What makes you like


    living here that much?¡±


    Leanna gritted her teeth, resisting the urge to drag him out. ¡°Of course, it¡¯s not as good as your


    luxurious vis, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan nced at her. ¡°Can¡¯t you speak nicely?¡±


    ¡°President Pearson, you broke into my house in the middle of the night without my permission, and


    you¡¯re lucky that I didn¡¯t call the police. Besides, I¡¯ve always spoken like this. If you don¡¯t want to hear


    it, you can leave.¡±


    Aidan stared at her intensely, before he suddenly sneered. ¡°Leanna, I should really take a video


    camera to record what you look like when you need something from me, and what you look like when


    you pretend not to know me.¡±


    Leanna fell silent. Was it that obvious? She took a deep breath and said in a low voice, ¡°President


    Pearson, I don¡¯t live here alone. You¡¯re disturbing others by doing this. If you need¡­¡±


    Before she could finish, the lights in the house were turned on, and Naomi¡¯s voice sounded soon after.


    ¡°Leanna, who are you talking to?¡±

 Chapter 84

    Chapter 84


    Chapter 84 How Can These Two Argue So Much?


    Leanna subconsciously stood in front of Aidan. ¡°Nothing, Ms. Fletcher. It¡¯s just a friend. I¡­¡±


    However, in her desperation, shepletely forgot that Aidan was much taller than her, and she


    couldn¡¯t block him from sight at all. Naomi¡¯s gaze was turned to her direction, but she was not looking


    at her and was looking at the person behind her instead.


    After a few seconds of silence, Leanna suddenly heard Aidan¡¯s voice that carried a hint of coldness.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± She was stumped. He didn¡¯t even leave after what I said earlier. What¡¯s with the sudden


    change?


    As Aidan took a few long strides forward, Naomi spoke again. ¡°Aidan¡­¡±


    Aidan turned a deaf ear to her words and strode away, while Leanna remained frozen in ce, unable


    to figure out what was going on. She noticed that Naomi¡¯s expression was odd, but she didn¡¯t have


    time to think too much about it, and followed Aidan out.


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Jonathan, who was waiting outside the house, was also extremely confused. Aidan had been fine when


    he went inside, but his expression was murderous when he came out. How could these two argue so


    much every day?


    As soon as Aidan walked to the front of the car, Leanna followed out and shouted, ¡°President Pearson!¡±


    Aidan didn¡¯t react at all as he opened the car door and went inside.


    Jonathan looked at Leanna with a confused expression, which she returned. Clearly, neither of them


    knew what was going on.


    However, Aidan had already gotten into the car, so Jonathan didn¡¯t dare to linger around and quickly


    went to the driver¡¯s seat. Hence, Leanna could only stand and watch the ck Maybach disappear into


    the distance.


    After some time, Naomi¡¯s slightly tired voice came from the door. ¡°Leanna.¡±


    Leanna retracted her gaze and walked toward her. ¡°Ms. Fletcher.¡±


    Naomi nced at the direction where Aidan had left. ¡°Ai¡­ Is he your friend?¡±


    ¡°¡­Not at all.¡± Leanna asked in a small voice, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, do you know him?¡±


    As if deep in thought, Naomi looked a little distracted, and it took a few seconds for her toe to her


    senses before she forced a weak smile. ¡°He¡¯s the president of the Pearson Group. I¡¯ve seen him in


    newspapers.¡±


    If she didn¡¯t say that, Leanna might not have thought that much of it, but¡­ Now, she finally understood


    why Naomi read the business newspaper every day. She thought about Naomi¡¯s son who had left with


    his father twenty years ago, as well as the illegitimate child that Justin told her about.


    Leanna fell silent for a few moments before she said, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, his pictures have never been


    published in newspapers.¡±


    Naomi still looked a little out of it. ¡°Is¡­ Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Fletcher¡­ Aidan is your son, isn¡¯t he?¡±


    Naomi didn¡¯t answer and lowered her gaze.


    Leanna didn¡¯t know how tofort her all of a sudden. After all, the way Aidan had acted earlier was


    really hurtful.


    She hesitated for a while before saying, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, he isn¡¯t my friend. He¡¯s my¡­ ex-husband.¡±


    Naomi jolted in surprise. She looked at her, then suddenly looked down at her slightly bulging stomach.


    ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    The two fell into silence.


    Never did Leanna expect that she would meet Aidan¡¯s biological mother after escaping to this ce


    thousands of miles away from Highside. It was too much of a coincidence.


    Finally, Naomi massaged her temple and said, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. Go and get some rest.¡±


    Clearly, she needed time to digest this information as well.


    Leannay on the bed, finding it difficult to fall asleep. She made a few calls to Aidan, but all of them


    were rejected before he finally blocked her number.


    She was speechless. This b*stard has such a bad temper.


    Then, she secretly called Jonathan, who said that Aidan looked extremely angry when he returned to


    the hotel, adding that he had never seen him so angry.


    Leanna could only hum in reply without saying anything else. After all, Aidan had already blocked her


    number, so there was nothing she could do.


    ¡­


    Early the next morning, Wendy came over with a basket of vegetables to peel.


    As she took a seat at the stone table, she asked Naomi quietly, ¡°Did Leanna tell you yet?¡±


    Naomi wasn¡¯t quite herself as she peeled the vegetables in front of her absent-mindedly. ¡°Tell me


    what?¡±


    ¡°Gosh, I really couldn¡¯t tell that Leanna was a stubborn person before. She almost quarreled with that


    developer during dinnerst night. If Harry hadn¡¯t told me, I wouldn¡¯t have believed it. I told you that it


    was right to let Leanna go. She helped Underwood Lane gain some pride, and she really managed to


    look imposing.¡±


    Naomi fell silent.


    Wendy began to gossip again as she continued, ¡°After this incident, I¡¯m starting to feel that Leanna and


    Harry are a good match more and more. Harry is an earnest and good man who can¡¯t refuse when


    others ask him to do something. If he has Leanna by his side, he won¡¯t suffer anymore. What do you


    think? Why don¡¯t we persuade Leanna again and set them up?¡±


    Naomi¡¯s smile was a little stiff as she declined, ¡°I don¡¯t think we should. I think¡­ They¡¯re not really a


    good match.¡±


    ¡°Heh, look at you. Didn¡¯t you think that Harry was a good person? What¡¯s with the sudden change?¡±


    ¡°Harry is a good person, but Leanna doesn¡¯t like him.¡±


    Thinking that her words made sense, Wendy sighed. ¡°It seems that Leanna still can¡¯t forget about her


    ex-husband. I don¡¯t know what¡¯s good about him. I mean, even if they were divorced, he shouldn¡¯t


    leave his wife and son alone for so long. What an irresponsible and unreliable person. If I see him, I¡¯ll


    definitely give him a good beating!¡±


    Naomi didn¡¯t answer.


    After peeling the vegetables, Wendy asked, ¡°Naomi, what happened to you today? Your face is so pale.


    Did you not get a good restst night?¡±


    ¡°A little.¡±


    ¡°Then I won¡¯t bother you. You can go back to sleep.¡± Wendy lifted the basket before she leaned over


    and whispered, ¡°You must remember what I told you about setting up Harry and Leanna.¡±


    Her words made Naomi even more troubled.


    Not long after Wendy left, Leanna came downstairs.


    With a hand on her forehead, Naomi said, ¡°Your breakfast is in the kitchen.¡±


    Leanna hummed in response as she turned back inside to take her breakfast. Taking a seat next to


    Naomi, she asked softly, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, do you feel ill?¡±


    Naomi waved a hand. ¡°Just my usual migraine.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you get a checkup at the hospital? I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, I¡¯ll feel better after taking some medicine.¡± Naomi looked at her. ¡°Are you going out?¡±


    Leanna paused for a moment before saying, ¡°I¡­ don¡¯t think so.¡±


    ¡°All right, I¡¯ll go inside and rest.¡± Naomi had just taken a few steps before she turned around and asked,


    ¡°What do you want for lunch?¡±


    Leanna took a small bite of her bread. ¡°I want some fish stew.¡±


    ¡°What a coincidence. Wendy brought me some fishst night. I¡¯ll cook some for youter.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ms. Fletcher.¡±


    Naomi¡¯s lips moved as if she wanted to say something, but in the end, she just sighed silently and went


    back to her room.


    After Leanna finished her breakfast, she felt that she couldn¡¯t just freeload food off of Naomi, and after


    sitting for a while, she gave Jonathan a call.


    Jonathan informed her that Aidan hadn¡¯t left his room since he went backst night, let alone eat. After


    Leanna replied that she understood, she hung up.

 Chapter 85

    Chapter 85


    Stop Doing Pointless Stuff It was 12.00PM and Leanna went to the kitchen to lend Naomi a helping


    hand while thetter was making lunch. Naomi said, ¡°Just wait outside. Why squeeze in here when


    there¡¯s not enough space?¡± Leanna asked with a smile, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, could you make more of the


    stew?¡± ¡°Why? Could you finish that much of it?¡± ¡°Well¡­¡± Leanna¡¯s eyes flickered. ¡°My friend would like


    to have some, too. I¡¯ll bring it to himter.¡± Naturally, Naomi knew which ¡®friend¡¯ that Leanna was


    referring to. Instead of giving an answer, she merely added some more water to the stew, saying


    impassively, ¡°As you wish.¡± Leanna suppressed a smile. ¡°In that case, Ms. Fletcher, I¡¯ll be waiting


    outside.¡± ¡°Uh-huh,¡± Naomi mumbled. A smile curved Leanna¡¯s lips for a moment as she sat in the yard


    while resting her chin in one hand. Atst, she found out who Aidan had inherited his tendency to say


    one thing and mean another from. After lunch, she went leisurely to the hotel while carrying the


    thermos Naomi had left in the kitchen. Jonathan led her to the door to Aidan¡¯s room, saying, ¡°Miss


    McKinney¡­ President Pearson may refuse to see you at the moment.¡± He refuses to see anyone, let


    alone her, he thought. Leanna replied, ¡°It¡¯s okay. I just want to talk to him for a second. If he really


    doesn¡¯t want to see me, then never mind.¡± He nodded.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°In that case, Miss McKinney, please call me if there¡¯s anything,¡± he said before fleeing the explosive


    battlefield as fast as he could. She pressed the doorbell and asked, ¡°President Pearson, could you hear


    me?¡± There was no answer from inside the room. After waiting for a few seconds, she rang the doorbell


    several times again, saying in a louder voice, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯ve brought you some fish stew. If


    you still don¡¯te out, I¡¯ll finish it myself.¡± There was still no answer, though. He¡¯s quite phlegmatic,


    huh? thought Leanna. After a few minutes, she said with disappointment, ¡°President Pearson, since


    you¡¯re so unwilling to see me, I¡¯ll be leaving for a ce no one could find to get out of your sight and


    your mind¡ª¡± Before she could finish her sentence, the closed door before her suddenly opened. Aidan


    stared at her expressionlessly while asking, ¡°Are you done talking?¡± Leanna looked dejected. ¡°I¡¯m here


    to say my final goodbye to you, President Pearson. Thank you for being big-hearted and tolerant


    toward me all this while.¡± Aidan didn¡¯t even look at her, though. He merely retorted with a sneer, ¡°Didn¡¯t


    you call me a hypocritical and domineering bully yesterday? And today you¡¯re thanking me for being


    big-hearted, huh?¡± ¡°Well, I didn¡¯t say yesterday that I was talking about you, President Pearson. If you


    insist on thinking that way, then¡ª¡± ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± He impatiently interrupted her. ¡°What¡¯s the matter,


    exactly?¡± She lifted the thermos she was carrying. She said ingratiatingly, ¡°I heard that you haven¡¯t


    eaten sincest night, so I went out of my way to bring this to you.¡±


    Aidan had no intention of letting her in, though. Folding his arms across his chest, he leaned against


    the door while staring at her icily. Feeling somewhat guilty under his piercing stare, Leanna averted her


    eyes awkwardly. ¡°Don¡¯t get the wrong idea, President Pearson. I¡¯m here to thank you for the kindness


    you¡¯ve shown my brother,¡± she said. Then, seeing that he was silent, she added, ¡°I heard from him that


    he¡¯d gone back to school. This is all thanks to you, President Pearson.¡± ¡°Since you know that, do you


    think you can return the favor with just a bowl of fish stew?¡± Leanna was rendered speechless. Just get


    straight to the point and say you wanna eat this or not. Why are you beating around the bush?! She


    took back the fish stew, saying, ¡°I see. You¡¯re right, President Pearson; that¡¯s not sincere enough


    indeed. In that case, let me think about how I can express my gratitude to you. I won¡¯t bother you


    anymore. I gotta go.¡± Aidan fell silent for a moment. Then, he said, ¡°Wait a minute.¡± She kept smiling as


    she looked back. ¡°Is there anything else, President Pearson?¡± His eyes darted sideways to his room.


    Then, he turned around and went inside. Leanna curled her lips and entered the room after him. Then,


    she poured the fish stew in the thermos into a bowl and handed it to him. ¡°Have a taste, President


    Pearson.¡± Aidan took the bowl with one hand and picked up the spoon with the other before taking a


    mouthful of the stew. Leanna¡¯s eyes widened with anticipation. ¡°How is it? Is it delicious?¡± ¡°What¡¯s the


    difference? This isn¡¯t your first time making it.¡± ¡°O-Of course there is. What if my cooking skills have


    improved?¡± He gave her a look. ¡°No, that didn¡¯t happen.¡± She was rendered speechless. I just knew


    that nothing good everes out of this *sshole¡¯s mouth! Unwilling to ept such an oue, she


    insisted, ¡°Why don¡¯t you taste it again? The fish stew has fish mint in it, so the broth¡¯s even thicker and


    tastier. Isn¡¯t it particrly delicious?¡± Aidan frowned in displeasure. ¡°What the hell are you trying to


    say?¡± ¡°Never mind, it¡¯s nothing.


    Just finish the stew, President Pearson. I have to take the thermos back after you finish it.¡± He stopped


    eating, though. Instead, he put down the bowl and said apathetically, ¡°Stop doing pointless stuff,


    Leanna.¡± Leanna was stunned. For a moment, she was at a loss for words. Aidan¡¯s voice was


    emotionless. ¡°Just get out of here with your stuff.¡± ¡°President Pearson, I know there are some things


    that I¡¯m not qualified to say, but¡­ What if there¡¯s a misunderstanding between you two?¡± ¡°Leanna,


    could you mind your own business first before advising someone else?¡± ¡°I¡ª¡± He said coldly, ¡°If you


    think everything can be exined and forgiven with the word ¡®misunderstanding,¡¯ how about I have


    Jethro brought to you right now?¡± She was instantly lost for words. Never mind, this is none of my


    business in the first ce. I just thought of giving it a try because I feel that Ms. Fletcher has taken so


    much care of me these days, she thought. Still, before she left, she couldn¡¯t help but mutter in a low


    voice, ¡°Ms. Fletcher and Jethro are different.¡± However, Aidan ignored her. Leanna withdrew her gaze


    and left with her head hung low in dejection while carrying the thermos. After she left, Jonathan


    gingerly poked his head through the door, asking, ¡°They¡¯re here, President Pearson. Would you like to


    meet them? Or would you like to put it off until tomorrow?¡± Aidan got up and replied impassively, ¡°No,


    it¡¯s not necessary.


    I¡¯ll be there right away.¡± ¡°Yes, President Pearson.¡± ¡­ After leaving the hotel, Leanna looked at the


    leftover fish stew in the thermos. Finding it a pity to let it go to waste, she found somewhere to sit down


    and finished it in one gulp. I should¡¯ve starved that *sshole to death instead of taking the trouble to


    come here. Still¡­ I know nothing about the past between them, and I shouldn¡¯t have spoken out of


    turn, but I didn¡¯t ask Aidan to forgive Ms. Fletcher at once. I just feel that they haven¡¯t seen each other


    for such a long time. The past 20 years have been a very long time for both of them, so any


    misunderstanding between them should be cleared if there¡¯s one. And yet, that *sshole had to touch


    my sore spot by mentioning Jethro. What a fool I am for my pains. She exhaled and sat a while longer


    before going back. Naomi was sorting out the junk in the yard when she came back. When she saw


    Leanna, she merely said without saying anything else, ¡°Just give it to me. I¡¯ll wash it.¡± ¡°Uh¡­ It¡¯s okay.


    I¡¯ll wash it.¡± Naomi darted a look at her and asked impassively, ¡°He didn¡¯t finish it?¡± Leanna promptly


    replied, ¡°He did. He finished it.¡± Then, fearing that Naomi might not believe her, she opened the


    thermos on purpose. ¡°Look, Ms. Fletcher. It¡¯s empty.¡±

 Chapter 86

    Chapter 86


    Naomi took the thermos from her, though nobody knew whether she believed her or not. ¡°Just leave it


    to me. Go upstairs for a rest.¡± Leanna hadn¡¯t slept well yesterday, so she felt somewhat sleepy at this


    moment. Consequently, she went upstairs with a yawn and slept until six in the evening. Thest rays


    of the setting sun filled the sky on the distant horizon. When she came downstairs, she found that


    Naomi wasn¡¯t in her room. She went to the house next door to take a look, only to find that Wendy


    wasn¡¯t there as well. Not only that, but they weren¡¯t the only ones missing. It was time to make dinner,


    but the surrounding houses were very quiet, with no sounding from them. As thest glow of


    sunset faded in the distance, the lights along the street came on one by one, illuminating the ripples on


    the surface of the river. It¡¯s perhaps difficult to find another serene old street that has existed for as


    many years as this one, thought Leanna. Just as she was in a sort of trance, Wendy appeared behind


    her and patted her on the shoulder. ¡°You¡¯re up, Leanna?¡± Leanna came to her senses. ¡°Hey, Ms.


    Shaffer.¡± Wendy said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Leanna was baffled. ¡°Where are we going?¡± ¡°Oh, right, you don¡¯t know


    this yet.¡± Wendy pped a hand to her forehead. Then, she exined, ¡°Well, now that the project to


    build the resort hotel has more or less been finalized, everyone¡¯s moving away one after another. It¡¯s


    hard to tell when we¡¯ll meet again, so we decided to have dinner together again for onest time.


    I dragged Naomi to help with the preparation this afternoon. Now that everyone¡¯s almost here, I came


    back to call you.¡± With that, she dragged Leanna to themunity hall. Meant for public use, the


    community hall was the ce for festive gatherings by the surrounding neighbors, but there had never


    been full attendance at these gatherings due to all kinds of reasons. Perhaps because this would be


    theirst meeting, there was surprisingly full attendance this time. Underwood Lane¡¯s residents were


    mostly middle-aged men and women like Naomi and Wendy, who had reached a certain age but were


    unwilling to live with their children. Apart from these people, there were also young tenants like Leanna


    and Harry. Despite their age gap, they got along very well. It¡¯d be more apt to describe them as a big


    reconstituted family than asndlords and tenants. This evening, these middle-aged residents showed


    off their cooking skills by each making one of their specialties, resulting in a sumptuous feast with


    dozens of dishes on the round table. Wendy showed Leanna to her seat. ¡°Come on, Leanna, sit here.¡±


    Those seated at this table were all her familiar neighbors, including Wendy and Naomi. However, the


    seat on her left was empty. ¡­ The meeting for Underwood Lane¡¯s acquisitionsted a full afternoon


    until darkness fell. After everyone else had left, Aidan sat in his seat while massaging his temples in


    difort. Jonathan came over and asked, ¡°President Pearson, do you need painkillers?¡± Aidan put


    down his hand and stood up, saying impassively, ¡°Never mind. Let¡¯s go out and get something to eat.¡±


    Meanwhile, Harry and some of his superiors in his department were still waiting for the elevator at the


    elevator lobby. One of the superiors said, ¡°It¡¯s time for dinner. Let¡¯s have dinner before we go back.¡±


    The other superiors agreed, but Harry replied with embarrassment, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, everyone, but I probably


    have to excuse myself today.¡± He told them briefly about the gathering organized by his neighborhood.


    The revamp of Underwood Lane into a resort hotel was a big project that carried great importance for


    Harry¡¯s department as well. Therefore, upon hearing his words, his superiors immediately replied, ¡°Is


    that so? Well, in that case, we can¡¯t hold you up today no matter what.¡± ¡°Please give our regards to the


    neighbors when you go back, Harry.¡± ¡°By the way, Harry, will Leanna be present at the gathering?¡±


    Harry nodded. ¡°Yes, she will.¡± His superior patted him on the shoulder and said encouragingly, ¡°Well,


    that¡¯s nice. This is a great opportunity. You¡¯ve got to seize it.¡± Harry felt somewhat shy, but he nodded


    heavily nheless. ¡°I¡¯ll do my best.¡± Little did they notice that before they realized it, someone had


    been standing quietly behind them with cial eyes. After leaving the hotel and saying goodbye to his


    superiors, Harry stood at the intersection to hail a taxi. However, as soon as he put up his hand, a ck


    Maybach slowly pulled up in front of him, baffling him. The car window rolled down to reveal the man¡¯s


    stony features. He said, ¡°Mr. Mills.¡± Harry eximed in surprise, ¡°President Pearson?¡± Aidan asked


    apathetically, ¡°Where are you going, Mr. Mills? Let me give you a ride.¡± Overwhelmed by the


    unexpected offer, Harry quickly refused, ¡°No, no, no, President Pearson, please don¡¯t bother. I¡¯ll hail a


    ¡ª¡± ¡°Get in the car.¡± Harry was lost for words. Not daring to refuse the man again, he opened the car


    door and bent down to get in. It was extremely quiet in the car, and Harry was breathless with extreme


    nervousness. He had met with Aidan very often over the past few days due to work-rted reasons.


    However, his superiors were the ones who talked to thetter most of the time, whereas he was only in


    charge of fetching documents, running errands, and doing other kinds of odd jobs. Therefore, he hadPublished by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    never faced thetter alone as he was doing right now. He had long heard of Aidan. The Pearson


    Group was a huge family business with a solid foundation, but Aidan wasn¡¯t a wealthy yboy who


    only knew to eat, drink, and be merry. Not only had the Pearson Group¡¯s share price doubled since he


    took over thepany, but it had swiftly expanded its market abroad, resulting in soaring annual


    profits. Rumor had it that Aidan was decisive and merciless to the point that even the Pearson Group¡¯s


    chairman feared him, which only proved how capable he was. Just as Harry was lost in thought, an


    impassive male voice rang beside him. ¡°Mr. Mills.¡± It took a few seconds before Harry finally came to


    his senses. ¡°Yes, President Pearson.¡± Aidan asked, ¡°I heard that you¡¯re courting Miss McKinney?¡±


    Harry didn¡¯t expect Aidan to have heard of this as well. He replied with embarrassment, ¡°Huh? Uh, well,


    yes¡­¡± ¡°But Miss McKinney said yesterday that she¡¯s pregnant. Don¡¯t you mind that, Mr. Mills?¡± Harry


    didn¡¯t know why he would suddenly ask such a question. After pondering for a moment, he answered,


    ¡°I like Leanna for who she is, and I like her regardless of what has happened to her in the past. As for


    her pregnancy¡­ I believe that we¡¯ll have our own kids one day.¡± Aidan curled his lips into a sneer


    without making anyments. Soon, the ck Maybach drove into Underwood Lane. Harry said to


    Jonathan, ¡°Mr. Stoll, could you please pull over at the front? Thank you


    .¡± Aidan rolled down the car window and darted a look at the outside. He asked in an emotionless


    voice, ¡°Do you live here, Mr. Mills?¡± ¡°No, I don¡¯t, President Pearson. The thing is¡­¡± Harry told him


    about the gathering. Aidan raised his eyebrows slightly. ¡°Oh? Sounds like a lively gathering to me.¡±


    Harry wasn¡¯t dumb either, or he wouldn¡¯t have achieved his current position. Naturally, he understood


    what Aidan¡¯s words meant, so he asked tentatively, ¡°President Pearson, would you like to join us?¡±


    Aidan withdrew his gaze. ¡°Isn¡¯t it unsuitable for an outsider like me to be present at your gathering?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not the case, President Pearson. Those in the neighborhood like you very much. They wanted


    to invite you to our gathering at first, but they were afraid of bothering you, fearing that you wouldn¡¯t like


    such an asion. If you join us, they¡¯ll surely be very happy.¡± ¡°Since you said so, I guess I have no


    choice but to join you guys.¡±

 Chapter 87

    Chapter 87


    Chapter 87 Call You Aidan


    Meanwhile, at themunity hall, everyone else had arrived save for the one to whom the empty seat


    next to Leanna¡¯s belonged.


    Wendy said, ¡°Hey, what¡¯s the matter with Harry? Is he stuck in traffic or something?¡± Then, she turned


    to look at Leanna. ¡°Leanna, I forgot to bring my cell phone with me. Why don¡¯t you call Harry up and


    ask him where he is?¡± she suggested while throwing a meaningful look at thetter.


    Leanna was rendered speechless. That¡¯s too obvious, Ms. Shaffer.


    Naomi let out a quiet sigh. ¡°I¡¯ll make the phone call.¡±


    Wendy gave her a push. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you, Naomi? Oh, right, it suddenly urs to me that there


    are two dishes left in the kitchen. Come on, let¡¯s hurry and bring them over,¡± she said while dragging


    Naomi away.


    Obviously, the other neighbors at the table hadmunicated with Naomi about this in advance. ¡°Just


    give Harry a buzz, Leanna. The food will get cold in a while.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s right! Ask him where he is now.¡±


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Leanna let out a sigh. Just as she was about to take out her phone, Harry¡¯s voice suddenly rang beside


    her. ¡°It¡¯s not necessary, everyone. Sorry to keep you guys waiting.¡±


    A middle-aged woman asked, ¡°Harry, why¡ª¡± Then, seeing another person standing behind him, she


    broke off mid-sentence.


    Harry immediately introduced Aidan, saying, ¡°This is President Pearson. You guys have met him


    yesterday, right?¡±


    ¡°Oh, my, how could we forget about President Pearson? He¡¯s even more good-looking than the


    celebrities on TV!¡±


    ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s right! Nice to meet you, President Pearson. Sorry that we didn¡¯t greet you yesterday


    because you were quite far away. You look so young, President Pearson. Do you have a girlfriend? Are


    you married? My daughter is also working in Highside.


    She¡ª¡± ¡°What nonsense are you talking about? Come on, President Pearson, have a seat. You¡¯re our


    guest of honor here.¡± As everyone started talking at once, even the residents who weren¡¯t seated at


    Leanna¡¯s table learned of Aidan¡¯s arrival, and they came over to greet him. Harry had his heart in his


    mouth right away, fearing that Aidan would be annoyed by such a hugemotion. He stole a nce


    at thetter¡¯s expression, only to see that thetter was fine. Instead of getting impatient as he had


    imagined, thetter looked as impassive as ever. Still, bigwigs of high standing like Aidan were usually


    unpredictable and vtile. Fearing that the man¡¯s patience would reach its end, Harry dared not tarry


    for too long, so he persuaded everyone else to return to their seats. After the surroundings finally


    quieted down a little, someone came over and suggested, ¡°President Pearson, this table is full. We still


    have an empty seat over there. Why don¡¯t you sit there with us?¡±


    Aidan replied in an impassive voice, ¡°I came with Mr. Mills, so I¡¯ll sit at the same table as he does.¡±


    Naomi and Wendy had yet to return to their seats, but it was obvious from the jackets they had left in


    their seats that these seats were taken. In other words, there was only one empty seat left at the table.


    Without thinking much of it, Harry gave up his seat to Aidan, saying, ¡°Please have a seat, President


    Pearson.¡± Having been silent all this while, Leanna suddenly rose from her seat. ¡°Take my seat, Harry.


    I¡¯ll¡ª¡± However, before she could finish her sentence, she was silenced by a threatening stare. Harry


    hurriedly said, ¡°Uh¡­ No, it¡¯s not necessary, Leanna. You sit down. I¡ª¡± At this moment, the middle-


    aged woman seated on Harry¡¯s left stood up. ¡°Take my seat, Harry. I¡¯ll sit at Sally¡¯s table. Just take


    good care of President Pearson.¡±


    After much trouble, the seating arrangement was finally confirmed. When Aidan sat down, Leanna felt


    uneasy all over and quietly moved to the right.


    At this moment, Wendy and Naomi returned with the dishes. When they saw Aidan sitting there, Naomi


    involuntarily paused in her tracks for a second, whereas Wendy was startled for a moment before


    coming forward and greeting him warmly.


    Stealing a nce at Naomi, Leanna noticed that she put the dish on the round table with her usual


    expression before settling in her seat.


    Now that things hade to this, Leanna could only be grateful that Wendy was sitting on her right.


    However, sitting between the gloomy mother and son made her feel even worse than being torn apart.


    At first, the others who were seated at the table dared not speak to Aidan due to his standing and his


    dignified air, but Wendy was different. She was famous throughout the blocks for her warm hospitality,


    so she began chatting with him after greeting him. ¡°Hey, President Pearson¡­¡± She pped her thigh.


    ¡°It feels pretty formal to keep addressing you as President Pearson. I see that you¡¯re about the same


    age as my son, so I¡¯m gonna call you Aidan. You don¡¯t mind it, right?¡± Aidan was stumped for a


    moment. Then, he replied, ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡± Wendy replied, ¡°He he, that¡¯s great. Aidan, let me ask you


    something. Are you married?¡± Leanna paused for a moment while drinking water. Ms. Shaffer, could


    you at least follow the normal course of things? How could you ask such a private question right away?


    She felt her temples throbbing. At the same time, however, an emotionless voice rang beside her. ¡°I


    am.¡±


    As soon as he said that, another female neighbor asked, ¡°You¡¯re so good-looking, Aidan. Your wife


    must be pretty as well, right?¡±


    Aidan darted a sideways look at Leanna before replying in a casual tone, ¡°She looks so-so.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    Wendy then asked, ¡°Do you have kids already? Aidan, I¡¯m not trying to speak out of turn here, but


    you¡¯re at the perfect age to have kids. If you have kids now, your parents can help you babysit them. If


    you do so a few yearster, your parents will get old, and¡ª¡±


    Leanna couldn¡¯t help but hem several times to interrupt her.


    Wendy turned to look at her before refilling her ss. ¡°You too, Leanna. Drink more warm water lest


    you catch a cold.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ms. Shaffer.¡±


    Just then, Harry cut in timely, ¡°Ms. Shaffer¡­ I don¡¯t think President Pearson needs his parents to


    babysit his children at home¡­¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re right. I forgot about that,¡± Wendy replied. ¡°But, Aidan, it¡¯s more reassuring to let your parents


    take care of your children than to let an outsider do so. My son is an example. He insists on hiring a


    nanny to babysit his children instead of letting me do so, and now they don¡¯t even recognize me as


    their grandmother. Trust me¡ªno one loves children more dearly than their parents.¡±


    Leanna pped a hand to her forehead, thinking that there was no way she could salvage the situation


    by herself. A few secondster, Aidan¡¯s voice rang in her ear. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡±


    ¡°Ha! That¡¯s more like it,¡± Wendy replied. After chatting a little longer with Aidan, she grew increasingly


    satisfied with him, so much so that her fondness for him was almost palpable. ¡°Oh, right! Leanna, I


    heard from Harry that you two had gone to the movies a few days ago. How did it go? Was the movie


    entertaining?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Why is it my turn to be questioned? Isn¡¯t there a transition or


    something like that? She replied, ¡°It was nice. I¡¯ll treat you to it next time if you¡¯re interested, Ms.


    Shaffer.¡±


    Wendy didn¡¯t expect such a reply from her, though. After being startled for a moment, she said with a


    smile, ¡°Silly, what¡¯s the point of me going to the movies at such an old age? Only young people like you


    guys like that stuff. Why would I want to join in the fun?¡± Then, she took Leanna¡¯s hand and continued,


    ¡°You see, Leanna, it wasn¡¯t easy for you toe all the way from a ce as far away as Highside, as


    well as for us to be neighbors and know each other. I¡¯m gonna be candid with you, so please


    don¡¯t turn a deaf ear.¡±

 Chapter 88

    Chapter 88


    Chapter 88 Confident About Himself


    ¡°Ms. Shaffer, I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Listen to me first, Leanna.¡± Wendy¡¯s expression was grave. ¡°I¡¯ve known since you moved here that


    you had a rough time, but there are some things that Naomi and I dare not mention lest you get upset,


    so we never touched upon the subject. Still, as you know, I¡¯m a person who speaks my mind, and there


    are a few things that I can¡¯t help but say,¡± she continued. Then, after pausing for a moment, she


    commented, ¡°That ex-husband of yours is really an *sshole.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Leanna was rendered speechless, whereas Aidan was puzzled.


    Just as Wendy was about to continue, Naomi touched her arm to signal her to stop. However, the


    former said, ¡°Don¡¯t stop me, Naomi. Now that I¡¯ve brought up the subject, I have to finish saying what I


    want to say. Leanna, just forget about that guy and cherish the one before you.¡±


    Sensing the chilly aura emanating from the person next to her, Leanna quickly said, ¡°You got the wrong


    idea, Ms. Shaffer. I-It¡¯s not what you think it is. He and I divorced amicably.¡±


    ¡°Divorced amicably? That¡¯s bullsh*t! Even if you two are divorced, you¡¯re still pregnant with a baby, yet


    your ex-husband leaves you to fend for yourself! Say, is this even humane? Anyone with a bit of


    conscience wouldn¡¯t have let you leave your hometown ande all the way here while being


    pregnant. Not only do you have no one to rely on for support, but you have no one to turn to for the


    injustices you suffered.¡±


    Leanna felt that her head was going to explode. ¡°Really, Ms. Shaffer, I¡ª¡±


    Wendy let out a sigh while continuing to hold her hand. ¡°Leanna, don¡¯t force yourself to smile anymore.


    I¡¯ve been through this before, so I know how you feel,¡± she said. Then, she continued, ¡°Come over,


    Harry.¡±


    Harry stood up and came between them.


    Wendy held Leanna¡¯s hand in one hand while taking Harry¡¯s hand with the other. ¡°Both of you are good


    kids. Trust me, Leanna. Harry is reliable, and he loves you sincerely. He¡¯ll surely take good care of


    you.¡±


    Seeing that she had set the mood, Harry took advantage of the situation and said, ¡°Leanna, I really


    don¡¯t mind your past. I know that you might not know much about me yet, but it¡¯s okay. I just hope that


    you¡¯ll give me a chance to prove my feelings for you.¡±


    Leanna looked somewhat stunned without saying a word.


    Thinking that she had tacitly agreed to it, Wendy was about to put their hands together, but Leanna


    suddenly retracted hers. ¡°Sorry, b-but I think I can¡¯t.¡±


    Harry¡¯s eyes darkened for a moment.


    Wendy let out a sigh as well. She said to Harry, ¡°This kind of thing can¡¯t be rushed. Let¡¯s wait until some


    other time.¡±


    Harry was in low spirits when he returned to his seat.


    Leanna¡¯s heart nearly jumped out of her chest. She was stunned just now because a certain man


    quietly held her hand under the table while Harry was talking. Not only that, but he evenced his long


    fingers with hers little by little so that their fingers interlocked. She turned to re at him, but he merely


    raised his eyebrows slightly while throwing his head back and drinking calmly, as though nothing had


    happened.


    Everyone at the dining table fell silent after this. However, Leanna felt ill at ease all over; she realized


    that Aidan had no intention of releasing his grip on her hand at all. What¡¯s the matter with this *sshole¡¯s


    sudden fit of madness?!


    At the end of the gathering, the neighbors said goodbye to each other and left. Pulling himself together


    with some difficulty, Harry said, ¡°President Pearson, let me see you off.¡± Aidan replied impassively, ¡°It¡¯s


    not necessary. You seem unwell, so you should go back and have a good rest.¡± As he was talking,


    Leanna secretly tugged on her left hand and finally pulled it out of his grasp. Just then, Aidan added,


    ¡°I¡¯d like to stroll around a little. I just need Miss McKinney¡¯spany.¡± Leanna, who had finally heaved


    a sigh of relief, was stupefied to hear this. Who the hell agreed to that?! Harry¡¯s lips quivered as if he


    wanted to say something, but he found that he had no right to do so. Moreover, Aidan was a married


    man, so he probably wouldn¡¯t have any interest in a pregnant woman.


    After Harry left, Aidan looked sideways at the person, who looked extremely reluctant, sitting beside


    him. ¡°Miss McKinney?¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Wendy patted Leanna on the shoulder. ¡°Leanna, Aidan¡¯s calling you.¡±


    Leanna forced a smile and gave a hollowugh. ¡°Is that so? I didn¡¯t hear it.¡±


    Aidan added, ¡°Thank you for yourpany, Miss McKinney.¡±


    This *sshole is quite good at pretending, thought Leanna.


    When they left themunity hall, only a row of streetlights could be seen along the river outside.


    Walking ahead silently with her head down, Leanna just wanted to reach the other end of the street as


    soon as possible to send Aidan away.


    Aidan put his hand in his trouser pocket while following her unhurriedly from behind. ¡°Miss McKinney,


    aren¡¯t you gonna introduce these ces to me?¡±


    Leanna bit her lip before looking back with a smile. ¡°I just moved here two weeks ago, so I¡¯m not very


    familiar with the neighborhood yet. Just look around as you please, President Pearson. Or would you


    like me to get someone else to give you a detailed introduction?¡±


    ¡°Can you get someone here who¡¯s even prettier than you?¡±


    Leanna let out a sneer. ¡°Didn¡¯t you just say that I looked so-so?¡±


    Aidan stopped in his tracks. Looking at the surface of the river, he slowly retorted, ¡°I was talking about


    my wife, Miss McKinney. Why would you think that I was referring to you?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Look what he¡¯s saying! Is that something a human being is


    supposed to say? She stood a meter away from him. ¡°President Pearson, didn¡¯t you notice that you


    messed up everyone¡¯s arrangements?¡±


    Aidan didn¡¯t care much about it, though. ¡°Is that so? I thought they were quite happy.¡±


    Leanna was at a loss for words. He¡¯s quite confident about himself, huh?


    Aidan looked back at her. ¡°Or are you trying to say that I messed up your chance of getting together


    with that guy, Miss McKinney?¡±


    Leanna replied, ¡°Probably. If you hadn¡¯t been present, I¡¯d probably have agreed to go out with Harry.¡±


    ¡°Miss McKinney, if you regret it, you can still go back to Mr. Mills now. I believe that he¡¯ll be very happy


    to be made a fool of.¡±


    How Leanna wished she could kick Aidan into the river right now. Suddenly, she realized something


    and asked tentatively, ¡°President Pearson, are you drunk?¡± Yeah, that exins it. Only when he¡¯s drunk


    will he not sound sarcastic, cold-hearted, and harsh. That exins why he held my hand earlier.


    Indeed, many came to toast him over dinner just now, which he epted.


    Aidan didn¡¯t answer her, though. After a while, he said impassively, ¡°I also grew up in such ane as a


    child.¡±


    Leanna was startled for a moment before realizing what he meant. No wonder he showed no


    impatience or irritability despite the rowdy surroundings and the hubbub of voices, she thought.


    This was also his first time telling her something about himself, but he seemed to have no intention of


    saying anything else. Instead, nobody knew what he was thinking as he stood there for a long time.


    Just then, a gust of wind blew past them, and Leanna couldn¡¯t help but sneeze.


    Aidan slowly looked back at her impassively. ¡°Leanna.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± What a familiar tone of voice. Has he sobered up?


    Aidan asked, ¡°Anna said that the baby in your womb is Zayn¡¯s. How are you gonna exin this?¡±

 Chapter 89

    Chapter 89


    Chapter 89 My Ex-husband Isn¡¯t That Great Either


    Leanna wasn¡¯t surprised at the frantic usations Anna threw at her. After falling silent for a moment,


    she asked, ¡°Do you believe it, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Whether I believe it or not depends on your answer.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not his.¡± Leanna didn¡¯t seem to be in the mood for pointless exnations. She merely replied,


    ¡°President Pearson, you can find out how many days I¡¯ve been pregnant, as well as the time of Zayn¡¯s


    return from abroad.¡±


    Aidan impassively withdrew his gaze without saying a word.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Leanna opened her mouth and wanted to say something, but she thought it was futile to do so.


    A few secondster, Aidan¡¯s voice finally rang. ¡°Don¡¯t get ahead of yourself. It¡¯s not that I believe you;


    it¡¯s just that I don¡¯t believe Anna.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. What sort of bullsh*t is that?


    However, Aidan added, ¡°Leanna, none of the Pearsons are kind.¡± Including me.


    Leanna didn¡¯t refute him. He¡¯s right about that. He¡¯s the worst among them, after all. Still¡­ She


    whispered, ¡°I think your eldest brother is different from them.¡±


    Aidan asked, ¡°How do you know that?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯vee into contact with him several times. One¡¯s character can be sensed from their behavior.¡±


    ¡°In that case, why couldn¡¯t I sense from your behavior that you were admired by so many people?¡±


    Leanna was lost for words. Taking a deep breath, she replied, ¡°President Pearson, let¡¯s discuss this on


    its own merits. Could you please not stoop to personal abuse?!¡±


    Aidan¡¯s lips curled almost imperceptibly. ¡°I¡¯m only discussing the topic on its own merits. What else do


    you have other than your face? Or are they too stupid to see your heart through the surface?¡±


    ¡°President Pearson, I think that if your opinion on something is different from everyone else¡¯s, then you


    should consider if the problem is with you.¡± ¡°Well then, tell me how I med you unjustly.¡± Leanna fell


    silent; she was at a loss for a retort. She had forced him into marrying her after getting pregnant. Not


    only that, but she had repeatedly asked him for money or used her pregnancy to dare him to divorce


    her. Even though she might not be as scheming as he thought, all of this had indeed happened. Aidan


    let out a nomittal sneer. Leanna said, ¡°It¡¯s gettingte. Do you still wanna hang around, President


    Pearson? If not, I gotta go back.¡± ¡°As you wish.¡± Leanna couldn¡¯t wait for him to say that. ¡°Well then, I


    gotta go. Goodbye, President Pearson.¡± Seeing how she left without looking back, Aidan had


    displeasure written all over his face. What a heartless woman. It wasn¡¯t until Leanna disappeared from


    his sight that Aidan finally withdrew his gaze. However, just as he was about to leave, a figure emerged


    not far from him. ¡°Aidan.¡± ¡­ When Leanna went back and saw that Naomi wasn¡¯t around, she figured


    that thetter might have gone to meet Aidan, so she went upstairs and returned to her room. She had


    just finished taking a shower and was about to go to sleep when her cell phone vibrated with a text


    message from Harry. It read, ¡®Leanna, could youe out for a minute? I¡¯d like to have a word with


    you for onest time.¡¯ She took a deep breath before going downstairs with her cell phone.


    Harry was standing by the river with his head down when she came out. Upon hearing her footsteps,


    he looked up, saying, ¡°Leanna, I¡¯m really sorry for making youe out at such ate hour.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay.


    What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Harry said bitterly, ¡°I¡¯ve caused you a lot of troubletely, so I¡¯d like to apologize to you¡­ I¡¯ve been


    looking for a house to live in, so I¡¯ll be moving away very soon.¡± In reality, there were a few reasons


    why he wanted to move away. The first reason was that the neighborhood was going to be demolished.


    Above all else, however, he didn¡¯t have the cheek to stay after Leanna rejected him in front of so many


    people. He¡¯d be leaving sooner orter, anyway; if he were to leave now, he could at least save some


    pride.


    Leanna pursed her lips, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡ª¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to apologize to me. It¡¯s all my fault for thinking that you also have feelings for me.¡±


    Harry smiled. ¡°If there¡¯s such a chance, I really want to meet your ex-husband and see what kind of a


    great man he is that can make you unable to get over him.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Uh¡­¡± Leanna replied. ¡°You got the wrong idea. My ex-husband isn¡¯t that great either. He¡¯s


    arrogant and self-important. Not only is he bad-tempered, but he says really awful things and likes to


    think about people in a bad way.¡±


    Harry was dumbstruck by her description. ¡°Then you¡ª¡±


    Leanna replied softly, ¡°Everyone has their own ws, and I¡¯m not perfect either. And besides¡­ I just


    want to live alone, which has nothing to do with him.¡± Harry fell silent for a moment. ¡°I got it.¡± ¡°If there¡¯s


    nothing else¡­ I¡¯ll head back in.¡± ¡°Leanna,¡± Harry called out to her. ¡°In that case, what about you and


    President Pearson¡­¡± The question had been lingering in his mind since the night before, but he hadn¡¯t


    had the chance to ask it aloud. Furthermore, no matter how he thought of it, he felt that they weren¡¯t


    simple acquaintances. However, he couldn¡¯t figure out what the nature of their rtionship was. Before


    Leanna could answer him, a cold male voice rang from behind. ¡°Didn¡¯t she tell you that I¡¯m the


    arrogant, self-important, and bad-tempered ex-husband she just talked about who says awful things


    and likes to think of people in a bad way?¡± Leanna was rendered speechless. Did he put me under


    surveince or something? Why the hell is he able to catch me bad-mouthing him every single time?


    Harry looked like he had been struck by lightning. ¡°P-President Pearson?¡±


    Aidan stood next to Leanna with an inscrutable face. ¡°Mr. Mills, I wonder how I should express my


    gratitude to you for wanting to help me raise my son.¡±


    Harry was rendered speechless. In the end, he moved away overnight without even having the time to


    look for a new ce to live in.


    ¡­


    Aidan looked sideways at Leanna, who averted her gaze guiltily, saying, ¡°The moon is full, President


    Pearson. Don¡¯t you see that?¡±


    ¡°The moon isn¡¯t visible today.¡±


    Leanna rubbed her nose. It went without saying that she felt deeply embarrassed.


    Aidan didn¡¯t bother to talk to her anymore, though. He turned around and stepped into the house.


    Leanna caught up to him. ¡°President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Hangover cure.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Knowing that she was in the wrong, Leanna didn¡¯t refuse him, so she silently entered the


    kitchen.


    It seemed that while Aidan was here, Naomi had yet to return. Wendy, their next-door neighbor, wasn¡¯t


    in the house either. They were probably made to stay at someone¡¯s home to say goodbye to the


    neighbors.


    The kitchen had all kinds of food ingredients, so it didn¡¯t take long before Leanna made the hangover


    cure. When she came out with a tray in both hands, Aidan was sitting at the stone table. No one knew


    what he was thinking as he was holding the half-finished little socks in Naomi¡¯s basket.


    Leanna said, ¡°Here¡¯s the hangover cure, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan put down the stuff in his hand and took the bowl she handed to him. Seeing that he had finished


    drinking from it, she whispered, ¡°President Pearson, if there¡¯s nothing else, I¡¯m gonna go to sleep.¡±


    Aidan gave her a look before replying in a low voice, ¡°Mm-hm.¡±


    Leanna let out a quiet sigh of relief before quickly sneaking upstairs. Atst, the bad day ising to


    an end, she thought. Luckily, now that the acquisition process was almost done, Aidan probably


    couldn¡¯t stay any longer, so he¡¯d leave very soon. She didn¡¯t know when Naomi and Wendy were going


    to finish chatting, plus she had used up a great deal of energy today, so she fell asleep soon after lying


    in bed.

 Chapter 90

    Chapter 90


    Chapter 90 I Never Enter Someone Else¡¯s Bedroom


    When Leanna woke up the next day, the sun was shining brightly outside the window. She came


    downstairs with a yawn and caught a faint glimpse of someone sitting in the yard, but she didn¡¯t take a


    closer look at it. ¡°Good morning, Ms. Fletcher.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s almost 10:00 AM, which means it¡¯s almost noon.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. She rubbed her eyes, only to realize that the one sitting at the stone


    table wasn¡¯t Naomi at all. Instead, it was Aidan, who was having breakfast. Startled, she asked,


    ¡°Where¡¯s Ms. Fletcher?¡±


    ¡°Away.¡±


    Leanna asked in shock, ¡°Why are you here?¡±


    Aidan looked back at her before asking impassively, ¡°Why can¡¯t I be here?¡±


    He¡¯s right. He¡¯s Ms. Fletcher¡¯s son, after all, so it makes sense for him to be here. Wait a minute¡­ Did


    they make up?


    Aidan withdrew his gaze as the look in Leanna¡¯s eyes changed continuously. ¡°Daydream for another


    while, and you can have lunch right away.¡±


    Only then did Leannae to her senses and enter the kitchen to get her breakfast.


    After sitting down across from Aidan, she finally noticed that he was wearing his white shirt with the


    sleeves rolled up and the cor open. It seemed like he had stayed the night here yesterday.


    Naomi¡¯s house had three empty rooms left, but Leanna never thought he would stay the night. Didn¡¯t


    we need a change in mood or something? She couldn¡¯t describe her feelings as they stayed under the


    same roof again and had breakfast at the same table.


    Aidan put down his spoon. ¡°Could you eat your fill by looking at me?¡±


    Leanna reflexively lowered her head and ate her porridge in small mouthfuls.


    Just as she was halfway through eating it, there was a symbolic knock on the door, followed by


    Jonathan, who came in with a suitcase. ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯ve brought your clothes over.¡±


    Leanna was dumbfounded. Is he gonna stay here for long?


    ¡°Mm-hm,¡± Aidan mumbled. ¡°Put it there.¡±


    Jonathan nodded slightly. After nodding to Leanna in greeting, he turned around and left. As a result,


    Leanna choked on her saliva. It took a long time before she finally caught her breath and asked,


    ¡°President Pearson¡­ aren¡¯t you going back to Highside?¡± ¡°What¡¯s the hurry? Do you think the


    acquisition of this ce and the construction of the resort hotel can be finished in a day or two?¡±


    Leanna shut up. Just pretend that I¡¯ve never asked the question. Naomi didn¡¯te back throughout


    the morning. Aidan was dealing with his work in the yard, whereas Leanna had wanted to return to her


    room to draw some designs. However, as soon as she moved her butt, Aidan asked her to pour him a


    ss of water. After this happened several times, Leanna got somewhat angry. ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯m


    not your servant!¡± Aidan didn¡¯t even look up. ¡°Is this how you¡¯re thanking me?¡±


    Leanna fell silent for a moment. Then, she replied, ¡°Please wait a minute, President Pearson. I¡¯ll get it


    for you right away.¡± It¡¯s true that there¡¯s no such thing as a free lunch. When it was almost noon,


    Leanna finally got a call from Naomi, who told her that after the gatheringst night, Wendy had


    organized a trip and dragged a bunch of middle-aged and elderly people to a tourist attraction nearby


    to have fun. They wouldn¡¯te back until two dayster, so Naomi said, ¡°Leanna, just eat out for the


    next few days, and don¡¯t quarrel with Aidan.¡± Leanna fell silent for a long time. ¡°Ms. Fletcher¡­ have


    you guys cleared up the misunderstandings between you two?¡± ¡°Yeah, they¡¯re almost cleared. Aidan is


    just stubborn and yet soft-hearted. You and him¡­ Never mind, let¡¯s talk about it when Ie back.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna looked up at the sky and blinked her eyes, but no tears came out.


    If I have sinned, please let me be punished ording tow instead of letting me stay alone with Aidan


    for two days. After returning to the yard, she said weakly, ¡°President Pearson, let¡¯s eat out. Ms. Fletcher


    won¡¯t be back until tomorrow afternoon.¡± Aidan asked, ¡°Can¡¯t you cook?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless for a moment. ¡°The smell of cooking oil makes me want to throw up.¡±


    Upon hearing that, Aidan stopped tapping on his keyboard. The next instant, he closed hisptop,


    stood up, and entered the kitchen.


    When Leanna followed him inside, she saw him grabbing a fish and taking it out of the bucket. After


    washing it in the kitchen sink, he picked up the cleaver nearby and was about to chop it. After


    swallowing a bit of saliva, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°President Pearson, do you know how to kill a


    fish?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s none of your business. Get out.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute. I think I heard it screaming¡ª¡±


    Aidan was displeased. ¡°Why would you think it¡¯s screaming? It¡¯s not like this fish is a human being.¡±


    Leanna asked tentatively, ¡°How about we eat out?¡± During their three years of marriage, she had never


    seen him enter the kitchen even once. It would be a wiser choice to ask him to kill her than to ask him


    to kill a fish.


    Aidan looked at her expressionlessly.


    Upon seeing this, Leanna gave him an OK sign and left the kitchen. However, shortly after that, she


    saw billows of ck smoke rising to the kitchen ceiling. Those who had no idea what was actually


    going on would think that Aidan was cooking using firewood.


    After about 20 minutes, Aidan emerged from the kitchen with a livid face and many ck stains of


    unknown origins on his expensive white shirt.


    As a result, Leanna had to bite her lip with all her might to prevent herself fromughing.


    Aidan gave her a frosty look. ¡°Sit there and don¡¯t move,¡± he said. Then, he turned around and strode


    back to his room.


    However, Leanna really couldn¡¯t contain her amusement anymore, and she snorted withughter. It


    was her first time seeing Aidan looking so embarrassed over such a long time.


    When Aidan came out about ten minutester, he had changed his clothes. His dark hair was half-


    dried; it was obvious that he had just taken a shower.


    At the same time, there was another knock on the door. Jonathan had brought the hotel¡¯s head chef


    over.


    Leanna was at a loss for words. As expected, the rich can do whatever they want. How inhumane.


    It was already 1:30 PM when they finally ate lunch. Luckily, they had ate breakfast, so Leanna wasn¡¯t


    very hungry either, but she felt somewhat sleepy while waiting for food to be served.


    Just when she could hardly keep her eyes open, Aidan said impassively, ¡°Just go to sleep if you¡¯re


    sleepy. I¡¯ll wake you up when our meal is ready.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Leanna came round right away. She shook her head with a hollowugh, saying,


    ¡°It¡¯s not necessary. I don¡¯t feel sleepy anymore.¡±


    Aidan let out a sneer and ignored her.


    Knowing what to do in such situations, the head chef left after the meal was ready.


    After they had lunch, Leanna sensibly went to wash the dishes. However, as soon as she got up, Aidan


    said, ¡°Leave it there. I¡¯ll¡­ let Jonathan wash them in a while.¡±


    Finding his behavior shameless, Leanna said, ¡°I¡¯ll do it. Let¡¯s not bother Mr. Stoll for something so


    trivial.¡±


    Seeing that she didn¡¯t appreciate his kindness, Aidan replied with a snort, ¡°Whatever.¡±


    Leanna curled her lips and entered the kitchen. She had always had a habit of taking a nap after lunch,


    so when she finished washing the dishes and saw Aidan talking to someone over the phone, she went


    upstairs right away without telling him about it. She had just identally wet her clothes while washing


    the dishes just now. As a result, she took a nightgown from the cupboard, but just as she undressed


    and was about to change into the nightgown, the bedroom door suddenly opened.


    Aidan said, ¡°Lean¡ª¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Bing angry with embarrassment, she grabbed the pillow on her


    bed and hurled it at him.


    Finally, Aidan closed the door.


    Leanna quickly slipped on her nightgown and dashed out of her room. ¡°President Pearson, could you


    please knock on the door before entering someone else¡¯s bedroom?!¡± All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leaning against the wall next to the door, Aidan looked at her with his head tilted to one side. ¡°I never


    enter someone else¡¯s bedroom.¡±

 Chapter 91

    Chapter 91


    Chapter 91 Haven¡¯t You Had Enough of Hugging Me?


    Leanna clenched her teeth. Now what? Am I not even a human being in his eyes? However, before she


    could make a retort, Aidan said impassively, ¡°Get changed and go out with me for a walk.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you just take a walk yesterday?¡±


    ¡°You already ate yesterday, so why eat again today?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. What an *sshole! She swiftly turned around and banged the door


    shut before locking it.


    Aidan looked at the door lock before raising his head slightly. Then, something seemed to cross his


    mind, and his Adam¡¯s apple bobbed up and down. Withdrawing his gaze, he cleared his throat and


    urged, ¡°Hurry up! I¡¯ll be waiting for you downstairs.¡±


    Leanna¡¯s sulky voice could be heard from inside the room. ¡°Got it!¡± What¡¯s the hurry? It¡¯s not like


    somebody¡¯s gonna get killed or something! If he¡¯s in such a hurry, why doesn¡¯t he go alone instead?


    Leanna changed into one of Naomi¡¯s old-fashioned dresses that Aidan disliked. Not only that, but she


    wore makeup slowly in order to make him wait longer. When she came downstairs, he was standing in


    the yard with his back to her and one hand in his trouser pocket. Looking tall and sturdy, he was quietly


    talking to someone over the phone in French with the cell phone in his hand. His deep, attractive, and


    melodious voice had a cool quality to it. As expected, whatever kind of an *sshole he is, he can behave


    somewhat properly as long as he¡¯s being serious about work, thought Leanna.


    Two minutester, he hung up the phone and looked back at her.


    She immediately looked away, saying, ¡°Sorry to keep you waiting, President Pearson. I¡ª¡±


    At first, she thought he would mock her, but to her surprise, he merely put his phone in his trouser


    pocket and said impassively, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±


    The neighbors had gone on a trip with Wendy. As those who usually lingered outside the houses and


    by the river in twos and threes were all absent, the whole street was very quiet.


    The old and mottled street was bathed in quiet sunshine. Walking at a distance behind Aidan, Leanna


    gently and half-heartedly kicked the pebbles at her feet.


    At the end of the street was a broad river. In the past, Leanna had liked to watch the sunset here every


    day. There used to be some residents of Underwood Lane who came here to y chess or to take a


    walk with their pet birds. Now that they were absent, the riverbank seemed deserted. There were only


    some passersby in groups of twos and threes, as well as some kids who ran back and forth ying


    games.


    Standing by the river, Aidan seemed lost in thought while looking at the scenery in the distance.


    Leanna stood behind him and yawned. I¡¯m so damn sleepy. What makes him so energetic?


    Just as she was in a daze, she suddenly heard his voice. ¡°Come over.¡±


    Leanna followed the voice with her gaze, only to find that Aidan had walked down the steps before she


    realized it. Seeing his tall figure standing next to a boat, she woke herself up with some difficulty and


    walked down the steps. However, after reaching thest of the steps, she noticed the distance between


    the boat and herself, which caused her to hesitate somewhat.


    Just as she was wondering how to get on a boat, a hand with prominent knuckles reached out to her.


    Startled, she looked up subconsciously. Aidan seemed somewhat impatient with waiting. ¡°What are you


    waiting for? Get on the boat.¡± Leanna hesitated for a moment before putting her hand in his palm.


    When she got on the boat, it shook slightly, causing her to lose her bnce and fall into his arms by


    ident. Aidan put his arms around her waist for a few seconds before saying, ¡°Haven¡¯t you had


    enough of hugging me yet?¡± Leanna was rendered speechless. Coming to her senses at once, she


    quickly stepped back. However, the boat was floating on the water in the first ce, so it inevitably


    shook, causing her body to lean back uncontrobly. Just as she thought she was probably going to fall


    into the water, Aidan put his arm around her waist and pulled her back. He said, ¡°Why are you getting


    jumpy all of a sudden? Easy does it.¡± It¡¯s all your fault! thought Leanna. Upon seeing this, the boatman


    said with a smile, ¡°Sit tight, sir and madam. The waves are a little big today, so don¡¯t fall off the boat.¡±


    Leanna opened her mouth, but just as she wanted to exin herself, the boat shook again, causing her


    to get even closer to Aidan. After they finally sat down, she hurriedly moved to the side, trying to keep


    as much distance from him as possible. Aidan darted a nce at her before letting out a snort.


    The boat rowed slowly and shakily on the river. It was quiet around them, save for the asional


    sound of the tree branches rustling in the wind. The water here was very clear, allowing them to see


    groups of fish swimming past them asionally.


    Leanna leaned sideways on the side of the boat with her hand gently skimming over thefortably


    ice-cold water. Just as she was enjoying it, a cold male voice suddenly rang beside her. ¡°Leanna, I


    hope you can understand that I¡¯m working. I¡¯m not on a date with you.¡± Leanna withdrew her gaze with


    puzzlement written all over her face. ¡°What makes you say that, President Pearson?¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you


    purposely wear makeup to go on a date with me?¡± Leanna was rendered speechless. ¡°Ha ha.


    President Pearson, you¡¯re so¡­¡± Aidan looked sideways at her before asking in an even chillier voice,


    ¡°So what?¡± Leanna put on a straight face. ¡°You¡¯re so observant. I didn¡¯t expect you to find out what was


    on my mind.¡± Aidan looked away without bothering to respond to her. Thanks to his interruption,


    Leanna was no longer in the mood to y with water, so she sat tight in her seat. Neither of them


    spoke again as the boat quietly moved on the surface of the river. After a while, Leanna began to yawn


    again; sunshine shone warmly on her as if to induce her to sleep.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    As the boat rocked on the river, she finally fell asleep. She even rested her head on the shoulder of the


    man next to her.


    Aidan lowered his eyes and looked at her expressionlessly.


    The boatman whispered, ¡°Sir, are you and your wife here on a sightseeing trip?¡±


    After a few seconds, Aidan mumbled, ¡°Uh-huh.¡±


    ¡°Which scenic spots did you two go to, then?¡±


    ¡°We just arrivedst night, so we haven¡¯t gone to any of the scenic spots yet.¡±


    The boatman replied, ¡°In that case, let me rmend a few ces that young couples like to go.¡±


    ¡­


    When Leanna woke up, the boat was already approaching the riverbank. She gave a stretch, but just


    as she was about to limber up her stiff neck, she realized that she seemed to be leaning against


    something. Upon realizing this, she immediately straightened up, only to overstretch her neck by


    ident. ¡°Ouch!¡± she cried out in a low voice.


    Aidan let out a sneer beside her as if to mock her for going for wool anding home shorn.


    Massaging her neck, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but say, ¡°Why didn¡¯t you wake me up, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Who can wake a person who¡¯s pretending to be asleep?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Does this *sshole mean that I purposely pretended to fall asleep


    and lean against him?


    However, before she could argue with him, he stood up.


    As the boat pulled in to the riverbank, Aidan stepped onto thend and stretched out his hand toward


    her. He didn¡¯t seem to bother to even speak to her. Instead, he merely raised his chin to signal her to


    get off the boat.


    Leanna curled her lips and gently put her hand in his. After getting off the boat, she immediately


    withdrew her hand to prevent him from thinking that she was purposely taking advantage of him again.

 Chapter 92

    Chapter 92


    Chapter 92 Are You a Tortoise or Something?


    Aidan withdrew his hand and walked up the steps with his long legs without even looking at her.


    Leanna walked a few steps after him. Then, she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°President Pearson, do you


    have anywhere else that you¡¯d like to go? I¡¯m going back first if you don¡¯t.¡±


    ¡°Did no one tell you that one should exercise more during pregnancy?¡±


    Leanna replied with a straight face, ¡°My doctor only told me to get more rest and stay as far away as


    possible from those annoying people and stuff.¡±


    Aidan darted his gaze toward her impassively.


    Leanna added, ¡°Of course, being with you can make one happy both physically and mentally. Where


    else would you like to go, President Pearson? Let¡¯s hurry and go back before it gets dark.¡±


    Aidan looked at the false smile on her face before letting out a sneer. ¡°No, let¡¯s forget about it.¡±


    Leanna breathed a sigh of relief. That would be best, she thought.


    The journey back to the house seemed much shorter than the journey to the river, and it didn¡¯t take


    long before they arrived at the door. Leanna said, ¡°I¡¯m going back upstairs now. Just call me again if


    there¡¯s anything, President Pearson.¡± As she spoke, she hurriedly ran upstairs without waiting for his


    reply.


    After returning to her room, she sat down on the edge of the bed and opened her sketchbook. Then,


    she picked up her pen, but she couldn¡¯t put it down on the page for a long time. At this very moment, all


    she could think about was the scene of Aidan standing on the stern of the boat while stretching out his


    hand toward her.


    ¡­


    After drawing the final stroke, Leanna signed her name on the sketch out of habit. She put down her


    pen, but as soon as she gave a stretch, Zoe called her, asking, ¡°What are you doing, sweetie?¡±


    Leanna was just about to answer when she lowered her head and saw the sketch on her desk.


    Perhaps because she felt guilty, she immediately closed the sketchbook and forced augh, saying,


    ¡°Nothing¡­ I was just drawing sketches. What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Luckily, Zoe didn¡¯t notice the peculiarity of her manner. She merely replied, ¡°I feel so bored being alone


    in Highside. Tomorrow happens to be the weekend, so how about Ie to your ce and hang out


    there for a few days? The scenic photos you sent me earlier seem quite beautiful to me.¡±


    Upon hearing this, Leanna subconsciously said without thinking, ¡°Don¡¯t!¡±


    Zoe was puzzled. ¡°Why?¡±


    ¡°I mean¡­ It¡¯s too far away. That¡¯s right; it¡¯s too far away. And besides, you only have two days; there¡¯s


    nothing much you can have fun with in such a short time. Let¡¯s wait until next time ande when


    there¡¯s a long holiday.¡±


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    ¡°Okay then. Hey, you know what? I saw Anthony a few days ago. He¡¯s now very much in love with that


    lover of his. He acted like he couldn¡¯t live without me back then, which was so disgusting. Men are all


    like that. Not only are they unfaithful, but they won¡¯t let go of any chance to hook up with women no


    matter who she is.¡± Leanna was rendered speechless. She¡¯s right. So what if he can¡¯t live without her?


    In the end, he won¡¯t stay celibate. What the hell is love to these people? Even Anthony is like this, let


    alone¡­ After digging at Anthony for another while, Zoe told Leanna to take good care of herself. Then,


    she hung up the phone. Leanna put down her phone and reopened her sketchbook. After pondering for


    a moment, she tore off the page, crumpled it into a ball, and threw it into the trash can. She let out a


    breath. Pulling herself together, she started to draw design sketches, immersing herself in work without


    noticing that it was getting darker and darker outside. She didn¡¯t know how much time had passed


    when she heard a knock on the door. Aidan¡¯s impassive voice rang, saying, ¡°Leanna, are you


    sleeping?¡± Leanna stood up and opened the door reluctantly. ¡°What¡¯s the matter, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s go out for dinner.¡±


    Only then did Leanna realize that it was already time for dinner. But isn¡¯t this jerk unwilling to eat out?


    Why does he want to eat out now? Aidan darted a look out the window. ¡°It¡¯s getting cold in the evening,


    so bring a jacket with you.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Leanna returned to her room and took a jacket beforeing


    downstairs.


    After leaving the house, she saw the Maybach quietly parked at the roadside. Seeing Aidan walk over


    to the car, she figured that the ce he wanted to go was probably quite far away. I¡¯d better not be


    unreasonable at such a time. Bread is the staff of life, after all, she thought. To her surprise, however,


    when she opened the door to the back seat, he opened the door to the driver¡¯s seat as well. As a


    consequence, she was at a loss for words.


    Aidan looked at her with a look of displeasure. ¡°Get in the front.¡±


    Leanna silently closed the car door and walked to the passenger seat.


    She kept looking out the window along the way. There were a few times when she wanted to ask Aidan


    where they were going, but she decided against it, thinking that he wouldn¡¯t answer her even if she


    asked him about it.


    As the car drove further and further into the distance, the scenery surrounding them became more and


    more well-lit and brightly-colored. Seeing the hustling and bustling crowd around them, she figured that


    they were probably in the downtown area. This jerk is quite a picky eater, huh? He has toe so far


    out here for dinner.


    After Aidan parked his car, the two walked on one after another.


    There were a lot of people here in the first ce. Leanna was pregnant, and her strides weren¡¯t as long


    as Aidan¡¯s, so it didn¡¯t take long before she was jostled away and left behind at a distance. She didn¡¯t


    get anxious, though. It¡¯d be best if we get separated. We¡¯ll have dinner on our own and go home after


    that without bothering each other. However, it didn¡¯t take long before she heard a cold and deep male


    voice over her head. ¡°Are you a tortoise or something? You walk so slowly.¡± Leanna retorted without


    thinking, ¡°Are you an ostrich, then? You walk so fast.¡± Aidan was rendered speechless. Leanna had no


    idea what kind of ce he was taking her to, but her stomach was already growling with hunger. Her


    baby was protesting as well, which made her feel ufortable. She felt nauseous, but she couldn¡¯t


    throw up anything.


    Seeing that she looked somewhat pale, Aidan pursed his thin lips slightly. Instead of getting angry, he


    merely said, ¡°We¡¯ll be there in five minutes.¡±


    ¡°If I¡¯d known earlier that you were such a picky eater and that we had to go somewhere so far away, I¡¯d


    rather eat a few buns at home instead.¡±


    Aidan¡¯s face hardened. ¡°Leanna, don¡¯t push your luck.¡±


    Not wanting to talk to him, Leanna continued to walk on.


    Keeping a half-step distance between them, Aidan slowly walked beside her to keep the huge crowds


    away.


    Upon noticing that, Leanna felt even more irritable. She quickened her pace without realizing it, but


    before she could walk a few steps, Aidan¡¯s voice rang. ¡°We¡¯re here.¡±


    Leanna followed his gaze and saw an endless sea of bright yellow lights and the quaint stalls lining the


    street on both sides. The stalls were selling all kinds of snacks, costume jewelry, toys, and clothes¡­ It


    was truly a feast for the eyes. ¡°This is¡­?¡±


    Before she could finish her sentence, Aidan picked his feet up and entered the street.


    This jerk just can¡¯t be merciful and kindhearted for more than a couple of minutes, thought Leanna.


    Aidan stood on the street lined with stalls selling snacks before turning to look at Leanna. ¡°What do you


    want to eat?¡±


    Of course, Leanna wouldn¡¯t be reserved with him. After ordering almost ten kinds of snacks all in one


    breath, she asked half-heartedly, ¡°What about you, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Just mind your own business.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Okay, I¡¯m just asking.


    She was just about to find a ce to sit down when she noticed that Aidan was merely standing where


    he was with no intention of leaving. She kindly reminded him, saying, ¡°President Pearson, the hawkers


    will serve us the food when it¡¯s ready, so you don¡¯t have to wait here to get the food.¡±


    Aidan fell silent for a moment before replying, ¡°I know that.¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t know if she was hearing things, but she thought she heard him clenching his teeth.

 Chapter 93

    Chapter 93


    Chapter 93 Give You Another Chance


    Back when she was attending college, there had also been an old street like this one next to the


    campus. She and Zoe had often hung out there at night, but the ce they went to was merely a long


    street that wasn¡¯t as spectacr and busy as this one. However, it really surprised her that Aidan


    actually liked such a lively ce.


    Soon after that, the snacks she had ordered previously were served one after another. Just when she


    picked up the fork and was about to dig in, she noticed that Aidan was browsing through documents on


    his cell phone. After pondering for a moment, she held out the fork to him.


    Aidan took the fork effortlessly without even looking up.


    Leanna curled her lips and took another fork.


    It wasn¡¯t until she was halfway through the meal that Aidan finally put down his phone and ran his eyes


    over the food on the table. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you eating these?¡±


    Leanna was just halfway through chewing the food in her mouth. After swallowing it, she replied, ¡°Didn¡¯t


    you order nothing just now, President Pearson?¡±


    Aidan pushed the few boxes toward her, saying tly, ¡°I told you to mind your own business.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. He simply doesn¡¯t know to appreciate someone¡¯s kindness. The


    snacks I¡¯ve ordered are all my favorite food, but I kindheartedly give them up to him. Never mind if he


    doesn¡¯t appreciate the gesture. I¡¯ll eat all of them on my own.


    After eating all of the snacks, she couldn¡¯t help but let out a burp.


    Aidan darted a look at her. ¡°Are you full?¡±


    ¡°Huh? Yeah, I¡¯m full. I¡¯m gonna¡­¡± She wanted to ask the hawker for a bag to pack the leftovers.


    However, before she could finish her sentence, she saw Aidan pick up his cutlery again and eat the


    food she didn¡¯t manage to finish.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Startled, Leanna was somewhat puzzled about what was going on. Why is he doing this?


    Aidan seemed to notice the look of surprise in her eyes. He said impassively, ¡°Did no one teach you not


    to waste food?¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Nobody is wasting food here! I¡¯ve wanted to pack the leftovers, thought Leanna.


    She looked away without finishing her sentence. The lights on the street were splendid, and the night


    was bright and beautiful. Those who came here were mostly people who were on close terms with one


    another, like couples, friends, and families. Perhaps there wasn¡¯t another pair like them, who were


    forced to have dinner together despite being divorced. Just as she was slightly lost in thought, Aidan


    had finished eating the snacks. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± ¡°Oh, okay,¡± Leanna replied. Just as she was about to head


    toward the exit, she noticed that Aidan was walking toward the livelier part of the street, which puzzled


    her. Aidan walked a few steps before noticing that Leanna didn¡¯t catch up to him. He looked back at her


    and said expressionlessly, ¡°There are a lot of people here, so I won¡¯t hold you in my arms. Just forget


    about the fanciful idea before it¡¯s toote.¡±


    Leanna gave a hollowugh. Finding herself at a loss for words to ridicule him, she briskly walked past


    him and went on ahead. Aidan walked side by side with her at an unhurried pace like before. Leanna


    sneaked a few nces over her shoulder. Is this *sshole crazy? What the hell is he trying to do? Before


    she could put her finger on it, her gaze was drawn to the fluffy toys sold at the stalls on the streets. She


    picked a few toys that she liked, but just as she was about to pay for them using her phone, the seller¡¯s


    phone beeped with a message telling him that the payment had been made to his bank ount.


    Leanna turned her head in disbelief, only to see Aidan putting away his cell phone with a hint of


    displeasure on his stony face. ¡°Why are you looking at me?¡± he asked. Leanna was rendered


    speechless. Not only am I looking at him, but I also want to crack his head open to see what¡¯s gotten


    into him today! Just then, his phone rang, and he turned around and went to a rtively quiet spot to


    answer the phone. The seller was all smiles as he handed the bag containing the toys to Leanna. He


    said, ¡°Lady, that¡¯s your husband, isn¡¯t it? You two are very good-looking. What a well-matched couple.¡±


    Just as Leanna was about to deny it, he continued, ¡°By the way, are you and your husband here to put


    love locks or to look at thenterns?¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t hear him well. ¡°Pardon?¡±


    ¡°Our ce is most famous for its love lock bridge. Many couples are here to put love locks on the


    bridge. Let me tell you this: legend has it that as long as you and your husband inscribe your names on


    a padlock, lock it to the bridge, and throw the keys away, your love will¡ª¡±


    Just as the seller was talking with much gusto, Aidan hung up the phone and came over.


    Leanna quickly interrupted the seller with a forcedugh, saying, ¡°I-I got it. Thank you for telling me


    that, but we gotta go.¡± It¡¯s lucky that Aidan didn¡¯t hear what the seller said just now. Otherwise, he¡¯d


    mercilessly mock me again for indulging in wishful thinking, she thought. As a consequence, she nearly


    ran away from the stall.


    Aidan walked up to her before asking with a frown, ¡°Why are you in such a hurry?¡±


    ¡°I-I feel sleepy all of a sudden. How about I go back first while you take your time hanging out?¡±


    ¡°You feel sleepy now that you¡¯re full? Are you a pig or something?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    Aidan warned coldly, ¡°Stop ying tricks. I said that I won¡¯t hold you in my arms.¡±


    Leanna felt really tired. After falling silent for a few seconds, she was forced to embark again on a


    journey that never seemed to end.


    After walking a few minutes, she saw a river, on which many bright and splendidnterns were floating.


    These are probably thenterns that the seller talked about, she thought. She walked on along the river


    until she reached a long passageway.


    If other ces could be described as crowded, then the long passageway was totally overcrowded.


    However, those squeezing in here were all young men and women. They were all holding a padlock


    with names inscribed on it in their hands while looking for a nice spot to put the padlock on.


    Upon seeing this, Leanna had a rough idea of why Aidan brought her here. Since the project to build


    the resort hotel was under negotiation, Aidan had to survey this ce to see whether the tourism


    industry here could bring up the hotel¡¯s upancy level. I was too thoughtless. For a second, I


    thought¡­ She collected her thoughts and turned her head to see Aidan standing quietly by the river


    while looking at one of thenterns. She walked over to him, saying, ¡°President Pearson¡­¡±


    ¡°Leanna.¡± Aidan cut her short in an impassive voice. ¡°I¡¯ll give you another chance.¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯te to her senses for a moment. ¡°Huh?¡±


    Aidan turned to look at her. Then, as his thin lips parted slightly, he said, stressing each word, ¡°Marry


    me again.¡±


    Leanna fell silent for a moment. Then, she replied, ¡°President Pearson,


    thank you so much for giving me the opportunity, but I don¡¯t need it.¡±


    Aidan let out a cold sneer before withdrawing his gaze. ¡°Don¡¯t answer me in a rush. Take your time to


    think about it. There won¡¯t be a second chance for this.¡±


    Leanna fell silent. It seemed that this wasn¡¯t her first time hearing him suggest that they get remarried.


    Before she could speak, Aidan continued, ¡°I don¡¯t want someone to say that I left you to fend for


    yourself, causing you to leave your hometown alone with nobody to depend on.¡±


    Leanna¡¯s lips twitched for a moment as she was rendered speechless. ¡°This is a misunderstanding,


    President Pearson. I¡¯ll exin the matter to Ms. Shaffer.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to exin it,¡± Aidan replied. ¡°Both you and I know who was the one that left


    irresponsibly without saying goodbye, though.¡±


    Knowing that she was in the wrong, Leanna forced augh without saying anything.


    After a moment, Aidan added, ¡°I¡¯ll give you some time to think about it, so give me your answer before I


    leave.¡±

 Chapter 94

    Chapter 94


    Chapter 94 Why Don¡¯t You Give Me Less Trouble Instead


    Leanna consciously remained silent on their way back. Only a jerk like Aidan coulde up with such


    a bullsh*t theory with such confidence, she thought.


    When they arrived home, she whispered, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯m going upstairs to sleep.¡±


    Aidan coldly mumbled, ¡°Uh-huh,¡± as if he didn¡¯t want to say a word more than necessary.


    This is what this jerk truly is, thought Leanna. After returning to her room, she securely locked the door,


    took a change of clothes, and entered the bathroom. Having gone to so many ces with Aidan


    without taking a nap after lunch, she couldn¡¯t wait to take a shower and throw herself onto the bed at


    once right now.


    To her great dismay, however, just as she was halfway through her shower, the light over her head


    suddenly went out. A few secondster, the water became ice-cold as well. She immediately turned off


    the shower and felt for her towel in the dark to wrap her hair with it. After slowly putting on her clothes,


    she opened the window and looked outside.


    As she had expected, the entire street had a power failure.


    Underwood Lane was not only an old street; its electric cables were old, too. The street had power


    outages from time to time, but the power failures usually happened during the day, causing little impact.


    And besides, the power failures were fixed soon afterward.


    This was the first power outage that happened at night since Leanna moved in here. She came out of


    the bathroom. After stumbling around for a while, she finally got hold of her cell phone on the desk. She


    turned on her phone¡¯s shlight and slowly went downstairs, recalling how Naomi had told her that the


    candles were in the cupboard in the living room.


    However, after finding the candles, she realized something even more embarrassing: she didn¡¯t have a


    lighter. She searched everywhere she could, but there was still no sign of a lighter. After turning around


    to look at the pitch-ck door, she let out a sigh, as if resigning herself to her fate. ¡°President Pearson,


    are you still awake?¡±


    A few secondster, the door opened, and Aidan looked at her indifferently. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°I¡­ The power is out. Do you have a lighter? I want to borrow it to light the candles.¡±


    Aidan asked snappishly, ¡°Haven¡¯t you been sleepy for a long time? Why don¡¯t you go to sleep now that


    the power is out? What else do you want to do?¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Still, she said good-temperedly in an imploring manner, ¡°I have to


    boil some water to wash my hair. There are still foams on my hair that I haven¡¯t washed away.¡±


    ¡°How are you gonna boil some water?¡±


    ¡°Ms. Fletcher has a coal stove at home. I noticed itst time, and it¡¯s probably still usable.¡±


    Aidan pursed his lips. ¡°Where is it?¡±


    Leanna replied, ¡°It¡¯s probably in the kitchen, but I can¡¯t remember where it is. I have to search for it.¡±


    She paused for a moment. Then, without forgetting her purpose in speaking to him, she asked, ¡°By the


    way, President Pearson, could you lend me your lighter?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless. How dare he want to marry me again with such an attitude? Just go


    to hell, you jerk!


    Aidan left his room and took a candle from her before heading straight for the kitchen. By the time she


    caught up to him, the candle was already lit and ced on the rack, its tiny me flickering in the wind.


    Aidan took the coal stove out of the pile of junk. After darting a look at Leanna, he said in displeasure,


    ¡°What are you doing in here?¡±


    ¡°I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Just wait outside.¡±


    With the help of the burning candle on the rack, Leanna lit the few candles in her hands. Before she


    left, she kindheartedly left another candle for Aidan. After getting into the yard, she put the remaining


    candles on the stone table. Then, she rubbed her hands and looked up at the sky. The moon seemed


    even brighter and more distant without the city¡¯s lights. Soon after that, Leanna heard some noise in


    the kitchen, but she didn¡¯t see Aidane out for a long time. After restraining herself for a moment,


    she couldn¡¯t help but ask, ¡°President Pearson, do you not know how to use it?¡± After a few seconds of


    silence, a voice rang in the kitchen. ¡°Shut up!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Leanna waited for ten more minutes before seeing Aidane out carrying the coal stove that didn¡¯t


    suit him in every way. After putting a pot of water on the coal stove, he crouched down on one knee


    and looked at her. ¡°What else do you want? Just say it in one go.¡±


    Leanna blinked her eyes. ¡°I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    Aidan was at a loss for words.


    Leanna feared that he would say something like, ¡°Are you a hog or something? You¡¯ve had so much for


    dinner.¡± After all, he had repeatedly described her as some kind of animal tonight. She muttered,


    ¡°Pregnant women get hungry very quickly. And besides, I¡¯m not saying that on my own initiative.¡±


    ¡°So is it my fault, then?¡± Aidan took out his phone without bothering to talk to her.


    Seeing that he was going to dial Jonathan¡¯s number, Leanna quickly said, ¡°No, no, no, don¡¯t do that,


    President Pearson. I only said that without thinking. Let¡¯s not bother Mr. Stoll at such ate hour.¡±


    Aidan put down his phone and stared quietly at her with his ck eyes. ¡°What do you want, then?¡±


    Leanna made a presumptuous request. ¡°There are some snacks in my room¡­ Could you get them for


    me, President Pearson?¡± She¡¯d have gone to get the snacks by herself if it hadn¡¯t been inconvenient for


    her to do so during the power failure. Aidan stood up. ¡°Give me a minute.¡± Leanna responded to his


    indifference with a smile. ¡°Thank you, President Pearson. They¡¯re in a small basket on my desk. Just


    take a few of them as you please.¡±


    On the second floor, Leanna¡¯s desk was just under the window. Faint moonlight shone quietly and


    softly on the desk, allowing Aidan to spot the basket full of snacks at a nce. As he wasn¡¯t interested


    at all in choosing from the snacks, he picked up the entire basket. However, as soon as he turned


    around and walked a few steps, he stepped on something. Consequently, he took a step back and


    crouched down.


    ¡­


    Leanna was slightly lost in thought as she put her hands on the table while looking at the flickering


    candle mes before her.


    Aidan¡¯s attitude toward her had started to be strange sincest night. Although he still spoke in


    such an offensive way, he learned to take care of her in detail. Could it be true that we¡¯re what we eat?


    she thought.


    Before she realized it, something was suddenly ced before her.


    Leanna snapped out of her thoughts. Looking up at the basket full of snacks, she moved her lips,


    wanting to say something. However, she bit back the words on the tip of her tongue. Forget about it. It¡¯s


    good enough that he¡¯s willing to condescend to get the snacks for me. Better not get ahead of myself


    here. A smile spread across her face. ¡°Thank you, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan replied with a dark expression, ¡°Why don¡¯t you give me less trouble instead of only knowing to


    thank me?¡±


    Leanna ignored these words right away and opened a bag of snacks. ¡°President Pearson, you want


    some?¡±


    ¡°Nope.¡±


    Good that you don¡¯t want to eat these. I¡¯m just asking out of courtesy, thought Leanna as she crunched


    the snacks. As she ate, she felt much better.


    Aidan sat next to her while gazing at her with his ck eyes. After a while, he suddenly said, ¡°Leanna.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    Aidan frowned slightly in the darkness while lowering his eyes to look at her belly. His thin lips quivered


    for a moment, but he didn¡¯t finish his sentence in the end.


    Leanna asked, ¡°President Pearson?¡±


    Aidan withdrew his gaze and said tly, ¡°Eat less of these junk foods. They¡¯re bad for your brain.¡±


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    Just then, the pot of water on the coal stove boiled.


    Leanna put down the snacks in her hand, but just as she wanted to get a basin, Aidan stood up and


    disappeared into the dark. A few minutester, he emerged with a basin of cold water.

 Chapter 95

    Chapter 95


    Chapter 95 Why Doesn¡¯t President Pearson Like Me?


    Leanna had never dreamed such a situation woulde about¡ªfor that Aidan to wash her hair for her.


    Not only was such a thing beneath someone of his status, but it was also just too bizarre to even think


    about it. With things as they were now, she felt as though she was an inmate on death row waiting for


    the guillotine to fall. With slight fear, she said, ¡°President Pearson, how about I do this myself?¡±


    ¡°Shut up,¡± Aidan replied frigidly.


    At the man¡¯s words, Leanna grunted and said nothing further. With that, he poured the warm water


    down her hair which flowed down into the clusters of flowers around them. Although she couldn¡¯t see


    clearly right now, she assumed that such a scene would be a heartwarming one, on the premise that


    the man hadn¡¯t an indifferent expression the entire time. Other than that, the two right now gave off the


    impression that they were just two lovebirds, as everything was tranquil throughout the process.


    However, upon realizing she had such thoughts, she became startled and avoided Aidan.


    Nevertheless, Aidan held her shoulder with one of his hands and said in displeasure, ¡°Why are you


    moving about? Didn¡¯t I ask you if the water was too hot for you?¡±


    Leanna couldn¡¯t fathom just howpelling his words were, as she couldn¡¯t help but be immersed in


    that beautiful scene in her mind. ¡°I got bitten by a mosquito,¡± she said after a moment¡¯s silence.


    ¡°I see you¡¯re not only attractive to men, but mosquitos as well.¡±


    Angry at what she had heard, she retorted, ¡°If I¡¯m that attractive to men, why doesn¡¯t President Pearson


    like me?¡±


    Aidan remained silent.


    As a matter of fact, Leanna regretted the moment she said that. She knew that man was about to make


    some sort of sarcastic remark at her after what she said. But, the lights in the yard suddenly came back


    on. With a few snapping sounds, all the electrical appliances and the streetlights came back on.


    Although the electricity was back on, the two continued to be in silence. Of all times toe back on,


    she thought. Blinded by the sudden bright lights, Leanna inadvertently met the man¡¯s dark, tranquil


    eyes, which she immediately averted from. Then, she wrapped her hair with a dry towel and said,


    ¡°Thank you, President Pearson. I¡¯ll head on upstairs now!¡±


    Aftering upstairs, Leanna immediately went to her room and locked the doors before finally


    exhaling a breath. That was close, she thought, as she knew she wouldn¡¯t be able to get some sleep


    out of anger again from listening to that man¡¯s snide remarks. Then, she went back into the bathroom


    to blow dry her hair, though she did sneeze halfway through.


    At night, Leanna quietly gazed out the window while thinking back on the events today. She was


    unsure if she was overthinking it, or was it Aidan who was just too erratic. Every now and then, there


    would be a small voice inside her that said, Perhaps he likes me. There was no other exnation that


    would fit this strange situation, after all. As midnight came, with the reason for his actions remaining a


    mystery, she yawned and fell asleep in a daze.


    ¡­


    Leanna was sleeping soundly when she heard a knock on the door. Gradually opening her eyes, she


    sat up and realized she was dizzy with her nose blocked ufortably. After taking a moment to wake


    herself up, she got up and opened the door to find Aidan leaning against the wall with an askance


    expression. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect for you to be so vindictive,¡± said Aidan.


    She was stunned for a split second before asking, ¡°Huh?¡±


    ¡°Since I said you ate a lot yesterday, you¡¯ve chosen to not eat at all today.¡±


    Unable to understand what Aidan was saying, Leanna took a while and realized that the sun was


    already up when she looked out the window. Looking at how high the sun was, she guessed that it was


    already noon right now.


    She said weakly, ¡°I don¡¯t have much of an appetite, actually. You can have my share.¡± With that, she


    turned around and nned to go back to sleep. However, Aidan held her wrist and touched her


    forehead with his cool palm. He then pursed his lips. ¡°Go to the hospital, now.¡± As usual, Leanna


    couldn¡¯t stand hearing those words from Aidan and reflexively shook his hand off her. Stammering, she


    said, ¡°No need. I¡¯ll be better after a good sleep.¡± With how fast her reaction was, it was clear for Aidan


    to see what Leanna was thinking. He then withdrew his hand and ced his hands in his pockets


    before he said with an indifferent expression, ¡°Leanna McKinney, please use your brain a little. If I was


    going to take you to the hospital for an abortion, do you think you¡¯ll be able to stay here so peacefully


    for close to a month now?¡± ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter how you put it. You still have such thoughts, in the end.


    Regardless, I¡¯m not going.¡± Aidan sneered, ¡°Your cold is serious. Before I could even take action, you¡¯ll


    be¡ª¡±


    Before he could finish his sentence, Leanna hurriedly covered his mouth. Seemingly out of breath, she


    then said, ¡°President Pearson, I beg you. Please be a little virtuous.¡± She knew what he was about to


    say, as he was the type of person who would say such hurtful words without any kind of gain on his


    part.


    With his expression still one of mockery, he asked once more as his patience ran thin. ¡°So, are you


    going?¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright. I thank you in advance.¡±


    However, Aidan was wordless for a moment before he said in displeasure, ¡°Did I suggest to you that I¡¯ll


    be the one bringing you there?¡± ¡°Then, please move aside, President Pearson,¡± Leanna said. Before


    she could take her third step out the door, she found herself being lifted by the man¡¯s arms. As her


    gaze traveled upward, all she could see was the man¡¯s cold and distinct jawline. ¡°You¡¯ll only waste my


    time if you fall here.¡± Fine, just do whatever you want, she thought, as she no longer had the strength to


    argue with the man. After the doctor finished examining Leanna, the doctor told her that it was just a


    common cold and that she would be fine after taking some medicine and having some rest. After that,


    the doctor looked at the indifferent man by the door. ¡°As a husband, you¡¯re far too irresponsible for your


    wife to catch a cold in such weather.¡± Leanna immediately exined, ¡°N-No¡­ It¡¯s not¡­¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°What do you mean? Let me tell you this, miss. It is during a woman¡¯s pregnancy that they suffer the


    most in her entire life. Although you¡¯ve passed the initial stage of pregnancy where you¡¯re constantly


    feeling nauseous, you¡¯ll find your body gradually changing when your belly gradually gets bigger. You¡¯ll


    feel even worse when that timees.¡±


    After that, the doctor turned her attention back to Aidan and chastised him. ¡°It is a woman¡¯s


    manifestation of her love for you to give birth to your child. As her husband, you should be caring for


    her much more than this.¡±


    Smiling, Aidan cast a nce at Leanna without leaking his true thoughts.


    Leanna became shy and embarrassed at the man¡¯s nce. With the blood rushing to her head, she


    stood up immediately with unexined strength and said, ¡°Thank you, doctor. I¡¯ll keep what you said in


    mind. We¡¯ll take our leave here.¡± She then rushed out of the consultation room.


    After Leanna took her medication from the counter, Aidan came from behind her and said indifferently,


    ¡°Feeling rejuvenated, are we?¡±


    She kept quiet at the man¡¯s remark.


    He continued, ¡°Looks like you don¡¯t need me to carry you anymore.¡±


    ¡°President Pearson¡­¡±


    ¡°Hmm?¡±


    ¡°Can you please just shut up?¡± Leanna said before she took a deep breath. ¡°You don¡¯t need to take


    what that doctor said to heart. The reason why I want this child is one of my own. It has nothing to do


    with you in the slightest.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± Aidan answered leisurely.


    Just as she heaved a sigh of relief, he continued, ¡°It has nothing to do with me for you to give birth to


    my child, and it has nothing to do with me when you secretly drew me as well.¡±


    Leanna was dumbstruck.

 Chapter 96

    Chapter 96


    Chapter 96 Your Ability to Lie Without Batting an Eye Comes Naturally


    As Leanna hadn¡¯t expected Aidan to see the paper she tore off, her face immediately grew red in


    shame, but she couldn¡¯t retort as she was in the wrong.


    Indifferently, Aidan continued, ¡°Are you out of excuses?¡±


    After wrecking her brain for a little bit, Leanna then said, ¡°I was¡­ practicing!¡± Truth be told, if it was the


    other way around, she wouldn¡¯t believe what she had just said either. However, she was hoping for that


    man, who had some peculiar sort of thinking, to believe her excuse.


    Just then, Aidan smiled and let out a chuckle.


    Leanna was speechless. What¡¯s so funny?!


    Ignorant to Leanna¡¯s thoughts, Aidan only said, ¡°Let¡¯s go. I¡¯m hungry.¡±


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After Leanna was tormented for the better half of the day, the two came back home after their meal.


    With no thoughts spared for that man, Leanna immediately went back upstairs to sleep. However, there


    was a knock on the door as soon as shey in her bed. Keeping her temper in check, she got up and


    opened the door. ¡°President Pearson, is there something else?¡±


    Holding a ss of water in his hand, he said, ¡°Time for your medication.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll take them after I wake up.¡±


    ¡°Take them before you sleep.¡±


    She was at a loss for a retort.


    With how overbearing Aidan¡¯s tone was, it gave off a sense of oppression as though he would force the


    medication down Leanna¡¯s throat should she refuse toply. Thus, Leanna took the ss of water


    and ced it down on her desk. Then, she took the medication out and swallowed it along with a few


    mouthfuls of water.


    After Leanna had taken her medication, she turned around and was puzzled to find Aidan had already


    made himself at home by sitting on the couch with hisptop on hisp. With a blunt tone, she


    reminded Aidan. ¡°President Pearson, I am going to sleep now.¡±


    Without raising his head, Aidan replied indifferently, ¡°I¡¯ve never said I would prohibit you from doing so.¡±


    Leanna gritted her teeth. ¡°President Pearson, I thank you for the water you brought so deliberately. But,


    since I¡¯ve already finished taking my medication, you may leave now.¡±


    At that, Aidan stopped typing on hisptop. He then gazed gently at her before turning his attention to


    the window. ¡°The view here is good.¡±


    Does this mean this scum of a man is not leaving?!


    Before Leanna could retort, Aidan continued, ¡°Didn¡¯t you say I don¡¯t care about you? You can just go to


    sleep. I¡¯ll be here to apany you.¡± ¡°¡­I never said that!¡± ¡°It¡¯s the same to me.¡± Aidan didn¡¯t care


    much about her argument and continued, ¡°Leanna McKinney, I do not wish to be called an


    irresponsible man again because of you. Sleep now. Don¡¯t make me repeat the third time.¡± Looks like


    even that scum cares quite a bit about how others look at him, she thought. Since she couldn¡¯t do


    anything about this situation anyway, she might as well just let it go, as she didn¡¯t want to waste her


    energy in being angry. She then went andy in bed and turned her back on the man. ¡°President


    Pearson, please close the curtains.¡± Aidan made no remarks. It was after a few seconds of silence was


    there the sound of the curtains closing. Lying in the bed, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but revel in this small


    ¡®victory.¡¯ With how dark the room had gotten, she wanted to know just what that man would do, as she


    assumed he wouldn¡¯t be sitting here all afternoon in such a condition. However, the room was silent


    with no sound of movement for a long time. Since she had taken her medication, she started feeling


    sleepy in no time and fell asleep after enjoying thefort of the pillow against her face. After some


    time had passed, Leanna felt slight movements behind her on the bed. Since she was still in a daze,


    she paid no mind to that and just habitually turned around and hugged that thing. With how cool that


    thing was to the touch, she feltfortable and tightened her embrace around that thing. ¡­ The sun


    had almost set when Naomi came back home. She assumed Leanna would be sleeping in her room as


    usual when she couldn¡¯t find her in the courtyard. After she ced the rice in the rice cooker, she went


    upstairs to call Leanna down for dinner. ¡°Leanna, are you there?¡± she asked while knocking on the


    door.


    Leanna rubbed her eyes and answered in a husky voice, ¡°Yeah.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s time to wake up. We¡¯re having dinner soon.¡± Naomi paused before she continued, ¡°Has Aidan left


    already?¡± Just as Leanna was about to reply, she suddenly had a feeling that something was wrong.


    She noticed the person who was supposed to be on the couch was now in bed with her with his arms


    wrapped around her waist. Before she could recover from the shock, Naomi spoke through the door


    again. ¡°Leanna?¡± Without the luxury of time to process what was going on, Leanna replied, ¡°Huh? ¡­


    Ah, he probably left. I didn¡¯t notice anything since I was asleep.¡± Naomi replied, ¡°Alright, then I¡¯ll see


    you downstairs.¡± As soon as Naomi¡¯s footsteps faded, a deep, husky voice came from behind her. ¡°I


    see your ability to lie without batting an eyees naturally to you.¡± Leanna couldn¡¯t make any retorts


    to Aidan¡¯sment and thought to herself, Whose fault is this anyway?! She then immediately broke


    free from Aidan¡¯s arms and sat up. Angry and annoyed, she said, ¡°President Pearson!¡± Aidan sat up as


    well with one of his legs slightly bent. With a hint of weariness in his voice, he asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    ¡°You¡­¡± Leanna was so exasperated by how Aidan acted as though he was in the right. It was only


    after some time passed could she continue, ¡°I can report you to the police for this!¡± Aidan replied, ¡°Just


    sleeping in your bed warrants a police report?¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t about sleeping in my bed! This is about you


    sleeping beside me without my consent!¡±


    ¡°The number of times you¡¯ve slept beside me isn¡¯t small either.¡±


    ¡°¡­We were still married back then. It was still within thew.¡±


    After a moment¡¯s silence, Aidan replied, ¡°Oh, is that so?¡±


    Due to Aidan¡¯s nonchnt attitude, Leanna was suddenly reminded of that night not too long ago and


    immediately fell silent. That night was¡­ after the divorce, she thought.


    Aidan got up from the bed. ¡°I¡¯m leaving if you¡¯re not calling the police on me.¡±


    This scum seems quite pleased with himself, Leanna thought, as she was unable to make any sort of


    retort to the man.


    Just when Aidan was about to open the door, Leanna hurriedly said, ¡°Wait!¡± Since Naomi was cooking


    in the kitchen, Aidan would inadvertently meet her if he went down right now. ¡°I¡¯ll go down first. You,


    wait for a little bit before going down.¡± Saying that, she immediately went downstairs without regard for


    his answer.


    Coincidentally, Wendy hade over with some stuff an


    d was talking with Naomi in the courtyard. Leanna quietly sighed in relief while she praised herself for


    being smart enough to ask Aidan to stay upstairs for a bit. Otherwise, he would have met Wendy, who


    would spread this gossip all throughout the neighborhood.


    However, Leanna became speechless to see Aidaning in from the entrance the moment she came


    down. Even if the building¡¯s second floor isn¡¯t that high, is this scum trying to drive me mad with rage?


    Wendy was just as shocked as Leanna, as she widened her eyes in surprise upon seeing Aidan.


    ¡°Aidan¡­ I mean, President Pearson, why are you here?¡± She thought calling him on a first-name basis


    would be inappropriate here, seeing that Aidan was someone of high status.


    Aidan nodded slightly at Wendy. ¡°Hello, Ms. Shaffer.¡±


    Wendy¡¯s surprise reached new heights upon noticing Aidan was wearing slippers. Noticing her


    reaction, Naomi whispered, ¡°He is my son.¡±


    ¡°What?!¡±


    Paying no mind to what was going on, Aidan only cast a cold nce at Leanna before returning to his


    own room.


    Leanna noticed that his shirt became somewhat dirty when the man walked past her. That¡¯s¡­ not my


    fault, right? Yes, it¡¯s all his own fault for suddenlying into my bed. Just thinking about it gives me


    the chills.


    By the door, Wendy stood frozen for some time, seemingly unable to process just what was going on.

 Chapter 97

    Chapter 97


    Chapter 97 Fine, Just Think of It as My Fault


    When Wendy went back home, Naomi asked quietly, ¡°Did you two have another fight again?¡±


    Was it that obvious? She then smiled awkwardly, as she couldn¡¯t bear to say the reason for the fight,


    and said with an unchanging expression, ¡°No, he¡¯s probably in a bad mood.¡±


    Naomi sighed and said with understanding, ¡°This child has always been this way ever since he was


    little. He just loves to put on a mean face.¡±


    Leanna muttered, ¡°Indeed.¡±


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s just ignore him. Come, let¡¯s eat,¡± said Naomi.


    Not long after, Aidan came back out in new clothes with his usual high and mighty look, as though the


    whole world owed him a living.


    It was still fine before Leanna found out Aidan was Naomi¡¯s son. However, now that Leanna knew


    about their rtionship, she started feeling awkward when eating with them. Naturally, she started to


    think of herself as an outsider during these times and became less likely to be involved with whatever


    was going on with those two.


    However, Leanna did notice how Naomi and Aidan got along peacefully now without being overly


    considerate for one another. They were no longer treating each other coldly, and that sense of


    unfamiliarity between them was long gone. Perhaps it¡¯s better this way, she thought.


    As far as Leanna could remember, the very image of a mother was vague to her, as she had not only


    forgotten her face, but she couldn¡¯t even remember the details of the time she spent together with her.


    If one day her father told her she was born by popping out from a rock and that he was just passing by


    when he picked her up, she wouldn¡¯t have a hard time believing him.


    Leanna fell into a trance while thinking about Jethro. After that night, she tried very hard not to think


    about that person, as she had already treated him as though he was dead. Right now, she assumed


    that man might have already taken the money to go live a free and unfettered life. To Leanna, she very


    much wished to never hear from him ever again.


    After everyone was done with their meal, Naomi went inside to wash the dishes while Leanna wanted


    to go upstairs to take a rest.


    Just as Leanna was about to leave, Aidan held her wrist. ¡°Where are you going?¡± he asked.


    ¡°Sleep. Where else do you think I¡¯m going? To have a drink?¡±


    Aidan frowned, clearly displeased. ¡°Are you a pig? You¡¯ve already been sleeping the whole day.¡±


    Leanna looked at the man quietly before she said, ¡°Does President Pearson have orders for me?¡±


    Standing up, Aidan said indifferently, ¡°Let¡¯s go for a walk.¡±


    ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯ve already apanied you on your walk through this street countless times


    now. You should know the streets enough by now, so I won¡¯t be¡ª¡±


    ¡°I said let¡¯s go for a walk.¡±


    Leanna fell silent after being cut off by Aidan. This scum is really annoying. What else does he know


    besides threatening people? Mad with anger, she took a step forward. ¡°Fine! Let¡¯s go!¡± Smiling, Aidan


    followed behind her as the two left the house. With the residents back in the neighborhood, the streets


    became quite lively. There were even some of them who would greet Leanna when they passed her by.


    However, they looked surprised when they saw the man behind her. After they swept their nce back


    and forth between her and Aidan, they all smirked at her. Leanna, who was the one receiving all these


    smirks from her neighbors, wanted to hide out of shame. Considering how that man had mentioned his


    past marriage and that she was pregnant with a child, she dreaded just what sort of gossip would arise


    from this situation. However, Aidan, who had always taken such things seriously, acted as though


    nothing was wrong, as he continued to walk behind Leanna at a certain distance with a calm


    expression. Leanna quickened her pace, and after perfunctorily going through the street, she said,


    ¡°President Pearson, please continue your walk. I really have to go back now.¡± This time, Aidan said


    nothing and only grunted in acknowledgment.


    As Leanna was about to go back home, her patience reached its boiling point as she asked, ¡°President


    Pearson, may I ask you a question?¡±


    ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°How much longer do you need to stay here for your job?¡±


    Aidan cast a sideway nce with hints of chills at her. ¡°If you have something to say, then say it.¡±


    Leanna stopped in her tracks and said sincerely, ¡°No matter how others see it, we are still just a man


    and a woman. Just living under the same roof would no doubt have others gossip about us. Not to


    mention, we were married once. With that in mind, shouldn¡¯t we maintain a certain distance¡­ Naturally,


    I¡¯m not trying to chase you away. Feel free to keep staying at that house. I¡¯m fine with staying in a hotel


    for a day or two.¡±


    In a cold tone, Aidan replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t see you having these thoughts when you were seducing me.¡±


    Embarrassed, Leanna blushed slightly. ¡°President Pearson, couldn¡¯t you¡­ phrase it differently?


    Besides, weren¡¯t we both willing at that point? You¡¯re saying it as though I¡¯ve forced you into it.¡± ¡°You¡¯d


    like to think so,¡± Aidan said before walking away. Leanna followed suit. ¡°This is just a small suggestion


    on my part. I trust that President Pearson has noticed just how inconvenient it would be for us to live


    together considering our current rtionship.¡± ¡°What¡¯s our current rtionship now?¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°We¡¯re divorced¡­¡±


    Aidan continued without hesitation, ¡°We¡¯re divorced, yet we still slept together?¡±


    Listening to Aidan¡¯s logic, Leanna felt that she couldn¡¯t continue this line of conversation any longer.


    Can¡¯t this man just talk like a normal person?


    Then, the two continued walking in silence for the rest of the road, as Aidan clearly didn¡¯t want to


    bother with her at this point. He was no longer walking behind and had even gone ahead of her soon


    after.


    Growing weary from the walk, Leanna went and took a seat on a nearby chair to rest. Does that man


    even have any virtue in his bones? How could he just be angry like that? I was just giving a suggestion


    and didn¡¯t really have ns to move out. I¡¯d end up tormenting myself if I did.


    Leanna sat there for at least 10 minutes. Although she was feeling disgruntled, she was refreshed after


    the walk she had. Letting out a sigh, she stood up and was about to head back home, but noticed


    Aidan standing nearby with his cold eyes on her. Just how long has he been standing there?


    Perhaps it was due to the pregnancy that Leanna was emotionally vulnerable as she suddenly felt an


    inexplicable grievance, or perhaps it was the wind irritating her eyes, for her tears started to fall without


    warning.


    Wordlessly, Aidan walked up to her and said, ¡°Want to be reasonable now?¡± Although his words were


    still crude, his tone was much softer and gentler than before.


    Leanna turned her head to him while rubbing her eyes. ¡°Who would be more reasonable than you?


    You¡¯re the most reasonable person in this whole wide world. Everything you say is right while


    everything I say is wrong, a scheme, or a conspiracy.¡±


    ¡°You countered one sentence of mine with ten of your own. I am nowhere as skilled as you.¡±


    ¡°Then please refrain from talking to me.¡±


    Perhaps it was how childish she seemed to him right now, or that he thought of how immature this fight


    was, but Aidan smiled.


    Leanna¡¯s resentment grew with every sentence she uttered and she could no longer control herself, as


    her tears continued to fall with no hints of stopping. Just as she wanted to leave that man behind, Aidan


    suddenly held her wrist and pulled her into his arms. Then, he patted her on her back and said, ¡°Fine,


    just think of it as my fault. Don¡¯t cry.¡±


    In Aidan¡¯s arms, Leanna was stunned. She then reluctantly asked, ¡°Just thinking?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t push your luck.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡±

 Chapter 98

    Chapter 98


    Chapter 98 If She Talked About This, She Wouldn¡¯t Feel Sleepy Anymore


    After another night of rest, Leanna¡¯s cold improved a lot, but as she had slept too much the day before,


    she woke up as early as eight the next morning.


    When she went downstairs, Naomi was preparing breakfast. She probably didn¡¯t expect Leanna to be


    up so early. ¡°Oh, Leanna, just give me a moment. Your breakfast will be ready in a while.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Ms. Fletcher, I¡¯m not hungry yet. I¡¯ll go outside and walk around.¡±


    ¡°Juste back when it¡¯s time.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡±


    Recently, the weather had gradually turned cooler. Although a trace of sunshine passed through the


    clouds, there was no warmth to be felt. A small bridge nearby was covered with golden leaves, a sign


    that fall wasing. After Leanna walked around leisurely for a while, she returned home and was just


    about to enter when she was suddenly grabbed from behind.


    She turned around. ¡°Ms. Shaffer?¡±


    Wendy sneakily looked inside the house before she made a shushing gesture to Leanna and pulled her


    to her house instead.


    Seeing that, Leanna asked in confusion, ¡°Ms. Shaffer, did something happen?¡±


    Wendy closed the door before saying, ¡°Leanna, I want to ask you something. What do you think of


    President Pearson?¡±


    What did she think? If she talked about this, she wouldn¡¯t feel sleepy anymore. It would take her at


    least three days and three nights to finish bad mouthing that b*stard.


    Leanna pondered for a moment before saying, ¡°Why are you asking me this, Ms. Shaffer?¡±


    Wendy asked, ¡°Do you know that he¡¯s Naomi¡¯s son?¡±


    Leanna nodded.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think this is too much of a coincidence? As soon as this ce is about to be demolished,


    Naomi¡¯s son suddenly showed up, and that son is even an unfilial child who hadn¡¯t visited her in 20


    years.¡±


    ¡°Uh¡­¡±


    ¡°Yesterday, I looked into it all night and found that there is a new scam recently that specifically targets


    elderly people who live alone and whose children are missing. Then, they would pretend to be their


    children as a sham to steal their money.¡± At her words, Leanna was confused. Ms. Shaffer, aren¡¯t you


    reading too much into it? Meanwhile, Wendy was still fretting around. ¡°Think about it. He hasn¡¯t


    contacted her for 20 years, but he reappeared right before she was going to be reimbursed for the


    demolition. Something doesn¡¯t seem right no matter how I think about it.¡± ¡°Wait a second¡­ Ms. Shaffer,


    have you forgotten that Ai¡ªPresident Pearson is a developer himself? He shouldn¡¯t have the need to


    covet Ms. Fletcher¡¯spensation fees.¡± Wendy was taken aback before she smacked her forehead.


    ¡°Look at me, Ipletely forgot about this. I was just thinking that Naomi¡¯s son appeared out of thin air.


    Still, that makes things even weirder. Since he is so rich, it¡¯d be a piece of cake for him to look for


    Naomi. But why hasn¡¯t he shown up for so many years?¡± Leanna was a little confused about this as


    well. She hadn¡¯t asked them about what happened back then, but based on what Justin told her before


    and Aidan¡¯s attitude, she could faintly sense that it wasn¡¯t Aidan¡¯s will to be sent to the Pearson


    Residence that year.


    She guessed that it was most likely Gordon¡¯s coercion and cajolement that made Naomi hand Aidan


    over to him. After all, every mother in the world wished that their children would live a good life, so


    Naomi might have left under such circumstances as well. At that thought, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder


    what kind of choice she would make if it were her. If a few yearster, Aidan suddenly changed his


    mind and asked her to give him their child before making her leave as far as possible, what would she


    do?


    Wendy nudged her. ¡°Leanna, what are you thinking about? Do you also think what I said makes


    sense?¡±


    Leanna collected her thoughts. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. You don¡¯t have to worry, Ms. Shaffer. President Pearson is


    Ms. Fletcher¡¯s son, so their personalities are¡­ quite simr in some ways.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not worried either. I just think that although Naomi has lived here alone for most of her life, I¡¯ve


    never seen any of her rtivesing over. Being lonely isn¡¯t easy for her either, so I was worried that


    she would be scammed.¡±


    Leanna smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Ms. Shaffer. That won¡¯t happen.¡±


    Wendy nodded. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s right, I don¡¯t know what happened, but Harry suddenly moved away without


    saying anything. You two¡­¡±


    ¡°Ms. Shaffer, I have to go back and eat, so I¡¯ll be leaving first. Bye!¡±


    As she watched Leanna fleeing the scene like a rabbit, Wendy sighed. ¡°This girl¡­¡±


    ¡­


    Perhaps because Naomi was at home, Aidan restrained himself and did not order Leanna around as


    before, so she finally had time for herself.


    Recently, the series designed by Queenie had beenunched, and it was quite well-received. With the


    support of the Pearson Group, she became even more fearless and looked down on everyone in Lux


    Jewelry except Harvey, who was the only person who could hold her down.


    As Zoe was a stubborn individual herself, she argued with Queenie several times, while Queenie would


    reply domineeringly, ¡°Come talk to me when your work is exhibited internationally.¡±


    Zoe nearly rolled up her sleeves to throw punches at her, but she was pulled away by the colleagues


    around her.


    ¡°I¡¯m truly speechless. Didn¡¯t she just go to Aeras to study for a few years? She even picked up your


    leftover for herself. If I didn¡¯t know any better, I would¡¯ve thought that Fashion Week was specially held


    for her.¡±


    Leanna signed her draft while saying, ¡°Your wording is incorrect. He wasn¡¯t my ¡®leftover.¡¯ I was forced to


    give up.¡±


    On the other end of the phone, Zoe sighed. ¡°You¡¯ve really fallen from grace. By the way, didn¡¯t Queenie


    always act like a wealthy person before? Plus, she tosses in a couple of French words whenever she


    talks. But, someone saw her fathere to visit her the other day, and it turns out that she isn¡¯t rich at


    all.¡±


    Feeling a lot better after her rant, Zoe continued, ¡°I went to Louis¡¯ school to see him yesterday, and he¡¯s


    doing well, so you don¡¯t have to worry. Speaking of which, did you ask that b*stard, Aidan, for help


    again?¡±..


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna was silent for a while before saying, ¡°I couldn¡¯t think of anyone else besides him.¡±


    ¡°You have a point. That¡¯s true. He¡¯s the only one who can do something like using his power to


    suppress others. Still, he finally did something good. Oh, how did a petty person like him agree to help


    you?¡±


    Leanna suddenly fell silent as when she turned earlier, she found that Aidan was standing behind her


    with a cup of milk in one hand and the other in his pocket, looking at her indifferently.


    After not hearing her answer for a long time, Zoe thought there was something wrong with her phone.


    ¡°Sweetie? Did you disconnect?¡±


    Leannaughed dryly. ¡°Haha, he¡¯s actually quite easy to talk to, and he isn¡¯t petty either¡­¡±


    ¡°Quite easy to talk to? I don¡¯t think that b*stard has anything worthwhile to say that isn¡¯t nonsense.¡±


    ¡°No, no¡­¡±


    Leanna hurriedly tried to find her phone that had been buried under the papers, but Aidan unexpectedly


    ced the cup of milk on the table and turned her chair around, leaning down slightly and propping his


    hand on the armrest as he stared at her with his dark eyes. He said in a low andnguid voice, ¡°Why


    don¡¯t you tell her how I agreed to help you first?¡±

 Chapter 99

    Chapter 99


    Chapter 99 He Kinda Likes You


    On the other end of the phone, Zoe fell silent. After a full ten seconds of silence, she said respectfully,


    ¡°Nice to meet you, President Pearson. I¡¯m Leanna¡¯s new friend, Gigi Carter.¡±


    Aidan¡¯s tone was indifferent as he said, ¡°Is that so?¡±


    ¡°Haha, yes, it was nice meeting you. I won¡¯t bother you two anymore.¡±


    Saying that, she hung up the phone as quickly as she could. After the dial tone sounded a few times,


    the whole room fell into a dead silence.


    Leanna had never wanted to disappear from this world so much. The man¡¯s eyes were dark and


    intense, as cold as ice. She slowly retracted her gaze and moved down little by little, as if she wanted


    to escape from the gap between him and the chair. However, as soon as she thought of this, Aidan


    folded his arms, causing her to nearly fall into his arms.


    She stopped and quickly sat back in her chair, looking out the window. ¡°Haha, President Pearson, look


    outside¡­¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you exin?¡±


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Panicking, Leanna rolled her eyes from left to right. How could she exin herself? It wasn¡¯t like she


    could tell him that that was what they always called him in private. He could¡¯ve just taken the hint, but


    no. He just had to force me to say it out loud.


    She pondered for a moment before saying seriously, ¡°President Pearson, you didn¡¯t knock.¡±


    ¡°I did.¡±


    She was dumbstruck. Great. Now I can¡¯t shift the me on him.


    Just as Leanna was racking her brains for a way to answer, Aidan suddenly retracted his hand and got


    up, saying in a low voice, ¡°The milk is going to get cold. Drink it first.¡±


    She hurriedly went to grab the cup of milk, as if grabbing a lifeline.


    However, before she could let out a breath of relief, Aidan sat down on the couch and said, ¡°Come up


    with an exnation after you¡¯ve finished drinking.¡±


    His words immediately caused her to choke on the milk.


    She drank the milk as slowly as she could before licking her lips and saying in a serious and earnest


    tone, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, President Pearson. I was wrong.¡± Without even raising his head, Aidan asked, ¡°Wrong


    about what?¡± ¡°I shouldn¡¯t have bad-mouthed you in private, much less let you overhear us.¡± ¡°Are you


    saying that you can badmouth me as long as I don¡¯t hear it?¡± Leanna waved her hand. ¡°No, no, of


    course that wasn¡¯t what I meant.¡± Why is this b*stard being so aggressive? Although she was to me


    for this, he had said his fair share of nder toward her as well. Aidan couldn¡¯t be bothered to deal with


    her, so he got up and left. As she watched him walk away, she finally felt alive again. A whileter, Zoe


    called again, and she tentatively asked, ¡°Sweetie, are you still alive?¡± Leanna didn¡¯t answer because


    she felt like she had just narrowly escaped death. Zoe continued, ¡°Come to think of it, aren¡¯t you away


    from Highside? Why is that b*sta¡ªPresident Pearson with you?¡± Leannaughed dryly. ¡°It¡¯s¡­ a long


    story.¡±


    ¡°Then, make it quick.¡± Sigh. Hence, Leanna summarized everything that happened during this time, but


    she did not mention that Naomi was Aidan¡¯s biological mother. Hearing that, Zoe gasped. ¡°Sweetie,


    why do I keep getting the feeling that he kinda likes you? He¡¯s being way more understanding than


    usual.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know how he feels. Either way, he¡¯ll leave in a few days at most.¡±


    ¡°What about you? Aren¡¯t youing back with him?¡±


    Leanna shook her head. She was about to say something, but felt that it had no meaning. She didn¡¯t


    want to leave either. She just didn¡¯t know if they would follow her wishes when the time came.


    She said, ¡°I¡¯ll see. If I can help it, I won¡¯t go back.¡±


    When she was here, she could at least avoid those matters that troubled her.


    After hanging up, Leanna looked at the time, and saw that it was already eleven o¡¯clock. Her body was


    starting to ache after sitting for a long time, so she decided to head downstairs to get some exercise.


    In the yard, Wendy was slicing vegetables with Naomi. When she saw Leannaing down, she


    asked, ¡°Leanna, are you done with work?¡± Leanna replied, ¡°Not yet, but it¡¯s not that urgent. I was


    getting a little tired from sitting, so I came down for a walk.¡± Wendy then said, ¡°It¡¯s good for you to walk


    more. Your stomach isn¡¯t showing much yet, but when it gets bigger in the future, it will be inconvenient


    for you to move around.¡± After chatting for a little longer, Naomi went into the kitchen to start preparing


    dinner. Wendy grabbed Leanna to take a seat at the stone table and asked concernedly, ¡°Leanna, are


    things really impossible for you and Harry?¡± The corners of Leanna¡¯s lips twitched. ¡°Yes. Thanks for


    worrying about me, Ms. Shaffer, but I don¡¯t n on thinking about these things for now.¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t do that. You know, women should always think for themselves.¡± Wendy said with a sigh,


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think that everyone would want to livefortably and have someone else to care for


    them?¡±


    Saying that, Wendy turned to look behind her. ¡°Am I right, Aidan?¡±


    As Leanna fell silent, Aidan hummed indifferently in reply and walked over in long strides before sitting


    opposite her.


    Wendy was in high spirits upon hearing that someone agreed with her. She took Leanna¡¯s hand and


    patted it, saying, ¡°Leanna, you always have to look ahead. The past is in the past, so there¡¯s no point in


    always thinking about it. If you don¡¯t like Harry, I can just find someone else for you, but you shouldn¡¯t


    miss your ex-husband. He isn¡¯t a good per¡ª¡±


    ¡°Ms. Shaffer.¡± Leanna hurriedly cut her off. ¡°You¡¯ve really misunderstood. It¡¯s not what you think. My ex-


    husband¡ª¡±


    ¡°Look at you. You¡¯ve fallen too deep, and now you¡¯re still defending your irresponsible ex-husband.¡±


    Wendy seemed to feel that she couldn¡¯t convince Leanna on her own, so she sought Aidan¡¯s help.


    ¡°Aidan, yourpany should have many talented young men, right? You should introduce one of them


    to Leanna.¡±


    Aidan nced at Leanna with an unreadable expression. ¡°Do you need my help, Miss McKinney?¡±


    ¡°No, thank you.¡±


    Then, he continued, ¡°I couldn¡¯t tell that you were that in love with your ex-husband. How touching.¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t reply. Can he be any more shameless?


    Seeing that Aidan couldn¡¯t talk any sense into Leanna either, Wendy sighed helplessly before switching


    the topic to him. ¡°By the way, Aidan, I heard you mention your wifest time. Your rtionship should


    be good, right?¡±


    Aidan replied, ¡°I guess.¡±


    Hearing this, Wendy, who was a master of rtionships, immediately noticed that there was a high


    probability that something was wrong with his marriage, and immediately said, ¡°Aidan, I¡¯ve been


    through this before. If you trust me, you can tell me about your problems, and I¡¯ll give you some


    advice.¡±


    Right now, Leanna yearned for the ground to open up and swallow her whole. She said, ¡°Ms. Shaffer, I


    still have something to do, so I¡¯ll just¡­¡±


    However, Wendy grabbed her. ¡°Leanna, you should listen too. Perhaps it would be useful to you.


    Marriage is an important subject to learn about, after all.¡±


    Aidan said slowly, ¡°She lost her temper after arguing with me and ran away.¡±

 Chapter 100

    Chapter 100


    Chapter 100 Since You¡¯ve Already Begged Me


    Hearing this, Wendy shook her head andmented, ¡°That¡¯s a really bad temper, alright. Why can¡¯t


    she sit down and have a good chat peacefully? What happened next? Did you look for her?¡±


    ¡°I did.¡±


    ¡°Did she go back with you?¡±


    ¡°No, she¡¯s meeting other people while being pregnant with my child.¡±


    Wendy inhaled sharply and pped her thigh, saying angrily, ¡°How could she? That is your wife¡¯s fault.


    No matter how bad the argument is, she can¡¯t do something like this! We call this infidelity! Bigamy!


    What¡¯s more, she¡¯s still pregnant with your child. She¡­¡±


    Leanna, who had been quietly watching the show from the side, couldn¡¯t help but add, ¡°He¡¯s divorced.¡±


    Wendy continued, ¡°Even if they¡¯re divorced, she can¡¯t¡­ Wait, divorced?¡± She jolted before asking in


    disbelief, ¡°Aidan, you¡¯re divorced?¡±


    Aidan nced at Leanna before nodding.


    ¡°Then¡­¡±


    At this time, Naomi came out. As Wendy had a loud voice, she had heard what they were discussing


    while she was in the kitchen and suddenly felt that she was about to lose her mind. Hence, she


    hurriedly came up with an excuse and dragged Wendy outside.


    After arriving at her home, Wendy said, ¡°Naomi, I haven¡¯t finished talking to Aidan yet. I really didn¡¯t


    expect him to be divorced. Don¡¯t you care about your son?¡±


    Naomi said exasperatedly, ¡°They¡¯re both divorced.¡±


    ¡°Exactly.¡± Saying that, Wendy continued surreptitiously, ¡°Oh, Naomi, I noticed that Leanna and Aidan


    are quite a good fit. Since Aidan is also divorced, I¡¯ll look for a chance to ask him about it and see if


    he¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s enough.¡± Naomi stopped her. ¡°Haven¡¯t you noticed that they¡¯re talking about each other?¡±


    ¡°Wha¡­¡±


    ¡°They both came from Highside, one came after the other, and both of them are divorced. One ran


    away with a child in her belly, and the other came to look for her. Do you understand now?¡± Wendy was


    rendered speechless. She had just slowly digested and epted that Aidan was Naomi¡¯s son, but she


    fell into deep contemtion once again. After a while, she asked in disbelief, ¡°Are you saying that


    Leanna¡¯s irresponsible ex-husband is¡­¡± Naomi nodded. ¡°I didn¡¯t pry into their rtionship, but I talked


    to Leanna before, and there should be a misunderstanding between her and Aidan. He only believes in


    what he sees with his own eyes, so whatever I say would be useless too.¡± Wendy didn¡¯t quite know


    what she was talking about. She smacked her forehead all of a sudden as she recalled that she had


    once set up Leanna and Harry in front of Aidan, and viciously called Leanna¡¯s ex-husband inhumane¡­


    This is just too embarrassing. ¡­ Of course, there was someone else who felt more embarrassed than


    Wendy. Leanna sat in the yard, not knowing if she should stay or leave. She really didn¡¯t expect Wendy


    to delve so deeply into this topic, especially when she had just offended Aidan not long ago. Moreover,


    this b*stard spoke as if he¡¯s the victim. The only reason she ran away was because he cold-heartedly


    wanted to get rid of the child in her stomach. But why did he make it out to be her fault?


    Aidan met her eyes and said in an indifferent tone, ¡°What do you want to say?¡± Leanna replied


    seriously, ¡°I think that you lie too much, President Pearson. You obviously came here for the acquisition


    case, but you just said you came to look for me. Besides, if you say that, it can easily¡­ make others


    misunderstand.¡± ¡°Misunderstand what? That I like you?¡± Leanna didn¡¯t reply, tacitly agreeing to his


    words.


    She had thought that Aidan would mock her for being overimaginative, but he said nonchntly,


    ¡°Leanna, you have to know that sometimes liking someone doesn¡¯t mean anything.¡±


    That was true. To Aidan, liking something might not be as important as a document in his office. Seeing


    Leanna hanging her head without a word, he continued unhappily, ¡°You got the answer you wanted. Do


    you have nothing to say?¡± After some time, Leanna said, ¡°You just said it doesn¡¯t mean anything. So,


    what more can I say?¡± He only liked someone either on a whim or because of his innate


    possessiveness as a man. Even the likes of Anthony couldn¡¯tpare to him. Aidan stared at her for a


    few seconds before he saidnguidly, ¡°Leanna, I suggest you get a checkup on your brain the next time


    you go to the hospital to see if there¡¯s something wrong with it.¡± Leanna was speechless. Is this b*stard


    trying to pick a fight now? Their cold war ended with Naomi¡¯s return. After staying downstairs for a few


    days, Aidan asked to move to the second floor on the grounds that the first floor was too humid. Of


    course, Naomi was not used to handling his temper, so the responsibility fell on Leanna instead. There


    were only two rooms on the second floor. One was the room she slept in, while the other was next to


    hers. Leanna felt that he didn¡¯t have any good intentions, but the b*stard had a long string of excuses,


    and she still owed him a favor for Louis¡¯ admission letter, so she could only bite her tongue and make


    the bed for him. Soon, two weeks passed in a sh, and Leanna had been staying here for more than a


    month. She heard from Wendy that the acquisition had been settled, and the documents would be sent


    to them within two days. By that time, the neighbors would have to move out one after another. Hence,


    she thought that Aidan would be leaving soon as well.


    In the morning, Leanna had just opened the door when she saw Aidan leaning against the wall outside,


    his voiceced with fatigue. ¡°Where are you going this early in the morning?¡±


    ¡°I have a pregnancy checkup.¡± Saying that, she purposely asked with the intention of making him


    ufortable, ¡°Do you want to tag along, President Pearson?¡±


    Aidan said, ¡°Is that someone begging me, I hear? Sure, I¡¯ll do you a favor.¡±


    Leanna fell silent. Why did I even bother asking?


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    Aidan continued, ¡°Wait for me downstairs. I¡¯ll go and change.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    As it was still early, Leanna was still half-awake as she yawned while heading out.


    Just then, one of her neighbors passed by. ¡°Leanna, you¡¯re up early.¡±


    Leanna replied with a smile, ¡°Yes, I¡¯m going out for a walk.¡±


    ¡°Why are you alone? Where¡¯s President Pearson?¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t reply.


    Through Wendy, the whole street was now aware of their rtionship. However, it wasn¡¯t a bad thing


    either. This way, she wouldn¡¯t be misunderstood every time Aidan dragged her out with him.


    Just then, Aidan appeared behind her.


    The neighbor smiled and said, ¡°That¡¯s what I thought. All right, I won¡¯t get in between you two. I¡¯ll be


    leaving first.¡±


    After the neighbor left, Aidan looked at Leanna. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to eat breakfast?¡±


    She returned to her senses. ¡°I need to fast for today¡¯s checkup. Ms. Fletcher probably made breakfast,


    so you can¡­¡±


    Aidan began to stride away with his long legs. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

 Chapter 101

    Chapter 101


    Chapter 101 There¡¯s Someone Waiting


    In the hospital, many women were there for maternity check-ups, and most were heavily pregnant.


    Inparison to them, Leanna seemed more rxed.


    However, she was used toing alone. This was the first time that someone was apanying her.


    Moreover, the ce was crowded and noisy; pregnant women threw tantrums at their husbands. In


    addition to her checkup, she also had to take care of Aidan, who looked entirely out of ce and could


    not find a ce to sit.


    This suddenly made Leanna think that it was useless to have a man. They did not benefit her in any


    way; instead, they only added to the chaos. She would be better offing here alone.


    It was no wonder that those women who were longer into their pregnancy found their husbands


    annoying.


    Aidan was aware of her gaze and turned his eyes sideways before saying unhappily, ¡°Why are you


    looking at me?¡±


    This made her smile. ¡°There are a lot of people here. If President Pearson finds it unbearable, you can


    wait outside for me.¡±


    ¡°When did I say it was noisy?¡±


    When she heard this, she licked the corner of her lips. Your expression says it all.


    She really shouldn¡¯t have told him this morning. Nothing of such would happen if she came by herself.


    ¡°Then, I¡¯ll go in first. If you¡¯re tired of waiting, you can leave anytime,¡± she said.


    Aidan continued to look at her coldly and didn¡¯t say a word.


    After Leanna went in, he withdrew his gaze and leaned against the wall near the door. His gaze


    inadvertently fell on the pregnant woman sitting nearby.


    Her belly was big; her baby should be due soon.


    Her husband squatted beside her as he caressed her stomach with his hands and put his ears to it


    before eximing in surprise, ¡°Honey, he kicked me!¡±


    ¡°He kept sleeping and didn¡¯t want to move throughout the examination,¡± the pregnant woman said.


    ¡°Then, it seems like I¡¯ll need to apany you next time.¡± Then, the man turned to speak to her


    stomach again, ¡°Baby, did you hear your daddy¡¯s voice? I know you¡¯re excited to see your daddy, right?


    You cane out from your mommy¡¯s stomach in just a few more days!¡±


    Hearing this, the woman pushed the man and smiled. ¡°Why are you saying this to him? He won¡¯t


    understand.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s not true. I¡¯ve heard that babies in their mother¡¯s stomachs can actually feel the joys and sorrows


    of adults. We just have to talk to him more so that he knows that there are people out there looking


    forward to his arrival. Then, when he¡¯s born, he¡¯ll learn how to walk faster and cause you less trouble.¡±


    After a while, the young couple left.


    When Leanna came out, she saw Aidan looking at the two empty seats with an unreadable expression


    on his face. She didn¡¯t know what he was thinking. So, she stretched out her hand and waved.


    ¡°President Pearson?¡± With that, he returned to his senses and nced at her lightly. ¡°Are you done with


    your examination?¡± ¡°Yup, I¡¯m done. Let¡¯s go.¡± Leanna woke up very early today and was a little sleepy


    on the way back. However, as the car ride was silent, she leaned against the window and slowly fell


    asleep. When she opened her eyes again, she found he had parked the car at a mall. Aidan unbuckled


    his seatbelt and said, ¡°Come down if you¡¯re awake.¡± She rubbed her eyes and got out of the car before


    fully understanding what was happening. Then, after walking with him for a while, he asked, ¡°President


    Pearson, are you here to buy something?¡±


    Right after she asked this, she suddenly realized how redundant that question was. As a businessman,


    he had to be visiting this mall to inspect its KPI. Although it didn¡¯t make sense, he still did apany


    her to the hospital. Therefore, out of courtesy, she reluctantly apanied him around the mall.


    Leanna dutifully followed behind him like a personal assistant as she yawned. When Aidan finally


    stopped in his steps, she realized that they were standing in front of the children¡¯s section. At first, she


    was a little stunned, but she suddenly remembered that the women and children were the best target


    groups regarding their expenditures. Hence, it wasn¡¯t surprising if he wanted toe here.


    At this time, he turned back and said arrogantly, ¡°Go and pick.¡±


    Leanna was stupefied. What did he want her to pick? She looked around her and couldn¡¯t help but ask,


    ¡°President Pearson, can you give me a hint?¡±


    Aidan felt dissatisfaction rise in him when he heard her clueless question. ¡°What else can you pick


    here? A dress?¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t know what to say.


    She finally woke up as she looked around, and when she noticed all the baby supplies around and


    understood what he meant. After a short pause, she said, ¡°Thank you, President Pearson, but there¡¯s


    no need for this. I¡¯ve prepared all these already¡­¡± He did not seem to want to deal with her nonsense


    and went straight into the store, taking whatever he saw. She was rendered speechless by his callous


    manner. Has this b*stard lost his mind? Then, she trailed behind him and took the things he put out of


    the cart. ¡°President Pearson, you¡ª¡± His head snapped back, and he threw the things back into the cart


    again. This gave Leanna no choice but to stop him in a roundabout way. ¡°President Pearson, this toy


    you¡¯re holding is for children over three years old to y with.¡± The clerk hurried over and greeted,


    ¡°Hello, sir and madam. How old is your baby? I can rmend toys that are suitable for you.¡± ¡°It¡¯s oka


    ¡ª¡± Aidan interrupted and answered, ¡°In her growing belly.¡±


    ¡­


    Until they left the mall, Leanna did not know what had gotten into that b*stard that he almost emptied


    several baby stores.


    As for the several shop assistants, they seemed to have never seen anyone sovish that they would


    spend money mindlessly. They all offered to deliver the items back to his house.


    When Aidan noticed Leanna¡¯s hesitation to speak, he asked, ¡°Do you want something?¡±


    She quickly refused once she heard him speak, ¡°No, I don¡¯t. Thank you, President Pearson, for your


    kindness. I don¡¯t want to buy anything. I don¡¯t want to buy anything at all.¡±


    Aidan let out a snort before getting into the car.


    When she saw this, she let out a sigh of relief.


    The nightmare was finally over.


    On the way home, Leanna was so shaken up that she couldn¡¯t sleep. As she sat in the passenger seat,


    she looked at the man several times before she couldn¡¯t hold herself back anymore and asked,


    ¡°President Pearson, why did you buy all these for?¡±


    Aidan did not even bother to look back at her. ¡°For fun.¡±


    His answer rendered her mute yet again but this was definitely like him to do such a thing.


    Just like that, she couldn¡¯t be bothered to ask further.


    Unexpectedly, after a few minutes, he suddenly asked, ¡°How many more months?¡±


    She did not expect him to ask this; she was stunned, so she took a while before answering, ¡°If it¡¯s full-


    term, then it¡¯d be about 21 weeks, almost five months.¡±


    After a deep hum from him, he remained silent during the entire journey home.


    Then, she lowered the car window and looked at the passing scenery outside.


    Since he asked, it must mean that he would let this child be born, right?


    When she thought of this, the corners of her mouth curled up. Suddenly, she felt that her mood had


    finally improved after a trying day.


    As for Aidan, he squinted and saw her leaning on the car window through the rearview mirror with the


    corners of her lips curled up, and his cold ck eyes softened unconsciously.


    In this world, although human emotions weren¡¯t connected, they could still affect the people around


    them.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.

 Chapter 102

    Chapter 102


    Chapter 102 Reason Behind the Remarriage


    In the afternoon, several delivery trucks stopped by, and the items that Aidan bought arrived one after


    the other.


    As the parcels were enormous, many neighbors gathered around to watch.


    Leanna did not want to be in the spotlight, so she pretended to be asleep, and no matter what was


    going on downstairs, she refused to go down.


    Naomi was also stunned when she saw the boxes of things that the employees brought in.


    On the contrary, Wendy poked Naomi¡¯s arm and said with a beaming expression, ¡°Did you see? Did


    you see?¡±


    ¡°See what?¡±


    ¡°There is obviously hope for a remarriage.¡± Wendy continued hushedly, ¡°ording to my observations


    in the past few days, Leanna and Aidan clearly like each other. Look, in a few more days, they¡¯ll


    remarry. By then, you can expect to be a grandmother and have a grandson.¡±


    Naomi lowered her eyes and smiled slightly when she heard thest sentence.


    Leanna did not know when the sound in the yard stopped and had fallen asleep. When she woke up,


    the phone on her bed was ringing.


    When she saw a string of unknown numbers, she answered it and spoke once it connected, ¡°Hello,


    who is this?¡±


    ¡°Hello, Miss McKinney. This is Highside Prison. Is Jethro McKinney your father?¡±


    She was silent for a while before answering, ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°Miss McKinney, several inmates attempted to escape from prisonst night and caused a fire


    outbreak. Unfortunately, some didn¡¯t manage to escape and died, and one of them was Jethro


    McKinney. ording to the regtions, the ashes are to be handed over to their family members, and


    if they do not want it, we will handle them ourselves.¡±


    Leanna was slightly startled when she heard the news. After a long while, she muttered, ¡°Died?¡±


    ¡°Yes. If Miss McKinney wants to im his ashes, please drop by Highside Prison within the next three


    days.¡±


    ¡°Got it, thank you.¡±


    After she hung up the phone, she sat on the bed in a daze.


    She was just thinking a few days ago that if she could, she would never want to hear about Jethro ever


    again in her life. However, she never imagined that the next time she heard of him, it was to collect his


    ashes.


    When she went downstairs, Aidan was sitting in the yard, doing his work, while Jonathan was standing


    next to him. After seeing Leannaing over, he nodded slightly at her before making a conscious


    move to leave.


    Then, she sat across Aidan and pondered for a long while before saying, ¡°President Pearson.¡±


    With his eyes glued to hisptop, he spoke without raising his head, ¡°Speak.¡±


    ¡°Did you arrange Jethro¡¯s imprisonment?¡±


    ¡°What does that have to do with me¡ª¡± When he raised his head and saw her pale face, he said,


    ¡°Jonathan handled it.¡±


    Leanna hummed thoughtfully and said, ¡°Thank you, President Pearson.¡±


    She knew that if Jethro, this ticking time bomb, were not adequately dealt with, he would continue to


    look for Louis even after she left.


    It was an endless and vicious cycle.


    Aidan shut hisptop and raised his gaze to look at her. ¡°What do you want to say?¡± However, Leanna


    quickly shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just came here to thank you, President Pearson.¡± Speaking of


    which, it seemed that he had really helped her a lot, even if she didn¡¯t know about it. ¡°You may continue


    with your work, President Pearson. I¡¯m going out for a walk.¡± After she left, Jonathan hurried in.


    ¡°President Pearson, I just received news that a fire broke out in Highside Prisonst night, and


    Madam¡¯s father¡­died on the spot. It seems that Madam has been contacted to im the ashes from


    the prison.¡± Aidan pursed his lips and got up before saying lightly, ¡°I got it.¡± ¡­ When Aidan found


    Leanna, she was leaning on the stone fence by the small river with the wind in her hair. He walked over


    slowly and stood beside her. When she heard the sound, she tilted her head back toward the noise.


    ¡°President Pearson?¡± ¡°What are you doing here?¡± He asked.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    ¡°Just¡­taking a walk.¡±


    He hummed and said nothing after.


    After a while, she took the initiative to ask, ¡°President Pearson, when are you going back to Highside?¡±


    ¡°Tomorrow.¡± Initially, she asked this as a casual question. Nevertheless, she did not expect him to leave


    so soon, so she was stunned. Finally, after a moment, she said, ¡°Oh.¡± Throughout this period, she


    dreamed every day for him to leave early. But, she did not expect herself to be not as happy as she


    thought after hearing that he was going. After she thought about it, she continued her inquiry, ¡°Is Ms.


    Shaffer leaving with you?¡± ¡°No.¡± That was right. Seeing how Naomi was, she probably wouldn¡¯t go


    back. ¡°Then¡­will you visit Ms. Shaffer in the future?¡± At this point, Aidan turned his head to look at her.


    ¡°How do you want me to answer this?¡± Unable to refute, she pursed her lips and kept quiet. She, too,


    did not know what answer she was expecting. Also, whether he would being back in the future had


    nothing to do with her. All the questions she asked were just to feed her nosy self.


    Soon, Aidan¡¯s voice rang, ¡°If you don¡¯t want to go collect his ashes, you don¡¯t have to.¡± Leanna


    remained quiet; she wasn¡¯t surprised he would know about this.


    After all, it was he who sent Jethro to prison.


    In fact, she wasn¡¯t worried about whether she should go and collect his ashes. However, if she went,


    she would definitely return to Highside. By then, it might not be that easy to leave.


    She had too many bad memories of that ce. She always felt that nothing good would await her if she


    returned.


    Aidan spoke again without waiting for her answer, ¡°He¡¯s dead. It¡¯s useless for you to think about it now.


    If you have time, why not think about what I¡¯ve said to you?¡±


    Leanna did not react for a moment. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    He did not say anything as he gave her a deep, icy look.


    She was confused for a moment before recalling what he had said.


    He wasn¡¯t talking about the remarriage, was he?


    She thought he wasn¡¯t serious about it, so she didn¡¯t take the matter to heart.


    Therefore, she let out a dryugh. ¡°President Pearson, shouldn¡¯t you be the one to think about it?


    Aren¡¯t you afraid that I have any ill intentions?¡±


    ¡°You think too highly of yourself.¡±


    ¡°Then, may I ask the reason behind the remarriage?¡±


    After a few seconds, he quietly turned to look at her. ¡°Leanna, if you were me, would you let a pregnant


    woman with your child not be under your control?¡±


    Leanna was stunned to hear this and chewed on her lips for a long time. Sure enough, this was the


    reason behind his proposal.


    From the very beginning, be it the decisions he made these days or his proposal to remarry, his end


    goal was the child in her belly.


    Fortunately¡­


    Fortunately, she wasn¡¯t caught up in it.


    Leanna answered, ¡°President Pearson, I will do my best to let you know my whereabouts, and I will


    also let you know anything about the child. I won¡¯t let your father¡ªthe Pearsons know about my


    pregnancy. As for the remarriage, forget about it.¡±


    It had been a difficult journey to leave the marriage that had bound her for three years, a marriage


    without love and only existed by name. She would be crazy if she even considered a remarriage.


    After a long time, Aidan spoke coldly, ¡°The flight is at 8:00PM tomorrow. Pack your things.¡±


    He didn¡¯t bother waiting for her answer as he turned around and strode away.


    After he left, Leanna withdrew her gaze and sighed silently as she watched thest trace of the sunset.


    It seemed that she would still have to make that trip back.

 Chapter 103

    Chapter 103


    Chapter 103 I¡¯m Begging You


    That evening, when Leanna was packing in her room, there was a soft knock on the door. ¡°Leanna, are


    you asleep?¡±


    So, she got up and opened the door. ¡°Ms. Fletcher.¡±


    When Naomi noticed the luggage in the room, she asked, ¡°I heard Aidan say that he is going back


    tomorrow. Are you going back with him?¡±


    Leanna nodded and said, ¡°I have some things to settle in Highside.¡±


    Naomi handed the bag in her hand once she heard this. ¡°These are some things that I¡¯ve recently


    knitted here. You can bring them with you. Maybe you¡¯ll need it in the future.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Ms. Fletcher.¡± Leanna took the bag from Naomi. ¡°Will you not go back to Highside in the


    future?¡±


    Naomi smiled lightly. ¡°I won¡¯t. There¡¯s nothing for me to miss in that ce.¡±


    ¡°What about Aidan¡­¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s up to him. If he has time, he wille back to visit me. It¡¯s okay if he doesn¡¯t. After all, I have


    never fulfilled my duty as his mother.¡±


    Leanna did not know what to say in response, so she could only stay silent and nod respectfully.


    After a few seconds, Naomi spoke again, ¡°Leanna, I don¡¯t know what happened between you and


    Aidan, and I don¡¯t have the right toment, but¡­Aidan has a bad temper. He has always had


    problems expressing himself, but he is a soft-hearted man. I could tell from being around you two these


    few days. He actually cares about you. He just doesn¡¯t know how to express it.¡±


    Even if she did not say this, Leanna knew that b*stard Aidan was only terrible because of the way he


    spoke. Although he was a good man, everything changed when he opened his mouth.


    Moreover, growing up in a household like the Pearsons, where everyone was always scheming against


    each other, he had long been ustomed to seeing the nasty side of others first and weighed his pros


    and cons with each interaction.


    Because of this, Leanna wanted to keep a distance from him as much as possible. She did not want to


    be involved in the conflict between him and the Pearsons.


    It was just that¡­


    She looked down at her belly; maybe this was why Aidan didn¡¯t want this child to be born.


    But as a mother, adding to the fact that she had a miscarriage before, it was a rare blessing from God


    for her to be pregnant again. She would not deprive this child of the opportunity toe into this world.


    After a long time, Leanna replied, ¡°Ms. Fletcher, Aidan, and I are notpatible in every way. The


    reason why we got married in the first ce was that¡ª¡±


    Halfway through her words, she let out augh. ¡°Whatever the case, the problem lies with me, and I


    should bear the consequences.¡±


    Naomi sighed but didn¡¯t say anything else upon hearing Leanna¡¯s words. Instead, she told Leanna to


    take care of herself when she was back and to call Naomi if anything happened before leaving.


    Leanna was about to close the door when she noticed Aidan standing nearby, looking at her coldly.


    She kept quiet for a moment.


    ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Then, the corners of her mouth twitched. ¡°President Pearson.¡± Aidan had one hand in his pocket, and


    his tone was indifferent when he spoke, ¡°Tell me, what consequences did you bear?¡± Isn¡¯t the


    consequence of my suffering as your wife for three whole years, taking on your cynicism, sarcasm, and


    brutality? Nevertheless, she answered sincerely, ¡°The divorce is the consequence I should bear.¡±


    ¡°Leanna, if you think that with a divorce, everything is settled, then you¡¯re being too simple-minded.¡± ¡°I


    know that it can¡¯t change the past and that I still have ulterior motives in your eyes, but this is the only


    thing I can do.¡± ¡°If you really n to bear the consequences, you might as well think it through. For


    example, how would the Pearsons react when they find out about your pregnancy?¡± After he dropped


    such a bombshell, he turned and returned to his room. Leanna was stunned in ce. She suddenly


    realized that Aidan acquiesced that she could give birth to this child, but under the premise of¡­the


    Pearsons not finding out.


    This meant that he would not give her a second chance once the Pearsons discovered her pregnancy.


    After a long while, she finally regained her senses; her fingers were ice cold.


    As she sat on the bed, she looked out the window nkly.


    Could she really protect this child and give birth safely without being found out by the Pearson Family?


    After thinking about it, she felt she did not have much contact with the Pearson Family. Besides Anna,


    Leanna had almost zero interaction with the rest of the family. Although she had been in contact with


    Justin because of work, he couldn¡¯t customize the jewelry for her mother upon request. Hence, as long


    as she avoided that lunatic, Anna, she should be fine. Leanna let out a sigh of relief before she


    continued to pack, cing the socks and clothes that Naomi had knitted for her into her luggage. Yet,


    despiteforting herself, she was still worried. When she noticed the pile of baby supplies in the


    room, she hesitated for a long time before leaving to knock on Aidan¡¯s door and asked in a low voice,


    ¡°President Pearson, are you asleep?¡± After two minutes, the door of the room opened. It seemed like


    he was woken up in his sleep, looking extremely impatient as he held back his temper and asked,


    ¡°Leanna, I remember telling you. If it¡¯s in the middle of the night¡ª¡± Leanna interrupted in a low voice,


    ¡°That time, you said not to call you in the middle of the night. You didn¡¯t say I couldn¡¯te to you in


    the middle of the night.¡±


    When Aidan heard this, he was rendered speechless by her daring.


    She ignored his attitude and continued, ¡°President Pearson, I need to talk to you about the baby.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°I promise I will avoid the Pearsons wherever I go, but my¡­my ability is limited. So, I want to ask for


    your help. You must have a way to prevent them from finding out about my pregnancy.¡±


    He continued to look at her indifferently and asked, ¡°What makes you think I will help you?¡±


    She pursed her lips and continued, ¡°I assumed that since President Bateson bought so many baby


    products today that¡ª¡±


    ¡°Those are just random purchases. It can¡¯t prove anything.¡±


    Leanna knew that he would say so.


    After she pondered the matter for a few seconds, she gently tugged at his sleeves. ¡°I¡¯m begging you.¡±


    Aidan¡¯s deep ck eyes stared at her as his Adam¡¯s apple bobbed up and town. Finally, he quickly


    turned his gaze away. ¡°I don¡¯t see your sincerity.¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t know what to say.


    Therefore, she pouted and retracted her hand. ¡°Then, what do you want me to do?¡±


    ¡°Move back to Castor Vi. There, I can keep you hidden from the Pearsons. But, if you live elsewhere


    and get discovered, it has nothing to do with me.¡±


    She did not expect this to be his request. Nheless, it was much better than the previous heartless


    conditions.


    And if she were to move to Castor Vi, it would be much safer for her to a certain extent.


    At that time, there should be no problem for her to frequent between thepany and home every day.


    When Aidan noticed her silence, he was immediately dissatisfied.


    This woman was still as stubborn as before.


    As soon as he was about to speak, Leanna whispered, ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll move back with you.¡±

 Chapter 104

    Chapter 104


    Chapter 104 A Cold-blooded Person Like You


    In the afternoon the next day, Wendy had also heard the news that Leanna and Aidan were leaving.


    So, she brought many specialties from home and told them to bring them along.


    After that, Wendy quietly pulled Leanna aside. ¡°Leanna, are you and Aidan remarrying?¡±


    Leanna did not know how to answer her.


    This must be the real reason why you¡¯re here, Ms. Shaffer.


    ¡°No¡ª¡±


    ¡°Hey, you don¡¯t have to feel embarrassed. I¡¯ve been observing you two for the past few days. Aidan is a


    good man, rich and handsome. Others might take him away if you don¡¯t tie him down.¡±


    ¡°Ms. Shaffer, I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Leanna, listen to me. When you¡¯re my age, you will realize that all your bickerings are for naught.


    Outsiders might find it cute. Oh, I¡¯m an old woman now. If I am twenty years younger


    Wendy continued to drone on, and Leanna simply kept quiet because she couldn¡¯t get a word in.


    Before she left, she took onest nce at the ce she had lived for more than a month. Then, for


    some reason, she felt an inexplicable feeling that she was leaving home.


    Be it Naomi or Wendy, even the neighbors around had shown her unprecedented warmth and care.


    Aidan, who was standing in front of the car, saw Leanna turn back after three steps and did not


    understand her reluctance to leave, ¡°It¡¯s not like you can¡¯te back in the future. What¡¯s wrong with


    you?¡±


    When she heard his impatient tone, she retracted her gaze and let out a silent sigh. ¡°Right, a cold-


    blooded person like you wouldn¡¯t understand what it means to be around a group of people you get


    along with all the time.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know what to say as he lowered his head. ¡°Leanna.¡±


    However, she shed a smile and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go, President Pearson.¡±


    Wendy initially wanted to send them to the airport with Naomi. However, it would only make them


    sadder. Leanna was also afraid that Wendy might say weird things in the car, so Leanna hastily


    refused.


    Moreover, she also knew that, ording to Wendy, Aidan was not very good with farewells.


    As the car drove out of Underwood Lane, Leanna felt like she was in a warm andfortable dream.


    And now, it was time to wake up.


    She had to be stronger than before to deal with what was about to happen.


    ¡­


    After they got off the ne, Leanna said, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯d better go home today to pack my


    things before I move over.¡±


    ¡°Up to you.¡±


    As soon as Aidan said that, he strode away with his long legs and left her alone. In fact, Leanna


    actually had nothing to pack. When she fled from Highside, she took everything she could and packed


    all her belongings into boxes. She just didn¡¯t want to stay with him; she wanted an excuse to have a


    quiet night alone. Finally, she came up with that excuse. Leanna quietly trailed behind. Once they left


    the airport, she was about to call a car when Jonathan appeared next to her. ¡°Ms. McKinney, I¡¯ll send


    you off.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you with Aidan?¡± ¡°President Pearson has to go back to thepany. He told me to


    send you back.¡± ¡°Oh.¡± As they entered the car, she was about to tell him her address when she saw


    that he had already keyed it into his GPS. She was rendered speechless by his actions. Jonathan


    laughed awkwardly when he noticed her astonished silence.


    He could only hide his embarrassment withughter.


    Nevertheless, Leanna did not find it strange that he knew where she lived. He handled everything for


    Aidan; it would be weirder if Jonathan did not know.


    When they were downstairs, he helped bring her suitcase down and said, ¡°Ms. McKinney, President


    Pearson asked me to pick you up tomorrow. What do you think is a suitable time for you?¡±ConTEent bel0ngs to N?v(e)lD/rama(.)Org .


    Leanna stayed silent for a while before answering, ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ll go over myself.¡± After she spoke, she


    raised her head to meet Jonathan¡¯s hesitant expression and gritted her teeth secretly. ¡°Tell Aidan I¡¯ll be


    there!¡± ¡°Alright, Ms. McKinney. Goodbye, then.¡± Then, he quickly left. As the ck car drove away, she


    turned around and entered her apartment. Once she was upstairs, she stood at the door and turned on


    the light, looking at the room that was covered in ayer of dust before sighing and lowering her head.


    As a matter of fact, she had only lived here for less than a month; this ce was not her home at all. It


    was already 1:00AM when she finished packing everything. Leanna sat by the bedside table. Then,


    after she settled down and thought about the matter, she decided to text Louis. ¡®Lou,e to Highside


    Prison with me tomorrow morning.¡¯ On the other end, Louis wasn¡¯t asleep yet. So, when he received


    the message, he immediately called her. ¡°Are you back in Highside?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I just got off the ne a while ago.¡±


    ¡°What are you going to do in prison?¡± He asked.


    She looked out the window and answered softly, ¡°Jethro is dead.¡±


    On the other end of the phone, he fell silent for a moment before calmly asking, ¡°How did he die?¡±


    ¡°There was a fire outbreak during their attempt to escape, and he died on the spot.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll pick you up tomorrow, then.¡± He said.


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    The next day, there was a drizzle in the morning sky, and the whole city seemed shrouded in ayer of


    gray.


    Leanna, dressed in ck, was at the entrance of Highside Prison with Louis.


    After they exined the purpose of their visit at the registration counter, the prison guard took them to


    where they kept the ashes. ¡°Jethro¡¯s ashes and relics are all here. You can take them away after


    signing some papers.¡±


    Louis signed the papers while the prison guard looked at Louis and Leanna, who was standing beside


    him, and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect Jethro to have children like you. He¡¯s so lucky.¡±


    Ever since Jethro was imprisoned, he had been causing a lot of trouble; he was either getting beaten or


    beating people up. Then, he would yell and say that his son-inw was the president of Pearson


    Group, like a typical ruffian.


    Regardless, all his cries weren¡¯t in vain as he managed to pull a group of people to try and escape with


    him. But unfortunately, it didn¡¯t work in his favor.


    After Louis had signed the paper, he nced at Jethro¡¯s ashes as his thin lips pressed tightly together.


    He did not answer the officer.


    Leanna spoke up in order to ease the tension, ¡°May we leave?¡±


    ¡°Yes, yes.¡± The officer came to his senses and gave them Jethro¡¯s belongings.


    As the guard watched the silhouettes of the two people getting farther and farther away, curiosity


    swallowed him up. With how Jethro was, how did he give birth to children with such temperament and


    appearance?


    Could it be that he abducted them from somewhere?


    After they departed from the prison, Louise said, ¡°Leave the rest to me. You can go home and rest.¡±


    Leanna paused for a while; she knew that he was afraid she might not want to face Jethro. In the end,


    she smiled lightly and replied, ¡°The man¡¯s dead. There¡¯s no use for me to hold onto the past. And, if it


    still bothered me, I wouldn¡¯t have shown up today.¡±


    This made him purse his lips slightly. ¡°Whatever it is, you¡¯re pregnant. It¡¯s not appropriate for you to go


    to the cemetery. I¡¯ll just go alone.¡±

 Chapter 105

    Chapter 105


    Chapter 105 Pir of Shame


    Jethro¡¯s funeral was very simple. It was not so much a funeral as it was just a simple ceremony.


    Only Jethro¡¯s name was engraved on the tombstone and nothing else.


    Louis held an umbre and stood beside Leanna. ¡°Speaking of which, he did this to himself. So, there¡¯s


    no one to me for this ending.¡±


    Theirst duty was to pick up his ashes and find a grave for his burial.


    Leanna stayed silent, stared at Jethro¡¯s grave for a while, and she said slowly, ¡°Lou, let¡¯s go.¡±


    No matter how unforgivable the things Jethro had done in the past, it all ended here.


    She finally felt a sense of relief.


    After they left the cemetery, Leanna and Louis headed back to the old house to sort out what Jethro


    had left behind.


    The house was in an old-fashioned residential building. Unfortunately, it wasn¡¯t located in a good ce


    and was not worth much money. But ording to Jethro¡¯s character, he would have tried his best to


    mortgage the house to pay back the money. Yet, somehow, he never thought of this house.


    As he had not been back here for a long time, the house was covered with a thickyer of dust.


    Louis patted the furniture upon entering the establishment before saying to Leanna, ¡°You can wait


    outside. It¡¯s too dusty here.¡±


    She nodded agreeably. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Then, he found a cardboard box and packed all of Jethro¡¯s things into it.


    Leanna stood on the balcony, looking at the ce where she grew up. She couldn¡¯t describe the feeling


    in her heart.


    It seemed that Jethro had always been acting up ever since she could remember. Although he wasn¡¯t


    involved in gambling back then, he was still an alcoholic. asionally, there would be times when he


    remembered how he had two children and vowed to quit.


    But most of the time, it didn¡¯tst for more than two days before he started drinking again.


    And each time he went back, the worse he got.


    Just as Leanna was deep in thought, Louis brought out a locked, old-fashioned suitcase from Jethro¡¯s


    room. Judging from the looks of it, it seemed like it had not been open for years. Then, she saw him


    looking around for a tool to pry the lock open and asked, ¡°Are you trying to open it?¡± ¡°I saw him open


    this suitcase once. There should be something important to him inside,¡± he answered as he continued


    to look around. Leanna opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. As a matter of fact, she,


    too, wanted to see what was inside. However, she guessed that it was probably about their mother. Her


    mother died in childbirth when she was giving birth to Louis. There was never a photo of her at home.


    So, not only did Leanna forget how her mother looked, but Louis had never seen her.


    Soon, the lock on the suitcase was pried open by him. Once the dust settled, Leanna saw the contents


    inside clearly. There were a few yellowed photos, a diary, and a pocket watch. Louis picked up the


    photo; it was a picture of a beautiful woman with a man, but Jethro had scratched the man¡¯s face with


    something sharp. It was hard to tell who he was. But judging from his body size and how he dressed, it


    was obvious that it was not Jethro. The second photo was a picture of a family of three; a woman, a


    man whose face had been scratched, and a little girl sitting in the middle. Louis flipped back and forth.


    The rest of the photos were the same.


    Leanna picked up the diary and did not notice Louis¡¯ pause. The journal was written from Jethro¡¯s point


    of view. It had the whole story of his crush on a girl, but he did not specifically mention who it was.


    However, he wrote about how his mood changed every time he saw the girl.


    The diary ended when the girl got married.


    She continued to flip around and found another line of words written on thest page.


    She promised to marry me. I¡¯ve long awaited this day.


    When she looked at the handwriting, she could tell it was written long after thest entry. She put the


    diary down and turned to Louis, who was sitting on the floor and staring at a photo without saying a


    word. Finally, she asked, ¡°Lou, what¡¯s wrong?¡± He handed her the photo in his hand before he got up


    and left. Leanna¡¯s eyes widened when she saw the picture. If she guessed correctly, Jethro must have


    scratched these photos and the man in the photo¡­ After a long time, she put the photo back into the


    suitcase and went to the living room. Louis was there with his head down, packing away the rest of the


    things quietly. When he heard the noise, he spoke without looking up, ¡°Go home. Leave the rest to me.¡±


    Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    ¡°Lou,¡± Leanna called out to him softly. ¡°I saw the picture. It doesn¡¯t mean anything.¡±


    Louis was silent for a moment before he spoke, ¡°I dream every day about whether I might be Jethro¡¯s


    biological son or not. Even when I opened the suitcase, I held onto this hope, thinking he might fill it


    with his secrets. Maybe, he had just picked us up from somewhere. But I didn¡¯t expect¡­¡±


    Unexpectedly, although the suitcase held Jethro¡¯s secret, the only non-biological child was Leanna.


    Before this, Louis hated that he had such a father and vowed to protect his sister. But, now that he


    knew the truth, he didn¡¯t know how to face her.


    Without Jethro, she wouldn¡¯t have been pushed this far.


    Right now, Louis felt like he was nailed onto the pir of shame.


    ¡°Lou, back in those darker days, I¡¯ve also thought about how good it would be if Jethro weren¡¯t my


    father. That meant I could get rid of him and start my own life. But at this point, what was the difference


    if he was or not?¡± Leanna said lightly.


    ¡°Whatever the case is, I called him dad for 20 years. As for the man in the photo, he looked unfamiliar.


    He had never looked for me after so many years. Maybe he might be worse than Jethro.¡±


    When Leanna saw how quiet Louis was, she continued, ¡°Lou, even if I am not his daughter, I¡¯m still


    your sister. We still share the same blood.¡±


    Although they had different fathers, they still had the same mother.


    After a while, Louis answered gloomily, ¡°I understand.¡±


    Then, Leanna smiled and said, ¡°Okay, we¡¯re almost done. Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡°Wait a minute.¡±


    After saying that, Louis turned around and went to the balcony, taking out the things in the suitcase.


    He passed the photos and the pocket watch to Leanna and said, ¡°You keep this. Maybe you¡¯ll find it


    useful in the future.¡±


    As he said that, he threw the rest of Jethro¡¯s things in the cardboard box and carried them away


    together.


    Leanna looked at the photo and then at Louis. ¡°Lou, do you want to keep¡ª¡±


    ¡°No. I¡¯ve never met her. To me, it doesn¡¯t matter what she looked like.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep it then. You can find me whenever you feel like seeing her,¡± she answered.


    She knew the real reason that Louis did not want to keep these photos was that their mother was not


    alone. She took all the pictures with another man.

 Chapter 106

    Chapter 106


    Chapter 106 What Are You Waiting For?


    After Jonathan finished reporting his work at the Pearson Group, he said, ¡°President Pearson, if there¡¯s


    nothing else, I¡¯ll take my leave.¡±


    ¡°Wait.¡± Aidan stopped him and paused for a few seconds before raising his head and asking in a light


    tone, ¡°Has Leanna moved in?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡±


    Aidan put his pen down, a little displeased when he heard the unsatisfactory answer. ¡°What is she still


    doing?¡±


    ¡°Madam went to Highside Prison this morning to im her father¡¯s ashes and then went to the


    cemetery in the afternoon. Now, she should be on her way back,¡± Jonathan said.


    Hearing this, Aidan sneered softly and did not say much. ¡°You can leave.¡±


    That heartless woman actually wasted her feelings in such a worthless ce.


    At this time, his phone rang. It was Oscar.


    As soon as the call connected, Oscar said, ¡°I heard that you¡¯ve returned to Highside?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect this project to be so tricky. It even took you so long.¡±


    Aidan did not respond to that and asked, ¡°Do you have nothing better to do?¡±


    This made Oscarugh. ¡°That¡¯s not the case, and I just care about you. Can I know what you were


    thinking? In the midst of the chaos with the Pearsons, you actually pulled away and started on a


    dispensable project for the Pearson Group at Underwood Lane. Your old man must be delighted during


    that time.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t let him think that he has the opportunity to take advantage of this. What¡¯s the point if he


    suddenly stopped?¡± Aidan spoke in a neutral tone. ¡°Also, Underwood Lane is an important project for


    Pearson Group at the end of the year. Who said it was unnecessary?¡±


    ¡°All right, all right. You have the final say in this. What about we get together for a drink tonight?¡±


    Aidan looked at the piles of documents in front of him and pursed his thin lips. ¡°I¡¯m busy.¡±


    Oscar didn¡¯t know what to say.


    This b*stard was really stubborn.


    After Aidan hung up the call, he looked deeply at his phone for a while before dialing Leanna¡¯s number.


    On the other side, she had just gotten home. Right before she sat on the sofa, she heard her phone


    ring. She took her time answering the phone. ¡°President Pearson, is there anything I can help you


    with?¡± ¡°Leanna, you should know that the Pearson Family is watching me very closely now,¡± Aidan said


    indifferently. ¡°Maybe¡­just a little.¡± She also read the financial newspaper that Naomi read. Maybe it


    was because Aidan was getting increasingly difficult to control; it was obvious that Gordon was trying to


    suppress him, and he had no intention of hiding it. Otherwise, they wouldn¡¯t have told Zayn and Anna


    to get married. ¡°Then, what are you waiting for?¡± Leanna was speechless at this man. ¡°I¡¯ve told you.


    Once you¡¯re discovered, there¡¯s no use, even if you begged me,¡± Aidan added. ¡°Thank you for


    reminding me, President Pearson. I¡¯ll pack my things now.¡± ¡°Pack and stay where you are. I¡¯ll get


    Jonathan to pick you up.¡± ¡°Okay.¡±


    After she hung up the phone, she took out yesterday¡¯s luggage and put her toiletries in, one after the


    other. Almost half an hourter, Leanna received a call from Jonathan. Right before she left, she


    noticed the paper bag at the door with the photos and the pocket watch found at Jethro¡¯s ce. After


    long consideration, she decided to take the bag with him.


    ¡­


    Once they had arrived at the Castor Vi, Jonathan said, ¡°Ms. McKinney, President Pearson is


    upied with work today, and so he should be home veryte.¡±


    ¡°Okay,¡± Leanna answered, rather confused.


    Why was he telling her? She wasn¡¯t going to wait for him.


    Jonathan let out a light cough and helped her with her luggage before saying, ¡°Then, I¡¯ll leave first, Ms.


    McKinney.¡±


    She nodded lightly. ¡°Yes, thank you.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s no problem. It¡¯s my duty.¡±


    As soon as he left, a servant came out when he heard the noise. When he noticed the luggage next to


    Leanna, he was bursting with joy. He took her suitcase and walked inside. ¡°Madam, you¡¯re finally back!


    Have youpletely reconciled with Mr. Pearson this time? I told you, it is inevitable for young couples


    to fight. That is what makes a rtionship strong.¡±


    his.


    Her smile was a little awkward, and she wanted to exin that she was just here for a ce to stay.


    Nheless, she felt that if she were to exin herself, it would only get worse. Therefore, she was too


    lazy to even say anything. Whatever, it doesn¡¯t matter. On the second floor, the servant was just about


    to bring her luggage into the master bedroom when Leanna quickly pushed the bedroom door next to it.


    This stunned the servant. ¡°Madam, aren¡¯t you with¡ª¡± Leanna quickly cut her off with a smile and said,


    ¡°I can unpack them myself. You can go.¡± When the servant heard this, he stopped inquiring further and


    resumed his duties prior to her arrival.


    She closed the door and let out a breath.


    Leanna had never dreamed that she woulde back and live here again. She recalled how resolute


    she was when she left, yet ironically, she ended up back here again.


    She had always felt that the way she wanted to raise this baby was away from Aidan. That was


    because living around someone like him always made her feel like she was on the brink of exploding.


    Considering the current situation, she had no choice.


    That b*stard Aidan was scrutinizing her every move. She could only move in ording to what he


    wanted. As for the rest, she would take it one step at a time.


    There were still five months to go before the baby was born. Throughout that time, she would think of a


    way to leave unnoticed.


    There were always exceptions to everything. Property ? 2024 N0(v)elDrama.Org.


    She just needed to wait for the chance to show up.


    Leanna didn¡¯t have much before she left, and now that she¡¯s back, she has even fewer things. So after


    briefly tidying things up, she decided to take a nap.


    In her sleep, she vaguely seemed to hear a huge explosion followed by a monstrous fire, and a voice


    was calling for her father piercingly.


    Gradually, she realized that the voice was hers. She wanted to rush into the mes, but someone held


    her back tightly.


    In the next second, the sky was swallowed by the mes and the scorching heat prickled at everyone¡¯s


    skins.


    Suddenly, Leanna snapped out of her sleep and shot up.


    When she looked at the gray sky outside, she realized it was all just a nightmare.


    At that time, she heard the servant¡¯s voice from outside. ¡°Madam, dinner is ready.¡±


    Leanna lipped her dry lips and answered, ¡°I¡¯ll be right out.¡±


    Afterward, she went to the bathroom to wash her face with cold water; her uneven breathing finally


    calmed down.


    Leanna stood in front of the mirror for a while before turning around and leaving the room.


    She wouldn¡¯t have had that nightmare for no reason. So, it must have something to do with the photos


    she saw today.


    Therefore, she took out the photos again, but no matter how she looked at them, she couldn¡¯t find the


    missing piece in her memory, nor could she recall the scratched-out face of the man in the photo.


    When she looked at the pocket watch next to her again, nothing of any sort also came to her mind.


    ording to these photos and Jethro¡¯s diary, her mother must have brought her along when she


    married him. But what happened before that? Why didn¡¯t she remember what happened when she was


    a child? Could it be rted to the explosion she dreamt of?

 Chapter 107

    Chapter 107


    Chapter 107 Are You Doing This On Purpose?


    Due to the nightmare this afternoon, Leanna couldn¡¯t sleep at night, and her eyes were wide open


    because whenever she closed them, she could imagine the fire.


    Instead, she decided to get up and sort out some designs.


    As she used to live very far away, she could only work remotely. Now that she was back, she was


    definitely going to Lux Magazine to report to work.


    In the midst of it, she heard footsteps in the corridor, followed by the sound of the door of the room next


    door opening.


    Aidan must be back.


    Leanna reflexively looked at her phone; it was 1:00AM.


    Back in Underwood Lane, she had always felt that this b*stard had a lot of time in his hands. Other


    than asionally handling some of the documents sent by Jonathan, he would spend most of his time


    provoking her. Unexpectedly, when he returned to Highside, he was actually busy.


    After she finished up her things, she felt rather hungry.


    So, she opened her room door and went downstairs to the kitchen to find some food.


    When she opened up the fridge, nothing in there interested her. Fortunately, there were countless


    ingredients that she could use to make her own food.


    Leanna took out some chicken wings and potatoes to prepare.


    Since the servants had already washed the chicken wings in advance, she just had to debone them


    and cover them in cooking wine before cutting the potatoes into strips and frying them together.


    Once that was done, she added some water and let it simmer for 20 minutes.


    Just as she closed the lid on the pot and wiped her hands, she turned around just to see Aidan with his


    hands in his pockets, leaning against the kitchen door, quietly watching her.


    Her eyes widened in shock as she saw him.


    When did this b*stard show up?


    ¡°Did you not have enough for dinner?¡± He asked in a low voice.


    She shook her head. ¡°I did. But I¡¯m hungry again.¡±


    After saying that, she was afraid that he would ridicule her for overeating, so she tentatively added, ¡°It¡¯s


    already 1:00AM. It¡¯s not wrong to have some midnight snacks, am I right?¡±


    Aidan stepped forward with his long legs and pulled a chair at the dining table before sitting down.


    ¡°You¡¯ve had dinner and are hungry again, preparing supper for yourself. I haven¡¯t even had lunch. What


    do you think?¡±


    Leanna was really at a loss for words when it came to this man.


    It wasn¡¯t like she didn¡¯t allow him to eat, yet why did she feel a pang of guilt?


    Then, she asked reluctantly, ¡°Then, what do you want to eat, President Pearson? I¡¯ll make it for you.¡±


    She was already in the kitchen anyway.


    ¡°Up to you,¡± he said in a deep voice. Leanna reopened the fridge and nced around; no matter what


    she wanted to do, it would take a long time. And since he did not even have lunch, she couldn¡¯t make


    him anything spicy, or he might get a stomachache. In the end, she took out two eggs to make an egg


    custard. It should have been done by the time her chicken wings and potatoes were done. After beating


    up the eggs, she steamed them in a pot. Then, she looked over at the man sitting at the dining table


    and said, ¡°What about you go upstairs to wait? I¡¯ll send it over to you.¡± ¡°Am I getting in your way?¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips and said nothing.


    She had no choice but to just wait for time to pass. After a while, Aidan asked, ¡°I thought you couldn¡¯t


    stand the smell of oil?¡± ¡°Ah¡­¡± Leanna came back to her senses. ¡°It¡¯s still okay now, and it¡¯s dependent


    on the situation. If the baby isn¡¯t acting up, then it¡¯s fine.¡± Of course, the most important thing was that


    she wasn¡¯t the only one hungry; the baby in her stomach was as well. Aidan¡¯s gaze fell onto her


    stomach without saying a word. Leanna rubbed her nose before she continued to watch over her


    cooking. She knew that he did not like the child in her stomach, and it was his conscience that allowed


    her to keep it. Hence, she couldn¡¯t ask for anything else. In a blink of an eye, 20 minutes passed. A


    sweet fragrance immediately flooded the kitchen when Leanna lifted the pot¡¯s lid.


    After sprinkling some sesame seeds and spring onions, she used tongs to transfer the chicken wings to


    a te.


    Then, she took out the egg custard, poured some sesame oil, sprinkled some shallots, and put it in


    front of Aidan. ¡°It¡¯s done. You can eat now.¡±


    He lowered his eyes and nced at the food in front of him, then at the food on her te. ¡°Leanna, are


    you doing this on purpose?¡±


    Leanna had just picked up a chicken wing and was about to bite into it when she heard his voice.


    Following his line of sight, she looked down at his te, then at her own.


    She fell silent.


    The egg custard in front of him looked ndpared to her chicken wings. The contrast was a little


    obvious. ¡°Haha, didn¡¯t you say that you didn¡¯t have lunch? You can¡¯t eat anything spicy or greasy, or


    you might get a stomachache.¡± Aidan looked at her deeply before speaking in an indifferent tone that


    lacked any emotions, ¡°You seem very well-versed. You must have your fair share of gastritis.¡± Leanna


    kept her mouth shut. Why must this b*stard bring up the past? He is doing this on purpose, isn¡¯t he?


    Finally, she got up to take another te and took out half her portion before pushing it to him. ¡°Since


    you want to eat this so much, you can have it after you finish your egg custard.¡± Once Aidan heard her,


    he was extremely dissatisfied and said, ¡°When did I say I want to eat?¡± ¡°Then, I must have


    misunderstood. Even if you don¡¯t¡ª¡±


    Just as she was about to pull back the te, he shot her a hard look.


    This b*stard says one thing but means another.


    The corners of Leanna¡¯s lips curled up as she let out a cough before solemnly saying, ¡°President


    Pearson, you should eat up. It¡¯ll be cold soon.¡±


    After that, she ignored him and began to eat. Otherwise, she might starve to death.


    Once she was done, she let out afortable stretch.


    Then, she noticed that the chicken wings on Aidan¡¯s te were untouched, and she couldn¡¯t help but


    ask, ¡°President Pearson, do you not want that?¡±


    ¡°Are you full? He asked.


    ¡°I am¡­.¡±


    ¡°Then, why do you care so much?¡±


    His rude manner of speaking nearly angered her.


    Why did I ever think he would be nice for a change?


    Once she thought of that, she decided to stop talking to him and decided to wash her dishes before


    returning to her bedroom.


    Aidan continued to sit there as he pinched the bone on his nose; his thoughts were a mystery. He sat


    there quite a while before he got up to leave.


    ¡­


    The next day, when Leanna woke up, Aidan had already left. Just as she was about to head out after


    breakfast, the driver hurriedly came forward and said, ¡°Madam, I¡¯ll see you off.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I¡ª¡±


    She was just going to work and didn¡¯t want to trouble others.


    ¡°President Pearson said that if Madam does out, I¡¯d have to bring you.¡±


    Once she heard the driver¡¯s words, she let out an exasperated sigh. ¡°All right, then.¡±


    She could already imagine what that b*stard would say if she didn¡¯t agree to this.


    Unfortunately, the car she was in was too eye-catching. Leanna told the driver to drop her at the


    intersection in front of Lux Magazine. The driver seemed to object, but he could only give in when he


    saw her insistent attitude.


    ¡°I¡¯ll wait for Madam nearby.¡±


    After he said this, he didn¡¯t care if she answered or not as he hurriedly got into the car and drove away.


    Leanna let out another sigh before walking in Lux Magazine¡¯s direction.


    Across the street, Queenie was observing this scene from a distance and frowned. The disdain in her


    eyes grew. She knew that Leanna¡¯s lofty appearance was all a fake and that she was willing to sell her


    body for the sake of money and climb her way to the top.All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 108

    Chapter 108


    Chapter 108 Give Me a Way Out


    No one was happier than Zoe about Leanna¡¯s return.


    Once she reported for duty at Harvey¡¯s office, Zoe immediately pulled Leanna into her room. ¡°Nana,


    when did youe back? Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡±


    ¡°I just came back the day before yesterday,¡± Leanna said. ¡°Zoe, Jethro is dead.¡±


    Then, she proceeded to briefly exin everything to Zoe, including the photos found in Jethro¡¯s


    suitcase.


    After Zoe heard all this, she felt a wave of relief. ¡°I¡¯m not surprised at all. But, Jethro, he¡­does not look


    like a father to me. No matter how much of a jerk you are, you wouldn¡¯t have betrayed your own


    daughter like that. He¡¯s really shameless.¡±


    With that, she asked again, ¡°Then, what are you going to do now? Are you going to find your biological


    father?¡±


    Leanna shook her head. ¡°Forget it.¡±


    ¡°Why? Don¡¯t you want to know what happened back then?¡±


    ¡°Regardless of what happened, it has been so many years. There¡¯s not much reason for me to uncover


    them.¡±


    Hearing this, Zoe seemed to think for a while before asking tentatively, ¡°Nana, is this because of Lou?¡±


    She knew Leanna too well. For her, a father she couldn¡¯t remember was nothingpared to her


    younger brother, who had been dependent on each other since she was young.


    Leanna smiled lightly. ¡°That¡¯s not it; you¡¯re overthinking. I just think that life is finally starting to calm


    down after Jethro dies. I don¡¯t want to let myself step into another unknown situation. Moreover, he


    shoulde and find me if he is still alive. This means that he is no longer in this world or might be


    married to someone else and have his own children. Wouldn¡¯t it make both of us unhappy if I were to


    look for him?¡±


    After Zoe thought about it, she seemed to agree with Leanna. So, she changed the topic. ¡°But


    compared to this, I¡¯m more curious about something else.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°Are you and Aidan remarrying?¡±


    Leanna did not answer. Zoe was serious about this. ¡°Don¡¯t try to escape. After what you told mest


    time, I thought about it again. Even if Aidan likes you, the feeling of a b*stard like him wouldn¡¯t be true.


    Look at Mia. Wasn¡¯t it rumored that she was going to marry Aidan? Yet, she did not. That b*stard must


    be coveting your beauty. On a whim, lust filled his heart.¡± When Leanna heard this, the corners of her


    mouth twitched. It took her a while before she answered, ¡°I know.¡± Even if Zoe didn¡¯t say it, Leanna


    knew very well that Aidan¡¯s sudden liking towards her might have stemmed from her silently following


    behind him while being a good wife dutifully. When she stopped being Mrs. Pearson and started her


    own life, she was no longer submissive. Instead, she felt like a new person. All men were b*stards at


    the end of the day. Just like what he said, three years was a long time. They¡¯ve slept together countless


    times. If he wanted to like her, he would have already. At this point, Leanna was quite self-aware. Then,


    Zoe spoke again, ¡°Nana, you came back just in time. I¡¯ll move in with you. I¡¯ve decided to sell my


    house. Every time I go back to that house, I think about how Anthony had lived there before. It¡¯s


    disgusting.¡± Leanna let out an awkwardugh once she heard Zoe¡¯s suggestion. This confused Zoe.


    Leanna rubbed her neck uneasily and said, ¡°You can move right in. I¡­don¡¯t live there anymore.¡±


    ¡°Huh? Where do you live? Did you rent another house?¡±


    Leanna knew that she couldn¡¯t hide it for long, so she simply told Zoe the truth.


    Zoe was speechless after hearing that.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, after a while, she earnestly said, ¡°Nana, for the sake of our many years of friendship, if you and


    that b*stard¡ªif you and President Pearson get back together, don¡¯t tell him about the things I¡¯ve said.


    Give me a way out.¡± ¡­ When Leanna and Zoe came out of the office, they bumped into Queenie, who


    was here to pick up a luxurious customized piece for a customer. It was obvious that Zoe and Queenie


    did not get along well together. The two could barely look each other in the eyes, let alone maintain a


    superficial rtionship as colleagues. Just as a few people passed by, a clear female voice sounded.


    ¡°Please wait.¡± She turned around and looked at Leanna. ¡°You¡¯re also a designer for Lux Jewelry, am I


    right? If my guess is right, you¡¯re the designer for the ¡®First Love¡¯ series, McK?¡± Leanna nodded slightly.


    ¡°Hello.¡± ¡°I¡¯vee to Lux Magazine a few times but didn¡¯t get to meet you. I thought you resigned.¡±


    ¡°I had some personal issues to settle, so I took a long leave.¡±


    Queenie hurried forward and said once she saw the situation, ¡°Miss Crossley, we¡ª¡±


    Georgina smiled and interrupted her, ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m not in a rush. I have nothing to do anyway.¡±


    After she said that, she turned to Leanna. ¡°I really like the ¡®First Love¡¯ series that you designed. I have a


    sister that is about to get married, and I want to give her a gift. Can I get you to design it for me?¡±


    Queenie chewed on her lips. ¡°Miss Crossley¡ª¡±


    ¡°Miss Wojzicki, what we talked about before will not change. This sister is quite important to me.


    Besides, no gifts are too many, am I right?¡±


    Since Georgina had said so, Queenie couldn¡¯t find another reason to retaliate. However, she was


    unhappy. Why did a client she struggled to find fall right into Leanna¡¯sp so easily?


    Then, Georgina turned to Leanna again and asked softly, ¡°Can you do it, Miss McK?¡±


    Before Leanna could open her mouth, Zoe answered for her, ¡°Yes, of course. Miss Crossley, you have


    such a good eye. McK is the first jewelry designer signed by our magazine. The jewelry from the ¡®First


    Love¡¯ series is still selling out. It is definitely the best option for you to get her to design your sister¡¯s


    wedding gift.¡±


    Georgina smiled. ¡°Of course. I heard that Miss McK won The Emerging Designer Competition three


    years ago. My sister will definitely like the wedding gift that Miss McK designed.¡±


    ¡°Does Miss Crossley have any preferences?¡± Leanna asked.


    ¡°What about this? Let¡¯s find a ce to sit down and chat.¡± Speaking of this, Georgina seemed to have


    remembered Queenie and said, ¡°By the way, Miss Wojzicki, we¡¯d just follow the previous design. I¡¯m


    very pleased with that.¡±


    After a long while, Queenie nodded stiffly.


    Georgina was obviously dissatisfied with the design that she submitted before this. That was why she


    was here today, to revise the details of the design.


    But now, the works she designed seemed no longer necessary.


    It was evident that she had chosen Leanna. The only reason that Georgina let Queenie produce the


    finished product was to keep her dignity intact.


    Her fists clenched into fists when she thought about this, and her fingernails left marks on her palms.

 Chapter 109

    Chapter 109


    Chapter 109 Your Tongue Will Be Cut Off


    Once they were at the coffee shop, Georgina ordered a cup of Americano, then she turned and asked


    Leanna, ¡°Miss McK, what would you like to drink?


    Leanna turned to the waiter and said, ¡°I¡¯d like to have a ss of milk. Thank you.¡±


    After the waiter left, Georgina said with a smile on her face, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be a non-coffee


    drinker. I thought that designers like you who need inspiration would be more or less inseparable from


    caffeine.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I don¡¯t like coffee. I¡¯m only drinking milk because of my health.¡±


    Leanna did not feel the need to bring up her pregnancy to someone she had just met, so she made up


    a casual excuse.


    ¡°You¡¯re right. You seem very fit. You probably don¡¯t need it,¡± Georgina said.


    Leanna smiled politely in response and initiated the topic, ¡°Miss Crossley, tell me more about what your


    sister likes. Then, I¡¯ll send you a draft, and if you¡¯re not satisfied with it, I¡¯ll revise it.¡±


    ¡°This is actually a spontaneous gift, so there are no specific restrictions,¡± Georgina said. I believe with


    Miss McK¡¯s abilities, you can design it however you like. My sister really likes the ¡®First Love¡¯ series,


    and that series holds a different meaning to her. She would be overjoyed if she knew that you designed


    her wedding gift.


    ¡°You¡¯re too kind. I¡¯ll try ande up with something and send you the first draft of the ring within a


    week. If Miss Crossley has any other requests, I¡¯ll amend ordingly.¡±


    ¡°Then, it¡¯s settled.¡± Georgina gave Leanna her email address and said, ¡°You can just send the design


    here.¡±


    Leanna nodded lightly. ¡°Okay.¡±


    Then, Georgina got up. ¡°I still have something to do. We¡¯ll just conclude our talk today. I¡¯ll be looking


    forward to your draft, Miss McK.¡±


    ¡°Goodbye, Miss Crossley.¡±


    After she left the coffee shop, Leana habitually wanted to take a taxi but suddenly remembered that


    Aidan had arranged a driver for her, who was waiting nearby.


    She took a deep breath. Then, just as she walked a few steps, Zoe called her. ¡°How was it? Did you


    seal the deal?¡±


    ¡°Yup. The design will be out in a week.¡±


    This almost made Zoe apud aloud. But, then, she paused for a moment before asking, ¡°Nana, I just


    agreed for you on my own ord. Are you angry at me?¡±


    Leanna smiled when she heard this. ¡°Why would I be angry about this money-making deal?¡±


    Although she and Aidan had struck a deal about the money, she still had a child to raise in the future.


    So, even if Zoe did not step in and agree for her, she would¡¯ve taken the deal herself.


    This was work, and there was no ce to be nice regarding a job. Not to mention, she wouldn¡¯t let a


    customer slip away from her fingers just because of Queenie.


    Zoe let out a sigh of relief once she heard Leanna¡¯s reassurances. ¡°Good. Did you see how Queenie¡¯s


    face turned white with anger just now? I think she must be vomiting blood right now. Just thinking about


    it makes me happy.¡±


    ¡°Go back to work. I¡¯m going to head home first. She didn¡¯t give me any restrictions or a theme for me to


    design. So, I don¡¯t have a clue how I will go about it,¡± Leanna said.


    Although there was no limit to designing these things, that was also the most challenging part.


    Fortunately, she could garner inspiration from wedding themes.


    ¡°All right, all right. Once you¡¯re done with this order, we¡¯ll go out for lunch.¡±


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna looked up and saw the driver nearby, waving at her and shouting,


    ¡°Madam, I¡¯m here.¡±


    She walked over and couldn¡¯t help but whisper, ¡°Next time¡­don¡¯t call me Madam anymore. Aidan and I


    divorced a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°Okay, M-m-m¡­¡±


    Apart from ¡®Madam¡¯, the driver didn¡¯t know how else to address her and stammered for a while before


    keeping quiet. Then, Leanna sighed silently and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± At the end of the day, what did the


    conflict between her and Aidan have to do with them? Once she was home, she locked herself in the


    room and started to draw some prototypes. During this period, servants woulde and ask her to eat,


    only for her to reply, ¡°Ah¡­I¡¯m not hungry. Thank you.¡± She wasn¡¯t hungry as she had a lot this


    afternoon while looking for inspiration. ¡­


    When Aidan came back, it was already 10:00PM.


    The servant greeted him and asked, ¡°Would you like something to eat, sir?¡± He loosened his tie and


    said faintly, ¡°Ask her what she wants to eat. She¡¯ll get up at midnight to look for food.¡± ¡°Madam hasn¡¯t


    had dinner yet. She said that she wasn¡¯t hungry,¡± the servant said. He looked up at the second floor,


    and his well-defined eyebrows furrowed slightly at those words. In Leanna¡¯s bedroom, no sooner had


    she outlined the shape of the ring; she heard an impatient knock on the door. As she thought that it was


    one of the staff urging her to eat, she called out, ¡°Alice, don¡¯t worry about me. I¡¯ll go down and eat if I¡¯m


    hungry¡ª¡± Before she could even finish talking, the door swung open. ¡°Don¡¯t you know you have to eat


    on time?¡± Aidan¡¯s cold voice sounded. She didn¡¯t know what to say when she saw who it was. How


    could someone who ate lunch at 1:00AM have the right to reprimand her? Despite that, she earnestly


    answered, ¡°I was upied with work, and I¡¯d forgotten to eat.¡± Aidan nudged at the paper bag next to


    her and said, ¡°It¡¯s not like you ate anything less.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve overeaten today. That¡¯s why I¡¯m not hungry for dinner.¡±


    At this point, he couldn¡¯t be bothered to talk to her any longer and said, ¡°Be downstairs in five minutes.¡±


    How dare this b*stard order her around?


    In the end, Leanna put her brush down and dawdled out of the room.


    When Alice saw theming down, she brought out the hot food. ¡°Madam, sir mentioned that you like


    fish soup recently. This is the first time I¡¯ve added fish mint into the soup. Try it.¡±


    Aidan¡¯s face was expressionless. ¡°I¡¯ve never said that.¡±


    Once she heard that, she lightly tapped her lips and corrected, ¡°Yes, yes, it had nothing to do with


    President Pearson. I¡­guessed it.¡±


    Leanna took a sip of the soup and smiled. ¡°It¡¯s delicious. Thank you, Alice.¡±


    ¡°Great, I¡¯m d that you like it. I¡¯ll leave you to enjoy your meal. Call me if you need anything.¡±


    After she drank the soup, she could feel a surge in appetite and finally felt hungry.


    As she was halfway eating, she looked up and saw Aidan staring at her; his ck eyes were quiet and


    deep.


    This made her skin prickle. Finally, she put her spoon down and asked, ¡°Is there anything wrong,


    President Pearson?¡±


    Immediately he withdrew his gaze. ¡°Nothing. Eat your food.¡±


    Leanna felt that since he had called her down for dinner today, she would show some concern out of


    courtesy. ¡°Do you alwayse back thiste?¡±


    ¡°Can you not sleep if I¡¯m not home?¡±


    She was caught off guard by what she heard.


    She immediately choked on air, and it took her a while to calm herself down and answered, ¡°You¡¯re


    funny, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°Then, why do you care what time Ie home?¡± Aidan snapped.


    At this moment, Leanna felt that she had solid reasons to suspect that the real reason Aidan told her to


    move back was to piss her off. And once she had passed on due to anger, he would¡¯ve gotten what he


    wanted.


    After a while, he spoke again in a calm manner, ¡°Didn¡¯t anyone tell you not to talk when you eat?¡±


    ¡°The only thing that people told me was that if you¡¯re too rude, you will get your tongue cut off when


    you go to hell.


    Aidan was rendered mute by her sharp retort.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.

 Chapter 110

    Chapter 110


    Chapter 110 A Master in Multitasking


    Leanna felt that since the days she and Aidan lived together, she would either die due to the rage he


    invoked in her, or he would eventually be so fed up with her that he would deal with her in a way that


    didn¡¯t involve killing. Then, he would bury her in a ce where she couldn¡¯t be found.


    Fortunately, she b*stard seemed busier in the next few days. She didn¡¯t even know if he woulde


    back at night.


    Leanna finally managed to rx and came up with a design.


    After she emailed the sketch to Georgina, she left her desk and stretched.


    Then, Leanna picked up the phone and noticed that it was the weekend. Immediately, she texted Zoe


    to ask if she wanted to go shopping.


    Zoe, who just happened to be lying in the apartment Leanna rented, immediately became energetic


    after receiving Leanna¡¯s text. ¡°Let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll leave the house after I change.¡±


    When they met, Zoe looked at Leanna with a meaningful smile on her face. ¡°Nana, yourplexion


    seems to be getting better, and you¡¯re getting a little more chubby. It seems like that b*stard is treating


    you well.¡±


    Leanan did not know how to react to this. ¡°What are you talking about? The only reason I¡¯m surviving is


    that I¡¯ve been lucky.¡±


    After the two chatted more, Zoe noticed a baby store next to her. Just as she was about to drag Leanna


    in, Zoe was stopped by Leanna. ¡°No, no, no! Please, don¡¯t!¡±


    Zoe had no idea why Leanna was reluctant. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? I saw a cute shirt in there.¡±


    Every time Leanna saw any baby products, she felt her head throb. Who knew what went through


    Aidan¡¯s head the other day when he bought countless baby products? To make it worse, Jonathan had


    brought all the boxes from Underwood Lane to Castor Vi in the past two days.


    She didn¡¯t know how to exin it to Zoe and just said, ¡°I have enough of those. Let¡¯s look at other


    things.¡±


    ¡°Fine. I¡¯ll wait until the baby¡¯s born then.¡±


    After they strolled around the mall, Zoe noticed that there was a new apartment nearby and dragged


    Leanna along to the viewing. She had already given her previous house to a real estate agent and


    handed everything to the agency. She would just have to sign the contract if the price was right. And if


    she found a suitable ce, she could also pay the deposit first. The new development happened to be


    in the business district, with a good location and surrounding facilities. Hence, a lot of people came to


    take a look. This piqued Zoe¡¯s interest. But then, she suddenly heard a familiar voice, ¡°Honey, I like this


    one. Let¡¯s buy this, okay?¡± Anthony might have agreed after hearing Jete¡¯s coquettish tone if it


    were anything else. But, what she was asking, for now, was a house with a down payment of several


    million.


    He could only prevaricate, ¡°Actually, I think it¡¯s nothing special. Let¡¯s look at something else.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t


    want to. I like this one. Look at this room. We can both live there. Then, this room can be my dressing


    room. This would be the baby room. There¡¯s also arge balcony that faces the central square. The


    view at night must be beautiful.¡± The salesman next to them began to upsell the apartment, ¡°Sir,


    Madam, this apartment is very popr. Unfortunately, there are only a few floors left. Theter you buy


    it, the fewer options you have.¡± When Jete heard this, she was keener on getting Anthony to pay


    the down payment immediately. The salesman continued, ¡°Sir, since your wife loves it so much, why


    don¡¯t you just buy it?¡± Anthony was embarrassed. He couldn¡¯t just walk away because of his pride.


    Once Zoe had enough of the show, she sneered, ¡°He needs to be rich if he wants to buy it.¡± As soon as


    she said that, several people looked over.


    When he heard the voice, his face lit up with delight. ¡°Zoe, why are you here?¡±


    Immediately, Jete grabbed him with an unhappy look on her face as she looked at Zoe and


    Leanna. ¡°What are you guys doing here?¡±


    ¡°What else can I do here? We¡¯re here to buy a house, of course. Unlike you, who¡¯s just here to see.¡±


    ¡°Who said we¡¯re not buying?¡± Contempt was apparent on Jete¡¯s face. ¡°Can you even afford it? If


    you can¡¯t, leave. Don¡¯t embarrass yourself here.¡±


    ¡°Then, buy it. Why are you talking so much?¡± Leanna spoke lightly.


    ¡°Exactly. Show us what you can have,¡± Zoe added on.


    Jete grabbed Anthony¡¯s arms and acted coyly as she felt utterly provoked by the two. ¡°Honey, look


    at them¡­¡±


    Of course, he wasn¡¯t foolish enough to buy the house right away. He didn¡¯t even have enough money


    for the down payment. So, he changed the topic by directing it toward Zoe. ¡°Zoe, I heard you¡¯ve sold


    our house on the Inte?¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡°My house, not ours,¡± Zoe corrected him. ¡°Whatever it is, it¡¯s still the house we married in. How can you


    just sell it without telling me? You¡¯re too much.¡±


    Zoe was instantly amused when she heard his shameless reply. ¡°Are you trying to save yourself some


    face? My parents paid the down payment, and I repaid the loan myself. How does it have anything to


    do with you?¡±


    ¡°In order to buy that house, I¡¯ve reached out to a lot of people. The meals I spent on them weren¡¯t


    cheap. While you paid the house loan, I paid for our living expenses. I¡¯ve also bought you gifts. I should


    have a share of the house.¡±


    ¡°Come, tell me, what kind of living expenses did you pay for? You spent all your money on the


    mistresses. You really have the nerve to mention the gifts. Everything I get, your mistress gets one too.


    You¡¯re truly a master at multitasking.¡±


    Since many people were already looking at the house, everyone gathered around to watch the


    commotion between Anthony and Zoe.


    Someone from the crowd said, ¡°So this woman is a mistress. No wonder I feel so unsettled looking at


    her. She¡¯s a vixen!¡±


    ¡°Nowadays, mistresses are really brazen. How shameless of her to coax the man to buy her a house


    right after being a homewrecker?¡±


    In the face of people¡¯s judgment, Jete¡¯s face turned red with anger. Then, she pointed her finger at


    Leanna and said, ¡°Anthony and I are truly in love. I am better than some people who would settle with


    being someone¡¯s undercovered wife and not being able to speak up about being pregnant. Yet, after all


    that, she still thinks so highly of herself. How ridiculous.¡±


    After she said that, she turned to look at Zoe. ¡°Instead of wasting your time on me, why not take better


    care of your friend?¡±


    Zoe immediately exploded when she heard this and went up to Jete, grabbed her hair, and pped


    her. ¡°I¡¯ll f*ck you up!¡±


    Of course, Jete didn¡¯t want to be outdone, and the two women began to fight.


    Leanna held her stomach; she couldn¡¯t help even if she wanted to.


    Fortunately, the sales office staff quickly pulled them apart. At this point, Jete¡¯s hair was a mess as


    she screamed, ¡°You lunatic! I¡¯m never letting you go!¡±


    Zoe sneered in disdain and instigated. ¡°Come at me! We¡¯ll see who wins! I¡¯ve long wanted to get my


    hands on you two!¡±


    Anthony, who stood at the side, had an unhappy look on his face. ¡°Zoe, you¡ª¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s with me? Anthony, as a man, you¡¯re really into bad-mouthing people. Aren¡¯t you afraid that one


    day your mouth might rot with all the nderous things you¡¯ve spouted?¡±


    ¡°When did I bad-mouth her? I¡¯m just telling the truth!¡±

 Chapter 111

    Chapter 111


    Chapter 111 You Don¡¯t Need to Beat Around the Bush


    Anthony said coldly, ¡°When did I bad-mouth her? I¡¯m just telling the truth! Do you think she did all that


    for you? She¡¯s just trying to ruin our rtionship because her life sucks now!¡±


    Zoe did not expect him to say such shameless words, and she scoffed in anger. ¡°So, are you saying


    that she forced you to cheat on me? Did she have a knife on your neck or something?¡±


    Anthony just stayed silent. He had always thought he could be with Zoe forever if Leanna had not


    caught him and Jete. As for Jete¡¯s existence, that would not hinder him from being in a


    rtionship with Zoe.


    ¡°Am I wrong? Zayn is now engaged to another woman, and her dreams of marrying a rich man have


    been crushed! That¡¯s why she wants to drag you down into her miserable life with her. Zoe, you¡¯re too


    naive. Think about this. Why would a pregnant woman be afraid of other people finding out about her


    pregnancy? Because she probably had an affair, and the baby is merely an illegitimate b*stard!¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    His words made Zoe blow up. ¡°What the h*ll are you saying?¡±


    She was about to dash toward him, but Leanna pulled her back as she looked at Anthony, saying, ¡°You


    don¡¯t need to push all the me on me. Yes, I found out about your affair, but how am I the one in the


    wrong when you were basically swaggering around the entire town with your mistress?¡±


    Zoe said, ¡°I must¡¯ve been blind to have loved a lowlife like you for so many years! Ugh, I¡¯m so


    disgusted!¡±


    His expression turned nasty upon hearing what she said and he warned her, ¡°Mind your words! Or


    you¡¯ll have to face the consequences!¡±


    At this time, someone from the crowd sshed a cup of coffee toward Anthony and Jete.


    Anthony was fine as only half of his sleeve was stained with coffee, but for Jete, someone


    sshed her entire face with coffee.


    ¡°Ahhhhhh!¡±


    Following Jete¡¯s pained scream, Leanna pulled Zoe with her as they left the scene.


    It was unnecessary for the twodies to start a fight with Anthony because they would not have the


    upper hand if that happened.


    Zoe was still furious even after they left the sales office. ¡°How could that lowlife sprout so much


    nonsense? Every time I think about how I¡¯ve dated him for five years, I feel nauseous. I think I can even


    puke the food I atest week because of it.¡±


    As she said, she turned to look at Leanna. ¡°Nana, don¡¯t take his nonsense to heart.¡±


    Leanna smiled. ¡°I won¡¯t. Don¡¯t worry about it.¡±


    Zoe was about to speak when someone patted her shoulder. She turned around and saw a person with


    a mask and a cap standing there.


    It then hit Zoe that they invited Daphne too when they went out earlier.


    Daphne came over right after work. She had been waiting by the sales office for quite some time, but


    they were nowhere in sight, so when she heard amotion inside the office, she went in and took a


    look.


    That was when she spotted Leanna and Zoe. Leanna suddenly realized something and asked, ¡°Were


    you the one who sshed the coffee?¡± Daphne blinked innocently as she replied, ¡°Yeah. I just bought


    it, so it¡¯s still hot.¡± All of a sudden, Zoe felt that all her anger had dissipated. ¡°Come on, let¡¯s celebrate.


    Lunch is on me.¡± ¡­ Jonathan knocked and entered the president¡¯s office of Pearson Group. ¡°President


    Pearson, there¡¯s a bit of a situation at our sales office in Stusford.¡± Aidan put his pen down and looked


    at him coldly. Jonathan could feel chills at the base of his spine. He had a feeling that if he did not give


    Aidan a satisfactory answer today, his career might just end right there and then. Stusford was a new


    housing area developed by the real estatepany under Pearson Group. Their problems should not


    be reported to the headquarters, especially when it was merely an argument among its clients.


    However, the problem was that Jonathan had to constantly monitor Leanna¡¯s whereabouts. Why is my


    life so difficult? He coughed, took out his phone, and opened the video of the security footage at the


    site. Then, after cing his phone on Aidan¡¯s desk, he took two steps back.


    The video was about five minutes long. However, it was noisy because there were too many people, so


    it was difficult to hear anything clearly.


    Thanks to Zoe¡¯s anger, though, Aidan managed to hear Anthony say the words, ¡®illegitimate b*stard¡¯.


    His expression did not change much after watching the video. He returned the phone and asked,


    ¡°Where¡¯s Leanna now?¡±


    ¡°She went for lunch with her friend and Daphne.¡±


    ¡°I see she still has the time to rx. Get rid of the security footage and find out who was at the office


    today. Make sure that the other Pearsons don¡¯t hear about this.¡±


    ¡°Got it.¡±


    Just as Jonathan was about to leave, Aidan spoke again. ¡°Whichpany is he from?¡± He understood


    who Aidan was referring to quickly. ¡°He¡¯s a capable employee from United Corporation. Last year, he


    was sent abroad to study and was promoted to a manager as soon as he returned.¡± ¡°That¡¯s good.


    Make a call to United Corporation¡¯s president. Tell him I¡¯m interested in the project he mentionedst


    time and invite him for dinner tonight.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll get it done right now.¡± ¡°Hold on.¡± Aidan looked at him,


    expressionless. Then, after a few seconds, he finally said, ¡°Just tell me it¡¯s about Leanna next time. You


    don¡¯t need to beat around the bush.¡± Jonathan was rendered speechless. If only he knew I did that


    because he couldn¡¯t admit that he cared about her.


    Before he replied, Aidan averted his gaze and said in a cold tone this time, ¡°I¡¯m not concerned about


    her. It¡¯s just that it¡¯s not a good time for the Pearsons to find out about her pregnancy now.¡±


    He said, ¡°President Pearson, I understand.¡±


    Great. President Pearson even knows how to find an excuse for himself now.


    Once he left, Aidan picked up his phone and called Leanna. Then, he asked monotonously, ¡°What are


    you doing now?¡¯


    On the other side of the phone, Leanna said, ¡°I¡¯m having lunch with my friends¡­¡±


    ¡°Oh. Is it Gigi?¡±


    She did not know what to say. Why does he still remember this? He¡¯s so petty.


    Sheughed awkwardly, ignoring his question. ¡°President Pearson, what can I help you with?¡±


    ¡°Before you ask me that, shouldn¡¯t you tell me what you did today?¡±


    Aidan sounded as if he cared about her. If it were any other girls, that would be what their boyfriends


    ask them on a daily basis. However, she could sense that he did not ask her out of concern for her.


    After a moment of silence, Leanna said, ¡°I was shopping with my friends¡ª¡±


    He interrupted her. ¡°How did you make your pregnancy known to hundreds of people through


    shopping?¡¯


    She did not expect that he would quickly find out about the incident. She was stunned for a few


    seconds before she asked, ¡°President Pearson, you already know about it?¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t you bring a microphone with you the next time you go out? You can announce it to the


    whole world and even learn just how fast words can get around.¡±


    Leanna knew she was in the wrong, so she could only say softly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t know this would


    happen.¡±


    His voice was cold. ¡°What¡¯s the point of apologizing now? Why didn¡¯t you think before you acted


    earlier?¡±


    Her head bowed down, and she said nothing more. She did not do it on purpose and did not expect


    such an incident to happen today either.


    After a moment, he said again, ¡°Leanna. Although we¡¯re divorced, you were still once my wife.¡±

 Chapter 112

    Chapter 112


    Chapter 112 Is It Difficult to Guess?


    Leanna did not quite understand what he meant. ¡°Huh?¡±


    Aidan did not want to exin his words and hung up immediately.


    As she heard the beeping sound from her phone, she was puzzled as she thought, ¡®What is this b*stard


    talking about again?¡¯


    At this time, Zoe came out of the private room. ¡°What¡¯s up? Did that low¡­ President Pearson call you?¡±


    Leanna shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Let¡¯s go in now.¡±


    After lunch, Leanna got a reply from Georgina. There was no problem with the draft, and Leanna could


    proceed toe up with her final design. She just had to let Georgina know the kind of materials and


    gems needed for the ne, and Georgina would get it delivered to her.


    After Leanna replied to Georgina, Daphne said, ¡°I want one too, but can I make a private order? I don¡¯t


    think I have time to visit Lux.¡±


    Leanna kept her phone and said, ¡°Sure. Just tell me the style you like. It¡¯ll be a gift from me.¡±


    ¡°How could I ept that? Work is work, and I shouldn¡¯t take advantage of you.¡± Daphne said first


    before she continued in a softer voice, ¡°Plus, if President Pearson finds out that I don¡¯t pay you for your


    designs, he¡¯s going to make me work my *ss off!¡±


    Her words confused Leanna.


    She remembered that she had never mentioned her rtionship with Aidan to Daphne.


    Zoe was puzzled too. ¡°How did you know?¡±


    This time, it was Daphne¡¯s turn to be confused. ¡°Is it difficult to guess?¡±


    Back when Jonathan told Daphne to visit Leanna at the hospital, she could tell that the two had


    something going on already.


    Moreover, she knew what kind of person Aidan was after working for him for so many years.


    Even though he had scandalous rumors at times, be it with Mia, or the other models and celebrities,


    they were all just robots, but one that could speak to him. All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Why would the president of Pearson Group care about what kind of tweet was posted by a designer


    who supposedly had nothing to do with him when he was so busy?


    That was why it was obvious.


    Leanna was silent for a moment once she heard Daphne¡¯s exnation. Finally, she seemed to


    understand what Aidan meant over the phone.


    He said she was once his wife, which meant he had never considered hiding their marriage from


    anyone.


    If Leanna was right about what Aidan meant, she could say that her ex-husband was him whenever


    anyone called her a mistress again in the future.


    However, would that not cause more problems?


    Ever since word of their divorce got out, she heard about the many versions of herself from many


    people. People were starting to forget about this, but if she mentioned that she was Aidan¡¯s ex-wife,


    she would just be giving them something to talk about.


    All she wanted was to live a peaceful life.


    Moreover, there were few people out there who were like Anthony, so it did not matter as long as she


    did nothing wrong.


    ..


    After Anthony received a call from hispany, he ignored Jete¡¯s whines and went home to


    change his clothes before rushing over to Pantheon Club.


    United Corporation¡¯s president, Benjamin Delgado, said, ¡°President Pearson wanted you to be a part of


    this project. So you better do your bestter because we¡¯ll be depending on you to form a coboration


    with them!¡±


    Anthony nodded. ¡°Leave it to me, President Delgado. I¡¯ll do my best.¡±


    Initially, Anthony was still frustrated due to the encounter with Zoe this evening, but this unexpected


    opportunity lifted his spirits again.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go. President Pearson is almost here.¡°


    As soon as they left, Oscar appeared from behind a wall. What¡¯s Aidan doing this time? What kind of


    project could he possibly want to discuss with United Corporation?


    Ten minutester, the door to the private room opened, and Aidan stood there, tall and grim.


    Benjamin stood up and weed him. ¡°President Pearson. It¡¯s been a while.¡±


    With a cold expression, Aidan asked, ¡°We¡¯ve met before?¡¯


    ¡°We did. I saw you from afar at a business banquet before. Actually, I wanted to greet you, but there


    were too many people. You were also upied, so I guessed it was better not to disturb you.¡±


    As he said, he pulled Anthony over and introduced him. ¡°President Pearson, this is Anthony Lester.¡±


    Once Anthony heard that he quickly extended his hand out. ¡°President Pearson, it¡¯s a pleasure to meet


    you.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s get started.¡±


    Aidan averted his gaze and strode away to take his seat. He was stony toward them the entire time.


    Benjamin was also dissatisfied with what Anthony did and quickly followed behind Aidan.


    Anthony retreated his hand in embarrassment and knew that he had acted rashly.


    Nevertheless, he believed that he should not be med for this because it was his first time meeting a


    bigshot like Aidan. Moreover, Benjamin mentioned that Aidan wanted Anthony to be a part of the


    project; that was why he¡­


    At this point, Anthony was slightly upset. But now, he would know better than to guess a bigshot¡¯s


    thoughts in the future.


    Due to the mistake Anthony made, Benjamin introduced the entire project himself because he was


    afraid that Aidan might be angered even further if Anthony were to speak more.


    Aidan sat on the couch, tapping his temple lightly with his fingers, lookingnguid yet distant.


    Even though he said nothing, his presence was enough to make the people around him inexplicably


    feel pressured.


    Anthony sat far at the corner, and suddenly, he did not know why but he found Aidan familiar. s, he


    could not remember where he had seen Aidan before.


    But then again, where would he get such a chance to meet him when even Benjamin had seen Aidan


    from afar?


    After Benjamin introduced the project thoroughly, he asked cautiously, ¡°President Pearson, what do you


    think?¡±


    Aidan said lightly, ¡°It¡¯s nothing special.¡±


    Benjamin said hastily, ¡°You¡¯re right. I do feel that weck something too. If you could give us some


    advice, I¡¯m sure this project will be even better.¡±


    Aidan looked up. ¡°President Delgado, didn¡¯t you bring someone else with you? Let¡¯s listen to his


    opinion.¡±


    Anthony returned to his senses when he heard that Aidan had cued him. ¡°President Pearson, I¡­¡±


    Benjamin couldn¡¯t help but remind him when Anthony could barely stammer out an answer. ¡°President


    Pearson just asked you a question. Answer him quickly.¡±


    Just as Anthony was about to speak, he heard noisesing from outside the door.


    Aidan just said calmly, ¡°Since this is a difficult question to answer, think carefully before giving me an


    answer.¡±


    As soon as he spoke those words, he got up to leave.


    ¡°P-President Pearson¡­¡±


    Benjamin scurried behind Aidan. This was an opportunity that was hard toe by, so he would not let


    it go so easily.


    The door to the private room opened, revealing Jonathan. ¡°President Pearson.¡±


    The corridor was filled with people. It seemed that something interesting was happening around here.


    Among the crowd, there was a woman who would scream from time to time.


    Aidan looked over, and his expression was as dispassionate as usual.


    At this moment, Anthony and Benjamin rushed over after realizing there was amotion outside.


    Their attention was instantly attracted by the sharp, terrifying scream of the woman.


    A few passersby who had no idea about the situation asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    Those who knew what happened would answer, ¡°It seems that the woman caught her husband


    cheating. It¡¯s my first time seeing such a hugemotion because of this. The mistress was beaten up


    so badly that I won¡¯t be surprised even if she died.¡±

 Chapter 113

    Chapter 113


    Chapter 113 President Pearson Directed A Spectacr Show Tonight


    After Anthony left Jete, she received a call from her friend, who invited her to Pantheon Club as


    many rich men would be present today.


    She didn¡¯t date Anthony because she loved him but because he could buy her all sorts of gifts.


    However, she could tell he was not as rich as she had imagined from the incident at the sales office


    today.


    Moreover, she was even more dissatisfied with him because of the anger she had to endure today.


    Her n tonight was to get something going with a rich man, and then she would dump Anthony.


    After she entered the private room, she locked her eyes on one of the men, so she went over and sat


    down next to him while holding a wine ss. They exchanged a few words before he started toy his


    hands on her, to which she yielded after making a show of resistance and leaned on him.


    Unfortunately, the door was pushed open at this time, revealing a few aggressive women. They dashed


    into the room, and one even pulled Jete to the ground by her hair.


    Jete would not let the woman have her way without defending herself. So, after she fought with the


    woman for a moment, she put her hands on her head and ran out of the room.


    Even then, the woman would not let Jete go easily and chased after her, even angrier now


    because of Jete¡¯s counterattacks earlier and started to beat her up again.


    ¡°You shameless b*tch! You¡¯re such a wh*re! How dare you seduce my husband? I¡¯m going to kill you


    today!¡±


    ¡°I see you¡¯re interested in bing someone¡¯s mistress at such a young age! You just want a rich man


    so you can get everything you want without working hard for them, don¡¯t you? Since that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll


    make your wishe true today!¡±


    While both hands were on her head, Jete screeched, ¡°I¡¯m not! I didn¡¯t! You got the wrong person!¡±


    ¡°Oh my, look at you still denying it now! We saw it ourselves! You were basically clinging to him! You


    even look just like a sl*t! How dare you deny it?¡±


    Among the crowd, Jete shrieked, trying to exin herself.


    She had a feeling that they came here today because one of them suspected that her husband was


    having an affair. So, they must have nned this ahead of time, and she was sure they got the wrong


    person because it was her first time meeting the man.


    Anthony, who identified Jete¡¯s voice from afar, had an awful expression on his face.


    At this time, Jete managed to use all her strength and pushed through the crowd, dashing away


    once again.


    After she ran a few steps, she saw Anthony, and her eyes lit up instantly. Then, like seeing her life


    savior, she ran away and held his arm. ¡°Honey, I¡¯m so d you¡¯re here! Help me exin things to


    them.¡±


    As she said, she turned to look at the group of women, finally gathering her confidence again. ¡°See


    here! This is my boyfriend. I¡¯m not a mistress!¡±


    However, Jete did not realize that she was looking down at her heel right now. Her hair was in a


    mess, her skin bloodstained, and her clothes torn, making her appear like a madwoman.


    Anthony felt embarrassed, but he could notsh out at her as Aidan and Benjamin were still around.


    The woman who led the group said again, ¡°You have a boyfriend, yet you¡¯re here, seducing someone


    else¡¯s husband. You really are a wh*re, aren¡¯t you?¡± Then, she turned to look at Anthony. ¡°Your


    girlfriend is going to date a rich man and dump you. Are you still going to protect her?¡±


    Jete said quickly, ¡°Honey, don¡¯t listen to their nonsense. I¡¯m here to have fun with my friends


    tonight, but this group of crazy women attacked me suddenly. I don¡¯t even know what they¡¯re talking


    about¡­¡±


    At this moment, a man from the crowd stepped forward and probed, ¡°Anthony? Is that really you? I


    heard that you had an affair and broke up with Zoe some time ago, but I didn¡¯t believe that since the


    both of you have been dating for many years. But, it seems like that¡¯s the truth.¡±


    As he said, he looked at Jete, who was standing next to Anthony, in distaste. ¡°But I see that your


    standards have dropped. Why did you have an affair with such a woman?¡±


    Between his boss and business partner who could determine his future and his ex-ssmate close to


    his private life, Anthony made his choice quickly and withdrew his arm from Jete¡¯s grasp. ¡°I don¡¯t


    know her.¡±


    In disbelief, Jete widened her eyes. ¡°Anthony, what do you mean?¡±


    He replied with a dark expression. ¡°You¡¯re shameless enough to be someone else¡¯s mistress, but


    what does that have anything to do with me? I am in a loving rtionship with my girlfriend, so I hope


    that you won¡¯t nder me this way.¡±


    A few mockingughs sounded among the crowd, but no one knew if they were for Anthony or


    Jete.


    Someone said, ¡°This is getting interesting. Her boyfriend said that he doesn¡¯t know her.¡±


    ¡°I would do the same, too, because who would want to be embarrassed like this? Not only did she


    cheat on him, but she is quite a gold digger too. She¡¯s indeed a wh*re.¡±


    ¡°It looks like this isn¡¯t her first time being someone else¡¯s mistress. She probably seduced this boyfriend


    of hers too, so I¡¯d say it¡¯s karma that this happened to her today.¡±


    ¡°There are so many things that she could do, but she chose to be a mistress and be a


    homewrecker. Karma should¡¯ve hit her long ago.¡±


    Before Jete could say anything, the club¡¯s security finally came over.


    And that was the end of themotion.


    Once the crowd dispersed, Benjamin said apologetically, ¡°President Pearson, it¡¯s my fault for not


    teaching my subordinates properly. It¡¯s such a shame that you have to witness that.¡±


    Anthony was not satisfied. ¡°President Delgado, I¡­¡±


    ¡°Shut up! Don¡¯t you feel embarrassed enough? Just wait till we get back to the office!¡±


    Aidan said calmly, ¡°I would need to reconsider our coboration if all United Corporation¡¯s employees


    are like him.¡±


    With that said, he didn¡¯t hesitate to leave the establishment.


    Benjamin followed behind in a hurry. ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯m truly sorry about what happened today.


    As for our coboration, I¡­¡± Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Their voices grew smaller as they walked further. Yet, Anthony did not follow behind, his eyes dimming


    as he stood on the spot.


    It¡¯s over.


    It¡¯s over for me.


    Once they exited Pantheon Club, Benjamin could only remain standing in his spot to wave goodbye to


    Aidan, who got into his car. After Aidan left, he went back to rebuke Anthony.


    Once they were in the car, Jonathan said, ¡°President Pearson, it¡¯s all settled.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡±


    Two minutester, Aidan¡¯s phone rang. It was from Oscar.


    He picked up the call and heard Oscar say, ¡°If you were a director, you would produce a blockbuster


    movie.¡±


    Aidan didn¡¯t reply to his out-of-the-bluement.


    So, he loosened his necktie and said coldly, ¡°Just get straight to the point.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just think it¡¯s a pity that your targeted audience did not witness this spectacr show you


    put on tonight¡­ Hey! Hey!¡±


    Before Oscar could finish his words, Aidan had already ended the call.


    He could not help but click his tongue, thinking to himself that it was only fair if Aidan¡¯s good deeds


    were known.


    Oscar was curious as to why Aidan would suddenly discuss a coboration with United Corporation.


    Hence, he looked into the matter and found out what had happened today. Otherwise, he would have


    missed the show.


    Aidan was actually a protective person. No matter how stubborn he was in not willing to admit that he


    liked Leanna and how he would always mock her, he had always thought of her as his wife.


    ¡­


    He could criticize her, but if anyone else were to talk ill about her, they might not see the next sunrise.


    It was just like what happened today.


    That shameless couple probably had no idea why such a thing had happened to them.

 Chapter 114

    Chapter 114


    Chapter 114 Don¡¯t You Have Anything Better to Do?


    When Leanna returned home, she stood in front of Aidan¡¯s room for a few minutes, wanting to check if


    he was in.


    In the end, she still did not knock on the door and just returned to her own room.


    Just as she was about to wash up, she received a call from Zoe.


    Zoe asked, ¡°Nana, are you home already?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I just reached home.¡±


    Zoe sounded excited. ¡°I just heard something, and I just had to tell you! You have no idea how great I


    feel right now!¡±


    Then, she recounted the incident at Pantheon Club, from how Jete was trying to get something


    going with a rich man and bumped into Anthony, then finally to how Anthony denied their rtionship


    and called Jete shameless.


    ¡°Thanks to that ex-ssmate, everyone knows what kind of person Anthony truly is now. Oh right! I


    heard that he went there to discuss a coboration or something. With such amotion, I¡¯m sure the


    coboration isn¡¯t going to happen, so it¡¯s only a matter of time before he gets fired.¡±


    ¡°This shameless couple was just unting their rtionship in front of me this evening, but karma hit


    them right after! Everyone who knows what went down would think they deserve what they got.¡±


    As Zoe felt that vengeance had been had, she was in high spirits and bbered at full speed.


    Suddenly, she said, ¡°Nana, I heard that the low¡­ your man, President Pearson, was there too.¡±


    Leanna didn¡¯t know what to say in response to that statement.


    However, she corrected Zoe sternly, ¡°He¡¯s not my man.¡±


    ¡°The both of you are staying together now, and he¡¯s the father of your child, so why not? Nana, do you


    think it¡¯s possible that he nned all of this?¡±


    Leanna replied, ¡°I don¡¯t think so since he seems busy these days. He usuallyes home past


    midnight, so where would he get the time to do such things? Plus, there is no reason for him to do so


    too.¡±


    Zoe couldn¡¯t help but refute that. ¡°Why not? That nasty couple is too good at sprouting nonsense and


    bad-mouthing others! President Pearson might¡¯ve been angry for your sake after finding out what


    happened. It¡¯s so cool of him to ruin their reputations and make everyone look down on them.¡±


    Leanna was utterly speechless by Zoe¡¯s imagination.


    She wondered if she had missed anything.


    Zoe continued without pause, ¡°What a good time to be alive. There are so many people texting me to


    ask about that shameless couple. Nana, talk to youter. Oh, right, thank President Pearson for me!¡±


    Before Leanna could speak, Zoe hung up the phone. Her excitement and vindictiveness made Leanna


    feel rather helpless as she could barely get in a word edgewise.


    ¡­


    So, she slightly shook her head as she ced her phone away, then took her clothes and went into the


    bathroom.


    After her shower, Leanna dried her hair while Zoe¡¯s words rang in her ears.


    Aidan knew about the incident and even called her to reprimand her for it. However, the most he would


    have done was to get Anthony to shut up so the Pearson family would not find out about her


    pregnancy.


    No matter how she thought about it, she found it impossible that he would do so much just to get back


    at Anthony for the things he said to her.


    Once she was finished blow-drying her hair, she went downstairs to get herself a ss of warm milk.


    When she descended the stairs, she noticed that the lights in the living room were turned on.


    Aidan was there, sitting on the couch with his eyes closed. It appeared that he had fallen asleep.


    Hesitantly, Leanna walked over and said in a soft voice, ¡°President Pearson?¡±


    He opened his eyes slowly and nced at her. ¡°What is it?¡±


    After she thought for a moment, she said, ¡°I¡¯m going to get some warm milk. Would you like a ss?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± From Aidan¡¯s expression, Leanna felt that he did not want to talk to her. Therefore, she would


    not waste her time talking to him when he gave her the cold shoulder, so she just turned around and


    headed to the kitchen. As she opened the refrigerator, she turned to look at him, who was still sitting on


    the sofa. The moment she noticed that he was not nning to head back to his room soon, she pursed


    her lips and heated a ss of milk for him too. This j*rk changes his mind all the time. I better be


    prepared. Ten minutester, Aidan looked at the ss of milk before him. He frowned and asked,


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I say that I don¡¯t want it?¡± Leanna blinked innocently. ¡°Oh really? Why did I hear the opposite?¡±


    Her words made him speechless.


    He looked up at her and squeezed his lips into a thin line, but he still took the ss from her and said,


    ¡°Why are you currying favor with me? What is it this time?¡±


    As she sat opposite him, she spoke earnestly, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯d like to apologize to you about


    today¡¯s incident. I know that it caused you a lot of trouble.¡±


    Aidan clicked his tongue. ¡°It¡¯s good that you know.¡±


    After she took a sip of milk, she asked, ¡°President Pearson, were you working in the office until just


    now?¡±


    ¡°What else would I be doing?¡¯


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. It¡¯s just a random question.¡±


    He finished the drink, ced the ss on the table, and then stood up to head upstairs.


    As Leanna looked at his retreating figure, she suddenly blurted, ¡°Um, President Pearson¡­¡±


    Expressionlessly, he turned around and looked at her. ¡°What is it now?¡±


    ¡°President Pearson, you know Anthony, right? My friend¡¯s ex-boyfriend. The one that cheated on her.¡±


    ¡°Should I remember him?¡±


    ¡°No, you don¡¯t¡­ It¡¯s just that I heard he was exposed for cheating tonight at Pantheon Club, and it


    ruined his reputation. I figured that he would lose his job after this.¡± Aidan¡¯s expression remained


    unchanged. ¡°What does that have anything to do with me? Are you nning to get him a new job?¡±


    Leanna was so exasperated by this man that she couldn¡¯t speak for a moment.


    Why is it so difficult to talk to him? Ugh!


    She stopped beating around the bush and said, ¡°That¡¯s not it. I also heard that you were at the ce


    tonight, so I wanted to ask if you witnessed anything¡­¡±


    He interrupted her coldly. ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°Were you not there, or did you not see?¡±


    He probably did not expect her to ask such a question and only answered her after pursing his lips.


    ¡°Don¡¯t you have anything better to do? Why do you care so much?¡±


    Leanna motioned an okay and kept quiet.


    After Aidan went upstairs, she slowly finished her ss of milk.


    Actually, she got nothing out of him earlier. Nevertheless, she could guess that he was most probably


    the one behind what happened to Anthony.


    Otherwise, he would have called her whimsical upon hearing her questions.


    But this time, not only did he not do that but instead avoided her question.


    The answer was already pretty obvious.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    It was just that Leanna did not understand why he did those things.


    It was impossible that he did it to avenge her. Personally, she didn¡¯t care about the things Anthony and


    Jete said as they were both sprouting nonsensical words. The only person who could frustrate her


    was always Aidan.


    But then again, he was not someone with that much time on his hands. So, would he really waste a


    night of his time just because those two people insulted her?


    Why would he?


    She did not deserve it.


    After she returned to her room, she patted her face to shake those thoughts away, woke herself up,


    and took out her draft to work on the final design.


    A momentter, someone knocked at her door.


    She looked up, let out a breath, and then went to open her bedroom door.


    ¡°President Pearson, do you need something?¡±


    Aidan looked at her before slowly saying, ¡°About what you mentioned earlier, I think I have a vague


    impression about it.¡±

 Chapter 115

    Chapter 115


    Chapter 115 I¡¯ve Been Too Lenient to You Lately


    Leanna was stunned for a moment. ¡±Huh?¡±


    Aidan tilted his head in the direction of his bedroom. ¡±Come here.¡±


    After he said that, he returned to his bedroom before she could reject him,


    She didn¡¯t understand what he meant, so she could only follow behind him, utterly confused.


    Once they were in his bedroom, he sat on the couch and crossed his legs, saying dispassionately,


    ¡±What do you want to hear me say?¡±


    Leanna was baffled by his question.


    So, she asked, ¡±President Pearson, what do you want to say?¡±


    That made Aidan look back at her with a dissatisfied look. Therefore, she immediately rephrased her


    words before continuing, ¡±President Pearson, please tell me everything. I¡¯d like to listen to all of it.¡±


    ¡±I don¡¯t have so much time.¡±


    ¡±Then please make it short and sweet.¡±


    ¡±He deserves it. There¡¯s nothing much to say.¡±


    ¡±Oh. Anyway, I find two things about this matter odd.¡±


    He nced at her as a sign for her to continue.


    ¡±If Jete¡¯s friend had connections to the people in the gathering today, then Jete wouldn¡¯t have


    stayed by Anthony¡¯s side for so long. She would¡¯ve found someone much richer and with a higher


    social status long ago.¡±


    It was not that she looked down on the rtionship between Anthony and Jete, but it was true that


    one of them chased after the other to satisfy his lust while the other was in it for material things.


    Simply put, both of them got into the rtionship willingly despite knowing there was no love between


    them.


    If they had loved each other, Anthony would not keep apologizing to Zoe in hopes of getting back with


    her, and Jete would not have attended the gathering knowing that some rich men would be there


    and kept it hidden from Anthony.


    He said, ¡±Not having it in the past does not mean that she doesn¡¯t have it now.¡±


    ¡±You¡¯re right. That could be possible too. Since her friend got her connections recently, they probably


    have met up not more than three times only, even if it was not the first time tonight. Presidents like you,


    who are used to the entertainment scene, having fun with girls and all that, probably made sure that


    your schedules and ns are kept hidden from your families. How was it so easy for his wife to catch


    him with his mistress in action?¡±


    Aidan looked up at her and said slowly, ¡±Repeat that.¡±


    ¡±My bad, let me rephrase my words. President Pearson, you¡¯re only there to socialize for work


    purposes, so you¡¯re different from those who are there intending to cheat.¡±


    Her words made him speechless.


    Why does that make me so ufortable?


    A momentter, Aidan said again, ¡±Let¡¯s say your guess is right. What are you trying to prove with


    that?¡±


    ¡±Nothing. I¡¯m just telling you my thoughts since you brought the matter up. After all, karma hit them at


    the best possible time, and I couldn¡¯t help but think that self-destructiones along with one¡¯s evil


    acts.¡±


    He could feel his temples hurting as he said coldly, ¡±Leanna, I¡¯ve been too lenient on youtely, haven¡¯t


    I?¡±


    She just smiled. ¡±I was talking about Anthony. Why are you angry, President Pearson?¡±


    Aidan was about to retort when his gaze fell on her slightly bulged abdomen. He then closed his eyes


    and sucked in a deep breath. ¡±Leave now. Don¡¯t make me repeat myself.¡±


    ¡±Okay. Goodnight, President Pearson.¡±


    She replied smoothly and went back to her room without any hesitation.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    This man can indeed read between the lines. All I did was say a few things, and he knew I was subtly


    insulting him.


    It seems that he knows what kind of person he is.


    However¡­


    Zoe is probably right about Aidan being involved in what happened to Anthony.


    It¡¯s just that I can¡¯t be sure if he¡¯s the mastermind or if he ys merely a minor role in the n.


    ¡­


    Leanna used only three days toplete the final design.


    After she contacted Georgina, she mentioned that she would be visiting Lux tomorrow for work and that


    they could meet up there.


    The next day, Leanna went to Lux as agreed and realized that Queenie was in the meeting room too. In


    addition, there was a jewelry box with a ne on the table.


    If she was right, Georgina came over to Lux today because her initial n was to take the final product.


    At the sight of Leanna, Queenie¡¯s expression turned solemn as she stood up and said, ¡±Miss Crossley,


    I¡¯ll be leaving now if there¡¯s nothing else from you. However, please contact me if there are any


    problems in the future.¡±


    Georgina called her, ¡±Miss Wojzicki, could you stay behind and give me some advice? With Miss McK¡¯s


    design and your advice, I am sure this will be the most dazzling ne in the world.¡±


    Queenie¡¯s expression turned even darker when she heard that.


    Ever since Leanna appeared in the scene, Georgina stopped giving Queenie opinions on her designs


    and products.


    If that was because her products were good enough, Queenie was fine with that. Yet, that was not the


    case at all.


    Right now, all Georgina cared about was Leanna¡¯s work, and Queenie¡¯s products became unimportant


    to her.


    Finally, Queenie said, ¡±McK is the designer here, so my opinions are probably worth nothing to her. She


    might even think that I¡¯m being overly critical.¡±


    ¡±Nah, Miss McK won¡¯t think that way. A good design results from the effort and ideas of everyone on


    the team.¡± As Georgina spoke, she turned to look at Leanna. ¡±Am I right, Miss McK?¡±


    Leanna said, smiling, ¡±Miss Crossley, just let me know if there¡¯s anything you¡¯re not satisfied with. I¡¯ll


    make the changes for you as soon as I can.¡±


    Georgina looked at the design again. ¡±Actually, I think that it¡¯s amazing, but for this part, can you¡­¡±


    She mentioned two parts that she wished to be amended, and Leanna listened carefully while


    discussing how to make the changes with Georgina.


    Queenie did not know if she should stay or leave, so she could only look at them coldly with her arms


    crossed in front of her chest.


    Once they were done with the discussion, Georgina picked up her bag and exited the meeting room.


    ¡±Miss McK, I¡¯m so sorry that took up so much of your time. I¡¯ll surely express my gratitude to you once


    the final product is ready.¡±


    Leanna nodded her head. ¡±No worries, this is all part of my job.¡±


    ¡±I¡¯ll be leaving now then. Talk soon.¡±


    Leanna sent her to the door. ¡±Goodbye, Miss Crossley.¡±


    After Georgina left, Queenie looked at her product that was forgotten on the table and scoffed. She did


    not go after Georgina to tell her that she had forgotten something, but she threw the ne along


    with its box into the trash can instead.


    Once she did that, she prepared to leave and saw Leanna, who had just turned around.


    She mocked, ¡±You don¡¯t need to pretend to be calm anymore. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re on cloud nine after


    stealing my client from me.¡±


    Despite Queenie¡¯s provocations, Leanna remained calm as she responded, ¡±You were the one who


    mentioned that we shouldpete fair and square, so I did not steal your client. I just want to remind


    you not to act impulsively because of your emotions. To vent your anger, you threw away the client¡¯s


    order. What if theye back for itter? You better be prepared to give them an answer.¡±

 Chapter 116

    Chapter 116


    Chapter 115 I¡¯ve Been Too Lenient to You Lately


    Leanna was stunned for a moment. ¡±Huh?¡±


    Aidan tilted his head in the direction of his bedroom. ¡±Come here.¡±


    After he said that, he returned to his bedroom before she could reject him,


    She didn¡¯t understand what he meant, so she could only follow behind him, utterly confused.


    Once they were in his bedroom, he sat on the couch and crossed his legs, saying dispassionately,


    ¡±What do you want to hear me say?¡±


    Leanna was baffled by his question.


    So, she asked, ¡±President Pearson, what do you want to say?¡±


    That made Aidan look back at her with a dissatisfied look. Therefore, she immediately rephrased her


    words before continuing, ¡±President Pearson, please tell me everything. I¡¯d like to listen to all of it.¡±


    ¡±I don¡¯t have so much time.¡±


    ¡±Then please make it short and sweet.¡±


    ¡±He deserves it. There¡¯s nothing much to say.¡±


    ¡±Oh. Anyway, I find two things about this matter odd.¡±


    He nced at her as a sign for her to continue.


    ¡±If Jete¡¯s friend had connections to the people in the gathering today, then Jete wouldn¡¯t have


    stayed by Anthony¡¯s side for so long. She would¡¯ve found someone much richer and with a higher


    social status long ago.¡±


    It was not that she looked down on the rtionship between Anthony and Jete, but it was true that


    one of them chased after the other to satisfy his lust while the other was in it for material things.


    Simply put, both of them got into the rtionship willingly despite knowing there was no love between


    them. If they had loved each other, Anthony would not keep apologizing to Zoe in hopes of getting back


    with her, and Jete would not have attended the gathering knowing that some rich men would be


    there and kept it hidden from Anthony. He said, ¡±Not having it in the past does not mean that she


    doesn¡¯t have it now.¡± ¡±You¡¯re right. That could be possible too. Since her friend got her connections


    recently, they probably have met up not more than three times only, even if it was not the first time


    tonight. Presidents like you, who are used to the entertainment scene, having fun with girls and all that,


    probably made sure that your schedules and ns are kept hidden from your families. How was it so


    easy for his wife to catch him with his mistress in action?¡± Aidan looked up at her and said slowly,


    ¡±Repeat that.¡± ¡±My bad, let me rephrase my words. President Pearson, you¡¯re only there to socialize for


    work purposes, so you¡¯re different from those who are there intending to cheat.¡± Her words made him


    speechless. Why does that make me so ufortable? A momentter, Aidan said again, ¡±Let¡¯s say


    your guess is right. What are you trying to prove with that?¡± ¡±Nothing. I¡¯m just telling you my thoughts


    since you brought the matter up. After all, karma hit them at the best possible time, and I couldn¡¯t help


    but think that self-destructiones along with one¡¯s evil acts.¡±


    He could feel his temples hurting as he said coldly, ¡±Leanna, I¡¯ve been too lenient on youtely, haven¡¯t


    I?¡± She just smiled. ¡±I was talking about Anthony. Why are you angry, President Pearson?¡± Aidan was


    about to retort when his gaze fell on her slightly bulged abdomen. He then closed his eyes and sucked


    in a deep breath. ¡±Leave now. Don¡¯t make me repeat myself.¡± ¡±Okay. Goodnight, President Pearson.¡±


    She replied smoothly and went back to her room without any hesitation.


    This man can indeed read between the lines. All I did was say a few things, and he knew I was subtly


    insulting him.


    It seems that he knows what kind of person he is.


    However¡­


    Zoe is probably right about Aidan being involved in what happened to Anthony.


    It¡¯s just that I can¡¯t be sure if he¡¯s the mastermind or if he ys merely a minor role in the n.


    ¡­


    Leanna used only three days toplete the final design. After she contacted Georgina, she


    mentioned that she would be visiting Lux tomorrow for work and that they could meet up there. The


    next day, Leanna went to Lux as agreed and realized that Queenie was in the meeting room too. In


    addition, there was a jewelry box with a ne on the table. If she was right, Georgina came over to


    Lux today because her initial n was to take the final product. At the sight of Leanna, Queenie¡¯s


    expression turned solemn as she stood up and said, ¡±Miss Crossley, I¡¯ll be leaving now if there¡¯s


    nothing else from you. However, please contact me if there are any problems in the future.¡±


    Georgina called her, ¡±Miss Wojzicki, could you stay behind and give me some advice? With Miss McK¡¯s


    design and your advice, I am sure this will be the most dazzling ne in the world.¡±


    Queenie¡¯s expression turned even darker when she heard that.


    Ever since Leanna appeared in the scene, Georgina stopped giving Queenie opinions on her designs


    and products.


    If that was because her products were good enough, Queenie was fine with that. Yet, that was not the


    case at all.


    Right now, all Georgina cared about was Leanna¡¯s work, and Queenie¡¯s products became unimportant


    to her.


    Finally, Queenie said, ¡±McK is the designer here, so my opinions are probably worth nothing to her. She


    might even think that I¡¯m being overly critical.¡±


    ¡±Nah, Miss McK won¡¯t think that way. A good design results from the effort and ideas of everyone on


    the team.¡± As Georgina spoke, she turned to look at Leanna. ¡±Am I right, Miss McK?¡±


    Leanna said, smiling, ¡±Miss Crossley, just let me know if there¡¯s anything you¡¯re not satisfied with. I¡¯ll


    make the changes for you as soon as I can.¡±


    Georgina looked at the design again. ¡±Actually, I think that it¡¯s amazing, but for this part, can you¡­¡±


    She mentioned two parts that she wished to be amended, and Leanna listened carefully while


    discussing how to make the changes with Georgina.


    Queenie did not know if she should stay or leave, so she could only look at them coldly with her armsPublished by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    crossed in front of her chest.


    Once they were done with the discussion, Georgina picked up her bag and exited the meeting room.


    ¡±Miss McK, I¡¯m so sorry that took up so much of your time. I¡¯ll surely express my gratitude to you once


    the final product is ready.¡±


    Leanna nodded her head. ¡±No worries, this is all part of my job.¡±


    ¡±I¡¯ll be leaving now then. Talk soon.¡±


    Leanna sent her to the door. ¡±Goodbye, Miss Crossley.¡±


    After Georgina left, Queenie looked at her product that was forgotten on the table and scoffed. She did


    not go after Georgina to tell her that she had forgotten something, but she threw the ne along


    with its box into the trash can instead.


    Once she did that, she prepared to leave and saw Leanna, who had just turned around.


    She mocked, ¡±You don¡¯t need to pretend to be calm anymore. I¡¯m sure you¡¯re on cloud nine after


    stealing my client from me.¡±


    Despite Queenie¡¯s provocations, Leanna remained calm as she responded, ¡±You were the one who


    mentioned that we shouldpete fair and square, so I did not steal your client. I just want to remind


    you not to act impulsively because of your emotions. To vent your anger, you threw away the client¡¯s


    order. What if theye back for itter? You better be prepared to give them an answer.¡±

 Chapter 117

    Chapter 117


    Chapter 116 Which One¡¯s Mrs. Pearson?


    ¡°I don¡¯t need you to lecture me!¡± Queenie uttered with a smirk. ¡°Are you proud of yourself now? Even


    though I won the title of champion in The Emerging Designer Competition, and was in Aeras for three


    years, it seems I¡¯m still no match for you. I bet you¡¯re secretlyughing at me, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    ¡°I do find you pretty funny. I¡¯ve never had the thought of surpassing you¡ªyou¡¯re the one who keeps


    comparing yourself to me. On the one hand, you understand that your skills are no match for mine, yet


    you feel like I should be one level below you since you got the opportunity to study in Aeras. It¡¯s almost


    as if studying there increases your worth as a person. On the other hand, regardless of whether we¡¯re


    talking about The Emerging Designer Competition or your studies in Paris, all of that happened three


    years ago. You¡¯re the one who keeps clinging onto the past,¡± Leanna uttered.


    ¡°Stop making yourself sound all righteous and principled. Everyone knows that you gave up on your


    chance for the sake of money. Do you think you¡¯re more elegant or ssy than me? I don¡¯t think my


    artwork is any worse than yours¡ªI¡¯m just not as lucky as you are,¡± Queenie replied. Leanna merely


    smiled without continuing the conversation. Instead, she turned and left the other woman behind.


    Thanks, Queenie. I don¡¯t think I would¡¯ve ever heard someone tell me that I¡¯m lucky if you didn¡¯t do it,


    Leanna thought. After she left, Queenie bit her bottom lip and red at the ne in the bin before


    narrowing her eyes.


    ¡­


    Leanna had just gotten to the exit when she heard Harvey shouting for her to stop. ¡°You came just in


    time, McK. I need your help.¡± The Bats had hosted a jewelry-themed charity dinner, and they had


    managed to gather a good number of wealthy women¡¯s essories to be auctioned on that day. They


    would give all the funds umted during the auction to charity.


    Since Lux Magazine was one of the top jewelry magazines in the nation, they were among the first to


    receive an invitation to the event. After Harvey¡¯s discussion with his boss, they decided that Lux


    Jewelry would take out a long-treasured piece of jewelry for the event. At the same time, Leanna and


    Queenie would each put out their products. That way, the public would perceive Lux Magazine in a


    more positive light, and the event would assist in boosting the names of both designers. In addition, this


    would ensure they had more clients in the long run.


    Nevertheless, time wasn¡¯t on their side¡ªthe charity dinner was in one week¡¯s time. ¡°You can put out


    one of the pieces you designed previously. Then, after one of your pieces, you can just ce anything


    that fits,¡± Harvey told Leanna.


    ¡°I got it,¡± she replied with a nod.


    ¡­ When they arrived home, Leanna sat at the desk and edited Georgina¡¯s drafts for a while. As she


    worked on the drafts, she recalled what Harvey had said to her earlier that day. Ever since she married


    Aidan, she hadn¡¯t designed anything until she finally divorced him and returned to Lux Magazine. So,


    she hadn¡¯t produced anything in the past three years. As for the ones I did three years ago¡­ I don¡¯t


    feel satisfied with them now that I have gotten a second look at them. Luckily, she would make notes in


    her sketchbook whenever she had any ideas or inspirations. But, after she tossed and turned in bed


    that night, the one design that left the strongest impression in her mind was still the piece of paper that


    she had torn out of her book. She let out a dejected sigh. She didn¡¯t need to think to know where the


    piece of paper was¡ªAidan had definitely thrown it into the bin on Underwood Lane. She helplessly


    looked through the items on her desk for a while, but she identally knocked something off. When


    she picked up the article, she realized that it was the pocket watch she had gotten from Jethro. She


    opened the clock to see a group picture of the three of them, and she ran her fingers across the picture


    with a thoughtful look on her face. After a short while, she put the pocket watch down before she


    started to work on a draft. Once she was done, she stretched her limbs and nced at the clock to see


    that it was 11.00PM. Ever since the previous incident, Alice no longer called her out for meals¡ªAlice


    simply left dinner in the pot where it was kept warm. As a result, the food temperature was just right


    when Leanna went down for her dinner, and it was already 11.30PM by the time Leanna was done.


    Aidan wasn¡¯t home even though it was starting to gette, and Leanna hesitated for a moment before


    she finally texted Jonathan. ¡®Is Aidan still working overtime in the office?¡¯ she asked. ¡®Yes,¡¯ Jonathan


    replied.


    ¡®Has he eaten?¡¯


    ¡®No.¡¯


    I don¡¯t know why Aidan decided to take action against Anthony, but either way, he took revenge for Zoe


    that day, Leanna thought. I don¡¯t want to owe him any favors. So, Leanna stood up and prepared some


    egg mayo sandwiches before storing them in an airtight container. Then, she went up to grab her coat


    before leaving the house.


    Meanwhile, Jonathan took his phone back from Aidan in the president¡¯s office in Pearson Group before


    inquiring. ¡°Aren¡¯t you leaving yet, President Pearson?¡± Jonathan asked.


    ¡°I have a few more documents to handle, but you can leave first,¡± Aidan replied tly.


    ¡°Okay.¡± Jonathan was about to leave when Aidan spoke again. ¡°Leanna¡¯sing overter, so you can


    tell the guards to just let her in,¡± Aidan ordered.


    ¡°¡­Okay,¡± Jonathan replied. No wonder he¡¯s staying back¡ªhe must be waiting for her. It seems like


    President Pearson is no longer as aggressive and pushy toward Mrs. Pearson since they went to


    Underwood Lane. He¡¯s not as sharp and sarcastic with his words anymore. That¡¯s a great start.


    Perhaps I won¡¯t have to waste all of that brain juice on helping President Pearson toe up with


    excuses in the future. Before Jonathan left, he went over to pass Aidan¡¯s message to the night guards.


    ¡°Mrs. Pearson wille in a while, so you guys can just allow her to enterter,¡± he ordered. The


    guards noddedpliantly.


    But to Jonathan¡¯s surprise, Mia showed up at the office just moments after he left. Mia had been a


    respected figure at one point but didn¡¯t know how to control herself. She didn¡¯t just look down on the


    title of Mrs. Pearson; there were even voice recordings of her criticizing other brands and speaking


    about them as if she were above their standards. Her poprity saw a massive decline after that


    incident. All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    The Pearsons didn¡¯t seem to care about her¡ªall they did was stay silent and under the radar for a


    while. In truth, she had already wanted to pay a visit to Aidan¡¯s workce for a while. Unfortunately, the


    guys at the front desk and the guards would often block her way. So this time, she thought of applying


    for a model role after hearing the jewelry charity event needed them. s, the organizers rejected her


    immediately.


    Although this triggered Mia, she had no other choice than to beg Aidan to give her another chance. She


    was surprised that it was so easy for her to enter the building this time. The guard on shift that day was


    a new worker¡ªhe had never seen Mia in the past. Since Jonathan had told the guards that a ¡®Mrs.


    Pearson¡¯ was going to visit them in a while, and they simply assumed that they had gotten the right


    person when they saw how gorgeous and well-dressed Mia was.


    But about ten minutester, a woman in a casual outfit showed up. The guards were stunned as she


    was prettier than the first woman. So which one is the real Mrs. Pearson? Leanna hesitated for a


    moment when she saw how the guards looked at her. ¡°Am I not allowed to enter?¡± she asked in a


    whisper.


    Leanna recalled that Pearson Group had a rule where they didn¡¯t allow Lux¡¯s designers to entire. But I


    haven¡¯t told the guards anything about my work, have I? The guard looked equally confused. ¡°Are you


    Mrs. Pearson?¡± one of the guards asked carefully.


    ¡°¡­I¡¯m not,¡± Leanna said hesitantly.


    ¡°Then what are you doing here at this hour?¡± the guard asked.


    She took a nce at the container in her hands. She had wanted to deliver some food to Aidan, but


    right before she exined herself, she changed her mind. ¡°I just happened to pass by,¡± she spoke


    stiffly.

 Chapter 118

    Chapter 118


    Chapter 118 He¡¯s Cold to His Bones


    Leanna was terrified. For Aidan to ask if I like him¡­ That¡¯s almost as scary as him asking me what time


    I¡¯d like to die tonight or how I¡¯d like to die tonight! She licked her cracked lips and tasted a hint of


    alcohol on them. ¡°You must be drunk, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan fixed his dark pupils on her without responding. ¡°You should be, right? Why else would you fool


    around with me?¡± she asked carefully. He scoffed and gradually let go of her before he loosened his


    necktie. ¡°Do you think I¡¯m fooling around with you?¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you?¡± Leanna tried to analyze the situation. ¡°I don¡¯t understand the purpose of you asking me


    this question. If I say I like you, you¡¯d think I¡¯m crazy in love. If I say I don¡¯t like you, you¡¯d think I have


    bad taste. One way or another, I won¡¯t be able to give you an answer you¡¯re satisfied with. Why don¡¯t


    you tell me the answer you¡¯d like to hear? I¡¯ll just go along with it,¡± she offered.


    He red at her icily. ¡°Do you also make suchparisons when you¡¯re with Zayn?¡±


    ¡°No¡­¡± Because I¡¯ve never been together with Zayn. Furthermore, only God knows what¡¯s going on in


    this madman¡¯s mind. So, it¡¯s only natural for me to want to protect myself! She exined herself once


    more. ¡°There¡¯s nothing between Zayn and me, President Pearson. Furthermore, he¡¯s engaged now, so


    I hope you can stop making assumptions about Zayn¡¯s rtionship with me.¡±


    ¡°Is that so¡­¡± Aidan uttered thoughtfully.


    ¡°Of course!¡± she replied.


    ¡°Since you guys im to be innocent, then what about that First Love series you designed? Who was


    that for?¡± he asked.


    Leanna was speechless for a while. ¡°That¡¯s just a general topic that I thought the audience could rte


    to. I¡¯m not designing it for anyone. But, it seems like you keep finding issues with the title of my series,


    President Pearson. Aren¡¯t you jealous too?¡± she retorted.


    Aidan pressed his thin lips together as his gaze darkened. At that moment, Leanna realized how her


    question seemed rather abrupt¡ªit felt like she was asking to be punished by uttering such a thing. She


    was just about to take her words back when she heard Aidan¡¯s emotionless voice. ¡°So what if that¡¯s


    true?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Leanna was shocked. What¡¯s going on?


    ¡°You know what I mean, Leanna,¡± he uttered in a thick voice. She was silent for a moment before she


    replied. ¡°Liking someone doesn¡¯t prove anything. Didn¡¯t you say this in the past, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s true. However, I can give you the spot as Mrs. Pearson. No one can take that away from you,¡±


    he uttered. ¡°Even if that¡¯s the case, I still can¡¯t have the public know about my child, right?¡± Aidan


    wasn¡¯t done, but Leanna already had a clear answer in her mind. He ims to like me, but he wants


    things to go back to how they were before we divorced. My guess is correct¡ªhe¡¯s just used to having


    me by his side. He¡¯s used to me pampering him, and he¡¯s used to having someone waiting for him


    when he returns to the Castor Vi every day. Habits are such a scary thing.


    ¡°Well, can you answer this, President Pearson? What are you nning to do with the child in my


    stomach? Will it survive? Can you be clear about this?¡± she asked.


    He hesitated for a few moments before answering her question. ¡°You can have the child, but you¡¯ll


    have to send it away.¡± She hadn¡¯t expected this answer, so she froze for a moment before responding


    to him. ¡°That¡¯s on condition that the Pearsons never find out about my pregnancy, right?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡±


    Leanna was quiet for a long while after that. ¡°I know I might not be in a position to say such a thing,


    Aidan, but¡­¡± Her voice was shaky as she spoke. ¡°This isn¡¯t just my child. Haven¡¯t you ever considered


    allowing the child to be peacefully born into this world?¡± she asked. His expression remained cold as


    ever. ¡°I told you about this. I don¡¯t n on having children for the next two years.¡± He had assumed that


    she wouldn¡¯t get pregnant as long as they took the necessary precautionary measures. However, he


    hadn¡¯t expected such an ident to ur. He didn¡¯t want the child to end up like a rag doll that they


    threw around after birth, so he figured that the best solution was to counter the root of the issue.


    Leanna knew that there was no point in attempting to change Aidan¡¯s mind after he had made a


    decision. She sniffed before gazing at him with her bloodshot eyes. ¡°Will¡­ I get to see the baby after


    sending it away?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°But¡­¡± she protested.


    ¡°You know you should¡¯ve told me about your pregnancy the moment you found out about it, Leanna.


    You shouldn¡¯t have waited for me to find out about it on my own. Furthermore, you¡¯re the one who


    insists on having the child, so you¡¯ll have to bear the responsibilities regardless of the oue of this


    matter,¡± he spoke in a bone-chilling tone. He voiced this matter as if it were just another unimportant


    task he had to deal with.


    He might show some asional care toward her, but deep down, he was still heartless as ever. No one


    could change that about him. He continued speaking when Leanna was silent for a short while. ¡°I


    promised that I would try my best to keep this a secret from the Pearsons. Also, Leanna, you should


    remember that I¡¯m your husband, not your enemy or some crazy beast. So, you need to stop having


    your guard up against me,¡± he uttered.


    ¡°Ex-husband.¡± She corrected him. ¡°You still think of me as your enemy, huh,¡± he said with a scoff. ¡°Both


    of us will suffer in that case,¡± he said. It was hard for her to fight back when he sounded like he was on


    her side after putting the me all on her. I don¡¯t have the strength to argue anymore. He can say


    whatever he wants to, she thought.


    ¡°Well, if that¡¯s all you have to say, then I¡¯ll go to bed now,¡± she said with a mirthless smile.


    All rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, without waiting for his response, she turned and entered her room. Her tummy no longer felt


    bloated after their argument, so she went back to lie on her bed. Yet, her eyes were wide open¡ªshe


    couldn¡¯t sleep at all. She rested her palm on her belly as she could feel the little one moving around. It


    seems like themotion earlier woke it up. It¡¯s flipping around in my belly.


    Sometimes, Leanna could feel the baby¡¯s arms fumbling in her belly. If she couldn¡¯t find a way to leave


    before the child was born, then Aidan would end up sending the child away, and she would never be


    able to see her baby again. It wasn¡¯t that Leanna was trying to go against Aidan after understanding his


    side of the story. On the contrary, she was very concerned about this whole matter¡ªthat was why she


    didn¡¯t want the child to be associated with Aidan or anyone in the family.


    She didn¡¯t care about the feuds and grudges held between people in the Pearson Family, and she


    couldn¡¯t bring herself to fulfill all of Aidan¡¯s wishes. She was just a regr mother who wanted her child


    toe to this world safely. Nevertheless, it seemed like they¡¯d gotten to a point where she had no


    other choice.


    What disappointed Leanna the most wasn¡¯t the consequences she had to face after the Pearsons


    found out about the child¡ªwhat disappointed her the most was that b*stard¡¯s callous attitude. Aidan


    had never thought about the baby from the very start. It was almost as if he didn¡¯t care about the baby¡¯s


    life. He was like an observer on the sidelines who made a few sarcastic remarks every now and then.

 Chapter 119

    Chapter 119


    Chapter 119 Do You Have to Treat Me Like That?


    The charity dinner came in the blink of an eye. After arriving at Lux, Leanna contacted Georgina to


    inform her that she hadpleted the products. ¡°I¡¯m a little busy these two days, so I might not have


    the time to collect it. By the way, I hear that Lux Magazine will be at the charity dinner tomorrow. Since


    you¡¯re their jewelry designer, I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll attend the event, right, Miss McK?¡±


    ¡°Yeah,¡± Leanna replied.


    ¡°Great. You can pass it to me tomorrow then, Miss McK.¡± The main target of the Bat Group¡¯s charity


    dinner was the wealthy families in town. So, it was no surprise that Georgina was invited to it. ¡°Sure,¡±


    Leanna replied.


    ¡°I¡¯ll see you tomorrow,¡± Georgina uttered with a smile. After they ended the call, Leanna ced the


    custom-made ne into her bag before visiting Harvey¡¯s office to hand him the products that were


    to be auctioned at the charity the next day.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Carly was at home, organizing the jewelry pieces that were to be sold the next day. ¡°Are we


    really going to auction these pieces, Georgina? I can¡¯t bear to sell them off,¡± Carly sighed.


    ¡°If there¡¯s anything here that you really fancy, I can give it to you,¡± Georgina offered. ¡°No, no. These will


    be auctioned for charity, so I can¡¯t ept a gift like this.¡± Carly hastily put the jewelry boxes away


    before she held Georgina¡¯s hand. ¡°I heard Anna say that you have a surprise for her. What is it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s nothing much. It¡¯s just a wedding gift,¡± Georgina replied. Carly frowned at this. ¡°Well, the wedding


    date might be fixed, but we¡¯re still not sure if the wedding is really happening,¡± shemented.


    ¡°What is it? I heard that Anna has been learning to behave herself recently. Did she cause some huge


    trouble again?¡± Georgina asked.


    ¡°Well, it¡¯s nothing huge. But you know what Zayn¡¯s like. He might have agreed to the wedding, but¡­


    he¡¯s just making empty promises. He doesn¡¯t genuinely feel attracted to Anna. If another woman was in


    this situation, she might have given up on the marriage after knowing about the situation. However,


    Anna is rather different¡ªshe¡¯s the type to persist until she gets what she wants. I¡¯m afraid¡­¡±


    ¡°Carly,¡± Georgina spoke gently. ¡°Anna might be immature, but I believe that both of them would still be


    okay with one another as long as she doesn¡¯t challenge Zayn¡¯s limits.¡±


    Carly seemed even more worried upon hearing Georgina¡¯s words. ¡°By the way, Georgina, do you know


    about Aidan¡¯s ex-wife?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard of her,¡± Georgina replied softly.


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe she had a history with Zayn! Right now, she¡¯s even¡­¡± Carly lowered her voice to a


    whisper. ¡°I heard that she¡¯s pregnant. Zayn ims that the child isn¡¯t his, but didn¡¯t her divorce with


    Aidan happen a few months ago? Who do you think the child belongs to?¡±


    Georgina responded with a faint smile. ¡°If it belongs to Aidan, I believe the Pearson Family will take the


    child under their wing, right?¡±


    ¡°I know, right? That¡¯s exactly what I thought! But, more importantly, I heard that she was sold to


    Patheon Club in the past, and she even used a fake pregnancy to force her way into the Pearson


    Family. Aidan probably hates her guts!¡± Carly sighed. ¡°I have no idea what Zayn was thinking.¡±


    ¡°Alright. Stop worrying about this matter, Carly. You¡¯re about to give birth soon, right?¡± Georgina asked.


    ¡°The baby is expected in five days,¡± Carly replied.


    ¡°You¡¯ll have to get a lot of rest, then. You¡¯re going to be really tired after the charity dinner tomorrow,¡±


    Georgina uttered. ¡°You too. Thanks for helping out with all my tasks for the past few days,¡± Carly


    replied.


    ¡°Nonsense! That¡¯s my job, Carly.¡± After leaving the Bat Residence, Georgina received a call from


    Queenie. ¡°Is anything the matter, Miss Wojzicki?¡± Georgina asked with a smile.


    ¡°I¡¯d like to check if the ne I designed for you is with you right now, Miss Crossley,¡± Queenie


    stated.


    Georgina hesitated for a few moments before responding. ¡°Well¡­ I think I might have forgotten to take


    it. I¡¯ll get someone to collect itter in the day,¡± she replied.


    The line went silent on the other end for a while. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss Crossley. I might have identally lost


    the ne, and I¡¯d like to apologize for my carelessness,¡± Queenie uttered after a few seconds.


    ¡°You lost it?¡± Georgina asked.


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m willing to bear all the costs, so I¡¯ll return the full sum to your bank ount in a few days,¡±


    Queenie said.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine, Miss Wojzicki. You don¡¯t have to be sorry about it. Let¡¯s just treat this as a chance we were


    given to know each other. I like your products, so I hope we can work together in the future!¡± Georgina


    replied. They chatted for a while longer before ending the call. After that, Georgina got into the car and


    gazed out the window as she tapped the corner of her phone against her chin. It looked like she was


    thinking about something.


    After a while, she gave her driver some orders. ¡°I don¡¯t want anyone to stop Queenie no matter what


    she wants to do,¡± she said calmly.


    ¡°Alright. Then¡­ Are we going to take action?¡± the driver asked.


    ¡°No. She can do it on her own,¡± Georgina uttered. ¡°Take me to Pearson Group.¡±


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, at the president¡¯s office in Pearson Group, Aidan was staring at the invitation on his table.


    His sharp features didn¡¯t seem to reveal a hint of emotion. Jonathan knocked on the door right then,


    breaking the silence in the room. ¡°Miss Crossley is here, President Pearson.¡± Aidan looked up to see


    Georgina¡¯s figure standing by the entrance. ¡°What is it?¡± he asked in a t tone.


    She felt both amused and annoyed by his response. ¡°It¡¯s so rare for me toe over and visit you. Do


    you have to treat me like that?¡±


    ¡°I treat everyone the same. You can tell me if there¡¯s something you¡¯d like to say, or you can leave if


    you¡¯re here for no reason. I have work to do,¡± he intoned dismissively.


    ¡°Aidan.¡± Georgina sat down in front of him and gazed at the invitation that happened to be on his table.


    ¡°You¡¯ll be going to the charity dinner tomorrow, right?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll see how I feel about it tomorrow,¡± he replied. Even though the Bats were the ones hosting this


    charity dinner, the Pearsons had provided a lot of support along the way. Judging by how they had


    worked hard to gather all sorts of famous entrepreneurs for the event, Georgina could immediately tell


    what Gordon was trying to do. She was sure that Aidan was going to be there.


    ¡°I know your situation in the Pearson Family now, Aidan. I¡¯m willing to help you,¡± she offered. He


    scoffed at this. ¡°Why don¡¯t you tell me what my situation is?¡±


    ¡°You have too much power, so you won¡¯t allow your father to control you at all. Instead, he wants to


    snatch your position as the president of Pearson Group away from you, and rece you with someone


    easier to control,¡± she replied.


    ¡°Regardless, my surname¡¯s still Pearson. So, isn¡¯t it a rather stupid reason for him to try to find a new


    heir just because I won¡¯t allow him to control me?¡± he asked tly.


    ¡°Sure, it¡¯s a pretty stupid reason. Everyone else knows that your father can¡¯t overpower you, but no one


    seemed to have wondered why he¡¯s afraid of giving you full control over the Pearson Group,¡± Georgina


    said airily.


    Aidan¡¯s expression darkened upon hearing this. ¡°You sound like you know something,¡± he muttered


    icily.


    She smiled and responded without answering his question. ¡°Your father doesn¡¯t have a lot of men


    under him, and the Pearson Group¡¯s internal management is seeing a lot of new changes. Ultimately,


    he just wants Anna and Zayn to get married, so the Bat Family is now the greatest resource your


    father has in his hands. It¡¯s not hard for you to even things out, President Pearson. You¡¯ll just have to


    get married to me. You should know that the Bats are just an empty shell at this point¡ªthey¡¯re just


    faking their wealth and power. They¡¯re no match for the Crossleys,¡± Georgina said.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 120

    Chapter 120


    Chapter 120 30 Years of Hard Work


    After she finished her words, Georgina sped her hands together and rested them on her knees as


    she was genuinely nervous. Even though she had managed to analyze the whole situation clearly, she


    still couldn¡¯t tell what was going on in Aidan¡¯s mind. He had turned himself from an illegitimate child into


    the widely-feared President Pearson, so he was clearly someone of astounding intelligence and


    capabilities. However, even though it seemed like Aidan was on the losing end within the Pearson


    Group this time, Georgina still wasn¡¯t sure if her terms were attractive enough for him.


    Aidan curled her lips into a smile as he gazed at her with an unimpressed look. ¡°You want me to marry


    you, huh?¡±


    Georgina took a deep breath. ¡°That¡¯s right. If it weren¡¯t for the mistake that urred in between, we


    should¡¯ve been the ones getting married three years ago. Furthermore, both our families have already


    ¡ª¡±


    ¡°I think you might have misunderstood something.¡± Aidan interrupted her. ¡°They wanted you to get


    married to Justin, not me.¡±


    Georgina froze upon hearing this. ¡°How could that be? I¡¯ve always treated Justin as a brother¡­¡± she


    muttered. ¡°That¡¯s why no one brought it up,¡± Aidan replied. Sienna was fond of Georgina, but if she had


    found out that Georgina was getting married to Aidan, she wouldn¡¯t have allowed herself to get too


    close to Georgina. She couldn¡¯t bring herself to be fond of a woman who was about to marry a man she


    despised.


    There were two main reasons why no one had ever brought up the marriage between Georgina and


    Justin. Firstly, Justin had a firm stance on this matter¡ªhe refused to agree to the marriage regardless


    of Sienna¡¯s words. Sienna had no choice but to give up on him. Secondly, since the Crossleys were a


    wealthy family, and Georgina was their only daughter, her father was extremely fond and overprotective


    of her. Her family would never allow her to date someone with a physical disability. These were the


    main reasons no one ever suggested a marriage between the Crossleys and Pearsons.


    On the other hand, Sienna would never allow Georgina to marry Aidan¡ªthat was probably thest


    thing Sienna wanted. Gordon was worried that Aidan would start disobeying them after he grew more


    powerful, so Gordon immediately ordered Aidan and Leanna to get married when Lenna showed up.


    Georgina calmed down before speaking again. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, don¡¯t you have more reason to marry


    me? In that case, they would be helpless, and you¡¯d be able to get revenge on them!¡± she uttered.


    Aidan simply knocked his long fingers on the desk¡¯s surface as he thought about something. ¡°Our


    marriage would be just like Anna and Zayn¡¯s marriage, Aidan. Both parties would benefit from this. You


    know how I¡¯m the only daughter at home, Aidan. I¡¯m bad at managing thepany, so I will hand over


    all of the business to you in the future. I¡¯d rather marry you than some random guy that I¡¯ve barely met.


    You¡¯re the best option I have in mind.¡± Georgina insisted.


    After a few seconds, Aidan¡¯s calm voice filled the room. ¡°But you¡¯re not my best option,¡± he replied.


    She pressed her lips together. ¡°Did you fall in love with your ex-wife?¡±


    ¡°What has that got to do with you?¡± Aidan¡¯s gaze turned colder when he next looked at her.


    ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you¡¯re doing, Aidan. How could you get yourself hooked on the same person


    for so long? You shouldn¡¯t forget how hard you¡¯ve fought to be here. You im that no one has the


    power to tell you what to do, yet you listened to your parents¡¯ orders and got married to that woman,


    didn¡¯t you? Furthermore, I bet your father doesn¡¯t know about her pregnancy yet, right?¡± Georgina


    asked.


    The temperature in the office seemed to turn a few degrees colder the moment she finished her


    sentence. ¡°Who told you about that?¡± The words Aidan spat out of his mouth were like ice shards


    stabbing through Georgina¡¯s skin. His icy gaze made Georgina clench her fists in fear. Even though her


    lashes were trembling, she kept a smile on her face. ¡°The walls have ears, don¡¯t they?¡± she said with a


    smile. ¡°However, you don¡¯t have to worry. I¡¯m not going to use this to threaten you or anything. I just


    wanted to¡ª¡± Aidan scoffed once more. ¡°What makes you think I¡¯m going to let you threaten me?¡±


    Georgina froze upon hearing this. Then, Aidan got to his feet and walked over to the floor-to-ceiling


    window, where he stood with one hand stuck into his pocket. There wasn¡¯t any emotion in his voice as


    he spoke. ¡°She got pregnant after getting a divorce with me. Why should I take responsibility for


    something that isn¡¯t mine? Even if the child¡¯s mine, do you think I care about it?¡± he asked. ¡°Even if


    you¡¯re not sure whether the child¡¯s yours, I know your dad¡¯s going to order for the child to be born.


    Then, he will get you guys to run DNA tests just to check if the baby¡¯s yours. Have you thought about


    this, Aidan? Even if the child isn¡¯t yours, your dad might do something in order to take away the power


    you have in your hands. He might¡ª¡± ¡°You sure know my dad well, huh?¡± Aidan uttered with a


    somewhat sarcastic smirk.


    ¡°I¡¯m just sharing my predictions.¡± Georgina walked over to him before continuing in a soft voice. ¡°It


    doesn¡¯t matter if you don¡¯t want to get married to me now, Aidan. You can consider whatever I just said,


    and give me an answer when you¡¯re ready. As an act of sincerity, I¡¯ll show up at the charity dinner with


    you tomorrow. Then, it will ruin your father¡¯s initial n.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡­ Jonathan knocked on the door and entered the room after Georgina left. ¡°Should I prepare a female


    partner for the charity event you¡¯re attending tomorrow, President Pearson?¡± Aidan turned around and


    gazed at the entrance before speaking. ¡°Well, there¡¯s a living and breathing option standing right there.¡±


    ¡°Are you talking about Miss Crossley?¡± Jonathan asked. ¡°She¡¯s right. The fastest way to stop Gordon


    now is for me to marry someone from the Crossleys. This would benefit both parties,¡± Aidan uttered.


    ¡°President Pearson, do you mean¡­¡± Jonathan was shocked.


    Aidan gazed at the other man with a nk look on his face. ¡°I¡¯d save myself 30 years of hard work if I


    got married to the Crossleys, wouldn¡¯t I?¡±


    Jonathan was speechless. Since when did President Pearson learn to crack such dark jokes? Aidan


    didn¡¯t seem like he was waiting for Jonathan¡¯s response as he continued talking after that. ¡°Is Lux


    Magazine on the charity dinner¡¯s invitation list?¡±


    ¡°Yes.¡± Jonathan hastily responded to the man¡¯s question after he recovered from his shock. ¡°As per the


    charity dinner¡¯s rules, Lux sells one of their jewelry pieces. They¡¯re also getting two of their in-house


    jewelry designers to auction their own designs.¡±


    ¡°Since when did Lux get their own in-house jewelry designers?¡± Aidan asked. Jonathan was


    momentarily speechless but quickly reminded Aidan of the other designer. ¡°Queenie, the other in-house


    designer, is the one that took Mrs. Pearson¡¯s spot to go to Paris three years ago. She came over to visit


    you in Pearson Group once, and you gave her the opportunity that Mrs. Pearson didn¡¯t want¡­¡±


    ¡°I remember her now,¡± Aidan said while giving his assistant a nk gaze. ¡°You sure have a lot of


    answers, huh?¡±


    Jonathan chuckled. ¡°Do you have any other orders, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°I want you to get someone to take a picture of Leanna¡¯s product tomorrow,¡± Aidan uttered after a


    moment of silence.


    ¡°Can I get President Woodley to do it?¡± Jonathan asked.


    ¡°Get someone else. He¡¯s too obvious,¡± Aidan replied.


    ¡°Got it. I¡¯ll go deal with it now.¡±

 Chapter 121

    Chapter 121


    Chapter 121 Mandatory or by Choice?


    Achoo! Leanna lost count of the number of times she had sneezed that day. She rubbed her nose and


    picked up the ss of water beside her before taking a sip. ¡°The temperature has been gradually


    getting colder recently, Leanna. So, you should wear a few moreyers to ensure you don¡¯t catch a


    cold,¡± Zoe said.


    Leanna nodded. ¡°Go on with what you were saying,¡± she reminded Zoe.


    ¡°Oh, where was it? Oh, right! I remember now. Didn¡¯t Anthony get fired by thepany? Well, his bad


    deeds have spread all over town, and there isn¡¯t a singlepany that wants him. Fortunately, I¡¯ve


    moved over to yours. Now, he¡¯s waiting for me outside my house every day. I¡¯ve already told the


    management of the residence to file a police report,¡± Zoe said.


    ¡°You should really stay away from him. He¡¯s left with nothing now, so it¡¯s really possible for him to act in


    extreme manners,¡± Leanna warned.


    ¡°Yeah. Don¡¯t worry,¡± Zoe said while taking a bite of cake. ¡°By the way, how have things been with you


    and President Pearson?¡±


    Leanna was speechless for a moment. ¡°Did you have to change the topic so abruptly? You were just


    calling him a b*stard a while ago.¡±


    ¡°Well, I have to be grateful for all he has done for me,¡± Zoe said with a sly smile. ¡°I can¡¯t talk bad about


    him behind his back after he provided me so much help, right? Furthermore, I realized that he isn¡¯t as


    horrible of a person as we thought he was. He¡¯s actually pretty nice to you.¡± Zoe continued talking while


    Leanna stared at her speechlessly. ¡°For example, let¡¯s take a look at that incident with Mia. We were


    the ones who had misunderstood him, and he did all of those things for you. Don¡¯t you think that was


    really sweet? Furthermore, he¡ª¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Leanna felt goosebumps forming on her skin as she listened to the other woman¡¯s words, so she


    hastily spoke up to stop her. ¡°Wait, wait. Stop. Stop right there.¡± Leanna didn¡¯t see Aidan on a daily


    basis¡ªshe would only bump into him during breakfast sometimes. They hadn¡¯t spoken since what


    happened that night. This was ideal for her.


    ¡°Fine,¡± Zoe mumbled. However, she quickly moved on to another topic. ¡°What are you nning to do at


    the charity dinner tomorrow? Since the Bats are hosting the dinner, I¡¯m sure Zayn will be there. Will


    you guys be awkward now that he¡¯s engaged?¡±


    ¡°No. We¡¯ve made things clear between us,¡± Leanna exined. They had rified things that night in


    the Pearson Family Estate. Leanna wasn¡¯t worried about this matter; she was more concerned about¡­


    I¡¯m afraid that I might bump into some familiar faces during the charity dinner tomorrow. It¡¯s okay if I


    bump into some random people¡ªI can just wear thicker clothes since the weather is turning cold. No


    one¡¯s going to pay attention to my belly. But the one person I¡¯m terrified of is Anna, that crazy woman!


    She¡¯s the sort of person who would just charge over to you and bite you when you¡¯re walking around


    and minding your own business.


    Leanna wasn¡¯t afraid of Anna as a person, but she was worried that the whole Pearson Family would


    find out about her pregnancy if Anna were to learn about it. But at the same time, since Harvey had


    arranged for her to go, she had no choice but to show up.


    After she got home, Leanna didn¡¯t head upstairs immediately. Instead, she heated a ss of milk and


    sipped it in the living room while waiting. Finally, at about 11.00PM, Aidan showed up in the hall.


    ¡°President Pearson¡­¡± she muttered while standing up. ¡°Do we know each other?¡± he gazed at her


    emotionlessly. She didn¡¯t know what to say for a moment. Is this b*stard acting up again? I know he¡¯s


    acting sarcastic because I haven¡¯t spoken to him in the past few days. Well, I¡¯m not the only one with a


    mouth. He didn¡¯t talk to me either, right? ¡°There¡¯s something I¡¯d like to talk to you about,¡± Leanna


    uttered in a soft voice. He parted his long legs to walk over and sit down on the couch. ¡°Spit it out,¡± he


    spoke through his thin lips. Even though he was being mean, Leanna had no choice but to y nice


    since she wanted to ask him for a favor. ¡°I¡¯m attending a charity dinner tomorrow, and I¡¯m sure Anna


    will be there. So, I wanted to ask you if¡ª¡±


    He interrupted her before she could finish her words. ¡°Why are you going when you know that Anna¡¯s


    going to be there?¡±


    Leanna exined herself patiently. ¡°I¡¯m attending the event as Lux Magazine¡¯s jewelry designer. It¡¯s


    part of my job, so I have no reason to decline it.¡±


    ¡°Do you have no reason to decline it, or do you just not want to decline it?¡± Aidan crossed one of his


    long legs over the other. ¡°You want to meet Zayn, don¡¯t you?¡± he asked tly. Leanna didn¡¯t want to get


    into a fight with him because of this. She knew that he wouldn¡¯t listen to whatever she told him¡ªhe¡¯d


    juste to his own conclusions based on his own judgment.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry for bothering you. You can just assume I didn¡¯t say anything,¡± she said eventually. Right after


    that, she turned and headed upstairs, leaving Aidan alone. He licked his lips as he watched her walking


    away, but he didn¡¯t say anything after that. Of course, he¡¯d prefer for her not to attend an event like the


    one she was supposed to participate in the next day. After returning to her room, Leanna thought about


    it for a long while. Ultimately, she decided she would have to miss the charity dinner. Even if the


    chances of her being exposed were less than 0.01%, she still wasn¡¯t willing to risk it. So, she pulled her


    phone out and texted Harvey to inform him that she wouldn¡¯t be around for the charity dinner. Leanna¡¯s


    main task at the charity dinner was to introduce and share her inspiration and concept for her product


    when they auctioned her ne. So, Harvey would have to do her job if she couldn¡¯t make it.


    After providing Harvey with the necessary information, Leannay down on her bed and gazed at the


    calendar beside her. It had been a while since she returned to Highside, and her baby was growing day


    by day. She was due to have the child in less than four months. With that thought, Leanna felt her


    spirits lighten. She allowed herself to forget everything about the b*stard and all the bad things that had


    happened.


    ¡­


    The next day, Leanna didn¡¯t have much to do, so she went to Louis¡¯ school to pay him a visit. It was the


    weekend, and he didn¡¯t have sses. When Leanna went over to look for him, she found him doing his


    part-time job at the caf¨¦ opposite the school. A few girls were standing outside the caf¨¦, and their


    cheeks were flushed with excitement as they discussed something among themselves. They seemed


    to have visited the caf¨¦ just to see Louis.


    When Leanna got closer to the girls, she heard what they were talking about. ¡°I asked him yesterday,


    but he didn¡¯t give it to me. Ah¡­ I¡¯m too embarrassed to go again. One of you guys should go!¡± one girl


    cried.


    ¡°I¡¯m not going. I heard that he refused to give his number even to the prettiest girl in our course, so why


    would he give it to me?¡± another girl said.


    ¡°Gosh. If he has a girlfriend, his girlfriend probably feels really secure. I wish I were his girlfriend!¡± one


    of the girlsmented.


    ¡°That¡¯s enough. Look at him! I¡¯m sure his girlfriend is gorgeous as well,¡± one girl said. ¡°Yeah. I bet she¡¯s


    prettier than the prettiest girl in our course,¡± another one said. Leanna smirked when she heard the


    girls¡¯ discussion. Then, she pushed the door open to enter the caf¨¦. More than half of the people inside


    were girls, and they would asionally steal nces at the counter.


    The owner of the caf¨¦ beamed as he patted Louis on the back. ¡°You¡¯re my lucky charm, Louis. Our


    customers have doubled in amount since you came here to work. What do you want for lunch? I¡¯ll buy


    you a meal!¡±


    Louis was about to say something when he saw Leanna entering the store. ¡°It¡¯s fine. Thank you.¡± He


    politely rejected his boss. Then, he walked over to Leanna. ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    ¡°I came here to see you,¡± Leanna replied with a smile.

 Chapter 122

    Chapter 122


    Chapter 122 A True B*stard, Born and Bred!


    Meanwhile, at Lux Magazine, the workers in charge of sending the jewelry to the charity dinner had just


    left when Queenie stepped out of the shadows as she made a call. ¡°They¡¯re just about to head over.¡±


    ¡°Got it,¡± a man¡¯s voice uttered from the other end of the line.


    ¡°Remember what I told you. You have to deal with this before they bring it into the jewelry disy area.


    Otherwise, it¡¯s more likely for you to get caught,¡± Queenie reminded him.


    The line was silent for a while after that. ¡°Are you sure you want to do this, Queenie?¡± the man uttered.


    His words seemed to have triggered a switch in her. ¡°Do you think I want to do this?¡± she scoffed


    sarcastically. ¡°I put in all my effort in The Emerging Designer Competition three years ago, yet I only got


    second ce. How could that be? I should¡¯ve been the one who won the trip to Paris, yet in the end, it


    seemed like I just got something that she threw out like trash.¡± She took a deep breath before


    continuing. ¡°I¡¯m just trying to get rid of a passerby blocking my way. What¡¯s wrong with that? She has to


    disappear for my dreams and hopes toe true. I don¡¯t want to continue being looked down upon by


    others. You¡¯re going to help me, aren¡¯t you, Ron?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll bear all the responsibilities if anyone ever finds out about this, Queenie. I won¡¯t get you involved,¡±


    he replied.


    ¡°Just do as I say, and you¡¯re not going to get caught,¡± she reminded him before ending the call. Then,


    she tightened her fists before turning around and leaving. I will ensure that Leanna leaves the design


    industry once and for all!


    ¡­


    Louis poured a ss of milk for Leanna in the caf¨¦. ¡°How did you find the time toe over?¡± he


    asked as he sat opposite her. She held the ss with both hands and took a sip of the milk before


    responding. ¡°I¡¯m on break today, so I don¡¯t have much to do.¡±


    ¡°Zoe told me that you¡¯re going for a charity dinner tonight,¡± Louis uttered after a short pause. Leanna


    was speechless. I can¡¯t believe Zoe already told Louis about this event. ¡°Well, something came up, so


    I¡¯m not going anymore,¡± she said with a rather stiff smile.


    ¡°Is it because Aidan¡¯s going? Do you want to avoid him?¡± he asked.


    ¡°What are you talking about? It¡¯s not rted to him; I just¡­¡± Leanna didn¡¯t know how to exin things


    to him, so she changed the topic. When she realized how all the girls were gazing over at their table,


    she quicklymented on them. ¡°There¡¯re so many girls here who fancy you. Aren¡¯t you interested in


    any of them?¡± she asked.


    ¡°I¡¯ve no ns to date anymore,¡± he replied tly.


    ¡°Why not? You¡¯re at the perfect age to be in a rtionship. It¡¯d be a shame not to date someone,¡± she


    said. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you date anyone when you were my age, then?¡± he asked. She was speechless once


    more. This guy is really straightforward. She finally found an answer after a while. ¡°Well, I was busy


    working and studying back then, and¡­ Even though I didn¡¯t date anyone, I had a crush. That felt pretty


    nice too.¡± ¡°He ended up getting engaged to someone else, and you guys didn¡¯t get together in the end.


    What¡¯s so nice about that?¡± Louis muttered. Leanna was wise enough to keep her mouth shut this time


    ¡ªshe simply focused on drinking her milk. Finally, after a few minutes, it was Louis who spoke again.


    ¡°Do you¡­ want to look for that guy now?¡± Leanna didn¡¯t get who he was referring to at first. ¡°What


    guy?¡±


    ¡°The guy in that picture,¡± he replied after some hesitation. ¡°Louis¡­¡± she muttered. He looked away and


    leaned back in his seat after that. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about how I feel. I don¡¯t mind, you know?


    After all, as you said, at least we have the same mother. I don¡¯t care who my father is¡ªit¡¯s all the same


    to me.¡± Jethro was dead, after all. Leanna let out a softugh. ¡°I¡¯m not doing it for your sake, Louis. It¡¯s


    just that¡­ this world is too big, and we might not be able to find him. Even if we managed to locate


    him¡­ What if he¡¯s no longer alive? Or what if he¡¯s married to a new family? What¡¯s the purpose of me


    finding him, right?¡±


    ¡°If I were you, I¡¯d want to look for him regardless of whether he has a new family. Then, I would want to


    ask him why he abandoned us. Even if it means that I¡¯ll have to ask him in front of his tombstone, I¡¯ll


    still do it if it gives me an answer,¡± Louis replied in a serious tone. After that, Leanna lowered her head


    without saying anything.


    After all, she didn¡¯t want to look into this thing because she was afraid of what she would find. She was


    scared that the answer she had found wasn¡¯t what she wanted. When Louis saw her keeping quiet, he


    spoke up again. ¡°This is just what I think. I just wanted to tell you not to worry about me. I¡¯m not a child


    anymore,¡± he said.


    ¡°I got it. I¡¯ll think about it,¡± she replied with a smile. Louis was about to say something else, but the caf¨¦


    was getting too packed, and there were too many people ordering drinks, so the owner had to call him


    to help. ¡°I have to work now,¡± Louis said as he got to his feet.


    ¡°Alright. Go on. I should probably leave soon, too,¡± she replied. After Louis left, Leanna finished her


    milk before looking out the window. The sky had already turned dark by then. She was about to head


    out when a girl walked over to her. The girl had been nudged by her friend to approach Leanna.


    ¡°Excuse me. Are you Louis¡¯ girlfriend?¡± the girl asked in a whisper. Leanna spread her lips into a smile.


    ¡°No.¡± ¡°Then, who are¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m his sister. I¡¯m 25,¡± Leanna replied.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    The girl¡¯s eyes lit up immediately. ¡°Louis¡¯ sister! You¡¯re so gorgeous, and you have great skin. You don¡¯t


    look like you¡¯re in your mid-twenties at all!¡± The other girls gathered around Leanna after hearing her


    words. ¡°So, you¡¯re Louis¡¯ sister. You¡¯re so pretty. We thought you were his girlfriend!¡± one girl said.


    ¡°You guys have great genes at home. You¡¯re so pretty, and Louis is so handsome. We¡¯re so jealous of


    you guys,¡± another girl said.


    Leanna was in a much better mood when she walked out of the caf¨¦. If only I were actually in my


    teenage years. I would be able to do so much more without feeling any fear. I wouldn¡¯t be afraid to fail


    and start all over again. Instead of hailing a cab, Leanna decided to take a stroll on the street. She had


    no reason to head home, anyway.


    Before she knew it, she ended up at the building of the charity dinner. It was a rare opportunity and an


    honor for any new designer to have their products disyed at a charity dinner as grand as this one.


    Even though she didn¡¯t get the chance to participate in it, it felt pretty good for her to just sit downstairs


    to get a sense of the atmosphere. She had just found a convenience store nearby to take a seat when


    she received Zoe¡¯s call. ¡°Did you go for the charity dinner, Leanna?¡± Zoe asked.


    ¡°No. I have some other stuff to do.¡± Leanna hesitated for a moment as she realized Zoe sounded like


    she had some hidden meaning behind her question. ¡°What is it?¡± Leanna asked.


    ¡°Hahaha, it¡¯s nothing. I was just asking for fun. It¡¯s great to hear that you didn¡¯t go. Where are you?


    Should Ie over to meet you?¡± Zoe asked.


    Leanna looked through the convenience store ss to see a hotel opposite the street. ¡°I just came from


    Louis¡¯ school, and I¡¯m outside the hotel. So, I¡¯ll sit around and leave soon.¡±


    ¡°A hotel? Which one? Is this the hotel for the charity dinner?¡± Zoe asked.


    ¡°Yeah.¡±


    Zoe was speechless for a second. She gazed at the picture that her photographer friend had just sent


    her, and she felt a headacheing. The picture showed the back figure of a girl with her arm slipped


    into Aidan¡¯s. I take back whatever I said. Aidan is a b*stard. A true b*stard, born and bred!

 Chapter 123

    Chapter 123


    Chapter 123 Good Acting Skills


    When Aidan and Georgina showed up together at the charity dinner, the whole crowd fell eerily silent


    for a moment. Everyone knew that the Bats were just an empty shell¡ªthey knew that the entire


    charity dinner was just a gimmick for the Bats to get close to Gordon. Even though the Bats no


    longer had much to offer, they still had a good number of connections they had gathered from the past.


    After all, many of these people hoped to build rapport with the Pearsons.


    Many of the people there knew that Gordon was just the face of the Pearson Group and that Aidan was


    the one who was actually in charge. But the situation had seen some changes since the Pearsons¡¯


    marriage with the Bats. No one understood what was going on in Aidan¡¯s mind¡ªthey were shocked


    that he had decided to develop some resort in the outskirts during such a crucial moment. Aidan had


    handed Gordon the entire Pearson Group on a silver tter. Even though things were changing,


    Aidan¡¯s power and skills were not to be underestimated. Many people at the charity dinner seemed to


    be there to show support, but they were actually there to observe the situation.


    None of them had expected Aidan to show up with the youngdy of the Crossley Family. However,


    things were a lot clearer to them at that moment. The Bats, who were dying out, were no match for


    the Crossleys regardless of how many connections they had. After a moment of silence, everyone


    began to discuss the situation among themselves. Of course, everyone had their own opinions, but the


    only person who was genuinely happy for Georgina was probably Carly. Mr. Bat¡¯s face darkened


    when he witnessed this scene, but he didn¡¯t voice out about it.


    When Georgina walked over to him with her hand in Aidan¡¯s, Mr. Bat simply gave her a slight nod.


    Mr. Bat was used to Aidan¡¯s arrogant and haughty mannerisms, so he didn¡¯t bother to get petty with


    him. ¡°We¡¯re honored that you¡¯d attend the Bat Group¡¯s charity dinner, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for such courteous words, Mr. Bat. I¡¯m sure you know why I¡¯m here,¡± Aidan


    replied tly. Mr. Bat was a man of experience, so he wasn¡¯t tongue-tied after hearing what Aidan


    said. ¡°What are you talking about, President Pearson? This is a charity dinner, so I¡¯m sure everyone¡¯s


    here for charity. I can¡¯t think of any other reason you¡¯d be here.¡±


    Aidan curled his lips into an icy smirk, but he didn¡¯t say anything else after that. Georgina took her


    opportunity to speak up then. ¡°You¡¯re right, Mr. Bat. We¡¯re all here for the charity auction, of


    course.¡± Someone else came over to greet the Bats then, so she excused herself. ¡°You can go


    ahead and host your guests, Mr. Bat.¡±


    Once they left, Aidan pulled his arm out of Georgina¡¯s before getting himself a ss of champagne.


    ¡°You¡¯re a pretty good actress,¡± he muttered. Georgina didn¡¯t question hispliment¡ªshe simply took


    a ss of champagne for herself before clinking sses with him. ¡°The show has just started. Look at


    the people around you. They¡¯re all looking at us. It shows that our n was a total sess,¡± she


    whispered into his ear.


    Aidan turned away from her. There was an icy look on his face as he smiled. ¡°Georgina!¡± Carly walked


    over with her pregnant belly. ¡°Georgina!¡± Carly cried. ¡°Carly,¡± Georgina replied. When Carly saw Aidan,


    she pouted for a moment before looking away and beaming while talking to Georgina. Carly didn¡¯t


    understand what the Pearson and Bat Families were nning¡ªshe was simply looking out for a


    friend. Even though she wasn¡¯t a huge fan of Aidan, she couldn¡¯t detail the significance of his position


    in Pearson Group. Furthermore, Georgina had fancied him for years. ¡°Georgina, I love the ne


    that Lux Jewelry sent me, but¡­¡± Carly started. Georgina knew what Carly was hesitant about. She


    probably doesn¡¯t have enough money on her. ¡°I can give it to you if you like it, Carly,¡± Georgina said


    with a smile. ¡°No, no. Don¡¯t! I¡¯m just telling you about it. After all, The Bats are the ones hosting this


    charity. I can¡¯t steal their spotlight. I¡¯m just telling you that the ne looks nice. Perhaps you can


    buy it for yourself if you like it,¡± Carly said. Right then, the lights went dim in the hall. The emcee


    stepped on stage, and the charity auction officially started.


    ¡­


    Leanna sneezed as a gust of cold wind surged through the air outside the hotel. She was searching for


    some tissues in her bag when she found a jewelry box. That was when she recalled what she had


    forgotten previously. Even though she couldn¡¯t attend the charity dinner, she had to deliver what sheAll rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    had promised her client. So, she wrapped her coat a little tighter around her before she walked to the


    hotel.


    She went to the nearest waiter when she got out of the elevator. ¡°Excuse me. Can you help me to look


    for Miss Crossley? There¡¯s something I¡¯d like to pass to her.¡± The waiter took a look at the main


    entrance behind him. He knew that there were a lot of VIPs that day, so he didn¡¯t want to dilly-dally


    around for too long. ¡°Alright. Please hold on a second.¡± As the auction was going on, the waiter


    managed to find Georgina under the dim lights. The waiter told Georgina what Leanna was here for,


    and Georgina sent a nce toward the man beside her right after she heard the waiter¡¯s words. He


    was gazing at the stage¡ªhe wasn¡¯t paying attention to her at all. She whispered a few words to the


    waiter before turning to Aidan. ¡°There¡¯s someone looking for me, Aidan. I¡¯ll leave for a while.¡± He


    nodded without even looking at her. Leanna had only been waiting outside the hall for a while when she


    saw Georgina walking toward her. ¡°Miss Crossley,¡± she greeted. Georgina smiled at Leanna as she


    stopped in front of her. ¡°Why aren¡¯t youing in since you¡¯re already here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss Crossley. I have some other matters to handle,¡± Leanna replied as she pulled the


    jewelry box out of her bag. ¡°Sorry for making you wait.¡±


    ¡°No worries.¡± Georgina reached her hand over to take the box.


    ¡°Well, Miss Crossley, I¡¯ll¡ª¡± Before Leanna could finish her words, Georgina interrupted her. ¡°Lux


    Magazine¡¯s jewelry is about to be auctioned soon, and I heard that they will disy Miss McK¡¯s


    products. Aren¡¯t you going in to take a look?¡±


    Leanna was quiet for a moment before she smiled. ¡°It¡¯s fine.¡± She had just taken a few steps to leave


    when she heard a pair of heels clicking behind her. Soon enough, Anna¡¯s voice sounded from behind


    her. ¡°I¡¯ve been looking for you the whole day, Georgina. So, why did youe out here?¡±


    Georgina smiled at the other woman. ¡°I came out to take your wedding gift.¡± Leanna¡¯s footsteps halted


    the moment she heard Georgina¡¯s words. Is the friend that Georgina mentioned¡­ Anna?


    ¡°What is it?¡± Anna¡¯s footsteps came to a halt in front of Georgina. ¡°I went to Lux to get their designers to


    make you a ne.¡± Georgina opened the box. ¡°Do you like it? This is designed by Miss McK, the


    same designer as ¡®First Love¡¯. I recall you liking the piece¡­¡±


    As Georgina spoke, Anna looked up to notice a familiar figure walking away from them. She snatched


    the jewelry box away from Georgina before Georgina even finished her words. Then, she threw it


    directly at Leanna, whom she could recognize even from the back. ¡°How shameless are you, Leanna?


    How dare youe all the way here?!¡±

 Chapter 124

    Chapter 124


    Chapter 124 She Deserves the Fate Brought Upon Her


    Looking at the jewelry box scattered around her feet, Leanna saw the ne inside the box had


    been broken into two pieces and was strewed on the ground.


    While she was looking at the broken ne on the ground, Georgina came back to her senses at this


    moment. She quickly looked at Anna and said, ¡°Anna, what are you doing¡ª¡±


    However, Anna swiftly interrupted Georgina before she could continue inquiring about her action.


    ¡°Georgina, this woman faked her pregnancy and forced Aidan to marry her. She¡¯s also the woman who


    tried every means to seduce Zayn!¡±


    Georgina defended Leanna upon hearing that. ¡°No, McK isn¡¯t someone with such a nature. Anna, could


    it be that you misunderstood?¡±


    Considering that she hated Leanna so much, Anna let out a sarcasticugh when she heard Georgina


    defend her. Nevertheless, despite her sarcasticugh directed at Georgina¡¯s remarks, her eyes were


    looking at Leanna while she talked, ¡°Say: you¡¯re good at pretending. Do you think others won¡¯t know


    what kind of trash you are in your core under thatyer of facade you put on?¡±


    ¡°Uh¡ª¡±


    Leanna slowly turned around and looked at Anna with a calm demeanor. ¡°What trash am I in my core?¡±


    In contrast with Leanna¡¯s calm demeanor, Anna was a little agitated when she saw Leanna being able


    to calmly refute her words. Therefore, she reprimanded her out of frustration, ¡°Are you not aware of it


    yourself? After you and Aidan got divorced, you started pestering Zayn. Not only that, you¡¯re still


    pestering Zayn even now after he and I are already engaged. Are you really unable to live a life without


    men?¡±


    Still, Leanna remained herposure and smiled calmly. ¡°Do you think you two can still get engaged if


    I truly pestered Zayn?¡±


    Anna uttered in anger, gritting her teeth, ¡°Finally, you admit it!¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there that I can¡¯t admit? You¡¯re just afraid that I will snatch Zayn from you. How about I fulfill


    your fear now since you¡¯re so afraid?¡±


    ¡°You¡ª¡±


    At this juncture, Anna was enraged. She raised her hand and wanted to whack Leanna. Yet, Georgina


    stopped her just when her hand was inches away from Leanna. ¡°Anna, don¡¯t be impulsive.¡±


    Sure enough, Anna knew she shouldn¡¯t be reckless. Nheless, she was so enraged that she was no


    longer rational at this moment. ¡°You heard her. She can even spew such shameless words out of her


    mouth. She deserves the fate brought upon her!¡±


    Georgina frowned upon hearing those harsh words. ¡°There¡¯s a big asion going on today. Not to


    mention, both Mr. and Mrs. Bat are present too. Things won¡¯t be any good to you if things are blown


    out of proportion.¡±


    As soon as these words escaped Georgina¡¯s lips, Anna calmed down. Despite that, she wasn¡¯t afraid of


    what Georgina mentioned. In reality, she suddenly remembered that Aidan was also inside the hall.


    Compared to Mr. and Mrs. Bat, she was actually more afraid of Aidan. He certainly won¡¯t let me go


    if he knows that Iy my hand on Leanna. With that in mind, Anna withdrew her hand, but she


    immediately cast a furtive nce at Leanna¡¯s belly as her mind started scheming something else. At


    this moment, a bustling voice suddenly came from the banquet hall. Georgina¡¯s subordinates came


    over and whispered a few words in her ear. As she listened, her facial expression changed slightly.


    Then, she turned around and wanted to return to the hall. Regardless, she looked at Leanna after she


    took a step forward. ¡°Miss McK, I may need to trouble you toe with me. There¡¯s something wrong


    with the jewelry pieces that Lux auctioned today.¡± Little did they know, a figure was waiting until they left


    and came out of the dark. After standing on the spot for a while, the figure looked at the broken


    ne on the ground. The figure only picked it up and pocketed it after looking at it for a few


    seconds. After that, the figure turned and left. ¡­


    In the meantime, things were pretty chaotic at the charity auction site. In line with the discussion, Lux


    Jewelry would exhibit its jewelry pieces in order. Nevertheless, something happened when it was the


    turn to auction Leanna¡¯s works. Not only did Harvey¡¯s expression look slightly nasty, Queenie even


    stepped forward and asked in confusion, ¡°Isn¡¯t this the jewelry piece that I privately customized for Miss


    Crossley?¡± Although her voice wasn¡¯t loud, the words that escaped her mouth still caused quite a stir in


    the quiet banquet hall. When the guests who attended the auction heard Queenie¡¯s words, they started


    discussing and whispering, ¡°What is Lux doing? Are they actually taking out a custom-made ne


    for auction?!¡± ¡°This isn¡¯t right. Isn¡¯t it McK¡¯s works that are being auctioned now? How could it be¡ªwhat


    the hell is going on?¡± ¡°The McK that you¡¯re talking about¡ªis she the designer who was rumored to be


    someone¡¯s mistress? I saw her that time when I went to Lux¡¯s new productunch conference. She¡¯s


    quite beautiful indeed. I think making such a woman be my sugar baby isn¡¯t such a terrible idea.¡± As


    soon as the person said this, he felt a cold and sharp gaze looking at him. Unfortunately, he discovered


    nothing when he turned his head.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    At this moment, no one was more anxious than Harvey after hearing these discussions. If my memory


    serves me right, I swear I had double-checked until I confirmed that there was nothing wrong with the


    jewelry before they were delivered to the charity auction site.


    He was confident that he didn¡¯t make any possible mistakes, so he quickly went to look for Queenie.


    Once he found her, he frowned and asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡±


    When faced with Harvey¡¯s inquiry, Queenie shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know either, but¡ªit was yesterday


    that I realized the ne was lost. I contacted Miss Crossley, and she said she didn¡¯t take it. Mr.


    Mancini, I saw McK¡¯s finished piece before, so this shouldn¡¯t be her work.¡±


    To Harvey¡¯s surprise, Queenie actually would justify the situation for McK. Therefore, he was silent for a


    moment.


    Frankly speaking, Harvey had always thought that Queenie was the biggest suspect in this matter.


    Now that Queenie rified on behalf of Leanna, Harvey looked at her thoughtfully. He found that


    Queenie was calm with no trace of a guilty conscience.


    So, he believed that Queenie was truly innocent in this matter, and he said, ¡°You and I, we¡¯ll go to


    Bat Group¡¯s side and exin the situation to them. We¡¯ll try our best to minimize the impact of this


    incident.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± By the time Leanna and Georgina arrived at the banquet hall, they realized that the host had


    already announced the suspension of the auction. Not only that, the crowd around them was


    discussing this matter. Once again, the rumor that Leanna was once being a mistress to a wealthy


    businessman resurfaced. Furthermore, some even said that she had always giarized her works.


    They even added that the overturning of the event this time was her karma. Moreover, there was even


    someone who said that the reason Lux kept shielding her was that she had a secret lubricious deal with


    some high-level executives. One by one, those people spew those rumors confidently as if they


    possessed conclusive evidence.


    In the meantime, Anna stood on one side with a disdainful look. Then, she crossed her arms in front of


    her chest as she sneered, ¡°There¡¯s nothing she can¡¯t do. Besides, it isn¡¯t once or twice she had seized


    others¡¯ works as her own.¡±


    Georgina reprimanded her softly, ¡°Don¡¯t say that, Anna. Currently, the issue has yet to be fully


    investigated, so don¡¯t blindly use her.¡±


    ¡°She knows whether or not I have used her or not.¡±


    On the other hand, Leanna didn¡¯t want to have a meaningless quarrel with Anna in the banquet hall.


    Hence, she went to look for one of Lux¡¯s staff members in the crowd and asked, ¡°Where¡¯s Mr.


    Mancini?¡±


    ¡°McK?¡± The staff was a little surprised when they saw her. Nevertheless, they quickly answered her. ¡°I


    just saw Mr. Mancini and Queenie go looking for Mr. Bat.¡±


    With that, Leanna asked again, ¡°Which way did they head?¡±


    ¡°Toward the VIP lounge.¡±


    Leanna nodded and thanked the staff upon hearing those words. After that, she turned to Georgina and


    said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Miss Crossley. I¡¯ll excuse myself first.¡±


    Unexpectedly, Georgina said, ¡°I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    Just as Leanna wanted to refuse, she heard Georgina say. ¡°After all, I¡¯m also involved in this matter.¡±


    ¡°Fine.¡±


    In the VIP lounge, Dous couldn¡¯t hide his anger as he had heard a lot of Leanna¡¯s rumors just now.


    ¡°What is Lux Magazine trying to pull?! You guys actually send the works of such designers to auction


    and even cause such a chaotic situation!¡±


    Not forgetting his purpose ining looking for Dous, Harvey said, ¡°We¡¯re very sorry, Mr. Bat.


    But you have misunderstood our designer, and the rumors about her from the outside world aren¡¯t true.


    Besides, she designed the jewelry auctioned today. Hence, I¡¯m sure there must be something wrong¡ª¡±


    s, Dous abruptly cut him off. ¡°I don¡¯t care about this. You guys had messed up such a good


    charity dinner! I have already instructed someone to take down her lot, so you guys bettere up


    with a rification statement on this matter afterward.¡±


    When Harvey sensed that Dous was unwilling topromise, he frowned. ¡°Mr. Bat, if you


    remove her spot without any exnation, it¡¯ll only make everyone think she¡¯s¡ª¡±


    Once again, Dous interrupted him with a cold voice. ¡°That is none of my business.¡±

 Chapter 125

    Chapter 125


    Chapter 125 I¡¯m Not Interested in Handling This Matter


    However, the door of the VIP lounge opened just as Dous was about to leave after he finished


    speaking those words.


    Startled by this sudden interruption, everyone in the VIP lounge looked to the door. They saw it was


    Aidan. Meanwhile, he stood by the door indifferently and said, ¡°As the organizer of this event, Bat


    Group also has an inescapable responsibility when something goes wrong. Mr. Bat, are you just


    going to let it be?¡±


    When Dous saw him, his facial expression became even more awful. ¡°President Pearson, based on


    your words, are you implying that you will interfere in this matter?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bat, you¡¯ve misunderstood. I was just passing by, that¡¯s all.¡±


    As soon as Aidan spoke those words, the exclusive VIP lounge went as silent as the dead night.


    Since Harvey was the only one among all those in the lounge who knew Aidan¡¯s reason for showing up


    wasn¡¯t as simple as him passing by, he coughed to break the silence. Then, he stepped forward and


    said, ¡°Mr. Bat, I can guarantee that there were no problems with the jewelry before they were


    delivered. In fact, the staff had been keeping an eye on them all the way and didn¡¯t leave their side for


    even a short while. Hence, I have to apologize for troubling you to ask the hotel to cooperate with us by


    letting us retrieve the surveince footage.¡±


    Even so, Dous was still unwilling to reason with Harvey. So, he said impatiently, ¡°Are you asking me


    to leave so many of my guests unattended for the sake of a woman with a horrible reputation?¡±


    Before Harvey could say anything, Aidan¡¯s emotionless voice sounded this time. ¡°Mr. Bat, you may


    be unaware of this. But your son, Zayn, almost ruined the engagement with the Pearson Family


    because of this woman you said has a horrible reputation.¡±


    Instantly, Dous¡¯ facial expression stiffened. At that moment, he no longer had the mood to put Aidan


    off with fair words. ¡°What did you say?¡±


    At the same time, Queenie stood in the corner of the lounge. When she heard Aidan¡¯s words, the faint


    smile on her face became solemn, and she looked up inconceivably.


    Does Leanna actually know the son of the Bat Family?!


    At this moment, there was a knock on the door.


    Dous straightened his clothes when he heard the knock. Then, he took a deep breath before saying,


    ¡°Come in.¡±


    One after another, Leanna and Georgina¡¯s figures came into his sight.


    When Dous saw these two showed up in the VIP lounge, his facial expression became even more


    awful. Although Georgina and Carly had a good rtionship, the Bat Family and the Crossley


    Family had no business dealings. Not to mention, Georgina attended tonight¡¯s charity auction together


    with Aidan and disrupted all their ns.


    Naturally, Dous became bad temper now that he saw she and Aidan showed up subsequently as if


    they had made an arrangement in advance to deliberately cause trouble. With his rather rude tone, he


    asked, ¡°What are you doing here?¡±


    Sure enough, Georgina noticed the displeasure in Dous¡¯ tone. Nevertheless, she paid no attention


    and simply said lightly, ¡°Mr. Bat, let me introduce to you the designer of Lux, McK.¡±


    Presently, Dous¡¯ impression of Leanna was terrible because of the rumors outside earlier. In


    addition, the incident that Aidan mentioned reminded him of Anna kicking up a fussst time. Initially,


    he thought it was just Anna making a baseless statement and being vexatious. Regardless, he didn¡¯t


    expect Zayn to admit such a woman¡¯s existence. Therefore, Dous couldn¡¯t help but have a little


    more repugnance in his eyes when he looked at Leanna. Still, Leanna ignored Dous¡¯ unfriendly


    demeanor and began politely, ¡°Hello, Mr. Bat. I¡¯m here to exin the matters regarding the auction


    ¡ª¡± As expected, Dous bluntly cut her off halfway through her sentence. ¡°You don¡¯t have to say


    more. I have made my decision on this matter. As to how you all want to exin the situation, that¡¯s


    your issue. It has nothing to do with my business, and it also has nothing to do with this charity dinner.¡±


    Once he finished speaking, he didn¡¯t stay any longer and strode away. Watching as Dous strode


    away, Leanna sighed silently. When she looked up, she discovered a pair of eyes staring at her coldly,


    not far away. Leanna became speechless when she met the cold gaze and thought, Why is he here as


    well? I promised him I wouldn¡¯te here, but I didn¡¯t expect these things to happen.


    When Georgina saw the two staring at each other, she stepped forward and held Aidan¡¯s arm. Then,


    with a smile, she said, ¡°By the way, I forgot to introduce you to my partner. McK, meet my fianc¨¦, the


    president of Pearson Group.¡± As she spoke, she looked at Aidan again. ¡°Aidan, this is Lux Jewelry¡¯s


    designer. I like the jewelry pieces she designed very much.¡± Aidan¡¯s facial expression remained stony


    as he coldly uttered through his thin lips, ¡°Really?¡± Georgina ignored the icy cold tone in his voice as


    she continued to reassure Leanna. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, McK. We¡¯ll definitely help you to get to the bottom of


    this matter and get the justice you deserve.¡± The corner of Leanna¡¯s lips twitched, and she suddenly


    didn¡¯t know what to say. In reality, she was actually thinking of the way Georgina introduced Aidan a


    while ago.


    Like her heart being crushed by a stone weighing a thousand pounds, the title ¡®fianc¨¦¡¯ made her


    breathless for a moment as it brought her pain.


    Aidan didn¡¯t bother waiting for Leanna to answer as he said coldly, ¡°I¡¯m not interested in handling this


    matter.¡±


    Afterward, he withdrew his hand from Georgina¡¯s arm and left straight away.


    Despite being treated rudely by Aidan, Georgina wasn¡¯t mad at all. Instead, she looked at his back


    silhouette and smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t mind him. That¡¯s just his temper.¡±


    Harvey, who witnessed the sessive hellish scenes, stepped forward and interrupted their


    conversation in time. ¡°Miss Crossley, we¡¯re sorry for dragging you into this matter this time. We¡¯ll


    definitely give you a satisfactory exnation.¡±


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    ¡°It¡¯s fine. I believe in McK, and I also have faith in Lux.¡± ¡°Thank you, Miss Crossley, for your trust. We¡¯ll


    handle this matter as soon as possible.¡± Georgina nodded with a smile upon hearing Harvey¡¯s


    reassurances. However, she nced at Queenie, who had never spoken a word, when she left. ¡°You


    work hard too, Miss Wojzicki.¡± Without a doubt, this took Queenie by surprise, and she panicked for a


    moment. She was stunned for a few seconds before answering. ¡°You¡¯re too kind, Miss Crossley. It¡¯s


    what I should do.¡± After Georgina left, Harvey said to Leanna, ¡°Right now, the Bat Group refuses to


    give us a chance to make an exnation to the public. But fret not; there is still a way. The situation


    should be salvageable as long as we can retrieve your work before the charity auction ends.¡± At the


    sound of Harvey¡¯s voice, Leanna immediately retracted her thoughts. ¡°Thank you, Mr. Mancini. Sorry


    for troubling you again.¡±


    ¡°I also should be held ountable for this matter. I should have delivered those jewelry pieces in


    person. If I deliver them myself, none of these will happen. Anyhow, time¡¯s running out, so we must


    retrieve the surveince now¡ª¡±


    Before Harvey could finish, Leanna interrupted him. ¡°No need,¡± Leanna said calmly, ¡°I had inquired


    about the auction¡¯s progress when I came just now. There are only thest three lots left in the charity


    auction. It may not be enough for us to go to the monitoring room.¡±


    Harvey frowned slightly at her words. Unfortunately, that is indeed the case.


    Although the auction was suspended just now, we have already wasted a lot of time here. Now that Mr.


    Bat has gone out, he must have continued the auction.


    Regardless of what, it¡¯s toote for us now.


    Then, Leanna said again, ¡°Just let it be.¡±


    When Leanna spoke those words, she decided that she didn¡¯t want to let Lux get harmed again


    because of her. So, the only way now is for me to leave Lux and let Lux ce the me on me.


    I¡¯m tired and don¡¯t have the strength to fight anyway.


    ¡°McK, if it really doesn¡¯t work, why don¡¯t you find Aid¡ª¡±


    Leanna smiled faintly and cut Harvey off because she knew what he wanted to say. ¡°Mr. Mancini, I shall


    take my leave first.¡±


    With that, she walked outside the lounge. After leaving the lounge, Leanna breathed out a sigh of relief.


    But, to her surprise, she saw Zayn walking toward her just when she was about to leave.


    ¡°Leanna, follow me.¡±


    Zayn took her hand, led her, and strode toward the banquet hall.


    Feeling puzzled, Leanna called out his name softly, ¡°Zayn¡ª¡±


    Yet, Zayn paid no attention and continued leading her toward the banquet hall. When they got to the


    banquet hall, the auction had just ended.


    Finally, he turned to look at her and said, ¡°Wait for me here, Leanna.¡±


    After he finished speaking, he went up to the exhibition stand. He took the host¡¯s microphone and said,


    ¡°Everyone, I apologize for upying your time.¡±


    At once, the guests who were nning to leave stopped and looked back.


    Eventually, Zayn continued, ¡°Bat Group was the reason for the earlier mistake made during the


    auction. Also, it has brought a negative influence on Lux¡¯s designers. Hence, I wish to rify this matter


    now.¡±

 Chapter 126

    Chapter 126


    Chapter 126 I Suppose Aidan Is Getting Married Soon


    As early as the incident urred, Zayn went to look for the staff of Lux. After confirming with them that


    there was no problem when Lux delivered the jewelry pieces, he headed straight to the hotel and


    retrieved the surveince footage.


    However, the other party was also well prepared. They knew that there were surveince cameras in


    the hotel, so they disguised themselves as Bat Group¡¯s staff before entering the area with


    surveince cameras. They made up a reason saying that they needed to confirm the inspection before


    letting the jewelry pieces enter the exhibition hall. Seeing that the jewelry had already arrived at the


    hotel, the staff from Lux¡¯s side didn¡¯t suspect anything.


    It was during the journey that they secretly exchanged Leanna¡¯s jewelry.


    They thought they had done it wlessly, yet they forgot that nothing was absolute. So, inevitably, they


    would overlook the potential ws with the tampered jewelry.


    Coincidentally, the surveince caught a picture of a man giving a jewelry box to another person.


    Although the other person didn¡¯t appear on the camera, it was evident that Leanna was framed.


    In the end, Zayn said, ¡°In addition, McK and I have been friends for so many years. I can assure you


    that she¡¯s definitely not the kind of person as rumored. As for those who maliciously spread rumors,


    Bat Group will pursue legal responsibility.¡±


    Without a doubt, this took everyone by great surprise. They didn¡¯t expect that there would be such a


    massive twist to the matter.


    Also, none of them would have thought that a mere designer under Lux would be Zayn¡¯s friend.


    Meanwhile, Dous¡¯ facial expression was livid as he watched Zayn make that statement. Then, in a fit


    of anger, he left the banquet hall.


    Finally, a farce came to an end after Zayn made a rifying statement to prove Leanna¡¯s innocence.


    Zayn slowly strolled down from the exhibition tform and headed toward Leanna¡¯s side. ¡°I¡¯ll send you


    home, Leanna.¡±


    Leanna parted her lips and said, ¡°Actually, you don¡¯t need to do this.¡±


    Nheless, Zayn still insisted. ¡°I didn¡¯t protect you before, and that¡¯s why I lost you forever. Right now,


    I¡¯m simply doing whatever is within my capability to help you.¡±


    When she saw that he was being persistent, she didn¡¯t know what to say anymore. Just then, she


    suddenly remembered something and looked around. ¡°Where¡¯s Anna?¡±


    Logically speaking, it¡¯s impossible for Anna to be so quiet after seeing Zayn help me rify this matter.


    After all, she hates me deeply.


    ¡°I have my men watching her. Don¡¯t worry. She won¡¯te looking for trouble with you again,¡± Zayn


    said, ¡°Come, let¡¯s go. I¡¯ll see you off outside.¡±


    She knew that she might not be able to walk out of the ce alone in this situation, so she nodded and


    epted his offer.


    With that, she followed him and turned to leave,pletely ignoring the calctive gaze behind them.


    After they left, Georgina said to herself, ¡°I didn¡¯t expect McK to actually know Zayn, and I even asked


    her to design a wedding gift for Anna before. What a coincidence!¡±


    At the sound of Georgina¡¯s voice, Aidan put up an iprehensible facial expression and gave her a


    sideways nce.


    Still, Georgina simply smiled and met his gaze. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡±


    ¡°Your acting is better than I imagined.¡±


    Georgina paused momentarily when she heard that as she knew he was referring to the incident that


    took ce in the lounge earlier, then she said with a soft smile, ¡°Well, if I want to make someone


    believe something untrue, I certainly need to make it as real as possible. Won¡¯t it be oblivious to


    onlookers if it¡¯s too fake?¡± Aidan merely sneered and said nothing after listening to her exnation.


    Georgina continued on when she saw that Aidan wasn¡¯t interested in making a conversation, ¡°Aidan¡ª


    in truth, I wasn¡¯t entirely acting. I¡¯m serious about what I said. Why don¡¯t you consider our marriage?¡± At


    this juncture, Aidan knew it was time for him to leave. Therefore, he tilted his head and drank the ss


    of champagne in his hand in one shot. After that, he ced the empty ss aside. ¡°I¡¯m leaving now


    that the show is over.¡± Georgina¡¯s smile gradually slid off her face as she silently watched his retreating


    silhouette. ¡­ Meanwhile, Anna was raising hell and banging on the door in the lounge. ¡°You lowlifes!


    How dare you lock me up here?! I¡¯ll kill you once I get out! Let me out!¡± Just like that, she shouted


    unrelentingly for 20 minutes. Then, while Anna was kicking up a fuss inside the lounge, someone


    outside the lounge door said, ¡°Miss Pearson, this is our young master¡¯s order. He¡¯lle to pick you up


    soon after he¡¯s done settling the matter. Please wait a moment.¡±


    ¡°No! I want to go out now! Do you guys hear me?! You guys will surely face an unthinkable


    consequence if my Aunt Sienna knows you guys are locking me up in here!¡±


    At this moment, Georgina showed up at the door and said to the people guarding the entrance, ¡°The


    matter has been settled and is over. Let her out.¡±


    The two guarding the door looked at each other and didn¡¯t respond for a moment when they heard her


    words.


    Georgina noticed the doubtful looks between them and continued, adding, ¡°Zayn has already left. You


    guys can call him and ask if you guys don¡¯t believe me.¡±


    When the two heard Georgina¡¯s words, they no longer doubted her and quickly opened the door.


    Once they unlocked the door, Anna rushed out. Just when she was about tosh out her anger,


    Georgina stopped her. ¡°They simply obeyed orders. So what¡¯s the use of taking your anger out on


    them?¡±


    As she spoke, Georgina turned to look at the two men. ¡°You guys may leave.¡±


    With that, they replied to her in unison. ¡°Thank you, Miss Crossley!¡± Then, the two left in a hurry, not


    wanting to taste Anna¡¯s wrath.


    Anna was utterly enraged when she saw that the two men who locked her up in the room had left just


    like that. ¡°Are you saying that I should just let this slide?!¡±


    Georgina regarded the raging Anna before responding, ¡°No, I¡¯m not asking you to let this matter slide.


    But you should know very well why Zayn locked you up here. So, aim urately at your target, and


    don¡¯t waste your time.¡±


    ¡°Target? What target?¡±


    Anna asked her curiously as she thought that Georgina would have an idea. Unfortunately, Georgina


    simply said calmly, ¡°I don¡¯t know either. But it must be something that he didn¡¯t want you to see,


    considering he locked you up here.¡±


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    When Anna heard this, she instantly reacted. Immediately afterward, an unprecedented hatred filled


    her heart, and she gritted her teeth in anger. ¡°It must be because of Leanna! It¡¯s all because of her! All


    Zayn sees is her every time she shows up! That¡¯s it! I will make sure to make her life miserable!¡±


    ¡­


    Coincidentally, Zoe arrived when Leanna and Zayn arrived downstairs.


    ¡°Nana, you guys¡ª¡±


    Leanna motioned her to wait a moment. Finally, she turned to Zayn and said, ¡°You can see me off until


    here. Thank you for helping me with today¡¯s affairs.¡±


    Zayn pursed his lips before he spoke, ¡°Leanna, you never have to thank me for anything.¡±


    Once he finished saying that, he nodded to Zoe and left.


    As he walked, he thought of the mess waiting for him to deal with upstairs. Thus, he quickened his


    pace.


    Zoe finally couldn¡¯t hold back her doubts when she saw that he had left. With a low yet excited voice,


    she asked, ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why are you and Zayn together?¡±


    ¡°Something happened at the charity dinner today¡ª¡± Leanna paused. Since the matter was a bit


    complicated, she didn¡¯t know how to exin it to Zoe for a moment. After that, she said, ¡°I¡¯ll tell you


    later.¡±


    Zoe nodded. ¡°Then, did you meet Aidan after you went upstairs?¡±


    When Leanna heard that, she was stunned for a while before starting to speak, ¡°Yeah, I did.¡±


    ¡°Then, he¡ª¡±


    Frankly speaking, Zoe wanted to ask Leanna if she saw Aidan with another woman. Yet, she was afraid


    that Leanna didn¡¯t see it and would be saddened by her senseless question.


    Meanwhile, Leanna didn¡¯t notice Zoe¡¯s hesitating look at all. Instead, with a smile, she said, ¡°By the


    way, I¡¯ll tell you a gossip. I suppose Aidan is getting married soon.¡±


    Like dropping a bombshell, Zoe was shocked by this gossip. ¡°So soon?!¡±


    ¡°Maybe. Oh, and you know his fianc¨¦e too,¡± Leanna said. Then, she continued after a pause. ¡°It¡¯s Miss


    Crossley, the customer who asked me for a private customization order.¡±


    Since there was only the back view of a woman in the photo that Zoe had received before, she didn¡¯t


    recognize the woman at all. Now that she heard Leanna¡¯s words, she felt that the entire situation had


    be even more oundish. ¡°Are you telling me that there¡¯s actually such a coincidence?¡±


    As she spoke, a sudden realization hit her, and she said in surprise, ¡°Then, the good friend that she


    said is going to get married¡ªdon¡¯t you tell me it¡¯s Anna!¡±

 Chapter 127

    Chapter 127


    Chapter 127 Honesty and Responsibility Are the Most Important


    The smile on the edges of Leanna¡¯s lips fell a little, and she nodded gently.


    Zoe couldn¡¯t help but curse in her heart before asking in a low voice, ¡±Then, did you give the stuff to


    her?¡±


    ¡±I did, but Anna threw it out.¡±


    Zoe sighed at that and responded, ¡±Forget it. Since it¡¯s thrown out, so be it. Anyway, you¡¯ve already


    received the design fees, so they can do whatever they like with it.¡±


    Even though that was what she said, she knew that every design was unique and the brainchild of the


    designer. So, it would be a lie to say that the designer didn¡¯t mind when they witnessed their design


    being thrown out.


    ¡±Let¡¯s go,¡± Leanna said¡­..


    Right after she had told Leanna that, she saw Aidan marching out of the hotel with an emotionless


    face, and ayer of cold air encapsted him as he strode inrge strides toward the Rolls-Royce


    parked at the side.


    He didn¡¯t even nce once in their direction the entire time.


    Jonathan followed behind him and couldn¡¯t help but cast a hesitant look at Leanna, unsure whether he


    should ask her toe along with them. In the end, he nodded at her in acknowledgment and left in a


    hurry.


    ¡±What¡¯s up with that jerk? He¡¯s the one who¡¯s being greedy by wanting more than one woman. How can


    he act so justified? I really misjudged him. Hmph!¡±


    Leanna merely chuckled softly. ¡±Let¡¯s go.¡±


    ¡­


    Back at Castor Vi, Leanna was about to go upstairs when the servant, Alice, approached her and


    said in a hushed voice, ¡±Madam, did you have an argument with Master again? I saw that he had a


    long face when he returned earlier. It looks like he¡¯s furious.¡±


    ¡±It¡¯s okay. He¡¯s always like this.¡±


    Before Alice left, she advised Leanna a little more, and when Leanna returned to her room, she took


    out her luggage from the closet and simply tossed her clothes into it. Then, she strolled out of the room


    with it.


    Outside the bedroom, she saw Aidan leaning against the doorframe with his hands stuck in his pockets


    and looking at her expressionlessly. ¡±Where are you going?¡±


    ¡±Since you¡¯re going to get married, there¡¯s no more reason for me to stay here any longer, President


    Pearson,¡± Leanna answered.


    However, he let out a mirthlessugh before he said, ¡±Just one word from her, and you took it for real,


    but when I said so much, you didn¡¯t give two hoots about it. Leanna McKinney, this is just your excuse,


    isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡±You can think whatever makes you happy, President Pearson.¡± She couldn¡¯t be bothered to waste her


    breath on him, so she sashayed forward with the luggage behind her. Nevertheless, she stopped in her


    tracks when she was at the staircase. I was too impulsive, she realized. Aidan didn¡¯t move from his


    spot, not far from her, as he watched her withposure. Then, with an inexplicable fury swirling in her


    chest, it was as though she was squabbling with him without words, and after thinking about it for a few


    seconds, she went downstairs. ¡±Alice, will you please help me to bring down my stuff?¡± Just when Alice


    was about to agree, she caught sight of Aidan at the top of the staircase, wearing a stoic face. So, she


    came up with an excuse on the spot as she ced a hand on her back for support. ¡±Oh my, Madam.


    My back has been hurting for the past couple of days from an old pain, and I can¡¯t lift anything heavy,¡±


    she said, scurrying away from the scene. Leanna was rendered speechless by her daring but thought,


    Forget it. I don¡¯t want my stuff anymore. Thus, she turned and left, but Aidan¡¯s voice echoed behind


    her, saying, ¡±You should think about the consequences of leaving.¡± The moment the words left his lips,


    Leanna really stopped in her tracks, and he came downstairs slowly before taking a seat on the couch.


    She looked at him calmly, asking, ¡±Are you threatening me, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡±If it makes you happy to think like this, then go ahead.¡± Leanna was stunned as she quietly wondered,


    This jerk probably has some issues.


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    Finally, she pursed her lips before trying to reason with him, ¡±President Pearson, Miss Crossley


    probably doesn¡¯t know about our rtionship, and neither does she have any idea that we¡¯re currently


    living together. If she finds out¡ª¡±


    Aidan lifted his eyes to look at her. ¡±What will happen if she finds out?¡±


    Having been interrupted by her suddenly, she forgot what she wanted to say, but he continued,


    ¡±Leanna McKinney, I think you should exin why you appeared there tonight and not question me


    who I¡¯m marrying.¡±


    Who¡¯s questioning him? she asked herself. He¡¯s the one who¡¯s being a two-timer.


    She took a deep breath and said, ¡±President Pearson, it wasn¡¯t my intention to show up tonight. Miss


    Crossley is my client, and I was there to deliver something. But, afterward, something cropped up at


    the auction, and that¡¯s why I went to rify the situation to Mr. Bat.¡±


    ¡±Did he listen to your exnation?¡±


    ¡±Uh¡­ No.¡±


    ¡±Did your rification help?¡± ¡°Also, no.¡± Aidan fixed his indifferent gaze at her as he asked, ¡±Then tell


    me, what were you doing there?¡± After a few seconds of silence, Leanna answered, ¡±President


    Pearson, there was an issue with my design, and I have to be responsible as the designer. So, I can¡¯t


    skip the exnation just because it doesn¡¯t help.¡± ¡±I didn¡¯t see you being responsible for anything. All I


    saw was Zayn Bat going against his father because of you,¡± he said, sounding so nonchnt that it


    was as though he was enjoying the show.


    Leanna was out of words because she knew that Zayn must be under tremendous pressure to rify


    for her against everyone¡¯s opinions.


    Then, Aidan added, ¡±Leanna McKinney, do you think that now that the Bats had found out about


    your existence and already had an arranged marriage with the Pearsons, they¡¯ll still act like nothing


    had happened after they witnessed how Zayn Bat defended you against all odds? Will they just let


    you be?¡±


    For a moment, she couldn¡¯t really understand him. ¡±What do you mean?¡±


    ¡±I mean, your enemy now is not only the Pearsons but also the Bats. Once you leave this door,


    whatever happens to you is unrted to me.¡±


    A moment of silence passed by before she chuckled. ¡±That¡¯s right. After all, you¡¯ve never been


    interested in caring about these things.¡±


    Aidan smacked his lips at her usations, then fixed his eyes on Leanna.


    He had never bothered to exin himself to others, and people could misunderstand the situation as


    they liked. Yet, he wanted to open up this heartless woman¡¯s chest to look at her heart to see if it was


    truly made out of stone.


    ¡±If I don¡¯t care about you, do you think you can speak so freely with me?¡± he asked.


    Sheughed indifferently at hisment as she didn¡¯t want to continue the conversation and merely


    said, ¡±No matter what, since you¡¯re engaged with Miss Crossley, you should take some time to rify


    things with her. In a marriage, honesty and responsibility are the most important.¡±


    He nced at her when she spoke those words and asked, ¡±Do you mean to imply that I wasn¡¯t honest,


    nor did I uphold my duty as a husband?¡±


    Well, you¡¯re the one who admitted it, she answered silently.


    ¡±I just think that since you¡¯re going to marry Miss Crossley, then you shouldn¡¯t hide anything from her.


    Otherwise¡ª¡±


    ¡±Leanna McKinney, are you jealous?¡±


    ¡±Huh?¡± Leanna blurted.


    After that, Aidan rose from his seat and started to stalk closer to her, step by step. ¡±The whole night,


    you keep bringing up Georgina and marriage. Isn¡¯t it because you¡¯re jealous?¡±


    She couldn¡¯t help but move a step back as her cheeks flushed crimson. ¡±I¡¯m not! I just think that what


    you¡¯re doing is very shameless!¡±


    While she was stepping back, she bumped into something and was about to fall. Out of panic, she


    iled her arms around and grabbed the shirt in front of her.

 Chapter 128

    Chapter 128


    Chapter 128 People Get Carried Away Easily


    In the car, Georgina took the jewelry box that was handed out to her. Then, she popped it open


    casually, took a nce at it, and set it aside before saying calmly, ¡°Did Queenie see you guys?¡±


    ¡°No, we waited until she threw the stuff into the bin and made sure she was gone before we picked it


    up.¡±


    A smirk spread across her face. ¡°This trick of hers is not bad, but too bad. It seems like she doesn¡¯t


    know Leanna McKinney¡¯s true identity. Otherwise, all her efforts wouldn¡¯t have gone to waste.¡±


    If Leanna were merely a designer at Lux Jewelry, nothing would help, even if Harvey interceded more


    for her today. All that awaited her would be a disgrace, and she would be forced out of the industry.


    However, there¡¯s a Zayn Bat who stood up to rify for her, Georgina thought. Furthermore¡­


    The look in her eyes turned a few notches colder. If her guess was correct, Aidan appeared at the


    scene at that time, most probably because of this matter, too.


    Soon, the ck sedan slowly pulled into her home.


    With the jewelry box in her hand, she got out of the car and wanted to go upstairs, but someone


    stopped her in the living room. ¡°Gina.¡±


    Turning back, she saw the middle-aged man standing not far off. ¡°Dad, you¡¯re still awake?¡±


    Lloyd Crossley nodded. ¡°Come here. I have something to ask you.¡±


    Hence, Georgina took a seat on the couch, and when his eyes fell on her, her hand holding the jewelry


    box stiffened. Then, she sneakily ced the box behind herself and smiled effortlessly. ¡°What¡¯s up,


    Dad?¡±


    ¡°I heard that you attended the charity dinner with Aidan Pearson tonight.¡±


    ¡°Yes,¡± she admitted.


    Then, Lloyd said, ¡°Gina, I don¡¯t want you to get involved in the messy affairs between the Pearsons and


    the Bats. Aidan Pearson is an unfathomable man, and you¡ª¡±


    ¡°Dad,¡± she interjected. ¡°I can¡¯t say that I know Aidan, but the fact that he could demand the fear of the


    entire Pearson Family with his own ability shows that he has his own ways. As for me, I¡¯ll need to getAll rights ? N?velDrama.Org.


    married in the end, and I believe that our family will have everything to gain and nothing to lose if I


    marry Aidan.¡±


    After a few seconds of silence, Lloyd continued, ¡°Gina, I don¡¯t want you to sacrifice your happiness


    because of this.¡±


    ¡°Dad, I like Aidan, and I¡¯m willing to marry him,¡± she said. ¡°Actually, I¡¯ve liked him for a very long time.


    Three years ago, if it wasn¡¯t¡­ I think we would have gotten married a long time ago.¡±


    ¡°But as far as I know, he¡¯s still having aplicated and tangled rtionship with his ex-wife.¡±


    Nevertheless, she answered nonchntly, ¡°That woman married him because of money, so she


    wouldn¡¯t leave so easily. Don¡¯t worry, Dad. I¡¯ll take care of this well.¡±


    He didn¡¯tment more but merely said, ¡°A few dayster, I¡¯ll visit the Pearsons to discuss this. Have


    an early rest.¡± Then, he stood up and couldn¡¯t help but cough a few times violently.


    She immediately rushed over and rubbed his back soothingly as she asked, ¡°Dad, should I call the


    doctor?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright. It¡¯s just an old ailment. The weather turned cold recently, and it¡¯s acting up again. No


    problem.¡±


    When Georgina wanted to interject, she instead saw the burn marks on his neck.


    Lloyd pulled up his cor and hid the burns when he noticed her stare. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Go to bed.¡±


    After she went upstairs, Lloyd was about to go as well when the jewelry box on the couch caught his


    eye. He picked it up and wanted to bring it to Georgina, but he identally opened the box, and a


    ne slid out.


    He caught the ne, and when he saw the pendant, he couldn¡¯t help but stare at it in a daze.


    In the meantime, Georgina only remembered that the ne was still downstairs when she was back


    in her room, and when she returned to retrieve it, she happened to see this scene.


    Softly, she said, ¡°Dad?¡±


    Jerking back to his senses, he asked, ¡°Did you just buy this?¡±


    An inexplicable anxiety swam around inside her as she nodded. ¡°I got a designer to have this specially


    designed. Is there a problem, Dad?¡±


    Lloyd smiled. ¡°No, there isn¡¯t. I just think that the designer is good because they are actually able to


    integrate the elements of a pocket watch into a ne, which is quite talented.¡±


    Then, he ced the ne back into the jewelry box, passed it to Georgina, and returned to his


    bedroom.


    Meanwhile, she watched his back and breathed a sigh of relief.


    ¡­


    At Castor Vi, Leanna immediately regretted it when she held onto Aidan¡¯s shirt. Just a second ago,


    the air was tense as they were in an argument, but she lost all her momentum with this.


    When she wanted to retreat, Aidan ced his arm around her waist and raised his brows at her as


    though telling her that she was the one who threw herself at him.


    Leanna inhaled sharply as sheposed herself. ¡°President Pearson, let me remind you onest time


    that you¡¯re not being fair to your fianc¨¦e, Miss Crossley, by doing this!¡±


    ¡°Do you believe her that much?¡±


    ¡°Well, you didn¡¯t deny it as well at that time, did you?¡±


    ¡°In your eyes, not denying is admittance?¡±


    I really take my hat off this jerk¡¯s logic, she thought, gritting her teeth. ¡°Yes!¡±


    ¡°Unfortunately, my opinions with you are theplete opposite,¡± he said, which rendered her


    speechless. ¡°Leanna McKinney, I have my ns, and the world is not only in ck and white as you


    see it.¡±


    ¡°You truly have a talent for sounding like a person on a high horse, President Pearson. Is this the


    reason why you¡¯re a two-timer?¡±


    He released her and repliedposedly, ¡°How am I a two-timer when you didn¡¯t remarry me?¡±


    Leanna felt that she couldn¡¯t verbally outwit him as she thought furiously, This jerk won¡¯t even admit


    that he has his hands all over me from time to time!


    ¡°No matter what, I¡¯m thankful for your help during this period of time, but I¡¯ll figure a way out for myself


    after this. Please don¡¯t worry about me,¡± she said.


    However, he merely looked at her and spoke calmly, ¡°Leanna, do you really think that I¡¯m negotiating


    with you?¡±


    At that moment, Leanna felt a shiver down her spine. That¡¯s right. He¡¯s not negotiating with me, she


    realized.


    Whether or not she could walk out this door wasn¡¯t up to her guts but to Aidan¡¯s approval. She was


    staying here under the name of being protected when in fact, he held her in captivity.


    At the end of the day, it was easy for people to get carried away. After a taste of honey, she thought she


    had candy and not a firecracker with a candy wrapping.


    She pursed her lips and said no more but turned upstairs and dragged her luggage back into the room.


    Until he heard the sound of the door closing; only then did Aidan reach out his hand to rub his temples


    before calling a number. ¡°What are the results?¡±


    ¡°Yes, I did, President Pearson. The man in the surveince is Ron Sedley. He¡­¡±


    When Jonathan trailed off, Aidan urged impatiently, ¡°Speak.¡±


    Then, hastily, Jonathan answered, ¡°He¡¯s an illegal money lender, and Jethro borrowed most of the


    money from him. Also¡­ Three years ago, he was the one in cahoots with Jethro to send Madam to


    Patheon Club.¡±


    ¡°He doesn¡¯t have a reason to harm Leanna. Find him,¡± Aidan instructed.


    ¡°He probably sensed that we¡¯re checking up on him, so he has already slipped away.¡±


    It would be difficult to find a thug like Ron, who was always hanging out in various dodgy ces. Plus,


    he was as slippery as an eel, so it would be difficult to catch him unless he came out of his own volition.


    ¡°Spread the word around. Put a bounty of one million for him.¡±

 Chapter 129

    Chapter 129


    Chapter 129 I Believe What I See With My Eyes


    Back in the room, Leanna opened the luggage and ced her stuff back in its ce, one by one.


    Once she was finished unpacking, she plopped herself on the bed in devastation. She had done


    nothing at all today, but she was incredibly exhausted.


    While she was staring out the window in a daze, her phone started ringing.


    She immediately sat up, searched the room, and found her phone on the desk.


    It was a call from Georgina.


    ¡°Miss McK, I have to apologize to you on behalf of Anna for what happened today. That girl has been


    spoiled since she was young. Please don¡¯t take it to heart.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright,¡± Leanna answered calmly.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, after a short pause, Georgina said, ¡°Even though this may be a little abrupt, I¡¯m still very curious


    whether the things Anna said are true. Please don¡¯t misunderstand, I don¡¯t mean anything else, but I


    would like to ask about your rtionship with Aidan.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m his ex-wife.¡±


    ¡°I see¡­ I¡¯m so sorry. Previously, I¡¯ve been rude to you when I didn¡¯t know about your rtionship.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re too kind, Miss Crossley. We¡¯re already divorced, but I didn¡¯t know that you¡¯re actually his


    fianc¨¦e, so I should be the one to apologize.¡±


    Georgina chuckled. ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ve liked him for a long time, and I thought I would marry him, but


    unfortunately¡­¡± Instead of finishing her halfplete sentence, she switched the subject and said,


    ¡°Before I got to know you, I¡¯d only heard the one-sided story from Anna, and I had a lot of


    misunderstandings about you. However, it¡¯s different now. I¡¯m d to know you as a friend, and I


    believe you¡¯re definitely not the kind of person Anna said you are.¡±


    ¡°Actually, Anna is right. I¡¯m not a good person, and I was the one who forced Aidan to marry me back


    then,¡± Leanna said.


    ¡°I believe what my eyes see,¡± Georgina insisted.


    Leanna chuckled softly and thanked her graciously, ¡°Thank you, Miss Crossley.¡±


    ¡°Before this, I said that I¡¯ll buy you a meal when the finished item ispleted, but I have all the more


    reason to buy you a meal now as an apology. When will you be free?¡±


    ¡­


    After Leanna hung up the phone, she plopped back onto the bed with a heavier sense of weariness


    than before.


    If she had known that Georgina was Aidan¡¯s fianc¨¦e, she wouldn¡¯t have taken up this deal nor


    epted this order.


    This is so frustrating! she thought.


    As she stuffed her face against the pillow, she really wished that she could punch that jerk to death. If it


    weren¡¯t because of him, she wouldn¡¯t be caught in this dilemma.


    Who knows? I might really be known as the homewrecker. That jerk! Assh*le! Scumbag! Go to hell! Be


    gone! F*ck you!


    The more she thought about it, the angrier she became, and she decided to scramble out of bed. Then,


    she flipped open her draft book and drew a few swift strokes on the paper before stomping out of the


    room with tape. Lastly, she taped the paper on Aidan¡¯s bedroom door.


    After she managed to vent her frustrations a little, she finally felt her breathing bing calmer.


    Despite that, she was still unable to fall asleepter in the night.


    It was no surprise that Aidan didn¡¯t care about the child in her womb; he was going to marry Georgina


    soon, and once they had children, they would be the ones who were born with a silver spoon in their


    mouths.


    The baby would be due in just a few more months, and Leanna had no idea what she should do.


    With Aidan¡¯s tremendous influence and the Pearson Family¡¯s eyes on her, she couldn¡¯t escape, no


    matter how much she wanted to.


    Yet, if Aidan and Georgina got married before that, it may be an opportunity for her.


    The next day when Aidan opened his bedroom door, a piece of paper came drifting down andnded


    next to his feet.


    He went down on one knee, picked it up, and let out a snort after seeing what was drawn on the paper.


    So, he raised his head, nced at Leanna¡¯s bedroom door, and licked his lips. Then, with the piece of


    paper in his hand, he returned to his room but returned quickly and stuck the paper on Leanna¡¯s door.


    ¡­


    Due to theck of sleep the night before, Leanna only woke up at noon, feeling lifeless. Opening the


    door, she yawned and realized that the piece of paper which should have been on Aidan¡¯s door had


    somehow ended up at her door. She rubbed her eyes and then saw that the turtle she drew had a few


    extra strokes now¡ªit now had long hair, and in the middle of the turtle¡¯s head was a giant letter ¡®L¡¯.


    Speechless, she thought, This jerk must be mad!


    All of a sudden, she was jolted awake by the fury rushing through her, and reflexively, she wanted to


    strike back. Regardless, the second she picked up her drawing pen, she thought that this method was


    simply too juvenile, and not even a first-grader would do something so silly.


    Therefore, she imagined that the piece of paper was Aidan as she crumpled it into a ball with force and


    tossed it into the bin.


    After lunch, she had just arrived at Lux, and both Queenie and she were called into the office by


    Harvey.


    ¡°Regarding the ident that happened during the charity night, we are currently investigating it, but


    because the impact of this incident is too huge and both of you are implicated in it, I would like to listen


    to your opinions.¡±


    The first to speak was Queenie, saying, ¡°I was the one who didn¡¯t take care of the client¡¯s item, so I


    should be responsible.¡±


    Without answering her, Harvey turned to Leanna. ¡°What about you, McK?¡±


    ¡°I think, if the person could take away the ne Queenie designed for Miss Crossley and urately


    know which one of the three pieces delivered by Lux Jewelry is my work and exchange it, that person


    is very likely an employee of the magazine.¡±


    Harvey nodded in agreement. ¡°Those are my thoughts exactly, but there are too many people working


    in Lux, so it won¡¯t be easy to investigate and may need some time.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Marcini, but I don¡¯t intend to pursue the matter,¡± Leanna said.


    ¡°Why?¡±


    Her words not only surprised Harvey, but even Queenie turned to her.


    A smile spread across her face. ¡°The objective of the person who set me up is to embarrass me at the


    charity dinner, but they probably didn¡¯t expect that Zayn would help me to rify matters. Right now,


    they don¡¯t know the rtionship between Zayn and me, nor do they know whether they had given


    themselves away in any other way besides that surveince video. Hence, they must be in a panic


    now. If I continue to investigate this, they might use various methods to eliminate the chances of them


    being a suspect in this matter. Nheless, if I stop investigating the matter, they would have no idea


    what to do and would be on tenterhooks all the time, living their days in anxiety and fear,¡± she


    exined, turning to look at Queenie next to her, who had lowered her head, and her smile became


    even wider. ¡°Don¡¯t you think so, Miss Wojzicki?¡±


    Her heart skipped a beat when Leanna mentioned her name, but she feignedposure and said, ¡°H-


    How would I know? But if I were you, I¡¯d definitely get to the bottom of this.¡±


    ¡°Yesterday, somebody told me that the world is not only in ck and white, so I would like to use this


    opportunity to see what other colors this world has besides ck and white,¡± Leanna answered.


    Her words made Queenie ball up her hands at her sides tightly.


    She was almost sure that Leanna already knew that she was the culprit responsible for what happened


    last night, and Leanna was saying all these now just to tell her that she had a hold on her and was


    utterly under Leanna¡¯s mercy!

 Chapter 130

    Chapter 130


    Chapter 130 Have to Leave


    After leaving Harvey¡¯s office, Leanna was dragged into the pantry by Zoe.


    ¡°I heard about what happenedst night,¡± said Zoe. ¡°Mr. Mancini said he would look into it, but what


    could he find? There is no such thing as a coincidence here. This is definitely Queenie¡¯s doing. I¡¯ll let


    her do whatever she wants with my corpse if it wasn¡¯t her doing.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so upset,¡± Leanna said, smiling. ¡°Even if we know she did it, we have no proof. We would be


    ced in a tough position if she bites back then.¡±


    ¡°Are we just going to let it go?¡±


    ¡°Of course not.¡±


    The reason why Leanna was so certain Queenie was the culprit was because she once saw Queenie


    throwing Georgina¡¯s special ne in the trash while telling Georgina it was lost.


    There was no way Queenie would have overlooked such details. If Zayn had not appearedst night,


    Leanna¡¯s reputation would have been shredded. For her sake, Lux Jewelry was currently inundated


    with lies and would be too busy to investigate this matter. In fact, they might even distance themselves


    from her due to the rumors.


    Hence, even if Leanna knew Queenie was the problem, no one would believe her. They might even


    think she was trying to spread lies about other people just so she could protect herself.


    As for her, she had no concrete proof or evidence of her ims, other than the fact that she saw


    Queenie throw the ne into the trash.


    Leanna had to admit, though, that Queenie might have made a risky move, but its sess would have


    saved her.


    What Leanna had said in Harvey¡¯s office just now was enough to ensure Queenie would not dare risk it


    again.


    After Zoe cursed Queenie out to her heart¡¯s content, she said, ¡°Still, I am curious as to who is helping


    her. Who could be so talented as to do all this and stay hidden?¡±


    Leanna shook her head in response.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t we ask Zayn for permission to look through the security recordings?¡± Zoe suggested. ¡°If we


    could find the aplice, we would have proof.¡±


    ¡°Forget it. Let us leave it be and see what happens.¡±


    She had already troubled Zayn too much by now.


    Realizing what Leanna thought about her suggestion, Zoe sighed before changing the topic. ¡°Dearest,


    your mission is to protect your mother in the future,¡± she said slowly, with a sigh. ¡°You must not let her


    be pushed around by meanies, especially your rotten dad!¡±


    ¡°How long before the birth?¡± she asked Leanna.


    ¡°14 weeks.¡± After Zoe took a few moments to convert the number to months, her eyes lit up. ¡°That


    means you only have a little over three months left!¡± Leanna nodded. The day was slowly getting


    nearer, but her unease grew stronger and stronger. ¡°I want to leave this ce, Zoe.¡± ¡°Leave?¡± Zoe


    dazedly looked at her. ¡°Where do you want to go?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡± Leanna looked out of the window.


    ¡°Something keeps telling me that if I stay here, my child might not be born. I am constantly worried;


    what if the Pearsons find out about the baby?¡± Zoe frowned. ¡°No matter what, Aidan is the father. Does


    he really not care about you two?¡± ¡°I am the one who wanted the child. The baby does not matter to


    him, and he does not care.¡± ¡°What a cruel man. Is he not afraid of karma?¡± Leanna turned back to Zoe


    and resolutely said, ¡°That is why I must leave. I must go somewhere where I can never be found by


    Aidan and the Pearsons.¡± It was now her chance. She had to be ready so that nothing could go wrong.


    ¡­


    At Pearson Family Estate, Sienna was enjoying her afternoon tea when Anna approached her. ¡°Aunt.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± she asked, shooting Anna a nce and putting down her cup. ¡°You must have heard


    about what happenedst night,¡± Anna replied, biting her lip.


    There was a faint scornful smirk on Sienna¡¯s face. Everyone in Highside knew what happenedst


    night, and Gordon was furious when he heard about it.


    ¡°I do, so juste out with it.¡±


    Anna was about to reply when she warily nced at the servants around them.


    ¡°Leave us,¡± ordered Sienna.


    After a murmur of acknowledgement, the servants left.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡°I want Leanna to vanish forever,¡± Anna said in a whisper. ¡°What should I do?¡± ¡°Do you want her child


    to disappear or both of them?¡± ¡°Both!¡± Anna spat out. ¡°Anna, it would be suspicious if she died out of


    the blue,¡± Sienna said with a chuckle. ¡°You¡­¡± ¡°That is why I am here. I believe you will have a n. If


    Aidan had not been protecting her this whole time, I would have done the deed by now.¡± ¡°Are you not


    afraid he would go after you once he knows the truth?¡±


    At that, panic filled Anna¡¯s eyes as she wondered about Sienna¡¯s true intentions. She knew Sienna did


    not like Leanna either. That was why she approached Sienna.


    ¡°How about this, Anna?¡± Sienna continued. ¡°I can help you, but with one condition.¡±


    ¡°What¡­ is it?¡±


    ¡°You will be telling my husband about Leanna¡¯s pregnancy.¡±


    ¡°No way.¡± Anna was visibly terrified. ¡°Aidan said that if I ever told anyone about it, he would never


    forgive me.¡±


    ¡°Well, if you are that afraid of him, I cannot help you,¡± Sienna calmly stated.


    ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Anna, no one will know you said anything as long as you deny it. No matter how brash Aidan is, he will


    not do anything to you when we are watching him.¡±


    After a moment of hesitation, Anna said, ¡°But if Uncle Gordon finds out, he will want Leanna¡¯s child to


    be born. Won¡¯t we be helping her then?¡±


    ¡°Gordon wants the child, but Aidan does not. What do you think will eventually happen?¡±


    Before Anna could reply, Sienna continued, ¡°You might not even have to do anything before Leanna


    and her child disappear from this world.¡±


    Fear filled Anna¡¯s gaze once more. ¡°Would he really do that?¡±


    ¡°He can do anything as long as it ensures he is in control at all times.¡± Sienna scoffed.


    Hearing that, Anna went quiet as she bit her lip. Deep down, her mind was racing. Since Aidan allowed


    Leanna¡¯s child to live on, that meant it was highly likely to be his. If he still insisted on getting rid of the


    kid, she¡­


    She did not dare risk her life.


    No matter what happened, Anna did not think Gordon should hear about this matter from her, yet he


    needed to know.


    After a while, she had a great candidate in mind.


    She returned to her room and called Carly.

 Chapter 131

    Chapter 131


    Chapter 131 Taken Away by the Pearsons


    Right after Leanna left the office, a ck car pulled to a stop in front of her.


    She instinctively backed away as her heart began to race and her unease grew stronger.


    Soon, the car door opened to reveal Mr. Johnson, the butler of the Pearson Family.


    ¡°Miss McKinney, pleasee with me to the Pearson Family Estate,¡± he said.


    While he said ¡®please¡¯, there was not an ounce of politeness in his voice. In fact, it was aloof and spine-


    chilling.


    ¡°No, I won¡¯t go.¡± She shook her head. ¡°Aidan and I are divorced. I do not need¡­¡±


    ¡°Miss McKinney, I have been sent by Old Master Pearson. Even if you do not want toe, please


    think of your child. It cannot suffer through a lot, after all.¡±


    Two men appeared to stand behind Mr. Johnson.


    Her face went pale as her blood seemed to freeze inside her veins. She went numb.


    She had thought this might happen, but she did not think it would happen so soon.


    She was not prepared at all.


    ¡°Please, Old Master Pearson is waiting for you,¡± repeated Mr. Johnson.


    She bit her lip. Her entire body was trembling.


    Still, she had no other choice.


    After they left, Queenie walked out from around the corner. She frowned. Just to whom did Leanna get


    married?


    On the way back to the Pearson Family Estate, Leanna kept her head down as she pressed her hands


    tightly together. She barely even breathed.


    From the passenger seat where he was sitting, Mr. Johnson nced at her through the rearview mirror.


    ¡°There is no need to be so nervous. Old Master Pearson merely wished to confirm the identity of the


    father. If it is Young Master Aidan¡¯s, you need only focus on giving birth to the child. No one would be


    allowed to harm you before that happened.¡±


    Hearing that made her throat go so dry that it hurt. She had no reply to that, and she could not speak


    anyway.


    Aidan surely detested her right now.


    She closed her eyes andid her hands on her abdomen. Immense despair overwhelmed her.


    There was a chance she could not save this child.


    ¡­


    Pearson Group.


    Jonathon hurriedly knocked on the door before barging into the president¡¯s office. ¡°Bad news, President


    Pearson,¡± he gasped.


    ¡°What has Leanna done now?¡± Aidan red at him in impatience.


    ¡°Mrs. Pearson has been taken away by the Pearsons!¡±


    Aidan¡¯s face clouded over. ¡°When did it happen?¡± His voice was as cold as ice.


    ¡°About ten minutes ago. Our people were nearby, but Mr. Johnson was there. Since she is pregnant,


    we were afraid she might be hurt if a fight broke out, so¡­¡±


    Aidan shot to his feet and strode out of the room as he coldly said, ¡°He took Leanna because he


    wanted to control me through the child she bears. Stay here and keep an eye on the office, Jonathon.


    Once his men make a move, kick them out immediately.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Jonathon hurriedly replied.


    ¡°Call Georgina. Tell her I will do anything she asks as long as she heads over to the Pearson Family


    Estate now.¡±


    Jonathon paused. ¡°Yes, sir.¡±


    ¡­


    At Pearson Family Estate.


    Gordon was staring at Anna from where he sat on the couch. He looked very upset. ¡°Why did you not


    tell me about something so major?¡±


    ¡°I only just found out, Uncle Gordon,¡± Anna said with a sad look on her face. ¡°Anyway, that woman is no


    virtuous woman. No one knows if her child was actually sired by Aidan.¡±


    ¡°What is the point of asking about all this now?¡± Sienna calmly interjected. ¡°It is not Anna¡¯s


    responsibility, so why are you angry with her?¡±


    He let out a sigh and went silent, leaning against his cane.


    If not for Carly¡¯s visit, there was no way he would have known about the baby. After all, he only knew


    when he overheard Anna and Carly talking about Leanna¡¯s pregnancy.


    Anna quietly withdrew to stand behind Sienna. She had called Carly over for exactly this purpose. After


    a few questions about Carly¡¯s baby and some maniption, Carly brought up Leanna¡¯s pregnancy


    without any prompting from her. Gordon had overheard their conversation because Sienna helped out.


    Now, no matter who Aidan asked, Anna was not at all involved in letting Gordon know about the


    pregnancy.


    Furthermore, Leanna had fallen and nearly drowned because of Carly. If Aidan was itching for a target,


    he would only be aiming at Carly.


    A few minutester, Leanna was brought back to the family¡¯s residence.


    She stood there, fidgeting and nervous, exactly like how she looked back then when she was first


    brought back to the house. No one would have thought she would be back once more for the same


    reason after three years.


    Gordon shot her a look before coldly asking, ¡°I will only ask you this once; is the child Aidan¡¯s?¡±


    Leanna clenched her jaw and remained silent. If she responded ¡®yes¡¯, there would be no hope left for


    her. What if Aidan helped her out? What if¡­


    Seeing that, Gordon sneered. ¡°Okay, I don¡¯t care if you keep quiet. You will be giving birth in a few


    months anyway. We can have a paternity test done then. Before that happens, you are not allowed to


    leave this house at all. We can afford a freeloader.¡±


    She took a deep breath. ¡°You cannot do that,¡± she said in a trembling voice.


    This time, everyone in the room, including Sienna and Anna, turned to look at her.


    ¡°Aidan and I are divorced,¡± she continued. ¡°You have no right to hold me prisoner.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s ridiculous for you to say that while you are standing in this house? If you want your


    child to be born safely, you will obey me. Otherwise, I will spare no mercy for you!¡±


    Just then, Sienna spoke up. ¡°Aidan should be on the way back. Why don¡¯t we wait for his answer? If he


    is certain the child is not his, then there is no use in keeping her.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s right! Who knows whose oats are sown in her?¡± Anna said, fanning the mes. ¡°We don¡¯t even


    know if that is Aidan¡¯s. If she stays, she will only be a stain in the house.¡±


    Gordon kept quiet, as if he agreed with their argument.


    For a moment, the room was silent.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    As Leanna stood there, it felt like she was waiting for her execution.


    Soon, Justin arrived downstairs. As they had spoken loudly, he had heard everything. ¡°Leanna, take a


    seat first,¡± he said as he wheeled himself over.


    ¡°Ignore her, Justin,¡± said Anna. ¡°Let her stand. It serves her right!¡±


    Justin shook his head at her. ¡°Stop fooling around, Anna. No matter what, Leanna is your cousin-inw.


    You should respect her.¡±


    ¡°They are divorced,¡± Anna corrected. ¡°She is just some shameless woman¡­¡±


    ¡°Anna,¡± Sienna snapped as anger lurked in her voice.


    It was only then that Anna went quiet.


    ¡°Leanna, please sit,¡± Justin repeated. ¡°Aidan will be back soon.¡±


    She was heavy with pregnancy; her time standing had been torture. Hence, she sat down after


    thanking him.


    ¡°Serve us some hot water,¡± Justin then said to a servant.


    The servant left after a grunt of acknowledgment.


    Ten minutester, Aidan appeared in the doorway.

 Chapter 132

    Chapter 132


    Chapter 132 Discuss After the Child is Born


    As Aidan walked in, the air in the room went cold as an oppressive aura made its presence known.


    Even though Anna had been ready for this to happen, she still tensed up in anxiety, nervous that Aidan


    might realize something was off.


    Aidan immediately sat down across from Gordon. There was an aloof and freezing gaze in his eyes,


    which showed nothing of what he truly felt.


    Gordon, uncertain of what Aidan thought of Leanna, felt uneasy. ¡°You¡¯re back, Aidan. In that case, let


    us clear the air.¡±


    ¡°Sure,¡± Aidan replied, looking up at his father. There was an unspeakable chill in his voice. ¡°I have


    something to say to you as well.¡±


    Gordon stroked his cane as he thought about his next words. ¡°Since Leanna is pregnant with a


    Pearson, we cannot let the child be born out of wedlock. Your divorce happened so abruptly, and I


    never agreed to it anyway. You two can get remarried.¡±


    As Aidan heard that, his eyes flickered at Leanna. ¡°Who told you I wanted to marry her again?¡± he


    calmly asked.


    ¡°What do you n to do then?¡± Gordon frowned. ¡°Is the child not yours?¡±


    ¡°Only she knows whether or not it is mine,¡± Aidan answered.


    Leanna had her head hung low ever since Aidan walked through the doors.


    When she heard what he said, she clenched her fists while her face went pale.


    It was not the first time she had heard Aidan question the paternity of the baby. Nevertheless, it felt like


    someone had just poured a bucket of icy water over her, dousing out the only spark of hope left in her.


    It felt as if she had fallen into a bottomless pit where no light shone.


    Gordon stared at him. ¡°Either way, I will not let a child of the Pearson Family be lost to us. There is still


    a chance. Hence, before the baby is born, she¡­¡±


    ¡°Excuse me,¡± came a woman¡¯s voice from the doorway. ¡°Am I interrupting you?¡±


    Gordon looked over and frowned hard. He had disliked Georgina for her appearance at the charity


    dinner at Aidan¡¯s side. It had thrown a wrench into his ns. As such, his face had clouded over with


    the most unpleasant expression he could muster.


    ¡°Georgina, what is it? You cane backter,¡± replied Sienna.


    However, just as she said that, Aidan stood up and said, ¡°I asked her toe.¡±


    Sienna¡¯s face clouded over upon hearing that.


    Georgina greeted Sienna with a nod before walking over to link her arm through Aidan¡¯s. ¡°Aidan and I


    are getting married soon.¡±


    Gordon shot to his feet. ¡°I forbid it!¡±


    ¡°This is what I meant to talk to you about,¡± Aidan said, pulling his arm away from Georgina¡¯s grip to


    wrap it around her waist.


    Surprised by his action, Georgina stared at him dazedly for a moment before her smile returned.


    ¡°This is nonsense!¡± Gordon banged his cane on the floor. ¡°You know Leanna is pregnant with your


    child, yet you¡­¡±


    ¡°As I¡¯ve said, only she knows the true identity of the father.¡± Aidan¡¯s voice was calm and collected. ¡°So,


    what if it is mine? Must I be married to her just because of that?¡±


    Justin shook his head. ¡°Please do not say that, Aidan.¡±


    ¡°I am only speaking the truth,¡± Aidan shot back.


    Gordon was furious. ¡°You¡­¡±


    ¡°Sir,¡± said Georgina, ¡°I knew about Miss McKinney¡¯s pregnancy. If it is confirmed that the baby is


    Aidan¡¯s, I am willing to take care of it. I can even guarantee that I will treat it as if it were my own. If she


    ever wants to see the child, she is wee to visit at any time.¡±


    Although her voice was soft and meek, there was a resolute quality to her speech. When Gordon heard


    that she was willing to raise Leanna¡¯s child as her own, his face darkened once more as he was


    rendered speechless with anger.


    He had wanted to use Leanna¡¯s pregnancy to cut off Aidan¡¯s ties to the Crossley Family. After all,


    Georgina was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. There was no way she would be so generous. To


    his surprise¡­ Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°Marriage is a huge decision to make,¡± Sienna interjected. ¡°You have to think carefully before you make


    a choice. Talk it over with your father first.¡±


    ¡°My father already knows about this,¡± Georgina replied with a smile. ¡°He approves of Aidan.¡±


    She then turned to look at Aidan. ¡°We have been in love for ages. For a long time, I had been waiting


    for this day.¡±


    However, Aidan did not look at her as his face remained as nk as ever.


    Throughout the entire argument, Leanna remained seated with her eyes directed at the floor so that no


    one could see the emotions swirling within.


    She seemed to be an outsider to the entire situation while she waited for their final judgment.


    After all, this entire situation was quite ridiculous and humiliating.


    ¡°If that is all, we will be leaving now,¡± said Aidan.


    He then turned and nced at Leanna, who looked up after realizing someone was staring at her. She


    nkly looked at him for a few moments before finally standing to her feet. Before she could speak,


    Gordon sat down and said to her, ¡°Stay.¡±


    Aidan paused as a chill settled over his handsome features.


    ¡°Even though Aidan does not care about you,¡± Gordon continued, ¡°you are still part of this family. Your


    child might also be a Pearson. We have a duty to care for you.¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips. ¡°I¡­¡±


    ¡°If you insist on leaving, you will be all alone with no one to care for you. You might lose your child, and


    other innocent people might be dragged into this. Stay here for the rest of the pregnancy. We will


    discuss this again after the child is born.¡±


    She went stiff with fear. It was a threat. If she left today, he would target the people around her.


    After ncing at Aidan, she opened her mouth to speak, but her throat ached too hard for her to say


    anything.


    ¡°Aidan?¡± Georgina asked, sensing his hesitation.


    Without saying another word, Aidan left the house with her.


    Leanna kept staring after him until he vanished from sight. Her lips twitched, but she could not muster


    up a smile no matter how hard she tried.


    Gordon let out a huff before thumping away with his cane.


    ¡°Stay here for now, Leanna,¡± said Justin as he turned to look at her. ¡°I promise you that no one will hurt


    you here.¡±


    He then said to the servant, ¡°Prepare a room for Miss McKinney.¡±


    The servant nced at Sienna. ¡°Yes,¡± the servant finally replied when she nodded her head.


    Soon, Sienna left the room as well.


    Now, the only ones left in the room were Leanna, Anna, and Justin.


    Anna let out a sigh of relief. Her mood drastically improved when she nced at Leanna. ¡°Now that


    Aidan is getting married to Georgina, you should finally realize what kind of woman you are, right? After


    all, she is the treasured daughter of the Crossley Family. She is so much better than a certain


    someone¡­¡±


    ¡°Anna,¡± Justin interrupted.

 Chapter 133

    Chapter 133


    Chapter 133 Vulgar People Cannot Be Changed


    ¡°Aidan does not even care about her,¡± said Anna to Justin. ¡°Why are you so concerned on her behalf?


    She deserves what is happening to her!¡±


    ¡°Enough, Anna,¡± said Justin. ¡°Leanna will be staying here for a while, so stop with the nonsense.¡±


    Anna huffed. She red at Leanna before retreating back to her room.


    Just then, the servant returned. ¡°Young Master, the room is ready.¡±


    Justin nodded in response before turning to Leanna. ¡°Let¡¯s go. I will lead you to your room.¡±


    They stopped at the doorway to her new room. ¡°Please do not take what Aidan said today to heart. He


    is¡­ actually doing this for you.¡±


    ¡°Maybe.¡± Leanna faintly smiled.


    ¡°You know how bad his rtionship is with the family. What happened today is actually just¡­¡±


    ¡°We are divorced,¡± Leanna interjected. ¡°He has no reason to care for me or my feelings. I have met


    Miss Crossley. They are quite a good match for each other.¡±


    He sighed. ¡°Rest well. I will talk to my father about your stay here. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡±


    She did not know what else to say to him.


    In this entire family, only Justin thought of her as human.


    He watched her enter her room before finally going away.


    Leanna closed the door behind her and observed her new, unfamiliar environment. A sense of


    helplessness rose in her. She felt so exhausted.


    ¡­


    Inside a ck Rolls-Royce.


    ¡°You did that for Miss McKinney, didn¡¯t you?¡± Georgina asked.


    Aidan massaged his temples with his hands. His face was nk as he replied, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking it.¡±


    ¡°Why else would you suddenly agree to marry me?¡±


    ¡°It is because I want to. If you have objections, you do not need to marry me.¡±


    She let out a chuckle. After a while, she asked, ¡°Are you not afraid that she will really think something is


    going on between us?¡±


    Frustrated by her endless questions, Aidan barked out, ¡°It would be weird if there was nothing between


    us. After all, we are getting married.¡±


    ¡°I mean, aren¡¯t you afraid she will be sad?¡±


    His only answer was a snort ofughter. After all, Leanna was a heartless woman. How could she be


    sad?


    When he remained silent, she said, ¡°Well, I am happy, no matter what your reasons are for marrying


    me. I will be the best wife I can be and take care of your and Leanna¡¯s child.¡±


    ¡°Save the polite niceties,¡± Aidan responded. ¡°I know what you are nning.¡±


    She smiled but did not deny his usation. Instead, she asked, ¡°I am actually curious about


    something, Aidan. You know the child will be the biggest trick up your father¡¯s sleeve in the future, so


    why risk it? Why let it live?¡±


    Aidan¡¯s lips twitched upward in a sneer. ¡°Do you also believe I am a cold, cruel, and heartless man? Do


    you think I will do anything for power?¡±


    She stared at him, stunned. It was then that she realized she had misspoken. ¡°That is not what I


    meant¡­¡±


    He stared out of the window, seemingly uninterested in hearing her exnation. With a nk look on


    his face, no one could tell what he was thinking.


    She bit her lip. If her guess was right, the reason the child was left alive was not that Aidan felt some


    connection to it as a father.


    Rather, he did it because of¡­ Leanna.


    Aidan had always been a cold man. Even though he was not cruel enough to kill his own child, he did


    not like children at all. Perhaps he would not admit it now, but it was clear he prioritized Leanna over


    himself.


    Otherwise, he would not have agreed to marry Georgina.


    She let out a sigh. Thankfully, others were more eager than she to get rid of Leanna.


    ¡­


    Leanna spent the rest of the afternoon lying in bed. Still, her eyes never once slid shut.


    When she was living in Castor Vi, she still had her freedom, at least. Although Aidan¡¯s men followed


    her everywhere, there were never restrictions on where she could go.


    Currently, she could not even take a step out of the house. However, she did not want to take a step


    outside of her room anyway.


    She had only begun nning her escape. If she had required great nning in order to get away from


    Aidan while he was keeping a close eye on her, then she couldn¡¯t escape from the Pearson Family


    Estate.


    In fact, it would not be wrong to call this ce a lion¡¯s den.


    Maybe it could be a den of wolves.


    She buried her head under her nket. How she wished she could fall asleep.


    After an unknown period of time, someone knocked on her door.


    She walked over to the door to find a servant standing there. It was the servant who readied the room


    for her.


    ¡°Young Master Justin has asked me to prepare these for you, Miss McKinney,¡± said the servant. ¡°All


    personal hygiene products and clothes are in here.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Leanna replied, epting the delivery.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee. Please let me know if there is anything else you need.¡±


    Before the servant left the room, she paused and added, ¡°Dinner here is served at six-thirty every day.


    If you have any requests, please let me know the day before.¡±


    ¡°Thank you,¡± Leanna said, nodding.


    She then returned to her room. A nce at the clock told her it was five minutes to six. That meant she


    had thirty more minutes before she had to return to that chilly, oppressive atmosphere.


    This was only the first day, yet it already felt like torture.


    Perhaps she would go crazy before the child was even born.


    Anna was missing at dinner, likely staying in her room from anger.


    Gordon and Sienna kept quiet the entire time. The room did not feel dreary and dead only because


    Justin would asionally speak up.


    However, Leanna had no appetite at all. She forced a few mouthfuls into her stomach before spending


    the rest of the time quietly sitting there.


    When Justin noticed herck of appetite, he warmly asked, ¡°Is the food not to your liking?¡±


    She looked up and shook her head. ¡°No, I just don¡¯t feel like eating¡­¡±


    ¡°You are pregnant,¡± Gordon harshly interrupted. ¡°Even if you do not want to eat, you will eat.¡±


    ¡°It is fine,¡± Justin said, smiling at her. ¡°Don¡¯t force yourself. If you get hungryter, the chefs can whip


    something up for you.¡±


    She pursed her lips. In the end, she picked up her cutlery and continued eating.


    Justin was the only person in this entire household who was nice to her. She did not want to be the


    reason his rtionship with his father was ruined.


    ¡°See? You can eat,¡± Gordon said with a scornful huff.


    Sienna dabbed the edges of her lips with a napkin and ndly said, ¡°People who were raised in


    different ces were taught differently. No matter how hard they tryter on, vulgar people cannot be


    changed.¡±


    ¡°Mom,¡± Justin snapped with a frown.


    ¡°What?¡± She turned to look at him. ¡°I did not say her name. I was only stating a fact.¡±


    Leanna kept quiet. She knew that Sienna was not speaking of her, but Aidan.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 134

    Chapter 134


    Chapter 134 Like I Care


    After dinner, Leanna was about to head up to her room when Justin said, ¡°Leanna, take a walk with me


    in the garden.¡±


    She froze, then nodded slowly in agreement. ¡°Okay.¡±


    The evening sky had yet to darken. It was gray and hazy, almost gunmetal as the thunderclouds


    gathered above the head. It looked like a torrential downpour was in the works.


    Leanna gazed into the distance, but before she could get lost in her thoughts, Justin¡¯s voice pulled her


    back to reality. ¡°I guess living here must still be strange for you.¡±


    She retracted her gaze and pursed her lips, not at all denying his observation. He took in her reaction


    and went on to say quietly, ¡°My father is painfully stubborn, and it takes a while to get him to soften up.


    I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s nothing you can do other than put up with him for the time being.¡±


    ¡°Thanks for the tip,¡± she said sardonically after a pause.


    ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± He didn¡¯t seem to mind her clipped tones. ¡°I know what it¡¯s like to be trapped


    somewhere with no viable means of escape.¡± Then, tipping his head back so that he was facing the


    stormy sky, he added helpfully, ¡°But don¡¯t let the feeling get to you. I¡¯m sure having you suffer is thest


    thing Aidan wants.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I beg to differ,¡± she countered grimly. Aidan had made it clear that once the Pearsons learned of


    her pregnancy, she would be left to deal with the mess alone. She didn¡¯t me him; she was the one


    who insisted on having the child, and it was agreed that Aidan would be left out of the equation entirely.


    Upon hearing her sarcasm, Justin smiled and shook his head, then pointed out slowly, ¡°Aidan has a


    short fuse, but hees around just as quickly as well. Plus, he¡¯s probably making arrangements for


    the matter as we speak. Give him some time and you¡¯ll see he¡¯s more reliable than he¡¯d like to admit.¡±


    At that moment, Leanna looked at Justin with interest, and she couldn¡¯t help feeling sorry for him. He


    was, in every regard, the perfect man. His even temperament, his genteel manners, and his eloquence


    were but parts of his wholesome existence.


    If he had not been in an ident that turned him wheelchair-bound for the rest of his life, he would


    have achieved plenty of great things, and the possibilities would have been endless for him. Even now,


    there were girls who fawned over him, but it was like he had hidden away from the rest of the world.


    After a while, Leanna snapped out of her reverie and said, ¡°Mr. Pearson, we should head back into the


    house before it rains.¡±


    Justin smiled at her and nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡­


    That night, Leanna tossed and turned in bed, but sleep would note to her while shey in


    unfamiliar territory.


    Outside, the torrential rain beat against her window relentlessly, and a symphony made up of only


    violent percussion tore through the silence of her room.


    To make matters worse, she was hungry.


    This is torture, she thought as she lifted the covers and sat up in bed, then looked out the window at


    the abysmal darkness. The little one inside her was protesting for food, seemingly undeterred by the


    pitch-ck of this rainy night.


    She was still debating on whether she should go down to the kitchen and rummage for food when


    bright white headlights swept past her windows, illuminating her room for just a brief second. It had


    been so blinding that Leanna had to look away. Who would drop by the house at this hour when there


    was a storm brewing?


    From what she could recall, none of the Pearsons had gone out for the night.


    That said, the interruption made her change her mind about sneaking downstairs for food, deciding


    instead to bear with her hunger pangs for one night. She would ask the kitchen staff to set aside fruits


    and snacks tomorrow for her in case she got peckish at night.


    Having settled on that, shey back down on the bed and pulled the covers over her head, then put


    one hand to her belly as though to soothe her baby.


    Shortly after, she heard the sound of footsteps from down the hallway, approaching, and eventually


    stopping right outside her bedroom door.


    Leannay very still in bed. For some reason, she had a feeling she knew who the person outside her


    door was. Could it be? She bolted out of bed and hurriedly put on her slippers, then dashed over to the


    door to open it. However, the moment she saw the person standing on the other side, any trace of hope


    and anticipation in her eyes dimmed.


    Georgina met her gaze and smiled. ¡°Miss McKinney.¡±


    Leanna eyed her stoically for a beat or two, then asked, ¡°What brings you here at thiste hour, Miss


    Crossley?¡±


    As if on cue, Georgina held out the thermal lunchbox she was carrying and said, ¡°I figured you might be


    feeling peckish now that you¡¯re pregnant. I know it¡¯s presumptuous of me, but I¡¯m guessing you aren¡¯t


    toofortable to grab a midnight snack for yourself while you¡¯re here, so I brought you some food


    instead.¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips but did not reach for the lunchbox.


    Seeing her reluctance, Georgina exined, ¡°I was with Carly the entire time during her pregnancy, so I


    know a couple of things.¡±


    ¡°Right. Thanks for the kind gesture, Miss Crossley, but I¡¯m not actually hungry anymore.¡±


    As if reading her mind, Georgina added, ¡°Miss McKinney, despite what I said today, I have no intention


    of stealing your child from you. I just¡­ You have to understand that I only said what I did to get Mr.


    Pearson off the case. It¡¯s none of my business whether you or Aidan will have custody of the child after


    he¡¯s born.¡±


    Leanna eyed her steadily. ¡°Miss Crossley, you¡¯ve got it all wrong.¡±


    ¡°I have?¡± Georgina raised her brows in surprise.


    ¡°I¡¯ll always be Aidan¡¯s ex-wife, and there¡¯s no changing the fact that I stole the love of your life, Miss


    Crossley. As things are, you have no obligation to be nice to me, and that¡¯s perfectly fine.¡±


    Georginaughed when she heard this. ¡°Miss McKinney, I think I¡¯ve told you that I don¡¯t care about


    what you¡¯ve done in the past. I¡¯m friends with the Leanna I know, not anyone else¡¯s version, and friends


    are supposed to help each other out, right?¡±


    Pursing her lips, Leanna had nothing to say. Thest person she wanted to owe a favor to was


    Georgina.


    However, the girl seemed insistent on being charitable as she grabbed Leanna¡¯s hand and gave her


    the thermal lunchbox. ¡°I¡¯ve alreadye all this way, so you might as well ept the food.¡± She added


    meaningfully, ¡°You can always give me a call if you¡¯re bored and in need ofpany, or if there¡¯s


    anything else you want me to bring you. I¡¯m used to dropping by. Besides, Mr. and Mrs. Pearson won¡¯t


    mind my social visits.¡±


    ¡°Miss Crossley¡ª¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to thank me. I¡¯m doing this because I want to, not because I feel obliged to,¡± Georgina


    cut her off with a smile, then left.


    Leanna held the thermal lunchbox and heaved a sigh, then turned to disappear into her room. She


    perched on the couch and opened the lunchbox hesitantly. Seeing the content inside, she was


    surprised.


    ¡­


    Having gotten into the car, Georgina looked at the man next to her in the backseat and said, ¡°Miss


    McKinney looks fine, in case you¡¯re wondering.¡±


    Aidan shot her a dark look. ¡°Like I care.¡±


    Georgina sighed. ¡°Yes, you do care. Why else would you be worried about her going hungry at night?¡±


    In truth, she was relieved to have been the one to deliver the food to Leanna, otherwise, Aidan might


    have done so personally.


    Without ncing at her, Aidan said, ¡°I was only doing it for someone else.¡±


    Georgina let the matter drop instead of asking who this mysterious person was. She had a feeling that


    the answer would only upset her.


    Half an hourter, the ck Rolls-Royce pulled up outside the Crossley Residence. Georgina was


    about to open the car door when her hand suddenly paused on the door handle for a few seconds


    before she turned around and asked, ¡°Aidan, do you want toe inside? I¡¯m sure my father would


    love to see you.¡± Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He pointed out inly, ¡°I think your father would be asleep by now.¡±


    She took his rejection with a small, dismissiveugh and said, ¡°That¡¯s fine. We¡¯ll be married soon, and


    you¡¯ll have plenty of chances to speak to him after that.¡± She got down from the car, and the maid who


    had been waiting by the door with an umbre hurried to greet her.


    In the car, Aidan did not so much as spare Georgina a second look as he said to the driver, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡±

 Chapter 135

    Chapter 135


    Chapter 135 Do I Need Permission to Be Here?


    Leanna stared at the chicken noodle soup in the thermal lunch box, then peered out the window at the


    dark, stormy night. The downpour sounded as ferocious and unrelenting as it had when it first started,


    but for some reason, she was much calmer than before.


    There were not many who would puttro in chicken noodle soup, but ever sinceing back from


    Underwood Lane, she had gotten used to Alice¡¯s way of cooking the hearty dish, which included


    topping it off withtro.


    This could only mean that the soup Georgina brought was made, presumably, in the kitchen of Castor


    Vi.


    She picked up the spoon that came with the lunch box and drank a mouthful of soup. Warmth spread


    through her stomach, and the baby stopped fussing.


    Leanna¡¯s strength was renewed after she polished off the soup. She then stretched andy back down


    on the bed, no longer feeling as lonely and helpless as she had moments ago. She stared at her phone


    screen in the dark and hesitated. Aidan had told her never to call him in the middle of the night, so she


    settled for a text instead. ¡®Are you asleep, President Pearson?¡¯


    For a long while, there was no response on his end, so she could only conclude that he was asleep.


    She exhaled and set her phone down on the nightstand, then closed her eyes as she willed sleep to


    come.


    Just as she was dozing off, however, her phone buzzed. She opened her eyes and picked up the call,


    only to be greeted by Aidan¡¯s icy tone on the other line as he asked, ¡°What is it?¡±


    She bit down on her lip and made no reply at first. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, President Pearson,¡± she finally said, in a


    voice so quiet it was almost a monologue.


    ¡°Do you think this is something you can fix with an apology?¡± he questioned impassively.


    ¡°No,¡± she muttered, shamefaced.


    ¡°Then what good will it do?¡±


    She clutched her phone tightly, her knuckles turning white as she said, ¡°I know you won¡¯t forgive me,


    President Pearson, but I can¡¯t go back in time and undo this even if I wanted to. I wish I could say


    something to make this all go away. If you think taking out your anger on me will help you feel better,


    then go ahead. I promise I won¡¯t fight back.¡±


    Aidan blinked slowly on the other end. Baffled, he quickly regained hisposure and pointed out


    sarcastically, ¡°Yes, because I¡¯m the kind of guy who spends his days picking fights with women. Do you


    think I¡¯d call you at this hour just to give you a piece of my mind?¡±


    She mumbled, ¡°Wouldn¡¯t you?¡± He might have been so angry with her that he lost sleep entirely, and


    thereafter decided that if he couldn¡¯t sleep, then she didn¡¯t deserve to either. Hence, the call.


    However, she heard him snort on the other line. ¡°If there¡¯s nothing else you need, I¡¯ll be hanging up


    now,¡± he said grumpily.


    ¡°Huh?¡± Leanna snapped out of her daze. She recollected her thoughts and said slowly, ¡°Oh, could you


    thank Alice for the soup, please?¡±


    ¡°And?¡±


    She took a deep breath. ¡°And I¡¯m sorry that I messed things up. I know I¡¯m confined to the Pearson


    Family Estate now, but I promise I¡¯ll find a way out of this and keep the baby from uprooting your life.


    But in order for me to do that, I¡¯m going to need your help, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°So, that¡¯s why you called me,¡± he said irritably.


    ¡°I know I¡¯ming off as really unreasonable right now, but I can¡¯t have this baby note into the


    world because of me. I¡¯m carrying a life here,¡± she pressed.


    Her voice was cracking on the other line, and upon hearing this, Aidan closed his eyes in frustration as


    he snapped, ¡°Why are you making up scenarios in your head and getting all melodramatic when I


    hardly said a thing about not helping you?¡±


    Leanna panicked. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean¡ª¡±


    ¡°Are we done? I need to go to bed,¡± he cut her off impatiently.


    ¡°Goodnight then, President Pearson.¡±


    She hung up the call at once. When he heard the decisive beep on the other line that indicated the callBelongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    had ended, he stared at his phone and chuckled in disbelief.


    ¡­


    During her first week at the Pearson Family Estate, Leanna¡¯s life was like clockwork. She would go


    downstairs for her meals, and after dinner, she would take a stroll in the garden with Justin. She had


    initially nned on asking one of the maids to prepare snacks for her in case she got peckish at night,


    but she never got the chance to, because every night at 10.00 PM, someone would deliver food to her


    door.


    All this aside, what startled Leanna the most was how Anna had stopped picking on her and somehow


    melted away into the background. She didn¡¯t even make a single scathing remark about Leanna on the


    days when they brushed past each other in the house.


    Oddly enough, this made Leanna feel even more like an inmate whose only activity outside the house


    was taking evening strolls in the garden.


    Just as she was beginning to settle into a routine on the estate where she spent each day in total


    boredom, Aidan moved back and took everyone by surprise.


    He had not lived on the Pearson Family Estate since taking over Pearson Group.


    After Gordon found out about Leanna¡¯s pregnancy, Anna had been so on edge that she waspelled


    to stop picking on the girl. When she heard that Aidan was moving back, she panicked. At present, she


    was clutching Sienna¡¯s sleeve as she asked, ¡°Aunt Sienna, what should I do?¡±


    Sienna did not look bothered at all as she pointed out, ¡°Why are you getting anxious all of a sudden?


    You said you had everything nned.¡±


    ¡°But I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Aidan has bigger things to worry about, and he might not even bother looking into the person who


    leaked the word on Leanna¡¯s pregnancy. Besides, you could always deny it when he uses you of


    being the tattletale; he can¡¯t do anything to you if you just stand your ground,¡± Sienna said, cutting her


    off. She set her cup of tea down and added, ¡°You don¡¯t actually think he came back for Leanna, do


    you?¡±


    Anna frowned. ¡°Why else would he¡ª¡±


    ¡°Leanna is now being kept on the estate because your uncle insists on it. The child she¡¯s carrying is the


    key to Pearson Group¡¯s future, so Aidan couldn¡¯t possibly leave her here all alone.¡±


    Anna whispered, ¡°But you said he would never let Leanna have the baby.¡±


    Sienna chuckled. ¡°Oh, Anna. There are some things that just take time, and this is just the beginning.¡±


    Meanwhile, in the garden, Justin had been called away by one of the maids, leaving Leanna on the


    bench alone as she gazed at the twilight sky.


    It was only when the sky had darkenedpletely that she was pulled back to her senses. She was


    just about to get on her feet and leave when suddenly, a figure sat down next to her.


    The man observed her indifferently, ¡°Looks like you¡¯ve made yourself at home.¡±


    Leanna gaped at him wordlessly, and he cast her a sidelong nce as he added, ¡°And you¡¯ve been


    eating well too.¡±


    Nothing good everes from this bastard¡¯s mouth, she concluded grimly. Her baby bump was looking


    very much like a bowling ball now, and she had put on some weight, which was evident in the subtle


    roundness of her face.


    The added weight was only natural now that she was in her final trimester. She refused to dignify his


    remarks with a response, but at the thought of the favor she was asking of him, she swallowed her


    pride and said, ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d show up here, President Pearson.¡±


    Aidan stared into the distance and asked, ¡°Do I need permission to be here?¡±


    Leanna was quiet for a moment, then she sputtered.


    Hearing that, Aidan turned to raise a brow at her. ¡°What¡¯s so funny?¡±


    ¡°Nothing,¡± she replied as she kept her eyes on themp post up ahead. Seconds ago, she had felt as


    though all the frustration pent up over thest few days abruptly disappeared. Right now, with Aidan,


    she didn¡¯t have to worry about what to say or if she would offend him. She didn¡¯t have to be on guard


    all the time in case he caught her doing something uncouth and looked down his nose at her.


    She never realized how much easier her life had been before she was imprisoned here at the Pearson


    Family Estate.


    Aidan might have a sharp tongue, but he was an angelpared to the others who dwelled here on


    the estate, which she had decided was hell on Earth. He was like a thorn on the Pearsons¡¯ side; they


    could not pull him out without being pricked bloody.


    As he sat next to her on the bench, a smallugh escaped him, but he did not say anything else and


    went on to ignore her.


    The evening breeze was starting to pick up. Shivering, Leanna stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯m going back to


    my room, President Pearson.¡±

 Chapter 136

    Chapter 136


    Chapter 136 Escape Route


    Out of everyone, Gordon was the most upset about Aidan¡¯s return to the Pearson Family Estate.


    However, he could not do anything about it even when he was in a fit of rage.


    Needless to say, the entire family was on edge, and the air in the house crackled with dangerous


    energy.


    Anna was just about to go back to her room when Aidan stopped her at thending. She jumped, then


    willed her heart to stop beating so loudly as she turned to greet him, ¡°A-Aidan¡­¡±


    He swept his icy gaze over her and drawled impassively, ¡°I thought I made my warning very clear.¡±


    Knowing that he was here to punish her, she blurted out, ¡°I didn¡¯t breathe a word about that bi¡ªI mean,


    Leanna¡¯s¡ªpregnancy, I swear!¡±


    It was hard to tell if Aidan was convinced as he stared at Anna ominously. A chill ran down her spine as


    fear cloaked her. She gritted her teeth and considered her options. She knew that he would look into


    this and learn the truth even if she lied to him now, so she squeaked, ¡°It was Carly. She was the one


    who brought up Leanna¡¯s pregnancy and Uncle Gordon overheard her.¡±


    Aidan asked coldly, ¡°And how did she find out about Leanna¡¯s pregnancy?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I don¡¯t know, but from what I could tell, Carly knew about it right from the start. I guess it was


    around the time of Aunt Sienna¡¯s birthday, but she¡¯s always believed it was Zayn¡¯s kid¡­¡± This was a


    clever evasive maneuver on Anna¡¯s part. She had dragged Carly into this and casually reminded Aidan


    that Leanna had not fallen into the water by ident thest time, thereby clearing any suspicion he


    might have of her.


    Presently, Aidan chuckled and looked up at her with his obsidian eyes which were like depthless, icy


    pools as he warned, ¡°I suggest you refrain from ying games with me, Anna, because I¡¯ll be looking


    into every detail you just told me.¡±


    Anna swallowed and tried to keep her voice from shaking. ¡°I¡¯m telling you the truth, Aidan. You have to


    believe me!¡±


    She waited until he left before scurrying back into her room, whereupon she realized she was so


    intimidated by him she had broken out in cold sweat.


    ¡­


    ¡°President Pearson, should we investigate the Bats and find out if they had anything to do with


    this?¡± Jonathan asked, falling in step behind Aidan.


    ¡°No need,¡± Aidan replied curtly. He paused in thought, then asked, ¡°Has Carly given birth yet?¡±


    ¡°Five days ago.¡±


    ¡°Send her a gift basket.¡±


    Jonathan nodded. ¡°And the wording on the card, President Pearson?¡±


    Aidan raised a brow and said, ¡°¡®Stay away from icy waters.¡¯¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get right to it.¡± Jonathan nodded once more, then left to have the gift basket and the card prepared.


    When Aidan walked past Leanna¡¯s door, he consciously slowed in his steps and nced at it.


    Meanwhile, Leanna was seated at the desk doodling to pass the time when she suddenly heard a


    knock at the door. She checked the time and saw that it was only 9.00 PM. Supper would not be


    brought up to her for another hour. She looked at the door and had a fair guess of who was standing on


    the other side of it, then set her pencil down on the desk as she rose to get the door. Exasperatedly,


    she said, ¡°What do you want¡ª¡±


    She stopped mid-sentence when she registered the person standing out in the hallway, and her eyes


    widened by a fraction.


    Sienna raised a brow and eyed her with amusement. ¡°Did you think I was Aidan?¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips. ¡°Sorry, I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s talk behind closed doors, shall we?¡± Sienna did not wait for her to agree before brushing past her


    into the room.


    Frowning, Leanna closed the door obediently and joined Sienna.


    Presently, Sienna had made herselffortable on the couch. She looked around the room


    disinterestedly and asked, ¡°Are youfortable here?¡±


    Leanna nodded curtly. She knew Sienna was not here on a social visit, so she cut right to the chase.


    ¡°Mrs. Pearson, why are you¡ª¡±


    However, her sentence was instantly interrupted by Sienna. ¡°I¡¯m sure you know by now the true


    dynamics of the Pearson Family.¡±


    Biting down on her lower lip, Leanna said nothing.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine if you don¡¯t,¡± Sienna went on to say. ¡°I¡¯ll sum it up for you¡ªAidan and Gordon are on very


    unfriendly terms, and they are caught in a power struggle over Pearson Group. You¡¯re carrying Aidan¡¯s


    child, the rightful heir to thepany and the family fortune. Gordon ns on using that child to dilute


    the power that Aidan has right now.¡±


    She let the information settle before adding, ¡°I¡¯m sure you would have sensed it even if Aidan didn¡¯t tell


    you, but just so we¡¯re clear, you do understand that he would never let you have this baby, don¡¯t you?¡±


    A long pauseter, Leanna finally said, ¡°I don¡¯t know why you¡¯re here telling me all this, Mrs. Pearson.¡±


    ¡°Do you think I stand to gain anything whether or not Pearson Group goes to Aidan or to that unborn


    child?¡± Sienna asked straightforwardly with a humorless smile.


    Upon hearing this, Leanna looked up at her and parted her lips, but words failed her.


    As if reading her mind, Sienna said, ¡°I have no qualms letting you know Aidan is not my child, and he


    would be more embarrassed than I would if everyone found out he was an illegitimate child.¡±


    ¡°What are you trying to say, Mrs. Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Old Master Pearson¡¯s birthday banquet is next week, and there will be plenty of guestsing over to


    the house, which means he will be too distracted to notice if you simply escaped halfway through the


    party. I can break you out of here, but on the condition that no one else must find out about this,


    especially Aidan.¡±


    Leanna had been waiting for a chance to escape since she was brought here, but she didn¡¯t think


    Sienna would be the one to provide her with an escape route.


    Then again, after thinking for a while, she realized it made sense that Sienna would be the one toe


    up with this n.


    Sienna never liked Aidan, and she stood to gain nothing from Gordon using the baby against him. The


    child was Aidan¡¯s, after all, and as far as she was concerned, there was virtually no difference between


    father and son. Having the child around would only aggravate her nerves, and she would much rather


    take matters into her own hands and get Leanna out of the house.


    In that regard, her n to help Leanna, albeit motivated by selfish needs, was sensible.


    Leanna considered this, then asked, ¡°What do you need me to do?¡±


    Seeing that the girl was agreeable to the n, Sienna smiled and rose from the couch, saying, ¡°Just


    act like how you have been for the past week so no one will be suspicious. On the day of the banquet,


    you¡¯ll have to find a way to ditch Aidan without arousing his suspicion and sneak to the back door. My


    men will be waiting for you there.¡± She added as an afterthought, ¡°Also, you can¡¯t evere back to


    Highside after I¡¯ve sent you away, got it? And in order to get Aidan off our backs, you mustn¡¯t contact


    any of your friends or rtives. You can either live on your own with that child or stay here and be a


    vessel for Aidan¡¯s biggest threat. The choice is yours.¡±


    Without the slightest hesitation, Leanna answered, ¡°I can cut everyone off and leave Highside without a


    word. Thank you for helping me, Mrs. Pearson.¡±


    Sienna¡¯s lips curled with a smile, and she reminded, ¡°This stays between us. You can¡¯t tell anyone


    about this, because I won¡¯t be able to help you if word of this gets out.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll keep it a secret,¡± Leanna promised solemnly.


    Having heard this, Sienna nodded and left the room.


    Silence filled the bedroom once more, but for some reason, Leanna¡¯s heart was pumping fast with


    adrenaline.


    She wasn¡¯t sure why Sienna was helping her and whether she had any ulterior motives, but as things


    were, she had no other choice but to take this leap of faith.


    Granted, she could not trust Sienna entirely. There was no telling where that woman would send her off


    to. As Leanna tossed and turned in bed, she gave up sleep in favor of nning an alternative escape


    route.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 137

    Chapter 137


    Chapter 137 I Invited Them


    Carly had only juste out of the bathroom in the hospital suite she was staying in when she saw her


    mother holding up a basket of flowers. Surprised, she asked, ¡°Who is it from?¡±


    Marilyn¡¯s face looked pinched as she said grimly, ¡°Aidan.¡±


    Taken aback by this, Carly pressed, ¡°Aidan? But the Pearsons have already sent me gifts. Why would


    he¡ª¡±


    ¡°Heaven knows,¡± Marilyn cut her off agitatedly. ¡°It¡¯s a personal gift from him, apparently.¡±


    Carly was even more bewildered after hearing this. Aidan had never been on good terms with the


    Bats even though they were technically inws due to Zayn and Anna¡¯s union. Their allegiancey


    with Gordon, a fact that only added more strain to their rtionship with Aidan.


    Under these circumstances, it was abnormal for Aidan to send Carly flowers to congratte her on her


    newborn.


    ¡°Isn¡¯t he and Georgina getting married soon? Could she have been the one that asked him to send the


    flowers?¡± Marilyn guessed.


    ¡°No.¡± Carly shook her head, ¡°Georgina can¡¯t ask Aidan to do anything. No one can.¡± The more she


    thought about usible reasons behind these flowers, the more uneasy she felt. One might call her


    paranoid, but she knew that something must be very wrong if Aidan was sending her flowers out of the


    blue.


    Just as she was drowning in her thoughts, Marilyn said, ¡°Carly, look at this card over here.¡±


    ¡°Let me see.¡± Carly took the card and opened it. When she saw the inscription, all the color drained


    from her face.


    At the sight of this, Marilyn asked frantically, ¡°Are you okay? What does the card say?¡±


    Snapping out of her daze, Carly quickly shook her head and hid the card behind her. ¡°N-Nothing,¡± she


    lied. ¡°It¡¯s just your run-of-the-mill blessing.¡±


    Thankfully, the baby woke up and started crying in the crib, prompting Marilyn to hurry over to soothe


    him. Carly sat on the bed, and even though the thermostat was turned up, she still could not help the


    chill that spread throughout her limbs after reading the card.


    Aidan had not written that line on the card without reason. He must have found out I was the one who


    pushed Leanna into the water!


    Knowing Aidan, this would not be thest time she heard from him about this.


    ¡­


    The next morning, it was evident that Gordon was still unhappy about Aidan¡¯s sudden return to the


    family estate, and he made a point of it by looking grim throughout breakfast.


    Meanwhile, Sienna looked as indifferent as ever, but Anna had her head down the entire time, not


    daring to make a sound.


    The only person who was unaffected by the brewing tension was Justin, who said, ¡°Isn¡¯t it great that


    Aidan¡¯s back? He hasn¡¯t stayed on the estate for years. Now that you¡¯re back, you should definitely


    stay longer.¡±


    Gordon¡¯s face grew even darker when he heard that, but he made no reply.


    A smile curled on Aidan¡¯s lips as he said, ¡°I should. It¡¯s not every day that I don¡¯t have to fret over


    company matters.¡±


    He had only just said this when Gordon mmed his utensils down on the table. Thereafter, he rose


    and left for his study with his walking stick in hand.


    Sienna wasted no time dabbing the corners of her mouth with the napkin and following Gordon into the


    study.


    Not wanting to be left alone with the others at the table, Anna got up as well and hurried after her aunt


    and uncle.


    A few secondster, Justin pointed out, ¡°You ought to keep Leannapany now that you¡¯re back,


    Aidan. I¡¯m sure she could use a familiar face around here.¡±


    ¡°Really?¡± Aidan cast a perfunctory look at Leanna, who was determined to finish her oatmeal instead of


    looking up at him. ¡°I don¡¯t know, she seems pretty happy here.¡±


    Leanna almost choked on her oatmeal. Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Justinughed and began to roll away from the table. ¡°The weather is splendid this morning. I¡¯ll be


    going for a stroll in the garden. I¡¯m sure you guys have plenty to catch up on anyway.¡±


    In truth, Leanna had nothing to say to Aidan. She was sure her lifespan would shorten if she were to


    have to deal with him and his less-than-friendly conversation.


    After breakfast, she habitually rose to head back to her room, but she had only just gotten on her feet


    when she saw the maid leading two figures into the dining room. ¡°These two im they¡¯re from Lux


    Magazine,¡± the maid exined.


    Leanna turned to see none other than Zoe standing next to the maid, throwing meaningful nces in


    her direction.


    Having heard themotion outside, Gordon came bustling out of the study and asked with a frown,


    ¡°Who are these people and what are they doing here?¡±


    Much to everyone¡¯s surprise, Aidan said curtly, ¡°I invited them.¡±


    Already displeased with Aidan¡¯s unannounced return, Gordon grew even angrier when he heard this,


    and his face was stormy as he snapped, ¡°What for?¡±


    Shrugging, Aidan answered nonchntly, ¡°For an exclusive.¡±


    Gordon was rendered speechless by this, and for a second, he was convinced that the younger man


    was out of his mind. Most times, he could care less about what Aidan did, but to have a couple of


    journalists show up at the house for an exclusive was going too far.


    Needless to say, Gordon was incensed, so much so that he was at a loss for words. In the end, he


    struck the floor with his walking stick as if to express his grim mood and turned to go into the study.


    In truth, Leanna was not expecting this either, so she was confused as well.


    Across from her, Zoe looked around and made sure that no one else was around, then jogged up to


    Leanna and tugged her sleeve. ¡°Earth to Leanna.¡±


    Leanna snapped out of her reverie and registered her friend¡¯s presence. ¡°Zoe, what are you¡ª¡±


    Without waiting for Zoe to answer, Aidan interrupted by ncing at the other journalist who came with


    her and said impassively, ¡°Come on.¡±


    He started walking out of the dining room, and the journalist hurried after him.


    Seizing this chance, Zoe whispered to Leanna, ¡°Where¡¯s your room? We¡¯ll talk once we¡¯re behind


    closed doors.¡±


    Leanna agreed and led Zoe up to her bedroom. Now that they had privacy, she pressed urgently, ¡°Zoe,


    what¡¯s going on? Why did Aidan agree to an exclusive by Lux Magazine? And what are you doing


    here?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve been worried about you ever since the Pearsons took you away,¡± Zoe exined. ¡°So, I figured the


    only way I could get any news of you is through Aidan. I ended up going to Pearson Group.¡±


    After Leanna was taken away that night, she managed to tell Zoe that she would be living with the


    Pearsons for the time being and that she wouldn¡¯t be going to work at Lux Magazine for a while, though


    she did emphasize that there was nothing to worry about.


    However, Zoe couldn¡¯t help fretting over her safety. Leanna was heavily pregnant when the Pearsons


    took her away. The Pearson Family Estate was basically hell on Earth, and it was only natural for Zoe


    to be concerned about her friend¡¯s well-being.


    As such, she sought Aidan¡¯s help, only to be surprised when he agreed to let her drop by the estate to


    visit Leanna.


    ¡°I¡¯m serious, Leanna. I know he might be a jerk at times, but he really pulls through during a crisis, and


    he even agreed to let me use an exclusive as subterfuge so that the rest of the Pearsons would stop


    picking on you.¡±


    It was a kind and sensible gesture on Aidan¡¯s part, though Leanna still couldn¡¯t understand why he


    would go to such lengths.


    She was just thinking about this when Zoe added, ¡°What¡¯s the n now, Leanna? Are you really going


    to stay put here for as long as they ask you to?¡±


    Leanna shook her head, and after a moment of thought, she said, ¡°Old Master Pearson is having a


    birthday banquet next week; that¡¯s my chance to escape.¡±


    ¡°What are your ns? Is there anything I can do to help?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Leanna replied. She paused to let the rejection sink in, then continued gravely, ¡°Zoe, no one must


    know about my ns to escape and leave Highside.¡±


    ¡°Not even Louis?¡± Zoe asked.


    Leanna nodded. Once she got away from the estate, Aidan would pin his suspicions on Zoe and Louis


    first, and he would undoubtedly try to crack them for answers. She could not drag them into this by


    having them assist her with her escape.


    A beat or twoter, she promised Zoe, ¡°I¡¯ll get in touch with you and Louis after everything here at


    Highside has been settled.¡±

 Chapter 138

    Chapter 138


    Chapter 138 That¡¯s Presumptuous of You


    Zoe kept quiet for a while before speaking up, ¡°Does this mean you won¡¯t be seeing Aidan anymore?¡±


    Leanna paused as she considered this, and finally said, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± Her marriage to Aidan had been


    the first step toward a long-running mistake, and it was high time she brought an end to it.


    ¡°But I don¡¯t think he would let you go that easily. Besides, he likes you, doesn¡¯t he?¡± Zoe countered.


    There was a long stretch of silence on Leanna¡¯s part before she said with a smile, ¡°That doesn¡¯t signify


    anything, and now that he¡¯s getting married to someone else, he won¡¯t pay attention to what I¡¯m up to.¡±


    Zoe sighed. ¡°You make a point. It¡¯s not as if these rich folks are romantics to begin with anyway.


    Marriage is just a means for them to make a profit or even past their time.¡±


    Not wanting to arouse the Pearsons¡¯ suspicion, Zoe did not stay in Leanna¡¯s room for long and hurried


    downstairs.


    Meanwhile, the other journalist from Lux Magazine had finished interviewing Aidan and left with Zoe.


    That was when Aidan turned to ask the maid, ¡°Where¡¯s Leanna?¡±


    ¡°Miss McKinney has been in her room all this while,¡± the maid answered dutifully.


    Upon hearing this, he headed for the garden as he spoke curtly over his shoulder, ¡°Have here


    downstairs.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± the maid replied dutifully.


    In the bedroom, Leanna was lost in thoughts as she gazed out the window when she heard a knock at


    the door.


    ¡­


    Momentster, Leanna found herself reluctantly arriving in the garden, whereupon she saw Aidan¡¯s


    lone figure. She walked up to him slowly and asked, ¡°You wanted to see me, President Pearson?¡±


    He was sitting at the round garden table. He brought the cup to his lips and took a sip of coffee, then


    said coolly, ¡°Don¡¯t you feel better being outside?¡±


    She did feel better, but she wouldn¡¯t admit it to Aidan outright. For the past few days, all she wanted to


    do was get some fresh air. Save for Justin, the Pearsons generally hated her, and her presence on theN?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    family estate was treated with contempt. The only time when she got a reprieve from the suffocating


    tension was in the evening when she could stroll around the garden with Justin, but she stayed in her


    room throughout the day.


    That said, Aidan was not doing much better with the Pearsons¡¯ hostility bearing down on him. However,


    he was rtively unfazed by it, and his easy disposition here was like a curveball thrown in his family¡¯s


    direction.


    He¡¯s probably the only person who can be unfazed by those who hate him, Leanna thought in


    amusement, secretly admiring his cavalier demeanor.


    Just then, one of the maids served up a tter of fruits. When the maid left, Leanna looked at Aidan


    from across the table and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you have to be at thepany, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s my day off,¡± he answered inly as he set his cup down.


    There was none of his usual obnoxious wit when he said this. Somewhat startled, she replied, ¡°Oh.¡±


    Then, she took a bite of fruit, swallowed it, and said, ¡°Thank you, President Pearson.¡±


    He propped his elbow up on the back of the chair and regarded her with a raised brow, then asked


    insouciantly, ¡°What are you thanking me for?¡±


    ¡°For letting Zoe visit me,¡± she said. She had been bored out of her mind these days, and there was no


    one in the house whom she could open up to until Zoe came. Even though their meeting had been


    brief, it took a load off her shoulder.


    Aidan, on the other hand, was nonchnt as he drawled, ¡°Is that what she¡¯s called? I thought she went


    by some other name.¡±


    Of course, you did. Leanna resisted the urge to roll her eyes in exasperation. She should have known


    better than to think he could keep up a proper conversation without being a jerk.


    The sun was breaking through the clouds in the distance, casting its rays on the garden and basking it


    in a warm, golden glow. It was getting warm enough to make Leanna sleepy, and she couldn¡¯t help the


    yawn that escaped her.


    Just then, the baby kicked her. Deciding that it was ytime, the baby then followed up with several


    more kicks, and before long, he was actively moving in her.


    At once, Leanna snapped out of her drowsiness. Her hand fluttered over her stomach as she felt the


    baby¡¯s movements, dipping her head and smiling lovingly at each subtle kick. When she looked up and


    saw Aidan gazing at her with his obsidian eyes, she blinked, then asked self-consciously, ¡°What are


    you looking at?¡±


    ¡°What are you smiling at?¡± he countered just as quickly.


    Her smile slipped as she retorted, ¡°I don¡¯t think you¡¯d want to know.¡±


    He frowned, displeased by her unwillingness to share. ¡°That¡¯s presumptuous of you. Are you assuming


    you know what I want even without telling me?¡±


    Not wanting to continue this useless bickering, she sighed and said, ¡°The baby¡¯s kicking.¡±


    Aidan stared at her speechlessly. She had told him that he wouldn¡¯t want to know, and she was right.


    Sighing, she took his silence as her cue to go back to her room, but she was just about to get on her


    feet when arge hand gently pressed against her belly.


    ¡°I don¡¯t feel anything,¡± Aidan said quietly as he lowered his gaze.


    She froze at this sudden shift in the atmosphere. Recovering from her initial shock, she pointed out


    softly, ¡°Not there.¡±


    He moved his hand to another spot on her baby bump inquisitively. ¡°Here?¡±


    ¡°No.¡± It wasn¡¯t something she could give directions for, so she took his hand and guided him to a lower


    part of her belly. ¡°Here.¡±


    He had only just put his hand on the spot when he felt the strong and certain kick against his palm. The


    little one didn¡¯t seem like he would stop and even followed up with several more kicks.


    Aidan asked, ¡°Is he always like this?¡±


    ¡°Not always,¡± Leanna said. ¡°But he¡¯s been going at it these days. He¡¯ll stop once he tires out.¡±


    ¡°How long will that take?¡±


    She gave him an incredulous look. He didn¡¯t think I was timing these movements, did he?


    He did not probe further when he did not get a response from her the first time, but he kept his dark


    gaze on his hand, waiting for the next kick.


    The little one appeared to be shifting and turning in there, like how one would toss and turn in bed, and


    the kicks started up in a new spot. Aidan followed the movements, and where the kicks were, his hand


    went.


    Thissted for a good ten minutes. Leanna didn¡¯t think anything of this at first, choosing to believe that


    this was the first time, and probably the only time, Aidan would behave like a father. He was likely


    thinking of ways to get rid of the baby, or wishing that the baby never came into existence in the first


    ce. Nheless, she couldn¡¯t ask him to leave¡ªnot here, not now.


    As the seconds ticked by, she got a little uneasy. She and Aidan were not exactly at close distance, but


    this moment was getting too intimate forfort. Clearing her throat, she said, ¡°Uh, President Pearson,


    my legs are falling asleep.¡±


    Upon hearing this, he looked up at her. ¡°Huh?¡±


    She parted her lips and borated, ¡°I¡¯d like to stand up if you don¡¯t mind.¡±


    It was only then that he snapped out of his reverie and took a step back. Subsequently, he wordlessly


    reached out a hand to her.


    She eyed his hand like it was some alien creature. He saw the confusion on her face and drawled


    impatiently, ¡°Well, you wanted to stand up, didn¡¯t you?¡±


    Realizing that he was offering to help her get on her feet, she quickly reached for his hand and allowed


    him to pull her up. When she was firmly standing on her two feet, she muttered, ¡°Thanks.¡±


    He merely shoved his hand into his pocket and said nothing.


    Presently, Leanna was moving around to loosen her joints when she looked up to see Georgina


    approaching them.


    Georgina smiled as she greeted her, ¡°Miss McKinney!¡± Then, she turned to look at Aidan. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re


    here too, Aidan. Wonderful.¡±


    Aidan hummed indifferently in response and made no other reply.


    Leanna was self-conscious all of a sudden. She thanked the heavens that she had thought about


    getting up from the chair earlier. Things would be that much harder to exin if Georgina had caught


    them during the somewhat-intimate moment just now.


    She nodded at Georgina and shed her an apologetic smile as she said, ¡°I¡¯ll be going back to my


    room now, Miss Crossley. Please excuse me.¡±


    Georgina¡¯s gaze flickered over to Aidan for a brief second, then she offered with a chuckle, ¡°I¡¯ll walk


    you back, Miss McKinney. Someone¡¯s got to make sure you don¡¯t fall over your own feet now that you


    can¡¯t see them.¡±

 Chapter 139

    Chapter 139


    Chapter 139 No Conflict of Interest


    It was a ten-minute walk from the garden to the main house.


    ¡°I¡¯ve been caught up with so many things these days that I hardly have the time to drop by the estate. I


    hope you¡¯ve been well since ourst meeting, Miss McKinney,¡± Georgina piped up pleasantly, breaking


    the silence between Leanna and herself.


    Leanna managed a small smile. ¡°Yes, I have.¡± She could be better, but at least she slept and ate


    regrly.


    Georgina nced at the baby bump and pointed out, ¡°It¡¯s only been days since Ist saw you. The


    baby must be growing fast. Are you due soon?¡±


    Without giving the due date away, Leanna nodded. In truth, she wasn¡¯t sure what to make of Georgina,


    but she couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she was getting close to her for personal reasons. No woman in


    her right mind would be generous enough to tolerate her fianc¨¦¡¯s ex-wife, much less act friendly with


    her.


    Then again, Georgina was different from Anna. While both girls had the same privilege of being born


    into the upper echelons of finer society, the former was decidedly more poised than thetter, who was


    known for being vicious and unreasonable.


    However, that did not make Georgina¡¯s kindness any less confusing to Leanna. First of all, their


    rtionship was an awkward one. Secondly, she was well aware that Georgina had her own reasons


    for being so nice to her. They were not friends, not even close, and it hadn¡¯t been that long ago when


    they first met one another. It would be odd under these circumstances to believe Georgina¡¯s kindness


    was without ulterior motives.


    Moreover, Aidan happened to be the man she was engaged to, and Leanna was the woman who had


    come before her. Surely, this was Georgina¡¯s sore spot.


    That said, Leanna considered the possibility that she was too narrow-minded to give Georgina the


    benefit of the doubt, or maybe she was just defining Georgina by her own standards because she could


    never be so altruistic.


    When both women came to a stop outside the bedroom door, Leanna said, ¡°Thank you for escorting


    me, Miss Crossley.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee,¡± Georgina replied warmly. Then, she asked, ¡°You know, Anna and I are going


    shoppingter. You could join us if you¡¯d like.¡±


    ¡°No, thanks. Anna and I can¡¯t stand each other.¡±


    ¡°Oh, right¡­¡± Georgina pursed her lips and borated, ¡°I thought it might be a good idea for you to get


    out of the house for a while. A change of environment will do wonders for you, especially since you¡¯ve


    been cooped up here for thest week. If you¡¯re worried about Anna, I¡¯m sure she won¡¯t stir up trouble


    while I¡¯m there. We¡¯ll only leave in the afternoon anyway, so just think about it, okay?¡±


    Leanna managed a perfunctory smile and nodded, then turned to go into her room.


    Georgina had only just walked away from the closed bedroom door when Anna came around the


    corner andined, ¡°Why did you invite her, Georgina? She¡¯s such a killjoy.¡±


    ¡°Anna, she was married to your cousin and was part of this family once. You will not speak of her that


    way,¡± Georgina said patiently.


    Anna snorted. ¡°The only reason she¡¯s here even though she and Aidan have divorced is that he went


    and knocked her up! She won¡¯t ever marry into the family ever again. Besides, you and Aidan are


    engaged now, so I¡¯d much prefer if she could just disappear off the face of the earth!¡±


    With Aidan out in the garden, Anna no longer had to keep her resentment to herself and let it all out. In


    fact, she made sure Leanna heard her scathing remarks loud and clear by raising her voice on


    purpose.


    Sighing, Georgina said disapprovingly, ¡°Anna¡­¡±


    Meanwhile, in the room, Leanna had plugged in her earphones and turned up the music to block out all


    the noise from the hallway. She had no idea what Georgina was plotting, but she was determined toy


    low for the next few days until the birthday banquet. If all went well, she could finally get out of this


    hellhole.


    Lunch was a tense and quiet affair with Georgina at the table¡ªwell, at least it was for Leanna; the


    others seemed distinctly unbothered.


    As such, Leanna spent a better part of lunch with her gaze down, taking small mouthfuls of food as she


    tried to be as invisible as she could. She was also furtively praying for lunch to be over soon, but the


    universe had other ns.


    Halfway through the meal, Georgina suddenly nced in Aidan¡¯s direction and said, ¡°Aidan, why don¡¯t


    you join Anna and me at the mall today seeing as it¡¯s your day off? We really ought to pick up a few


    things for the house now that the wedding¡¯s around the corner.¡±


    The words hung heavily in the air, condensing it.


    Naturally, Gordon disagreed with Georgina about the matter of the wedding, and he looked grim when


    he heard her suggestion. Without waiting for Aidan to respond, the old man set his utensils down and


    said gruffly, ¡°I still think this engagement is too abrupt of a decision, Georgina, especially with the


    currentplications. It¡¯d be wise for you to consider pushing the wedding back until the child is born.¡±


    ¡°I know that, Mr. Pearson, and of course, I would wait until the child is born before throwing a wedding,


    but we really must start nning now that time is running out.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps you should go over the details with your father. If you¡¯re sure the wedding is a going concern,


    then it wouldn¡¯t make a difference if you waited a while longer,¡± Gordon said impassively.


    Georgina bit her lip when she heard this, but her smile returned just as quickly as she agreed, ¡°You¡¯re


    right, Mr. Pearson. We¡¯ve already waited this long, and another month or two would hardly make a


    difference.¡±


    Just then, Sienna interjected, ¡°And what about you, Aidan? What do you think of all this?¡±


    At once, everyone, Aidan included, turned to look at her in shock. Not one of them expected her to care


    about what he thought.


    Aidan met her gaze indifferently, but he did not speak.


    Sienna borated, ¡°I watched Georgina grow up, and she¡¯s someone like a daughter to me. It¡¯s only


    natural that I¡¯d ask about the wedding details. If you think you would prefer the wedding to be held


    much earlier than scheduled, then I could have it arranged and ready to go. All you have to do is say


    the words.¡±


    Justin spoke up worriedly, ¡°Maybe we should talk about thister.¡±


    Ignoring him, Sienna went on to say, ¡°We don¡¯t always get to have meals like this, and with Georgina


    here, there¡¯s no better time than now to make a decision. This is her first marriage, after all, and she


    deserves more than half-hearted nning. As for the baby¡­¡± She shot a sidelong nce at Leanna,


    who had been quiet throughout all this, then continued, ¡°You and Leanna have been divorced for a


    while now, so I don¡¯t see how there will be a conflict of interest.¡±


    Aidan made no reply, but his face was dangerously stormy.


    Sensing the angry energy crackling in the air, Georgina immediately tried to smooth things over. ¡°Thank


    you for your concern, Mrs. Pearson, but as Mr. Pearson said, Aidan and I can hold off the wedding and


    wait for the dust to settle.¡±


    ¡°If a person truly loves you, then he would not make you wait until the dust has settled; he¡¯d marry you


    at the first chance he got,¡± Sienna argued.


    A pregnant silence fell over the dining room. Leanna had her head down the entire time, hoping to melt


    into the background, but she could still feel their gaze sweeping over her.


    She wished she could burrow under the table. Maybe then the conversation would be a much more


    scintiting one, and they could speak their minds without having to beat around the bush like how they


    did now. In fact, she had a feeling that the whole engagement thing was brought up just to spite her.


    This was their way of reminding her that her marriage to Aidan was irrelevant and served as a source


    of irritation for the rest of the Pearsons. She also had a sneaking suspicion that they were, by analogy,


    trying to tell her she was irrelevant and irritating as well.


    Just as everyone was starting to think Aidan did not care about answering Sienna¡¯s question as he said


    impassively, ¡°There¡¯s no conflict of interest.¡± He gave Sienna a measured look as he added, ¡°It doesn¡¯t


    matter if we hold the wedding before or after the baby is born, but I¡¯ve always preferred to have things


    done in advance.¡±


    In other words, he had no qualms about having the wedding sooner than nnedMaterial ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 140

    Chapter 140


    Chapter 140 Multitasking


    Just as Sienna was about to continue, Gordon interrupted unhappily, ¡°Alright now, is this farce over?


    Can¡¯t we even eat in peace?¡±


    Those at the table finally quietened down.


    After dinner, Sienna and Gordon left while Leanna stood up as she wanted to return to her room when


    Georgina blocked her path.


    Standing in front of her, Georgina smiled subtly. ¡°Miss McKinney, how are you considering my proposal


    from this afternoon?¡±


    Leanna replied, ¡°Thank you for your gesture, Miss Crossley, but I think I won¡¯t be going.¡±


    ¡°Are you worried that Mr Pearson won¡¯t let you go? Or are you worried about Anna? I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Miss Crossley,¡± Leanna cut her off. ¡°A wedding is a very important event with a lot of things that need


    preparation. If I go, I might just be wasting your time.¡±


    Georgina paused before showing an apologetic expression. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t mean to say those words


    during the meal. It¡¯s just because¡ª¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize to me, Miss Crossley. I don¡¯t think you did anything wrong to me.¡± While


    saying this, Leanna suddenly felt tired and at a loss for words, so she softly stated, ¡°I only want to rest


    now. Again, it should be me who should be apologizing to you for ruining your mood, Miss Crossley.¡±


    Then, she nodded apologetically toward Georgina and went upstairs.


    Leanna stood at the window for a while after returning to her room, only to sit down with a sigh of relief


    after seeing the ck sedan slowly drive away.


    Then, someone knocked on her door after some time.


    Sheposed herself before walking toward the door.


    Opening the door, she saw Aidan standing in front of it with his hands in his pockets and a cold gaze.


    Leanna was a bit shocked at this.


    Yet, she still shut the door without a shred of hesitation.


    The moment she did that, Aidan reached out and blocked the door, looking at her with a dissatisfied


    gaze.


    She could only ask him politely, ¡°Is there anything, President Pearson?¡±


    Retracting his hand back into his pocket, he replied, ¡°I saw that you weren¡¯t eating much, so I had the


    chefs whip up some more food. They¡¯ll send it upter.¡±


    ¡°Oh, thank you, President Pearson,¡± said Leanna and closed the door again.


    Aidan looked coldly at her without speaking. Then, he asked, ¡°Is this how you¡¯re going to act?¡±


    Pursing her lips, she replied, ¡°Thank you for your goodwill, President Pearson. I will be sure to savor


    the meal.¡±


    Since she was not full from lunch, she epted his gesture.


    Aidan, who kept his gaze on her, questioned after a few seconds, ¡°Why are you in such a terrible


    mood?¡±


    Leanna felt confused by his question. How am I angry in his eyes?


    Taking a deep breath, she replied, ¡°I think you¡¯re mistaken, President Pearson. Since you¡¯re going to be


    married soon, you shouldn¡¯t just appear in front of your ex-wife¡¯s room and talk to her like this. If your


    fianc¨¦e gets wind of this, I think she¡¯ll be very upset.¡±


    He was still emotionless when he asked, ¡°Is it that you¡¯ll be upset? Or she¡¯ll be upset?¡±


    Leanna only thought that she could notmunicate any further with this man. Why is this b*stard


    being so persistent? The wedding¡¯s date has already been decided and the fianc¨¦e has even visited


    him, yet he still intends to cheat on her.


    Yet, it was just that this time around, it was her bing the mistress.


    The more she thought about it, the more irritated she became. Then, she eximed furiously,


    ¡°President Pearson, what precisely do you want to say? If there¡¯s nothing, I¡¯m going back to rest.¡±


    Aidan only looked at her in silence.


    As Leanna was about to close the door, he finally asked, ¡°What are you nning to do if I really marry


    Georgina?¡±


    After a pause, she replied, ¡°Anything goes except for me giving you something as congrattions.¡±


    She then emphasized, ¡°I¡¯m poor.¡±


    Hearing such an unexpected answer made Aidanugh dryly before he turned around and left for his


    room, mming his door hard.


    Leanna, who was still standing on the same spot, could feel the shockwave traveling to her. I haven¡¯t


    even closed my door yet, but the b*stard had already closed his.


    Lying on the bed, she felt frustrated and confused. Asking me what to do? What can I say? Tell him not


    to go through with the wedding? Will he even listen? That b*stard only knows how to say ambiguous


    sentences, but when I think that he might have feelings for me, he¡¯ll just say that I¡¯m overthinking it and


    being delusional. Saying stuff like I didn¡¯t eat much. He sure is observant. On one hand, he was


    discussing with his fianc¨¦e about the wedding, and on the other hand, he was observing whether his


    ex-wife was eating or not. How can there be such a detestable man like Aidan?


    ¡­


    On the other side, Justin, who probably heard themotion, went to find his brother.


    When Aidan opened the door, the smell of cigarettes still lingered in his room.


    Wheeling himself inside, Justin smiled helplessly. ¡°Did you argue with Leanna again?¡±


    Aidan sat on the couch before putting out his cigarette in the ashtray filled with water while saying,


    ¡°How can I win against her when she has such a sharp tongue?¡±


    ¡°Leanna has been staying here for one week now. Even though she isn¡¯t saying anything, I can still feel


    her loneliness. Since you came, she looks more upbeat now,¡± stated Justin. ¡°But you¡¯re not without


    fault. Leanna is pregnant now, so why do you keep making her angry?¡±


    Pursing his lips, Aidan replied, ¡°I didn¡¯t make her angry.¡±


    From the start of the meal, he saw that Leanna had kept her head lowered with an upset expression,


    which made him want to exin the matters of the wedding to her. Who knew that heartless woman


    would react like she had eaten a dynamite? What a horrible attitude.


    Justin continued, ¡°No matter what, this is the toughest time. Especially for Leanna. Not only is she


    pregnant with your child, you and Georgina even discussed the wedding openly in front of her. Anyone


    would feel bad after that.¡±


    Aidan replied after a moment of silence, ¡°This is something that she can¡¯t avoid.¡±


    ¡°Aidan.¡± Justin continued, ¡°In fact, there are many other ways to say the same thing; you don¡¯t have to


    be so cruel.¡±


    Aidan stated, ¡°The truth is cruel. If everything is as ideal as she thinks, then she¡¯ll never know how


    much suffering others are going throughpared to her situation.¡±


    Sighing helplessly at this, Justin said, ¡°Aidan, you think things are going too far. In reality, Dad only


    wants Leanna¡¯s child because he wants the bloodline within the family.¡±


    Aidan, who did not deny his ims, smiled subtly. ¡°What he wants is another puppet who submits to


    him and is controlled by him, but it¡¯s just that this puppet must have the blood of the Pearsons.¡±


    Prominent families like the Pearsons ced paramount importance on bloodline. Otherwise, they


    would not have picked him, the illegitimate child, up in the first ce.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.

 Chapter 141

    Chapter 141


    Chapter 142 What a Jinx


    After hearing about this, how could Queenie not care about it? No wonder Leanna was always wearing


    loose and oversized clothes at work everyday. I thought it was a bit weird of her for doing that. It turns


    out that she¡¯s pregnant!


    After a slight pause, Queenie decided to probe further as she asked, ¡°Miss Crossley, is the Pearson


    Family you¡¯re referring to the Pearson Group?¡±


    ¡°It is.¡±


    Hanging up, Georgina looked out the window with a smug expression. Sometimes, one just needs the


    right words and others will do whatever they need on their behalf.


    ¡­


    Ever since Aidan moved back to the residence, the whole atmosphere had be a lot more


    depressing though Leanna would like to differ. To her, it was much more ¡®exciting¡¯pared to her past


    prison-like days.


    Atst, I have someone to bicker with¡­ Still, I¡¯m not sure what¡¯s up with the b*stard. He¡¯s justzing


    around the house all day long without even going to thepany. The worst thing is he¡¯ll take a jab at


    me whenever he feels like it.


    At this point, it was only a few days until Gordon¡¯s birthday.


    The closer it was, the more nervous Leanna became as she was afraid that things might go south. Yet,


    fate always seemed to have a nasty surprise awaiting her.


    Just two days before the birthday banquet, the police received an anonymous tipoff stating that


    someone in the Pearson Family was taking drugs.


    When the police arrived at the Pearson Family Estate, Gordon became livid upon hearing their


    exnation. ¡°That¡¯s impossible! This is preposterous!¡±


    The officers could only apologize and state, ¡°Old Master Pearson, since this incident has somewhat


    blown up, even the journalists have heard about it. We are just going through with the procedure. Once


    we make sure that it is a false report, we will investigate this to the best of our abilities and give you a


    satisfactory exnation.¡±


    ¡°Then, make sure you turn the house upside down if that¡¯s what it takes!¡± Gordon jabbed the ground


    with his cane in fury. ¡°My family have all been in the field of business for countless generations now


    and we have always been innocent. We do not involve ourselves in such harmful things nor do we


    conduct any shady deals. Well, since someone has the audacity to make a false report against us, I¡¯d


    really like to meet this person who¡¯s dared to walk all over me!¡±


    ¡°Yes, you¡¯re right, Old Master Pearson,¡± the police said. ¡°I¡¯m afraid we¡¯ll still have to ask for your


    family¡¯s cooperation in this test so as to prove your innocence.¡±


    Although Gordon was very much unhappy about this, this would only be at advantage for the person


    who made the false report if he was to reject it.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Soon enough, the entirety of the Pearson Family had their samples collected.


    Then, the police asked, ¡°My apologies for troubling everyone here. Is there anyone who has yet to do


    the test?¡±


    Crossing her arms, Anna replied with a haughty expression, ¡°Leanna is still upstairs.¡±


    To that, Gordon nced at the servant beside him and ordered, ¡°Bring her.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡±


    Nodding, the servant left.


    Hiding in the bushes nearby were two excited yet nervous journalists who snuck in when the servants


    were busy with their drug tests.


    Although the journalists did not dare to offend the Pearsons, the person who phoned them revealed


    that this would be a very exclusive headline; if the news made its way into the public, not only would


    they be famous, the money they would make from it would also be uncountable.


    On the other hand, Leanna, who was taking a nap upstairs, was awoken by the servant¡¯s knocks on the


    door. After hearing that the police were here to investigate drug usage, she was in a daze and only


    snapped back to reality a while after. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll head down after changing my clothes.¡±


    Subsequent to the servant leaving, she went to the window and saw that there was a crowd in the


    garden with two police cars parked beside. This looks serious.


    After arriving downstairs, she registered herself with the police. However, when she was asked about


    her rtion to the Pearsons, she was caught off guard as she did not know how to answer them.


    Not wanting to expose her identity, Gordon stated impatiently, ¡°Nobody¡¯s going to escape from here.


    Just do the test and look for me if anything happens.¡±


    The police stopped questioning her after they had collected her sample before departing.


    As for those two journalists, they recognized Leanna as soon as she came down as they were


    previously at the press conference of Lux Magazine. Feeling a huge scope in their hands, they started


    to capture photos madly.


    We now have the evidence that proves the rumors to be true! She is indeed a mistress of a wealthy


    man! McK, you can deny it once, but you can¡¯t deny it any longer!


    It was then that the bodyguards found the two journalists and dragged them to Gordon.


    However, they had thought up an excuse prior to the hiding and only stated that they were here for the


    drug incident scoop.


    The mere mention of this made Gordon even more frustrated and angry as he ordered the bodyguards


    to check their cameras and chase them away after deleting all the photos.


    What they were not aware of was the fact that the two had already backuped the exclusive photos to


    their phones before they were even caught.


    It was until the servants dispersed that Anna sneered at Leanna, ¡°What a jinx.¡±


    With a low voice, Justin voiced out, ¡°Anna.¡±


    ¡°What? I¡¯m not wrong, am I? When has this kind of thing happened before? There¡¯s been nothing good


    ever since she moved in.¡±


    Yet, before Justin could continue, Gordon said, ¡°Justin, you should get off Anna¡¯s back for a while.¡±


    Clearly, his words were hinting that he agreed with Anna while he was also taking his anger out on


    Leanna.


    Hearing that she was being backed up, Anna became even more smug. ¡°A person like her will be


    shunned no matter where she goes. What an annoying woman.¡±


    To that, Gordon only went back to his room with a snort.


    Anna, who wanted to leave too, was stopped by Justin. ¡°Anna, apologize to Leanna.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not going to. Uncle Gordon already said¡ª¡±


    ¡°I said, apologize.¡±


    Since Anna had never seen this stern side of Justin before, she was a little taken aback as she turned


    to Sienna. ¡°Aunt Sienna¡­¡±


    Unexpectedly, Sienna replied, ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear what Justin said?¡±


    This only made Anna stomp her foot and said begrudgingly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry.¡±


    At that, Leanna responded, ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t quite hear you.¡±


    In an instant, Anna¡¯s anger had turned her expression contorted. Since Justin and Sienna had already


    made their stance clear, she could only swallow her rage for now as she increased her volume. ¡°I said,


    I¡¯m sorry!¡±


    Anna then turned around and went back to her room.


    Seeing this, Leanna gave a very subtle smile. I actually managed to hear Anna apologizing to me in my


    lifetime. At least there¡¯s something to be gleaned from this.


    ¡°I hope you can forgive her, Leanna. Anna still has a bit of a childish temper,¡± Justin uttered.


    Nodding, she replied, ¡°Thank you for that.¡±


    ¡­


    Soon enough, the police had released the test report. As expected, nobody in the Pearsons was using


    drugs, thus determining the anonymous person to have made a false report.


    However, they only found out the identity used to report to the police was a fake one, so the


    investigation was halted for the time being.


    It looked like the other party had nned it all out.


    Before this incident could get its chance to blow over, someone exposed the news on the official


    website of Lux Magazine that Leanna was a mistress and had been pregnant all this time. Not only


    that, the whole article was also detailedly written and presented with organized proof; it was all photos


    of Leanna¡¯s pregnancy.


    In the photo, everyone was blurred out while the servants and police were edited out entirely, leaving


    Leanna exposed alone in the photo.

 Chapter 142

    Chapter 142


    Chapter 143 umted Grudge


    Although the article did not explicitly state the identity of the business mogul whom Leanna was


    involved with, it was evident that the person was powerful and influential; even Lux Magazine would


    shy away from offending him. This also exined why all the scandals concerning her were easily


    taken down, which highlighted how much effort Lux put in to protect her image.


    The situation only continued to heat up after the news broke out. Subsequently, an anonymous user


    imed to know everything about the incident and stated the photograph was taken at the famous


    Pearson Family Estate.


    By then, there were already tons ofments with one even stating they were the employees of Lux


    Magazine and witnessed a wealthy-looking woman visiting Leanna at thepany before. Judging


    from the description of thement, it could very well be talking about Sienna based on past events.


    Following that, there was ament about the illegitimacy of the child, which then spurred the


    discussion about which Pearson the baby belonged to. In the midst of it, another person mentioned that


    the child was not the one and only illegitimate member of the family.


    It was already 10.00PM when Leanna caught wind of all this.


    Zoe was the one who informed her of this.


    Now that the incident has been blown out of proportion, Pearson Group¡¯s stock price must be affected


    to a degree.


    Gulping, Zoe said fearfully, ¡°Leanna, will they dump all the ming onto you? Are you able to escape?


    Should I call the police to save you?¡±


    Leanna thought the whole thing was strange as the scandal seemed to only target her at first before


    suddenly bringing up the topic of illegitimacy.


    Yet, everyone in the Pearsons including Leanna knew clearly that this very topic was the biggest


    division and barrier put in between Aidan and his family, which essentially was the root of the problem.


    Shaking her head at the thought of this, Leanna replied, ¡°Please keep up with the situation out there


    and hit me up if anything happens.¡±


    She then continued after a pause, ¡°And¡­ look out for Louis too.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Regardless, Zoe was still worried about her. ¡°How about you send me a message as a safety


    notice every couple of hours? This way, I can ensure that they didn¡¯t do anything to you.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡±


    Just before they hung up, Zoe asked, ¡°Oh right, how does Aidan n to handle this?¡±


    Leanna shook her head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. He went to thepany early this morning. He still hasn¡¯t


    returned yet.¡±


    Zoe replied, ¡°Okay, then. I¡¯ll ask my friend regarding the situation at Pearson Group. I¡¯ll tell you if any


    newses up.¡±


    Subsequently, Leanna had just hung up when she heard a hugemotioning from the study


    downstairs.


    It sounded like Gordon was smashing things out of anger.


    Holding tightly onto her phone, she calmed herself down and opened the door.


    Before she was about to head downstairs, she bumped into Justin.


    ¡°Leanna, where are you going?¡± asked Justin.


    Pursing her lips, she replied, ¡°This whole incident happened because of me, so I thought¡ª¡±


    ¡°Leanna, you¡¯re overthinking this. It¡¯s not your fault.¡±


    It was then that Leanna¡¯s phone rang.


    The caller was Aidan.


    She hesitated before picking it up as Aidan¡¯s cold voice sounded, ¡°Stay in your room. Don¡¯t you go


    anywhere. This incident doesn¡¯t have anything to do with you.¡± She was caught off guard for a moment.


    Did he install a bug on me? After Aidan finished his statement, he hung up without even waiting for her


    reply. Seeing Leanna¡¯s hand slowly drop from her ear, Justin smiled. ¡°That was Aidan, right?¡± She


    nodded in response.


    ¡°You should listen to him. He¡¯ll handle everything.¡±


    Upon hearing his words, Leanna did not utter another word before returning to her room.


    In reality, she knew that she could not be of help anyway. At worst, she would only be treated as a


    punching doll.


    Still, this incident is too strange¡­ Everything seems to be connected. How puzzling.


    ¡­


    After locating Sienna in the garden, Justin called out for her after watching her from behind for quite


    some time, ¡°Mom.¡±


    Turning around, she did not seem at all surprised at his appearance. ¡°It¡¯s already sote. Is there


    anything?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who incited all this drama about Aidan, am I right?¡±


    To that, she only smiled. ¡°There are no secrets that can¡¯t be revealed. Perhaps, this is what the


    universe wants.¡±


    Frustrated, he replied, ¡°Things have already blown out of proportion at this point, so why are you


    making it worse?¡±


    ¡°Worse? I thought that it could go even worse than this! After being wronged for so many years, don¡¯t


    you think it is only right for me to stand up for you? Besides, I wasn¡¯t the one who nned this; all I did


    was fan the mes,¡± Sienna told the truth as she indeed was not the mastermind behind this.


    To her, the truth about Aidan¡¯s illegitimacy not only concerned the reputation of the Pearsons but also


    her image and dignity. As such, she had been dreaming for this day to arrive for the past decades.


    Lucky for her, she did not have to be the one who ignited the mes. All she needed to do was to give


    the heated discussion a little bit of push and direction.


    ¡°What¡¯s the point of doing all this? Does it change anything?¡± asked Justin.


    ¡°Even if it doesn¡¯t change a thing, I don¡¯t want him to have an easy life either.¡± Standing up, Sienna


    stated, ¡°I would appreciate it if you can stay out of this. I will deal with it as I see fit.¡±


    Standing in a dark corner was Anna who was biting her lips.


    Aidan is actually Uncle Gordon¡¯s illegitimate child! So, that means that he and I are not rted at all!


    He¡¯s not even my cousin!


    No wonder Aunt Sienna disliked him since he was young. I always thought that she was just biased


    toward Justin due to his disability.


    It was then that she realized why Justin was referred as a brother to her while Aidan was only a cousin.


    This is all because he¡¯s a b*stard.


    If so, then I won¡¯t have to be afraid of anything anymore.


    Slipping away, Anna went to Leanna¡¯s door on the first floor with a piercing gaze.


    ¡­


    Facing the scandal, everyone at Pearson Group felt like they were walking on needles.


    At that point, nobody had the time to care about the backer of Lux Magazine¡¯s designer or the father of


    the child inside her.


    What they cared about now was the concerning rumors surrounding their president, which stated that


    he might be an illegitimate child.


    Oftentimes, the stranger the tales of the rich, the more curious the public.


    In the president¡¯s office, Jonathan felt that this was the biggest challenge of his career yet as cold


    sweat covered his back. ¡°President Pearson, I can¡¯t seem to suppress the trending topics. There are


    also way too many negativements. I am unable to delete them all¡­¡±


    However, Aidan was not in the least bit of shock or fear as he casually skimmed through the scandals


    and asked, ¡°Have you found the whistleblower from the start?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t¡­¡± Jonathan replied quietly. ¡°The person used a fake identity. Also, the IP address originated


    from an illegal inte cafe. Surveince cameras from that nearby area also did not manage to


    capture the perpetrators¡¯ face.¡±


    Hearing this, Aidan uttered, ¡°Leanna sure made a heck lot of enemies since we divorced for only half a


    year now.¡±


    Not ready to risk his life yet, Jonathan kept silent.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 143

    Chapter 143


    Chapter 144 The Last Help


    Jonathan could only bitterly inside. I think you should worry about yourself first! You are in much deeper


    trouble than you think you are!


    In actuality, he had already suppressed the incident concerning Leanna.


    Aidan continued, ¡°This woman wouldn¡¯t even know what caused her downfall upon death if it wasn¡¯t for


    me.¡±


    ¡°President Pearson¡­¡±


    ¡°From the charity eventst time up until today¡¯s scandal, it looks like someone desperately wanted her


    reputation to be ruined. Therefore, whoever we should be looking into now will be the person who


    would benefit the most from Leanna¡¯s departure from Lux.¡±


    Pondering for a while, Jonathan knew what he was getting at. ¡°What you mean¡­ is the perpetrator


    might be an employee of Lux?¡±


    While leaning against his chair with a cold look, Aidan replied, ¡°That sharp tongue of hers must¡¯ve


    pissed a lot of people off. Let¡¯s start off with the ones that are the most suspicious.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± Jonathan almost left the office before he turned back. ¡°Then¡­ What about the other


    matters?¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no point in worrying ourselves with things that we have no control over. She¡¯ll naturally stop


    when the desired oue is achieved.¡±


    Jonathan was rather shocked upon this statement. ¡°President Pearson, you know who¡¯s the


    mastermind?¡±


    In return, Aidan only lifted his gaze at him emotionlessly which made Jonathan reply, ¡°I¡¯ll get to


    business on Madam¡¯s affairs right now.¡±


    After he left, the office descended into silence.


    Standing up, Aidan arrived in front of the window with both hands in his pocket as he stared at the busy


    street below while deep in thought.


    It was momentster when the phone on the table rang.


    Turning back, he noticed it was from Leanna yet chose not to move from the spot.


    The phone rang until the ringtone ended and the screen faded to darkness.


    Directing his gaze elsewhere, he stood for another few minutes before picking up his phone and dialing


    back.


    It was only a few seconds when Leanna¡¯s voice came from the other side. ¡°President Pearson, were


    you busy just now?¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    He grunted coldly. ¡°I was.¡±


    It sounded as if even uttering a word more was too much for him.


    ¡°I see. You should continue your work, then. I won¡¯t hold you up any longer.¡±


    Just as she wanted to hang up, she heard his voice in an upset tone. ¡°Speak.¡±


    She then replied carefully, ¡°Miss Fletcher called me earlier. She¡¯s very worried about you.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s there to worry about? It¡¯s not like I¡¯ll kill myself or whatever.¡±


    Leanna was originally concerned about him, but after hearing how rude he was, she grew a bit


    frustrated. ¡°President Pearson, do you have to talk like this?¡±


    Looking straight ahead, Aidan seemed to have recalled something when he saw his reflection from the


    window.


    It was then that he uttered, ¡°I¡¯m sorry about that. Could you repeat your question?¡±


    Leanna did not.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine. She doesn¡¯t have to worry about anything,¡± he continued.


    ¡°Then¡­ If you¡¯re really fine, give her a call.¡±


    ¡°I got it.¡±


    ¡°Okay, that¡¯s all. I¡¯m hanging up.¡±


    At that moment, Aidan suddenly called out to her. ¡°Leanna.¡±


    His tone made her heart skip a beat. ¡°What?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m giving you onest chance.¡± He continued gently, ¡°Do you want to get back together with me?¡±


    After a long pause, she replied, ¡°Why are you bringing this up now?¡±


    ¡°Just answer me.¡±


    ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to marry Miss Crossley?¡±


    Her continuous questions made Aidan respond, ¡°Alright. Enough with your excuses. You wasted your


    chance.¡±


    The call ended abruptly.


    Leanna was then left with the disconnect tone.


    Looking outside the window, she felt a little mncholic.


    What is that b*stard doing again? He keeps testing my patience out of nowhere.


    It was then that someone knocked on the door.


    Rubbing her eyes, she went to open it.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Queenie, who was watching the shift in attention on the inte, became restless


    and fidgety.


    She knew that the journalists would not dare to expose the Pearson Group; frankly, she only wanted to


    use them to let the public know that Leanna was a kept woman and that she had an illegitimate child.


    Yet, she never nned for things to spiral out of her control.


    Obviously, someone has pointed out the location to be Pearson Family Estate before highlighting the


    topic about the illegitimate child. In the end, they actually directed all the attention to Aidan Pearson!!!


    Queenie knew that things werepletely out of hand now. In her worst case scenario, she might even


    be dragged into this mess.


    In the midst of her helplessness, her phone suddenly rang. Seeing that it was an unregistered phone


    number, she quickly picked it up. ¡°Hello, is this Ron?¡±


    On the other end, Ron paused before speaking, ¡°Queenie, I think they found me. So, this might be the


    last time I can help you.¡±


    ¡°Where are you, Ron?¡± asked Queenie.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry, Queenie. I told you that no matter what happens, I will bear it all by myself. I


    will not drag you down with me.¡±


    Even though he said that, she was still worried. ¡°But¡­ But¡­¡±


    ¡°Live a good life, Queenie. Don¡¯t be like me. Don¡¯t live a life where you can only survive in the


    shadows.¡±


    As soon as he said that, sounds of quickened footsteps could be heard from Ron¡¯s side. Queenie could


    only hear him mumbling, ¡°When?¡± before a ssh of impact was heard.


    It turned out that he had thrown the phone into the water.


    To that, she breathed a sigh of relief. If that¡¯s what I think happened, then I¡¯m sure they won¡¯t be able to


    find me even if they track down the perpetrators.


    Still holding onto her phone, she hesitated for a while before calling someone.


    After the line connected, she said softly, ¡°It¡¯s me, Miss Crossley.¡±


    Georgina smiled. ¡°Hello, Miss Wojzicki. Is there anything I can help you with?¡±


    ¡°About the scandal online, I wanted to ask if that will affect Pearson Group in any way?¡±


    ¡°What do you mean by this, Miss Wojzicki?¡±


    Queenie hastily exined, ¡°Please don¡¯t misunderstand, Miss Crossley. It¡¯s because¡­ It¡¯s because¡­¡±


    In a state of panic, she did not know what to say as she only uttered after a while, ¡°I was once


    sponsored by thepany to go to Aeras for further studies. After I came back, the Pearson Group


    also helped me out. Regardless of anything, it is true that I owe them a lot, so I wanted to clear up my


    confusion concerning the sudden scandal.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I see.¡± Georgina continued in a gentle manner, ¡°Actually, I¡¯m not too sure about the entire situation


    myself. How about this? I¡¯ll ask around and inform youter. Is that okay with you?¡±


    ¡°Of course. Thank you for your help, Miss Crossley.¡±


    ¡°No worries. It¡¯s just that since this happened so suddenly, Pearson Group¡¯s stock price has been


    affected quite severely by this.¡±


    Her words had nearly made Queenie¡¯s heart beat out of chest, but she did not dare to say much in fear


    of exposing herself. Therefore, she could only say, ¡°I¡¯ll thank you in advance then, Miss Crossley.


    Please tell me if there¡¯s anything that I can do to help.¡±


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, Miss Wojzicki,¡± Georgina replied.


    After hanging up, Queenie looked at the various news articles on her phone only to notice that the


    comments had lessened. Looks like the people of Pearson Group have begun to make their move.


    Yet, it was this exact turn of events that struck fear into her heart.


    Once they clean up the scandal online, they will be sure to trace the roots back to me.

 Chapter 144

    Chapter 144


    Chapter 145 The Wedding in a Month¡¯s Time


    Leanna opened the door; although Anna¡¯s appearance surprised her, she asked calmly, ¡°Is there


    anything I can help you with?¡±


    Anna disyed haughtiness and disdain with her arms crossed. ¡°Seems like you¡¯re not affected in the


    slightest even after the big incident. You must be living a happy life, aren¡¯t you?¡±


    Her sarcastic tone implied her purpose ofing over was to poke fun at Leanna, who was not in the


    mood of ying along with her. ¡°Is there anything you wanna say?¡±


    ¡°Nothing in particr,¡± Anna mocked. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that bad things keep happening ever since the


    day you move to our house? How do you sleep at night knowing that you don¡¯t belong here?¡±


    ¡°If you can persuade Old Master Pearson, I can leave immediately.¡± Leanna was trying to protect


    herself.


    It had been a week since she started living here and there had been no issue at all. It was obvious that


    Anna wanted to cause a scene by getting on her nerves right now. Bringing up Gordon¡¯s name was to


    remind Anna of the situation and suggest she back off.


    The trick worked as her expression showed nuances, albeit for a fleeting second. She centered herself


    and jeered at Leanna, ¡°You must be naive to think that I¡¯ll be afraid of you just because you brought up


    Uncle Gordon. He just needs the baby in your belly to control Aidan. He doesn¡¯t care even if you¡¯re


    dead.¡±


    Leanna smiled lightly in return. ¡°That is true. No one cares if I¡¯m dead. So, tell me, Anna Pearson, are


    you going to put your life at stake just to take me down right now? Or, are you going to wait after I give


    birth to the child?¡±


    A flicker of resentment shed across Anna¡¯s eyes when she heard that. ¡°Leanna McKinney, do you


    really think that you can keep that illegitimate child of yours?¡±


    The smile on Leanna¡¯s face gradually simmered as she stared coldly at Anna, who was content by the


    reaction. Anna continued nonchntly, ¡°You do know that your baby is nothing but a puppet, right? It¡¯s


    not like the child is irreceable. If Uncle Gordon can find an illegitimate child, he can find the second


    and the third one. Your child is not as important as you believe, you know?¡±


    Hearing that, Leanna finally understood the reason as to why Anna was at her door. Considering how


    Anna was afraid of Aidan back then, there was a possibility that she did not know about his identity as


    the illegitimate child.


    It was probably because of his warning that made her stop her ploys for a short period of time, but her


    attitude totally changed after the truth of the illegitimate child had been transpired. Contempt seeped


    into her words whenever she spoke of Aidan. Such a thing would not have happened if it was still


    yesterday. Leanna held her tongue for a moment before gazing at her with serenity. ¡°If the baby isn¡¯t all


    that important, then why do you think I am confined here?¡± It was now Anna¡¯s turn to stay silent for a


    few moments before retorting, ¡°Don¡¯t get too full of yourself. I won¡¯t let you slide off that easily.¡± Leanna


    smiled. ¡°Same goes for you.¡± Recalling Leanna¡¯s warning when she first returned to the country, Anna¡¯s


    expression slightly changed. It was not that she was scared of Leanna, but Aidan might really let her


    pay the price with her life if he found out about the truth of the incident. After Anna left, Leanna closed


    and locked the door as though that could give her a sense of security. She then sat on the bed wearily


    as she felt something sapped her energy; even her palms were mmy with sweat. That was close.


    While confronting someone as domineering as Anna, Leanna knew well that she should never show


    signs of weaknesses during a sh. Although Leanna managed to pull it through tonight, Anna


    resembled a ticking time bomb that would go off any second now. At that moment, Leanna¡¯s phone


    rang. It was Zoe.


    ¡°Nana, are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m fine. Have you found where Louis is?¡± It was not until then did she feel her voice bing


    hoarse. ¡°He¡¯s right next to me. You¡ªHey, hey! Hey!¡± Before Zoe could even finish her words, Louis


    snatched the phone and questioned, ¡°Did they coop you up in Pearson Family Estate?¡± ¡°No, Louis. It¡¯s


    not what you think it is,¡± responded Leanna. ¡°If so, I¡¯ming over to pick you up.¡± ¡°Louis,¡± she cooed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t wanna drag you into this matter. This ce is moreplicated than you think. It¡¯s dangerous.¡±


    ¡°Since you know how dangerous it is, why are you still¡ª¡±


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    ¡°I¡¯m pregnant with Aidan¡¯s baby, so they won¡¯t do anything to me, but you¡¯re different; they might do


    anything to you! Louis, be a good boy and listen to me. No matter what happens in the future, just stay


    in school and not worry about me.¡±


    While he was frowning in silence, Zoe helped Leanna out by saying, ¡°Just listen to your sister. There¡¯s


    nothing you can do as a student.¡±


    She then retrieved the phone from him. ¡°Leanna, I¡¯ve got news from Pearson Group. It seems that


    Aidan is not bothered about the matter, so don¡¯t worry about it. Not to mention it¡¯s off the trending chart


    too, so it shouldn¡¯t be a problem.¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°Okay. Got it.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ste. Go get some sleep. It¡¯s been a long day.¡±


    Lying in bed, Leanna was still fully awake, so she turned on her phone and began surfing the Inte.


    Not only had the whistleblower obliterated the content an hour ago, the one who insinuated Aidan was


    an illegitimate child had deleted their ount too.


    Everything vanished in thin air as if nothing had happened before.


    Still, every businessman in Highside was privy to Aidan¡¯s true identity since that very night. Although


    they did not bring it up in public, they still gush about it privately when they could.


    Losing her interest, Leanna turned off her phone before cing it aside. She could make a vague


    guess that the whistleblower and the person disclosing Aidan¡¯s identity were of two different parties. To


    her belief, there was a high possibility that Sienna was thetter.


    Since she could not catch a wink, she paid attention to every noiseing from the corridor. However,


    there were no footsteps heard until the end of the day.


    So, Aidan didn¡¯t return¡­


    The thought of calling him did cross her mind, but she neither had the right nor proposition to do so.


    Besides, he was going to marry Georgina soon. If she really was to give him a call that night, she would


    never forgive herself.


    By the time she drifted into dreand, the sky already began to lit up. Nevertheless, she had not


    expected to read the headlines of Aidan and Georgina the next second she woke up. Their wedding will


    be held a monthter, huh¡­


    As soon as the news broke out, Pearson Group¡¯s share price surged to a high record, transcending its


    original price. Ha, it seems that I¡¯ve worried for nothingst night¡­

 Chapter 145

    Chapter 145


    Chapter 146 It¡¯s Inappropriate


    Leanna opened the door and was about to head downstairs when the servant waiting outside stopped


    her in her tracks.


    ¡°Miss McKinney, there is currently an esteemed guest present here, so you¡¯re not allowed to head


    downstairs for now. I¡¯ll bring your breakfast to youter on,¡± the servant mentioned.


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she did not pursue the topic any further but merely nodded her head


    slightly. ¡°Thanks.¡±


    She went back into her room and took a seat in front of the desk before opening her sketchbook. As


    soon as she flicked past the ne she had designed for the charity event, her gaze paused


    momentarily.


    Perhaps the ne had met the same fate as the man in the picture; both had disappeared without a


    trace. Even if she tried everything she could to recover it, the oue would be the same regardless.


    Right now, her only concern was to leave this ce as she did not care about anything else at all.


    As for the discussion downstairs¡­


    Although Gordon was significantly displeased with Aidan and Georgina¡¯s engagement, he could not


    find it in himself to resist such a huge temptation of the immense Crossley Group.


    Georgina was the only daughter of Lloyd, so once she married Aidan, the Crossley Group would


    naturally be taken over by Pearson Group.


    This was definitely much better than Bat Group, who was not actually as well-off as they seemed.


    However, Gordon did not expect that Georgina would still agree to the marriage despite the incident


    from the night before. Furthermore, she came in person to the mansion to discuss the details of the


    wedding.


    Naturally, he was not going to look a gift horse in the mouth as this was a great opportunity.


    Furthermore, even if Aidan married Georgina, Gordon had Aidan¡¯s child in his hands anyway. Though


    this marriage union was disadvantageous to Gordon, the benefits he reaped from it surpassed the loss.


    Gordon added, ¡°Since the wedding date has been set, all that¡¯s left are the arrangements for the venue


    and outfits. It¡¯s not something too difficult, so we¡¯ll be able to handle it to save Lloyd some heavy


    trouble.¡±


    Meanwhile, Lloyd grunted a few times, seeming to be purposely trying to go along with his words.


    ¡°Gordon, you¡¯re quite right indeed, but Georgina¡¯s my only daughter and this is a very important


    asion for her, so there are some matters that I should deal with personally.¡±


    Georgina sat by Lloyd¡¯s side. ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry. The Pearsons have been really kind to me so far, so


    you definitely won¡¯t be disappointed with the wedding.¡±


    Lloyd responded, ¡°Well, it is your wedding after all. I guess it¡¯s alright as long as you¡¯re happy with it.¡±


    He continued as he nced at Gordon before turning solemn, ¡°I¡¯m well-aware that Aidan has been


    married before, but I¡¯m not going to touch on that as what¡¯s past is past. I just hope that he will treat


    Georgina well after the marriage and be serious about maintaining their rtionship.¡±


    Gordon nodded. ¡°Definitely.¡±


    After Lloyd received a reply, he turned to look at the man who was seated across from him. Not only


    was the man silent throughout the conversation, he also had an indifferent look on his face. ¡°Aidan, can


    I have your word?¡±


    To his response, Aidan merely lifted his eyes.


    As soon as Georgina saw that, she hastily clung to Lloyd¡¯s arms. ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry. Aidan will definitely


    be able to do that.¡±


    At that moment, Justin piped up, ¡°Mr. Crossley, please don¡¯t mind Aidan.¡±


    Lloyd chuckled. ¡°As long as he doesn¡¯t hurt Georgina, he can do whatever he wants and I wouldn¡¯t


    care.¡±


    It might seem that he was mentioning it quite casually, but in fact, he was skillfully deflecting Justin¡¯s


    statement. Undeniably, that was also a warning for Aidan.


    Justin nodded with a smile. ¡°Mr. Crossley, you¡¯re right.¡±


    Lloyd got up from his seat and said, ¡°Since we¡¯ve pretty much finished the discussion, then I¡¯ll be on my


    way now. The two of them can decide for themselves about the details of the wedding.¡± At that


    moment, Gordon stood up by clutching his cane and was about to say something when Lloyd


    continued his sentence. ¡°I heard something along the way here. Aidan¡¯s ex-wife seems to be staying


    here too.¡± As soon as Gordon heard that, his expression turned slightly without an affirmative reply.


    Lloyd added, ¡°I¡¯m in no position to interfere with the Pearson Family affairs, but Aidan and Georgina are


    about to tie the knot in a month, so I don¡¯t think that it¡¯s appropriate for his ex-wife to be staying here.


    What do you think, Gordon?¡± Under such circumstances, there was no way Gordon could possibly


    reveal the news about Leanna¡¯s pregnancy. Hence, he clenched his teeth and tolerated everything.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Lloyd.¡±


    ¡°Let me put it this way. I hope that she can move out as soon as possible, but if you can¡¯te up with


    a suitable excuse to kick her out, then I don¡¯t mind doing the dirty work.¡±


    ¡°Lloyd, that¡¯s not necessary. The reason for her stay here was because we had no other resort. Since


    our kids will be tying the knot soon, then I do have to make the necessary arrangements.¡±


    At that point, Lloyd nodded slightly in agreement before departing.


    Georgina also nced at Aidan before leaving, but she noticed that he remained expressionless and


    not bothered to cast his eyes on her. She bit her lip furtively and trailed after her father. As Gordon


    looked at their retreating figures, he clung to his cane and his expression slowly darkened. Once


    Leanna leaves the house, then there will be a lot of other issues that arise and she won¡¯t be able to be


    controlled that easily. After quite some time, he nced at Aidan. ¡°Do you also think that we should


    send Leanna somewhere else?¡± Aidan voiced out indifferently, ¡°You were the one who brought her


    back, so what does this have to do with me?¡± ¡­ Walking past the garden, Lloyd stood in front of his car


    before turning around to Georgina. ¡°Within two days, the Pearsons will definitely send her away.¡±


    ¡°Thanks, Dad,¡± she replied.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    ¡°You have yet to tell me whether the child that she¡¯s carrying belongs to Aidan.¡±


    ¡°She¡­ After her divorce with Aidan, she was entangled with a few other men, so even Aidan¡¯s unsure


    about that. We¡¯ll just have to wait until she gives birth¡ª¡±


    However, Lloyd interrupted her, ¡°What if you find out that the child is indeed Aidan¡¯s after she has given


    birth? What are you going to do then?¡±


    She lowered her eyes and remained silent.


    He was just about to continue when he suddenly had a coughing fit.


    ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± He brushed her off by waving his hands dismissively. ¡°Gina, even though your wedding is


    pretty much confirmed, no matter what happens, I won¡¯t let you suffer any injustice. Once the Pearsons


    send her away, I¡¯ll make arrangements for everything else. You don¡¯t have to worry.¡±


    ¡°Dad, do you n to¡ª¡±


    ¡°I said not to worry. I won¡¯t do anything to her. I just want to send that girl away. That¡¯s all.¡±


    At that point, Georgina curled her lips into a slight smile. ¡°Thanks again, Dad.¡±


    Lloyd nodded and was about to enter his car when suddenly, he felt the urge to lift his head.


    From afar, there seemed to be a familiar figure standing by the windowsill. He was momentarily


    stunned before coughing awfully again.


    ¡°Dad, what¡¯s wrong?¡± asked Georgina.


    He nced in that direction but found that there was nothing by the windowsill. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I must


    have been seeing things,¡± he responded.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, then.¡±


    Once he had entered his car, Georgina turned around to take a close look and realized that the


    direction he turned toward earlier was Leanna¡¯s room.


    The previous night, Georgina had gone to Pearson Group to meet Aidan.


    He agreed to hold the wedding one monthter and announce this happy news to the press. However,


    he had a single condition; he wanted them to get Leanna out of the Pearson Family Estate.


    By then, he would most likely have arranged some men to escort her out. However, it was easier said


    than done¡­


    Georgina came back to her senses and entered the car after Lloyd.

 Chapter 146

    Chapter 146


    Chapter 147 Better Not Defy Him


    Soon enough, there was a knock on the bedroom door.


    The servant came with Leanna¡¯s breakfast and said, ¡°Old Master Pearson has given instructions that


    you are not to head downstairs for the next few days. If you have anything that you need at all, just let


    me know. I will bring your meals into the room for you at the same time each day.¡±


    Leanna was not surprised at all by the scenario, so she nodded gently without being emotionally


    affected.


    Judging by the incidents from yesterday, Gordon would surely me every issue onto her. Hence, it


    was natural for him to not wish toy eyes on her anymore.


    As for the esteemed guest today¡­


    She recalled the scene she had caught sight of in front of the window and it was quite likely that


    Georgina¡¯s father had paid a visit.


    Therefore, it made sense that she was forbidden from heading downstairs.


    She collected the breakfast from the servant and was about to enter her room when she suddenly


    caught sight of Aidan¡¯s figure.


    The servant bowed slightly to her and quickly left after that.


    At that moment, Leanna¡¯s eyes coincidentally met his cold and distant eyes. For a moment there, she


    was at a loss for whether to greet him politely or pretend that she did not see him and shut the door


    immediately.


    Fortunately, Aidan voiced out first, ¡°Don¡¯t trust anyone in this house.¡±


    She was perplexed by his words and paused for a moment before saying, ¡°I don¡¯t get what you mean,


    President Pearson¡­¡±


    ¡°Whatever, then.¡± He retracted his gaze and turned around before suddenly mentioning, ¡°I definitely


    won¡¯t go back on my words.¡±


    With that, he did not utter another word and went back to his room.


    Leanna was momentarily stunned before shutting the door behind her.


    She nced at the breakfast in front of her and just like that, her appetite was lost.


    Truth be told, the words that Aidan said were not exactly a mystery to her. She just did not know the


    extent of his awareness regarding everything. Does he know that Sienna hase to see me? Or is


    he aware that Sienna had pre-arranged an escape route for me? As such, she chose to act oblivious.


    Leanna knew that Sienna was not to be trusted, but without her help, Leanna would not even be able to


    walk out of the Pearson Family Estate.


    After quite some time, she suddenly recalled thest sentence that Aidan said to her.


    He mentioned that he would not back on his words.


    She ced her hand gently on her baby bump and thought, Even if he keeps his words, it won¡¯t


    change a thing at all. After the birth of her child, she would be faced with only two options; the child


    would either be taken away by the Pearsons or be sent to some unknown ce. Therefore, she


    realized that she had to make ns for the livelihood of their lives. ¡­ After being cooped up in her


    room for an entire day, Leanna realized that she had been granted a lot of leeways previously. Right


    now, she finally felt the torture of being imprisoned. Her body ached from lying in bed too much, but she


    could only walk around in the room. The little one in her tummy seemed to sense the uneasiness from


    the outside world, so the baby was rather restless inside and thus, causing her to be very


    ufortable. The subsequent night, Zoe sent Leanna thetest information. Pearson Group had


    alreadye forward and cleared the air about the false rumors on the Inte from yesterday. The


    allegation about an illegitimate child waspletely untrue and the Pearson Group would pursue this


    matter in court while taking action against those who spread the false news. Besides that, everyone


    was widely discussing Aidan and Georgina¡¯s wedding. This unification of two wealthy families¡ªbe it


    their uing wedding next month or the immense benefit brought about by the union of their families


    ¡ªwas the center of everyone¡¯s attention. asionally, someone would bring up Aidan¡¯s mysterious


    ex-wife, who had never been seen in public. However, no one brought up anything about Lux Jewelry¡¯s


    designer. Zoe spoke in a soft voice, ¡°Nana, are you leaving today?¡±


    Leanna nodded. Today was the day that she and Sienna had agreed upon. It also happened to be


    Gordon¡¯s birthday banquet tonight. Due to the uing merge of the Pearson and Crossley Family,


    his birthday banquet this year was much livelier than his previous celebrations. The bulk of the guests


    in attendance were there to pay theirpliments and tter him.


    However, the lively situation had nothing to do with Leanna.


    Even with her windows tightly shut, she could still hear the noises from outside.


    She took a look at the time and saw that it was now 5.00PM, meaning it was soon for her to escape.


    She looked at the clock as time ticked by slowly; her palms became sweaty as her anxiety grew.


    As time passed, the sky outside had also gradually darkened. Finally at 8.00PM, she heard a knock on


    her door.


    Leanna held her phone in her hands and regted her breathing before walking to the doorway.


    There were two men d in ck standing in front of her door and one of the men spoke, ¡°Miss


    McKinney, Old Master Gordon has instructed us to send you off.¡±


    As soon as she heard that, she retreated several steps involuntarily. ¡°Old Master Pearson?¡± How can it


    be him?!


    The bodyguard nodded. ¡°Miss McKinney, it¡¯s time to go.¡±


    Although both of them behaved politely, there was an insistent note in their voices and she was not


    given any chance to say no. Leanna was unsure of the current situation, so she had no choice but to


    purse her lips and try hard to control her trembling body as she left with them¡­ The bodyguards led


    her out by using a different path to avoid the guests attending the party. The path they took to the back


    door was very quiet and deserted.


    Suddenly, she paused in her tracks.


    The two bodyguards instantly looked in her direction. ¡°Miss McKinney, is there something wrong?¡±


    She replied, ¡°I would like to know where you guys are bringing me.¡±


    ¡°Old Master Pearson wants us to send you to a safe ce until you deliver the child.¡± The bodyguardN?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    continued, ¡°He also wanted me to pass on a message to you. He emphasized that you should not defy


    him if you don¡¯t wish to implicate the people around you. Otherwise, if your child is harmed in the


    process, no one would benefit from this at all.¡±


    Leanna clenched her hands into a fist. He keeps threatening me with the same thing.


    However, this time, they intended to send her off to a secret location.


    The bodyguard rushed, ¡°Miss McKinney, let¡¯s go.¡±


    She bit on her lip and had not even managed to take a step forward when the two bodyguards,


    originally behind her, suddenly copsed to the ground one after the other.


    Shocked, she turned around and saw that Sienna was standing not too far away with an indifferent


    expression.


    It was her men who had dealt with the two bodyguards.


    Despite that, Leanna was even more guarded as she did not feel any sense of relief at all.


    However, Sienna did not bother to exin anything to her either. ¡°There has been a change in ns,


    but don¡¯t worry. I will help you get away as per our deal.¡±


    Leanna responded, ¡°Thank you, Mrs. Pearson.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re wee. The two of us are just getting what we want respectively.¡± Sienna walked over and


    looked at Leanna. ¡°You have to leave your phone here.¡±


    Not making any move, Leanna seemed to be hesitating.


    ¡°If Aidan investigates this matter afterward, he might discover that I was the one who helped you get


    away. I¡¯ve got the two perfect candidates to push the me on, so it would be just nice if you left your


    phone with them,¡± Sienna spoke up.


    She then reached out to take a new phone from one of her men and handed it to Leanna. ¡°Here you


    go. Do you feel more at ease now?¡±


    Leanna turned back and shot a look at the bodyguards on the ground. Finally, she ced her phone


    next to them.


    Sienna turned around with her back facing Leanna. ¡°The car is waiting outside. They will escort you to


    a safe ce first. Once themotion dies down, then I will send you abroad. My phone number is


    already saved in the phone, so you can get hold of me anytime if necessary.¡±


    Leanna nodded slightly. ¡°Whatever it is, I would like to express my gratitude, Mrs. Pearson.¡±

 Chapter 147

    Chapter 147


    Chapter 148 I Won¡¯t Hurt You for Now


    Sienna did not answer the question, and she left.


    Leanna held her new phone and heaved a sigh. She went to the backdoor with the men and looked at


    the car not far from her before she said, ¡°Give me a minute. I don¡¯t feel too good.¡±


    One of the men turned around and told her coolly, ¡°We¡¯re here to help, Miss McKinney. Don¡¯t try to pull


    anything funny.¡±


    Leanna bit her lip. ¡°I won¡¯t. I mean, look at me. I¡¯m pregnant. What can I even do? You know how


    pregnant women are. Life¡¯s a hassle for us. I can¡¯t help it.¡±


    ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°I¡­¡± Leanna looked around and pointed at the patch of wild bushes nearby. ¡°I need to relieve myself.


    Can you give me a few minutes?¡±


    The man looked a little impatient, and he was reluctant to let her go.


    Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    Leanna grumbled, ¡°Look at me! Do you think I can escape? Besides, I¡¯m pregnant with the Pearsons¡¯


    kid. I¡¯m not some sort of criminal. Treat me like one and I¡¯ll tell Mrs. Pearson about this.¡±


    The man was about to say something, but his friend stopped him. He told Leanna, ¡°Go. We¡¯ll wait for


    you.¡±


    ¡°Thank you.¡± She slowly went to the bushes.


    After she was gone, the man who spoke firstined, ¡°Can you not waste our time?¡±


    His friend replied, ¡°This is the only road around this ce. Even if she tries to run, she can¡¯t make it too


    far. I mean, her belly¡¯s too big for her to even run. Nothing¡¯s gonna happen. Rx.¡±


    The man looked upset, but he said nothing. He looked at the time. Leanna was still not back ten


    minutester, and he had a feeling something was wrong. He went to the bushes, but before he could


    check on her, she said, ¡°Stop right there! Don¡¯te any closer!¡±


    The man stopped. ¡°Are you done yet, Miss McKinney?


    Leanna said, ¡°I told you pregnancy is a hassle. You¡¯ll get it when you¡¯re married.¡± Ten minutester, the


    man asked, ¡°Miss McKinney?¡± Nobody answered him this time. He knew something was wrong, so he


    went and checked on her, but she was nowhere to be seen. All that was left was the phone Sienna


    gave her. The man scrolled through the phone. When he saw its call history, he realized that Leanna


    was talking to him through the phone. He cursed and turned around. ¡°She¡¯s gone! After her!¡± Leanna


    came out after they were gone for some time. She held her waist and heaved a sigh. They¡¯re finally


    gone. She asked Zoe to help her out before. This was the only main road behind Pearson Group¡¯s


    building, but there was an alleyway beside it. Leanna just had to keep walking this path for about half


    an hour, and she would reach the main road on the other side. She did not make it too far when she felt


    something sharp held against her throat. Someone said coldly, ¡°Don¡¯t move.¡± She stopped moving.


    Leanna could see that the guy was a ruthless one. The dagger was absurdly sharp, and she felt a


    sliver of paining from her neck. The man tossed a piece of cloth to her. ¡°Cover your eyes.¡± Leanna


    did as she was told, and the man held her hands behind her. He tied them up and pushed her shoulder.


    ¡°Walk.¡± They came to a ck car. The man opened the door and stuffed her inside. He said, ¡°I won¡¯t


    hurt you for now, but only if you work with me.¡± He then went to the driver¡¯s seat. She felt the car sway.


    He¡¯s probably driving. A whileter, she asked, ¡°Have you been waiting for me? Is this your car?¡±


    The man ignored her.


    ¡°What would you do if I hadn¡¯t distracted them? Can you take on all of them?¡± She stopped for a


    moment, then she chuckled. ¡°I think you can. You¡¯re a lot more ruthless than they are.¡± The man was


    silent for a moment, then he said, ¡°So, you know who I am?¡± Leanna said, ¡°I remember your voice.¡±


    She continued coolly, ¡°You always show up when I need it most. I get used to things like that.¡± Ron kept


    quiet and set his sights ahead. The group of pursuers reappeared not long after Ron left. They heard


    themotion, and what they saw shocked them. They were about to stop the car, but Ron floored the


    elerator and sent two of them flying. She could not see anything, as she was blindfolded. All she


    could feel was the car rumbling violently, and it felt like they crashed into something. She held back the


    urge to vomit and moved herself somewhere safe. A few minutester, they came to the mountainside,


    and there were three cars there. He said, ¡°They¡¯re probably your rescuers.¡±


    Leanna was silent for a moment, and she smiled. ¡°Probably.¡±


    Ron stepped on the elerator without hesitation. The Pearson guys did not stop him as they were


    worried about Leanna. They made way for Ron the moment he sped up, and Ron¡¯s car disappeared


    into the night.


    Jonathan got out of his car, looking dejected. He called Aidan, ¡°Sir, someone took the madam. We¡­


    couldn¡¯t stop him.¡±


    ¡­


    Aidan was in the residence when Jonathan called him. He hung up and tried to leave, looking all dark.


    Georgina put her ss of champagne down and went over to him. ¡°Where are you going, Aidan?¡±


    Aidan ignored her question and picked up his pace.


    ¡°Aidan!¡± Georgina followed him out of the hall and held his arm. ¡°This is the first time we¡¯re attending a


    public event since our engagement. You can¡¯t leave me alone just like this.¡±


    Aidan turned back. ¡°I¡¯ve agreed to your terms. Why do you care so much?¡±


    ¡°But Old Mr. Pearson is going to suspect something if you leave now. Your efforts will be for nothing.


    Miss McKinney will be fine. Trust me. I¡¯ll help with the search after this.¡±


    Aidan pulled his arm out. He told her, his voice as icy as the Arctic air, ¡°She¡¯s not the only reason for


    everything I¡¯m doing, but if something were to happen to her, someone will have to pay.¡±


    He flung her away. Georgina could only watch as he left the ce.


    Gordon was chatting with his guests when his underling told him about the news of Leanna¡¯s


    kidnapping. He froze up for a moment and told his underling what to do. Sienna got the news as well,


    but she looked calm, as if she did not care about this at all.

 Chapter 148

    Chapter 148


    Chapter 149 She¡¯ll Be Fine


    Leanna felt that they had been going for a long time, and the car was getting even faster. The ride was


    getting bumpy as well. She muttered, ¡°Where are you taking me?¡±


    A few momentster, Ron said grimly, ¡°Nowhere.¡±


    Leanna froze for a moment, and she felt her blood run cold. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Someone sabotaged the car. The brakes aren¡¯t working.¡±


    Leanna finally understood what Sienna had in mind. No wonder she warned me to keep my departure


    a secret. No wonder I¡¯m not allowed to tell anyone about this. So this is what she had in mind. If she


    actually believed Sienna and left with her men, she and her baby would die, and none would be the


    wiser. That was Sienna¡¯s real goal.


    The car hade out of the mountain, and she heard the sounds of vehicles ring around her.


    She leaned against the seat and said, ¡°You would have jumped out of the vehicle to escape if you were


    alone, wouldn¡¯t you?¡±


    Ron did not answer. He kept weaving through the traffic, trying to lead the car to a remote area.


    Leanna was tired. ¡°I think I know why you¡¯re here for me. You might not know this, but Queenie was


    arrested yesterday. I¡¯m surprised to know that you know her too.¡± Zoe told her about it the night before.


    Queenie and Ron were neighbors, and they grew up together. However, they stopped keeping in touch


    after Queenie went overseas. Leanna neglected that for a long time, but Ron¡¯s appearance exined a


    lot of stuff. He¡¯s probably behind the ne¡¯s switcheroo during the banquet too.


    Ron¡¯s veins popped. ¡°I did that. It¡¯s not her fault.¡±


    ¡°Just saying, but I can¡¯t really do anything to save her.¡± She chuckled. ¡°You¡¯re probably abducting me


    for her, aren¡¯t you? Well, I¡¯m gonna die anyway, so you can go home early today.¡±


    Ron gnashed his teeth. He was about to crash into a little girl, but he turned the steering wheel and


    crashed into the trash can on the sidewalk.


    The momentum mmed Leanna against the car. A frown furrowed her forehead. She was biting her


    lip, but Ron still heard her gasp in pain. Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    He asked, ¡°Are you alright?¡±


    ¡°I-I¡¯m fine.¡±


    Ron turned around when they came to a quieter area, and he saw Leanna¡¯s dress drenched in blood.


    He frowned. ¡°You¡¯re bleeding.¡±


    Leanna said nothing. She knew what fate had in store for her. Maybe Aidan¡¯s right. I wanted the baby,


    so I have to pay the price, no matter how steep it is. Maybe I shouldn¡¯t have pushed forward after all.


    This is the price I have to pay. She regained a little of her strength a whileter, and she said, ¡°You


    should escape now.¡±


    Ron said nothing.


    Leanna said softly, ¡°Don¡¯t give me the good guy act. I hate you. I hate your guts. I wouldn¡¯t have done


    that if you hadn¡¯t taken my brother hostage.¡± Her voice started to crack, but she held her emotions


    back. ¡°This is supposed to be a closed chapter of my life. I don¡¯t even know why I dragged it out for


    three years. I¡¯ve had enough.¡±


    She felt someone taking off the blindfold, and Ron tossed a small knife to her. ¡°Cut the rope yourself.¡±


    Now that she could see again, Leanna realized how horrifying the bleeding was. I can¡¯t give up. I can¡¯t.


    The baby needs me. The car was running a bit more stably now, and Leanna managed to take the


    knife with just a bit of nudging. She started cutting through the rope. Fortunately, the knife was sharp


    enough, and the rope was cut off just a whileter.


    Ron said, ¡°I¡¯ll take you to the nearest hospital, but I don¡¯t know what will happen, so be prepared.¡±


    ¡­


    Jonathan and Aidan were in the ck Rolls-Royce. ¡°Got it, sir. The guy who took the madam away is


    Ron. ording to the surveince camera¡¯s footage, his car¡¯s brakes are malfunctioning.¡± Jonathan


    whispered thest part out. The look on Aidan¡¯s face was terrifying. Jonathan received another call just


    then, and he said, ¡°Ron¡¯s driving to the hospital now, sir.¡±


    Aidan said, ¡°Prepare the speed bumps and buffers.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir,¡± Jonathan said, then he went to make the arrangements.


    Aidan rolled the window down, his lips pursed. His jaw was tense, and in the rear-view mirror, Jonathan


    could see that his hand was trembling.


    ¡­


    Ron noticed that there was nobody outside the hospital, and the entrance was filled with speed bumps.


    He said, ¡°Sit tight.¡± He drove over without hesitating.


    Leanna was curled up in the corner. She bent over and tried her best to keep the baby safe, but she


    could feel herself bleeding. Her head was drenched with sweat, and she clenched her fists. She held


    on as Ron drove past every speed bump. In the end, they crashed into something, and all she could


    see was darkness. Her ears buzzed, and someone seemed to be calling her name. It was a familiar


    voice. She wanted to see who it was, but she could not open her eyes no matter what. Everything


    turned ck.


    Aidan was outside the car, furious. Jonathan held him back. ¡°We don¡¯t know if she¡¯s alright, sir. Just


    wait for the doctor.¡±


    Aidan calmed down a little, but he clenched his fists, and the veins on his hands popped.


    The doctor came forward quickly to check on Leanna, then he carefully took her out of the car. She and


    Ron were both taken to the operating room.


    Aidan stood outside. He opened his hands and looked at the blood on them. His heart felt like stopping


    for a moment.


    Jonathan had never seen him looking like that. He too was upset, so he murmured, ¡°She¡¯ll be fine, sir.¡±


    Just then, it started to drizzle. A drop of rain fell onto his palm. He clenched it and whispered, ¡°The


    baby¡¯s really important to her.¡± He looked up at Jonathan, fury burning within his eyes. ¡°We must make


    sure it¡¯s safe at all costs.¡±


    Jonathan said, ¡°I¡¯ve called the nation¡¯s best doctor. They are on their way and should be here any


    minute.¡±

 Chapter 149

    Chapter 149


    Chapter 150 You Got What You Wanted


    Aidan grunted and pulled his hand back. He looked at the wrecked ck car and asked coldly, ¡°Who¡¯s


    the owner?¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re still looking into it, sir,¡± Jonathan said. ¡°But a few families made their move tonight, including the


    Crossleys. The Crossleys didn¡¯t do much though. They probably only wanted the madam.¡±


    After a pause, Jonathan continued, ¡°Mr. Gordon¡¯s men were nning to take the madam tonight, and


    we¡¯ve been keeping an eye on them, but something happened on our end right after they came down.


    Mr. Gordon¡¯s men were already down when we got there, and the madam was already taken away. As


    for the mastermind, I¡ª¡±


    Aidan strode into the hospital, the look on his face still furious. ¡°Who else but her?¡±


    Jonathan knew who he was talking about. He kept quiet and followed Aidan.


    The operation went on for ten hours.


    Aidan waited outside for ten whole hours.


    Georgina was standing in the corner. She saw Aidan waiting for Leanna, his hands covered in blood.


    She bit her lip and backed off, but not before she nced at the sign over the operating room¡¯s door. I¡¯ll


    be nothing to him if she gets through this. He might have agreed to the marriage, but he never saw me


    as his wife. I¡¯m just an object for him. Just something he can use to make more money. He doesn¡¯t love


    me. All he cares about is her. She took a deep breath and left. But I won¡¯t give up. Someday I will get


    the respect I deserve.


    ¡­


    The first thing Leanna saw when she woke up was a blinding white light. She opened her eyes with


    difficulty and managed to focus after a long while. She eventually noticed the scent of antiseptic and


    the beeps of the machine beside her. She spaced out for a long while, and when she finally snapped


    out of it, she remembered something important. She ced her hand on her belly, but it was no longer


    round. Instead, it was t and covered in bandages. She pushed herself up with sheer willpower and


    pulled out the needles in her. She wanted to get out of bed.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Someone came in, and Aidan appeared before her. He was shocked to see Leanna trying to get out of


    bed, and he strode over to hold her down. ¡°Are you mad? You could die!¡± He rang the bell and called


    for the nurses. Leanna looked up at him, her face pale, and her eyes bereft of any emotion. ¡°Where¡¯s


    my baby, Aidan?¡± He looked away. ¡°It¡¯s gone,¡± he said calmly. Leanna stared at him stubbornly. ¡°What


    do you mean it¡¯s gone?¡± Aidan did not answer. Leanna grabbed his arm. She asked despairingly, her


    voice raspy, ¡°What do you mean it¡¯s gone? You promised I could have the baby. You promised you


    wouldn¡¯t hurt it. You promised!¡± ¡°Alright, enough.¡± Aidan hugged her in an attempt to calm her down.


    ¡°Now, calm down.¡± Leanna slowly stopped struggling. She felt helpless about the whole thing. A


    momentter, she said coldly, ¡°You got your wish, Aidan. Happy now?¡± Aidan froze, and his jaw tensed.


    He asked coldly, ¡°Is that how you see me?¡± ¡°How else am I supposed to see you?¡± She pushed him


    away and smiled. ¡°You¡¯ve been trying to get rid of my baby ever since you found out I was pregnant.


    You¡¯d give me half of yourpany just for that. Well, it¡¯s all over now, and you won¡¯t have to worry


    about an unborn child threatening your spot.¡± Aidan¡¯s face fell. ¡°I know you¡¯re upset, so I¡¯ll let this slide.


    Just get some rest.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t. Please don¡¯t let this slide. I don¡¯t even see the point in living anymore.¡± She stopped for a


    moment. ¡°Does your fianc¨¦e know you¡¯re here? I don¡¯t want anyone taking this the wrong way, so you


    should leave. Get someone else to kill me off if you want.¡±


    ¡°Leanna!¡± He gnashed his teeth.


    Leanna had no strength to even talk to him. She turned around and refused to say another word.


    He stared at her back and clenched his fists. He wanted to say something, but in the end, he just


    pursed his lips and left.


    Leanna couldn¡¯t hold it back anymore after he left and started crying her heart out, and she couldn¡¯t


    stop for a long time. Eventually, she started sobbing. She had lived her life so carefully over thest


    seven months. All she wanted was for the baby to be safe.


    Even so, they still refused to let her go. Everyone only saw her as a babymaking machine. They could


    do anything just for the baby. It never crossed their minds that she was human too. She was a living,


    breathing human. I relented again and again, but I still couldn¡¯t keep my baby. It¡¯s just like what


    happened three years ago. Reality showed her how useless she was once more. Am I only fit to be


    their ything? Just because I¡¯m a nobody? She closed her eyes, and tears drenched her pillow.


    A nurse came to reattach the IV infusion to Leanna a few momentster. She said, ¡°You¡¯d better stay


    still. The car crash was brutal. We still need to observe your wounds.¡±


    Leanna stared outside the window silently.


    The nurse said, ¡°It was really dangerous. We could only save either you or the baby. Your husband


    chose you. He loves you, and you guys are still young. You can still get another¡ª¡±


    Leanna said, ¡°He¡¯s not my husband.¡±


    The nurse did not expect that answer. She paused for a moment. ¡°Is he your boyfriend?¡±


    ¡°No.¡±


    I see. The nurse stopped asking questions.


    A moment of silenceter, Leanna said, ¡°What about the guy who came in with me? How is he doing?¡±


    ¡°He¡¯s in the ICU. His wounds are a lot more serious.¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°Thank you.¡± She did not expect Ron to save her in the end. This is so ironic.


    Before the nurse left, she said, ¡°Don¡¯t move around, alright? Just ring the bell if you need anything. I¡¯m


    always around.¡±


    Leanna said, ¡°Sure.¡±


    The nurse had just turned around when Leanna asked, ¡°Can you lend me your phone for a minute? I


    wanna call my friends and tell them I¡¯m alright.¡±


    ¡°Um¡­¡± The nurse hesitated.

 Chapter 150

    Chapter 150


    Chapter 151 Bad Attitude


    Leanna could guess why the nurse was reluctant. Of course that b*stard told her not to. She said,


    ¡°Forget it. Thanks.¡± Shey back down and closed her eyes.


    Jonathan and Aidan were outside. Jonathan asked, ¡°Are you going in, sir?¡±


    Aidan looked away. ¡°Why should I? So she can mock me again?¡± he asked coldly.


    Jonathan muttered, ¡°She¡¯s just angry at you. You can just talk to her again when she¡¯s calm and better.¡±


    Aidan asked, ¡°Who else came today?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Gordon, Mr. Justin, and Miss Crossley. They couldn¡¯te in though.¡±


    Their men had taken over the hospital after Leanna was out of the woods. None of the Pearsons could


    come in. Gordon was furious when he was denied entry, but he could do nothing in public, so he just


    went back home.


    Aidan sat down on the chair outside the ward and said, ¡°I bet he¡¯s dying to know what happened.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve handled that, sir. No problemo.¡±


    Aidan said, ¡°Tell him about the ¡®miscarriage¡¯. Dash his hopes.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± But Mr. Gordon is paranoid. He¡¯s not gonna believe it just like that. I gotta be more prepared.


    One of Aidan¡¯s underlings called after Jonathan left. ¡°Someone got past us, sir.¡±


    Aidan was not surprised. ¡°I see.¡±


    Sounds of hurried footsteps rang in the corridor, and in came Zayn. When he saw Aidan, Zayn strode


    up to him and hurled a punch at his face. His eyes were bloodshot. ¡°What the f*ck are you doing,


    Pearson? How could you let this happen?¡±


    Aidan had a deadpan look. He wiped the blood off the corner of his mouth and looked at Zayn. ¡°Don¡¯t


    yell at me. You didn¡¯t do a good job protecting her either.¡±


    Zaynughed mirthlessly. ¡°Yeah, like how you f*cked up your job too! She wouldn¡¯t have married you if


    I just paid more attention to her back then. None of this would have happened!¡±


    Zoe finally caught up with Zayn. She could feel a headacheing on. She muttered, ¡°Do you guys


    wanna settle this somewhere else? She¡¯s right inside. She can hear you.¡± Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Zayn calmed down a little when he heard her. He took a deep breath and ignored Aidan. He looked into


    the ward, but Leanna was still lying in the same position, as if she was asleep.


    Zoe opened the door and went inside. ¡°Nana.¡± She stood beside the bed.


    Leanna opened her eyes when she heard her friend¡¯s voice.


    Zoe went around to the window¡¯s side and sat beside her bed. She looked at her pale friend for a


    moment. Zoe wanted to console her, but she could not even say a word, and her eyes glistened with


    tears.


    Leanna smiled at her. ¡°Don¡¯t cry. I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll be out of here in no time.¡±


    Zoe sniffled and wiped her tears away. ¡°I see. Get some rest. I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Leanna asked, ¡°How did you know where to find me?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t get through to you, and I had no idea what to do, so I met up with Zayn. He took me here.¡±


    Leanna was silent for a moment. ¡°What about Louis? Does he know anything about this?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t told him anything. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Tell Zayn I said thanks, Zoe. I want to sleep now.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Zayn was right outside, so he heard what Leanna said. He nodded at Zoe and closed the door for


    them.


    Aidan was still sitting on the chair. He did not seem to be leaving.


    Zayn looked at him and hissed, ¡°Stop harassing her. You¡¯re about to get married.¡± As he spoke, he let


    out a bitterugh. ¡°I should also take my own advice.¡± That was why he only stayed outside of the


    ward. He knew there was no way they could be a couple ever again. He couldn¡¯t go after her, and he


    didn¡¯t dare to hope for anything anymore. He then left without even looking at Aidan.


    Aidan pursed his lips, and he slowly clenched his fists.


    Zoe sat around for a while. She knew Leanna was awake, so she whispered, ¡°Do you want some


    water, Nana?¡±


    Leanna only answered a few momentster, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I see. Are you hungry? Should I talk with the doctor? See what you can eat?¡±


    Leanna slowly opened her eyes. ¡°Zoe.¡±


    Zoe approached her. ¡°What do you need?¡±


    Leanna looked ahead calmly. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just go home.¡±


    ¡°No. I can¡¯t leave you alone, not when you¡¯re in this state.¡±


    Leanna smiled, and she looked at her. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll be out in a few days.¡± She kept telling Zoe to go


    home, but her friend refused. Leanna relented in the end. She then said, ¡°Zoe, can you take a look at


    Ron? He¡¯s in the ICU.¡±


    ¡°Ron?¡± She remembered that name, and she was surprised. ¡°You mean the guy who helped Queenie?¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°He wanted to kidnap me, but ironically, he¡¯s the one who saved me.¡± Sienna wanted


    me dead. The faulty brake is just one of her traps. She might have more traps lying in wait even after I


    got out of the mountain.


    Zoe thought about it. ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll be back in a minute.¡± She wanted to see the doctor anyway to find out


    how Leanna was doing.


    Leanna sat up and put her hand on her belly after Zoe left. She stared out at the window aimlessly. It


    was starting to cool down, and a drizzle fell upon the city. The room was suffocating. A long whileter,


    someone came inside. Leanna thought it was Zoe, but when she turned around, she realized that it


    was Aidan. Instead of flying into a rage, she smiled. ¡°So, have you decided to kill me off?¡±


    Aidan stared at her and closed the door silently.


    Leanna shifted her gaze to look out the window again.


    Aidan stood beside her bed. He said, ¡°Leanna, you have to realize it¡¯s not my fault the baby¡¯s gone. I


    told you everyone in my family¡¯s a liar.¡±


    ¡°I know. You told me that this is the price I have to pay.¡± Leanna was calm. ¡°But I just lost my baby. I


    really don¡¯t need you to shower me with your sass.¡±


    Aidan felt like exploding with anger. He took a deep breath. ¡°And I would appreciate it if you don¡¯t give


    me attitude.¡±


    Leanna looked at him in amusement. ¡°You can always leave if you¡¯re annoyed.¡±

 Chapter 151

    Chapter 151


    Chapter 151 Bad Attitude


    Leanna could guess why the nurse was reluctant. Of course that b*stard told her not to. She said,


    ¡°Forget it. Thanks.¡± Shey back down and closed her eyes.


    Jonathan and Aidan were outside. Jonathan asked, ¡°Are you going in, sir?¡±


    Aidan looked away. ¡°Why should I? So she can mock me again?¡± he asked coldly.


    Jonathan muttered, ¡°She¡¯s just angry at you. You can just talk to her again when she¡¯s calm and better.¡±


    Aidan asked, ¡°Who else came today?¡±


    ¡°Mr. Gordon, Mr. Justin, and Miss Crossley. They couldn¡¯te in though.¡±


    Their men had taken over the hospital after Leanna was out of the woods. None of the Pearsons could


    come in. Gordon was furious when he was denied entry, but he could do nothing in public, so he just


    went back home.


    Aidan sat down on the chair outside the ward and said, ¡°I bet he¡¯s dying to know what happened.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve handled that, sir. No problemo.¡±


    Aidan said, ¡°Tell him about the ¡®miscarriage¡¯. Dash his hopes.¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir.¡± But Mr. Gordon is paranoid. He¡¯s not gonna believe it just like that. I gotta be more prepared.


    One of Aidan¡¯s underlings called after Jonathan left. ¡°Someone got past us, sir.¡±


    Aidan was not surprised. ¡°I see.¡±


    Sounds of hurried footsteps rang in the corridor, and in came Zayn. When he saw Aidan, Zayn strode


    up to him and hurled a punch at his face. His eyes were bloodshot. ¡°What the f*ck are you doing,


    Pearson? How could you let this happen?¡±


    Aidan had a deadpan look. He wiped the blood off the corner of his mouth and looked at Zayn. ¡°Don¡¯t


    yell at me. You didn¡¯t do a good job protecting her either.¡±


    Zaynughed mirthlessly. ¡°Yeah, like how you f*cked up your job too! She wouldn¡¯t have married you if


    I just paid more attention to her back then. None of this would have happened!¡±


    Zoe finally caught up with Zayn. She could feel a headacheing on. She muttered, ¡°Do you guys


    wanna settle this somewhere else? She¡¯s right inside. She can hear you.¡± Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zayn calmed down a little when he heard her. He took a deep breath and ignored Aidan. He looked into


    the ward, but Leanna was still lying in the same position, as if she was asleep.


    Zoe opened the door and went inside. ¡°Nana.¡± She stood beside the bed.


    Leanna opened her eyes when she heard her friend¡¯s voice.


    Zoe went around to the window¡¯s side and sat beside her bed. She looked at her pale friend for a


    moment. Zoe wanted to console her, but she could not even say a word, and her eyes glistened with


    tears.


    Leanna smiled at her. ¡°Don¡¯t cry. I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll be out of here in no time.¡±


    Zoe sniffled and wiped her tears away. ¡°I see. Get some rest. I¡¯m here for you.¡±


    ¡°Yeah.¡± Leanna asked, ¡°How did you know where to find me?¡±


    ¡°I couldn¡¯t get through to you, and I had no idea what to do, so I met up with Zayn. He took me here.¡±


    Leanna was silent for a moment. ¡°What about Louis? Does he know anything about this?¡±


    ¡°I haven¡¯t told him anything. Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    ¡°Tell Zayn I said thanks, Zoe. I want to sleep now.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡±


    Zayn was right outside, so he heard what Leanna said. He nodded at Zoe and closed the door for


    them.


    Aidan was still sitting on the chair. He did not seem to be leaving.


    Zayn looked at him and hissed, ¡°Stop harassing her. You¡¯re about to get married.¡± As he spoke, he let


    out a bitterugh. ¡°I should also take my own advice.¡± That was why he only stayed outside of the


    ward. He knew there was no way they could be a couple ever again. He couldn¡¯t go after her, and he


    didn¡¯t dare to hope for anything anymore. He then left without even looking at Aidan.


    Aidan pursed his lips, and he slowly clenched his fists.


    Zoe sat around for a while. She knew Leanna was awake, so she whispered, ¡°Do you want some


    water, Nana?¡±


    Leanna only answered a few momentster, ¡°No.¡±


    ¡°I see. Are you hungry? Should I talk with the doctor? See what you can eat?¡±


    Leanna slowly opened her eyes. ¡°Zoe.¡±


    Zoe approached her. ¡°What do you need?¡±


    Leanna looked ahead calmly. ¡°I¡¯m fine. Just go home.¡±


    ¡°No. I can¡¯t leave you alone, not when you¡¯re in this state.¡±


    Leanna smiled, and she looked at her. ¡°I¡¯m fine. I¡¯ll be out in a few days.¡± She kept telling Zoe to go


    home, but her friend refused. Leanna relented in the end. She then said, ¡°Zoe, can you take a look at


    Ron? He¡¯s in the ICU.¡±


    ¡°Ron?¡± She remembered that name, and she was surprised. ¡°You mean the guy who helped Queenie?¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°He wanted to kidnap me, but ironically, he¡¯s the one who saved me.¡± Sienna wanted


    me dead. The faulty brake is just one of her traps. She might have more traps lying in wait even after I


    got out of the mountain.


    Zoe thought about it. ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll be back in a minute.¡± She wanted to see the doctor anyway to find out


    how Leanna was doing.


    Leanna sat up and put her hand on her belly after Zoe left. She stared out at the window aimlessly. It


    was starting to cool down, and a drizzle fell upon the city. The room was suffocating. A long whileter,


    someone came inside. Leanna thought it was Zoe, but when she turned around, she realized that it


    was Aidan. Instead of flying into a rage, she smiled. ¡°So, have you decided to kill me off?¡±


    Aidan stared at her and closed the door silently.


    Leanna shifted her gaze to look out the window again.


    Aidan stood beside her bed. He said, ¡°Leanna, you have to realize it¡¯s not my fault the baby¡¯s gone. I


    told you everyone in my family¡¯s a liar.¡±


    ¡°I know. You told me that this is the price I have to pay.¡± Leanna was calm. ¡°But I just lost my baby. I


    really don¡¯t need you to shower me with your sass.¡±


    Aidan felt like exploding with anger. He took a deep breath. ¡°And I would appreciate it if you don¡¯t give


    me attitude.¡±


    Leanna looked at him in amusement. ¡°You can always leave if you¡¯re annoyed.¡±

 Chapter 152

    Chapter 152


    Chapter 152 It¡¯s Over


    Gordon had been restless ever since he was denied entry to the hospital in the morning. Even after


    coming back home, he sent a lot of his men to scout for intel, but still he got no news until it was


    nighttime. One of his men quickly came in, and he asked, ¡°What¡¯s the situation?¡±


    His underling said, ¡°Miss McKinney has woken up, but her baby is¡­¡±


    Gordon was worried that would happen. He mmed his walking stick against the ground. ¡°What¡¯s


    wrong with the baby? Tell me!¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s gone.¡±


    ¡°What?¡±


    The underling continued, ¡°Miss McKinney lost too much blood. The doctor could only save one person,


    and Master Aidan picked Miss MicKinney.¡±


    Gordon¡¯s face fell, and he roared, ¡°That idiot boy!¡± He flew into a rage, but then he thought of


    something and whispered, ¡°Are you sure the baby¡¯s gone? It¡¯s already been seven months, so it should


    have taken form. Is it really dead?¡±


    The underling nodded. ¡°It was a stillborn. The doctor couldn¡¯t do anything.¡±


    Gordon mmed his walking stick against the ground again and sighed. He then waved his underling


    off. ¡°Fine. You may leave.¡±


    Sienna came downstairs slowly after the underling left. ¡°She¡¯s awake?¡± she asked coolly.


    Gordon looked at her and sat down on the couch. ¡°You did this, didn¡¯t you?¡± He looked upset.


    Sienna smiled, but she did not deny it. She sat across from him. ¡°Do you have proof?¡±


    ¡°What do you want? You know how important the baby is, and¡­¡± Gordon hissed, ¡°Aidan will know it¡¯s


    you. You didn¡¯t have to go this far.¡±


    Sienna¡¯s smile faded. ¡°Don¡¯t me this on me. Aidan and Georgina are going to get married. There¡¯s


    no need to keep the baby around. What for? So it can grow up and fight for the inheritance like Aidan


    did?¡±


    Gordon said impatiently, ¡°It¡¯s been ages. Let it go! And I¡¯ve taken Anna in just like you asked. What


    more do you want? And it¡¯s not Aidan¡¯s fault Justin got into an ident. I just don¡¯t understand why you


    have to pin all the me on him!¡±


    ¡°He took what belonged to my son. Why can¡¯t I pin all the me on him?¡±


    ¡°Justin got into the car crash when I needed him most. What choice did I have? I need someone to


    inherit the family.¡±


    Sienna sneered. ¡°Did you f*ck around because you knew Justin would get into that car crash?¡±


    Gordon said nothing, but he had a dark look on his face.


    Sienna said, ¡°So what if Aidan knows? He won¡¯t do anything to me. He needs to keep the status quo


    around for a while longer. The scandal was just something to keep him in line.¡± ¡°He¡¯s now engaged to


    the Crossley girl. He¡¯ll be uncontroble.¡± Sienna mocked, ¡°Not like you can keep him under control


    even without the marriage with Georgina.¡± She stopped talking and was about to leave, but then she


    saw Justin behind her. She was shocked. ¡°Justin when did you¡ª¡± Justin smiled. ¡°I heard you guys


    talking about Leanna, so I came. Good to hear that she¡¯s fine.¡± He pushed himself away. ¡­


    Zoe came back and saw Leanna sitting on the bed, spacing out. She went over to her friend. ¡°Nana.¡±


    Leanna smiled at her. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°The doctor said you¡¯ll be fine if you can get through the night. You¡¯ll be out of the woods.¡± Leanna


    nodded. A whileter, she asked, ¡°Is Queenie still under detention?¡± ¡°The cops let her go. They don¡¯t


    have enough evidence to charge her, but they banned her from leaving the country.¡± ¡°I need your


    phone for a minute, Zoe.¡± Zoe lent Leanna her phone, but she frowned. ¡°You think she¡¯s gonnae to


    see Ron? I don¡¯t think so. She denied having anything to do with the case.¡± Leanna said, ¡°I still have to


    tell her about this. After that, it¡¯s on her.¡± Ron did risk his life for her this time, and she decided to let


    bygones be bygones. Leanna called Queenie¡¯s number. It went through, and Queenie said impatiently,


    ¡°I told you I have nothing to do with it! What do you want, Zoe?¡± ¡°It¡¯s me,¡± Leanna said softly.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Queenie did not expect Leanna to call her. She froze for a moment. ¡°What do you want?¡± she asked


    cautiously.


    Leanna said, ¡°I just wanted to tell you that Ron¡¯s badly hurt. He¡¯s in the hospital. You should see him.¡±


    Queenie was quiet for a while. ¡°I have no idea what you just said, and I don¡¯t know who Ron is.¡±


    ¡°Suit yourself. He told me he¡¯s the one behind everything, and he got hurt because of me, so I¡¯m


    putting everything behind me now.¡±


    Queenie hung up without saying another word.


    Zoe said, ¡°Told you she won¡¯te. That b*tch thinks she¡¯s so good just because she studied abroad.


    All she does is lip service.¡±


    Leanna handed the phone back and smiled quietly.


    Zoe asked, ¡°Wanna call Louis? He has no idea what happened, but he¡¯s worried about you.¡±


    ¡°No. I¡¯ll call him after I¡¯m discharged.¡± She had no idea what to tell him even if she called.


    Zoe sighed and patted Leanna¡¯s shoulder. ¡°It¡¯s in the past now, Nana.¡± That was all she could say.


    Everything else was meaningless.


    ¡°Yeah, it is.¡± Now that the baby was gone, she lost her only connection to Aidan. She could finally live


    her life free and happy.


    Zoe asked, ¡°So what now? Are you returning to Lux?¡±


    Leanna shook her head. ¡°No.¡± All she wanted was to live quietly in a ce where no one knew her. She


    wanted to stay away from all this drama.


    Zoe thought about her little idea for a minute and proposed, ¡°Why don¡¯t we travel around and go for


    some sightseeing. We really need to put all the trash behind us.¡± Zoe got more and more excited as


    she spoke. She even started nning the itinerary.


    Leanna sat beside her and listened quietly. She had a smile on her lips that masked all her real


    emotions.


    Zoe finallyy down on the couchte at night. ¡°I need to sleep now, Nana. You should get some sleep


    too. Nighty night.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± Zoe turned the lights off, plunging the room into darkness.

 Chapter 153

    Chapter 153


    Chapter 153 Easily Misunderstood


    Leanna was long gone when Zoe woke up, much to her horror. She shot up and searched the room,


    but her friend was nowhere to be seen. She barged out of the room and was about to ask the nurses if


    they saw Leanna, but Aidan was the first thing she saw. She cursed him silently, but this was not the


    time to argue with him. ¡°Nana¡¯s gone, Mr. Pearson!¡± she quickly said.


    Aidan stopped in his tracks, and his face fell. He turned to the nurse behind him. ¡°I need to see the


    security footage.¡±


    The nurse took them to the surveince room, but the cameras only saw Leannaing out of her


    room and wobbling into the emergency exit. After that, it was like she vanished.


    Zoe frowned. She muttered, ¡°She can¡¯t have gone far. Look at her. She¡¯s wobbling. I hope she¡¯s not


    passed out somewhere.¡±


    Jonathan said, ¡°Our men have been keeping a close eye on the exit, but they didn¡¯t see the madam.¡±


    In other words, Leanna must still be in the hospital.


    Aidan pursed his lips and took two steps back, then left the room. Zoe called out to him, but when she


    poked her head out the door, he was already gone.


    ¡­


    He went to the rooftop, and as expected, Leanna was there. She was holding the guardrail, though she


    was still wobbling from the wind. It was like she would fall the very next moment. Aidan approached her


    slowly. ¡°What are you doing, Leanna?¡±


    Leanna looked ahead. ¡°What brings you here, Mr. Pearson?¡± She did not even look back, and the wind


    distorted her voice.


    ¡°I¡¯m asking the questions here.¡±


    Leanna chuckled and answered, ¡°What do you think I was going to do? Jump down from the rooftop?


    You worry too much. I wouldn¡¯t havee this far if I¡¯m that weak.¡± She looked up. ¡°I was just trying to


    get some fresh air.¡±


    ¡°Do you have any idea how serious your condition is?¡±


    ¡°Yeah. I¡¯m an inch away from death.¡±


    Aidan stood behind her and took his suit off. He draped it over her and purred, ¡°That¡¯s enough, Leanna.


    Get back to your room.¡±


    Leanna turned around and smirked at him. ¡°Hey, what if someone saw that, Mr. Pearson? They might


    take it the wrong way. That¡¯d be bad, don¡¯t you think?¡±


    Aidan was not even fazed. He stared straight back at her. ¡°Take what the wrong way?¡±


    ¡°I dunno. They might think that you actually like me.¡±


    ¡°I never said I didn¡¯t like you.¡±


    Leannaughed. Yeah, but your love is worthless to me.


    Aidan said, ¡°I told you I can marry you if you want.¡±


    ¡°And stuff me back into that cage? You don¡¯t like me, Aidan. You¡¯re just used to my servitude. You¡¯re


    used to my submission. You¡¯re used to¡ª¡±


    Aidan held her hand and stopped her from talking. ¡°Have a heart, Leanna. I¡¯m not that evil.¡±


    ¡°Wrong again, Mr. Pearson. I don¡¯t have a heart.¡±


    Aidan pursed his lips for a long while. ¡°What do you want?¡±


    ¡°What do I want?¡± Leanna muttered under her breath, and her eyes glossed over. What do I want? So


    what if I do have something I want? It¡¯s not like I can pick and choose anyway.


    Aidan said, ¡°The baby¡¯s gone, and you can¡¯t change that. How much longer do you want to dwell on


    that?¡±


    Leanna heard that, and she refocused herself. She stared at him in silence for a long time, and she


    finally smiled. Ah, I see. He doesn¡¯t care about this. He wanted this. He doesn¡¯t understand. He will


    never understand me. She shook his hand away and leaned against the guardrail. ¡°You can¡¯t give me


    what I want, Mr. Pearson. If you have so much time, spend it with your fianc¨¦e, not me.¡±


    Aidan looked at her, his face deadpan. She forced herself to take two steps, but her body was at its


    limit. She felt everything turn ck, and she fainted. Aidan caught her and carried her in his arms, then


    ran down the stairs. Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­


    Zoe was the only one around her when Leanna woke up, and she was in tears. When she saw Leanna


    opening her eyes, she held her hand. ¡°Don¡¯t run off on me like that anymore, Nana. The doctor said


    you¡¯re in no state to move. If anything happens to you, you might¡­¡±


    Leanna said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I was just trying to clear my head, and now it¡¯s squeaky clean.¡±


    Zoe nodded, though she was sobbing. She almost had a heart attack when Aidan came back with a


    bloodstained Leanna.


    Leanna looked outside the window. ¡°How long was I out?¡±


    ¡°Three days.¡± Zoe said, ¡°And Ron¡¯s awake. He¡¯s in a regr ward now. I asked the nurses, and they


    told me nobody came to see him.¡±


    Leanna said, ¡°That¡¯s none of our business now.¡± Leanna was slowly healing up over the week. She


    was looking a lot more energetic, though she was still pale. However, a guest came uninvited today.


    Georgina stood outside the ward, smiling. ¡°May Ie in, Miss McKinney?¡±


    Leanna was not surprised she came. She nodded.


    Georgina ced the flowers on the nightstand. She said, ¡°I talked with the doctors. They said you¡¯re


    healing well. You¡¯ll be out in no time.¡± She continued, ¡°I¡¯m sorry I took so long to visit you, Miss


    McKinney. It¡¯s not easy getting into this hospital.¡±


    Leanna smiled. She did not engage with her about that. She was not interested in why everyone was


    finding it hard to get into this hospital, nor was she keen on finding out what Georgina was implying.


    Georgina looked at Zoe, who was on high alert. ¡°We¡¯ve met before, haven¡¯t we? At Lux.¡±


    Zoe nodded. ¡°I¡¯m a photographer there,¡± she said, uncaring and cold.


    ¡°I see. I¡¯m trying to get some photos dely¡ª¡± She realized she should not bring that up around


    Leanna and reorganized her words. ¡°I¡¯d like you to take the photos if it¡¯s fine.¡±


    Zoe said, ¡°No, it¡¯s not fine. I¡¯m quitting my job. You¡¯ll have to get another photographer for that, Miss


    Crossley.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Georgina looked a little disappointed. She looked at Leanna. ¡°I need to talk with Miss McKinney


    alone. Can you leave us for a moment?¡±


    Zoe did not budge. She was about to say no, but Leanna said, ¡°Go ahead, Zoe.¡±


    ¡°I¡ª¡±


    ¡°Get me some fruits, will you?¡±

 Chapter 154

    Chapter 154


    Chapter 154 Nothing Left to Lose


    Zoe could tell that Leanna wanted to be alone with Georgina, so she reluctantly walked out of the


    hospital room.


    Once Zoe left, Georgina sat down on the couch beside the bed and said, ¡°I was sorry to hear that you


    lost your child, Miss McKinney.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s nothing to feel sorry for. There¡¯s no point in trying to hold onto something that doesn¡¯t belong


    to me. It¡¯d be futile anyway,¡± Leanna responded tly, her expression indifferent.


    ¡°Miss McKinney¡ª¡±


    ¡°You should get to the point, Miss Crossley.¡±


    Georgina smiled. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. I just wanted toe and give you a word of advice. As for everything


    else¡­¡± She paused for a moment before continuing, ¡°Perhaps you didn¡¯t know, Miss McKinney, but


    when you left the Pearson Family Estate that day, my father arranged for someone to pick you up. His


    intention was to take you to a safer ce. None of us could¡¯ve predicted that this would happen


    instead. Please don¡¯t misunderstand, Miss McKinney. My father does not mean to do you any harm. It¡¯s


    just that Aidan and I will get married soon, so he probably thinks that¡­¡±


    She left the remaining words unsaid, but Leanna got the message.


    Georgina and Aidan were about to get married, so his ex-wife¡¯s presence would only be a hindrance to


    their rtionship.


    Seeing that Leanna remained silent, Georgina spoke up again. ¡°It goes without saying that I don¡¯t doubt


    you, Miss McKinney, but my father has his concerns. My marriage to Aidan is also an alliance between


    Pearson Group and Crossley Group, so he has to consider all possibilities.¡±


    After a few moments, Leanna finally said, ¡°I know what you want to tell me, Miss Crossley.¡±


    Georgina kept her smile and did not respond.


    ¡°You have nothing to worry about, Miss Crossley. Now that my child is gone, Aidan and I have nothing


    to do with one another anymore,¡± Leanna said. Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Will you be staying on in Highside, Miss McKinney?¡±


    When Leanna heard the question, her lips curved into a faint smile that was difficult to read. ¡°Why not?¡±


    she asked.


    Georgina had not expected such a response from her, and her expression shifted slightly, but she


    quickly masked her reaction. ¡°I just assume that you would despise staying on here after all that you¡¯ve


    gone through.¡±


    ¡°The only thing despicable here are those people.¡±


    Leanna had tried her hardest to leave because she wanted to protect her child, but since her child was


    gone, she had nothing left to lose, and thus nothing to fear anymore.


    ¡°You¡¯re right, Miss McKinney. It was apse of judgment on my part. In that case, if you ever need help,


    feel free to let me know.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s very kind of you to offer, but it won¡¯t be necessary,¡± Leanna replied. ¡°I don¡¯t want to have


    anything to do with the Pearsons anymore, so ept my apologies, Miss Crossley, but I don¡¯t ever


    wish to see you again.¡±


    Georgina chuckled. ¡°I thought we were friends¡ª¡±


    ¡°Do you truly wish to be friends with your fianc¨¦e¡¯s ex-wife, Miss Crossley?¡± Leanna asked inly.


    Georgina did not try to respond to that. Her expression turned stoic as she got up and said, ¡°You are a


    strong and independent woman, Miss McKinney. It is a pity that your life has turned out this way.¡±


    ¡°I wish you a happy marriage, Miss Crossley.¡± ¡­ When Leanna felt well enough to move about, she


    went over to Ron¡¯s ward, but he was long gone. ¡°I think that patient must¡¯ve done something illegal.


    The police came to see him a few days ago, and he fled out the window when they came to his room,¡±


    a nurse informed her. Leanna pursed her lips and thanked the nurse before returning to her room. She


    was discharged from the hospital two weekster.


    Zoe brought her back to the apartment she rented, but before that, she asked Zoe to make a detour.


    The Pearsons¡¯ men had gotten to her within Lux¡¯s vicinity, so some of her belongings were still at


    Castor Vi.


    When Leanna came in, Alice rushed over to greet her. ¡°You¡¯re back atst, Miss McKinney. You haven¡¯t


    had your lunch yet, right? I¡¯ll go and prepare something for you¡­¡±


    Leanna smiled and said, ¡°Thanks, Alice, but I¡¯m heading off soon. I¡¯m just here to pick up a few things.¡±


    ¡°Did you and Master get into a fight again?¡± Alice asked in concern before sighing. ¡°Master left on a


    business trip a while ago and he¡¯s not back yet. Why don¡¯t you wait till hees back first?¡±


    ¡°No need,¡± Leanna responded calmly. ¡°We didn¡¯t fight, but he¡¯s about to get married, and I¡­¡± After a


    pause, she continued, ¡°I don¡¯t have a reason to stay here any longer.¡±


    Alice had not known about this at all, so her expression was full of disbelief.


    Leanna nodded at her and went upstairs to collect her things. She did not have much in the first ce,


    so it only took her a few minutes to pack everything. When she came down, Alice was still rooted to the


    spot. It seemed like she was conflicted.


    ¡°Alice, thank you for all that you¡¯ve done for me during this time. I¡¯ll be leaving now,¡± Leanna said.


    Alice did not know what to say at a time like this. ¡°I¡¯ll see you to the door, Miss McKinney.¡±


    When they got to the door, Alice could not stop herself from saying, ¡°Miss McKinney, I don¡¯t know what


    happened between you and Master, but his bark is worse than his bite, and he never says what he truly


    feels. You two¡­¡±


    Alice had witnessed their rtionship throughout the past three years. Even though they quarreled


    every now and then, anyone who took the time to observe them would know that they were very fond of


    each other.


    Why did it turn out like this?


    Leanna¡¯s footsteps halted and she said with a smile, ¡°Thank you, Alice. You don¡¯t need to see me out


    the door. I¡¯lle and visit you when I have a chance.¡±


    ¡°Alright, Miss McKinney. Do take good care of yourself.¡±


    Once Leanna climbed back into the car, Zoe asked softly, ¡°Is Aidan going to let you leave like this?¡±


    Leanna fell into a daze for a moment before saying, ¡°He got what he wanted. There¡¯s no reason for him


    to keep me around any longer. Also¡­¡±


    She chuckled half-heartedly as she recalled what Alice told her. ¡°Aidan isn¡¯t here. He went on a


    business trip.¡±


    ¡°What the f*ck?¡± Zoe¡¯s eyes widened incredulously. ¡°How can he do that? How can he leave on a


    business trip knowing that you were still hospitalized after that ident?¡±


    Leanna did not share Zoe¡¯s indignance as she had not expected otherwise from Aidan.


    That child was probably nothing more than a burden to him.


    Under the circumstances, it would not be surprising if he threw a party to celebrate, so a business trip


    was nothing.


    Once they arrived at Leanna¡¯s apartment, Louis was there waiting for them. During their call earlier on,


    Leanna had lied to Louis and said that she had gone on vacation.


    However, Louis saw that she had lost a significant amount of weight and herplexion was rather


    sickly.


    He nced down at her abdomen before tightening his lips into a straight line, but he did not ask her


    anything. He took Leanna¡¯s suitcase from her and headed upstairs without saying a word.


    ¡°Since Louis is here today, why don¡¯t we get some pizza? It¡¯s getting a little cold, and I¡¯m in the mood


    for a warm pizza with soft, gooey cheese,¡± Zoe suggested.


    ¡°Sure,¡± Leanna responded with a smile.

 Chapter 155

    Chapter 155


    Chapter 155 Let¡¯s Date a yboy


    Louis shot that idea down with a stern expression. ¡°She can¡¯t be eating such greasy food when she just


    got out of the hospital.¡±


    He exposed their lies without even so much as a blink.


    ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    Leanna and Zoe were dumbfounded.


    Zoe turned around and whispered, ¡°Your younger brother was probably a spy in his previous life. It¡¯s


    impossible to keep anything from him.¡±


    ¡°I think so too.¡± Leanna nodded in agreement.


    Louis ignored them and marched out of the elevator when the doors opened.


    It was not that he was angry that they kept this from him. He knew that Leanna was worried that he


    might go looking for Aidan. That would not be wise of him, considering that he was powerless to do


    anything right now.


    Still, he hated the fact that he was kept out of the loop when something this major urred.


    Even now, he was afraid of asking Leanna about the baby she was carrying, and the baby¡¯s


    whereabouts now.


    Zoe relied on ordering takeout most of the time, so the apartment was not stocked with any type of


    fresh ingredients. Louis took one look at the fridge and headed out the door.


    When the door closed behind him, Zoe sighed in relief. It felt like she could finally breathe again. ¡°Louis


    has got a temper just like yours. It¡¯s so scary.¡±


    All Leanna thought of was, Huh?


    She was a pretty gentle person, if she did say so herself.


    After a while, Zoe asked out of curiosity, ¡°He looked pretty fierce when he stormed off. Do you think


    he¡¯s going to go after Aidan for revenge?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± Leanna replied.


    She understood Louis. He was not the kind of person who would behave so recklessly.


    Zoe patted her chest and said, ¡°Thank goodness.¡±


    Soon enough, Louis came back with two humongous bags of fruits and vegetables and headed straight


    for the kitchen.


    Zoe cut up an orange and passed half to Leanna as shemented wistfully, ¡°It¡¯s so great to have a


    younger brother. I want a handsome and caring brother too. In my next life, give me a brother instead


    of a husband. Do you know if Louis prefers a woman who¡¯s older or younger than him? Do you think I


    have¡­ Mmph!¡±


    Leanna stuffed a slice of orange into her mouth and snorted. ¡°Cut that out. You¡¯ve known Louis since


    he was a little boy. How can you even joke about that?¡±


    After swallowing the orange, Zoe piped up, ¡°I won¡¯t act on it, but it doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t think about it.¡±


    Leanna was speechless.


    A short whileter, Zoe asked, ¡°By the way, I sold off that house of mine, and I don¡¯t n on buying


    another one anytime soon. I feel like starting apany and setting up a studio. Why don¡¯t we do it


    together?¡±


    ¡°Me?¡± Leanna was taken aback.


    ¡°Yeah, you. We can run a studio together. You¡¯ll be in charge of jewelry design and I¡¯ll be in charge of


    marketing and photography. If we manage to get a VIP customer, we can even offer a free photoshoot.


    It¡¯ll be perfect.¡±


    Leanna mulled it over for quite some time before saying, ¡°Let me think it over.¡±


    ¡°Sure. Take all the time you need.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Zoe could deduce the reason for Leanna¡¯s hesitation. It probably had to do with Lux Magazine, as the


    company was the one who gave her the tform and the opportunity to resume her career. Time


    continued flying by, and by the time Louis was done preparing a pot of minestrone, the smell had


    wafted all over the living room. Zoe walked over with a bag of chips in hand. She stood at the kitchen


    door and eximed, ¡°Louis, when you get a girlfriend in the future, remember toe home and visit


    your sister and me.¡± Louis was rendered speechless. During dinner, Louis forbade Leanna to touch


    even a single drop of alcohol, so Zoe drank Leanna¡¯s share. They were halfway through their meal


    when Zoe nted one foot on the chair and hollered about how unreliable men were.


    Leanna rubbed her temples and chuckled before turning to Louis. ¡°You can head back now. I¡¯ll take


    care of everything else.¡±


    Louis nced at Zoe, who was singing into her fork, and asked, ¡°Are you sure you can handle it?¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I¡¯ll be fine. It¡¯s not the first time she¡¯s gotten this drunk,¡± Leanna said. ¡°If you don¡¯t head back to


    your dorm now, you might miss curfew.¡±


    Louis checked his watch and confirmed that Leanna was right. ¡°I¡¯lle and see you this weekend.


    Remember to rest as much as you can.¡±


    ¡°I will. Be careful on your way back.¡±


    Once Louis left, Leanna helped Zoe over to the bed and tucked her in before she started clearing the


    table.


    After putting everything away, Leanna began unpacking her suitcase.


    When she got the baby clothes, she stared at them in a daze.


    The sound of Zoe retching startled Leanna out of her reverie. She went over to the bathroom and


    patted Zoe on the back. ¡°I told you not to drink so much.¡± Zoe continued to hug the toilet bowl as she


    took several deep breaths before she turned around. ¡°Couldn¡¯t help it since I was in such a good


    mood.¡± She fought to keep her eyes open as she waved her hand in the air. ¡°Nana, I¡¯m telling you. You


    should have a fresh start. We both should have a fresh start. I¡¯ll forget all about Anthony, that b*stard,


    and you should forget all about Aidan. He¡¯s a b*stard too! From now on, we should enjoy ourselves,


    find a yboy or two, and date as many men as we want! They won¡¯t be able to say we¡¯re heartless


    since they do it too!¡± Leanna was floored. She never knew that Zoe had such wit in her drunken stupor.


    ¡°Enough about that. You should go back to bed now.¡±


    Zoe hugged Leanna and began to cry all of a sudden. ¡°I mean it, Nana. You should find a man and


    start dating again. The b*stard is not worth your time and heartache. You and Zayn made such a good


    couple. I was banking on the fact that you guys would end up together, but who knew that things would


    turn out this way? What a terrible ending!¡±


    Leanna was both amused and exasperated, but all she could do was pat Zoe on the back and promise,


    ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll take your advice. I¡¯ll go out and find a man tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s a promise! You¡¯re not allowed to back out of it,¡± Zoe dered with a teary expression. ¡°The best


    way to get over a rtionship is to start a new one. I should move on too!¡±


    It waste at night when Leanna finally managed to drag Zoe back to bed.


    As Leanna sat by the bed, she thought to herself, Zoe¡¯s right. It¡¯s always good to have a fresh start.


    There¡¯s no point in dwelling on the past.


    In any case, it was hardly a surprise that things turned out this way.


    She was simply being delusional by hoping for a miracle that was not hers to receive.


    Leanna sighed and pped her cheeks gently to gain some color on them.


    Since she weathered the storm and came out alive, she should look the part, at least.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, at Weavside.


    When the meeting ended, Jonathan came over with a phone in hand. ¡°It¡¯s a call from Miss Crossley,


    President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the twenty-third call today,¡± he added in a low voice.


    Aidan pinched his nose before taking the phone from Jonathan impassively.


    Once the call connected, he heard Georgina asking at once, ¡°Where are you, Aidan?¡±


    ¡°Do I need to report my whereabouts to you?¡±


    Georgina was struck dumb by his retort. She remained silent for a while before saying, ¡°I just wanted to


    tell you that it¡¯s only a week before our wedding. Your father and other family members couldn¡¯t get in


    touch with you, so they asked me¡ª¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s call the wedding off,¡± Aidan cut her off indifferently.


    ¡°Why?¡±

 Chapter 156

    Chapter 156


    Chapter 156 You Already Have a Wonderful Son


    ¡°No particr reason. I just don¡¯t want to get married.¡±


    Georgina snorted in contempt. ¡°Aidan, do you think marriage is some kind of game that you can just


    jump in and out of whenever you want? Everyone knows that we¡¯re getting married now! You¡ª¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re the one who wanted to announce it to the world.¡±


    ¡°You agreed to it!¡±


    ¡°Georgina, you know very well the reason why I agreed to it.¡±


    Georgina bit her lip until it almost bled before saying, ¡°It¡¯s because of Miss McKinney, isn¡¯t it?¡±


    ¡°Our marriage was merely a win-win deal for both our families. It has nothing to do with anyone else.


    Crossley Group shares have increased by 3% in the past month, so you¡¯re not losing out on anything,¡±


    Aidan stated coolly.


    His voice was void of any emotion as if the marriage was nothing more than a business transaction.


    Georgina took a deep breath and dered indignantly, ¡°Whatever the case, everyone knows that we¡¯re


    getting married, so what am I supposed to do if you break it off now? How are you going to exin this


    to my father?¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t need to concern yourself with that, Miss Crossley. The marriage will be called off because an


    illegitimate son like me isn¡¯t fit to marry you.¡±


    Georgina¡¯s expression changed at once. ¡°Aidan, what¡ª¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m busy. Have a good day, Miss Crossley.¡±


    Aidan hung up on her without letting her finish her sentence.


    Jonathan held his breath as he stood beside Aidan.


    President Pearson is willing to take a hit for a Pyrrhic victory. He got what he wanted, but at what cost?


    The reality now was that the Pearsons could no longer use Leanna¡¯s unborn child to achieve their


    goals, so they turned all their attention to the marriage alliance with the Crossleys.


    While they were not impressed by the marriage at first, it had to be said that the Crossley family did


    have a sizable business and family fortune without an appointed heir. It was quite enticing all the same.


    Now that Aidan decided to call off the wedding, Gordon would most likely have a conniption.


    After getting into the elevator, Aidan instructed Jonathan, ¡°Make the announcement before midnight


    tonight.¡±


    Jonathan thought for a bit and asked, ¡°What should I include in the announcement, President


    Pearson?¡±


    After all, he could not go ahead and announce¡­ what Aidan said over the phone, right?


    Aidan nced at him. ¡°If your hearing is a little off, go and get your ears checked.¡±


    Jonathan did not know how to react.


    Aidan withdrew his gaze and snorted. ¡°Sienna did go through all that effort to plot everything. The least


    I could do is return the favor.¡±


    ¡°What do you mean, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°All these years, she seemed to have epted my existence simply for the sake of maintaining her and


    the Zielinski family¡¯s dignity. Why else do you think she would¡¯ve allowed me into the family?¡±


    Jonathan kept quiet. He dared notment on this.


    Aidan continued indifferently, ¡°She dared to plot against Leanna because she is convinced that I won¡¯t


    do anything about it out of fear that she¡¯lle out and say I¡¯m an illegitimate son.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll get it done at once, President Pearson,¡± Jonathan said.


    Having heard all this, he got the message. Aidan was making his move against the Zielinski family.


    The first thing was to openly admit that he was an illegitimate son.


    Half an hourter, the car pulled up at Underwood Lane.


    The demolition permit had already been approved and they would start tearing down everything next


    year, so half of the street¡¯s residents had moved away by now.


    The once lively street was now cold and gloomy.


    Aidan got out of the car and walked toward the house. Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Naomi heard themotion and came over to see who it was.


    Aidan stood in the garden with his hands in his pockets as his gaze fell on the newly-formed flower


    buds poking out of the flowerbed.


    It seemed like it was able to endure all obstacles as it fought to survive.


    Naomi sat down by the table and asked, ¡°Don¡¯t you want toe in and have a look?¡±


    ¡°Not interested. Too ugly.¡±


    ¡°You looked about the same when you were born,¡± Naomi chuckled.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    After a while, Naomi sighed. ¡°Are you really not going to tell Leanna about this? No matter what, she


    has the right¡ª¡±


    Aidan cut her off and said inly, ¡°After that ident, it was a miracle that they were able to save the


    baby, but he was born prematurely so the doctor said there¡¯s a high chance something might go wrong


    for the next few months, and he might not survive. There¡¯s no point in letting her find out about this.¡±


    Rather than letting her grieve over her loss once more, it was better to let her confront the worst


    oue from the start.


    Naomi scoffed. ¡°Why did you bring him to me then? If¡­ Won¡¯t I be upset as well?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not the same.¡±


    ¡°How is it not the same?¡±


    ¡°You already have a wonderful son. She doesn¡¯t.¡±


    Naomi was speechless.


    A few momentster, Aidan continued, ¡°Being here with you is the safest ce for him. I¡¯ll bring him


    back once I¡¯ve dealt with everything over there.¡± After a short bout of silence, he added, ¡°If he¡¯s still


    alive.¡±


    Naomi sighed again. ¡°Aidan, don¡¯t sound so pessimistic. He looks quite healthy to me, eating and


    crying like a normal baby. Everything will be fine.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m just being realistic. If I don¡¯t get my hopes up, I won¡¯t be disappointed either way.¡±


    ¡­


    That night, Pearson Group made a formal announcement dering that the wedding between Aidan


    and Georgina was called off.


    It was clear and concise. Although it did not state outright that Aidan was an illegitimate son, it did say


    that Georgina, as the daughter of the Crossley family, was a distinguished and respectable woman,


    and Aidan did not deserve to marry her.


    Theizens swarmed over to enjoy the juicy gossip.


    ¡®He doesn¡¯t deserve her? Is that for real? I¡¯m pretty sure that Pearson Group is a bigger and far more


    profitablepany than Crossley Group.¡¯


    ¡®What the hell? I¡¯m getting chills from this announcement! Didn¡¯t someone disclose that the president of


    Pearson Group was¡­ that? Could that be rted to the marriage being called off?¡¯


    ¡®Thementer above me has a point, but does this mean President Pearson is admitting it


    personally? I can¡¯t believe he¡¯d be this vicious even to himself.¡¯


    ¡®If he wasn¡¯t this vicious, would he be able to be Pearson Group¡¯s president? These wealthy


    families are all a mess. There¡¯s always news about illegitimate children everywhere, but for the sake of


    the family¡¯s dignity, they¡¯re still able to pretend like nothing¡¯s wrong.¡¯


    Meanwhile, when Gordon saw the announcement, he shook with fury and snarled, ¡°Fool! That b*stard!¡±


    What Aidan did not only confirmed that he was an illegitimate child, but it also dragged the Pearsons


    and the entire Pearson Group into this mess with him.


    Throughout Gordon¡¯s life, what he cared the most about was the family name and reputation. He


    thought that the marriage alliance with the Crossleys was a done deal, but he never thought that in a


    blink of an eye, Aidan would ruin everything!


    Sienna tsked icily when she saw the news, but her expression did not change much.


    I expect nothing more from an illegitimate b*stard.


    Gordon took some time to calm down before asking the butler, ¡°What did the Crossleys say?¡±


    ¡°The Crossleys haven¡¯t responded to this yet.¡±


    Gordon¡¯s hand tightened around his walking stick. His frown grew deeper as he said gravely, ¡°Now that


    it hase to do this, with the kind of person Lloyd is, there¡¯s no way we can turn things around


    anymore.¡±

 Chapter 157

    Chapter 157


    Chapter 157 Probably Turning From Mistress to Missus Soon


    Gordon contemted for a moment before turning to the butler. ¡°Prepare a gift this instant. I¡¯ll head to


    Crossley Residence and apologize first thing in the morning.¡±


    Now that it hade to this, it was inevitable that the Corssleys and their family would fall foul of each


    other. However, Aidan was the one who caused this mess. If he used this chance to butter up to the


    Crossleys and win them over, the result might multiply.


    Once Lloyd was willing to side with him, it would only be a matter of time before Pearson Group


    returned to him.


    ¡­


    The following day, after a whole night of deliberation, Leanna still decided to quit Lux.


    There had been many outside controversies between her and Lux Magazine in the first ce anyway.


    Plus, it had been a long while since she returned to her post. She would only continue to affect Lux


    negatively if she stayed.


    With that, she handed Harvey her resignation letter, to which he sighed like he had already foreseen it.


    However, he only said, ¡°Lux will wee you back with open arms anytime.¡±


    Leanna nodded with a smile. ¡°Thank you for all the care and help you¡¯ve given me, Mr. Mancini.¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s be honest; what help have I provided you?¡± said Harvey. ¡°Zoe also handed in her resignation


    letterst week. What are you girls nning to do next?¡±


    ¡°We might open our own studio, but it¡¯s all still in talks,¡± Leanna answered.


    ¡°Alright, cool. I consider myself somewhat connected in the fashion world. Let me know if you girls do


    decide to start your own studio. I¡¯ll introduce you girls to some clients.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Mancini.¡±


    As Leanna was about to leave, Harvey mentioned, ¡°Queenie has been suspended, and Lux is dealing


    with it as we speak. We just have to wait for the results of the investigation. I promise I will still give you


    a justifiable answer even if you¡¯ve decided to leave.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t n on pursuing this matter anymore,¡± said Leanna after a pause. ¡°She had done so simply


    because she perceived me as an enemy. It¡¯ll all be over once I leave Lux.¡±


    ¡°McK¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s not that I¡¯m being magnanimous.¡± Leanna smiled and cut off Harvey, knowing what he wanted to


    say. ¡°I just owed someone a favor.¡±


    At that, he nodded and no longer tried to persuade her. ¡°Since you¡¯ve decided to put it down, there¡¯s no


    reason for Lux to continue the investigation.¡±


    However, it was impossible for Lux to retain someone like Queenie.


    After exiting Harvey¡¯s office, Leanna heard a group discussing something in the break room right when


    she was about to leave.


    ¡°Say, have you guys heard? The Pearson Family and Crossley Family are calling off the engagement.


    Rumor has it that it¡¯s because President Pearson is an illegitimate son.¡±


    ¡°Sh*t, really? I thought they¡¯d already dispelled that rumor, no?¡±


    ¡°Do you think it could be fake news when Pearson Group was the one who released the official


    statement? It¡¯s written in ck and white that they¡¯re unworthy of the youngdy of the Crossley


    Family. Only someone with a death wish would dare to release such a statement without President


    Pearson¡¯s authorization.¡± ¡°F*ck, this is crazy. But if President Pearson really is an illegitimate son, then


    who could his mother be? I¡¯ve never heard there had ever been any missus and mistress drama in the


    Pearson Family all these years.¡± ¡°Well, who would know¡­ But you know what I¡¯m more curious about?


    Who in the Pearson Family does McK have rtions with?¡± Leanna stayed to hear what the group had


    to say. ¡°Yeah, I wanted to ask about that. This revtion still has questions left unanswered, but there


    aren¡¯t any more relevant follow-ups.¡± ¡°The Pearsons¡¯ business is family-owned. There are so many


    people tied to them; there isn¡¯t definite proof pointing her to any one of them, even if she appeared in


    Pearson Residence. Even if she is rted to the Pearson Family, she can possibly just be a distant


    rtive.¡± ¡°Then again, I think she¡¯s quite something. To think she actually got pregnant. Looks to me;


    she¡¯s probably turning from mistress to missus soon.¡± ¡°Tell me about it. It¡¯s also a skill to be able to


    hook up with one of the Pearsons.¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Remember that middle-aged woman who came looking for herst time? Anyone could tell that


    woman was here to catch McK, but she still shamelessly said that woman was her ex-husband¡¯s


    mother. Was she not afraid¡ª¡±


    Just as everyone was deep in the gossip, the door to the break room suddenly opened to reveal


    Leanna standing indifferently behind it. Everyone instantly fell silent, unable to speak, like strangled


    chickens. ¡°If you guys are so curious about my rtionship with the Pearsons, why didn¡¯t youe


    and ask me instead?¡± asked Leanna after sweeping her gaze across them. Those present smiled wryly


    in response, not sure how to answer her question. After all, none of them had ever imagined the person


    in question would overhear their gossip. Besides, it had been a long time since Leanna returned to her


    post. They were all beginning to think she wouldn¡¯t return anymore. Seeing that none of them said a


    word, Leanna rified monotonously, ¡°I¡¯ve said it before; the woman who hade looking for me was


    my ex-husband¡¯s mother. I can also now tell you guys she¡¯s the wife of Pearson Group¡¯s chairman.¡±


    Everyone was rendered stumped. The wife of Pearson Group¡¯s chairman¡­ Doesn¡¯t that mean¡­


    Meanwhile, Leanna strode away, having no intention of waiting for them toe to themselves. She


    never disclosed the fact because she didn¡¯t want her and Aidan to be the topic of everyone¡¯s


    gossip, but she regretted the decision now. She had gotten honestly married this once, and this


    marriage was already sh*tty enough. Yet she had still be the subject of other people¡¯s brazen


    spection as to which wealthy businessman she was a mistress to.


    Anyhow, she had already resigned, and she didn¡¯t care what else they would say after knowing she


    was Aidan¡¯s ex-wife.


    Leanna exhaled a murky breath after exiting Lux.


    After taking a couple of steps, she turned around, looked at the office she had worked for for thest


    half a year, and smiled with relief.


    This was her fresh start half a year ago, and this ce was also where she closed the chapter after all


    that had happenedtely.


    With that, she tucked her gaze and strode away without ever looking back.


    ¡­


    Two monthster¡­


    Zoe stretched as she snuggled on the couch. ¡°It¡¯s finally done. Thesest two months sure have been


    good.¡±


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s grab some food after a breather,¡± suggested Leanna with a smile.


    Zoe instantly felt alive upon hearing food. ¡°A friend rmended a Mexican restaurant to me. Let¡¯s


    give it a try. Wait, Louis is on his winter break, isn¡¯t he? Why don¡¯t you ask him to join us?¡±


    ¡°He is, but I think he¡¯s doing part-time in a cafe. Let me check with him.¡±


    With that, Leanna grabbed her bag and texted Louis while grabbing the key to lock the door. ¡°C¡¯mon.¡±


    She and Zoe had been working on their studio for thest two months, and when they finally decided


    on their rented location, they had to start worrying about the renovation.


    Fortunately, they managed to get everything done before their grand opening.


    Evidently, one could only enrich themselves and not think about nonsense when they kept themselves


    busy.


    After ordering their food in the Mexican restaurant, Zoe asked, ¡°So? Is Louis joining?¡±


    ¡°He said he took the day shift today, so he¡¯lle over in a bit,¡± said Leanna after putting her phone


    down.


    Zoe couldn¡¯t help getting nosy at the mention of Louis. ¡°Say, it¡¯s been half a year since Louis entered


    college. Has he not gotten himself a girlfriend?¡±

 Chapter 158

    Chapter 158


    Chapter 158 Do You Have to Be Sarcastic?


    Leanna quirked a brow upon hearing so. ¡°Don¡¯t think so.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I want to go back to college again. The dating scene in the student days was the best. It¡¯s been a


    long time since Ist felt that kind of infatuation.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯ll have to be his call. I¡¯ve asked him once, and he¡­¡± Leanna couldn¡¯t help shaking her head as she


    chuckled to herself when she recollected their conversation.


    Sometimeter, during their chat, a knock came on the door to their private room. It was the server


    bringing their dishes over.


    Just then, someone passed by and happened to take an unconscious nce inside. A second after


    registering what they saw, they turned into the private room. ¡°What a surprise to see you guys here.¡±


    Zoe and Leanna reflexively looked up upon hearing the voice to find it was Daphne standing at the


    entrance.


    Daphne had been on set for the past few months, and she had also called to check up on Leanna


    when she heard about the incident. But who¡¯d have thought she would bump into them right as she


    came back?


    ¡°Are you also eating here?¡± Leanna asked.


    ¡°Yeah, with A¡ª¡± Daphne quickly swallowed her words and chuckled hollowly. ¡°My boss has a lunch


    meeting about some film investment here, so he asked me to join.¡±


    Zoe didn¡¯t register who this ¡®boss¡¯ was. ¡°How long until you guys finish the meeting? We¡¯ll wait for you.


    We¡¯re waiting for Nana¡¯s brother in the meantime anyway.¡±


    Daphne did a quick shift with her eyes before saying with a smile, ¡°We¡¯re almost done. I¡¯lle right


    over after saying bye. You guys can go ahead and eat. No need to wait for me; I¡¯ve already eaten


    plenty.¡±


    ¡°Sure, go ahead.¡±


    After Daphne left, Zoe grabbed an appetizer, and it wasn¡¯t until mid-eating that something hit her.


    Daphne is signed under Pearson Group. Doesn¡¯t that make her boss¡­


    Zoe lost her appetite in an instant, and her fork slipped,nding on her te with a clink.


    Just what sort of f*cking bad luck do we have?! Who¡¯d have thought that b*stard is so coincidentally


    here when we¡¯ve decided on a whim to eat in this ce my friend rmended after working our a*s


    off for two months?!


    With that, she snuck a peak at Leanna, wanting to see her reaction. Thetter was drinking, and she


    asked with a smile when she caught Zoe looking at her, ¡°What?¡± ¡°Hahaha, nothing. Nothing. Nana,


    don¡¯t just drink. Here, eat something. It¡¯ll be a while before Louis gets here.¡± While speaking, Zoe kept


    scooping food into Leanna¡¯s te, piling it up very quickly, rendering Leanna at a loss for words.


    Meanwhile, inside the next private room, Daphne took a tactical sip of water after sitting down. While


    the cup covered up her facial expression, she peeked from the corner of her eye at the man sitting


    beside her. Aidan took an indifferent nce at her in exchange. Even when he said nothing, Daphne


    still felt inexplicably conscience-stricken. A whileter, Daphne thought it had arrived at the right time,


    and she put her cup down while clearing her throat. ¡°President Pearson, everyone, I just got a call


    saying there¡¯s an emergency at home. I¡¯ll have to make a move; you guys enjoy yourselves.¡±


    But little did she expect to hear Aidan¡¯s distant voice right as she grabbed her bag. ¡°What emergency?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s¡­ some personal stuff. I appreciate your concern, President Pearson.¡± Aidan raised his eyes and


    bore into Daphne as though to say, ¡®The way you were looking at me just now didn¡¯t scream


    emergency.¡¯ I knew it! This b*stard isn¡¯t easy to fool. At that, Daphne pulled a spot-on smile, saying,


    ¡°Actually, I bumped into a couple of friends while I was outside. It¡¯s been a while since I saw them.


    So¡­¡± ¡°Who¡¯s the lead in this movie? You or me?¡± Aidan retorted icily. Daphne knew he was insinuating


    her attitude toward her job and being irresponsible. With that, she deflected his retort with ease. ¡°Well, I


    thought we¡¯d already gotten most of the details down just now. As for everything else, I¡¯ll just follow


    your call. I know what I¡¯m doing isn¡¯t the most appropriate, but I¡¯m really sorry. That friend of mine had


    a bad breakup some time ago. She was dating a s*mbag, you see, so she was hurt pretty badly. I have


    to go andfort her.¡±


    Aidan stared at her for a couple of seconds before rebutting bluntly, ¡°Sounds to me like you have


    nothing better to do.¡±


    The others in the roomughed in response and alleviated the tension. ¡°Daphne¡¯s right. We¡¯ve gotten


    most of the details down. In that case, we¡¯ll discuss the rest of the details and let Daphne go to her


    friend, President Pearson. She shouldfort her friend when something like this has happened.¡±


    ¡°You can say that again,¡± Daphne echoed. ¡°My friend¡¯s pretty lovely, and she¡¯s pretty and capable too.


    Who knows which b*stard had to go and hurt her.¡±


    Aidan¡¯s temples throbbed in response, and his handsome face turned grimmer by the second.


    Daphne, on the other hand, scurried away before he exploded.


    When she arrived at the girl¡¯s private room, she deliberately looked behind her shoulder to make sure


    Aidan hadn¡¯t found her actions questionable before entering. Louis was already seated in the private


    room at this point. ¡°What¡¯s cookin¡¯, good lookin¡¯?¡± Daphne greeted with a smile, to which Louis gave no


    response. After Daphne took her seat, Zoe whispered, ¡°Did your boss not say anything when you¡¯ve


    come over just like this?¡± ¡°No. I¡¯ve even rebuked him, but I¡¯m sure he couldn¡¯t tell I was doing so.¡± In


    response, Zoe pulled a like-minded smile and clinked sses with her. Meanwhile, Louis asked


    Leanna with a frown, ¡°What are they talking about?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s their business. Eat your food.¡± Leanna scooped some fish onto his te, looking unfazed.


    With that, the group went on about their lunch.


    Halfway, Leanna took a trip to the washroom, but she didn¡¯t expect to find Aidan taking a drag not far


    away when she came out.


    However, as unexpected as it was, she wasn¡¯t surprised to see him.


    At that, she shifted her gaze and pretended not to see him. Just as she was about to walk away, his


    deep, indifferent voice traveled to her ears. ¡°Leanna.¡±


    She closed her eyes and took a deep breath before turning around to look at him, pulling an especially


    half-hearted smile. ¡°Well, if it isn¡¯t President Pearson. Fancy seeing you here. Have youe to haveMaterial ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    lunch as well?¡±


    Her voice wasced with a hint of politeness, a degree of distance, and a whole lot of indifference.


    ¡°Of course.¡± Aiden looked inly toward her.


    ¡°Is that so¡­ Judging by how you¡¯re looking, I thought you¡¯re here to tten this ce.¡±


    Aiden stubbed his cigarette as frustrationced his face. ¡°Do you have to be sarcastic?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sure you know I always talk like this, President Pearson.¡± Leanna¡¯s countenance gradually turned


    calm. ¡°If you have a problem with it, you can¡ª¡±


    ¡°Shut up.¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± Leanna strode away at that, having no intention of wasting any more time with him.


    Aidan scraped his tongue against his teeth as he watched her retreating figure, then lit another


    cigarette, which he dangled from his lips, and smiled.


    As sharp-tongued as ever.


    ¡°What took you so long, Nana?¡± asked Zoe when Leanna finally returned to the private room.

 Chapter 159

    Chapter 159


    Chapter 159 Time to Rack His Brain


    Leanna replied, ¡°Oh, nothing. I just ran into a crazy person.¡±


    Zoe frowned when she heard her friend¡¯s answer. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with the security here? How could


    they let someone like that into this ce? What if something bad happened¡­¡± Before Zoe could finish


    her words, she felt someone stepping on her toe under the table.


    Daphne smiled and said casually, ¡°By the way, we were talking about the opening of your studio. It¡¯s


    tomorrow, isn¡¯t it? Well, I¡¯m going to be your first customer, just like we agreed.¡±


    Leanna curled her lips and nodded. ¡°I look forward to our cooperation.¡±


    After their meal, Leanna and Zoe left just as Daphne was about to call her driver. At that moment, she


    suddenly sensed a cold and sinister presence behind her. Unnerved, she turned around in a rigid


    manner and reacted with a brittle smile. ¡°Mr. Pearson, you¡¯re still here¡­¡±


    Aidan gave her a cold stare and said, ¡°I¡¯m going to give you two choices. It¡¯s either you start working


    twenty-four seven from today on, or¡­¡±


    ¡°Alright, say no more, Mr. Pearson. I¡¯m going to go with the second choice.¡±


    He then adjusted his sleeves and calmly asked, ¡°What were youdies talking about?¡±


    She was tongue-tied to hear the man¡¯s question. At the same time, she was annoyed that she didn¡¯t do


    anything about it even though she had a feeling that Aidan was still around earlier. Nheless, she


    went on to tell the man what he wanted to know in a concise manner while omitting the part that they


    spoke ill of him. ¡°Leanna and Zoe are opening a studio together. The opening is tomorrow, so would


    you like to show your support by being there, Mr. Pearson?¡±


    Aidan sniggered and replied, ¡°I¡¯m a busy man with important things to do, unlike you who are idle.¡±


    Daphne pursed her lips, understanding what he meant behind his words. Fine, let¡¯s see if you¡¯re going


    to regret it tomorrow. She then let out a sigh and answered, ¡°Actually, they are starting a business by


    themselves, and I can tell that it¡¯s going to be quite challenging. So, I¡¯ve been thinking of inviting some


    friends toe with me and show some support, but at the same time¡­ I¡¯m also afraid that I won¡¯t


    have enough time to rest if I go there. So, I treated them to a meal instead.¡±


    He nced at her with a nonchnt look. ¡°After all this time, your acting still sucks.¡±


    While she was speechless, he took his eyes off her and said, ¡°There is no way you¡¯re going to have


    any days off, but I can turn a blind eye to the mean things you just said about me.¡±


    Once again, Daphne was helplessly speechless upon hearing the man¡¯s words. What a petty guy! No


    wonder he can¡¯t win Leanna¡¯s heart, no matter how hard he tries.


    Momentster, Aidan was sitting in his ck Rolls-Royce, rubbing the bridge of his nose while asking,


    ¡°Has Leanna left Lux Magazine?¡±


    Jonathan nodded in response. ¡°A little bird there told me that Mrs. Pearson intends to put the matter


    with Queenie behind her and move on, so I told them to stop as well.¡±


    Although he didn¡¯t borate much, Aidan knew why Leanna did that. He then spoke with an


    ambiguous tone, ¡°She never ceases to surprise me with her strange ways of showing her


    conscientiousness.¡±


    ¡°After all, if it weren¡¯t for Ron, Mrs. Pearson would likely¡­¡± In their subsequent investigation, they


    discovered that the pathway had been intentionally altered by someone. Therefore, even if Leanna


    managed to fool the people whom Sienna had ordered to send her away by escaping through another


    path, she was still bound to run into trouble. ¡°Fine.¡± He paused and added, ¡°Leanna¡¯s studio is opening


    tomorrow. So, deliver some flowers to her for me.¡± ¡°Is¡­ Is that all?¡± Jonathan probingly asked. ¡°What


    else are you thinking?¡±


    He faked a cough and replied, ¡°Well, Mr. Pearson, you have an annual general meeting tomorrow


    morning, but after that, you should be free in the afternoon.¡±


    Aidan responded with silence. He then took a deep breath and rolled down the car window, pausing for


    a second before he said, ¡°Well, since I have nothing else to do at that time, I¡¯d like to do some


    inspection around our stores.¡±


    He understood his boss and said, ¡°Sure, Mr. Pearson. I shall make the necessary arrangements then.¡±


    In fact, Aidan had stayed in Weavside for more than a month, but when he returned, he was forced to


    take care of the mess after ending his engagement with Georgina. In the blink of an eye, two months


    had passed just as the moment hade for him to rack his brain and think of a way to get out of his


    difficult position.


    ¡­


    In the meantime, Louis left as soon as he took thedies back to their apartment. Although he was in


    the middle of his semester break, he still stayed in the dormitory in his school because it was more


    convenient for him due to his job at a caf¨¦ nearby. When Zoe arrived home, she copsed onto the


    couch and said, ¡°Finally! I can get some good night¡¯s rest tonight.¡±


    Leanna replied, ¡°Rest early tonight. We need to wake up early tomorrow.¡± The next second, Zoe looked


    at her, rolling her eyes as if she wanted to say something, only to swallow her words that were forming


    at the tip of her tongue. At the same time, she sensed her strange reaction and asked with a smile,


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°N-Nothing¡­¡± Previously, Zoe didn¡¯t catch on to what was going on during their dinner


    until the kick from Daphne instantly gave her a hint of who Leanna ran into earlier that night. Thus, she


    asked with a soft voice upon a brief hesitation. ¡°Nana, did you run into that b*stard, Aidan, when we


    were in the restaurant back then?¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± She seemed emotionless and spoke in a calm voice.


    ¡°What did he say to you then?¡±


    Leanna froze for a while and answered, ¡°Nothing. He was just trying to mess with me.¡±


    Zoe clicked her tongue twice and said, ¡°What¡¯s that b*stard thinking? When you both were together, he


    didn¡¯t cherish it, but now that it¡¯s over between you two¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to take a shower now,¡± she interrupted her.


    ¡°Okay. Sure.¡±


    Leanna blow-dried her hair after she finished showering and reflected on her previous interaction with


    Aidan. In reality, she had spent the previous two months attempting not to think about the man and


    what had just happened so that she could finally forget the past and move on. When she ran into him


    earlier that day, she learned that it was easier said than done because she couldn¡¯t forget anything.


    When she realized she had been lying to herself the entire time, she couldn¡¯t help but agree with one


    thing he said. Even though he said he wasn¡¯t to me for her miscarriage, he believed it was her faultN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    since her innocence led her to trust Sienna¡¯s words and underestimated human nature¡¯s malice. As a


    result, she was confronted by her conscience about why she put the me for everything on him.


    Halfway through drying her hair, Leanna left the bathroom and went to the study to look through the


    files on the desk, which were about her car ident. She knew in her heart that she could do nothing


    to Sienna since she was no match for the Pearson Family in terms of power and influence. She did,


    however, feel that she would one day have enough evidence to seek justice for her unborn child.


    ¡­


    The next morning, Leanna received flowers and gifts from many of her friends, including Harvey, Zayn,


    and Daphne. When they were finally free, Zoe began to go through the flowers they received and was


    bewildered, noticing a few of them to be anonymous.


    When Leanna saw her friend¡¯s reaction, she asked, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡±


    She replied, ¡°This is strange, Leanna. We have an extra six flower baskets that are anonymous. No


    names on them¡­¡± She paused to think and added, ¡°Could they be from Louis?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t think so. I told him not to do that yesterday.¡±


    Her answer made Zoe feel even more puzzled. After all, there were only a handful of them who knew


    about their studio¡¯s opening among both of their friendsbined. Therefore, she believed the


    anonymous flower baskets were from the same person. Soon, their studio was visited by a customer as


    she decided to forget about it. ¡°Fine, let¡¯s not dwell on that now. We¡¯ll see if there is anyone whoes


    and ims them backter. If not, they will be ours.¡±

 Chapter 160

    Chapter 160


    Chapter 160 He Can Think Whatever He Wants


    The majority of the customers that arrived today were introduced by Harvey and Daphne; most of them


    were celebrities and celebrities¡¯ fans. Therefore, the ce looked especially crowded despite its limited


    size. Later that afternoon, they decided to sit down and take a break just when they heard a man¡¯s


    gentle voice from the door. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. Did Ie at the wrong time?¡±


    Zoe naturally stood up and greeted the visitor. ¡°No, of course not. Pleasee in¡­¡± As she was


    speaking, she suddenly found the man in the wheelchair rather familiar. Wait a second! This man came


    to Lux Magazine earlier. He must be Aidan¡¯s brother, ording to Leanna.


    When she snapped out of her trance, Leanna responded with a soft voice,¡±Mr. Pearson.¡±


    Justin smiled and raised his hand up, telling his subordinates behind him with his gesture to present his


    gift. ¡°I heard you and your friend just opened a studio, so I came here to show my support and have a


    look at the ce.¡± In the meantime, Zoe was staring at the gift, unsure whether she should ept the


    gift or not. Nevertheless, he reacted by shooting a gaze at his men who immediately understood his


    message. His men then set the items on the table, turned around, and went out the door.


    At the same time, Zoe, who appeared hesitant in facing the man, said with a soft voice, ¡°Nana, I¡¯m


    going to get myself something to eat.¡±


    Leanna nodded in response. As soon as she left, she asked, ¡°How can I help you, Mr. Pearson?¡±


    Justin sighed and replied, ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Leanna.¡±


    She smiled faintly and asked, ¡°Why are you apologizing, Mr. Pearson? You didn¡¯t do anything wrong,


    so there is no need for you to apologize to me.¡±


    ¡°Actually, I¡¯m apologizing to you on my mother¡¯s behalf.¡± He added, ¡°I know what she did was


    uneptable, and I don¡¯t dare to beg for your forgiveness, but I thought I should apologize anyway, no


    matter what you think.¡±


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She pursed her lips for a while and said, ¡°I really appreciate the care and love that you showed me


    when I was still a part of the Pearson Family, Mr. Pearson, but I¡¯m afraid I can¡¯t just forget about


    everything that happened.¡±


    ¡°I understand how you feel, which is why I had been struggling to meet you for the past two months, but


    I can assure you that no one else in the Pearson Family will ever cause you any harm again. At the


    same time, please let me know if you require anything.¡±


    She kept her head slightly down and her face expressionless. Since the Pearson Family had never


    treated her with respect, she believed they thought little of her even more now that she had outlived her


    usefulness. Soon, she asked, ¡°Anything?¡±


    ¡°Yes, anything.¡± He nodded in response.


    ¡°Tell Anna to call off her engagement with Zayn, but the Pearson Family must give the Bat Family


    exactly what they have pledged, not a cent less.¡± Her words were met with a change of expression on


    his face and she said, ¡°If that¡¯s too much to ask, Mr. Pearson, forget about it.¡±


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not that.¡± Justin smiled in embarrassment. ¡°I was just a little surprised to hear that. I didn¡¯t think


    that was what you¡¯d ask for.¡±


    ¡°Zayn is my friend, and he¡¯s helped me a lot, so I can¡¯t allow him to marry ady he doesn¡¯t love at all,


    not to mention the fact that she is a madwoman just because of his family¡­¡± Leanna smiled mid-


    sentence and said, ¡°I¡¯ve also thought about the rest, but I¡¯m aware of the reason that you swung by to


    visit, Mr. Pearson. You¡¯re just trying to soften me up so that I would concede. After all, she is your


    mother, and I know you¡¯re counting on that fact to make me go easy on her.¡±


    He nodded gently. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m a man of my word, and I¡¯ll keep my promise.¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Pearson.¡±


    On the other hand, Zoe was leaning against the wall, wishing she could just conjure up a portal for her


    to enter. After all, she sensed a cold and sinister presence right behind her as she had a bad feeling


    about their studio. Damn! What¡¯s Aidan doing here? Did he hear everything his brother and Leanna are


    talking about? Oh my gosh! Don¡¯t tell me he is going to tear down our studio. As she thought something


    terrible was going to happen, he turned around and walked away before Justin came out. It was only


    when she saw the man entering his car that she heaved a sigh of relief. Phew! I guess our store is


    safe. Not long after Justin left, she entered the studio and was greeted by the sight of Leanna busy


    tidying up the ce. She then approached Leanna and said in a soft voice, ¡°Leanna, Aidan came by


    just now.¡±


    Leanna was shocked, but Zoe ept saying, ¡°He came when you were asking Mr. Pearson to make Anna


    call off her engagement with Zayn. So¡­ I bet he must have misunderstood you again.¡±


    Speechless, she turned around with a calm look on her face. ¡°Whatever. He can think whatever he


    wants.¡± Zoe replied with a frown, ¡°But if Anna knows you¡¯re behind the cancetion of the engagement


    between her and Zayn, she is going toe after you. What are you going to do by then?¡± ¡°That¡¯s


    even better. I¡¯ve been waiting for an opportunity to settle my score with thatdy.¡± In fact, she had never


    feared Anna before, but because she was pregnant at the time, she had no choice and avoided Anna.


    However, now that things were no longer the same as they were, she had nothing to fear anymore. Zoe


    then changed the subject and went through their purchase orders. ¡°By the way, we have a lot of


    custom-made orders, so I bet we¡¯re going to be really busy throughout the entire month. Let¡¯s get down


    to work, then!¡± Besides custom-made jewelry and photographs, they also sold jewelry directly. Their


    handcrafts were given out as free gifts, while the others were practically sold out, well beyond their


    expectations.


    Leanna nodded, and after a few seconds she said, ¡°Let¡¯s hire two more people.¡±


    Zoe said, ¡°That¡¯s what I thought as well. In any case, none of the other jewelry needs to be custom-


    made, so they need to adhere to the temte when performing their job. As a result, you can work on


    your designs with some peace of mind.¡± She then began to type a recruitment notice with her


    computer.


    Soon after that, more customers began showing up at their studio. When the two of them were starting


    to get a little bit busy, Louis arrived. Leanna noticed him and asked, ¡°Are you not working part-time?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the school holiday now, and I¡¯ve just applied for a leave from my boss.¡±


    Zoe soon leaned closer and asked, ¡°Did you guys realize something? Our studio appears to be


    crowded with moredies now as soon as hees to the studio.¡±


    While Leanna and Louis were both rendered speechless, Georgina was sitting in a ck car outside


    the studio, watching them interact with a cial look on her face. ¡°You said Aidan came here earlier


    this afternoon, right?¡±


    Her subordinate nodded in response. ¡°Yes, he did. In fact, his older brother, Mr. Justin, was here too,


    but on the other hand, Mr. Pearson only stood outside before he left.¡±


    ¡°Justin came here too?¡± she asked, ¡°What were they talking to each other about?¡±


    ¡°I¡­ I¡¯m not sure. I¡¯ll find out now.¡±


    She rolled up the car window and replied, ¡°No need for that. No one in the Pearson Family cares about


    her now. Knowing Justin, I bet he probably came here to apologize to her.¡±

 Chapter 161

    Chapter 161


    Chapter 161 No One Would Like to Go Against Someone Like This


    As she said that, she smiled in disdain. ¡°I don¡¯t understand why he is wasting time on people like her.¡±


    ¡°Where should we go now, Miss Crossley?¡±


    ¡°Home.¡±


    After half an hour, a ck car slowly entered the Crossley Residence.


    When she reached home, Llyod was sitting in the garden reading a newspaper. As soon as he heard


    the noise, he lifted his head and asked, ¡°Where have you been, Gina?¡±


    She answered, ¡°I¡­ went shopping with my friend. Is there anything wrong, Dad?¡±


    After putting down the newspaper, he drank a sip of tea and said, ¡°Nothing. But since your engagement


    with the Pearson Family has been called off, we have nothing to do with them anymore. So, don¡¯t go to


    the Pearson Family Estate anymore.¡±


    Hearing that, she paused for a moment before saying, ¡°Dad¡­¡±


    ¡°I am aware that Aidan¡¯s decision to break off the engagement has little to do with the Pearsons, but


    rumors are dangerous. I don¡¯t want you to be the subject of rumors.¡±


    ¡°I get it, Dad. I won¡¯t go to the Pearson Family Estate anymore.¡±


    When Llyod heard her answer, he nodded satisfyingly. ¡°You can go and do your things.¡±


    At this moment, Georgina was pressing her lips together as though she wanted to say something, but


    in the end, she still didn¡¯t say what she wanted to and went upstairs.


    On the other hand, Llyod took up the newspaper again and started reading the financial news of the


    day.


    Since Pearson Group announced the dissolution of the engagement two months ago, Crossley Group


    has put pressure on a number of cooperative firms and stalled in cooperation projects with them.


    Previously, none of thesepanies would have dared to oppose the Pearson Group, but now that the


    Crossley Group is on their side and a lot of them are affiliated, they are more confident.


    He believed that this would have an adverse effect on Aidan and cause harm to the Pearson Group.


    However, Aidan didn¡¯t care about them at all and changed the partnerpany right away. The whole


    process was so fast and precise that they weren¡¯t prepared for that at all, as though he had nned


    everything beforehand.


    No one would like to go against someone like this.


    Llyod snapped out of his thoughts and folded the newspaper. Just as he was ready to get up, he saw a


    missing person¡¯s flier in the corner of the newspaper.


    The moment he saw the photo published in the newspaper, there was disbelief written all over his face,


    as though his poker face mask had cracked.


    ¡­


    ¡°What? You published the photo in newspapers? But there are only a handful of people who read


    newspapers nowadays. Are you sure it¡¯ll work?¡± Looking at Zoe¡¯s shocked expression, Louis answered


    calmly, ¡°Let¡¯s just try first.¡± ¡°So¡­¡± she lowered her voice. ¡°Does your sister know about this?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve told


    her and she didn¡¯t object.¡± Hearing that, she heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Luckily. I was afraid that she


    wouldn¡¯t agree.¡± Although Leanna seemed like she was easy to convince, she was actually quite


    stubborn. If she didn¡¯t agree to something, no one could convince her no matter how hard they tried.


    After she heaved a sigh of relief, she noticed that he was still looking depressed. So, she said, ¡°Don¡¯t


    worry, Louis. Of course, it¡¯s best if we could find him, but it¡¯s fine if we can¡¯t. No matter what, Nana is


    still your sister.¡±


    His voice was still a little heavy. ¡°I know.¡±


    While patting his back, sheforted him. ¡°If you know, then don¡¯t be so dispirited anymore. We can¡¯t


    choose how we¡¯re born, but our future is in our own hands. You¡¯re already an outstanding person. If


    you¡¯re wless, how do you think the others are going to think about themselves?¡± Louis just remained


    silent. At this moment, Daphne came back from outside and removed her face mask. ¡°It seems like


    business is quite good today. Where¡¯s Leanna?¡± Zoe replied, ¡°She¡¯s at the back organizing the clients¡¯


    orders. By the way, I was worried that no one was going toe here. You really have some wide


    connections, Daphne.¡± She just gave her a smile and didn¡¯t reveal to her that most of the people who


    came today were under the Pearson Group. Although she had invited many of her friends, most of


    them were either filming for dramas or out of town for their schedules. It was impossible for them to


    rush here within a day. As Zoe was talking, she started worrying. ¡°But with all these orders today, we


    don¡¯t really have to worry about our revenue for quite a long time already. It¡¯s gonna be so boring.¡±


    Hearing that, Daphne said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. This is just a start. All the clients today are introduced by


    friends. Wait until the shop bes well-known and there¡¯ll be more clientsing in. You¡¯ll have your


    own exclusive brand by then. I can assure you that you won¡¯t feel bored at all.¡± ¡°Sounds about right.¡±


    She looked at Louis and tilted her head a little. ¡°Handsome, why are you ignoring me? We just met


    yesterday. You¡¯ve already forgotten?¡± He put down the things in his hand and was just about to say


    something, but he was cut off by Zoe. ¡°Don¡¯t need to bother him. That¡¯s how he is. Otherwise, he would


    have a girlfriend already with such a handsome face.¡±


    He didn¡¯t know what to say.


    On the other hand, Daphne raised her brows and nodded, agreeing with what she said.


    As soon as Leanna came out of the office in the back, she heard the two of them teasing Louis and


    couldn¡¯t help butugh. ¡°I¡¯m done. Let¡¯s go eat.¡±


    However, Louis said, ¡°I still have something to do in school. I¡¯ll head back first.¡±


    Hearing that, Zoe stopped him. ¡°I thought you¡¯re on holiday. What is there for you to do? Also, are you


    not worried about leaving your three beautiful sisters on their own? What if we meet some bad guys


    when we¡¯re eating?¡±


    ¡­


    At the same time, in the Pearson Family Estate, when Anna heard the word ¡®call off the engagement¡¯,


    she jumped up at once and said hysterically, ¡°No way! I don¡¯t agree!¡±


    Justin exined, ¡°Anna, I¡¯ve told you before that two people should be in love to get married. You¡¯ve


    been engaged to Zayn for such a long time, but there¡¯s no progress in your rtionship at all. It¡¯s


    meaningless to keep dragging on like this.


    ¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s all Leanna¡¯s fault. That shameless woman. If it wasn¡¯t for her, Zayn has already¡­¡±


    ¡°Ask yourself. Even if Leanna is not in the picture, will Zayn fall for you with such a personality?¡± he


    said sternly, ¡°People should know when to stop, Anna. Look for the reason in yourself, and not just


    simply me others for your own mistake.¡±


    This was the first time he said such harsh words to her. Instantly, her eyes were reddened in anger, and


    she turned to look at Sienna as though she was waiting for her rescue. ¡°Aunt Sienna¡­¡±


    However, Sienna didn¡¯t say a word and kept her poker face on as usual.


    Unexpectedly, Gordon was the one who said, ¡°I think he is right. Zayn doesn¡¯t like you. Even if you¡¯re


    married to him and be a part of the Bat Family, you won¡¯t be happy either.¡±


    ¡°But that was not what you said previously, Uncle Gordon¡­¡±


    ¡°Before this, I thought that you¡¯d change after you¡¯re married since you were still young. But from what I


    see now, your personality just won¡¯t change. We might as well call off the engagement now rather than


    let you stir the whole family into a tempest when you marry him.¡±


    Of course, he didn¡¯t suddenly be a sensible person. It was just because he has sessfully


    hooked up with Llyod and has received the strongest financial assistance. So, the Bat Family was


    useless to him now.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 162

    Chapter 162


    Chapter 162 She¡¯s Not Going to Spare Her Again This Time!


    After all, Anna was a Pearson. If she stirred up a tempest in the Bat Family when she was married,


    she would only disgraced the Pearson Family.


    It was obvious that Gordon was not willing to clean up the mess for her.


    Anna had reluctance written all over her face and seemed like she had something left to say, but he


    held his crutch and stood up before saying, ¡°Enough. You should take a little responsibility for how this


    turned out. This is a lesson for you to remind you to think twice before you talk and act.¡±


    Instantly, she knew that he was talking about Leanna.


    Sienna was the one who orchestrated Leanna¡¯s infant¡¯s death in the car ident in the first ce.


    She instructed her to inform Gordon about Leanna¡¯s pregnancy before bringing her back to the


    Pearson Family Estate. The n came next¡­


    He was warning her, probably because he knew the reason behind this.


    With the loss of Leanna¡¯s baby, he had lost all hope, but he needed someone to bear the


    consequences of this.


    Subconsciously, she looked at Sienna and felt her body shudder. Was she being manipted by her


    aunt?


    At the same time, Sienna looked at her as well, with a mere smile tugging on her lips. ¡°It¡¯s okay to call


    off the engagement with the Bats, Anna. I¡¯ll find a better one for you in the future.¡±


    At this point, she could only nod and take everything in, but she was still feeling disgruntled. ¡°I¡¯ll go


    upstairs first, Aunt Sienna, Justin.¡±


    Sienna nodded. ¡°Okay.¡±


    After Anna left, she looked at Justin. ¡°Did you meet Leanna today?¡±


    He replied, ¡°That¡¯s what I should do.¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s the one who asked you to call off the engagement between Anna and Zayn, right?¡±


    ¡°I promised her that,¡± he said. ¡°We owe her a lot.¡±


    Hearing that, she scoffed, ¡°She could only me herself for marrying Aidan.¡±


    He sighed and said, ¡°For how long are you going to be like this, Mom? Aidan didn¡¯t do anything wrong.¡±


    ¡°His presence itself is a mistake. The biggest mistake in his life is bing that woman¡¯s son.¡±


    On the second floor, Anna was listening to their conversation. She gradually clenched her fist and


    hatred could be seen on her face. It¡¯s her again! That b*tch! I¡¯m not going to spare her again this time!


    ¡­


    At night, when Leanna and Zoe were going home, they happened to see their neighbor moving.


    The small apartment that Leanna rented previously was too small. It could only amodate one


    person; two would be too cramped. So, when they were looking for a ce to set up the studio, they


    rented a house nearby.


    Zoe was curious. ¡°Isn¡¯t there an elderlydy living next door to us? Her whole family lives abroad.


    Where is she going to move?¡±


    Leanna spoke with the moving personnel, but the other party stated that when they arrived, there was


    no one in the home, and that they were just responsible for moving; they didn¡¯t know anything else.


    After arriving home, Zoey on the couch right away and was engulfed in exhaustion. She didn¡¯t have


    the energy to care about other people¡¯s matters.


    On the other hand, Leanna poured herself a cup of water. When she was halfway through her drink,


    she heard Zoe say, ¡°Nana, I heard that Louis has published the photo in newspapers. Do you think it¡¯ll


    work?¡±


    Hearing that, she put down the cup and smiled. ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter whether it¡¯ll work or not. I don¡¯t think


    we¡¯ll find him either.¡±


    ¡°Then, why¡­¡±


    ¡°Since he knew that I¡¯m not Jethro¡¯s biological daughter, he was feeling guilty toward me.¡±


    Zoe sighed. ¡°He¡¯s really stubborn. What do Jethro¡¯s actions have to do with him that he persists in


    atoning for them? He is, by the way, not human. I¡¯m not sure why your mother married him to begin


    with.¡±


    ¡°All of these have passed,¡± Leanna said.


    After some thought, she continued, ¡°Nana, have you ever thought about what if we really find him?Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    What are you going to do?¡±


    Hearing that, she didn¡¯t know what to say at that moment. In fact, she really didn¡¯t think that they would


    find him. After all, she felt that if the man in the photo wanted to find her, he had already done it and


    didn¡¯t need to wait until now.


    She replied, after a moment, ¡°I¡¯ll decide what I¡¯ll do when the timees.¡±


    Two dayster, Leanna received a call from Zayn. He said, ¡°I¡¯m right across the street from your studio,


    Leanna. Can youe out for a moment?¡±


    She raised her head to look outside and saw that familiar figure as expected. He was standing in front


    of a caf¨¦ and looking at her from afar.


    ¡°I¡¯lle now.¡± She left the studio after telling the two new girls that they had just hired.


    In the caf¨¦, Zayn said, after pressing his lips together, ¡°I might be going abroad.¡±


    Leanna was stunned for a moment. ¡°All of a sudden?¡±


    He nodded and exined, ¡°The Pearson Family has called off my engagement with Anna. I¡¯ve talked


    about it with my parents, and they didn¡¯t force me either. Although the Bat Group is not really


    running well, I believe that there¡¯ll surely be a new market abroad. So, I¡¯ll be going to Swiysal to take


    over thepany there officially. I won¡¯t be back for a period of time. ¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll wish you good luck then,¡± she said.


    He smiled and said, ¡°Leanna, I hope you will remember me as a friend no matter what happens. You


    must notify me if anything happens. I do not want to hear about you from third parties again, as I did


    previously. If that happens again, I¡¯ll hate myself for being useless.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ve already helped me a lot.¡± A smile tugged on her lips. ¡°But since you said that, I won¡¯t hold back


    anymore. Don¡¯t say I¡¯m annoying when I ask for your help in the future.¡±


    When she was leaving, he called her again, ¡°Leanna.¡±


    Hearing that, she turned around. ¡°What¡­¡± Before she could finish her sentence, she was hugged by


    him.


    Zayn said, ¡°I don¡¯t know when will be the next time I¡¯m going to see you after I leave. You must take


    care of yourself.¡±


    ¡°I will,¡± she said softly.


    When she returned to the studio, Zoe asked with a nosy look, ¡°What did you guys talk about? Did Zayn


    confess to you?¡±


    Leanna said with a smile, ¡°What are you thinking about?¡± As she said that, she looked outside and


    exined softly, ¡°He¡¯s going to Swiysal.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Zoe frowned uncontrobly. ¡°When is heing back then?¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know. The Bat Group has apany there. He¡¯s going there to take over thepany


    officially.¡±


    When she heard that, she put on a disappointed look. She was even thinking of bringing them together


    again since his engagement with Anna had been called off.


    After a while, she asked her probingly, ¡°So¡­ there¡¯s really no chance between you two anymore?¡±


    Leanna looked away and shook her head with a faint smile on her face. In fact, the difference between


    Zayn and her was just too big. Even if those things hadn¡¯t happened, they probably wouldn¡¯t be


    together in the end either.

 Chapter 163

    Chapter 163


    Chapter 163 Does She Have Feelings for You?


    Their rtionship now was fine too, preserving the purest feelings for each other just like the good old


    days.


    Zoe said, ¡°Never mind. Yesterday is history¡­ Oh, by the way, there¡¯ll be a college alumni reunion this


    Sunday. I¡¯ve already said yes on your behalf, so we can go together. ¡±


    Hearing that, Leanna was stunned for a moment before she responded, ¡°But I¡¯m not done with my


    design¡ª¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s okay. You don¡¯t have to finish it in these two days anyway, and adequate rxation can help you


    spark inspiration quicker too.¡± Zoe then sighed with emotion, ¡°It¡¯s been so long since thest time we


    gathered together. Everyone¡¯s asking about you.¡±


    When she realized that Leanna was still hesitating, she hugged her on the arm and started swaying.


    ¡°Hmm? Please, Nana. I really want to go.¡±


    Looking at Zoe¡¯s coy begging and determination, Leanna smiled and said, ¡°Okay, okay. I¡¯ll go with you.¡±


    They had been so busy the past few months that they didn¡¯t have time to have a proper rest. Therefore,


    it was good to spend some time outside too.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, in the Pearson Group, Jonathan felt that the president¡¯s office had been engulfed in a cold


    and serious atmosphere for the past few days. Every employee that entered the office was holding their


    breath in fear. Needless to say, it was challenging for Jonathan, who needed to go in and out of the


    president¡¯s office every day. He was feeling the pressure that he had never felt before since he started


    his career.


    After Aidan signed the document, Jonathan went over to him and took the document. Then, he said


    carefully, ¡°President Pearson¡­¡±


    ¡°What?¡± Aidan spit out a cold and heartless word.


    Jonathan continued, ¡°I¡¯ve just got the news that Mr. Bat is going to Swiysal. He¡¯s flying in half an


    hour.¡±


    When Aidan heard that, his hand, which was holding the pen, came to a halt. He lifted his head and


    looked at Jonathan. ¡°Do you want me to send him off?¡±


    Jonathan was speechless for a moment. After clearing his throat, he said, ¡°Mr. Bat will be in


    Swiysal for at least two years.¡±


    After pressing his thin lips together, Aidan replied after a few seconds, ¡°Really?¡±


    ¡°Yes. I¡¯ve double-checked it.¡±


    All of a sudden, Aidan didn¡¯t say anything, putting his pen down and falling into deep thoughts.


    Jonathan took the chance to say, ¡°I think you¡¯ve misunderstood, President Pearson¡­ The reason why


    Madam asked Mr. Bat to call off the engagement with Miss Anna is probably not because she


    wanted to be together with him. So¡­¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s her reason then?¡±


    ¡°As you know, Madam¡¯s rtionship with Miss Anna has been bad. And Miss Anna¡¯s personality is not


    so¡­ amodating. So, I think there are two possibilities as to why Madam is doing this; one is to


    take revenge on Miss Anna, and the other one is probably to take this chance to return the favor to Mr.


    Bat.¡± Hearing that, Aidan scoffed, ¡°Howe I didn¡¯t see her return my favor when she owes me


    so much?¡± ¡°This means that the status of President Pearson and Mr. Bat is different in Madam¡¯s


    mind,¡± said Jonathan. Aidan merely raised his brows, and his gloomy expression was obviously turning


    brighter. When Jonathan saw that, he finally heaved a sigh of relief. He was really put in a difficult


    position. At night, in the Patheon Club, Oscar was amazed. ¡°It¡¯s so rare to see you have time to be out


    here. Before this, you looked like you had a grudge against alcohol.¡± Aidan looked down at the wine


    ss in his hand and said calmly, ¡°Zayn is going to Swiysal.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve heard that, but I also heard that the Pearson Family had called off the engagement with the


    Bat Family. Will Anna agree to it?¡±


    ¡°Justin¡¯s the oneing forward. Do you think she has the right to say no?¡±


    Oscar was a little surprised when he heard that but felt it was reasonable. Justin was seldom involved


    in the matters of the Pearson Family and the Pearson Group. Hence, there was no turning back once


    he had decided to get involved. Not to mention, Sienna would basically stand on Justin¡¯s side in


    anything he did. If he was the one who mentioned calling off the engagement in the first ce, Anna


    would lose her biggest patron, Sienna. So, it would probably be useless even if she made a fuss about


    it. And under these circumstances, the best thing Anna could do was to agree without a word if she


    didn¡¯t want to provoke Sienna. At this thought, Oscar said, ¡°But, wait. Old Master Pearson was the one


    who facilitated this engagement. Did he agree too?¡± Aidan¡¯s expression turned cold all of a sudden. ¡°He


    had already pulled strings with the Crossley Family. Hence, the Bat Family is nothing to him now.¡±


    Hearing that, Oscar tilted his head to the back and drank a ss of wine before saying, ¡°You¡¯re really


    something, sending the Crossley Family into Old Master Pearson¡¯s face and facilitating their intimate


    coboration on your own.¡± At this moment, Aidan just kept quiet while Oscar continued, ¡°I¡¯m really


    curious about what¡¯s on your mind. Why make an enemy of yourself when you have such a good


    opportunity to marry Georgina? What for?¡± ¡°Because I want to.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    This time, Oscar was the one who kept quiet for a while before forming an answer. ¡°Aidan, can you be


    more mindful and not be so hot-tempered if you really like Leanna? This is not how you get a girl.¡±


    Aidan just remained silent. Just as Oscar thought that he was going to deny it and throw out some


    sarcastic remarks, he said slowly, ¡°How do you do that then?¡±


    At this moment, Oscar was totally ted. Afterughing twice, he could feel a bloodcurdling gaze from


    the side.


    Almost immediately, he put down the wine ss in his hand and raised both of his hands. ¡°Okay, okay.


    I¡¯ll stopughing. The first thing you need to do to get a girl is to let her feel that you have feelings for


    her.¡±


    With a frown, Aidan said, ¡°I¡¯ve given her a chance, but she rejected it.¡±


    Hearing that, Oscar didn¡¯t know what to say. He took a deep breath and asked, ¡°What did you tell her?¡±


    ¡°I said I¡¯ll give her the position of Mrs. Pearson and she can do whatever she wants,¡± said Aidan. When


    he recalled Leanna¡¯s words, his expression turned disgruntled, and he didn¡¯t want to talk about it


    anymore.


    Oscar told him, ¡°In rtionships, it¡¯s useless for you to just say. You have to act it out and let her feel


    your love. Please don¡¯t say things like you¡¯ll give her a chance anymore. Anyone would be enraged by


    that.¡±


    After pressing his lips together, he tilted his head backward to chug the wine in his ss and just kept


    quiet.


    After a while, Oscar asked, ¡°Does she have feelings for you then?¡±


    Hearing that, Aidan couldn¡¯t help getting irritated. ¡°How would I know?¡± He had probed Leanna so


    many times, but she kept sidestepping the topic. Yet, if she didn¡¯t have feelings for him, why would she


    draw his picture on the paper secretly, and why would she care whether he would be marrying


    Georgina or not?


    After a few seconds, a smile tugged on his lips, and he said, ¡°But I¡¯m on a different level with Zayn in


    her heart. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t think of returning Zayn¡¯s favor, but she didn¡¯t think of returning


    mine.¡±


    Without thinking twice, Oscar wiped out his mere hope. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s just because she didn¡¯t want to have


    anything to do with you.¡±


    Hearing that, Aidan was speechless, and he looked at Oscar with a cold gaze.


    All of a sudden, Jonathan, who was waiting outside, sneezed continuously. Christmas is reallying


    soon; it¡¯s so cold now.

 Chapter 164

    Chapter 164


    Chapter 164 You Don¡¯t Deserve to Know


    Immediately, Oscar retreated. ¡°Wait, don¡¯t get angry first. I¡¯m just stating a fact. Look at how you¡¯ve


    been treating her all this while. Will you let all this slide so easily if you¡¯re in her shoes?¡±


    ¡°Am I not good to her?¡±


    ¡°Are you good to her?¡±


    With Oscar¡¯s question, Aidan pocketed his gaze and drank two sses of wine continuously. He then


    said in a deep voice, ¡°She¡¯s the one who lied to me in the first ce. Or else, I won¡¯t treat her this way.¡±


    ¡°Aidan, with your understanding of Leanna, do you still think that she lied to you and faked her


    pregnancy to marry you previously?¡±


    Hearing that, Aidan tightened his grip on the ss, and his forehead creased.


    ¡°Leanna is smart, beautiful, talented, and has a lot of strengths. I think even if she didn¡¯t marry you,


    she¡¯d have many outstanding admirers too. The reason you¡¯re in love with her is that you¡¯re attracted to


    her after spending a long time together. But if she¡¯s really that kind of woman that will fake her


    pregnancy and use dirty tricks to get what she wants, will she give off such an attractive charm?¡±


    At this moment, Aidan¡¯s jawline tightened up. After Oscar pointed out the thought that he had been


    keeping at the back of his mind all this while, he suddenly had a chilling thought.


    Since Leanna was married to him, she had only asked him for money a few times. The amount wasn¡¯t


    big either, and she had even written an IOU every time she asked for money from him. Also, Jethro


    was always the reason why she borrowed money from him. Other than that, she didn¡¯t use her Mrs.


    Pearson status to get any merit.


    When they were divorced, she didn¡¯t mention anything about him being his ex-husband, even when


    she was rumored to be a mistress.


    At this moment, Oscar swayed the wine ss in his hand. ¡°Anyway, I think that you should go find out


    what really happened three years ago.¡±


    Right then, Aidan stood up and left with a darkened face.


    Noticing that, Oscar turned around and asked, ¡°Hey! What about your drink?¡±


    After leaving Patheon Club, Aidan told Jonathan, ¡°Go find out what happened within the two months I


    went to Lachstein for work three years ago.¡±


    That time, he was annoyed whenever he saw Leanna. So, he used work as an excuse to stay in


    Lachstein for two months. The night when he returned to see Leanna¡¯s t stomach, he sneered and


    didn¡¯t ask her anything. He just assumed that she had faked her pregnancy.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    While following behind Aidan, Jonathan asked after hesitating for a moment, ¡°Miss Anna suddenly went


    overseas during that period. Should I look into her?¡± When Aidan heard that, his actions came to a halt,


    and his brows snapped together even tighter. ¡°Anna?¡± Jonathan nodded. ¡°Her trip overseas was really


    sudden. I¡¯ve heard that she even declined an important gathering for this. But this was all arranged by


    Mrs. Pearson¡¯s people. I¡¯ll look into the details.¡± Aidan kept his gaze and bent down to enter the ck


    Rolls-Royce, which was parked aside. The driver asked, ¡°Are you returning to Castor Vi, President


    Pearson?¡± After a few seconds, only then did he answer, ¡°No. Send me to another ce.¡± The


    emotions in his words couldn¡¯t be heard with the noises around him. ¡­


    When Leanna was tidying things up in the hall, she suddenly heard hasty footsteps from behind. But


    before she could turn around, she felt someone gripping her wrist and bringing her to stride into the


    office at the back of the workshop. There were no pauses throughout the whole process at all. At this


    moment, Zoe and the other two girls in the workshop were stunned. Startled, the two girls asked,


    ¡°Should we¡­ call the police?¡±


    When Zoe reacted, sheughed humorlessly. ¡°I think¡­ It¡¯s okay. Let¡¯s just see what happens.¡± As she


    said that, she went near the office at the back, trying to eavesdrop. What¡¯s wrong with this Aidan


    b*stard again?


    In the office, no matter how hard Leanna swung her hand, she still couldn¡¯t free herself from Aidan¡¯s


    grip. Instantly, she was enraged. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?! Let go of me!¡±


    As she said that, she turned around and wanted to open the office door. But just as she opened the


    door for a little, it was pushed back again.


    With his other hand pressing against the door, Aidan looked at her with his dark eyes. ¡°I¡¯m going to ask


    you a question. You better answer me properly.¡±


    Leanna was so angry that she startedughing. ¡°Is this how you talk to me properly, President


    Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Your attitude toward me is not really good these days. If I didn¡¯t act like this, would you talk to me?¡±


    Hearing that, she was speechless. At least this b*stard has some self-awareness.


    Leanna tried to twist her hand again and realized he had the upper hand in physical strength. So, she


    said, ¡°Just ask whatever you want.¡± And get lost when you¡¯re done.


    When Aidan saw that she was not struggling anymore, his grip loosened a little, and he lowered his


    voice. ¡°How did you lose the baby you had three years ago?¡±


    She totally didn¡¯t expect he would ask such a question, so she froze in the same ce for quite some


    time.


    Meanwhile, he didn¡¯t rush her to answer and just waited for her quietly.


    After a few moments, Leanna smiled and lifted her head to look at him. ¡°Didn¡¯t you always say that I


    faked my pregnancy? If that¡¯s what you think, then why are you asking me this?¡±


    Aidan pressed his lips together before saying, ¡°You answer me first.¡±


    ¡°If you asked me the same question three months ago, I might have given you an unexpected answer.


    But now¡­¡± She paused for a moment and then put on a scornful smile. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about it


    anymore because I think you don¡¯t deserve to know.¡±


    When he heard that, he frowned a little, for she didn¡¯t say ¡®don¡¯t need¡¯ but used the word ¡®don¡¯t


    deserve¡¯.


    Leanna said calmly, ¡°Why? Did I say anything wrong, President Pearson? People like you don¡¯t have


    any reverence for life. You can even treat your own child so cruelly and cold-bloodedly. So, what


    answer do you want from me? And so what if I told you? Can the child be revived?¡±


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you exin to me before this?¡± Aidan asked.


    ¡°Exin?¡± She just felt hrious. ¡°Didn¡¯t you set your mind about what kind of person I am already? Will


    it be of any use if I exin it to you? Will you listen? I¡¯ll just end up humiliating myself.¡±


    She had already exined for the past three years, but he just didn¡¯t care, and even thought that she


    was just changing her trick to deceive him.


    At this moment, he didn¡¯t deny it, and his Adam¡¯s apple bobbed in his throat. Only after a while did he


    let go of her. ¡°Fine, it was my fault.¡±


    It¡¯s that word again, ¡®fine¡¯. B*stards are always talking so arrogantly. Leanna said, ¡°No, no. How can it


    be your fault, President Pearson? You¡¯re never at fault; you¡¯re always right¡­¡±


    He didn¡¯t want to hear from her anymore. ¡°Shut up!¡±


    ¡°Okay.¡± She tidied up her sleeves, which he crumpled. ¡°Are you done? If you¡¯re done, then I¡¯ll go out


    first.¡±


    Just as she was about to turn around, Aidan said again, ¡°Zayn is going to Swiysal.¡±

 Chapter 165

    Chapter 165


    Chapter 165 Come Again Tomorrow


    Leanna was annoyed and bewildered by the man¡¯s strange reaction, so she looked up and asked,


    ¡°What, then?¡±


    Aidan asked, ¡°Have you paid him all your debts?¡±


    ¡°That is none of your concern, Mr. Pearson¡­¡±


    ¡°In that case, when are you going to settle your debt with me?¡±


    She was speechless upon hearing the man¡¯s question, and sheined about Aidan in her heart.


    What debt are you talking about?! Haven¡¯t I paid you back enough with all the money I¡¯ve returned to


    you? Suddenly, there is more debt you¡¯re expecting me to pay back that I¡¯m not aware of. When will


    you ever get out of my hair, Aidan?!


    Aidan noticed that thedy¡¯s beautiful eyes were filled with rage, so he took a step back and spoke


    softly. ¡°I¡¯m not in a hurry, so take your time to repay your debt.¡±


    Leanna closed her eyes, finding herself on the verge of an outburst. ¡°What do you want from me, Mr.


    Pearson?! Like I said, if you won¡¯t let me go, please deliver your biggest blow once and for all and


    leave me alone after that!¡±


    ¡°No can do,¡± he answered. ¡°Don¡¯t you know that I¡¯m a businessman? People like us are in it for the long


    run, and we never go all-in at once.¡±


    ¡°In that case, what are you exactly up to?!¡±


    Aidan responded by curling his lips and pointing at thedy¡¯s bosom, leaving her speechless. She


    subconsciously covered her chest with her arms. I knew this guy had a filthy mind!


    As soon as Aidan knew what she was thinking in her mind, his temples twitched while he pointed at the


    back of Leanna¡¯s hand. He then ambiguously said, ¡°Leanna, this will be mine sooner orter.¡±


    In response, she pped the man¡¯s hand away. She felt disgusted, and her brows were furrowed as


    she said, ¡°It seems like I did not make myself clear back then, but I don¡¯t see a reason for the two of us


    to continue keeping in touch with each other. Besides, I don¡¯t ever want to see you again, Mr. Pearson.


    If you think I¡¯m still indebted to you, feel free to bring it up. I¡¯ll try my best to¡­¡±


    ¡°Leanna, there is one thing I want you to understand. You don¡¯t get to decide when it starts and ends.¡±


    While the woman appeared confused by Aidan¡¯s words, the man opened the door and looked outside


    shortly before he returned his gaze and said, ¡°I¡¯lle back and see you again tomorrow.¡± As soon as


    he finished his words, Aidan walked away directly without even waiting for Leanna to give him a


    response.


    In the meantime, it was only after Aidan was gone that the threedies standing outside felt relieved.


    Soon, they all set their gazes upon Leanna, who appeared to be standing in a trance that she still


    hadn¡¯t snapped out of. After dismissing the two female employees, Zoe walked closer to Leanna and


    asked, ¡°Nana, did I mishear that man? Is heing again tomorrow?¡± At that moment, Leanna


    suddenly felt her eyelids twitching as she turned around and replied in a frustrated manner, ¡°I wish I¡¯d


    misheard that as well.¡± Deep down, she couldn¡¯t help but wonder what Aidan was up to. After all, she


    was initially relieved when he left, only to be disappointed shortly after hearing from him that he would


    visit her again. He must be an idiot! A total lowlife! At the same time, Zoe tried to lift her friend¡¯s mood


    by consoling her. ¡°It¡¯s okay. We¡¯re not going to be around tomorrow anyway, so he¡¯ll only find his trip


    here a waste of time when he arrives.¡± Nevertheless, Leanna¡¯s mood didn¡¯t seem to improve at all


    despite Zoe¡¯s efforts to cheer her up. Instead, she was seen with a frown on her face as she looked at


    the back of her hand. Why did he point at my hand? Has he be so wicked that he is going to


    threaten my career with it? Leanna was bewildered, trying to figure out an answer to her question.


    While her question remained unanswered in her mind, she grew angrier the more she dwelled on the


    matter. Meanwhile, Zoe was preupied with the gathering that would be held the following day. In


    truth, the gathering was just a front; it was actually a matchmaking session she had prepared for


    Leanna. After all, most of their male ssmates attending the gathering were decent and civilized


    bachelors. Although they were not as rich as Aidan, they were definitely much more pleasant and


    approachable than he was.


    A few momentster, Zoe seized Leanna¡¯s arm as thetter was still confused and puzzled. ¡°Since we


    still have some time, let¡¯s get our hair styled and buy some new clothes to doll ourselves up.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°Why would we need to dress up?¡± Leanna seemed to be confused.


    ¡°Have you forgotten about our gathering tomorrow? We can¡¯t just go there like that, can we?¡± Before


    Leanna could say anything else, Zoe seized her friend¡¯s arm and dragged her away. Momentster, the


    twodies found themselves in a hair salon while Zoe browsed through the inte with her phone.


    ¡°Give her a wavy perm. This is the trendiest hairstyle all over the inte, and it looks good on almost


    anybody. I have a pretty good feeling that it¡¯ll make you look even prettier.¡±


    Leanna was speechless to hear that, but she dragged Zoe to the seats and had her sit down beside


    her. ¡°You should get a perm as well.¡±


    Zoe waved her hand and said, ¡°I don¡¯t need one. I¡­¡±


    However, Leanna turned her attention to the hair stylist behind her and said, ¡°Please give her a perm


    too.¡± After spending almost half a day in the hair salon, bothdies finally had their hair permed. Not


    long after that, Zoe leaned closer to Leanna and lowered the magazine that was covering her face.


    ¡°You look stunning. When those men see you tomorrow, I bet you¡¯re going to turn many heads


    tomorrow.¡± As Zoe¡¯s voice sounded a little too soft, Leanna wasn¡¯t able to hear what she just said.


    ¡°What?¡± When she turned around to look at Zoe, she was surprised by what she saw. ¡°Wait a minute,


    why did you cut your hair so short?¡±


    Zoe raised her eyebrowscently at Leanna, flicking her hair that was barely even reaching her


    nape. ¡°How is it? Does it look good? I¡¯ve always wanted to cut my hair, but I never really found the


    courage to do so until today.¡±


    ¡°You look great.¡± Leanna nodded in response.


    After getting their hair styled, Zoe took Leanna with her to the shopping mall where thetter bought


    herself a beige bodycon dress. In fact, Leanna had been used to wearing loose clothes ever since she


    was pregnant. Therefore, she felt a little ufortable now that she suddenly had to wear a tighter


    outfit. ¡°Is it essential for me to wear a dress like this for the gathering?¡± Leanna asked.


    ¡°Why do you even ask, Nana? Whether it¡¯s for the gathering or not, you need to learn how to dress up


    properly. After all, you have good looks and shouldn¡¯t just waste it.¡±


    At that moment, the saleswoman gently said, ¡°You look quite familiar, Miss. Are you a celebrity or


    something?¡±


    Zoe smiled and answered, ¡°Well, good-looking people tend to look alike, don¡¯t they?¡±


    ¡°You look very pretty¡ªeven more so than those celebrities. Not only that, you have a curvaceous body


    as well.¡± The saleswoman expressed her envy.


    Zoe then nudged Leanna with her elbow and said, ¡°See? I told you, didn¡¯t I? You should go out more


    often and let everyone admire your good looks.¡±


    While Leanna was speechless, Zoe continued to say, ¡°I¡¯m going to throw all of your old clothes away


    later. When you were still in Lux, do you remember how I got a lot of questions from people asking me


    if the men there were so ordinary-looking that you didn¡¯t even bother dressing up? Look, you¡¯re only in


    your twenties, so how could you¡­?¡±


    Tired of listening to Zoe¡¯s nagging, Leanna handed the clothes she had just tried on to the


    saleswoman. ¡°Please pack these clothes for me.¡±


    When thedies returned, they noticed that the protective pads by the neighbor¡¯s doorstep had been


    removed, and thepound looked clean and tidy. At the sight of that, Zoe asked, ¡°It looks like we


    have a new neighbor. Should we drop by to say hi?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s do it in a few days. We should wait until we see the owner first,¡± Leanna replied.


    ¡°Yeah, you¡¯re right. Things might get awkward if we just show up all of a sudden.¡±

 Chapter 166

    Chapter 166


    Chapter 166 A Divorc¨¦e


    The next day, a ck Rolls-Royce pulled over by the roadside just as Jonathan rolled down the window


    and looked outside. Secondster, he kept his gaze and probed Aidan, trying to sound out if thetter


    was in a good mood. ¡°President Pearson, it looks like the studio isn¡¯t open today. Mrs. Pearson must be


    taking a day off over the weekend.¡±


    Aidan pursed his lips and looked up, asking, ¡°Is she doing that on purpose?¡± After all, the fact that


    Leanna¡¯s studio was closed seemed too much of a coincidence to him, especially after the day he told


    her he would visit again.


    Meanwhile, Jonathan only reacted with a brittle smile on his face while wondering about the answer to


    Aidan¡¯s question. Shouldn¡¯t you know? She¡¯s your wife, and it¡¯s funny to think that I¡¯d know the answer


    to that.


    Aidan then took a deep breath and said, ¡°Give her a call and ask her where she is.¡±


    Jonathan heard his instructions and reached for his phone, but a few secondster, he replied in a


    small voice, ¡°Mr. Pearson, I¡¯m afraid Mrs. Pearson has blocked my number as well.¡±


    While Aidan was left speechless, Jonathan suddenly saw a notice on the studio¡¯s door, whereupon he


    stepped out of the car to take a closer look. He then saw a number that he could contact in case of an


    emergency, so he immediately dialed it. After ringing for a few seconds, someone answered the call.


    ¡°Hello, who am I speaking to?¡± Zoe asked.


    Jonathan replied, ¡°I¡¯d like to order a custom-made ne. I¡¯m right outside your studio at the


    moment, but it seems to be closed. Hence, I¡¯m calling to ask when you¡¯ll be back.¡±


    ¡°Oh, I¡¯m so sorry to hear that. We¡¯re closed because we are away for a gathering, so if you¡¯re not in


    any hurry, I suppose we can discuss it tomorrow.¡±


    ¡°I see.¡± Jonathan looked back and caught sight of the man sitting in the ck Rolls-Royce. ¡°My boss


    needs it quite urgently, though. Would it be convenient for you to give me your current location so that


    we can meet you there?¡±


    While Zoe appeared to be hesitant about that, Jonathan sensed her reaction and immediately


    exined himself, ¡°My boss is going on a business trip tonight, and he¡¯ll only be back in half a month.


    However, he needs this ne as a present for his girlfriend quite urgently, which is why I¡¯m here to


    make the reservation ahead for him.¡±


    After a brief hesitation, Zoe agreed and said, ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll send you the address in a while. I hope it


    won¡¯t trouble you too much to travel all the way here.¡± Deep down, she didn¡¯t think there was a reason


    for her to turn down a client who showed interest in engaging her services. Furthermore, she doubted it


    would take long to discuss the designs anyway, so she eventually agreed to let Jonathan meet her.


    ¡°Please don¡¯t say that. I should be the one apologizing for the inconvenience.¡± Once he hung up the


    call, Jonathan heaved a sigh of relief, thinking he had just resolved his boss¡¯ problem. I know this is not


    going to look nice, but I guess it should help me keep my job at the very least. ¡­ Zoe, who was in a


    private lounge with Leanna, spoke to thetter with a soft voice, telling her about the call she just


    received. When Leanna learned of the situation, she nodded her head and replied, ¡°Alright, sure.¡± A


    lady who sat beside them said, ¡°Wow, it seems like you¡¯re very busy with your new studio, even taking


    work calls during our gathering, Zoe.¡± Thedy¡¯s name was Maya Fox, and she had been raised in a


    modest family. Not long after graduating from university, she married a man who was a part of the


    senior management in a hugepany. Since then, she had been living afortable life as a


    housewife. However, her rtionship with Zoe and Leanna had always been rather strained since she


    liked driving wedges between them.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Although Zoe only invited those with whom she and Leanna used to be close, she didn¡¯t expect Maya


    toe along. Therefore, she smiled bitterly and replied, ¡°I¡¯m sorry that you can¡¯t feel how it¡¯s like


    being busy.¡±


    However, Maya refuted Zoe and replied, ¡°Well, I don¡¯t have to since my husband is working. Instead, I


    spend most of my time staying at home and doing facials. I meet up with friends for tea during my free


    time, or I¡¯d have some fun gambling on a cruise. You know what they say about women¡ªmarrying the


    right man is better than being born into the right family. You guys probably won¡¯t be able to rte to it,


    though. Anyway, I heard Anthony cheated on you, right? Jeez! I thought I could attend your wedding or


    something.¡± When Zoe heard that loathsome name, she could feel her temples twitching and pulsating.


    Nevertheless, as soon as she thought about the purpose of organizing the gathering, she restrained


    herself from losing her temper and decided to take the moral high ground. At that moment, her


    ssmates, who noticed the tension in the atmosphere, quickly interfered in an attempt to defuse the


    situation. ¡°Honestly, Anthony is such a douchebag. I used to think that he was a good man, only to


    learn that he¡¯s actually a despicable two-timer.¡± ¡°That¡¯s right. I heard that it was quite a scene when he


    was caught red-handed with the otherdy. I wish I were there to witness how pathetic the two of them


    were.¡± ¡°Well, I have been told that Anthony subsequently realized he had been set up by someone


    whom he has yet to find out until now. Were you behind that, Zoe?¡± Zoe replied calmly, ¡°No, there was


    no way I could have pulled something like that off. It was karma who caught up to him instead, so


    justice was served.¡± At the same time, she peeked at Leanna to observe her reaction, only to notice a


    faint smile without any other unusual expression.


    They continued to condemn and criticize Anthony¡¯s unforgivable actions until someone changed the


    subject by shifting the focus to Leanna. ¡°By the way, what have you been doing for the past three


    years, Leanna? Some said you got married, while others said you went abroad. Someone even said¡­¡±


    The person talking suddenly felt a nudge on his arm. He realized he was running his mouth off and


    kept quiet.


    ¡°I¡¯m now a divorc¨¦e.¡± Leanna looked up with a smile.


    As soon as she said that, the atmosphere was filled with silence for a while until someone said, ¡°We


    thought you were going to marry Zayn, but¡­¡±


    Zoe suddenly interrupted to say, ¡°Hey, where is Elijah? What¡¯s taking him so long? It¡¯s been half an


    hour.¡±


    ¡°I just asked him, and it looks like he¡¯s stuck in traffic. He¡¯s almost here, though,¡± someone answered.


    In fact, Elijah used to be Leanna and Zoe¡¯s ssmate back in school. He had excellent grades and


    wore a pair of huge, ck-rimmed sses, but his presence was hardly felt among his friends. His


    parents were scientists, and he was a mild-mannered and amiable child who appeared to be reticent


    and humorless.


    However, Zoe had somehow learned that Elijah was still single and unmarried. Since she was aware of


    his character and family background, she believed Elijah was the perfect person ady could entrust


    her life with.


    As Zoe carefully observed her former ssmates who were single, she noticed that they had either put


    on weight or boasted about their careers. For that, she didn¡¯t think highly of them and could only count


    on Elijah. As soon as the other person finished speaking, the door opened and someone stepped


    inside. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for beingte.¡±


    When they looked in the direction of the voice, some of thedies appeared to be stunned. ¡°Are you


    sure you¡¯re in the right ce?¡±


    The man smiled and introduced himself, saying, ¡°I¡¯m Elijah.¡±


    Apart from thedies, the men were equally shocked as they stood up in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re Elijah?


    Gosh, you¡¯ve changed so much.¡±


    It turned out that the nerdy boy who used to wear huge sses had now grown into a handsome man,


    stunning everyone when they noticed how much his appearance had changed. Meanwhile, Zoe


    couldn¡¯t help but feel grateful for her decision and apuded herself on the inside. She then stood up


    and made way for Elijah to sit beside Leanna. ¡°Come here. We¡¯ve been waiting for you. Have a seat.¡±

 Chapter 167

    Chapter 167


    Pursue Him if You Like Him Along with Elijah¡¯s arrival, a subtle change urred in the atmosphere of


    the private room. The man who had been boasting about his multi-million deal was now sipping water


    with all his might in an attempt to hide the awkwardness on his face. Elijah didn¡¯t say anything as he


    simply sat there, but there was a majestic aura about him even in his smallest movements, which


    surpassed the others by a mile. If anyone kept boasting in front of him, they¡¯d be overestimating


    themselves.


    Sometimeter, Maya asked, ¡°What have you been doing recently, Elijah? I haven¡¯t heard from you in a


    while. I heard that you went overseas too; when did youe back?¡± He nodded, smiling as he said, ¡°I


    came backst year, and I¡¯ve established a littlepany of my own.¡± ¡°I see.¡± Maya lowered her gaze


    a little, expressing scorn as she crossed her arms. Hints of pride appeared on her face as she said, ¡°It¡¯s


    not easy to start your own business these days. What¡¯s yourpany called? My husband is an


    executive at argepany, so I can mention yourpany when I get back.


    If hispany has any projects in the future, he might prioritize yours first.¡± Maya¡¯s words were quite


    insulting, and Zoe almost couldn¡¯t control herself. The few men at their table also expressed


    dissatisfaction, but Elijah still maintained a faint and polite smile good-naturedly. He then said quietly,


    ¡°Thank you for your concern, but mypany is doing alright. There is no need to trouble you.¡± Maya


    noticed his decent attitude and replied, ¡°Alright. Since we used to be ssmates, juste to me if


    yourpany is in trouble. Don¡¯t be shy to ask for help; we¡¯re all friends here, after all.¡± Another man


    quickly said, ¡°Elijah, what¡¯s yourpany called?


    Maybe we can have a visit next time. It¡¯s my first time knowing someone who has established a


    company; does it feel awesome to be a boss?¡± Elijah smiled and said, ¡°You¡¯re wee anytime.¡± As


    he spoke, Elijah took out a name card and passed it to the man who had just spoken. The man looked


    at the gold lettering on the name card as he read aloud, ¡°Constetion Tech¡­¡± As soon as he finished


    speaking, the person beside him immediately leaned in. ¡°What the hell; it¡¯s really Constetion Tech!¡±


    With that, he looked at Elijah in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re the one who set up Constetion Tech?¡± Before Elijah


    could answer, Maya said in disdain, ¡°Is that a greatpany?¡± ¡°It¡¯s more than good!


    Constetion Tech was originally founded abroad, and ever since it moved into the local marketst


    year, it has been growing stronger ever since. Now, it¡¯s only second to Pearson Group in the industry.


    You know what that means.¡± Maya didn¡¯t look too good as she fell silent. Elijah said, ¡°People are


    actually exaggerating. Pearson Group has many industries under it, and technology development is


    only one part of their diverse fields. Constetion Tech is still quite a distance away from Pearson


    Group.¡± Even when he put it like that, everyone knew he was just being modest. All of them were clear


    about Pearson Group¡¯s status, and hispany was on par with saidpany. Obviously, it was


    amazing how Constetion Tech was. When she heard that, Zoe felt that she had discovered a


    treasure. Elijah was handsome, good-natured, gentlemanly, and tender.


    He even managed to greatly expand hispany through his efforts, so his capabilities were on par


    with that lowlife named Aidan! When they went to the bathroom, Zoe asked, ¡°Nana, what do you think


    of Elijah?¡± Leanna said, ¡°He¡¯s quite nice. I didn¡¯t recognize him when he walked in earlier.¡± ¡°Well, what


    do you think of his character?¡± She continued nodding. ¡°His character is pretty nice as well. Even when


    Maya talked like that, he wasn¡¯t angry at all.¡± Zoe agreed and continued, ¡°Right? I think so too. These


    days, it¡¯s not easy to find a man as good as him in the world. If he has a girlfriend, she must be a happy


    woman.¡± Leanna smiled and encouraged her friend, saying, ¡°If you like Elijah, you should pursue him.¡±


    Zoe became silent, thinking that there was something wrong with their conversation. She coughed. ¡°I¡¯m


    not talking about me. Don¡¯t you think¡ª¡± ¡°Zoe, Leanna.¡± Elijah¡¯s voice came from somewhere ahead of


    them. Zoe looked up and smiled as she waved at him.


    ¡°Oh, you¡¯re here too.¡± Elijah answered, ¡°I came out to answer a call.¡± After a pause, he continued,


    ¡°There were too many people just now, so I didn¡¯t get to greet you properly. Long time no see.¡± Zoe


    noticed that Elijah was looking at Leanna when he said thosest few words. She instantly felt as if she


    was watching some drama unfold. This is absolutely going to work! Leanna smiled and replied, ¡°Long


    time no see.¡± In actuality, Elijah had gone abroad early on. He left as soon as he dropped out after their


    second year of college. Leanna didn¡¯t contact him much during those two years, and their rtionship


    wasn¡¯t anything special. Zoe pretended to fish out her phone. ¡°Uh, well¡­ I¡¯m going to pick up a call. Go


    ahead and talk.¡± Leanna was speechless. After Zoe hastily left the scene, Elijah began a conversation


    with Leanna to disrupt the awkward atmosphere between them.


    ¡°I heard before that you¡¯re working at Lux Jewelry. Are you still working there?¡± ¡°No, I¡¯m now running a


    studio with Zoe.¡± He nodded. ¡°That¡¯s nice. Are you still designing jewelry?¡± ¡°More or less. We also do


    photography and some other stuff.¡± Elijah smiled as he raised an eyebrow. ¡°Can you give me your


    contact information? I might need your help in the future.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Leanna took out her phone, adding,


    ¡°You must be busy at work. If you need jewelry designs, you can call me, and I¡¯ll head straight to your


    company.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll take you up on the offer, then.¡± She smiled. ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± When Aidan arrived, he


    saw Leanna chatting happily with a man while her face was glowing with joy. He stopped in his tracks,


    his cold features sinking as a chill emanated from him. When Jonathan saw that, he couldn¡¯t help but


    take a few steps to the side. Aidan pursed his thin lips slightly and strode forward with his long legs.


    ¡°Leanna,¡± he said coldly. Hearing that, Leanna closed her eyes momentarily and took a shallow breath.


    Then, she quickly said to Elijah, ¡°Let¡¯s talk next time.


    Something¡¯se up, so I have to go.¡± Before Elijah could react, Leanna hastily turned around and


    fled the scene. He frowned, then turned to look at the man closing in aggressively. He reached out and


    stopped thetter. ¡°President Pearson, what are you doing here?¡± Aidan stopped walking and gave


    Elijah a sideways nce. Jonathan immediately said in a small voice, ¡°President Parker from


    Constetion Tech.¡± Aidan said, ¡°Never heard of it.


    ¡± Elijah knew early on that Aidan was haughty, so he didn¡¯t take it personally. He just said, ¡°We met at a


    cocktail party before. It was just a fleeting meeting, so it¡¯s only normal for you not to remember me.¡±Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan didn¡¯t have any intention of continuing the conversation. He was about to continue walking when


    Elijah stopped him again.

 Chapter 168

    Chapter 168


    Is This How You Treat Clients? Hints of coldness and anger appeared on Aidan¡¯s face as he lifted his


    gaze to look at Elijah. ¡°Get lost.¡± Elijah nced behind him, then looked back at Aidan and said slowly,


    ¡°I heard you calling Leanna¡¯s name. Do you know her?¡± ¡°It has nothing to do with you.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t look


    like Leanna wants to see you, though. If that¡¯s the case, why are you so aggressive?¡± Aidan sneered.


    ¡°Did she personally tell you that she doesn¡¯t want to see me?¡± Elijah fell silent. It was true that she


    didn¡¯t say anything about it, but her reactions were clear as day. Even so, Elijah had no intentions of


    backing off.


    The stalemate was about to be broken when Aidan caught sight of a figure at the side. He said


    indifferently, ¡°Zoe.¡± The figure froze before it ran even faster. Aidan¡¯s voice turned colder. ¡°Gigi.¡± Zoe


    was at a loss for words. She felt that this name would stick with her for life. Zoe didn¡¯t dare run away


    anymore, fearing that the lowlife named Aidan would settle the scores with herter. Sheughed dryly


    and went over reluctantly. ¡°Haha, fancy seeing you here, President Pearson. I thought someone called


    my name, but I never thought that it¡¯d be the handsome President Pearson. Your brilliance is too


    blinding, and I almost couldn¡¯t see you.¡± Jonathan felt that Zoe was even better than him at buttering


    Aidan up. After Elijah calmed down, he asked, ¡°Zoe, do you know President Pearson?¡±


    The woman was about to answer when she suddenly remembered her ns of match-making Leanna


    and Elijah, so she couldn¡¯t possibly let him know that Aidan was Leanna¡¯s ex-husband. She seemed to


    be tongue-tied, unable to say a word. Just then, Jonathan walked up at the appropriate time. ¡°Miss


    Hart, I was the one who contacted you earlier.¡± Zoe was stunned. ¡°Earlier?¡± Jonathan said specifically,


    ¡°About half an hour ago.¡± Zoe was speechless. She was wondering how the lowlife had managed to


    find this ce, but she soon realized that he had tricked her.


    This information shed through Zoe¡¯s thoughts for a few seconds, and she said to Elijah, ¡°President


    Pearson is a client of our studio, and he¡¯s asked Nana to design a ne¡­ Elijah, you can go back


    first since everyone¡¯s waiting. I¡¯ll discuss work with President Pearson for a bit before heading in.¡± After


    hearing that, Elijah seemed assured as he nodded and turned to leave. When he was gone, Aidan said


    impatiently, ¡°Give her a call and tell her toe back.¡± Faced with the strong oppression of capitalism,


    Zoe could onlypromise as she dialed Leanna¡¯s number in front of Aidan. She whispered, ¡°Nana,


    the client I told you about has arrived¡­


    ¡± Then, sheughed dryly. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a coincidence that this client is President Pearson


    himself¡­ Huh? You aren¡¯t feeling well, so you¡¯re already home? Alright then, it¡¯s indeed a pity. I believe


    that President Pearson is a kind person, so he¡¯ll understand¡­¡± Zoe hadn¡¯t finished talking when her


    phone was snatched away. Aidan said coldly, ¡°You¡¯d better appear before me in five minutes, or your


    friend won¡¯t be going back.¡± Leanna was speechless. Apart from threatening people, what else could


    this lowlife do? After ending the call, Leanna could only slowly walk out of the corridor. When she


    answered Zoe¡¯s call, she didn¡¯t manage to squeeze in a word as she listened to the woman¡¯s rambling.


    The situation was obvious; Aidan hade all the way from the studio to look for her. Zoe was telling


    Leanna to escape as quickly as possible. At that thought, Leanna couldn¡¯t help but frown. This lowlife


    had been out of his mind recently. In the end, right before the five-minute mark, Leanna stood in front of


    Aidan after four minutes and fifty-nine seconds had psed. She suppressed her temper as she said


    calmly, ¡°What do you mean by this, President Pearson?¡± Aidan was dissatisfied. ¡°Is this how you treat


    your clients?¡± Leanna didn¡¯t say anything in return. Zoe suggested, ¡°President Pearson, it must be


    ufortable to stand here and talk. Why don¡¯t we find a ce to sit down?¡±


    If Maya caught sight of this scene, she would probably put on a show. More importantly, Zoe¡¯s main


    objective right now was to match Leanna up with Elijah. She mustn¡¯t allow this matter with Aidan to


    mess up her ns. Aidan nced at Jonathan, and thetter immediately went about making


    arrangements. Two minutester, the hotel manager emerged and led them to the VIP lounge. Along


    the way, Zoe whispered, ¡°Nana, we should ept every client thates knocking. This lowlife


    doesn¡¯tck money anyway, so feel free to charge him extra.¡± Leanna gradually calmed down. By the


    looks of it, Aidan didn¡¯t seem like he would be letting her go easily. As such, she couldn¡¯t chase him out


    for the moment.


    Once they were at the lounge, Leanna turned on her phone to begin taking notes. ¡°What are you


    looking to design, President Pearson? A ne? A bracelet? Earrings, perhaps? Or is it something


    else¡ª¡± Aidan said indifferently, ¡°Whatever.¡± Leanna endured it as wrote the word ¡®whatever¡¯ on her


    phone. She continued to ask, ¡°What style do you have in mind, President Pearson?¡± ¡°Whatever.¡± ¡°Then


    ¡ª¡± ¡°Do as you please with everything.¡± Leanna put down her phone, her expression cold. ¡°If you intend


    to treat me as a pastime, you can do it another way. You don¡¯t have to waste your time with me like


    this.


    ¡± Aidan pursed his thin lips. ¡°Sorry, ask the questions again.¡± Leanna was speechless. Ask the


    questions again, my foot. Leanna said, ¡°I don¡¯t know what else you still want from me, President


    Pearson. Do you think that it¡¯s not enough for me to lose a child? Do you want me to lose my job as


    well before you let me off the hook?¡± Aidan¡¯s expression didn¡¯t change as he ignored her words. ¡°I don¡¯t


    have any design requests. Just design anything you like.¡± Leanna fell silent. He¡¯s bonkers! Aidan got up


    and said before leaving, ¡°Leanna, the things I want from you are far from what you imagine. When


    you¡¯re willing to give them to me someday, you¡¯ll know what they are.¡± When he opened the door, Zoe


    and Jonathan, who were eavesdropping outside, took two steps backward. Zoe coughed. ¡°President


    Pearson, our studio¡¯s personal design requests for jewelry are fully booked for a few months, so you


    might have to wait for a little¡ª¡± Aidan nodded, turning to leave without another word.


    Jonathan immediately followed suit. After they left, Zoe went into the lounge to see Leanna zoned out


    on the couch. She waved her hand in front of thetter and asked, ¡°Nana, are you okay?¡± Leanna


    gathered her thoughts and shook her head lightly. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Let¡¯s go.¡± Zoe had more or less heard


    everything in Leanna¡¯s conversation with Aidan.Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She didn¡¯t think it would be appropriate to say anything about it, so she immediately changed the


    subject. ¡°How was your conversation with Elijah?¡± Leanna was dumbfounded. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°Just¡­ Do you have anything inmon with him?¡± Leanna was silent before she suddenly said,


    ¡°There¡¯s something off about you.¡±

 Chapter 169

    Chapter 169


    How Do You Know That He Has Feelings for Me When Leanna and Zoe returned to the room, everyone


    had almost finished their meal and was chatting with one another. When Maya saw this, she said even


    more cynically, ¡°You two are indeed very busy. We¡¯ve all been waiting for you for a long time. Even Elijah,


    a businessman, isn¡¯t as busy as you two.¡± Before Zoe could respond, Elijah replied, ¡°I¡¯m not usually that


    busy. Those who work for me are the ones who do the majority of the work.¡± Not long ago, Maya was still


    bragging about her husband¡¯s position as an executive for arge corporation, which kept him so busy


    that he rarely returned home. But what about the executive level? To put it bluntly, he was just an


    employee. Elijah responded well to this remark, and it was clear who he meant.


    Everyone else at the dining table had their corners of their mouths quirked up and secretly smiled. Maya


    only attended today¡¯s ss reunion because she wanted to boast about marrying a wealthy man. She


    did not anticipate that she would shoot herself in the foot, though. She was enraged, but she couldn¡¯t


    lash out at Elijah since he hadn¡¯t expressly said that his reply was directed at her. As a result, she could


    only grit her teeth and suppress her anger. After the reunion, everyone departed one at a time. He


    nced at Leanna and Zoe and said, ¡°I have nothing to do, so I¡¯ll give you a ride home.¡± Leanna smiled


    politely in response. ¡°It is not necessary. We have a car, so let¡¯s go.¡± Zoe immediately said, ¡°My car has


    broken down!¡± Leanna was dumbfounded. Zoe said with a straight face, ¡°Nana, remember how my car


    was acting up on our way here? As soon as we parked it in the basement, it stopped moving.¡±


    ¡°Why don¡¯t I ¡­¡± ¡°Of course you wouldn¡¯t know that! You weren¡¯t the one driving,¡± Zoe said as she


    dragged Leanna toward Elijah¡¯s car. Then, she thanked him. Elijah smiled. ¡°You¡¯re wee.¡± Zoe


    opened the door on the passenger side and shoved Leanna into the seat. ¡°Sit here. I¡¯m feeling a bit


    unwell, so I¡¯m gonna sit alone in the back seat.¡± Leanna couldn¡¯t say anything. It was clear to her at this


    time what her intentions were. She couldn¡¯t say no directly in Elijah¡¯s presence, so all she could do was


    re at her quietly and fasten her seatbelt. Zoe got into the back seat while humming a tune and


    pretending not to notice the expression in her eyes. Elijah asked, ¡°Where do you stay?¡± Zoe replied,


    ¡°Ah¡­ it doesn¡¯t matter where we stay. If you¡¯re free, just drive us around. We just ate dinner, so it¡¯s good


    to give the food some time to digest.¡±


    Leanna couldn¡¯t be bothered to blow her cover. Who can digest food while sitting in a car? ¡°Sorry to


    trouble you, but thanks for the ride,¡± she replied after giving him their address. He was surprised to hear


    the address she gave him. ¡°Are you two staying there?¡± Zoe suddenly leaned toward them. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me


    you¡¯re staying there as well. What a coincidence!¡± What do they call this again? Well, fate had brought


    these two together! He shook his head with a smile. ¡°No, I do not. My friend recently returned from


    abroad and is currently residing there.¡± She was a little disappointed. ¡°Oh, that¡¯s too bad,¡± she said after


    a brief pause. Then she said, ¡°I¡¯d like to know who your friend is. Is your friend someone you¡¯re close to


    and can visit frequently? If you¡¯re free, then¡­¡± Leanna covered Zoe¡¯s mouth and said to him


    apologetically, ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Soon after Elijah started driving, he received a phone call requesting him to


    return to the office to deal with an unanticipated situation. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I may not be able to drive you


    two around today,¡± he apologized to Zoe with a smile.


    Having overheard his phone conversation, Zoe nodded repeatedly. ¡°Sure, no problem! We¡¯ll do it next


    time, then,¡± she said while taking a business card out of her bag and handing it to him. ¡°This is the


    address of our studio. You are wee to visit and have fun at any time.¡± Leanna said, ¡°Elijah, just drop


    us at the side of the road. We can go back by ourselves.¡± He replied, ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m not in a hurry, and


    besides, we¡¯ll be there soon.¡± Seeing that he had no intention to stop, Leanna said nothing else. She


    merely rolled down the car window and looked out the window impassively. Twenty minutester, the


    ck Porsche stopped downstairs in front of the apartment. Zoe said, ¡°We won¡¯t invite you upstairs for a


    cup of tea since you have something important to attend to at your office. See you next time.¡± Elijah


    nodded with a smile before turning to look at Leanna. ¡°See you next time.¡± After he left, Zoemented


    with a sigh, ¡°A nice guy like Elijah is really hard to find. You¡¯ve got to hold onto ¡­¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± She turned


    around and caught up with Leanna. ¡°Hey, Nana, I really mean it.


    You should think about it. I think he has feelings for you, so perhaps you two can try and work out a


    rtionship.¡± Pressing the elevator button, Leanna asked with a smile, ¡°How do you know that he¡¯s got


    feelings for me?¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you notice that he looked at you differently? Not only that, he was especially


    tender toward you.¡± ¡°No, I didn¡¯t notice it.¡± Zoe continued on her own, ¡°This kind of thing is always clear


    to the outsiders but not to the parties involved, so it¡¯s normal that you didn¡¯t notice it.¡± Leanna was lost for


    words. Zoe then said, ¡°Didn¡¯t we agree to forget about Aidan that b*stard and start all over again? Elijah


    is simply brought to you on a silver tter by God himself!¡± ¡°But didn¡¯t you say that we should date a


    womanizer so that we¡¯ll cheat on each other? Elijah doesn¡¯t seem like a womanizer to me.¡± For the very


    first time, she was floored by her own words. She said falteringly, ¡°W-Well, I did say that when I was


    drunk, but it can¡¯t be taken seriously, right? Seriously, I think Elijah is pretty nice. If you start going out


    with him, you¡¯ll definitely be the happiest woman in the world.¡± Just as they were talking, the elevator


    door suddenly opened, and a tall and big mixed-race man stepped out from the inside. Zoe paused


    instantly as her eyes widened.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    After the man left, the twodies entered the elevator. Zoe whispered, ¡°Hey, Nana, did you see that?


    That guy¡¯s so handsome! Oh, we must have the devil¡¯s luck to have seen so many handsome guys


    today!¡± Leanna asked thoughtlessly, ¡°Handsome guys? How many of them?¡± Zoe replied, ¡°Ain¡¯t I right?


    Well, there¡¯s Elijah and the mixed-race guy just now, and there¡¯s Ai ¡­¡± Toward the end of her sentence,


    however, she hemmed and bit back thest syble. Well, Aidan is a b*stard, but he¡¯s got good looks.


    To be honest, Elijah has changed a lot, but he¡¯s slightly inferior to Aidan. She pondered for a moment


    before suggesting, ¡°Zoe, let¡¯s hire another designer when our studio is on the right track.¡± Zoe didn¡¯t


    come to her senses for a moment. ¡°Huh? Why?¡± Not knowing how to exin the situation, Leanna let out


    a breath. Judging from what Aidan had said before leaving at the time, she felt that he had no intention of


    letting her off just yet. As she had no idea what else that b*stard would do, she feared that she might get


    Zoe into trouble. Because of that, she was entertaining the idea of leaving everything to Zoe and quitting


    after the studio was on the right track.

 Chapter 170

    Chapter 170


    What Else Could a Man Seek in a Woman? Seeing that Leanna was silent, Zoe sort of figured out the


    reason for that. She patted her on the shoulder, saying, ¡°Nana, what are you thinking about? If you


    think the work is exhausting, we can hire however many designers we want, but I won¡¯t allow you to


    quit¡­ Actually, to be honest, I think that b*stard doesn¡¯t seem to be making things difficult for you on


    purpose. He seems to have an ax to grind.¡± She frowned. ¡°What is he up to, then?¡± She thought about


    it for a while. Then, she said slowly, ¡°What else could a man seek in a woman? You¡¯ve got pretty looks


    and a nice figure. If I were him, I¡¯d have the hots for you, too.¡± After being speechless for a while,


    Leanna snapped, ¡°Just shut up.¡±


    Meanwhile, at the Pearson Group, Aidan sank into his chair, propping his head with his right hand while


    tapping his temples in thought. After two minutes, he said on the inte, ¡°Come in.¡± Jonathan


    showed up in the office soon afterward. ¡°What can I do for you, President Pearson?¡± Raising his eyes


    slightly, he asked impassively, ¡°What is Elijah Parker¡¯s rtionship with Leanna?¡± He asked tentatively,


    ¡°President Pearson, do you remember President Parker?¡± He sank back into his chair with his face


    devoid of emotion. ¡°Constetion Tech has been aggressive since its return from abroadst May, and


    Elijah Parker is called the tech industry¡¯s future. Do you think I shouldn¡¯t remember him?¡± Jonathan


    curled his lips in secret. So, he did it on purpose when he said at the time that he had no impression of


    President Parker, he thought.


    He replied, ¡°As far as I know, Mrs. Pearson and President Parker were there today to attend their ss


    reunion.¡± Aidan frowned. ¡°She was ssmates with Zayn, too. And herees another ex-ssmate


    named Elijah?¡± He corrected him, saying, ¡°Mrs. Pearson and Mr. Bat might not be ex-ssmates,


    but he was definitely her first love.¡± He slowly looked up at him as a frosty look came over his stony


    face. Jonathan immediately said, ¡°Mrs. Pearson and President Parker are probably just ex-ssmates.


    President Parker is different from Mr. Bat, after all¡­¡± Toward the end of the sentence, though, he


    sensed that something was wrong with the mood in the office, so he simply mmed up. Ignoring his


    words, Aidan continued, ¡°Constetion Tech was founded abroad, yet it has be what it is today in


    just a few years. It¡¯s impossible for Elijah Parker to achieve that all by himself. What is his


    background?¡± Jonathan replied, ¡°He doesn¡¯t have any particrly strong backing.


    His parents are both scientific researchers, but all of Constetion Tech¡¯s capitales from abroad¡ª


    investments made by foreignpanies, perhaps.¡± Aidan fell silent for a moment before suddenly


    looking up at him. He froze, feeling that he was breaking out in a cold sweat. ¡°P-President Pearson, is


    there anything else?¡± ¡°Have you ever courted someone?¡± Jonathan didn¡¯te to his senses for a


    moment. ¡°H-Huh?¡± Aidan pursed his thin lips slightly before waving his hand. ¡°Never mind. Get out.¡±


    Jonathan left in bewilderment, but it wasn¡¯t until he stepped out of his office that he finally came to his


    senses. Did President Pearson just ask me if I¡¯d ever courted someone? Baffled, he looked back.


    Haven¡¯t I been helping him court Mrs. Pearson all this while? Meanwhile, in the office, Aidan held onto


    his cell phone while looking at Oscar¡¯s name for a while. Just as he was about to call him, his phone


    registered an iing call from another number. His face hardened, and his jaw tensed slightly. A few


    secondster, he answered the phone.


    The doctor said over the phone, ¡°President Pearson, something unexpected happened just now, but


    the situation is already under control for the time being. There¡¯s nothing wrong, but further observation


    is still needed, so we can¡¯t rx.¡± ¡°I got it.¡± Aidan checked the time. ¡°I¡¯ll be there tonight.¡± Naomi took


    over the phone on the other end. ¡°You don¡¯t have toe over, Aidan. I¡¯ll take good care of everything


    over here. Even if youe, there¡¯s nothing you can do.¡± He replied, ¡°Okay.¡± After hanging up the


    phone, he got up and stood before the French window while watching the sky darken gradually. In the


    past, kids were just an essory to him. It didn¡¯t make any difference whether he had children or not;


    he¡¯d never change his mind because of a strange little thing. However, before he realized it, he had


    begun to wonder what the baby would look like when it was born because of the look of anticipation in


    Leanna¡¯s eyes.


    When the little thing¡¯s wrinkled hand grabbed his finger with precision without even being able to open


    its eyes, his heart melted for no reason. All of a sudden, he understood why such an ugly and all-


    consuming little thing would be so important to Leanna. After a while, he summoned Jonathan into the


    office. ¡°Book the earliest flight to Weavside.¡± He nodded. ¡°Yes, President Parker.¡± ¡­ Leanna had


    thought that Aidan wouldn¡¯t just give up like that. To her surprise, though, he stopped after making a


    fuss for a couple of days. Just when she breathed a sigh of relief, her studio began receiving roses for


    several days in a row. Zoe said, ¡°Today¡¯s already the third day, right? Just who is the sender? It¡¯s so


    mysterious, and there¡¯s no name.¡± Thedy hired by the studio said enviously, ¡°McK is so beautiful, so


    she must have a lot of admirers.¡± For a moment, Zoe had trouble figuring out whether these roses were


    sent by Elijah or someone else.


    It would¡¯ve been too soon for him to send these roses. He and Leanna had only met that once over so


    many years, and he hadn¡¯t even said anything to her yet. It¡¯d be somewhat frivolous of him to start


    sending her flowers and courting her just like that. However, if the sender was someone else¡­ A


    terrifying idea suddenly crossed Zoe¡¯s mind. She shook her head repeatedly, brushing the idea off her


    head. It¡¯d be too scary if Aidan¡ªthat b*stard¡ªsend her flowers to profess his love for her. She


    scratched her head without being able to figure out who the sender might be, so she simply went to


    Leanna, asking, ¡°Nana, who do you think sent these flowers? Are you suspecting anyone?¡± Leanna


    raised her eyebrows. ¡°What makes you so sure that these flowers are for me? What if they¡¯re for you?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s even more unlikely. Other than Anthony, that lowlife, I¡¯ve never been near someone of the


    opposite gender in all these years.¡± Compared to Zoe, Leanna wasn¡¯t anxious. ¡°Let¡¯s wait, then. The


    sender will show up one day.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true.


    Now that the sender has set things up, it¡¯s time for him to show up.¡± Following the continuation of the


    delivery of flowers for a further two days, the sender eventually showed up at the studio. Leanna¡¯s face


    darkened when she saw the sender. ¡°It¡¯s you.¡± Anna folded her arms across her chest with mockery


    written all over her face. ¡°Who else do you think it is, Zayn or Aidan? You¡¯re so shameless, Leanna.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Even now, you¡¯re still thinking of marrying into a rich family. You¡¯re very proud of yourself for ruining my


    marriage to Zayn, right? She replied impassively, ¡°I have no reason to be proud of myself. I¡¯m just


    happy about that. Anna, have you forgotten what I said?¡± Anna¡¯s face turned livid at once. ¡°Don¡¯t forget


    what I said too. I¡¯ll definitely make you pay the price!¡±

 Chapter 171

    Chapter 171


    Who the Hell Are You Anna raised her hand as she spoke, but just as she was about to p Leanna¡¯s


    face, Leanna grabbed her wrist in midair. Then, before she coulde to her senses, she was pped


    hard across the face. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she yelled in a shrill voice, ¡°You hit me? How


    dare you hit me! Leanna, you¡­¡± Leanna looked at her expressionlessly, ¡°What else am I supposed to


    do? Should I invite you to sit down for a cup of tea instead?¡± She shrieked toward the outside, ¡°What


    are you guys waiting there for? Are you blind?¡± After that, several men immediately came in through


    the door. She pushed her away with all her might. Looking ferocious, she yelled, ¡°Smash up the ce!


    Smash everything up and leave nothing behind!¡± Leanna looked imperturbable, though. She darted an


    impassive look at the few men who were about to do as being told, saying, ¡°I don¡¯t know whether you


    guys are the Pearson Family¡¯s men or the Zielinski Family¡¯s, but if you guys dare to do anything, I won¡¯t


    let this slide easily. If someone¡¯s gonna be held ountable for this, Anna will probably be fine, but


    none of you will get away with it.¡± The few men looked at each other. For a moment, they stood there


    and hesitated withouting forward. They were all brought here from the Pearson Family by her.


    Although they took orders from Sienna, they all knew that Leanna was Aidan¡¯s ex-wife. She was


    disregarded by the Pearsons, but Anna wasn¡¯t of high standing in the Pearson Family either. If Leanna


    really went to the Pearson Family to demand an exnation for this, it was true that the Pearsons


    wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything to Anna. Instead, they would only put all the me on them.


    Seeing that these men hesitated, Anna yelled at the top of her voice, ¡°Do you really think she can do


    anything about you? Nobody in the Pearson Family takes a shameless b*tch like her seriously; nobody


    even cares if she¡¯s dead or alive! If you guys don¡¯t do as I told you, I¡¯ll tell Aunt Sienna about this right


    away, and all of you are gonna have a hard time!¡± Just then, a figure stepped into the studio. After


    looking around, Elijah came to Leanna¡¯s side, asking, ¡°Leanna, what¡¯s going on?¡± She replied


    impassively, ¡°Nothing. It¡¯s just a madwomaning here with her people to cause trouble.¡± He turned


    to look at Anna before frowning almost imperceptibly. He couldn¡¯t help feeling that he had seen her


    somewhere before. After a moment, he said, ¡°You¡¯re Miss Pearson, right?¡± She shot a nce at him


    with an expression full of mockery and disdain. ¡°Who the hell are you to think you have the right to


    speak to me?¡± she said.


    Then, she said to Leanna disdainfully, ¡°You¡¯ve always got plenty of guys around you, huh? It¡¯s a


    compliment to say that you have no sense of shame.¡± He turned a deaf ear to her words, though his


    face grew somewhat frosty. ¡°I¡¯m Elijah Parker from Constetion Tech. Miss Pearson, it¡¯s fine if you turn


    up your nose at me. But please tell your father when you go back that mypany doesn¡¯t deserve the


    coborative project that he and I have been negotiating. Please ask him to look for another


    coborative partner.¡± Anna had tetchiness written all over her face. ¡°Constetion Tech? What the hell


    is that? If you know that we¡¯re beyond your reach, then get lost and stop wasting my time over here!¡±


    Leanna said, ¡°Anna, I¡¯m only giving you 30 seconds to leave.¡± ¡°Do you think you can threaten me? The


    only one backing you is that illegitimate son, who isn¡¯t in Highside at the moment. What can you do


    about me?¡± She smiled faintly.


    ¡°If my guess is correct, Justin should¡¯ve warned you to stay away from me.¡± When Anna heard this, she


    clenched her teeth with her eyes full of hatred. She had finally found an opportunity during Aidan¡¯s


    absence in Highside, but who would¡¯ve known that someone from Constetion Tech would pop up and


    spoil her ns? Not only that, Leanna¡ªthat b*tch¡ªeven used Justin¡ªthat cripple¡ªto browbeat her! If


    he were to learn that she hade here in secret to give Leanna a hard time, he would definitely


    reprimand her for this, and Sienna would side with him as well. However, how could she be willing to


    leave just like that? At this moment, Zoe also came out of her office. ¡°If you don¡¯t want to leave, then


    stay.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    I¡¯ve called the police, anyway. We can have tea together at the police stationter.¡± Anna let out a


    sneer. ¡°I¡¯m not gonna let this slide. Just you wait!¡± Silence returned to the studio after she left with her


    people. Leanna turned to look at Elijah, saying, ¡°I¡¯m sorry you had to witness such a show.¡± He shook


    his head. ¡°I¡¯ve heard long ago that the Pearson Family¡¯s daughter is spoiled, arrogant, domineering,


    and unreasonable. Now that I¡¯ve met her in person, I have to stay that the rumors are indeed true.¡± Zoe


    said, ¡°She¡¯s a madwoman who brings bad luck to whoever shetches onto.¡± After a brief pause, she


    continued, ¡°Hey, you just said that you had a coboration with her father. Were you referring to the


    Pearson Family? Wouldn¡¯t it be bad for you to cancel the coboration like that?¡± He smiled. ¡°No, it¡¯s


    not the Pearson Family. I won¡¯t suffer any losses by canceling the coboration this time. They¡¯re the


    only ones who¡¯ll get anxious.¡± In fact, anyone who knew at least a little about the Pearsons would know


    that despite Anna¡¯sst name, both her parents weren¡¯t members of the Pearson Family.


    Her father married into the Zielinski Family and inherited the family¡¯s wealth, but his business has been


    heavily in debt over thest few years due to mismanagement. The Zielinski Family would have ceased


    to exist long ago if not for the support of the Pearson Family. And besides, Aidan seemed to have been


    mping down on the Zielinski Family these days. In order to get the opportunity to coborate with


    Constetion Tech, her father had done everything he could and pulled a lot of strings. Elijah had only


    agreed to coborate with Anna¡¯s father because he couldn¡¯t turn him down. And now, Anna had given


    him an opportunity by making a scene here. Zoe heaved a sigh of relief. ¡°Good to hear that,¡± she said


    while sneaking a nce at Leanna as her eyes flickered for an instant. ¡°Well, then¡­ Nana, show him


    around the studio while I go out to buy a few cups of coffee.¡± Leanna knew without thinking what she


    was up to again.


    She grabbed Zoe and said with a faint smile, ¡°Just order takeout. There¡¯s no need to go to so much


    trouble.¡± ¡°But that¡¯s¡­¡± Elijah chimed in, ¡°I just happened to pass by, so I came to take a look. I have to


    go soon.¡± When Zoe heard this, she quickly replied, ¡°How could you leave? You saved us today, so we


    have to treat you to dinner no matter what.¡± Leanna gave it a thought before saying, ¡°If you don¡¯t have


    much to do at your office, let¡¯s stay for dinner before going back.¡± In any case, if it weren¡¯t for him,


    Anna¡¯s reckless disposition might really cause her to make a scene today. If that happened, the studio


    would only be smashed up. Even if the police came, the damage was already done. And besides, now


    that the coboration had been canceled, there was no way it wouldn¡¯t cause any losses like he had


    said. Seeing that she had spoken, Zoe immediately struck the iron while it was hot, saying, ¡°Yeah,


    that¡¯s right! However busy you are, you¡¯ve got to eat. Now that you¡¯re already here and have helped us


    so much, we¡¯ve got to thank you.¡± When he heard them say so, he didn¡¯t decline their offer. He nodded


    gently, saying, ¡°Okay.¡±

 Chapter 172

    Chapter 172


    My Standing Is a Hundred Times Better On the way back in her car, beside herself with anger, Anna


    called her mother and said in annoyance, ¡°Mom, I want you to tell Dad to stop coborating with that


    Constetion Tech! They¡¯re in cahoots with that skank!¡± Taken aback, Anna¡¯s mother replied, ¡°Anna,


    what are you talking about?¡± Anna looked extremely irked. ¡°Aren¡¯t we coborating with that sh*t of a


    company? We should tell them off! Get them away from us, as far as possible!¡± On the other end of the


    line, Anna¡¯s father took over the call. ¡°Anna, what did you just say? Whichpany are you talking


    about?¡±


    ¡°Constetion Tech. That rubbish of a man is clinging onto us since he knows that he can¡¯t climb the


    ladder himself. I must teach that rubbish a lesson.¡± Anna sneered. Anna¡¯s father frowned as he knew


    his daughter¡¯s temper. With a thump of his heart, he asked, ¡°Anna, what did you do? Who did you meet


    from Constetion Tech?¡± ¡°Eli¡­ something? I don¡¯t know myself. I just know that rubbish isn¡¯t worth it


    for me to remember his name.¡± His frown grew deeper. ¡°Elijah Parker?¡± An unperturbed Anna replied,


    ¡°Sounds like him. He looks like a decent man, but unfortunately, his eyes are just decorations since he


    chose to defend that skank.¡± At that, Anna¡¯s father choked on his breath. ¡°Anna Pearson! What have


    you done?!


    Quickly apologize to President Parker! We might still be able to salvage our deal!¡± Anna immediately


    raised her voice. ¡°What for?! Why should I apologize to that nobody?! Why do you have to care about


    some business deal? Dropping thatpany won¡¯t have any effect on us, but he would be filled with


    regret when he loses the Pearson Group as his backer.¡± Anna¡¯s father shouted in anger, ¡°The Pearson


    Group is a different matter! What does it have to do with you?!¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Just as she wanted to retort,


    Anna¡¯s expression changed, as she remembered that the illegitimate child was in charge of Pearson


    Group now. After a brief pause, she continued, ¡°What about it? He¡¯s just an illegitimate child. Uncle


    Gordon will have him reced, sooner orter.¡± ¡°Do you think that the Pearson Group will be yours


    when Aidan steps down? Anna, get this into your head: you¡¯re only part of the Pearsons because of


    how sorry they felt toward Sienna.


    In other words, your standing in the Pearson Family amounts to nothing. In fact, you¡¯re in an even


    worse position than that illegitimate child!¡± ¡°You¡¯re lying! Not only am I a member of the Pearsons, I¡¯m


    also the precious daughter of the Pearsons! My standing is a hundred times better than that b*stard


    child!¡± ¡°Anna, you¡¯re going to follow me tomorrow to apologize to President Parker.¡± ¡°Never! Go by


    yourself if you care so much!¡± After Anna ended the call with her teeth clenched and her eyes full of


    hatred, she threw her phone down the car interior and shouted, ¡°You¡¯re all the same kind of trash! The


    same kind of trash!¡± ¡­ In a certain restaurant. When the dishes were served, Zoe took a nce at her


    watch and cleared her throat before she said politely, ¡°I need to take a phone call. You guys go ahead.


    Don¡¯t wait for me.¡± Leanna looked at Zoe with hints of suspicion in her eyes. Immediately raising the


    phone in her hand, Zoe showed Leanna the caller¡¯s number on her phone screen. ¡°I really need to take


    this.¡± As Leanna couldn¡¯t say anything to that, Zoe left the two and went outside. After she left, Elijah


    grinned and turned his attention toward Leanna. ¡°Looks like the two of you are always busy with work.¡±


    With a faint smile, Leanna replied, ¡°I wouldn¡¯t say so.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    It¡¯s because there¡¯s only me and Zoe right now. It¡¯ll be better after we hire two additional hands.¡± It did


    not take long for Elijah to steer the conversation into a different topic with his interesting and polite


    mannerisms. With the awkwardness between them gradually disappearing after Zoe had left them


    alone, they enjoyed their conversation. Just then, Oscar and his friends came out of the private room


    and noticed a familiar figure by the window. Curious, he stopped in his tracks with his eyebrows raised


    before he took his phone out and took a photo from a distance. Aidan might be in a pinch now. With


    how stubborn he is, he won¡¯t get the girl even if he took several lifespans, he thought. After he took the


    photo, he kept his phone and left the restaurant satisfied. After dawdling outside for around twenty


    minutes, Zoe returned to her table to find Elijah and Leanna conversing well with one another. Upon


    such a sight, Zoe immediately felt that it was worth it for her to have withstood the cold winds outside.


    I¡¯m the greatest contributor if those two actually get together, she thought. After the meal, Elijah offered


    to send them home, but Leanna rejected him.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already caused you a great deal of trouble today. Since our apartment is just around the corner,


    we can just walk back home.¡± Silently nodding, Elijah pondered briefly before he said, ¡°My friend is


    having a live music session this weekend. Do the two of you have some free time this week? If you


    do¡­¡± Without waiting for Leanna¡¯s answer, Zoe immediately said, ¡°Yes, we do! We¡¯re so free this


    weekend! It just so happens that we were thinking about where to go this weekend, right, Nana? It¡¯ll be


    rxing and soothing to just chill and listen to music. Besides, how can we not show our support by


    attending Elijah¡¯s friend¡¯s music live?¡±


    Leanna remained silent. Looking at the situation, Elijah smiled. ¡°Then, it¡¯s a date. I¡¯ll pick you two up


    this weekend.¡± ¡°Alright, sounds good. See you this weekend,¡± Zoe replied. After watching him leave,


    Leanna let out a sigh before she turned her attention toward Zoe. Zoe immediately took two steps back


    and took the initiative here. ¡°Hey, hey. Since we¡¯ve already promised Elijah, you can¡¯t back out from it


    now.¡± Leanna said bluntly, ¡°I did not promise anything.¡± ¡°All the same. Since Elijah had already said


    he¡¯d be picking us up this weekend, are you really heartless enough to disappoint a man like that?¡±


    Seeing that she said nothing to retort, Zoe hugged and shook her arm, acting like a spoiled child.


    ¡°Please, Nana, can¡¯t we go? I really want to go. Right now, all I can think about is that live music


    session. If I can¡¯t go, I¡¯m afraid I will lose sleep for days.¡± A helpless Leanna replied after a brief


    moment of silence, ¡°Fine, fine. I¡¯ll go.¡±


    At that, Zoe¡¯s eyes lit up. However, before she could revel in the joy, Leanna continued, ¡°But, I¡¯m saying


    this now, you are not allowed to find an excuse to leave me alone with Elijah. I know you¡¯re trying to set


    me up with him, but¡ª¡± Zoe nodded repeatedly and interrupted her mid-sentence. ¡°Of course, don¡¯t


    worry. I won¡¯t do that anymore. But, Nana, haven¡¯t you thought about it? Elijah really is a good catch. If


    he likes you, why not give him a chance?¡± Leannaughed. ¡°That¡¯s just too much of a stretch. You said


    it yourself, Elijah is young and talented. I¡¯m sure there are lots of women out there going after him. He


    wouldn¡¯t go for someone like me.¡± With a frown, Zoe replied, ¡°You shouldn¡¯t look down on yourself like


    that. It¡¯s not like you¡¯re worse than the others. Plus, that b*stard¡¯s already beside himself with regret


    with the divorce.¡± Silently, Leanna thought, Just how did shee to such a horrible conclusion?

 Chapter 173

    Chapter 173


    Chapter 173 She Wants to Get Back at Me Highside Airport. Aidan took his phone out as he walked.


    Following behind him, Jonathan, who had just received a call, came up to him and said quietly,


    ¡°President Pearson, Miss Anna went to Madam¡¯s studio tonight.¡± Aidan¡¯s good-looking brow wrinkled


    as he asked coldly, ¡°What was she doing there?¡± ¡°Since Miss Anna had brought along people from the


    Pearson Family, I would assume she had gone there to cause a scene. However¡­¡±


    With a slight pause in his steps, Aidan cast a sideway look at Jonathan. ¡°Say it.¡± Jonathan immediately


    continued, ¡°Coincidentally, President Parker was there. He had helped stop Miss Anna.¡± Upon hearing


    Jonathan¡¯s report, Aidan pursed his lips slightly and was about to speak when his phone received


    several new messages. Thetest message was sent by Oscar half an hour ago. It was the photo of


    Elijah and Leanna who seemed to be in their own world inside a certain restaurant. The moment Aidan


    saw the photo, his grip on the phone tightened to the extent where the veins on his hand became


    visible. Jonathan asked tentatively, ¡°President Pearson?¡± In a chilly tone, Aidan said, ¡°We¡¯re going back


    to the estate.¡±


    ¡°Understood.¡± On the way back, Aidan had his gaze outside the window. It was only after some time


    had passed did he ask, ¡°Have you investigated the matter I¡¯ve asked?¡± Jonathan nodded. ¡°Although


    Mrs. Pearson had taken great care in covering the evidence, I¡¯ve found the person who dialed 911 at


    the time. ording to that person, Madam was alone when she fell down the stairs in the mall at the


    time, so she didn¡¯t know whether Madam had lost her footing, or was pushed down the stairs. However,


    the day Madam fell was the very day Miss Anna had gone abroad. Hence, my assumption is¡­¡± Aidan


    remained silent. There was a chilling cold expression on his handsome face. Half an hourter, the


    ck Rolls-Royce slowly drove into the flower-pattern gate and stopped by the garden. When Gordon


    heard from the maid that Aidan had returned, a look of displeasure shed across his face. ¡°What is he


    doing back here again?¡±


    Gordon¡¯s hope was dashed ever since Leanna¡¯s car ident, so he couldn¡¯t be bothered to maintain


    the father-son rtionship, which was already on thin ice, with Aidan. The most regretful thing to him in


    his entire life was when he stubbornly took Aidan home after Justin¡¯s ident back then. Had he not


    done that, he wouldn¡¯t have to go through so much trouble in getting the Pearson Group back now.


    After Gordon took a deep breath, he left his study with the support of his cane. However, he frowned


    when he saw several peopleing upstairs as soon as he left the room. Looking at Aidan, who was


    standing by the door, with a deep frown, Gordon asked, ¡°What are you doing?¡±


    Indifferently, Aidan replied, ¡°I¡¯m here to collect the debt from three years ago.¡± ¡°What debt?! Are you not


    satisfied with the mess you made? You¡¯re the one who wanted to connect with the Crossley Family by


    marriage, and you were also the one who wanted to break off that marriage. Now that you¡¯ve


    embarrassed the family, how am I supposed to exin to the Crossley Family?¡± Aidan¡¯s expression


    remained the same. ¡°Is that so? Here I thought you were quite pleased with your conversation with the


    Crossleys.¡± Although Gordon was essentially exposed here, he felt no shame and only lightly stroked


    the head of his cane. ¡°I was just dealing with your mess!¡± Aidan snickered, but did not deny Gordon¡¯s


    words. Just then, Anna¡¯s loud voice came from upstairs. ¡°What are you all doing?! I¡¯ll chop your hand


    off if any one of you dares toy a hand on me!¡± When Gordon turned his attention to the direction of


    Anna¡¯s voice and was about to say something, he heard Aidan¡¯s chilly voice. ¡°If she doesn¡¯t want to


    come down herself, then drag her down here.¡± Upstairs, Anna was tense, as she hadn¡¯t expected


    Aidan toe looking for her so quickly. Looking at the men surrounding her, she knew that Aidan was


    not ying around and might really have these men drag her downstairs.


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    However, since she was in the Pearson Family Estate with both Gordon and Sienna, she assumed that


    Aidan wouldn¡¯t dare to do anything outrageous. Thus, she bit her lip and headed downstairs. After


    seeing Annaing down, Gordon turned his attention to Aidan and asked in displeasure, ¡°What are


    you trying to do here?¡± Without answering Gordon¡¯s question, Aidan passed him by with his gaze on


    Anna. Slowlying forward, Anna said hesitantly, ¡°A-Aidan, did you want to see me?¡± ¡°Do I need to


    repeat all the things you¡¯ve done? Anna Pearson, I¡¯ve already warned you more than once,¡± Aidan said


    in a chilly tone. ¡°But, the only reason I went to find her was to question her why she wants to cancel the


    marriage between me and Zayn. I did nothing to her. Besides, how could I do anything to her when she


    has that man protecting her?¡± Anna said with an expression of grievance. Here, Gordon finally


    understood what was going on. He then looked at Anna and asked, ¡°Anna, did you go looking for


    Leanna?¡± Now that things hade to this, Anna knew thating up with an excuse would be


    pointless. All she could do now was to push as much of the me onto Leanna as possible. ¡°I only


    went to ask her about it. I never thought she would hit me like that. Plus, she had that strange man


    helping her. With how many men she has wrapped around her fingers, that child she had before might


    not even belong to the Pearsons¡­¡± Although Gordon did not like Anna, she was still a Pearson. It


    would taint the family¡¯s reputation should this be a known fact to the public.


    Hence, he would protect her at this moment. In a deep voice, Gordon said, ¡°Anna is the victim here.


    Why aren¡¯t you going after Leanna, buting after Anna? Aidan, you¡¯re¡ª¡± Aidan interrupted Gordon.


    ¡°I¡¯ve already told you that I¡¯m here to collect the debt from three years ago.¡± Upon Aidan¡¯s words, Anna


    widened her eyes with a chilling sensation creeping up her back. Three years ago¡­ Does that mean


    he already knows everything?! Before Gordon could speak, Anna eximed, ¡°It was Leanna who told


    you about that, right? Aidan, you must not believe what she said! That woman will do anything for the


    sake of getting married into the Pearson Family. This is all part of her scheme. She¡¯s doing this on


    purpose because she wants to get back at me!¡± Looking at Anna indifferently, Aidan asked, ¡°Then tell


    me, why would she want to get back at you?¡± ¡°I¡­¡± With how flustered Anna was at this moment, she


    struggled briefly ining up with an excuse.


    ¡°Aidan, you know that woman hates the Pearson Family. That¡¯s why she started her revenge on me.


    I¡¯m really innocent here and have nothing to do with that incident! It was all her fault! She faked her


    pregnancy and pinned that incident on me! I¡¯ve done nothing at all!¡± Anna exined urgently. Gordon¡¯s


    frown gradually became deeper as he listened to Anna¡¯s story. ¡°Anna, just what have you done?¡±


    Looking at the only lifeline here, Anna immediately went to Gordon and grabbed his sleeve. ¡°Uncle


    Gordon, please believe me. I didn¡¯t do anything at all. That woman is ndering me because of her


    hatred for the Pearsons!¡± Then, Aidan said indifferently, ¡°You¡¯re overthinking this. Leanna did not say


    anything to me.¡± Anna felt her heart drop and her body tensed up when she heard Aidan¡¯s words.


    Stiffly, she turned around to face him, tongue-tied, unable to utter a single word.

 Chapter 174

    Chapter 174


    Can¡¯t I Call You Even if I Have Nothing to Say? Anna felt her heart drop and her body tensed up when


    she heard Aidan¡¯s words. Stiffly, she turned around to face him, tongue-tied, unable to utter a single


    word. Just then, Sienna¡¯s voice came from upstairs. ¡°It¡¯s been three years already. What use do you


    have to talk about it now?¡± Anna nodded desperately in agreement. Taking a nce at Sienna, Aidan


    smiled coldly with his lips pursed. ¡°I¡¯m quite the vengeful person. Even if it was something that had


    happened thirty years ago, I will remember every single detail about it.¡± Sienna asked, ¡°Then, do you


    have any evidence?¡±


    Aidanughed sarcastically for a brief moment before he replied, ¡°Alright.¡± He then turned around and


    ordered his men, ¡°From now on, the moment Anna takes a step out of this house, just go ahead and


    break her legs. There is no need to report back to me before you do so since I don¡¯t care where her


    destination is.¡± Anna widened her eyes in disbelief. She then tried to make a final struggle against


    Aidan¡¯s instruction. ¡°Aunt Sienna¡­¡± Turning his attention back to Sienna, Aidan said, ¡°I¡¯ll find you your


    evidence. I won¡¯t be letting anyone who was involved off scot-free.¡± Although Sienna¡¯s expression


    remained the same, her grip on the railing gradually tightened. Then, Aidan broke eye contact and left


    with long strides. After Aidan left, Gordon took a seat on the couch before he asked, ¡°Anna, tell me


    honestly, what is going on?¡± ¡­ Inside the ck Rolls-Royce. Jonathan asked, ¡°President Pearson,


    since the incident happened three years ago, we might not be able to find evidence about it.


    Not to mention, Mrs. Pearson might have disposed of any evidence a long time ago.¡± Unsurprised by


    Jonathan¡¯s remark, Aidan said, ¡°If we can¡¯t find evidence three years ago, then we should turn our


    attention to a much recent incident.¡± ¡°President Pearson, are you referring to Madam¡¯s car ident?¡±


    Although everyone knew that the ident was orchestrated by Sienna, they were troubled by the fact


    that there was no evidence to pin Sienna as the mastermind. Aidan instructed, ¡°Keep searching for


    Sienna¡¯s men. They can¡¯t all be dead.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± After a while, Aidan said, ¡°Keep an eye on Anna.


    She may turn out to be crucial in taking down Sienna.¡± Hesitantly, Jonathan asked, ¡°Then, if Miss Anna


    does take a step out of the house, do we really¡­¡± ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m joking?¡± Jonathan immediately


    turned solemn. ¡°Understood.¡± Aidan then lowered the car window before he said in annoyance, ¡°Did


    Elijah and Leanna be closer recently?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s¡­ I¡¯ll investigate it right now.¡± ¡°No need,¡± Aidan said. ¡°Head to the studio.¡± Listening to Aidan,


    Jonathan became speechless briefly. Clearing his throat, he said, ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯m sure the


    studio is closed right now.¡± Aidan frowned. ¡°Then, to her house.¡± ¡°If we go there right now, Madam


    would definitely be angry¡­¡± With an extremely annoyed expression, Aidan asked, ¡°Then what am I


    supposed to do?¡± After pondering for a moment, a sh of inspiration came to Jonathan. ¡°We can try


    asking Madam whether the custom-made jewelry is done.¡± ¡°She would be angrier if I did that.¡± Looks


    like that won¡¯t work, Jonathan thought before he tried toe up with another idea. After a short


    moment, he said, ¡°President Pearson, must you meet with Madam right at this instant?¡± With his eyes


    widened slightly, Aidan looked at Jonathan indifferently. Jonathan immediately exined, ¡°What I mean


    is, with howte is it now, Madam might be fast asleep already.


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    How about wee up with a suitable reason tomorrow¡­¡± Aidan remained silent. Just when Jonathan


    thought that he could rx right now, Aidan said, ¡°Give me your phone.¡± Elsewhere. Leanna had just


    finished drawing up the design draft when her phone on her desk lit up, disying an unknown number.


    Rubbing her neck, she went outside the balcony to answer the phone as well as to take in some fresh


    air. ¡°Hello, who¡¯s this?¡± ¡°It¡¯s me.¡± Speechless upon hearing that man¡¯s voice, Leanna resisted the urge


    to immediately end the call and started ying dumb. ¡°I think you¡¯ve called the wrong number. I don¡¯t


    know¡ª¡± ¡°Leanna McKinney, just try ending the call now and see what happens after.¡± At that, Leanna


    gritted her teeth.


    ¡°Oh, so it¡¯s President Pearson. But, I don¡¯t remember this being your phone number.¡± ¡°Since you¡¯ve


    already cklisted my number, I wouldn¡¯t be able to get through to you unless I changed my number,


    no?¡± ¡°Oh,¡± Leanna answered while thinking to herself that she would cklist this number as well.


    Noticing that the b*stard remained silent, she asked, ¡°President Pearson, do you have something to


    say?¡± On the other end of the line, Aidan said in displeasure, ¡°Can¡¯t I call you even if I have nothing to


    say?¡± Leanna became puzzled at Aidan¡¯s reply. Just where did this b*stard get his courage to order me


    around? Not to mention, why does he think that I have to follow whatever he says? She then took a


    deep breath to calm herself before she said, ¡°I¡¯m busy. If you have nothing to say, President Pearson,


    then I¡¯ll¡ª¡± ¡°Did you meet Anna today?¡± ¡°Yeah. Not only did I meet her, but I even gave her a p. Are


    you calling to tell me off?¡± Ignoring Leanna¡¯s gloomy tone, Aidan said indifferently, ¡°She won¡¯t be


    appearing in front of you ever again.¡±


    Slightly taken aback by Aidan¡¯s words, Leanna asked tentatively, ¡°She¡¯s still alive, right?¡± ¡°Do you wish


    for her to be?¡± Leanna immediately noticed Aidan¡¯s tone was devoid of emotion, and that his question


    did not seem to be rhetorical, nor did he sound like he was joking. After a brief moment of silence, she


    said quietly, ¡°I only wish for her to get what she deserves.¡± ¡°She will,¡± Aidan said. Silently, Leanna


    turned her gaze far into the horizon. After a few seconds passed, Aidan spoke up again. ¡°What else do


    you want to say?¡± Speechless at how bold of Aidan to utter such a statement, as though she was the


    one harassing him with this call, she was about to make a retort but was interrupted by Aidan. ¡°Stay


    away from Elijah Parker.¡± Listening to howmanding Aidan¡¯s tone was, Leanna immediately


    refused. ¡°No! Why should I?!¡± With his voice bing gentler by a few levels, Aidan asked, ¡°Why


    not?¡± ¡°Then, let me throw that back at you. Why should I stay away from him?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t like it.¡± ¡°Oh, then


    that¡¯s your problem. It¡¯s got nothing to do with me in the slightest.¡± After that, she ended the call without


    waiting for Aidan to answer. Just what is wrong with this b*stard?


    Back in the ck Rolls-Royce, Jonathan could feel the temperature in the car had dropped to a


    dangerous level of coldness. Although he had extended his hand to try and get the phone back from


    Aidan, his survival instincts prevented him from doing so. If this goes just as I expected, Madam would


    definitely cklist this number as well, he thought. Fortunately, Jonathan was an outstanding assistant,


    as he owned several dozens of phone numbers. With a chilly expression, Aidan tossed the phone back


    to Jonathan and said, ¡°Let¡¯s go back.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± At Castor Vi. Aidan switched on the lights in the


    cold guest room. That heartless woman really took everything with her. When he returned to his room,


    he went to his cloakroom and took his tie off. It was then his eyes fell on the row of untouched clothes


    and pieces of jewelry. A few secondster, the man¡¯s thin lips curled into a smile.

 Chapter 175

    Chapter 175


    Then I Can Refuse to Answer Too The next afternoon, Leanna had just finished eating and was about


    to enter the office when a call from an unknown number appeared on her phone. After her experience


    from the previous day, she looked at her phone and hesitated for a while before picking up without


    saying anything, preparing to hang up as soon as she heard that b*stard¡¯s voiceing from the other


    end. She would never give him a chance to threaten her. Unexpectedly, what she heard was the voice


    of an unfamiliar man. ¡°Hello, Miss McKinney, I¡¯m from the movingpany. Are you at home now?


    We¡¯ve already arrived downstairs at your house.¡± She was puzzled. ¡°Movingpany? I¡¯m not moving


    at all.¡±


    ¡°Yes, let me verify again. You¡¯re Leanna, Miss McKinney, right?¡± She frowned. ¡°Who called you?¡± ¡°I¡¯m


    sorry, Miss McKinney, it only shows your name, address and contact information.¡± Leanna fell silent


    before she took a deep breath. ¡°In that case, please wait for me. I¡¯lle back now.¡± After hanging up,


    she kept her phone and exited her office. Seeing that, Zoe asked, ¡°Nana, where are you going?¡± ¡°The


    movingpany called me and said that they¡¯re already downstairs, so I¡¯m going back.¡± ¡°Huh? Let me


    come with you.¡± Leanna refused. ¡°It¡¯s all right, I¡¯ll go back alone.¡± A girl was already on leave today and


    another had gone for lunch. If she left, Zoe would be the only one left in the studio. After a moment of


    deliberation, Zoe handed the car keys to her. ¡°All right, go and see what¡¯s going on. If anythinges


    up, just give me a call.¡±


    ¡°All right.¡± The studio was not far from her apartment, so Leanna arrived home in just a few minutes.


    When she opened the car door, she saw the movingpany¡¯s car parked nearby. They had also


    spotted her and instantly walked over. ¡°Are you Miss McKinney?¡± She nodded. The man waved his


    colleague over, who dragged arge box over on a cart. ¡°Miss McKinney, please sign here. We¡¯ll bring


    it up for you.¡± She asked, ¡°Do you have a de that I can borrow?¡± ¡°Here.¡± She used the de to cut


    through the tape around the box. When she saw that it was filled with clothes and not anything


    terrifying, she finally let out a subtle sigh of relief and said, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, these don¡¯t belong to me. Please


    send it back to where you got it from.¡± The movers clearly didn¡¯t expect this result, and they instantly


    became troubled.


    ¡°Miss McKinney, this is an order sent directly by thepany with orders that it must be delivered to


    you. If we send it back, we¡¯ll be fired.¡± His colleague piped up, ¡°Miss McKinney, I¡¯m begging you. It¡¯s my


    first day at work, and my sister is still in school. I can¡¯t lose this job.¡± Leanna¡¯s temples throbbed. This


    method of threatening had that b*stard¡¯s name written all over it. After a few moments of silence, she


    gave in. ¡°Bring it upstairs.¡± ¡°Thank you, Miss McKinney!¡± ¡°Miss McKinney, you¡¯re the best!¡± When she


    returned to the studio, Zoe saw that Leanna lookedpletely exhausted and couldn¡¯t help but ask,


    ¡°Nana, what happened?¡± She shook her head weakly and forced a smile on her face as she returned


    the car keys to her. ¡°I¡¯m going to continue drafting.¡± Sitting at her desk, she forced herself to cheer up


    and not easily lose her spirit over some mild difficulties. It was precisely because she knew that b*stard


    was deliberately causing trouble for her in order to make her beg for his mercy that she knew she only


    had to ignore his actions.


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    However, she didn¡¯t expect that he would be persistent enough to mail a big box over for several days.


    Soon, theirfortable and slightly spacious apartment was piled with boxes, leaving no room for them


    to even walk. Zoe opened the boxes skillfully and took out a ruby ne, her eyes lighting up at the


    sight. ¡°Wow, I¡¯ve seen this ne at a photography exhibition before. Apparently it¡¯s worth tens of


    millions. How did it get stuffed in a box like this? Is Aidan crazy or am I the one who¡¯s lost my mind?¡±


    Leanna, who was nestling on the couch, nced up, thinking that the ne seemed a little familiar.


    It was probably during one of her birthdays that Jonathan said it was a gift from one of thepany¡¯s


    clients. Immediately afterward, Zoe found many more treasures from the box. ¡°This earring, this, and


    this¡­ Wow, this coat is a limited edition from a foreign luxury brand!¡± Zoe looked at the boxes with a


    startled gaze. Apart from the clothes, most of the jewelry inside was given to her from Jonathan who


    either said that they were from thepany¡¯s clients or as part of thepany¡¯s benefits, and she had


    never expected each of them to be so expensive.


    If she had known that, she would¡¯ve taken one or two things away back then so that she wouldn¡¯t be so


    helpless when Aidan asked her to return the money. Sitting next to her, she sighed quietly. ¡°I really


    couldn¡¯t tell that that b*stard would actually be generous enough to give you such pricey gifts.¡± After a


    moment of deliberation, Leanna picked up her phone before getting up. ¡°Zoe, I¡¯m going to make a


    phone call.¡± She said through a bite of strawberry, ¡°Go on.¡± As she walked to the balcony, she found


    Aidan¡¯s number from her blocklist and called him. Within a few seconds, he picked up, and his


    indifferent voice sounded from the other end. ¡°Speak.¡± She said, ¡°President Pearson, stop sending


    things over. I don¡¯t need any of them.¡± Hearing that, he paused. ¡°You don¡¯t need them?¡± ¡°Yes¡­¡± Before


    she could finish, he continued, ¡°Leanna, you¡¯re overthinking it. I¡¯m not giving you those things as a


    present, but you were the one who left them at Castor Vi without taking them away.¡± She was


    rendered speechless. Aidan said, ¡°Since you don¡¯t have the time toe over and take them, is there


    a problem with me asking someone to send them over to you?¡± After a long while, she only managed to


    squeeze out a word, ¡°No.¡± He concluded, ¡°That¡¯s good.


    There¡¯s still more left in the closet.¡± There was a moment of silence before Leanna hurriedly


    interrupted, ¡°President Pearson! President Pearson, I don¡¯t want any of these things. Please give them


    to someone else or something, all right?¡± ¡°That¡¯s your problem. It has nothing to do with me.¡± She fell


    silent. See, this b*stard can really hold a grudge. Just as she was about to smash her phone out of


    frustration, he slowly spoke up, ¡°This isn¡¯t a difficult problem to solve.


    You just have to go somewhere with me this weekend.¡± Leanna scoffed coldly, having expected that he


    had ulterior motives. She rejected, ¡°President Pearson, I have ns this weekend.¡± ¡°With who?¡± ¡°A


    friend.¡± ¡°Which friend?¡± Leanna¡¯s hands tightened around the window rails. ¡°President Pearson, I don¡¯t


    have the obligation to report everything I do to you.¡± Aidan scoffed. ¡°When did I ask you to report to


    me? I was just asking you.¡± ¡°Oh, then I can refuse to answer too.¡± Her words rendered him speechless.

 Chapter 176

    Chapter 176


    It Would Only Backfire if He Insisted After hanging up, Leanna let out a deep breath and returned to the


    living room. Zoe asked, ¡°What happened? What did that b*stard say?¡± Leanna curled up cozily on the


    couch and said wearily, ¡°He asked me to go somewhere with him this weekend.¡± ¡°But you¡­¡± ¡°That¡¯s


    why I rejected him.¡± Zoe pondered for a moment before she leaned over and asked, ¡°Sweetie, don¡¯t


    you think that Aidan is acting a little bit strangetely?¡± Leanna scoffed at her question. ¡°He¡¯s not only


    strange. He¡¯s practically torturing me even more than usual.¡± ¡°Do you think he¡¯s really torturing you?¡±


    Leanna felt exhausted, and even her voice sounded tired. ¡°What else could it be?¡±


    Zoe summarized, ¡°Don¡¯t you think that his recent actions are almost like an elementary schooler who


    doesn¡¯t know how to show his affection and always uses silly ways to get the attention of the girl that


    he likes?¡± Leanna turned speechless. After a long silence, she reached up and touched Zoe¡¯s forehead


    with a hand, touching her own with the other. She said with a frown, ¡°You don¡¯t have a fever, do you?¡±


    ¡°Hey.¡± Zoe pushed her hand away. ¡°I¡¯m being serious. Besides, didn¡¯t that b*stard admit that he likes


    you before? I think that there¡¯s a high chance I could be right.¡± Leanna settled into the couch again and


    said indifferently, ¡°To someone like him, like is just an adjective that doesn¡¯t have any significant


    meaning.¡± Zoe sighed, agreeing with her. After that, Zoe went out to throw the trash. Five minutester,


    she rushed back inside with an excited expression. ¡°Nana! Nana!¡± Leanna asked, ¡°What happened?¡±


    ¡°Do you remember that mixed-race hottie we met in the elevator? I saw him again just now. Guess


    what, he¡¯s the neighbor who just moved in next to us!


    He¡¯s moved in for a few days already, so we should go over and say hello.¡± Saying that, Zoe ran into


    the bathroom. ¡°No, no, I have to go and wash my hair and do my makeup so that I won¡¯t scare him


    away.¡± Seeing that, Leanna smiled. ¡°There¡¯s a cake I bought in the fridge. You can give it to him.¡± ¡°Love


    you!¡± Because of Aidan¡¯s phone call, Leanna wasn¡¯t in the mood to work on her drafts anymore. She


    changed her clothes instead, deciding to go for a jog. Before she left, she asked, ¡°Zoe, I¡¯m going out.


    Do you need anything?¡± ¡°Get me some supper. I didn¡¯t eat enough at dinner.¡± ¡°All right.¡± After hearing


    the sound of the door closing, Zoe nced at the time and saw that it was half past nine, so she


    hurriedly finished washing her hair. If she went over toote, she would be disturbing his rest. After


    blow drying her hair, she quickly put on a neat makeup look and put on her best dress, then took out


    the cake from the refrigerator and knocked on the door next to theirs. It took almost two minutes before


    the door was opened.


    Zoe wore a polite smile and said, ¡°Hello, nice to meet you. I¡¯m¡­¡± The man nced at the cake in her


    hands before reaching out to pull the door shut. ¡°I don¡¯t want to buy anything.¡± Zoe hurriedly stopped


    him from closing the door. She kept the smile on her face as she exined, ¡°Sir, I¡¯m your neighbor. I


    noticed that you just moved in, so I came to say hello.¡± Hearing that, he let go of the door handle.


    ¡°Sorry.¡± She smoothed her dress, trying to maintain a good image in front of him. ¡°It¡¯s fine. This cake is


    for you.¡± ¡°No, thank you. I¡¯m not a big fan of desserts.¡± ¡°All right.¡± Zoe took back the cake sheepishly.


    Then, she said, ¡°By the way, I am Zoe. I live in the next door with my friend. May I know how do I


    address you?¡± He replied nonchntly, ¡°Daniel.¡± ¡°Then¡­ I guess I¡¯ll go back now. Since we¡¯re all


    neighbors, if you need any help, just let me know. After all, a good neighbor is better than a brother far


    away.¡± Daniel smiled at her slightly, then closed the door. Zoe stood outside the door. She looked at the


    cake that had not been given out, could not help but to twitch her mouth. Half an hourter, when


    Leanna came back with barbecue, she saw Zoe sitting on the couch and sullenly eating the cake.


    Leanna changed her shoes and walked over, asking, ¡°He wasn¡¯t at home?¡±


    ¡°He was.¡± Zoe sighed broodily. ¡°At first, he thought I was going to sell him something and nearly shut


    the door in my face. Then, I told him that we¡¯re neighbors and that he could let me know if he needs


    anything. He just faked a smile at me before he immediately closed the door.¡± After that, she ced the


    cake down and said in a way as if she had been motivated, ¡°No, I can¡¯t just back down like this. Most


    hot guys have a bad temper, right? I have to use my kindness to win his heart. Isn¡¯t that always how it


    goes in the movies? As long as I¡¯m kind enough, he will definitely like me back.¡± Leanna turned


    speechless. She ced the food in front of Zoe and said, ¡°Don¡¯t have to wait for me, you can eat first.


    I¡¯ll go and take a shower.¡± ¡­ At Pearson Group, Aidan was holding his phone, his brows were deeply


    furrowed. After a while, he lifted his head and said coldly, ¡°Please go and find out what Elijah is doing


    this weekend.¡± ¡°Yes, sir.¡± Ten minutester, Jonathan knocked on his office door and reported,


    ¡°President Pearson, we found out that President Parker isn¡¯t working on Saturday. As for his personal


    ns, we still don¡¯t know anything about it yet¡­


    ¡± Aidan pursed his lips as he leaned back on his chair with a cold expression. ¡°Leanna is going on a


    date with him.¡± Jonathan asked, ¡°President Pearson, how can you be so sure?¡± ¡°Instinct.¡± Jonathan


    was at a loss for words. Sometimes, a man¡¯s instinct can be very unreasonable. Aidan got up and


    ordered, ¡°Go and find out what personal ns Elijah has on this weekend.¡± ¡°All right,¡± after a pause,


    Jonathan asked, ¡°Do I still have to send the clothes from Castor Vi to Mrs. Pearson?¡± ¡°Forget it.¡± It


    would only backfire if he insisted. ¡­ On Saturday, after receiving Elijah¡¯s call, Leanna said to Zoe,


    ¡°Let¡¯s go. He¡¯s here.¡± Zoe turned around before she frowned. ¡°Are you going to wear that?¡± Leanna


    looked down at her clothes. It was what she usually wore. ¡°Yeah, what¡¯s wrong with it?¡± ¡°No way, today


    we¡¯re¡­¡± Suddenly, an idea shed into Zoe¡¯s mind. So, she hurriedly changed the subject. ¡°We¡¯re


    going to a concert, so how can you dress so casually?


    It¡¯s disrespectful toward the musicians.¡± Leanna couldn¡¯t find the words to reply. Zoe pushed Leanna


    into the room and took out all the dresses that she bought with Leanna the other day. She picked a


    slim-fitting wool dress that could show off Leanna¡¯s curves, along with a brown coat. ¡°Do your makeup


    after you change into this.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve already done my makeup.¡± ¡°There is no way that you¡¯re going to the


    concert with that light make up. Please redo it properly. Try be more respectful of the event.¡± Leanna


    tried to refuse, ¡°Elijah is already here. We can¡¯t make him wait for too long.¡± ¡°What¡¯s wrong with that?


    Pretty girls are always fashionablyte. I believe that he¡¯ll be more than happy to wait for you.¡± ¡°¡­¡­¡±


    Leanna became speechless at her words.N?velDrama.Org owns this.

 Chapter 177

    Chapter 177


    Chapter 177 Boldly Take That First Step Elijah stood beside his car on the first floor of the apartment as he


    spoke on the phone.


    Some time seemed to have passed when Zoe''s voice rang out from behind. ¡°Elijah." "That is all for


    now,"he said in a low voice into the phone. After he put his phone away and looked in the direction the


    voice came from, his gaze froze when he saw Leanna. Zoe, who noticed this, raised her eyebrows in


    content when she saw that her n had bore fruit. Leanna gave him an apologetic smile then. "Sorry


    for making you wait," she said. Elijah snapped back to reality the moment he heard her words. "N-No


    worries... I haven''t been here for long." "Let''s be on our way, then," Zoe urged while holding back her


    laugh."The concert is about to start." He nodded in response. "Hop in." On the way to the concert, Zoe


    kept talking to Elijah to liven up the mood as Leanna enjoyed the fresh air outside with the car window


    slightly lowered. The weather that day was pleasant. The sun that shone bright made the weather


    much warmer than it was in the past few days. When Zoe noticed Leanna''s attention was elsewhere,


    she leaned forward a little and whispered, "Can I ask you something, Elijah?" "Sure. Ask away," said


    Elijah. "Have you been in any rtionship these few years?" "No." He must not have expected such a


    question from Zoe, as his answer came sounding slightly startled. "And why is that?" He smiled when


    he saw Leanna leaning against the window through the rear-view mirror. "Probably because I haven''t


    found someone suitable," he murmured. Hearing that, Zoe purposefully asked, "Is it because of that, or


    is it because someone already has your heart?" Elijah turned quiet this time around. He didn''t know


    what to say. It was true that he had had a crush on Leanna from the time when they were students.


    Despite that, he had never even considered making a move because he had always thought that she


    and Zayn would someday end up getting married. Everyone, Elijah included, thought that the duo were


    a match made in heaven. That was why it came as a surprise to Elijah when the one Zayn ended up


    getting engaged to was Anna. However, Elijah hadn''t heard any news about Leanna at that point. It


    was for his own selfish intentions that he agreed to have a meet-up with his ssmates¡ªhe wanted to


    see her. Seeing that he didn''t say anything, Zoe immediately knew that she had made the correct


    guess again and she encouraged, "You must seize the opportunity and boldly take that first step if you


    have someone you like." He hesitated for a moment before he replied, "But I don''t know what she


    thinks of me." Elijah was afraid they would not even be friends anymore if he told Leanna of his


    feelings. "She doesn''t have a boyfriend now, anyway. Give it a try." Instead of answering her, the man


    turned to look at Zoe with suspicious eyes. He probably didn''t expect she would make a correct guess.


    She raised her chin at him and after stealing a nce at Leanna, Zoe said to him in a voice that only


    they could hear. "Don''t worry, I will help you." He thought for a moment before nodding. "Okay." The


    traffic wasn''t the smoothest and by the time they arrived outside the concert location, the sky had


    already started to turn dark. When Zoe saw the crowd that was attending the concert, she let out a wow


    and asked, "Elijah, is your friend that good?" "Yes." He smiled. "He is amazing. He has won several


    international music awards." While waiting for Elijah to park his car, she nudged Leanna with her elbow


    before asking, "Hey, did you hear what Elijah and I were talking about in the car?" "Huh? What did you


    talk about?" Leanna seemed somewhat confused. She had been in a daze the whole time they were in


    the car that she really didn''t hear their conversation. Zoe let out a mysterious smile upon hearing that.


    "It is nothing," she murmured. Elijah soon came after he parked the car. "Let''s head in." After entering


    the concert hall, Zoe deliberately took a step back to let Elijah and Leanna walk together. This way,


    they would be next to each other when they sat downter. Elijah''s friend had given him great seats in


    the front row, where they could see the stage clearly. They were a littlete, so the concert started as


    soon as they sat down. Just as Zoe was secretly cheering about her n being sessful again,


    Leanna whispered in her ear, "Look onstage." "Huh? What?" Zoe subconsciously looked over, only for


    her eyes to widen when she saw Daniel appearing on the stage and gasped. "Why is he here?" When


    Elijah overheard their conversation, he asked them in a low voice, "You know him?" "He lives right next


    door. He has only moved there recently." Leanna, who was sitting between them, answered. After a


    slight pause, she asked in return, "Is that the friend you said who lives in our area?" Elijah nodded in


    response. ¡°But I didn''t think he would so coincidentally live right beside your ce." On the other hand,


    Zoe was dumbfounded. She truly believed that the love story between a normal girl and a musical


    genius had finally begun. The hall fell silent as soon as the music reverberated throughout the space.


    Zoe, too, stared at the stage intently without blinking. About half an hourter, she suddenly feltMaterial ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    someone tap her on the shoulder. She didn''t look over, and proceeded to shrug and ignore the person.


    However, instead of giving up because of this, they urgently tapped her again. Annoyed, she turned her


    head and was about to yell at the person for doing this out of spite, but she became quiet the moment


    she was greeted with an indifferent look on the person''s face. Aidan then hooked a finger at her as he


    tilted his head. Zoe knew that he was gesturing for her to switch seats with her, but she only stayed


    there hesitating. She had painstakingly brought the two together to watch the concert, and even had


    them sit next to each other. This was supposed to be the perfect time for Elijah and Leanna to cultivate


    their feelings. If Aidan was here to get in the way, wouldn''t that be... The man now had his lips pursed


    slightly as he peered at her with a warning gaze. The instant Zoe felt a chill crawl up her back, she


    quickly got up and switched seats with him. In the end, she repeatedly assured herself, I have many


    more chances to set them up, but I only have one life to live. Leanna had been so fixated on the stage


    that she did not notice what was happening beside her. She felt her right hand being held all of a


    sudden. She was caught off-guard for a moment. Even though Zoe would sometimes hold her hand or


    hug her arm, it never felt this cheesy. This didn''t feel like something she would do. Right when Leanna


    was trying to figure out what was happening, the fingers of the hand that held hers had already slid


    between her fingers, and was gently grabbing her by the palm. She turned around, only to see that the


    person beside her had been switched out. Leanna was at a loss for words. As though provoking her,


    the man looked into her eyes with his eyebrows raised ever- so slightly. She managed to suppress the


    anger that instantly bubbled up, but she tried hard to pull her hand out of his grip. Although Aidan


    looked as if he wasn''t using any force, she still couldn''t pry her hand away. She must have been jerking


    too forcefully that Elijah looked over at her. "Leanna? What''s wrong?" he asked. Immediately, Leanna


    pulled her hand, along with Aidan''s, and hid it behind her. She even shed Elijah an oddly natural


    smile as she said, "It is nothing. Just a slight difort. Let''s continue to watch the show."

 Chapter 178

    Chapter 178


    Chapter 178 It''s Not Like You Never Cared for Madam A frown appeared on Elijah''s face when he heard


    Leanna''s words."Should we go to the hospital?" he asked. "No, no.


    It is just an old sickness. I will be fine after a short rest."


    "Are you sure you arealright?" He still couldn''t help being concerned even after she said that. "Yes, I


    really am," she replied with a big nod. "Alright, then." Elijah pursed his lips. "You have to tell me if you


    still feel unwell, though. We will make a trip to the hospital." "Okay." He didn''t seem to have noticed


    anything odd due to the dim lighting at the audience''s seats. Leanna only turned to look at Aidan with


    zing eyes after Elijah looked away from her. She then mouthed, "Let go!" Aidan only pretended to


    not hear her as he looked at the stage. Seeing this, she took a deep breath, raised her leg and, with all


    her might, stomped on his foot. He finally had a taste of her wrath when her high-heeled shoe stepped


    on him. Sure enough, she heard a low groan from the man beside her. Even so, he continued to hold


    her hand without letting go. Leanna suddenly felt enraged to see him being so shameless for the first


    time. Just as she was about to bring her foot up a second time, Aidan quickly released her hand from


    his grip. Serves you right! she thought while scoffing. She was no longer in the mood to watch the


    performance anymore after this absurd incident. She took the chance when Daniel had gotten off the


    stage for an outfit change to turn her head and whisper, "I''m sorry, Elijah. I have to leave now." Leanna


    swiftly stood up after saying that. Seeing this, Elijah quickly stood up and went after her while offering,


    "Let me give you a ride." However, as he was passing by her seat, he unexpectedly noticed Aidan


    sitting in the seat that originally belonged to Zoe. Aidan looked indifferent, and he had no expression


    whatsoever on his face. Out of courtesy, Elijah gave him a greeting. Aidan''s tongue darted out to lick


    his thin lower lip as he watched them leave one after another. He then lowered his gaze to look at his


    palm that still had Leanna''s lingering warmth before he also got up. Zoe was still sitting in her seat


    when her eyes flickered between the exit and the stage, and she finally had no choice but to stomp


    outside to follow after them "Are you still not feeling well, Leanna?" Elijah called out to Leanna to stop


    her when they were in the corridor. Her steps came to a stop before she turned around and shook herN?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    head. "No. It''s just that something came up." "Where are you heading to? I will drop you off." "It is fine.


    There''s no need to trouble yourself. I can go there myself. You should go back into the hall." He let out


    a smile at that. "It just so happens that I feel a little stuffy being in there, and I want toe out for a


    stroll. Let me walk you to the exit." Leanna couldn''t refuse anymore after hearing his words, so the two


    walked outside together. Elijah spoke again after a while. "Leanna, if you''re free tomorrow night, can I


    invite you to dinner?" She thought about it, and feeling somewhat embarrassed to abruptly leave like


    this today, she suggested, "I do have time, but let me buy you dinner instead. I am really sorry about


    today." "Don''t worry about it. You really don''t have to take it to heart." "Alright, I will let Zoe know when I


    get home. We will see you tomorrow." Leanna smiled at him. However, Elijah suddenly murmured,


    "Leanna, I want it to be just the two of us tomorrow. Don''t ask Zoe toe along." Upon hearing that,


    Leanna was slightly startled and she froze. Meanwhile, Elijah observed her reaction and asked


    tentatively, "Is that okay?" Just as she was unable toe up with a response, a cold male voice came


    from behind them. "No." Hearing this, Elijah turned around, only to call out in surprise, "President


    Pearson?" Aidan walked to Leanna and stood beside her, his eyes shifting to Elijah as he spoke. "She


    has ns for tomorrow." "What ns do I have?" Leanna was the one who questioned. Seemingly


    dissatisfied with her not going along with him, Aidan immediately pursed his lips and peered at her from


    the corner of his eye. "Just know that you do because I said so," he muttered. She let out a forced


    laugh at that. She then smiled at Elijah and said, "Sure. Let''s do it." Elijah seemed surprised at first, but


    he soon nodded. "I wille pick you up tomorrow, then." With a smile, she bid him farewell. "I am off.


    I''ll see you tomorrow." Leanna then turned around and started to march away after saying that. Aidan


    was about to go after her when someone grabbed him by the arm. Upon being stopped, he sneered,


    "Let go." "Can I ask what are you doing now, President Pearson?" Elijah asked. "It has got nothing to


    do with you." "Why do you think so? I believe that you can tell I am pursuing Leanna. I canpete


    fairly with you if you are also pursuing her, but please stop acting so overbearingly. I hope you show


    her some respect, President Pearson." When Aidan heard that, he looked back at Elijah and chuckled


    coldly. "Who told you that I am pursuing her?" "If you are not, can you give a good exnation for your


    behavior?" Elijah asked in return. "Sure." Aidan then said slowly, "Let me remind you too that Leanna is


    my wife, President Parker. Please stay away from her." A small voice interrupted them right at this


    moment. "Ex-wife, you mean." When Aidan wordlessly looked over, Zoe immediately turned away and


    looked at everything but him as she pretended that nothing happened. There was no way anyone could


    break up the couple she had paired together! "So that is how it is." Elijah let out a chuckle, which


    prompted Aidan to look at him again. "Will you still continue sticking around now that you know what


    our rtionship is, President Parker?" Elijah onlymented, "I''ve heard that you have a wife whom


    you don''t treat like one. Could it be that you are regretting it after the divorce? In my opinion, the


    person who is relentlessly sticking around is you, President Pearson." Aidan''s expression gradually


    started to darken as he looked at Elijah coldly. Elijah then continued, "I am truly grateful that you are


    telling me this. I finally know what Leanna has had to go through in the past. In the future, I will treat her


    way better than you did to make up for the grief she suffered in the past." After he finished speaking,


    Elijah nodded slightly to Aidan, and turned to leave. Seeing this, Zoe hurried after the man. She was


    worried she would be exterminated by Aidan if she continued to stay there. Jonathan soon came in


    after the two of them left. "President Pearson," he reported. "Mrs. Pearson is heading that way." Aidan,


    however, asked in a casual tone, "Do you also think that Leanna did nothing but suffer in the three


    years she was married to me?" "Um..." Jonathan had a feeling that this was a question that didn''t have


    a right answer. But he knew that he might have to pay with his life if he somehow answered wrongly.


    After he weighed it over the next few seconds, he gingerly answered, "President Pearson, I do think


    you have some misunderstanding about Mrs. Pearson, but... it is not like you never cared for her."


    "What are some examples of me showing her I care?" Jonathan kept quiet when nothing came to mind.


    Aidan was never someone who uttered pleasant words. He might have improved a lot now, but


    Jonathan had witnessed firsthand how many hurtful things hade out of Aidan''s mouth in the past


    three years. Not to mention what Aidan would say to Leanna when they were alone, the words


    Jonathan had heard from Aidan would have been enough to warrant curses all the way back to his


    ancestors. Noticing how quiet Jonathan had be after his question, Aidan clenched his jaw and


    walked out of the ce.

 Chapter 179

    Chapter 179


    Chapter 179 Has Anyone Ever Said That You Are Shameless Not feeling like going home aftering


    out of the concert hall, Leanna went on a stroll along the street. After walking for some time, she came


    to a small yground. Most of the people in the yground were children around two to three years


    old, running and jumping around with innocent and bright smiles on their faces. Looking at them,


    Leanna eventually stopped and stood outside the yground, the corners of her lips slowly raised.


    After a few minutes, the calm voice of a man rang out from beside her. ¡°Is it fun to watch?¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    The smile on her face was gone in an instant as she looked away. She then replied in an indifferent


    voice, ¡°You will never know what I am looking at, President Pearson.¡± ¡°And how do you know that?¡± He


    slid one hand into the pocket of his pants. ¡°Because you wouldn¡¯t be here making sarcastic remarks if


    you did.¡± Leanna didn¡¯t want to argue with the man any longer, so she turned around and continued


    walking. To her surprise, Aidan followed after her rather leisurely. It felt like Weavside all over again.


    Feeling more and more irritated as she walked, Leanna came to an abrupt stop and turned her head to


    look at him with a cold gaze. He also stopped the moment she did. With his dark eyes staring intently at


    her, Aidan raised his eyebrows slightly. ¡°What?¡± he asked. ¡°Tell me, President Pearson¡ªwhy do you


    keep following me?¡± From his past temperament, Leanna had a feeling Aidan was going to say


    something along the lines of ¡°Is your name written on the road?¡±, or ¡°Why can¡¯t I walk here?¡±


    Unexpectedly, he only calmly uttered, ¡°You are a gorgeous woman. I am worried that someone with


    bad intentions will do something to you.¡±


    With that, she fell into a silence thatsted for a whole 30 seconds. She never dreamed there would


    come a day when she would hear such wordsing out of his mouth. Wouldn¡¯t he be the one with the


    illest intentions? Leanna fumed as she went mute. She could only continue with her walk. Only a few


    minutes had passed when Aidan spoke from behind again. ¡°Your face turned red earlier, Leanna


    McKinney. Were you shy?¡± After a short pause, she muttered, ¡°No!¡± I obviously was shocked, alright?


    ¡°Then why were you getting all flushed for?¡± he asked again. ¡°I feel warm.¡± ¡°How can you feel warm


    with so little clothes on?¡± When she proceeded to ignore him, he asked again, ¡°Did you get all dressed


    up and made up just to go on a date with Elijah Parker?¡± She only continued to ignore him. ¡°Can you


    tell that he is interested in you?¡± Leanna finally sucked in a deep breath before she sighed. ¡°What are


    you trying to say, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t tell him yes.¡± ¡°Why?¡± she asked with augh. ¡°Are you going to give me a weak and flimsy


    excuse saying you don¡¯t like it, President Pearson?¡± Aidan stared at her for a moment and only uttered


    after a few seconds, ¡°No.¡± ¡°Then there is no reason for you to¡ª¡± ¡°It is because I like you.¡± ¡°Oh.¡±


    Leanna¡¯s reaction was surprisingly calm. He then pursed his lips and repeated, ¡°Don¡¯t tell him yes.¡±


    She let out a soft smile upon hearing that. ¡°Why do you think that I will listen to you? Is there something


    I should be happy about hearing you say you like me? Or should I buy some fireworks to celebrate


    this?¡± ¡°I have no objection if you think that makes you happy.¡± I almost forgot what a smart-mouth this


    b*stard has. Leanna was about to leave when Aidan suddenly spoke softly. ¡°I am sorry for everything


    that happened in the past.¡± This was the first time that she had heard him say he was sorry in such a


    tone. Even his attitude seemed sincere. At least he wasn¡¯t trying to escte the situation by telling her


    to put the me on him anymore. Still, she couldn¡¯t understand why. ¡°You don¡¯t need to tell me this,¡±


    Leanna said indifferently. ¡°I am just a woman who will do anything to get what I want. How can I


    possibly deserve an apology from you, President Pearson?¡±


    ¡°I have the final say on whether you deserve it or not,¡± Aidan growled. Leanna was speechless upon


    hearing that. D*mn b*stard and his shameless way of apologizing! Not wanting to continue going back


    and forth with Aidan, Leanna said, ¡°Okay, I will ept your apology regardless of what you are


    apologizing for. Now that we have reached this agreement, there shouldn¡¯t be a need for further contact


    between us. May I implore you to stoping at¡ª¡± Her view suddenly darkened before she finished


    speaking, and she felt cold, thin lips pressed against hers, stopping her from continuing her words. She


    was startled at first, but she quickly reacted by pushing him away. Her eyes had turned red at this point.


    ¡°Have you lost your mind, Aidan?!¡± As though relishing the taste, Aidan licked his lips before he


    hummed, ¡°You are the one who said you would ept my apology.¡± ¡°Is that all you heard me say?!¡±


    ¡°Mhm. I didn¡¯t want to hear the rest.¡± She had started to think that he was a real lunatic. Not wanting to


    continue the pointless banter, Leanna then turned around and stood by the roadside to get a ride.


    Aidan went and stood beside her as his eyes nced at the road.


    ¡°It will be hard to get a taxi now. Let me send you home, alright?¡± She only balled her fists without


    giving him any response. Seeing this, he added, ¡°You can kiss me back if you are angry. I am fine with


    it anyway. I am not as stingy as you are.¡± Leanna had no choice but to walk further ahead when she


    realized that it did seem impossible to get a taxi. The new heels she had on were starting to dig into her


    skin and coupled with her annoyance, she decided to take off her shoes and hurl them at the person


    behind her. ¡°Stop following me!¡± she roared. Aidan managed to grab the shoes as she flung them his


    way. ¡°Leanna.¡± He frowned as he stated, ¡°The weather is only 7 degrees tonight.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter


    even if it is negative 7 degrees. I could die a human popsicle, and it still has nothing to do with you!¡±


    Leanna was now burning with fury from head to toe. Not only was she not cold, her body felt like a


    vessel for fire that couldn¡¯t be released anywhere. After she walked a few steps, she suddenly felt a


    hand wrapped around her waist. The very next second, she was being scooped into Aidan¡¯s arms.


    However, she looked at him without an ounce of emotion on her face as she deadpanned, ¡°President


    Pearson, has anyone ever said that you are shameless?¡± ¡°You are the first person to say that,¡± he


    mused. ¡°It is an honor.¡± ¡°You can get two boxes of fireworks now.¡± She sneered at that. ¡°President


    Pearson,¡± she added quietly. ¡°Even though I don¡¯t know what you are thinking, I can tell you very


    clearly that I don¡¯t like you, and I never will.¡± His face remained unchanging even after she said that.


    ¡°Don¡¯t draw conclusions so fast.¡± ¡°You only need to recall how much you detested, loathed, and


    scorned me before we divorced. You will know exactly how I feel about you now.¡± ¡°It is not the same,¡±


    he said. ¡°How is it not the same?¡±


    ¡°I might have been¡­ You still got in bed with me back then.¡± This was the first time Leanna felt such a


    strong headache hit her. She didn¡¯t want to refute him at all. Aidan continued, ¡°And even if I treated you


    like that before, I like you now. No one can guarantee that you won¡¯t be tempted by me in the future.¡±


    Leanna¡¯s voice was quiet when she mumbled, ¡°Can you bring that child back to life, Aidan?¡± When he


    didn¡¯t answer her, she smilingly uttered, ¡°What makes you so confidently say something like this if you


    can¡¯t do that?¡± Like a dreadful river that couldn¡¯t be crossed, that child was the reason Leanna could


    never go back to Aidan.

 Chapter 180

    Chapter 180


    Chapter 180 Doesn¡¯t Seem Like He¡¯d Give Up Five minutester, Jonathan stopped the car next to


    Leanna and Aidan, thereafter getting out of the car quickly to open the door to the backseat. After


    Aidan helped Leanna in, he went around the car and got in from the other side. When Jonathan was


    about to type in the address on the GPS, he suddenly thought of what happenedst time, and he


    coughed and called out in a low voice, ¡°Miss McKinney?¡± She only indifferently told him an address


    before she leaned into the corner of the seat and shut her eyes. After a while, she felt a shirt being


    used to cover her torso.


    She neither moved nor spoke to him. Seeing her tilt her body and having her back toward him, Aidan


    instructed Jonathan to start driving. ¡°Understood,¡± Jonathan replied. With how silent the car was the


    entire journey home, Aidan had a feeling that Leanna had really fallen asleep. As he quietly looked at


    her from the corner of his eye, he suddenly recalled the question she asked him earlier. Even though


    Little Pea was doing much better than at the beginning, there was still no guarantee that another


    ident wouldn¡¯t happen again in the future. Aidan would send Little Pea back to Leanna after it was


    doing better after some time. Still, there was no point in letting her know all about this now.


    Leanna must have felt the lingering gaze on her and she, initially like a person who was asleep,


    reached out a hand from the shirt and tugged it until it was covering her head. Aidan¡¯s lips pressed into


    a thin line then, and he swiftly looked away. The car came to a stop outside the apartment half an hour


    later. Atst, it was Jonathan who broke the deadly silence in the car. ¡°We are here, Miss McKinney.¡±


    The person covered by the shirt moved, and she then peeled the shirt off her as she sat up. Leanna¡¯s


    voice was very calm when she uttered her thanks. She then made a move to get out of the car. After


    she opened the car door, Aidan called out from behind. ¡°You are not allowed to go tomorrow,¡± he


    demanded. Leanna¡¯s temper immediately red again when she heard his tone of voice, and she


    sassed, ¡°I am going anyway!¡± She forcefully shut the door after throwing that out, and left without giving


    him another nce. Looking at her retreating figure, Aidan began to gnash his teeth angrily. ¡­ Zoe had


    waited at home for a long time and she was starting to panic when Leanna hadn¡¯t gone home, and


    neither did she pick up her phone the whole night. The former was about to head out to look around


    when the door suddenly opened from outside instead. Zoe hurried over and when she saw it was


    Leanna, she asked, ¡°Where were you, Nana? Where are your shoes?¡±


    ¡°They weren¡¯tfortable.¡± Leanna shook her head and said, ¡°I threw them away.¡± ¡°And you walked all


    the way back like this? It is almost snowing outside. You¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m alright. I only walked up like this. I


    came back by car. I am going to take a shower first, Zoe.¡± Zoe quickly nodded in reply. ¡°Sure, sure. Off


    you go. I will make some hot soup for you.¡± She was in the middle of boiling the soup when she heard a


    knock on the door. After she turned the fire down, she went to open the door, whereby she saw Daniel


    standing there. She was caught off-guard at first, but she soon leaned against the door and greeted


    him. ¡°Bonsoir! So we meet again.¡± Nodding in acknowledgement, he asked, ¡°I heard from Elijah that


    you are a friend of his?¡±


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Uh-huh. Our rtionship is pretty good.¡± She then added, ¡°How did you and him get to know each


    other?¡± ¡°Europe.¡± She took some time to realize that Daniel must have met Elijah back when Elijah


    used to be a student in Europe. Her smile stayed stered on her face when she put down her hand


    as something hit her. ¡°Do you¡­ want toe in and have a seat?¡± ¡°It¡¯s alright.¡± Daniel¡¯s eyes swept


    across the room. He spoke again after a short pause. ¡°You said that you lived with a friend, yeah?¡±


    ¡°Yup. Didn¡¯t Elijah mention my friend?¡± ¡°He did.¡± And that is why I came to see her. It doesn¡¯t look like


    she is home, though. Daniel looked away then, and was about to leave when he caught sight of a


    woman toweling her hair dry walking into the living room. ¡°Zoe, who are you¡ª¡± Leanna looked over


    mid-sentence, only to see Daniel at the door. Zoe then began to introduce them. ¡°Nana, this is Elijah¡¯s


    friend. He is also our neighbor. You and him should have met before.¡± ¡°Hello,¡± Leanna politely greeted.


    Daniel, in turn, gave a small smile and nodded before he said, ¡°It is gettingte. I wouldn¡¯t want to


    continue disturbing your night. I will be leaving now.¡± ¡°Hey¡­ Should we have a meal together


    tomorrow?¡± Zoe asked. He thought about it for a brief moment, and eventually nodded. ¡°Sure.¡± After


    Daniel went back to his ce, he took a seat on the couch and started lightly tapping his phone on his


    knee. So that¡¯s Aidan Pearson¡¯s ex-wife. She is gorgeous, just like the rumors say.


    But isn¡¯t it a little too crazy for Aidan to break off his engagement with the Crossleys just because of a


    woman like her? It doesn¡¯t seem like something he would do. Daniel¡¯s ringtone went off after a while.


    He epted the call when he saw that it was from Elijah. ¡°Georgina Crossley¡¯s birthday party is next


    Wednesday. Everything has been arranged,¡± Elijah informed. ¡°Got it.¡± Daniel then asked, ¡°Is Aidan


    Pearson¡¯s ex-wife the reason you forced me back here to do that?¡± Elijah only hissed, ¡°She has a


    name.¡± ¡°?a va, my bad. I forgot to ask earlier.¡± Daniel only continued after a moment. ¡°I am sure he will


    not be happy if he knew that you have gotten close with Aidan¡¯s ex-wife.¡± ¡°I will tell him someday.¡±


    ¡°Whatever floats your boat. It doesn¡¯t matter to me anyway. He will be back soon if things go as


    nned.¡± ¡­ After closing the door, Zoe said excitedly, ¡°Nana, I asked him out for a bite tomorrow and


    he agreed! Are youing?¡±


    Leanna smiled and went to the kitchen to turn down the stove. ¡°You can go ahead. I told Elijah I will eat


    with him.¡± Upon hearing this, Zoe immediately dashed toward Leanna and stuck to her like glue. She


    then sighed. ¡°Oh my, he has finally gotten wiser. The things I told him when we were in the car must


    have worked!¡± ¡°What did you tell him?¡± Leanna turned to look at her. ¡°Huh?¡± Zoeughed awkwardly as


    she tried to move the conversation along. ¡°What could I have told him? It was just a casual chat. Um¡­


    I am going to take a bath too. You should go to bed early after drinking the soup. The weather is


    freaking cold. Catch some beauty sleep so that you will be in good shape tomorrow!¡±


    Zoe then scurried away after that. Smilingly, Leanna only looked away from Zoe as she took some


    soup from the pot into a bowl. She couldn¡¯t seem to fall asleep the whole night she was in bed. All that


    came to mind was the words Aidan had told her earlier on. It didn¡¯t make any sense to her how he had


    suddenly made a 180-degree change. She couldn¡¯t get rid of him no matter how she went off at him. It


    was like he had turned into apletely different person. Aidan wouldn¡¯t have allowed her to provoke


    his pride and test his limits if he still had his foul temper from the past. Furthermore, it didn¡¯t seem like


    he would give up no matter what. The confusing part was that Leanna had no idea what his intentions


    were. The more she thought about it, the more annoyed and wider awake she became. She eventually


    got out of bed and sat in front of the table, where she flipped open her scribbling pad. Her mood only


    further dampened when she flipped to the torn-out page and saw the uneven marks left behind.

 Chapter 181

    Chapter 181


    I''m Sorry My Love 181


    Chapter 181 He¡¯d Skin Me Alive Leanna only woke up the next afternoon.


    Zoe, who was startled, gasped when shesaw how haggard Leanna was.


    "What happened to you, Nana?!" Thetter then let out a yawn before she mumbled, "It is nothing.


    I designed some draftsst night.


    I only went to sleep at 7AM." "Why are you pushing yourself so hard? There is still time, isn''t there?"


    "I couldn''t sleep anyway.¡± Leanna sat on the couch and stared nklyahead. She felt so irritablest night that


    she only slowly calmed down to draw a draft after 2.00AM.


    She didn''t even notice the clock ticking away. After Zoe peeled an orange for her, she looked at the


    bigcardboard boxes still piled up in the house.


    "Have you thought about how you are going to deal with this?" she asked.


    Leanna''s gaze went in thedirection Zoe was looking at.


    She lowered her head for a moment before she said, "I will just donate the clothes and give out the


    essories."


    "How about you donate them tome?" Zoe asked, her eyes earnestly peering at her friend.


    Leanna didn''t say anything at first, but she eventually smiled and offered, "Go ahead and take them." "Forget


    it!" Zoe pouted.


    "Aidan will skin me alive if he knew." She was just joking, anyway.


    Leanna gave it a thought before she looked at the boxes again.


    In all honesty, those clothes wereall as obnoxious as they were impractical that it didn''t seem to make sense to


    donate them. She finally stood up after she thought it over.


    "Zoe, I will go get changed.


    We are going out in a bit." "Where are we going?" "All the clothes still have their price tags on.


    I am sure they will still be worth a lot even if we sold them to a boutiqueat discounted prices." "You''re


    right!" Zoe''s eyes instantly glinted when she heard that.


    "How did I not think of that?!" When Leanna went to change her clothes, Zoe had quickly sorted out the


    different brands of clothing.


    The duo then went to their firstluxury store.


    However, the saleswoman that weed them was obviously stunned when she saw them holding a


    cardboard box full of clothes.


    "Ma''am, may I know the purpose of your visit?" Leanna proceeded to give her a smile, and


    respectfullytold her why she was here. "Please give me a moment while I get the store manager," the


    saleswoman said. "Alright.


    Thank you for your help." After the saleswoman left, Zoe started strolling around looking at the clothes


    in the store.


    She flipped the price tags over and nced at them, then quickly flipped them back before she


    carefully brushed off the part sheidher hand on. The clothes that Aidan sent over had tags that didn''t


    show their prices. Although Zoe knew that they were definitely not cheap, she didn''t think they would


    be that expensive. Even a mere thin camisole was priced higher than her lens. After she noticed this,


    she quickly huddled over to Leanna and whispered, "Nana, this box of clothes is worth hundreds of


    thousands.


    Don''t forget there are a few other boxes of clothes from different brands in our car...And those


    jewelry.Why does that b*stard still wants you to return the money after the divorce when he is so


    generous?" "I did borrow money from him, after all.


    There is even an IOU." "Anyway, he is an enigma to me sometimes.


    We can never guess what he is thinking." Leanna only smiled without saying anything in return. Right


    at this moment, thesaleswoman from earlier came back to them with the store manager beside her.


    The manager then inquired, "We understand the purpose for your visit, ma''am.


    I would like to reconfirm with you that you don''t want any of the clothes in this box, yes?" Leanna


    nodded in reply.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    "Understood.


    Please hold on for the time being.


    We will need some time to sort out the clothes in the box and give you an estimated price." "Sorry for


    the trouble."


    "Please don''t worry about it.


    You may have a seat here."


    "It''s alright," Leanna said.


    "We will be walking around nearby.


    Well be back soon." "If that is the case, please leave us your contact number.


    We will notify you when we are done." After leaving the luxury store, Leanna and Zoe went downstairs


    to have something to eat.


    Zoe started chattering while they ate.


    "Hey, Nana, what do you think I should have with Daniel tonight? I have been thinking about it all night.


    We can do Western cuisine, but I don''t know which country he is from.


    What if I identally chose something he doesn''t like? Or we could go for Chinese food, but I am


    worried that he doesn''t eat spicy food.


    Oh my God, why is this such a chore to choose?"


    "Just ask Elijah.


    I am sure he would know," Leanna replied. "Right! How did I not think of that?!" Zoe cheered while she


    quickly took out her phone.


    However, she suddenly calmed down before she sent the message over.


    In a small voice, she probed, "Nana, about you and Elijah... What do you think about your


    rtionship?"


    Leanna promptly froze when she heard that.


    She didn''t have an answer to the question. Even though Zoe had always said that Elijah liked her,


    Leanna, too, always thought that sucha coincidence was impossible. However, she could obviously tell


    what Elijah felt for her after what he said yesterday. With Aidan there and her having been provoked,


    Leanna didn''t give it much thought and had swiftly agreed to Elijah''s request. When she saw Leanna


    turn silent, Zoe added, "Nana, I really do think that Elijah is a great guy.


    He has liked you ever since we were students.


    You can probably imagine how deeply he feels for you to have liked you for so many years." "And howdo you


    know that?" Leanna asked. Zoe swiftly looked away and coughed awkwardly.


    "I... was only guessing.


    It''s not like it is that hard to guess." Leanna''s phone began to ring right after Zoe said that.


    It was a call from the luxury store, informing her that they were already done withthe clothes. After hanging up


    the phone, Leanna told Zoe that they had to make a move now. With that, Zoe could finally heave a sigh of


    relief. But what they didn''t expect was for them to bump into Georgina when they went back to the store.


    Georgina, together with Carly, must not have thought they would see familiar faces here as they also looked


    startled. Carly looked especially surprised at their encounter.


    She was still hung up over that one time Aidan had gravely warned her.


    Now that she coincidentally came across Leanna, her first instinct was to avoid meeting the other woman''s


    eyes andpretend she didn''t know Leanna.


    She then went to take care of the child in the stroller beside her.


    Georgina was the first one to greetthem with a smile.


    "I haven''t seen you in quite some time, Miss McKinney." Leanna nodded in return as she offered a brisk


    greeting.


    Georgina then said again, "Youlook so much better than thest time I saw you two months ago.


    It seems like you have been living well." Zoe was the one who spoke up this time.


    "Of course she would be in a better mood without having to see certain two-faced people hanging around and


    about"


    As they talked, the store manager approached them andinformed them, "Miss McKinney, allow me to lead the


    way." Leanna only nodded to Georgina before she left.


    Zoe, who never liked Georgina, naturally wouldn''t stand there and have a staring contest with her.


    Without missing a beat, she walked alongside Leanna to where the manager brought them. Even though the


    prices of the clothes they brought over would have depreciated, the pricecalcted by the luxury store for


    them was much higher than what Zoe had expected. Shell-shocked, she eximed, "They are worth so


    much?" The store manager began to exin, "There are many pieces of clothing here that are either limited


    edition, customized, or out-of- season.


    Many of our VIP customers are waiting for these clothes.


    I have contacted them, and we will be getting their replies soon.


    Also, Miss McKinney, since your clothes have never been worn before, we have calcted them ording to


    the original price."


    Leanna gaveher thanks when she heard that. "You are wee," the manager smiled.

 Chapter 182

    Chapter 182


    I''m Sorry My Love 182


    Chapter 182 It Seems That She Is Not What We Imagined


    When Leanna and Zoe went out, Carly''s child was crying. Carly couldn''t coax thechild well. Seeing that,


    Leanna couldn''t help but stop and look over instinctively.


    That child was just a four-month-old. Seeing the child cry, Leanna felt sadness and walked over slowly.


    Aware of her approach, Carlyhugged the child tighter and turned away. Leanna asked softly, "Can you let me


    hold the baby?" Carly didn''t answer in time, and no one knew whether it was from nervousness or hesitation.


    However, Carly couldn''t refuse Leanna when she met Leanna''s gaze. Carly had sleepless nights because of


    the drowning incident that involved Leanna.


    Moreover, she had heard the news about Leanna''s miscarriage. As a mother, she could understand Leanna¡¯s


    feelings.


    When Leanna was about to leave as she thought Carly would refuse, she saw Carlyhanding over the child.


    After a stunned pause, Leanna cautiously reached out to take the child. Strangely, the child suddenly stopped


    crying after the child got into her arms.


    The child looked at Leanna with round eyes while she waved little hands in the air and giggled. Looking atthe


    little child in her arms, Leanna slowly smiled. Zoe came over.


    "Nana, I think the baby likes you." Carly felt that it was peculiar, as the child gave herlots of trouble and would


    immediately cry whenever a stranger came.


    It was the first time the childughed happily. Georgina stood aside.


    Although she was silent, her gaze was icy. Leanna didn''t hold the child for long and quickly returned the child


    to Carly.


    "Thank you." "You''re wee." When Carly took the child back, the child''s gaze followed Leanna, as


    ifreluctant to leave her. Leanna smiled at the baby, then said to Zoe, "Let''s go." As soon as they left the store,


    they heard Georgina''s voice.


    "Miss McKinney."


    Leanna stopped.


    Turning around, she asked, "Miss Crossley, what''s the matter?" Georgina smiled and said, "Nothing much.


    It''s been so long, so I wanted to invite you for a cup of tea." "Thank you," Leanna replied.


    "However, I¡¯m afraid I have to decline your offer.


    I have something to do, so please excuse me." "Aidan and I have canceled our engagement, so I have nothing


    to do with the Pearson Family anymore.


    You have no need to avoid me." Leanna knew about the dissolution of the engagement, but shenever


    wanted to care too much about it as it had nothing to do with her.


    However, she could hear the dissatisfaction and questioning in Georgina''s words as the woman


    mentioned it.


    Leanna wondered if she was overthinking things.


    Meanwhile,Zoe felt ufortable after hearing those words too.


    When she was about to say something, Leanna cut off her words.


    Chuckling, she said, "Miss Crossley, youhave misunderstood.


    I never thought of avoiding you.


    However, do you want to meet me? Let me rephrase that¡ªDo you want to befriend me?" Georgina


    pursed herlips and said nothing.


    I must admit that Leanna is brilliant.


    I have covered my intentions so well, but she still noticed I approached her for Aidan.


    Leanna continued,"No matter what, I am grateful for your help in the past." Then, she paused and said


    firmly, "Whether it was out of kindness or if you have an ulterior motive." After speaking, Leanna didn''t


    stay any longer and pulled Zoe away. After they left, Carly came out with the stroller.


    "Georgina, what were you talking about with her?" Georgina retracted her thoughts and smiled lightly at


    Carly.


    "It¡¯s nothing.


    Carly, let''s continue shopping." After such a disturbance, Carly lost the mood for shopping.


    "Forget it.


    Let''s go home.


    My baby has cried several times; I think he is not used to the outdoors."


    On the way back, Carly said again, "Gina, to be honest,! thought Leanna was a bad guy as I often hear


    Annain about her despite not meeting her.


    However, I think she''s not what we imagined." Georginamented, "Is that so?" "Yes.


    Her eyes are pure and beautiful.


    How could a woman with a bad heart have such pure eyes?¡± At that, Carly sighed.


    "No wonder Zayn and Ai¡ª" Before she could finish her words, Carly noticed she was rude andquickly


    stopped herself. However, Georgina went to tease the baby in the stroller, as if she didn''t notice


    anything. Hence, Carly changed the subject.


    "Gina, I heard you invited Daniel to your birthday party.


    What did he say?¡±


    Georgina looked up at Carly.


    "Do you know about him too?"


    "He is quite famous.


    I went to his concerts with my friends when I was abroad." Georgina said, "My friend rmended


    him to me too.


    He was performing in Highside recently, so I allowed my friend to ask him.


    He might being."


    When Carly heard that, she smiled.


    "That''s great! I have wanted to meet him for a long time, but I haven¡¯t had a chance.¡±


    Georgina apologized, "Carly, I''m afraidl won''t be able to invite you to my birthday party." Carly was stunned


    upon such a statement.


    "W-Why?" "After Aidan canceled the engagement with me, my father has disliked the Pearson Family and


    didn''t want anything to do with them.¡±


    "I know that, but Zayn and Annahave dissolved their engagement, so we have nothing to do with the Pearson


    Family." Georgina sighed in response.


    "That''s right, but the Bat Group has obtained several projects because of the Pearson Group, so Dad isn''t


    happyabout it." Hearing this, Carly was clearly disappointed.


    She lowered her eyes and said, "Okay then." Seeing that, Georgina quickly took Carly''s arm.


    "Carly, it''s right if you can''te to my party.


    This is more like a social party instead of a friend gathering.


    We can get together in private."


    A reluctant Carly smiled.


    "You are right."


    "It''s gettingte.


    Let''s go." After sending Carly back, Georgina sat in the car with a cold and disdainful smile.


    She rolled up the car window and said lightly, "Let¡¯s go."


    When shearrived home, Georgina asked the servant, "Where''s Dad?" "Mr.Crossley is in the study." Georgina


    walked to the study entrance.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this text.


    Raising her hand to knock on the door, she entered. When she entered, Lloyd ced something in the drawer.


    Looking at her, he asked, "Gina, what''s the matter?" Georgina answered, "I want to discuss my birthday party


    with you.


    Are you busy?¡±


    Lloyd shook his head.

 Chapter 183

    Chapter 183


    Chapter 183 Even Grass Is Worth More Than Overdue Affections Elijah could tell that Leanna''s mind was


    wandering when they were in the restaurant.


    Softly, he asked, "Do you not enjoy the food tonight, Leanna?"


    Upon hearing this, she snapped back to reality and shed him an apologetic smile.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    "That is not it.


    It is my problem.


    The food is delicious." She didn''t know if it was because she had hugged Carly''s baby today that she had been


    rather dispirited the entire afternoon.


    She couldn''t help having her mind drift off to the possibility of her own child being as tiny, soft, and cute if she


    had given birth then.


    Headded hot water to her cup.


    "No, I am the problem," he said.


    "I must have scared you by saying thatst night." Elijah did think that he had been a little abrupt after he went


    home and thought aboutit. But then, he had no reason to go back on his own words since Leanna had already


    agreed. Lips pursed, she began, "Elijah, I actually¡ª" He smiled and finished her sentence for her, "I am aware


    that the reason why you agreed to meet me was that you were angry with Aidan." She was slightly startled


    when she heard his words, but she didn''t deny it.


    All she said was, "I am sorry." "It is alright.


    I am happy I can help you this way." Elijah then continued, "Leanna, I don¡¯t know if it''s appropriatefor me to say


    this, but I always thought that you had lived a good life in the past few years.


    I thought that you might have already gotten married to Zayn after graduation, but all I got was news ofhis


    engagement with Anna." "I felt conflicted the moment I heard the news.


    I was secretly happy on one hand but on the other, I couldn''t help but wonder about what happened between


    the two of you andwhat you must have felt at that time.


    In fact, I have never thought about getting anything.


    I was satisfied with being able to see that you were well from a distance, r/


    His smile began to fade as he spoke.


    "But I found outst night that life these few years hasn''t been easy on you." The corners of Leanna''s


    lips raised aftershe heard that, and she replied nonchntly.


    "That is life. It is inevitable there are ups and downs. At the very least, I am happy now. The rest are all


    things of the past, anyway." Elijah knew that there hadn''t been any changes to her stubborn and


    optimistharacter.


    She had never spoken about the pain she was going through.


    Leanna had always been a beautiful girlthat was constantly swarmed by boys since the time when they


    were students.


    However, she had always smilingly rejected everyone''s advances, no matter if the boys were giving her


    gifts or invitingher to meals. She would go to a convenience store just one block away from the school


    every day.


    Other than it being the ce she stayed at the most besides the school, it was also where she got her


    source ofie. Elijah didn''t particrly have a strong impression of Leanna at first.


    He only knew that there was a pretty girl there. It wasn''t until that one day he was passing by a


    convenience store when hesaw a drunk man asking her for money.


    It was probably the day she was receiving her sry. She took out some from her bag and gave it to


    the man.


    Despite that, the man was extremely dissatisfied, and wanted to rob her of all the money inher


    envelope. He remembered how firm her tone was when she warned, "This is Louis'' and my living


    expenses for next month.


    I can''t give it to you." The man proceeded to curse her out, but her expression remained unchanged.


    Judging from the wordsthe man scolded her with, he most probably was her father. After the man was


    done ranting and had left, she didn''t look sad for even a moment.


    She only took a deep breath, put her smile back on, and continued to work in theconvenience store. At


    that time, Elijah didn''t know what hade over him, but he was slowly walking in her direction before


    he knew it. The young girl with a high ponytail was standing there, carefully counting the goods with a


    focused and serious expression on her face. Just as he was about to step forward, Zayn hade to


    her and called her by her name. Her smile when she turned around was so bright Elijah stopped in his


    tracks before he took a few steps back. From that moment on, he had resigned himself to the fate that


    he would never be the one beside her in his life, and he could only watch from a distance. But now that


    he had his opportunity again, Elijah wanted to take that first step he didn''t have the courage to back


    then. He began to speak, but a nonchnt voice rang out from aside at this moment.


    "What a coincidence, President Parker." Aidan didn''t think he was intruding at all as he sat down right


    next to Leanna.


    In a casual tone, he suggested, "Let''s share a table.


    I trust that you won''t mind, President Parker.


    As a token of my sincerity, please allow me to buy you dinner tonight." He only got silence from both


    Leanna and Elijah in return.


    Still, Aidan proceeded to take themenu from the waiter, ordered some food, and added, "Also, get me a


    chicken noodle soup." Just when the waiter was about to say that they didn''t have it on their menu, the


    store manager quickly hurried over.


    "Alright,¡± he interrupted.


    "Is there anything else, President Pearson?" "Addtro in the soup," Aidan replied. "Please wait for a


    moment, President Pearson.


    I will have the kitchen prepare your orders now." After the manager left, Leanna got up while she held


    back her temper.


    She then said to Elijah, "I am done eating. Let''s go."


    Elijah nodded and stood up as well.


    He called for a waiter to get him the bill, and then said to Aidan, "Enjoy the food, President Pearson.


    Dinner is on me." Aidan only pursed his lips slightly as he grabbed Leanna by her hand. "Please take


    yourhands off me, President Pearson," she coldly demanded. "Don''t you love chicken noodle soup? Have


    some before you go." "Just because I used to like it doesn''t mean I like it now." "And just because you don''t


    like it now doesn''t mean you won''t like it in the future," Aidan refuted. There was no emotion in his voice, but


    she could tell that it was a double entendre. D*mn bastard is starting to have fun! Leanna forcefully threw off


    his hand then.


    "I hope you enjoy your dinner." Better yet, I hope your tummy explodes from all the food!


    She dartedout of the restaurant after she said that. After Elijah paid the bill, he turned to look at Aidan and


    asked, "Don''t you think your behavior is ridiculous, President Pearson?" Hearing that, Aidan looked up at the


    other man with indifferent eyes.


    "Nope, not really." "I wonder if you have ever heard the saying that even grass is worth more than overdue


    affections."


    After throwing that out, Elijah nodded slightly at him beforehe strode away. Just then, the manager of the store


    came over again.


    "Would you still like to have the food served, President Pearson?" "Pack it all up," Aidan instructed.


    "Yes, sir."


    Jonathan walked in withhurried steps two minutester and reported, "President Pearson, Mrs.Pearson and


    President Parker have left." Aidan only hummed in reply, but he didn''t say anything else. Hearing this,


    Jonathan further inquired, "Should we follow them?"


    "No."Aidan said, "Surely he is only sending her home.


    It is not rocket science." What''s more, Aidan had already achieved his goal today. Twenty minutester, the


    store manager came to him withthe packed food boxes.


    "Sorry to have kept you waiting, President Pearson." After leaving the restaurant, Jonathan knew what to do


    next even thoughAidan didn''t say anything¡ªhe swiftly keyed-in the address to Leanna''s home. At this


    moment, he suddenly heard a male voice speak in a tone he couldn''t decipher from behind.


    "Is grass cheap?"


    Jonathan had no answer to that.

 Chapter 184

    Chapter 184


    Chapter 184 Mental Problem When the car stopped at the apartment, Leanna let out her breath. "Elijah, I¡¯mso


    sorry about what happened earlier." Elijah smiled and gently shook his head.


    "I''ve heard about Aidan¡¯s behavior before.


    I just didn''t expect him to do such a thing." "Yeah, he''s too arrogant.


    That''s ridiculous." She then opened the car door.


    "Thank you so much for today. See you." "Leanna," Elijah stopped her while looking a little nervous.


    He hesitated for a moment before asking.


    "Are we still friends?" Leanna was slightly taken aback by the question.


    Then, she nodded.


    "Of course. What''s wrong?"


    A smile reappeared on his face.


    "Nothing. I''ll see you around then." "Alright, please be careful on your way back. Text me when you get home."


    "Okay." Elijah decided to take it step by step and not to rush it.


    There was at least still a little hope for him so long as she did not reject him rightaway. After Elijah''s ck car


    had left, Leanna withdrew her gaze from the car and went upstairs. When she opened the door, she saw Zoe


    lying on the couch and having some snacks over there. Leanna changed her shoes.


    She then walked over and asked, "Zoe, aren''t you supposed to be having dinner with Daniel now?" Hearing


    this, Zoe let out a longsigh.


    "Yeah, that was the n. Elijah mentioned that Daniel does not have any food allergies, right? So, I was going


    to take Daniel to enjoy theHighside specialties," Zoe was getting angrier as she continued.


    "But just when we were right in front of the restaurant, he told me that there weresome canned foods in his


    fridge which will be expired after tonight and he had to finish them before they expired!" Leanna was left


    speechless. After a while, she asked, "So, youe back just like that?" "Yep, that''s right." Zoe rested again


    on the couch and said indifferently, "He even invited me to his house to have those canned foods with him, but


    I refused." Leanna couldn''t helpughing. Zoe let out another long sigh.


    "I think he was either making an excuse to avoid having dinner with me, or he must have a mental


    problem."


    Leanna said, "Foreigners sometimesdo have some strange cultures. So, just get over it."


    "No, seriously. If it wasn''t for his good-looking face, I would definitely take him to a psychiatrist from that


    restaurant right away." Zoe sat up on the couch with herlegs crossed and said thoughtfully, "Nana, do


    all hot guys always act this weird?" "Well, I don''t think it has much to do with looks." "Why not? I do


    think that Aidan is a weirdo.


    Now, there''s finally another guy who canpete with him." Leanna remained silent.


    Zoe continued, "Forget it. Let''s not talk about such an annoying subject. How is your date with Elijah?


    Any progress?" Leanna corrected, "It¡¯s not a date. It''s just a meal between friends."


    "Right. Then, has anything which is beyond the scope of friendship happened between you two during


    the meal?"


    Leanna was silentfor a while before saying, "No.¡± Seeing the dejected look on her face, Zoe knew


    something was off. Usually, when Leanna had such an expression, it must be something rted to that


    guy. Zoe was immediately energized.N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "Did Aidene to interrupt your meal? Look, what did I just tell you? He hasa mental problem.


    It''s true!" Leannaughed a little and did not really know what to say.


    She did not understand what that b*stard was thinking about.


    Zoe hurriedlyasked, "What happened then?" "Nothing much. Elijah and I left directly." Zoe said with


    emotion, "Now, I get what that b*stard is thinking.


    He does not know how to cherish when he had you and only regrets it now thathe has lost you.


    However, he forgets that the world is not revolving around him and nothing would wait for him forever."


    As soon as she finished speaking, they heard thedoorbell ring. When Leanna was about to open the


    door, Zoe immediately stood up.


    "Hey, I¡¯ll go get the door. It must be Daniel. He must have felt embarrassed about his behavior earlier,


    and wants to apologize about it." "Alright."


    Before running to open the door, Zoe hurriedly tidied up her hair and put on herlipstick.


    Then, she took a deep breath, showed a pleasing smile, and opened the door.


    "Hi... A-A-Ai¡ªAiden?"


    Zoe was stunned.


    Then, she thought to herself.


    "Why is this b*stard always showing up in a different way when I''m talking behind him?¡±


    Aiden looked at Zoe with a poker face and tilted his head alittle as a gesture to ask her to get out of his


    way. His attitude was like a robber who asked the owner to open the door for him. Zoe hesitated for a


    few seconds as she felt her feet were too heavy to be moved. She tried to block his way into the house.


    But as Aiden took one step forward, she immediately stepped aside and let him in.


    Just as Leanna thought it was strange to not hear a conversation on the otherside of the door for a long


    time, she looked up and saw Aiden appearing in the living room. Leanna was silent for a while.


    Then, she took a deep breath.


    "Don''t you know it is illegal to trespass on private property?"


    Aiden nced.


    "She let me in."


    Zoe guiltily nced over.


    She then thought to herself.


    He is really a b*stard. Before Leanna was able to say anything else, Aiden put the food he ordered from the


    restaurantbefore her.


    "Eat it while it¡¯s still warm." She couldn¡¯t help frowning and said rudely, "What do you want from me?" He


    answered, "Aren''t you going to be hungryif you don''t have supper? Plus, I don''t think you have really eaten


    anything at dinner earlier." She thought it was funny as it was simply outrageous. She said coldly, "President


    Pearson, I used to have the habit of having supper because I was pregnant at that point in time.


    Pregnant women would normally consume more food than usual, but now¡ª" "You can still have supper now.


    No one is stopping those who are not pregnant from having supper."


    Leanna was stunned as Aiden interrupted her just like that while she was talking.


    So, sheraised her voice.


    "I don''t want it!" As if he didn''t hear it, Aiden sat on the couch, unpacked the bag, and took outthe food.


    "If you don''t eat, I will." Leanna took a deep breath and felt that she was about to lose her temper. She felt


    thatshe would be driven crazy by him sooner orter.


    Aiden opened up the container of the take-out and put it in front of her.


    "Are you sure you don''t want it?" She looked at him without saying a word as if she was about to ssh the


    soup on his face.


    Zoe could notwrap her head around how Aiden was still able to act as if nothing had happened when Leanna


    was being hostile to him.


    He even tried to have a meal there. However, apart from anything else, one could really learn a thing or two


    from his calm attitude and his ability toignore others'' feelings while immersed in his own world. Zoe now


    realized that this might be the reason why the Pearson Group could grow and be developed at such an


    incredible speed by him and why the other Pearsons were afraid of him. It was because he was unbelievably


    shameless.

 Chapter 185

    Chapter 185


    Chapter 185 Way Too Temperamental Zoe was having a conversation with herself in her head about Aiden¡¯s


    attitude. All of a sudden,the door of the neighboring unit opened. Noticing this, she closed the door behind her


    as fast as possible without even thinking.


    Then, she looked at Daniel with a smile. He took a nce at the closed door, then looked at her again.


    "I kinda heard a conversation going on at your unit earlier. Do you have a visitor?" Zoe tried to y dumb


    about it.


    "No. Maybe it was from the TV show Nana was watching. You must have mistaken it as a conversation." She


    did not know if Daniel bought it or not.


    When he was about to go back to his unit, he paused and looked at her again.


    "Why are you standing here, then? Why don''t you get in?"


    "Ah..." she hurriedly answered, "Didn''t you invite me to havethose soon-to-be expired canned foods with you?


    I''m feeling kind of hungry right now. So, I''m hoping that I could still take up that offer now."


    Daniel remained silent for a few seconds.


    Zoe felt that she wasa total genius because she couldn''t find anything wrong with this excuse. Before Daniel


    could react, she was already standing right in front of him.


    "I''ve never eaten canned foods before.


    I believe that they must be really delicious for you to be so obsessed with them.


    So, I''m very excited to try them out." Daniel put his hand on his mouth and coughed.


    "Well.e in then." In the kitchen, he was standing in front of the refrigerator with its door opened.


    He looked inside the fridge and felt a little panicked.


    He thought to himself.


    What a lousy excuse. After seeing him standing still over there for quite a long time, Zoe asked with concern,


    "What''s the matter? Do you needmy help?" Daniel then closed the refrigerator.


    "I just finished the canned foods. Let''s order takeout instead."


    Zoe blinked.


    "Okay." Seeing her answer without hesitation, he picked up the phone.


    "What do you want to eat?" "I''m fine with anything." Zoe was totally fine with being considered as


    shameless by Daniel.


    Since she could not really go back to Leanna''s house now, she would rather stay at Daniel''s than


    waiting on thecold floor outside the house. After ordering takeout, Daniel passed Zoe a ss of water.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Would you like to invite your friend over?" Zoe then answered, "She¡¯s on diet now.


    So, she won''t be eating at night.


    Let''s just eat without her." He smiled gently and sat beside her without speaking.


    Zoe was holding the ss andshe stared at him a couple of times.


    Since Daniel and Elijah were friends to each other, she felt the need to prevent Daniel from finding out


    that Aiden was here withLeanna now.


    No matter what, she had to prevent that.


    Otherwise, even if nothing really happened between Leanna and Aiden, Elijah might still have the


    wrong idea about that.


    Aware of her gaze, Daniel raised his head.


    "What''s wrong?" "N-Nothing." Zoe dropped her gaze and drank water from the ss slowly.


    If she acted naturally, nothing would happen.


    Indeed, after a while, Danielexcused himself and went to his study room.... In the living room of


    Leanna''s house.


    Leanna was watching Aiden eating the take-out that he brought here with his typical poker face.


    In her head, she was trying to figure out what her chance of sess was if she triedto drag him out of


    the house by herself. Well, it was almost impossible at all. After all, it was an undeniable fact that men


    tend to have much stronger physical strength than women. To make it worse, the man she was facing


    was a shameless b*stard. So, she had to give up on that thought. Leanna could not bear to stay there


    for any longer as she felt suffocated by the vibe there. As she was about to get up to return to her


    bedroom, a spoon reached her lips.


    She instinctively leaned back and looked at Aiden with vignce.


    "What are you doing?" Aiden looked at the spoon and said briefly, "Eat it."


    "I do not¡ª"


    "I''ll leaveif you eat it." It was such a tempting and irresistible offer. After Leanna weighed the pros and


    cons, she decided topromise.


    However, when she was about to reach for the spoon, Aiden said, "Open your mouth."


    She refused firmly, "I can do it myself!"


    Aiden didn''t answer but stared at her with hisck eyes. Leanna stayed silent. She turned her head


    away from him.


    "Fine, the deal''s off. I don''t want to eat anymore."


    She thought to herself.


    "Don''t you try to threaten me." Aiden licked his thin lips.


    "Do you want me to feed you with my mouth instead?"


    Leanna frowned as she was disgusted by what Aiden justsaid.


    "Are you crazy?" "Then, eat it now." Leanna looked at him unhappily while pursing her lips and


    clenching herfists. Aiden stared at her with his deep ck eyes for a few seconds, then suddenly


    leaned forward. She felt panicked and hurriedly ate the food from the spoon. Seeing this, Aiden grinned


    and continued to pick up the rest of the food from the container. Leanna gritted her teeth and could only


    eat them one spoon after another. Throughout the entire process, they did not speak. The vibe was


    getting weirder. However, Leanna''s fury was somehow easily eased.


    Then, she just stared at him in silence, which made it difficult for anyone to tell what she thought. After they


    finished the food, Aiden pulled apiece of tissue from the box and wiped her mouth. His slender fingers lightly


    stroked her lips with a touch of warmth. She was stunned.


    When she looked up and tried to say something to stop him, her eyes merely met his pitch-ck and calm


    gaze instead.


    She couldn''t deny that he was actually hot,especially when he was being so gentle. This kind of tenderness


    was what Leanna used to dream of having from him. However, at that point in time, he had always been so


    mean to her. Leanna thought in her head.


    Sometimes, the world just liked to mess with us.


    The more you wish to get something, the harder it will be for you to get it.


    But the moment you give up on that something, you''ll just get it effortlessly and itwould be hard to get rid of it


    even if you tried real hard. Aiden raised his brows slightly.


    "Are you stunned by my appearance?" Hearing that, Leanna quickly retracted her thoughts, pped away the


    hand before her, and said coldly, "Can youplease leave now?" Aiden chuckled.


    "You''re so temperamental." Leanna stayed silent at that remark. He did not take her words seriously.


    It could even be said that he didn''t care about them at all.


    Then, he slowly asked, "What do youwant to eat tomorrow? I will bring it for you." Staring at him, Leanna


    asked thoughtfully, "May I know what you have been up totely?" Aiden countered, "Is it not obvious


    enough?" "Please make it clear, President Pearson." "After some thought, I decided to give you onest


    chance." Leanna was speechless. She thought to herself in a sarcastic way.


    Yeah, yeah.


    I must really thank God for that chance. Leanna asked, "Didn''t you say I have no more chances?" Aiden gave


    a hum.


    "So, it¡¯s a rare opportunity.


    You should cherish it." Leanna tried to lose herself, but she had had enough and could not stand itanymore.


    When she was about to yell at him, he continued, "However, Oscar said that actions speaklouder than words.


    So, I have to do something to prove that I''m giving you another chance."


    Leanna twitched her lips and thought to herself.


    "Oscar, right? I will remember him." "President Pearson, you know what? I think you really shouldn''t be


    listeningto others on this kind of matter.


    You must follow your heart.

 Chapter 186

    Chapter 186


    Chapter 186 You Can Be Dominant in Bed Aiden''s face turned slightly sour while looking at her without saying


    a word.


    Leannafelt ufortable with his gaze, so she asked politely, "Could you please leave now? It''s gettingte


    now. I have to work tomorrow."


    Aiden looked unhappy.


    "I don''t see that you really care for work when you were having a date with Elijah earlier." "Work-life bnce is


    really important. I can''t work twenty-four seven. I need some alone time." As Leanna said, she took a nce at


    him.


    "Plus, I am not that free. Unlike you, you are so free to the point that you could leave everything about your


    stuff to mess withthem." He said indifferently, "I¡¯m not idle all the time." Shemented sincerely, "I genuinely


    hope that yourpany will always be thriving and have more contracts¡ª" Aiden sneered.


    "Leanna, seriously?"


    Leanna thought to herself.


    Look at this, this b*stard finally showed his true face. The gentleness earlier was definitely just a facade.


    Then, she said, ¡°Those are my best wishes to you.


    You are being rude." He raised his hand to pinch her chin while his ck eyes narrowed dangerously.


    "Who is being rude now?" Leanna glossed over it and smiled.


    "You have a bad hearing, too." "Why are you showing me this attitude?"


    "Then, what kind of attitude should I have? I have been kind enough not to call 911 onyou after you forcibly


    broke into my house." Aiden gazed at her and suddenly felt amused.


    "You really are two-faced." At this point in this, Leanna was not afraid of saying something embarrassing


    anymore as she was on theverge of losing herself.


    So, she pushed back.


    "Men also behave differently before and after having sex too. So, you don''t really have the right to say


    that I''m being two-faced."


    He remained silent at her words.


    Shecontinued in a sarcastic way, "Isn''t it true? President Pearson, just think about how much you hated


    me in the past three years.


    Even if I just touched you by ident, it would make you feel disgusted, but that didn''t stop you from


    having sex with me."


    Aiden¡¯s thin lipsslightly moved as if Aiden wanted to exin something.


    However, he didn''t really know what to say. "So, please stop saying that I''m being two-faced. Because


    if I''m, then you are just the same as well." Leanna then thought to herself.


    He is the one who is being two-faced.


    Now, he has the nerve toe and use me.


    If he truly wants to give a person a second chance, he¡¯s gotta at least be nice to them, right?


    She felt that sincehe always thought that she was a scheming woman, what she just said to him would


    not really change a thing. After a while, he responded, "You''re getting defensive." She answered, "You


    were verbally attacking me. I was just telling the truth."


    Aiden lowered his eyes.


    His gaze fell on her lips, and his Adam¡¯s apple moved up and down slightly.


    After a few seconds, he said thoughtfully, "I have a proposal for you to deal with your anger now."


    Before Leanna could answer, he continued, "You can be dominant inbed." Leanna was puzzled as she


    could not wrap her head around what he just said. He added, "I''m alright as long as you are not mad


    anymore." Sheughed in anger.


    "From your tone, it seems that you are forced to do it." "No, I''m not. We can do it now." Leanna took a


    deep breath so she would not lose herself.


    She tried to tug on the hand pinching her chin, but Aiden didn''t intend to let her go.


    Without thinking much, she lowered her head and bit hishand with all of her strength. Aiden groaned


    and hurriedly retracted his hand with a frown, after which he yelled, "Leanna!" She ignored him, walked


    to the entrance, and opened the door.


    "You may leave now." He lowered his head, nced at the bleeding hand, and gritted his teeth.


    Then, he sneered.


    "It''s time to leave." Leanna kept smiling and looked at him leaving the house.


    When passing by her, he gave her a nce.


    "I can''t afford to dy the rabies vine, after all." She was speechless.


    After sending that b*stard away, she leaned against thedoor and slowly retracted the smile on her face.


    To put it bluntly, Aiden was the kind of person who would treat something he disliked as rubbish but


    would do anything to get what he wanted.


    However, it was unknown how long his enthusiasm and love couldst.


    Leanna stopped thinking about it and knocked on the other door.


    Soon,Daniel appeared before her. She smiled.


    "I''m looking for Zoe."


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    He turned his head and nced.


    "She''s eating.


    Do you want to join us?" "No, I will leave the door open for her. I''ll¡ª"


    "Hold on!" Zoe ran outside with a chicken wing.


    "I''m done eating. Let''s go back."


    Then, she turned and looked at him.


    "Thank you for your can¡ªdinner." Daniel smiled politely. Zoe dragged Leanna back to their house.


    After closing the door, Zoe asked in a low voice, ¡°How was it? Did that b*stard do anythingto you? I was so


    scared when I saw him earlier." Leanna shook her head, feeling exhausted all over her body.


    "I''m tired. Let''s go to sleep now."


    "Okay. Let''s talk about it tomorrow. Good night." "Night."... Two dayster, Zoe yawned while asking the person


    next to her, "Louis, don''t you have ss in the morning?" Louis answered, "No."


    "Please look after her fora while. I need to take a nap now. I''m too sleepy." "Alright." After a while, Leanna


    returned from the office and was standing beside Louis to tidy up something.


    "Where''s Zoe?" "She''s taking a nap." Hearing that, she smiled and looked at him.


    "Why are you here?"


    An awkward Louis looked away.


    "I have nothing much to do anyways." "Didn''t you use your free time for part-time work? Why didn''t yougo


    today?" He did not answer. Leanna smiled and said, "If you are here to work, I don''t have enough to pay you."


    "I''m not here for your money." After a pause, Louis pursed his lips and whispered, "There''s no news." "You


    came here just for this?" Louis frowned.


    "The newspaper asked me if I wanted to continue the publication of the notice.


    So, I''m here to ask you about it." The wanted poster had been out for some time and the newspapers did


    theirpart by spreading the news to the whole town. It seemed hopeless after all. Leanna said, "Nah. You don¡¯t


    have to waste your money on that. You should save the money up and go on some dates sometimes." He


    remained silent.

 Chapter 187

    Chapter 187


    Chapter 187 Capitalists Are Ruthless, Stingy Men In actual fact, Leanna was not surprised about the current


    oue. Still, it was for the best as the person hadfinally been located, which meant that Louis no longer had


    to live with the guilt. After quite some time, a dejected Louis voiced out, "I will try using other methods." Leanna


    turned around to look at him.


    "Louis, do you really have no interest in dating?" "No." Suddenly, she thought of something and probed, "Are


    you perhaps... interested in men? You know,I''ll always love and support you regardless... What matters is your


    happiness." At that point, his expression turned thunderous.


    "That''s not the case at all." He continued, "Stop fretting about me.


    I know what I''m doing whereas you, on the other hand, should pay more attention to yourself." She smiled.


    "I''m doing quite well right now." "I heard from Zoe that someone is pursuing you." Speechless for amoment,


    Leanna replied, "Don''t listen to her.


    We''re just friends.


    There''s nothing going on." However, Louis had a doubtful look on his face.


    In spite of that, she quickly sent him on his way.


    "That''s enough.


    I don''t need you here anymore, so you should head back to school."


    Before he left, he hesitated for amoment before asking, ¡°That person from before... Will she visit you again?"


    At that moment, Leanna was momentarily stunned by his question.


    "Who are you talking about?" "That actress friend of yours." Finally, it dawned upon her and she replied,"Do


    you mean Daphne? She''s rather busy, so she might only pop over when she''s free.


    What''s up?"


    He replied calmly, "Nothing much.


    One of my ssmates wanted her autograph and asked me for a favor."


    "HI let her know the next time shees over, then.


    How many do you want?" "Any amount will do." After hepleted his ''mission'', he left in a rush without a


    second nce at her.


    Meanwhile,Leanna smiled as she looked at his retreating figure.


    She was just about to retract her gaze to continue work when she noticed an uninvited person at the


    entrance.


    Georgina stood there and finally entered the studio afterwatching Louis leave. She met Leanna¡¯s gaze


    and revealed a slight smile.


    "Is that your friend, Miss McKinney?" "He¡¯s my brother." As soon as Georgina heard that, she lifted her


    brow.


    "I can''t believe that your brother''s so good-looking.


    I¡¯m quite envious of you." Leanna knew that her words were merely exaggerated pleasantries, so she


    smiled politely and asked, "What can I do foryou, Miss Crossley?" After theirst exchange, she had


    assumed that they would not encounter each other again from then on. Unexpectedly, Georgina


    actually came over to see Leanna on her own ord just two days after that incident. Georgina


    responded with a smile, "I came over today for two matters.


    Let''s talk business first.


    I would like tomission you to custom-make a ne for me.


    However, it will be an urgent order as I need it by Saturday."


    "I''m sorry, Miss Crossley, but we don''t ept orders on shortnotice.


    Besides, there is a list of customers awaiting their custom-made orders and we have them lined up for


    the next few months."


    Georgina seemed slightlyregretful.


    "Is that so? I should have done my homework prior to my visit.


    I¡¯m sorry for the trouble." "Miss Crossley, is there anything else that I can help you with?" Leanna


    maintained her smile.


    Georgina reached into her bag and retrievedan invitation card.


    "It''s my birthday this Saturday, so I''ve invited some friends over to celebrate with me.


    I hope that you will join us too." Completely taken aback by the situation, Leanna was unsure for a


    moment regarding Georgina''s intentions and thoughts.


    After a few seconds,Leanna finally responded, "Thanks for the kind invite, Miss Crossley.


    I''m not too acquainted with your friends, so I think¡ª" '' Don''t you worry, Miss McKinney.


    They''re all easy-going people and we are all around the same age.


    Besides, I mentioned before that I wanted to befriend you and I''m serious about that.


    I realize that you must have had a bad impression of me previously, so I hope that wecan take this


    chance to resolve our misunderstanding.


    I reckon that it''s not worth losing such a great friend like you over a man."


    Her words had left Leanna with no other choice at all.


    Suddenly, she could notseem to tell whether Georgina was being sincere or putting on an act. If she


    was genuine about this, then Leanna would have been too judgmental all this while.


    However, if Georgina was just putting on a show, then she was indeed a very schemeful person to be


    able to turn up today despite Leanna¡¯snasty words previously. Just as Leanna was contemting a


    response to Georgina''s words, the invitation card was already ced in front of her.


    "Miss McKinney, you can take some time to consider this.


    No matter what happens, I will always wait for you." After Georgina said that, she nodded slightly to


    Leanna and turned around to leave.


    Leanna lowered her eyesand nced at the pink invitation card before her.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    At that moment, she felt a pulsating vein on her temple.


    It was then that Zoe walked out of the breakroom and cast eyes on the card before snorting.


    "The rich are indeed different from us average people.


    They even give out invitation cards for birthdays." Leanna lifted her head.


    "Did you catch our conversation?" Zoe raised her hand and gestured.


    "Just parts of it." Subsequently, she asked, "Do you n to go?"


    Leanna shook her head and ced the invitation card aside.


    "No." Even though Georgina had broken off her engagement with Aidan, Leanna had no intention of being


    entangledwith wealthy families like theirs. Moreover, there was no point in being friends as they would not be


    able to rte to each othering from two different worlds. In the afternoon, there was suddenly a


    Not being able to focus on her designs, she walked out of her office and shot a look outside.


    "What''s going on out there?" One of the girls in the shop had just gone out to find out what wasgoing on and


    she answered, "A developer has taken over the shops in this area.


    Apparently, there has been serious pollution going on over thest few years, so they intend to focus on


    protecting theecosystem by nting greenery around the area." At that moment, Leanna was slightly


    speechless and she thought, Which developer would have such a great heart? These capitalists are basically


    all ruthless, stingy men. "Is this ce going to be demolished?" inquired Zoe. "I haven''t heard them mention


    anything about that.


    They just stated that there would be more flowers and trees nted around this area." "How are we going to


    continue withour business if that''s the case?" Before thepletion of the nting process, their customers


    would arrive to see messy soil all over the ce.


    It would be worse if it rained as the whole area would be filled with muddy water. After Zoe considered the


    situation carefully, she realized that this wouldnot be ideal.


    She was about to roll up her sleeves and pop over in a huff to confront the other party when a man dressed ina


    suit came in from the front door. The man spoke up, "I''m the person in charge of Project Hail Green in this area


    and my boss has specifically given me the instructions toe over and apologize to the affected businesses.


    We will only execute our project at night, so hopefully, we won''t disrupt your working hours." "Oh, is that so?"


    Zoe slowly rolled down her sleeves as shespoke. He handed over his name card.


    "This is my contact details, so if you have any issues at all, feel free to contact me." Noticing the polite attitude


    fromthe other party, she felt slightly ashamed of her abruptness from before.


    "Sure thing.


    Thank you for your hard work." The man nodded slightly and was about to leave when Leanna suddenly


    walked over.


    "Can I ask whichpany you''re working for?" "Uhm..." The man recalled the instructions given by Jonathan,


    to which he then replied, "Our boss prefers to keepa low profile when ites to doing good deeds.

 Chapter 188

    Chapter 188


    Chapter 188 The Magic Trick Leanna was perplexed by his answer. Why would I feel burdened? The man


    wasafraid of saying the wrong thing if he stayed on longer, so he nodded at her and hastily left the scene. Zoe


    nced outside and noticed that the crowd had started to disperse and she could not help clicking her tongue.


    "That developer is quite weird, huh? It''s quite rare nowadays for someone to stay anonymous after doing a


    gooddeed." Still, there was only one she knew of who would do so out of the many people she encountered.


    Meanwhile, Leanna was at a loss for words. She reached out to press the spot in between her brows and


    decided to ignore the matter.


    ''TH be in my room to continue with work." Zoe nodded.


    "Sure, go ahead."... Meanwhile at Pearson Group, Jonathan reported back to Aidan about thetest news,


    "President Pearson, everything over there is settled.


    I don''t think that Madam suspects anything.


    I''ve given the instructions for them toplete their work as soon as possible so that Madam''s working


    operations won''t be disrupted."


    Aidan lowered his eyes and nced at theband-aid on his hand.


    He seemed to be lost in thoughts as he suddenly spoke up calmly, "It doesn''t matter even if she realizes


    itunless she no longer cares about anything, including her studio." Jonathan coughed awkwardly and remained


    silent. Undeniably, President Pearson''s action was quite... despicable.


    If Madam knows about this, she will very likely pay no regard and resort to destroying everythingfor both


    parties out of anger. After quite some time, Jonathan mentioned, "President Pearson, the person in charge of


    Complex Group will arrive in Highside next Saturday.


    You will be meeting him for dinner." "Okay." Aidan came back to his senses.


    Jonathan nodded and was aboutto leave when Aidan stopped him. "Is Elijah not upied enough recently?"


    asked Aidan. "Well..." Jonathan was tempted to say that his boss had more free time than Elijah, but he did not


    dare to utter that. Not expecting a reply from him, Aidan merely said, "You should find a way to keep him more


    upied.


    That way, he won''t be able to run around and meet Leanna at her workce a lithe time." "Noted." After


    Jonathan left, Aidan dialed Oscar''s number. "I''m on a date, so spill." Oscar responded. Aidan leaned back on


    his chair and spoke in a calm voice, "Your way didn''t work." Oscar was momentarily taken by surprise as he


    did not register what Aidan was on about.


    "What do you mean?" What the heck is he talking about?


    Aidan repeated impatiently, "I said, your way didn''t work at all.


    It has no effect on Leanna.


    She even¡ª" At that point, it finally dawned upon Oscar and he continued the topic by finishing off


    Aidan''s sentence, "She even what?" "Bit me."


    On the other end, Oscar was rendered speechlessas he tried hard to stifle hisughter to stop himself


    from bursting outughing. After some time, he finally regained hisposure and asked while stifling


    hisughter, "What did you do to her?" Aidan was reluctant to recall the details, so he questioned


    unamusingly, "Didn''t you say that I should convince her by my actions?" Without much intensive


    thought, Oscar was sure that Aidan must have done something offensive judging by his character.


    After all, Leanna was triggered to the point that she bit him, so he must havebehaved very terribly.


    Oscar responded, "Bro, you should consider the situation before taking action.


    I told you that so that you could pay more attention, but I didn''t make you do something at your own


    whim, which was offensive to her."


    Aidan''s browswere tightly furrowed.


    "How did you know that she was offended?" "She bit you.


    That is obvious enough, right?" Aidan remained silent for a moment before replying, "That is just an


    indication that your way doesn''t work." Suddenly, Oscar was offended too.


    "That is actually quite rude of you, but I don''t mind summarizing the reason for your failure for you."


    "Say it."


    "This isn''t rocket scienceby the way.


    You''re just too harsh with your words.


    If only you could voice out less, then there might be a chance of you seeding.


    You¡ª" Before Oscar could finish his sentence, Aidan hung up the phone on him. Oscar clicked his


    tongue as he looked at his phone.


    I had to be cruel to be kind. Time flew and it was already Saturday.


    Leanna sat in her office and heaved a sighas she looked at the heavy snowfall outside the window.


    This was the perfect weather to just remain indoors. She rested her eyes for a moment before lowering


    her head to finish up her designs.


    However, there was suddenly a knock on her door. She rose to her feet to open the door and found that


    it was Jonathan standing outside with a slight smile onhis face. She had no words to express herself


    and was about to shut the door and bolt it when he hurriedly blocked the door.


    "Miss McKinney, I¡¯vee to discuss business." She looked at him warily and her eyes seemed to be


    conveying the message,What sort of business dealings would we have with each other? He grunted


    and continued, "Here''s what''s going on.


    President Pearson has a dinner appointment tonight.


    Could you attend the dinner as hispanion¡ª" "No." Leanna did not even bother to consider it.


    "Miss McKinney.


    Hey, Miss McKinney." Jonathan suddenly heaved a sigh upon noticing that she was about to shutthe


    door on him again.


    He then revealed a dejected look and recited, "Actually, my mother hasn''t been feeling welltely.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    I wanted to bring her to the hospital, but I''ve been too busy with work to havethe time to do so.


    If only..." However, Leanna had an indifferent look on her face.


    "This isn''t going to work on me." Upon realizing that Leanna was unaffected by the miserable act he put


    on, he coughed awkwardly and decided to switch tactics.


    "Miss McKinney, I''ll be frank, then.


    Pearson Group has been adversely affected after breaking off the engagement with the Crossley Family.


    President Pearson might look like he has plenty of free timetely, but that is just his way of relieving stress."


    "I didn''t think that he would be underany stress." At that point, Jonathan panicked, "Well... President Pearson


    didn''t want you to worry, Miss McKinney, so he has always managed to put on a tough front." "Just let him


    know that I don''t need to know any of this.


    There is no way on earth that I would attend a dinner appointment with him, let alone give a damn about his


    misery."


    After Leanna said that, she was about toshut the door when Aidan''s figure suddenly appeared at her studio.


    As soon as she saw that, she took a step back. Aidan shot a calm look at her.


    "Leanna, if I''m not mistaken, you still owe me a meal fromst week."


    "You are mistaken." I didn''t agree to anything!


    "Fine." He nced atJonathan.


    "Proceed to give away the remaining clothes left in Castor Vi."


    To that, Leanna was at aloss for words. He continued, "What are you waiting for?" Jonathan hastily took out


    his phone.


    "I''ll make the necessary arrangements right away." She clenched her teeth and responded, "Hold on!"


    There were some boxes at homethat she had yet to go through.


    Although the money from the clothing sales would go to charity, it was difficult for her to find the spare time to


    sell the old clothes all at once.


    Thisb*stard is mainly here to cause trouble for me! Aidan was unperturbed as he took a seat on the couch and


    crossed his slender legs.


    "I can give you some time to consider it." As soon as Jonathan noticed the shift in dynamic, he slowly retreated


    and left the two of them tofight it out. It was then that Leanna questioned, "President Pearson, don''t you find


    your ways of doing things to be shameless? You don''t seem to have any other option other than threatening


    me, huh?" "Well, I don''t need toe up with varieties as long as I have the magic trick." He maintained the


    same expression. Speechless, she sat across from him and pursed her lips before saying, "Can I discuss


    something with you?" "Say it." She spoke up gradually, "I don''t mind being yourpanion for this dinner


    appointment." He nced sideways at her and waited for her to finish her sentence. However, he knew well


    that it would not be anything niceing out of her mouth next.

 Chapter 189

    Chapter 189


    Chapter 189 Looks Like President Pearson and Mrs. Pearson Get Along Well


    Leanna looked at Aidan with utmost sincerity. "After apanying you to thedinner, could you¡ª¡± "No.¡° Her


    brows creased tightly.


    "But I haven''t even finished my question." Aidan coldly nced at her.


    "Leanna, we are not negotiating." "Does this mean I don''t have a choice?"


    He responded nonchntly, "Did I have a choice when you had me retrieve your brother''sreport card, then?"


    She paused for a moment before inquiring, "Can we call it even after the dinner?" After that, he lifted his brow.


    "Well see. It''s not like you only owe me once." An expressionless Leanna questioned, "Do you mean that


    you¡¯renot going to let me off the hook regardless?" Noticing the coldness in her tone, he turned to look at her


    with displeasure.


    "Leanna McKinney, you''re so happy when Elijah came looking for you and yet, this is how you''re going to actin


    front of me? Why is it considered a hassle when ites to me?" "President Pearson, honestly speaking, do


    you think that you can do better than Elijah?" she added before Aidan snapped, "Will you ask for my opinion


    before threatening me into doing something I''m reluctant to do?" "No." It was a downright answer without a


    moment of hesitation since making up excuses was the only way for him to see her as she had been avoiding


    him. Meanwhile, she was rendered speechless by how shameless he was behaving. Aidan rose to his feet.


    "We''re running out of time. We still gotta pick out an outfit. Hurry up."


    There was only Leanna in the store today.


    She sprang to her feet and headed to the office to grab her stuff.


    Taking the lock from the front desk, she told the man indifferently, "President Pearson, could you please


    out? I have to lock the door." "I''ll be waiting for you outside." He was not worried about the possibility of her


    escaping as there was nowhere else she could run to. While locking the door, Leanna gnawed her teeth as


    she tried to rein back the urge to ughter him.


    Forget about torturing her at times, why would he request her to apany him for a dinner? I¡¯ll go! I


    shouldshow my ''appreciation'' by causing a ruckus during the dinner. After locking the door, she saw the


    man''s car by the roadside and prepared to sprint her way in the midst of snow when an umbre


    appeared on top of her head. Realizing her gaze, Aidan looked at her from the corner of his eyes.


    "What are you looking at?" "You don''t have to act all nice." She snorted before wearing the hoodie and


    running into the snow.


    Watching her course of action, he pursed his lips and followed suit.


    The dinner was set at 7.00PM and the skyhad darkened when they arrived at the hotel.


    The car halted and an employee opened the door. Right when she was about to alight from the car,


    abeautifully-carved hand stretched before her, prompting her to raise her head to gaze at the tall


    stature and his surreal features that were enhanced by the snowkes dancing in the air. It was simr


    to the scene where Aidan offered his hand to her at the ship.


    The memory formed a ripple in her tranquil heart. Leanna hesitated momentarily before shoving his


    hand and lifted the hem of her dress to alight from the car.


    While Aidandid not utter anything, Jonathan, who was standing behind them with an umbre, averted


    his gaze to act as if nothing had happened. She felt someone wrapping his hand around her waist after


    taking a few steps forward, which caused her to frown.


    "President Pearson¡ª" "Even if you''re forced toe here, we should act decently," interrupted Aidan.


    She pursed her lips into a thin line and decided to make the final struggleby grumbling, "But I can''t walk


    properly like this." As he gradually released her, she did not expect it to work.


    When she heaved a silent sigh of relief, he slightly raised his arm at her and ordered, "Hold onto me."


    In the end, shelinked arms with him with pouted lips upon figuring that it was better than having him


    hold her waist.


    At the same time, Aidan''s light smile went unnoticed. Entering the private room, Leanna saw a man in


    his forties speaking fluent French over the phone.


    He terminated thecall when he noticed their appearance before stretching out his hand toward Aidan.


    "Nice to meet you, President Pearson."


    "Mr.Morris, it''s a pleasure to meet you too." Aidan shook his hand whereas Leanna was standing next


    to him in boredom.


    However, she reckoned that it wasan important coboration judging from how the arrogant man was


    willing to talk with the other party. William''s gaze naturallynded upon her for a few seconds before he


    piped up, "And this is..." Aidan held her waist in response and introduced, "This is my wife." "Ex-wife,"


    corrected Leanna. Still, he remained unwavered.


    "She''s joking." She squirmed her body in denial, only to have his grip tightened around her waist.


    She was not sure whether it was on purpose or it was merely a warning. William smiled.


    "President Pearson and Mrs.Pearson, looks like the both of you are loving." "We have a very bad


    rtionship.


    We even divorced ages ago." She did not let the chance slip in order to go againstAidan''s will. Even so,


    he did not get angry and smiled instead.


    "We had a fighttely.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    She''s throwing a tantrum right now." Leanna took the opportunity to pinch his back yet he did not budge in


    theslightest. "Have a seat." An incisive William just brushed it off. The private room had an aesthetic touch to


    its decoration as there were dark colored curtains hanging to uplift the sophisticated ambience.


    He grabbed the bottle of wine to fill their sses as they kept discussing work-rted matters before the


    dishes were served.


    At first,Leanna presumed that William was a foreigner because of his eloquence in French.


    As such, she waster surprised by his proficiency in the localnguage as well as his gant behavior.


    There was hing she could not understand, though.


    It was a business function and William did not even bring a plus-one with him.


    Thus, why did Aidan insist on bringing her along? Before long, the door was opened by the waiter to serve the


    dishes.


    Williamstopped the work discussion before smiling.


    "President Pearson, I didn''t expect you to be this capable at such a young age.


    Although I''ve heard a lot about you, you''ve given me a lot of surprises today." Aidan responded,


    "You''rettering me, Mr.Morris.


    Though not every rumor should be taken seriously.

 Chapter 190

    Chapter 190


    Chapter 190 Befuddled Seated aside and listening to the words were Leanna who was having secondhand


    embarrassment to the point that she wished the earth would open up andswallow her whole. This b*stard has


    no shame. However, William''s smile remained unchanged.


    After all, someone as experienced as him in the business world would not be easily fazed by thewords of a


    brazen man. His eyes flickered with fleeting sadness as he looked over Leanna, who he then praised,


    "Mrs.Pearson is very beautiful as well." "Well, sometimes, pretty women have bad tempers," Aidan responded.


    Leanna was disconcerted by his sudden attack.


    Is the bastard implying that I have a bad temper? She sneered silently before approaching William and


    conversed, "I can tell that you''re fromHighside judging by your ent, am I right?" After the question was


    asked, he paused for a brief moment before nodding affirmatively.


    "Yes, but I''ve been abroad for a long time." "I see. Are you back in Highside for your family or to travel,


    Mr.Morris?" Avoiding her question, he simply responded, "I don''t have any specific ns. It''s primarily for this


    coboration." Leanna noticed that William dodged her question and she realized that it might be an


    ufortable question for him.


    After some thoughts, she queried again, "You''ve been abroad for so long.


    Do you still have any rtives in Highside?" "No," he answered with a slight smile as he picked up the teacup.


    "Then¡ª"


    A piece of cake was stuffed into Leanna''s mouth just asshe was about to ask another question. "Don''t talk


    while you''re eating or else you''ll bite your tongue," Aidan warned. By the time she swallowed the cake in her


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    mouth, Aidan and William had already moved on to a new topic.


    As such, she could only remain silent as she was not able to keep up with the conversation. Halfway through


    the meal, Leanna went to the restroom; to hersurprise, she ran into an old friend there. Daniel was taken


    aback as well when he saw her.


    "Is this Miss McKinney?" he asked.


    "Yes, it is. I''m having a meal here," she responded.


    "Are you here for that too?" He shook his head before answering slowly, "I am invited to perform here."


    "Oh, I see. If that''s the case, I don''t want to take up any more of your time. Have a good show," she


    politely stated. To that, Daniel gave a slight nod at her.


    After she left, he squinted his eyesat her back while pondering about something. Since Leanna did not


    intend to head back to the meeting so soon, she went to the hotel''s terrace to blow off some steam


    instead. After calming down, she felt that her actions earlier were stepping over the line.


    Sure, she wanted to destroy the coboration by all means, but she could not possibly stick her nose


    where it did not belong.


    I don''t want to stoop so low like that b*stard. She took a deep breath to cool herself down before


    returning to the private room.


    When sheentered, there was only William left in the private room and initiated the conversation.


    "Mrs.Pearson, President Pearson is looking for you." "I''m sorry. I went out to take a breather."


    He chuckled.


    "It''s boring to hear us talk about business, right?" "No.I just..." Leanna pursed her lips before


    continuing, "Mr.Morris, I''m sorry about what happened earlier." "Huh? What do you mean?" He refilled


    his cup with tea.


    "I shouldn''t have asked about your private matters.


    I sincerely apologize about that." "It''s fine.


    Actually, I noticed that President Pearson and you seem to have some internal conflict.


    I guess that''s why you asked me that, right?" Leanna went along with his words and nodded.


    "Thereason why I was reluctant to answer your question is because I didn''t want to bring up the past.


    Rest assured that it has nothing to do with you personally though, so you don''t need to feel bad about


    that, Mrs.Pearson," William exined. After a brief moment of silence, she asked, "Mr.Morris, may I


    make a request?" "I don''t see any harm in that." "Could you...Could you not refer to me as


    Mrs.Pearson? Myst name is McKinney and my name is Leanna.


    I divorced Aidan six months ago," she uttered quietly. The bewildered William paused for a moment


    before responding, "I''m sorry, Ididn''t know about that." "Oh no, it''s alright.


    I didn''t mean anything else other than the fact that being called Mrs.


    Pearson was personally a little too..." "I get it, Miss McKinney." "Thank you," Leanna replied with a grin.


    William was dazed for a moment after seeing her smile.


    He lowered his gaze and sipped his tea before asking, "Miss McKinney, you mentioned your name''s


    Leanna?"


    Shegave him a small nod. "Leanna. What a lovely name." He smiled. "Are you the only child?" he


    asked again after a brief pause. "I have ayounger brother." "Your parents should be very happy with


    both of you." He slowly nodded. After hearing this, she gave a polite smile without any reply. Noticing


    her silence, William asked, "Miss McKinney, did I say something wrong?" "No, you didn''t.


    It''s just that my parents are no longer in this world and few people will mention them." Leanna smiled bitterly


    while shaking her head.


    "It''s my turn to apologize thistime." "I guess we''re considered even now?" she asked tentatively. Surprised by


    her statement, William was stunned for a moment before reacting with a wide smile.


    "Yes. We''re even." With that, they fell into silence until Aidan returned. Aidan sat beside Leanna and gave her


    a side-eye while licking histhin lips as if he was unting his displeasure at her long disappearance. However,


    she pretended not to see him and lowered her head to eat her food on the te. After the meal, they exited the


    private room and were ready to leave. At that moment, Leanna was surprised to bump into Georgina right


    there.


    The man who stood beside Georgina was none other than Daniel whom she just met.


    Leanna subconsciously distanced herself from Aidan after realizingthat she was being watched by Georgina.


    She could not exin her sudden sense of guilt. Georgina quickly regained her smile before gushing, "Hey,


    Aidan and Miss McKinney! What a coincidence to see you here!"


    Not making a bigdeal out of it, Aidan hummed lightly in response. Both parties appeared to be in an awkward


    situation for quite a while. "Wait, do you guys know each other?" Daniel asked Leanna and Georgina.


    Surprised by his revtion, Georgina then questioned, "You know her too?" "We''re neighbors." "What a


    strange coincidence," Georgina uttered before returning her gaze to Leanna and smiled.


    "No wonder you couldn''t make it today, Miss McKinney.


    It turns out that you have an appointment with Aidan.


    If I had known, I wouldn''t have disrupted your little date by sending the invitation to you." At this point, Leanna


    had never beenmore befuddled.


    She was forced to swallow her inequity and endure everything in silence.


    "I told you to stay away from her," Aidan snapped while raising his head to look atGeorgina. In response,


    Georgina chuckled before rebuking, "I simply want to make friends with Miss McKinney here.


    Do I need your permission to do so? Don''t forget that we were once engaged, Aidan, but you broke it off right


    thereand then.

 Chapter 191

    Chapter 191


    Chapter 191 I Told You to Stop Moving Needless to say, Georgina''s words had made the situation


    ufortably awkward.


    Leanna tried to speak up several times,but could not think of what to say. Well, it seems that things are going


    my way.


    Seeing how allegedly chaotic Aidan''s private life is, perhaps William would take a step back to reconsider the


    cooperation.


    I guessthe universe favors me afterall, Leanna thought. Aidan narrowed his eyes but remained silent. At that


    moment, William looked at Georgina and asked, "May I ask that you are...?" "Hello.


    My name is Georgina Crossley.


    Nice to meet you!" She smiled and introduced herself. "Hello, Miss Crossley," he greeted and nodded slightly.


    "I won''t take up more of your time.


    I have something to handle, so I¡¯ll leave first," Georgina responded. "Let''s go, Mr.Daniel," she added while


    motioning Daniel to leave. With that, Daniel took a brief nce at Leanna before nodding and walking away.


    "I presume she is Miss Crossley, the daughterof the Crossley Group," William stated after they had left. Aidan


    averted his gaze and asked, "Do you know her, Mr.Morris?"


    "No, I don''t. I''ve only heard about her," William responded with a smile. After leaving the restaurant and


    bidding goodbye to William, Leanna turned her head and could nothelp but nce at Aidan several


    times. He then met her gaze and his stern facial features were devoid of emotion. "Do you have


    anything to say?" he asked. Nervous, she licked her lips before working her thoughts.


    Since you¡¯ve asked, I''ll go along. "Like I''ve always said, you shouldn''t treat rtionships like a


    gymmembership that you can just cancel and leave anytime you like.


    Look at you earlier like the cat''s got your tongue; you can''t even refute when your ex-fianc¨¦ is giving


    youa hard time." "Whom do you think I did that for?" Aidan queried. "How would I know?" she


    answered whileughing dryly. "Does Georgina visit you often?" After a moment of silence, Aidan


    asked again with the tip of his tongue pressing against his teeth. "I agree with Miss Crossley''s words


    earlier.


    Who are you to interfere with my private affairs now that we''re divorced¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, a pair of arms hugged herwaist tightly. She lunged forward and


    landed on his chest.


    At that moment, she instantly raised her hand to create a distance between two of their bodies.


    "President Pearson, what areyou doing?" Leanna fumed as she frowned. "I didn''t answer Georgina


    because her private affairs have nothing to do with me and I have no right to interfere," Aidan said


    solemnly before continuing, "But you are different." "Ever heard of equality? Why should I be any


    different?" "Simply because you''ve been my wife for three years... Or should I say, you''ve slept in my


    bed for three years? Are these two reasons enough? I can give you more if you think it''s not enough to


    make my case." His words rendered her speechless. She knew he would never say good things about


    her, therefore, she simply ignored him. However, not far away from them was Georgina who was


    standing at the restaurant''s entrance staring coldly at the two of them. This b*tch told me she wouldn''t


    get close to the Pearsons again! So, this is how you wanna y it, huh? You cunning b*tch, thought


    Georgina as she averted her gaze and stomped away. On the other hand, Leanna was still struggling


    to break free from Aidan''s hug. No matter how hard she tried, the b*stard seemed to have no intention


    of letting loose; instead, his hand tightened around her waist. At this point, the snow had stopped falling


    and the streetmps were glowing in orange, adding some warmth to the chilly winter day. "Don''t


    move," Aidan growled as he locked eyes with her. Why would she stop moving just because he said


    so? Leanna continued to struggle while saying, "I won''t move if you let me go." To that, he pursed his


    lips slightly and went silent. After a few more attempts, she became aware that something was off. No


    one knew about his biological reaction better than she did. "Are you insane? What... We''re on the


    streets now!" Leanna froze in ce while staring at him incredulously. "I told you to stop moving," Aidan


    grunted with his voice, which was a little hoarser than usual. Leanna kept her mouth shut. ssic


    Aidan, ssic bastard move.


    I cannot believe he just med it on me. After a short while, he cleared his throat before suppressing


    the rising heat in his body and let go of her.


    "Get in the car." Leanna did not dare to object any further; she opened the car door, bent down, and


    hopped inside.


    The journey on the way home wasfilled with both silence and a sense of mystery. Jonathan, who was in


    the front seat, felt the weird atmosphere and could not help but be intrigued. Now, why are they


    suddenly all flirty and shy with each other? Weren''t they just fighting like cats and dogs earlier?


    Feeling a little stuffy, Leanna rolled down the window and let the cold air in. After ventting the car,


    she hurriedly rolled up the window.


    Comfortable with the cold air, she exhaled and subconsciously turned her head over to Aidan, who was


    looking out the window with a calm and indifferent expression.


    Hiscold and chiseled jawline stood out in the dim light. While she was looking at him, her eyes could


    not stop themselves from going down.


    As her gaze was drawn to his thighs, she felt like her eyes had been stabbed.


    Retracting her gaze instantly, she was now uneasier than before. Aidan looked at her the next second


    as if he sensed something was off with her.


    "How longwill it take for us to arrive?" She pretended that there was nothing wrong and inquired.


    "There''s umted snow on the road, so I''ll be driving slower than usual.


    We''ll be there in about thirty minutes," Jonathan answered. "Okay, thanks." With that, she leaned


    against the seat with both hands on her knees and her back pencil-straight.


    After the briefconversation, the strange atmosphere that had been lingering in the car had finally dissipated.


    "Ignore Georgina if she approaches you again.


    Just let me know if she''s bothering you," he reminded Leanna.


    "Well, Miss Crossley is not bothering..." she said without hesitation.


    At that moment, she turned and gave a meaningful look tohim. In response, Aidan stared back at her coldly.


    Her lips immediately curled and she gave him a half-hearted smile. About half an hourter, the car arrived at


    the apartment downstairs. When Leanna was about to alight from the car, an epiphany suddenly struck her.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She then turned around and said, "Please wait for a few moments, President Pearson.


    I''ve got something for you." As such, he raised his brows in interest with his mood clearly elevated. After


    receiving his affirmation, she quickly exited the car and went upstairs.


    Zoe,who was sitting on the couch at home watching TV, looked over when she heard the door open.


    "Why did youe back sote, Nana? Why are you dressed in this manner?" Leanna took off her high heels


    and coat before tyingher hair into a ponytail.


    Subsequently, she went into the room to get changed while exining, "I''ll tell youter, Zoe.


    Could you help me retrieve all the jewelry that Aidan sent me? I''ll return them all to him right now."


    "Thatb*stard''s downstairs??" she questioned.

 Chapter 192

    Chapter 192


    Chapter 192 What Will She Give Me "Yes," uttered Leanna. "Okay. I''ll pack it up for you now." When Leanna


    came out.Zoe had already ced all the jewelry in a box. Leanna had changed into a pair of sweater pants


    and a parka.


    She then picked up the box and said, "Thanks.


    I''ll be going down now." Zoe snorted and hurriedly ran to the study, leaning against the window and looking


    down.


    Sure enough,she saw the familiar Rolls-Royce. Inside the car, Aidan tapped his knees lightly with his fingers


    and inquired leisurely, "What do you think she will give me?" Jonathan didn''t know what to reply.


    The question was a fatal one, so he tentatively responded, "Could it be that Mrs.Pearson is ready with the


    custom-made ne?" Aidan frowned in displeasure, seemingly dissatisfied with the answer.


    "Do you think she works that fast?" he questioned. Jonathan immediately agreed, "Probably not. Maybe, it''s


    something else." This time, Aidan kept quiet and waited patiently. Ten minutester, Leanna ran overwith a


    cardboard box.


    She reached out and tapped on the ss window. He lowered the car window, but before he had time to


    speak, the cardboard box was already inhis arms. Leanna apologized, "Sorry to keep you waiting for so long,


    President Pearson.


    You may go back now." Aidan lowered his head to nce at it before asking, "What is this?" She showedhim a


    polite smile and waved at him before turning to leave. When he opened the box and took a look inside, his


    face changed slightly, after which he immediately raised his head and shouted, "Leanna Mckinney!" Leanna


    pretended she heard nothing and quickly ran away. Aidan looked at her back and gritted his teeth, anger


    boiling within him. Jonathan sat in the front trying to stifle augh, so his face turned red instantly.... As soon


    as Leanna opened the door to her house, she saw Zoe leaning against the shoe cab with a gossipy look.


    She asked unnaturally, "Why are you looking at me like that?" "Did you go on a date with that bast¡ªAidan


    tonight?" Leanna immediately retorted, "No way?!" "Then, why did he drop you home? Also, why would you


    dress as such?" Her face slightly flushed as she was interrogated, so she stammered. Zoe inched closer and


    observed her friend.


    "Did you guys do something intimate?" "No!" "Really? I don''t believe you." Leanna was rendered speechless.


    She was indeed guilty, but in order to prevent Zoe from asking any more questions, she hurriedly made an


    excuse.


    "I''m going to take a shower." Finishing her sentence, she hurried into the bathroom.


    After taking a shower, Leanna opened the shutters of thebathroom and noticed that it started snowing


    again outside at some point, and a thinyer of snow had umted on the branches of the trees.


    The whole world was quiet, save for the sounds of snow falling. After drying her hair, Leanna went out


    to find Zoe sitting on the couch waiting for her. Thus, Leanna''s n to slip back into the bedroom failed.


    She sat on the couch and coughed, "Zoe, it''s not what you think.


    I¡ª" Zoe suddenly leaned closer to her, "Nana, let me ask you a question." Leanna asked, "What?"


    "Is there any chance for you and Aiden to reconcile?" Leanna was takenaback by that question.


    "Why do you ask?" "I noticed he''s been looking for you quite often recently like he''s bound to win you


    back," exined Zoe.


    Grabbing a pillow and hugging it in her arms, she said earnestly, "I don''t really mind who you will be


    with for the rest of your life as longas you''re happy, but..." Leanna knew what she was worried about,


    so she smiled softly.


    "Aidan and I are impossible." There were too many problems between them.


    It could not be summed up with asimple divorce and another marriage. Moreover, the also had a


    grudge against her. Leanna continued, "I don''t know what''s been going on with him recently, but I''m


    sure he''ll wear off over a period." Hearing that, Zoe finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    "That''s good. I''m worried that you will fall into the trap again and return to that cage."


    Although Aidanseemed to be more humane these days, especially to Leanna, the evil characteristics of


    a b*stard were difficult to change.


    Besides, the Pearson household was outrageously chaotic. Leanna patted herp, got up, and


    reassured, "Don''t worry.


    I know my limits." Just as Leanna was about to return to her room, the doorbell suddenly rang.


    Shewalked slowly to the door, and after having learned the lesson from thest time, she looked


    through the peephole before opening the door. "Mr.Daniel, it''s prettyte now. What¡¯s the matter?"


    Daniel lifted the cake in his hand and raised his eyebrows.


    "I bought this on the way back.


    I remember your friend likes it." Leanna turned her head and looked at Zoe, who had already stood up


    and looked at her expectantly.


    Then, Leanna stepped asideand gestured.


    "Please,e in." "Thanks." She closed the door, a little puzzled by Daniel''s sudden visit. After cing


    the cake on the coffee table, hetook a seat on the single couch.


    "I''m really sorry to disturb you at suchte hours, but the owner of the cake shop said this should be eaten


    fresh.


    It won''t be as good tomorrow, and it''s too much for myself, so I decided to share with youtwo." Hearing that,


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Zoe offered him a beaming smile.


    "Don''t worry about it! Neighbors are supposed to look after each other.


    I won''t reject your kindness!" Daniel smiled.


    "I''m d to hear that." Leanna poured a ss of water from the kitchen and ced it in front of him.


    After he thanked her, he asked, "Judging from whatMiss Crossley said today, are you her friend, Miss


    Mckinney?" "She''s not really a friend, but I had the honor to design a ne for her before." "I see." Zoe


    didn''t understand their conversation, so she inquired, "Miss Crossley? Did you meet Georgina today?" Leanna


    nodded.


    "I met her during dinner." Zoe could not help but frown.


    "Did she act pretentious in front of you again?" "Not really.


    She has a new boyfriend." "I hope this isn''t rude, but may I know what''s your rtionship with President


    Pearson?" inquired Daniel.


    For a moment, Leannaand Zoe did not answer him. Raising his brows, Daniel apologized, "It seems that I


    asked an inappropriate question.

 Chapter 193

    Chapter 193


    Chapter 193 The Romance I Want to Give After returning home, Daniel looked at the door behind him


    thoughtfully. Just then, his cell phone rang. The call was from Elijah, who asked, ¡°How¡¯s it going?¡±


    Daniel sat on the couch and crossed his slender legs. ¡°I did it personally, so of course, I seeded.¡±


    ¡°Georgina is smarter than you think. She has contributed a lot to the recent events of the Pearson


    family,¡± uttered Elijah. ¡°I¡¯ll stay alert. Besides¡­¡± Daniel paused before saying, ¡°He came back early.¡±


    ¡°When did he return?¡± ¡°Today, I think.¡± Elijah inquired, ¡°Has he met Georgina?¡± Daniel got up, opened


    the refrigerator door, and took out a can of beer. ¡°Yes. I took Georgina out on purpose.¡± ¡°Should we


    bring forward the n?¡± ¡°No,¡± replied Daniel. ¡°By the way, I saw Leanna today with Aidan.¡± There was


    no response from Elijah. ¡°There are so many beautiful women out there. Why must you have Aidan¡¯s


    woman?¡±


    ¡°You won¡¯t understand.¡± Before Daniel could answer, Elijah hung up the phone. Daniel snorted while


    holding the phone, raised his head, and drank half a can of beer. Today¡¯s n was initially for him to


    get acquainted with Georgina first so that he could facilitate future ns, but he didn¡¯t expect¡­


    However, it seemed that Georgina had lingering resentment toward Aidan. Otherwise, she would not


    have said those things in public and embarrassed him. After finishing the rest of the beer, he squeezed


    the can with one hand and threw it into the trash can. It was a goal. ¡­ Zoe looked at half of the cake


    and burped, ¡°I can¡¯t eat anymore.¡± Leanna looked at her and instructed, ¡°Put it in the refrigerator.¡± ¡°No


    way. Didn¡¯t Daniel say that it won¡¯t be good if we eat it tomorrow?¡± Zoe wanted to take another bite, but


    she was too full now, so she simply slouched on the couch. ¡°He¡¯s weird. Why did he bring the cake


    over but not even take a bite? I ate this all by myself!¡± Leanna did not respond to her, but she found out


    why Daniel came here today. His purpose was to inquire about the rtionship between her, Georgina,


    and Aidan. However, Leanna could not figure out why he would want to know. After a while, she got up.


    ¡°I¡¯m going to sleep now. Stop eating and rest up already.¡± Zoe snorted and stood up firmly, dering,


    ¡°Goodnight. I have to walk a little. I¡¯m too full.¡± ¡°There are pills for digestion in the drawer. You can take


    some.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± The following days went by peacefully. Perhaps, Aidan was too busy settling the


    cooperation that he did not pester her. Leanna¡¯s tense nerves also rxed a little. Just as she wasThis belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    looking out of the window in a daze, Zoe¡¯s voice rang. ¡°Nana! Nana! Come and look.¡± Leanna got up


    and walked out of the office, asking, ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± ¡°The environmental conservation project has


    beenpleted,¡± Zoe eximed emotionally. ¡°Look! The scenery is so pretty now, and the air feels


    much better, and guess what?¡±


    ¡°What?¡± ¡°Besides green nts, they also nted baby¡¯s breaths of various colors! Baby¡¯s breath


    symbolizes that you miss a person, that a person is pure, that the person gives you hope, that you love


    them, that you¡¯re happy to have them, and that is the romance you want to offer them.¡± Leanna was


    speechless. ¡°Aren¡¯t you curious about the anonymous phnthropist who did this?¡± Zoe continued. ¡°Not


    at all.¡± ¡°That¡¯s a pity.¡± Just then, Elijah came in from outside, heard their conversation, and asked,


    ¡°What¡¯s a pity?¡± Zoe chuckled dryly, ¡°N-Nothing. It¡¯s nothing.¡± After saying that, Zoe questioned, ¡°Elijah,


    have you been busy recently? I haven¡¯t seen you often.¡± Elijah nodded. ¡°I just came back from a


    business trip abroad.¡± ¡°No wonder I noticed you seemed to have lost weight recently.¡± Elijah smiled.


    ¡°It¡¯s Thanksgiving tomorrow. Do you guys have any ns?¡± Zoe sighed. ¡°I don¡¯t even have a boyfriend.


    With whom shall I celebrate the festival? But we¡¯re going to have a barbecue at home. Would you like


    to join us?¡± When Zoe was talking, she winked at him desperately. Elijah seemed a little hesitant, but


    he looked at Leanna, asking for her permission, ¡°Do you mind if I join?¡± ¡°Of course not.¡± Anyway, she


    also invited Louis and Daphne, so it did not really matter if there was one more guest. Elijah breathed a


    sigh of relief. ¡°Should I bring anything?¡± ¡°Bring me a boyfriend,¡± Zoemented. Elijah did not know how


    to respond to that. Leanna covered Zoe¡¯s mouth and smiled. ¡°She¡¯s joking.¡±


    After gobbling half of the cake that night, Zoe had thought it through and decided to give up on Daniel.


    Since she had vowed to be a ygirl, she could not possibly be held back by one man! At that


    moment, Elijah lowered his head and nced at his watch, saying, ¡°I¡¯ll see you tomorrow then. I have


    to go now.¡± Zoe asked, ¡°Are you in such a hurry?¡± ¡°I happened to pass by, so I thought I¡¯d check up on


    you two.¡± ¡°Okay, see you tomorrow,¡± uttered Leanna. Elijah nodded before turning to leave. After


    walking a few steps, he noticed that the surrounding environment seemed to have changed. The green


    nts seemed to appear out of thin air, standing in front of him, as if they were silently dering war on


    him. When Elijah left, Zoe muttered, ¡°We have Louis, Daphne, and Elijah, so that¡¯s five people in total.


    Seems like it¡¯s gonna be quite crowded tomorrow.¡± ¡°Do you want to invite Daniel?¡± inquired Leanna.


    ¡°Forget it.¡± Zoe whispered, ¡°He probably prefers canned food more than barbecue.¡± In Pearson Group,


    Aidan put down the pen in his hand and pinched his nose, asking, ¡°Is there anything else today?¡± ¡°No,


    but there is a meeting at nine o¡¯clock tomorrow morning, so you have toe to thepany early,¡±


    replied Jonathan. Aidan sighed deeply, got up, and uttered, ¡°You may go home now.¡± Jonathan


    followed closely behind and inquired, ¡°President Pearson, there is something¡­¡± ¡°What?¡± ¡°Daphne said


    she can¡¯t attend the dinner party tomorrow night.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Jonathan could note up with an answer


    because Daphne did not borate. Aidan stretched out his hand and ordered, ¡°Pass me the phone.¡±


    Jonathan immediately searched Daphne¡¯s number and dialed it, then handed it to Aidan.


    The phone rang a few times before being connected. ¡°If you don¡¯t attend the dinner tomorrow, it will be


    treated as absenteeism,¡± said Aidan. Daphne went silent. After a while, she argued, ¡°President


    Pearson, you are being unreasonable. You only notified me of the dinner party this afternoon, but I


    promised my friends to spend Thanksgiving together the day before yesterday.¡± Hearing that, Aidan


    paused before questioning, ¡°Which friend?¡± ¡°A prettydy.¡± Aidan went speechless and halted in his


    footsteps. After a few seconds, he asked, ¡°Where is it?¡± ¡°Her home.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to attend the


    dinner event tomorrow, but I have one condition.¡±

 Chapter 194

    Chapter 194


    Chapter 194 He Seems Eager to Join Daphne knew what he was going to say, so she quickly beat him


    to it. ¡°Don¡¯t you think it¡¯s a little¡­¡± Aidan retorted in a deep and cold voice, ¡°A little what? Forget it. You


    should attend the dinner event tomorrow.¡± ¡°Oh, no. That won¡¯t do! It¡¯s a deal!¡± Aidan put away his


    phone and threw it to Jonathan, ordering, ¡°Schedule for someone else to attend the dinner party.¡±


    ¡°Sure.¡± After a pause, Aidan asked again, ¡°Do I have any ns for tomorrow night?¡± ¡°There was¡­¡±


    Jonathan immediately changed his tune. ¡°But there¡¯s none now.¡± Aidan hummed and continued


    walking. In the car, Jonathan asked him again, ¡°President Pearson, I have one more thing to tell you.¡±


    ¡°What?¡± ¡°Miss Mckinney is quite close to a foreigner named Daniel recently.¡± ¡°Leanna¡¯s neighbor?¡±


    inquired Aidan. Jonathan nodded.


    ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Have you done a background check on him?¡± ¡°He is of Chiojan and Warkin descent, is an


    orphan, and works as a cellist. He is quite reputable internationally, and he was on a national tour a few


    months ago. Highside was hisst stop.¡± ¡°How did he and Georgina know each other?¡± inquired Aidan.


    ¡°On Miss Crossley¡¯s birthday partyst week, he was invited to perform,¡± Jonathan continued, ¡°After


    that, the two met in private several times. It seems like¡­¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Aidan interrupted him, ¡°I don¡¯t care


    about them. Just keep an eye on her so she doesn¡¯t look for Leanna.¡± ¡°OK.¡± On Thanksgiving, snow


    started falling in the morning, causing the temperature to plummet. Leanna and Zoe went out early in


    the morning to buy barbecue ingredients. As soon as they came home, they saw Louis waiting for


    them. Opening the door, Leanna eximed, ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you toe over in the afternoon? Why are


    you here so early?¡± Louis took the grocery bags that she was carrying and replied, ¡°My lecturer has


    something up, so our ss got canceled.¡± Hearing that, Zoe pouted enviously, ¡°How great is that? I


    wished my boss would give me a day off too.¡± Leanna smiled and teased, ¡°Aren¡¯t you the boss? What


    are you talking about?¡± ¡°You¡¯re right. What a pity.¡±


    Just as they were talking, their neighbor¡¯s door opened. Daniel was standing on the porch, and after


    scanning the three of them, his gaze finally settled on Louis. ¡°May I know who¡­¡± he asked. ¡°This is my


    brother,¡± responded Leanna. Daniel smiled. ¡°I didn¡¯t know you had a younger brother.¡± While saying


    that, he nodded at Louis as a greeting. Louis nodded slightly in response. This time, Daniel asked, ¡°Is it


    your family gathering today?¡± ¡°It¡¯s Thanksgiving today, so we invited some friends over for dinner.¡±


    Daniel raised his brows as if he didn¡¯t understand. ¡°Thanksgiving?¡± Zoe briefly exined to him, ¡°It¡¯s a


    traditional festival in Chiojan. We celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the past year.¡± Daniel


    looked like he just discovered something new. ¡°I see. This is actually my first time hearing about the


    festival. How embarrassing.¡± ¡°I thought you knew a lot about Chiojan culture since you could speak


    fluent Chiojan!¡± eximed Zoe. ¡°I guess I¡¯m just ignorant.¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t know about Thanksgiving, you


    must not know what we eat during this festival, right?¡± Daniel humbly asked, ¡°What do you eat?¡± Zoe


    answered solemnly, ¡°Canned food.¡± The answer took Daniel aback, but Leanna could not stifle augh.


    Daniel coughed in embarrassment, wanting to say something but not sure what to say. ¡°Elijah wille


    tonight too. Would you like to join us?¡± invited Leanna. ¡°It would be rude for me to refuse since you¡¯ve


    invited me. I¡¯ll see you tonight.¡± Leanna nodded with a smile.


    After shutting the door, Zoe pouted and questioned, ¡°Nana, why did you invite him?¡± Leanna saidtely,


    ¡°He looks quite eager to join.¡± ¡°Really?¡± Louis chimed in, ¡°I felt it too.¡± Zoe touched her nose and


    wondered out loud, ¡°Why didn¡¯t I feel it?¡± ¡°Daniel stays in Highside alone, so he must have been quite


    lonely. Didn¡¯t you say that neighbors should look after each other? Anyway, since Elijah ising, it


    won¡¯t be too awkward for him,¡± exined Leanna. ¡°Did I say so?¡± Zoe muttered in a low voice again,


    ¡°But I still think he likes to eat canned food alone.¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t want him toe, should I go and tell


    him¡­¡± ¡°Forget it. Forget it!¡± Zoe held Leanna and uttered righteously, ¡°Why would you cancel the


    invitation? Just let hime.¡± Leanna smiled and took the groceries from her hands into the kitchen.


    Zoe stood on the spot for a few seconds before rushing into the room for a change of clothes. After a


    while, she ran out and called out to Louis, ¡°Louis! How do I look?¡± Louis, ¡°¡­Not pretty.¡± ¡°OK, then I¡¯ll


    change another set.¡± In the evening, Elijah arrived with a bouquet of flowers. Hearing the noises


    outside, Louis looked back and asked Leanna in an almost whisper, ¡°Is he the one Zoe mentioned


    about who is trying to pursue you?¡± Leanna pped him lightly on the shoulder and washed the


    vegetables, ¡°Don¡¯t talk nonsense. That isn¡¯t true.¡± ¡°He looks pretty fine to me. Why don¡¯t you consider


    him?¡± ¡°Then why do you not consider any of the girls who like you?¡± Louis could not argue with his


    sister anymore, so he silently went to prepare the ingredients. After a while, Elijah¡¯s voice sounded


    outside the kitchen. ¡°Can I help?¡± Leanna turned her head and smiled, rejecting his offer, ¡°No. Just take


    a seat outside. It¡¯s gonna be ready soon.¡± Elijah nodded and looked at Louis again. ¡°You must be Louis.


    It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you.¡± Louis was a little surprised to hear that, so he inquired, ¡°Do you know


    me?¡± Elijah wanted to say that he had seen him and Leanna together in college, but when the words


    came to his mouth, he decided against it. ¡°Zoe has mentioned you before.¡±


    Louis muttered, ¡°I thought you heard from¡­ someone else.¡± Leanna coughed and handed him the


    vegetables in her hand. ¡°Wash these, Louis.¡± When Elijah saw the situation, he took his leave. ¡°I won¡¯t


    be disturbing you guys. Call me if you need me.¡± Leanna smiled and nodded. ¡°Okay.¡± Not long after


    Elijah arrived, Daniel came in with a bottle of red wine. As the sky darkened, the snow outside became


    heavier. Their guests were slowly gathering, making the house feel warm and cozy. This was the first


    time Leanna hosted such a lively gathering with friends. Seeing that scene, the corners of her lips


    curled upward. She could not help but feel delighted. Just then, Zoe leaned on the door and asked,


    ¡°Nana, when are we going to start? Daphne hasn¡¯t arrived yet. Should I give her a call?¡± ¡°Just give me


    five more minutes. You can call her.¡± ¡°OK.¡± Unexpectedly, as soon as Zoe finished speaking, the


    doorbell and her phone rang at the same time. ¡°You take the call. I¡¯ll go get the door,¡± said Leanna.Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 195

    Chapter 195


    Chapter 195 Neither Can You Leanna opened the door to find Daphne outside, waving at her. She


    smiled back. Just as she was about to say something, she saw a man slowly stepping out from behind


    Daphne. Her words died in her throat. Aidan turned to frown at her. ¡°What is with that look on your


    face?¡± Daphne interrupted with a chuckle and exined, ¡°I bumped into President Pearson in the


    elevator. What a coincidence, Leanna! He said he was here to visit a friend. Unfortunately, his friend


    was not home, so I¡­¡± Leanna¡¯s smile did not waver. ¡°Is that so? I did not think President Pearson


    would have friends living here.¡± Hearing the jeering tone in her voice, Aidan calmly replied, ¡°As long as


    I am rich, I can always make friends.¡± She was rendered speechless. Furthermore, she could not really


    argue against that statement. She wanted to chase him away, but she could not, due to the current


    circumstances. Anyway, even if she did try, he might not go away. After taking a deep breath, she


    moved to let them in. ¡°Come on in.¡± When they walked in, Aidan softly said to Daphne, ¡°Nice acting.¡±


    Daphne stared at him. Oh, how very happy she was at his praise.


    The warm and cozy vibes of the ce became frigid with Aidan¡¯s return to the room. Aidan, though,


    seemed to not have noticed the unweing atmosphere as he appeared to be as calm as usual.


    Even Leanna felt awkward on his behalf. Elijah was stunned. He had not expected to see Aidan here. It


    only took a few seconds before he swiftly regained his cool and politely greeted, ¡°President Pearson.¡±


    When Zoe returned from her phone call, she was shocked to see Aidan in the room. She hurriedly


    shuffled over to Daphne. ¡°What is going on? Why is that¡­ Why is President Pearson here?¡± Daphne


    responded with only a bitter sigh that spoke of secrets she could not tell. Inside the kitchen, Louis


    frowned at who he saw in the living room. ¡°Why is he here? Did you invite him?¡± ¡°No,¡± replied Leanna,


    ¡°but¡ª¡± ¡°Well?¡± She smiled and shook her head. Even if Aidan did not follow Daphne into her


    apartment, he would find his way one way or another. As expected, Aidan would not give up in the


    span of a few days. After a pause, Louis asked, ¡°Has he been bothering youtely?¡± ¡°Did Zoe tell you


    that?¡± ¡°I guessed it.¡± Leanna was at a loss for words because her brother sure had a great knack for


    guessing. She snapped out of her thoughts. ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡± At the dinner table, Daphne sat with Zoe while


    Aidan, Daniel, and Elijah sat on different sides of the table. The moment Louis stepped out of the


    kitchen, Zoe pulled him down to sit beside Daniel. Now, the only empty seats left were next to Aidan


    and Elijah.


    That meant Leanna had to choose between one of the two men tonight. When she saw what her


    choices were, she had the fervent wish to just disappear from where she stood. What kind of battle was


    this? She turned to take a look at the culprit of the situation. This was undoubtedly Zoe¡¯s fault. When


    Zoe saw that her maniptions had borne fruit, she hurriedly spoke up, ¡°Well, Nana, sit beside Elijah.


    We don¡¯t want President Pearson to feel crowded.¡± Leanna felt her head throb with a headache. She


    would ept the pacifying suggestion for now and punish Zoeter. Just as she moved to sit beside


    Elijah, she felt someone tugging at her arm. Aidan looked up at her with his dark eyes. ¡°I¡¯m not afraid of


    being crowded. Sit here.¡± Everyone went silent. Since she was unable to handle the awkward silence


    any longer, Daphne stood up. After all, she was feeling guilty over how she brought Aidan over without


    any warning. ¡°Leanna, take my seat. I can¡­¡± Before she could finish speaking, Aidan¡¯s sharp eyes


    nced at her. She swiftly sat back down, acting as though nothing had happened while her hands


    uneasily rubbed across her neck. Leanna then seized the opportunity toe up with an excuse. ¡°I


    actually have something still cooking on the stove. You guys can enjoy the meal first.¡± After that, she


    pulled away from Aidan¡¯s grip and ran back to the kitchen.


    He stared after her, possibly calcting how likely it was for her to sit with him that night. A few


    secondster, he turned to look at Elijah. Elijah stared back in confusion. Everyone stared in


    astonishment as Aidan moved to sit next to Elijah. Silence reigned once more. ¡°Is this what they mean


    when they say, ¡®if I can¡¯t have it, neither can you¡¯?¡± Zoe whispered. ¡°It is what they call a deliberate


    injury gambit,¡± Daphne replied with a nod. Leanna spent the next ten minutes or so in the kitchen.


    Finally, she settled on asking Louis to swap ces with her instead. After all, none of Aidan¡¯s threats


    would work against him. She felt her anxiety melt away when she thought of that. To her surprise, the


    people sitting outside had shuffled around while she was thinking, leaving her a seat that did not


    require her to sit next to anyone. This was much better and much less awkward. Aidan looked around


    the room before eventually settling his gaze on the bouquet on the coffee table. There was an


    imperceptible frown on his face. ¡°Are the flowers from you, President Parker?¡± he asked. ¡°Yes, they


    are,¡± Elijah replied. ¡°You might not know it, but Leanna is actually allergic to flowers. Your efforts have


    been for nothing,¡± Aidan responded. Just as he said that, Leanna smiled at Elijah. ¡°I am actually not. I


    love the flowers. Thank you.¡± Elijah responded with a nod and a smile. Aidan pursed his lips and looked


    at her out of the corners of his eyes. However, she immediately looked away and focused on her te.


    At that moment, Daniel spoke up.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°President Pearson, do you not bring gifts when you visit other people?¡± Hearing that, Zoe spoke up as


    well. ¡°Yes. Elijah brought flowers, and Daniel brought some wine. What did you bring, President


    Pearson?¡± Aidan replied with silence. Eventually, he licked his lips. His eyes flickered at Daphne as he


    said, ¡°She did not bring anything either.¡± ¡°She is a girl,¡± Daniel said with a smile. ¡°Are you sure you want


    topare yourself to her?¡± ¡°Why does her gender matter?¡± Aidan shot back. ¡°We are all equal.¡±


    Leanna found herself choking upon hearing that since she did not realize the b*stard could be so


    adaptable. Daniel was at a loss for words, likely because he had never thought Aidan could have such


    thick skin. After a few seconds of silence, Aidan frowned at the greasy food on the table. Sitting near


    him, she noticed the slight frown on his face as she nearly forgot just how much he hated greasy food.


    However, the food being served was exceptionally greasy. She pursed her lips in thought before finally


    deciding to do nothing. His dislike was to her liking since he would leave if he was not going to eat


    anything. A few secondster, Elijah, who was sitting next to him, noticed his frown as well. ¡°Do you not


    like barbecue?¡± With so many people in the room, Zoe had lost all fear of Aidan. ¡°He is used to the best


    food avable, so he likely finds it unappetizing,¡± she answered. ¡°In that case, please do not force


    yourself. After all, we are from different worlds,¡± Louis added.

 Chapter 196

    Chapter 196


    Chapter 196 Give Him a Chance As soon as Louis spoke up, there was no doubt about what everyone


    thought of Aidan. As someone who was used to feeling awkward on behalf of other people, Leanna felt


    very uneasy. However, Aidan acted as if he had heard nothing, as though their dislike for him was not


    clear. Seeing that, Leanna could not resist scratching her forehead from embarrassment. Why did


    Aidan insist on forcing himself over when he knew that none of them wanted him here? He was so


    annoying. Just as he picked up his cutlery, Leanna hurriedly took some kitchen towels to blot the oil


    away from his food. ¡°Please make do for now, President Pearson. Do not force yourself if you cannot


    stomach¡­¡± ¡°When did I say I could not stomach this?¡± Aidan then picked up the food on his te and


    ate it without hesitation. Leanna frowned. When she eventually looked away, she found everyone else


    at the table looking at her. She silently stared back. When they realized she was staring at them, they


    hurriedly cleared their throats and looked away. Some turned to their food while the others took sips of


    their drinks. She pursed her lips. In the end, she said nothing either. It did not matter. The more she


    tried to exin herself, the more guilty she would look.


    All she wanted was for the meal to end now so that they could all go home. After a brief moment of


    silence, someone decided to start a conversation that finally dispelled the suffocating and awkward


    tension in the air. After the meal, Zoe took charge of cleaning the dishes. When Elijah offered his help,


    she declined. ¡°Daniel and I can handle the task just fine. You should go¡­¡± She then shot him a look,


    telling him to stay with Leanna so that Aidan did not have a chance to speak to her. Elijah went silent,


    hesitating over whether or not he should do as she suggested. ¡°You should be more proactive,¡± Zoe


    whispered. ¡°How can you back down at such a time? Go!¡± As she said that, she gave him a push


    before dragging Daniel with her into the kitchen. Daniel protested, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to¡­¡± ¡°You can


    learn. Come, I will teach you. How can youe for a meal and do nothing?¡± Back in the living room,


    Leanna was clearing the table. Aidan was about to offer his help when Louis dragged him away. ¡°Let¡¯s


    have a chat.¡± ¡°What about?¡± Aidan asked, turning to look at him.


    They headed over to the balcony. ¡°Leanna,¡± Elijah called out, walking over to her. She looked up with a


    smile. ¡°What is it?¡± Although he tried as hard as he could, he still could not ask her the question that


    had been upying his mind. Instead, he asked, ¡°Are you really allergic to flowers?¡± ¡°I am not. He was


    lying.¡± ¡°I see.¡± He was about to ask her another question when Daphne darted over, interrupting them.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she said, shooting him an apologetic smile. ¡°I have something I need to talk to Leanna


    about. I need to borrow her for a while.¡± She then dragged Leanna away. Soon, he was the only person


    left in the room. He was soon lost in his thoughts, staring at the bouquet he had brought. Meanwhile, in


    the bedroom, Daphne sped her hands before her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I am so sorry. This is all my fault. I


    should not have brought him here.¡± She would never have given in to Aidan¡¯s threats had she known


    things would be so awkward. ¡°I was wondering what you wanted to talk about,¡± Leanna replied, with a


    softugh.


    ¡°He has been acting this waytely. Even if you didn¡¯t bring him along, he would have found a way.¡±


    Nevertheless, Daphne still felt bad about it. ¡°I didn¡¯t know there would be so many people here and that


    your suitor would be here as well.¡± Leanna¡¯s temple throbbed. ¡°Don¡¯t listen to Zoe¡¯s nonsense¡­¡±


    ¡°Nonsense? Did you not see how he looked at you? How different is his gaze? There is also President


    Pearson. There was so much jealousy flying in the air. If we had not all been talking, they might have


    been fighting in the end.¡± Leanna pursed her lips and kept quiet. ¡°Leanna, pardon me for saying this,¡±


    Daphne said, ¡°although I am not sure what exactly happened between you and President Pearson, I


    know him quite well after having worked for him for so long. He is not a bad man, other than how


    tactless he could be.¡± ¡°Furthermore, none of the rumored rtionships he had were true, no matter how


    many rumors there were. I can guarantee that. It is just that¡­¡± she continued. ¡°From what I can tell, he


    cares about you. He pays a lot of attention to you, and what you think seems to matter to him. Can you


    give him a chance?¡± Leanna shook her head.


    ¡°It is impossible between us.¡± Daphne sighed. ¡°Well, let¡¯s pretend that I have never said this to you,¡±


    she said, smiling. ¡°Let¡¯s forget about it.¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Leanna replied with a smile of her own. When theyBelongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    returned to the living room, they found Louis sitting there alone. Leanna looked around. ¡°Where are


    they?¡± ¡°They left.¡± ¡°All together?¡± He nodded. ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°They did not go out to fight, right?¡± Daphne


    whispered. Hearing that, Leanna dashed out of the apartment without thinking. Louis frowned at her


    figure. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but said nothing in the end. ¡°What did you say to


    Aidan?¡± Daphne asked from beside him. His eyes flickered over to her before turning away. ¡°Nothing.¡±


    She did not believe that. ¡°Why would he leave without a word if you said nothing?¡± ¡°I just told him that


    he was not wee here. If he left without prompting, it would look more dignified.¡± ¡°You really said


    that?¡± Shock and disbelief colored her face. Louis shuffled uneasily, as if he sensed her admiring gaze.


    ¡°Something like that,¡± he said, scratching his neck. How amazing! ¡°You go, bro!¡± Daphne praised him


    as she patted him on the shoulder. ¡°You sure have some guts.¡± Louis kept quiet. ¡­ Leanna dashed


    down the stairs. She looked all over the ce but found no signs of Elijah or Aidan. She heaved a sigh


    of relief. Thank goodness they were not fighting. A cold wind brushed past her, and a shiver ran down


    her spine. It was only then that she realized she had run so quickly out of the apartment that she had


    forgotten to put on a jacket. She rubbed her shoulders and turned to head back home. Just then, she


    felt a weight settling on her shoulders as a warm coat was ced over them. She turned and stared in


    shock. ¡°Didn¡¯t you leave?¡± Aidan¡¯s dark eyes pierced through her. ¡°Why are you down here?¡± ¡°I¡­¡± Her


    mind whirred. ¡°I came down looking for Elijah.¡± ¡°Sorry to disappoint you, but he has already left.¡± ¡°Oh.¡±


    After a few moments, she tentatively asked, ¡°What did Louis say to you?¡± ¡°What do you want him to


    say to me?¡± he shot back.

 Chapter 197

    Chapter 197


    Chapter 197 I¡¯m Not a Quitter Leanna was in no mood to engage in nonsense with him. ¡°Whatever.¡±


    ¡°Leanna, do you have feelings for Elijah?¡± Aidan asked while holding her shoulders. She went silent for


    a moment before asking with a frown, ¡°What sort of question is this?¡± ¡°Answer me.¡± After a few


    seconds, she replied, ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± He exerted force on her shoulder and asked slowly, ¡°Then, do you like


    me?¡± ¡°President Pearson, why did you stop me here to ask suchme questions?¡± ¡°How are they


    lame?¡± At that moment, she raised her tone and yelled, ¡°Everything isme! Also, I¡¯ve been meaning to


    ask you today. Why did you show up at my friend¡¯s party? Don¡¯t you feel ufortable around them?¡±


    ¡°No, I don¡¯t.¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t you notice that your presence brought down the whole party?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care what¡¯s


    on their mind.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    I only care about what you think,¡± he affirmed lightly. When Leanna heard this, she could not help but


    laugh and questioned, ¡°President Pearson, are you serious?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°If you truly cared about what I


    think, you¡¯ll realize that I despise you. Your presence not only makes my friends feel uneasy, but it also


    makes me ufortable¡­¡± ¡°Is this your answer, Leanna?¡± Aidan cut her off. ¡°Wha-¡± She only realized


    what he was referring to afterward. He¡¯s asking if I like him. ¡°I thought you always knew,¡± she


    responded quietly. ¡°Since you despise me so much, why did you defend me today?¡± he asked. ¡°I just


    thought that I shouldn¡¯t make the situation more awkward than it should, especially when everyone is


    having dinner together. After all, don¡¯t I owe you a lot? I¡¯m just repaying you whenever there¡¯s an


    opportunity. There¡¯s no other reason.¡± Deep inside Leanna, she could not deny that her heart had


    softened at that moment. Although Aidan was a b*stard who treated her rudely most of the time, there


    were times when he was good to her. Especially her time at Underwood Lane where she experienced


    the most peaceful andfortable period in her life. Although Aidan did not know how to cook, he did


    not hesitate to prepare fish stew for her.


    Despite the fact that he ended up destroying the kitchen¡­ Although he alwaysined that she


    was troublesome, he did not hesitate to boil water off a coal stove for her to wash her hair when the


    power went out. Despite the fact that the power was restored afterward¡­ Although he told her to abort


    the baby, he still did not hesitate to apany her for pregnancy checkup. Despite the fact that¡­ At


    that point, Leanna sighed, not wanting to revisit the past anymore. ¡°I know you have feelings for me


    and you can¡¯t deny it, Leanna,¡± Aidan asserted. ¡°So what?¡± she asked calmly and continued, ¡°President


    Pearson, we¡¯re both grown-ups. There¡¯s more to life than just dating and love. Let me tell you the truth,


    then; I never expected us to reconcile from the moment I filed for divorce.¡± Speechless, he pursed his


    lips and gulped. ¡°I understand the way I forced you into marriage with a child is disgusting, so it is


    natural for you to despise me. These are all my faults and I am willing to ept the consequences


    without anyints. It¡¯s just that, President Pearson, while those three years may seem


    insignificant to you, they were hell for me,¡± she dered.


    ¡°It¡¯s been six months since we¡¯re divorced and the child is gone just as you wished. We no longer owe


    each other anything. Shouldn¡¯t you just let me go?¡± After she finished speaking, Aidan asked quietly,


    ¡°So everything that I¡¯ve done¡­ all ended up as a hindrance to you?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Leanna gave an affirmative


    answer and added, ¡°I just want to live my own life. I wish you would never appear in front of me again,


    President Pearson.¡± After a few seconds, he questioned again, ¡°Would your answer be different if the


    child had been born?¡± ¡°Life is not a ¡®what if¡¯ game,¡± she sighed. ¡°Aidan, you should know that our


    issues don¡¯t only revolve around the child.¡± ¡°I get it now,¡± he said as he let go of her. After hearing that,


    she was not quite sure what she was feeling. I should be relieved, but why does my heart feel so


    heavy? My words should be enough to convince him to leave for good¡­ After all, I¡¯ve said everything I


    possibly can. Just as Leanna was about to bid her final goodbye to Aidan, the cold man suddenly


    appeared in front of her and kissed her on the lips. Needless to say, she was bewildered by his kiss. He


    took a step back just as she was about to push him away.


    ¡°Aidan¡­¡± she uttered while trying to maintain her cool. ¡°I understand what you¡¯ve said, but it makes no


    difference to me. All I needed to know was that you like me,¡± he said. At that moment, Leanna was


    desperate to crack his skull open and see what was inside. ¡°You had three difficult years and I know


    that I was the source of the problem, but I¡¯m not a quitter.¡± His words perplexed her. ¡°I will try to make


    amends until you can let go of the past and forgive me.¡± ¡°No, you misunderstood me. I didn¡¯t mean


    that¡­¡± ¡°Yes, you did.¡± She was baffled once again. This b*stard never changed; he still enjoyed


    imposing his ideas onto others. Seeing how Leanna could not refute, Aidan curled his lips while raising


    his hand to tuck her hair behind her ears, but she avoided him. ¡°Don¡¯t be worried about other matters.


    I¡¯ll take care of them,¡± he assured. ¡°What are the other matters?¡± she asked defensively. ¡°Leanna,


    believe me. You will happily remarry me sooner orter.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡± ¡°How about a bet?¡± he


    suggested as he took a step forward. ¡°I¡¯m not going to have a random bet with you¡ª¡± she refused. ¡°If I


    win, you have to promise me one thing.¡± ¡°What if you lose?¡± ¡°That is not going to happen.¡± Ugh¡­ ¡°Get


    lost.¡± Leanna¡¯s patience had run out. ¡°Rest early.


    Good night.¡± Aidan grinned with his face bright. Rest early, my foot. How can I possibly sleep after the


    talk we just had?? After his mission was aplished, he no longer stayed there; instead, he marched


    toward his Rolls-Royce which was parked on the street. Leanna rubbed her swollen temples vigorously


    but just as she prepared to head home, she realized that she was still dressed in Aidan¡¯s clothes. She


    turned her head only to find that the car had driven away. She looked out at the deserted street and


    realized she had nothing to say. She assumed that her harsh words would enrage the ill-tempered


    Aidan. However, out of her expectations, he was extremely shameless. Still, in the face of a crowd who


    despised him, he managed to maintain a straight and calm face. His mastery really is of another world.

 Chapter 198

    Chapter 198


    Chapter 198 His Sincerity Is Showing When Leanna returned, Zoe had already cleaned the kitchen


    while Daniel left as well. As soon as the door made a sound, Zoe rushed over toward it and was ready


    to ask a list of questions. However, all she noticed was Leanna wearing a man¡¯s coat while looking


    zoned out. Well, I guess this isn¡¯t a good time to ask any questions. When Daphne noticed this, she


    raised her eyebrows before picking up her handbag. ¡°Okay, I should go too. You girls should rest early.¡±


    ¡°Aidan has already left. How are you going back?¡± Leanna said after retracting her thoughts. ¡°I¡¯ll just


    take the cab.¡± Daphne put on her coat, then pulled up the hood before wearing her mask. She looked


    like she was wrapped like a burrito and asked Leanna while blinking, ¡°Can you tell that it¡¯s me?¡±


    Leanna shook her head in response


    . ¡°That¡¯s it. I¡¯ll leave first. Bye!¡± Daphne smiled. ¡°Hey, be careful along the way. Text me when you¡¯re


    home.¡± Zoe sent Daphne off. ¡°I will.¡± After Daphne left, Louis looked at Leanna and uttered, ¡°You¡­¡± ¡°I


    need to go to the toilet.¡± Leanna let out a cough before bolting away. Louis was left standing as he


    looked at her back with a frown. At that time, Zoe approached Louis and whispered, ¡°Louis, just let her


    be. She knows what she¡¯s doing.¡± ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, I¡¯ll leave first,¡± he replied as he averted his gaze


    after a few seconds of silence. ¡°Alright. Get going.¡± After hearing the door close, Leanna poked her


    head out of the bathroom and asked quietly, ¡°Did he leave?¡± ¡°Yeah,¡± Zoe responded as she sat on the


    couch and stretched. At that, Leanna let out a sigh and walked out slowly. After cing the coat on the


    couch armrest, she poured a ss of water and gulped the whole thing at once. ¡°What did you two talk


    about?¡± Zoe looked at her, awaiting her to spill the tea while hugging the pillow tightly. ¡°Talk¡­ about


    what?¡± ¡°I mean the conversation between you and Aidan. Didn¡¯t you guys talk a lot since you¡¯re


    downstairs for quite a while?¡± As she recalled what had happened, Leanna¡¯s hand suddenly trembled


    for a second while still holding the cup. She finally pursed her lips and gritted her teeth before


    eximing, ¡°He is crazy!¡± ¡°Tell me about it,¡± Zoe urged. Leanna went silent suddenly. ¡°Zoe, I feel like


    I¡¯m starting to not know who he is anymore. I thought I knew exactly what kind of person he was, but


    the things that he¡¯s been doing are confusing me. It¡¯s way out of my expectations and I¡¯m having a hard


    time digesting all of it,¡± she confessed as she sat beside Zoe. ¡°Do you think he¡¯s changed?¡± Leanna¡¯s


    head shook in response. She did not believe that he had changed, but rather¡­ he had not been as


    annoying as he used to be and he treated her with affection asionally. After hearing this, Zoe


    became interested and nudged closer to her.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you the other day, that bas¡ªI mean, President Pearson is like an elementary school


    student who¡¯s always doing naive and stupid things to get the attention of the girl he likes. However,


    based on my observations during this period, he has progressed from an elementary student to a junior


    high student in terms of dealing with his feelings.¡± Leanna lowered her head and remained silent. Back


    then, she had the impression that Aidan¡¯s feelings for her were only for a fleeting moment. If he could


    like her now, he could also fancy any other women in the future. When his interest toward her faded,


    everything would return to its original state. However, she did not expect his interest to have persisted


    so long. Not only did it not fade like she expected, it increased instead. Seeing Leanna stay silent, Zoe


    added, ¡°Nana, you¡¯re well aware that Aidan loves you deeply, even more deeply than you think.¡±


    ¡°Huh?¡± Leanna appeared dazed. ¡°Didn¡¯t you realize that ever since your divorce, Aidan has been after


    you all the time? It is better to assume that he is trying to create opportunities to meet you rather than


    troubling you,¡± Zoe analyzed. ¡°But¡­¡±


    ¡°Think about it. He went to Weavside to look for you and even asked you to move to the Castor Vi.


    Despite the fact that he requested an abortion, he did not pressure you on that either. When you were


    locked up at the Pearson Family Estate, he allowed me in to visit you. Oh, and the most important thing


    is that he called off his engagement with Georgina.¡± ¡°You may be unaware, but the Pearson Group has


    been impacted by his breakup with Georgina. Although the Crossleys have not explicitly stated it, the


    companies who sided with them have also more or less rejected their coborations with Pearson


    Group. I must still admit that Aidan is very capable; though all these may not have a substantive impact


    on him, he should be super busy having to look for new partnerships all over again¡­¡± Leanna


    understood what Zoe meant. The most important thing for Aidan right now was to deal with the mess in


    thepany. Despite his busy schedule, he could still find time for her. It was sufficient to prove his


    sincerity. ¡°I don¡¯t want to talk about this anymore. Let¡¯s hit the sack,¡± Leanna said while raising her hand


    to rub her brows. ¡°Hey¡­¡± Zoe uttered, ¡°Will you contact Elijah tonight? I believe he must be really hurt


    from this.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll give him a call after my shower,¡± Leanna replied with a nod.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll clean up the room.¡± After half an hour, Leanna pushed open the bedroom door while drying


    her hair. She sat on the edge of the bed and hesitated for a moment before dialing Elijah¡¯s number. The


    phone rang for a while but remained unanswered. She slowly ced her phone down before sitting in


    front of the desk and retrieving a pocket watch from the box. Lost in her thoughts, she stared at the


    item intently for a while when Aidan¡¯s words suddenly intercepted her mind. Exhausted, she then took a


    deep breath and plopped on the table. All this time, Leanna had never taken his words to heart as she


    assumed he was downright ridiculous. Tonight, however, her heart became uneasy and heavy for some


    reason. She pondered over and over, Zoe¡¯s words do make sense¡­ I admit that I couldn¡¯t figure out


    why the wedding was called off until tonight. Well, but¡­ it¡¯s not like I had to since their affairs had


    nothing to do with me at that time, right?


    ¡­Right? It was at this moment that her phone suddenly vibrated on the table, interrupting her trance.


    When she noticed it was Elijah¡¯s caller ID shing on the screen, she sat up quickly. ¡°Sorry, Leanna, I


    was in a meeting earlier. What¡¯s up?¡± he sounded after the call was connected. Leanna paused for a


    moment before asking, ¡°Oh no, am I bothering you?¡± ¡°No, the meeting has ended.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry. It was


    supposed to be a normal dinner tonight, but I didn¡¯t expect it to turn out like this.¡± She exhaled a sigh of


    relief as she apologized. ¡°I should be the one apologizing. I had some pressing matters to attend to and


    I barely had time to say goodbye to you and Zoe,¡± stated Elijah.

 Chapter 199

    Chapter 199


    Chapter 199 It¡¯s Okay to Let off Some Steam Knowing that Elijah was leaving because ofpany


    affairs, Leanna took a silent sigh in relief. ¡°Alright, I shouldn¡¯t bother you any longer. I¡ª¡± ¡°Leanna,¡± he


    interrupted. ¡°Yeah?¡± ¡°Nothing. Get some rest. Good night.¡± He smiled faintly as he failed to ask the


    question he was curious about. After ending the call, she rested her head on the table again. She was


    not sure if she should straighten things out with him because it would be struck as self-conceited when


    he had not confessed his feelings yet. Knowing that she was not going to get any sleep tonight, Leanna


    flipped open her sketchbook. Drawing one stroke after another, she was depicting the b*stard¡¯s


    silhouette unconsciously. When she finally pulled back her senses, the drawing was almost done. Her


    first thought was to tear off the paper, but her hands stopped in their tracks. Forget it. Let¡¯s just leave


    one to remind myself not to be careless. She flipped to a new page before pping her face lightly to


    wake herself up to make another sketch. At the same time, there was a subordinate in the study room


    of Crossley Residence. ¡°Mr. Crossley, I¡¯ve looked into the matter and the picture was submitted to the


    media by a boy.¡± Lloyd¡¯s brows slightly creased.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°A boy? What boy?¡± ¡°It¡¯s Louis McKinney. He¡¯s currently neen and is in his first-year at Southfork


    University.¡± ¡°Have you found out how he had the picture?¡± The subordinate nodded lightly. ¡°He has an


    older sister named Leanna McKinney.¡± ¡°What?!¡± Lloyd jumped to his feet. ¡°It is confirmed that she is


    Aidan Pearson¡¯s ex-wife.¡± The frown on Lloyd¡¯s face evidently deepened when he heard that. ¡°Are you


    sure?¡± ¡°Yes, I¡¯m sure. I¡¯ve confirmed it with the media. Louis gave them the picture to look for the


    missing person. He might¡¯ve deemed it useless as he used social media to search for the person


    afterward, but we¡¯ve deleted them.¡± After a moment of silence, Lloyd behested, ¡°Do a background


    check on Louis and Leanna. Pry every detail from their birth and¡ª¡± A knock resounded on the door


    and Georgina entered the room. ¡°Dad, are you looking for me?¡± He sat on the chair before motioning


    his subordinate to leave.


    ¡°You may leave.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± Now that both of them were left alone, she closed the door and seated


    herself opposite him. ¡°Dad, I heard something about a background check before entering the room. Did


    something happen?¡± ¡°Something did happen in thepany. It¡¯s nothing. I¡¯ve asked someone to


    handle it,¡± he slurred it over. She nodded. Lloyd paused for a while before questioning, ¡°I heard that


    you¡¯ve be close with a foreigner.¡± ¡°He¡¯s not totally a foreigner. He¡¯s mixed.¡± Daniel had been


    inviting her for a hangout at times ever since the birthday party ended. She knew his intention and


    would have turned him down without a second thought if it happened in the past. Ever since Georgina¡¯s


    engagement with Aidan was called off, no one talked about it to her face but she was aware that many


    of them were amused by her misfortune. Now that she had a pursuer, who was known worldwide, she


    would not turn him down that easily. Lloyd asked, ¡°Have you checked his background?¡± ¡°Yeah and


    everything looks fine. He¡¯se to Highside to organize a concert. Many of my friends know him.¡±


    ¡°Gina,¡± he said sternly, ¡°I don¡¯t mind who you¡¯re going to date, but you must know that your spouse can


    never be a musician.¡± ¡°I know.¡± ¡°It¡¯s my fault for agreeing to an engagement between you and the


    Pearsons. I shouldn¡¯t have done that after knowing what kind of person Aidan is.¡± Georgina shook her


    head. ¡°Dad, please don¡¯t say that. I was stubborn and insisted on marrying him. No matter what, Aidan


    was the best candidate to be my husband.¡± He sighed before inquiring, ¡°Oh, right. How¡¯s Aidan¡¯s ex-


    wife doing?¡± She was baffled by the sudden question. ¡°She has established a studio with her friend.


    She¡¯s still close with Aidan. I saw them having a meal together on my birthday.¡±


    Lloyd¡¯s voice became solemn at that. ¡°It is fortunate that you didn¡¯t marry him back then.¡± As she


    remained silent, he continued, ¡°I recall you mentioning that his ex-wife was being sold to Patheon Club


    long ago. Was she poor?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure, but it seems to be it.¡± ¡°Does she have other family members?¡±


    ¡°I think she has a younger brother. I¡¯m not sure about others, though. Why are you suddenly asking


    about her, Dad?¡± Lloyd¡¯s countenance darkened. ¡°Nothing. I¡¯m just curious what kind of girl won


    Aidan¡¯s heart. That¡¯s all.¡± Georgina¡¯splexion simmered too. ¡°True. I underestimated her calctive


    side before this. Otherwise, things wouldn¡¯t have turned out like this.¡± He tried to soothe her by offering


    comforting words, ¡°Gina, Aidan is the one who¡¯s at fault. If you feel that you¡¯re wronged, it¡¯s okay to let


    off some steam.¡± ¡°You mean¡­¡± ¡°No matter what you do, I¡¯ll always have your back. I believe that the


    Pearson Family won¡¯t have any objection about it either.¡± ¡°Thanks, Dad.¡± He rose from his seat, but


    something came into his mind before he left the room.


    He turned around to her. ¡°Gina, is Aidan¡¯s ex-wife the one who designed the ne for you?¡±


    Georgina pondered for a moment before smiling. ¡°Dad, why do you ask?¡± ¡°It just came into my mind.


    It¡¯s nothing important. Get some rest.¡± Her reaction was enough to tell him the answer to the question.


    Returning to his room, Lloyd locked the door before opening a secretpartment in the wardrobe to


    take out a box from it. Lying in the box were a few yellowed documents with a burned pocket watch


    underneath them. He fished out the watch and stared at it. Soon, his phone rang.


    He answered the call to hear his subordinate¡¯s voice. ¡°Mr. Crossley, Leanna and Louis have a gambler


    for a father. He frequents every illegal casino and borrows money from the loan sharks whenever he


    runs out of money. Three years ago, he borrowed money from them and sold Leanna to Patheon Club.¡±


    ¡°What about their mother?¡± ¡°There¡¯s not much information about her. Their mother seemed to be dead


    due to an obstructedbor while giving birth to Louis.¡± Lloyd questioned further, ¡°What¡¯s her name?¡±

 Chapter 200

    Chapter 200


    Chapter 200 How Could You Rip off a Kid? As the new year was approaching, the weather was getting


    colder, but Leanna¡¯s studio was seeing growth in its performance. Aside from custom-made orders,


    they released many original essories that were well-received by the consumers, in addition to the


    flooding positive reviews. Leanna received a lot of sponsorships who wished to leverage ¡®McK¡¯ to


    elevate their brand awareness, which would result in an increase of sales and production at the same


    time. However, she declined every single offer due to her wish to consolidate the brand¡¯s status in the


    market since it was still the starting point of the studio. She decided to leave others to the flow. After


    sketching some designs the whole day, Leanna stretched her body before opening the window to


    breathe in some fresh air. She was exposed to a sea of baby¡¯s breath the moment she opened the


    window. Needless to say, the air became quite fresh in the area. Staring at the flowers, she zoned out


    while thinking about the man.


    That b*stard had been dropping in on her during the past two weeks after that day. However, he did not


    cling onto her as he left after spending a short time here. Sometimes, he would have someone to send


    over some snacks and drinks to the studio. However, she did not try it once but shared it amongst the


    workers. During his visit a few days ago, he mentioned about going on a business trip to Warkin for a


    week, which was good news to her because she could finally have some peace for herself. Right when


    Leanna was going to continue her sketch, amotion could be heard from the outside. As such, she


    closed the window and strode out of the office. There was a middle-aged woman tugging at a girl in a


    school uniform while raving, ¡°How could you rip off a kid? She¡¯s a high schooler and every penny she


    has is her parents¡¯ hard-earned money. Every businessman is money-minded! All of you are good-for-


    nothing!¡± Standing before her was the studio¡¯s employee¡ªa fresh graduate who wasshed out with


    pointing fingers for the first time. She froze on the spot without knowing what to do. The woman raised


    her voice upon noticing the worker¡¯s impotence. ¡°Stop acting all pitiful and return my money. I demand


    a refund!¡± ¡°Y-You¡¯ve worn the ne and earrings for quite some time a-and they¡¯re worn out. It¡¯s not


    refundable¡ª¡± The employee stammered on her words. Suddenly, the woman shoved her aggressively,


    causing her to stumble and knock her head onto a cupboard by the side.


    Leanna came forward and helped her up with a frown. ¡°Are you alright?¡± She shook her head as tears


    trickled down her cheeks. Leanna checked on her only to see blood oozing out of her scraped


    forehead. Leanna pursed her lips before looking at the woman, who did not seem apologetic at all. ¡°I¡¯m


    the boss here. You can tell me if you have any problems. Why do you have to be physical?¡± ¡°So what if


    I pushed her?¡± provoked the woman as she pushed Leanna¡¯s shoulder a few times. ¡°You¡¯re heartless


    for earning easy money, so you deserve it! If you¡¯re the boss here, fine. I¡¯m going to return these


    useless things and I want my money back! I demand an additionalpensation for the emotional


    damage done as well. If you¡¯re not paying, I won¡¯t have it end peacefully.¡± She tossed the things in her


    hand to Leanna¡¯s feet. Leanna took a glimpse of it before ncing at the girl who was hiding behind the


    woman. She then turned to look at the worker. ¡°Did she buy it from us?¡± The woman was very


    displeased to hear that. ¡°What do you mean by that? Do you think that I¡¯m scamming right now?¡± The


    employee replied in undertone, ¡°There are so many customers in the store every day.


    I don¡¯t really recall, but I¡¯ve never sold it to a student.¡± The price of the original essories sold in the


    store went up to a few hundred. Even though it was affordable, it was still beyond a student¡¯s financial


    capability. The point was that there was no school in the vicinity, so no students would purchase stuff


    from the store. The woman spitted in rage. ¡°Cut out the nonsense, will you? Where would she buy


    from, then? Hey, look over here, everyone! I bought these from them but the seller isn¡¯t admitting that


    they belong to them!¡± The onlookers consisted of customers that were shopping in other stores and


    now, her loud voice had drawn the attention of the passersby. The employee whispered, ¡°I swear that


    I¡¯ve never seen a girl in a school uniform before. If there really was a customer like her, I would¡¯ve


    remembered.¡± ¡°Who would be in their school uniform the whole day? Of course she came when she


    was on a holiday.¡± ¡°But what could I have done about it? I can¡¯t simply ask someone to show their ID


    cards to sell something that¡¯s worth only a few hundred.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t care. You gotta return me the money


    by today or I¡¯ll tear down the store. Then, let¡¯s see whose side the police will take. You¡¯re bound to


    close down your shop for ripping off a kid!¡± The onlookers began to gush about it. Most of them thought


    that the woman was at fault whereas the minority deemed it wise to make a refund in order not to


    catastrophize things. Leanna looked at the girl who was lowering her head. ¡°Hey, girl. Can we talk?¡±


    The woman quickly pulled the girl to her back. ¡°Talk to me if you have anything to say.


    Don¡¯t scare my daughter.¡± Leanna replied, ¡°I¡¯m going to ask her a few questions. If the responsibility is


    on us, I¡¯ll admit it.¡± ¡°How so?¡± ¡°As I¡¯ve said, I¡¯m the boss.¡± The woman rolled her eyes, trying to figure


    out if Leanna was telling the truth. ¡°I¡¯ll give you only five minutes, but I must be here the whole time.


    Who knows what you¡¯ll do to my daughter. Besides, you gotta pay me thepensations and¡ª¡± ¡°Got


    it.¡± Leanna smiled. The employee pulled the hem of her shirt. ¡°Miss McKinney¡­¡± Leanna turned her


    head tofort the worker. ¡°It¡¯s alright. I¡¯ll handle it. Go and check yourself at the hospital.¡± ¡°It doesn¡¯t


    matter if I goter.¡± She was worried that Leanna would not be able to handle it since there were only


    the two of them in the store right now. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. Zoe should be here soon.¡± ¡°Okay.¡±


    Eventually, the employee drove the onlookers away before leaving the scene. The woman sat on the


    couch with a haughty look. ¡°You may start with your questions now.¡± Leanna spoke softly to the girl,


    ¡°Sweetheart, when did youe to our store?¡± The timid girl answered, ¡°A-About a month ago¡ªno¡ª


    it¡¯s about two weeks ago¡­¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this.

 Chapter 201

    Chapter 201


    Chapter 201 Unbelievable Parents Leanna asked, ¡°Are you sure it happened half a month ago?¡±


    Before the girl could answer, the middle-aged woman said, ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter. She got it from you


    guys, and now we want a refund. You¡¯re wasting our time here.¡± Leanna looked at the ruined ne.


    ¡°Do you remember who sold you this?¡± she asked the girl. ¡°Was it thatdy or someone else?¡± The girl


    quickly said, ¡°It was her.¡± ¡°How much did you buy this for?¡± ¡°I-I don¡¯t remember.¡± The middle-aged


    woman snapped, ¡°What¡¯s with all these questions? It¡¯s just forty bucks. Just pay up. You own a big


    store. Not like you need that money anyway. Just give us the money and we¡¯ll leave.¡± Leanna smiled.


    ¡°I can¡¯t give you the money if I don¡¯t know how much you paid.¡± The woman answered, ¡°You¡¯re still


    going to have to pay for wasting my time and energy. Just add it all up. Makes things easier for us.¡±


    ¡°How much would you want?¡± ¡°Not much. Three, four thousand or so.¡± Leanna chuckled. ¡°Three, four


    thousand?¡± The woman scoffed, ¡°Not much, don¡¯t you think? My daughter¡¯s a student. You wasted her


    day, and she might get left behind in ss. She might end up going into a regr college instead of the


    Ivy League, and that¡¯s going to cost her her whole future. Four thousand isn¡¯t muchpared to my


    daughter¡¯s future.¡± ¡°Sure.¡± Leanna whipped her phone out. Just when the woman was going to tell


    Leanna to Venmo her, she saw Leanna calling the cops. ¡°Hey!¡± The woman started getting nervous.


    ¡°If you think that¡¯s too much, we can negotiate. If you tell the cops, I¡¯m going to make sure you pay! I¡¯ll


    ruin your reputation!¡± Leanna ignored her and told the cops what happened. After she hung up, she


    held the ne up. ¡°One, this ne was designed ten days ago. It couldn¡¯t have been a week


    since it went on sale. Two, thedy you imed who sold you this took a few days off and only came


    back yesterday.¡± Sh*t. She saw through us. The woman barked, ¡°I don¡¯t care! You sold us this


    ne, so you¡¯re paying for the damages!¡± Leanna said, ¡°I¡¯m not in a hurry. We¡¯ll talk once the cops


    are here.¡± The woman turned around and hurled insults at the girl. ¡°You useless sh*t! You didn¡¯t even


    know when you bought that stuff?¡± She poked the girl¡¯s head. ¡°This is why your grades are trash! You


    have nothing but sh*t for brains! You better think before you speak when the cops arrive!¡±


    The girl stared at the ground and said nothing as the woman abused her. Leanna noticed that the girl¡¯s


    uniform was bleached, and she was wearing nothing but a thin shirt inside even though it was winter.


    Her sneakers were old and unassuming, but they were clean, unlike her fat and gaudily-dressed


    mother. Someone like her wouldn¡¯t steal from their parents just to sate their ego. If I think about it,


    there¡¯s holes in their testimony. Leanna just didn¡¯t know why they tried to scam her and made up a


    flimsy lie for it. Zoe came back after a short while. She saw what happened and took Leanna aside.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on, Nana?¡± Leanna told her about what happened. ¡°I¡¯m going to the police station for a


    bit. Close up the shop if there¡¯s not much else to take care of, then swing by the hospital to see Tiffany.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll call Louis then. You might need him.¡± Zoe looked at the fatdy and clicked her tongue. ¡°Just in


    case a fight breaks out.¡± Leannaughed. ¡°It¡¯s just a testimony record, not a brawl. Nothing¡¯s gonna


    happen. Louis is going through his finals, so keep quiet about it.¡± Zoe nodded. ¡°Sure. Be careful then.


    I¡¯ll pick you up once things are done on my side.¡±


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    The cops arrived a whileter. Once they got to the station, the fatdy changed her attitude and


    crafted a sob story of how poor she was. This time, she didn¡¯t let the girl say anything. All she did was


    tell the cops her daughter was shocked. Leanna told them what happened and the evidence she had


    gathered. The fatdy shouted, ¡°We¡¯re the victims here, not the perpetrators. How long is this gonna


    take? My daughter is taking her entrance exams soon. Don¡¯t waste her time, or there¡¯ll be hell to pay!¡±


    The cops told them to negotiate, and since they did buy the ne from Leanna, she should just pay


    them. Forty dors wasn¡¯t much anyway. It was a low price for peace and quiet. Leanna pursed her


    lips, but she said nothing. Money was not the problem here; ethics were. However, when she saw the


    chubbydy abusing and poking the girl¡¯s head, she realized that the girl was not at fault. She was just


    listening to her mother. Nobody would expect their own parents to be a piece of scum. In the end,


    Leanna gave thedy 140 dors. ¡°Get your daughter some warm coats with the money.¡± The girl


    looked up at Leanna with surprise in her eyes. This was the first time she looked at Leanna directly.


    The fatdy grumbled, ¡°That¡¯s all? We¡¯re not beggars, you know.


    I said¡ª¡± A cop barked, ¡°Enough! I thought your daughter was preparing for her entrance exams. Take


    her back to school.¡± The chubbydy became quiet. Before they left the police station, she hissed


    coldly, ¡°This isn¡¯t the end of it. Just you wait, b*tch.¡± And then they left. Leanna was about to get a ride


    when a ck Porsche stopped in front of her. Elijah got out of the car looking worried. ¡°How was it? Are


    you alright? I came as soon as Zoe called me. Was I toote?¡± Leanna shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s fine. I¡¯ve


    settled it.¡±


    He looked around. ¡°They¡¯re gone?¡± ¡°Yep.¡± She said, ¡°I thought you were supposed to be working. Are


    you sure it¡¯s fine to run around?¡± ¡°Eh, there¡¯s nothing to do anyway, so I came for a stroll.¡± He coughed.


    ¡°If you don¡¯t mind, can youe with me? There¡¯s a ce I wanna show you.¡± He dide all this


    way for me, and this isn¡¯t his first time helping me. No reason to say no. She nodded. ¡°Sure.¡±

 Chapter 202

    Chapter 202


    Chapter 202 Stop While You¡¯re Ahead He drove her to a holiday home. Elijah got out of the car and


    went around to open the door for her. ¡°Thank you,¡± she said. ¡°No prob. Let¡¯s go inside.¡± Leanna looked


    at the holiday home. It was lushly decorated, and she thought it felt like a house owned by intellectuals.


    A servant came to wee them. ¡°Mr. Jackson is waiting for you in the tea room, sir.¡± Elijah nodded.


    He took Leanna to the tea room. Before they went inside, he whispered, ¡°Just say nothing and watch


    what happens, Leanna.¡± Leanna nodded. ¡°Sure.¡± A man with gray hair sat in front of the table, and he


    was making tea. This man was Mr. Jackson, and sitting before him was a middle-aged couple. Leanna


    was surprised to see the couple here. Mr. Jackson heard the sounds of footsteps, and he put his teapot


    down. When he saw Leanna, it caught him by surprise.


    ¡°And this is?¡± Elijah said, ¡°This is Leanna, my friend.¡± He told Leanna, ¡°This is Mr. Jackson, my father¡¯s


    mentor.¡± Leanna said, ¡°Hello, Mr. Jackson.¡± Mr. Jackson smiled. ¡°You have a gorgeous friend, Elijah.


    Come. Sit.¡± Anna¡¯s parents looked at each other. Anna told them Elijah knew Leanna, but they didn¡¯t


    expect him to bring her here. Mr. Jackson poured a cup of tea for Elijah and Leanna. He said, ¡°This is


    the first time Elijah brought someone here. You must be really close to him.¡± Leanna was a little dazed.


    She had no idea how to answer that. Elijah smiled. ¡°Sorry, Mr. Jackson. I brought her here for personal


    and formal reasons. She needs your help.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± Mr. Jackson said, ¡°What happened, girl? Tell


    me. I¡¯ll help as long as I can.¡± Anna¡¯s father said, ¡°It¡¯s just a misunderstanding, Mr. Jackson.¡±


    Mr. Jackson looked at them and frowned. ¡°You have something to do with this?¡± ¡°Miss McKinney has


    bad blood with my daughter, but it¡¯s nothing big. Kids fight all the time. I¡¯ve apologized to Mr. Parker,


    so¡­¡± Anna¡¯s parents came to talk about the partnership with Constetion Tech. Ever since Anna got


    on Elijah¡¯s bad side, he canceled the partnership unterally. Anna¡¯s parents broke their backs just to


    get this chance, and they wouldn¡¯t give the partnership up. Since the cancetion, they¡¯ve sought Elijah


    out countless times. But Elijah refused to see them, so they pinned their hopes on Mr. Jackson.


    Previously, Elijah only agreed to the partnership thanks to Mr. Jackson¡¯s help. They thought Elijah


    would rekindle the partnership if Mr. Jackson intervened. He was just a youngd after all. Mr. Jackson


    said, ¡°Alright, that¡¯s confusing. Did you apologize to Elijah or Miss MicKinney?¡±


    Elijah smiled. ¡°Let me exin, Mr. Jackson.¡± Leanna looked at Elijah, and he nodded at her, telling her


    to calm down. Elijah told him about what Anna did at Leanna¡¯s workshop. She wasn¡¯t the kid like her


    parents imed. That woman was a spoiled brat who thought she could do as she pleased just


    because she was rich. The Pearson couple looked upset, but they had no argument against that. They


    knew how spoiled Anna was, but nobody in the family lectured her, since Leanna was just a nobody. In


    the end, Anna¡¯s mother got upset. She said, ¡°That¡¯s our family matter. Don¡¯t you think you¡¯re


    overstepping it a little, Mr. Parker?¡± Leanna looked at her coolly. ¡°Is it a family matter, really?¡± ¡°Why


    you¡­¡± Anna wanted to say something, but her husband pushed her down. Anna¡¯s father said, ¡°Miss


    McKinney, I know Anna did wrong by you, but it¡¯s all in the past now. She¡¯s already learnt her lesson.


    Please, forgive her.¡± ¡°Yeah. She¡¯s still under house arrest. Don¡¯t push your luck any further, Miss


    McKinney.¡±


    Leanna smiled. ¡°That¡¯s what she deserves. I didn¡¯t ask for her to be put under house arrest.¡± Anna¡¯s


    mother shot up. ¡°Just because Elijah¡¯s supporting you doesn¡¯t mean you can sh*t on us, wench! You¡¯re


    just used goods Aidan tossed out of the family! You think you¡¯re a bigshot now that you hooked up with


    Elijah? Well, let me tell you something. You¡¯re still nothing!¡± Anna¡¯s father quickly stood up and held her


    down. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Mr. Jackson. We¡­¡± he apologized. ¡°Enough! How much longer do you want to bow to


    them? I¡¯m a proud Zielinski, and I bow to no one!¡± She picked her bag up and was about to storm off.


    He kept bowing at Mr. Jackson. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Mr. Jackson. She didn¡¯t mean what she said. Don¡¯t take it


    to heart.¡± Mr. Jackson sipped on his tea. ¡°I can¡¯t help you at this point.¡± Anna¡¯s mother looked at Elijah,


    but he spared her no smiles. She gnashed her teeth and left in frustration. Once they were gone, Mr.


    Jackson sighed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for not vetting them, Elijah.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, Mr. Jackson. I just thought I should make things clear for you.¡± Mr. Jackson said, ¡°It¡¯s their


    fault, girl. Don¡¯t take what they said to heart. I never wanted to deal with the Pearsons and Zielinskies¡¯


    problems, but Winston used to be my student, and I¡¯d like to help his family if I could.¡± Leanna smiled.


    ¡°Thank you, Mr. Jackson.¡± A servant knocked on the door and told them dinner was ready. Mr. Jackson


    stood up. ¡°Well, it¡¯s time for dinner.¡± Elijah and Leanna followed behind. Elijah whispered, ¡°Sorry for not


    telling you earlier, Leanna.¡± He pursed his lips. ¡°I wanted them to apologize to you though.¡± Leanna


    said, ¡°It¡¯s fine. I never expected their apology.¡± Anna and Sienna could apologize until their tongues fell


    off, but it wouldn¡¯t work on Leanna. She would feel nothing but disgust.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 203

    Chapter 203


    Chapter 203 Prevention They arrived at the dining room, but another servant came and whispered


    something to Mr. Jackson. Mr. Jackson nodded. ¡°Let him in.¡± He looked at Elijah and Leanna. ¡°We have


    another guest.¡± He smiled. ¡°A minute, please.¡± One of the servants led the guest in, and Leanna was


    surprised to see him. ¡°Mr. Morris?¡± William looked at her and nodded. ¡°Miss McKinney.¡± Mr. Jackson


    asked, ¡°You know each other?¡± Leanna wanted to say something, but she had no idea how to answer.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    William smiled and stepped in to rescue her. ¡°We¡¯ve met before.¡± ¡°I see. Fate works in magical ways.¡±


    Mr. Jackson introduced William and Elijah to each other. ¡°Your reputation precedes you, Mr. Parker. As


    young and sessful as I thought you¡¯d be,¡± William said. Elijah shook his hand. ¡°Hello, Mr. Morris,¡± he


    said. Mr. Jacksonughed. ¡°Well, don¡¯t just stand there. Sit.¡± Right after they took their seats, another


    servant hurried inside and whispered something to Mr. Jackson. This time, the old gentleman looked


    surprised. ¡°Why is he here?¡± William said, ¡°I invited him.¡± Mr. Jackson nodded and raised his hand,


    telling the servant to invite the new guest inside. As they chatted, William suddenly gave Leanna an


    apologetic look. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Miss McKinney. I had no idea you were here.¡±


    Elijah frowned, but he said nothing. Leanna froze. William hadn¡¯t told her the identity of the guest he


    invited, but she could guess who it was. This is some stupid joke. She put on a dry smile. ¡°I-It¡¯s alright.¡±


    That was the best thing she coulde up with. Aidan entered the scene eventually, and he was


    surprised to see Leanna around, so he stared at her for a few moments. Leanna was a little uneasy


    with that stare, so she drank some water to hide her embarrassment. A simple greetingter, Aidan


    took the seat across from Leanna. He still looked as inscrutable as ever. Mr. Jackson said, ¡°This is the


    first time I have had this many guests here. It¡¯s an honor. I see everyone¡¯s acquainted. No need for


    introductions then. Let¡¯s dig in.¡± William raised his ss. ¡°I¡¯m sorry foring uninvited, Mr. Jackson.¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s with the formality? I told you you cane whenever you want, didn¡¯t I? Be at home.¡±


    Aidan said, ¡°I didn¡¯t know you¡¯re acquainted with Mr. Jackson.¡± William smiled. ¡°We met at a forum


    abroad.¡± Mr. Jackson nodded. ¡°Yeah. I thought he felt familiar when we first met. Turns out he¡¯s also a


    Highsider.¡± William smiled, but he didn¡¯t borate. Aidan quipped, ¡°I heard that the Zielinskies are


    harassing Mr. Parkertely. Even came to see Mr. Jackson for that. So, how¡¯d it go?¡± Mr. Jackson¡¯s


    face fell. So he¡¯s starting to get to that conversation, huh? Elijah said, ¡°It¡¯s settled, but thanks for your


    concern.¡± Aidan sneered. ¡°I see you put in a lot of effort to that end, Mr. Parker.¡± ¡°Just doing my job.¡±


    Mr. Jackson coughed. ¡°Yes, yes. It¡¯s settled, so let¡¯s brush it aside. It¡¯s a family dinner, so let¡¯s talk


    about something else.¡± Aidan continued, ¡°I see. May I ask a personal question then, Mr. Parker?¡± Elijah


    stared back at him defiantly. ¡°And what will that question be?¡± Leanna, William, and even Mr. Jackson


    noticed the tension in the air. It felt like something would go off and raze everything to the ground in the


    next moment. Aidan asked coolly, ¡°You¡¯re not getting any younger.


    Shouldn¡¯t you find a partner by now?¡± ¡°You first.¡± Crap. My water¡¯s almost gone. But I still have no idea


    how to defuse this. Aidan replied, ¡°No, you¡¯re in more of a hurry. I don¡¯t want you going after someone


    else¡¯s wife.¡± Leanna choked on thest bit of water. Elijah noticed that and patted her back right away.


    ¡°Are you alright, Leanna?¡± Leanna shook her head. She said, ¡°I need to use the bathroom.¡± Elijah got


    up as well. ¡°This is your first time here, so I¡¯ll show you the way.¡± Just before they could leave, Aidan


    came with them. Elijah turned around. ¡°What are you doing, President Pearson?¡± ¡°I need to use the


    bathroom as well. Lead the way please, Mr. Parker.¡± Weirdo. After the trio was gone, reality dawned on


    Mr. Jackson. ¡°Is Aidan dating Miss McKinney?¡± William answered, ¡°No.They just got divorced.¡± Ah, so


    that¡¯s how it is. No wonder Sienna said all that to her back in the tea room. Mr. Jackson waited for a


    little while longer to make sure that the trio was out of earshot, then he asked solemnly, ¡°I thought he¡¯s


    coming back after Christmas. Why is he here already?¡± William poured himself a cup of tea and


    exined, ¡°The Crossleys are up to something, and this is the perfect chance to execute the n.¡± Mr.


    Jackson knew a little of the feud between the Crossleys and Pearsons. ¡°And that¡¯s why you brought


    him here?¡± William smiled. ¡°He¡¯s still young. Yes, he¡¯s fierce and capable, but the Crossleys are


    powerful, and theirwork isplex. He can¡¯t tear them down all by himself.¡± ¡°You want to use him


    to¡­¡± Mr. Jackson didn¡¯t finish the sentence, but they both knew what he was trying to say. Aidan and


    the Crossleys were at loggerheads. Using him to destroy them was the most inconspicuous way to get


    involved. That¡¯s logical, but¡­


    ¡°But why is his ex-wife involved? I¡¯ve heard about her. She¡¯s just a girl whose life was not kind to her.¡±


    William poured some tea into his cup. ¡°Honestly, I don¡¯t get him either. He¡¯s young, but the Pearsons


    and Crossleys are wary of him.


    They even formed an alliance just to destroy him.¡± Mr. Jackson sighed. ¡°He¡¯s talented enough to shine


    wherever he goes, but just because of the Pearsons¡¯ stupidity, he¡¯s dubbed an illegitimate son. Ever


    since he was taken back into the fold, the Zielinskies have tried to make his life a living hell. But thanks


    to that, he managed to climb all the way up here.¡± He did survive the swamp of despair. Aidan is more


    capable and cunning than everyone thinks.

 Chapter 204

    Chapter 204


    Chapter 204 A Fair Chance The journey to the bathroom was torture for Leanna. She regretted excusing herself.


    Just when shewas agonizing over her choice, someone suddenly held her wrist and took her into a corner before she could do anything.


    Leanna was then met with an icy stare, and she took a step back instinctively.


    "I thought you had to use the bathroom, President Pearson." Aidan looked at her.


    "You never believed what I say anyway.


    Shouldn''t thise as a no surprise?" he asked coolly. Don''t change the subject, you arse.


    She averted her gaze.


    "I need to use the bathroom, President Pearson, so..." He put his hand beside her, blocking her way out.


    "It hasn''t been that long since I left." Why does he sound so miffed? A frown knitted her brows.


    "What do you mean, President Pearson? Do I have to ask for your permission to have dinner with a friend?"


    "You don''t onlysee him as your friend." "That''s still none of your business." Aidan stared into her eyes and enunciated, "You said you liked


    me.


    Of course it¡¯s my business."


    "I never said that.


    You''re making it up!"


    "Doesn''t matter who said it.


    What matters is what you''re doing." Leanna refused to talk to him.


    This *sshole can twist everything to fit his agenda. Aidan wasn''t nning on letting her go, however.


    Instead, he narrowed the space around her and growled quietly, "Did you miss me?" Are you sick in the head?


    She answered seriously, "PresidentPearson, behave yourself.


    We''re in someone else''s home." A few momentster, Aidan said, "I''ve missed you." The sudden ''confession'' caught Leanna by surprise,


    and she froze.


    What is up with him and the conversation enders? I can''t even fight with him if he keepssaying stupid


    sh*t. Elijah''s voice rang in the corridor.


    "Leanna?"


    Leanna snapped out of it.


    She looked all around her, feeling nervous. Aidan put his hands in his pockets, and a smile curled his


    lips.


    Elijah appeared, but before he could ask, Aidan lied calmly, "She got lost, so I came forher." Elijah


    knew that was a lie, but he didn''t expose it.


    "The bathroom''s dead ahead.


    I''ll take you guys there." After he turned around, Leanna stomped on Aidan''s foot, and the surprise


    attack made him grunt.


    Elijah heard it.


    He turned around and was surprised to see Aidan frowning.


    "Are you alright, President Pearson?"


    Leanna smiled at him.


    "He''s probably unwell.


    It''ll be fine.


    Let''s go."


    Elijah nodded.


    Before he left, he said, "President Pearson, you can always ask the servants if you don''t know theway


    to the bathroom." He took Leanna and left. Aidan''s veins popped, and he saw them off with a re. A


    whileter, Elijah turned around and stopped in his tracks. Leanna noticed it, and she stopped as well.


    "What is it?" "I''ve been meaning to tell you something, Leanna." He pursed his lips. Leanna said, "Me


    too."


    "Me first, then." Elijah was worried he might be unable toconfess if he let her speak her mind before


    him. Leanna nodded slowly. Elijah said, "You''ve probably noticed how I feel, but I just couldn''t find the


    right time to tell you." Heughed.


    "Maybe it''s because I''m afraid of rejection." "Elijah..." "Let me finish, Leanna," Elijah said.


    "I''ve had a crush on you for years, but you were dating Zayn at that time andyou looked so happy.


    I didn''t want to ruin your happiness, but now that I have a chance, I don¡¯t want to let it slip."


    A moment of silenceter, she said,"I''m sorry." "No need to apologize, Leanna.


    I''m confessing not because I want your answer right away.


    I just want you to know how I feel about you.


    I know President Pearson is also wooing you, and all I want is a chance topete." Leanna smiled.


    "He''s not wooing me.


    That''s just his way of being clingy." "I can see that he still likes you." Leanna said nothing.


    Elijah said, "Well, that¡¯s a weight off myshoulders.


    Now, what were you going to say?" Leanna organized her words before she answered, ''Tm happy that


    you like me, but¡ª"


    Before she could refuse his confession,he said, "I told you I''m in no hurry for an answer.


    Belongs ? to N?velDrama.Org.


    It doesn''t matter even if you don''t feel the same way about me now.


    The future is always uncertain.


    You might change your mind someday, and I''ll work on that." He continued, "Give me a chance,


    Leanna.


    You deserve it."


    Leanna slowly raised her head.


    She opened her mouth but didn''t know what to say.... Aidan was already seated when they came back.


    He peered at them and remarked coolly, "Did you get lost too, Mr.


    Parker?"


    Elijah smiled.


    "It''s hard to walk in the dark.


    You don''t seem too good, Mr.


    Parker.


    Do you need any painkillers?" "You seem to know Mr.


    Jackson really well.


    Do youe here a lot?" Elijah answered, "Not exactly, but I''ve known him for a long time.


    At least longer than you do, Mr.


    Parker." He was also talking about something else. Aidan''s face fell, and his lips curled downward as a hint of anger welled up in his eyes.


    Leanna was miffed that the gentlemenwere fighting the moment they saw each other. Mr.


    Jackson was confused.


    He whispered to William, "Are they fighting over who knew me first?" William smiled and poured some tea into Mr.


    Jackson''s cup.


    He changed the subject, "I heard you opened up a studio, Miss McKinney.Do I have the honor of visiting it?¡±


    Leanna nodded.


    "The honor is mine." William said, "How does tomorrow afternoon sound?" "Sounds good.


    You''re always wee, Mr.Morris." Aidan opened his mouth and said, ¡®Tm free tomorrow afternoon, so I''ll go with you, Mr.Morris."


    What is this dumb*ss thinking? Leanna thought.


    William smiled.


    "It''s a pleasure to have you, President Pearson." Elijah wanted to say something, but someone shot him a look.


    He clenched his fists and swallowed his words.

 Chapter 205

    Chapter 205


    down on the sofa. I¡¯m beat.


    Zoe came out of the bathroom with a mask on.


    ¡°You¡¯re outte.


    Had supper with Elijah?¡±


    Leanna moaned weakly.


    ¡°And I ran into Aidan too.¡±


    Damn.


    She sat down beside Leanna.


    ¡°Again?¡± She was astonished.


    didn¡¯t borate.


    ¡°This is a cruel joke.


    ties with him either.


    That¡¯s damning.¡±


    Leanna stared ahead listlessly for a while.


    ¡°How¡¯s Tiffany doing?¡±


    ¡°The doctor said it¡¯s just a scratch.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    her two days off to rest up and heal.¡±


    Leanna nodded.


    ¡°She must be shocked.


    ¡°If you ask me, thosedies were a pair of


    You run into all sorts of people nowadays.


    shops.


    right away.


    forced into it by her mother.¡±


    ¡°Yeah, I noticed it too.


    Her mother was a witch.


    was met with a spaced-out Leanna.


    Oh, she¡¯s thinking about it right now.


    ¡°It¡¯s alright, Nana.¡± She patted Leanna¡¯s shoulder.


    ¡°It¡¯s in the past now, Nana.


    Stop thinking about it.


    mind and smiled at her friend.


    ¡°I get it.


    next day, Leanna was greeted by a pile of garbage at the entrance.


    food and refuse. Zoe came over after she parked the car, and when she saw


    Which *sshole did this?¡± Leanna said nothing.


    helped, and she hissed, ¡°I bet it¡¯s


    Look at her.


    she¡¯ll stop here.


    installing them all over the shop.


    Tiffany was absent, only Zoe and another girl were running


    business was usually decent.


    even that many window shoppers that morning. Zoe knew that woman


    Leanna held her back. ¡°Ignore her.


    saying¡­¡± ¡°Not sure.¡± Leanna looked outside.


    ¡°I just think something¡¯s off.


    we sold the stuff.


    weird.


    lunch, Leanna was about to go back into her office, but then she heard amotion


    She was stirring up a storm outside the shop.


    all her money! How evil can you


    on. Leanna remained in the shop and stared at the trampled flowers


    was getting scared.


    ¡°It won¡¯t stop her froming back.¡± ¡°What should we do now?¡± Leanna didn¡¯t answer her as she saw


    no solution to


    money, but at the same time, she wasn¡¯tmitting any crime.


    woman became exhausted.


    entering the shop.


    and scare them away. Zoe felt like throwing knives at that b *tch, but anger couldn¡¯t solve anything.


    This was a war of attrition.


    if they chased her away.


    Time passed, and a sliver of sunlight shone through the window.


    woman before he went into the shop.


    The woman didn¡¯t even open her eyes.


    not getting into this shop unless you step over me!¡±


    And then Aidan


    ¡°Deal with this.¡± He didn¡¯t even look back.


    Jonathan stepped forward.


    with the woman.


    with stuff in ways we can¡¯t imagine.


    taste of it.


    Nobody can hold him hostage.


    time Jonathan dealt with a jerk like this woman.


    Talking was useless.


    drag the woman away.


    The woman screamed, ¡°Who are you guys? Let me go or I¡¯ll¡ª¡±


    And


    A moment of stunned silenceter, he chuckled.


    don¡¯t waste my time on inconsequential people.¡± He then shifted his gaze to Leanna.


    head.


    Almost forgot about their visit.


    She approached the gentlemen and greeted them.


    ¡°Hello, Mr.


    Morris, President Pearson.¡±


    William smiled.


    ¡°I see you ran into trouble, Miss McKinney.¡±


    ¡°Nah.


    characters these days.¡±


    Who¡¯s she calling clingy and screaming.

 Chapter 206

    Chapter 206


    and Zoe followed her. ¡°Who¡¯s that guy with Aidan, Nana?¡± she


    that realization struck Leanna.


    She¡¯s right.


    William is Aidan¡¯s business partner, not mine.


    to see the studio, she wasn¡¯t even surprised, nor did she refuse.


    Leanna gave her permission easily.


    and quickly came up with a


    Morris once, and we got along, so¡­¡±


    Oh ho.


    She¡¯s getting nervous.


    you expect me to answer that?


    Zoe smiled.


    ¡°I was just kidding.


    Go.


    They¡¯re waiting for you.¡±


    Leanna was starting to fidget.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡°Why don¡¯t youe with me, Zoe?¡±


    ¡°Nope.


    I don¡¯t wanna die.


    of my other identity.


    and scurried off.


    Leanna could do nothing but watch, and then she hung her head


    ¡°No.


    bit.


    You gentlemen have fun.


    the sofa. Aidan said, ¡°If you want to


    Leanna wanted to leave, but she couldn¡¯t.


    William was around, and he was her guest.


    shot her a look ofint and put


    Morris.


    fish out of water.


    the chat went on, Leanna couldn¡¯t ignore the itch on her back and


    surprise.


    strands of hair were wrapped around his fingers. Just looking at her hair almost made Leanna flinch.


    She took a deep breath.


    President Pearson.¡± Aidan pulled his hand back and adjusted his


    why are you¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m doing business with Mr.


    Morris.


    Wherever he goes, I go.¡± Pfft.


    make another ruckus after she was thrown


    was standing outside the entrance. She spat into the grass and left the ce while holding her lower


    back. A


    ¡°I did what you asked.


    from her underling.


    ¡°Here it is.¡± She whipped out another envelope.


    The more chaotic, the better.¡± ¡°Easy.


    Those girls are nothing but cowards.


    They won¡¯t even fight back.


    take the money, but Georgina moved it away with a smile.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry.


    what to do.¡± Georgina handed her underling the envelope and took a photo out of


    ¡°I want you to remember his face.¡± ¡°He¡¯s handsome.


    said.


    ¡°I want his reputation ruined.


    You know what to do.¡± The woman pouted.


    more.¡± Georgina crossed her arms.


    see¡­¡± The woman gesticted a number.


    ¡°I want this much.¡±


    ¡°Of course.¡±


    Well, that was quick.


    number.


    ¡°Sorry, that was the wrong number.


    woman asked, ¡°So, what about this ce? Do you want me to keep this


    Don¡¯t let it stop.¡±


    The woman chuckled.


    ¡°That¡¯s right up my alley.


    got back into her car.


    about to leave the studio.


    He said, ¡°Sorry for disturbing you today, Miss McKinney.


    work calls.¡±


    Leanna said, ¡°It¡¯s alright, Mr.


    leave.


    thought you go wherever Mr.


    inscrutable.


    Leanna could guess what was going through his mind.


    He¡¯s calling me a heartless woman again.


    said, ¡°I¡¯ming over tonight.¡±


    And then he left before she could say anything.


    William smiled at Leanna.


    ¡°And that¡¯s my cue to leave, Miss McKinney.


    Zoe appeared seemingly out of nowhere.


    ¡°Hey, I heard he¡¯sing over tonight.


    b*tch.¡±


    Gee, I have a friend in you.

 Chapter 207

    Chapter 207


    Chapter 207 Are You Threatening Me? William stood with his back to the car and said, ¡°I¡¯ll be taking


    my leave now. Thank you for today, President Pearson.¡± Just as William was about to get into the car,


    Aidan piped up coolly, ¡°What¡¯s your motive for approaching Leanna, Mr. Morris?¡± The question caught


    William by surprise. He was startled and took a moment to respond. ¡°I don¡¯t understand what you


    mean, President Pearson.¡± Aidan¡¯s expression was a little cold as he stood there with one hand in his


    pocket. William chuckled. ¡°I mean no harm to Miss McKinney. I¡¯m just curious about her, and we seem


    to get along pretty well.¡± ¡°She¡¯s old enough to be your daughter,¡± Aidan stated icily. There was silence


    before Wim cleared his throat and rified, ¡°You must be mistaken, President Pearson.


    I didn¡¯t mean it quite like that. However, you¡¯re right. Miss McKinney is about the same age as my


    daughter, but¡ª¡± ¡°You have a daughter, Mr. Morris?¡± Aidan asked. William¡¯s smile stiffened as he


    nodded. Just then, William¡¯s driver approached them. ¡°Mr. Morris, we should be going now.¡± William


    nodded to Aidan once more. ¡°Goodbye, President Pearson.¡± ¡°Goodbye, Mr. Morris.¡± Once William¡¯s car


    drove off into the distance, Jonathan came forward. ¡°President Pearson.¡± ¡°Have you gotten to the


    bottom of the matter yet?¡± Aidan asked. ¡°I checked with the nearby establishments. That woman


    started causing a scene yesterday. It sounds like it was over money.¡± Aidan side-eyed Jonathan. ¡°She


    wouldn¡¯t have targeted Leanna without any reason. Dig deeper.¡± ¡°I will.¡± A few secondster, Aidan


    spoke up again. ¡°Any updates from Oscar?¡± ¡°I¡¯m afraid not¡­ William Morris seems to have a spotless


    record. There was nothing out of the ordinary.


    The only thing that¡¯s peculiar is the fact that we can¡¯t find any information regarding his past in


    Highside.¡± Aidan snorted and started walking. ¡°What¡¯s so peculiar about that? He came prepared.¡±


    Although William imed to have made a trip to Highside to conduct business with Pearson Group, it


    was clearly just an excuse for him to return to the country. His rtionship with Mr. Jackson is


    undoubtedly not as simple as they im it is. However, what William was up to did not concern Aidan,


    as long as it did not involve his people. Aidan paused in his footsteps and instructed, ¡°Send a few


    people to keep an eye on Leanna for the next few days. If anyone looks for her, no matter who it is, IC¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    must be informed at once. Today¡¯s incident must not be repeated.¡± Jonathan nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll give out the


    orders right away.¡± A few moments after settling into the ck Rolls-Royce, Jonathan received a call.


    He turned around and said, ¡°President Pearson, the Zielinski Family have gone to the Pearson Family


    Estate. They wish to take Miss Anna with them.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need to ry such things to me. Just do


    what¡¯s supposed to be done,¡± Aidan saidnguidly and did not look up. Meanwhile, at the Pearson


    Family Estate. Anna¡¯s mother announced to the Pearson Family¡¯s staff, ¡°This is my daughter! Why can¡¯t


    I take her with me? Are you telling me that Aidan has the right to stop me from taking my own daughter


    home with me?¡± She immediately tried to leave while tugging Anna with her. However, none of the men


    moved out of the way for her. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re above thew? Do you think Aidan has the world


    under hismand?¡± Anna¡¯s mother hissed. One of the men replied, ¡°President Pearson has given his


    orders. Miss Anna knows very well what she did.¡± ¡°What gives you the right to get involved, regardless


    of what she¡¯s done? Who do you think you are anyway?


    I¡¯m taking her with me today. Anyone who tries to hurt her will have to get through me first!¡± Anna, who


    was standing beside her, tugged on her sleeve. ¡°Mom, why don¡¯t we forget about it¡ª¡± ¡°What do you


    mean forget about it?¡± Anna¡¯s mother fumed. ¡°He¡¯s just a b*stard child. You guys might be scared of


    him, but I¡¯m not. If he has a problem with this, he can take it up with me!¡± Just as both parties were at a


    stalemate, Sienna came over with Justin. ¡°Let them leave,¡± Justin said. The staff nodded at him in


    greeting before saying, ¡°Mr. Justin, President Pearson gave us an order. I¡¯m afraid we can¡¯t go against


    his word.¡± Justin chuckled. ¡°I know what Aidan¡¯s intentions are, but if Anna goes home, I can promise


    that she won¡¯t cause any more trouble.¡± The men hesitated without saying anything. ¡°If you¡¯re still


    unconvinced, I can give Aidan a call right now,¡± Justin added. ¡°That won¡¯t be necessary, Mr. Justin.¡±


    The men stepped aside and allowed Anna and her mother through.


    They knew that even though Aidan was somewhat estranged from the Pearsons, he had a pretty good


    rtionship with Justin. Aidan rarely disagreed with anything Justin said. Anna¡¯s mother threw a nce


    at Justin, but she didn¡¯t say anything. She pulled Anna along with her and headed out the door toward


    the car. Just when Anna was about to sigh in relief on the assumption that everything was over, a ck


    Rolls-Royce pulled up right beside them. She shrieked and hid behind her mother. The car door


    opened and Aidan stepped out. His cold, intimidating eyes fell upon Anna, who was cowering behind


    her mother. Anna¡¯s mother immediately wrapped her arms around Anna. ¡°Aidan Pearson, whatever it


    is, take it up with me. Why are you going after a child?¡± ¡°A child?¡± Aidan sneered icily after hearing that.


    Anna was petrified as she clung tightly to her mother¡¯s sleeve. However, he didn¡¯t pursue the matter as


    he merely stated, ¡°You can take Anna with you today, but if I ever see her again, or if I ever find out


    about where she has gone to, then it won¡¯t be as simple as losing a leg.¡± ¡°Are you threatening me?¡±


    Anna¡¯s mother retorted disbelievingly. ¡°It¡¯s just a reminder.¡± ¡°I can¡¯t believe you have the audacity to say


    that, Aidan! You¡¯re just a b*stard child!


    Do you really think everyone¡¯s afraid of you? I¡¯m telling you right now¡ªin my eyes, you and your


    mother, that mistress, are deplorable! Well, birds of a feather flock together, huh? It¡¯s not surprising you


    went after an equally despicable woman!¡± Everything went eerily silent after her rebuke. All that could


    be heard was the rustling from the chilly wind. Aidan was unfazed. He simply stood there quietly and


    smirked. No one knew what he was thinking. It was Justin who broke the silence gravely. ¡°Aunty, it¡¯s


    one thing for Anna to be immature. Are you also unaware of what can and cannot be said?¡± ¡°Is there


    anything wrong with what I said? Isn¡¯t it the truth? Why did the family insist on bringing this b*stard child


    back anyway? Look what it hase to now. The b*stard child is the one holding the reins in the


    family.


    Justin, if you just had a little more backbone, you wouldn¡¯t have ended up being this pathetic and


    having to grovel at someone else¡¯s feet right in your own home¡ª¡± A forceful p cut her off before she


    could finish speaking. It was Sienna who pped her. Anna¡¯s mother clutched her cheek and stared at


    Sienna in disbelief. Anna jumped in fright. ¡°Aunt Sienna¡­¡± she called out weakly. Sienna¡¯s eyes were


    chilling as she stared at the two of them. ¡°Get lost, and don¡¯t ever step foot in the Pearson Family


    Estate again.¡±

 Chapter 208

    Chapter 208


    Chapter 208 Patience is Limited Leanna had been standing out on the balcony for an hour. She rested


    her arms on the railing and propped her head on her hands. She watched the flurry of snowkes


    increase as time went on. Zoe came out of the shower and noticed that Leanna was still in the same


    position with her eyes unmoved as well, so she went over and peered in the same direction. ¡°What¡¯s so


    nice for you to look at?¡± Leanna snapped out of her reverie and smiled faintly. ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± ¡°You¡¯re


    waiting for someone, aren¡¯t you?¡± Zoe deduced. Then, she sighed. ¡°What¡¯s with that b*stard anyway?


    He said he woulde and look for you tonight, but he hasn¡¯t shown up yet. I¡¯d be worried too if I were


    you.¡± What? ¡°That is not what I am thinking,¡± Leanna exined softly. ¡°I don¡¯t believe you,¡± Zoe replied.


    Leanna turned her eyes back to the front and took a deep breath. ¡°Elijah confessed to me yesterday.¡±


    Zoe perked up at once. ¡°How did he do it? What did he say? Wait, no, hang on. Did you say yes or did


    you reject him?¡± Leanna shook her head before saying slowly, ¡°I should give myself a chance.¡± ¡°You¡¯re


    right about that. It¡¯s true. You don¡¯t need to hold out for that sucker anyway.¡± ¡°¡­That wasn¡¯t the case


    either. I¡¯m just not ready yet.¡± ¡°What¡¯s there to be ready for? Love oftenes when you least expect


    it,¡± Zoe dered. ¡°Leanna, you worry too much. Life is short. So what if you date someone without


    getting married to them? All that matters is your happiness.¡±


    Leanna pursed her lips and stayed quiet. Zoe looked at her and said, ¡°Leanna, I know why you¡¯re so


    conflicted over this.¡± ¡°Why?¡± Leanna asked without giving it much thought. ¡°It¡¯s because you still like


    Aidan, right?¡± Leanna looked down. She didn¡¯t admit it, but she didn¡¯t deny it either. Zoe rested her


    arms on the railing and sighed. ¡°Life doesn¡¯t always go the way you want it to, but Leanna, if that


    child¡­ was still here, would you remarry Aidan?¡± After a while, Leanna replied, ¡°He asked me the


    same question before.¡± ¡°How did you answer?¡± Leanna had the barest hint of a smile on her face. ¡°It¡¯s


    just like what you said. Life often doesn¡¯t go the way you want it to. If there were a way to redo


    everything, then things wouldn¡¯t havee to this.¡± ¡°That¡¯s true. Well, if I had a chance to do it all over


    again, I would stay as far away as possible from that scum, Anthony.¡± Zoe stretched and continued,


    ¡°However, Elijah has a point too. You should give yourself a chance. After all, life goes on.¡±


    Leanna nodded. ¡°I know that.¡± ¡°I¡¯m going to bed now. You should go back to your room soon as well.


    Don¡¯t catch a cold.¡± ¡°Alright.¡± Leanna stood out on the balcony for a few more minutes before heading


    back in, but as soon as she closed the balcony door, her phone started ringing in her pocket. She


    heard Aidan¡¯s voiceing through the phone. ¡°Are youing down or am I going up?¡± The answer


    was obvious. Leanna took her coat and went out. Downstairs, Aidan was leaning against the car door


    and staring at the ground. His expression was a little cold as he bit down on his cigarette. Leanna came


    over and stood in front of him. ¡°Did you want something, President Pearson?¡± Aidan¡¯s eyes flitted up.


    He took the cigarette out of his mouth as he fixed his eyes on her. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me about what


    happened today?¡± ¡°You¡¯re referring to¡­¡± Leanna began, but she figured it out right away.


    ¡°That¡¯s my business. I don¡¯t think I need to report it to you, President Pearson.¡± It was hard to tell what


    Aidan was feeling from his expression. His tone was also passive as he said, ¡°What were you going to


    do if I hadn¡¯t shown up?¡± ¡°As I said, that¡¯s my business. Regardless of how I nned to handle it, it still


    has nothing to do with you, President Pearson.¡± ¡°Are you saying that I¡¯m being nosy?¡± ¡°You¡¯re not


    wrong,¡± Leanna replied. Aidan continued to stare at her. ¡°Leanna, a person¡¯s patience is limited.¡±


    Leanna chuckled at that. ¡°Have you used up all your patience, President Pearson?¡± ¡°Are you happy or


    sad about that?¡± ¡°Well, if I say I¡¯m happy, you wouldn¡¯t be sad about it anyway, so yes, I¡¯m happy.¡±


    ¡°Are you that reluctant to see me?¡± Aidan asked. Leanna looked away. ¡°It has nothing to do with


    reluctance. I just don¡¯t think we need to see each other.¡± After a pause, she said, ¡°President Pearson.


    There¡¯s something I feel I need to rify with you. Elijah has confessed to me, and I¡ª¡± ¡°Did you agree


    to go out with him? You told me before that you don¡¯t like him.¡± ¡°I haven¡¯t given him an answer yet, but


    I¡¯ve decided to give it a try.¡± ¡°Leanna McKinney, look at me when you say that,¡± Aidanmanded.


    Leanna took a deep breath and turned to look at him. ¡°President Pearson, this, whatever this is, should


    come to an end now. You¡¯ve exhausted all your patience, and I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re thinking, but I


    really want to have a fresh start and live the life I want.¡± ¡°What kind of life do you want?¡±


    Leanna¡¯s lips parted to respond, but she didn¡¯t know what to say. Aidan flicked his cigarette and replied


    on her behalf. ¡°The life you want is one without me in it, isn¡¯t that right?¡± This b*stard¡¯s pretty good at


    guessing. Leanna spoke up again. ¡°President Pearson, you know very well that we¡¯re two people from


    vastly different worlds. Back then, it was just¡ª¡± ¡°How so?¡± Leanna was a little startled by the


    interruption. ¡°Huh?¡± Aidan snorted. ¡°Well, you¡¯re right. I¡¯m just a b*stard born out of wedlock. I¡¯m not


    worthy of you. You¡¯re right. We¡¯re two people from vastly different worlds.¡± Leanna was speechless.


    Wasn¡¯t this a tant attempt at twisting things around to suit his narrative? Leanna closed her eyes


    and said slowly, ¡°President Pearson, that¡¯s not what I meant.¡± ¡°Well, I think that¡¯s what you meant.¡±


    Leanna felt as if they were just going around in circles. Every time she wanted to clear things up


    between them, he would do this and push the issue back on her.


    Well, he did manage to prick at her conscience each time. After a few seconds, Leanna said,


    ¡°President Pearson, I¡¯ve said what I wanted to say. You should leave now.¡± ¡°What¡¯s the rush? I haven¡¯t


    said what I wanted to say yet,¡± Aidan replied. ¡°¡­Go ahead.¡± Aidan lit a new cigarette and began slowly,


    ¡°Anna has left the Pearson Family. She mighte looking for you, but it¡¯s quite unlikely.¡± Leanna tilted


    her head to the side and gave him a quizzical look. The confusion was clear in her pretty eyes. She


    waited for him to continue.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    ¡°I¡¯m guessing that they will choose to send her out of the country. Who knows what kind of idents


    happen when a person¡¯s abroad?¡± Leanna got the hint. ¡°President Pearson¡­¡± ¡°Leanna, I¡¯m telling you


    this because I¡¯m making it clear to you that I¡¯ve never been a good person. You can choose to go out


    with Elijah. That¡¯s up to you. However, no one can stop me from doing what I want.¡±

 Chapter 209

    Chapter 209


    Chapter 209 Harboring Filthy Ideas Over the next few days, Karen continued to try and harass Leanna


    at the studio, but before she could even arrive at the threshold, someone would stop her with all sorts


    of excuses. She didn¡¯t have any clue what was going on. Even so, she was still motivated by the sum


    of money Georgina offered. On Friday afternoon, as soon as Karen¡¯s daughter got out of school, she


    pulled her to the side and instructed her quietly. Her daughter was terrified. ¡°W-We can¡¯t do that¡­


    That¡¯s a crime¡­¡± Karen yanked her hard and snapped, ¡°You ungrateful girl! I¡¯m the one who¡¯s feeding


    you, but every time I tell you to do something, you keep saying it¡¯s not possible. If you were just a little


    better at getting things done, the two of us would be living in luxury right now!¡± ¡°I¡­¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to


    hear any more nonsense from you. If you can¡¯t get this done, then I won¡¯t show you any mercy!¡± The


    girl trembled at the sight of the hand that was about to hit her. Karen grabbed her and hailed a cab.


    ¡°Take us to Southfork University.¡± She had spent thest few days arranging everything and identifying


    the right person. All she needed was to wait for the kid to get out of school. At the cafe. ¡°Louis,


    tomorrow¡¯s a weekend. Why don¡¯t youe in for a shift or two?¡± the manager asked. ¡°I can¡¯t


    tomorrow. I¡¯m going to see my sister.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯d rather you don¡¯t. The semester holiday ising up and all the youngdies can¡¯t bear to not see


    you anymore. You should give them a bit more time to admire you.¡± Louis was speechless. He set the


    tablecloth down and said to the manager, ¡°I¡¯m done with cleaning up, so I¡¯ll be off now.¡± The manager


    stared after him and sighed. Being too attractive came with its own set of problems. After leaving the


    cafe, Louis took his phone out and called someone. ¡°Still no news yet?¡± he asked with a frown. ¡°Young


    man, I think you should just give up. It¡¯s a photo from over twenty years ago. Maybe the person you¡¯re


    looking for isn¡¯t even alive anymore,¡± the person advised over the phone. Louis pursed his lips. ¡°I can


    pay you more.¡± ¡°This has nothing to do with money, okay?


    You¡¯re asking me to look for a needle in a haystack, and I won¡¯t know where to begin even if you paid


    me more money. Furthermore, you won¡¯t get anything out of finding this person anyway, so I think you


    should just give up.¡± Louis wanted to respond, but just then, he heard a frail voice crying for help from


    the side of the road. ¡°Anyone there? Please help me¡­¡± He put his phone away and followed the voice.


    Amid the nearby bushes, he spotted a schoolgirl sitting on the ground and hugging her knees. She was


    wincing in pain. Louis crouched down beside her. ¡°What happened to you?¡± The girl¡¯s head was hung


    low. ¡°I twisted my ankle by ident.¡± Louis nced at the leg she was holding. ¡°Can you stand? I¡¯ll


    take you to the hospital.¡± She tried to stand up but stumbled right away. Louis immediately reached out


    to hold her arm. ¡°Take it easy.¡± The girl tried again and she nearly fell into his arms. She seemed to be


    in a lot of pain. Just as Louis was about to call 911, the girl suddenly tore her uniform open and


    screamed, ¡°Help! Help me, please! Help!¡± It was nighttime, and there were a lot of senior citizens out


    on a stroll near the university. When they heard the girl screaming, they quickly rushed over.


    A kind-hearted, elderly man pulled the girl away from Louis and fumed, ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Louis


    frowned and said gravely, ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything. She twisted her ankle so I helped her up. That¡¯s all.¡±


    The old man didn¡¯t listen to him. He turned to the trembling girl and said, ¡°Tell us what happened, miss!¡±


    The girl cried pitifully, ¡°I was just walking when someone pulled me into the bushes and covered my


    mouth. He even started taking my clothes off¡­¡± One of the bystanders eximed, ¡°What?! He¡¯s a


    monster! How could he do that to a high schooler?¡± Others began to chime in as well. ¡°That young man


    looks like a decent fellow. I never would¡¯ve suspected him to harbor such filthy ideas! You really can¡¯t


    judge a book by its cover, huh?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve seen this young man around. He must be a student here, right?


    Quick, someone, go and get his teachers and his school dean. Let them see the monster that¡¯s


    enrolled here!¡± The crowd began to hurl all manner of criticisms and abuse at him. Soon, the ce was


    full of people, including several students. One of them muttered, ¡°Isn¡¯t that Louis McKinney? What¡¯s


    going on?¡± ¡°Apparently, he dragged that schoolgirl into the bushes and wanted to¡­¡± ¡°Oh my goodness!


    So that¡¯s why he doesn¡¯t ept any of the girls who confess to him, even though so many of them like


    him. He¡¯s just pretending to be a decent guy while hiding his disgusting true self.¡± Louis ignored all the


    insults being hurled at him. He looked at the girl and asked darkly, ¡°Are you sure?¡± The girl lowered her


    head and stammered, ¡°I¡­ I¡­¡± ¡°Look! He¡¯s threatening the victim now! Where are the teachers?


    Why aren¡¯t they here yet?¡± someone in the crowd yelled. Louis continued, ¡°There are security cameras


    all around here. The truth will prevail once we take a look at the footage.¡± However, no one bothered


    listening to his exnation. The crowd continued to holler and scream all manner of abuse at him.


    Some of them even came forward to try and take matters into their own hands. Just then, a woman¡¯s


    voice rang out from among the crowd. ¡°Excuse me,ing through. Please let me through, thank you.¡±


    She came over to Louis and nced at him. ¡°I left for just a moment to get some water. How did you


    manage to turn this into a spectacle?¡± Louis had a slight frown as he stared at her without saying


    anything. Daphne¡¯s eyes swept across the crowd. ¡°Hi, all of you kind-hearteddies and gentlemen,


    you¡¯re all mistaken. Things are not what you assume them to be.¡± She slowly said, ¡°Just now, this


    handsome¡­ young man and I were walking on the sidewalk when we heard someone calling for help.


    This young girl here said she twisted her ankle and couldn¡¯t walk, so I went to buy some water for her


    to help her calm down. However, when I came back, I heard all of you iming a totally different


    sequence of events. Can anyone tell me what¡¯s going on?¡± Daphne sounded so convincing that many


    of the onlookers were taken aback. Even Louis nearly believed her. He couldn¡¯t help but nce at her


    as she lied right through her teeth. Suddenly, someone in the crowd yelled out, ¡°That girl said he pulled


    her into the bushes¡­¡± ¡°Alright. I got the message, but I think I still need to rify that her ims are


    false.¡± Daphne turned to the girl with a smile. ¡°Miss, are your examsing up soon? Did you


    hallucinate because you¡¯re under a lot of pressure?¡± The girl shrank back without saying anything.


    Daphne continued, ¡°It¡¯s alright. This young man here won¡¯t hold it against you, as long as you clear


    things up.¡± The girl bit down hard on her lip. After a moment of silence, she said, ¡°She¡¯s lying¡­ They


    weren¡¯t together¡­ I was just walking on the sidewalk. I didn¡¯t twist my ankle. They must be working


    together¡­¡± Daphne¡¯s smile faded. She sighed helplessly and said, ¡°Since you insist on lying, I can¡¯t


    help you anymore.¡±Original from N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 210

    Chapter 210


    Chapter 210 Do My Best to Cooperate Leanna came out of the bathroom and sat down on the couch.


    She took a sip of water and began to scroll through her phone. Right at that moment, a news update


    popped up on her screen. ¡®Daphne Shirley Suspected to Be in a Rtionship¡¯ What was going on?


    Leanna clicked on the notification to read more about it, but she nearly spat her water out when she


    saw the photos that had been published by the media. After double-checking and confirming her


    suspicions, she quickly gave Louis a call. ¡°Louis, where are you right now?¡± Leanna asked tentatively.


    ¡°At my dorm. Why?¡± ¡°Well¡­ Did you see the news?¡± ¡°What news?¡± Leanna decided to switch tactics.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on between you and Daphne?¡± Louis was quiet for several seconds. ¡°Nothing. I ran into


    some trouble today and she helped me.¡± Half an hour ago. After seeing that the girl was still sticking to


    her story, Daphne announced that there was a film crew and they had recorded the entire event that


    urred earlier. Now that there were both witnesses and evidence, it was up to the police to handle


    the matter. She took her phone out to make a police report. The girl was scared witless. She instantly


    cried out, ¡°N -No¡­ Don¡¯t call the police¡­¡± The kind-hearted elderly man said, ¡°Don¡¯t be scared, miss.


    The police will help you seek justice¡­¡± But before he could finish his sentence, the girl weaved her way


    through the crowd and ran off. Daphne put her phone away and looked out at the stunned crowd. Her


    tone was cool as she said, ¡°It¡¯s clear who¡¯s lying now, isn¡¯t it? This is a handsome young man with


    decent grades and a fine character. He¡¯s not the kind of person that you im he is.


    Those of you who scorned him earlier should be apologizing now, don¡¯t you think?¡± The spectating


    crowd exchanged looks. None of them would have predicted this twist. Those among them who were


    the rowdiest and hurled the most abuse had fled by now. Just then, someone called out tentatively, ¡°Is


    that Daphne?¡± ¡°The lights are too dim so I can¡¯t see clearly, but it sounds like her.¡± ¡°Oh my gosh! I saw


    her face! It¡¯s Daphne!¡± The crowd became increasingly excited, and Louis, who had been quiet all long,


    quickly pulled Daphne away from there. Someone must have taken a photo of this and sent it to the


    media. That was why the news was trending. Louis didn¡¯t tell Leanna the whole story. After a pause, he


    asked, ¡°Did someone take a photo of us?¡± ¡°Yeah, but it¡¯s not too bad. The photo was quite blurry.


    There¡¯s no clear shot of your face.¡± ¡°How did you recognize me then?¡± ¡°Need you ask? I¡¯m your sister.


    Shouldn¡¯t I at least be able to pick you out?¡± Louis pressed his lips together. ¡°Will this affect her badly?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not sure about that. I¡¯ll ask¡­¡±


    Leanna came to an abrupt halt. ¡°What¡¯s the matter?¡± Louis asked. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Leave this to me. You


    can just focus on school.¡± Leanna had faltered when she recalled that Daphne was managed by


    Pearson Group. Now that things had gone this far, Daphne¡¯s management team would surely get


    involved. This meant that Aidan would¡¯ve heard about it as well. She didn¡¯t know if he recognized


    Louis. Leanna bit her lip and scratched her head before calling Daphne. No one picked up no matter


    how long she waited. It was probably due to the gossip. Leanna hesitated for a long time, but in the


    end, she gave Jonathan a call. He answered almost immediately. ¡°Did you need something, Miss


    McKinney?¡± Jonathan asked. Leanna straightened up a little. ¡°I wanted to ask if Daphne¡¯s issue is


    serious.¡±


    ¡°Not¡­ Yes, very,¡± Jonathan said gravely. ¡°It will have a negative impact on her career. We¡¯ve had to


    halt discussions for several endorsement deals and filming projects.¡± Oh, really? Leanna couldn¡¯t help


    but doubt him. Jonathan continued, ¡°President Pearson has called for a crisis meeting to handle this.¡±


    ¡°I -Is President Pearson handling this personally?¡± ¡°Yes. President Pearson handles all of Daphne¡¯s


    work matters himself.¡± Jonathan promised that this wasn¡¯t a lie. After all, President Pearson is in the


    chat group that consists of Daphne¡¯s management team, right? ¡°I didn¡¯t know President Pearson was


    involved in so many different things,¡± Leanna chuckled dryly. ¡°As the saying goes, those who can, do,


    right?¡± ¡°Well¡­ If there¡¯s anything I need to do, go ahead and let me know. I¡¯ll do my best to cooperate.¡±


    ¡°Alright.¡± After ending the call, Leanna looked out the window and sighed. Why this, why now? She had


    just drawn the line with Aidan several days ago, but now, she was back in the palm of his hand again.


    Leanna started scrolling through her phone again. The news topic regarding Daphne¡¯s possible


    romance topped the trending list. Numerous factions consisting of her rivals and anti-fans leaped at the


    chance to dig up the old rumors of her being a mistress and started to spread the gossip once more.


    Unfortunately, this was just the way things were.Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Regardless of all the evidence or statements that proved otherwise, people would still choose to


    believe what they wanted to believe. Still, it looks like it is indeed affecting her. ¡­ In the meeting room,


    Daphne sat there quietly and watched as Jonathan spun his tall tale. Once Jonathan put his phone


    away, she said, ¡°Mr. Stoll, have you ever considered quitting your job as an assistant and bing an


    actor instead?¡± Jonathan wiped his brow. ¡°You jest. This is part and parcel of being a good assistant.¡±


    Daphne had no reply for that. A momentter, Aidan¡¯s voice rang out. ¡°Was anyone else involved in


    that incident, apart from the high schooler?¡± Daphne nodded. ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s an ident. I¡¯m sure it


    was premeditated.¡± Earlier, she was indeed filming a scene nearby. After spotting Louis across the


    street, she decided to say hi to him. That was when she witnessed everything. As she was standing


    some distance away, she noticed that there were a few men who had been hanging around nearby.


    As soon as the crowd started gathering, they rushed into the crowd and began to stir them up. They


    were the ones who hurled the most abuse at Louis. Aidan tapped his finger on the table


    absentmindedly. It was unclear what he was thinking about. Both Leanna and Louis were being


    targeted, and in both cases, the person¡¯s schemes weren¡¯t very sophisticated. It would be a stretch to


    call it a calcted move. Jonathan piped up, ¡°President Pearson, although they¡¯ve resorted to rather


    crude means, it wasn¡¯t totally useless. If Daphne hadn¡¯t been around today, they would have


    seeded. Even if evidence came upter on to prove otherwise, the damage would¡¯ve been done.¡±


    Gossip was the easiest weapon to wield¡ªa scandal could easily ruin a person¡¯s life. ¡°Get the PR


    department to issue a statement and let the rumors settle down.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll go right now.¡± Daphne stood up.


    ¡°President Pearson, if there¡¯s nothing else, then I¡¯ll get going as well.¡± ¡°Hold on.¡± Aidan looked at her.


    ¡°You know what you should and shouldn¡¯t mention, right?¡± ¡°You think too poorly of me, President


    Pearson. I¡¯m an actress. We¡¯re professionals too,¡± Daphne replied. Aidan waved her off. After


    instructing the PR department, Jonathan came up to Aidan and asked, ¡°President Pearson, as for Mrs.


    Pearson¡­¡± ¡°Tell her toe to my office tomorrow.¡±

 Chapter 211

    Chapter 211


    Chapter 211 I Don¡¯t Force People The next day, at Pearson Group. After stepping into the lobby,


    Leanna proceeded at a snail¡¯s pace. She hung back as much as she could as her entire soul resisted


    the idea of being here. An indeterminate amount of time passed before her phone started ringing. It


    was Jonathan. She answered the call, but she heard Aidan¡¯s voice instead. ¡°Are you nning on


    polishing all the tiles in the lobby beforeing up?¡± he asked coolly. Leanna was dumbstruck. She


    looked up around here. Are there security cameras here?! ¡°Hurry up. I have a meetinging up,¡± he


    said. ¡°Oh.¡± She looked back down and stepped into an elevator. In the office, Aidan tossed Jonathan¡¯s


    phone back to him. ¡°Wait for her at the elevator. Don¡¯t let her escape.¡± Jonathan was speechless.


    He couldn¡¯t help but think, Why did it sound like a trial is about to start? Five minutester, Leanna


    arrived at the office. Aidan was leaning against the back of the couch with his legs crossed. His


    expression was somewhat aloof as his fingers tapped against his knees. She stood in front of him and


    greeted, ¡°President Pearson.¡± ¡°Take a seat.¡± She opened her mouth to say something, but in the end,


    she pursed her lips and sat down opposite him. Jonathan delivered two cups of coffee before exiting


    quietly. Leanna nced at the coffee table before stating matter-of-factly, ¡°President Pearson, I will take


    responsibility for the negative impact caused by the rumors involving Daphne.¡± Aidan took a sip of


    coffee and asked coolly, ¡°How do you n on taking responsibility for it?¡± ¡°I will do my best to


    cooperate with the n of action thepany draws up.¡± ¡°Leanna, do you know why you always get


    involved in all sorts of trouble?¡± She didn¡¯t respond. ¡°It¡¯s because you always like to shoulder the


    responsibility for things that do not concern you. You take it all upon yourself,¡± he stated inly. Her


    expression was neutral as she looked at him. ¡°Louis isn¡¯t a stranger. He¡¯s my brother. His matters are


    mine as well. That said, I don¡¯t expect you to understand, President Pearson. After all, only humans


    have feelings.¡± Aidan looked at her. ¡°Remember what you said. If you¡¯re going to take responsibility for


    it, then you better see it to the end.¡± ¡°I won¡¯t take it back, provided that it¡¯s within the realm of reason.¡±


    He set his cup down and smirked.


    ¡°Great.¡± For some reason, Leanna felt like she had fallen into a trap. She stood up and said, ¡°I¡¯ll be


    leaving now, then. If there¡¯s anything, you can ask Mr. Stoll to get in touch with me ¡ª¡± ¡°There¡¯s


    something right now,¡± Aidan said. Leanna paused. ¡°Go ahead, President Pearson.¡± He nced at his


    watch. ¡°I have a meeting, so wait for me here. You¡¯re not allowed to leave before my return.¡± ¡°But¡ª¡±


    ¡°Feel free to leave if you wish. I don¡¯t force people into doing things they don¡¯t want to.¡± What was that?


    She couldn¡¯t believe how he could say that with a straight face. He looked at her and spelled it out


    clearly, ¡°The person who caused this should take responsibility for it.¡± Leanna closed her eyes and sat


    down on the couch. ¡°I¡¯ll wait for you toe back, President Pearson.¡± ¡°Why do I sense reluctance on


    your part?¡± Aidan quizzed nonchntly. She forced herself to put on a stic smile and responded


    through gritted teeth, ¡°You¡¯re wrong, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°I hope so. Otherwise, someone will say that I¡¯m the clingy one who refuses to stop pestering her


    again.¡± She was speechless. Hurry up and leave, you b*stard! As Aidan stepped out of his office, he


    turned back to nce at her. She immediately withdrew her gaze and straightened up as her gaze was


    fixed at something in front of her. ¡°There¡¯s a lounge inside. You can take a nap if you¡¯re tired.¡± Leanna


    ignored him as if she hadn¡¯t heard what he said. Once the door closed, she exhaled and leaned back


    into the couch. She felt defeated. Soon, she got a call from Daphne. ¡°I was a little busy yesterday. I


    only saw your missed call today,¡± Daphne said. ¡°Have you settled everything on your end?¡± ¡°Settling


    things¡­ is going to be a bit difficult. Although the news isn¡¯t trending anymore, it¡¯s still affecting my


    uing work.¡± ¡°Will it cause a great loss to Pearson Group?¡± ¡°I¡¯m not sure about that, but all my work


    has stopped, and President Pearson has asked me to go abroad on hol ¡ªto avoid the media. I¡¯m sure


    there are losses during the break.¡± Leanna nodded. ¡°I got it. Thanks for helping Louis.¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no need to thank me. Your brother¡¯s my brother too. I can¡¯t stand by and not lend a hand.¡±


    ¡°Enjoy your break abroad. I¡¯ll handle things from here.¡± ¡°Did you meet President Pearson?¡± Daphne


    asked tentatively. ¡°I¡¯m in his office right now.¡± Daphne coughed and came up with an excuse. ¡°Oh,


    alright. I¡¯m about to board the ne now, so let¡¯s talkter.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Leanna sat in the office the entire


    afternoon. One of Aidan¡¯s assistants brought lunch for her, but she didn¡¯t take a single bite. Her attitudeN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    toward this was clear. She was merely here to resolve the matter. She wasn¡¯t going to get involved with


    that b*stard in any way. At 5.00PM, Aidan came back and saw her sitting in the same position as when


    he left her. It looked like she barely moved. He walked over to her. ¡°Have you eaten?¡± ¡°Have you


    thought about how you wish to resolve this, President Pearson?¡± she asked coolly. Aidan rubbed his


    forehead. ¡°If you haven¡¯t eaten, then have dinner with me.¡± ¡°If you haven¡¯t decided yet, President


    Pearson, I cane again tomorrow.¡± ¡°What do you want to eat?¡± Ugh. It was as if they were holding


    two separate conversations. Aidan retrieved his suit jacket. ¡°We¡¯ll have dinner outside.¡± Leanna


    remained quiet for a moment, but she couldn¡¯t resist asking, ¡°Do you need to get your ears checked,


    President Pearson?¡± ¡°Sure. You cane along and get your heart checked to see if you have a


    conscience.¡± She couldn¡¯t be bothered to argue with him. She followed him out of the building before


    coming to a halt.


    ¡°President Pearson, I ¡ª¡± He nced at her before turning away. ¡°Talk about it in the car.¡± She took a


    deep breath. She had no choice but to climb in. He was silent for most of the ride. Just when she was


    about to assume that he was only toying with her, he passed a folder to her. ¡°Daphne¡¯s reputation


    reflects Pearson Group to a certain extent. Therefore, it isn¡¯t just her career that¡¯s affected this time. It¡¯s


    also bad publicity for thepany.¡± Leanna took the folder and asked quietly, ¡°Is it any worse than the


    bad publicity thepany received when you broke off the engagement?¡± Aidan eyed her coolly. ¡°I¡¯m


    not joking.¡± She sobered up right away. ¡°Sorry.¡± He continued, ¡°There¡¯s only one way to make up for the


    damage caused to thepany.¡± She flipped through the documents and listened carefully. He didn¡¯t


    lie to her. ording to the documents, apart from Daphne¡¯s working to a halt, several of the


    company¡¯s projects were also beset with problems. Leanna looked up and asked, ¡°What should I do,


    President Pearson?¡±

 Chapter 212

    Chapter 212


    Chapter 212 The Farmer and the Snake Aidan used his businesslike tone and said, ¡°There¡¯s a poker


    game happening tonight. Come with me.¡± Leanna was startled for a moment, but she nodded. ¡°Alright.¡±


    ¡°So, we can get dinner now, right?¡± Leannaughed dryly and passed the folder back to him. ¡°Do


    whatever you want, President Pearson.¡± He leaned back into the seat and closed his eyes. Less than


    two minutester, Leanna¡¯s phone started ringing. It was a call from Elijah. She cast a nce at the


    man beside her.


    She didn¡¯t know if he was actually asleep or just faking it, but after a moment of hesitation, she decided


    to answer the call. ¡°Leanna, I heard about everything from Zoe. Do you need my help?¡± Elijah asked.


    Her instinctive response was to say no. The word was on the tip of her tongue when she suddenly


    changed her mind. ¡°Yes, please. Thank you.¡± Beside her, Aidan slowly opened his eyes. After hanging


    up, she turned around and looked straight into his deep, brooding eyes. He looked away and stated


    inly, ¡°We¡¯re here. Get off.¡± Leanna wanted to stick to her resolve and skip dinner, but it was torture


    for someone who had skipped lunch to sit and watch someone else eat. She took a deep breath before


    heading out of the restaurant to buy something for herself. Aidan stared at her as she walked off.


    There was no expression on his face as he asked, ¡°What goes on in that head of hers?¡± Jonathan, who


    was standing beside him, didn¡¯t know what to say. Her intentions were obvious. She was keeping a


    distance between them. No matter what Aidan did to create opportunities between them, chances were


    they weren¡¯t going to amount to much. Leanna¡¯s thoughts were rather simple. Since she couldn¡¯t avoid


    seeing that b*stard, she decided to just deal with the situation head-on. Aidan stood up and followed


    her out the door. She had just sat down at a table in front of the convenience store to dig into her to-go


    meal when the box was snatched out of her hands. Her cutlery disappeared as well. She was


    perplexed and a little disgruntled. ¡°Weren¡¯t you having dinner, President Pearson?¡± ¡°The food was


    lousy.¡± ¡°How can the food at such an expensive restaurant be lousy?¡± ¡°Why didn¡¯t you eat it then?¡± he


    retorted coolly. She wanted to roll her eyes, but she held back the urge and stayed silent. He, too,


    didn¡¯t say anything further. Then, he took the cutlery and began eating the food he had stolen from her.


    Leanna was so mad that she felt as if she was just one step away from dying of a heart attack. She


    pursed her lips and went back into the convenience store to get more food. When she came back out,


    she chose to sit down at a different table


    . Aidan set the cutlery down. He pressed his tongue against his inner cheek, thinking. After finishing the


    food, Leanna¡¯s throat felt a little dry. She was about to head back inside the convenience store to buy a


    bottle of water when a cup of warm water set down in front of her. She looked up at the man standing


    beside her. Before she coulde up with a reason to decline, Aidan said, ¡°Consider it the payment for


    the meal. You can toss it if you don¡¯t want to drink it.¡± He strode off to the Rolls-Royce parked beside


    the road right after saying that. She eyed him before looking down at the cup of warm water on the


    table. The b*stard had a point. He did owe me for the meal. I needn¡¯t make a fuss since the money is


    from my pocket. With that in mind, she took the cup and started drinking. ¡­ They arrived at Patheon


    Club. Leanna never dreamed that she would be here with Aidan again. It was odd. In the past,


    whenever she came here, she would relive the humiliation and despair that had gripped her soul back


    then. However, this time, she felt nothing at all.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Perhaps Jethro¡¯s death was the


    catalyst for her to let go of her harrowing past. After snapping out of her thoughts, Leanna noticed that


    Aidan was staring coolly at a nearby area. She didn¡¯t know what he was thinking about as she couldn¡¯t


    read his emotions. Two minutes had passed when she finally couldn¡¯t stop herself from asking, ¡°Aren¡¯t


    you heading in, President Pearson?¡± ¡°I was just thinking about something,¡± he stated matter-of-factly.


    ¡°What ¡ª¡± She regretted ever saying anything as soon as she uttered the first word, but it was toote to


    take it back. He exined ever so coolly, ¡°Once upon a time, in that spot over there, someone held my


    hand and begged for help.¡± Of course. She knew this wasing. Sure enough, it was never a good


    idea to keep the conversation going with him. He continued, ¡°I¡¯ll be the first to admit that I¡¯m not a good


    man, but sometimes, I like to do a good deed for the day.¡± Probably because his conscience would eat


    him up otherwise. ¡°However, in the end, that person bit the helping hand.¡± Again, she wanted to roll her


    eyes. ¡°Leanna, have you ever heard of the fable about the farmer and the snake?¡± Enough is enough.


    Leanna gritted her teeth. ¡°President Pearson, can you just¡­ shut up?!¡± He nced at her and


    commented off-handedly, ¡°I¡¯m talking about Jonathan. Why are you getting so worked up?¡± Both


    Leanna and Jonathan were dumbstruck. However, being an assistant with a downright remarkable


    work ethic, Jonathan begrudgingly took a step forward and said, ¡°President Pearson¡¯s right, Miss


    McKinney. At the time, I happened to be here, and President Pearson showed up by coincidence¡­¡±


    Leanna stared at him with a straight face as she waited to see what he came up with this time. He


    continued, ¡°As for why I was here, well, it¡¯s a long story. It starts with my mother¡¯s illness¡­¡± ¡°Shut up,¡±


    Aidanmanded. ¡°Yes, President Pearson,¡± Jonathan responded right away. ¡°Don¡¯t bother exining


    all that to her.¡± Aidan then headed upstairs without turning back. Jonathan cleared his throat. ¡°This way,


    Miss McKinney.¡± ¡°Can I ask you something, Mr. Stoll?¡± she asked. ¡°W -What is it?¡± Please don¡¯t let it be


    about what we were just talking about earlier! He couldn¡¯t think of a usible story to tell. ¡°Did


    President Pearson make a trip back to Pearson Family Estate several days ago?¡± ¡°Miss McKinney,


    you¡¯re referring to¡­¡± ¡°The day he came to look for me.¡± Jonathan nodded. He didn¡¯t expect her to ask


    about this. ¡°Did someone say something to him?¡± She continued asking. ¡°After the Zielinskis came and


    took Miss Anna away, Mr. Justin asked President Pearson to take him back into the house, but I¡¯m not


    sure what they talked about.¡±


    Leanna nodded after hearing that. ¡°Alright. I got it. Thanks.¡± Ever since that day, Aidan¡¯s attitude had


    been rather strange. Although talking to him was just as frustrating as ever, and he was constantly


    picking on her on purpose, she still felt as if he was keeping his distance from her. It was entirely


    different from what she sensed from him in the past. She was beginning to think that he was


    developing a split personality disorder. Justin Pearson, huh? Is all this due to something he said to


    Aidan? If that were the case, she was going to buy some balloons and throw a party to celebrate.


    Jonathan hesitated for a moment, but seeing that Leanna was the one who started the conversation,


    he decided to say something. ¡°Miss McKinney, there¡¯s something that President Pearson probably


    wouldn¡¯t tell you, but I thought it¡¯d be best if you knew.¡± ¡°What is it?¡± ¡°It¡¯s about how you lost your first


    child when Miss Anna pushed you down the stairs. President Pearson only found out about it recently. I


    encountered a lot of obstacles when I tried to look into it. Mrs. Pearson must¡¯ve gotten involved to keep


    it under wraps, so that¡¯s why President Pearson misunderstood¡­¡± Leanna nearlyughed out loud.


    That exined why Aidan¡¯s actions were so unlike him recently. So, it¡¯s all because of this.

 Chapter 213

    Chapter 213


    Chapter 213 A Long-Term n In the private room. The moment Aidan stepped into the room, the


    temperature seemed to drop several degrees lower. The air was tense and rather ufortable. One


    of the men seated around the poker table muttered, ¡°What¡¯s with President Pearson?¡± Oscar nced


    at the man knocking back sses of alcohol on the couch. ¡°My guess is he got bitten.¡± What? ¡°That


    wild, huh? I didn¡¯t hear about President Pearson getting close to any woman recently, though,¡± one of


    the other menmented. Oscar smiled knowingly without saying anything. Just then, the door


    opened again, and the perpetrator who did the biting came in. He looked toward the door and was


    taken aback when he saw Leanna walk in. He didn¡¯t think that Aidan would¡¯ve been able to bring her


    here.


    Aren¡¯t they at loggerheads right now? After catching Oscar¡¯s eye, Leanna nodded lightly in greeting.


    Then, she walked over to Aidan and sat down beside him. Oscar quirked his eyebrows and looked


    away. ¡°Who¡¯s that? She¡¯s quite pretty. Is she a new model or celebrity that President Pearson¡¯s


    investing in?¡± someone asked. Oscar shuffled the cards and answered off-handedly, ¡°President


    Pearson¡¯s ex-wife.¡± Everyone was dumbstruck. Didn¡¯t Aidan hate his ex-wife? He finally managed to


    get a divorce, so why were they hanging out together again? All this while, Aidan sat in his corner


    without talking. Leanna sat there in silence as well. In any case, he only said that she needed to


    apany him to the poker game. He didn¡¯t say she had to do anything. She nced at the people


    around Oscar.


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    They were all young and wealthy yboys, and she couldn¡¯t help but feel curious as to why Aidan


    joined them today. Was his appearance here really going to be useful in aiding thepany projects


    that had been affected? Just as she began to sense the strangeness of it all, Aidan¡¯s voice called out to


    her. ¡°Want a drink?¡± She withdrew her gaze and looked at him. Half of his face was in the shadow. She


    couldn¡¯t tell what he was thinking or feeling. All she could see was his taut lower jaw. She was startled


    for a moment, but she quickly came to. ¡°I¡¯m not drinking tonight.¡± Aidan seemed to chuckle in the


    darkness as he downed his ss with a visible gulp. After setting the ss down, he walked over to


    the poker table. As soon as he approached, one of them got up. ¡°Take my seat, President Pearson. I¡¯m


    about to head off anyway.¡± Once Aidan took the seat, Oscar said, ¡°That seat of his has rotten luck. He¡¯s


    been losing all night. You better be careful, President Pearson.¡±


    ¡°Can it be any worse than yours?¡± Oscar wanted to roll his eyes. Did he ingest a stick of dynamite or


    something? Why is he exploding as soon as he speaks? Right then, everyone around the poker table


    came to a mutual understanding. Aidan was in a foul mood right now. They had better not cross him.


    True to Oscar¡¯s words, after a few rounds, Aidan suffered heavy losses. He flicked the cards and


    turned to Leanna. ¡°Come here.¡± She walked over to the table, and after hesitating for a moment, she


    said, ¡°I don¡¯t know how to y.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t have any money either,¡± she added solemnly after a slight


    pause. She was not going to lose her hard-earned money to these evil capitalists. Even Aidan couldn¡¯t


    say anything to that. Oscar chuckled and assured her, ¡°It¡¯s fine. President Pearson likes doing charity.


    Just recently, he started tree-nting projects all over the city under the guise of protecting the environ


    ¡ª¡± He faltered right before getting to thest syble when he felt an icy pair of eyes sweeping across


    him. Leanna sat down in Aidan¡¯s old spot. ¡°I really don¡¯t know how to y.¡± ¡°Aren¡¯t you supposed to be


    great at everything? I¡¯m surprised there¡¯s something you don¡¯t know,¡± Aidan remarked coolly. Oscar


    cleared his throat to warn him to stop before going too far. When Aidan gets out of control, he goes


    around baring his teeth at everyone in sight.


    And once he finally snaps out of it, it¡¯d be toote for regrets. In the past, Leanna would¡¯ve shot back at


    him right away, but this time, she kept reminding herself that she was here to resolve an issue, and not


    to get into a fight with the b*stard. Before she could respond, however, the b*stard finally said


    something decent. ¡°I¡¯ll teach you.¡± ¡°Fine,¡± she said in response. Perhaps it was thanks to being around


    a gambling addict like Jethro that Leanna had never shown any interest in poker games. She didn¡¯t


    know what was fun about it. Throughout the whole game, she was like a mindless robot that carried out


    Aidan¡¯s instructions to the letter, doing whatever he told her to. However, ever since she sat down in


    the chair, the tides seemed to turn in her favor. She won several rounds in a row, and the atmosphere


    around the table became even more exciting, but she was getting drowsy. ¡°Use that card.¡± It was


    unclear whether it was Aidan who failed to point at the right card, or if it was Leanna who


    misunderstood him, but when she took out the card that she thought Aidan meant and attempted to


    ce it down on the table, someone caught her hand midway. His palm was warm and dry. The


    moment it wrapped around her hand, she felt as if she had been burnt. Her drowsiness vanished, and


    she immediately wanted to pull away from him. Before she could, however, Aidan had already released


    her. ¡°Not that one. The one beside it.¡±


    Leanna withdrew her hand and switched cards. When the round ended, she got up. ¡°I want to use the


    washroom. You should y instead, President Pearson.¡± She left swiftly without even waiting for his


    assent. Once she was gone, the others around the table quickly came up with excuses to leave. It was


    not a good day for poker. One false move and they would get themselves killed for stepping on a


    landmine, which was Aidan. After watching the others scamper off, Oscar tutted and pushed his cards


    aside. ¡°Are you here to y cards, or are you here to ruin the game?¡± Aidan sat down on the couch


    and poured himself a ss. ¡°I¡¯m not the one who chased them off.¡± ¡°You might not have said those


    words, but your actions spoke louder.¡± Oscar sat down beside him. ¡°Who ruffled your feathers today?


    Didn¡¯t I tell you that you should watch that mouth of yours? The less you say, the better.¡± Aidan picked


    up his ss and swirled it about. His expression was neutral as he said, ¡°She¡¯s heartless, not deaf.¡±


    Oscar was exasperated. ¡°What¡¯s with you? Just not too long ago, you were still doggedly determined.


    Why are you acting like this now? Have you recognized the error in your ways?¡± Aidan downed the


    ss without responding to him. Oscar continued, ¡°Aidan, you need to have patience when you¡¯re


    trying to win a woman over. Look at where you stand with her right now. Not to mention the fact that


    you did misunderstand her a fair bitst time. Being hasty doesn¡¯t get you anywhere.¡± ¡°If I don¡¯t hurry


    up, you might be attending her wedding in two months.¡± Oscar couldn¡¯t say anything. He did hear from


    Jonathan that Leanna was hanging out with Constetion Tech¡¯s Elijah Parkertely.


    He didn¡¯t think things would escte so quickly. Oscar was confused. ¡°Why are you still behaving like


    this, then?¡± ¡°Did anything I do in the past work?¡± Oscar paused for a bit before he said, ¡°I guess not.¡± If


    they did, he wouldn¡¯t be sitting here drowning himself in alcohol. Aidan¡¯s dark eyes were fixed on the


    ss in his hand. He smirked and said, ¡°This time, I¡¯ll go with a long-term n.¡±

 Chapter 214

    Chapter 214


    Chapter 214 Words of Apology Lack Sincerity Maybe it was Aidan¡¯s unrelenting pressure that pushed


    Leanna toward Elijah. Thus, he had to change his game n. Oscar snickered. ¡°Then¡­ good luck.¡±


    Aidan nced at him in displeasure. ¡°Is that how you look like when you¡¯re wishing someone good


    luck?¡± Oscar wanted to roll his eyes. ¡°I think your new method doesn¡¯t work either, Aidan. And it boils


    down to you not knowing how a woman thinks.¡± ¡°But I know what Leanna is thinking,¡± Aidan replied.


    Well, he does have a point, Oscar thought. ¡­ Leanna came out of the stall and got some tissues to


    wipe her hand. She was just about to leave the washroom when someone brushed past her. Then, she


    heard a woman¡¯s voice calling out behind her, ¡°Leanna McKinney?¡± She stopped in her track and


    turned around. Maya was startled at first, but she soon crossed her arms and eyed Leanna imperiously.


    ¡°What are you doing here? Did youe with Elijah Parker?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°How odd then.


    This is an expensive ce. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re here with friends.¡± Maya¡¯s derisive tone made it clear


    that she turned her nose up at Leanna. ¡°It has nothing to do with you,¡± Leanna responded calmly. Maya


    didn¡¯t expect her to respond like that. Her expression shifted, and she scoffed, ¡°I was just reminding


    you out of the kindness of my heart. Perhaps you didn¡¯t know, but the alcohol here starts at four figures.


    I¡¯m worried that all your hard-earned money would be wasted in one night. After all, people in the


    service industry like you have a hard time making money.¡± ¡°So, after saying all that, what you mean is


    you¡¯ll treat me to a drink tonight?¡± Maya gulped. She couldn¡¯t think of anything to say in response. Her


    husband had a gathering with his friends here tonight. She had to plead with him for ages before he


    relented and allowed her toe along with him. She had barely squeezed her way into this ce, so


    she was in no position to buy a drink for Leanna. Leanna noticed her reaction and chuckled. ¡°Just focus


    on yourself. Don¡¯t butt your nose into other people¡¯s business.¡±


    She was about to leave when Maya spoke up again. ¡°Leanna, you¡¯re a divorcee, right? One of my


    husband¡¯s colleagues just got a divorce too. I think you two would make a good match. Why don¡¯t I


    introduce you to him?¡± Before Leanna could respond, Maya continued, ¡°People should learn to move


    on in life. You didn¡¯t meet someone good. That¡¯s why your marriage failed. I looked into the guy for you


    this time. Although he has two kids, he¡¯s a decent and honest man. Most importantly, he dotes on his


    wife a lot, and his sry¡¯s not too shabby either. Once you get together with him, you¡¯ll just need to


    stay home and look after the kids. Doesn¡¯t he sound great? I wouldn¡¯t introduce him to just anyone, you


    know.¡± ¡°Since he¡¯s so great, you can have him.¡± ¡°Why, you¡ª¡± Leanna didn¡¯t bother to stick around for


    her. She threw the tissue in the trash can and left. Maya stomped her feet in fury. She saw no reason


    for a divorcee to still strut about so arrogantly. Does she still think she¡¯s the star of the school that


    everyone looked up to back then? When Leanna returned to the room, she noticed that everyone else


    had left. Aidan was sitting alone on the couch, drinking his alcohol. It looked like he had drunk quite a


    lot by now. ¡°Is it over, President Pearson?¡± she asked.


    He looked up at her. ¡°Why don¡¯t you juste back tomorrow instead?¡± She pressed her lips together


    and retrieved her purse. ¡°Since it¡¯s over, I¡¯ll take my leave then.¡± ¡°Come here.¡± She didn¡¯t move. ¡°Did


    you still need something, President Pearson?¡± ¡°Sit down,¡± he stated inly. After a pause, Leanna sat


    down three feet away from him. Aidan shoved a ss toward her. ¡°Try this.¡± ¡°No thanks. I¡¯m not


    drinking any alcohol,¡± she said. ¡°It¡¯s sweet, and it has a low percentage of alcohol content.¡± She looked


    at him warily¡ªshe didn¡¯t trust him very much. ¡°If I wanted to do something to you, would I need to


    come up with an excuse?¡± Aidan asked. B*stard. Though, he did have a point. The b*stard was pretty


    cold to her today. Maybe it was just as he said. His patience ran out. Leanna picked up the ss and


    took a sip. She licked her lips after. It was quite sweet. And then, she finished the whole ss.


    However, as soon as she set it down, Aidan pushed another one over. She was less inclined to


    cooperate this time. Isn¡¯t he pushing it a bit? ¡°As I said, if you have something to ask of someone else,


    you should act like it. To prevent you from turning around andshing out at me in the future, and to


    prevent you from owing me another favor, let¡¯s settle things now,¡± he stated coolly. Leanna took a deep


    breath. Fine. She downed several more sses in a row and felt like she needed to use the washroom


    again. However, she didn¡¯t expect the room to start spinning as soon as she tried to stand. Her head


    was heavy. She felt dizzy and sank back down onto the couch. Her pretty eyes flickered as she stared


    nkly in front of her. Aidan rested his hand against the table and propped his head up to stare at her.


    It was as if he had been waiting for this to happen. His eyebrows quirked up, and he called out softly,


    ¡°Leanna.¡± She turned toward him with a clueless expression. ¡°Do you still remember who I am?¡± he


    asked calmly. Leanna paused a bit before answering, ¡°I¡¯m drunk, not daft.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± She took her


    purse and tried to stand again, but she couldn¡¯t move at all. Just as she finally managed to stand up


    with the help of the table, someone grabbed her wrist, and with a slight pull, she crashed right back


    down. This time, she didn¡¯t fall onto the couch. Instead, she fell into hisp. She tried to shove him


    away, but her body was limp, and it looked like she was just being coy instead. Aidan ced his hands


    on her waist. It was a piece of cake for him to stop her from moving about. ¡°Leanna, I¡¯m going to ask


    you one more time. Who am I?¡±


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    She stared at the hateful face in front of her. As her thoughts grew hazy, she acted on instinct. She


    smacked him in the face and sniffled aggrievedly. ¡°The b*stard!¡± Aidan didn¡¯t expect that. He took her


    hand down and held it tight. ¡°Take a closer look. I¡¯m your husband.¡± ¡°You¡¯re not. I¡¯m divorced.¡± ¡°No.


    You¡¯ve got it wrong.¡± Leanna looked even more confused after hearing that. Not divorced? How¡¯s that


    possible? She clearly remembered that she had gotten one. Aidan continued, ¡°It¡¯s our first anniversary


    today. You were so happy that you ended up drinking too much.¡± He sounded certain, and her head


    was spinning, so she ended up caught in his web of lies. ¡°Leanna, it¡¯s our wedding anniversary today.


    Don¡¯t you have a gift for me?¡± ¡°Oh¡­¡± She looked around and felt her pockets before lowering her head.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I forgot.¡± ¡°A word of apology isn¡¯t sincere enough,¡± he said. She looked up at him and


    hesitated for a moment. When she was sure that he didn¡¯t look repulsed by her, she gave him a


    tentative peck on the lips. ¡°How about this?¡±

 Chapter 215

    Chapter 215


    Chapter 215 Just a Little Coaxing Will Do Aidan¡¯s eyes darkened. His Adam¡¯s apple bobbed a little.


    ¡°That¡¯s not enough.¡± Leanna cocked her head to the side as if she was trying to think what would


    convey enough sincerity. At the very next second, she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed


    him. This time, she carefully stuck her tongue out to lick his lips. All at once, Aidan¡¯s hands tightened


    around her waist. He reached up one hand to cup her head before deepening the kiss. She was a little


    ufortable at first. Her lips stung in pain, but since it was their wedding anniversary and she hadn¡¯t


    prepared a gift, she figured that he was upset. Slowly, she began to respond to his kiss.


    She sensed that Aidan was a little different today. He was a lot gentler than usual. It was the kind of


    gentleness that intoxicated her. Just then, someone opened the door to the private room. Elijah was


    stunned to see the sight in front of him. His fists clenched. After a pause, he turned around and left at


    once. When Leanna heard the door closing, she immediately pushed Aidan away. Her face was bright


    red as she stammered, ¡°T-There¡¯s someone¡­¡± ¡°Ignore them.¡± He pulled her head near and kissed her


    once more. It was much, muchter when he finally released her. Leanna was nestled in his arms and


    gasped a little. Her fingers gripped his shirt as she asked dazedly, ¡°Aren¡¯t we going home?¡± Aidan


    stared at her glistening eyes and asked hoarsely, ¡°What do you want to do when we get home, hm?¡±


    His stare made her feel a little embarrassed. She looked away. Her heart was about to leap out of her


    chest. He smirked and caressed her head. ¡°We can¡¯t today.¡± This was enough. If he took advantage of


    her now, once she sobered up, anger would be a gross understatement of what her reaction would be.


    He carried her in his arms and murmured, ¡°I¡¯ll take you home.¡± Leanna hummed in acknowledgment


    and grabbed his shirt tightly. She was dozing off by the time they came out of Patheon Club. Aidan


    ced her inside the car carefully before instructing, ¡°Turn the temperature up.¡± ¡°Got it,¡± Jonathan said.


    ¡°President Pearson, President Parker has left.¡±


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    Aidan acknowledged it with an unconcerned hum. He put his jacket around Leanna and pulled her back


    into his arms. Jonathan cleared his throat. ¡°President Pearson, what would happen if Mrs. Pearson


    finds out about this?¡± ¡°She won¡¯t remember anything,¡± Aidan said. ¡°Elijah Parker won¡¯t ask her about it


    either.¡± President Pearson¡¯s a cunning man indeed. What an underhanded way to deal a blow to his


    love rival. ¡°Where are we going now, President Pearson?¡± Jonathan asked. Aidan nced at the


    woman in his arms. ¡°Send her home.¡± ¡°Alright.¡± ¡°There¡¯ll be some changes happening to the Pearson


    Family soon. Instruct more people to keep an eye on them.¡± ¡°What¡­ sort of changes?¡± ¡°Georgina


    Crossley might be getting engaged to Justin,¡± Aidan stated off-handedly. Jonathan was taken aback.


    ¡°Has Mr. Justin agreed to it?¡± ¡°It has nothing to do with his wishes. The marriage alliance is merely a


    way to solidify the rtionship between the Pearson Family and the Crossley Family.¡± Furthermore, it


    was Lloyd Crossley himself who suggested the match. ¡°I will make sure our men keep an eye on them.


    I¡¯ll continue to look into the Crossleys as well,¡± Jonathan said. Aidan didn¡¯t say anything else. He had


    his arm around Leanna¡¯s shoulder as he remained quiet in thought. ¡­ Zoe was in the middle of her


    skincare routine when she heard the doorbell ringing. She ran to get it. ¡°Leanna, why are you home so


    late? Did that b*s¡­¡± Well, if she had her way, she would¡¯ve continued with, ¡°¡­tard make things difficult


    for you again?¡± However, Aidan was standing at the doorstep with Leanna in his arms and staring at


    her with a straight face. Zoe was mortified. She wanted to dig a hole and die. ¡°Where¡¯s her room?¡± he


    asked. Zoe retreated robotically and pointed the way. He strode into the house.


    Once the room door closed, Zoe gasped and took a deep breath. It felt as if she just had a near-death


    experience. In the room. Aidanid Leanna on the bed and stared at her for a while. Just as he was


    about to leave, she reached out and circled her arms around his neck. Her eyes opened, and she


    stared at him hazily. ¡°Did I make you mad again?¡± ¡°Hm?¡± Leanna¡¯s nose was red. ¡°Why are you


    leaving?¡± she asked aggrievedly. ¡°I won¡¯t leave if you answer a question of mine,¡± he replied. She


    nodded. ¡°Do I treat you well?¡± She was not expecting that. Leanna averted her eyes in avoidance.


    However, he held her by the chin and forced her to have eye contact with him. ¡°Answer me,¡± he said.


    ¡°You treat me well sometimes¡­ and poorly other times¡­¡± ¡°Do I treat you well or poorly most of the


    time?¡± Again, she didn¡¯t want to answer that. Doesn¡¯t the b*stard know the answer already? Why does


    he keep asking all these? ¡°What do I need to do for you to forgive me?¡± he asked. Leanna¡¯s voice was


    very soft. ¡°Just a little coaxing will do.¡± ¡°Really?¡± ¡°Mm-hmm¡­¡± She lowered her eyes. ¡°But you won¡¯t


    coax me. You¡¯ll never do that. All you do is scold me and look at me with disdain. I didn¡¯t lie to you. I


    didn¡¯t try to use the child to force you into anything. If you didn¡¯t want the child, I would¡¯ve just gotten an


    abortion. I didn¡¯t know they would do that¡­¡± Her eyes were teary. Droplets of tears clung to hershes.


    Aidan¡¯s tone was soft as he attempted to soothe her. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ve got it. I¡¯m sorry. It¡¯s all my fault.¡± Once


    Leanna was sound asleep, he kissed her forehead and got up to leave. As soon as he exited the


    bedroom, Zoe, who had been standing in wait for quite some time now, gave him a 90-degree bow and


    said loudly, ¡°I¡¯m sorry, President Pearson!¡± Huh? He tugged at his sleeve and responded coolly,


    ¡°There¡¯s no need for you to bow.¡± Zoe quickly straightened up and asked carefully, ¡°Did Leanna have


    too much to drink?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± His answer only made her even more puzzled. ¡°That¡¯s weird. She rarely


    drinks and would always limit her alcohol intake as well. She has never gotten drunk¡ª¡± Before she


    could finish, a pair of eyes fell upon her. She immediately changed the subject. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, President


    Pearson. I¡¯ll take good care of her.¡±


    Aidan took a few steps forward before turning around to look at her, but he didn¡¯t say anything. Zoe felt


    as if she was walking on a tightrope. ¡°I-Is there anything else, President Pearson?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t tell her I¡¯m


    the one who brought her home.¡± She nodded without the slightest bit of hesitation. ¡°What should I tell


    her then?¡± ¡°You went to Patheon Club to pick her up. She was alone in the room when you arrived.¡±


    ¡°Noted! Will do!¡± ¡°Are you sure?¡± he asked. Those three words sent chills down her spine. It was not a


    question! It was a threat! ¡°Absolutely sure! Don¡¯t worry, President Pearson. I won¡¯t spill the beans by


    ident,¡± she said with a gulp. Aidan withdrew his gaze and left.

 Chapter 216

    Chapter 216


    Chapter 216 How Did I Come Home Last Night? When Leanna woke up the next day, her body was


    weak and she could not prop herself up at all. As she opened her eyes and struggled to sit up, it felt


    like her whole world was spinning for a moment. Shaking her head vigorously, she ran to the bathroom


    as she held back her vomit. After a long time, she finally walked out of the bedroom while rubbing her


    stomach. She had an ashen look on her face that was coupled with clear difort.


    Zoe heard the noise from outside and poked her head out of the kitchen. ¡°Nana, you¡¯re awake! I¡¯m


    making you some hangover juice. It¡¯ll be ready in a bit. Give me a minute.¡± Leanna pulled out a chair at


    the dining table and sat down before resting her head weakly on the table. ¡°Okay¡­¡± After a few


    minutes, Zoe came out with a ss of hangover juice. ¡°Nana, quickly drink up.¡± As soon as Leanna


    picked up the ss, a nauseous feeling surged within her again. She retched several times, but


    nothing came out. Momentster, she managed to drink the hangover cure albeit with difficulty. Gosh,


    I¡¯ve never felt this ufortable in a while. This is worse than when I had morning sickness. Once she


    finished her juice, she plopped herself onto the table again as if she was going back to sleep. Zoe sat


    across her with her hands on the table. Then, she tentatively pried, ¡°Nana, do you remember how you


    got drunkst night?¡± As her eyes slowly widened, Leanna tried to recallst night¡¯s event. ¡°That


    b*stard told me to apany him to a card game and told me to help with his deck of cards¡­¡±


    ¡°Then?¡± Zoe immediately asked. ¡°Then¡­¡± Leanna trailed off. The memories fromst night gradually


    began to resurface in her mind. She recalled that she met Maya in the bathroom; when she returned,


    everyone else had left with only Aidan left. Initially, she wanted to leave, but he pressured her to drink


    by saying that she should at least show some ¡®sincerity¡¯. Leanna had no recollection of how many


    sses she had and her mind went nk after that.


    When she thought of this, she suddenly raised her head and asked, ¡°Oh. How did Ie homest


    night?¡± Zoe let out a cough and replied ordingly to what Aidan told her to say, ¡°I picked you up.¡± This


    made Leanna wonder. ¡°Did I call you?¡± ¡°No, the waiter did. He said that you were drunk and passed out


    in the private room. Then, he told me toe and pick you up.¡± Leanna rested her chin on her hand


    with a stunned look on her face as she stared ahead nkly. After a long while, she finally said, ¡°Oh.¡±


    Then, Zoe mmed her hand onto the table angrily to sell the story further. ¡°That b*stard is really


    something else! How could he leave you lying there alone in unconsciousness?! He has no


    conscience!¡± However, Leanna shook her head and let out a sigh of relief. ¡°It¡¯s better that way.¡± It


    seemed like Aidan¡¯s reputation was really down the drain now. ¡°Nana, are you not upset that that


    b*stard is treating you like this?¡± Zoe asked softly. Hearing this, Leanna smiled faintly. ¡°It¡¯s better for me


    to ept this than to drag things on until it gets worse.¡± Frankly speaking, what happenedst night


    was nothing inparison to their history. If they continued to be entangled like this, she could not


    guarantee what would happen in the future. Therefore, she was fairly satisfied with the oue today.


    Then, she stood up from the table. ¡°Give me a minute.


    I¡¯ll get changed and we can head to the studio.¡± ¡°You can rest at home today and I¡¯ll handle the studio


    alone. You probably won¡¯t be able to work either, seeing how you are now,¡± Zoe offered. As soon as


    Leanna stood up, she felt her head spin again. This time, she did not try to put up a strong front as she


    nodded and said, ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll return to sleep, then.¡± ¡°All right. There¡¯s food in the fridge. You can heat it


    up when you¡¯re awaketer.¡± After Zoe left, Leanna slept until 4.00PM. When she sat up and rubbed


    her temples, she did not feel as dizzy as she was before. Once she took a hot shower, she felt a lot


    better. She stretched her neck as she walked out of the bedroom to the kitchen. After finishing her


    meal, she looked at her phone before finally deciding to drop by Louis¡¯ school. He did not exin much


    about what happened when he met Daphne over their phone conversation, which made Leanna feel a


    little uneasy. Today was thest day of their final exam. Many students who were done with their


    papers left the schools in groups, dragging their suitcases behind them. Leanna approached one of


    them and learned that those from Louis¡¯ major had finished their papers in the morning. The student


    also mentioned that he was at the cafe where he usually worked part-time. When she arrived there, the


    cafe owner informed her, ¡°He went to the police station.¡±C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    ¡°Police station?¡± Leanna was surprised to hear this. ¡°Yeah. Just the day before yesterday, there was a


    high schooler that deliberately set up a trap. Fortunately, he was caught on the spot. Didn¡¯t Louis tell


    you?¡± This made her frown as she shook her head and asked, ¡°Which station?¡± After the cafe owner


    told her, she thanked him and quickly turned to leave. Although she knew that things would not be as


    simple and easy as Louis told her on the phone, she did not expect it to be so severe. When Leanna


    arrived at the hospital, Louis was just watching the surveince clip with the police from that night. As


    soon as Louis saw her, he could not help but frown. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me that


    such a major thing happened, yet you dare to question why I¡¯m here?¡± she retorted angrily. After saying


    that, she turned to the police and said, ¡°I¡¯m his sister and legal guardian.¡± Hearing this, the policeman


    nodded. ¡°Then, let¡¯s watch it together.¡± Subsequently, Leanna fixed her eyes on the screen in front of


    her. After watching the footage for a while, her brows knitted together. ¡°Can you go back a little?¡± Once


    the tape was rewound, she requested again, ¡°Can you zoom in a little?¡± Although the surrounding was


    dim and blurry, she could recognise the girl in the surveince footage. ¡°Do you know this person?¡± the


    cop asked. Louis also turned over to look at her when he heard the question. Leanna pursed her lips


    and answered slowly, ¡°A few days ago, her mother kepting by my ce to cause a scene.¡± ¡°Do


    you know anything about their identity?¡±


    the cop asked again. ¡°I called the cops. There should be a record of it.¡± After the cop checked with her


    regarding the police station she went to, they told the two siblings to stay put for a moment while they


    contacted the other police station for information. Once the cop left, Louis immediately asked, ¡°When


    did this happen? Why didn¡¯t you tell me?¡± ¡°You were having exams. It wasn¡¯t a big deal,¡± Leanna


    answered. She never expected that he would be dragged into this mess as well. She then made a wild


    guess that the other party must have pre-nned this. However, since the middle-aged woman never


    showed up again, she brushed it off as her overthinking the matter up until now. Judging from this


    situation, it seemed like those people not only knew about her rtionship with Louis, but they were


    alsoing at them for some reason. No. To be precise, they wereing for her.

 Chapter 217

    Chapter 217


    Chapter 217 I¡¯m Not the Problem The station needed time to investigate and collect evidence, so they


    sent Leanna and Louis home, promising to notify them immediately upon any news. It was already dark


    out when they left the police station. ¡°Louis, do you still n to stay at the school after the holidays?¡±


    Leanna asked. Louis did not answer immediately. After some thought, he responded, ¡°I¡¯ll crash at your


    studio from tomorrow onward.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± She was taken aback by his answer for a moment before


    returning to her senses. He must be worried about me because of what has happened recently. ¡°It¡¯s


    fine. No onees to look for trouble anymore. I¡¯m worried for you. How about I rent you a ce


    outside during the holidays?¡± ¡°There¡¯s no need. I can rent it myself.¡± Hearing this, sheughed and


    said, ¡°Isn¡¯t it the same thing?¡± Louis stretched his neck as he replied, ¡°I can make my own money now.¡±


    Smiling, she did not pester him about the topic any further. Instead, she merely asked, ¡°Where are you


    going to rent? I¡¯lle with you to check out the ce tomorrow morning.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯ve seen it


    already.¡± Two hourster, Daniel opened the door and looked at the two people standing outside with


    surprise. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Leanna rubbed her nose and replied, ¡°Sorry for bothering you, but


    my brother here is on winter vacation and is currently looking for a ce to rent. I just wanna ask if you


    have a spare room here.¡± ¡°About that¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯ll pay the rent,¡± Louis immediately piped up. ¡°That¡¯s not the


    case, kid. It¡¯s not about the rent.¡± Daniel thought for a long time to cook up an excuse. ¡°I grew up


    abroad, and some of my personal habits and tastes may differ from yours. I¡¯m afraid it¡¯ll make you feel


    ufortable, so it¡¯s best if¡ª¡± ¡°It¡¯s fine. I like canned food too.¡± Daniel was at a loss for words. That


    was the worst excuse he had ever made in his life. When Leanna saw Louis pulling his suitcase in, she


    closed the door and apologized, ¡°Daniel, I¡¯m so sorry, but something happened to me recently and my


    brother is worried. That¡¯s why he¡¯s here to live with you. Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯ll convince him to move


    elsewhere as soon as possible.¡± Hearing this, Daniel immediately pulled back his thoughts and asked,


    ¡°What happened, Miss McKinney? Do you need my help?¡± ¡°It¡¯s not a big deal and it¡¯s almost resolved


    anyway. Again, I¡¯m really sorry about this.¡± ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, your lil¡¯ brother can live here in


    peace. You don¡¯t have to pay rent. We should help each other as neighbors.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry for troubling


    you again. If you don¡¯t mind, you cane over to our ce to eat at any time in the future,¡± Leanna


    suggested. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll definitely take advantage of that.¡±


    Then, Daniel looked back. ¡°Miss McKinney, I¡¯ll take your brother to the guest room first. We¡¯ll talk more


    next time.¡± ¡°All right. Thank you.¡± After closing the door behind him, he walked to the living room and


    pointed at the two rooms to Louis. ¡°You can choose any of those two rooms.¡± Louis nodded. ¡°Thank


    you.¡± Then, he quickly added, ¡°I won¡¯t use anything in your house, nor will I evade your privacy. I¡¯ll live


    here for, at most, a month. As an apology, you can get me to do anything for you.¡± Daniel sat on the


    couch with his hands in his pockets and said with a smile, ¡°You can skip the courtesies. Since we¡¯re


    living here together, treat this as your own ce. Quickly unpack your stuff.¡± Hearing this, Louis nodded


    again with appreciation. ¡°Thank you.¡± Ten minutester, he came out of the guest bedroom. Daniel took


    a can of beer from the fridge and threw it to Louis. ¡°Are you on a break now? How was your exam?¡± ¡°It


    was all right.¡± ¡°Thest time I heard, you did well in your studies. It seems like you¡¯re just being modest


    now.¡± Louis chewed on his bottom lips and said nothing. Daniel sat across from him and opened his


    own can of beer. ¡°May I ask if your sister has been in any trouble recently?¡± ¡°Someone deliberately


    went to her studio to make a scene.¡±


    ¡°Do you think that they¡¯ll do it again?¡± ¡°Possibly.¡± Louis¡¯ thin lips pursed slightly. ¡°They even found me.


    Although their n failed this time, they¡¯ll definitely make another move.¡± Surprised by the bridge of


    events, Daniel paused before asking, ¡°In your family¡­ Is there anyone else besides you and your


    sister? I don¡¯t recall her bringing it up.¡± ¡°No.¡± Louis looked indifferent. Catching the hint that Louis did


    not want to dive further into the topic, Daniel rose up and changed the topic. ¡°I¡¯m going out. You can


    use whatever you want in this house.¡± Before he left, he informed Louis the lock code. ¡­ At


    Constetion Tech, Daniel stretched out his hand and shook it in front of Elijah¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m talking to


    you. Are you listening?¡± Elijah was still a little dazed as he pinched the bridge of his nose. ¡°What did


    you say?¡± ¡°I said, what¡¯s happening to Leanna is very weird. Have you gone to find out what¡¯s going


    on?¡± ¡°I did, but I didn¡¯t find much.¡± ¡°Things aren¡¯t as simple as they seem. Leanna is just a girl; she


    couldn¡¯t have offended anyone,¡± Daniel uttered slowly.


    Once Elijah got over his initial shock, he finally understood what Daniel meant. ¡°Are you saying that the


    person these people are trying to threaten is actually Aidan?¡± ¡°It¡¯s just one of my guesses.¡± Daniel


    tapped his fingers on the armrest of the couch and squinted his eyes. ¡°The fact that Aidan canceled the


    marriage must have disgraced the Crossley Family to a certain extent. It¡¯s not impossible for them to try


    and use Leanna as their punching bag now.¡± ¡°Do you think it¡¯s possible that Lloyd did this?¡± ¡°The


    possibility of that is high. I¡¯ll test Georgina again in the next few days. We¡¯ll see what she has to say.¡±


    After hearing that, Elijah kept quiet and lowered his head while lost in his thoughts. When Daniel


    noticed his strange expression, he could not help but ask, ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you today?¡± Elijah shook


    his head. ¡°Nothing. Maybe I just didn¡¯t get a good sleepst night.¡± ¡°I also heard that Georgina may be


    engaged to Justin.¡± ¡°Justin, as in¡­ Aidan¡¯s brother?¡± Daniel hummed. ¡°But it¡¯s not confirmed yet. I still


    can¡¯t figure out why Lloyd would put forward such a request at this time. Theoretically, we have not


    done anything. Isn¡¯t he reacting a little too hastily?¡± Elijah nced at him and teased, ¡°Perhaps he


    thinks you¡¯re unreliable.¡± Speechless, Daniel rebuked in an affirmed tone, ¡°I don¡¯t think the problem lies


    with me.¡± Elijah remained silent. ¡°Something must have happened that scared him, or maybe he had a


    sense of urgency. That¡¯s why he proposed such a thing to the Pearson Family in order to stabilize the


    current situation.¡±


    As soon as Daniel finished talking, his phone rang. It was a call from Georgina. Then, he shook the


    phone before Elijah. ¡°See? I¡¯m not the problem.¡± ¡°You should think about how to stop Georgina from


    marrying into the Pearson Family. Although Aidan holds all the power in the Pearson Family now, once


    they get married, it might not be as easy for us to follow our n,¡± Elijah stated. However, Daniel


    seemed carefree as heughed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Georgina prides herself very highly. There is no way that


    she¡¯d marry Justin.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 218

    Chapter 218


    Chapter 218 That Can¡¯t Be Love In the evening, Leanna received a call from Elijah. ¡°Leanna, I heard


    from Daniel that Louis is living with him now. What¡¯s going on on your side? My friend told me yesterday


    that Daphne¡¯s PR team is already dealing with it, and the impact has been minimized.¡± ¡°Thank you for


    calling. It¡¯s all well on my end. Louis moved here because he was worried about me.¡± Today, Jonathan


    did not call her for any follow-up questions. It was probably because she was no longer needed. After a


    while, Elijah slowly said, ¡± Leanna, are you free this weekend? Ourpany is having our annual


    general meeting at a resort not far from Highside. I want to invite you to join us for the two-day, one-night


    trip.¡± Leanna pondered for a moment before nodding. ¡°Sure.¡± He breathed a sigh of relief after hearing


    that she agreed, and his mood seemed elevated. ¡°All right.


    Then, I¡¯ll pick you up on Saturday morning.¡± As soon as she hung up, Zoe immediately came over and


    asked excitedly, ¡°How is it? How is it? Is Elijah asking you out on a date?¡± Hearing this, Louis, who was


    next to her, also turned to look over. Leanna was speechless. Do they need to have such a big reaction?


    ¡°It¡¯s not a date,¡± she answered. ¡°It¡¯s hispany¡¯s annual general meeting, and he invited me to attend


    it.¡± ¡°What else can it be if it¡¯s not a date?¡± Zoe retaliated as she chomped away on her chips. ¡°You must


    be going to this event as his girlfriend. Even if you¡¯re not his girlfriend yet, everyone will suspect that


    there is something going on and he¡¯s just waiting for the right time to take things to the next level.¡±


    Hearing this, Leanna pursed her lips and said nothing. As for Louis, he retracted his gaze and continued


    to flip through the book in his hand. ¡°I have noment on this.¡± Zoe immediately followed suit and


    raised her hands in agreement. ¡°I have noment as well.¡± Leanna really didn¡¯t know what to do with


    these two. ¡°I¡¯m still a little dizzy. I¡¯m going to go to bed.¡±


    Once she returned to her bedroom, sheid her head on the table as she fiddled with the ornaments in


    front of her with her fingers. As a matter of fact, she had already thought about the question that Zoe


    asked before she even agreed to Elijah. Leanna was nning to start over, and she wanted to give him a


    chance. Therefore, she knew what would be implied when she agreed to him. It was toote to pull back


    anyway. Although it might be a difficult step to take, she had to do so if she wanted to start afresh. She


    let out a sigh before reaching out to her scribbling pad. She stared at a particr page for a long time


    before slowly tearing it off, folding it in half, and shredding it before she threw it into the trash can. This is


    the end. The next day, Leanna received a call from the police station. Through the phone, she found out


    that both Karen and her daughter had been found. However, Karen was found in an unconscious state in


    the hospital from a car ident, and her daughter was just following her mother¡¯s instructions. She didn¡¯t


    know anything more than what she was told to do.


    Karen¡¯s daughter was still in high school and was forced to do those things. Therefore, Leanna and Louis


    did not pursue her further. After hearing the result of the police¡¯s investigation, Zoe spected,


    ¡°Something feels off to me. It is way too coincidental for Karen to be in a car ident. I really don¡¯t


    believe her when she says there is no one else behind all these.¡± ¡°The car that ran into her has been


    looked into, and there is nothing suspicious about it. The ident happened when she was crossing the


    road,¡± Leanna replied lightly. ¡°Now that you said that, it is possible that it¡¯s just an ident. Anyways, she


    is a hoodlum with no regard for thew. It wouldn¡¯t be a surprise to me if she jaywalked. Maybe it¡¯s


    karma.¡± ¡°I feel like this isn¡¯t the end yet. We still need to be careful in the future,¡± Louis chimed in. Once


    this topic had passed, Zoe asked again, ¡°Nana, it¡¯s Saturday tomorrow. Have you thought of what to


    wear?¡± This confused Leanna. ¡°Do I have to n out what to wear?¡± ¡°Of course!¡± Zoe pped her thigh.


    ¡°Annual meetings like these are the time when women would try to parade around to seduce the men.


    What¡¯s more, Elijah is so young and elegant, handsome and wealthy.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    He¡¯s basically like a honeypot to the bees. Although you are very beautiful without dressing up, at times


    like these, you need to step up your game and guard your man!¡± With that, Zoe pushed Leanna into her


    room and began choosing some clothes. In the end, Zoe was still somewhat dissatisfied with her


    choices. ¡°These aren¡¯t sexy enough. Let¡¯s go out and buy some more.¡± Leanna hastened to hold Zoe


    back. ¡°Enough, enough. I think these are good enough. Besides, it¡¯s toote now. The mall is already


    closed.¡± Hearing this, Zoe sighed. ¡°Oh well, we have no other choices then. Thank God that you have a


    good body; you¡¯ll even look good in a sack.¡± Leanna scratched her head. ¡°I might not be back until the


    night after tomorrow. If you¡¯re bored at home on the weekends, why don¡¯t youe with me?¡± After


    thinking about it for the past two days, she was starting to feel a little embarrassed to go alone. However,


    she had already promised Elijah, and it wasn¡¯t easy to go back on it. ¡°Are you kidding me? I¡¯m not going


    to be a third wheel. I¡¯m going to a bar this weekend to see if there are any handsome guys. Don¡¯t look


    down on me. I might not be back tomorrow night as well.¡± Leanna really didn¡¯t know what to do with her


    best friend at this point. Then, Zoe yawned. ¡°I¡¯m going back to my room. You should get your beauty


    sleep soon.


    That way, you can blow Elijah¡¯s mind tomorrow.¡± ¡°I¡¯m not a bomb.¡± Leanna smiled. ¡°You¡¯re more mind-


    blowing than a bomb.¡± ¡°All right now, enough. You¡¯ve gone too far.¡± After Zoe left for bed, Leanna went


    out of her bedroom. In the living room, Louis was packing his things. Leanna poured a ss of water and


    walked over. ¡°Louis, are you leaving already?¡± Louis nodded. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte.¡± ¡°All right. Go to sleep.¡±


    After Louis walked to the door, he turned back and stood in front of Leanna. He seemed hesitant before


    he asked, ¡°Have you made up your mind?¡± She didn¡¯t understand what he meant as she put down her


    ss and questioned, ¡°Made up my mind for what?¡± ¡°To be with Elijah.¡± After a few seconds, she


    answered with a faint smile, ¡°I¡¯m not deciding to be with him. I just want to see how we get along with


    each other. If we¡¯re a suitable match, maybe we will get together. Otherwise, we can move on¡ª¡± ¡°Do you


    like him?¡± Louis interjected with a slight frown. Her mouth opened, but no words came out. After a while,


    she finally said, ¡°Louis, rtionships aren¡¯t that easy. Just because you like someone, it doesn¡¯t mean


    you can be together. If the two of you are fitting for each other, feelings will gradually develop.¡± ¡°That


    can¡¯t be love, can it?¡± Hearing this, she immediately lowered her head. She picked up her ss and


    gripped it quietly. Then, he added, ¡°Although I hope you meet someone who treats you kindly, I still hope


    that you¡¯d be with someone you like and not necessarily Elijah.¡± ¡°Louis¡­¡± ¡°Do you still like Aidan?¡± He


    interrupted her again. ¡°It¡¯ste. Go home and sleep,¡± she answered slowly.

 Chapter 219

    Chapter 219


    Chapter 219 Is She a Celebrity? Leanna was dragged out of bed by Zoe first thing in the morning on


    Saturday before Zoe forced her to dress up. Leanna sat in front of the window as she squinted from the


    strong sunlight. Zoe let out a sigh. ¡°What a beautiful day! It¡¯s a good day to go on a date. I¡¯d have to pack


    and leave soon.¡± Hearing this, Leanna let out a yawn. ¡°Where are you off to at such an hour in the


    morning?¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t it winter holidays now? I¡¯m going to a nearby university to see if any innocent young men


    might need help with their luggage. It¡¯d be my lucky day if I met any.


    It¡¯s a rare opportunity for me.¡± Leanna really did not know what to do with Zoe. Once Leanna was done


    packing up, Elijah¡¯s call came through. After sending Leanna down, Zoe headed back upstairs and was


    about to make up for herck of sleep when she bumped into Daniel returning from his morning run while


    she waited for the elevator. The two simply greeted each other and fell silent. As the elevator slowly


    ascended, the increasingly awkward atmosphere made things worse in the small space. Suddenly,


    Daniel let out a cough and thought of a topic to start a conversation. ¡°I heard from Elijah that Miss


    McKinney is going to Constetion Tech¡¯s annual meeting?¡± Zoe merely nodded when she heard this. ¡°I


    just sent her off downstairs.¡± Then, in the next moment, the two ran out of things to talk about. Once the


    elevator door opened on Zoe¡¯s floor, she quickly stepped out. Just as she was about to open the door to


    her house, Daniel¡¯s voice was heard from behind. ¡°I¡¯m sorry aboutst time. If you¡¯re free, can I invite you


    to dinner tonight?¡± After a few seconds of silence, she raised the corner of her mouth and turned her


    head as she put on a calm front.


    ¡°It¡¯s not quite¡­ right if it¡¯s just the two of us.¡± ¡°Miss McKinney¡¯s brother will join us as well.¡± This sentence


    immediately made her choke on her saliva. ¡± If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll see you tonight then.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll see you


    tonight.¡± He nodded slightly before the two parted ways. ¡­ In the car, Elijah noticed that Leanna was


    staring out the window in a daze with a nk look. It was as if she hadn¡¯t woken up. He smiled and said,


    ¡°You can take a nap. We¡¯re still two hours away. I¡¯ll wake you up when we¡¯re there.¡± His voice interrupted


    her train of thought as she patted her face to try and wake herself up a little. ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m not very


    sleepy. I¡¯ll just sit.¡± She and Elijah were the only two in the car. She would be embarrassed if she was the


    only one sleeping while he had to drive so far. ¡°Then, let us chat. How about that?¡± he suggested.


    Leanna let out a yawn and answered, ¡°Okay.¡± After thinking for a while, he started the conversation.


    ¡°Leanna, I¡¯ve never heard you mention your family. Are you okay talking about them?¡±


    This was thest thing that she had expected him to bring up. So, she paused for a moment before


    saying, ¡°There¡¯s nothing to not be okay about. It¡¯s just me and my brother in my family. And you also met


    my brother the other day.¡± ¡°Actually, I met him quite a while ago.¡± ¡°Really? When?¡± Elijah responded,


    ¡°Back then, he would asionallye to school to look for you. I saw him from a distance. That time,


    you were always apanied by another person.¡± Leanna smiled lightly when she heard this and


    nced out the window again. ¡°I see. In a blink of an eye, so many years have passed.¡± Two hourster,


    the car finally stopped at the resort. The employees of Constetion Tech all took the same bus, so they


    had yet to arrive. After Elijah parked the car, he asked, ¡°Leanna, do you want to go back to the hotel to


    rest or take a walk around?¡± ¡°Let¡¯s go take a walk.


    The air here is clean,¡± Leanna answered. The air on the outskirts was indeed much better than in the city.


    There were no sounds of cars, only the rustles of leaves from the gentle wind. There was also an


    artificialke nearby. Under the sunlight were ripples of little waves on the water. With scenery like this,


    anyone here would easily feel at peace. Yet, for some reason, Leanna was a little taken aback,


    especially when she saw the boat docked on the shore. Her mind was suddenly pulled back to that time


    in Underwood Lane. It was also sunny and breezy as the boat swayed on the water. She leaned on the


    man¡¯s shoulder, a little sleepy. The world seemed to be at peace. Only the murmur of water could be


    heard. On top of that, the sound of her increasing heartbeat was heard. Elijah followed her line of sight


    and asked, ¡°Do you want to go there?¡± Immediately, Leanna regained herposure. ¡°No, let¡¯s go see


    somewhere else.¡± As soon as they turned around, they noticed a group of people on the bridge not far


    away, walking in their direction. When she noticed the man in front of the ground, she was stunned.


    Then, she subconsciously turned her head to look back at the boat parked by the shore. She thought


    that it was just an illusion. What a d*mn coincidence! Soon, the group of people got closer to them.


    However, she wasn¡¯t sure if Aidan did not see them or whether he was deliberately ignoring them as he


    strode past with the group of people without even casting them a nce.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna was still stunned long after he left. She would never have thought that the man who was still on


    her mind a second ago would just abruptly appear in front of her. Suddenly, she felt an inexplicable


    sense of guilt. ¡°Leanna,¡± Elijah called out softly. This quickly brought Leanna back to reality. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I


    ¡ª¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay. Let¡¯s go back.¡± She nodded lightly. ¡°Okay.¡± When they returned to the hotel, the employees


    of Constetion Tech had already arrived, and they were gathered together in a conversation. After they


    noticed Elijah bringing Leanna over, everyone immediately stopped talking and watched them from a


    distance. Once the assistant reported the itinerary to Elijah, he looked down at his watch before saying,


    ¡°Everyone, you can ce your things in the room first and gather here in half an hour for lunch.¡± ¡°Okay,¡±


    the group of people echoed. After Elijah took the room card from the assistant, he went to the car and


    took out Leanna¡¯s things. Once the two left, the employees who had been stealing nces at each other


    finally couldn¡¯t hold back and began to discuss. ¡°Is that President Parker¡¯s girlfriend? She¡¯s so beautiful!¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ve never heard about his girlfriend before. Let¡¯s not specte. It might be his sister. I¡¯m still waiting for


    my chance to dance with President Parker tonight.¡± ¡°Forget it. That looks like his girlfriend. Who would


    bring their own sister to an asion like this? Stop lying to yourself.¡± ¡°Hey, don¡¯t you think that President


    Parker¡¯s girlfriend looks kind of familiar? I feel like I¡¯ve seen her somewhere before.¡± ¡°She does look a


    little familiar. Is she a celebrity?¡± ¡°Enough with your guesses. I know who she is.¡± In an instant, the group


    of people who had gathered around to discuss turned to look at the person who spoke. ¡°She¡¯s a designer


    for Lux Jewelry. She¡¯s the one that won first ce in the designpetition back then. What is her name


    again?¡± Someone in the crowd asked, ¡°Something along the lines of McKinney?¡± ¡°Oh, right! It is her!¡±


    ¡°But¡­Wasn¡¯t there a rumor some time ago about how she is a mistress?¡±

 Chapter 220

    Chapter 220


    Chapter 220 Can¡¯t Be A Coincidence When Elijah walked Leanna to the entrance of the door and


    passed her the room key, hemented, ¡°Leanna, I¡¯m in the room opposite yours. We¡¯ll head


    downstairs in a short while. I¡¯lle over to call you.¡± A smiling Leanna nodded. ¡°Sure.¡± The moment


    she entered the room and set aside the items, she went to the bathroom to wash her face before she


    headed to the balcony. Then, she leaned against the railing to breathe some fresh air. Her room was


    facing the man-madeke. From a distance, it was obvious that theke was more beautiful than


    before, as if it was sprinkled with countless diamonds that shone brightly.


    She shook her head to cast aside the messy thoughts in her mind. She stretchedfortably under the


    sun, but when she turned around, she realized that someone was already standing on the neighboring


    balcony. Such a sight left Leanna speechless. She stopped stretching in mid-air, which caused her


    whole body to stiffen. However, Aidan looked like he never realized her presence and merely looked


    into the horizon with his emotionless cold face. Leanna slowly withdrew her hand as her lips moved, as


    if she was hesitating whether to speak or not. This one in a million urrence could not even be


    considered as coincidence. It was intentional. What does this idiot want again? This is really never


    ending. Leanna took a step forward. ¡°Ai¡ª¡± ¡°President Pearson, this is the annual financial statement


    for the resort as well as a n to develop the area next year. We¡¯re going to build another theme park


    next to the artificialke and include more recreational activities for the theme park. She stared at the


    scene before her and was immediately stunned. It was only at this time that Aidan seemed to have


    realized her presence. Then, he turned his head to politely answer, ¡°Madam, I¡¯m the hotel manager.


    Can I assist you with anything?¡± ¡°S-Sorry.¡± An embarrassed Leanna hurried off to her room. She was


    only relieved that she had not said anything.


    Otherwise, the idiot would mock her in ways that she would least expect. On the balcony, Aidan


    perused the financial statements that were in front of him before he handed it over to the hotel


    manager. The hotel manager asked again, ¡°What do you think about the theme park project?¡± ¡°Produce


    a detailed proposal for me.¡± As Aidan instructed, he nced sideways at the vacant balcony next doorN?velDrama.Org owns this.


    before he turned his gaze to theke in the distance and added with a calm tone, ¡°Also, add an area for


    children¡¯s activities.¡± As the hotel manager had not expected to hear such words from Aidan, he quickly


    regained hisposure and replied after a momentary shock, ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll ask them to draft the


    proposal as soon as possible.¡± Aidan adjusted his cuffs and turned back to return to his room. It wasn¡¯t


    long before the hotel manager left that Jonathan knocked on the door and entered. ¡°President Pearson,


    we¡¯ve investigated the arrangement for Constetion Tech¡¯s annual meeting.¡± Aidan sat on the couch


    and lightly tapped his knees with his long fingers. ¡°Speak.¡± ¡°They will be heading to akeside


    restaurant for a meal at noon whereas there will be rafting and other activitiester in the afternoon.


    You can choose to participate in the activities.


    The annual meeting itself will start on time at 7.00PM tonight at the banquet hall. Then, there will be a


    mountain climbing session tomorrow morning. We¡¯ll return to Highside after lunch.¡± Aidan asked, ¡°Has


    it all been arranged?¡± Jonathan nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, President Pearson. Everything has been settled


    in advance.¡± Aidan raised his eyebrow as he turned his head toward the window. No one could


    decipher what he was thinking. ¡­ Leanna washed her face with cold water for a good two minutes


    before the embarrassment that developed her finally disappeared. She had no idea whether it was


    because of her own self or because of the room¡¯s environment that left her feeling suffocated. She


    dressed herself again and prepared to head downstairs to get some fresh air. However, she ran into the


    same hotel manager from earlier in the elevator as he had just finished reporting to Aidan. The hotel


    manager had also recognized her and gave her a slight nod. She pursed her lips and smiled, after


    which she leaned against the elevator cabin while watching the disy panel indicating the slow


    descent. After a while, she suddenly asked, ¡°Is your hotel owned by the Pearsons?¡± When the hotel


    manager heard this, he answered, ¡°Yes.¡± At that, he suddenly remembered the earlier encounter and


    asked in hesitation, ¡°Madam, are you acquainted with President Pearson?¡±


    Leanna smiled dryly. ¡°We¡¯ve met before.¡± The hotel manager thought that she was here to attend the


    annual meeting for Constetion Tech, so it was not strange for her to be acquainted with President


    Pearson. As such, he didn¡¯t probe any further and made small talk instead. ¡°The entire resort is owned


    by the Pearsons, save for the hotel. President Pearson has made a visit this time to conduct a routine


    inspection at the end of the year.¡± She nodded before she hesitated and inquired, ¡°Then¡­ W-When did


    he arrive?¡± ¡°Last night.¡± However, what the hotel manager didn¡¯t mention was that President Pearson


    never made a personal visit for the inspectionst year. When President Pearson arrivedst night, it


    frightened all of the resort employees because they thought that something grave had happened.


    Judging from this morning¡¯s situation, everything was normal and President Pearson had merely asked


    them to provide their reports. When Leanna heard that Aidan had arrivedst night, thest bit of her


    doubt was finally alleviated.


    This one in a million urrence for her to run into Aidan was probably a result of her bad luck. The


    hotel manager then introduced her to the nearby scenery and some ces to visit. When the elevator


    arrived on the ground floor, she bid her thanks and left the hotel lobby. She never visited the ces that


    the hotel manager introduced, though. Instead, she aimlessly walked around. Before she was even


    aware of it, she had returned to the artificialke once again. As she stood on the bridge and enjoyed


    the quiet breeze, she felt that her mind was free of worries. Perhaps it was because of her environment


    because she found herself reflecting on the time she lived in Underwood Lane ever since she arrived.


    She wanted to know if Underwood Lane had changed and whether all the residents had moved out.


    Especially Ms. Shaffer and Ms. Fletcher¡­ Are they doing well in life? Leanna felt that it would be


    arduous for her to have such peace in her life again and there was also a chance that she would never


    be able to enjoy such a leisurely andfortable period. Her phone suddenly rang after what seemed


    like an eternity. It was from Elijah. ¡°Leanna, aren¡¯t you in your room?¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I¡¯m actually outside the


    hotel and forgot to inform you. I¡¯ll be right back.¡± Elijah responded, ¡°It¡¯s alright.


    I¡¯ll wait for you at the hotel lobby then.¡± After he hung up the phone, he left from his spot in front of


    Leanna¡¯s room and pressed the elevator button. At this moment, Aidan¡¯s figure appeared from nowhere


    and stood beside Elijah. Elijah broke the silence. ¡°It shouldn¡¯t be a coincidence that you¡¯ll be here,


    President Pearson. I really never expected that you¡¯d make such a big deal for a chance meeting with


    Leanna.¡± Aidan cooly retorted, ¡°I also never expected that you¡¯dck self-esteem, President Parker.


    Say, was the scene that you saw that night not clear enough?¡± Such words left Elijah clenching his fists


    as he turned to face Aidan, whose face was full of silent endurance. When Aidan met Elijah¡¯s gaze, the


    corners of his lips curled upward to reveal a sneer.

 Chapter 221

    Chapter 221


    Most of the employees from Constetion Tech were already downstairs by the time Leanna got to the


    hotel lobby, except for Elijah.


    Minutester, there was still no sign of him.


    The employees from Constetion Tech started craning their necks and peering around as though


    expecting him to pop out of thin air, then whispered in a frenzy among themselves.


    Just as the assistant was about to go upstairs to look for him, Elijah emerged from the hotel building.


    He chuckled apologetically, "Sorry to keep you all waiting. Shall we go?"


    The restaurant was only a ten-minute walk away. As the employees began to make their way down the


    sidewalk, Elijah fell in step next to Leanna and said, "Come along now."


    She nodded, but that was when she noticed the trace of blood crusted over the corner of his mouth.


    She gaped at him with wide eyes. "What happened to you?"


    When he realized she was referring to the cut on his lip, he quickly turned to wipe off the dried blood.


    "Nothing. I bumped into something, I guess."


    Leanna clutched his arm. "Don''t move." With that, she hurriedly pulled out some alcohol wipes from her


    purse and handed them to him. "You''ll infect the wound if you touch it with your bare hands. Here,


    sterilize the area."


    Elijah didn''t take the wipes. "I can''t see where the wound is. Can you help me, Leanna?"


    She hesitated for a moment, then nodded as she carefully cleaned his wound. Her gaze was focused,


    and her touch was gentle but firm.


    While this was happening, Aidan stood not too far away, observing their exchange. A grim look passed


    over his face as the air around him dropped to freezing temperatures.


    Even Jonathan had to take a wary step back in case the manbusted on the spot.


    On the other hand, Leanna was oblivious to the hostility projected in her direction as she cleaned


    Elijah''s wound. Still, when she caught Aidan''s smoldering dark gaze, she paused in her ministrations.


    She stiffly drew her hand back and stammered, "I-I think we''re done..."


    Elijah shed her a smile. "Thank you."


    She rubbed the back of her neck self-consciously and looked elsewhere.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    "I think the others should be halfway to the restaurant by now. Come on. Let''s catch up with them,"


    Elijah suddenly said.


    "Alright."


    An awkwardness hung between Leanna and Elijah as they walked side by side to the restaurant.


    Neither of them broke the silence, and Elijah, uncharacteristically, did not try to make any small talk.


    When they finally got to the restaurant, they saw that the others had already taken their seats at their


    respective tables.


    Leanna was meant to sit with Elijah at the executives'' table. The executives of Constetion Tech were


    all young-ish men in their mid-twenties to early-thirties, and they were close to Elijah. When they took


    their seats, one of the executives immediately teased, "Had I known we were allowed to bring our


    girlfriends along, I''d have brought mine as well. Now I''m trapped here watching you rub your


    rtionship in my face, President Parker."


    "Yeah, President Parker. You could''ve given us a heads up so that we wouldn''t feel so left out. This is


    borderline hical!"


    Elijahughed. "Alright, give it a rest, boys. I told you guys beforehand that you could bring a plus-one."


    At once, the executives started heckling him. One piped up, "Come on, prez, make the introductions


    already. Your girlfriend''s looking a little awkward."


    Elijah corrected, "Stop it, guys. She isn''t my girlfriend yet."


    Leanna smiled politely and nodded as she introduced herself, "Hello, everyone. I''m Leanna McKinney."


    The men at the table nced at each other. From the looks of it, the great President Parker was still


    courting the girl. These men were at the top of their game in the industry. Fortunately, they were


    emotionally intelligent enough to stop fooling around. They returned Leanna''s greeting with matching


    graciousness and moved on to a different subject.


    After a while, someone asked, "Miss McKinney, have we met before this? You look awfully familiar."


    His friend jested, "Come off it. You''re always using the same line when you meet a pretty girl."


    "No, I''m serious this time. I must have seen her somewhere before..."


    Elijah offered helpfully, "Maybe it was at aunch event for Lux Jewelry. Leanna was a designer there."


    Then, one of the executives chimed in, "That makes sense. No wonder she looks so familiar. Haha..."


    The menughed good-naturedly before changing topics. The only one who seemed deep in thought


    was the executive who imed to have seen Leanna. He was frowning as he searched his memories. I


    seem to have met her before she was a designer for Lux Jewelry.


    After lunch, the employees went about their own itinerary for the day. Some of them had decided to dip


    into the hot springs, while others opted for a leisurely round of golf or archery.


    The resort took up sprawling acres ofnd, and it understandably had enough room to amodate a


    myriad of activities. It became the top choice for a young but prominentpany such as Constetion


    Tech.


    Leanna realized, of course, that she could no longer chalk her random run-in with Aidan up to a


    coincidence. She had to admit that the b*stard was well-aplished if the many enterprises under


    the Pearson Group umbre were anything to go by.


    Just like that, Leanna and Elijah strolled around the resort while having a lighthearted conversation.


    When they arrived at the golf turf, however, a youngdy ran up to them and osted Elijah.


    "President Parker! I''m so d I bumped into you. I can''t seem to make sense of golf, and I was


    wondering if you could teach me?"


    Taken aback by her forward approach, Elijah stammered, "But I..."


    The girl nced at Leanna and batted herrge doe-eyes, then asked innocently, "You won''t mind if I


    borrow him for just a moment, will you? You can have him back after I get the hang of the basics."


    Leanna gave her a small, humorless smile but did not make a reply. She could already tell the young


    lady was dangling herself in front of Elijah on purpose. However, seeing as Leanna was not his


    girlfriend, she couldn''t very well turn down the girl''s advances on his behalf.


    When Leanna did not respond, the girl took it as a triumph and began whining while tugging on Elijah''s


    arm. "Come on, President Parker. Everyone''s waiting."


    Elijah was not exceptionally skilled at saying no to these things, so with an exasperated sigh, he


    relented, "Fine."


    "Thank you, President Parker!" The girl beamed, then turned to look at Leanna with glittering eyes.


    "And thank you, Miss."


    The smile on Leanna''s face grew frigid. Skank, she thought as she cocked a brow at the girl.


    Oblivious, Elijah said, "Shall we go over to the golfing area, Leanna?"


    She nodded. "Alright."


    The girl dragged Elijah along as she bounded over to the turf while Leanna trudged after them. As she


    watched the both of them walking ahead of her, she couldn''t help thinking what Aidan might say if he


    were in Elijah''s shoes. He''d probably say something along the lines of, "Your ineptitude doesn''t concern


    me." or "How did you get through the interview if you can''t even manage something as simple as this?"


    All in all, Leanna supposed that the one thing she could count on the b*stard was his sharp tongue and


    acerbic wit.


    She sputtered at the thought of this, but she quickly regainedposure a secondter. Are you out of


    your mind, Leanna? Why are you thinking about him all of a sudden? She patted her face to snap out


    of her own reverie. She couldn''t understand why he was still upying her thoughts even though he


    had stopped bothering her for a while now.


    Meanwhile, the girl who had osted Elijah just now had dragged him over to the golf turf and jerked


    her chin in a gloating manner at her peers. Then, she turned to Elijah and said coquettishly, "President


    Parker, they said I should hold the club like this to get an optimum swing. Does this look right to you?"


    Elijah stood behind her and kept a polite distance as he helped adjust her posture. "No, it should be


    like this."


    "Like this?" She deliberately held the club wrong a few times.


    Ultimately, Elijah let out a breath of frustration and chivalrously held her wrist to adjust her grip. "Here."

 Chapter 222

    Chapter 222


    The girl feigned enlightenment as she eximed, "Oh, so that''s how it''s done! No wonder I couldn''t get


    the right swing before. You''re a brilliant teacher, President Parker!"


    Elijah managed a smile and let go of her wrist.


    She looked down and mumbled self-deprecatingly, "Gosh, I''m so stupid. I hope I didn''t take up too


    much of your time."


    "It''s fine. You just need some practice, that''s all," Elijah said politely.


    He decided to leave because he didn''t want to stay and coach her any longer. However, to round out


    her act, the girl gasped and purposely tripped forward, stumbling right into his arms.


    Elijah caught her instinctively but frowned without saying anything.


    The girl blushed and said slowly, "Ugh, I''m such a klutz. Thank you for catching me, President Parker."


    He said curtly, "Seeing as you''re alright, maybe you should get on your feet."


    She reluctantly detached herself from him after hearing this.


    When Elijah had walked away, the girl gripped her club and traipsed over to where her peers were


    gathered on the other side of the driving range.


    One of them gave her a thumbs-up while praising her earnestly, "That was amazing, Miranda! I can''t


    believe you got President Parker to toss that woman aside just to help you out with golf."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Miranda quirked her lips as a smug look shed in her eyes. "Well, that was nothing. I have more tricks


    up my sleeve."


    "You know, I''m still a little confused as to why President Parker would want someone else''s old toy."


    "What''s so confusing about that? He probably likes a pretty face. I mean, celebrities sleep with rich and


    powerful men all the time. It''s practically an open secret in the entertainment industry."


    "That''s true. I bet President Parker sees her as only a ything. Nothing serious wille of it."


    "But there must be something extraordinary about that woman if she could have history with someone


    from the Pearson Family. I just hope President Parker isn''t on the losing end of the bargain."


    Miranda was unperturbed. "How extraordinary can she be? That pretty face is probably the only thing


    she has going for her."


    "I suppose that''s an advantage in and of itself," someone mused wistfully. "Everyone was calling her a


    homewrecker and a tramp for a time."


    While Miranda and her friends tore into scious gossip, Elijah walked up to Leanna on the opposite


    end of the driving range. He said, "Sorry to keep you waiting, Leanna."


    Leanna smiled. "Don''t worry about it. It''s not as if I had anything nned to begin with."


    He nced around the range and asked, "Do you y golf? Want me to teach you?"


    She likely hadn''t expected him to offer, for she gave him a bewildered look. "Huh?"


    "It''s easier than you think. Why don''t you give it a try?"


    Now that he had encouraged her, she thought it might be rude to turn him down. After all, she was


    going to try golf one way or another, so it was pointless to refuse his coaching when he offered.


    Nodding, she said, "Okay."


    Then, Elijah took out the clubs from the locker. He was about to teach Leanna the basics when his


    assistant hurried out onto the range and whispered something to him. Whatever it was made him


    nch, and he quickly said, "Tell them I''ll be there in just a moment."


    The assistant nodded and hastily went back.


    Elijah set the clubs down and apologized to Leanna, "I''m sorry, but something came up. Stay here and


    wait for me. I''ll be right back."


    "Go," Leanna replied understandingly.


    He opened his mouth as though to say something, but in the end, he slipped away without another


    word.


    Leanna looked around the turf, sat on one of the benches, and then pulled out her phone to text Zoe.


    It took all but a second for Zoe to call her. "Hey, Sweetie. I can''t text right now. Did something happen?


    Are you alright?"


    "You''re not actually dropping college kids home, are you?" Leanna asked doubtfully.


    Zoe sputtered on the other line. "I was joking! I can''t believe you''d fall for that."


    "So, then, what are you doing?"


    "I''m applying makeup; I have a very important date tonight. What about you? Are you and Elijah having


    a good time? Is he boyfriend material?"


    Leanna pursed her lips as she paused in thought. She looked up at the cerulean sky and sighed, then


    said, "Would you believe me if I told you that I ran into Aidan here?"


    There was no answer from Zoe at first, then she replied, "I actually would."


    After Aidan threatened her thest time, Zoe decided that the b*stard would go to any length just to get


    what he wanted. She didn''t have the heart to tell Leanna about it; rather, she was coerced into secrecy.


    Leanna exhaled. "I almost believed he followed me all the way here, but as it turned out, I was reading


    too much into it. Thank goodness I didn''t confront him about it, otherwise he''d have mocked me for


    thinking so highly of myself."


    Zoe inquired carefully, "But what if he really did follow you all the way there?"


    "No," Leanna said, shaking her head. "I asked the hotel manager. Apparently, this resort is part of the


    Pearson Group. Surprise, surprise. Aidan''s only here for the yearly assessment. Besides, he got here


    last night, so he couldn''t possibly have tracked my schedule."


    "Huh... Well, that sure is a coincidence, then." Zoe would sooner believe in the existence of elves than


    believe Aidan''s presence at the resort was nothing more than a coincidence. That said, perhaps it was


    less of a coincidence and more of a mole''s handiwork. Specifically, a mole from Elijah''spany.


    In light of this, Zoe couldn''t help but click her tongue in dismay. She should have expected something


    like this from that lowlife Aidan.


    Presently, Leanna clutched her phone and stared nkly at the sprawling hills of the golfing turf. For a


    moment, she said nothing, then, "Zoe, if everything at the workshop is going well, I''d like to go back to


    Weavside in two days."


    Zoe froze. "Weavside? You''ve been there before, haven''t you?"


    Leanna nodded. "They mentioned that the demolishment and rebuilding work would kick in after the


    new year, so I''d like to drop by to take a look before then."


    "Well, it should be fine, seeing as Louis is away on holiday and the workshop has enough staffers. You


    should go and get a breather." Having said this, Zoe quickly remarked on how she should be changing


    into her date outfit and promptly hung up.


    Leanna set her phone down and sat on the bench. She let her mind wander as she stared into the


    distance.


    Elijah did note back even though some time had passed. She was starting to get bored, so she


    rose to her feet and loosened her joints. Then, she noticed the golf clubs Elijah had left in the corner.


    She walked over and grabbed one of the clubs, then made a swinging motion. I''ve seen yers do this


    on TV. Should be easy enough to imitate, she told herself.


    s, she was proven wrong when she tried swinging a few times and missed the golf ball entirely.


    She tutted in annoyance. This exercise is pointless, she concluded indignantly.


    Just as she was about to give up, arge hand covered hers while she gripped the club. She turned


    around in shock to look at the b*stard who had decided to swoop in without notice.


    Aidan paid no attention to her sharp gaze and merely guided her hand lower down the club. "You''re


    supposed to grip here. Even a child knows this. I''m starting to think your head is more of an ornament


    than an actual vessel for your brains, if you had any, that is."


    Leanna gaped at him incredulously. It seemed she was wrong earlier; he was far more detestable than


    she had made him in her head.


    She tried to pull her hand out of his grip as she snapped, "I didn''t ask for pointers, President Pearson.


    Let go."


    An unaffected Aidan shot back, "I was merely walking by when I saw an idiot swinging a golf club like a


    madwoman on my driving range. I had to stop you before your stupidity puts the resort''s image into


    jeopardy."

 Chapter 223

    Chapter 223


    Leanna had half a mind to swing the club right into the back of his head if it didn''t constitute murder.


    Aidan again covered her hand, holding it firmly as he snapped, "Don''t look at me; look ahead."


    Not at all bothered by her obvious aversion toward him, he reached around her to grip the club, but in


    doing so, he caged Leanna in his arms. He asked thoughtfully, "Did Elijah decide to just leave you here


    on your own?"


    She countered matter-of-factly, "He probably didn''t think a scumbag would approach me in broad


    daylight."


    Aidan scoffed. "Don''t blow things out of proportion. I''m only trying to teach you how to golf."


    She shot back, "Thanks, but no thanks."


    "It''ll look bad on me if you don''t even know how to swing, even though we''ve been married for three


    years," he pointed out icily.


    Leanna was rendered speechless by how brazen he was.


    Not wanting to waste another moment on inane small talk, Aidan instructed curtly, "Bend your waist and


    keep your grip on the club."


    She took a deep breath. She couldn''t get out of his arms now, so she did as she was told. A few


    secondster, she couldn''t help saying, "I have a question, President Pearson."


    Aidan kept his gaze on the club and looked focused as he asked icily, "What?"


    "Do coaches normally keep such a close distance to their pupils during golf training?"


    He raised his brow. "Yes."


    A small smile curled on Leanna''s lips as she said, "I saw Elijah teach someone how to y golf earlier,


    and it''s nothing like this."


    As things were, Aidan was but an inch away from pressing up against her entirely, which was further


    proof of his scumbag tendencies.


    However, he was not in the least bit guilty as he cast her a frosty sideways nce. "That just means


    Elijah isn''t much of a golfer. It''s either that or he did not intend to teach that person how to y golf."


    She felt the vein near her temple start to bulge.


    Leanna was about to argue with Aidan when he suddenly released her and took a step back. "Forget it.


    Yourck of talent in golf makes this session wholly frivolous. It''d be a waste of my time to try and


    coach you."


    With that, he spun on his heels and walked away.


    She glowered at his back and gritted her teeth. Never had she been so exasperated and angry that she


    was at aplete loss for words. He''s insufferable!


    Leanna tossed the club back into the holder, realizing everyone on the driving range had gone. She


    took deep breaths and regainedposure, but when she was about to leave, Elijah came through the


    entryway and said, "I''m so sorry that took a while, Leanna. Shall we pick up where we left off with the


    golf?"


    She turned him down without hesitation. "No, it''s fine. I tried swinging on my own just now. I guess the


    sport just doesn''t agree with me."


    Elijah did not take this to heart and merely suggested, "How about we just stroll around the resort,


    then?"


    They did just that, and by the end of their stroll, the sky was already darkening with twilight colors.


    Most employees had returned to their hotel rooms to prepare for the g tonight. Elijah walked Leanna


    back to her room and nced at the time on his wristwatch. "Another two hours to go before the g


    starts. Get some rest. I''lle and pick you upter."


    She was rather tired as well, so she nodded and said, "Okay."


    When Leanna entered the room and shut the door, she trudged over to the bed andy down. She set


    her rm for an hour, then slipped under the covers to take a short nap.


    However, her eyes had only just fluttered closed when she heard the sound of a cartoon ying from


    the balcony, and the cacophony of exaggerated voices was making it hard for her to drift into sleep.


    Leanna bolted upright, got out of bed, and slipped into her shoes before padding out to the balcony.


    That was when she realized that the sound wasing from next door.


    While she had seen the b*stard on the same floor, not earlier this morning, she couldn''t be sure he was


    actually staying here. After all, he was only here to assess the resort''s overall performance. She had


    run into him this morning while he was inspecting the room next door for all she knew.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    More importantly, she didn''t peg him as the type to watch cartoons.


    Leanna returned to her room and called the front desk, then told the receptionist to give the guest next


    door a gentle reminder to turn down the volume on their television. The receptionist agreed and


    promised to handle the matter swiftly.


    Reassured, Leanna shuffled back to bed and tried to get some rest. Unfortunately, she had only lied


    down for about ten minutes when the noise started again from next door. This time, it was


    apanied by thumping sounds.


    She groaned as she opened her eyes, exhaustion, and frustration washing over her. Of course, her


    luck would take a turn for the worse after she ran into Aidan. It was as though seeing him had granted


    her an affinity for unpleasant experiences and nothing more.


    The thumping and the noise continued while shey in bed. Atst, she pushed the covers off her,


    stormed out of the room, and then knocked on the door next to hers.


    When the door swung open, she immediately regretted her decision to confront the person.


    Presently, Aidan eyed her without much interest. However, his eyes glimmered darkly like she had


    Leanna let out a bark ofughter. "Can you please keep it down, President Pearson? Some of us are


    trying to sleep here."


    Aidan appraised her with a raised brow as if he was sure she hade with an ulterior motive. "I''m


    afraid I''ve heard that excuse before. Try another one."


    She gaped at him with wide eyes. Excuse? Don''t tter yourself, you jerk!


    Taking a deep breath, she forced herself to calm down as she bit out grimly, "You know exactly what


    you did, President Pearson. Don''t you think you''re being¡ª"


    "Actually, I have no idea what I did. Care to borate?"


    At that moment, the hotel manager Leanna had met previously came walking out of the room, and


    behind him were two men who looked like executives. They had heard themotion and wanted to


    see what was happening. "Is something the matter, Miss?" the hotel manager asked in concern.


    Leanna froze, and the anger drained out of her voice. "I''m staying next door, and I came to see what all


    the noise was about..."


    "Noise?" The manager frowned. "We were having a meeting this whole time, and we didn''t hear any


    noise at all."


    She was flustered when she heard this. When she saw Aidane to the door just now, she had been


    sure that he was the one who made all that noise on purpose. She certainly never expected the hotel


    manager and the rest of the executives to be in the room having a meeting with him.


    Looking supremely pleased with himself, Aidan crossed his arms and leaned against the door. He even


    raised a brow at her in wordless mockery.


    Leanna pursed her lips, and after a long moment, she said, "I''m sorry. I must have gotten the wrong


    room."


    Aidan craned his neck and asked, "Come again?"


    Her fists clenched at her sides as she grunted, "I''m sorry for bothering you, President Pearson!"


    "You don''t look like you mean it," he pointed out sardonically.


    She froze at this. For some reason, she remembered someone saying something simr to her on a


    previous asion.


    But now was not the time for her to search her memories for some ambiguous line. She brushed past


    Aidan and into the room, then bowed her head in apology to the other executives inside the room. "I''m


    sorry for interrupting the meeting. Please don''t mind me and carry on."


    Everyone in the room let out a sigh of relief when Leanna finally left. They nced at Jonathan at the


    same time, and the question was clear in their eyes. Is this what President Pearson and his wife


    normally do for fun?

 Chapter 224

    Chapter 224


    Leanna went back to her room, but she couldn''t sleep anymore. She stared at the wall for a while and


    looked at the balcony. Nothing. No movements. Was I hallucinating? This is odd. There''s no reason for


    Aidan and the hotel''s top brass to lie to me, though¡­ unless I''m overestimating his ethics.


    She shook her head and went to get a hot shower to relieve her tension. Just as she was drying her


    hair after a shower, someone rang the doorbell.


    Leanna thought it was Elijah. She turned her blow dryer off and said that she wasing. Then, she


    changed into her clothes and went to open the door, but the first thing she saw after opening the door


    was the hotel''s manager. Standing behind him was an inscrutable Aidan. His hand was in his pocket


    while his focus was on the ground.


    The manager smiled. "Ma''am, you said you heard something? Is everything well?"


    Leanna forced a smile. "It''s alright. I was hearing things¡­"


    Aidan looked at her and said coolly, "You should try to solve your problems instead of running away


    from them."


    Shut up, she thought.


    The manager said, "May we head inside, ma''am? If something is wrong with the room, we can move


    you to another one."


    Leanna mused over it and nodded. I should let him check the room. If I hear that sound one more time


    at night, I''ll lose my mind. She let them in.


    The manager checked the room and knocked on the wall. He said, "There''s nothing wrong with the


    room, ma''am, but you can have a change of rooms if you want. Someone will check this room again


    later. As a token of apology, we''ll give you a free nighttime sightseeing session."


    Leanna nced at Aidan and smiled. "Thanks, but it''s alright. The change of room is enough."


    "Um¡­" C''mon,e up with an excuse. "Ma''am, it is our fault this happened, and you deserve


    compensation. Our motto is to make every guest feel at home. Please, you must take the gift."


    Leanna was about to say something, but Aidan''s phone rang. He picked it up and left the room. "What


    is it?" The caller said something, to which he answered, "Tell him to wait for me. I''ll be there in ten."


    After he was gone, Leanna shifted her gaze to notice that the manager was still looking at her.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    There was a hint of desperation in his eyes. "Ma''am¡ª"


    Leanna asked, "Is he leaving?"


    "Yes. He''s leaving for Highside tonight."


    She pursed her lips and contemted on her answer.


    The manager added, "Ma''am, nighttime sightseeing is one of our most iconic events, so¡­"


    "Sure. Thanks."


    As he didn''t expect her to say yes so quickly, he was caught by surprise before he responded a few


    momentster, "Very well. Seven to eight in the evening is the perfect time for sightseeing. It''s almost


    time now. Someone will lead you there."


    Leanna said, "It''s alright. I can get there by myself." A pauseter, she asked, "Can I bring a friend with


    me?"


    The manager hesitated. "Um¡­"


    "I can''t? Forget it then. It''ste, and I don''t want to get into any danger, so¡­"


    "Please, don''t!" The manager wiped his forehead. This is beyond my pay grade. "Of course you can. Of


    course. You call the shots, ma''am."


    She smiled. "I see. Thank you."


    He coughed. "I''ll take your luggage. Your new room is upstairs."


    "I can do it myself." Leanna didn''t have a lot of stuff, so she could shove it all in her bag and that was it.


    Once she was done, they made a move.


    Once they exited the elevator, the manager said, "Come with me, ma''am."


    After they entered the new room, Leanna looked around and scratched her brows. "I want a room


    switch. This isrge."


    The manager apologized, "Sorry, but it''s a full house, ma''am. This is the only one left. It''s not the best,


    but please bear with it."


    "You''re being modest. This looks like the best of the best." This room can house about fifty people. It''s


    like living in a mansion all by myself.


    The manager continued, "I''ll be leaving now. There''s work to be done. Call the reception if you need


    anything." He closed the door and left right away, just in case Leanna refused this room.


    Leanna stood around and heaved a long sigh. She didn''t want to be paranoid, but everything that


    happened today felt off.


    She gave Aidan the benefit of the doubt and excluded the possibility of his involvement in these


    ''coincidences'', but if he were to show up during the sightseeing, then it would confirm her suspicion


    that Aidan wouldn''t stop harassing her. He was just changing his ways at most.


    She ced her stuff down and was on her way downstairs when she saw Elijahing out of his


    room. He''s going to look for me.


    Leanna called out to him.


    Elijah looked at her, surprised. "That''s not where your room is, Leanna."


    She answered, "Yeah. My room''s faulty, so I got a switch."


    He fell silent. Aidan. He didn''t press her for answers, though, and instead extended his arm before


    smiling at her. "Almost time for the banquet. Let''s go."


    Leanna hesitated for a few moments, after which she held his arm.


    The banquet was held in the ballroom. When Elijah and Leanna made their appearance, the crowd


    almost roared.


    She was in a ck dress, and her makeup was exquisite. Nobody could avert their gaze since she


    shone like a diamond in the room as she held his arm and smiled at everyone. They looked like a


    perfect couple.


    Suddenly, a man in the distance said, "Oh, I remember where I saw her now."


    The person beside him asked, "She used to work for Lux Jewelry. Where else could you have seen


    her?"


    The man answered, "I think it was during a banquet? Details escape me, but I think she''s Mr. Pearson''s


    wife. You know, the boss of Pearson Group."


    The news shook the people around him, and they turned their gazes of disbelief to him. "What?"

 Chapter 225

    Chapter 225


    The hotel manager went to Aidan''s room and reported, "Sir, the madam has agreed to join the session,


    but¡­"


    Aidan was on the sofa. "But what?" he asked calmly.


    The manager felt his heart skip a beat, but he said, "But she wants to bring a friend with her."


    Aidan''s eyes narrowed dangerously, and he tapped his fingers on his knee. The man was deliberating


    over something, and then he asked, "When is she going to the session?"


    "She''s attending Constetion Tech''s banquet. My guess is after the banquet has ended."


    Aidan stood up. "Make the preparations. If Elijah is going with her, stop him."


    ¡­


    The banquet was underway. Constetion Tech''s top brass made their speeches, and Elijah was the


    last in that line. After the boring speeches were done, it was time for the wheel of fortune.


    Leanna looked at the time. It was already half past seven. She leaned in and whispered, "I need to go,


    Elijah."


    Elijah paused for a moment. "Where?"


    "Somewhere. I need to settle something." She gave him a smile.


    Elijah knew it had something to do with Aidan. A moment of silenceter, he said, "I''ll go with you."


    Leanna answered, "It''s fine. I can handle this myself."


    Elijah''s assistant came to him and said the next event was starting. As thepany''s boss, Elijah


    couldn''t leave when the event was underway.


    Leanna said, "Go. I''ll be leaving now."


    Elijah had no choice but to nod. "Call me when you''re done. I''ll pick you up."


    "Sure."


    She left the ballroom and went down to the first floor. A car was already waiting for her outside.


    A guy approached her. "Might you be Miss McKinney?"


    "Yes."


    "I work for the resort. I''ll be taking you to the observatory deck now."


    She cracked a slight smile. "Thank you."


    The crew member drove up a slope. Ten minutester, they came to a clearing, and what stood before


    them was a vi decked out with hot springs. There were a lot of stargazing gear in the garden as well


    as some tents. If the weather agreed with them, this would be a good ce for sightseeing.


    The crew member got out of the car and led her to the vi. "Take a seat, ma''am."


    Leanna looked at the food and wine on the table, and she nodded as thanks. Once the guy was gone,


    she took her seat and stared coolly at the wine.


    A whileter, she heard a loud explosion in the sky in the distance. She turned around and saw


    fireworks blooming in the heavens and shining on the resort. The little show caught her by surprise.


    The fireworks kept going off like flowers of me thatsted for a single gorgeous moment. Once the


    show was over, she heard the sounds of footstepsing from behind. I knew this would happen.


    She swiveled around, ready to snap, but it was just the guy who took her to this vi.


    The guy was a little bit surprised by her turning around and getting ready to yell at him. "Is everything


    alright, Miss McKinney?"


    Well, this is awkward. She picked the wine up and took a sip, and then sheughed dryly. "What is it?"


    The man handed her a gift box. "A token of apology from us. Please, take it."


    Leanna didn''t take it immediately. She then realized something. "About the fireworks¡­"


    "It''s included in the sightseeing."


    "I see." Leanna wanted to hide in a hole.


    The guy said, "You can stay the night in the vi. I''ll pick you up tomorrow morning."


    She shook her head. "I''ll have to go back in a bit."


    "I''ll be waiting in the car, then."


    He left, and she finished the wine. Ever since she ran into Aidan here, Leanna couldn''t stay calm


    anymore.


    She kept thinking he woulde after her, and everything that happened earlier seemed to be his


    borate little n, but reality told her she was just reading too much into it. What happened might


    seem unbelievable, but they were actually just coincidences.


    She heaved a sigh and poured herself another ss of wine. Seems like he has affected me a lot. I''m


    getting oversensitive. She got up and headed to the observatory deck. Leanna leaned against the


    balcony and stared at the motes of light in the distance.


    The night breeze felt chilly, and the mountain''s low temperature didn''t help. It didn''t take long for her to


    start sneezing. Her limbs felt chilly.


    Just when she was about to leave, someone appeared beside her. "Seems like you''re disappointed


    that I didn''t show up," he said coolly.


    "I thought you had gone back to Highside," she said.


    He gave her a nce. "You knew I was lying, and yet you still came."


    "I¡­" She had no answer for that.


    Leanna wanted to expose him right here and now to humiliate him, but for some reason, she lost the


    interest to do so.


    She pulled her coat closer. "A good show, Mr. Pearson. I would have believed it was all a coincidence


    had you not shown up. What made you change your mind?"


    He put one hand in his pocket and stared ahead. "I couldn''t take it," he said coolly.


    All the wine she drank got to her head. She wondered what he was talking about. "You couldn''t take


    what?"


    "Seeing you all alone."


    Sheughed but said nothing.


    Aidan continued, "Did you forget what day it is?"


    That only confused her more. "What day is it?"


    "It''s our wedding anniversary."


    She retorted, "Yeah, right. The anniversary was six months ago." Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    He gazed at her. "I see you haven''t forgotten."


    Of course she didn''t forget. In fact, she remembered that day like it happened yesterday. She proposed


    the divorce on the same day. It was her ''gift'' to him.


    Before she could say anything, Aidan uttered, "This is to make up for our lost first anniversary."


    And then silence fell. Even the air stopped moving for a moment. She stared at him dumbly, feeling like


    the world hade to a standstill.

 Chapter 226

    Chapter 226


    He met her gaze, cocked his eyebrow, and smiled. "Did you regret it?"


    She looked away nervously. "R-Regret what?" she stammered.


    "Refusing me."


    "No. You''re reading too much into it."


    He looked ahead again. "The look in your eyes tells me otherwise," he said calmly.


    Huh. She coughed and stopped talking. Don''t wanna say anything wrong. But I''m confused. "Why?


    Why do you do this? I thought you ran out of patience with me."


    "And you believed that?"


    Goddammit, what a pain. He''s more brazen than I thought. She pursed her lips and said, "I''m grateful


    for what you did. I have to admit that I''m surprised and¡­" I''m moved. She didn''t say that out loud. A


    pauseter, she continued, "But it''s been six months since we got divorced, so¡ª"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He interrupted, "Leanna, don''t you see it? I''m trying to woo you."


    I must be hearing things. "I beg your pardon?"


    He turned around and leaned against the guardrail, his eyes on her. "I''ll make it up for the rest of the


    lost anniversaries too."


    Leanna froze. She had no idea what to say at first, but a momentter, she answered, "President


    Pearson, whatever you''re doing means nothing to me. You''re disturbing my quiet life."


    "Your quiet life? You mean dating Elijah?" He said, "He''s not as simple as he looks. Do you think he


    could have founded Constetion in a few years all by himself?"


    "None of my business. I don''t care."


    Aidan asked slowly, "Do you know why you don''t care about it?"


    She took a deep breath. "It''s his private affair. I don''t have any reason to¡ª"


    "Because you don''t like him, so you won''t care no matter what he does."


    Leanna pursed her lips silently.


    He continued, "There''s no quiet life if you be with someone you don''t like."


    "Wrong. My quiet life doesn''t involve him." She looked at him in silence. "My quiet life involves you not


    showing up."


    Aidan smiled. "Ask what you really want before saying anything."


    Dammit. He just keeps throwing out random stuff. Somewhere, somehow, it was no longer hard for him


    to see through her. He could expose her lies every single time. "I made it clear to you, Presdient


    Pearson. The problem isn''t about love or affection. It''s¡ª"


    "Not asplicated as you think. You say you were unhappy with the marriage, so I''m making it up to


    you. Once you calm down and forgive me, then it''s all water under the bridge."


    Sheughed. "Do you think it''s actually that simple?"


    No, no it''s not. He whispered, "I''ll settle everything you''re worried about."


    "I know. I know you can get rid of Anna and even Sienna, but so what if you do? There are some things


    you can never change."


    "And how would you know that?"


    She refused to argue with him. "Elijah is still waiting for me. I need to go back."


    She turned around, and he held her wrist. "I''ll take you there."


    "No, thanks. Someone else can do¡ª"


    "I sent him on his merry way."


    Leanna clenched her fists. Damn it! He has no shame! "Still don''t want your help." She flung his hand


    away and headed into the darkness, but Leanna regretted her decision a momentter.


    The path leading downhill was dark. There were no lights on the way, and her shlight was too weak


    to shine through the darkness. She could hear the rustle of leaves in the shadow. In normal times, it


    would have been rxing, but the rustle was terrifying in the dark.


    She pulled her coat closer around her and hastened her pace while cursing Aidan silently. Damn him. I


    should never havee here. Me and my stupid n to expose him. Look what that has gotten me


    into.


    Fury welled up within her, and her pace quickened. Suddenly, the bush beside her rustled, and


    something leaped into the air. She let out a gasp and took one step back only to fall into someone''s


    embrace.


    Aidan wrapped his arm around her waist and patted her back. He chuckled. "That was just a stray cat.


    Nothing to be scared about."


    Leanna was already mad enough, and Aidan''s mockery made her snap. She stomped on his foot. "You


    b*stard!"


    He grunted but didn''t let her go. "What is it with you and stomping on my feet?"


    "I would have punched you in the face if I could." She shoved him away. "Now let me go."


    "Hey, you''re the one who came to me. That wasn''t my fault."


    She gnashed her teeth. "You tailed me just for this very moment."


    "This is the only path downhill. I wasn''t following you."


    "That would sound more convincing if you weren''t holding me."


    "I''m not a saint. I don''t reject a good gift."


    That''s it. She pinched his waist. They were married for three years, and she knew all his sensitive


    spots.


    He tightened his hold on her and growled dangerously, "I''ll do you right here, right now. Try me."


    "Oh, I know you''d do that. You''re an animal, after all."


    He pursed his lips for a moment and let her go in the end.


    She sneered at him and kept on going downhill. A few minutester, she ran into a few boulders


    blocking out the only path downhill. These weren''t here when I came. She turned around. "Is this what


    you did?"

 Chapter 227

    Chapter 227


    Aidan answered slowly and calmly, "No. I didn''t do this."


    Leanna chortled. She didn''t believe him at all. She approached the boulders and shone her shlight


    around to look for a way out.


    At the same time, Aidan said, "We''re on a mountain path. It''s normal that boulders roll around and


    block the way. Someone will clean them up in the morning."


    She ignored him. Leanna took her heels off and tried to climb over the boulders.


    As Aidan watched her climb, he poked his teeth with his tongue and pinched his nose before going


    ahead.


    There were a lot of stones around the boulder. Not only did Leanna fail to climb across, but her feet


    were also injured as well. She was going for another attempt, but someone suddenly picked her up and


    took her down from the boulders.


    "I have no idea what you think sometimes."


    She snarkily retorted, "And I have no idea how you can do something like this without feeling any


    shame."


    Aidan put her down on the ground. "I didn''t do this."


    "Your words mean nothing to me."


    He put a hand on his shoulders and stared down at her. "Suit yourself." He licked his lips. A few


    momentster, Aidan added, "There''s no way out tonight, but there''s a ce to stay on the mountain.


    Wannae?"


    Without hesitation, she answered, "No."


    "Sure. Stay here until sunrise, then. I''ll be going now." He turned around and walked into the darkness.


    She clenched her teeth and whipped her phone out to call someone, but there was no signal in the


    mountains. She tried calling someone a few times near the boulders but to no avail. In the end, she had


    no strength left, and her phone was nearly dead. Leanna sat down and teared up.


    The winds stopped howling eventually. An eerie silence set in, and light snow started falling.


    Leanna held her knees and cursed Aidan in her heart. He loves me? Yeah, right. He leaves me behind


    when I need him the most. His love means nothing but burden.


    The more she thought about it, the more unfair this whole thing felt. The darkness around her amplified


    the fear she felt. Waves of terror crashed over her, and she had to bite her lip down to stop herself from


    crying.


    Just when she thought she might die out here, she heard the sounds of footstepsing closer.


    Leanna looked up and saw Aidan in front of her.


    He pulled his pants up and knelt on one knee. The weak light from his cellphone''s shlight shone on


    her teary eyes. "Wannae?" he asked slowly.


    Leanna turned away and started sobbing. Eventually, the sobs turned into uncontroble cries.


    A little smile curled Aidan''s lips. "Alright, I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have left you behind. I didn''t leave, you


    know. I was waiting for you to call me, but you just had to be so stubborn."


    Leanna noticed theughter in his voice, and it made her angrier. She picked a stone up and smacked


    it on his expensive suit. "I didn''t call you. Wh did youe back?"


    "But you did call me."


    "I didn''t!"


    "I heard it."


    "I said I didn''t call you! I¡ª"


    He held her in his embrace and whispered, "But you''ve been calling out to me in your heart."


    She sniffled. "I was cursing you!"


    A chortle escaped Aidan''s lips as he held her up. "Whatever you say."


    She noticed him taking her up the mountain, and she refused, "I''m not going there!" There''s a huge


    mansion there, and there''s only two of us. He must be up to something!


    He saw through her. "There''s andline in the mansion, and it''s connected to the hotel. Do you want to


    stay here and die from the cold, or do you wanna go back?"


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    I see. "Are you sure thendline''s still functioning?" He might tell me thendline''s broken after we get


    there.


    He said, "I told you, I didn''t do this."


    Leanna didn''t believe him, and he didn''t bother exining. They went on in silence, and a moment


    later, Leanna''s phone died. They were plunged into darkness.


    Weirdly enough, she wasn''t as scared as she had been. The sound of his heartbeat sang beside her


    ear, and she eased up eventually, but it was then she noticed something touching her lips for a brief


    moment. A long silenceter, she asked, "What did you just do?"


    "Holding you in my arms, obviously."


    "You kissed me, didn''t you?"


    Aidan answered without missing a beat, "There are a lot of mosquitoes here. One of them must have


    bitten you."


    Leanna sneered. You started this. A few momentster, a loud p rang out in the air of the woods,


    and echoes bounced back from the trees.


    Aidan stopped in his tracks. Even in his silence, Leanna could feel his fury. "The mosquitoes sure can


    make a ruckus. Did you hear anything?"


    Aidan clenched his teeth. "Leanna!"


    She asked innocently, "What is it? Did a mosquito bite you too?"


    Aidan pursed his lips. After all, he was the one who started this, so he went on ahead without saying


    anything else.


    They reached the vi a few minutester, and Leanna felt her world brighten up. "You can put me


    down now. I can go on my own."


    "But the mosquitoes mighte back."


    "I don''t think so. Bright lights aren''t friendly to mosquitoes."


    Aidan chortled. He didn''t answer her, but he didn''t let her down either. After they entered the vi, he


    put her down on the sofa and took thendline to call the hotel staff.


    She perked up. When she heard him telling someone to clear the obstacle, Leanna finally felt relief in


    her heart. He''s probably telling the truth. He didn''t put the obstacles there.


    Aidan approached her and broke her train of thought. As he took his coat off and tossed it on the sofa,


    Leanna''s eyes went wide with shock. I knew it! He''s still an animal! Finally showing me his true colors,


    huh?

 Chapter 228

    Chapter 228


    Just when Leanna was about to run away, Aidan stopped in front of her and picked a pillow up. Then


    he held her ankle and put it on the pillow.


    She reflexively wanted to retreat, but he held her leg. "You''re bleeding," he said inly.


    Leanna looked at her leg to find it looking bloody. Probably happened when I was climbing the


    boulders. She held a pillow. "And it''s your fault."


    Aidan said nothing. He took the medical kit from the table behind him and cleaned her wound.


    She rested her chin on the pillow as she stared at him quietly.


    He looked unusually gentle under the light. Putting everything aside, Aidan was a charming man. Until


    he opens his mouth.


    She finally believed Daphne. All the scandals about him were fake, and he was just ying along.


    Almost nobody could survive his mockery, after all.


    And then he coolly said, "Don''t stare at me, unless you n on staying the night."


    Is sex all he thinks of?


    He ced the medical kit back in its ce after her wound was cleaned. "It''ll take about an hour." He


    looked at the time. "You can sleep if you want to."


    She kept her eyes wide open. "Thanks, but I''m not sleepy."


    Aidan knew what she was thinking. He chuckled and went into the bathroom.


    She heard the sound of running watering from the bathroom. It was supposed to be a regr


    sound, but the overwhelming silence of the vi unnerved her. Her throat was parched so she wanted


    to get some water, but then she saw his clothes beside her, and there was dust on it.


    No wonder he wanted to take a shower. She moved to the other side of the sofa in an attempt to stop


    hearing the soundsing from the bathroom. Eventually, the water stopped flowing, and she heaved


    a quiet sigh of relief.


    At the same time, she heard the sounds of hurried footstepsing from the entrance. And then Elijah


    asked, "Are you alright, Leanna?"


    Leanna turned around and saw Elijah and the manager. She nodded. "I''m fine."


    Elijah looked at her bandaged leg and frowned. "Let''s go, Leanna." He approached her.


    Leanna got down from the sofa. The moment her foot hit the ground, the pain made her temples throb.


    She didn''t feel anything before that, however.


    Elijah came and held her. He pursed his lips and apologized, "Sorry for this." Before she could say


    anything, he carried her in his arms.


    Leanna was surprised. Apparently, she didn''t expect that from him.


    They were just about to leave, but Elijah saw Aidan leaning against the bathroom''s door, wearing


    nothing but a robe. He was staring at them, and Elijah pursed his lips for a moment before leaving.


    After they were gone, the manager came up and wiped the sweat off his forehead. "Mr. Parker insisted


    oning, sir. We couldn''t stop him."


    Aidan answered coolly, "It''s alright. Whether hees or not won''t change the oue anyway."


    ¡­


    After Leanna got into the passenger seat, Elijah went into the driver''s seat and drove them away.


    Leanna asked, "How did you find me?"


    He answered, "You didn''te back and I couldn''t reach you on your phone, so I asked the hotel


    staff."


    What he didn''t say was that he came in a hurry because he saw the fireworks.


    He knew everything that happened in the resort was Aidan''s n. He also knew Leanna still liked him,


    and it made him panic. It was possible she might relent and give Aidan another chance.


    And that was why he left before the g ended. The hotel staff kept trying to keep him away, but he


    pressed on, and they finally told him where she was.


    A whileter, Leanna said, "Thank you."


    Elijah smiled. "I should have realized this sooner and came looking for you. It''s my fault."


    A sigh escaped Leanna''s lips. "It''s my fault too. I thought I could handle this, but all I did was make a


    mess out of it." I overestimated my abilities.


    "Don''t beat yourself over it. A big part of this is my fault. If I just paid more attention to the g, none of


    this would have happened."


    A slight frown furrowed Leanna''s brows. "So we''ve stepped into his trap the moment this g started?"


    Elijahughed. "It''s my fault. I should have paid more attention. The guy who arranged the venue was


    bought off."


    Leanna knew what happened was all part of Aidan''s n, but she thought he wouldn''t do anything to


    anyone who wasn''t rted to her. She thought wrong. He dragged Constetion into this? That''s going


    to ruin a lot of people''s lives. Damn him. He never thinks about the consequences of his actions.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Elijah noticed her silence, and he clenched his steering wheel tighter. "Pay it no mind. He''s the kind of


    person who would do anything to get what he wants, in business or otherwise."


    The path wasn''t too long, and with the obstacles out of the way, they arrived at the hotel a whileter.


    Elijah sent her off all the way to her room. "Get some sleep. I''ll take you back to Highside tomorrow


    morning."


    "But the g only ends in the afternoon."


    Elijah smiled. "It''s alright. The most important event is over. It doesn''t matter even if I''m absent


    tomorrow."


    A moment of silenceter, she said, "Elijah¡­"


    Elijah knew what she was going to say, so he interrupted her. "I''m doing this out of my own free will.


    Don''t apologize, and don''t feel guilty. All I need is a chance. That''s all."


    She opened her mouth and was about to say something, but then she saw someone in a white robe


    emerging from the elevator. His face was inscrutable, and he passed them by without sparing them a


    look. Then he went into the room next door.


    Oh. So, that''s why he wanted me to switch rooms.

 Chapter 229

    Chapter 229


    After Aidan closed the door behind him, Leanna shifted her gaze back to Elijah. She pursed her lips for


    a moment and said, "I''ve been thinking, and I thought we should start by getting along with each other,


    but I''m sorry."


    "And we''re just starting to get along. You don''t have to reject me right away."


    Leanna shook her head. She couldn''t try to date Elijah while she still had ties with Aidan. It would be


    unfair to him.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Elijah said, "I know what you''re thinking. But you and he are two different people."


    "No, that''s not what I meant." She thought about her answer for a moment. "I used to think I know what


    I want, and I never looked back after the divorce, but now¡­"


    "Now you''re wavering."


    Leanna couldn''t answer for a moment. She was wavering.


    For a while in the past, she thought Aidan liked her less than the files in his office, but now she realized


    he might not just be fooling around. It was tonight that she saw the real him, when before he was


    hidden beneathyers of veil.


    Her silence was affirmation. Elijah paused for a moment, then he said, "You guys were married for


    three years. It''s normal that you have lingering feelings for him. I can wait, Leanna. Until you''ve


    forgotten all about him. Until you can start anew."


    Start anew. That''s what I always tell myself. She thought she could forget the past if she started a new


    life, but now she realized things didn''t work that way.


    There were no fresh starts. Starting a new life didn''t mean the past would be deleted from memory.


    For example, her marriage with Aidan. She knew he despised her, but after living with him for years,


    Leanna slowly fell for him. Even though she kept calling him names, some part of her would always fall


    for him. I wish things were so easy.


    Elijah said, "It''ste. Get some sleep. We''ll talkter."


    Leanna was indeed tired, so she nodded. "You too."


    She went back into her room andy on the bed. There was nothing to do but stare at the ceiling. Half


    an hourter, someone rang the doorbell. She went over and opened the door only to be met by a staff


    member.


    He handed her a gift box and a phone. "You left these in the vi."


    She looked at the phone, and realization struck her. Oh, I left these on the sofa. The box was the gift


    that the staff member said was for her. Judging from the situation, this is from Aidan. She took the


    items from the staff member. "Thank you."


    The staff member bowed to her and left.


    Leanna closed the door. The wound on her leg was reopening, so she hopped and skipped inside until


    she got to her bed. First, she took the charger out of her bag and plugged it into her phone before


    turning around to look at the gift box on the bed.


    She stared at the box for a while, wondering if she should open it. Hey, it''s already here, so I might as


    well take a look, right? Throwing this out is gonna be a waste. She wanted to sate her curiosity.


    Leanna unraveled the ribbon and took the lid off.


    The box contained the chocte she had been craving ever since she finished the one Aidan brought


    back from his trip to Gend, back when they were still married. There was also a ne and a card


    inside.


    Leanna opened the card. A line that read, ''Third Anniversary'' was written on it.


    The font was powerful, and the content was simple.


    It''s his handwriting, and it looks like something he woulde up with. She stared at the card for a


    while, and then an idea popped into her mind. Wait. Is this the gift he wanted to give me on the


    anniversary?


    That''s probably it. No reason to write ''Third Anniversary'' otherwise. Man, he''s stingy. He said the


    fireworks were to make up for the lost first anniversary, but this gift is meant for the third anniversary.


    A smile curled her lips. She unwrapped a piece of chocte and popped it into her mouth. It was fresh


    and sweet. As nice as I remember it.


    At this moment, her phone vibrated. Okay. My phone''s charged. She took it and saw a lot of missed


    calls from Elijah. Zoe had texted her a ton as well. She looked at the time. It''s not toote. She''s still


    awake, I guess. Leanna called her.


    The call went through easily. Zoe said, "Are you alright, Nana? Elijah said you went to see Aidan, and


    he couldn''t get through to you. What happened?"


    "It''s a long story."


    "And I can''t sleep. Tell me all about it."


    Man. She coughed and changed the subject, "How did your date go?"


    That sessfully shifted Zoe''s attention. Her date didn''t go well, and she grumbled, "I should have


    helped the college students. Daniel''s an idiot."


    "What happened?"


    "He asked Louis and I out for dinner. Before we left, Louis said he had something to do, so I had to go


    alone. I thought it was awkward, but at least I was given an opening. But guess what Daniel said when


    I got to the restaurant?"


    Leanna asked, "His canned foods are almost expired?"


    Zoe sneered. "Worse than that. So all the food was served, and he told me his religion tells him he


    can''t have meat on certain days. Today is one of those days. He got up and left, leaving me alone. That


    guy is wack. Why did he even ask me out if he didn''t want to have dinner with me? And that excuse is


    stupid. He''s the weirdest guy I''ve ever met."


    Huh? But Daniel seems like a normal guy. Never thought he''d be this unreliable.


    Zoe still didn''t forget about her friend''s predicament even though her date went sourly. "But that''s


    nothingpared to your problem. So what did that *sshole do to you this time?"

 Chapter 230

    Chapter 230


    The snow that fell overnight covered the resort in a white mist. The good weather that appeared days


    ago seemed to be a distant memory now. Elijah was helping Leanna into the car. Before they left, she


    turned around and vaguely saw the vi in the mountains.


    Elijah looked in the direction she was staring at, and he pursed his lips. "Time to go."


    She looked away and nodded before getting in the car.


    After they were gone, Jonathan knocked on Aidan''s door. "Sir, Mr. Parker and the madam have left," he


    said.


    Aidan grunted and got up. "Let''s go."


    Jonathan followed. "Sir, we''ve received news about the Zielinskies'' n. They''re going to send Miss


    Anna overseas in about two days. Through the Crossleys, of course. Itinerary unknown."


    Aidan sneered. "So there''s the continuation of their little show."


    "Sir, you''re saying¡­"


    "Sienna''s strength lies in her family. Do you think she''s going to go against them just for Anna?"


    What happened back at the house was just a show for me. Anna managed to leave with the Crossleys


    helping her, and it''s all thanks to Sienna.


    Jonathan got what Aidan was saying. "I''ve told the men to keep an eye on Miss Anna the moment she


    leaves the Zielinski Residence."


    After a short pause, Aidan asked, "What about Lloyd? Any news on him?"


    "Mr. Crossley has been acting weirdtely. He''s looking into the case of¡­ the madam''s father."


    Aidan stopped in his tracks and frowned. "Jethro?"


    "Yes," Jonathan said. "And one more thing, sir. When I was investigating Lloyd, I found out that his


    underling paid a private investigator a big sum of money recently. Thest client of this investigator was


    the madam''s brother, who went to some magazine publishers to post a missing persons poster."


    "Let me see the photo."


    Jonathan whipped his phone out and handed it to Aidan.


    The photo showed a young girl of about two or three years old sitting in the center. He erged the


    photo and realized the girl looked just like a mini version of Leanna. The woman who held her looked a


    little like Leanna too. However, the man who got his face blurred out was obviously not Jethro.


    Aidan narrowed his eyes. "Did Lloyd start looking into Jethro''s case before or after Louis posted the


    missing persons notice?"


    "After," Jonathan answered.


    A few momentster, Aidan handed the phone back to Jonathan and walked ahead. "Keep an eye on


    Lloyd and see what he''s up to."


    "Yes, sir."


    A moment of silenceter, Aidan continued, "Leanna''s not Jethro''s real daughter. I want you to find out


    who the other people in the photo are."


    That reply caught Jonathan by surprise.


    They were standing in front of the elevator, and Aidan put his hand in his pocket. "Surprised?" He


    looked at Jonathan.


    "No. I¡­"


    "Of course she''s not his daughter. That b*stard can''t sire someone like her."


    Jonathan nodded. "I''ll tell my men to do it right away."


    ¡­


    Leanna was finally back at her condominium. Zoe helped her out of the car before looking at Elijah.


    "Thanks for giving her a ride home. Wannae up?"


    Elijah shook his head with a smile. "Sorry, but I have work to do." He looked at Leanna. "You need to


    get that looked at, Leanna. Don''t want to get any infections now."


    Leanna nodded. "I know. Thank you."


    Elijah said, "I''ll¡­ be going now. Youdies go home."


    When he was gone, Zoe finally helped Leanna upstairs. She asked curiously, "Hey, I feel like you guys


    are getting a bit distant with each other. What happened?"


    Leanna smiled, but she said nothing.


    Zoe continued, "Hey, you didn''t tell me what happenedst night either. What did that arse do to you?"


    Leanna gave it some thought and whipped a piece of chocte out of her bag. She unwrapped it and


    popped the candy into her friend''s mouth. "What do you think?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Zoe chewed on it, and her eyes shone. "Whoa, this is good. Where did you get it?"


    "It''s a gift from Aidan.


    Zoe understood what she was saying, and she kept quiet. All she did was slowly swallow the


    chocte.


    Leanna wasn''t reluctant to tell her anything, but she had no idea how to word this. Or more precisely,


    she had no idea what to do with Aidan.


    ¡­


    Two days of resting at hometer, Leanna felt like she would go crazy. She got up and got changed for


    work. When she was waiting for the elevator, she met Daniel, who was about to go out as well. They


    greeted each other, and the elevator arrived.


    They got into it, and a moment of hesitationter, Leanna asked, "Can I ask you something?"


    Daniel nodded. "Yes."


    "How do you feel about Zoe?"


    It was obvious that Zoe liked Daniel. Leanna thought he must have noticed it as well. She thought


    Daniel was a nice guy, but what he did to Zoe was perplexing.


    Daniel was surprised that she would ask that. He stayed quiet for a moment, and then he smiled.


    "We''re neighbors. Or friends, so to speak."


    "Nobody would ask their friend out for dinner and give them that kind of excuse before leaving them


    behind," said Leanna.


    Daniel let out an awkward cough. "Sorry. I had my reasons. I did try to apologize to her. Even asked


    Louis to help me out, but she thinks I did it on purpose."


    Georgina was in the same restaurant that day. Daniel was trying to get her trust, and it was going well.


    He couldn''t let his efforts go to waste, so he came up with a stupid excuse.


    A moment of silenceter, Leanna said, "If you don''t feel the same way about her, I suggest you keep


    some distance from her."


    Daniel pursed his lips. "I know. And tell her I''m sorry."


    "I will." Leanna nodded at him. "And thanks for taking care of Louis."


    The elevator doors swung open.


    Leanna was about to leave, but Daniel said, "Miss McKinney, have you ever thought about the


    mastermind who tried to sabotage you a while ago?"


    Leanna turned around curiously. That question came out of nowhere.


    Daniel smiled. "I''m just trying to say¡­ be on the lookout, Miss McKinney."

 Chapter 231

    Chapter 231


    At the studio.


    When Leanna arrived at the studio, she found Louis sorting through the orders in her office while Zoe


    was asleep at the front desk.


    When Zoe saw Leanna, she shot to her feet. "Nana, didn''t I tell you to stay home for the next two days?


    Why are you back so soon?"


    "The wound is not that serious," Leanna replied, walking over to her. "I am all healed now, and it is so


    boring to be cooped up at home."


    "Oh, right. You said you were going to Weavside soon, right?" Zoe yawned. "When will you be going?"


    "My flight is tomorrow evening," answered Leanna.


    "How long will you be gone for? Will you only be back for Christmas?"


    Leanna chuckled. "I would only be away for two or three days at most, so I will be back."


    Zoe nodded. "That is good. I was just telling Louis that if you are not back for Christmas, we will spend


    Christmas with you over there. I don''t want to head back home this year. That way, I don''t have to listen


    to my parents nagging me about Anthony and marriage. Just listening to them makes me want to pull


    my hair out."


    Leanna went silent upon hearing that. "I bumped into Daniel at the elevator on my way here. He has


    asked me to tell you he is very sorry about what happened that day."


    Zoe waved her hand and nonchntly said, "He has also asked Louis to pass the message. I don''t


    care about it anymore. I will just be more careful in the future."


    As they were talking, Louis came out of the office and nced at the clock. "I have to head out for a


    while."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna nodded. "Where are you going?"


    "It is just an errand. I will be back soon."


    "I see. Go on."


    After Louis left the studio, Zoe whispered, "Is he dating someone? He''s acting very mysterioustely."


    Leanna shook her head. "No way."


    Zoe sighed. "Why are those beloved by fate and destiny so high in demand yet refuse to date anyone


    while people like us who dream of dating someone can never find someone? Life is so unfair!"


    There was silence on Leanna''s end.


    Meanwhile.


    After Louis arrived at the location the private detective sent to him, he waited there for ten minutes or


    so, yet he saw no one around.


    Just as he pulled out his phone to call the private detective, a few thugs walked up to him from behind.


    The thugs were bouncers who worked at the casinos Jethro used to frequent. "Well, if it isn''t Jethro''s


    stinking son," they said upon seeing him. Their words were spoken in a taunting, vulgar manner. "They


    say you''re in university now. So, you can spare the money for education, but not pay back your dad''s


    debts?"


    He ignored them and looked away. He moved to walk away but was soon blocked when they moved to


    stand in his way.


    "We hear Jethro sold your sister to some rich guy for quite a lot of money. She is likely worth nothing


    now that she has been toyed with for so long. How about..."


    "How about you tell your sister toe along and have fun with us?" one of the other men continued.


    "You won''t have to pay us back then. Well?"


    The rest of the gang burst out in roars ofughter at that.


    A loud bang echoed through the air. Louis had punched the man who had spoken and sent him


    crashing into a wall.


    Seeing that, the rest of the thugs joined in the fight.


    The chaotic fight soon died down. The man who Louis had punched first spat out a mouthful of blood


    and red hard at Louis. He pulled out a knife from his pockets and charged forward.


    He was about to stab at Louis'' waist when someone kicked his wrist, and he was sent crashing into a


    corner while he yelped in pain.


    Louis turned around and found the men who had been standing behind him were all subdued.


    A ck Rolls-Royce pulled to a stop at the entrance of the alleyway and Aidan slowly stepped out of it.


    Louis frowned. Why was Aidan here?


    Aidan nced at him before raising his hand in a gesture that resulted in a bespectacled man being


    thrown at Louis'' feet by Aidan''s men.


    He was the private detective Louis had contacted.


    "I''m sorry," said the private detective, blubbering as he remained kneeling by Louis'' feet. He pushed his


    cracked spectacles up higher on his nose. "I''m so sorry, sir. I was an ignorant fool. I should not have


    lied to you over a paltry sum of money. It is all my fault. Here is the money you gave me along with


    whatever they paid me. I''ll give you everything, just please spare me..."


    He was trembling hard as he pulled out a bank card from his bag and shoved it into Louis'' hands.


    Louis pursed his lips and squatted to drag the private detective closer by the tie. "Are you ying me


    for a fool?"


    "It is all my fault," pleaded the private detective. "I was blinded by the money. I am so sorry. I promise


    this will not happen again."


    Louis'' face clouded over. "You mean to say you also lied about finding new leads on that person?"


    "They told me to say that. I had no choice. Your photo was so old that the person''s face was hard to


    see. No matter how great I am, it is still impossible for them to be found!"


    "Who are they?"


    "I don''t know either," answered the private detective. "I was only doing my job. You know the rules of


    our industry. People hate it when you ask too many questions..."


    Louis threw him away and stood up. There was a cold look on his face.


    "Take care of him," said Aidan, raising his hand in another gesture.


    "Yes, sir," said his men.


    Soon, peace was returned to the alley as the private detective and the thugs were taken away.


    "Do not be so hasty next time," Aidan said calmly to Louis. "Do not be like your sister and just believe


    whatever people say."


    There was a moment of silence before Louis replied. "How did you know?"


    "There is nothing money cannot do," replied Aidan.


    Louis was rendered speechless.


    Aidan turned back to the car. "Get in. I''ll send you back."


    Louis hesitated, but still followed him into the car.


    On the journey back to the studio, Jonathan received a phone call. "President Pearson," he called out


    to Aidan when he hung up, "it is done."


    Aidan hummed in acknowledgment. With his eyes shut, it was impossible to tell what exactly he was


    thinking.


    A few minutes passed by. "Don''t tell Leanna about this," said Louis.


    Aidan slowly looked up when he heard that.


    "She does not want Leanna to know because Leanna will worry," continued Louis.


    "If you know she would be worried, why do you still act without thinking about the consequences?"


    Louis frowned. "I did not expect to encounter those people."


    "Do you really think you only bumped into that group of people today because of coincidence?"


    Louis pursed his lips and kept quiet. Indeed, there was no way it was just a coincidence.


    "Perhaps you do not even know when you attracted unwanted attention," Aidan ndly continued.


    Louis was certainly confused; who bribed the private detective, and why did they do it?


    His instincts told him the person who did it was the same mastermind behind the incidents at Leanna''s


    studio and at the university gates.


    "Well, do you know who ''they'' are?" he asked.


    "Of course." Aidan turned to look at him. "I can keep this from your sister. I can also tell you what is


    going on. However, you have to promise me one thing."

 Chapter 232

    Chapter 232


    When Louis arrived back at the studio, Leanna was happily chatting with Zoe. The smile on her face


    instantly vanished upon realizing he had returned with dirty, rumpled clothing and bruises on his face.


    Frowning, she hurried over to him and asked, "What happened to you, Louis?"


    "Nothing much." He looked away. "There are only a few bruises. Don''t worry."


    "How can I not worry? You were fine when you left. Be honest with me; where did you go?"


    "Yeah, Louis," Zoe interjected, walking over. "What happened to you? Tell us."


    Leanna frowned harder; she had a bad feeling about this. "Did you¡ª"


    "It is only a fight with a ssmate," he interrupted calmly. "It is not as bad as you think."


    "Why on earth would you be fighting with a ssmate?"


    "Well, the fight is over." It was obvious that he did not want to borate further. "There is no point in


    asking why."


    Leanna did not believe him. She was about to say something when Zoe stopped her with a tug on the


    arm. "Let it be. He is a hot-blooded young man. It is normal for him to get into scuffles with his


    ssmates. Don''t worry so much. He is an adult now. He knows when to stop."


    She then tugged Louis on the arm. "Well, don''t just stand there. Attend to the injuries on your face.


    Don''t let them get infected."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Okay," he replied.


    He turned and headed into the break room at the back of the studio.


    Once he was gone, Zoe nudged Leanna with her elbow. "Are you still worried?"


    Leanna shook her head. "It just feels like he was not telling the truth."


    Louis was not an impulsive man. Why would he ever get into a fight with his ssmate just because of


    a sh of opinions?


    Also, he had clearly left the studio to attend to something important.


    "He did not tell you the truth because he was worried you would overthink," Zoe said. "You saw him,


    right? He is still capable of standing. He will be fine."


    "Hopefully." Leanna let out a heavy sigh.


    A few minutester, the door to the break room opened.


    Louis, who was holding gently dabbing antiseptic liquid onto his wounds with a cotton swab, turned to


    find Leanna standing in the doorway. "I really am fine," he said, putting down the cotton swab.


    Leanna sat down beside him on the couch and stuck a Band-Aid on him. "A fight with a ssmate is no


    trivial matter. After all, you could just talk it out."


    He pursed his lips and kept quiet.


    "I will let it be this time, but this will not happen again."


    "Okay," he replied.


    "I will be heading to Weavside tomorrow evening, but I will be back in a few days," she said. "Spend


    that time looking for a new ce. You cannot keep living with Daniel."


    "I do not think he did it on purpose," he said after a pause; he knew what she was hinting at.


    "I do not care if it was done on purpose. It is all in the past now, and there is no use in exnations. I


    merely think it would not be nice to trouble him by staying at his ce for too long. Surely you have


    noticed by now that nothing else has happened to me since then."


    He nodded. "I will move out tomorrow."


    "Find a new home first," she reminded, standing up. "As for the money, I will¡ª"


    "I have my own money," he interrupted sulkily.


    She chuckled. "Okay. I will leave it to you, then."


    Just as she was about to leave the room, he suddenly asked, "How are things between you and


    Elijah?"


    "What do you mean?"


    "You said you were going to try it out, right? What do you think?"


    It took a moment before she replied. "You were right. I do not like him. No matter how much we tried,


    there is no use."


    "Then..." He awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck and looked away. "Will you be getting back


    together with Aidan?"


    She froze, likely because she had not expected him to ask that. For a moment, she was at a loss for


    words.


    Seeing that, he cleared his throat and continued, "I just think he is not as detestable as before. If you...


    If you still like him, I will have no objections."


    Leanna could not help butugh at that. "Did you not just chase him off? What is with the sudden


    change in attitude?"


    "I did not chase him off," Louis protested. "I only wanted him to think carefully and avoid doing anything


    that would hurt you¡ª"


    "Alright," she interrupted. "Leave this alone. Well, we do not have much work today. Let''s go out for our


    mealter."


    As she reached the door, she paused and turned to ask him, "Should I invite Daphne?"


    He blinked back at her. "She is your friend. Why are you asking me that?"


    "Oh, nothing. I was just asking," she replied, doing her best to suppress her smirk. "She had to leave


    the country because of you. I wonder if she is back yet. Well, we should at least apologize and thank


    her in person, right?"


    He silently looked away. After clearing his throat, he pursed his lips and replied, "You are right."


    "I will ask her if she is back in the country."


    She then raised an eyebrow at him and left the room.


    As she walked away from the break room, she messaged Daphne.


    In reality, Daphne did not leave the country at all. Aidan, the evil, heartless capitalist, only gave her two


    days off before packing her schedule full of work.


    When Leanna messaged her, she just so happened to be filming an advertisement. In order to keep up


    the lie, she replied saying she had just gotten off the ne at Alcay.


    ''Okay,'' messaged Leanna. ''Let us meet up when you are back then.''


    Daphne agreed with tears in her eyes.


    ¡­


    Leanna''s flightnded at Weavside''s airport at precisely 11:30P.M.


    Weavside was a colder city than Highside. The moment she left the ne, she felt a chill creeping into


    her bones.


    She zipped her down jacket up to her chin and pulled up her hood. Just as she was about to walk


    toward the main terminal of the airport, she suddenly spotted a group of bodyguards walking over.


    Among them was a woman who was so covered up that Leanna could not even see her eyes.


    There was something strange about the way the group held themselves; they seemed extremely


    anxious.


    They even bumped into Leanna as they passed by her.


    Something about the group felt off to her, though.


    A few minutester as she left the toilets, she overheard a familiar woman speaking from around the


    corner. "You guys are so annoying!" she eximed. "Are you done yet? How long do I have to wait?"


    "Give us a moment, Miss Pearson," replied one of the men. "We are doing this for your safety. One


    mistake, and you would be found."


    "It is all that b*tch''s fault, and that b*stard child!" Anna grumbled. "They will pay for it¡ªjust you wait!"


    Leanna silently chuckled from where she was standing.


    Who knew she would bump into Anna, who was running for her life, here?


    Should she call it fate or coincidence?


    Nevertheless, Anna still did not regret her actions.


    Just then, one of the bodyguards noticed Leanna standing there. "Who are you?" he barked warily.

 Chapter 233

    Chapter 233


    Just as the bodyguard was about to walk over, someone wrapped an arm around Leanna''s waist.


    The next thing she knew, she was face-to-face with a urinal.


    ¡­


    Before she knew what was going on, she heard footsteps echoing from outside the door.


    She was soon dragged into a stall.


    The bodyguards came charging in, banging door after door open as they checked through the toilets.


    As her ears were filled with the banging of doors, her eyes widened. Why was Aidan here?


    It took the bodyguards a short while before they reached Aidan and Leanna. He looked down into her


    eyes and tightened his grip around her waist to force her to lean into his arms. Then, he ducked his


    head down to bite her lips.


    She began to struggle due to reflexes, but then he grabbed her wrists and pinned her against the stall''s


    wall.


    In the toilets, faint panting could be heard underneath the banging of the doors.


    There was a hint of intimacy in the pants.


    The bodyguards exchanged nces. All of them knew what was going on inside that specific stall.


    "Do not get distracted," one of them whispered. "The car will be here soon. Let''s go."


    Soon, they were heard walking away.


    Once the door mmed shut behind the men, Aidan finally let go of Leanna and stepped away while


    licking his lips in memory of what he had just tasted.


    She, however, was furious. She whacked him with her bag as she shouted, "B*stard! You freaking


    pervert!"


    When she was eventually done venting her anger, Aidan grabbed her wrist. "I just saved you. How


    ungrateful are you?"


    "I did not ask you to do that!" She shot back.


    Moreover, she was well wrapped up with her hood blocking most of her face from public view, so those


    bodyguards might not have recognized her.


    If he had not dragged her into the toilet cubicles out of the blue, they might never suspect her of


    anything.


    "As I have told you, Anna is crazy," he said. "If she sees you now, do you think she would really have


    mercy?"


    Leanna did not want to discuss with Aidan about the what-ifs, though. She pushed him away and


    moved to leave, but then she heard two men speaking right outside.


    Soon, she heard the sound of belts being unbuckled.


    It was at that moment that she felt a strong urge to murder Aidan.


    To her surprise, she did not end up hearing the expected sound of people pissing. Instead, Aidan pulled


    her into his arms once more and mped his hands over her ears through her jacket''s hood.


    Pressed against his chest, she looked up at him with her beautiful eyes that only held his reflection.


    It was as if the sounds from beyond their stall belonged to another world.


    All she could feel was his heartbeat against her chest.


    As he stared into her eyes, his lips twitched upward in a smirk while he slowly lowered his head.


    Just as he was about to kiss her once more, she pped him across the face.


    He had no words to respond to that with.


    Leanna ignored his silence and leaned against the door to listen to what was going on outside. Once


    she was certain there was no one outside, she pushed the door open and sped out of the men''s toilets


    with her hood held low over her face.


    Aidan then followed suit with a lick of his lips.


    She had just arrived at the waiting area when someone dragged her by the arm and shoved her into a


    ck car.


    Inside the car, Jonathan was visibly surprised to see her there. "Ma¡ª" he said in a daze before


    stopping himself. "Miss McKinney."


    She smiled at him with an expression that could no longer be merely described as awkward.


    Aidan opened the door on the other side of the car and entered. "Drive on," he ordered.


    "Yes, sir," said Jonathan.


    She held her tongue for ten minutes or so before she finally could no longer stand the suffocating


    atmosphere. "Why are you here, President Pearson?" she asked cautiously.


    "I am here for a beating," Aidan replied without even looking at her.


    Leanna was rendered speechless by that.


    How very petty of him.


    "Well, what you did is what a pervert would do," she insisted stubbornly. "I was just defending myself."


    Aidan silently looked out of the window and ignored her.


    She turned to sneak a nce at him. Was he truly angry about it?


    He had kissed her for so long and even dragged her into the men''s toilets, yet she had only pped


    him once. She was already being kind.


    Ignorant of the reason they were fighting again, Jonathan cleared his throat and changed the topic.


    "President Pearson, our investigations have revealed that the Crossleys arranged for Miss Anna to get


    on a ferry heading for Freyfront tonight. She would then fly on a private jet to Vind."


    There was a moment of silence before she asked, "Is she gone now?"


    "Not yet," replied Jonathan. "Her ferry encountered some technical difficulties. She would only be


    departing tomorrow night at ten."


    She did not need to ponder to know why the ferry had encountered technical difficulties.


    At that thought, she turned to look at Aidan once more.


    With the help of the dim streetlights, she noticed a few red streaks in the shape of fingers on his cheek.


    Her eyes widened in disbelief. She did not recall hitting him that hard.


    Why did his cheek look like that now? It made her feel quite guilty.


    A few minutester, the car pulled to a stop in front of a hotel.


    This was the hotel Aidan had stayed in during hisst trip to Weavside.


    After getting out of the car, she grabbed her luggage and said to Jonathan, "I will not be going in, you


    guys..."


    "Miss McKinney," Jonathan interrupted formally, "there are no other hotels nearby."


    She turned to point at a huge building nearby that wasbeled as a hotel. "I am looking at one."


    "It is nearly Christmas," he retorted, continuing on with his lie. "It is the peak tourist season, so all those


    hotels are full."


    Leanna sighed. Everyone had to earn a living somehow; he was working under Aidan, and survival was


    already a tough task.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    She looked away from the distant hotel and walked past Aidan into the hotel.


    Aidannguidly nced at Jonathan with an imperceptible raise of his eyebrows before heading into


    the hotel as well.


    Seeing that, Jonathan heaved a sigh of relief. Once more, he realized just how hard it was to be a


    personal assistant.


    Leanna walked over to the receptionist and handed her ID. "One single room. Thanks."


    She just so happened to have handed her ID over to the hotel manager, who had been briefing his staff


    on their duties. Just as he was about to ask her a few more questions, he spotted Aidan standing right


    behind her. He froze, stunned. When he made to greet Aidan, he saw a frown appear on Aidan''s face.


    Aidan then tilted his head and indicated for the manager to attend to Leanna first.


    The manager nced at Aidan before looking at Leanna in confusion. In the end, he turned to look at


    Jonathan in a silent plea for help. Jonathan responded by giving him a slight nod.


    The manager instantly understood what was going on then. He secretly gestured OK to Aidan.


    Finally, he turned back to Leanna and stated, "Miss, we are out of single rooms. Is it possible for us to


    assign you to a suite? We would still charge you the price of a single."


    She massaged her temple in response. Did the manager think she did not see the silent conversation


    that had happened before her eyes?

 Chapter 234

    Chapter 234


    "Whatever," Leanna eventually responded.


    "Please give me a secure room," she added. "If anyone sneaks into my room in the middle of the night,


    I will call the police."


    The manager stared back at her, speechless.


    He snuck a nce at Aidan to seek his opinion before swiftly replying to Leanna, "Very well, Miss. I will


    lead you to your room."


    She smiled. "It is fine. There is someone else standing right here who can lead the way, right?"


    She then walked toward the elevator.


    Aidan shoved his hands into his pockets and slowly walked behind her.


    He strode into the lift and pressed the button for the top floor.


    Jonathan did not follow them into the elevator, so it was only the two of them inside.


    She silently stood there with her eyes darting around to study the elevator.


    Aidan nced at her and took a step closer to her. Just as his lips parted to speak, she dashed back to


    cling to the elevator wall. "Do not try it again, President Pearson," she dered, crossing her arms


    before her chest. "Cameras are watching."


    He grabbed her hood and dragged her closer to him. "Do you think that is enough to keep me away if I


    truly wanted to do something to you?"


    "Please mind your words. Do not speak of thew with such disdain. Every word you speak is currently


    being recorded."


    He chuckled. "It is such a shame you did not studyw, Leanna."


    "That only proves that someone will shine in whatever industry they want to when they are that


    talented."


    "You would surelye out of a talk show as a winner."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by that.


    Well, that was not a bad suggestion.


    "What are you doing here?" Aidan calmly asked, letting go of her hood.


    "There is no rule that states only you maye or that I cannot."


    "I have some business to attend to," he stated.


    "I..." She was here for a vacation.


    She cleared her throat and rubbed her nose, leaving her previous sentence unfinished.


    Just then, the elevator doors opened.


    She walked out of the lift with her eyes glued to the floor.


    She had only taken a few steps when she heard him say, "It is this way."


    She paused and took a few deep breaths before swiftly marching in the correct direction.


    When she eventually found the roombeled on her key card, she hurriedly unlocked the door, dashed


    in, then mmed the door shut behind her.


    Her actions were done so swiftly that it felt like she was afraid a certain someone would force their way


    in.


    As he stood before her door, he licked his lips once more.


    Soon, Jonathan and the hotel manager appeared to unlock the door next to Leanna''s.


    He entered the room and said to Jonathan, "Leanna is likely here because she wants to head to


    Underwood Lane. Take care of the issues."


    "Well, Madam is here now," Jonathan tentatively said. "Do you still not n on telling her the truth, sir?"


    "There is no benefit in letting her know at this time," Aidan replied. "After all, women are such


    emotional, troublesome beings."


    The moment Leanna knew about the child, she would be overwhelmed by the urge to visit him once in


    a while.


    Too many trips to Weavside would lead to the Pearsons getting suspicious.


    "Yes, sir."


    Aidan''s only wish was for karma to be slower to get back to him.


    After Jonathan left the room, Aidan moved to stand before the floor-to-ceiling windows and called


    Naomi.


    When Naomi heard the order to send the child away, she sighed. "Aidan, let Leanna see him. No


    matter what, he is her son. Don''t worry. I will handle everything."


    He thought for a moment before responding, "Okay."


    He then hung up and threw the phone onto the couch while walking over to the bathroom.


    When he stepped out of the shower, his doorbell began to ring.


    He flung away the towel he had been holding and calmly walked over to the door. He opened it to find


    Leanna standing on the other side of the doorway.


    As for Leanna, she was stunned to see him in such a state.


    She did not expect him to be done with his shower so soon and already dressed in a bathrobe so


    loosely tied that it looked as if it would fall open at any moment.


    Suddenly, she felt a twitch in her eyelid. By instinct, she had turned to look away.


    He keenly observed every minute detail of her reaction. He smirked, crossed his arms before his chest,


    and leaned against the door frame. "I did not disturb you with any loud noises, did I?" he asked


    solemnly.


    She shot a re at him. "That sounds like some thief who is shifting the me to someone else just to


    cause chaos."


    "Even if I am a thief, I am a thief who steals hearts."


    She was rendered speechless by that.


    In fact, his response was so revolting that Leanna nearly puked outst night''s dinner.


    Did he not find it embarrassing at all?


    Before she could muster a response, Aidan grabbed her by the wrist and pulled her into his room.


    "Aidan..."


    "Did youe knocking just for a reunion at the doorway?" he asked, interrupting her.


    Then, he walked over to the alcohol cab to pull out a bottle of whiskey and two cups. He brought


    them over to the couch.


    She hesitated for a second before sitting down beside him. "I apologize for my rude behavior just now,


    President Pearson," she said sincerely.


    He crossed his legs and slowly asked, "Just now?"


    After she inhaled, she calmly borated, "Back in the toilets, I should not have hit you so hard."


    "However, you were the one who dragged me into the men''s toilets," she continued under her breath.


    Aidan stretched his arm out across the back of the couch and chuckled. "Did I have any other choice


    back then?"


    "The women''s toilets were nearby. Why did you not drag me in there?"


    He pinched his nose and took a moment to calm down. "Leanna, if I had brought you into the women''s


    toilets, I would have been an actual pervert."


    "Well, you are one anyway."


    He shot her a look. "Are you here because the p was not enough for you? Do you need to vent more


    anger out on me?"


    Well, that was not really why she was here.


    "Here," Leanna said, handing him the ice pack she had been hiding behind her back. "I got this from


    the hotel."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    He stared at it. "What?"


    "Put it on your cheek and it will be fine in the morning," she replied.


    In her mind, she did not hit him that hard. In fact, the p was just a warning to stop him from going


    overboard. She did not think it would leave a mark on his face.


    When Aidan realized what Leanna meant, he leaned backward and stated, "I take responsibility for my


    own actions."


    ¡­


    Give this b*stard an inch, and he would run a mile.


    Leanna threw the ice pack onto Aidan''sp. "Do as you wish."


    She stood up with the intention to leave, but then he grabbed her wrist and tugged her closer.


    Caught off-guard, she fell straight into hisp.


    At that moment, she felt a sense of deja vu from the way the scene yed out.


    Before she could ponder further, he ced the ice pack in her hands. "See it to the end. How can you


    be so half-hearted?"


    She smacked the arm he had curled around her waist. "Let go!"


    Aidan raised an eyebrow and lifted his hands in the air to show he would keep his hands to himself.

 Chapter 235

    Chapter 235


    Leanna rose from hisp and she bent over slightly to press the ice pack against the side of his face


    where a faint p mark still remained.


    Aidan ced his hand on his knee, his long finger tapping lightly as he gazed quietly at her with his


    dark eyes.


    Annoyed by his gaze, Leanna piped up, "President Pearson, can you just close your eyes?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "You''ve been stealing nces at me for so long in the car, so why didn''t you close your eyes then?"


    She fell silent.


    This b*stard is so annoying.


    As such, she applied more pressure on purpose as she pinned the ice pack to his face.


    Aidan''s expression changed a little. Just as he was about to get mad, Leanna quickly retracted her


    hand. "This should be enough. It''s gettingte, so you should rest early, President Pearson. I''m going


    back to my room."


    She had just turned around when her wrist was grabbed once again.


    "You''re leaving just like that?" Aidan seemed a little dissatisfied.


    "What else am I supposed to do here? Stay for supper?"


    "That can do," he said as he grabbed his phone from the couch. Just as he was about to dial a number,


    she hastily stopped him. "I''m just joking! Joking!"


    This lowlife really does the most outrageous things.


    The man pushed the winess on the coffee table in her direction. "Have a drink?"


    Leanna sneered, "Fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me."


    "Well, let''s just say that I overestimated your alcohol tolerance."


    She could not care less about him as she removed her hand from his palm. "I have to wake up early


    tomorrow. Enjoy yourself, President Pearson."


    With that, she walked to the entrance of the room right away.


    Looking at her figure, Aidan then picked up the whiskey and leaned back against the couch with a faint


    curve on his thin lips.


    Once she headed back into her room, Leanna noticed a message from Zoe asking if she had arrived. It


    was only then that she realized she forgot to update her status after the fiasco at the airport.


    As a result, she decided to call Zoe up. After chatting for a bit, Zoe noticed that Leanna sounded a little


    hesitant, so she asked tentatively, "Don''t tell me you met Aidan there again?"


    Leanna was silent.


    Why is her guess always so urate?


    Zoe was already used to this by now. She asked, "What excuse did that b*stard give this time?"


    Leanna shook her head. "He really didn''t follow me here. At least not this time." After pausing for a bit,


    she continued, "I met Anna as well."


    Zoe could not help but be a little shocked when she heard that. "What''s her business there?"


    When Leanna and Elijah went to Mr. Jackson''s house, they heard Anna''s parents mention that Anna


    was grounded at the Pearson Family Estate.


    Jonathan also told her that Aidan knew their first child was gone because of Anna.


    The Pearson Family and the Zielinski Family might have been worried that Aidan would exact revenge


    on Anna, so they did everything they could to send her away.


    However, no one would have expected that they would encounter each other in Weavside.


    Perhaps this is fated.


    Aidan came along to Weavside probably because he received news that Anna would be leaving.


    Zoe asked, "How does that lowlife intend to punish Anna?"


    "I didn''t ask."


    "Still, no matter what, that crazy Anna is getting what she deserves. She deserves whatever horrible


    fate that awaits her." After that, she stopped talking about the depressing matters and changed the


    subject. "Where are you staying tonight? Aren''t you supposed to stay with your aunt?"


    "It''s gotten toote, so I''m staying at a hotel instead," replied Leanna.


    After a few more exchanges, the call ended.


    She took a change of clothes into the bathroom. After showering and getting out, she suddenly noticed


    a small tear on her lip as she was drying her hair and a scab had formed.


    She went nearer to the mirror to have a closer look, only to find bite marks near the injury.


    Amazing. I don''t even have to think to know when that happened.


    Suddenly, she felt that the p was indeed too light.


    ¡­


    The next morning, Leanna took her breakfast and went downstairs. As she was about to hail a ride to


    Underwood Lane, she realized that Jonathan was already waiting there with a smile on his face.


    Also, in the backseats of the Maserati sat the man named Aidan.


    Jonathan began babbling, "Miss McKinney, it''s the morning rush hour right now, so it''s not easy to hail


    a ride. We''re heading to the same destination as you, so you can hop in and join us."


    Leanna feigned ignorance. "Are you going to the airport as well? I thought you''re here on official


    business. Are you leaving so soon?"


    Jonathan was speechless.


    At that moment, Aidan rolled down the car window and nced at her indifferently before speaking the


    concise words, "Get in the car."


    Pouting, Leanna pondered about it, Since we are heading to the same ce anyway, the b*stard might


    comin to Naomi about me if I was to hail my own cab.


    At that thought, she could only open the car door and enter the vehicle.


    Seeing that, Jonathan secretly sighed in relief. At crucial times like this, it really came down to Aidan


    himself to make things work.


    The car drove along the road and Leanna stuck to the window to watch the scenery outside.


    Compared to Highside, a small town like Weavside had its unique beauty, be it in fall or winter. Snow


    was hanging on the branches, and when a breeze picked up sometimes, snowkes would scatter and


    fall like cotton.


    In a rxed and leisurely town like this, the morning rush hour Jonathan spoke of was nonexistent. Not


    long after, the car slowly drove into Underwood Lane.


    The creek in the middle of thene was already frozen and most of the residents had moved out. The


    entrance of themunity hall was also destely open as the entire street looked lonely; a stark


    contrast to the liveliness she witnessed when she first moved here.


    She stared at the scenery in a daze, then turned around and asked, "President Pearson, when is this


    ce getting taken down?"


    "In May."


    Leanna thought that it would be taken down after the new year, so she did not expect there would be a


    few more months to go.


    Still, it was not a bad idea. When work at the studio died down after a while, she wanted toe here


    for a vacation with Zoe and Louis.


    Soon, the car pulled up at the entrance of Naomi''s house.


    As Leanna walked to the door, she suddenly noticed Aidan standing by the car, seeming as if he had


    no intention of going in.


    Shocked, she asked instinctively, "President Pearson, aren''t youing?"


    "Ladies first," he answered calmly.


    Leanna thought for a bit, then took a step forward before turning around and retreating to him. She


    asked tentatively, "Are you scared to go in ''cause you make Ms. Fletcher mad?"


    Aidan fell silent.


    He lowered his eyes to look at her. "I''m not as cunning with words as you are."


    "Then, what are you sulking about?" Leanna thought he was being weird.


    "I have a call to make." He made an excuse.


    After a pause, he suddenly lowered his head and asked in a deep suggestive voice, "Or are you too


    shy to go in, so you need me to apany you?"

 Chapter 236

    Chapter 236


    Leanna felt that there must be something wrong with this person''s head.


    It''s not like this is my first time here. What is there to be shy about?


    From the way the b*stard spoke, it sounded like it was my first time visiting my mother-inw with


    him¡­


    At that thought, Leanna suddenly felt uneasy all over.


    She faked a cough and stopped engaging in idle chatter with him. She turned around and walked up


    the steps, then knocked on the door.


    A few secondster, the door was opened from within and Naomi''s figure appeared before her.


    A smile bloomed on Leanna''s face. "Ms. Fletcher."


    "Oh, you''re here, Leanna. Come on in," weed Naomi.


    Leanna passed Naomi the things she had been carrying all this while. "Ms. Fletcher, here are some


    nourishing supplements and food I bought in Highside. Do have a try¡ª"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "These things can be bought anywhere, but you still brought them all the way here."


    At that moment, Wendy''s voice sounded from within. "Naomi, your daughter-inw treats you so well.


    Your son visited so many times, yet he never brought anything with him."


    Leanna was speechless.


    The thought that shed across her mind at the entrance was nowing out of Wendy''s mouth.


    It would be fine if she came alone, but now that she came back with Aidan, it just seemed too strange


    to justify.


    Naomi smiled and took the things from Leanna. "Come on in."


    Leanna trailed after Naomi into the house. When they passed by the yard, she was about to greet


    Wendy, who was seated at the stone table, when she unexpectedly saw a baby cradle beside Wendy.


    Stunned, Leanna could not help but pause in her tracks.


    Noticing that, Naomi ced the items on the table and exined calmly, "Come take a look, Leanna.


    This is Ms. Shaffer''s grandchild."


    Wendy echoed, "Yes, yes. My daughter-inw gave birth to a second child, but they were too busy, so


    I''m looking after the baby in their stead. Say, I''m so old now, and I can finally live life in peace¡­"


    As Wendy was talking, Leanna had already walked over to them.


    The baby in the cradle was tiny and his two little fists were clenched tightly as he slept extremely


    soundly.


    Leanna could not help but fall into a daze as she looked at the child. She slowly reached out, but


    stopped when she was halfway there.


    Just as she wanted to retract her hand, the clenched fist suddenly opened up and grabbed her finger


    tightly. After a smack of his lips, the baby fell back asleep and did not seem like waking up at all.


    In an instant, Leanna felt a part of herpletely giving way, softening and melting into a messy


    puddle. She did not have the heart to retract her finger away, as if fearing that it would disturb the


    baby''s sweet dreams.


    At that, Naomi and Wendy exchanged nces as thetter coughed. "Leanna, don''t keep standing.


    Come and have a seat."


    As such, Leanna pulled away from her thoughts for a little, then immediately sat on the stool beside


    her. She had yet to release her finger as she looked at Wendy and asked, "Ms. Shaffer, what''s his


    name?"


    "Uhm¡­" Wendy nced at Naomi, sending a silent plea for help. "His name¡­"


    Naomi said, "Ms. Shaffer has been troubled recently about this very thing. We thought about it for days,


    but we couldn''te up with a good name. Why don''t you trying up with one?"


    Leanna was obviously stunned. "Me?"


    Wendy said as well, "Yes, yes, Leanna. You''re a well-educated girl, so try giving him a name."


    Leanna felt that parents should be the one giving their children names, so she was not in a position to


    do so.


    As if seeing through her thoughts, Naomi said, "We couldn''te up with a suitable name after so


    long, so you cane up with one as reference for the parents."


    Wendy continued in agreement, "Yes, yes. Ms. Fletcher is right. Leanna, I''m entrusting this to you. Just


    help me out."


    Hearing that, Leanna did not decline anymore as she nodded lightly. ''Then, let me think about it."


    As soon as she agreed, Naomi and Wendy let out sighs in relief. Then, Naomi asked, "Leanna, what


    would you like for lunch? I''ll make some for you."


    "I''m fine with whatever," replied Leanna.


    Then, she uttered quietly, "The picky one is outside and hasn''te in yet."


    Naomi also saw Aidan when she answered the door earlier. "Don''t mind him. As long as it''s something


    you like, he''ll eat it too," she said.


    Hearing that, Leanna turned red in the face and almost choked. "Ms. Fletcher."


    Naomi smiled faintly and stopped teasing her.


    At that point, the door was opened after which Aidan walked in.


    "It''s almost time, so I''m going to the market for some groceries," said Naomi as she rose to her feet.


    Wendy immediately stood up right after. "I''m going too."


    As she walked out, she turned back and said, "Oh, right. Leanna, Aidan, the baby''s diapers and milk


    powder are inside. If he cries, check if he soiled his diapers. If not, then he must be hungry. He only


    needs an ounce and a half of milk powder. Remember to mix the milk with warm water¡­"


    After a quick exnation, Wendy hastily pulled Naomi along and left, not even waiting for Aidan and


    Leanna to reply.


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    How can they rest assured by leaving the child to me and Aidan?


    Before she could recover from her daze, the worst case scenario came true. The baby woke up and


    looked like he was about to cry after pursing his lips.


    Looking in the direction of the baby''s gaze, Leanna met the b*stard''s silent eyes.


    She reminded him kindly, "President Pearson, you''re scaring him."


    Aidan averted his gaze and looked at her. "Why isn''t it you?"


    "When I was here earlier, he slept very soundly, but as soon as you came, he woke up immediately."


    "Perhaps he''s a little sloth-y."


    Leanna was speechless.


    You''re the sloth!


    She ignored the b*stard and picked up a toy in the cradle, trying to appease the baby, whose


    expression was filled with indignance.


    Not long after, the child was giggling away.


    As Aidan watched this scene, the corners of his lips turned up ever so slightly.


    Leanna yed with the child for a while, then noticed that the baby''s face was turning a little red. His


    two fists were also clenched tightly, as if he was exerting a great force.


    Just as she pondered about this, she suddenly caught a whiff of a horrible smell.


    Obviously, Aidan had smelled that too when he frowned and looked at them.


    "Did he¡­" Leanna was unsure.


    Aidan''s expression changed. He was about to leave when Leanna held him back while expressing


    honestly, "I don''t know how."


    "Do you think I''d know how?"


    She gave him an extremely earnest smile. "You know everything, don''t you, President Pearson? Go


    ahead."


    ring at her, Aidan could feel his temples throbbing.


    At this point, Leanna had taken the baby out of the cradle. When she walked into the room, she kept a


    tight grip on Aidan''s sleeve in case the man ran away.


    After cing the baby on the couch, Leanna undid his diapers and looked around. Since she did not


    see a garbage can anywhere, she passed it to the man behind her.

 Chapter 237

    Chapter 237


    Aidan''s expression was way beyond foul at this point. His voice sounded like it was forced through


    gritted teeth as he said, "Leanna, you''d better not take things for granted."


    She took a step backward and passed this very challenging mission to him. "Then, you do it. I''ll dispose


    of it."


    Aidan nced at the little mischief on the couch, who was kicking his feet with some residue still


    sticking on his buttocks. He closed his eyes, suppressed his temper, then reached out and took the


    soiled diapers from Leanna. Soon, he turned around to look for a garbage can to toss it in.


    "President Pearson, please fetch some hot water in a basin." Leanna''s voice sounded from within the


    house.


    With that, she began looking for wet tissues and clean diapers on the table.


    Two minutester, Aidan came in with a small basin while proceeding to ce it on the coffee table in


    front of her.


    She dipped the wet tissues in hot water, then lifted the baby''s legs and began wiping his buttocks.


    When she passed the used tissues to him, Aidan had already punted the garbage can next to her with


    his foot.


    Seeing that, Leanna could not help but pout.


    As she was wiping the baby''s buttocks, she tossed the diapers to Aidan. "Don''t just stand there. Help


    me figure out how to use this thing."


    Aidan reached out and caught the item that fell in his arms. He looked down at it and his thin lips were


    almost forming a straight line.


    Inhaling a deep breath in, he finally took out his phone from his pocket after a few seconds. His long


    fingers swiped and tapped on the screen as he began reading in earnest while frowning.


    Soon enough, Leanna was done with wiping the baby''s buttocks. She turned around and asked,


    "President Pearson, have you figured it out?"


    Aidan tossed his phone aside and stepped forward with his long legs. "Move."


    Realizing that he was about to do it himself, she hastily cleared a spot for him.


    Aidan was indeed undeniably smart; he only had to skim through the tutorial once to learn how to


    change diapers. Although his actions were rather stiff, he sessfullypleted the task in the end.


    When he was done changing the diaper, Leanna put the pants on the baby.


    After everything was settled, she held the baby in her arms, then looked at Aidan and asked casually,


    "President Pearson, do you want to hold him for a bit?"


    "No." His rejection was cold.


    "I see. Then, could you help me prepare some form for him? He just emptied his belly, so he''s


    probably hungry now." Leanna continued, "Right, just now, Ms. Shaffer said that you have to use warm


    water, and you only need an ounce and a half. I believe you won''t run into much trouble with a simple


    task like this."


    Aidan stayed silent.


    The corners of Leanna''s lips turned up as she smiled radiantly.


    At that moment, the sun shone through the clouds and spilled faintly onto the floor.


    There was a spot in the yard where one could catch the sun.


    "I''ll leave this to you, President Pearson. We''ll be waiting for you outside," said Leanna.


    As she said that, she did not even give Aidan a chance to decline as she carried the baby into the yard.


    She ced him in the cradle, then pushed it under the sunlight.


    The baby seemed to enjoy such weather as well. His little arms waved about in the air and he kicked


    his feet happily.


    Leanna lightly touched his little face as the smile on her lips never once faded.


    He''s so tiny. I''m sure he''s barely a month old.


    Some timeter, an icy-cold Aidan came over with a milk bottle.


    "Thank you, President Pearson." Leanna took it and smiled sweetly.


    He quietly clicked his tongue, but his gaze remained on her face, for he was unwilling to look away.


    When Leanna sensed his passionate gaze, she felt a little ufortable. Hiding under the excuse of


    feeding the baby, she hastily turned around.


    The baby must be starving, as he began drinking as soon as he wrapped his hands around the bottle.


    Soon, the bottle was emptied out.


    As Leanna was wiping the milk from his face, Aidan''s voice sounded from behind her. "Have you


    thought of a good name for him?"


    "No, I haven''t. Do you have any suggestions, President Pearson?"


    "This is your mission, not mine."


    Leanna fell silent as she put the bottle aside. "I need time to think, don''t I? I''m not some name


    generator."


    "But you''re quick on your feet when you''re insulting people," said Aidan.


    Leanna turned around to re at him. She was about to say something when he picked up the bottle


    she ced aside, then hastily strode into the kitchen.


    I don''t insult people willingly, had it not been because of you!


    Also, his insults are much worse than mine.


    When it was almost noon, Naomi and Wendy finally returned.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Wendy gathered her things and was about to head home when Leanna called her, "Ms. Shaffer, aren''t


    you bringing the baby with you?"


    "Oh, thanks for the reminder. I almost forgot, the child¡­" Wendy patted herself on the head.


    As she spoke, she sent another SOS signal at Naomi.


    Naomi added calmly, "Ms. Shaffer would be rather inconvenienced if she takes care of the child alone.


    Now that you''re here, you can help look after him for a while longer." With that, she looked at Wendy.


    "Do stay for lunch. You won''t have to make so many trips then."


    Hearing that, Wendy nodded repeatedly and followed Naomi into the kitchen. She said to Leanna and


    Aidan, "Sorry for the trouble."


    "It''s okay, I''m free anyway." Leanna smiled.


    At noon, Naomi made a few dishes which Leanna loved.


    After lunch, Naomi said, "Leanna, Ms. Shaffer and I have to be away for something. Take care of the


    child with Aidan for a while longer, okay?"


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    Not long after they left, Jonathan appeared at the entrance. "President Pearson, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna looked over to see her own luggage in his hands and became speechless.


    Aidan said, "Put it down."


    "Yes, sir."


    After responding, Jonathan hastily turned around, fearing that he might get caught in the crossfire.


    Still, Leanna suppressed her temper as she looked at Aidan. "President Pearson, can you give me a


    reasonable exnation?"


    Without a flinch, Aidan responded, "Who stays in the hotel when they''re home?"


    Leanna corrected him, "This is your home, not mine."


    He nced at her sideways. "My home is yours as well."


    She parted her lips, but she did not know what to say at that moment.


    Nevermind. I can never be as shameless as this b*stard.


    Aidan nced at the baby in the cradle again. "You like him, don''t you? Can you bear leaving him


    behind and stay at the hotel?"


    "Even if I like him, he''s not mine." Leanna''s gaze calmed down considerably.


    "If you really do like him, we can steal him."


    Irritated, she responded, "President Pearson, please have some decency."


    Aidan slightly raised his eyebrows. "Are you sure you don''t want that?"


    "President Pearson, I feel like your red gs are getting more apparent by the day. Perhaps in the near


    future, I''ll be able to visit you in prison."

 Chapter 238

    Chapter 238


    For the entire afternoon, Naomi and Wendy did not return.


    Meanwhile, Leanna was slowly getting the hang of things. She was not as clueless as she used to be


    during the day when it came to taking care of the baby.


    In actuality, the baby slept most of the time. When he woke up, Leanna would either grab a toy and


    y with him, or get Aidan to make some milk.


    Although the b*stard kept a cold expression throughout¡ªalbeit full of reluctance¡ªhe did not decline for


    some reason.


    The afternoon sunlight shone on his face, and for a dazed moment, Leanna thought she was seeing


    things.


    As if they were a family of three and everything was perfectly natural¡­


    Sensing her gaze, Aidan looked at her. "What''s wrong?"


    Leanna pursed her lips and rose to her feet. "Please help me take care of the baby, President Pearson.


    I''m going out for a bit."


    With that, she did not even wait for his approval before hastily walking out of the yard.


    She walked along the street for a few minutes, then came upon the spot where she and Aidan used to


    cruise around theke.


    She stood under the shade of a tree as she gazed in the distance. Her expression was calm, but her


    thoughts were unfathomable.


    Some timeter, footsteps resounded behind her before the slender upright figure stood next to her.


    Leanna took a deep breath. "Why are you here, President Pearson? You''re supposed to look after the


    baby."


    "He''s sleeping, so there''s not much to do. He can''t run anyway." Aidan nced sideways at her. "If I


    don''te out, you''re the one who''s going to run away."


    "I just came out for some fresh air." She lowered her gaze.


    With that, she looked at Aidan again. "President Pearson, can you leave me alone for a bit? I don''t


    want to see you right now."


    He responded indifferently, "When have you ever wanted to see me?"


    Leanna fell silent.


    He had a point, but she was feeling irritable and sullen right now. Just the mere sight of him irritated


    her.


    "I mean it. I just want to be alone for now," said Leanna with a solemn expression.


    At that moment, someone in the boat near the dock asked in local dialect if they wanted to hop on.


    Leanna affirmed, then took two steps down the stairs. Subsequently, she looked at Aidan and


    reminded, "Don''t follow me. Just spare me some kindness."


    Aidan remained silent.


    After getting onto the boat, Leanna found herself drifting slowly into the distance. When the man could


    no longer see her figure, he finally averted his gaze ever so slowly.


    Suddenly, Jonathan popped up out of nowhere, asking in a quiet voice, "President Pearson, do you


    wish to go after her?"


    "No, it''s fine," Aidan responded calmly.


    He knew what Leanna was thinking.


    Turning around, he nced at Jonathan. "I asked you to stay inside, didn''t I? What are you doing out


    here?"


    "Madam Fletcher and her friend have returned," replied Jonathan.


    Some timeter, he answered a call before informing, "President Pearson, everything is ready. Do we


    still proceed with the n?"


    Aidan gazed in the distance, his tone calm as he said, "Tell them to clean it up. I''m not going."


    "Understood, sir."


    With that, Jonathan left.


    In reality, Aidan came to Highside this time to deal with Anna himself.


    However, he did not expect to run into Leanna here.


    I guess President Pearson has changed his mind.


    On theke.


    Leanna stared into the distance and her expression was mournful.


    If her child were still alive, he might be a few months old by now.


    He would probably be like Wendy''s grandson and lie worry-free in a cradle. He would smile whenever


    he saw her, and he would purse his lips and threaten to cry if Aidan appeared.


    Leanna hugged her knees and her thoughts drifted uncontrobly far away.


    Time passed and the sun slowly set. The sky also darkened gradually as the cold wind blew in


    intermittent breezes.


    Leanna could not help but sneeze a few times, so she said to the boatman, "I would like to head back


    now."


    "Oh, sure!" The boatman paddled as he chatted with her, "This is your second time here, isn''t it?"


    She nodded. "I got in your boatst time as well."


    "I knew it. You looked very familiar earlier. I remember you came with your husbandst time. It''s been


    a few months and I remember rmending a few tourist spots to him back then. How were they? Not


    bad, right? Our love lock bridge works wonders. All the couples who went there stay together forever."


    Stunned, Leanna took awhile to regain herposure.


    No wonder Aidan crossed half of a city to bring me somewhere so far for a mealst time. It was


    because of this.


    As the boat reached the dock, the entire sky was already covered in gray.


    When Leanna was getting off the boat, she identally stepped into the air as she was distracted by


    her thoughts. She almost tripped and staggered, but at that moment, arge hand supported her


    steadily.


    After regaining her bnce, Leanna was silent for a few seconds before asking, "Have you been


    waiting here all this while, President Pearson?"


    "Yes. If you got too depressed and jumped into theke, I can save you quicker."


    Leanna gritted her teeth and suppressed the urge to step on his feet without sparing him a nce as


    she ascended the steps and left in strides.


    Trailing behind, Aidan asked in a softer voice, "Are you feeling better?"


    "I can''t feel better when I see you, President Pearson."


    "Then, try to ovee it or just close your eyes."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna was speechless.


    She felt that she must be very fortunate to be alive right now despite the infinite times he had angered


    her.


    Just as she arrived at the entrance to Naomi''s house and was about to head in, Aidan grabbed her


    wrist. "Let me bring you somewhere else."


    Pausing in her tracks, Leanna mocked on purpose, "Not the love lock bridge again, I hope?"


    "If you want to, we can actually do that."


    "No, thank you!" She gritted her teeth.


    Aidan curved his thin lips, then pulled her along and stuffed her into the ck Maybach parked at the


    side.


    After a twenty-minute drive, the car pulled up at the jetty.


    On the surface of the sea was a cruise ship, which was slowly departing away.


    Leanna turned to look at Aidan, slightly confused.


    He held the steering wheel with one hand as his long fingers lightly tapped on it. "Anna is on that ship."


    "Oh," Leanna answered after a long while.


    Aidan looked at the cruise ship and uttered slowly, "Leanna, I''ll make them pay for everything they did


    to you."


    "Even so, you can''t change the ending." Leanna''s expression was calm.


    "No one knows how things will end until we''ve reached the ending."


    Leanna turned around, feeling as if Aidan was hinting at something.


    Still, from his way of putting it, he probably would not tell her.


    When the cruise ship sailed into the distance, Aidan finally averted his gaze and restarted the engine


    before stepping on the gas pedal to leave.


    On their way back, Leanna leaned against the window and stared dazedly at the lights as their


    shadows flickered outside.


    She had sighed for the umpteenth time when she looked up to see that they had pulled up at the


    entrance to the old street where the love lock bridge was located.


    Leanna widened her eyes in disbelief as she stared at the b*stard next to her. "President Pearson, you


    ¡ª"


    Yet, Aidan''s expression waspletely earnest. "You wanted toe here, didn''t you?"

 Chapter 239

    Chapter 239


    Leanna was now regretting itpletely. She should not have mocked him with that question earlier.


    After parking the car, Aidan said indifferently, "Get out."


    Pouting, Leanna had no choice but topromise.


    When they arrived at the street of food stalls, Aidan ordered a few food items Leanna wanted to tryst


    time. Then, he skilfully led her to the side and sat down.


    Leanna was actually surprised to see him remembering every single food item fromst time.


    However, she was pregnant back then, so she had a bigger appetite. In contrast to the present, she


    could not finish all of the food.


    Just as she was about to say something, Aidan met her gaze. "Do you need more?"


    "Uh¡­ No."


    It was weird. She came here twice, and although everything seemed to be different, it feltpletely


    the same somehow.


    At the end of their meal, Leanna felt that her worries earlier were in vain since they had finished all of


    the food items they ordered with almost nothing left.


    Aidan may be a picky person, but he would never waste food. Perhaps this was rted to the habits he


    formed during his childhood.


    After the meal, Leanna asked tentatively, "President Pearson, shouldn''t we head back now?"


    Rising to his feet, Aidan replied leisurely, "Since we just finished eating, we should do something to aid


    our digestion."


    With that, he strode toward the location of the love lock bridge.


    Leanna was forced to follow.


    It was a time when most students were on their winter break. There was an especiallyrge number of


    young couples and it was even livelierpared to thest time they were there.


    They had not walked for long before Leanna was separated from Aidan in the crowd.


    Just as she was wondering if she should find somece to sit, a warmrge hand suddenly took hers.


    She subconsciously raised her head to look. The b*stard who had disappeared in the crowd hade


    back without her noticing.


    Leanna wanted to remove her hand from his, but she struggled a few times in vain, only to be grasped


    tighter. The man even took the opportunity to intece his fingers tightly with hers.


    Subsequently, he boldly found an excuse. "There are too many people here. We don''t get separated if


    we do this."


    Before she could decline, he continued walking forward while holding her hand.


    Reluctant, Leanna continued to struggle with his hand. She did so until a small girl walked right in her


    direction. She did not notice the girl; had Aidan not reached out to shield her, she would have collided


    with the girl.


    The ce was indeed overcrowded, so Leanna could only give up.


    Among the crowd, they looked like a normal lovely couple.


    Once they reached the love lock bridge, Leanna was taken by surprise when Aidan actually took her to


    line up at the spot to purchase the love lock.


    Still, she maintained her sense of reason and calm. "President Pearson, do you think this is


    reasonable?"


    "Yes, I do."


    "Well, I don''t!"


    Aidan''s expression remained unfazed. "What can I say? That''s your problem."


    At that point, Leanna did not want to y his stupid game anymore. Just as she was about to remove


    her hand from his again, two men walked up to them and one of them was holding a camera.


    "Hello, we are the staff of the love lock bridge. Are you a couple by any chance?"


    "No¡ª"


    Aidan answered confidently, "We''re married."


    The staff member immediately understood. "Sir, Ma''am, pardon the intrusion. We just feel that you both


    are a very loving couple, and your image and aura together are wonderful. May we invite you for a


    photoshoot to serve as an advertisement for the love lock bridge? To express our sincerity, you don''t


    have to line up, so you can get the love locks right away. Besides that, we''re also giving you a little gift."


    Pfft. Enlighten me, in what way do we look like a loving couple? Leanna sneered to herself.


    At that moment, a man''s calm voice sounded beside her. "Sure."


    Leanna turned around and widened her eyes as she stared at him in disbelief.


    You? Taking photos? The b*stard doesn''t even like having his photos taken! His photos are nowhere to


    be found on the official website of Pearson Group or any finance newspapers.


    "This way please." The staff led them.


    "No, I¡ª"


    "You didn''t want to line up, right? So stop making a fuss," Aidan whispered to her.


    Leanna was caught off guard. Do I look like I wasining about the line? This b*stard is justOriginal from N?velDrama.Org.


    making things up!


    Once they arrived at the brook withnterns floating on it, the staff member said, "All right, just be


    natural. You can act like earlier, chatting and whatnot. It''s fine either way."


    At this point, reluctance was written all over Leanna''s face and she did not cooperate in the least.


    Aidan leaned in and uttered slowly with his low voice, "If you keep struggling, I might kiss you in front of


    everybody."


    Speechless, she quickly retorted, "President Pearson, if you''re fine with me hitting you in front of


    everybody, you can try."


    Ignoring her words, Aidan slightly tilted his head and straightened himself. Then, his thin lips brushed


    against her cheek.


    At that moment, Leanna froze from head to toe. She never expected such a gesture from him.


    This was even more¡­ irritating than him kissing her boldly and matter-of-factly.


    Aidan was satisfied with her reaction as he curled his lips.


    Meanwhile, the staff member walked over to them and informed them, "All right, the photos are done.


    Thank you very much. Come with me, please."


    Before Leanna could react, the b*stard was already dragging her with him as he walked forward.


    Arriving at the building near the love lock bridge, the staff member retrieved a love lock from a drawer


    and passed it to them. "Write your names on this love lock, then hang it on the bridge. That''ll be all."


    Naturally, Aidan reached out and took it. He picked up a pen on the table, then bent over and wrote


    down their names on the love lock.


    As Leanna watched the scene, she opened her mouth to say something, but she felt that it would be


    useless anyway. She touched her nose a little ufortably as she looked in the distance.


    After Aidan had written their names, the staff member said, "Sir, please leave an address and we''ll


    deliver the gift to you tomorrow."


    While the man was writing his address, Leanna suddenly looked at the cameraman, who was waiting at


    the side. "Can I get another love lock? I haven''t written mine."


    The cameraman looked terribly confused.


    Don''t couples just write both their names on one love lock? Why is she asking for another one?


    "Just ignore her," Aidan said calmly.


    "You''re being unreasonable here, President Pearson. How can they ignore me? I contributed too, so it''s


    not too much to ask for a love lock, right?" Leanna rebuked.


    "Whose names are you writing?"


    "Mine and Elijah''s, of course."


    Aidan''s expression gradually darkened as he stared coldly at her.


    Seeing that, the two staff members exchanged nces, then decided to escape the oing war.


    They already received the address anyway.


    Leanna smiled at Aidan. "Are you mad now, President Pearson?"


    "No."


    "Then¡ª"


    "I''m jealous."


    Leanna fell silent.


    This b*stard keepsing up with the worst answers.

 Chapter 240

    Chapter 240


    Aidan''s dark eyes glinted as he looked at her. Then, he said without warning, "They''re gone now. If you


    still want it, I can line up with you."


    "It''s okay. I was just kidding."


    She just wanted to piss the b*stard off on purpose so that he would get mad and leave the love lock


    alone.


    However, she did not expect him to behave so unusually and she felt rather awkward about it now.


    Aidan''s thin lips curved ever so slightly as he held her hand again before walking forward slowly.


    When he secured the lock on the bridge, Leanna was scanning her surroundings, trying to hide the


    nervousness and remorse she felt inside her.


    After the lock was attached, Leanna said, "It''s gettingte now. I should leave. You can stay behind on


    your own if you want to, President Pearson."


    With that, she hurriedly strode away.


    Leaving the love lock bridge, Leanna felt that even the air was fresher now that the crowd had thinned.


    She let out a long breath, then took her phone to hail a ride back when someone grasped her wrist.


    "Here."


    Leanna pouted. She had been running so fast, but the b*stard still managed to catch up to her.


    After the extended dy at the love lock bridge, it was 10.00PM by the time they went back to


    Underwood Lane.


    In the past, Naomi would have been asleep at that hour.


    Yet today, the lights in the yard were shining brightly as a baby''s cries could be heard in the house.


    Hearing that, Leanna hastily ran in.


    In the yard, Naomi was holding the baby in her arms as she coaxed him.


    "Ms. Fletcher, what happened to him?" asked Leanna.


    Naomi answered, "It''s okay, all babies are like this at night. They''ll make a fuss, so you just have to put


    them to sleep."


    "Let me carry him." Leanna reached out after which Naomi passed the baby into her arms.


    After a while of coaching, the baby''s cries dwindled, but there were still a few uncontroble sobs.


    With the child in her arms, she asked, "Where''s Ms. Shaffer?"


    Naomi instantly answered, "She caught a cold when we went out this afternoon. She feared that the


    baby might catch it too, so she wanted me to help her look after him for the night."


    Hearing that, Leanna did not doubt her words at all.


    Naomi and Wendy had always been close friends. They rarely had their own rtives visiting them, so


    they were like family at this point. Hence, it was normal for them to help each other out.


    Leanna nodded as she thought, No wonder the baby is wailing so much. He must''ve realized that his


    own grandmother isn''t here.


    After holding him for a while, Leanna noticed that the baby''s round gaze was glued to the side and his


    hands were waving in the air.


    She looked in the direction of his gaze, then licked her lips as she stepped forward. "President


    Pearson, why don''t you hold him for a bit?"


    Aidan frowned as reluctance scrambled all over his face.


    Leanna pleaded, "Just for a bit. Look how cute he is."


    The man slightly raised his gaze while saying steadily, "Not as cute as you."


    Remaining silent, Leanna blushed so much that even her neck reddened and she felt as if her entire


    body was on fire.


    In the distance, Naomi coughed upon making up an excuse to retire to her room.


    Seeing that, Leanna felt so embarrassed that she could dig a hole and bury herself in it.


    As Aidan reached out, she immediately took a few steps backward and warned, "What are you doing?"


    "You wanted me to hold him, right?" He raised his eyebrows.


    Leanna took a long while to answer, "Oh."


    The b*stard had interrupted her thoughts.


    As such, she carefully ced the baby in his arms while whispering, "Support his head with this hand


    and your other hand should support his butt."


    "I know."


    Leanna paused for a bit as she saw how Aidan was actually holding the baby in the perfect posture, a


    stark contrast to his stiffness when he was changing the diapers earlier. She looked at him


    suspiciously. "How do you know, President Pearson? Have you held a child before?"


    He looked calmly at her. "You said I know everything, didn''t you?"


    Indeed, she did.


    Leanna coughed. "Then, hold him for a little longer. I''m moving the things inside."


    With that, she hastily moved the things from the yard into the house.


    Soon, Aidan walked in with the baby, but his expression was grim.


    Leanna quickly looked in Aidan''s arms. The baby''s tightly clenched fists were rxing and a smile had


    returned to his face as his tiny arms waved about happily.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    By the looks of his posture, he must have pooped again.


    Leanna suppressed herugh as she said in all seriousness, "President Pearson, I think he likes you a


    lot."


    Yet before Aidan could get angry, she instantly took the baby from his arms, then went to look for


    Naomi.


    In the bathroom, Naomi had already prepared warm water for the baby''s bath. When she saw Leanna


    running over to her, she knew what had happened without asking about it.


    Carefully, she took the baby and wiped his buttocks clean, then ced him in the bathtub.


    The baby seemed to enjoy his baths as he kicked his feet happily in the water.


    Leanna crouched at the side while lightly scrubbing him with a towel. Then, she looked around to see


    that the ce was fully equipped with children''s necessities. She could not help butpliment, "Ms.


    Shaffer is too considerate. She even brought all these things over."


    Naomi smiled and exined, "It''s a baby, after all. He''ll need more stuff, and he might feel


    ufortable if anything is missing."


    Leanna nodded as she remembered the things she bought when she was pregnant. A few seconds


    Naomi answered with ease, "Not too serious. The cold wind got to her, so she just has to rest for a few


    days to recover."


    As the two chatted, they finished bathing the baby.


    After Naomi dressed the baby, she thought for a bit before asking, "Leanna, I''m thinking of letting the


    baby sleep with you today. What do you think?"


    "Me?" Leanna was stunned.


    "He''s alright with strangers. You''ve been taking care of him the whole day, so if he sleeps with you


    tonight, he probably won''t make too much of a fuss."


    Leanna was a little hesitant. "I''ve never looked after a child at night on my own before. I''m worried that I


    can''t take care of him properly¡­"


    Naomi assured, "It''s okay, there''s a first time for everything."


    As she spoke, she ced the child into Leanna''s arms. "Just hold him for a bit. I''ll ask Aidan to move


    the cradle to your room."


    Leanna parted her lips to say something, but the baby in her arms seemed to have sensed something


    as his tiny hand grabbed a button on her shirt with his eyes curving as he smiled.


    The corners of Leanna''s lips also turned up as a smile graced her face.


    Fine. Since I''ve looked after him during the day, we should be fine at night.


    As a result, she carried the baby and walked around for a bit downstairs. When the baby was nodding


    off to sleep, she finally went upstairs.


    The cradle was already located in the room she stayed in before. On the table was some baby form


    and a thermos sk, and a bunch of things she might need at night.


    Yet, besides these items, there was another unexpected guest in the room.

 Chapter 241

    Chapter 241


    Leanna put the baby down in the crib before asking him to leave. "You should leave, President


    Pearson. I''m going to sleep."


    Aidan gazed at her as he slowly drawled out the words, "You can only call it resting if it''s one person.


    It''s called sleeping only when there are two people. Since you put it that way, does that mean you want


    me to sleep with you?"


    What the f*ck is he talking about? she thought to herself.


    Just as she was about to kick him out, her phone that was in the bag rang.


    Afraid that it would wake the baby up, she rushed to pick it up.


    She took a look at the caller ID. Then, she nced at the man sitting on the couch before walking into


    the bathroom.


    She picked up the call as soon as she was in the bathroom, but right before the bathroom door shut,


    she called out Elijah''s name and it didn''t go unnoticed by Aidan.


    He put down the book in his hands as his lips pressed into a thin line.


    In the bathroom, Leanna went over to the window and pushed it open after she had shut the door while


    asking, "What''s up?"


    Elijah''s voice came from the other end of the line. "I heard Zoe say you''ve gone to Weavside. How is


    it?"


    She smiled gently. "It''s pretty nice. The pace here is slower than at Highside. So, it''s rxing."


    "That sounds nice. It makes me want to visit that ce too." He paused for a while before revealing his


    intention with the call. "Leanna, how¡­ long more before your return trip?"


    "Probably two or three days'' time."


    He continued to ask, "They''re setting up a ss reunion this weekend. Would you go?"


    Leanna answered, "I''ll see when the timees, but didn''t we just have a reunion some time ago?


    Why another reunion so soon?"


    "It was only a few of us thest time. This time it''s for the whole ss. If you''re not going, I''m not going


    as well."


    Hearing his stance, Leanna felt pressured and thought about it before answering, "I''ll ask Zoe first and


    see what she says."


    She was never one for crowds. Moreover, she wasn''t close with many of her ssmates and lost


    contact with them after graduation.


    This type of huge reunion was a first for her in a long time.


    So, she wanted to ask Zoe to see whether there was a reason for her to attend. If it was just a simple


    reunion, she probably would not attend.


    "Okay," Elijah answered. "I''ll pick you up at the airport when youe back, Leanna."


    "It''s okay. I¡ª" A knocking sound interrupted her.


    Before she could respond, Aidan''s voice came through the door. "Are you done showering? I''ve been


    waiting for half an hour."


    Leanna was speechless. That b*stard definitely did this on purpose!


    For a brief moment, Elijah went silent on the other end of the phone before speaking, "Go do your


    thing, Leanna. Let me know when you''ve decided."


    After hanging up the phone, she pulled the door open and red at Aidan. She was about tosh out


    at him, but she suddenly remembered that the baby was in the room.


    Gritting her teeth, she suppressed her anger.


    On the other hand, Aidan casually leaned on the door frame with his hands crossed in front of his


    chest. "You took a long time in there. I needed to use the bathroom."


    Leanna gritted the words through her teeth. "Don''t you have your own room, President Pearson?"


    "The heater in my room isn''t working," he said as he pulled her out of the bathroom. "Get me a change


    of clothes, will you? Though, it''s okay if you don''t want to. I don''t mind¡ª"


    Without waiting to hear his nonsense, Leanna pushed him into the bathroom and mmed the door


    shut.


    She took a few deep breaths to calm herself down.


    Who could she me as things had turned out this way? It all started three years ago when she


    grabbed his sleeve at Patheon Club.


    So, in other words, the fault was on her. You reap what you sow, Leanna, she thought to herself bitterly.


    She went to Aidan''s room and could not find his luggage. Then, she opened the wardrobe to see it


    filled with his clothes. It seemed like he would sometimes stay there for a long time.


    Suddenly, she frowned when a thought crossed her mind. Could it be that he came back to stay after


    he had left with me thest time?


    After some thought, Leanna felt that it made sense since Naomi¡ªAidan''s mother¡ªwas here, so it was


    natural that he woulde here frequently.


    She picked a set of home clothes for Aidan and was about to leave the room, but right before she did


    so, she turned around with a straight face and looked at the wardrobe as anger burned in her. He''s


    such an insufferable man!


    After returning to her room, she ced the clothes on the chair outside the bathroom and knocked on


    the door. She said impatiently, "Your clothes are outside, President Pearson."


    The sound of the shower stopped before Aidan asked slowly, "You''ve got everything?"


    Leanna clenched her teeth before uttering the words one by one, "Yes. Everything!"


    If it weren''t because she was afraid of him teasing her, she would have just ignored him.


    Annoying b*stard!


    She didn''t want to entertain him anymore, so she walked to the bed and took off her winter jacket


    before wrapping herself tightly with the nket.


    Soon, the bathroom door opened, and it was closed again in less than a few seconds.


    Even with a thickyer of nket covering her, Leanna could still hear the sounds of him putting on his


    clothes.


    Two minutester, the bathroom door opened again, and Aidan walked out while drying his hair with a


    towel. His eyes glinted when he saw the bulge on the bed.


    Suddenly, Leanna''s voice came from within the nket. "Since you''re done showering, President


    Pearson, please return to your room. I want to sle¡ªrest now!"


    Aidan then said, "You don''t want to shower? Go take a shower. I''ll look after him for you."


    She hesitated before answering, "I''m not showering!"


    "You''ve been out the whole day. Don''t you feel dirty?"


    "And yet, being dirty didn''t stop you from taking advantage of me, though."


    Aidan threatened her, "If you''re still not going to shower, I''ll take advantage of you right now."


    That made Leanna jump up from the bed. She wanted to strangle him.


    He sat on the couch and calmly assured her, "I''ll leave after you''re out of the shower."


    "Really? I don''t believe you, though."


    He looked at her and chuckled. "If I really wanted to do something, did I need to wait until now?"


    "Don''t you feel ashamed for the things you just said?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The b*stard said it like he''s innocent.


    He crossed his long, slender legs. "It''s up to you to believe it or not."


    After that, he merely sat there and it didn''t seem like he was going to leave anytime soon.


    Leanna looked at her baby in deep slumber beside her and made up her mind. I will not shower in front


    of him! She then fell back into the bed and wrapped herself in the nket again.


    Aidan was speechless at her defiance.


    Just as he was about to say something, she warned him, "There''s always a line you should not cross,


    President Pearson."


    Even though she had been enduring him today, it didn''t mean that he could push his luck.


    He raised his hand and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Am I so unworthy of your trust?"


    "This isn''t about trust!"


    "Then, what is it?"


    She didn''t answer him.

 Chapter 242

    Chapter 242


    When the sound of the door closing reached her ears, Leanna stayed under the cover for a few more


    minutes. It was after making sure Aidan was truly gone that she finally poked her head out of the


    nket and took a deep breath.


    She flipped the nket away and got down from the bed to check on the baby in the crib. The baby


    was in deep slumber, and he didn''t show any sign of waking up soon.


    Then, she carefully unzipped her luggage and took out her pajamas before tip-toeing to the bathroom.


    She dared not use the hair dryer as she was afraid of waking the baby. So, she didn''t wash her hair


    and just tied them up.


    After showering, she walked out of the bathroom to find the baby smacking his lips and waving around


    his hands while his eyes were still tightly shut.


    Leanna quickly strode over. As she reached out her hands, the baby caught her fingers immediately.


    The corners of her lips curved up before she sat on the bed and leaned on the crib as she stared


    quietly at him with tender eyes. Soon after, she fell asleep.


    It was until midnight that she had woken up by the criesing from the crib. It was the baby.


    She quickly switched on the lights and sat up. Figuring that the baby was hungry, she flipped the


    nket away, got down from the bed, and got the thermos to make some form.


    After drinking his milk, the baby was energized and looked around curiously with his big round eyes.


    At that moment, the room door suddenly opened.


    Then, a man''s calm voice came from outside. "What are you doing not sleeping in the middle of the


    night?"


    Leanna turned her head with the baby in her arms. "I wasn''t loud, though. Did I wake you up?"


    Aidan looked down to see the wide-awake little punk as he licked his lips subtly. Then, he strode over


    with his long legs and whispered, "Give him to me."


    She looked at him with questioning eyes.


    And he repeated, "Give him to me. Go to sleep."


    She didn''t expect him to say that and was stunned for a few seconds before answering him, "It''s okay. I


    can handle this myself. You should sleep, President Pearson."


    "You''re being courteous with me now?"


    Leanna didn''t know how to respond to that.


    Aidan didn''t wait for her rejection and reached out to carry the baby in her arms.


    She dared not to struggle with him as she was afraid of hurting the baby. So, he sessfully took the


    baby in his arms.


    He turned around and sat down on the couch. Without lifting his head, he ordered Leanna, "Go back to


    sleep."


    She opened her mouth but didn''t know what to say.


    Aidan was doing something that did not match his image, but the scene before her was surprisingly


    harmonious.


    However, it was apparent that the baby didn''t want Aidan to carry him as he pursed his lips, looking like


    he was about to cry. Aidan warned him in a deep voice, "Shut up."


    Aggrieved, the little guy sniffled and clenched his fist.


    Leanna could not bear to see that. "Just give him to me, President Pearson. He''s notfortable with


    you holding him."


    Hemented, "You''re just spoiling him."


    She pursed her lips and thought to herself, It''s obvious that he''s scaring the baby, yet he turns around


    and says I''m the one spoiling him.


    However, though the baby fidgeted in Aidan''s arms, he slowly closed his eyes and fell asleep in a few


    minutes. That''s unexpected, Leanna remarked in her mind.


    Aidan ced the baby back in the crib before saying softly, "He''ll only wake up once in the middle of


    the night. You can go back to sleep now."


    Leanna looked at him with her head tilted and questioned, "How did you know about that?"


    He paused for a brief moment before he raised his head to meet her eyes. "You just need to ask, then


    you''ll find the answer."


    "Oh."


    She didn''t expect him to be so attentive as to ask Wendy about the baby''s sleeping habits.


    Aidan stood there for a few minutes before telling her, "I''m leaving."


    Leanna looked at him with a puzzled look.


    If he wants to leave, then leave. Does he think that I would ask him to stay?


    Seeing that he was not moving, she responded uncertainly, "Then¡­ Good night, President Pearson?"


    He smirked faintly. "Good night."


    With that, he left the room.


    Looking at his receding back, Leanna found itical.


    He''s so childish.


    Later that night, the baby didn''t wake up, just like Aidan said.


    However, she tossed and turned as shey on the bed. She couldn''t seem to fall asleep as there were


    so many things on her mind.


    And it took her staring at the crib beside her in the twilight for a long time before she could finally fall


    asleep.


    When she woke up, the sun was already high in the sky.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    She sat up hastily and saw that it was 11.00AM.


    She massaged her head and turned toward the crib, only to find it was empty.


    She changed and went downstairs to see the baby in a rocker on the patio. He was ying with his


    toys happily while Aidan was seated at the table working.


    Leanna then asked, "Where''s Ms. Fletcher?"


    Aidan answered without lifting his head, "She''s gone to the hospital with Ms. Shaffer."


    Then, she sat on the chair and looked at a pot not far away in a daze. It was clear that she had not fully


    woken up yet.


    "What do you want to eat? I''ll ask Jonathan to send it over."


    After a few seconds, Leanna came back to her senses. "It''s alright. We should still have some


    groceries in the fridge. I''ll cook."


    At that moment, there was a knock on the door, and she went to answer it. It was a young man


    standing outside. "Does Mr. Pearson stay here?"


    She turned her head and looked before nodding slightly. "Yes."


    He then took out a gift box. "I''m an employee of the love lock bridge, and here is the present we said


    that''s for you both."


    Leanna epted the gift. "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. I''ll be taking my leave, then."


    She closed the door after the young man left and turned around to ce the box in front of Aidan


    before walking straight to the kitchen.


    The kitchen was filled with groceries Naomi bought from the market yesterday. Leanna first steamed


    some corn on the stove and thought of making some spicy ribs, but then remembered that Aidan could


    not eat spicy food. So, she dropped the thought.


    As she was cooking, she felt something was off. Why do I have to amodate him?


    Then, she went to grab the ribs and only to put them down once again.


    Oh, whatever. It would be a waste if I couldn''t finish itter anyway.


    With her hands on the sink, she felt like she was out of her mind.


    Atst, she made two dishes and one soup, and they were all lightly spiced.


    When she exited the kitchen, Aidan had already closed hisptop and opened the gift box on the table.


    Inside were the photos they took in front of the love lock bridgest night.


    They even used a special frame for the photos. On the left side of the frame was written ''May you have


    a long happy marriage'' while ''May you be blessed with happy children'' was written on the right with a


    line of hearts at the top and a mini love lock bridge cartoon at the bottom.


    It was so clich¨¦ that it was a trend in itself.


    Looking at the frame and photos, she had an impulse to return to Highside immediately.

 Chapter 243

    Chapter 243


    Two days went by in the blink of an eye and it was time to leave. Leanna stared tenderly at the baby in


    the crib smiling happily at her, but she did not want to leave.


    Aidan walked to her side andforted her, "I told you we could secretly take him away if you really


    don''t want to leave him."


    Her eyes twitched. "Shut up."


    Then, she took a deep breath before looking at Naomi. "Ms. Fletcher, I''m leaving now. I''lle to visit


    when I have the time."


    Naomi nodded. "Have a safe journey."


    After exiting the patio, Leanna just so happened to see Wendy talking to the neighbor that had not


    moved out at the gate. She went over and asked with concern, "Ms. Shaffer, is your cold better?"


    Hearing that, Wendy coughed and answered her, "Yea, it''s better. Um. Thank you for helping me these


    last two days, Leanna."


    Leanna shook her head with a smile. "No problems, Ms. Shaffer. It''s my pleasure."


    She was filled with happiness these two days.


    Wendy looked at the luggage in her hands and asked, "Are you guys leaving now? Why don''t you stay


    for two more days?"


    "We can''t. I''ve got work to handle. I''lle next time."


    "Sure. Of course. I won''t hold you up then. Have a safe journey."


    Leanna nodded at her and left as she pulled the luggage behind her. However, she took two steps and


    heard the neighbor beside Wendy whispering, "Is Leanna going to leave just like that? She''s just going


    to dump the child here and not care anymore?"


    Leanna paused in her tracks and heard Wendy''s constant coughing before she could turn around.


    Wendy raised her voice and exined, "Oh my. This cold is so annoying. If it wasn''t for Naomi and


    Leanna helping to care for my grandson, I wouldn''t know what to do."


    Then, nothing was heard anymore.


    So, Leanna thought that she must have heard it wrongly.


    ¡­


    After returning to Highside, Leanna collected her luggage and walked out straight.


    Aidan nced to the side and Jonathan got his signal before walking briskly toward her. "Ma¡ªMiss


    McKinney, let me send you home."


    "Thanks, but no thanks. My friend is here to pick me up." Aidan''s face instantly went cold at her words.


    Jonathan tried to salvage the situation. "Miss McKinney, why don''t you ask your friend to stay home?


    Air pollution is a huge thing now. It''s everyone''s job to protect the environment."


    She was speechless and turned her head to look at him. "Have you ever considered changing your job,


    Mr. Stoll?"


    "Um¡­ not at the moment."


    Then, Leanna suggested earnestly to him, "I''ll advise you to change as soon as you can. If not, with the


    stress at such a young age, all your hair is going to fall off."


    Jonathan was stunned and could not reply.


    She said what she wanted as she turned around and left quickly.


    Jonathan gave a fake cough and returned to Aidan''s side. "President Pearson, I¡­"


    He tried his best.


    Aidan looked at Leanna''s leaving back and licked his lips. "Fine."


    It was his first time experiencing her smart mouth.


    The sky was dark when she exited the terminal and Zoe''s car appeared before her within two minutes.


    After she ced the luggage at the back, she opened the passenger seat and got on. "Did you wait for


    long?"


    Zoe replied, "Nope. I just got here a couple of minutes ago. So, how was the trip? Did that b*stard


    make it hard for you?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No."


    Except for the fact that he forced her to go to the love lock bridge and some other random things, he


    was normal the next two days and stayed at home with her taking care of the baby.


    Zoe mumbled and she drove, "I never thought that there''ll be times he''s normal. At least he''s not being


    secretive anymore."


    Leanna could not catch her words. "Who''s being secretive?"


    Realizing that she said that out loud, Zoe gave a dryugh and changed the topic, "No¡­ I was just


    saying. Oh right, what did you do there? Was it fun?"


    Now, it was Leanna''s turn to be silent.


    After a while, she replied, "I didn''t do anything. I was just taking care of a baby."


    Zoe''s eyes widened in disbelief. "Taking care of a baby? What baby?"


    Then, Leanna let out a long breath. "There was ady neighbor whose son just had a second child, but


    did not have time to care for the child. So, he asked her to help. When I arrived, Ms. Shaffer got sick


    and was afraid of infecting the child, So, she asked Ms. Fletcher to help take care of the baby. I helped


    out since I was there as well."


    Zoe took her time taking in the information. This excuse was a little absurd.


    Then, she asked, "Nana, how old was the child?"


    "I didn''t ask, but he looked really small. So, he''s probably just a month old."


    That made Zoe even more confused. "Wait, no. A one-month-old baby and his parents just dumped


    him at his grandma''s ce? Wouldn''t they usually wait until the baby is weaned? Besides, wouldn''t


    they ask the grandma to go to their ce and not leave the child there without them?"


    Hearing that, Leanna was stunned. If Zoe didn''t bring this up, she never thought of this problem.


    The baby had been by Naomi''s side these two days and Wendy woulde over once in a while.


    However, she felt that Wendy wasn''t as close to the baby and Naomi seemed morefortable taking


    care of the baby.


    Even though Wendy was sick, it still didn''t make sense.


    This problem was bugging Leanna until she arrived home and arranged her clothes in the wardrobe.


    Suddenly, she saw a baby''s shirt in the corner and a crazy thought shed across her mind.


    The baby without a name, the pile of baby products in Naomi''s house, and Aidan asking her twice if


    she wanted to sneak the baby away.


    Based on Aidan''s personality, he didn''t like children. However, he was patient this time and spent two


    days with her taking care of the baby without anyints.


    Moreover, he was familiar when he held the baby too.


    Besides that, there were those clothes in the wardrobe and the words the neighbor and Wendy said


    when she left.


    Everything was strange and she could not help but suspect.


    She grabbed a jacket and turned around to the door.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe was brushing her teeth when she heard the sound and came out from the bathroom to see Leanna


    putting on her shoes and asked, "Nana, where are you going sote at night?"


    She rushed out, "I need to go Weavside."


    ¡°Didn''t you juste back? Did you forget something?"


    "No. I need to confirm one thing."


    It was the first time Zoe saw Leanna with such a worried and urgent look in her eyes. She took out her


    toothbrush and ran into the bathroom. "It''s hard to get a cab sote. Wait for me. I''ll go with you."

 Chapter 244

    Chapter 244


    In the car, Leanna booked the earliest ticket to Weavside avable.


    Even so, it was 6.00AM the next day when they got off the airne.


    Standing in front of Naomi''s house, Leanna had never felt her heart pounding that fast.


    She took a deep breath and calmed herself down before knocking on the door.


    It so happened that Naomi just got up and opened the door to see her standing outside and eximed


    in surprise, "Leanna, why are you¡ª"


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Miss Fletcher, I want to see the child again."


    Naomi was taken aback and couldn''t form the words for a moment.


    Without waiting for an answer, Leanna strode into the house and Zoe trailed behind her.


    However, the little guy seemed to have disappeared. There was nothing left in the house.


    Just as Leanna was standing there zoning out, Naomi walked over and muttered, "As you know Ms.


    Shaffer was sick, so her daughter-inw came overst night and took the baby home."


    Leanna opened her lip but didn''t know what to say as tears brimmed her eyes.


    Naomi sighed as she knew what she was thinking, but could not tell her the truth and patted her on the


    shoulder. "You can still have a baby in the future, Leanna"


    She bit down on her lips to stop the tears from flowing and mumbled, "I thought¡­ I was also sure


    that¡­"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In the end, she overthought it.


    Naomi offered her some sce. "If you want to see the child, I can help you ask for an address from


    Ms. Shaffer."


    She shook her head. "There''s no need for that."


    "Leanna."


    "Sorry, Ms. Fletcher. I got to go," said Leanna resolutely before turning around and walking out with


    such sadness as her shoulders slumped.


    Zoe smiled awkwardly at Naomi and gave her a quick nod before following Leanna.


    The sun was just rising and the yellow lights shone from the street lights by the small river in the chilly


    dawn.


    Leanna''s head hung low as she strolled.


    Zoe caught up to her and scratched her head. "I''m sorry, Nana. If it wasn''t for my big mouth, you


    wouldn''t have mistaken and¡ª"


    Leanna lightly shook her head. "It''s not you. It''s me. I was too sensitive."


    It might be because she had spent a lot of time with the little guy these past two days. That''s why she


    had unrealistic expectations.


    Thinking back, it was natural that her child would not have lived in that horrendous ident.


    She took a deep breath and told Zoe, "Let''s go back, Zoe."


    Naomi waited until Leanna left before calling Aidan. "Leanna''s left, Aidan."


    "Got it." He paused before continuing, "I''ll send someone to help you leave in the afternoon. You can''t


    stay there anymore since she''s started to suspect."


    Naomi sighed. "You¡­ If Leanna knows the truth, she will hate you."


    "It''s not the only thing she hates me for."


    Leanna wouldn''t just hate him. She would probably kill him.


    After hanging up, Aidan kept his phone away and grabbed a jacket before leaving.


    ¡­


    After the hectic traveling, Leanna and Zoe didn''t get to sleep at all. When they returned to Highside,


    Zoe yawned. "Nana, let''s head back to sleep. We have pillows in the studio."


    Leanna collected her thoughts. "You go ahead. I''m not tired. I''ve got lots of work to catch up on."


    Zoe knew nothing could convince Leanna''s stubborn mind. Besides, Leanna must be going through a


    lot now, so she wouldn''t be able to sleep anyway.


    She yawned again. "Alright. Then, you head to the studio first. Don''t mind me. I''ll get a cabter."


    Leanna nodded. "Alright. I''ll leave first."


    It was 3.00PM when she got to the studio.


    Louis asked, "Where have you been? I''ve been looking for you the whole day. Zoe''s gone missing as


    well."


    She answered, "She was with me. We were settling some stuff."


    He wanted to say something, but she cut him off, "I''ll be drawing some drafts in the office. Call me if


    you''ve got any issues."


    After entering her office, she sat down, but could not focus and just stared out the window.


    After some time, she took out her phone and scrolled to the pictures she took of the little guy two days


    ago.


    He was so cute in each picture.


    Then, she flopped onto the table sullenly.


    It was nighttime when Louis came to get her, only to realize that she had fallen asleep on the table.


    He pursed his lips and closed the doors.


    Just as he turned around, Daphne asked, "Where''s Leanna? Still working?"


    "She''s asleep."


    "Asleep?" She was confused. "Wake her up and ask her to head home and sleep. What if she catches


    a cold?"


    She was about to walk forward when Louis stopped her with a hand on her arm. "Let her rest. The


    heater''s on. She won''t catch a cold."


    "Alright." Daphne could only give up.


    Afterpleting a magazine shoot this afternoon, she received a task from the evil capitalist that was


    her boss.


    It seemed like Aidan had angered Leanna again.


    There were only two of them in the studio, so it turned awkward after they fell silent.


    Before Daphne could think of something to say, Louis offered, "Would you like some water?"


    She stuttered, "O-Okay."


    As he went to get some water, she took out her phone and sent a quick text to Aidan.


    Two minutester, he ced the ss before her. "Thank you for the previous time."


    She quickly put her phone down and took a couple of seconds to respond. "Huh? It''s nothing. It''s a


    coincidence that I was there. I wouldn''t be able to help if I wasn''t."


    She said as she picked up the ss, "You''re Leanna''s brother and she''s my friend. So, you don''t need


    to be so courteous with me."


    Louis was at a loss for what to say.


    At that moment, Daphne''s phone vibrated. She took a look at it as she drank from the ss and


    pondered before asking, "Have¡­ you eaten? Why don''t we go out and grab something? We can get


    something for Leanna on our way back too."


    He nced at her phone discreetly and decided to not say anything. "Sure."


    She ced the ss down and got up. "That''s great! Let''s go."


    Pursing his lips, he could not help but ask, "I heard that you''ve gotten a best actress award?"


    There was silence.


    Was he saying that her acting was dramatic?


    She cleared her throat and avoided his question as she casually thanked him, "Oh, that''s nothing. I was


    just lucky."


    Louis didn''t say anything and strode out.


    Seeing that, Daphne followed him hurriedly.


    She really was the most professional actor in Pearson Group. Afterpleting her magazine shots


    during the day, she even came here during the non-working hours to help Aidan with this drama.


    It would not make sense if he didn''t give her a long holiday after this.

 Chapter 245

    Chapter 245


    Leanna didn''t know when she fell asleep. When she woke up, she realized the sky was pitch ck.


    She sat up and wanted to move her tight neck to hear the sounds of it popping. Crack. Crack


    She massaged her neck as she opened her office door and went out. "Louis, help me get the first aid


    kit out. There''s some ointment inside. I think I sprained my¡ª"


    Before she finished her sentence, she saw the man sitting on the couch.


    Suddenly, not only did her neck hurt, her head started to ache.


    Aidan slowly looked up at her. "You''re awake?"


    She asked him, "Why are you here, President Pearson?"


    He looked at the gift on the table. "I saw that you liked the pictures fromst time. So, I got it


    photocopied. I''ll let you have the original pictures."


    "Thanks, but no thanks."


    Where did he see that she liked it?


    Aidan got up and strolled over to her with his long legs. "I remembered someone once told me that if a


    woman said she didn''t want something, it means that she wanted it and that I should look for the


    person who said those words."


    Leanna snickered, "Could it be Mia or Georgina? I didn''t say that."


    He stopped in his tracks and looked at her gloomily.


    She didn''t want to entertain him and went to look for the ointment in the utility room.


    However, she didn''t expect the first aid kit to be ced on the highest rack. Now that she sprained her


    neck, she couldn''t reach it even when she tried to tip-toe.


    She was about to grab a chair when a man''s long arm was propped on the rack beside her while


    another hand passed her head to easily retrieve the first aid kit.


    Leanna turned around and backed into the rack.


    B*stard, why you gotta get so close to grab it?


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Aidan returned her stance with a raised eyebrow. "What are you scared of?"


    "W-Who''s scared?" Leanna stuttered, but did not want to argue with him further. She snatched the first


    aid kit from his hands and returned to her office to lock the door in an attempt to prevent him from going


    near her.


    She took off the jacket and tilted her head before spraying some ointment with one hand pulling down


    her cor. When she wanted to reach up and massage the area, she realized that she would tug on the


    muscle when she moved her shoulders because of her sprained neck. So, massaging it didn''t relieve


    the pain and made it worse.


    When she started to get frustrated, she heard something on the door. Knock. Knock. Then, Aidan''s


    voice came through the door. "Do you need help?"


    "No!"


    "If so, I''m leaving."


    Will you leave already? Ugh.


    After sulking alone for some time, Leanna ced the ointment back into the first aid kit and grabbed


    her jacket with the thought of going to the hospital to check her neck.


    However, she saw Aidan, who said he was going to leave, leaning against the wall and looking at her


    when she opened the door.


    She snapped at him. "Didn''t you say you were leaving, President Pearson?"


    He replied without missing a beat, "Didn''t you ask me to stay?"


    "When did I¡­." Leanna realized what he was hinting at. "So, you heard my inner thoughts again?"


    "Yeah."


    Aidan grabbed her wrist and led her into the office before he mentioned for her to sit. He took out the


    ointment and sat at the edge of the table. "What else can you do besides scolding me? You can''t even


    handle a small thing like this."


    She replied, "I''m the type that discovers my potential depending on the people I meet."


    Scoffing, he tugged at the cor of her sweater, but she instinctively backed up.


    He grabbed onto the chair''s handle and easily pulled her in. "Don''t be so dramatic. Keep your energy


    for other things."


    He remarked as he pulled on her cor again and sprayed the ointment on her neck after that.


    The sudden cold made Leanna furrow her brow. When she wanted to say something, Aidan had


    reached out his palm and gently rubbed her neck, leaving no questions to be asked.


    After a while, he asked, "You went back today?"


    Even though he didn''t specify where it was, it was obvious what he was talking about.


    Leanna pursed her lips, but didn''t answer.


    Then, Aidan continued softly, "I asked you before. If you really like the baby, we can secretly take it


    away. But it''s not possible now."


    She didn''t answer him.


    "Well, there''s one thing that we could do. I can work a little harder and give you another baby."


    Leanna gritted her teeth. "Can you shut up?"


    Aidan''s hands stopped moving as his palm rested on her neck and he leaned in with his dark eyes. "I''m


    serious. Why don''t you consider it?"


    "Haven''t you said that you''re not thinking of having a child for at least two years, President Pearson?"


    she snickered. "You just want to sleep with me. You don''t need to look for these high-sounding


    excuses."


    He licked his lips and backed up before spraying on more ointment and continuing to massage her


    neck. "You''re not letting me sleep with you anyways. There''s no use for me to look for excuses."


    Then, Leanna thought to herself. This b*stard finally admitted his dirty mind.


    He told her in a low voice, "I just dealt with Anna. Now, the Pearson Family and the Zielinski Family are


    looking for my weakness. Give me some time. I will give you a child."


    After the talk about sleeping, Leanna just felt that he was saying anything to get to his aim.


    It was just like what he told her before. He had said that he could give her a child two yearster.


    She impatiently pped his hand away. "Even if I wanted a child, I don''t need your charity."


    As if he was the only man in the world.


    As expected, his face hardened immediately. "Then, who are you going to have a baby with? Elijah?"


    However, she was adamant about irking him. "As long as I don''t need to wait for two years, anyone will


    do."


    Aidan narrowed his dark eyes as his hand on her neck unexpectedly moved down.


    However, Leanna was quick to react as well as she backed up and hugged her chest before she yelled


    at him, "You''re a beast!"


    Aidan snickered, "If I''m a beast, do you think you could still sit there and yell at me? You''ll be on your


    back crying now."


    She felt that she would die from irritation if she said one more word to him.


    Then, she picked up the jacket he threw to the side and stormed out, but took a deep breath after two


    steps. "Are you leaving? I''m going to lock up."


    He slowly stood up, ced the ointment in his hands down and strolled out of the office.


    Looking down at his wristwatch, he told her, "I''m hungry. Let''s go eat."


    "I''m not hungry. You may help yourself, President Pearson."


    However, her stomach grumbled as soon as she finished her sentence.


    Then, she finally realized that she had not eaten anything sincest night.

 Chapter 246

    Chapter 246


    Back at the Pearson Family Estate, a subordinate was reporting, "We have been searching for two


    days and hired a professional rescue team to search that sea area, but still no signs of Miss Anna. It''s


    possible that¡ª"


    Without waiting for him to finish, Gordon scrunched his brows and waved his hand in dismissal.


    Anna''s mother was sobbing her heart away on the couch. "It must be that b*stard. It must be him! What


    had Anna done to deserve this? She''s so young and still hasn''t explored the world, but she hasn''t been


    found yet. I only have one daughter. How can I live on?"


    Gordon sat on the couch and furrowed his brow and scolded in a deep voice, "I''ve told you to not


    provoke him, but you didn''t listen. Look at what happened now. If Anna had stayed at home and


    remained in Highside, he would not be able to do anything with my eyes on her. But you just had to


    send her away and serve him the opportunity on a silver tter."


    "I don''t care! I want that b*stard dead! Even if I have to risk all I have, I would not let him off the hook."


    However, Justin just quietly questioned, "So, only Anna''s life is valuable? What about Aidan''s two


    children who didn''t live to even see the world?"


    Anna''s mother rebuked him, "What are you saying, Justin? Anna is your sister! Are you still taking that


    b*stard''s side now?"


    "I''ve warned Anna many times before this. You can''t me anyone that she turned out this way."


    Anna''s mother shot up. The pain of losing her only daughter had made her lose all reason as she


    sneered at him, "Since you put it that way, you could only me your luck and not anyone for


    bing a cripple!"


    Sienna coldly interrupted them, "Are you done?"


    "Do you hear what your son is saying? Let me tell you now. My daughter is gone and I don''t care about


    anything else. Everyone''s going down with me! Bringing the Pearson Family down with me seems like


    a good idea."


    On the side, Anna''s father who had kept quiet all this while pulled on her arm. "That''s enough.


    Shouldn''t we focus on searching for Anna now?"


    However, she pped away his hand. "What''s there to search for? Are you blind or deaf? Your


    daughter is dead. It was that b*stard that caused her death!"


    Sienna said impatiently, "So what if he was the cause? Do you have evidence? You should think about


    avenging Anna instead of making a scene here."


    Anna''s mother snickered, "Now, I know Anna''s life means nothing to you lot. All of you have only been


    using her. I will avenge her myself!"


    She grabbed her bag and left without a second look.


    Anna''s father could only nod at Gordon, but didn''t know what to say and left after her.


    After they left, the big house fell eerily silent.


    Gordon held onto his cane as he was deep in thought.


    He honestly didn''t think that Aidan would go to this extent to harm Anna. When Anna left this time, it


    was done secretly with only he and Lloyd knowing about it. They even took the long route through


    Weavside to avoid Aidan''s men, but he still found them out.


    It seemed like it was bing harder to go against Aidan.


    At that moment, a man walked in and whispered into Sienna''s ear.


    She asked, "Are you sure?"


    The man answered, "Yes. Even though she had left the ce when our men got there, it''s her."


    "Order the rest to ask the surrounding people. Check if there are other leads."


    The man nodded and left as Gordon frowned and asked, "What is it?"


    Sienna coldly replied, "We found Naomi."


    He was not happy with her. "Why are you looking for her?"


    "I have my ns. It doesn''t concern you."


    Since Aidan was arrogant and so full of himself, she would like to see what he could do if Naomi died


    before his eyes.


    Even though Gordon was annoyed by her curt reply, he could not say anything else. To be fair, they


    were in the same boat. Even if the Zielinski Family had gone down, they still were powerful.


    Besides, he had ced all his eggs in one basket on the marriage between Justin and Georgina.


    After a while, he instructed, "I don''t care about that. Justin, the engagement party has been arranged


    for the 15th of next month."


    Without waiting for a reply, he continued, "You are the eldest son of the Pearson Family. It''s time for


    you to bear your responsibilities. You know that this marriage alliance isn''t just about you. It concerns


    the future of the Pearson Family."


    Justin helplessly replied after a few seconds, "Aidan is of the Pearson blood. He''s not our enemy."


    Gordon mmed his cane onto the floor. "It is precisely because he is of Pearson blood that he is the


    biggest threat to us! He has be uncontroble for a long time. There''s nothing he can''t do. If he


    can harm Anna now, who do you think is next?"


    Justin closed his eyes as he refused to answer.


    Gordon stood up. "This is final. We need the Crossleys'' powers to take back the Pearson Group. If not,


    Anna would only be the start."


    After he left, Siennamented, "I''m okay with you marrying Gina since you both grew up together."


    However, Justin scoffed. "You really think that she would willingly marry a cripple like me?"


    Her face changed as she got worked up. "Since the marriage has been agreed upon, it can only mean


    that she was willing. You are not any lesserpared to that b*stard. Why would she say no?"


    "You don''t need tofort me. I know my situation."


    With that, he rolled his wheelchair and left.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­


    Leanna was ying with her phone with her head down in the restaurant. She did not want to see the


    man sitting opposite her at all.


    On the other hand, Aidan lightly tapped his fingers against the ss as he stared at her. It was unclear


    what he was thinking.


    After a while, she could not continue to feign ignorance and put her phone down. "Do you have


    anything you want to say to me, President Pearson?"


    He raised his ss and took a sip before replying, "I''ve got lots to say, but you might not want to hear


    it."


    That sentence felt oddly familiar to Leanna.


    "Then, fine. I don''t want to hear it anyways."


    However, he told her, "I will be asking my men to follow you. You shouldn''t go anywhere alone and call


    me if anything happens."


    "Why?"


    He exined calmly, "They might take out their anger on you regarding what happened with Anna."


    "Huh?"

 Chapter 247

    Chapter 247


    Leanna only felt he was being absurd after hearing what he said.


    However, it was true that those people were crazy. If they could not harm Aidan, they might turn their


    aim at her.


    It was just her luck.


    She thought about it for a while before asking, "What exactly did you do to Anna, President Pearson?"


    He uttered, "Only my wife has the right to know these secrets."


    She rolled her eyes at him. Okay. Fine. Let''s just act like I didn''t ask him anything.


    Seeing that she wasn''t speaking, he revealed to her, "Don''t worry. She''s still alive."


    He still had use for Anna, so he would not let her die so easily.


    "Oh." Leanna didn''t really want to be involved in this.


    Soon, the dishes were served.


    When she wanted to get some soup, Aidan had already picked up thedle and took the bowl in her


    hand.


    He was so natural at it.


    Leanna didn''t expect him to be able to care for others. It wasn''t something she noticed back then.


    Sure enough, it was a matter of whether a man was someone''s lover or not to do these things. It was


    never an issue of whether or not he knew what to do.


    When he ced the bowl of soup in front of her, she politely showed her gratitude, "Thank you,


    President Pearson."


    He replied drily, "You should know I don''t need verbal gratitude."


    She didn''t want to entertain him further. Eat your food, b*stard!


    After dinner, Leanna bumped into a friend when she was leaving.


    Daniel said hello to her first. "You''re here for dinner too, Miss McKinney?"


    She nodded and saw the personing from behind him before she could reply.


    Georgina stopped beside Daniel and gave her a half-smile. "We meet again, Miss McKinney. Are you


    here alone? You didn''t invite Aidan?"


    Her words were filled with ridicule, but Leanna only pressed her lips together for a faint smile.


    At that moment, a man''s voice came through from the side. "Are you looking for me?"


    Georgina looked at him as her face hardened and the hands by her side clenched tightly.


    It was as she thought. They had gotten close again.


    Leanna didn''t want to be involved in this conflict and tilted her head. "I''ve got stuff to do. I''ll take my


    leave now, Daniel. Miss Crossley."


    Then, she left without turning back.


    Seeing that, Aidan wanted to follow after her, but Georgina stopped him. "Don''t you have anything to


    say to me, Aidan?"


    With a hand in his pocket, he slowly turned his head with an icy face. He nced at Daniel, who was


    standing beside her before looking back at her. "Should I congratte you for finding your true love, or


    congratte you for the engagement next month?"


    She snickered, "If it wasn''t for you suddenly calling off the engagement, we probably would be married


    by now. I wouldn''t be stuck in this situation too."


    Georgina was too proud of herself. Even when Aidan had called off the engagement, she never thought


    of looking for a differently-abled person to spend the rest of her life with.


    She could never understand why Lloyd, who always held her happiness as a priority and had asked her


    to think things through before marrying Aidan, decided to marry her off to Justin in just a few months.


    Even though she had not agreed to anything, Lloyd seemed to have made up his mind and didn''t even


    allow her to reject.


    If this was before, she might havepromised.


    However, things were now different. Since meeting Daniel, she finally knew what she wanted. How


    could she spend the rest of her life with a cripple when there were better options?


    "Don''t put the me on me. You know what you did." Aidan paused before continuing, "Besides, it''s not


    appropriate to talk about this in front of him. Don''t you think so, Mr. Daniel?"


    As always, Daniel kept a nice smile on his face. It was like a mask and no one could see through him.


    He replied, "Oh, don''t regard me a stranger, President Pearson. We''re all friends. There''s nothing that


    can''t be said."


    Aidan retracted his gaze. "Is that so?"


    "Of course."


    Then, he looked at Georgina before telling her, "Don''te to this type of ce next time. Mr. Daniel


    likes canned food."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The smile on Daniel''s face froze.


    Then, Aidan left after dropping the bomb.


    Georgina frowned and turned her head to look at Daniel. "What did he mean by that?"


    Danial quickly rposed himself. "Nothing. President Pearson just so happened to be there the time


    I had a meal at Miss McKinney''s ce."


    "You''re close with Leanna?"


    "Not really, but we''re close neighbors. Elijah is also trying to court her."


    She scoffed to herself upon hearing that.


    Looking at the direction Aidan left, Daniel narrowed his eyes. "By the looks of it, Elijah is going to be


    disappointed."


    "Yea. They made such a huge ruckus, but in the end, it was someone else who got hurt."


    Daniel looked at her to see her eyes filled with resentment.


    ¡­


    After exiting the restaurant, a cab just so happened to pass by. So, Leanna got on and left.


    It was surprising for her to see Daniel and Georgina together.


    She would not have believed it if she didn''t see them today with her own eyes.


    Rolling down the windows, she sighed as she was d that Zoe wasn''t in too deep.


    When she got home, Zoe just woke up as she walked to the kitchen yawning. "Morning, Nana."


    "Um¡­ It''s 10.00PM now."


    Zoe''s eyes widened. "F*ck. I slept for so long?"


    Leanna changed to her flip-flops. "There''s probably nothing in the fridge. What do you want? I''ll order."


    "Anything." She took a sip of water and curled up on the couch. "The more I sleep, the sleepier I get.


    Theter the night goes, I get more energetic."


    Leanna sat beside her and quickly ordered a few of her favorites.


    "Oh, right. Nana. My friend told me there''s a party tonight. Do you want to go since we wouldn''t be able


    to sleep anyways?"


    She massaged her neck. "You go ahead. I sprained my neck. It''ll hurt more if I stay up all night."


    Zoe turned her head to look at her in puzzlement. "That''s sudden. How did you sprain your neck?"


    Then, she made a long ''Ooh" sound. "I know. It must be that b*stard, right?"


    Anything that was out of the norm would be med on Aidan.


    "Um, no. I fell asleep on the table in the office this afternoon. When I woke up, my neck was stiff and I


    sprained it."


    "You just came back from the hospital?"


    Leanna fell silent. "No."


    Suddenly, Zoe sniffed the air. "Why do I smell ointment on you?"

 Chapter 248

    Chapter 248


    Leanna awkwardly touched her neck and coughed. "Um. I''ll take a shower now."


    Zoe looked at her and felt something was fishy. If she guessed it right, that b*stard must have taken


    advantage of Leanna again.


    Soon, the delivery Leanna ordered arrived.


    When Leanna exited the shower, Zoe just started eating and asked, "Do you want some, Nana?"


    "Nope. It''s all for you." She dried her hair as she walked to her room, but suddenly thought of


    something and turned around to sit on the couch. "Zoe, have you heard about the ss reunion?"


    She replied, "Yea. I think it was Maya who organized it. She probably wants to show off her husband


    who works as an executive. We don''t need to go."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    When she returned to her room, she sent a message to Elijah telling him that she and Zoe would not


    be attending the reunion.


    Then, he called her soon after.


    He warmly asked her, "Leanna, are you back in Highside?"


    "Yeah. I got back yesterday."


    "If you''ve got nothing this weekend, I''ve got two tickets for a Broadway show. Let''s watch it."


    "Elijah." She pressed her lips together before rejecting. "I don''t like watching broadway shows. You


    should watch it with someone else."


    On the other end of the phone, he was quiet for a few seconds then insisted, "It''s okay if you don''t like


    Broadway shows. We can watch something else. There are a few nice movies that just premiered. We


    ¡ª"


    "It''s okay." Leanna continued. "I''m really grateful to you for helping me, but I''m sorry. I think I have to be


    clear with you¡ª"


    Elijah interrupted her. "Leanna, I know what you''re going to say. You don''t need to feel sorry for me.


    Everything is of my own ord. I just hope that you''ll give me a chance and not decide so fast."


    She looked out the window. "The problem is with me. I probably will never¡­"


    "If you decide to get back together with Aidan, then I will give you my best wishes. However, I will never


    give up before that happens."


    "Elijah¡­" Leanna didn''t know what else to say.


    He then continued, "Don''t feel pressured, Leanna. I just want to fight for my happiness. I let it slip past


    my fingers a few years ago and I don''t want that mistake to repeat itself."


    After hanging up the phone, she sat on the bed pondering.


    Soon, her phone rang. It was Louis asking if she had returned home.


    After he moved out of Daniel''s house, he was still staying in the same apartment, but in a different unit.


    Leanna answered him, "I''m back."


    Then, she asked, "Where did you go? Did you just get back?"


    He took his time to answer, "Daphne came looking for you at the studio."


    "Then?"


    "I saw that you were sleeping, so I went out to eat with her."


    A smile shed across her face. "Is that so?"


    Then, he exined, "Didn''t you say that she suffered a huge loss because of me? So, I had to thank


    her."


    She encouraged him, "Yes. I did say that. You did a good job."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    He didn''t say anything else.


    So, Leanna bid goodnight. "Alright. It''ste. You should rest."


    However, Louis had questions. "Aidan came looking for you, didn''t he?"


    "How did you know?"


    "I guessed it."


    She scraped her nose with her fingers and tried to exin, "He was here to hand me something."


    Luckily, Louis didn''t interrogate further and just acknowledged it and hung up.


    Hearing the beeping sounds from the phone, she let out a long breath.


    She hugged the pillow andy on her stomach gazing to the front as her mind was in scrambles.


    ¡­


    There were a few orders from customers that needed to bepleted before the new year. Leanna


    quicklyposed herself and threw herself back into work.


    Instead of letting the past hold her back, she would rather take the two days spent in Underwood Lane


    as a beautiful memory.


    In the afternoon, Zoe went out for a shoot while Louis delivered theplete product to customers. So,


    Leanna was left in the office to clean things up.


    At that moment, a sharp female voice came from behind her. "Here I was thinking how busy you could


    be to not even trend the reunion. There''s no one here at all."


    Leanna didn''t need to turn around to know who it was.


    Maya crossed her arms in front of her chest and scanned the studio before looking at Leanna as she


    commented unhappily, "Are you looking down at me or the other old ssmates?"


    Leanna looked at her and smiled politely. "You already have the answer. Why even ask?"


    "You¡ª" Maya wanted tosh out, but controlled herself. "Fine. I''m not here for that. Understandably,


    you''re under a lot of stress since you just divorced and opened up a studio. It''s normal that you didn''t


    want to go to the reunion."


    She replied, "You''re right. My small studio isn''t making any money and usually, there are no customers.


    Since you came all the way here today, you''re doing it for my business, right?"


    Maya crossed her arms and arrogantly raised her chin. "Of course. Even if you don''t care for old times''


    sake, I do."


    "Sure. I''ll say my thanks first." There was a glint in Leanna''s eyes. "I only ept customizations now.


    The design fee starts at 10,000, not including the material andbor costs. For someone like you, only


    the finest quality jewelry would suit you. I have just the perfect one to make a pair of earrings. The


    market price for that is 30,000. Since you''ve so kindlye to visit my small business, I''ll waive the


    labor cost and give you an additional discount. The total is 38,000. How does that sound?"


    When Maya heard that the design fee was at least 10,000, her face already turned pale.


    Then as Leanna told Maya the final price, she could not hold it in anymore. "Are you crazy, Leanna?


    What s*it would cost 10,000? Even if I buy it somewhere else¡ª"


    Leannaughed. "I''ve got no choice. That''s just how my studio works. Even though not many


    customerse, an order can help me pay off the rent."


    However, Maya continued to look for an escape. "How would I know that you didn''t raise the price willy-


    nilly? It''s not umon for people to leech off their acquaintances."


    "You can rest assured that I will not take a penny more than necessary. You know who Daphne is right?


    She''s our old customer. Besides that, we''ve got many celebrities ordering from us including¡ª"


    "Okay. Okay." Maya could not let her continue and needed to find a different excuse. "My husband


    doesn''t like me wearing earrings. Do you have something else?"

 Chapter 249

    Chapter 249


    Before Leanna could say a word, Maya nced at a ne on the disy shelf and said, "I''ll take


    this. I think it''s not bad."


    Leanna looked toward the said ne and merely shook her head. "I don''t think it suits you."


    Tucking her hair behind her ear, Maya snorted. "For a person like me, I''m elegant no matter what I


    wear unlike some people who can only rely on gorgeous things to embellish themselves."


    "If you really like that piece, I''ll give it to you as a present. It''s not worth much money, anyway."


    Maya was unhappy upon hearing that. "Do I look like someone who''s here to take advantage of you?


    Since I''ve already said I''ll pay you, I''ll pay you. Besides, I can tell from one look that your workshop has


    no business. So, you can drop the pretense that you''re doing well," she said, taking out a bank card


    from her purse to pay.


    Seeing how determined she was, Leanna raised her brows and relented. "Okay, then."


    After paying the bill, Maya received a notification on her cell phone, but when she saw that only 80


    dors had been deducted from her ount, she felt deeply humiliated.


    Previously, Leanna had talked about hundreds of thousands loud and clear without even batting an


    eyelid, leading Maya to think that the items in her shop would cost thousands, if not more.


    So, she didn''t expect it to be that cheap!


    What a despicable woman! How dare she mock me with this thing! Maya thought.


    Just when she was about to blow her top, a thirty-four-year-old man walked in.


    Her eyes darted over, and she quickly paced to him. "Raymond, you''re finally here. I''ve been waiting


    for you for a long time."


    "I''m really sorry, but there was some traffic on the road," Raymond said, then he turned his gaze to


    Leanna. "You must be the Miss McKinney that Maya always speaks about."


    "Look how anxious you are," Maya said. "I haven''t even introduced you yet." Then, she nced at


    Leanna and crossed her arms across her chest. "He''s the man I''m always telling you about, the guy


    working in my husband''spany as a manager, Raymond Ford. He''s capable and smart, an


    outstanding man amongst thousands." And when she introduced Leanna, she pursed her lips and said,


    "Well, you already know about her. Leanna McKinney, my ssmate from university. She''s very


    beautiful, but her love life is turbulent. She had married a bad husband, and now she has her own


    workshop."


    Raymond extended his hand to Leanna. "Hello, Miss McKinney. Nice to meet you."


    His unblinking stare made her feel ufortable. She didn''t extend her hand and merely nodded her


    head in acknowledgment, saying, "Hello."


    Seeing that, Maya said, "Nobody visits your workshop anyway. You should just close it, and we''ll grab a


    coffee somewhere so that you can get to know Raymond better."


    "No, thanks. There''s no need for that," Leanna replied.


    "Oh, Leanna, I shouldn''t say this, but you''ve divorced once, so there''s no need for you to act so mighty.


    Raymond already lowered his status to look for you today, and you should just snap out of it. Stop


    pretending to be a great catch," Maya snapped.


    Nudging her arm, Raymond said, "Don''t put it that way. The honor is all mine to befriend Miss


    McKinney. Furthermore, I''m just a manager, not someone who''s a noble."


    Maya threw an unsatisfied look at Leanna. "Look how nice he is."


    On the other hand, Leanna thought that she had been courteous enough that she didn''t chase Maya


    out of her shop, and this was the first time she met someone who was more thick-skinned than Aidan.


    Taking a deep beneath, she decided to ignore Maya and said to Raymond instead, "Mr. Ford, I don''t


    know what Maya told you, but I''ve never given her my word that I''m going on a blind date, and neither


    do I have ns to do so. I''m sorry that you''ve made a wasted trip."


    He paused for a brief moment before breaking into a smile. "That''s alright. Let''s just take it that we''re


    making a new friend," he said as he took out a name card from his suit pocket and passed it to her.


    On the name card, the words ''Crossley Group'' was printed boldly on it.


    So, this is the bigpany Maya kept saying that her husband is working in, Leanna realized.


    After contemtion, she said politely, "I''m sorry, Mr. Ford. I think there''s no reason for us to be friends


    since we don''t know each other to begin with."


    Hearing that, Maya felt that Leanna was not giving her respect. She had been humiliated by the


    incident with the ne earlier, and now, Leanna had once again embarrassed her in front of


    Raymond by rejecting him.


    So, she retorted in annoyance, "Leanna, do you think you''re still that little princess who Zayn loves


    dearly? Come on, wake up. You''re merely a divorcee that nobody wants. It''s your honor that Raymond


    is willing to be friends with you, and I''d advise you to know what''s better for yourself."


    Leanna chuckled. "That''s interesting. I''m just here, minding my own business until you came to stir up


    trouble, but now it ended up as my fault instead. Moreover, what''s the problem if I''m divorced? Is there


    a rule saying that divorced people are not allowed to live and have to find a corner to end their lives?"


    Clearly, Maya wasn''t expecting Leanna to be so unreasonable, and she couldn''t form a coherent


    response other than stammer.


    Right then, Raymond said, "You''re right, Miss McKinney. There''s nothing wrong with being a divorcee,


    much more for a beautiful and smart woman like you. Even if you''re divorced, you must have quite a


    few suitors by your side."


    The words had just left his lips when a man''s voice echoed from behind. "Hey, Leanna."


    Maya spun her head around and couldn''t help but frown. "What are you doing here, Elijah?"


    Elijah''s eyes drifted over her briefly. "I''m here to look for Leanna." Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Since when are you so close with her?"


    "I''m courting Leanna," he answered. "Can''t you tell?"


    Instantly, Maya''s expression changed into a look of disbelief as her eyes widened, and it was Raymond


    who reacted first, taking a step forward.


    "Are you President Parker of Constetion Tech? I''m Raymond Ford, project manager of Crossley


    Group. Nice to meet you," he said, passing Elijah a name card as he bowed.


    Taking the card from him, Elijah nodded in acknowledgment. "I''ve heard about you, Mr. Ford."


    A look of delight washed over his face. "Oh, really?"


    Thinking back, Maya had bragged about her husband to Elijah before. However, she had never


    expected that Raymond would speak to Elijah in such a polite manner as if he held high opinions of


    Elijah, maybe even higher than of her husband.


    Nonchntly, she opened her mouth and said, "All of us were ex-ssmates a long time ago. Since we


    all know each other, let''s grab a drink together somewhere."


    Turning to her, Raymond asked, "You and President Parker were ssmates?"


    Maya raised her chin. "Of course. We''ve always been close too."


    It took a while for him to think before he continued, "It''s not every day that we get to meet, President


    Parker. Let me be the host and buy everyone a meal. What do you say?"


    "No, thanks," Elijah said. Then, he turned to her and said calmly, "We''re not that close with her."

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    Chapter 250


    After Elijah said that, blood rushed through Maya''s face in utter embarrassment, and Raymond cast her


    a thoughtful look for a couple of seconds before saying to Elijah, "Then, I''ll visit you personally after this


    and not bother you today, President Parker." Giving a nod to Leanna, he added, "See you again, Miss


    McKinney."


    When he was gone, Maya red at Leanna in anger. "Did the both of you conspire to embarrass me?"


    Laughing, Leanna asked, "Did I invite you over?"


    "You¡ª" Maya bit her lip. "Just you wait!" She scoffed and stomped her feet before leaving in brisk


    steps.


    Elijah looked away and turned to Leanna. "That''s just how she is, Leanna. Ignore her."


    A soft smile spread across her face. "I know."


    Since Maya was here to provoke her on purpose, she would have let Maya be satisfied over it if she


    got mad because of this. After a short pause, she asked, "So, what''s up?"


    Pursing his lips, Elijah then said, "Leanna, tomorrow is Mr. Jackson''s birthday party, and he wants me


    to bring you along."


    This caught her by surprise. "Me?"


    "Yes," he answered. "It''s fine if you don''t want to attend. I''ll just find an excuse to tell him that I''m not


    going."


    "I don''t think that''s a good idea¡­" She gave it a thought and asked, "What time tomorrow?"


    Thest time she had dinner at Mr. Jackson''s ce, she still hadn''t thanked him for it yet, and now he


    had specially invited her to his birthday party¡ªthere was no way she could possibly turn him down.


    Furthermore, it would be very awkward if Elijah didn''t show up because of her.


    Almost unnoticeably, Elijah breathed a sigh of relief. "Tomorrow at 7.00PM. I''ll pick you up at 6.00PM."


    She nodded her head softly. "Okay."


    As Elijah had something else to attend to, he didn''t stay long and left soon afterward.


    After standing in the same spot for a while, Leanna sighed and picked up the ne Maya had


    thrown on the floor.


    A few minutester, Zoe returned. Wearing a nosy expression, she said, "I just saw Elijah''s car leaving.


    What did he say to you?"


    "I''m attending a birthday party tomorrow," Leanna answered.


    "Birthday party? Whose?"


    This matter was somewhatplicated because it had to begin with Anna, so Leanna briefly told Zoe


    about it.


    Seeing the whole picture, Zoe said directly, "In other words, thest time you went, that b*stard was


    there as well, which means he knows Mr. Jackson too. Ergo, he will definitely be there at the birthday


    party tomorrow."


    Speechless, Leanna wondered why she hadn''t thought of this before, and Zoe fired another question.


    "Nana, have youe to a decision yet?"


    For a while, Leanna didn''t understand what she meant. "About what?"


    "About you and Elijah. Oh, and Aidan as well. Who are you going to choose?"


    Leanna''s mouth opened and closed, not knowing what to say.


    Resting her arm on the cashier counter, Zoe ced her cheek on her palm and said, "It would be a


    tough choice if I were in your shoes. One is an ex-husband who''s chasing you persistently aftering


    to his senses, while another is a young, outstanding rookie in the business world who has been


    carrying a torch for you for seven years."


    "What nonsense are you speaking about?" Leanna said in annoyance, but after a while, she added,


    "Previously, I did consider giving it a shot with Elijah, but¡­"


    "But you feel that the person you really like in your heart is still that b*stard. In addition, you also feel


    that you can''t just let go, pretend as if nothing happened, and patch things up with him after all that


    happened between you."


    A few secondster, Leanna gave her a nod. Zoe then sighed. "I don''t have much experience in such


    things, nor can I give you any constructive advice. What I can say is don''t rush into such matters. Who


    knows, there might be someone better who shows upter, right? We have to spread ours and not


    let any high-quality big fish slip away."


    "Yes, you''re right," Leanna replied, giggling.


    Zoe gave her a pat on the shoulder. "See, that''s how it should be. A heartless b*tch should do what a


    heartless b*tch does. How can you give up an entire forest over one tree?"


    In the evening, after Leanna got home, she came out of the shower and started searching for


    something next to her desk with her waist bent over until she identally knocked over a gift box and


    something fell out of it.


    Twirling her head around, she saw the photo frame with the wedding blessings written over it lying


    silently on the carpet. Her temples twitched, and she crouched down to pick it up.


    In the photo, Aidan was leaning over slightly as he spoke with her with his head tilted, a rarely seen


    gentle expression on his face.


    Of course, she couldn''t remember anymore what he had whispered into her ear at that time.


    After staring at it for a couple of minutes, she returned it to the box and ced the box in the lowest


    drawer of the closet.


    When all that was done, she was about to make herself some warm milk when her cell phone on the


    desk started ringing. Walking over, she took a nce and thought, I really shouldn''t think about him.


    The moment I do, he shows up.


    She waited a few minutes before picking up the call. "Is there anything I can do for you sote at night,


    President Pearson?"


    "I missed you."


    Leanna was slightly surprised at his words, but she kept her cool and said, "I''m hanging up if there''s


    nothing important."


    "Leanna, out of courtesy, you should answer that you missed me, too, and not give me other excuses,"


    Aidan said.


    Unyielding, she answered, "I think, out of courtesy, you shouldn''t have made this call, President


    Pearson."


    A few seconds of silence washed over them before Aidan continued, "That''s just an opening line. I


    have something else to tell you."


    Leanna chuckled dryly. "Next time, you can get straight to the point, President Pearson. There''s no


    need for such a terrible opening at all."


    Pressing his lips together, he then said, "Come with me somewhere tomorrow evening."


    "I''m sorry. I already have ns for tomorrow."


    "Cancel it."


    "No."


    "Are you so unwilling to see me?" he asked, disgruntled.


    Cracking a small gap in the window, she took in the fresh air. "Are you going to stop showing up in front


    of me if I said yes?"


    "Do you think that''s possible?"


    Speechless, Leanna really took her hat off to this b*stard''s sense of self-righteousness. "I''m going to


    bed. Bye, President Pearson," she said and hung up.


    In the president''s office of Pearson Group, Aidan listened to the dead dial tone from the phone with a


    knot between his handsome brows. "When did Mr. Jackson''s invitation arrive?"


    "About two hours ago¡­" Jonathan answered.


    "When did Elijah go to look for her, then?"


    "About four or five hours ago, maybe."


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    Without saying another word, Aidan pursed his lips together slightly. That means Elijah knew about Mr.


    Jackson''s birthday party before me, and he even beat me to it and looked for Leanna.


    "President Pearson, it''s true that President Parker is closer to Mr. Jackson, so¡­ it''s expected that he


    will find out before us," Jonathan added.


    Aidan''s fingers tapped on the desk softly. "Will Lloyd be there as well tomorrow evening?"


    "Yes, he will."

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    Chapter 251


    Aidan narrowed his dark eyes. If Lloyd was going to attend Mr. Jackson''s birthday party, he would


    definitely run into Leanna. At that time, any trick that Lloyd was trying to pull woulde to light as


    well.


    "President Pearson, besides Lloyd and President Parker, Mr. Morris will also be attending," Jonathan


    said.


    "Do you think that it''s a coincidence or a staged act that Daniel appeared next to Georgina?" Aidan


    asked calmly.


    "You mean¡­"


    "Oscar recently found out that when Elijah''s Constetion Tech was first established abroad, the first


    funding was from apany named Herz Corp. Thispany reached a strategic agreement with


    Complex Group soon afterward, and their owner has a close rtionship with William."


    Regardless of whether it was Daniel, Elijah, William, or even Mr. Jackson, they seemed to be


    connected in numerous ways somehow. As he kept digging further into their matters, he could see the


    deep connections between them, and it seemed like these people had gathered for amon goal.


    It had been years since Mr. Jackson threw a birthday party, and things didn''t look as simple as they


    seemed based on this point. And Aidan was pretty sure that all of the missing puzzle pieces would


    finally fall into ce by tomorrow evening.


    "ce more men around the hotel tomorrow," Aidan instructed. "Leanna has never been attentive on


    these matters and will only walk into a trap set by others step by step."


    Jonathan muttered, "President Parker probably won''t make use of Madam, much less do something to


    hurt her¡ª" Before he could finish, he felt an icy stare in front of him and quickly stopped himself.


    "Okay, I''ll get to it right away."


    As the office door closed behind Jonathan as he left, silence befell the room once more. Leaning into


    the chair, Aidan stared at the framed picture as he pursed his lips lightly, deep in thought.


    Minutester, his phone rang, and it was a call from Oscar. "You guessed it right. Your whereabouts in


    Weavside have been exposed, and Sienna is now looking for your mother."


    The edges of Aidan''s lips turned downward coldly. "She''s pretty quick on her feet, huh?"


    "It appears that she has someone else working for her other than the men from the Zielinski Family.


    There are some which I can''t even find out about their background."


    "Soon enough, the powerful being behind her will take action," Aidan saidposedly.


    At the same time, Sienna had already walked into the trap he had set up, step by step.


    ¡­


    At 6.00PM sharp, Elijah showed up at Leanna''s workshop. "Are you ready, Leanna?" Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Grabbing the gift on the counter, she shed him a smile. "Yes. Let''s go."


    She didn''t know what to get as a gift, but she recalled the tea set in Mr. Jackson''s ce, so she bought


    some tea leaves for him.


    In the car, Elijah said after a while, "Leanna, there''s something I didn''t tell you, actually."


    "What is it?"


    "Aidan will be attending the party tonight as well, and you certainly will run into each other at some


    point. But it''s okay, I''ll stay by your side the whole time, and he won''t dare to mess around during such


    an asion."


    Nodding softly, she didn''t say a thing¡ªshe didn''t know how to respond to that, anyway. Twenty minutes


    later, the car came to a stop at a hotel entrance.


    As Mr. Jackson was a reputable person in Highside, the guests attending his birthday party were also


    people of status and influence. Elijah and Leanna had run into a couple of them right after they entered.


    At the sight of the pair, Georgina sniggered. "I didn''t expect that you''ll bring Miss McKinney here,


    President Parker. I thought she would be attending with Aidan, but it looks like I still don''t know Miss


    McKinney very well."


    Leanna was aware of Georgina''s enmity but didn''t bother to exin herself at all, not like she knew


    how to anyway. Elijah then responded coolly, "Leanna is a guest Mr. Jackson had personally invited, so


    I don''t understand what you''re saying, Miss Crossley."


    Georgina didn''t seem surprised at that, and she merely said with a smirk, "Looks like you are quite


    reputable, Miss McKinney. You actually know Mr. Jackson, and he even invited you personally. I guess


    it''s just me being too offensive. My bad."


    Just then, a deep voice sounded up right beside her. "Georgina."


    Georgina twirled her head around. "Oh, right. Dad, let me introduce them to you. This is President


    Parker from Constetion Tech and this is¡­ Well, she''s someone you know as well. She''s Aidan''s ex-


    wife."


    When thest word left her lips, Lloyd''s gaze drifted over slowly before finallynding on Leanna''s face,


    and he narrowed his eyes slightly.


    "I know Miss Crossley doesn''t like me." Leanna began slowly. "But since she already started this, I


    would like to add on something as well. My name is Leanna McKinney, and not ''Aidan''s ex-wife.''"


    Would you be happy if I called you the fianc¨¦e that Aidan had broken off the engagement with? Leanna


    retorted in her mind. If it weren''t for Lloyd''s presence, she would have said it out loud in Georgina''s


    face.


    No matter how Georgina deliberately tried to approach her back then and said that she wanted to be


    friends with her, Leanna had always kept a distance from her just to avoid getting involved in situations


    like this.


    Yet, it still turned out the same in the end. Why do I have to bear the consequences of that b*stard''s


    actions? she wondered.


    Snickering, Georgina was about to say something when Lloyd said, "You''re not a regr person


    indeed, Miss McKinney. It''s no surprise that you would marry into the Pearson Family."


    With the faintest smile on her face, Leanna kept her silence. No matter what he meant behind his


    words, she couldn''t be bothered to ponder over it.


    "Mr. Jackson''s birthday party is about to begin. We''re going ahead first. Please make yourselves


    comfortable," Elijah said and left with Leanna.


    In the event hall, almost all the guests had arrived. Mr. Jackson was wearing a full tuxedo and holding a


    walking stick while chatting with William when they approached him.


    The moment he saw them, Mr. Jackson broke into a smile and said, "Oh, you''re here, Eli and Miss


    McKinney. It''s rather cold outside, isn''t it? Sorry that you have to make this trip."


    "It''s not that cold," Leanna said with a smile.


    The few of them chatted for a while until someone came over and whispered something into Mr.


    Jackson''s ear. Then, he nced at Elijah before turning to Leanna. After acknowledging it a few times,


    he waved his hand and sent the man away.


    "Eli, there are some snacks and hot drinks over there. Take Miss McKinney over to have a look," Mr.


    Jackson said.


    "Sure," Elijah replied.


    As Leanna knew that Mr. Jackson wanted to draw her away on purpose, she nodded with a smile and


    left with Elijah.


    A few secondster, Elijah''s voice echoed from her side. "Leanna, don''t take anything Georgina said to


    heart. She''s not doing that well in love now. That''s why she''s purposely picking on you."


    His words struck her by surprise. "Isn''t she dating Daniel? What happened?"


    He smirked and grabbed a ss of champagne from the waiter''s hand. "You''re probably still unaware


    that she''s going to be engaged to Aidan''s brother next month."


    Widening her eyes in disbelief, she never imagined that this would be the answer. "But wasn''t she


    engaged to Aidan before?"

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    Chapter 252


    Chuckling, Elijah grabbed another ss of champagne and passed it to her. "They only value the


    benefits of a coalition marriage, so it doesn''t matter whether she was previously engaged to Aidan or


    not."


    Besides, it was because of the fact Aidan had annulled the engagement with Georgina that Lloyd and


    Aidan''s father could reach an agreement. Elijah kept his thought to himself.


    Leanna pursed her lips and didn''t say a word. No wonder Georgina was getting more hostile toward me


    when I met her the past few times. So, this is the reason, she thought.


    This whole time, Aidan was the one Georgina wanted to marry, but she ended up engaged to his elder


    brother instead. That was why she took out all her anger on Leanna when she ran into Aidan having a


    meal with her thest time.


    After a short pause, Leanna asked with a frown, "What about her and Daniel?"


    Raising his head, Elijah took a sip of the champagne in his ss and turned to look at a spot not far


    away. "Don''t worry about him. He has a way to solve this."


    Following his gaze, Leanna realized that Daniel was here as well, and he was speaking with Mr.


    Jackson now.


    To begin with, Elijah was quite close with Mr. Jackson, and not to mention Daniel was Elijah''s friend


    too. Hence, it wasn''t surprising that Daniel was on good terms with Mr. Jackson. However, Leanna


    couldn''t understand what Elijah meant by Daniel having a way to solve the situation.


    The engagement between Georgina and Justin was a union of interests between the Pearsons and the


    Crossleys. Would Lloyd really give that up just because of a few mere words from Daniel?


    Unless one party had a better option, there was no reason for the annulment of this marriage.


    Right then, a waiter approached Elijah and whispered something to him. He furrowed his brows slightly


    before turning to Leanna and said, "Wait here for a while for me, Leanna. I''ll be back soon."


    She gave him a nod. "Okay."


    Before walking away, he scanned around for Aidan, and he only left after making sure Aidan wasn''t


    around.


    Holding the champagne in her hand, Leanna took a small sip, and when she was about to check out


    Daniel and Mr. Jackson again, she saw that they were no longer within her eyesight.


    All of a sudden, a stoic voice belonging to a man echoed from behind her. "Are you looking for me?"


    She felt like rolling her eyes at the narcissistic question. She slowly lowered the ss in her hand, not


    wanting to look back at all.


    However, the next second, the man voiced out again, but this time, he spoke right next to her ear. His


    warm breath traveled down her fair neck. "Or are you looking for Elijah? If so, then you should stop. He


    won''t be back for the next few minutes."


    Hearing that, Leanna couldn''t help but frown and turn around, wanting to say something. She was a


    second toote to realize that the b*stard''s face was just inches away from hers, and her lips brushed


    past his cheek, leaving behind a faint trail of lipstick.


    Aidan''s eyes met hers as he raised his brows. "This isn''t so appropriate in public. Once we''re home, I


    won''t resist anything you want to do to me."


    Dumbstruck, she thought, Is he crazy?! Taking a step back, she said in annoyance, "So, you do know


    that we''re still in public, President Pearson. Aren''t you afraid of making a joke out of yourself?"


    Leisurely, Aidan answered, "I have no control over other people''s eyes, and neither can I cover all of


    them."


    Leanna couldn''t be bothered to waste her breath on him, but as she was about to leave, he grabbed


    her by the wrist. "Where are you going?"


    "To thedies'' room. Are youing along?"


    "Since you asked, I''ll apany you even though I''m unwilling."


    If it weren''t for the fact that there were a lot of people here, she would have cursed loudly at him.


    She merely jerked off his hand and walked straight forward. However, after taking a few steps, the


    b*stard spoke up again in azy manner. "That''s the wrong direction. It''s that way."


    Stopping in her tracks abruptly, she took a deep breath and went in the direction Aidan mentioned.


    What''s the problem with this b*stard? Why is he following me to thedies'' room?


    Not long after she walked out of the event hall, she saw the washroom sign, and she also heard the


    soft sounds of people chatting. Just then, the man who was behind her the whole time reached out,


    grabbed her waist, and pulled her into a corner at the side.


    Before she could make a sound, Aidan covered her mouth, and the people who were talking walked


    past them at the same time.


    They were Daniel and Georgina.


    When they had walked far off, Leanna pulled away his hand. "Did you do something against your


    conscience, President Pearson? Why are you hiding like this?"


    Retracting his hand, Aidan stuck his hand into his pocket. "Do you want to say hello to her instead?"


    She snorted softly and ignored him before turning into the washroom. By the time she was out, Aidan


    was smoking while leaning against the balcony on the side with a calm expression on his deep-set


    features.


    At the sight of her, he put out his cigarette and tilted his head. "They''re gone."


    A few secondster, she couldn''t help but ask, "What excuse did you use to trick Elijah away?"


    "Do you really want to know?"


    She paused for a moment before responding, "Never mind."


    Without even the need to think, she knew that nothing good woulde out of his mouth.


    At the event hall entrance, they happened to run into William, who was about to leave. With a smile, he


    greeted them, "Hello, President Pearson and Miss McKinney."


    "The party has barely started, and you''re going to leave now, Mr. Morris?" Aidan asked tly.


    "I need to attend to something, so I''ll have to leave first," he answered.


    C¨°ntens bel0ngs to N?(v)elDr/a/ma.Org


    "The show of the day has yet to begin. It''d be such a shame if you just left like this without seeing it."


    Despite Aidan''s aggressiveness, William kept a polite smile on his face. "I don''t know what you mean,


    President Pearson."


    He already knew for a long time that Aidan was checking up on him, and he had been on his guard in


    every way, yet Aidan still managed to find a chance to make a dig at him.


    "If there''s nothing else, I''m going first," William added.


    Aidan didn''t say anything and merely watched him as he walked away, wearing a cold sneer on his lips.


    Meanwhile, Leanna stared at him, wondering, Why is this b*stard being so enigmatic?


    Meeting her eyes, Aidan flicked his finger on her forehead. "What are you thinking about?"


    Pouting her lips, she looked away and strode into the event hall. Since she had already given the


    present, it was about time for her to leave, and she was going to inform Mr. Jackson of this now.


    When she found him, Lloyd and Georgina were standing opposite him. And so was Daniel.


    After a short moment of hesitation, she still decided to go over. "Mr. Jackson, I''ll be taking my leave


    first. I wish you a happy birthday."


    Mr. Jackson turned around. "You''re leaving so soon? Where''s Eli?"


    The second he asked the question, he saw Aidan, who was following behind Leanna, and he


    immediately understood something. This youngster is quite capable, huh? he thought.


    Right then, Georgina smiled and said, "Miss McKinney, not only are you invited by President Parker to


    attend Mr. Jackson''s birthday party, you also have Aidan to apany you. I bet many guests here


    are envious of you right now."


    Leanna smiled but didn''t respond to her. Instead, she said to Mr. Jackson, "I''m taking my leave first,


    then."


    With that, she turned around and walked away, but she had barely taken a couple of steps when


    Georgina''s voice came from behind her again. "Miss McKinney."

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    Chapter 253


    Slowly, Leanna twirled around with an emotionless face. "Is anything the matter, Miss Crossley?"


    Georgina first took a nce at Aidan before turning to her. "Don''t you find it a pity to leave just like this


    when you rarely have the chance to attend such a party?"


    Before she could open her mouth, Aidan said in a stoic voice, "Why would it be a pity?"


    Smirking, Georgina answered, "Nothing much, but I just feel that it seems a little unreasonable that


    Miss McKinney is leaving early when she was personally invited by Mr. Jackson. Anyone with a little


    manners and know some etiquette wouldn''t leave before the party is over."


    Seeing that the atmosphere was getting tense, Mr. Jackson cleared his throat. "You''re making it sound


    too serious, Miss Crossley. It''s just a birthday, not a life-and-death situation."


    "You''re a generous man for not taking it to heart with Miss McKinney, but some things are just brought


    out because it''sing from the bones. Don''t you think so, Aidan?"


    Not only did she mock Leanna with these words, but she was also dragging Aidan into the quarrel.


    A few secondster, Leanna said with a smile, "You''re right, Miss Crossley. Some things are really


    brought out naturally. A person can''t change their birth, but the arrogance and rudeness hidden in the


    bones would surface from under the skin one fine day no matter how hard they tried to hide it."


    After she said that, Georgina''s face turned into a hideous scowl.


    Mr. Jackson said slowly in agreement, "You have a point, Miss McKinney. No matter how a person tries


    to hide it, what''s hidden in the bones would be revealed in a matter of time."


    While speaking, he cast a nonchnt look at Lloyd.


    Compared to the embarrassment on Georgina''s face, there weren''t many emotions to be read from


    Lloyd''s face, and he merely chided in his deep voice, "Georgina, you were a little rude earlier.


    Apologize to Miss McKinney."


    "Never mind." The smile on Leanna''s face remained as she looked at Georgina and said, "I know that


    you have some opinions about me, Miss Crossley. I just hope that you can be clear that I''m not the one


    that caused all of this, so you don''t have to keep picking on me."


    After saying her piece, she nodded slightly to Mr. Jackson as a gesture, spun around, and left.


    Standing in the same spot, Aidan raised his brows almost unnoticeably and said to Mr. Jackson, "I''m


    leaving as well."


    Mr. Jackson nodded while Georgina pressed her lips together and left soon afterward. Seeing this,


    Daniel quickly went after her.


    When they were all gone, Mr. Jackson peered at Lloyd and sighed deeply. "I don''t want to interfere in


    this initially, but both kids have spoken to me about this. You should reconsider the marriage of


    convenience with the Pearson Family."


    "I''m doing this for Georgina''s happinesses," Lloyd said.


    Clutching his walking stick, Mr. Jackson said slowly, "Setting the issue of happiness aside, just the fact


    that she was once engaged to Aidan alone, she''ll be in an awkward position even if she''s married into


    the Pearson Family, and embarrassment will be inevitable."


    When Lloyd was silent, he added, "Although Daniel isn''t as influential as the Pearson Family, he''s true


    to Georgina, at least, and she also thinks that he''s a nice chap. Compared to forcing two people who


    have no feelings for each other to be together, why don''t you let them give it a shot?"


    "The engagement is decided. If we go back on our word now, I can''t exin it to the Pearson Family."


    "If you find it too embarrassing to bring this up, I can speak to them on your behalf."


    It didn''t ur to Lloyd that Daniel would get Mr. Jackson to speak up for him. Even though the


    Crossleys and Jacksons hadn''t been in much contact over the years, they were on good terms in their


    earlier years after all, and due to certain reasons, Lloyd couldn''t refute Mr. Jackson no matter what.


    However¡­ Lloyd thought, narrowing his eyes as he looked in the direction that Leanna had left with an


    unfathomable look on his face.


    A whileter, Lloyd said, "I know that it''s not the best choice to have her marry into the Pearson Family,


    but the engagement has already been decided. If we cancel it now, she would have canceled two


    engagements within a short period of three months. I''m sure you know how hurtful the words of others


    could be, and I don''t want her to be hurt in any way because of this."


    Mr. Jackson pondered over his words and didn''t speak for a while. What Lloyd had just brought up was


    a huge problem indeed. It was one thing to have the engagement annulled, but the more important


    thing was Georgina''s reputation.


    Lloyd''s reasoning was indisputable as well.


    Mr. Jackson was about to speak when Lloyd said, "I know you''ve doted on Georgina ever since she


    was young and you''re concerned about her happiness as well, but looking at the situation now, it might


    not be a bad thing for her to be married into the Pearson Family."


    Hearing that, Mr. Jackson couldn''t continue to persuade him anymore and could only let it go.


    ¡­


    Outside the hotel, Leanna was leaving when Elijah came in from outside. He walked over and was


    about to say something but saw Aidan following after her. He could already tell what was happening


    then.


    "Leanna, I''ll drop you home," Elijah offered.


    Leanna took a look at her phone. "It''s okay. The cab I ordered is already here. I''ll be leaving now," she


    said as a small white car rolled to a stop at the hotel entrance.


    After giving him a smile, she trotted over to the car, and when Aidan wanted to go after her, Elijah


    blocked his path out of reflex, saying calmly, "Please make way, President Pearson. You know that


    Leanna doesn''t want to see you. Why are you still clinging on to her?"


    "Did she tell you this herself?"


    "Why do you ask when you know the answer in your heart?"


    Aidan sniggered. "If you had just a little self-awareness, you wouldn''t have said something like this,


    President Parker. Don''t you have any idea at all who she really likes?"


    Slowly, Elijah''s face fell, but he didn''t say a thing.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Since it''s you, I would like to remind you about something. I don''t know what you''re plotting in the


    background, and neither am I interested in it, but I would like to remind you not to get Leanna involved


    in any of it."


    "You don''t have to worry, President Pearson. I''ve never thought to ce Leanna into any jeopardy."


    "But you still brought her here even though you knew that Georgina would be here tonight."


    Elijah flinched. "I nned to stay by her side the whole time. It was you who¡ª"


    "Save your excuses," Aidan interjected calmly. "If you were really being considerate of her, you


    wouldn''t have brought her here knowing that she would be in an awkward position."


    Knowing that he was in the wrong, Elijah lowered his head and didn''t argue anymore.


    Aidan was right; he knew that Georgina would definitely show up at the party, and he was aware that


    she would make things difficult for her. However, in order to get ahead of Aidan and have Leanna


    attend the party together with him, he had invited her almost without thinking about the consequences


    and even used Mr. Jackson''s name.


    "I believe you can tell by now that Leanna doesn''t n to be more than friends with you," Aidan added.


    "My advice for you is, better cut your losses in time and stop thinking about destroying a man''s family


    all the time."


    Then, he brushed past him and left in big strides.

 Chapter 254

    Chapter 254


    Half an hourter, the car stopped at the apartment entrance and Leanna hopped out. When she


    wanted to walk in, she saw the b*stard''s car parked by the side of the street.


    How did he manage to get here before me? she wondered, pouting her lips unwittingly as the door of


    the Rolls-Royce swung open and the tall, well-built figure of a man appeared before her eyes.


    Nonchntly, Aidan cast her a look. "Why did you leave so fast?"


    "To have dinner at home," she answered with a straight face.


    "Well, I haven''t eaten as well. Let''s have dinner together."


    Dumbstruck, she said in annoyance, "Don''t you have a home for yourself?"


    Aidan turned around and he paced forward leisurely. "It''s only a home when the ce has your family.


    Otherwise, it''s just a cold house."


    "Are you studying kinship recently, President Pearson?"


    Ignoring her, he stood at the entrance to the building and stuck his hand into his pocket. Then, he tilted


    his head, gesturing for her to open the door.


    Taking a deep breath, she took out the ess card from her purse, and after the door was opened, he


    held the door open to let her in first.


    "I didn''t know that you had a gentlemanly side to you," Leanna said.


    His eyebrow shot up. "That depends on the recipient."


    A soft snort escaped her mouth, and she walked past him to go in. After stepping out of the elevator,


    she keyed in the password for the lock and Zoe''s voice boomed from inside when she pushed the door


    open. "Nana, how was your date with Elijah tonight? Did you¡ª"


    Zoe stopped mid sentence when she caught sight of the man behind Leanna.


    She chuckled dryly a couple of times and turned around. "Why am I sleepy all of a sudden? I''m going


    to bed now!"


    Then, she dashed into the bedroom without looking back.


    In the living room, Louis also kept away hisptop silently, picked up his bag, and said, "I''m leaving


    now."


    Holding her forehead, Leanna let out a long sigh. When both of them had left, she said, "Now you know


    how unweed you are, don''t you?"


    "Are you sure that they left because they didn''t wee me?" he asked.


    Catching the meaning behind his words, she gritted her teeth, but she couldn''t be bothered to argue


    with him. So, she took off her jacket and headed straight for the kitchen.


    Checking the fridge, she saw that there was only some cheese left. Since she didn''t n to serve him


    any delicacies, so be it, and carbonara spaghetti came out of the kitchen ten minutester.


    When she came out, Aidan was already seated at the dining table.


    cing the te in front of him, she warned him seriously, "Don''t get the wrong idea. I''m allowing you


    to have dinner here because I''ve been a free-loader at Ms. Fletcher''s ce for quite a few days.


    There''s no other meaning behind this."


    Smirking, Aidan said, "Yeah, I know."


    Hearing the extremely perfunctory few words from the b*stard, Leanna suddenly had the feeling that


    she shouldn''t have exined herself because it didn''t save her from anything at all.


    She went into the kitchen again and came out with her own pasta before taking a seat diagonally


    across from him.


    "Is that all you''re eating?" he asked while looking at her.


    Without lifting her head, Leanna simply answered, "I''m on a diet."


    "Why are you having pasta when you''re on a diet?"


    Expressionless, she met his eyes. "You can leave if you don''t want to eat. You''re affecting my appetite."


    "I''m just worried that you''ll be hungryter in the night," he said.


    Leanna''s temples throbbed. How many times have I told him that I ate a lot that time because I was


    pregnant? Why does that b*stard make it seem like I''m a pig that''s always hungry?


    Seeing that she was about to lose her temper, Aidan said gently, "Bon appetit. I won''t speak anymore."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    The whole night, Leanna didn''t eat a bite and even drank a little, so her stomach was feeling uneasy,


    but she immediately felt much better after having a te of warm pasta.


    The second she ced down her fork, Aidan said, "Why did you start a fight with Georgina today?"


    Leanna probably didn''t expect him to ask this out of the blue, and she only spoke after keeping mum


    for a few seconds. "She mocked me. Am I not allowed to talk back?"


    "You used to be able to tolerate it quite well, didn''t you?"


    "I can tolerate it once, twice, and even thrice, but I''m not Saint Mary."


    Aidan was quiet for a few seconds before bursting intoughter.


    Initially, she had said it as the words just rolled out of her tongue smoothly, but she didn''t expect that he


    would actuallyugh, making her so embarrassed that her ears burned. "W-What''s so funny? I''m just


    telling it like it is."


    With one hand, he covered his mouth and cleared his throat as he wiped the smile off his face. "Yes,


    you''re right," he said in a husky voice.


    Hisughing threw her off guard, and she hurriedly got up and gathered the dishes before entering the


    kitchen. While doing the dishes, she gradually calmed down.


    In all honesty, she didn''t n to have an argument with Georgina. When she was trapped in the


    Pearson Family, she had already seen it clearly; she was no match for these ruthlessly exploitative


    capitalists no matter what, and they could easily crush her to death with just the lift of a finger.


    So, even though she knew that Georgina was mocking her with every word she said, she didn''t take it


    to heart. However, after Georgina said those things, she felt a little hot in the head before she


    involuntarily snapped back at her sarcastically.


    Looking back now, she realized that it was really not a smart move. In addition, Lloyd was there as well


    when she embarrassed Georgina. She knew very well how they would take revenge on her.


    At the thought of this, Leanna sighed silently. It seemed that all types of idents would happen


    whenever her life was starting to get peaceful.


    After doing the dishes, Leanna cleaned up the kitchen and went out to see Aidan deep in thought while


    standing on the balcony.


    "Why are you still here?" she asked.


    "It''s rude to leave right away after eating," he said calmly.


    He made himself sound as if he''s such a polite person, she thought sarcastically.


    Checking the time, she reminded him, "I''m going to bed soon."


    Aidan turned his head around. "Aren''t you on a diet? You shouldn''t sleep after eating."


    Closing her eyes, Leanna took a deep breath. If this b*stard ims to be the best at nitpicking, nobody


    dares to im the second spot. Can''t he tell that I''m chasing him away?


    Just as Leanna wanted to make it even clearer, he walked back into the house and sat on the couch.


    "There''s something I want to tell you."


    "I don''t want to hear it."


    Aidan lifted his head and gave her a disgruntled look. Pursing her lips, she sumbed to the pressure


    and sat across from him. "Please do tell, President Pearson."


    And leave quickly after that, she added silently.


    The man crossed his long legs and said casually, "When did you find out that Jethro isn''t your real


    father?"


    His question caught her by surprise. "How did you know about this?"

 Chapter 255

    Chapter 255


    "Answer my question first," Aidan said.


    Leanna frowned and answered after a few seconds, "When Jethro died, I found something in the box


    under his bed."


    "What''s there?"


    "Some pictures, a pocket watch, and his diary."


    "What kind of pocket watch?"


    "It''s just a regr pocket watch," she said. "Does it make a difference?"


    "Of course it does," Aidan said. "The manufacturer and the production batch are useful leads."


    Hearing that, Leanna opened her mouth but no words came out.


    He stared at her for a few seconds and pursed his lips. "Don''t you want to look for him?"


    After a while, she hung her head and said, "I just feel that it''s meaningless."


    "Leanna McKinney, it''s not about whether it''s meaningful or not, but the truth about what happened


    back then."


    "What''s the use of knowing the truth? I just want a peaceful life."


    Ever since she could remember, this was her biggest wish.


    In the past, the family was in chaos because of Jethro. Time to time, the debtors would appear at their


    door, shouting and cursing loudly from the outside, and all she could do was bolt the door shut and hold


    the pillow tight, not daring to make a sound.


    Later, she met Aidan, and it just worsened her already messed up life.


    To her, that man was a stranger whom she had no memories with. Compared to pursuing the reason


    why her mother married Jethro more than two decades ago, she would rather live a peaceful life now.


    However, Aidan said, "This isn''t the excuse for you to avoid this. Although the truth is sometimes more


    cruel than reality, I''ll always stay by your side."


    Startled, she wondered, Could this b*stard not change the tone so suddenly?


    "Even if you don''t care what the truth is, a series of events have already started to sprout because of


    this. As the person involved, how could you just stay out of it?" he added.


    "I don''t know what you mean."


    "You met Lloyd Crossley today, didn''t you?"


    As Leanna didn''t know why he suddenly brought up this topic, she replied after a short pause. "I did."


    "Did you ever think about why there''s been no news ever since your brother started posting the search


    notices?" he asked again.


    Leanna knitted her brows together in confusion. Previously when Louis wanted to do this, she didn''t


    know what kind of information they would receive, but now that Aidan had brought it up, the whole


    matter did seem a little odd.


    After giving it a thought, she asked instead of answering him, "You still haven''t told me how you knew


    about this."


    Aidan tapped his slender finger gently on his knee. "Didn''t I already tell you before that anything is


    possible with money?"


    "Then, there''s nothing I can say to you. Please make your way out."


    Leanna rose to her feet, but he grabbed her hand and chuckled. "Okay, I''ll stop messing with you. I


    found out about this when I was investigating Lloyd Crossley." Seeing the confused look on her face,


    he added, "Maybe the truth is meaningless to you, but you have to know what happened in the past so


    you can prepare for all the unknowns in the future."


    "Can you please speak in a way that I can understand?"


    All she wanted now was to find out how this matter was rted to Lloyd.


    "I don''t know yet why Lloyd is doing this, but one thing is for sure¡ªhe knows the man in the picture,


    who is your father, and he has been trying to stop the spread of this news because he doesn''t want you


    to find him. "


    The frown on her face deepened as she thought about this.


    Although she didn''t have a deep impression of Georgina''s father, he looked like a friendly and calm


    person, and Leanna really couldn''t imagine how he could possibly be rted to her real father.


    "Don''t overthink. I''m only telling you this so that you can be mentally prepared and not fall into other


    people''s trap," he said.


    His words made her mad. "When did I fall into someone''s trap?"


    "Did you know the situation tonight before you agreed to go with Elijah?"


    "Nothing happened to me, right? Moreover, even if I didn''t go with Elijah, you would have asked me to


    attend the party with you anyway. Is there any difference between the two?"


    "Of course there is," he answered.


    Leanna snorted inughter. "And what is that?"


    A smirk appeared on his face suddenly. "Leanna, do you know why Lloyd is only stopping you from


    looking for your father instead of taking any actions against you?"


    "I¡­"


    "That''s because I''m behind you, so he doesn''t dare toy a finger on you."


    Since when did this b*stard be my backer? she thought.


    Before she could say a thing, Aidan continued, "Think about it. In all these years, why didn''t Lloyd


    come to the idea to marry Georgina to Justin, but just right now, he suddenly asked for this marriage of


    convenience with the Pearsons? Make a guess. What is he afraid of?"


    Leanna had yet to figure out the issue from before, and she had no idea why he diverted the topic to


    Georgina and Justin''s engagement now. A few secondster, she said, "Maybe they don''t like you."


    "I''m being serious with you now," he said.


    "Go straight to the point, then! Why are you beating around the bush?"


    How could she guess it correctly?


    Aidan pressed his lips into a thin line and said, "I''ll tell you a more precise timing. After your brother put


    up notices looking for your father, Lloyd asked for the marriage of convenience with the Pearsons."


    "You''re saying that this matter is connected to me?"


    "Or maybe, you could say that he''s afraid of you."


    As for the reason why he was afraid, only Lloyd knew what he had actually done.


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    Leanna''s heart sank gradually. She understood what he was telling her.


    Not only did Lloyd know her father, but it was very likely that something had happened between them,


    and he had recalled a past memory when Louis went searching for her father with the picture.


    The one he was afraid of probably wasn''t her, but her real father. Or rather, the truth from twenty years


    ago.


    That was why he asked for help from the Pearson Family¡ªit was so that he could bind the Crossleys


    with the Pearsons.


    Aidan''s gaze fell on her hand which he was holding, and he rubbed it gently. "Are you still uninterested


    in the truth now?"


    She slowly kept away her thoughts and looked at him before drawing out her hand in one swift move.


    "Thanks for telling me this, President Pearson. I''m interested now. So interested that I can''t wait to run


    to Georgina''s house and ask her father exactly what kind of crazy things he did back then."


    Aidan was speechless.

 Chapter 256

    Chapter 256


    Of course, Leanna was just being sarcastic. How could she really be so dumb as to go to the Crossleys


    and ask about this? Wasn''t that just as good as digging her own grave?


    "When you run into Georgina in the future, just do as you always did in the past and don''t argue with


    her directly no matter what she says," Aidan said.


    "Okay."


    Rising to his feet, he flicked his finger on her forehead and chuckled. "Don''t just say it without doing it.


    Remember it."


    Given Leanna''s sharp tongue, Georgina was definitely not a match for her if she opened her mouth, but


    the more she did this, the bigger the mess would get.


    Unhappily, she swatted his hand away. "I got it. Have you ever thought about why she''s always picking


    on me?" It''s because of you.


    He raised his brows and tucked his hand into the pocket of his trousers. "I''m leaving. You don''t have to


    see me out."


    "Don''t worry. I wasn''t nning to."


    I wonder where this b*stard gets his confidence?


    After Aidan left, Leanna cleaned up the living room. Zoe opened her door silently when Leanna was


    about to return to her room. Sticking her head out, she asked softly, "Is President Pearson gone?"


    "Yeah."


    Only then did Zoe breathe a sigh of relief ande out of the bedroom. Then, she nestled on the


    couch and said pitifully, "My life is really losing its value. Nana, if I made President Pearson very mad


    one day, you have to plead on my behalf that he will leave my body whole."


    Speechless, Leanna sat next to her and said with a giggle, "You''re exaggerating."


    "I swear that I won''t try to match you up with Elijah anymore," Zoe said in a serious tone. "I always get


    caught red-handed. Maybe this is all fated." She sighed and added, "What did you speak about earlier?


    That took quite a while and I couldn''t hear a single word from my room."


    At the mention of this, Leanna was quiet for a few seconds before saying, "He said that maybe my real


    father knows Lloyd Crossley."


    Zoe''s eyes widened at that. "Really?"


    Leanna nodded, then briefly told her the things that Aidan had said earlier.


    A look of utter disbelief washed over Zoe''s face after hearing everything, and she only spoke after a


    while. "The moment I saw Georgina, I just knew that she''s a meanie, and she finally showed her true


    colors now. Like father, like daughter. Both of them are mean!" A short pauseter, she asked, "Nana,


    what are you going to do now?"


    A soft sigh escaped her lips, and she looked forward listlessly. "I don''t know either. I''ll take it one step at


    a time."


    If what Aidan said was true, then Lloyd must be watching her every move now. In addition, after what


    happened at Mr. Jackson''s party tonight, the Crossleys now had a proper reason to deal with her.


    Zoe sighed. "No wonder you didn''t want to look for your real father before this. Looks like it was the


    right choice. Otherwise, Georgina and Lloyd would never have targeted you."


    In reply, Leanna shook her head. "Even if I didn''t, I have a feeling that the truth will surface eventually.


    It''s just a matter of time."


    "That''s true. The cat will be out of the bag sooner orter. Seems like everything is destined."


    "Don''t mention any of this to Louis," Leanna reminded.


    Hearing that, Zoe pped her own head. "You''re right. My brains are no good. Rest assured, I''ll keep


    my mouth shut and promise you that I won''t breathe a word about it."


    Louis wanted to help her find her real father with good intentions in his heart. If he knew that all this


    started because he began the search and Leanna was ced in jeopardy, that would only cause him to


    be in deep guilt.


    Earlier, Zoe was only saying it casually, and she didn''t consider this point at all.


    Standing up, Leanna said, "Alright, it''s gettingte. Wash up and go to bed early."


    Zoe nodded. "You go on ahead. I want to watch the TV for a while."


    "Sure."


    After that, Leanna returned to her room, grabbed her clothes, and went to the bathroom. A few minutes


    later, Zoe heard their doorbell ringing. At first, she thought that it was Aidan who had turned back, and


    she walked over on tenterhooks. However, she saw that it was Daniel standing outside when she


    checked the monitor.


    She couldn''t help but purse her lips and only opened the door after some hesitation.


    When the door swung open and Daniel saw that it was her, he was clearly a little stunned before


    saying, "Is Miss McKinney home yet? I''m looking for her."


    "Yeah, she''s home but in the shower now," Zoe said.


    "Okay, I''lle back afterward."


    Zoe didn''t n to invite him inside either, and when she was about to shut the door, he suddenly said,


    "I bought some cakes on the way home and I remember you like cakes. Would you like some?"


    Giving him a perfunctoryugh, she said, "Thanks, but I can''t have sugar because I''m on a diet."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    Without saying anything else, Daniel nodded and left.


    Meanwhile, Zoe closed the door and returned to the couch. The bathroom door opened and Leanna


    strode out while drying her hair with a towel. "Zoe, who were you talking to?"


    "Daniel. He was looking for you." Then, she added, "He also bought some cakes and asked if I would


    like some. Say, this guy is weird, isn''t he? The minute you ignore him, that''s when he bes


    interested instead."


    For two seconds, Leanna stood rooted in the same spot before returning to the bathroom. "I''ll dry my


    hair first before going to look for him."


    Actually, she didn''t even need to think to know the reason Daniel came to look for her; it had to be


    rted to Georgina.


    It wasn''t a problem if this happened in the past because Leanna didn''t care about any of that at all, but


    things were different now. She had to know what was the connection between Daniel, Georgina and


    Lloyd. Only by knowing the enemy could she prevent the unexpected.


    After blow-drying her hair, she put on a jacket and pressed the doorbell next door.


    Soon, Daniel appeared before her eyes, and she smiled gently.


    "Zoe told me that you were looking for me."


    He nodded. "I think I owe you an apology for what happened today."


    "Are you saying this on Georgina''s behalf?"


    "No."


    Surprised, she uttered, "So¡­"


    "I''m not apologizing for anyone. I just want to apologize to you."


    The n tonight was targeted at Lloyd, but because of the feud between Georgina and Leanna,


    Leanna was dragged into this matter. Hence, he felt bad about this.


    Leanna chuckled. "If that''s the case, all the more reason for you not to apologize because I don''t see


    why you should."


    Pursing his lips, Daniel didn''t say anything, and she asked, "If you don''t mind, may I ask you a private


    question, Mr. Daniel?"


    "Go ahead."


    "Why did you do what you did even though you clearly know about the marriage arrangement between


    Georgina and the Pearson Family?"

 Chapter 257

    Chapter 257


    Hearing that, Daniel smiled. "Miss McKinney, are you asking about my motive for approaching


    Georgina? Is that right?"


    Even though Leanna tried to phrase it in a nice way, it wasn''t hard to guess what she meant, and when


    she didn''t say anything, he took it that she had admitted it.


    "What if I told you that I like her?" he asked.


    Leanna smiled. "Of course I''m going to believe anything you say. Furthermore, this is a question that


    concerns your privacy, so it doesn''t matter even if you don''t answer me."


    "Well, it''s not to that extent, but Miss McKinney, even if I have any motive, I think we should be on the


    same side. What do you think?"


    The smile on Leanna''s face fell bit by bit. The meaning behind his words was very clear to her as well.


    He expected her to be on the opposite side of Georgina, so even if she guessed that he approached


    Georgina out of some motive, she wouldn''t use this as a hold on him.


    After a while, she said, "For something so obvious, if I can see it, I''m sure Georgina could see it as


    well."


    "That depends on what her ultimate goal is. Only when there is amon goal can we stand on the


    same line."


    Now, Georgina merely wanted to use him as a tool to annul the engagement with the Pearson Family.


    Therefore, she didn''t care for the reason he approached her.


    On the other hand, even though Lloyd knew this very well, he didn''t have any concrete evidence in


    addition to the fact that he had no idea about Daniel''s background, so he wouldn''t act recklessly either.


    The smile reappeared on Leanna''s face. "I got it."


    Just when she wanted to turn around and return, Daniel spoke again, "You can probably tell that


    Georgina hates you very much, Miss McKinney. Throwing in what happened today, she would make


    things even more difficult for you. No matter what happens after this, you shouldn''t do what you did


    today and quarrel with her in her face. After all, although some means are unimaginable, it isn''t


    something that those people aren''t capable of."


    Softly, she nodded. "Thanks."


    "You''re wee. Just as I said earlier, I''m on the same side as you."


    When Leanna returned home, Zoe was still on the couch, clutching the pillow tightly as she focused all


    her attention on the TV, as though she didn''t care about what they had spoken about.


    Hearing the sounds from the door, she sat up and said, "Nana, I''m going to shower. You should go to


    bed."


    "Okay, good night." This belongs to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Good night."


    In the bedroom, Leanna sat at the desk and took out the pictures and pocket watch from the storage


    box. As she looked at it carefully, her thoughts couldn''t help but drift away.


    Using her best effort, she tried to recall all that was left in her memory, but there was nothing else


    besides the raging fire.


    Minutester, her head started to throb, and when she wanted to put the pocket watch away, Aidan''s


    words suddenly popped up in her mind. Flipping the pocket watch over, she saw a string of numbers at


    the most bottom part.


    That''s probably the production number, she thought. But this is something from more than twenty years


    ago, will it really bring up any leads?


    After a short moment of silence, she whipped out her phone and took detailed pictures of the pocket


    watch to see what she could find out once she had the chance.


    ¡­


    As it turned out, Aidan and Daniel were right; Georgina started to take action on her side because of


    what Leanna did during Mr. Jackson''s birthday.


    Within two days, a B-list actress named Carlile Mayer showed up at the studio, iming that she had


    custom-made a bracelet here before but realized at home that the diamond that was used on the


    bracelet was a fake, and it was just a ss product that couldn''t be any more ordinary.


    When she came over, she even brought the media and demanded for her rights.


    In a whisper, Zoe asked Leanna, "Look at this scene now. Doesn''t it look just like that time when that


    tigress came here to make a scene?"


    By now, it was clear who the one who staged those people back then was.


    Leanna pursed her lips and exined, "She''s really a customer from our shop, and she has been here


    more than once."


    Judging from this, they reckoned that that girl had never been to the studio before, but she probably


    obtained from Carlile the items sold from the workshop.


    "What should we do now?" Zoe asked.


    Leanna considered it. "We''ll ignore her and let her make a scene."


    If this matter didn''t blow up, how could she involve Georgina into it?


    Obviously, Carlile came with a purpose. Not only did she go around the store, she also spent money to


    buy a spot on the hot topic search as well as a huge amount of paid supporters to lead the public


    opinion.


    Back when Leanna was still working in Lux Jewelry, she once had a spot on the hot topic search and


    everyone knew her name because of this.


    In a long post, Carlileined that she decided to be Leanna''s client because of a friend''s


    rmendation, but she didn''t expect to suffer such a huge loss in the end. This time, she was


    making this issue public not for the sake ofpensation, but to share the lesson with everyone so


    they wouldn''t fall for the scam again.


    The minute this became a trending topic, two more people posted to echo the sentiment, iming that


    they checked their own jewelry after reading Carlile''s post. In the end, they found out that the jewels on


    their jewelry were all fakes.


    After these posts, topics about Leanna''s studio making fakes and scamming consumers dashed to the


    top of trending topics straight away with the words ''HOT NEWS'' in the beginning of the headlines.


    ''Isn''t she the designer of ''First Love'' that is under Lux Jewelry? Did I just discover the Inte? When


    did she start her own studio?''


    ''That''s the designer that was previously rumored to be a sugar baby, right? I followed the gossip for a


    few days back then, but I didn''t expect that she''s not only immoral but also has personality issues.''


    ''Luckily I''ve never bought anything rted to her. The customers at her store have made a big loss.


    After spending the money, they got a piece of ss instead.''


    ''This makes me so sick. My dear Carlile must be really down on her luck to run into such a


    bloodsucker. I''m throwing up!''


    Right then, someone else told the story of a highschool girl stealing money from her parents to buy the


    jewelry from Leanna''s studio. All of a sudden, the public anger soared higher than before, and all sorts


    of mean things were said.


    When evening came, the studio leisurely released a statement.


    Regarding the usations brought forward by Carlile and the two other customers, the studio didn''t


    ept it and had entrusted theirwyers with full representation in this matter. As for the said forged


    jewelry, they had evidence in their hands to prove that the jewelry sold from their store at that time were


    certified and tested by authoritative institutions.


    After this post was on social media, Daphne was the first to share it. Immediately after that, Harvey


    from Lux Jewelry and a few other celebrities shared and liked the post.

 Chapter 258

    Chapter 258


    The minute she saw the news on the Inte, Carlile was stunned because she never thought that


    Leanna''s studio could actuallye up with evidence. In addition, there was also Daphne''s influence.


    She suddenly panicked and hurriedly gave Georgina a call.


    "Miss Crossley, this is different from what you said," Carlile said anxiously. "Why do they have evidence


    in their hands?"


    "They''re just scaring you. If you really believe what they said, then you''re falling right into their trap,"


    Georgina answeredposedly.


    Despite what she said, Carlile was still a little worried. "What if she really has the evidence?"


    "That''s easy. You''re just asking for your basic consumer rights. Even if shees up with the


    evidence, all you have to do at that time is make a public apology. No matter what, the item came from


    her studio, so she has the responsibility to bear any of the consequences."


    Hearing that, Carlile breathed a sigh of relief. Even if the tables turned at that time, the problem stilly


    with Leanna''s studio. For her part, she just needed to insist that the jewelry was already that way when


    she brought it home.


    After a while, she asked again, "Miss Crossley, when are we signing the contract for the drama which


    you promised me?"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "We can sign the contract any time," Georgina said. "But I think it''s better to discuss the details after


    this matter is done. What do you think?"


    Carlile knew what she meant; once the matter waspleted, she would give her what she promised,


    but if the n failed, she would receive nothing.


    "Don''t worry, Miss Crossley," she assured. "I''ve reported this case to the consumer group and her


    studio will close down soon for the investigation. When the timees, my team will lead the public


    opinion again and everyone will think that she''s closing because of forgery."


    "Okay, you take care of this, then."


    After hanging up, Georgina gradually buried the sneer on her face and stared ahead emotionlessly.


    Just then, she heard the muffled voice of a servant from outside the door. "Wee home, master."


    Right after, the door to the study opened, and a few seconds passed before Georgina kept away her


    phone and she went to knock on the door of the study room.


    Soon, Lloyd''s voice echoed from inside. "Come in."


    Gently, she pushed the door open. "Dad, I would like to speak with you."


    Seated at the desk, Lloyd ced a pocket watch into the drawer. "You want to speak with me about the


    engagement with the Pearson Family, don''t you?"


    She gave him a nod and began slowly, "The power of the Pearson Family still lies in Aidan''s hands.


    Even if I''m really engaged to Justin, it won''t change anything."


    "You''re wrong, Gina. The influence of the Pearson Family is deeply rooted in Highside. Even without


    Aidan, the Pearson Family is not a presence that should be underestimated. Furthermore, Sienna isn''t


    as simple as she seems, and Justin is a gentle and polite man. You won''t suffer if you marry him."


    "But I¡ª"


    "Gina, if you have a baby within a year after marrying Justin, I can assure you that the entire Pearsons


    and Crossleys will belong to that child."


    Whether it was the Pearsons or him, Aidan''s existence was too dangerous for them. That was why he


    could reach an agreement with Gordon. In addition, the Pearsons would give anything to wrench the


    power out of Aidan''s hands.


    "But what if this doesn''t happen?" Georgina asked with a frown.


    Lloyd stared at her. "Gina, there''s nothing in this world that cannot be done if you wish to do it."


    "But I don''t want to marry Justin. You know his situation as well. Isn''t this the reason I didn''t marry him


    all these years?"


    "Times are different now."


    Puzzled, she asked, "Dad, I don''t understand why you made this sudden decision, and neither can I


    ept it."


    Ever since she was young, Lloyd wouldn''t force her to do anything. In addition, Georgina couldn''t leave


    it because she believed that Aidan would definitely get back together with Leanna. How could she


    watch with wide eyes as they patch things back while she was not well off?


    A short whileter, Lloyd said suddenly, "Gina, there''s something I''ve been hiding from you. Now that


    you''re an adult, it''s time that I tell you the truth."


    Hearing that, Georgina furrowed her brows, wondering what he was going to tell her.


    Slowly, he rose to his feet, took out a box from the hiddenpartment in the bookshelf and passed it


    to her. In the box was a picture of two people.


    A confused look washed over Georgina''s face. "This is¡­"


    One of the men in the picture looked like the younger Lloyd, but she had never seen the other man


    before.


    Pacing to the window, he slowly said, "The other man in the picture is my younger brother."


    Startled, she asked, "Why have I never met him before?"


    "That''s because he passed away twenty years ago in an explosion." With his back facing her, he wore


    an unfathomable expression. "He wasn''t the only one that passed away in that explosion, but also his


    wife and daughter."


    "Why did such a serious explosion happen?"


    Lloyd sniggered. "Because he wanted to kill me."


    Shocked, she didn''t imagine that she would hear an answer like that. "So, the burn scar on your neck is


    also from this incident?"


    He nodded. "I thought that this had ended twenty years ago until I recently found out that his wife and


    daughter didn''t die, and they even returned."


    "She¡ª"


    Narrowing his eyes, he twirled around. "That person is Aidan''s ex-wife."


    Hearing that, Georgina''s eyes widened as disbelief were written all over her face. "Isn''t Leanna''s father


    a gambler? Back then, he even¡­" Sold her to Patheon Club, otherwise she would have never met


    Aidan, she finished in her head.


    "After that, I investigated and found out that her mother didn''t die at all. She merely took her away and


    married another man under a different name in order to avoid responsibility after the explosion," Lloyd


    continued.


    "In other words, she was also involved in the explosion that was targeted at you back then?"


    "At the very least, she knew about it," Llyod said. "At that time, I''d already taken over the Crossley


    Group, but he was coveting the shares in my hands and came up with that n, but he didn''t think that


    he would harm his own family instead."


    "Are you worried that Leanna will approach us with a motive just like her father? That''s the reason for


    the marriage with the Pearsons?" she asked.


    "I''m still not sure at this point, but I can''t let my guard down looking at the situation now. My life isn''t


    important; I merely survived from twenty years ago, but I''m worried about you. That''s why I decided on


    the engagement to Justin for you."

 Chapter 259

    Chapter 259


    At the studio, the people from the consumer group left after asking some questions. Nothing that Carlile


    had hoped would happen turned out in that way.


    After they were gone, Zoe clicked her tongue a couple of times. "I didn''t think that it would feel this


    amazing to have backup."


    The store girl next to her didn''t understand what she meant and asked dumbly, "What backup?"


    Leanna happened to walk over right then and overheard them, and she couldn''t help but chuckle. "It''s


    nothing. Don''t listen to her nonsense."


    Knowing that this wasn''t something she should worry about, the store girl turned around and trotted off


    to get busy.


    Standing at the reception, Leanna sorted out all of Carlile''s purchase records at the studio. Besides


    Carlile, the others who imed that they had purchased forged items from the studio were merely


    doing it on purpose to make the situation worse.


    With Carlile leading the pack in the beginning, even if the studio rified that those people were not


    their customers, probably nobody would believe them and would think that they were just trying to


    divert the attention instead.


    Looking at those records, Zoe said, "Luckily I took pictures as memento for every finished product. Or


    else, we would have really fallen into their trap."


    In addition to that, Leanna always purchased all the jewelry essories from a supplier who had


    proper partners. The supplier was cooperating with many luxury brands and would never sell fakes.


    "Georgina probably knows that this could only cause a hugemotion but leave a small impact. Even


    though it''s a huge issue now, it''s only a matter of time before the truthes out," Leanna said.


    "What''s her purpose for doing this, then?" Zoe asked, puzzled.


    Leanna smirked. "Maybe she wants to teach me a lesson to vent her frustrations."


    "What the hell?! She''s sick!"


    "Ever since Aidan canceled the engagement, Georgina has always thought that it happened because


    of me and kept mocking me. Throw in what happened at the birthday party that day when I


    embarrassed her, how could she take all of this lying down?"


    Zoe shook her head. "No, you''re wrong."


    "Huh?"


    "Didn''t I already tell you that Georgina is a hypocrite? She wasn''t even engaged to Aidan at that time,


    but she approached you on purpose. Looking back now, it seems like she has nned it for a long


    time." After a two second pause, she scratched her chin and said in a serious tone, "On the other hand,


    it''s not wrong of Georgina to think that Aidan canceled the engagement because of you."


    Leanna was speechless, and just as Zoe finished speaking, the man she just mentioned showed up at


    the studio.


    Clearing her throat, Zoe then came up with an excuse and slipped into the lounge.


    Although the studio didn''t close down for investigation, it was especially quiet today because of the


    comments on the Inte in addition to some other external factors. Hence, there was not a single


    customer at the moment.


    The moment Aidan stepped into the studio, it was as though he had returned to his own home¡ª


    plopping himself into the couch in a familiar and natural manner. With a frown, he said, "Make me a cup


    of coffee."


    A dumbstruck Leanna thought, This b*stard actually has the cheeks to say this. Does he think that this


    is hispany?


    Setting aside the papers she was sorting in her hands, she then turned into the pantry and made a cup


    of instant coffee.


    After cing the coffee in front of him, she said unhappily, "You really make yourself at home, don''t


    you?"


    "You''re making me self-conscious by saying that," he said, picking up the cup.


    He took a sip of the coffee as his handsome brows knitted together. However, he didn''t say anything


    and simply ced the cup back on the coffee table.


    "What brought you here, President Pearson? Please go back if there''s nothing. I''m busy and can''t


    attend to you," Leanna said.


    Aidan lifted his gaze and swept his eyes across the empty room at that. "Are you busy?"


    "Just go straight to the point, President Pearson," she snapped, gritting her teeth.


    Crossing his long legs, he said leisurely, "Yes, I asked you not to confront Georgina in person, but you


    shouldn''t allow her to pick on you like you''re a soft tomato."


    "So, you mean¡ª"


    "Why didn''t youe and look for me immediately after this happened?"


    Leanna couldn''t help butugh out loud. "So, you''re saying that I shouldn''t have a head-on argument


    with Georgina after she provoked me butin to you afterward?"


    "It''s just the rational use of allocating effective resources to reach the maximum benefit."


    Secondster, Leanna responded, "You don''t have to worry about this, President Pearson. I''ll take care


    of it well."


    The look on Aidan''s face turned cold. "I almost forgot that you still have Elijah. It''s true that I don''t have


    to worry."


    Silently, she cursed, This b*stard must be crazy. He can change topics so easily, huh? Just a second


    ago we''re speaking about Georgina, and all of a sudden he switched to Elijah.


    In a serious tone, she reminded him, "I think, if you have the time to care about this, why don''t you


    reflect on your own actions and why Georgina has her eyes on me?"


    "Shouldn''t you be the one to reflect on this?" His slender fingers tapped his knee gently as he said


    casually, "Maybe you don''t know that Georgina already wanted to marry me three years ago. If it wasn''t


    because you pulled my sleeves and begged me to marry you, she might have already be Mrs.


    Pearson."


    She sniggered, "In conclusion, I was the one who spoiled your ns, huh?"


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s not wrong for you to see it that way."


    If Leanna had a broom in her hands, she would really want to chase him out.


    Barely a few seconds had passed when Elijah''s voice echoed from behind, "Hey, Leanna."


    Turning around, she then smiled gently at him. Meanwhile, Aidan''s eyes fell on his face, and his eyes


    narrowed, feeling that the smile was hurting his eyes very much.


    Elijah''s eyes swept past Aidan, and he said nonchntly, "Oh, you''re here, too."


    "Looks like Constetion Tech doesn''t have much to do at the end of the year," Aidan said. "You''re


    quite free, President Parker."


    "I''m alrightpared to you, President Pearson."


    Seeing that the air between the men was getting more tense, Leanna cleared her throat. "Would you


    guys like something to eat? I''ll order some snacks."


    Almost simultaneously, both of them answered, "Yes."


    Leanna''s eyelid twitched and she quickly fished out her phone. After cing her order, she said, "Take


    a seat. I''m going to use the bathroom."


    Then, she hurriedly escaped, and when she was out of the bathroom, she forcibly dragged Zoe out.


    However, by the time they came out, Elijah was no longer in the studio.


    Taking a look around, Leanna asked, "Where''s Elijah?"


    In aid-back manner, Aidan drank his cup of instant coffee. "He left because of work."


    Leanna frowned at him. "What did you do again?"


    An unhappy look washed over his face. "What do you mean by that?"


    "Before this, weren''t you the one who did something so that the annual meeting of Constetion Tech


    ended up at the resort?"


    Pressing his lips together, he then queried in a stoic voice, "Did Elijah tell you this?"


    "That doesn''t matter. Isn''t this the truth?" she asked.

 Chapter 260

    Chapter 260


    Seeing that the hostility between both of them was increasing to the point where they were about to


    start a fight, Zoe slipped away again without even thinking.


    cing down the coffee, Aidan looked at Leanna. "Am I such a person in your heart?"


    "Does it matter what I say?"


    Even this b*stard himself had mentioned before that he''s a bad guy. Why does he make it sound as if


    I''m using him? she wondered.


    "The resort has to be booked one month ahead. How do you think I could predict that he was going to


    take you with him?" he asked.


    Stunned at his words, she didn''t expect that he would give her such an answer.


    He cast her a look and exined, "I''ve told you before that Elijah isn''t as simple as you think, and he''s


    telling you this because he''s jealous of me."


    Out of reflex, she asked, "Why is he jealous of you?"


    "He''s jealous that I''m the one you like in your heart."


    Speechless for a few seconds, Leanna finally uttered with great difficulty, "Do you think that everyone


    else has the same thoughts as you?"


    "Then, give me a reasonable exnation why he would lie to you," Aidan said nonchntly.


    All of a sudden, she slipped into silence and couldn''t find the words to argue.


    "Just know this, Leanna. I''ll never do anything to hurt you and all I want is just that one thing. On the


    other hand, it''s different with Elijah. You have no idea about his background and what he wants," he


    added.


    "That''s it. Don''t be so mean and make yourself out to be so innocent. You''ve done no less of stuff like


    that."


    While Aidan was speechless, Leanna sat on the couch with still eyes, thinking, Now that the b*stard


    has mentioned it, that reminds me. Daniel is Elijah''s friend, so they probably came here because of the


    same purpose, which is to aim for the Crossley Family.


    At the thought of this, she stole a few looks at Aidan, but the words would always stop at the tip of her


    tongue.


    "It''s not toote if you apologize to me now," he said slowly.


    "President Pearson."


    Hearing that Leanna''s tone had suddenly turned serious, Aidan looked at her from the corner of his


    eyes and raised his brows, gesturing for her to continue.


    She pressed her lips gently together and said, "Does it affect you greatly if Georgina marries your


    brother?"


    "Are you concerned about me?"


    "Forget it if you''re not telling."


    A chuckle escaped his lips before he answered seriously, "Not much, actually, but some things will get


    a little trickier. Still, you don''t have to worry because it''s not a problem for me."


    Ignoring part of his answer, she said, "I think there won''t be any oue from this coalition marriage in


    the end."


    At the end of the day, Leanna reckoned that Daniel and Elijah came with a purpose, and since their


    target was the Crossley Family, how could they allow Georgina to be engaged to Justin and expand the


    Crossley Family''s influence?


    Smirking, Aidan didn''t argue.


    She gave it a thought before saying, "President Pearson, you should know as well that Daniel doesn''t


    have a simple background, and he should have the same purpose as you."


    "Are you saying that I should cooperate with him?"


    "It''s just the rational use of allocating effective resources to reach the maximum benefit."


    As the saying went, the enemy of my enemy was my friend, and if they had the same target, why


    shouldn''t they work together?


    The smirk on Aidan''s face widened. "Not bad. You''re applying what you learned right away."


    Embarrassed by hispliment, she coughed unnaturally. "I''ve always been one to take the best to


    make up for the worst." Then, she added, "Take the best and leave the worst."


    A few secondster, Aidan said, "Whether it was Elijah or Daniel, both of them aren''t trustworthy. You


    should stay away from them."


    "Okay."


    Minutester, Zoe came in with the snacks that Leanna had ordered earlier. "Nana, this¡­ P-President


    Pearson, have something to eat first."


    Rising to his feet, he said calmly, "I''m busy, so I''m going now."


    "Didn''t you say that you want to eat some earlier?" Leannained.


    "Not all of a man''s words can be trusted. Take this as a free lesson for you."


    After he was gone, Leanna and Zoe stared at the big pile of food, wondering how they could finish it.


    None of the two men who aggressively said that they wanted to eat ended up eating anything.


    Massaging the spot between her brows, Leanna then gave the snacks to the shopkeepers next door


    after she had given some to her own employees.


    At the same time, the discussions on the Inte continued to churn. With Georgina backing her up,


    Carlile merely wanted toplete this task well so she could get what she was promised, and she


    went all out to pay ghostwriters and official business ounts to fill up the page. Not only that, she


    even reposted the story about Leanna being a sugar baby with her own embellishments, making the


    story sound as realistic as it could be.


    Just when Leanna''s sugar baby scandal was gradually overpowering the forgery case, an employee


    from Lux Jewelry posted a tweet.


    ''You people should have some sense as onlookers. Although I''m not too sure about the forgery case


    and neither am I going toment on it, you guys are simply ridiculous toward the rumor about McK


    being a sugar baby. If you know who her ex-husband is, you''ll probably want to bite your own tongue


    off.''


    ''You don''t have to do this and just call this a reverse PR as it is. Furthermore, who knew if the ex-


    husband she imed really existed or not? Nobody would admit that they had been a mistress before.''


    ''What? Why don''t you tell us who her ex-husband is? Will the name scare me out of my wits?''


    ''That''s right. Didn''t someone mention before that she was a sugar baby of the Pearson Family?


    ording to your reverse PR post, are you going to say that her ex-husband is the president of


    Pearson Group? What a joke! Who are you trying to kid?''


    After thestment, some business ounts made a screenshot and reposted it, implying in their


    caption that Leanna was delusional and wanted to be a swan when she was in fact the ugly duckling,


    which generated another wave of ridicule from theizens.


    While the topic was at its peak, the official Twitter of Pearson Groupmented on the thread posted


    by a user who was chiding Leanna the most. ''What''s your problem?''


    The second thisment was sent, the users who had been the most aggressive started to be


    collectively abusive again.


    ''Look how popr Leanna McKinney''s name is. Even the Pearson Group has to stand out to rify the


    situation.''


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ''Ha-ha. Leanna McKinney probably never guessed that she would have such an honor in her life. This


    is an epic case of getting framed. I wonder how the people at Pearson Group wouldugh when they


    see all these.''


    ''Well done, admin! Don''t leave any way out for shameless people like that. I think it won''t take long for


    Leanna McKinney to be cklisted in the industry now that she has offended the Pearson Group. She


    totally deserves it!''


    Just when everyone thought that the official ount had made the move to teach Leanna a lesson, the


    nextments by the ount had everyone falling off their seats in shock.

 Chapter 261

    Chapter 261


    In reply to thosements and posts that were criticizing Leanna, the official ount of the Pearson


    Group would leave answers that were concise, straight to the point and downright mean.


    Gradually, the people who were apuding the Pearson Group ount started to be hostile toward it.


    ''This person must be sick. Ridiculous!''


    ''This must be a fake ount. Otherwise, it''s hacked.''


    ''Will the employees of the Pearson Group put in a little more effort? Why are you joining in the fun at


    such a time? You should be fired! Oh, I''m so mad!''


    ''Will the relevant supervisor of Pearson Group take care of this? This employee is like a mad man. I


    only criticized McKinney, and not him. Why did hee for me out of nowhere?''


    While the Inte trolls were speechless, a certified Twitter ount belonging to a senior manager of


    the Pearson Group tweeted, ''Thanks, but there''s nothing I can do about this because the one holding


    the official ount now is President Pearson.''


    Everyone was dumbstruck, and immediately afterward, the Lux Jewelry employee who broke the news


    before posted another tweet. ''I told you so, but nobody believed me then. The ex-husband of McK is


    President Pearson.''


    Within thirty seconds of this tweet, thements beneath her previous tweet that were criticizing


    Leanna were all deleted without a trace.


    Right when everyone thought that the president who was taking charge of the Twitter ount would


    continue arguing with the Inte trolls, he suddenly issued a grave statement.


    ''Allments and posts with malicious intent toward Miss McKinney are untrue. Miss McKinney was


    once the legal wife of the president of Pearson Group, and even though they divorced due to some


    misunderstanding, they have maintained a friendly rtionship the whole time and President Pearson


    is trying to win her back at the moment. Please make sensiblements or the Pearson Group will


    reserve the right to sue for personal attacks and pursue legal responsibility.''


    As a huge corporation, thewyers employed by the Pearson Group were the elites of the industry.


    Once they had really sent the solicitor''s letter of demand, they would definitely proceed with the legal


    procedures and not joke about it.


    All of a sudden, the discussions on the Inte came to an abrupt stop.


    The paid ghostwriters and business ounts were doing this because they were paid, anyway, and


    now that the matter had blown up, they could possibly be thrown under the bus, too.


    Meanwhile, after Carlile saw the statement posted by the official ount of Pearson Group, her face


    turned pale, and she slumped into the couch as though her energy was all drained out.


    Suddenly, something popped into her mind after a few good minutes, and she hurriedly scrambled for


    her phone. With trembling hands, she called Georgina and stammered, "M-Miss Crossley, have you


    seen the news on the Inte? Leanna McKinney¡­ S-She''s the¡ª"


    "I know."


    Panic-stricken, Carlile uttered, "It''s over. It''s a gone case this time!"


    With a hint of annoyance in her voice, Georgina said, "Why are you panicking? Didn''t I already tell you


    that nobody can do anything to you if you insist that the jewelry you received is already in that


    condition?"


    "B-But it''s the Pearson Group we''re speaking about! They can easily see through this cheap trick of


    mine." Tentatively, she asked, "Should I just make a public apology now?"


    "Aren''t you just proving that you''re guilty if you apologize now? Leanna didn''t even bring forward any


    evidence yet, so I don''t know what you''re afraid of."


    Carlile bit her lip. "But Miss Georgina, I''m afraid of offending the Pearson Group¡­ I may even get


    censored."


    Georgina sniggered. "What a joke! Do you really think that Aidan Pearson can hoodwink the public?"


    "After all, the power of the Pearson Family is¡ª"


    "The Pearsons are powerful, but what about my family?"


    Without a doubt, Georgina was just trying to assure her with her words, but she didn''t dare to be as


    brazen as she was anymore while waiting to see the reaction from Leanna''s studio. Once they


    provided the evidence, she would apologize immediately.


    Meanwhile at Leanna''s studio, they didn''t take advantage of the statement by the Pearson Group,


    which was still a hot discussion. Instead, they remained silent and didn''t respond to anything.


    However, the quieter they were, the more anxious it made Carlisle, wondering what they were up to.


    ¡­


    "The b*stard really renewed my knowledge of him. A knight in shining armor. Oh, how many women


    wouldn''t be touched?"


    While Leanna was quiet, Zoe set her phone aside and dashed into the kitchen. "Nana, are you sure


    you don''t want to have a look?"


    "Yes," Leanna replied, rinsing the vegetables and continuing to chop up something else.


    After that, Zoe read out all the replies by Aidan word-by-word, and it didn''t make any difference whether


    Leanna read it or not.


    Picking up an apple, Zoe then started to bite into it as she leaned against the kitchen door frame.


    "Looks like Elijah lost this round."


    Actually, he didn''t lose this round; he simply never won before.


    Silently, Leanna sighed. "That''s enough. Get Louis here for dinner."


    "Oh, okay. I''ll give him a call right away."


    After Zoe left, Leanna peered at the cell phone next to her and paused for a few seconds. Then, as


    though she was pierced, she quickly kept her gaze away.


    Initially, she didn''t n to deal with thements on the Inte. It wasn''t like she had never been


    criticized before. There were still two more days to Christmas, and once the celebrations were over,


    she would slowly drop the hammer. One by one, she would hit Carlile with her blows and find the


    chance to draw Georgina out as well.


    Despite that, she didn''t expect Aidan to cause thismotion now, throwing her off guard and into


    confusion.


    Although he had done no less of sweet-talking recently, it didn''t ur to Leanna that he could go to this


    extent, which was rather astonishing.


    Who would have expected that the president of the Pearson Group would stoop so low as to argue with


    netizens using hispany''s official Twitter ount? Besides his mouth which was as mean as it had


    always been, none of his other actions were fitting with him at all.


    However, this fight also changed everyone''s stereotyped opinion of Aidan. Some even suggested that if


    he would start a lecture to teach others the art of arguing without the use of a single curse word, they


    wouldn''t mind paying for the ss.


    During dinner, Zoe couldn''t help but wave her hand across Leanna''s face when she caught her


    smirking goofily. "What''s on your mind?"


    Hurriedly, Leanna set her thoughts aside and cleared her throat, her ears turning pinkish. "Nothing, I-


    I''m eating."


    Pouting, Zoe said indirectly, "It''s Christmas Eve in two days'' time. What are we doing? Do you guys


    have any ns?"


    "We''ll just stay at home, I guess," Leanna said. Then, she recalled the tragic situation thest time and


    quickly added, "Only the three of us! Don''t invite or tell anyone else!"


    "You''re just ying the ostrich," Louis muttered.


    "Huh?" she blurted.


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe nodded in agreement. "Yeah. On Christmas Eve, you''ll definitely be having dinner. Even without


    the need to invite, the person who should be here will show up for sure."


    Her words left Leanna speechless.

 Chapter 262

    Chapter 262


    Zoe continued her analysis. "Elijah will most likely be with his parents. So, the only probable one would


    be Aidan."


    All this thinking was giving Leanna a headache.


    This wasn''t the first time that b*stard had done such an unsolicited thing.


    Brushing it off, she heaved a sigh. "Let''s just eat."


    As there was nothing to do in the studio for the uing two days, she had decided to give everyone


    a day off in advance and allowed them to go back to celebrate the New Year''s ahead of time.


    When shopping for New Year''s goods, she had never thought she would bump into an acquaintance.


    Mia was snuggled up in the arms of a chubby middle-aged man. She was caught off guard when she


    noticed Leanna. Immediately, she frowned. "What are you doing here alone?"


    Leanna smiled. "Who else should Ie here with, if not alone? Should I bring a ghost?"


    That would definitely scare everyone to death.


    Mia''s face changed when she heard this. "No. What I meant was, why isn''t President Pearson with


    you?"


    "Why would he be with me?"


    "Isn''t he pinning after you?"


    Leanna had no rebuttals this time.


    In turn, the middle-aged man next to Mia spoke up, "Mia, who is this?"


    "Oh, this is President Pearson''s ex-wife. This woman has been the hot topic of the Inte."


    His eyes lingered on Leanna a little longer before he spoke again in a suggestive manner, "It seems


    like President Pearson is very blessed."


    As he said this, his phone started ringing. The middle-aged man frowned as a trace of disgust shed


    across his eyes. Then, he said, "Excuse me while I take this call."


    Mia immediately let go of his hand and reasonably said, "Go ahead."


    After he left, she looked back at Leanna with a disdainful smile on her face. "Who would''ve thought that


    after everything you did to get him to marry you, he loathed you instead? Then, after finally getting a


    divorce, he decided toe running back."


    "Maybe this is the twist of fate."


    Mia let out a light snort. "Don''t you celebrate too early, though. You know how President Pearson is. His


    taste is always changing. He divorced you so easily after marrying you, yet now, he is suddenly


    chasing you again out of nowhere. Who knows what he wants this time? Who knows when he''ll


    disappear again? You better not get carried away by him."


    "Thank you for reminding me," Leanna replied. As she said that, she nced at the middle-aged man,


    who was still on the phone not far away. "I also have a piece of advice for you. Don''t always think about


    destroying other people''s rtionships. One is more likely to be influenced when immersed in such an


    environment."


    However, it seemed like Mia didn''t take what Leanna said to heart as she crossed her arms. "We''re just


    benefitting off each other right now. Even if it isn''t me that''s standing beside him today, it''d be another


    woman. Do you think these rich b*stards can stand being alone? If the women at home don''t please


    them enough, what''s stopping them from finding another woman outside? As the saying goes, the


    grass is always greener on the other side¡­"


    Leanna smiled lightly but did not speak.


    What Mia said made a lot of sense.


    Sure enough, all these b*stards were the same.


    Leanna did not n on continuing the conversation with Mia, so she gave a quick reply, "Then, I wish


    you luck."


    After Leanna walked away, Mia watched her back as a trace of unwillingness and jealousy shed


    across Mia''s eyes.


    She was originally a highly-sought model signed to Pearson Group with a bright future. However, since


    her contract with Pearson Group was terminated, no otherpanies dared to sign her. Thus, she


    could only opt for the acting industry and acted in some low-cost web dramas.


    Her career had plummeted.


    In turn, she had to depend on men like the middle-aged man to survive.


    As for Leanna, she did nothing, yet she managed to get Aidan wrapped around her fingers again.


    What did Leanna have that she didn''t?


    When the middle-aged man came back after his call, he looked around and asked, "Did President


    Pearson''s wife leave?"


    Immediately, Mia took his arms and teased him coquettishly, "What''s wrong? Are you interested in


    her?"


    The middle-aged man smiled and put his arm around her shoulder. "Everyone likes attractive people,


    but I don''t have President Pearson''s ability to marry such a beautiful wife."


    "Although President Pearson married her willingly, she yed a lot of tricks to get her this far," she


    said.


    "Huh? What do you mean?"


    "You''re asking so much about her. It seems like you''re really interested in her."


    The middle-aged manughed. "What are you talking about? I''m just curious about President


    Pearson."


    However, his thoughts began to wander about how Leanna would act in bed. From the looks of her


    face and figure, she must be enchanting.


    When Mia noticed the explicit look in his eyes, she immediately knew what he was thinking about and


    lightly said, "Then, you''ve definitely not heard about how much President Pearson hates her. He


    couldn''t even stand to hear her name."


    This was news to the middle-aged man. "Didn''t you just say that he is chasing her?"


    "I''m sure it''s just a whim. If President Pearson really liked her, why would he have divorced her in the


    first ce?"


    The middle-aged man squinted his eyes as he answered thoughtfully, "So, that''s the case."


    ¡­


    After Leanna left the mall, she met up with Zoe, who had been shopping for other things.


    Zoe exhaled as she carried bags of all sizes. "I''ve bought everything we need."


    Leanna nodded. "Seems like it. Where''s Louis?"


    "Louis said he has something to do and told us to go back first," Zoe said before putting her things


    down. "Nana, wait here. I''ll drive over."


    "Okay."


    After Zoe left, Leanna stood in ce and took out her phone before scrolling through it mindlessly. At


    this moment, a ck Mercedes stopped in front of her, and the window was lowered in an instant.


    "Miss McKinney, do you need some help?"


    After hearing the voice, Leanna looked up to see Raymond in the car and answered, "No, thanks, I''m


    waiting for my friend here."


    At this time, the rear window was also lowered. A little girl, who was about eight or nine years old, sat


    there with a one or two years old boy next to her in a child seat.


    Leanna remembered that Maya once mentioned how Raymond was a divorcee with two children.


    The little girl stared at her. "Miss, you''re so beautiful."


    This immediately made Leanna smile. "Thank you."


    As she thanked the child, she took out some candy that she had just bought from the bag and handed


    it to the little girl.


    The little girl nced at her father and only smiled to reach out and take it after getting a signal from


    him.


    A few secondster, a car behind them honked. Immediately, Raymond said, "Seeing that Miss


    McKinney is fine, we''ll get going first. See you around."


    Leanna nodded lightly with a polite reply.


    Not long after he drove away, Zoe''s car stopped in front of her, and Zoe immediately questioned, "Who


    were you talking to, Nana?"


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    "Someone that Maya brought to the studiost time. She wanted to introduce me to him."


    "Has she lost her mind?!"


    Leanna smiled and did not speak as she put the things into the car.


    Thest time she and Raymond met, his gaze had made her ufortable. However, today, he


    seemed to be a good father.

 Chapter 263

    Chapter 263


    Zoe copsed onto the sofa out of fatigue as soon as they got home. "It''s so tiring to prepare for the


    Christmas. The next time I visit my mom, I won''t pick a fight with her anymore."


    "You can still make it if you leave now. It won''t be Christmas until tomorrow," Leanna suggested.


    However, Zoe refused without a second thought. "Although I pity my mom, I''d rather not listen to her


    nagging. I''ll go back once I find her a handsome son-inw."


    Leanna smiled. "If you bring home a handsome guy, your mom might drive you out with a broom."


    "She''s really hard to please," Zoe said with a sigh.


    Not long after, the doorbell rang, and Leanna went to open the door, only to find Elijah standing outside.


    "I went to the studio to look for you guys, but it seems like you''ve taken the day off one day in advance.


    I couldn''t get through to your phone or Zoe''s, so I''ve decided to stop by here myself," Elijah exined.


    After a pause, he continued, "Leanna, I have something I need to talk to you about."


    When he called the two women, they were probably in the elevator, which would exin why they did


    not receive the call.


    Leanna took a step back and invited, "Come on in."


    Zoe was in the kitchen gulping water when Elijah came in. She was afraid that if she did not keep her


    mouth upied, she might begin to y cupid.


    As Leanna went to pour Elijah a ss of water, she shot Zoe a strange look and asked, "What are you


    doing?"


    However, Zoe quickly waved her off. "N-Nothing. Don''t worry about me."


    Hearing this, Leanna shrugged and returned to the living room with a ss of water.


    After putting the ss in front of Elijah, she sat on the chair at the side. "What can I do for you?"


    He pursed his lips and hesitated for a moment before saying, "Leanna, I have a favor to ask of you."


    "I will do my best to help you with whatever you need. You don''t have to be so courteous. You''ve


    helped me a lot in the past."


    After a few seconds, Elijah slowly spat out, "Can you follow me home tomorrow night?"


    This took Leanna by surprise, but before she could react, Zoe, who was drinking water in the kitchen,


    immediately coughed a few times.


    Before Leanna had the chance to refuse, he spoke up again, "I know it''s an abrupt request. That''s why


    I hesitated for so long before I came and asked."


    "Follow you home?" Leanna asked tentatively.


    He nodded. "I''m not young anymore, and my parents have been urging me to get married for the past


    two years. They even said they''d introduce me to a girl. Some time ago, I really had no choice, so I told


    them I had a girlfriend. Now, they''re asking me to bring her back home."


    Zoe immediately understood what he meant. He wanted nothing more than for Leanna to pretend to be


    his girlfriend and spend Christmas with him.


    Although it was all an act, the narrative would change as soon as she followed him home.


    Zoe couldn''t deny that this was a really good excuse. There were no ws in this n of his.


    When Elijah saw how quiet Leanna was, he spoke again, "Leanna, I know that you won''t agree, but it''s


    just that my parents are old, and I don''t want them to worry. That''s why I lied. It''s fine, I can just tell


    them tomorrow that it was all a lie and that I don''t actually have a girlfriend."


    When Leanna heard this, she pursed her lips. She couldn''t bring herself to reject him.


    Earlier, she even said that she would help him with anything.


    Plus, she really did owe Elijah a lot of favors.


    "Leanna, you don''t have to feel forced. It doesn''t matter. I''m just asking to see what you think about


    this. If you''re burdened, just pretend like I didn''t show up today and I didn''t ask such a thing."


    "I''m not burdened. It''s just that¡­" She trailed off.


    Forget it. It''s just a favor. Overthinking is a curse. Plus, this is just an act to make his parents feel at


    ease, she thought to herself.


    Then, she nodded. "Okay. I''ll follow you back tomorrow."


    Hearing this, Elijah breathed a sigh of relief, and a slight smile appeared on his face. "Then, I''ll pick you


    up tomorrow afternoon."


    "Do I need to prepare any presents?" she asked.


    "No, I''ll prepare them."


    After he left, Zoe finally put down her ss of water and walked over from the kitchen. "Are you just


    going to agree like that?"


    "It''s¡­ hard to reject."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "You''re right. He even mentioned his parents. I won''t be able to refuse as well. After all, every parent


    worries about their children. He just wants to not make his parents worry as a filial son."


    However, if people found out that Leanna went to Elijah''s house to celebrate Christmas, the news


    would definitely blow up.


    Leanna let out a soft sigh. She nced at her phone and changed the subject. "Why isn''t Louis back


    yet?"


    As she asked, she walked away to give him a call.


    Zoe did not answer as she sat on the sofa, ate grapes, and sighed.


    Leanna went to the balcony while she waited for Louis to answer the phone. When he picked up, she


    immediately asked, "Louis, where are you?"


    "I have something to do. You don''t have to wait for me for dinner. You can eat first."


    After what happenedst time, she started to doubt him. Hence, she frowned and asked, "What do you


    have to do? You''re not fighting your ssmates again, are you?"


    "That''s absurd," Louis answered.


    "All right. Don''t be home toote."


    "I know."


    After she hung up the phone, she continued to lean against the railing and looked into the distance. No


    one knew what was on her mind.


    ¡­


    At the same time, at the Pearson Group, Aidan''s eyes fell on Louis'' phone. "Is that your sister?"


    Louis hummed in agreement.


    "What did she say?" Aidan asked.


    "She asked me when I would be going back." Louis did not seem to want to talk about this. Instead, he


    just asked, "What did you say I have to do just now?"


    "Help me observe Daniel and see what his intention is behind approaching the Crossley Family."


    "Then?"


    "What do you mean by then?" Aidan retorted. "It''d be amazing if you could get this much information on


    him. Don''t think too far ahead."


    Although Louis frowned, it was undeniable that what Aidan said was right. Louis couldn''t refute his


    statement.


    Then, he got up and said, "If that''s all, I''ll make a move."


    "Hold up." Aidan stopped him before asking unhurriedly, "What has your sister nned for tomorrow?"


    Louis knew what Aidan was thinking of without him even saying it. "We''ll be eating at home, but I don''t


    think she''ll wee you."


    Immediately, Aidan''s lips hooked up. "You''re still young. You''ll understand when you have a girlfriend


    next time. The more a woman refuses, the more she is actually looking forward to it."


    Louis was rendered speechless by Aidan''s logic and turned to leave while ignoring him.


    Once Louis left, Aidan instantly called Jonathan. "Get ready. We''ll be going to Leanna''s house


    tomorrow night."


    "Are you not going back to the Pearson Family Estate this year?" Jonathan asked tentatively.


    "The whole family is in shambles. Why do I still have to go back and feign that we''re in peace?"


    Jonathan kept quiet before he answered, "Okay."


    Then, he spoke up again, "President Pearson, the Zielinski Family had been very restless recently.


    They''ve tried to stir up trouble with Mrs. Pearson several times, but we managed to stop them."

 Chapter 264

    Chapter 264


    Aidan sneered, "Send them a photo of Anna as a warning. If they try anything again, we''ll send them


    her finger."


    "Okay." Jonathan nodded.


    After Jonathan left the office, Aidan took out his phone and tapped lightly on his phone. A few minutes


    later, he posted a story on his WhatsApp. ''This is my first time spending Christmas at my girlfriend''s.


    What gifts should I prepare?''


    Oscar immediately replied, ''Is she your girlfriend yet? How can you casually call her that? You might


    get pped one day!''


    ''I think the best gift would be you not going over¡­'' Daphnemented.


    Aidan took a deep look at the replies he got and immediately archived the chats.


    He didn''t expect to get any useful answers from them either. This was his way to notify Leanna in


    advance, lest she woulde up with multiple reasons.


    On the other hand, Leanna was so frightened by what she saw when the story popped up that she


    almost dropped her phone.


    This b*stard is really shameless! Where did he get his confidence from?!


    When Zoe noticed Leanna''splicated expression, Zope immediately got curious, came over, and


    asked, "What are you looking at?"


    When she saw the story that Aidan posted, sheughed. "Haha. He''ll get a reality check tomorrow


    night."


    If she were friends with Aidan on WhatsApp, she would definitelyment, ''Your girlfriend is going to


    someone else''s house for Christmas. Your love has been reced.''


    Leanna put down her phone. She was at a loss for a moment.


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe, who was peeling an orange, gave half of it to Leanna. "Are you going to tell that b*stard in


    advance? At least he''d be mentally prepared. Otherwise, he would being here for nothing, and it''d


    definitely piss him off even more."


    When Leanna heard this, her face instantly flushed as she stammered, "I-If I do that, won''t that mean


    I''m actually¡­ his girlfriend?"


    All this b*stard does is make people''s life difficult!


    Zoe seemed to agree with what Leanna said and sighed. "Then, I guess we have no other choice. How


    lucky. I want to be caught up in such a situation as well."


    Leanna was speechless when she heard this.


    After taking a shower and returning to the room, she continued to toss and turn in bed, unable to sleep.


    Her thoughts seemed to annoy her.


    After an unknown amount of time, she sat up abruptly and reached out for her phone by the bedside.


    Then, she dug out Aidan''s number. However, when his number was disyed on the screen, she


    hesitated and did not dial it.


    Just then, the phone in her hand suddenly vibrated, startling her.


    When Leanna looked down, the name that shed across the screen belonged to that b*stard.


    In a trance, she almost thought that she was the one who called him.


    She held onto the phone for a moment before she slowly answered it. "Is there anything I can help you


    with at suchte hours, President Pearson?"


    "Are you asleep?" Aidan asked in a low voice.


    "I was woken up by your call."


    "Great. I have something to tell you."


    Leanna was a little annoyed by what she said and subconsciously spat, "I already know."


    On the other end of the phone, Aidan was silent for a few seconds before he asked, "Know what?"


    "I already know that you n toe to my house uninvited tomorrow night. There''s no need for you


    to call me in the middle of the night to tell me again," she pressed.


    This instantly made him chuckle. "I said I''m going to my girlfriend''s house. Are you my girlfriend?"


    Sh*t! I fell right into his trap!


    In the face of her silence, he spoke again, "That''s not what I want to talk about."


    "Then, what is it?"


    "I''ll take you somewhere tomorrow night."


    "Where?"


    "You''ll find out once we''re there. You''ll love it."


    After considering for a moment, Leanna finally decided to tell him. "President Pearson, I have ns


    tomorrow night. You should go back home for Christmas. If you really can''t, you can celebrate it with


    Ms. Fletcher."


    Hearing this, Aidan''s voice immediately turned cold. "What ns?"


    "J-Just ns. I don''t need to exin myself to you. It''s my own privacy."


    "Every time you have ns, other than being with Elijah, what else can it be?"


    Annoyed by his aggressive tone, she retorted, "It doesn''t matter who I''m with. I''m not doing anything


    wrong. What does it have to do with you?"


    "Why can''t I control you?" He was incredibly displeased by this.


    This whole conversation was ridiculous to Leanna. "President Pearson, you don''t actually believe I''m


    your girlfriend just because you said so, do you? Even in court, the judge has to ask the convict if he


    admits to his crimes or not. How can you decide who I am to you?"


    "Why are youparing yourself to a criminal?"


    "I¡ª"


    Leanna was so annoyed by his careless remarks that she directly hung up the phone. She didn''t want


    to talk to him any longer.


    She regretted telling him her ns. She should have let hime all the way for nothing!


    Then, shey back on the bed, pulling the quilt over her head before falling asleep.


    ¡­


    Because Leanna would be out with Elijah this evening, she got up early to prepare lunch for Zoe and


    Louis.


    At 11.00AM, she heard the doorbell and the security rm ring. Can it be that b*stard?!


    Zoe had juste out of the bathroom and walked over to the door. Unexpectedly, she saw Daniel on


    the security camera.


    Immediately, a frown formed on her face. "What is he doing here?"


    "I invited him over," Leanna said when she came over.


    Was this man attached to them just because he stayed here a few days?


    "I bumped into him in the elevator yesterday. He said that he was still living alone, so I invited him


    over."


    When she heard this, Zoe pouted and said, "He can enjoy his canned food happily alone. Oh, maybe


    today might be the day he has to fast because of his beliefs."


    At this point, Leanna did not know what to do with this friend of hers.


    Once Zoe opened the door, she immediately turned around and headed toward her room.


    Daniel only saw her walk away before he could even say hi, so he asked, "What''s wrong with her?"


    "Nothing. Maybe she just woke up on the wrong side of the bed," Leanna answered.


    He raised his eyebrow and said nothing as he came in.


    After sitting on the sofa, Louis came into the kitchen. Leanna immediately pulled him and asked in a


    low voice, "Why did you invite him? Don''t you know that Zoe and him¡ª"


    "It''s fine. Don''t worry about it."


    She retracted her gaze and asked again, "Speaking of which, I didn''t get to ask you where you went


    yesterday. Did something happen?"


    "I just went to meet a friend. Nothing happened."


    She pursed her lips and studied him. Seeing how serious he sounded, it didn''t seem like he was lying.


    So, she did not question him further.


    However, it was Louis'' turn to ask questions. "I heard from Zoe that you''re going over to Elijah''s ce


    tonight."


    Leanna was speechless. That bbermouth!


    "I''m just returning a favor. It''s not what you think," she answered lightly.

 Chapter 265

    Chapter 265


    During lunch, Zoe didn''t make things hard for Daniel with Christmas in mind. After all, Christmas was


    supposed to be a harmonious and lively celebration.


    In the afternoon, Leanna and Louise visited Jethro''s grave.


    As Leanna looked at the tombstone, the expression on her face was unreadable.


    Although she hated Jethro before and even wished that she wasn''t born as his child, she didn''t expect


    her wish toe true.


    For so many years, she and Jethro did not have any father-daughter affection. It was really sad to look


    back at what had happened in the past.


    Louis bent down and ced the flower in front of Jethro''s tombstone with an indifferent look.


    After standing there for a few minutes, Leanna said, "Let''s go."


    Just as Louis stood up and was about to leave, he caught a glimpse of a cigarette butt next to the


    tombstone and immediately froze.


    "What''s wrong?" Leanna asked.


    With a frown, he replied, "No one else woulde and visit him apart from us, right?"


    She nodded. "No one else knows where he''s buried."


    Pursing his lips tightly, he asked her, "Do you have any tissues?"


    "I do."


    Then, she took out a small packet of tissue from her pocket and handed it to him.


    Louis emptied the packet and took a piece of tissue to pick up the cigarette butt in front of the


    tombstone before putting it into the tissue package.


    When Leanna saw this, she frowned. "Louis¡­"


    "Just in case."


    This was the first time she saw him being so cautious. After walking a few steps, she suddenly asked,


    "Louis, did you find something?"


    "Huh?"


    Seeing how he refused to speak, she did not continue pestering him. "Nothing. Are you going to hand


    this over to the police?"


    Louis remained silent in the face of her questions. After a while, he changed the topic and asked,


    "When are you going to Elijah''s house?"


    Fine, I''ll stop prying, Leanna thought to herself.


    After leaving the cemetery, she finally spoke again, "You can go back first, Louis. I''m going to go buy


    something."


    Although Elijah said not to prepare gifts, Leanna didn''t feel good showing up empty-handed after


    agreeing to go with him. She was visiting the elders, after all.


    When she parted ways with Louis, she headed straight to the mall. Since she didn''t know anything


    about Elijah''s parents and what they liked, she settled with buying some supplements.


    It was already 5.00PM by the time she arrived home.


    She nced at her phone and saw that there were no missed calls or unread messages.


    She curled her lips and put her phone away before pressing the passcode to open the door.


    Zoe was the only one left at home, sprawled on the sofa, eating snacks as she watched TV.


    When she heard noises, she lifted up her head. "Nana, why did youe back sote?"


    "I went to buy some things." Leanna changed into house slippers and asked, "Is Louis not back yet?"


    "No. Isn''t he with you?"


    "I told him toe back first." Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna sat on the sofa and thought for a while before deciding to call Louis.


    He must have brought the cigarette butt somewhere.


    "Nana, you''re worrying too much about Louis again. Don''t worry; he''s a big man. He knows what to do,"


    Zoe coaxed.


    "But I always feel that he''s been acting a bit strange recently. It''s as if he''s hiding something from me."


    Back then, Leanna would never pry into his private life.


    However, because of everything that had happened, how could she just sit back and rx?


    "Do you think he has a girlfriend?" Zoe asked carefully.


    "No way."


    Who would turn so serious and mysterious after getting a girlfriend?


    Zoe continued to probe, "Why not? Louis isn''t like most boys. At this age, as a teenager, it''s normal for


    him to be a little rebellious."


    After saying that, she added, "All right, don''t think too much about this. You should be worrying about


    what you''re going to do tonight."


    This immediately brought Leanna back to her senses. "What do you mean?"


    "Aren''t you going to Elijah''s ce? What are you going to do about that b*stard?"


    Speaking of this, Leanna immediately became angry. "W-Who cares about him! He can do whatever he


    likes. I don''t owe him anything."


    Zoe clicked her tongue when she heard this. She had no idea if Leanna would evene home


    tonight.


    After a while, Elijah called, informing her that he was already downstairs.


    Before Leanna left, she reminded Zoe, "There are still some leftovers from lunch in the fridge. You and


    Louis can heat them up for dinner tonight. I don''t think ordering deliveries is an option for tonight."


    Zoe nodded. "All right. Just go. Don''t worry about me."


    Only then did Leanna head downstairs, bringing the things she had bought along with her.


    When Elijah picked her up, he whispered, "Leanna, didn''t I tell you to not buy anything? I''ve prepared


    them already."


    She smiled and said, "This is just a little gift for your parents."


    "My parents will definitely like you."


    There weren''t many people in Highside today, and very few cars were on the street. The majority of the


    people had already gone home for Christmas.


    Leanna leaned against the car window, quietly looking at the festive-filled street. No one knew what she


    was thinking about.


    While waiting at the traffic light, Elijah nced at her side profile and called out softly, "Leanna."


    Immediately, she was brought out of her daze. "What''s wrong?"


    He pursed up his lips before saying, "I''m sorry for dragging you into this today."


    Hearing this, she smiled faintly. "It''s fine. Louis and I already had lunch together this afternoon, and we


    can meet any time. There''s no difference."


    Soon, the car arrived at the Parker Residence.


    As they got out of the car, Elijah spoke again, "Leanna, my parents will bring up marriageter. You can


    just ignore it. I''ll answer them for you."


    "Okay," she said with a nod.


    At the door, Leanna let out a faint sigh. Although this was just an act, she was still a little nervous.


    Suddenly, Elijah reached out to grab her hand a split second before they entered the house. This


    caught her off guard, and she subconsciously wanted to pull her hand away. However, his mother


    showed up right at this moment and greeted them with a soft smile. "Eli, you''re back."


    Then, her gaze fell onto Leanna. "You must be Leanna. You''re gorgeous."


    Leanna nodded and said, "Hello, Mrs. Parker. I''m Leanna McKinney."


    Lizzy took Leanna''s arm and ushered them in. "Quick, now. Don''t just stand at the door. Come on in


    and take a seat."


    In the living room, Elijah''s father sat on the sofa watching research-rted news. He had a stern and


    serious demeanor.


    Lizzy pulled Leanna over and immediately introduced her. "Rodney,e here. This is Leanna."


    "Hello, Mr. Parker," Leanna greeted.


    When Rodney''s gaze fell on her, he seemed stunned for a few seconds as if he had a glimpse of


    someone else in her.


    When Elijah noticed this, he quickly stepped forward and patted his shoulder. "She''s saying hi to you.


    Why are you surprised?"

 Chapter 266

    Chapter 266


    When Rodney heard that, he retracted his thoughts and nodded lightly. "Have a seat."


    "Leanna, have a seat. Dinner will be ready soon," Lizzy said.


    "Let me help you, Mrs. Parker," Leanna offered.


    "It''s fine. There''s no reason for you to help us the first time youe. Have a seat." After saying that,


    she yelled for Elijah, "Eli,e and apany Leanna. There are some fruits on the table. See what


    she likes and serve it to her."


    He walked over with a smile. "All right, I know."


    Then, Lizzy said a few words to Rodney before she went into the kitchen to prepare food.


    Rodney turned off the TV and looked at Leanna, pushing his sses up on his nose. "How old are you,


    Miss McKinney?"


    "I''m 26 this year."


    "Then, you''re the same age as Eli. He''s just a few months older than you." After a pause, he continued,


    "What did your parents say about celebrating Christmas with Eli here?"


    Elijah instantly interjected with a frown, "Dad."


    Rodney recalled what Elijah had told him then and chose not to ask further questions.


    However, Leanna smiled politely and replied softly, "My mother died when I was very young, and my


    father passed away some time ago."


    Rodney picked up the teacup and took a sip. "I''ve asked too many questions. Miss McKinney, please


    don''t take it to heart."


    "It''s fine, Mr. Parker."


    She knew that she hade here as Elijah''s girlfriend. It was normal for his father to question her


    about her family.


    "By the way, I heard from Eli that you two were ssmates before this," Rodney spoke again. "I heard


    you two lost contact after he went abroad and only met again at a ss reunion a few months ago. Is


    that true?"


    She nodded. "Yes."


    "Then, this must be fate."


    At that moment, Lizzy came out of the kitchen with several dishes. "What are you guys talking about?


    Let''s eat, and we''ll talk moreter."


    Rodney immediately stood up and gestured. "All right, let''s eat."


    Leanna instinctively walked into the kitchen, intending to help with the dishes. However, Lizzy stopped


    her. "Leanna, sit down. Eli''s dad can help me with the food."


    "It''s fine. My parents have always been like this, helping each other all the time," Elijah exined next


    to her.


    Leanna retracted her gaze and smiled.


    Elijah must be very lucky to grow up in such a harmonious family.


    After a while, the table was set for Christmas Eve dinner.


    When Lizzy went to turn on the television, she grinned as she turned to the New Year''s Rocking Eve


    channel. "It''s Christmas. We''re going to need a little bit of atmosphere."


    As she spoke, she sat at the dining table and urged, "Leanna, try some food. See if you like them."


    After tasting them, Leanna beamed and said, "Mrs. Parker, your cooking is delicious."


    Lizzy was relieved to hear this. "Thank God you liked it. I was worried that you might not be used to my


    cooking. Back then, Eli''s father was preupied with work and seldom home. I only learned how to


    cook two years ago."


    "Leanna is a very good chef," Elijah chimed in.


    When Lizzy heard that, she was surprised. "Really? In that case, I''ll have to take lessons from you."


    Leanna was embarrassed when she heard her praise. "You''re ttering me. I only know how to make


    simple dishes."


    "You don''t have to be modest, Leanna. Eli is picky with his food, and if he can say that it''s delicious,


    your cooking must be of five-star standard," Lizzy said. "When did you learn how to cook?"


    "I''ve been living with my brother since I was a child, and I slowly picked it up," Leanna answered.


    Leanna''s cooking abilities back then were limited, and she could only prepare simple dishes. She


    improved so much because of that b*stard''s taste in food after their marriage. That marriage made her


    feel ashamed, but there was no way for her to make it up to Aidan. Since she was at home all day long,


    she came up with various dishes to cook.


    Lizzy had also heard about Leanna''s family from Elijah, so she did not ask further and changed the


    topic.


    After a while, the doorbell suddenly rang. Lizzy put down her tableware and went to open the door. A


    large bouquet of red roses caught her eye, and she was immediately stupefied.


    "Hello, does Leanna McKinney live here?" the delivery man asked.


    When she heard this, she assumed it was Elijah who had ordered the flowers and smiled as she


    epted them. "Yes, yes. She does."


    After closing the door, she walked back inside with the flowers in her arms. "Leanna, this is for you."


    Leanna was a little taken aback to see this and turned her head to look at Elijah, who was frowning and


    slowly tightening his fist on the table.


    Lizzy handed the bouquet of flowers to Leanna andplimented Elijah, "Eli, you did a good job. I


    even forgot about it."


    At this point, his face had darkened as he sat there quietly.


    As soon as Lizzy sat down, the doorbell rang again. She walked over to open the door and again saw a


    delivery man with another bouquet of roses. "Did you make a mistake? We''ve just received one just


    now," she asked.


    The delivery man did not say much as he handed the bouquet over and left.


    Although Lizzy found this strange, she still took the bouquet inside. "Eli, what''s going on? Why don''t


    you call the florist and tell them they''ve sent two bouquets by ident?"


    Before she could finish speaking, the doorbell rang again for the third time. She turned around, and she


    started to realize that something was wrong.


    Seeing this, Leanna pursed her lips and offered, "Mrs. Parker, let me get it."


    Just as she was about to get up, Elijah rushed forward. "Let me."


    Once he opened the door, a new delivery man stood there. None of the three deliverymen were the


    same.


    "Who told you to deliver these flowers?" Elijah asked coldly.


    "I-I''m not sure. I''m only in charge of delivering the bouquet."


    "How many more are there?"


    The delivery man hemmed and hawed, and it was obvious that he knew but was hesitant to say


    anything.


    After seeing that Elijah had no intention of taking them, the delivery man could only grit his teeth and


    say, "Why don''t you take a peek out the window? The flowers downstairs are all for Miss McKinney."


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Although they weren''t talking loudly, they weren''t being discreet either, and it was just loud enough for


    everyone in the room to hear them.


    Immediately, Lizzy subconsciously walked to the window and was frightened by what she saw.


    A few dozen people were standing in the courtyard downstairs, all holding bouquets of roses, waiting


    for their turn.


    Leanna walked to the window and saw this as well.


    Nobody else in the world could do such a thing other than that crazy b*stard.


    Leanna took a deep breath before packing up her things. "Mr. and Mrs. Parker, I''m sorry, but I must


    leave first."


    If she continued to stay here, that b*stard would continue doing this.


    Lizzy was still in shock when she saw Leanna leave, so Lizzy hurriedly patted Elijah''s shoulders. "What


    are you doing? Chase after her."

 Chapter 267

    Chapter 267


    Just as Leanna was about to step into the elevator, she heard Elijah''s voice call out to her. "Leanna."


    She turned around, pursed her lips, and said, "Sorry."


    Elijah smiled lightly. "Well, this is my fault. I should be the one apologizing to you."


    "Your parents¡­" she trailed off.


    "It''s fine. I''ll exin it to them." Then, he added, "Let me send you off."


    After they descended the stairs, Leanna noticed arge group of people holding bouquets of roses at


    the gate. If it weren''t for the roses, she would have been terrified.


    "Leanna, let''s go this way," Elijah offered.


    She nodded. "Okay."


    Then, he led her out the side entrance. Shortly after they left, the delivery men dispersed with the roses


    upon receiving the instructions.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Standing by the roadside, Elijah offered, "Leanna, wait for me. I''ll go get my car."


    However, she shook her head. "Your parents are waiting for you. Don''t keep them up."


    "It''s fine. They''ll be upset if I don''t send you. Furthermore, it''s not easy to get a cab at this time."


    The moment he finished his sentence, a nonchnt voice came behind them before Leanna even had


    time to respond. "You don''t have to worry about that, President Parker. I''ll take her home."


    Elijah''s face gradually turned cold as he turned around. "What a brilliant n, President Pearson."


    Aidan stood there with one hand in his pocket and the corner of his lips hooked. "It''s nothingpared


    to you, President Parker. The old habit of coveting other people''s wives seems to stick with you."


    "Don''t you find it a bit ridiculous? You didn''t seem to cherish what you have, yet now you pretend to


    y the role of a good husband after your divorce."


    "Those are my family problems, President Parker. I don''t have to exin myself to you."


    "You and Leanna are divorced. What rights do you have to call this your family problem?"


    Aidan sneered, "Don''t you have any dignity left? How can you say such a thing?"


    "I''d like to say the same about you," Elijah retorted immediately and without hesitation.


    At this moment, Aidan pursed his lips as his ck eyes narrowed dangerously. Instantly, the air


    between them became tense, as if a fight were about to break out at any second.


    Leanna''s head began to pound as she watched this and intervened, "Elijah, you can go back upstairs.


    I''ll go home by myself."


    After saying this, she immediately turned around and walked down the street.


    Just as Elijah was about to chase after her, Aidan stopped him. "President Parker, I think you should go


    back and exin to your parents what happened tonight." Then, Aidan sighed. "What a waste of the


    roses I flew in from Italy."


    This was a threat, and it was clear to both parties.


    Elijah suppressed his anger as he spoke, "President Pearson, don''t you think you went a little


    overboard with this? Why did you have to involve my parents in our dispute?"


    Aidan seemed nonchnt about this and smiled. "To be honest, I''ve already saved you some


    exnation. I didn''t show up at your house."


    "You¡ª"


    Elijah pursed his lips. Showing up at his front door was really something that Aidan could do.


    Then, Aidan took two steps forward and threw Elijah a sideways nce. "But next time, I''d be happy to


    invite Mr. and Mrs. Parker over to Pearson Group for a visit. I''ll also take the chance to tell them all


    about my marriage to Leanna three years ago."


    "With your arrogance, aren''t you afraid karma might hit you?"


    "I''ve always taken you as a scientific man. I didn''t expect you to be so superstitious," Aidan mocked.


    "Karma will only bite those that try to take what doesn''t belong to them. Well, at least I''m not like you,


    President Parker. I won''t lie and deceive people to achieve my selfish desires."


    Elijah''s face twisted uglily when those words came out. He knew Aidan was referring to the annual


    general meeting retreat. Elijah noticed Leanna was shaken; that was why he¡­.


    Elijah kept his mouth shut and clenched his fists in silence.


    Then, Aidan looked away and left.


    ¡­


    Leanna walked along the road without a taxi in sight. The ones that she saw were either off-duty or had


    passengers inside. She did not know how long she had been walking when she suddenly heard a


    bang.


    Immediately after the sound, fireworks went off in the sky. Leanna followed the fireworks, only to


    discover that they were set off by a group of people near the river. In addition, children were running


    around and ying with sparkles. So, she stood there and watched and finally began to feel the


    Christmas spirit.


    The fireworks exploded in the sky for a few moments, and everyone watched in delight. Once the time


    had passed, everyone left and went home. When the crowd dispersed, Leanna walked along the river


    and looked at the bright neon lights across the river bank, which were bright and dazzling. Then, she


    leaned against the railing as the night breeze caressed her face, with no sign of the winter chills.


    It seems like spring is near.


    As Leanna turned to leave, she noticed that someone had been standing behind her for some time.


    She almost let out a scream of fright. Aidan did not seem affected by her reaction and quietly cast a


    faint nce at her.


    Immediately, she frowned. What is this b*stard doing here?


    Since he did not speak, she didn''t want to pay any attention to him either. With a snort, she turned


    around and left.


    However, Leanna had only walked a few steps before a young boy ran up to her, rubbing his neck


    shyly. "H-hello. May I have your number?"


    In the past, she would always reject it when it came to situations like these. Just as she was about to


    turn him away, she quickly changed her mind and took out her phone with a smile. "Sure."


    Then, as the two were about to exchange numbers, a cold voice sounded next to him. "You should be


    careful when you''re outside. Otherwise, you wouldn''t know if you''ve been deceived."


    The boy took advantage of the situation and looked over, confused. "Huh?"


    "The more beautiful a woman is, the more untrustworthy she is. You''re asking for her number, but you


    don''t know she''s my ex-wife."


    Even Leanna was at a loss for words after what Aidan said. She felt her eyelids begin to twitch


    intensely.


    At this point, the boy''s friend couldn''t stand and watch any longer, so he stepped forward and pulled his


    friend away, whispering, "Can''t you see that they are arguing? How embarrassing!"


    As the two boys hurried away, Leanna turned to re at Aidan. As soon as she turned her head to look


    at Aidan, he quickly averted his gaze and pretended as though nothing had happened.


    Immediately, Leanna burst into a fit of madughter. All right, two can y this game.


    As she moved forward, she pulled out her phone and looked up the location of the closest bar. Perhaps


    it was her lucky day because there was one just a few miles away. Since it was Christmas Eve,


    youngsters would be out and enjoying themselves. Therefore, the bar would not be empty, but it would


    be livelier than usual.

 Chapter 268

    Chapter 268


    When Leanna entered the bar, she made a beeline toward the counter and ordered a ss of alcohol.


    Someone immediately approached her as soon as she sat down. "Are you alone, beautiful?"


    "Yes," she replied with a smile.


    "Then, this must be fate. Let me buy you a drink."


    Then, the man gestured to the bartender. "Get this beautifuldy a blue margarita."


    As soon as he ordered, a slender and tall figure appeared beside him. "What a nice man. Why don''t


    you buy me a drink as well? I came here alone too."


    The man kept quiet. This man is sick.


    However, Aidan did not falter as he leaned on the bar counter, blocking the man''s view of Leanna, and


    drummed his fingers on the countertop. "What''s wrong? Are you sexist?"


    The man smiled awkwardly and patted Aidan on the shoulders. "What are you talking about, bro? It''s


    Christmas Eve. Of course, you get a drink. Come, what would you like to drink? Go ahead and order


    yourself."


    "Then, I won''t hold back," Aidan said. Then, he turned to the bartender. "Can I get a ss of Louis XIII


    cognac?"


    The bartender was stunned and replied, "Sir, we don''t serve Louis XII by sses."


    "I know. Open a six-liter bottle. I want a ss; the rest is for this gentleman to give anyone whoes


    to this bar alone."


    At this point, the man''s face had darkened immensely as he spoke in an unpleasant tone. "Bro, are you


    looking for trouble?"


    Louis XIII was the finest cognac produced in France, and it cost tens of thousands for a few hundred


    milliliters. It would cost at least a hundred thousand if he ordered six liters.


    The man himself had never tried the cognac. To him, Aidan must be doing this on purpose.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    However, Aidan calmly said, "Can you not afford it? Don''t be such a braggart next time."


    Just as the man was about to throw a fit, he saw Aidan take out a ck card from his wallet and hand it


    to the bartender. "Open the bottle. It''s my gift to this gentleman."


    Then, Aidan turned to the man and continued, "Although nice to look at, some things shouldn''t be


    touched. It''s best to learn when to stop. This time, you''ll get a lesson from me for free. You''re


    wee."


    If the man hadn''t seen Aidan pull out a ck card in front of him and ask the bartender to open a bottle


    of Louis XIII Cognac, the man would have alreadynded punches on Aidan''s face. In front of Aidan''s


    dominant demeanor, the man realized he was out of his league and retreated in humiliation.


    As for the bartender, he held the ck card in his hand and trembled. "S-Sir, we don''t have six liters of


    Louis XIII Cognac."


    "Then, just give me a ss of whatever she ordered."


    "All right."


    After he had returned the ck card, the bartender let out a sigh of relief. In his years of working here,


    although he had met a lot of scions, this was the first time he saw someone ordering a six-liter bottle of


    Louis XIII to offer it to someone else.


    Then, Aidan sat beside Leanna and still had no intention of talking to her. On the other hand, she


    began ying with her phone and ignored him.


    A whileter, the bartender came over with their sses of alcohol. Leanna picked it up and took a sip;


    it tasted sweet with a hint of spice. This was the first time she drank such strong alcohol that she


    couldn''t control her cough. Initially, she had nned to just head home, but after hearing what Aidan


    had said, she slowly sipped the ss of alcohol, little by little.


    She had finished her drink and was beginning to feel a little hot as her cheeks burned; perhaps it was


    due to arge number of people in the room. She nced at the clock; it was almost time to go home.


    When she left the bar, the cold wind that blew against her sent shivers down her spine, making her a


    little dizzy. So, she took out her phone to call Zoe. "Zoe, what are you doing?"


    "I''m watching New Year''s Rocking Eve. It isn''t as good asst year. Are you still at Elijah''s house?


    What time are youing back?"


    "I''m not. I''m at a bar, and I can''t seem to get a taxi. Can youe and pick me up?"


    "All right, I''ll leave now¡ª"


    However, before Zoe could finish speaking, she heard a ruffle from the other end of the phone, followed


    by a male voice that was neither cold nor indifferent. "She''s with me."


    Even though that was all Aidan said, Zoe could figure out what he meant, which was probably a threat


    for her not to show up.


    "I got it. President Pearson, please tell Nana that I drank too much and can''t drive," Zoe said solemnly


    before quickly hanging up the phone.


    On the other end, Leanna looked at Aidan nkly. "Give me back my phone."


    Aidan, however, calmly put her phone into his pocket under her gaze.


    She was speechless when it came to this man. Then, she couldn''t help but rudely retort, "What exactly


    do you want, President Pearson?"


    "If I say it, will you do as I say?"


    Although she was a little sluggish after drinking alcohol, she still keenly caught on to the trap in his


    words." No!"


    "Then, I won''t say it."


    She gritted her teeth. "Didn''t you want to ignore me? What are you doing now?"


    "I''m not ignoring you. I was just giving you time to reflect on your mistakes," Aidan answered calmly.


    "Are you insane?!"


    He''s not just insane! He''s sick! This b*stard wants me to reflect? Reflect on my mistakes?! In his


    dreams!


    "You clearly know how Elijah feels about you. Yet, you follow him home to meet his parents. Aren''t you


    the insane one?" Aidan questioned.


    "I¡ª"


    Anger was getting to her head, and Leanna started to feel dizzy. She couldn''t be bothered to continue


    this nonsense with him and said, "Please give me back my phone, President Pearson. I want to go


    home."


    "Take it yourself."


    "Can you stop being shameless for one second?"


    Aidan raised his eyebrows. "Are you scolding me for this?"


    Leanna would have pulled Aidan''s pants down and recovered her phone if she weren''t so concerned


    with appearing as a hoodlum in public.


    She was quite far away from home, and she didn''t know the way back. Otherwise, she would have just


    walked back herself. That was the reason why that b*stard dared to threaten her so tantly. Leanna


    took a deep breath and thought, If this b*stard is here, Jonathan must be waiting nearby as well.


    After looking around for a moment, she noticed a Rolls-Royce parked on the side of the road.


    Then, she walked over, opened the car door, and sat in it. "Please take me home. Thank you."


    Jonathan was shocked to see this. He didn''t expect her toe into the car willingly. Immediately


    afterward, the door on the other side opened.


    Once Aidan got in, he said indifferently, "Let''s go."


    "Okay," Jonathan responded.


    She closed her eyes and leaned on the side of the car without a care. She knew that Aidan wouldn''t


    kidnap her.


    After an unknown amount of time, the ck Rolls-Royce stopped in front of an ordinary residential


    building. When Leanna opened her eyes again, Jonathan was gone. Only Aidan stood outside and he


    leaned against the car as he took a drag. His ck eyes were deep and unreadable.

 Chapter 269

    Chapter 269


    When Leanna opened the car door, she staggered on the way out of the car and had to hold the car


    door to steady herself.


    "President Pearson, are you looking for the best ce to kill and hide a body?" she asked feebly.


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan did not answer as he flicked his cigarette and turned to look at her. "I wanted to give you a gift,


    but it seems like you don''t need it."


    "The best gift you can give me is when you send me home."


    In the end, she did not forget to add, "Thank you."


    "Since you went back to Elijah''s ce, I have no ns of sending you home."


    "Oh," she replied perfunctorily. Just as she was about to get back into the car, Aidan''s unhurried voice


    sounded again. "Ms. Shaffer''s son lives here."


    Leanna instantly stopped moving when she heard this.


    This was exactly how he expected her to react.


    He crushed his cigarette and continued, "It seems like you don''t want to drop by. Let''s leave, then."


    After a moment of silence, she spoke, "Wait."


    Aidan seemed to have no sense of time as he cast a deep look at her with an eyebrow raised.


    "Since you had something to drink back at the bar, you shouldn''t be driving. Why not find a ce to sit


    while we wait for Mr. Stoll toe back?"


    Then, with his arm around the car, he turned and gestured with his chin.


    Leanna followed his line of sight and saw Jonathan smiling at her.


    Seeing that her n had backfired, she quickly made up another excuse. "I''m a little drunk, and I want


    to take a breather. You can leave if you want to, but just return my phone."


    "You don''t seem drunk."


    "This is how I am. You just can''t tell," she said solemnly.


    This was humorous for Aidan as his thin lips hooked and the smile on his face was obvious. "Oh,


    really?"


    "Really!"


    Then, he stopped beating around the bush and answered, "Beg me, and I''ll consider bringing you in."


    Leanna knew that this b*stard had been waiting for this moment and hesitated for a moment quietly.


    However, Aidan didn''t seem to be in a rush as he patiently waited for her to make up her mind.


    In the end, she caved and directly begged, "Please."


    "Words don''t count."


    "Then, give me back my phone, and I''ll transfer you some money."


    "Do I look like I need your money?"


    "President Pearson, you might as well just tell me what you want directly."


    "Come here," Aidan said slowly.


    Leanna looked at him vigntly before taking two steps forward and stopping.


    "What are you doing so far away? Come here," he called out again with a smile.


    After thinking about it for a moment and realizing that she would fall for his trap if she went forward, she


    changed her mind. "Forget it. I don''t want to go anymore."


    As she said that, just as she turned around and was about to leave, she was lightly grabbed by her


    wrist and tugged backward.


    In the next second, she had fallen into his arms.


    "I told you toe over on your own, but you leave me with no choice now," Aidan said deeply.


    "How can you even say that?"


    Leanna struggled a few times, and his hands that were wrapped around her waist tightened even more.


    At this point, she simply gave up and said exasperatedly, "President Pearson, can you tell me what you


    want me to do now?"


    "It''s Christmas Day, Leanna."


    "I know. Do you really think I''m drunk?"


    Aidan ignored her question and stared into her eyes deeply. "Are you still angry?"


    She immediately knew what he was referring to without much thought; it was the flowers he sent to


    Elijah''s house. With a smile, she replied, "What''s the use of me being angry? Would you repent?"


    "Nope."


    "Then, why are you even asking?"


    "I think, on a day like today, you should forgive me no matter what I do."


    A sardonic smile immediately appeared on Leanna''s face. "Do you need my forgiveness? Aren''t you


    always doing things your own way, ording to how you want, without a care about what other people


    think¡ª"


    "Shut up."


    At this moment, she red with anger. "Is this how you''re going to beg me for forgiveness?"


    Aidan retorted, "Who''s begging who right now?"


    "Oh."


    Leanna got carried away since things were heading in another direction.


    So, she brought it back to the initial conversation. "So, President Pearson, what did you want to say?"


    "It''s not good to be angry on such a festive day," he said.


    In that instant, she fell silent. There was some truth to his words.


    Then, she spoke again, but a little irritably this time, "All right, all right. Can you bring me up now?"


    "Are you not angry anymore?"


    "Nope!"


    As soon as she said this, she suddenly felt her surroundings darken and a pair of thin lips were nted


    on hers.


    Then, the sound of fireworks exploding in the distance sounded.


    Before she could react, Aidan let her go as his low voice sounded in her ears. "Happy New Year."


    Leanna was stupefied. It was only 10:00PM when he took her phone away, but now, it was already


    12:00AM.


    A few secondster, after returning to her senses, she stared at him nkly. "Did you think that wishing


    me a happy New Year would be enough for me to look past what you just did?"


    "Didn''t you say you won''t be angry?" Aidan raised his eyebrows at her.


    It was at this moment that Leanna finally pieced the puzzle together. He was paving the way for this


    moment all this while. He didn''t feel like he did anything wrong; hence he didn''t feel the need to


    apologize.


    She took a deep breath to calm down her emotions as she began tofort herself. It''s a new year. I


    shouldn''t be angry about what happenedst year.


    "Can we go up now?" she asked.


    "Nope."


    The rage in her that she had doused was reignited again. This b*stard was still lying to her, even after


    he had taken advantage of her!


    Just as she was about to make a scene, Aidan exined, "It''s 12 in the morning. Even if you''re not


    asleep, other people might be."


    Leanna was speechless. Did he bring me all the way here just for that one moment just now?


    "I''ll bring you here again tomorrow."


    On the way back, Leanna leaned against the car window and looked out. The light from the street


    lamps intermittently shone on her face.


    After a while, she looked away and suddenly asked, "President Pearson, why did you take me there?"


    "Didn''t you want to meet him?" Aidan replied faintly as his expression remained unchanged.


    "I want to meet Zayn as well, so why don''t you bring me there?"


    He immediately cast her a sideways nce in a cold manner.


    "I''m kidding. I''m kidding." She grinned.


    Then, she mumbled to herself, "Sometimes, the greater the hopes, the deeper the disappointment. I


    know what you''re doing. You don''t have to do this to try andfort me. I''vee to terms with the


    truth."


    "What truth?"


    "The truth is that what''s lost can never be found again."


    "What if it isn''t lost?" he questioned.


    At this moment, Leanna turned to look at Aidan. "I''ve said it before. I hope that you won''t say such


    ambiguous things to give me unreasonable hopes."


    "You create your own hopes, but I can help you with that."

 Chapter 270

    Chapter 270


    Leanna shut her eyes, not wanting to talk any longer.


    She knew what Aidan thought when he said that.


    Maybe it was the alcohol in her system, but she did not sleep on the way back. Instead, she was just in


    a daze, feeling a light throb in her head.


    After an unknown amount of time, the car finally stopped.


    As she slowly peeled open her eyes and was about to open the door to leave, the man''s calm and


    indifferent voice sounded. "Aren''t you going to invite me up?"


    "Do you still need my invitation?" came her question after a moment of silence.


    Aidan did not reply but instead raised his eyebrows nomittally.


    In the elevator, Leanna''s slender eyebrows were scrunched together as she gently rubbed her temples.


    Beside her, Aidan cast her a nce. "Why did you go to a bar if you can''t hold your alcohol?"


    She sucked in a deep breath. And whose fault was it?!


    After they opened the front door, the living room was silent, which meant that Zoe must have fallen


    asleep.


    Leanna had just walked to the kitchen to pour herself a ss of water when someone snatched it from


    her hand.


    "How can you drink cold water in such weather?" Aidan stepped in.


    Then, he went into the kitchen with the ss in his hand.


    A whileter, he came out again with a ss of boiled water. He put it in front of her and abruptly


    asked, "How do you make a hangover soup?"


    Leanna, who was lying her head on the table, did not expect him to ask such a question and was


    stunned for a moment before she replied, "What?"


    "Aren''t you ufortable?"


    She let out a dryugh and replied, "I''m just a little dizzy. I''ll be fine after I sleep. Leave me be,


    President Pearson."


    However, he continued to stare at her expressionlessly and repeated, "How do I make it?"


    "You¡­ Never mind. My head is spinning. I don''t feel like exining."


    After she said this, she rested her head on the table.


    Deep down, she was apuding herself foring up with this excuse.


    Aidan stood there for two more seconds and clicked his tongue before he left for the kitchen again.


    After a while, Leanna heard the cking of pots in the kitchen and was immediately brought back to the


    incident in Underwood Lane. She was terrified that this b*stard might blow her kitchen up.


    When she raised her head, the man''s tall silhouette against the light gave her an inexplicable warmth.


    Then, she rested her chin on one hand and watched him quietly.


    Aidan''s suit was hung on the back of the chair across from her. The cuffs of his white shirt were rolled


    up as he held his phone in one hand as he searched for ingredients with the other.


    Even from afar, Leanna could tell that this wasn''t something he usually did.


    As she watched on, she couldn''t help but realize that the tides really had turned.


    In the past, when Aidan woulde home drunk, not only did she have to deal with his temper, she


    still had to try her best to cater the hangover soup to his liking. In the end, the only thing she got from


    him was a sneer.


    Now, the tables have turned. This was something she should be happy about, but for some reason,


    there was no joy in her.


    After an unknown amount of time, she slowly retracted her gaze, picked up the warm water that had


    been ced in front of her, and took a sip.


    After she downed half a ss, a steaming bowl of hangover soup was ced in front of her.


    The man''s voice was a little tight as he said, "Try it."


    Leanna almost sobered up when she looked at the ck liquid in the bowl with unknown things floating


    on it.


    "Maybe¡­ not. I suddenly feel a lot better now."


    "Try it first. I''ll pour it away if you don''t want it."


    Looking at his stance, she felt that he would pour it into her mouth if she didn''t drink it.


    So, she held the small bowl in her hands reluctantly as she slowly brought it to her mouth and took a


    sip.


    The bitter taste instantly spread throughout her mouth and she couldn''t help but begin to cough


    violently. She felt her throat constricted.


    Aidan pursed his lips and took the bowl from her before patting her back with the other hand. "Forget


    it."


    After her fits of cough passed, she weakly muttered, "President Pearson, it''s best if you stay away from


    things you aren''t good at. Otherwise, the next time you visit me will be in the hospital."


    His lips immediately curled up when he heard what she said. "Are you saying there''s a next time?"


    "Sorry, let me correct myself. There''s no next time."


    "It seems like you''re really okay, seeing how sharp you are."


    "Aren''t you going to leave yet?" Leanna snapped angrily.


    Aidan''s hand, which was on her back, paused for a moment before he pulled back his hand. With a


    frown, he said in a displeased manner, "Why are you driving me away in such a hurry?"


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    "It''s already 1:00AM. Even if you don''t sleep, everyone else wants to," she reminded.


    He pursed his thin lips slightly before he spoke up a few secondster,"You can sleep with me."


    Leanna was speechless! How on earth can he say such brazen words without even blushing?!


    She looked at him quietly and responded, "President Pearson, if you don''t leave, I''ll call the police."


    Then, when he looked down at his watch, he saw that it was reallyte.


    After taking his jacket and taking two steps toward the door, he suddenly stopped to take out the phone


    from his pocket and handed it to Leanna.


    She took it from him and replied, "Thank y¡ª"


    However, before she could finish her words, a warm, big palm grabbed the back of her neck and pulled


    her forward.


    In the next second, she felt her lips getting bitten.


    Immediately afterward, the man''sughter sounded in her ears. "You''re wee. Your gift is well


    received."


    Leanna was stupefied as she sat there, speechless.


    It was only after she heard the door closing that she rested her head on the table again in gloom.


    At this time, she heard noises from the side and turned over. There, she saw Zoe lying on the sofa in


    the living room with curiosity written all over her face.


    Leanna was immediately taken aback. "Aren''t you asleep?"


    "When have I ever gone to bed so early? As soon as I heard the door, I ran over to have a look. When I


    saw that b*stard behind you, I went to hide in the room. What happened? Did anything exciting happen


    tonight? Did he and Elijah fight?"


    As soon as Zoe mentioned Elijah, it reminded Leanna that she didn''t hear back from him.


    Just as she subconsciously took out her phone to try and call him, she immediately realized that it was


    past midnight.


    When she turned on her screen, she noticed several missed calls from him.


    No wonder that b*star didn''t give me back my phone.


    After thinking about it for a while, she decided to text Elijah to tell him that she was home.


    When Zoe saw this, she scurried over. "I think Elijah will finally give up after tonight."


    "I owe this to him," Leanna replied and pursed her lips.


    "Hey, this is my fault. I shouldn''t have tried to matchmake you two." Then, Zoe sat down beside Leanna


    and sighed. "If it weren''t for Aidan, Elijah would''ve been the perfect candidate. What a pity. Timing


    ys a really important role in life."

 Chapter 271

    Chapter 271


    At the Parker Residence, after all the flowers at home were cleared out, Rodney sat on the couch. He


    questioned solemnly, "What the hell is going on here?"


    Lizzy patted him on the shoulder and frowned. "Don''t be so serious. Talk nicely."


    On the other hand, Elijah stood still and said after a while, "I lied to you."


    "Lie? Make it clear."


    "Leanna is not my girlfriend, but I like her very much. So, I asked her to do me a favor ande back


    to see you."


    However, it was undeniable that Elijah was acting selfishly. He initially thought that as long as Leanna


    agreed toe to see his parents with him, he must''ve been a special person to her. Afterward, he


    might be able to use this excuse to make her y pretend with him. Unexpectedly, all his ns were


    disrupted by Aidan.


    Then, Rodney rebuked him, "Look what happened!"


    After a while, Lizzy inquired, "Was the one who brought flowers to the house her boyfriend?"


    Elijah shook his head and replied, "It''s her ex-husband. They''ve already divorced, but he kept pestering


    her, and Leanna never epted him."


    Rodney''s face was a little distorted now. "Why didn''t you tell us about her divorce beforehand?"


    "I didn''t think it was necessary."


    "What do you mean by unnecessary? You brought her back here, yet you didn''t tell us her basic


    background? Well, now what? Her ex-husband came. Do you know what this is called? It''s called


    bringing trouble upon yourself!"


    Lizzy stood between them and tried to mediate the situation. "Okay, that''s enough. I think Leanna


    seems like a nicedy, and I like her. If her ex-husband tries to pursue her again, it shows that she''s a


    nice woman. If she can marry into our family, it will be a blessing, but anyhow, love isn''t something that


    can be forced." Then, as she looked at Elijah, she continued, "Eli, you know best who she likes deep


    down. If she likes her ex-husband, don''t try to get between them, but if she likes you, then it couldn''t be


    any better."


    Elijah pursed his lips slightly but did not speak.


    Lizzy said, "I''m going to clean up the kitchen, so don''t argue anymore. It''s Christmas!"


    After she left, Rodney stood up. "Come with me to the study."


    In the study, he asked, "Have you heard what your mother said to you just now?"


    Elijah nodded.


    Rodney continued, "I believe you should know better than anyone else who that girl really likes.


    Otherwise, she would''vee home with you as your girlfriend instead of a fake one."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Elijah frowned, knowing what he meant. "Dad, you don''t know the situation..."


    "I don''t know and don''t want to know." Rodney added, "If she isn''t interested in you, you shouldn''t


    waste so much time on her."


    "But I like her very much."


    "What can you do if she doesn''t like you? Do you think you''re still a teenage, emotional boy? There are


    far more important things in you than love."


    As soon as Elijah heard this, he became silent.


    Then, Rodney continued, "That''s all from me. You should think it through by yourself."


    When Elijah returned to the room, he noticed his phone vibrate. It was Leanna''s message informing


    him that she had returned home. He subconsciously wanted to hit the call button but hesitated when he


    looked at her number. Even his parents could tell that she liked Aidan. At this point in time, Elijah was


    the only one deceiving himself, hoping that one day he would hear a different answer from her.


    ¡­


    In the morning, Leanna was awakened by the buzzing and vibration from her phone. She grabbed it


    and noticed that Christmas blessings were being sent to her. Leanna rubbed her sore temples as she


    responded to each message. When she was done with that, she dragged herself out of the bedroom,


    where she saw Zoe set the table with the tableware and cutleries. A bowl of mushroom soup and a few


    side dishes were on the table.


    When Zoe noticed Leanna had awoken, Zoe greeted, "You''re awake, Nana! Wash up and have


    breakfast."


    Leannay on the sofa and struggled to open her eyes. "Is it takeaway again today?"


    "This isn''t a takeaway. Louis brought them," Zoe replied.


    Louis came out of the kitchen and uttered, "I just met him in the elevator, so I brought it up on the way."


    Leanna was speechless. Were they trying to y a game with her?


    Leanna stared nkly at the dishes on the table and gradually understood. She turned around and


    went into the bathroom. Leanna washed her face and felt a lot more alert, so she drank a big ss of


    honey water, and the faint pain in her temples faded away.


    Sitting at the table, Zoe rubbed her hands. "Our Christmas morning smells like cash and food. Thank


    you, President Pearson, for the food. I''m going to dig in!"


    Leanna scratched her brows, not knowing what to say.


    Louis served her a mushroom soup, urging, "Let''s eat."


    After the meal, Zoe asked, "Nana, Louis, do you have any ns for the afternoon? If not, shall we go


    for a movie?"


    Leanna nodded. "Sure. You can get the tickets. I''ll head back and take a nap."


    Louis was silent for a while before saying, "I have something up."


    Zoe looked at him suspiciously. "What are you up to on Christmas Day? Do you really have a girlfriend


    now?"


    Hearing that, Leanna also stopped and looked back at him.


    He went silent.


    Louis then uttered, "No. I''m just going out with friends."


    "Is it a guy or a girl?"


    "Erm¡­ Both."


    Zoe''s eyes lit up instantly. "Is your guy friend handsome?"


    Leanna didn''t have to think about what she wanted to say, so she quickly covered her mouth and said


    to Louis, "Sure. Go ahead and have fun with your friends, bute back for dinner in the evening."


    "OK."


    After Leanna and Louis left, Zoe sat at the dining table. She saw that they had eaten only a bit of the


    mountainous dishes. She then took out her phone and dialed a number. Soon, the call was connected.


    She coughed and said solemnly, "Is this Mr. Stoll? I''m Zoe Hart."


    "Hello, Miss Hart. Is something up?"


    "I''d like to ask if President Pearson has any work arrangements today."


    On the other end of the phone, Jonathan was a little puzzled. Wasn''t it Christmas today? If President


    Pearson was working, that would be somewhat outrageous.


    He then replied, "No, he doesn''t."


    Zoe smiled. "Okay. Nana and I are going to watch a movie this afternoon. I''ll book an extra ticket and


    send you the detailster. Please pass it on to President Pearson."

 Chapter 272

    Chapter 272


    When Leanna woke up from her nap, she noticed her dizziness had worsened. She patted her head,


    put on her clothes, and got out of bed.


    In the living room, Zoe was ready to go. "Nana, do you want to eat something? Or should we just eat


    out?"


    Leanna replied, "I want to have some meat. Let''s have a barbecue after the movie."


    "Sure. I''m craving for it too."


    "Let me wash up, and then we''ll leave."


    The cinema was crowded in the afternoon.


    When Leanna returned from picking up the tickets, she noticed Zoe holding three bottles of Coke, so


    she inquired, "Why did you buy so much? Isn''t Louis noting?"


    Zoe chuckled. "I''m a little thirsty. One bottle might not be enough."


    "What if you can''t have more food after drinking all that?"


    "Don''t worry; there are still a few hours left. Besides, I''ll be fine after going to the bathroom twice." Zoe


    looked at the time and said, "Let''s go. The movie is about to start."


    Leanna nodded. "Sure."


    When they arrived at the screening room, Leanna had barely sat down when Zoe pulled her up. "Erm...


    Nana, the person in front of me is too tall. I can''t see the screen. Can you take a seat outside?"


    "Sure."


    Leanna sat down and looked around. She saw that, except for the seat on her right, the entire cinema


    was extremely crowded. Later, the lights in the cinema began to dim, and movie trailers began to y


    on the big screen. Soon, the movie started.


    Leanna took a sip of Coke and ced it aside. As she retracted her hand, she identally bumped


    into something. The vacant seat beside her earlier was suddenly upied. Raising her head


    subconsciously, she was stunned to see who it was.


    Aidan met her gaze and uttered in a very low voice, "Why are you looking at me? Watch the movie."


    Leanna was at a loss for words. After awkwardly withdrawing her gaze, she nced at Zoe. No wonder


    Zoe was behaving so strangely today. It turned out that she had nned it all out. Seemingly aware of


    her gaze, Zoe didn''t dare to look at her, so she merely took a sip of Coke and pretended to get away


    with it. Leanna took a shallow breath and looked at the screen in front of her again.


    Fine. That b*stard wasn''t doing anything outrageous, so she could just treat him like a stranger and


    watch the movie.


    Two hours passed quickly, and after the movie ended, everyone started to leave the hall.


    Just then, Zoe covered her stomach and said, "Nana, I need to go to the toilet now. I''ll go first and wait


    for you outside..."


    She made an excuse to escape, but Leanna stopped her.


    Leanna smiled. "I''lle with you."


    Aidan sat in his seat and sped his slender fingers together. "If you leave now, you will have to queue


    for at least ten minutes."


    She replied, "Then, we''ll go to the one in the shopping mall next door. If there''s¡­" nothing else, you


    may leave first.


    Before she could finish her sentence, he stood up and urged, "Come with me."


    ¡­


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    Aftering out of the washroom, Zoemented while washing her hands, "I really didn''t expect


    Pearson Group to own a movie theater. I wonder what other industries have to do with Pearson


    Group."


    Leanna responded, "Pearson Group has always been involved in the entertainment industry. So, it''s


    not surprising that they have a movie theater under them, but there is one thing that I am quite


    surprised by."


    "What is it?" asked Zoe naturally.


    Leanna pulled a piece of tissue, wiped her hands, and turned to look at her. "Why is Aidan here?"


    "Haha," the stunned Zoe probably didn''t expect her to suddenly interrogate her, so sheughed dryly


    and pped her hands again. "Well, it must be fate! Look at how wonderful fate is. In such a big city,


    with so many cinemas, screening halls, and seats in the screening hall, he sat next to you! This must


    be heaven''s will!"


    Leanna looked at her quietly to see how far she could make it up.


    With a guilty conscience, Zoe touched her nose. "Fine. I just felt bad after eating such a sumptuous


    breakfast from him, so I invited him to watch a movie. We should be courteous and grateful, isn''t it?"


    Leanna was left speechless.


    What Zoe said did make sense and led Leanna to almost believing in her. However, Zoe''s approach


    was exactly the same as when she tried to matchmake Leanna and Elijah.


    How could Leanna not tell? It was just that she didn''t expect Zoe to suddenly matchmake Leanna and


    Aidan, making the situation unbelievable and uneptable.


    Zoe was a little ufortable by her stare, so she coughed, "Speaking of it, we have to thank


    President Pearson. We would have had to line up outside if he hadn''t brought us here."


    After speaking, she sighed again, "It''s nice to be rich."


    Rubbing her brows, Leanna urged, "Let''s go."


    In the corridor, Aidan was greeted by the cinema''s person in charge, who had heard that Aidan had


    arrived.


    While talking to him, Aidan looked sideways and saw Leannaing out of the washroom, so he said


    lightly, "I have something up, so I''ll have to leave now."


    With that, the person in charge greeted, "Goodbye, President Pearson."


    Aidan walked up to Leanna and inquired, "Where are we going now?"


    Zoe replied, "We''re going to eat..."


    Leanna interrupted her quickly. "We''re not going anywhere. Goodbye, President Pearson. We''re going


    home now."


    With that, Leanna yanked Zoe and ran off.


    Aidan was speechless. His dark orbs squinted dangerously as he wanted to see how far Leanna could


    escape from his palm.


    After they got out of the cinema, it was dinner time. All of the barbecue restaurants were packed with


    long queues outside. Fortunately, Zoe made a reservation, so they went in directly.


    While looking at the menu, Zoe asked, "Did you call Louis?"


    Leanna replied, "I sent him a message when I went out, but he said he''ll be having dinner with his


    friends. We don''t have to bother him."


    Zoe sighed, "Seems like Louis is all grown up now. He has secrets that he won''t tell us anymore."


    Hearing that, Leanna pursed her lips and said nothing. To be honest, Leanna wasn''t strict with him as


    long as he didn''t do anything dangerous.


    Yet, Louis was obviously hiding secrets from her. If she asked him, he would only feel annoyed.


    Therefore, she could only leave him for now.


    This time, the waiter came to take the order. "May I know if it''s only the two of you?"


    "Yes¡ª"


    "There''s¡­ three."


    The man''s voice came from behind.


    Leanna was speechless again. How could that b*stard follow them all the way here? Sitting beside her,


    Aidan took the menu from the waiter naturally.

 Chapter 273

    Chapter 273


    Leanna picked up the cup and took a sip of water, huffing angrily, "You''re not embarrassed at all."


    Aidan did not raise his head as he asked, "When did you move?"


    Leanna was defeated once again. That b*stard''s mouth never spared anyone.


    After Aidan was done ordering, he handed the menu to the waiter and turned his head to look at her.


    "Are you sober now?"


    Leanna felt that his question was somewhat insulting. "I just had a drink and felt dizzy. It''s not like I''m


    down and out."


    Then, Aidan said, "If your alcohol tolerance is so low, don''t drink with others when I''m not around


    anymore."


    Leanna was about to part her lips to refute, but she suddenly realized Zoe, sitting across from them,


    was staring at them with relish.


    After Zoe noticed Leanna had stopped talking, she quickly retracted her gaze. "Just pretend I don''t


    exist and don''t worry about my feelings at all! I''m just here to eat, and I can''t see or hear anything else."


    Leanna was speechless once again.


    Soon, the dishes were served, which temporarily eased the awkward situation. The meat they ordered


    was marinated in a hot and spicy sauce since they wanted it to be spicy. While they happily ate the


    food, Aidan sat on the side, drinking water without eating.


    After ncing at him, Leanna teased him, "Are you not eating, President Pearson?"


    Aidan said indifferently, "Eat your food. Don''t worry about me."


    "OK."


    Withdrawing her gaze, Leanna no longer bothered him.


    After a while, the waiter came over with a cart and brought them several snacks on the table. Zoe and


    Leanna were too stunned to speak. This was the first time they had seen a barbecue restaurant


    preparing additional dishes. Money undoubtedly made everything possible.


    Aidan raised his head and scanned her before quoting Leanna, "Take it if you want to. I''m not as stingy


    as you."


    Leanna pouted. She didn''t even want to eat his food!


    What an amazing b*stard he was. He went to a barbecue restaurant and ordered home-cooked food.


    There must be something wrong with his brain.


    After having an additional two pieces of meat, Leanna couldn''t speak anymore because of the spice.


    Seeing that her ss of water was empty, she intended to order another ss of water when Aidan


    suddenly shoved a ss of milk in front of her. Overwhelmed by the spice, Leanna grabbed the ss


    and finished half of it in one go. Sitting across from Leanna, Zoe took a sip of her water inplete


    silence. She had the impression that she was not here to eat but rather to observe the couple in front of


    her disy affection in public. Putting aside everything else, that b*stard was still quite attentive to her.


    It was no wonder that Leanna couldn''t ept any other man that came into her heart.


    After the barbecue, Leanna felt rxed and relieved. It had been a long time since she felt this way. As


    expected, the only way to vent one''s stress was to have spicy food.


    When they left, Zoe secretly nced at the phone and said, "Nana, my friend just texted me and said


    that something came up, so I''ll be leaving now..." After speaking, she waved at Aidan and added,


    "President Pearson, please send Nana home."


    Before anyone could reply to her, she had already run away.


    Leanna felt her temples throb, not knowing what to say for a moment.


    Turning her head around, Leanna met Aidan''s gaze. He then tilted his head slightly and smirked. "Let''s


    go."


    Sitting in the passenger''s seat, she buckled her seatbelt and inquired, "Didn''t Mr. Stolle today?"


    "He''s on leave."


    Leanna muttered, "I thought he didn''t have an off day."


    cing his hand on a steering wheel, he nced sideways and asked, "Do I seem so inhumane to


    you?"


    "You shouldn''t ask me that. Don''t you know how others talk behind you?"


    "I don''t care what they think."


    After that, Leanna remained silent. She was afraid that another trap would be set up for her if she


    continued the conversation. Fortunately, Aidan didn''t n to continue embarrassing her but smiled and


    drove ahead. After a while, Leanna realized that he wasn''t driving in the direction of her home. Soon,


    the car stopped in front of a mall.


    Aidan ordered, "Let''s get off."


    She looked around but still unfastened her seat belt.


    Leanna followed Aidan and asked, "What are we doing here?"


    He answered, "Didn''t you say that you want to see Zayn? I brought you to see him."


    She was speechless. This b*stard was out of his mind!


    A few minutester, they stopped at a children''s yground.


    Aidan halted in his steps and pointed his chin at Leanna, saying, "Over there."


    Following his sight, she looked over. She first saw a group of five to six-year-old children, and then her


    gaze fell on a baby stroller outside the y area. The stroller looked exactly the same as that in Ms.


    Fletcher''s house. Seeing that, Leanna was a little dazed, and the person lying inside should be the little


    guy.


    Aidan looked at her and asked, "Aren''t you going to go over?"


    It took a while for her to recover her thoughts and smile bitterly. "His parents are there. Why would I go


    over?"


    "I can tell them to leave temporarily."


    Seeing that the b*stard was about to take action, she quickly grabbed his arm. "Hey, what are you


    doing? Don''t."


    Aidan raised his brows. "Don''t want to see him?"


    Leanna lowered his head. "Forget it."


    There was no point in seeing him anyway. If Leanna and Aidan passed by like that, others might think


    they were human traffickers.


    Then, he said, "He''s right in front of you. Don''t you feel pity to leave like this?"


    Leanna was already struggling in her heart, but she continued talking, slightly annoyed. "Can you stop


    talking?"


    At this time, a young woman not far away carried the little guy from the stroller. The little guy theny


    on her shoulders, mumbling. He seemed to have seen Leanna from afar, so he instantly fidgeted a


    little. Even the smile on his face widened. When the youngdy saw him, she turned around. Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Leanna felt a little embarrassed and intended to leave. Still, the young woman walked over with the


    child in her arms and immediately inquired, "President Pearson, is this Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna was a little surprised when she heard the words, so she looked at the young woman, "Do you


    know me?"


    The young woman smiled and responded, "President Pearson mentioned you before."


    Leanna then looked at Aidan again, her face filled with doubts.


    "President Pearson has visited the baby twice and often mentions how much you adore him." The


    young woman added, "By the way, when the baby was with my mother, it was thanks to you who took


    good care of him."


    Leanna smiled lightly. "You''re wee, but I wasn''t of much help anyway."


    The young woman handed the little guy to Leanna, asking, "Would you like to hold him, Miss


    McKinney?"


    Looking at the child in front of her, she smiled wider and took him in her hands.

 Chapter 274

    Chapter 274


    The young woman looked at Aidan, who nced to the side. She quickly excused herself. "Miss


    McKinney, I happen to have something to do right now. Could you help me take care of the child? I will


    be back soon."


    Leanna immediately nodded. "Sure."


    The young woman pushed the stroller over and added, "Everything is in here. Sorry for troubling you."


    With a smile, Leanna replied, "Don''t worry about it."


    After the young woman left, Aidan said, "There''s an empty bench over there."


    Leanna followed his line of sight and saw a resting area next to the children''s yground.


    She walked over with the child in her arms, sat down, and held a toy for the little guy. "When did you


    visit their house, President Pearson?"


    Aidan replied indifferently, "When you and Elijah were dating."


    She was speechless. Couldn''t he talk properly? What a weird person.


    Leanna ignored Aidan and entertained the little guy in her arms with the toy. Compared to thest time,


    the little guy seemed heavier while his little face appeared rounder, looking more lively. After a while,


    the little guy began to squirm in Leanna''s arms, and he seemed hungry.


    After grabbing an insted bottle in the stroller, she struggled to open it, so she handed it to Aidan and


    said, "Help me unscrew it."


    He took it, took the bottle of milk powder from the stroller, and directly mixed the milk powder in the


    bottle. Watching his skilled and natural movements, Leanna was a little lost. Undeniably, he might be¡­


    a good father.


    After shaking the bottle lightly, he met her gaze and his brows rose. "Do you want to have some too?"


    Leanna took a deep breath and didn''t even want to say a word to him. She took the bottle from his


    hand and gave it to the little guy.


    An olddy sat opposite them with her grandson and smiled when she saw them. "You''re a lovely


    couple. It''s such a rare sight for young couples to bring their children out to y together."


    The olddy next to her, who was also bringing her granddaughter out to y, chimed in, "Exactly.


    Most couples leave their kids to their grandparents!"


    "This child has a stunning appearance. Indeed, the genes of the parents are really important."


    Leanna was slightly embarrassed by their praises and exined, "This isn''t my child. His mother just


    left for a while, so I''m helping her to take care of him."


    The olddy who spoke at the beginning eximed unexpectedly, "That''s not your child? But his nose


    and eyes look like you, though, so I thought¡ª"


    Aidan then uttered lightly, "Good-looking people are all alike."


    The madam chuckled, "That makes sense."


    The olddy with the granddaughter then urged, "Hurry up and have a child with your husband. You


    can''t waste such good genes."


    "He isn''t¡ª"


    "I''ll do my best."


    Hearing that, Leanna turned to re at him. This b*stard was babbling nonsense again.


    As Aidan smirked, his dark orbs lit up.


    Not far away, Raymond watched the scene, and his eyes narrowed while he was deep in thought. Just


    then, someone tugged at his hands, and a girl''s voice sounded, "Dad, Eric wants to go home."


    Raymond crouched down without retracting his gaze as he softly said, "Tell Mrs. Moore to bring you


    hometer. I''m busy."


    "But¡­"


    Raymond nced at her, shutting the little girl up.


    After about half an hour, the young woman returned.


    She panted and said, "I''m so sorry foringte. I''ve been upied with something urgent."


    Leanna smiled and reassured her, "Don''t worry about it. We''re not busy anyway."


    After exchanging brief conversations, the young woman left with the little guy. Leanna stood on the spot


    and looked at their backs, unable to recover for a long time.


    Aidan stood beside her as he shoved one hand in his pant pocket, ncing sideways. "Why are you so


    sad? I can take you to see him when you want to next time."


    Leanna sighed silently, "No, thanks."


    "Hmm?"


    Leanna looked at Aidan. "No matter what, he''s just someone else''s child. It''s fine that I visit him once or


    twice, but how could Ie so often?"


    Aidan replied, "You''re simply overthinking too much. That''s why you make yourself so tired."


    "You''re right. I overthink. You will never know how annoying it is to interrupt someone''s peaceful life."


    He was at a loss for words.


    With that, she picked up her bag and left without looking back.


    He walked behind her and said, "I''m not the one interrupting your life. Your life has never been peaceful


    all this while. Without me, it will only be worse."


    This time, Leanna fell silent. Aidan was speaking the truth, so she couldn''t refute his statement. She


    might have been in hell long ago if she hadn''t met him at Patheon Club more than three years ago.


    He suddenly pulled her wrist. "The elevator is over there."


    "Can''t I go shopping?"


    Aidanughed but didn''t let go of her hand. "Of course, you can."


    She struggled a few times but could not break free of his grasp.


    Just when Leanna wasining inwardly, Aidan uttered without warning, "Leanna, this is the


    second gift I''m giving you."


    She was taken aback as she asked subconsciously, "Second gift?"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "For our second wedding anniversary."


    She parted her lips, not knowing what to say for a moment.


    Aidan stated, "When I give your third gift, should you forgive me by then?"


    Leanna didn''t answer him. It was the first time she heard someone asking for forgiveness, like it was a


    given.


    Seeing that she didn''t say anything, he added, "Or it can be brought forward."


    Pursing her lips, she looked at him. "Are you expecting me to forgive you?"


    "No. I''m very nervous, but you can''t tell."


    "Perhaps you''re too confident in yourself."


    He then questioned, "So, what is your answer?"


    All of a sudden, Leanna felt Aidan''s overbearing gaze. She dared not look him in the eye anymore.


    Avoiding Aidan''s gaze, Leanna uttered after a while, "I-I don''t know."


    Aidan''s dark orbs were fixed on her as he emphasized word by word, "Don''t know what?"


    Leanna felt like there was an answer eager to escape her mouth. Nheless, her remaining


    rationality struggled to keep it from slipping out. She admitted her heart was in disarray for a long time.


    However, she had mustered a lot of courage to leave her previous unfortunate marriage. Leanna never


    expected to go in circles and end up back where she had begun. This was the main reason she could


    not convince herself to start over with Aidan.


    In a serious tone, Leanna responded, "I don''t know what you''re thinking."

 Chapter 275

    Chapter 275


    Aidan uttered, "I can tell you anything you want to know."


    "If you intended to tell me the truth, you wouldn''t have waited until now. Besides, even if I ask you, you


    can always lie to me, and I can''t even tell if it''s true or a lie."


    He chuckled. "It''s not asplicated as you think."


    Then, Leanna retorted, "It''s not that I''mplicating it, but everything rted to you isplicated. Or


    maybe I should say you are aplicated person. Whether it was during our marriage or now, I never


    understood you."


    "That means you''ve never looked at me seriously." When Aidan looked at her, his dark orbs were quiet,


    as if there were no waves. "Leanna, you have been avoiding everything all this while. When we


    married, you were running away from yourself, and after the divorce, you started avoiding your feelings


    for me."


    She parted her lips, wondering how this b*stard thought of these distorted reasons.


    Aidan then added, "Think about it carefully. What exactly do you want to know? I will definitely give you


    an answer if you ask."


    ¡­


    When Leanna came homete, Zoe was lying on the couch and checking her phone. Seeing Leanna


    returning, she quickly asked, "Where did you go on a date? Did that b*stard let you leave so early?"


    Leanna sat next to her and took a long breath.


    Seeing her like this, Zoe knew what had happened, so she asked tentatively, "He didn''t do anything


    bad to you, did he?"


    Hearing this, Leanna smiled faintly. "Of course not."


    "Then, what''s going on here?"


    "I¡­"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna didn''t know what to say.


    Instead, Zoe said, "That b*stard must''ve said something again. Nana, sometimes, you just have to look


    forward. A rtionship will get moreplicated, and you suffer more when you overthink it. You no


    longer need anyone''s permission for a rtionship now that the b*stard likes you or if you like him. You


    should break up with him if you feel your feelings for him have waned or if you''ve developed feelings


    for someone else."


    "If you are reluctant to do that, you can hook up with a few other men too. Our purpose in life is to strive


    to be a scumbag who slept with hundreds of men!" Zoe eximed and patted Leanna on the shoulder.


    "Don''t be a coward. Just do it!"


    Leanna was at a loss for words.


    In the aspect of rtionships, Zoe was indeed more open-minded than her.


    This time, the doorbell rang, and when Zoe went to look through the peephole, she quickly told Leanna,


    "I''m going to sleep now. Let''s continue our talk tomorrow."


    The figure sprinted before Leanna in a few seconds and entered the bedroom.


    Leanna walked to the door, saw Daniel standing outside, raised her hand, and scratched her brows.


    She took what she had just said back. Indeed, people could only speak truthfully when they analyzed


    someone else''s feelings. Still, when it came to themselves, they were often stuck.


    When Leanna opened the door, Daniel saw her and asked, "Miss McKinney... Haven''t you slept yet?"


    "I just came back. What''s up?"


    He handed her the champagne and exined, "When I came to your house for dinner yesterday, I


    forgot to bring a gift. Here''s one to make it up."


    "Don''t worry about it. It''s just a meal," said Leanna.


    "This is due courtesy, Miss McKinney. Please ept it."


    Leanna knew Daniel always insisted on strange things, so she epted it. "Thank you, then."


    "I should be the one to thank you."


    After Daniel finished speaking, he didn''t leave.


    Seeing him like that, Leanna thought he had something to say, so she didn''t kick him out but tilted her


    head while waiting for him to continue.


    After a while, Daniel asked, "Sorry for being nosy, but are you and President Pearson getting back


    together again?"


    She probably didn''t expect him to ask such a question, so she was slightly startled.


    He smiled and continued, "Don''t get me wrong. I just saw him taking you back, so I''m asking casually. If


    you find it inconvenient to answer, you don''t have to answer."


    Leannaughed. "It''s nothing, but it''s just that I don''t know the answer myself."


    "Are you worried about Elijah?" Daniel continued, "Even though Elijah and I are friends, personal


    rtionships have nothing to do with others. Your feelings are what matters the most."


    His words were indeed unexpected.


    Leanna only nodded after a few seconds, saying, "I got it, thanks."


    Daniel then smiled. "Merry Christmas, Miss McKinney."


    Everything was on its way.


    "Merry Christmas."


    After closing the door, Leanna ced the champagne in the kitchen and turned to the bathroom. By the


    time she came out of the shower, it was already midnight.


    She sat at the desk while drying her hair. When she saw the box in the corner, she thought about it


    before reaching out to take it. It contained Aidan''s first wedding anniversary gift and photos of her at


    the love lock bridge in Weavside. Leanna took out the photo frame and watched it quietly. Just looking


    at the appearance of that b*stard was indeed enough to make one tempted. At this moment, Leanna


    suddenly knew what she wanted to ask Aidan.


    On the other hand, something unexpected happened with the Crossley Group when no one was


    expecting it. Someone had died in one of the projects that belonged to them, and before they could


    suppress the news, it had already been leaked. Immediately afterward, other issues regarding the


    project began to surface, one after the other. All of this seemed to go on continuously with no intention


    of stopping. Soon enough, the issue of the funds behind the Crossley Group gradually surfaced. Within


    two days, the entire Crossley Group struggled to survive amidst all these problems. In the face of these


    issues, the Crossley Group did not have a n for a counterattack, and their setback could only be


    described as tragic.


    At the same time, Carlile Mayer also released a statement targeted directly at Georgina in which she


    imed that the events that took ce in Leanna''s studio that day were premeditated. Leanna


    appeared surprised when she saw the trending topics and had nned to deal with all this after


    Christmas. To her surprise, the Crossley Group had already fallen into such a situation, and it even


    involved Georgina.


    Zoe chimed in, "What is this called? Karma! Georgina deserves it!"


    On the other hand, Leanna ced her phone down and stated, "Someone is obviously behind all


    these."


    "Do you think it was Aidan?"


    Leanna shook her head and nced at the door. If she was correct, the incident that took ce with


    the Crossley Group was connected to Daniel. Leanna knew Daniel and Elijah were seeking revenge on


    the Crossley Group. Still, she never expected it to be such a huge project.

 Chapter 276

    Chapter 276


    Meanwhile, Lloyd was reading the newspaper in Crossley Residence. The usual tranquil countenance


    was slowly tinged by displeasure.


    Next to him stood his subordinate. "Mr. Crossley, the family of the injured staff were escorted by


    someone else when we arrived there. They have the project documents left by the staff. If someone


    finds out about the problem of the datas in the documents, we''ll lose billions of dors."


    The revealed content was a drop in the ocean because the actual thing that posed a threat to the


    Crossley Group was this document.


    Lloyd put down the newspaper. "Who are those people? Have you looked into it?"


    "Not yet, but I guess that it''s rted to the person who has done all thesetely."


    Lloyd sniggered. "If so, there isn''t only one party we''re facing."


    "Do you mean that there''s other people involved in this?"


    "Aidan ain''t a good person. I''m pretty sure he yed his part in this." Heid out his thoughts. "It''s


    caused a big ruckus and we must respond immediately. Find a few managers who handle this project.


    Investigate and fire them ordingly.


    "As for the documents, they must be in their hands. Since they didn''t choose to reveal it, they must be


    up to something. We can leave it for now."


    After his subordinate left, Lloyd pulled open the drawer of his desk and stared at the old pocket watch


    with a murderous glint.


    It seemed like his hunch was right¡ªall disasters ensued upon Leanna''s appearance.


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    At that moment, a knock resounded on the door and Georgina''s voice could be heard. "Dad?"


    He put down the pocket watch as he wore his usual expression. "Anything, Gina?"


    Georgina frowned. "Is there anything I can help to make the situation better?"


    Lloyd replied indifferently, "Don''t worry about that. All you have to do is to wait for your engagement at


    the end of the month."


    "Daniel said that he can ask for help from Mr. Jackson if you can''t deal with it. Everyone holds Mr.


    Jackson with high regards in Highside. As long as he helps us, others will help us too. Dad¡ª"


    "No. I''ve been through so many hurdles ande this far for the past twenty years. It''s not a big deal


    for me."


    "But¡ª"


    Lloyd interrupted her, "Gina, I know what you''re thinking about, but we gotta be alert when ites to


    crucial times. Once we let our guard down, we might fall for their traps at any time. Got it?"


    Georgina added, "I know, but you should know the situation better. Everyone is avoiding us. I reckon


    the Pearson Family is reconsidering the engagement too."


    As soon as she finished her words, Lloyd''s phone rang; it was a call from Gordon. He answered the


    phone and his expression darkened after Gordon said something.


    The Pearson Family had been nning on retrieving their power from Aidan by leveraging the Crossley


    Family''s support. However, the Crossleys could barely fend for themselves either. Even if they resolved


    this issue, recovering their position was almost impossible.


    Thus, the wisest alternative was to cut ties with the Crossley Family. Aidan''s attack on the Zielinski


    Family had not stopped. In addition to the Crossley Family''s problem, if he managed to convince the


    Pearson Family to his side, it would be a total loss for the Crossley Family.


    After Lloyd terminated the call, Georgina smiled. "Didn''t I tell you, Dad?"


    He narrowed his eyes without uttering a word.


    Without any rtionship involved, there was only business between the Crossleys and Pearsons. The


    fact that the Pearson Family decided to back down was not surprising in the slightest.


    She continued, "But we can see how the Pearson Family is afraid of Aidan. I bet he spent a lot of his


    attention on someone."


    Lloyd took a nce at her, knowing what she meant by that. Indeed, a lot of men were protecting


    Leanna under Aidan''s behest and it was obvious how important she was to him.


    A couple of momentster, Lloyd said, "Gina, could you leave me for a sec? I have something else to


    do."


    When he was finally alone, he dialed a contact number. "I need your help."


    ¡­


    The Crossley Family had a lot on their te. With Carlile''s early announcement into the bargain, the


    studio''s issue was finally resolved. Still, theizens, who gushed about it so fiercely online, did not


    apologize¡­ not even one did.


    Zoe was eating grapes while eximing, "This is how people are nowadays. They don''t think before


    saying anything on the Inte. They don''t care about the truth. All they want is to have a target to vent


    their anger."


    Leanna smiled upon hearing that. "You gotta sleep now. You have work tomorrow."


    Zoe stretched her body. "Time sure flies. I don''t think it''s enough."


    "Let''s go for a trip when the weather is warmer."


    "Count me in!" Zoe was in high spirits at the mention of that topic. Pausing momentarily, she said, "Oh,


    right. Has that b*stard tried to meet you these days?"


    Leanna was rendered speechless by how the subject changed so suddenly. "He¡­ Why would he meet


    me when he''s free? You know how much I wish to stop seeing him."


    Zoe approached her closer. "For real?"


    Feeling awkward, Leanna averted her gaze elsewhere. She parted her lips to say something, but


    nothing came out of her throat.


    Zoe did not question Leanna''s dishonesty as she continued, "Talking about this, Elijah hasn''t been


    contacting you. He must''ve given up now, but that''s good news. There''s no need for you to hesitate


    anymore."


    "Bed time." Leanna ended the conversation.


    Lying in bed, she was reading thetest news regarding the Crossley Family in an attempt to garner


    useful information from them.


    Even if she was aware that Daniel and Elijah were adding fuel to the fire behind the scenes, she could


    notprehend the whole situation. In other words, she could not understand why they were doing


    that.


    It was indeed a big blow to the Crossley Family, but they were an influential and powerful family. Even if


    the issue had caused a huge ruckus, it should not be able to falter them.


    Lloyd must be having a hard time protecting the family. I don''t think he has time to deal with me for


    now. This is my best chance to dig into the incident that happened that year.


    Leanna took out the picture of the pocket watch before looking into rted information on the Inte.


    While she was concentrating on her investigation, her phone rang and disyed Aidan''s name on its


    screen. It took her a few seconds before she answered the call, "What''s the matter, President


    Pearson? It''s quitete."


    Aidan retorted, "Can''t I call you for fun?"


    She fell silent upon his retaliation.


    Then, his displeased voice resounded. "Are you nning to not call me for the rest of your life if I don''t


    ring you up? Leanna McKinney, do you have a heart of steel?"

 Chapter 277

    Chapter 277


    Hearing Aidan''sint, Leanna thought she was a terrible sinner for a split second. She muttered,


    "You alwayse to me when you wanna meet me, though. When you don''t, it''s obvious that you''re


    busy with something. So, why should I waste the time to go to you?"


    He paused for a moment before asking, "Have you seen thetest news?"


    "Yeah."


    "I''m dealing with Crossley Group at the moment, so I''ll be busy for a period of time."


    "Oh," responded Leanna.


    He added, "If you really miss me, you can find me in Pearson Group."


    She was at a loss for words. "Thank you for the offer, but I don''t."


    "Fine." Aidan snorted lightly from the other side of the line and ended the call.


    Leanna put down her phone and checked the time.


    It''s 11.00PM. Is that b*stard still at work?


    She tossed and turned in bed as she could not sleep. Half an hourter, she suddenly lifted the nket


    and got up from bed. After grabbing a coat from the wardrobe, she left the house.


    Despite the empty streets, the street lights shone brightly.


    Soon, the car stopped at Pearson Group. She alighted from the car and stood at the entrance. Feeling


    the cold breeze brushing across her face, she could feel herself fully awake.


    It''s reckless of me toe here just like this.


    She walked to the street and fished out her phone to call a cab, yet her fingers did not touch the screen


    in the end. After a few seconds of hesitation, she thrusted her gadget into her pocket and turned


    around to head into the building.


    At the same time, Jonathan was reporting in the president''s office at Pearson Group. "President


    Pearson, we''ve lost track of the person, but I''m sure that William has him."


    Aidan''s fingers tapped on the table lightly as his eyes narrowed. No one knew could read through his


    head.


    "Mr. Crossley is still trying to find out who the mastermind is. He doesn''t know a thing about Daniel and


    William."


    Aidan chuckled lightly. "They fully prepared themselves before this. He won''t know no matter how much


    he tries."


    Given the situation, William''s cooperation with the Pearson Group was actually an excuse for him to


    return to Highside.


    "Old Master Pearson has called off the engagement with the Crossley Family. He must be trying to cut


    ties with them in order to not ask for more trouble."


    The corner of Aidan''s lips curled and his expression remained sharp. A few secondster, he


    questioned, "What about Sienna?"


    "Mrs. Pearson is going to take action soon. We''re ready too."


    Aidan hummed in response.


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Jonathan added, "Right. One more thing, President Pearson."


    "Say it."


    "About the cigarette bud brought by Madam''s younger brother, we''ve sent it for a DNA test. It''s Jethro."


    Aidan''s brows creased slightly. "Jethro?"


    Jonathan nodded. "Regarding the ident, the prison management stated that the fire was because of


    their escape, but it''s kinda vague. All of the bodies were burnt and there''s no evidence that leads to


    Jethro''s death."


    At that moment, someone knocked on the door and Jonathan stopped to open the door. He was


    surprised to see Leanna. "Miss McKinney?"


    Her expression was serious. "I have something to say to President Pearson. Is he here?"


    "Yes, he is." He made way for her immediately. "President Pearson, I''ll take my leave to verify the


    things that I''ve just reported."


    Once the door was closed, she took two steps forward. "Are you busy, President Pearson? I have


    something to tell you."


    Reclining in his office chair, Aidan raised his eyebrow. "It depends."


    Words failed her.


    He rose to his feet and walked to the lounge before seating himself on the couch with crossed legs.


    "What''s the matter?"


    She pursed her lips. "I figure you''re the person who knows more about the Crossley Family, so I''m


    here."


    "And what do you wanna know?"


    "I¡­" His question stunned Leanna, for it was merely a made-up excuse. She was not interested in that.


    It took her a while to say something. "Anything."


    "The engagement between the Pearson Family and them has been called off," responded Aidan.


    Based on his attitude, she assumed he would bring up the Crossley Group''s contemporary situation.


    That information was out of her expectation, but it did pique her interest.


    She questioned, "Then, Georgina¡ª"


    "Lloyd will never allow her to be together with Daniel even if the engagement is called off. The Crossley


    Family is a big chunk of meat right now. Many are trying to be the major stockholder. Lloyd has to make


    the best choice in this kind of situation. After all, Georgina''s marriage is connected to their whole


    family''s future."


    She frowned as she saw Aidan treating marriage as a profitable business as though there were no


    feelings in that. However, that was the truth.


    Leanna gave it a thought. "If it is as you''ve said¡ªthey''re a big chunk of meat¡ªwhy does your¡­ the


    Pearson Family call off the engagement?"


    Aidan exined, "One must have the capabilities in order to get that meat. Judging from their current


    situation, they can''t control the Crossley Family and dared not take the risk to help them either because


    it will be a chance for me to root them out. They don''t have any other choice."


    Silence dawned upon Leanna. "That means whoever marries Georgina will be the major shareholder?


    If that person is capable enough, he might have the chance to take over the whole family too?"


    "You can say so."


    "Then¡­ Don''t you think it''s an appealing opportunity, President Pearson?"


    It was different from the previous marriage; back then, the Crossley Group was a powerful standalone


    As for now, the Crossleys were suffering from a huge loss. Not only would a marriage now shore Aidan


    up as the dominant party, he would also own therge sources of the Crossley Group. It was indeed a


    once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for a businessman.


    "Well, it is," answered Aidan slowly.


    Leanna hung her head low without a word.


    His voice could be heard before long. "But there''s a lot of mess to take care of after bing the


    major shareholder. It could be the starting point of one''s downfall too."


    She disagreed, "Doesn''t business work this way? If you win the gamble, you''ll rake in money. I bet you


    know this very well, President Pearson."


    Hearing that, he narrowed his eyes. "Why don''t you take the lead?"


    She was nonplussed. "What?"


    "Your idea is fabulous. Derive an acquisition n for me."


    Silence filled the room until she expounded patiently, "What I mean is, don''t you regret calling off the


    engagement with Georgina? Had you not done that back then, you could''ve owned the whole Crossley


    Group with how the events are turning out right now."

 Chapter 278

    Chapter 278


    Aidan stared at her deeply without a word, making Leanna feel a little awkward. She averted her gaze


    and coughed. "If you don''t want to answer that, let''s pretend nothing happened, President Pearson."


    After a while, he replied nonchntly, "Now that you bring it up, I do regret it."


    "Then, you might as well see Georgina now. It might not be toote." She rose to her feet. "It''ste. I


    shall take my leave first."


    She took barely two steps when he held her wrist to pull her into his arms. Before she could free


    herself, he wrapped his arms around her waist and raised his brow. "Jealous? You don''t want me to


    go?"


    Leanna kept a straight face. "I like someone who''s hot."


    Original from N?velDrama.Org.


    He smiled as his gaze swept across her chest. "Me too."


    Realizing where he was looking, she covered her chest and her cheeks flushed. She scolded, "You


    pervert!"


    "How am I a pervert? I''m just liking the same thing as you."


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    This man is outta his mind!


    "Get away from me!" shemanded fiercely.


    He tightened his arms around her waist and rated his chin on her shoulder instead. In a deep voice, he


    said, "Don''t move. Stay like this for a while."


    "Didn''t you say you regret it, President Pearson? Why don''t you hug Georgina?"


    "Alright, I was just joking. Look at you being all jelly."


    "I¡ª" She was at a loss for words.


    Aidan suggested, "I''ll send you back half an hourter."


    "Aren''t you super busy?"


    "Work can''t be finished in a day."


    Leanna held her tongue for a moment. "But why thirty minutes?"


    "It''s rare for you toe to me. It will be a waste to just let you go like that," replied Aidan.


    She zipped her lips, ming herself to ask such an overkill question while knowing his intentions.


    A few minutester, he piped up, "What''s the question you wanna ask me?"


    The corner of her lips wavered, yet the words stuck in her throat because she did not know what to say.


    "Well, take your time."


    Sitting on hisp, she could clearly hear his heart pounding. A few secondster, she ced her hand


    on his chest.


    Aidan flinched a little and intended to say something when she ordered, "Don''t speak."


    He licked his lips while his eyes fixated upon her. Her hand rested on his chest all along, feeling his


    steady heartbeat despite the garment in between.


    After a while, Leanna withdrew her hand and murmured, "I''m done with my question."


    "What?" He could not follow.


    "Nothing." She checked the time. "It''ste and I have work tomorrow. Please send me home."


    The glint in his eyes darkened as he remained silent. Then, she raised her head at him. "Are you going


    to give me a ride? Should I hail a cab?"


    "I''ll do it." He released his grip after which she rose from hisp and primped her clothes.


    He grabbed his coat. "Let''s go."


    Along the way back, Leanna wound down the window a little and stared outside with a faint smile.


    Once the Rolls-Royce halted at the apartment, she was going to unbuckle the seatbelt when Aidan


    suddenly yanked her to his direction. She met his deep gaze and blinked her eyes.


    He gulped down his saliva before questioning in a low voice, "What did you ask?"


    "It''s a secret," she replied.


    He approached her. "Are you really not telling me?"


    "Don''t you have a lot of secrets too, President Pearson? We''re even."


    "What is there that I haven''t told you?" he inquired.


    After giving it a thought, she decided to sway away his naugthy hands. "You should know that yourself,


    President Pearson."


    As Aidan had indeed not told her something, he admitted his actions and fell silent.


    Based on his silence, Leanna assumed that she had won this time round. "I should get going. Be


    careful on your way home, President Pearson. Good night."


    When she turned around and was about to grab the doorknob, his voice resounded next to her.


    "Leanna McKinney."


    "What¡ª" She looked back reflexively and something pressed against her lips before she could say


    something.


    Observing her reaction, he noticed that she was not refusing it. As such, he locked her head to slowly


    deepen the kiss.


    ¡­


    Alighting from the elevator, Leanna delved her hands into her pockets and her footsteps shuffled lighter


    than before.


    She entered the password and pulled the door open only to see Zoe standing by the door frame with


    her arms crossed, staring at her dubiously.


    Feeling guilty by the scorching gaze, Leanna feigned a cough and touched her nose. "I-It''ste. Why


    haven''t you gone to bed?"


    "That''s my question. It''ste. Where have you been?"


    "I was hungry and went out to grab something. If I knew that you''re still up, I would''ve bought


    something for you," Leanna reciprocated hurriedly.


    Zoe raised her eyebrow and questioned, "What did you have?"


    "B-Barbeque."


    "Hmm¡­ No wonder your lips are swollen."


    Leanna let out a wryugh and attempted to give herst-ditch effort. "Yeah, we should have it together


    next time. It''s just down the street and it''s full of customers. I didn''t notice it before¡ª"


    "Enough. Your lies are going further out of space."


    Leanna quickly sealed her lips and held onto her hands with her head hung low like someone who had


    done something wrong.


    "Are you going to move out soon?" Zoe tested the water.


    Leanna was baffled for a moment. "What are you thinking about?"


    Zoe heaved a sigh. "That''s great, then. Otherwise, you''re taking things too fast. I''m afraid I''ll be the only


    single one without a husband."


    Leanna''s eyelids flickered as she glossed it over. "I mean, it''s quitete now. I''m tired. Let''s get some


    sleep. We can talk about it tomorrow."


    She then rushed into her bedroom whereas Zoe watched her and clicked her tongue before strolling


    into her own room.


    Just how nice it is to have a partner. I wonder when I will be able to date someone.


    Leannay in her bed and could not sleep at all because she was fully awake. Lifting her hands midair


    to look at her palms, she thought she could feel the man''s warmth lingering on her fingertips.


    A normal resting heart rate for a grown-up ranges from sixty to seventy beats per minute, yet it would


    increase when one was facing the person they liked.


    As she received the answer for her question, she could not smother her smile while snuggling under


    the nket. She then spent the whole night without a wink of sleep.


    When Zoe finally got up from bed at such ate hour the next day, she saw Leanna''s busy figure in the


    kitchen, humming lightheartedly. Clearly, it seemed like she was in a good mood right now.

 Chapter 279

    Chapter 279


    Languidly, Zoe leaned against the door frame and said, "It must be nice to have mental nourishment. I


    want some too."


    Leanna looked back with a smile. "You''re up! Take a shower. Breakfast''s ready."


    Zoe yawned before humming in response and headed for the shower. Meanwhile, Leanna set up the


    table and filled a lunchbox with breakfast, including Louis'' share so that he could take it to work.


    After breakfast, Zoe informed, "Nana, I''ll warm up the car first."


    "Sure, go ahead. I''ll be there soon."


    Leanna changed her clothes and was about to leave the house when she passed by the mirror in the


    doorway at which she retreated back and took out her lipstick.


    She waited for Zoe by the entrance of the neighborhood when a ck Rolls-Royce halted in front of


    her.


    The car window was wound down to reveal the man''s sculptured features. Aidan gazed at her and


    nodded sideways. "Hop on."


    Leanna shook her head. "I''m waiting for Zoe."


    "You guys stay together every single day. What''s there to wait?"


    At that moment, a car was driven over and its driver honked. Leanna scanned to the left and right, but


    there was no sight of Zoe''s car. Since the b*stard had no ns on giving up, she pulled open the car


    door and took the passenger seat before giving a call to Zoe.


    Aidan drove ahead and parked the car by the road. ncing at the lunch box on herp, he stretched


    out his arm and grabbed it. As she was speaking over the phone, she did not notice his actions.


    He opened it while questioning, "Is it for me?"


    "Hey¡ª" Before she could deny it, he already opened the box and fed himself a piece of meat.


    Leanna grumbled, "It''s for Louis."


    Aidan did not mind it as he took another piece of meat. "He''s a grown-up man. He won''t starve to death


    just because he skipped one meal."


    Why does he have so many excuses?


    After he ate everything, he ced the lunch box into the paperbag and gave it to her. "You can prepare


    a smaller portion tomorrow. My belly''s gonna explode."


    Words failed Leanna.


    And why don''t your belly explode right now? Don''t you know how to leave some forter if the portion is


    too big?


    Aidan smiled lightly and continued driving before questioning in a soft voice, "Should I pick you up this


    afternoon?"


    "Where to?" she inquired.


    "Where do you wanna go?"


    "I wanna go home." It was on purpose.


    He gave her a sideway nce and said implicitly, "I don''t mind that."


    Closing her eyes, Leanna took a deep breath as she was not in the mood to bother him anymore.


    Soon, the ck car stopped before the studio entrance and she unbuckled her seatbelt. "Thanks for


    the ride."


    The man''s fingers tapped lightly on the steering wheel while his gaze zeroed in on her.


    Leanna''s hand halted midair as she met his eyes dubiously. "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    He lifted his eyebrows lightly. "You look gorgeous today."


    It took her a while to respond to that. "Since when am I not?"


    "Whenever you''re with Elijah."


    Following that, she straight away got out of the car and entered the studio without looking back. The joy


    in Aidan''s eyes deepened. It was not until her silhouette disappeared out of his sight that he withdrew


    his gaze and left.


    When she strode into the studio, Zoe was zoning out at the reception desk. Leanna piped up, "When


    did you arrive? Why didn''t you pick up my call?"


    Zoe answered, "I saw that cool Rolls-Royce as soon as I went downstairs. I''m quite a sensible friend,


    isn''t it?"


    Leanna caressed her eyebrow. "I''ll go to the office first. Just call me if there''s anything."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Along the way to her office, she fished out her phone to order breakfast for Louis.


    When the afternoon came, the Crossley Group had proposed a settlement regarding the issue by firing


    a few executives, as well as using money to stave off the rage of the trending issue.


    As for the grudge between Georgina and Leanna, it was glossed over as a personal matter by them


    one-sidedly; they neither showed any gesture of apology nor guilt.


    Ever since Leanna was exposed as Aidan''s ex-wife, the busybody onlookers understood the root of the


    so-called grudge. One of them was his ex-wife and the other was his ex-fiance. Naturally, it would be


    bizarre for them to get along well.


    When it was revealed on the news, Zoe said, "The Crossleys are the epitome of tenacity, aren''t they?


    How could it be simply over after firing a few executives? It''s such a big issue, though. It seems like


    everything will return to its original ce once the storm is over."


    Louis was next to her. "Memories don''tst long. It''ll soon be reced by something new."


    Leanna pursed her lips without uttering a word, for she had a hunch that it would not end that simply.


    If Daniel and the others'' n was to have the Crossley Group affected by the public''s impression, they


    would not have derived such a big n.


    At that moment, Elijah appeared by the door. He broke the temporary silence by asking, "Leanna, can I


    have a moment with you?"


    Leanna nodded and walked out of the office. The streets were almost empty since it was the office


    hour.


    They walked abreast until the end of the street. After a long silence, he finally spoke, "Leanna, I''m


    really sorry about that night. I know that you like Aidan, but I still hold onto the slim hope. That''s why I


    invited you to my ce."


    "Have you exined it to your parents?" she questioned back.


    He nodded. "I told them everything."


    "Did they¡­ me you?"


    "No." He stared afar. "They just told me to think about it carefully."


    Then, his footsteps came to a halt as he looked back at her. "And I''ve made up my mind. Leanna, let''s


    be friends. I''ll wish you all the best."


    Leanna parted her lips but smiled in the end. "Thank you."


    "President Pearson is arrogant, but I have to admit that he is one capable man. Otherwise, the Pearson


    Family wouldn''t have fallen to such a state. He will take good care of you." Elijah added, "If there''s


    nothing else, I''ll take my leave."


    After he took a few steps forward, she suddenly called him, prompting him to look back. "What''s


    wrong?"


    She was going to ask him about the Crossley Family, but words stuck in her throat. In the end, she


    merely shook her head at him. "Nothing. Thank you for everything."


    "My pleasure. I''ve enjoyed my time with you too," replied Elijah.


    Now that he had left, Leanna wheeled around as she nned on heading back to the office. However,


    she noticed a fleeting silhouette nearby. It was as if the person was hiding from her.


    Her brows creased as she slowly shoved her hand into the pocket and held onto her gadget tightly.

 Chapter 280

    Chapter 280


    Leanna stayed alert during her way back to the studio and she could feel someone following her.


    Fortunately, it was daytime, so the stalker did not have the guts to take other actions aside from


    following her.


    Never once had she ever let her guard down since the studio and Louis'' incidents happened.


    Once she returned to the studio, she informed Louis, Zoe, as well as the two employees of the


    situation. She advised them to be extra careful and that it was best to not hang out alone.


    Hearing that, Zoe could not help the string of rebukes escaping from her mouth. "It must be Georgina!


    What a sly fox! I am utterly disgusted. How could she think of setting us up when she''s already in a


    bind? Geez!"


    "No matter who it is, he''s not a good one. Better watch out," warned Leanna before she looked back at


    Louis, who was frowning with a solemn expression. "Louis, something on your mind?"


    He recollected his thoughts. "Nothing. Inform me when you''re going out. I''ll tag along."


    She chuckled. "It''s fine. It''s not that serious. Just be careful. College is starting soon, so be careful.


    Don''t you let the same thing happen again."


    He parted his lips as he intended to say something, but kept quiet in the end. When the night dawned,


    Leanna was going to lock the studio''s door when Zoe nudged her shoulder. "Leave the rest to me. Your


    darling is here."


    Leanna, who was rendered speechless, turned back to see the familiar Rolls-Royce at the entrance of


    the studio.


    She coughed. "Let him be."


    "Don''t be such a stranger. Go on. You can make him wait, but I don''t have the guts to do that."


    In the end, Leanna was yanked and pushed by Zoe out of the studio. Left with no choice, Leanna


    opened the car door while Aidan was talking over the phone. He gave her a sideway look, signaling her


    to give him a moment.


    Since she was not in a hurry, she dly fished out her phone to y some games to kill time. After


    over ten minutes, he finally ended the call and questioned, "What would you like for dinner?"


    "Anything works. I''m not a picky eater like you."


    He raised his brow before hitting the road. It took them thirty minutes to arrive at a private restaurant.


    The waiter ushered them to a VIP lounge on the second floor. Noise could be hearding from the


    lounge next to them, which prompted Leanna to stop as she cast a nce in that direction.


    Following that, a pale-faced woman scurried out of the lounge. Before she could even find a trash bin,


    she began vomiting while crouching by the corner as a group of men teased andughed in the lounge.


    Someone said, "Are you really a drinker? If not, better scram and stop wasting our time."


    "What are you talking about? It''ll be a waste to have a pretty girl doing just the drinks," another person


    mocked.


    The revolting teasing andughter continued.


    Once the woman threw up everything in her stomach, she supported herself by the door frame. Even if


    she was aware of how those people in the lounge took lightly of her¡ªand some even had lecherous


    ideas on her¡ªshe could only stomach it. "Guys, I''ve drunk everything. Are you going to do as you


    promise¡ª"


    "What''s the rush? Come here. Have some more."


    While Leanna was focusing on the situation, someone pulled her into a lounge and she could hear


    Aidan''s voice. "It''s not a fun show. Just a few good-for-nothing acting up against the weaklings. They


    are actually the prey in others'' eyes too."


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    She looked at him. "That''s¡ª"


    "They work for the Crossley Group." He lowered his head to look at his wrist watch. "If you''re not


    hungry yet, why not head elsewhere?"


    "It''s fine here."


    Something seemed to be on Leanna''s mind during dinner after which Aidan asked, "Is it not to your


    taste?"


    "Nope. It''s delicious."


    "Then¡­ Do you not wanna have dinner with me?" His countenance appeared gloomy.


    She retorted, "Why can''t you have your dinner in silence, President Pearson?"


    If I didn''t want to have dinner with you, I would''ve gone home in the first ce. Why would I even be


    here with you? I''m a busy woman.


    As an afterthought, she set down the cutleries in her hands. "Excuse me to thedies''."


    "Leave your things here," he ordered.


    She was dumbfounded by his crazy assumptions. "I''m not running away!" She did not have the


    intention to take her bag to the restroom anyway; she just needed the tissues in it.


    The moment she bypassed the abutting lounge, her footsteps paced down for a second. Judging from


    the continuousughter in it, it seemed like the party was not over yet.


    When she entered the restroom, her foot bumped into something. She checked on the object only to


    realize that it was a wasted womanying on the ground. It was none other than Maya Fox.


    Guess Maya''s husband is one of the executives, who became the scapegoat for the Crossley Group.


    It was indeed bbergasting to see the executives reveling and make fun of the weaklings here for


    entertainment, despite the huge issue holding thepany back.


    Leanna crouched down and patted Maya''s shoulder. "Maya. Maya, wake up."


    In a stupor state, Maya did not respond other than tilting her head to one side whereas Leanna


    alternated her gaze from the left to the right. In the end, she decided to help the woman up and leave


    the rest to the staff so that they could contact her family to bring her home.


    However, as soon as she stepped out of the restroom while holding Maya, they bumped into two of the


    executives, who came for the drunkendy.


    The men exchanged nces before one of them said, "Hey, she''s our friend. Leave her to us."


    Before Leanna could answer that, Maya retreated behind Leanna as though she was conscious. Maya


    muttered, "N-No¡­"


    Leanna gazed back at the men and responded indifferently, "I don''t think she knows who you are."


    "Of course, because she''s drunk. If you''re worried, you can tag along as we drive her home. Our car is


    just right there. What do you say?"


    "Do you know where she lives?"


    One of them answered, "Yup. It''s not far from here. It won''t take more than ten minutes. Let''s go."


    She sniggered, for it was obvious what they were thinking of. "Actually, we''re from the same university


    and her home is in the East. It will take more than thirty minutes to arrive there. I''m not sure whose


    ce you''re talking about."


    Hearing that, the men''s expression fell as they knew that they had failed to take advantage of her. As


    such, their attitude changed too. "Since you''re not going to leave her alone, why don''t you join her in


    entertaining us? We might grant you a wish."


    Leanna shed a smile. "Grant me a wish? You? Who gave you the audacity to do so when even Lloyd


    Crossley himself dared not give his promise?"

 Chapter 281

    Chapter 281


    The two of them were surprised for a while, as they probably did not expect that she would suddenly


    mention Lloyd and even addressed him by his first name. Even so, they did not take her seriously,


    since they saw that she was merely a woman. Why would they agree toe here to have a drink with


    us and beg us for help if they really know some remarkable figures? They''re just bluffing at best.


    Thinking of that, one of them said, "Stop trying to intimidate us using Mr. Crossley''s name. He doesn''t


    care about you people at all. Show some sincerity if you still want to ask us for help."


    Hearing that, Leanna scoffed at them. "Such interesting remarks you made there. Even if you two have


    the guts, how can you help a person whom Lloyd decided to sacrifice as a scapegoat? You guys are


    just a bunch of grown men seizing the opportunity to insult a woman for fun, that''s all. Aren''t you guys


    afraid that your wives and daughters will also show up at such a dinner in the near future?"


    The two men were enraged after they heard Leanna''s words. At once, they retorted with a cold face,


    "Don''t you dare be cocky! She came to us and begged us for help! No one forced her! Also, do you


    even know who I am? Show me some respect while you''re talking to me!"


    At this moment, someone suddenly sneered in a low voice behind them, "There I was, wondering who


    was the one with such a loud threatening voice. So, it turns out to be you, Mr. Onder."


    Turning his head impatiently, Jimmy Onder, one of the Crossley Group''s executives, scolded, "Who


    do you even¡­ P-President Pearson¡­"


    Standing tall and straight, Aidan looked at Jimmy without any emotion.


    Jimmy''s facial expression changed slightly. Then, he exined with an apologetic smile, "President


    Pearson, I didn''t know you''re having dinner here too. Sorry for making a fool out of myself in front of


    you. These two are family members of the Crossley Group''s employees. As you know, there have been


    some internal conflicts in the Crossley Group recently. Those said employees are precisely the ones


    behind these internal conflicts.


    "We didn''t expect that the family members of these employees would be so restless as toe and


    intercede immediately after Mr. Crossley handed them over to the authorities. Since it''s rted to Mr.


    Crossley, how can I agree to help them? You see¡­ I, too, can''t do anything¡­"


    In other words, Aidan had no business to interfere in this matter, for this was the Crossley Group''s


    internal affairs.


    Aidan sniggered before responding, "Based on your remarks, Mr. Onder, are you saying that I''m


    being nosy?"


    "You''ve misunderstood me, President Pearson. It''s just that this matter is really troublesome. After all,


    it''s difficult to deal with women."


    "Mr. Onder, I understand the difficult situation you''re in, but there''s something I''m quite curious


    about."


    At once, Jimmy said, "President Pearson, please. Go ahead."


    Word by word, Aidan uttered slowly, "Since when has my wife be a family member of the Crossley


    Group''s employees?"


    Like covered in ayer of ice g, the words he spoke sent a clear and deep sense of chill down


    Jimmy''s spine, despite his voice sounding t.


    When Jimmy and the man next to him heard this, they were instantly stunned. Then, they looked at


    Leanna in unison before they broke out in cold sweat. "P-President Pearson, this is a


    misunderstanding. I have no idea that she''s Mrs. Pearson. I¡­ I¡­"


    Jimmy could not form a full sentence and kept repeating the word ''I'' for a long time. His legs were


    trembling with fright.


    After all, everyone knew Aidan once fought with those who scolded his ex-wife using the Pearson


    Group''s official Twitter ount before. Likewise, from this, everyone could see how much he favored


    Leanna.


    Now that the partnership between the Crossley Group and the Pearson Group was already tense,


    Jimmy and the other man would be done for if they offended Aidan and dragged Crossley Group''s


    involvement into this matter.


    As a result, Aidan added, "Keep calm, Mr. Onder. One cannot be held responsible if one does not


    know any better. This matter will be over, and I''ll not pursue it if you kneel down and apologize to my


    wife."


    After hearing that, Jimmy abruptly widened his eyes in surprise. "Uh¡­"


    "Are you not willing to?" Aidan asked in a rather threatening manner.


    Beads of sweat dripped from Jimmy''s forehead bit by bit. He was so scared that his legs turned to jelly,


    and he nearly could not help but get onto his knees.


    Looking at Jimmy''s frightening state, Aidan smiled. "I''m just kidding with you. Mr. Onder, you''re not


    taking my joke seriously, right?"


    Although Jimmy secretly cursed Aidan and his kins when he heard that, he showed a grateful smile on


    the outside. "P-President Pearson, you are magnanimous, so naturally, you''ll let my fault go by this


    time."


    "Mr. Onder, you tter me too much, but I hate to break it to you¡ªI''m not the one who calls the shots


    in my household."


    Once again, Jimmy''s facial expression stiffened. His smile carried a little more ingratiating sense when


    he shifted his gaze to Leanna again. "Mrs. Pearson, what happened earlier was really a


    misunderstanding. I''m sorry, and please forgive me for my rudeness. Also, about your friend''s affair, I''ll


    try my best to help her¡ª"


    Before Jimmy could finish, Leanna interrupted him with an indifferent look, "No need. I''m not interested


    in these."


    "Well then, you¡ª"


    Once again, Leanna cut him off. As her eyes scanned the two of them, she said, "The amount of wine


    she drank earlier is the amount of wine everyone at the dining table will have to drink." Dining table


    socioculturalism really is a foul y, especially when it involves forcing women to drink under the table


    for fun.


    After a brief hesitation, Jimmy agreed immediately, "Yes, yes. We''ll do as you say, Mrs. Pearson."


    Despite agreeing, Jimmy thought, Aidan won''t know how much we''ll drinkter anyway. Besides, he


    can''t possibly stare at us gulping down all the wine for real. By then, we''re just going to symbolically


    drink two sses of wine and be done with this.


    However, he did not expect that Aidan would suddenly stop a passing waiter. "Follow these two to


    Room No. 3 and ask your manager to watch them finish drinking all the wine in the private room to the


    last drop. Then, open all the bottles of wine that I''ve stored here in the restaurant and bring them all to


    their table."


    As he spoke, he looked at Jimmy and said slowly, "Thank you, Mr. Onder, for showing me respect.


    Those are all good wines that I''ve treasured for many years. My treat."


    Aidan was startled. "President Pearson¡­"


    "You''re wee. Also, you don''t have to thank me. It''s what I should do."


    If it was not for the wrong timing, Leanna really would involuntarily burst intoughter. I have to say that


    this b*stard is really mean. He has Jimmy and the other man wrap around his finger with just a few


    words. Not only that, he put his words so well that it makes it impossible for Jimmy to refute or decline.


    After the waiter followed Jimmy and the others away, the manager of the restaurant also came in a


    hurry. Taking this opportunity, Leanna handed Maya over to the manager and asked him to help contact


    her family. This is all I can do for her.


    Just when she just breathed out a sigh of relief after finishing everything, she met Aidan''s calm eyes


    when she turned her head.


    Feeling ufortable with his gaze, Leanna caressed her nose as she asked, "Why are you looking at


    me like that?"


    "You''re so beautiful. Can''t I appreciate your beauty?"


    Leanna became speechless. Glib-tongued!


    Pulling the cuff of his shirt, she said, "Okay. Let''s go eat."


    Since she had not eaten much earlier, she was famished.


    With that, they returned to the private room again. While having their dinner, Aidan asked, "So¡­ how


    did you two know each other?"


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Leanna was stunned for a moment before realizing that he was asking about Maya. Hence, she


    whispered, "We went to college together."


    "Oh." Aidan continued, "Your college friends are really full of talented people, huh? There''s Zayn, and


    then there''s Elijah. Now, there''s even another one that appears out of nowhere¡­"


    Leanna raised her voice in annoyance upon hearing that. "Shut up!"


    Surprisingly, Aidan really stopped talking.


    After a while, she could not help but add, "President Pearson, I have to rectify one problem of yours."


    Raising his eyebrows, Aidan said, "Speak."


    "We''re divorced, which means our rtionship is no longer married. You shouldn''t go around telling


    people that I''m your wife."


    Aidan frowned, seemingly a little unhappy. "And you consider this a problem?"


    With rigorous demeanor, Leanna replied, "This is a matter of legal literacy."

 Chapter 282

    Chapter 282


    Aidan was silent for two seconds before looking at Leanna with his deep and dark eyes. "How should I


    address you in front of others, then?"


    Parting her lips, Leanna subconsciously wanted to reply. However, she abruptly realized that it seemed


    to be a trap Aidan set up for her just when the words were on the tip of her tongue.


    Therefore, she quickly kept her mouth shut. After that, she took a sip of the water in front of her and


    looked away as if nothing had happened.


    Soon, Aidan''s low voice sounded as he hummed.


    At this moment, Leanna''s mobile phone rang. In a swift, she grabbed her phone and answered, "Hello?


    Oh, Zoe¡­ What?! The bathroom is leaking? That serious? Okay! I''ll immediately head home now!"


    Leanna spoke so fast to the point that the salesperson for children''s French learning books, who was


    on the other end of the phone, did not have the chance to chime in at all.


    After she had finished speaking, Leanna hurriedly grabbed her things. While picking them up, she said,


    "President Pearson, something happened at home, so I must head back now. You don''t have to drive


    me off. I''ll just take a cab."


    Hearing that, Aidan leaned against the chair. Resting his arms on the armrest of the seat next to him,


    he looked at Leanna with a half smile as he asked, "Do you know how to handle a water leakage?


    Words that had spoken were past recalling. Since Leanna confidently said she needed to rush home


    due to water leakage, what she could only do now was lie through her teeth. "First¡­ like this¡­ Then,


    like that¡­ After that, problem solved!" she stammered.


    Seeing this, Aidan asked slowly and deliberately, "Which stepes first?"


    Leanna was speechless after she heard that.


    In her heart, she involuntarily scolded Aidan, This b*stard is so obnoxious!


    Later, she replied, "I don''t know much about solving the water leakage problem. I''ll just go home and


    have a look. Once I find that it requires me to report the problem to the management, I''ll just have them


    send a plumber over to fix it. If all ns fail, I''ll just ask Louis over to fix it."


    When Aidan heard Leanna''s words, he immediately got up, put on his jacket and said, "It''s too much


    hassle to file a repair report. It''s better I go with you."


    At once, Leanna widened her eyes in surprise. "N-No¡­ You don''t need to¡­"


    "I should. Stop acting like a stranger with me. After all, that''s what boyfriends are supposed to do."


    Aidan took a deep pause before he hooked his lips into a smile and added, "I''m not saying anything


    wrong this time, am I?"


    Leanna''s face abruptly crimsoned in shyness and she was silent for a while. Damn! This b*stard is


    shameless when ites to giving himself titles.


    Without waiting for Leanna to reply, Aidan took her hand. "Let''s go."


    As she walked, she retorted in a low voice, "W-Who''s my boyfriend? I never agreed to be your


    girlfriend."


    Aidan answered, "You did."


    Pausing for a moment, Leanna then asked, "Are you going to tell me that you heard the voice in my


    head again?"


    However, Aidan simply raised his eyebrows, neither saying yes or no to her question.


    Leanna, on the other hand, regretted it as soon as she asked that question. What am I doing? Did I not


    just give an unsought confession? Forget it. There''s no use trying to argue with him over this matter


    now.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    When the car was parked downstairs in the residentialmunity area, Leanna saw Aidan unfasten


    his seat belt just when she was about to open the car and leave.


    After meeting her gaze, he calmly said, "Isn''t there a water leakage problem at your home? I''ll go check


    it out for you."


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she scoffed inwardly, This b*stard knew it was my excuse to escape


    him, yet now he''s using this as his excuse.


    After a few seconds, she replied, "President Pearson, let me set something straight with you."


    Aidan looked sideways at her without answering. He did not need to think much to know that the words


    Leanna was about to say were anything he did not want to hear.


    Ignoring him, Leanna continued, "Look¡ªit''s not just me who lives in that house. President Pearson,


    you can''t just go upstairs into the house whenever you want. You''ll disturb Zoe."


    Tapping on the steering wheel with his slender fingers, Aidan then said, "In that case, move out and I''ll


    find you a rental unit."


    "No, thank you."


    As she refused, Aidan suggested again, "Or you can move back to Castor Vi."


    Leanna rejected without thinking, "Nope."


    "Why? Aren''t you the one who thinks it''s inconvenient to live with someone else?"


    Taking a deep breath, she replied, "I just think it''s inconvenient for the tenants if you visit. I''ll be very


    comfortable as long as you don''t visit."


    At once, Aidan frowned and said unhappily, "But I''ll be feeling upset."


    "Oh, that''s your problem. So, get over it," retorted Leanna.


    Aidan became speechless.


    Then, seizing the chance that he was not paying attention, she opened the car door and left quickly.


    Leanna still had a faint smile when she trotted to the elevator door.


    However, her smile was soon wiped away when the elevator door opened.


    Standing in the elevator was Georgina. She crossed her arms in front of her chest and nced at


    Leanna very indifferently. Seeing that Leanna was standing still, she asked sarcastically, "Miss


    McKinney, aren''t youing in?"


    Pursing her lips, Leanna only moved her feet and entered the elevator after two seconds of silence.


    As the elevator slowly ascended, Georgina stated, "Miss McKinney, you have quite a good approach.


    Are you feeling proud that Aidan hated you so much before your divorce, yet now, he''s making it known


    to everyone that he''s courting you again? But Miss McKinney, I advise you not to rejoice too early. Your


    remarriage isn''t something blissful either. One is a scornful illegitimate son, while another is the


    daughter of a gambler. Sure, you two are a match made in heaven, but you''re just going to end up as a


    leisure joke to others."


    In response, Leanna sniggered before responding, "Miss Crossley, that''s really some upbringing you


    have there. Considering you keep mentioning that Aidan is an illegitimate son, have you forgotten how


    you did whatever it took just so you could marry himst time?"


    Georgina sneered coldly, "My approaches are indeed not as brilliant as yours. I was willing to marry


    Aidan simply for the sake of the Pearson Family. Otherwise, how would a mere illegitimate son like him


    be worthy of marrying me?"


    "Miss Crossley, just as you said, the alliance marriage between you and Aidan was simply because of


    the Pearson Family. Yet as we both know, Aidan isn''t the only male heir in the Pearson Family. So, why


    was it only him that you fancied?"


    Without a doubt, Leanna''s words showed no mercy for Georgina at all as she put her in utter


    humiliation for a moment.


    Staring at Georgina''s embarrassing state, Leanna thought, How am I not aware of what''s in her mind?


    Back then, she wouldn''t havee to me and deliberately unted their engagement in front of me if


    their marriage was nothing but an alliance based on business interest. Moreover, she showed obvious


    signs of unwillingness when she was asked to marry Justin by her family after her engagement was


    called-off. I know Georgina. Although she keeps a gentle and graceful smile on her face outwardly,


    inwardly, she''s extremely prideful. Also, the reason why she''s willing to get so close to Daniel isn''t


    necessarily because she has feelings for him. It''s most likely because she''s enjoying his pursuit. Of


    course, I won''t rule out the possibility that she wants to use Daniel to free herself from the arranged


    marriage with Justin. Georgina is a very smart and ambitious woman, yet she likes looking for a sense


    of presence in others. As Zoe puts it, she''s an extremely hypocritical woman.


    At this moment, the elevator stopped at the designated floor. Instantly, Leanna stopped speaking and


    nodded slightly at Georgina before she left.


    After returning home, Leanna closed the door, stood in ce, and heaved a long sigh of relief.


    Hearing the noises at the door, Zoe stuck her head out. When she saw it was Leanna, she asked,


    "You''re back? So, how was your date today?"


    Leanna made a shush gesture toward her. Then, she looked at the inte screen on the wall and


    saw that Georgina had rang the doorbell of Daniel''s house.


    Seeing this, Zoe, too, leaned over. When she saw this scene, she could not help but twitch her mouth


    in annoyance. "Pfft!"


    Taking her hand, Leanna walked into the living room and said, "Let''s not meddle in too much."

 Chapter 283

    Chapter 283


    Meanwhile at the next door, Daniel turned around to take a look at Georgina, who was sitting on the


    couch. Subsequently, he retracted his gaze and poured two sses of red wine before heading over to


    her with the wine sses in his hand.


    He sat across from her and crossed his slender, long legs. "Why the sudden visit?"


    Georgina held the wine ss and scanned the surroundings before responding calmly, "I haven''t


    visited you here before. Since I was in the area, I thought I''de and pay a visit."


    Daniel smiled and lifted his wine ss to propose a toast to her in the air.


    Georgina added, "I bumped into Leanna when I came up."


    "Is that so?"


    She revealed a derisive smile. "Aidan Pearson''s an illegitimate child, so even if he does end up


    inheriting the Pearson Family''s wealth, it won''t be proper in the eyes of thew. I don''t know what''s


    there for her to be proud of anyway."


    As soon as Daniel heard that, he curled his lips into a smile but remained silent.


    After some time, Georgina finally brought up the main topic. "I came here today to get you to


    investigate an incident from twenty years ago."


    Without saying a word, he lifted his eyebrows slightly and indicated for her to continue.


    Georgina retrieved a photo from her bag; it looked like she had taken a snapshot of the photo from her


    phone before printing it out.


    She ced the photo in front of Daniel and pointed to the man next to Lloyd. "Could you investigate


    this man here and find out what he did twenty years ago?"


    Daniel took the photo into his hand and took a closer look at it. "Who''s this man?"


    "This man is my father''s younger brother, my uncle."


    "Why do you want him investigated?"


    Georgina smiled and remained silent before saying, "You don''t have to know, but I need all the exact


    details of everything that he''s done in the past."


    Daniel looked at her. "Since he''s your uncle, you''d be able to get your answer much faster if you ask


    your father."


    "I couldn''t find any clues at all from my father and he was reluctant to share much with me," she


    continued, "I have a feeling that the crisis our family is currently facing might be rted to the incident


    twenty years ago. As long as I can uncover some clues and figure out what exactly happened back


    then, I should be able to find a way to turn the tides."


    Even if the incidents were not linked, Georgina would create some relevant information to link the


    series of unfortunate events that befell the Crossley Group to the incident twenty years ago. By then,


    Leanna would naturally be the perfect scapegoat for all this and even Aidan would be unable to


    protect her.


    Georgina continued, "You''re close to Mr. Jackson, so you should be able to get a recount from him


    about the incident twenty years ago."


    Daniel shot her aplicated look before putting down the photo. "I''d definitely have no issues


    investigating the matter, but I''m worried that you might be shocked by the truth."


    Georgina frowned. "What does that mean?"


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Daniel smiled in response. "Nothing much. It''s just a passing remark."


    Georgina rose to her feet and said, "I''ll be on my way, then."


    "Should I walk you to the door?"


    Georgina shot a look at him and replied indifferently, "No. You should just focus on sorting this out for


    me. Once everything is sorted, I''ll give you what you''re after."


    Daniel beamed at her. "Thanks in advance, then."


    Once Georgina left, Daniel took a look at the photo in his hand and dialed a number. "Georgina just


    brought a photo to show me and she wanted me to investigate the truth from twenty years ago."


    The person on the other end paused for a moment before saying, "What truth is she after?"


    "I don''t know. It looks like she seems to have figured out that the incidents recently are linked to the


    incident twenty years ago. So, she desperately wants to find something relevant to link everything


    together clearly." Daniel remained rather confused, "But then, from the way she was behaving, she


    seemed to have everything nned."


    "How did she put it?"


    "She said that as long as she figured out what happened twenty years ago, she would have a way to


    turn the tides."


    Soon enough, the person on the other end mentioned, "Georgina is smart. Be on your guard to not get


    caught."


    Daniel responded, "I definitely haven''t exposed myself, but¡­"


    Judging by Georgina''s confident look, she must have a piece of important evidence or clue in her


    hands.


    "Let''s observe and see what she intends to do, then we''ll find a suitable opportunity to reveal the truth


    to her."


    "All of it?"


    "Everything that she wishes to know."


    After Daniel hung up the phone, he nced at the photo and became lost in thoughts. He had a feeling


    that things were much moreplicated and Georgina was not merely after the truth.


    Presently, even though Crossley Group forced several of their upper management level executives to


    step forward and take the rap, which managed to stem the spections temporarily, there had also


    been many other issues rted that were exposed. Not only that, there were many people whose eyes


    were fixated on thepany, including Aidan.


    If Lloyd failed to handle things well¡ªor perhaps a tiny mishap in his ways¡ªthen Crossley Group was


    potentially going down. Meanwhile, as thergest shareholder and president of thepany, he would


    face imprisonment too. If Lloyd ended up in trouble, then Georgina would face a tough life too.


    In the meantime, she was intent on uncovering the truth from twenty years ago at this moment. Daniel


    snorted at that. What a filial daughter! I wonder what Lloyd would think about that?


    ¡­


    That night, Leanna was seated in front of her work desk and she seemed to be lost in thoughts as she


    held a pocket watch in her hand.


    It had been way too long since the incident, so she had not been able to discover any useful


    information at all.


    Leanna heaved a sigh and put down the watch before reaching out for her sketchbook once again.


    However, her gaze froze for a moment upon flipping to the page where she had designed the previous


    pocket watch ne.


    Since Queenie''s outburst at the charity ball, the ne had disappeared without a trace.


    Come to think of it, Leanna had started to get closer to Queenie from then on, but right now, perhaps


    Queenie was the only one who knew the location of the ne.


    Leanna closed her sketchbook and went to bed after which she shut her eyes and got ready for bed.


    However, she had barely fallen asleep when she found herself in the same dream once again. The


    raging mes and ear-shatteringly loud explosion noises, the hysterical and terrifying cries for help


    became exceptionally clear during this long night.


    She jolted awake as she tookrge gasps for breath; she could feel that her back was drenched in


    sweat.


    At that moment, Leanna turned around and discovered that her phone, ced on her bedside table,


    was currently vibrating. She took a look at it and noticed that it was Aidan on the line.


    She answered the phone after calming herself down. "President Pearson, it''ste at night right now. Do


    you need something?"


    "Nothing. I just miss you, that''s all."


    At that moment, Leanna was speechless beyond words. She realized that her heart thudded frantically


    once again after taking so much time to regain her senses earlier.


    Aidan asked, "When do you n to move out?"


    "I have no such ns for the time being."


    On the other end of the line, the man stopped talking.


    Leanna was just about to say something when she heard a distinct wail of a baby on his end. She


    paused before asking, "President Pearson, where are you right now?"


    "I''m home."


    "Then¡ª"


    "It''s just sounds from the TV."


    After the briefmotion, the wail of the baby had now dissipated.


    Leanna affirmed and took a look at the time. "President Pearson, aren''t you going to go to bed?"


    He replied, "I have difficulty sleeping."


    She replied solemnly, "I need to sleep, though."


    "Go ahead, then. I''ll keep youpany."

 Chapter 284

    Chapter 284


    Leanna felt slightly awkward by his words as she flushed. "I''m not a kid, so I don''t needpany!" As


    she said that, she continued, "Okay. That''s enough chit-chat. Bye."


    Then, she quickly added, "Good night."


    After Leanna hung up the phone, Aidan finally put down the phone slowly with a faint smile on his thin


    lips.


    At that moment, a young woman walked over and stood behind him. "President Pearson, the doctor


    just said that the child''s high fever has subsided and he''s now fast asleep."


    Aidan affirmed and walked into the bedroom next door.


    The doctor had just left the room and Naomi was seated inside next to the bass with a pained look


    in her eyes.


    After quite some time, Aidan mentioned slowly, "It''s just amon cold and fever. It''s normal."


    Naomi heaved a silent sigh as she thought, The poor kid has been weaker than the other kids since he


    was born and he was sick throughout the first two months of being born. Honestly, he has been a


    cause for worry. Compared to before, his condition has definitely improved significantly.


    She nced at the bass and noticed that the little guy was not sleeping restfully. With a fever patch


    on his forehead, he looked quite tiny.


    Then, she replied, "How long are you going to keep this hidden from Leanna?"


    Aidan stood by the side with one hand tucked into his pocket and he pursed his thin lips before saying,


    "It won''t be for too long."


    In response, Naomi said, "Anyway, just be wary of your actions. I won''t stand by you and help you


    convince her by then. After all, this is entirely your fault."


    Aidan maintained his silence at that.


    Subsequently, she turned to look at him. "Everything is sorted here, so you should go home."


    Soon, Aidan''s voice rang out. "Sienna is looking for you."


    As soon as Naomi heard that, she was slightly taken aback. Soon enough, her expression turned


    indifferent. "Why is she after me?"


    Aidan retracted his gaze and turned to look in a different direction before replying calmly, "She''s most


    likely trying to make use of my identity as an illegitimate son to cause amotion once again."


    Instantly, Naomi''s expression changed. "Aidan, back then, it wasn''t¡ª"


    "I don''t care about the truth of what happened back then," Aidan coldly eximed, "I just want her to


    pay the price for her actions."


    "What should I do to help you achieve that?"


    ¡­


    The ruckus created by Carlile was nowpletely resolved. Not only was the studio unaffected, but


    their poprity also soared from that. There were many popr jewelry bloggers who initiated contact


    and wanted to coborate with them on some advertisements.


    Furthermore, Lux Jewelry also released a magazine issue showcasing theirtest designs.


    In less than two weeks, the orders received by the studio increased steadily.


    Zoe was exhausted as she slumped on the couch. "There are way too many orders and Louis has


    gone back to school. It looks like we''d need to hire another staff member."


    Leanna organized the orders while replying, "Don''t worry. I''ve advertised on the inte and someone


    ising in tomorrow for an interview."


    Zoe perked up immediately upon hearing that. "Is that true?"


    Leanne nodded and was about to reply when she noticed an envelope amongst the pile of orders.


    She removed the envelope from the pile and opened it. As soon as she took a look at it, her expression


    instantly changed.


    Not getting a response from Leanne, Zoe conveniently turned around to take a look at her. "Nana,


    what''s wrong?"


    Leanna put down the envelope and shook her head. "Everything''s fine. It''ste now, so let''s head


    home."


    Zoe instantly leaped up from the couch. "Sure."


    On the way back, Zoe mentioned, "Hey, by the way, why haven''t that low¡­ Why hasn''t President


    Pearson been here to see youtely?"


    "Previously, he was busy dealing with the matters of Crossley Group;st week, he went on a business


    trip abroad, so he''s not back yet."


    Zoe could not help teasing Leanna, "Absence makes the heart grow fonder, huh?"


    Leanna remained silent by the side and she seemed to be preupied with her thoughts.


    Zoe felt that she was behaving strangely; Leanna would have felt embarrassed and chided her to stop


    had she made that joke back then.


    Yet today, Leanna did not react to her words at all.


    Zoe asked probingly, "Nana, what''s wrong with you? Are you feeling unwell?"


    Meanwhile, Leanna came back to her senses and massaged her temples. "I feel kind of dizzy."


    "Do you want me to get you some medication?"


    "No, I''ll go home to take a nap. I should be fine after that."


    In response, Zoe said, "Okay. I''ll drive faster."


    As soon as they arrived back home, Leanna did not even brush her teeth as she went straight into her


    room.


    As for Zoe, she scratched her head questioningly and poured herself a ss of water.


    Inside the room, Leanna sat in front of her work desk and took out the envelope from her bag, which


    revealed several photos¡­ and an extortion letter.


    As soon as she saw the photos, her face turned as pale as a sheet and her fingertips trembled


    uncontrobly.


    Three years ago, she had been forcefully sent to Patheon Club. After her frantic struggles, she bumped


    into Aidan after escaping the room.


    However, she did not expect that very scene to be captured in photos.


    In the extortion letter, the other party had stated that she was to prepare five million and send it to the


    specified address.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Taking a deep breath, Leanna inserted the photos back into the envelope.


    After considering the situation for quite some time, she took out her phone and gave Aidan a call.


    Soon enough, the man''s low voice rang out. "What''s wrong?"


    "I¡­ I can''t seem to fall asleep. Are you busy at the moment?"


    Aidan responded in a soft voice, "I''m in a meeting. I''ll give you a call afterward?"


    Leanna was surprised. "That''s alright. I''ll probably be fast asleep by the time you''re finished with the


    meeting. You should go, then."


    She hung up the phone immediately after saying that.


    Shortly after that, there was a knock on the door as Zoe''s voice resounded out from the other side.


    "Nana, are you asleep?"


    Leanna got up to open the door. "No, not yet."


    Zoe handed over a ss of warm water to her. "I''ve got some warm soup on the stove and it should be


    ready soon. Do you want to have some before you go to bed?"


    Leanna took the water from Zoe and shook her head.


    Noticing the stricken look on Leanna''s face, she asked, "Nana, you¡­ Did something bad happen? Did


    that lowlife cheat on you again? You can tell me frankly and I''ll tell him off on your behalf!"


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she smiled in response. "No, I was just feeling slightly unwell."


    Zoe noticed her reluctance to reveal more, so she did not pursue the topic any further; instead, she


    said, "That''s alright, then. You should get some rest soon."


    "Okay."


    Leanna turned around and was about to shut the door when she hesitated and called out, "Zoe."


    She turned back. "What''s wrong?"


    "I¡­" Leanna was at a loss for words for a moment there.


    No matter how much time had gone by, the incident on that eventful night at Patheon Club was a


    horrible memory that she was reluctant to recall.


    Moreover, she had no idea why these photos had suddenly resurfaced after three years. She did not


    know who had control of these photos either. At that point, all of the uncertainty and fear she felt


    seemed to hit her hard from the moment she saw these photos.


    After some time, she finally piped up, "Could youe with me somewhere tomorrow?"


    Zoe was slightly surprised to hear that, but she did not ask too many questions and merely nodded.


    "Okay."


    Under normal circumstances, Leanna would reveal everything to Zoe. If she was reluctant to talk, then


    it was either because she did not know how to put them into words, or it was something she could not


    reveal. Regardless, Zoe would be able to find out the details by tomorrow.

 Chapter 285

    Chapter 285


    Leanna returned to her room to lie in bed, but despite feeling totally exhausted, she did not feel sleepy


    at all.


    After half an hour, she heard the vibration of her phone on the bedside table.


    Taking the phone into her hands, she found that it was Aidan on the line.


    She waited for the phone to ring several times until it was nearly cut off before answering it.


    Soon, Aidan''s voice rang out. "Were you asleep?"


    Leanna replied, "Not yet."


    "Still have trouble falling asleep?"


    Leanna kept silent.


    On the other end of the phone, he added, "I''m taking a flight back tomorrow afternoon."


    After some time, she responded by affirming with a hum.


    Aidan mentioned, "Did something happen?"


    She replied, "No, I''m totally fine. What can happen?"


    "You''re not being yourself."


    Leanna was exasperated as she said, "You''re the one who''s not being yourself!"


    At that moment, a voice on the other end seemed to be asking for Aidan, so he lowered his voice and


    replied, "Let''s talk about things when I''m back. If you really do have an emergency, then seek out


    Oscar. Don''t take any risks by yourself."


    "Okay, I got it."


    The person on the other end seemed to be quite frantic as they pestered Aidan furiously, prompting


    him to emphasize, "I''ll get Oscar to contact you shortly. Don''t turn off your phone."


    "Okay."


    After Leanna hung up the phone, she took a deep breath and felt as if the frustrations and uneasiness


    that she felt before had dissipated without a trace.


    Still, she did not manage to get much sleep at all for the entire night.


    The time and date stated on the extortion letter was 8.00PM the following day and Leanna did not even


    bother to prepare five million. Instead, she merely arranged an empty luggage.


    She maintained the same stance that the person who had sent her the extortion letter should be rted


    to the person who forced her into Patheon Club three years ago. Otherwise, they would not have allProperty belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    this information in their hands.


    Meanwhile, those people back then were mostly Ron''s men. Ever since Ron sent her to the hospital


    last time, he had disappeared without a trace and she never saw him again thereafter.


    Those were a bunch of seedy men and the photos might be in the possession of more than one


    person.


    As soon as Leanna thought of that, she felt weak all over her limbs. She knew that it was useless to


    report these people to the police because they werepletely unaffected by thew.


    In the afternoon, Oscar sauntered in casually and scrutinized the studio as he stood in front of the


    room. Finally, he turned to look at Leanna. "Actually, I should have sent you a gift during your official


    opening day, but back then, I believe you must have been quite reluctant to see me."


    Leanna smiled perfunctorily. In fact, she did not wish to see him ¡ªthe apparent inept advisor for Aidan


    ¡ªeven at this moment.


    Oscar leaned against the front counter. "I heard Aidan mention that something happened to you.


    What''s the situation?"


    Leanna responded, "It''s not a big deal."


    After some consideration, she finally mentioned, "Could you arrange some men for me?"


    "I can arrange for some men to help you of course, but Aidan wants me to keep a close eye on you


    until he gets back. Just tell me what''s going on first. If things aren''t tooplicated, then I''ll assign


    some men to help you and I won''t tag along."


    Leanna nced at him with a slight frown and she seemed rather hesitant.


    Sensing her worried state, Oscar rapped the surface of the table with his fingers. "Do you not want


    Aidan to know?"


    Indeed, Leanna had not nned on letting Aidan know about this matter from the start, but she knew


    clearly that even if she had Zoe to tag along with her, with just the two of them, they would not be a


    match for the other person.


    That was why when Aidan suggested for Oscar to contact her, she did not reject the offer.


    After a brief moment, Leanna finally took out the extortion letter from her bag and exined solemnly, "I


    don''t n to actually give him the money. I didn''t ask Aidan for money either. I just want to head over


    there and find out what''s going on before finding a chance to call the cops."


    Oscar was speechless at that point. However, he could fully understand Leanna''s concerns. After all,


    Leanna was a money-minded woman in Aidan''s eyes not long ago before this and Aidan found her to


    be someone who would resort to anything to get her way. If this had happened before Leanna and


    Aidan''s divorce, then she would surely be in a very tight spot right now.


    Oscar took a look at the contents of the extortion letter and instantly asked, "Do you have the photos?"


    Leanna pursed her lips and nodded slightly.


    He asked another question, "Are you sure that the photos were taken back then?"


    She took a deep breath. "Yes."


    "That''s strange."


    "What''s strange?"


    "Back then at Patheon Club, everyone involved in this matter was properly dealt with ordingly, and


    there was no reason that there would be photos left behind.


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she was stunned. "Properly dealt with?"


    Oscar put down the extortion letter and looked at her. "You were Aidan Pearson''s wife after all. Even


    though he imed repeatedly that he disliked you, there was no way on earth he would let this matter


    be exposed."


    As such, everyone knew that Leanna had been sold into service at Patheon Club, but no one knew


    exactly to whom and what had happened that night.


    Furthermore, even Leanna herself had never thought of that incident again.


    After some time, she finally responded, "Anyway¡­ Just don''t tell him this. I''ll head over there tonight to


    scout things, and if the other party is just after money, then I can try and figure out a solution."


    Since the other party had sent her those photos, that was surely an indication that he had the original


    copies of the photos. If she reported this incident to the police at such an early stage and alerted the


    other party, then she would definitely waste all her efforts and the photos would end up being revealed


    to the public as well.


    Oscar replied, "I''ll go with you."


    "But then, they specified that I had to go by myself," said Leanna.


    "Just say that I''m your driver." Oscar nced at the empty luggage next to her. "You''ve got to make


    sure that the facade you put up is realistic enough. You wouldn''t have the bargaining power if you went


    ahead like this."


    He handed the luggage to his men standing behind him and instructed them to make the necessary


    arrangements before saying to Leanna, "Don''t worry, I won''t let Aidan know about this. I''ll go with you


    tonight and I promise to sort things out perfectly."


    Leanna nodded. "Thanks."


    At night, their car came to a halt in front of the residential area close to a middle school.


    Leanna had just gotten out of the car when she heard a hoarse male voice ring out in the dark. "Head


    over to the top floor over there."


    She nced in that direction and noticed that there was a t area on the second floor not too far


    away.


    At that moment, Oscar alighted from the car.


    The mysterious man instantly eximed, "I told you to turn up alone!"


    Oscar lifted both hands in surrender. "I''m just the driver who sent her here. It''s dangerous for a woman


    toe outte at night. You''re just after money, so don''t be petty about this. You still have the original


    copies of the photos, so we can''t do anything to you anyway."


    In the dark, the man paused before saying, "Stand right there, and don''t move a single inch!"


    "Okay. Fine. I won''t move at all." As Oscar spoke, he shot a look at Leanna. She then lifted the luggage


    and headed over to the t area on the second floor.


    After reaching the final step, Leanna heard the man''s voice ring out from afar. "I told you to bring five


    million, didn''t I? How much is this here? Are you trying to y me for a fool?"


    She replied in a calm voice, "This is just a part of it. Once you hand me the originals, then I''ll hand over


    the remainder."


    "Bullsh*t! Stop trying to wind me up and hand over the rest of the money, otherwise, I''ll post the photos


    on the inte and you won''t be able to hold your head up for the rest of your life!"


    Meanwhile, Leanna kept her eyes on the dark area as she frowned slightly.

 Chapter 286

    Chapter 286


    In the darkness, the man seemed to have be flustered. Before she had the chance to consider


    her options, he threatened her sternly, "Hurry up! My patience is running thin. It''s just five million! I don''t


    believe that you''d becking that amount!"


    If this was in the past, then Leanna would definitely be perplexed and shocked, yet as soon as she


    heard hisst sentence, she suddenly felt the urge tough. However, she could note up with the


    words to say despite opening her mouth slightly.


    She thought that the person who sent the extortion letter might be Ron or his men. Even more so, she


    thought that it could be the man who had paid for her services back then, but she clearly never


    expected it to be him¡­


    Indeed, why would she even think of him? He was someone who should have been dead! This man,


    whom she had addressed as Dad for more than twenty years, was here, extorting her with these


    photos.


    Leanna suddenly felt weary. She calmly expressed, "I don''t have that much money. This is all I have.


    Take it or leave it."


    After she said that, she ced the luggage on the ground and was about to turn and leave.


    As soon as Jethro saw that, he panicked. "You''re operating such a sessful business and you''ve got


    such a huge shop. How can you possibly not have five million? Are you trying to fool me? Aren''t you


    afraid of¡ª"


    "You can do whatever you wish to. I''m not afraid at all. You should be the one who''s fearful, Jethro."


    Leanna nced at the darkened area. "Even though you''ve escaped from prison, you''d soon be a


    wanted national fugitive once people realize you''re well and alive. So, do you really think that you''d be


    able to escape?"


    Jethro was silent for some time, as he most likely did not expect Leanna to figure out his identity.


    Subsequently, he warned viciously, "Don''t even think of threatening me with those words. Since I


    managed to escape from prison, I definitely have a way of avoiding being recaptured too! As for you,


    my darling daughter, you seem to be leading an impressive life right now. You''ve got your own business


    which you lead, so you must earn a significant amount, huh? What''s wrong with giving your dad some


    money as a sign of filial piety? Isn''t that within expectations?"


    Leanna responded, "Speaking about that, I''ve got something to ask you. I saw the items you had


    stored in the luggage. What happened twenty years ago? Why did my mom marry you while she was


    still carrying me in her womb?"


    As soon as Jethro heard that, he remained silent as he stood in the darkened area before suddenly


    bursting intoughter. Hisughter was grating to the ears and it sounded like an old, untuned piano


    that was screechy and worn out.


    Meanwhile, Leanna maintained her position quietly and her face was expressionless.


    At that moment, Oscar, who was hidden in the shadows, felt that the timing was perfect to capture


    Jethro while he was distracted.


    Yet, Jethro was prepared for that as he remained in the darkness so that no one could tell where he


    was standing. As soon as he heard the slight rustle from behind, he instantly leaped off the second


    floor and ran away.


    Oscar''s men were just about to give chase, but they found themselves disrupted by the middle school


    kids that had just ended their sses.


    Not only did they not manage to capture Jethro, but they did not even catch sight of him at all.


    As soon as Oscar saw that, he rubbed his nose abashedly and walked over to Leanna''s side. "We


    miscalcted. I''ll assign more men to find out his whereabouts as soon as possible. Don''t worry."


    Leanna shook her head gently. "It''s alright. He will seek me out again."


    Previously, she had no idea about the other party''s identity, so she was anxious about the situation. In


    contrast to the presence, she had managed to identify that the person threatening her was Jethro and


    his purpose was to obtain money, that''s all.


    Furthermore, based on the meeting point he had selected tonight, he was definitely on his guard.


    Otherwise, why else would he have chosen the exact time when the middle school children would finish


    school? It was purely to create convenience for him to escape.


    Leanna picked up the luggage on the ground and handed it to Oscar. "Thanks, let''s head back."


    Oscar had just gotten word of Jethro''s death not long ago, but this was the first time he had ever heard


    that Leanna was not the biological daughter of Jethro. Despite his raging curiosity, it clearly was not the


    right time for him to ask now. As such, he remained silent albeit full of questions.


    On the way back, Leanna maintained her silence and leaned against the backseat while staring out of


    the window. She seemed to be lost in her thoughts.


    Oscar was at a loss for words too. After all, she was not his wife, so he reckoned it was best to wait till


    Aidan returned and sort things out himself.


    After some time, their car arrived at Leanna''s residential area.


    She retracted her gaze and nodded slightly to express her gratitude toward Oscar. "Thanks."


    "You''re wee. Let me know if you need any further help."


    Leanna revealed a courteous smile and opened the door to get out of the car.


    As soon as she arrived home, Zoe instantly greeted her, "Nana, how did everything go? Did you


    manage to capture that man?"


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Since Oscar went with Leanna, Zoe had been told to wait at home. Still, she managed to link some bits


    and pieces of the situation from the conversation between Oscar and Leanna in the afternoon.


    Leanna shook her head. "He escaped."


    "Escaped?" Zoe could not help frowning. "Aidan''s friend doesn''t seem too good at what he''s doing! I


    thought he was confident before you guys left, but then he screwed up?"


    "This isn''t his fault." Leanna sat on the couch and stated wearily, "Zoe, Jethro¡­ He''s still alive¡­"


    As soon as Zoe heard that, her eyes widened involuntarily. "Alive?"


    She could not help looking at Leanna with a confused expression as she asked, "No, wait. Why did you


    suddenly bring up his name? Don''t tell me that he''s the one who sent you the extortion letter?"


    Leanna had yet to reply when she heard Louis'' cold voice ring out from the doorway. "Is he the one


    who threatened you?"


    Leanna and Zoe turned in unison to look in that direction and Leanna was slightly shocked. "Louis, why


    are you¡­"


    Suddenly, Leanna realized something as she turned to look at Zoe, who coughed guiltily and said, "It''s


    the weekend and he came over to the studio to see you. That''s why I mentioned this to him."


    No one would have expected that Jethro was the one to send the extortion letter! This is bad!


    Leanna turned to look at Louis once again and smiled at him. "Louis, I''m fine. The matter is resolved.


    Besides¡ª"


    "Has it been resolved?"


    Before Leanna could finish her sentence, Louis interjected.


    His expression was thunderous as the veins on his neck became prominent. He looked as if he was


    trying hard to contain his anger and it felt like he was going to lose his temper any minute now.


    Leanna got up and walked over to him to tug on his arm. Subsequently, she spoke in a soft voice,


    "Louis, calm down. We both know how he is and he''s purely after some money. He''s currently in dire


    straits, so even if he was fortunate enough to escape, he would be recaptured soon enough."


    However, Louis rebuked coldly, "He''s like a vermin hiding in the gutters! There is no way he would


    appear in the public eye. How could he possibly be recaptured then?"


    Leanna''s mouth was agape and she suddenly sensed that something was not right about the situation.


    He seems to be unsurprised about the fact that Jethro is still alive.


    She replied, "Louis, have you known that Jethro is alive all this while?"


    Louis pursed his thin lips and paused for a few seconds before replying, "Previously, the DNA report on


    the cigarette butt found at the cemetery matched his."


    Stunned, she immediately found that it was all within expectations. After all, there was no one else on


    earth that would visit Jethro''s tombstone.

 Chapter 287

    Chapter 287


    After some time, Leanna finally piped up, "It''s okay, Louis. Like what you''ve said, he wouldn''t dare to


    appear in public. He''s purely after the money, so he won''t be a threat to me. Don''t worry about


    me. Besides, I''m perfectly fine right now."


    Louis maintained a cold expression without uttering a word.


    A few minutester, he finally responded, "I''ll definitely locate him."


    Leanna shook her head. "Louis, don''t get involved in this matter. I can handle this."


    Yet, he replied, "You don''t need to be conscious of my feelings because to me, he''s not worthy to be a


    father. He''s just a lowlife and I would rather he be dead."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna heaved a silent sigh. "Louis¡­"


    "I know what to do. You¡­" Louis continued, "Forget about it. Aidan will definitely be able to protect


    you."


    At that moment, Leanna was speechless by that.


    She responded by asking probingly, "When did you find out?"


    Louis said, "Isn''t it obvious?"


    She instantly kept mum at that point.


    After Louis left, Leanna sat back on the couch and hugged a pillow in her arms.


    Zoe sat next to her and said, "It''s all my fault. I shouldn''t have told Louis about this. He must be upset


    about this."


    Leanna replied, "He will end up finding out even if you didn''t tell him."


    "Do you think Jethro will seek you out again?"


    "Yes, he definitely will."


    Jethro would definitely reappear since he did not obtain any money today.


    Zoe frowned in response. "But then, the photos are in his possession after all. What if he ends up


    releasing the photos out of desperation?"


    Leanna replied calmly, "That depends on whether he''s after the money or he wishes to ruin both of our


    lives."


    "Nana."


    Leanna could sense the worried note in Zoe''s voice, so she turned around and smiled at her. "Why do


    you have that look on your face? I''m fine. It''s been so many years, so I''ve gotten used to all this.


    Honestly, I felt relieved upon realizing that it was him behind all this; at least things became clearer to


    me. If it was anyone else other than him, I wouldn''t be able to sleep well tonight."


    Zoe heaved a sigh as she did not know what to say.


    ¡­


    Although Jethro managed to escape, he broke his leg while jumping off the second floor. While he ran


    ahead, he kept turning back to make sure that no one was after him. Just as he was about to cross the


    road while dragging his injured leg, a car suddenly came speeding by. The piercing headlights shone in


    his eyes and he fell to the ground subsequently.


    The car came to a screeching halt in front of Jethro with barely half a meter to spare. Instantly, he


    clutched his knee and started to wail.


    Soon enough, the driver got out of the car and spoke politely, "Excuse me, sir. I believe we didn''t hit


    you at all."


    Jethro shot him a look before ncing at the license te. Subsequently, he wailed louder than ever,


    "You''re such a heartless person! My leg''s broken because of you, and here you are, trying to deny it!


    Are you saying that my legs snapped by themselves?"


    The driver replied, "I am very sure that I didn''t hit you at all with my car."


    Of course, Jethro could not care less as he continued to wail loudly and clutched his leg.


    Although there were not that many cars passing by this road, Jethro remained slumped in front of this


    car, so the traffic was held up and all of the cars were unable to leave because of him.


    At a loss for what to do, the driver went back to the car and knocked on the window of the backseat


    before asking questioningly, "Sir?"


    William wore a neutral expression on his face as he responded calmly, "Pay him."


    The driver affirmed, "Okay."


    As a result, the driver went back to the ''crime scene'' and took out his wallet before asking, "How much


    do you want?"


    Jethro''s eyes swiveled. "Look, my leg''s broken and I need to go to the hospital, so that would cost at


    least seventy to eighty thousand, right?"


    The driver shot a look at the blood stains on the ground and took out a bank card. "There''s one


    hundred thousand in this ount, so that should cover everything."


    As soon as Jethro heard that, he leaped up from the ground on his other leg, and without hesitation, he


    grabbed the bank card. He continued to mutter to himself, "That''s barely eptable. You''re quite


    fortunate that I''m in a rush because otherwise, I would definitely make youe to the hospital with


    me. The consultation fee, medication costs, and costs for loss of ie would surelye up to way


    more than this!"


    The driver shot a look at him but turned around to enter the car without saying another word.


    Meanwhile, Jethro flicked the bank card in his hand and revealed a victorious smile as he slowly limped


    off along the road.


    As he walked past the backseat window, he purposely inched forward to take a look inside.


    William shifted his eyes to the side and met Jethro''s gaze.


    As for Jethro, he could not help pursing his lips at the sight of William.


    At that moment, the car drove off gradually.


    Jethro remained in his original position and spat on the ground before moving forward by dragging his


    injured leg.


    The car departed more than ten meters before William suddenly yelled out, "Stop the car!"


    The ck car instantly came to a stop and the driver was perplexed. "Sir, is there something wrong?"


    William''s expression was solemn and he swiftly opened the door to stride toward the direction that


    Jethro had gone.


    Hearing themotion behind him, Jethro noticed someone running after him. With the assumption


    that they must have changed their mind and wanted the money back, he hastily ran and hid amongst


    the shrubs. In a split second, he was gone without a trace.


    As soon as William saw that, he stopped in his tracks with a frown.


    The driver quickly came after him and nced in the direction that Jethro had disappeared. "Sir, do you


    want to send some men to go after him?"


    William lifted his hand to gesture briefly. "Forget about it."


    The driver probed by asking, "Is there something wrong with that man?"


    William recollected himself and responded calmly, "No, I just thought that he looked rather familiar."


    The driver responded once again, "Sir, we should go. Mr. Jackson is waiting for you."


    William affirmed and got back into the car.


    After the car drove off into the distance, Jethro finally came out from the shrubs and waved the bank


    card in his hand smugly. Subsequently, he headed off in the opposite direction as he whistled a happy


    tune.


    Twenty minutester at Mr. Jackson''s ce, Mr. Jackson heard footsteps at the entrance of the tea


    room after which he took out a fresh teacup and put it across from him.


    He had just poured out some tea when William appeared.


    Mr. Jackson asked, "Have those men settled down?"


    William sat across from Mr. Jackson and nodded. "Yes, everything is sorted."


    "I reckon Lloyd must be trying his best right now to find out who''s intent oning after him, but


    regardless of how hard he tries, he won''t be able to figure it out."


    William responded, "Right now, it would be very difficult for him to turn the tides on the current situation.


    So, once the timees, the Crossley Family will cease to exist."


    As soon as Mr. Jackson heard that, he frowned slightly and paused his hand that was lifting the teacup.


    "It would be fine to just deal with Lloyd. After all, the Crossleys are also¡­ Could you bear it?"


    "The most important thing to me disappeared ages ago, so there''s nothing that I''m unable to part with.


    Over these years, the Crossley Family has be rotten to the core under his leadership, so there is


    essentially no point in retaining something that''s already rotten beyond salvageable."


    Mr. Jackson replied, "But then, you must be aware that we''re not the onlypany eyeing the


    Crossleys. Aidan Pearson''s waiting intently and can''t wait to take action too."


    William smiled in response, "Aidan would definitely gain a lot if he managed to take control of the


    Crossley Family, but if he wishes to take control of their shares before the Crossleys disappear


    completely, then he''d have to get engaged with Georgina. Otherwise, he would basically be gaining an


    empty and uselesspany."


    "Speaking about Aidan, I reckon that his ex-wife resembles Sandra. What do you think?"


    "It''s just a coincidence that they have some slight resemnce." William knew the situation back then


    very clearly and he was well-aware that there was no way they would have survived.

 Chapter 288

    Chapter 288


    At 3.00AM, Leanna was in a drowsy, sleepy state when she suddenly heard a buzz from her phone that


    was ced on her nightstand.


    She thought that it was her rm, so she grabbed it and tapped on it randomly before putting it aside to


    continue sleeping.


    Yet not long after that, her phone started to vibrate on her nket and she finally awoke from the


    commotion. Her eyes were half-shut as she held her phone in front of her. Eventually, she saw that it


    was not her rm but the b*stard on the line.


    She took the call and ced the phone next to her ear before responding in a hoarse voice, "Yes."


    On the other end, Aidan''s voice paused for a moment. "Were you asleep?"


    Leanna shut her eyes and it took her a lot of effort to continue speaking, "It''s literally 3.00AM, what else


    can I be doing? President Pearson, why are you awake?"


    "I just got off my flight."


    All of a sudden, she jolted awake and became speechless. I''d nearly forgotten that the b*stard is


    arriving back from abroad tonight!


    As soon as he heard the voice on the other end go silent, he asked, "Have you gone to sleep?"


    "No." Leanna slowly sat up in bed and leaned against the headboard. "President Pearson, have you


    arrived back home?"


    "I''m downstairs. Come down."


    Momentarily stunned, Leanna came to her senses and realized that he was actually downstairs in her


    residential area.


    She hung up the phone, grabbed a jacket, and put it on before heading out of the door.


    Although spring had arrived, the weather at night was still low. As the cold wind swept across, one


    could still feel the chilly breeze.


    Leanna had just arrived downstairs when she saw his strapping figure slightly hunched against his car.


    At that point, she noticed his sharp features and the cold look in his eyes.


    Ever since their meal togetherst time, she had not seen him again from then on.


    She heaved a faint sigh before slowing down her footsteps as she made her way toward him.


    Then, she stood behind him and asked, "It''ste now. Why are you here? Why didn''t you head home?"


    Aidan lifted his brows slightly and reached out to pull her into his arms. Subsequently, he spoke in a


    low voice into her ears, "I wanted to see you right away."


    Leanna felt her heart thud frantically and it took her a moment to react. "You will be able to see me


    tomorrow. No, wait¡ªactually, it''s today. It''s just in a matter of a few hours."


    Aidan did not say a word and merely embraced her.


    After some time, Leanna asked, "Have you found out?"


    "About?"


    "I¡­"


    Leanna was just about to say something when she paused all of a sudden. After all, she would just be


    exposing herself if she mentioned it on her own ord while Aidan was still clueless.


    Hence, she replied rather dejectedly, "Nothing too important."


    In response, Aidan patted her on the back gently. "Do you have anything that you''d like to share with


    me?"


    "No."


    "Yes." After a slight pause, Leanna swiftly mentioned, "I''d like to go back and sleep, so could you let go


    of me, President Pearson?"


    Naturally, Aidan was rendered speechless by her words.


    Subsequently, he answered in annoyance, "You should tell me that you missed me. Other than that, I


    don''t want to hear any other answer."


    "Repeat your question, then."


    "Forget about it. Youck sincerity."


    Leanna pouted. "If Icked sincerity, then I wouldn''t havee out of my warm bed in the middle of the


    night and stood here with you to experience the cold."


    At that point, Aidan tightened his grip around her waist. "Do you feel cold?"


    "Don''t hug me so tightly. I can''t breathe."


    Aidan looked down and focused his eyes on her before lowering his head. Subsequently, his thin lips


    zoomed in and left a kiss on her lips.


    After ending the long kiss, Leanna panted slightly. "You¡­"


    He responded, "You were breathless, right? I''m just sharing some air with you."


    Speechless, she responded exasperatedly, "You''re disgusting."


    "You were the one who said you were breathless."


    At that point, Leanna could not be bothered to continue the banter with him. "I really need to go,


    Otherwise, I won''t be able to wake up on time tomorrow."


    Aidan replied, "Don''t wake up, then."


    "I''m not loaded like you, President Pearson. Plus, I have a life. Everyday I wake up, I''m reminded of the


    fact that I''m poor. So, I need to work. Got it?"


    "If you agree to remarry me, then my money would belong to you."


    "Thanks, but I don''t have this mindset at the moment."


    As Leanna spoke, she extricated herself from his arms. "I''ll leave now. President Pearson, you should


    head home too."


    However, the man kept a grip on her wrist and refused to let go.


    Surprised, Leanna turned to look at him.


    Aidan kept his dark eyes on her as he stared at her intently. "Can''t I head upstairs with you?"


    In response, she clenched her teeth. "No!" What sort of nonsense is the b*stard thinking about again?


    "Then, why don''t youe back with me to Castor Vi and I''ll send you back before dawn breaks?"


    Leanna reminded him, "Dawn would break in a few more hours, so why are you making such a fuss?"


    Aidan pursed his thin lips and remained silent without letting go of her.


    This was the first time that Leanna saw this clingy side of him and she was torn whether to remain or


    leave.


    It seemed that Zoe was right; absence did make the heart grow fonder indeed.


    Atst, both of them gave in.


    Leanna did not head back upstairs whereas Aidan no longer insisted for her to return to Castor Vi


    with him either.


    ¡­


    The time ticked by slowly. As the sun rose gradually, the rays of light became rather ring.


    Leanna lifted her head and rubbed her eyes. In close proximity, her eyes met the man''s face, which


    was leaning against the window, looking seeminglyrge.


    She was startled and instinctively tried to sit up, but Aidan pulled her back into his arms. Subsequently,


    his hoarse but maic voice rang out. "You should get some more sleep."


    At that point, Leanna was already jolted awake and she no longer had the urge to continue sleeping.


    She shifted his hand aside before pulling open the car door. "Go home and get some sleep. I need to


    go to work."


    After she said that, she alighted from the car hastily.


    Meanwhile, there was a drowsy look in Aidan''s cold eyes and he lowered his head to look down as he


    lifted his hand to press in between his brows.


    Zoe instantly leaned in toward Leanna upon seeing here out of the car. Then, she teased,


    "Morning, sunshine."


    Leanna blushed at that, dragged Zoe inside, and eximed, "Why were you perched on the car?"


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    "I woke up and found that you were gone. I tried to call you, but I couldn''t get through you. Then, I saw


    President B*stard''s car when I came downstairs. I can''t believe you¡­" A nosy look was smudged on


    Zoe''s face as she nudged Leanna with her elbow and winked. "What happened inside the carst


    night? Got too tired? Overworked yourself?"


    Utterly speechless, Leanna uttered through clenched teeth, "Nothing happened. We just fell asleep."


    "Is that true? I don''t trust your words."


    Leanna pressed the button on the elevator and stated firmly, "Nothing happened at all. Why are you so


    dirty-minded all the time?"


    Indeed, she had merely fallen asleep in Aidan''s car with him for a couple of hours. Although the b*stard


    could not quite contain his urges and tried to touch her inappropriately when they were about to fall


    asleep, she stopped him.


    After reaching home to take a shower, Leanna left with Zoe to the studio upon changing.


    They had just gotten out of the car when they saw a familiar figure outside the studio.


    Zoe turned to look at Leanna with a surprised expression. "Why is she here?"


    As soon as Maya heard her voice, she turned in their direction.

 Chapter 289

    Chapter 289


    Maya no longer seemed as high-spirited and haughty as she was before. She did not even have any


    makeup on and all that was left on her face was a weary countenance.


    She walked over to stand in front of Leanna. Just as Maya was about to say something, she turned her


    head and met Zoe''s curious eyes before snorting. "What are you staring at? Bedazzled by my natural


    beauty?"


    Zoe was speechless beyond words as she thought, I''m gonna wash my eyes with acid.


    Noticing that Maya seemed to have something to share with her, Leanna stated, "Zoe, why don''t you


    head inside first?"


    As a result, Zoe nodded before ncing at Maya. "You''d better not try anything funny because I won''t


    let you get away with things!"


    Surprisingly, Maya did not rebuke her words and merely turned her in the other direction, ignoring her.


    As soon as Zoe entered the studio, Leanna asked, "Spill. Why are you here?"


    Maya replied, "Let''s go for some coffee. My treat."


    Since her invite sounded sincere like never before, Leanna decided to go along with her to a nearby


    cafe.


    After they had taken a seat, Maya stated, "You must be pleased to see me in such a state, huh?"


    Leanna was amused by her words. "What is there to be happy about? What has this got to do with


    me?"


    Maya responded, "Why didn''t you let me know in advance that your ex-husband was the president of


    Pearson Group? I behaved like an idiot as I unted in front of you. You must have felt quite smug


    about it, huh?"


    "Whatever floats your boat."


    It was then the waiter served their coffee.


    Maya took the cup in her hands and sipped on it before slowly mentioning, "My husband is in prison


    right now. I''ve been seeking help from everyone I can think of recently, but none of them have been


    decent to me. I''ve finally realized how superficial rtionships can be. Anyway, let''s cut to the chase. I


    came over to see you today to mainly say thanks. I know that you don''t wish for other forms of


    gratitude, so this is just a token of my appreciation."


    Leanna replied solemnly, "If you did want to express your gratitude, then you shouldn''t have turned up


    today."


    "You¡­" Maya seemed to have something to say, but in the end, she stifled her words and merely


    snorted. "Whether I express my gratitude or not is a decision for me to make while you are the one who


    gets to decide whether you ept it."


    "You don''t have to thank me and I won''t have to ept it either. As for the situation that day, I wouldn''t


    have stood aside and done nothing even if it was just an animal there. Besides, you''re a living human. I


    just did what I thought was the right thing to do, so I don''t need any form of gratitude or appreciation."


    As soon as Maya heard that, her expression turned ashen. She was not dull, so she clearly could


    comprehend that Leanna was making a snide remark to say that she was iparable to an animal.


    As such, she inhaled a deep breath. "Anyway, this is all I have to say. Don''t even expect me to say


    anything else other than this. I will never ever apologize to you."


    In response, Leanna merely smiled without saying a thing.


    After Maya left, Leanna headed back to the studio too.


    As soon as Zoe saw her walk in, she ran up to her. "Nana, how did it go? Did shee to cause


    trouble for you?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No."


    Zoe replied, "Well, I didn''t think she was here to cause trouble either. Did you notice that she looked


    like apletely different person from before? She used to be so haughty, but today, she seemed


    rather downcast and totally dispirited."


    Leanna parted her lips and attempted to say something, but in the end, she did not mention the


    encounter she shared with Maya before. Instead, she merely patted Zoe on the back. "I''ll start on some


    designs now. Come and get me if there are any issues."


    Zoe nodded. "Okay."


    Seated in front of the work desk, Leanna looked at the drafts in front of her, but she did not seem to feel


    at ease.


    Although she knew that Jethro was ultimately after some money, she felt increasingly frustrated to be


    waiting endlessly for him to get in touch.


    Furthermore, Leanna recalled the momentst night when she had mentioned to Jethro how her


    mother married him while she was already pregnant with Leanna, as well as his reaction to that.


    Precisely due to that, Leanna felt undeniably anxious.


    Instinctively, she felt that Jethro must be aware of some secrets; perhaps it was something much more


    major than she could ever imagine.


    After some time, she collected her things and stood up.


    As soon as Zoe saw her walk out of the room, she asked, "Nana, what''s wrong?"


    Leanna responded, "I need to go somewhere. Zoe, can I borrow your car?"


    Zoe flung the car keys at her. "Where are you headed to?"


    "I''m going to see Ron."


    At that moment, Zoe was caught by surprise. "Are you able to locate him?"


    Someone like Ron would be difficult to locate if he went into hiding. In fact, Aidan''s men had even taken


    a lot of effort to locate him, but they had not been able toe up with a single clue at all.


    After a moment of silence, Leanna finally replied, "I''ve got a solution."


    After all, every man had their weak spot and Ron should be no exception to this rule too.


    With that, Leanna exited the studio and immediately set her GPS to a specific location.


    An hourter, her car came to a stop as she arrived at the destination.


    The entire area was full of rundown residential homes and there was rubbish strewn everywhere with


    gutters running all over. The ce was a stark contrast to the bustling town of Highside; it seemed to


    have been overlooked during the development stage before it became run down and dpidated. Truth


    be told, it felt as if the ce would eventually fade into oblivion.


    Leanna flicked through her phone and found an address. She asked directions from two middle-aged


    women by the roadside before she walked in the direction they had pointed her to.


    She took several turns before arriving at a junction to an alley and she saw the person she was after


    sitting there.


    It was Queenie''s father.


    When the police previously investigated Queenie''s profile, they found this old address from the


    information they obtained on her. Back when Leanna had just returned from Underwood Lane, Zoe had


    also mentioned that Queenie''s father hade over to see her.


    Putting her phone away, Leanna walked over to stand in front of the man. "Hi, Mr. Wojzicki, I''m Leanna.


    I''m one of Queenie''s ex-colleague."


    The middle-aged man heard that and hastily rose to his feet before gesturing at her to enter the house


    and take a seat. Subsequently, he went to pour her a ss of water.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna paused upon seeing that and she smiled in response while handing over the fruit basket in her


    hands. "That''s alright, Mr. Wojzicki. I''m here today to ask about something."


    The middle-aged man gestured and realized that Leanna was not able to understand him, so he took


    out a piece of paper from behind and quickly scribbled on it.


    Once he finished writing, Leanna then realized that he wanted to find out how Queenie had been doing


    recently.


    It seemed he was unaware of what had happened to Queenietely. Although he had gone over to Lux


    Jewelry to see her once, he never visited her again ever since she chased him out.


    Leanna replied, "I''m not too sure about how she''s doing, but she should be doing well."


    After all, Queenie was a designer who had studied abroad, so even if she was fired by Lux Jewelry, she


    would easily be able to find another job elsewhere or even gain some frence gigs based on her


    talents. Judging by her personality, she would never allow herself to lead a life that was worse than


    before.


    As soon as the middle-aged man heard that, he seemed to heave a sigh of relief. Subsequently, he


    wrote down a few words on the paper and asked what she was after.


    She pursed her lips and finally responded after some time, "Mr. Wojzicki, do you know where Ron is?"

 Chapter 290

    Chapter 290


    The middle-aged man''s expression turned slightly as soon as he heard her question. Then, he took the


    pen in his hand to scribble something, but he did not end up writing a single thing.


    Just as Leanna was about to give up and leave, a cold male voice suddenly rang out from behind.


    "How did you manage to get here?"


    She turned around and saw Ron standing behind her. There appeared to be a scar left behind from the


    ident and it snaked down from the left side of his face down to his chin. It made him look much


    more sinister than before.


    Leanna stated, "Let''s talk somewhere else."


    They had just walked out of the alley when four to five kids ran over in a group with one of the kids


    bumping into Leanna, which prompted him to stop in his tracks immediately.


    The boy stood by the side and rubbed both hands together as he fidgeted. He noticed the stain on her


    clothes from where he had bumped her and became anxious all of a sudden. "I-I''m really sorry¡­"


    She smiled and patted him on the head gently. "It''s alright. Run along and join your friends."


    The boy looked at Leanna with trepidation before turning to look at Ron. As soon as the boy noticed the


    nod from the man, he smiled once again and scrambled off to join his friends.


    Ron retracted his gaze and said, "This ce is dirty and messy. Aren''t you afraid toe here all by


    yourself?"


    Leanna replied calmly, "Well, I think humans are what I should be afraid of."


    Ron remained silent and no longer uttered another word.


    They walked out of the alley and stood in front of a grassy patch as Ron asked, "Why did youe


    over to see me?"


    Be it Jethro''s debt or the incident with Queenie, both matters were a thing of the past, so there was no


    reason for Leanna toe all the way here to seek him for those two matters.


    Leanna looked at him. "I would like to know where Jethro is and I reckon you should be able to locate


    him."


    "Jethro?" Ron frowned. "He died ages ago, didn''t he?"


    Leanna smiled. "Yes, but perhaps not¡­ He''s back."


    Ron did not pursue the topic any further as he was able to roughly figure out what Jethro would do


    upon his return.


    Frankly, it was definitely a cause of disgust to be blood-rted to him.


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Ron asked, "Why would you think that I''d be willing to help you?"


    "You''re not helping me but yourself." Leanna kept her eyes on the fluttering leaves, which were driven


    by the wind. After a moment, she continued, "Right now, Jethro is extorting me with some photos taken


    at Patheon Club three years ago. If I report this to the police, do you think that you''d be able to get


    away with things?"


    Ron frowned without uttering a word.


    Meanwhile, Leanna continued, "I''m grateful for your help in sending me to the hospital back then, so I


    won''t pursue the matter any further as long as you help me locate Jethro. Furthermore, I will


    compensate you ordingly for the work that you''ve done. It won''t be for nothing."


    For Ron''s case, although Leanna had already canceled the charges at the police station and the police


    were no longer after him, the Pearsons were intent on pursuing him regardless, so he did not dare to


    appear in the public eye at all. At least for now, he could only live in hiding, away from the crowds.


    It was clear by now that Leanna no longer cared about her parental ties with Jethro, so if she reported


    this to the police, he would end up in a worse state than the present once the police started


    investigating the matter.


    After some time, he finally promised, "I can help you locate Jethro, but I want a million."


    "Okay."


    The studio was making a profit for the past few months, so she could afford toe up with one


    million.


    Subsequently, Ron added, "I won''t take more than a week. I''ll call you once I find him."


    Leanna nodded slightly. "Thanks."


    As soon as he heard that, he was clearly taken aback, as he would never have expected her to


    express her gratitude toward him.


    Since Leanna had concluded her matters, there was no need for her to stay on any longer. She gave


    him a slight nod to express her thanks before leaving.


    Meanwhile, Ron kept his eyes on her back, seemingly lost in thoughts.


    ¡­


    It was mid-afternoon by the time she arrived back at the studio.


    She was just about to ask Zoe whether she had had lunch when she was signaled to take a look into


    the office.


    Stunned, Leanna soon caught on to things.


    She headed over to her office and opened the door. Immediately, she saw Aidan sitting in front of her


    work desk.


    The man had his eyes lowered as he looked at the drafts in front of him, tapping gently against the


    table.


    Leanna shut the office door. "President Pearson, why are you here?"


    He lifted his head to look at her. "I missed you."


    She remained silent for a moment before saying, "President Pearson, could you promise not to be so


    corny from now on?"


    Aidan swiveled her chair and faced her. Quickly, he grabbed her wrist before tugging her into his arms.


    "I would like to express my feelings, that''s all. How is that being corny?"


    She struggled hard and finally managed to stand upright when she retorted with a huff, "This is my


    office! Stop it!"


    Yet, the man merely curled his lips into a smile and his gazended on the dirty patch on her shirt.


    "Where did you go?"


    "I cruised around randomly. Where else could I go? I couldn''t have possibly gone to a pub or clubbing,


    could I?"


    Aidan replied, "I''m sure you wished you were doing that."


    Pursing her lips, Leanna took another look at the time. "President Pearson, have you had lunch? If you


    haven''t, then¡ª"


    "No, I haven''t."


    "You should leave to have lunch at home, then. You can get Alice to cook you something."


    Aidan was rendered speechless as he exerted pressure on his wrist and pulled her into his arms once


    again. A dangerous look then shed in his dark eyes as he squinted. "Are you joking?"


    Leanna stifled herughter. "I''m serious. President Pearson, you''re such a picky eater, so the food in


    ordinary restaurants out there won''t suit your pte. You might as well head home¡ª"


    At that moment, a knock on the door resounded and Zoe''s voice rang out soon after that. "Nana,


    someone''s here to see you."


    Leanna replied, "Sure, I''ll be there right away."


    She then removed Aidan''s hand and tidied her clothes to quickly rush toward the door.


    On that note, Zoe could not help reminding her upon seeing her. "Your hair''s a mess."


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    "Tsk! It''s broad daylight right now. What have you guys been doing?"


    Hearing that, Leanna''s face blushed crimson and she smoothed her hair before dragging Zoe to the


    side.


    They reached the conference room and Leanna was surprised to see the person there. "Mrs. Parker."


    It was Elijah''s mother, Lizzy, seated there.


    She stood up and smiled at Leanna. "I came over without informing you in advance. Am I disrupting


    your work?"


    "No, you''re not." Leanna turned around to say to Zoe as she replied, "Zoe, could you get me a cup of


    tea, please?"


    Zoe was just about to head off when Lizzy piped up, "Don''t bother about that. I won''t take too long. I


    just have something to say to you."


    Getting the hint that thedies wished to speak privately, Zoe left the room tactfully.


    Now that they were alone, Leanna said to Lizzy, "Mrs. Parker, have a seat."


    "Sure."


    After Lizzy took a seat, she stated. "Leanna, I would first like to apologize to you on behalf of Eli. His


    behavior was abominable and his dad and I have chided him sternly."


    Leanna responded, "Don''t say that, Mrs. Parker. I should be the one to apologize. I shouldn''t have lied


    to you."


    Suddenly, Lizzy grabbed onto Leanna''s hand. "You''re such a silly girl. How can this be your fault? You


    were just trying to be kind."

 Chapter 291

    Chapter 291


    Lizzy continued to chat with Leanna for some time before finally getting to the main point. "Leanna, I


    came over here today mainly to ask on behalf of Eli whether there is any chance between the two of


    you?"


    Pursing her lips, Leanna paused for a few seconds before replying, "Mrs. Parker, I''m friends with Elijah


    and we''ve already talked things through."


    "Is that so?" Lizzy heaved a sigh. "I am to be med for this. I came here without Eli''s knowledge, so


    please don''t take it to heart."


    "It''s fine, Mrs. Parker. You shouldn''t worry too much about this."


    Thedy rose to her feet as she spoke, "Since that''s the case, then I won''t disrupt you from working. I''ll


    be on my way, then."


    As such, Leanna got up after her and sent her to the door.


    Before Lizzy left, she clutched Leanna''s hand and was very reluctant to let go. It was evident that she


    adored Leanna very much.


    After sending Lizzy to her car, Leanna finally retracted her gaze. She was just about to head back to


    the studio when she noticed Aidan''s presence upon turning around. She was unsure when he had


    come out, but he was currently standing in front of the conference room with one hand in his pocket,


    staring down at her without a single word.


    For some inexplicable reason, she somehow felt guilty under his watchful eyes.


    She reached out to stroke her nose and took a few steps forward. "President Pearson, you haven''t had


    lunch, have you? I haven''t eaten either. Would you like to join me for lunch?"


    Yet, Aidan merely snorted through his nostrils as he strode forward in his long legs.


    He walked ahead as he replied, "It looks like not only do men love you but the elderlies as well."


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she conveniently replied, "Of course! I''m so pretty, smart, and capable.


    Everyone would love me, of course. They''d be blind not to!"


    Aidan paused in his tracks and turned to look at her. Is she attacking me with innuendo?


    Revealing a wide smile, Leanna looked rather innocent at the moment.


    As they shared their meals together, Leanna brought up. "By the way, how''s Ms. Fletcher doing


    recently? I should be free at the end of the month, so I n to head back and visit her. President


    Pearson, would you like toe as well?"


    For a moment there, Aidan paused while holding to his utensils and he responded calmly, "She''s fine


    as usual. After all, she''s old, so I don''t think she''d be getting into a new rtionship at this point."


    Speechless, Leanna could not quitee up with a reply. Look at what he''s saying! He''s not even fit to


    be human! It''s fortunate that Ms. Fletcher isn''t here to hear all this because she would surely be


    angered by his words!


    Aidan noticed her silence and continued, "The eviction notice for Underwood Lane has been put out, so


    she''s moved out."


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she was caught by surprise. "I thought that they were supposed to


    demolish the ce in May? Where has she moved to?"


    "Well, she still has to find somewhere to stay before then."


    That makes sense too.


    Aidan took a sip of water before continuing slowly, "She''s moved to someone far away. Once you''re


    free, I''ll bring you over to see her."


    She replied, "Okay." It''s quite likely that this trip would be dependent on his mood again.


    After lunch, Leanna had initially nned to return to her studio when Aidan stopped her. "Could you not


    head back to work today?"


    What nonsense.


    She responded, "President Pearson, I''ve got work to do. Besides, you''ve got the entire Pearson Group


    to run. Are you going to just leave it like that?"


    He answered, "Pearson Group is perfectly fine even without me there. Don''t tell me that your tiny studio


    can''t survive without you?"


    Leanna inhaled a deep breath. "Yes. It can''t survive without me! The few of us inside my tiny studio


    work hard to run the business, unlike Pearson Group. We''re neither influential or rich, so naturally,


    there shouldn''t even be aparison in the first ce! You¡­"


    At that, Aidan stretched out an arm and supported his head as he looked at her with a smirk. "That''s


    enough. I merely mentioned a single sentence, and here you are, rambling on and on. I''ll send you


    back to work."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Still, thedy red at him with annoyance. How dare the b*stard turn around and me all the


    mistakes onto me!


    The ce they had lunch was not too far from the studio, so they returned by foot just like how they


    came earlier.


    With just a few steps forward, Aidan naturally yet sneakily reached out to take her hand into his and


    held it tightly against his palm.


    Of course, Leanna instinctively tried to withdraw her hand. "What are you doing? There are a lot of


    people around¡­"


    Aidan lifted his brows questioningly. "What''s wrong with having people around? It''s not illegal to hold


    my wife¡ªmy girlfriend''s hands."


    At that point, Leanna realized that she had underestimated how thick-skinned this lowlife was.


    Fortunately, it was past peak lunch hour and there were no longer crowds along the streets. There


    were also several couples hand-in-hand, so they did not appear to be significantly out of ce.


    As such, Leanna kept quiet and she slowly walked along his side.


    Momentster, Aidan''s voice slowly rang out. "You don''t have to worry about Jethro. I''ll resolve things."


    Pausing in her tracks, she looked at him and asked, "Did Oscar tell you?"


    "I don''t need him to tell me that." Aidan replied, "I should have told you in advance about the fact that


    he was still well and alive. If you were mentally prepared for this, then it wouldn''t havee as such a


    surprise to you."


    "When did you find out?"


    There was a deep look in Aidan''s eyes as he nced at her. "You can''t hide anything from me."


    Leanna could not be bothered about this arrogant and egotistical man, so she maintained a moment of


    silence before saying, "This is my personal matter, so I have my ways to deal with it. President


    Pearson, you should be the one who stops worrying about this."


    "How do you n to deal with it?"


    Although Aidan intended for it to be a question, Leanna could sense his challenging tone, which


    prompted her to snort in response. "Just you wait and see."


    ¡­


    Despite the lengthy period Ron had promised to Leanna in locating Jethro, he actually had managed to


    track him down in merely three days.


    Jethro could not change his old ways; even though his leg was broken, he refused to waste the money


    to treat his injury at the hospital. Instead, he spent them all on the gambling table.


    As such, he had merely gone to a quack doctor and had his broken leg bandaged haphazardly before


    considering everything sorted.


    Furthermore, he had the one-hundred thousand that he had extorted, so he felt that it would be such a


    shame for his broken leg if he did not go on a gambling spree!


    At the illegal casino, Jethro collected his money with a beaming face.


    Then, someone next to him scolded, "Look at you winning loads. Hey. You yin'' dirty?"


    Meanwhile, Jethro collected his money while saying, "I''m just lucky today. You guys just never saw how


    badly I once lost. I even lost my daughter."


    A person flung the cards aside and left. "I don''t want to continue the game. I''m so unlucky tonight. I''ve


    lost seven to eighty thousand! This is annoying."


    Jethro turned to gesture to the crowd by the side. "Don''t just stand there. We''re one yer short. Hurry


    up and fill the spot."


    Everyone refused to step forward after noticing that Jethro was on a winning streak tonight.


    Just as he was about to go and get someone else to fill the spot, a figure dropped into the seat next to


    him. Before he could even fully form his smile, it suddenly froze on his face.


    Ron wore a devilish look in his eyes. "Let''s continue. You''re one yer short, aren''t you? I''ll join you for


    a few rounds."


    Jethro instantly kept his money. "I''ve had enough. It''ste now, so it''s time for me to go."


    He had just taken a step forward when Ron suddenly stretched out one leg in front of Jethro. "You


    seem to have forgotten something, but I guess that''s normal since you''re so busy. You forgot


    something important, didn''t you?"


    Jethro was notpletely dull; he knew that Ron was here for the money. After some hesitation, he


    reached into his pocket and took out half of the money he had with him. "This is what I''ve won tonight.


    This should cover the interest and I''ll pay off the rest in two more days."


    Ron asked, "How did you get so much money?"

 Chapter 292

    Chapter 292


    Jethro inched toward his side and said, "You do know that I''ve got that adopted daughter. She''s doing


    really well and she now operates her own business, so I''m going to squeeze some pension money out


    of her. By then, you''ll have the money!"


    Meanwhile, Ron shot him a look. "Would she give you the money?"


    "Of course! I''ve got something against her in my hands as extortion, so she wouldn''t dare to not pay


    me!"


    "What is it?"


    Jethro scanned his surroundings before whispering, "By the way, this is all thanks to you because


    otherwise, I would never have gotten any of those photos. It looks like I was right to have kept copies of


    them. It has been proven to be useful. Don''t worry. She will definitely pay to get the photos."


    Ron scoffed, "Is she really your daughter?"


    Yet, Jethro''s eyes merely swiveled around and he did not provide a proper answer. "Don''t worry about


    it. I have plenty of money and I''ll definitely repay you. Based on our rtionship of so many years, I''ll


    pay you extra once I receive the money."


    Ron asked again, "Would you really bear to hand over all of the photos once she gives you the


    money?"


    Jethro chuckled out loud. "Well, there is no need to point out the obvious. This is my money-making


    thing, so whatever it is, I have to make sure that I have enough money saved up for retirement before I


    decide."


    "Retirement money? I think you''re just a bottomless pit!"


    "Look at you there. How can you spit such words? I raised her since young, so she is obligated to


    provide for me!"


    "Whatever." Ron rose to his feet. "I don''t want to beat around the bush with you and I know that you


    can''t afford to repay me. Hand over all of the photos and the original copies to me. After that, your debt


    is cleared and I won''t ask for any interest from you either."


    Without any hesitation, Jethro rejected him outright, "Hell no!"


    Ron turned to look at him. "What? Do you seriously think that you have the option to bargain with me?"


    "I wouldn''t dare to do that. Like I''ve said, this is for my retirement and I wouldn''t be able to survive


    without this. If I hand over everything to you, then how am I supposed to live for the rest of my life?"


    "Like I care! You''re not even guaranteed to get the money. Besides, you''d gamble away the money


    even if you obtained it. In the end, you might not even have anything left to pay me after losing all your


    money."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Don''t say that! There''s a chance that I could win." As Jethro spoke, he waved the stack of money in


    his hands. "This is my earnings of the day. It''s substantial, isn''t it?"


    Ron replied, "Cut the crap and hand over the photos. I''ll be able to ask for the money from her."


    As soon as he noticed Jethro''s hesitation, he added, "If things are ording to what you''ve said and I


    manage to obtain that huge amount, I''ll definitely share it with you."


    "No, but then¡ª"


    At that moment, Ron suddenly delivered a kick to the chair in front of him and it toppled to the ground


    with a bang. Subsequently, he eximed impatiently, "Don''t make me repeat myself for the third time."


    Seeing this, Jethro had no choice but to ede reluctantly. "Uhm¡­ Okay, then. Come with me and


    let''s get the photos. I live close by, so we''ll get there in just a few minutes."


    Ron got up. "Let''s go."


    As they walked out of the illegal casino, Jethro''s eyes flitted back and forth anxiously and he clearly


    looked like he was trying to escape.


    However, Ron kept a close eye on him, so Jethro could only dream about it.


    They arrived at a dpidated residential area as Jethro stated, "This is it. You should head up first."


    Ron questioned, "What trick is it this time?"


    "What sort of tricks can I possiblye up with? This is the first time you''vee to my house, so I


    should prepare some wine and food for you. I don''t want things to be shabby."


    "I don''t drink and I don''t need any food. Stop fooling around and let''s go."


    With no other option, Jethro could head up with Ron with his broken leg as he limped up the stairs.


    On the other hand, Ron slowly trailed after Jethro without any ounce of impatience.


    After that, they came to the second floor and walked past a pile of clutter. Jethro stood in front of a


    wooden door with peeling paint before slowly reaching into his pocket for his wallet and as well as a set


    of keys.


    As for Ron, he stood by the side and lit a cigarette.


    At that moment, Jethro suddenly grabbed a flower pot by the side of the door and flung it with all of his


    might at Ron. Then, he took off and leaped down the building.


    Clearly, this man had overestimated himself because as soon as he took that leap, his broken leg


    worsened and he struggled for quite some time to get up. In the end, he failed and ended up moaning


    on the ground.


    As for Ron, he sauntered down the stairs casually and stood next to Jethro before kicking him in the


    other leg. "You''re old now, so why would you even attempt that?"


    Jethro clutched his leg and sweat could be seen dripping down his forehead due to the pain.


    Following that, Ron squatted in front of him. "Where are the photos?"


    "I¡­ I can''t recall right now. I''ll hand it over to you once I remem¡ª"


    Not here to y any games with him, Ron lost his patience and instantly lifted a foot to step on Jethro''s


    broken leg. "Where is it?!"


    "Ahhhhh!"


    The neighbors around seemed to be used to suchmotion, so everyone kept their doors and


    windows shut. None of them came out to check on Jethro either.


    Jethro pleaded, "I''ll tell you. I-It''s¡­ inside my room, in between my pillow and pillowcase."


    "So, all of the photos are there?"


    "Y-Yes¡­ Everything is there including the originals."


    Ron raised his foot and was about to head upstairs when he turned his head to look at Jethro, who was


    lying motionless on the ground. Subsequently, he grabbed some rope from the side and tied Jethro''s


    hands and feet.


    After heading up the stairs, Ron used Jethro''s set of keys to open the door and located the photos in


    Jethro''s pillowcase. However, he could not locate the originals despite searching the entire room.


    Frowning, he suddenly came to a realization and swiftly ran out of the door to take a look. Jethro was


    no longer downstairs and all that was left was a bundle of loosened rope.


    In a fit of rage, Ron punched the banister and cursed in his mind before turning back into the house to


    search it carefully.


    It was just a simple and run-down rental property so other than the photos hidden inside the pillow, all


    that was left was Jethro''s several pieces of clothes. There was nothing else to be found in the house.


    It seemed that Jethro constantly had his guard up and he must have kept the important objects


    personally on him.


    ¡­


    That night, Leanna received a phone call from Ron. As she put down her phone and grabbed a jacket


    to leave, Zoe asked, "Nana, it''ste now. Where are you off to?"


    Leanna responded, "I''ve got something to deal with and I need to head downstairs. I''ll be back soon.


    Would you like some supper? I''ll buy some food back."


    Zoe''s eyes instantly shone, but soon after that, she heaved a sigh. "Forget about it. Summer''sing


    and I need to lose some weight."


    Leanna smiled. "You have a great body. Why the hassle?"


    "Other than a summer bod, I want a summer love too."


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she walked away silently.


    Arriving downstairs, she found that Ron was already waiting outside the residential area for her after


    which she headed over to him.


    Subsequently, Ron handed over the envelope in his hand to her. "This is what I found from Jethro''s


    house, so all of the photos are here. I couldn''t find the original copies, though. He escaped before I


    could even locate them."


    Leanna retrieved them from him and pursed her lips as she expressed, "Thank you."


    As she spoke, she fished out a bank card from her pocket. "This is the money I promised you."


    Yet, Ron frowned in response. "That''s not necessary."


    At that point, Leanna was taken aback as she could not quiteprehend what he meant.


    Ron exined, "I have yet toplete the job entirely, so you don''t need to pay me for now. I''ll try and


    hunt down Jethro once again. Once I did and got the originals, I''lle and get the money from you."


    After saying that, he turned around and left.


    Meanwhile, Leanna stood frozen and slowly put away her card. Not bad. I''m surprised.

 Chapter 293

    Chapter 293


    After that night, it was as though Jethro had vanished into thin air. Not only did he not contact Leanna


    again, but he didn''t even appear in any of the underground casinos.


    However, Leanna wasn''t worried, for she knew better than anyone that Jethro woulde to her again


    once he was short of money. It was only a question of when.


    Another day at work drew to an end, and Leanna exited the office after a stretch only to find that Aidan


    had already arrived some time ago and was looking through a document on the couch.


    She couldn''t help but smile at the sight as she stood in the doorway.


    In moments like this, Leanna would always think the man was a sight to behold; too bad he had a


    mouth, though.


    Aidan, on the other hand, didn''t seem to have noticed someone was approaching as his head was still


    buried in the document in his hands.


    Seeing how focused he was, Leanna decided not to bother him but went to sort things out at the front


    desk.


    These days, Aidan woulde and pick her up every night to have dinner before sending her home.


    Zoe had to wait for her in the beginning, but with time, she gave up and went home as soon as she


    could. She wasn''t having any of their PDA. Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It wasn''t until Aidan heard noises that he looked toward Leanna. "You done?"


    "Yeah." She nodded and grabbed the keys. "Let''s go."


    Later, when they arrived at Leanna''s after dinner, the young woman had just unbuckled her seatbelt


    and was about to get out of the car when Aidan grabbed her wrist with a frown. "Do you have to go


    back?"


    "Why are you at it again?"


    This had be a routine conversation of theirs every night.


    "I don''t think our rtionship should stop here. It''s time we take a step forward," Aidan urged.


    Leanna fell silent for a second before exasperating, "Consider yourself lucky that I''ve not asked for a


    step back, and yet you want to move forward?"


    Is this b*stard even aware of how sharp-tongued he is? She swore that she was likely the only person


    in this world who could tolerate him.


    However, Aidan didn''t share the same sentiment. "Enlighten me then. Have I not served you well in


    bed? Have I done anything that deserves a step back?" he asked with a darkened gaze while brushing


    his finger against her soft lips gently.


    Despite knowing nothing good ever came out of his mouth, Leanna still couldn''t help blushing when


    she was suddenly faced with such dirty talk.


    "Hm?" Aidan pressed on when she didn''t answer.


    "You¡­"


    Meanwhile, he shifted his gaze to her lips and continued, "This is as far as I can go. You don''t give me


    chances to do anything else."


    "Shut up!" Leanna had had more than enough.


    He smirked in response and held her by the neck to bring her in for a kiss, finally shutting her up.


    The air in the car was too thin, so Leanna began panting very quickly. She nudged at his chest with


    displeasure, at which Aidan obliged and let her go. "Sated?" His deep, maic voice became hoarse


    from the kiss.


    However, Leanna had already used all the cuss words in her vocabry on him.


    "Move out within one week, or I''ll move in," he demanded while fixing her hair for her.


    "Do you have to do this?"


    "Well, I can''t do anything else without your permission, can I?"


    Exasperated, she opened the door and left without looking back. Son of a b*stard! All you ever think of


    is such sh*t!


    Zoe was lying on the couch watching reality TV when Leanna entered. "Nana, you have to take a look


    at this. This is really hrious," she urged with a smile when she saw Leanna.


    "You go ahead. I''m going to take a shower."


    "Sure, you go ahead."


    After Leanna was done showering, she blew her hair damp before slowly sitting down next to Zoe while


    hugging a cushion.


    "Would you like some fruit, Zoe?" Leanna asked tentatively after a while.


    "I''ve already eaten," answered Zoe. "Do you want to?"


    "I don''t." Leanna smiled wryly and said after a pause, "By the way, what do you want for breakfast


    tomorrow? I want to make preparations."


    "Huh? I''m good with anything. I like whatever you make anyway. I swear, living with you is the best


    thing that has ever happened to me!"


    Leanna fell silent after hearing so and said nothing more.


    Zoe thought something didn''t feel right, so she pressed the pause button on the remote and turned to


    Leanna. "Is there something you want to tell me, Nana?"


    "Huh, what? No. I was just asking." While speaking, Leanna stood up. "I, um, I''ll go and blow my hair


    again. It''s still a little damp. Rest early, alright?"


    Zoe nodded. "Hold on. Let me go to the toilet first."


    "Go on."


    After Zoe went to the bathroom, Leanna went to the balcony to get some fresh air.


    This b*stard has given me another puzzle of the century to solve¡­


    Zoe had been by her side the entire time when she had just gotten the divorce. What kind of friend


    would it make her if she abandoned Zoe right away after getting back together with Aidan?


    She believed Aidan wasn''t just saying it either. He could very well do something like that.


    Ugh, this is infuriating!


    Later, Leanna had just returned to her room when she got a call from the person she had asked to help


    look into the pocket watch factory.


    The caller said they had already contacted the person in charge and scheduled an appointment to


    meet them in the afternoon the next day.


    After the call ended, Leanna received the time and date of the rendezvous and the person in charge''s


    contact.


    She looked out the window as shey in bed, having trouble sleeping.


    She had a gut feeling that she would be able to get a lead tomorrow, but it probably wasn''t a good


    thing.


    It seemed that anything that had to do with the Crossleys was never good.


    The uproar fromst time had subsided by now, and the incident fizzled out with no further prosecution


    after the Crossleys dealt with a few senior managers.


    Actually, everyone knew the senior managers didn''t have that much power. The problem itselfy in the


    core of Crossley Group.


    Lloyd came to Leanna''s mind. It was tough to associate him, a gentlemanly middle-aged man, with


    nefarious guys.


    But she could tell from the Pearsons'' stance that those people never regarded anyone but themselves


    as human. To them, everyone else was just tools.


    The following morning, when Zoe and Leanna were on their way to the studio, Zoe scrolled through her


    phone while saying, "That reminds me. Nana, I have something to tell you."


    "What is it?" Leanna nodded.


    "I''m looking around for a new ce. I''ll move out once I find the right one," Zoe disclosed, rendering


    Leanna stumped. "What? Why so sudden? Zoe, I¡­"


    Zoe giggled at her and exined, "Rx. It''s not because of you. I bumped into Daniel again at the


    elevator and it was pretty awkward. Then, I thought that since you and that b¡ªPresident Pearson have


    reconciled, you''ll be moving out sooner orter, so why don''t we take this chance to move out


    together? Who knows, we might even be able to rent a ce in the samemunity."


    To that, Leanna nodded. "True that. Alright, let''s check some ces out over the weekend."

 Chapter 294

    Chapter 294


    After Leanna was done sorting the work at hand in the afternoon, she grabbed her belongings and


    headed out of her office. "Zoe, I''m going out for a bit. I probably won''t being back but head straight


    home instead."


    Zoe nodded in acknowledgment but still asked, "Where are you heading?"


    "There''s finally a lead for the pocket watch I''m looking into. I have a rendezvous with the person in


    charge of the factory."


    "Is it legit?" Zoe asked.


    "It should be. I asked a friend to help me look into it."


    "Okay. I''ll go with you. The studio isn''t busy anyway, and I don''t like the idea of you going alone. If


    something does happen, at least we have each other."


    "Sure."


    After leaving the studio to their staff, the youngdies headed to the rendezvous point, only to end up in


    an abandoned factory area. "Is this the ce? This ce looks deserted," Zoe doubted as she drove.


    To that, Leanna checked the address again. "This should be it¡­ We should arrive after making a right


    turn at that junction."


    With that, Zoe turned the car in that direction and found a hoary old man standing in front of a locked


    factory after driving a few more yards ahead.


    "This is it," Leanna announced.


    "Hi, are you Mr. Muston?" she asked after getting out of the car.


    The elder nodded with a smile. "You must be Miss McKinney."


    "I am," Leanna answered, then introduced Zoe. "This is my friend. She''s here to keep mepany."


    After a quick exchange of pleasantries, the elder went to the gates and pulled arge set of keys out


    with trembling hands from his pocket. He took a long while before he was able to unlock the gates.


    Zoe whispered to Leanna, "You sure he can provide you with useful leads? He can''t even put the key


    into the hole."


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    While keeping a smile on her face, Leanna nudged Zoe with her elbow and muttered, "Don''t say that."


    "But look at the set of keys in his hands. If he tries them one by one, we''ll probably still be here


    tomorrow."


    The next second, the elder''s voice rang out. "Alright,e with me,dies."


    Leanna answered the elder, then followed after him at once.


    As the metal doors were pushed open, a whiff of stale air and dust came at them, and Leanna couldn''t


    help coughing while fanning the dust in front of her away.


    Meanwhile, the elder went to the wall and felt for the light switch while revealing, "It''s been ages since


    anyone was here. You girls can consider yourselves lucky. This entire area will be demolished in two


    weeks, and these documents will be sent for disposal. By then, it''ll be nearly impossible for you to find


    anything."


    Leanna looked at the massive warehouse and the documents ced on the rows of shelves. "Are all


    the documents here?"


    "Yes. You might not believe me, but even though this pocket watch factory has gone down in itster


    years, we used to be one of the top manufacturers a couple of decades ago. We used to have retail


    stores all across the country, and because of that, we had a lot of customers." At that, the elder sighed.


    "To me, they''re a sentiment. So even when the factory shut down, these documents remained."


    Zoe, on the other hand, was bbergasted. "There are so many documents here. If we look through


    them one by one, it''ll be next year by the time we find what we''re looking for!"


    "You won''t need that long," the elder reassured. "I remember the model of the pocket watch you sent


    over. That model''s final product and craftsmanship were considered top-tiered at the time. Hence, there


    were only a few who could afford it. Even if it was sold in all of our retail stores, the information would


    still be sent to the headquarters, so you''ll surely be able to find the purchase information of the watch if


    you look through the headquarter archives." While speaking, he brought thedies to the innermost row


    of shelves. "This is it."


    Leanna looked toward them in response. Looks like we''ll still have a lot to look through, even when it


    has been narrowed down.


    The elder handed Leanna the set of keys and said, "You guys cane over whenever you want if you


    don''t manage to find what you''re looking for today. Just remember to lock the gates when you leave."


    "Thank you," Leanna thanked the elder as she took the keys from him. "I''ll return them to you once I


    find what I''m looking for."


    The elder smiled at that. "Don''t worry about it. Just be sure to lock the gates when you leave. Someone


    wille and clear these documents when they''re demolishing this ce."


    "Thank you. I really appreciate your help." Leanna nodded her thanks.


    The elder waved his hand in response. "I didn''t think I would still be able to see this pocket watch


    model again after two decades. I guess you can call it fate."


    Later, when Leanna returned after seeing the elder away, Zoe had already started flipping through the


    documents.


    Though the elder said this pocket watch model''s purchase information would be sent to the


    headquarters, they evidently didn''t just sell this model.


    Apart from purchase records, there were records of factory employees, various data and reports, and


    whatnot.


    Time gradually passed while the twodies flipped through document after document, and before they


    knew it, it was already getting dark outside.


    Just then, the sound of a phone vibrating broke the silence.


    After pinching her nose, Leanna pulled her phone out of her pocket only to find Aidan calling. With that,


    she put the report in her hand down and answered it.


    "Where are you?" he asked.


    "I''m at¡­" Unsure of how to tell him her exact location, she just said, "I''m outside looking through some


    paperwork."


    "How long more until you''re done? I''ll go and pick you up."


    At that, Leanna looked at the dark sky. We should call it a day and continue tomorrow.


    "I''m done. I''m with Zoe. We''re leaving now."


    "Send me your location," Aidan urged.


    After ending the call, Leanna still sent her location over lest the b*stard nagged about thister.


    "C''mon, Zoe. Let''s go. We''ll continue¡ª"


    "Nana, Nana!" Leanna had just finished sending Aidan her location and urged Zoe to leave while


    putting her phone back in her pocket when Zoe came running to her, gushing, "What''s the model


    number of your pocket watch? I found the VIP customers'' purchase information. See if it''s the one


    you''re looking for!"


    With that, Leanna took her phone out at once and pulled up the picture of the pocket watch topare


    the model number. It just so happened that Zoe found exactly what they were looking for.


    "This is it!" Zoe gushed.


    Then, they began looking through the details of one customer after another, hoping to find something


    useful, only to freeze when they saw a familiar name.


    How can it be him?


    It took a long while for Zoe to regain her senses. "Nana, are you certain the person who bought the


    pocket watch is¡­ your birth father?"


    "I¡­" Leanna answered while still reeling in bewilderment, "I don''t know either. It''s just that there''s a


    photo in the pocket watch."


    "This is crazy! It''s probably just a coincidence. Let''s see if there''s anyone else!"


    The purchase information page the pair paused at had a name clearly written in the first column¡ªLloyd


    Crossley.


    The information, regardless of how one saw it, was somewhat horrifying.

 Chapter 295

    Chapter 295


    However, even after they looked through all the purchase information, they couldn''t find a match.


    When Zoe saw that Leanna was frozen and wasn''t saying anything, she flipped back to the previous


    page.


    ording to the purchase record, there were two pocket watches purchased under Lloyd''s name,


    which meant that other than the one with Leanna, he had another pocket watch with him.


    After a while, Zoe said carefully, "Nana¡­"


    "Yes?'' Leanna snapped out of her daze.


    Zoe parted her lips and wanted to say something, but she swallowed her words in the end. She closed


    the book and said, "There are so many people on the list. We won''t be able to glean any useful


    information just by skimming through it. Why don''t we take this back home and study it? We will


    definitely find something useful."


    Hearing that, Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    After they put all the documents back to their original ces, Leanna put the book of purchase


    information into her bag and left the warehouse with Zoe.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Just as she locked the door, a dazzling light came from afar, brightening the dark night.


    Subconsciously, she narrowed her eyes, and almost immediately, she saw a tall figure appearing in her


    sight.


    Aidan walked up to her and nced at the warehouse. "What are you looking for?"


    "Nothing," she said softly after pressing her lips together.


    Seeing that, Zoe quickly said, "Umm¡­ Nana, since President Pearson is here to pick you up, I should


    leave first." After she said that, she didn''t wait for Leanna to answer and just left in a hurry after getting


    in the car.


    After Zoe left, Leanna sighed discreetly while turning around to lock the door of the factory.


    Meanwhile, Aidan looked at her and licked his lips inconspicuously as he narrowed his eyes. The look


    on his face was unfathomable.


    Even after they got in the car, Leanna didn''t talk to Aidan at all and just leaned against the window. She


    was seemingly in a bad mood.


    On their way back, Jonathan called Aidan. "President Pearson, the Crossley Family started a new


    project and is looking for tenders. It looks like they want to use this chance to cover up what happened


    previously."


    Hearing that, Aidan hummed in acknowledgement. Even when the Crossley Family suffered a huge


    loss, they were still tough and had the ability after all, so they wouldn''t be easily defeated for sure.


    However, it seemed like they were trying to recover the losses as soon as possible. Otherwise, they


    wouldn''t be in a hurry to start a new project.


    At this moment, Leanna suddenly asked, "President Pearson, how much do you know about Lloyd?"


    Aidan looked at her. "The only way to win a war is to know your opponentpletely. There''s nothing I


    don''t know about him. What do you want to ask?"


    When she heard him say that, she didn''t know how to ask her question all of a sudden. After a while,


    she said, "I think I''ve never seen Georgina''s mother before. Do you know anything about this?"


    Aidan crossed his legs and exined, "Lloyd has a twin brother named Leroy Crossley. Leroy is


    different from Lloyd, who has had high expectations from the Crossley Family ever since he was


    young. Leroy was weak from a young age, and he spent most of his time alone in the Crossley


    Residence''s backyard. Since then, he has be gloomy and isted and started to hate everything


    that Lloyd has."


    However, since Lloyd was raised as the sessor from the moment he was born, even if Leroy held


    grudges against him, it wouldn''t change the fact that Lloyd would take the Crossley Family''s president


    position.


    The turning point in this matter was when their parents went abroad for business and died in a ne


    crash in the end. Lloyd and Leroy were the only ones left in the Crossley Family.


    In contrast to Leroy''s loner personality, Lloyd was gentle and big-hearted. He always felt guilty toward


    this little brother of his, so he stood against all odds and let Leroy join the Crossley Group. He even


    made Leroy the general manager and gave him a lot of important projects to handle.


    After Leroy joined Crossley Group, perhaps because of the environmental change, he felt better and


    started recovering from his sickness. He also became more chatty and more at ease when dealing with


    business matters.


    At that time, when President Crossley and his wife died together, many people were eyeing the


    Crossley Group, but under the concerted effort of Lloyd and Leroy, they turned the tide and pulled the


    Crossley Group, which was at the edge of a cliff, back up step by step.


    Lloyd and Leroy looked very alike, so if they purposely mimicked the tone and living habits of the other,


    their assistants, who had been by their side for many years, wouldn''t notice it as well. So, they used


    this advantage to win many wars.


    Yet, just as Crossley Group was growing, Leroy couldn''t stand living in Lloyd''s shadow anymore, so he


    nned a conspiracy.


    In the explosion, Georgina''s mother unfortunately died, and Leroy suffered the consequences himself.


    He, including his family, couldn''t escape from the explosion. They all died from that tragedy.


    After this crisis, Crossley Group was already on the edge of bankruptcy. Lloyd was in bed for a few


    months to recover his health, and after that, he saved thepany again on his own.


    Since then, the journey of Crossley Group had been smooth and steady, and they didn''t encounter any


    serious incidents anymore, until now.


    However, with his experience of failing twice previously, the incident this time was nothing in Lloyd''s


    eyes. This was why he could make the decision that would minimize the loss in such a short time to


    protect the foundation of Crossley Group.


    Come to look at the situation now, his judgment was very advantageous for Crossley Group.


    Leanna didn''t know that the Crossley Family had such a shocking past. After being stunned for a while,


    she asked, "So¡­ Is Georgina Lloyd''s only daughter?"


    "Yes."


    Hearing that, she heaved a sigh of relief. After a pause, she couldn''t help but ask, "Is there any


    possibility that he would have¡­ an illegitimate daughter or something like that?"


    If the person who bought the pocket watch was really her biological father, it would be understandable


    that Lloyd blocked her source of information and went against her covertly when he knew that she was


    looking for the man in the photo.


    At this moment, Aidan looked at her sparkling eyes and could guess what was going through her mind.


    He lifted his hand and stroked her hair. "It''s impossible. Don''t overthink it."


    Hearing that, Leanna looked down and didn''t know what to say.


    "Lloyd and his wife grew up together from a young age. Their rtionship is really good," he added.


    After that, he didn''t continue talking anymore.


    "I got it." She hummed in acknowledgement and didn''t press the matter further.


    Although she didn''t know what happened to the Pearson Family at that time, she believed that


    ording to Naomi''s personality and character, she wouldn''t be a mistress. There was surely


    some misunderstanding in this.


    On the other hand, after Leanna and Aidan left, the initially pitch ck factory area suddenly lit up as


    the factory burst into mes. Everything inside was burned, and nothing was left behind.

 Chapter 296

    Chapter 296


    After a while, they arrived downstairs at Leanna''s ce. When Leanna was about to leave, Aidan


    asked, "Have you thought about it?"


    "Thought about what?" She couldn''t catch on at first.


    He raised his brows and answered, "Moving out."


    Hearing that, she became speechless. This b*stard is always thinking about these kinds of insignificant


    things.


    She purposely said, "I thought about it already. I''m not moving out. If you want to, you can move in


    here. I have noment." I can just leave an empty room for this b*stard and let him stay there alone.


    "Really?" Aidan asked.


    "Really. God is my witness." Her reply was extremely perfunctory as all she wanted was to go home


    and have some time to herself to think. She didn''t want to waste her breath with him.


    Aidan pulled her closer to him and wanted to kiss her. Just then, he nced in the rearview mirror and


    saw that Jonathan was secretly looking at them.


    Seeing that, he pressed his tongue against his teeth and let go of her in the end. "You should go


    inside."


    Hearing that, she felt that she could finally escape, so she quickly opened the car door and ran inside.


    Only after Leanna entered the neighborhood did Aidan pocket his gaze and said coldly, "If I remember


    it correctly, thatnd where the factory is built belongs to Crossley Group."


    Jonathan nodded. "Yes. That is also the location of their new project. The factory will be demolished in


    two weeks."


    When Aidan heard that, he pressed his lips together. It''s definitely not a coincidence for Leanna to go


    there all of a sudden to find clues at this time. What is Lloyd nning?


    At this moment, he recalled Leanna''s question just now and asked, "About that explosion 20 years ago,


    who else was there other than Lloyd''s wife and Leroy?"


    Jonathan shook his head. They had looked into many things about Lloyd, but other than the fact that


    this tragedy was nned by Leroy, they couldn''t find anything else.


    Lloyd had probably gotten rid of everything regarding this when he reorganized Crossley Group back


    then.


    Hearing that, Aidan snapped out of it and said calmly, "Drive."


    As the ck Rolls-Royce was traveling on the road, Jonathan said, "President Pearson, in my opinion,


    ording to Lloyd''s personality, he might not do this kind of thing. Is there any possibility that¡­"


    Aidan tapped his slender fingers on his knees and replied calmly, "Of course he won''t do it, if he''s the


    real Lloyd."


    Hearing that, Jonathan widened his eyes. "Do you mean that¡­"


    "When Leanna mentioned it just now, only then did I realize that since Lloyd and Leroy could mimic


    each other''s personality and tone to go against their opponents twenty years ago, it wouldn''t be a


    difficult thing if one of them wanted topletely rece the other person." Aidan exined. He just


    needs to distance himself from those who know about Lloyd''s living habits very well.


    Jonathan then said, "Which means that the person in the Crossley Family now might not be the real


    Lloyd, but Leroy?"


    "It''s just a guess. He probably already got rid of all the evidence anyway. Or else, he wouldn''t have


    been able to be Crossley Group''s president for more than twenty years so peacefully."


    "But if Leroy is pretending to be Lloyd, Georgina should be the real Lloyd''s daughter. Shouldn''t Leroy


    be doing anything he can to get rid of her? Why is he treating her so well?"


    Aidan looked up and emphasized, "Since Leroy can rece Lloyd, he can also find a little girl around


    that age to rece Lloyd''s daughter."


    Jonathan gasped after hearing that. Although this was all their assumptions, if this was anything near


    the truth, it would be a serious and terrifying conspiracy.


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    ¡­


    On the other hand, when Leanna was waiting for the elevator, she bumped into Daniel again. They


    didn''t talk anymore after greeting each other.


    At this moment, she could feel the awkwardness that Zoe felt.


    After they entered the elevator, Daniel suddenly said, "Miss McKinney."


    "Yes?" She reacted immediately after being stunned for a second.


    Daniel said, "I saw youing out of President Pearson''s car just now. You two got back together,


    right?"


    She just pressed her lips together and admitted it tacitly.


    "Although I know saying something like this at this moment may not be appropriate, I advise you to not


    immerse yourself too much in the happiness. There might be a tough battleter on."


    Hearing that, Leanna frowned a little. She knew he was talking about Georgina.


    In fact, Georgina always thought that Leanna was the reason why she couldn''t marry Aidan. So, she


    was always mocking Leanna when they met each other. Now that she knew that Leanna got back


    together with Aidan, she definitely wouldn''t let this go so easily.


    "I got it. Thank you for your reminder." She nodded and expressed her gratitude.


    Daniel nodded and wanted to say something else, but he changed his mind and swallowed the words


    in the end.


    At this moment, the elevator reached Leanna''s floor. "Bye," she said.


    "Goodbye."


    Only after Leanna entered her house did Daniel retract his gaze. He put his hand on the door knob,


    seemingly deep in thought.


    Crossley Group''s reaction this time round was actually quite strange. Even when they knew that the


    other party had dirt on them, they didn''t seem to care at all and even started a new project right away.


    Although it seemed like they were trying to divert attention, afterbining it with what Georgina said


    previously, it was obvious that this matter was not that simple.


    What Georgina cared about might not be the truth twenty years ago, but how to sling the mud on


    Leanna and drag Aidan into the mess in the process.


    Yet¡­ even when Leanna had the identity of Aidan''s ex-wife, it didn''t seem like she had anything to do


    with the matter twenty years ago.


    What is Georgina nning?


    ¡­


    As soon as Zoe came out of the shower, she saw Leanna changing her shoes at the door.


    While putting on her face mask, she asked, "Nana, you''re back already? Didn''t you go on a date with


    President Pearson?"


    Hearing that, she was silent before sighing and saying, "I''m too tired. I need a shower."


    "Okay. Go ahead. I''ve ordered delivery. It should be here when you''re done showering," said Zoe.


    After Leanna entered the bathroom, she couldn''t help but recall the clue that she found today.


    Although Aidan said that it was impossible for Lloyd to have an illegitimate daughter, there was a photo


    of her family of three in her pocket watch, which meant that the owner of the pocket watch would surely


    be her biological father.


    However, this was the answer she obtained in the end. No wonder I had a bad feeling yesterday night.


    It looks like my hunch is quite urate.


    When she left the shower, Zoe had just taken the delivery in. "Nana, you''re just on time. You¡­"


    Leanna froze a little and suddenly ran back into her room. "Zoe, you can eat first. I need to confirm


    something."


    Hearing that, Zoe stood in the same ce and looked at Leanna''s back with confusion.

 Chapter 297

    Chapter 297


    In the room, Leanna took out her pocket watch from the box again as well as the purchase information


    from her bag to check the model again.


    After checking a few times, she finally saw a slight difference.


    This pocket watch was more than twenty years old, and it had been with Jethro previously, so the


    abrasion was quite serious. There were scratches in many ces, and there was actually an alphabet


    carved under a scratch that she overlooked.


    She could roughly tell that it was the letter ''M'', so it had nothing to do with Lloyd''s name.


    Then, she checked the purchase records from top to bottom again and found out that there was a little


    asterisk next to Lloyd''s purchase record.


    After some thought, Leanna called the person-in-charge.


    When the call was picked up, she said, "Hello, Mr. Muston. I''m Leanna. Sorry for disturbing you at this


    time, but I have something that I need to ask you."


    "What is it?"


    "I''ve gone through the purchase records just now and saw that there''s an asterisk on one of the


    records, but the others don''t have it. What is the asterisk for?"


    "Oh, that. It should be our special customer. The pocket watches can be customized for special


    customers, but I remember they are quite rare."


    When Leanna heard that, she held her breath and asked carefully, "And who were your special


    customers?"


    "They''re normally the higher-ups of the factory, or¡­ Oh right, I remember that Mr. Crossley has


    customized two pocket watches before too."


    "Who''s Mr. Crossley?" she continued to ask.


    "Thend of the factory area belongs to Mr. Crossley, and he invested in the factory as well." The elder


    continued as he recalled his memory, "Yes, yes. Mr. Crossley has definitely customized two pocket


    watches. I was responsible for serving him at that time. He said that this pocket watch was a marriage


    present for his wife¡­ One of them had his name carved on it, and the other one was his wife''s name."


    Hearing that, Leanna already got the answer. So, she said, "I got it. Thank you, Mr. Muston."


    After she hung up the phone, she stared at the pocket watch silently.


    Some timeter, a knock came from the door, and it was pushed open. Zoe stuck her head inside and


    asked, "Nana, are you still busy? The dishes are turning cold. Do you want to eat first?"


    Leanna cast her thoughts aside and put down the pocket watch before smiling. "Okay."


    When they were eating, Zoe noticed that Leanna was absent-minded, so she thought that she was


    worrying about the purchase information. Zoeforted her, saying, "Nana, don''t overthink it. So many


    people bought that pocket watch, so it might not be¡­ There are contact numbers in the purchase


    records, right? We can try calling them one by one tomorrow. If it''s not picked up, we can¡­"


    "It''s okay, Zoe. Let''s just hold it first. We can talk about itter," Leanna said.


    Hearing that, Zoe nodded and didn''t continue this topic anymore. She took out her phone and said, "I


    found a few houses that are quite nice. Two of them are just in front of our neighborhood. We can go


    there and look around on the weekend."


    After a moment of silence, Leanna said, "Zoe, I won''t be able to view the houses with you. I need to go


    somewhere."


    A cheeky smile appeared on Zoe''s face. "Are you moving in with President Pearson?"


    Leanna shook her head with a smile. "I''ll tell you some timeter." She didn''t know how to tell her now


    since everything was just her assumptions. No matter what, she needed to look for evidence first.


    "Okay, but you need to tell me if anything happens, okay? Don''t just keep it to yourself," Zoe said.


    "Okay."


    After dinner, Zoe returned to her room and went to bed.


    Meanwhile, Leanna sat in the living room and thought about it for a moment. In the end, she got up and


    knocked on the next door.


    When Daniel saw her, he didn''t seem surprised. He just said calmly, "Come in."


    Leanna followed behind him and entered his house.


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "What would you like to drink, Miss McKinney?" Daniel pulled the refrigerator door open.


    "Just warm water. Thank you."


    He raised his brows and poured a cup of warm water for her.


    After he sat down, he asked, "If I''m not mistaken, you''re here for Georgina''s matter, right?"


    With the cup of water in her hand, she answered, "Yes and no."


    "Huh?" Daniel was confused.


    Leanna continued, "I want to go to the Crossley Residence to look for something. No matter what,


    Georgina will be dragged into this."


    "What do you want to look for?"


    "I''m sorry. It''s not that I don''t want to tell you the truth, but there are just too many things that I''m not


    even sure about, so¡­"


    Daniel knew what she meant, so he smiled. "Don''t worry, Miss McKinney. I''m just asking. Three days


    later, Crossley Group will have a bidder conference for a project. Many big shots in the industry will be


    attending. I think President Pearson won''t miss this chance either. Although I don''t know what you''re


    looking for, I think this might be a chance for you."


    Hearing that, she pressed her lips together. This is indeed a rare opportunity.


    Then, he said, "If I guessed it correctly, since you''re here for me, you probably don''t want to ask for


    help from President Pearson. I can help you get the invitation."


    In fact, she didn''t expect that he would say that. After being stunned for a moment, she didn''t reject him


    and thanked him gently. "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. After all, an enemy''s enemy is a friend."


    When she heard that, she paused for a second. "Enemy?"


    She knew that Daniel was against the Crossley Family all this while, but this was the first time she had


    heard him address the Crossley Family as an enemy. All of a sudden, his purpose was much clearer.


    Daniel crossed his long legs and said slowly, "Through the problems arising in Crossley Group this


    time, you should be able to tell that they have made a lot of enemies, but their biggest enemy now is


    President Pearson for sure."


    Hearing that, Leanna chuckled awkwardly.


    Everyone knew why Aidan became Crossley Group''s enemy. This was also the reason why she went


    to Daniel for help and not Aidan.


    The Pearson Group was already in a chaotic state, so she didn''t want to drag Aidan into this.


    "Thank you then," Leanna said while standing up.


    "But I still need to remind you that Aidan is now the strongest enemy of the Crossley Family. They


    might take out their anger on you because of this." Daniel was already saying it so clearly. He believed


    that Leanna should be able to understand what he meant.


    Leanna nodded. "I know what I''m doing. No matter what, I still need to thank you." She came here


    today to just ask about the Crossley Family''s movement. In fact, he just needed to tell her that and


    didn''t need to help her, but he took the initiative to get her the invitation.


    Since Daniel didn''t ask about her secret, of course she wouldn''t inquire about his either.

 Chapter 298

    Chapter 298


    The next night, Daniel gave Leanna an invitation to the bidder conference.


    Leanna sat in the room while putting the invitation next to the pocket watch as she pursed her lips


    gently.


    Rather than a bidder conference, it is more like a business alliance for Crossley Group. The Crossleys


    are probably going to use the conference to consolidate their position, simr to when the Pearsons


    were using the Bats to enlist their connections. So, all the invitees are probably bigwigs. If I appear


    in the bidder conference, I will catch Lloyd and Georgina off guard. However, this approach is too risky,


    and I''m still thinking if I should do it.


    After a while, Leanna took out her cell phone to call Aidan.


    Soon, his low, husky voice came from the other end of the line. "Miss me already?"


    Leanna was unamused upon hearing that.


    Before she said anything, Aidan continued, "I''ve told you to move in with me. It would have been so


    much more convenient."


    Only after a while did Leanna say, "Since you are sleeping, forget it."


    "I''m awake. What''s the matter?"


    Leanna said, "I¡­"


    The words came to her lips, but she didn''t know how to say them.


    Hearing her hesitation, Aidan said, "Say no more. I''lle to you."


    "What? There''s no need¡­"


    Before Leanna could finish her words, she could only hear a beep.


    Why is this b*stard so smart?


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna stood on the balcony. For some reason, her anxiety lessened and


    she gradually calmed down.


    After half an hour, Aidan called and said, "Come down."


    Leanna rubbed her nose and trotted out the door.


    As soon as she got out of the elevator, she saw Aidaning over.


    Leanna asked, "Why did youe in?"


    Aidan answered upon hearing that, "It''s cold outside."


    Leanna could not answer him.


    After she hesitated for a moment, she said, "S-Still, you can''t go up either. Zoe is sleeping."


    Aidan curled his lips. "I see. I won''t go up, then."


    Then, he took Leanna''s hand and sat on the chair in the hall.


    Leanna subconsciously looked around and was relieved that no one else was there.


    When he saw her reaction, he put his arm on the chair behind her and said with amusement, "What are


    you nervous about?"


    "I¡­"


    Leanna couldn''t answer for a moment. Maybe I subconsciously do not want to be seen with him, so no


    one would gossip about us. However, that lowlife will be angry if I tell him the truth.


    She couldn''t figure out how to respond to Aidan''s question even after thinking about it for a long time.


    Forget it.


    Hence, she answered, "Nothing."


    Aidan asked again, "What did you want to tell me on the phone?"


    When the topic came up, Leanna lowered her eyes as her expression became serious.


    He was not in a hurry and waited patiently.


    After several minutes, Leanna said slowly, "I think¡­ My birth father might have a great connection with


    the Crossley Family. I want to investigate the truth."


    "What are you going to do about it?"


    "I¡­ I''m going to the Crossley Residence."


    He frowned. "How are you going to get there?"


    Leanna answered, "Actually, I found a useful clue in the warehouse yesterday. That might be my key to


    entering the Crossley Residence."


    At that, Aidan pursed his lips slightly. "Have you ever thought that Lloyd would use the same chance to


    stop you?"


    "Yes. So, I must seize the most advantageous moment to strike first."


    "Are you sure?"


    She nodded lightly. "I''ve thought about it clearly."


    He said, "Fine, go ahead and do it. I''ll apany you."


    "No, you don''t have to," Leanna said. "You should leave this matter alone for now. Although Georgina


    has been targeting me, she doesn''t know we have gotten together. This situation benefits me more;


    otherwise, they will try to involve you."


    Aidan licked his teeth with his tongue, and only after a moment did he say, "I''m notfortable with


    you going to such a dangerous ce by yourself."


    Leanna smiled at his response. "I have a way of ensuring that they will think twice before hurting me."


    "What is it?"


    "You''ll see in time."


    After she said everything she wanted to say, Leanna got up and wanted to leave. However, before she


    could take a step, she was pulled back again by Aidan.


    He whispered, "I came running over here in the middle of the night, and you''re just going to leave?"


    Leanna rolled her eyes. "Oh¡­ Indeed, it''s quitete. You should hurry back and rest."


    Aidan looked at her without saying a word.


    She knew what was going through his head, so she preempted him by saying, "Stop dreaming. There''s


    no way I''ll let you go up there."


    "We can leave together."


    "No."


    "Why?"


    Leanna pulled her gaze away and said vaguely, "Nothing. I''m not running around at night."


    I don''t want to go back to Castor Vi. At least, not now.


    Aidan said, "Then, we''ll stay at a hotel."


    His tone was firm and domineering, giving her absolutely no room for refusal.


    Before she could say anything, he pulled her away.


    It was already 2.00AM when they arrived at the hotel, and Leanna was so sleepy that she could barely


    keep her eyes open. So, she folded her jacket and headed for the sofa. "I''m going to sleep. Good night,


    President Pearson."


    Aidan looked at her as his temples throbbed. "Go sleep on the bed."


    However, Leanna refused without hesitation. "No."


    It''s obvious what he is thinking about. I might as well have wrapped myself up as a gift for him if I sleep


    on the bed.


    This time, he didn''t ask and directly picked her up from the sofa before heading for the bed.


    Aidan said, "You just can''t stop doubting me, huh? I''ve told you many times that I would have done it a


    long time ago if I really wanted to."


    She retorted, "You''re just afraid that I''ll call the police."


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    He stayed silent.


    Then, he threw her onto the bed and unbuttoned his cor with one hand before leaning down and


    putting his hands on both sides of her. Narrowing his eyes, he said, "You can try. Let''s see if I''m afraid."


    After being silent for a few seconds, Leanna decided to give in. "I''m sorry. Please pretend I never said


    that."


    However, Aidan said, "It''s toote."


    Leanna pouted. I knew the b*stard would take advantage of the situation. Filthy man!


    When she was about to get out of his arms, he grabbed her fingers. "That''s enough. I won''t do


    anything. So, let''s sleep."


    However, she didn''t quite believe it. "Really?"


    Aidan stared at her with dark eyes. "Of course not."


    Leanna stayed silent.


    He released her and slowly unbuttoned his shirt before her.


    Her ears turned red, and her mouth became dry as she watched him. She hurriedly turned around and


    wrapped herself in her nket without taking off her jacket. "I''m going to sleep."

 Chapter 299

    Chapter 299


    Leanna closed her eyes, and it took a few minutes before she felt the space next to her sink down for a


    moment.


    Immediately afterward, a warm man''s bodyid next to her.


    When Leanna was about to move to the side, Aidan put an arm across her waist and asked in a low


    voice, "Don''t you feel hot covering yourself with the nket with so manyyers of clothes on?"


    "¡­ It''s not hot." It was a lie.


    Leanna was hot and stuffy and could hardly breathe.


    Behind her, Aidan did not speak but hugged her firmly.


    Leanna heard the man''s even and steady breathing a momentter.


    She turned her head slightly and whispered tentatively, "President Pearson?"


    The only response she got was silence.


    Looks like he''s really asleep.


    She breathed a sigh of relief and carefully pushed his arm away to get out of his embrace.


    Then, she sat on the bed and looked at the sofa before shifting her gaze back to the sleeping b*stard.


    In the end, she gave in.


    After taking off her jacket, Leannaid back down and did her best to keep her distance from Aidan.


    Her eyes were wide open. Although she was sleepy earlier, she didn''t feel the slightest bit sleepy right


    now.


    Come to think of it, I can''t rx when I''m facing such a powerful opponent. Even if I enter the Crossley


    Residence, Lloyd and Georgina will be wary of me, and it won''t be easy for me to find the truth.


    Just when Leanna was lost in thought, she suddenly felt a weight on her waist. Aidan''s arm was once


    again rested on her waist.


    Leanna did not feel amused.


    So, she growled, "President Pearson, stop leaning over. I''m going to fall off the bed."


    However, Aidan didn''t answer her.


    Leanna continued, "I know you''re awake. Hurry up and nudge over."


    As she said, she reached out to nudge him.


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    In the darkness, Aidan slowly opened his eyes while grinning. He held her hand to pull her into his


    arms. "You won''t fall down if you lean on me. You don''t have to sleep on the edge of the bed."


    Leanna felt that she couldn''t argue with Aidan. So, she stayed silent and then said sullenly, "I''m sleepy.


    Let''s sleep."


    He hummed softly. Although he was hugging her, he did not act excessively.


    After tossing about, the just-disappeared sleepiness gradually surfaced again. This time, Leanna was


    struggling to keep her eyes open. She wanted to sleep on her side, but Aidan pressed her against his


    chest.


    So, Leanna fell asleep while listening to the man''s calm and strong heartbeat.


    In the end, Aidan kissed her forehead and whispered, "Good night."


    It has been a long time since Ist held her like this.


    ¡­


    With the arrival of spring, the temperature continued to rise every day.


    Time quickly passed, and soon it was the day of the bidder conference.


    After Leanna changed her clothes, she put on bright and attractive makeup.


    After she was done dressing up, it was already 2PM.


    The bidder conference would start at 3 PM, and she would be just in time if she left immediately.


    As she left, she picked up the pocket watch and ced it in her bag. After taking a deep breath, she


    walked out.


    From now on, there''s no turning back. I will stay on this path until the day I find the truth.


    At the bidding site, Georgina looked at the people who kepting over to greet her with a cold and


    mocking smile.


    I know all too well what they are thinking. They are just trying to achieve their goals through pleasing


    me. Crossley Group is just going through a crisis, and they already can''t wait to attack us. Even if


    something terrible happens to the Crossley Family, I am still the dignified daughter of the family. They


    are not worthy of me!


    Soon, Georgina did not want to deal with them anymore. She got herself a ss of wine and found


    Daniel in the venue. Then, she asked lightly, "How''s the investigation going?"


    Daniel took a sip of the champagne and raised his brows. "About to be done."


    Upon hearing that, Georgina turned serious. "Tell me about it now."


    "Calm down. Let''s wait until the bidder conference is over. You might not be ready for the truth."


    Just as Georgina was about to speak, there was a slightmotion in the venue. Aidan had arrived.


    Georgina wrapped her arms around her chest and looked at Aidan. No one knew what she was


    thinking about.


    Daniel followed her line of sight as he swirled the ss of champagne. "If I''m right, I assume you still


    haven''t given up on Aidan. He is a good choice, after all."


    Upon hearing that, Georgina was stunned and withdrew her gaze. "Nothing of the sort."


    Daniel smiled and did not say anything more.


    Although Georgina denied it, Aidan was the only one who could help Georgina now.


    If he was willing to do that, he could quickly obtain Crossley Group.


    Aidan indeed wanted Crossley Group, but he didn''t want to get it this way. Everyone knew Aidan was


    cold-blooded and tough. Now, Georgina hoped to re-establish an alliance with Aidan, but at the same


    time, she was afraid that Crossley Group would fall into Aidan''s hands.


    Seemingly aware of Daniel''s gaze, Aidan looked at Daniel across the crowd with a calm and cold


    expression.


    It seems like Aidan came prepared too.


    Daniel raised the ss in his hand toward Aidan.


    However, Aidan ignored him and withdrew his gaze.


    Daniel continued, "Crossley Group''s current biggest rival is Aidan, right? Have you figured out how to


    deal with him?"


    Georgina answered, "Aidan is overly arrogant and thinks everything is in his control. The more arrogant


    one is, the more ws can be found in one."


    "Oh, really?"


    "I can''t speak for the others, but Aidan''s greatest weakness is Leanna McKinney."


    Daniel gave her a sideways nce. "Are you sure he''ll be held hostage over a woman?"


    Georgina sneered. "You think too highly of him, and Aidan isn''t as powerful as you think. Ultimately, he


    gave up the only chance to bring down the Pearson Family for that woman."


    Daniel smiled but didn''t say a word. He understood a business person would never make a money-


    losing deal, and Aidan was the same.


    It didn''t take long for the bidder conference to begin. Everyone took their seats.


    Georgina put down her ss. "It''s starting, and let''s go."


    Daniel looked at her as she left, then he turned his head to look around. He narrowed his eyes when he


    didn''t see Leanna anywhere.


    Judging from what Leanna said, I feel that something big is going to happen today.


    Daniel scanned the area as he took a few steps back. Then, he turned around and followed Georgina''s


    footsteps.


    The bidding session was officially underway.


    Crossley Group''s project leader came on stage to give an overall project presentation.


    The project leader was none other than Raymond Ford.

 Chapter 300

    Chapter 300


    The bidding was already halfway through. Everyone present today had their own goals.


    The bidding wos olreody holfwoy through. Everyone present todoy hod their own gools.


    Only o tiny portion of the invitee ot the bidding hode for Crossley Group''s project, while the vost


    mojority hod other plons.


    Therefore, there weren''t mony genuine bidders. The bids were oll very high, but the plons were


    overoge os if they wonted to ruthlessly skin Crossley Group olive.


    When everyone thought Crossley Group would decline, oponye up with on exquisite plon ot o


    reosonoble price.


    For o while, everyone discussed it. They did not expect there wos octuolly opony thot would be


    willing to work with Crossley Group ot this time.


    However, Aidon wos not surprised os he thoughtfully topped his knees with his fingers.


    Lloyd turned oround to look, then osked the ossistont in o low voice, "Whot is thispony''s


    bockground? Why ore they not on the tender list?"


    The ossistont onswered, "Complex Group is o fomouspony obrood thot cooperoted with Peorson


    Group not long ogo. Their person in chorge, Williom Morris, is here ot Highside to seek cooperotion os


    well. The group probobly decided toe to the bidding ot the lost minute, so they weren''t recorded on


    the tender list."


    Upon heoring thot, Lloyd looked toword the other end of the venue.


    Williom met his goze with o nod ond o smile.


    The ossistont continued, "Complex Group hos hod the ideo of exponding into the domestic morket for


    the post two yeors ond hos been working on it. The cooperotion with Peorson Group is just the


    beginning, ond I think the group wonts to toke odvontoge of Crossley Group to expond into the


    domestic morket with the bidding this time."


    Lloyd soid, "First the Peorson Group, ond now the Crossley Group. He''s rother ombitious."


    If he is trying to expond into o new morket, there is nothing wrong with colloboroting with two big


    componies one ofter onother. However, his purpose would be too obvious if he hod other ideos.


    So, Lloyd instructed, "Go check out thepony''s detoils ond the mon in chorge, Williom Morris."


    "Yes, sir."


    As the bidding ended, Lloyd olso stood up.


    However, someone stopped him before he could wolk for.


    Leonno stood before him ond smiled lightly. "Hello, Mr. Crossley. I om Leonno McKinney. We''ve met


    before."


    The bidding was already halfway through. Everyone present today had their own goals.


    Only a tiny portion of the invitee at the bidding hade for Crossley Group''s project, while the vast


    majority had other ns.


    Therefore, there weren''t many genuine bidders. The bids were all very high, but the ns were


    average as if they wanted to ruthlessly skin Crossley Group alive.


    When everyone thought Crossley Group would decline, apany came up with an exquisite n at a


    reasonable price.


    For a while, everyone discussed it. They did not expect there was actually apany that would be


    willing to work with Crossley Group at this time.


    However, Aidan was not surprised as he thoughtfully tapped his knees with his fingers.


    Lloyd turned around to look, then asked the assistant in a low voice, "What is thispany''s


    background? Why are they not on the tender list?"


    The assistant answered, "Complex Group is a famouspany abroad that cooperated with Pearson


    Group not long ago. Their person in charge, William Morris, is here at Highside to seek cooperation as


    well. The group probably decided toe to the bidding at thest minute, so they weren''t recorded on


    the tender list."


    Upon hearing that, Lloyd looked toward the other end of the venue.


    William met his gaze with a nod and a smile.


    The assistant continued, "Complex Group has had the idea of expanding into the domestic market for


    the past two years and has been working on it. The cooperation with Pearson Group is just the


    beginning, and I think the group wants to take advantage of Crossley Group to expand into the


    domestic market with the bidding this time."


    Lloyd said, "First the Pearson Group, and now the Crossley Group. He''s rather ambitious."


    If he is trying to expand into a new market, there is nothing wrong with coborating with two big


    companies one after another. However, his purpose would be too obvious if he had other ideas.


    So, Lloyd instructed, "Go check out thepany''s details and the man in charge, William Morris."


    "Yes, sir."


    As the bidding ended, Lloyd also stood up.


    However, someone stopped him before he could walk far.


    Leanna stood before him and smiled lightly. "Hello, Mr. Crossley. I am Leanna McKinney. We''ve met


    before."


    Lloyd squinted and said, "I remember you. What is it?"


    Leanna looked around and smiled brighter. "I saw many familiar faces, all of whom are prominent


    figures in Highside. I wonder if it was appropriate to ask you some questions."


    Leanna''s voice was loud enough to draw everyone''s attention, who was about to leave the venue.


    Even William stopped and stood behind the crowd to watch the scene silently.


    Leanna was beautiful and had dolled herself up for this asion. No matter where she was, she would


    be the center of attention. In addition, she had said a few cryptic words, so it attracted the public''s


    attention.


    Lloyd also noticed their intention and frowned. So, he didn''t speak immediately.


    Georgina came over and said coldly, "You came uninvited, Miss McKinney. You know it''s inappropriate,


    yet you still asked that question to put my father in a dilemma. Don''t you have basic courtesy and


    manners?"


    Upon hearing that, Leanna smiled at Georgina. "Miss Crossley, you''re exaggerating. I just want to ask


    Mr. Crossley some questions, so how is it a dilemma? However, it''s alright if Mr. Crossley doesn''t want


    to answer me before everyone. We can find a quiet ce to talk."


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Georgina was displeased. "Miss McKinney, watch your tongue!"


    However, Lloyd reached out to stop her and looked at Leanna. His expression was as elegant and


    gentle as always. "It''s fine, so just ask away."


    Leanna looked at Georgina before slowly withdrawing her gaze. Then, she continued, "I''m here to ask


    if you customized a pocket watch over twenty years ago."


    A hint of hostility shed in Lloyd''s eyes and disappeared a secondter. He answered with ease, "I


    don''t know why you would ask me this. As you said, twenty years have passed, so I don''t remember


    anything about a pocket watch. Maybe I bought it, maybe I didn''t."


    Leanna was not surprised by his answer. Then, she took out a yellowed notebook. "This is the


    purchase record of the pocket watch manufacturer. You may not remember such insignificant details,


    but the notebook records that you once customized two pocket watches for you and your wife as your


    wedding anniversary gift. Do you remember now?"


    Lloyd frowned upon hearing that. "I remember now, there was such a thing. However, I must remind


    you that my wife passed away a long time ago. Please do not make a drama out of her."


    "Of course not. I''m just asking. I won''t disrespect the deceased; the same goes for Mrs. Crossley."


    Then, Leanna added, "However, I would like to ask if anyone has ever met Mrs. Crossley?"


    Several business leaders about the same age as Lloyd nced at each other but did not speak up


    immediately.


    Lloyd''s wife had passed many years ago, so those who had seen her must be the older generation.


    Although it had been a long time and no one remembered what she looked like, they remembered that


    she was beautiful.


    However, they were just there to watch the fun. They hadn''t figured out what was going on yet so they


    didn''t make a rash move, as it was not worth offending Lloyd over a little brat.


    Lloyd immediately said, "That''s enough, Miss McKinney. You''re not wee here; please get out!"


    At this time, an old, calm voice came from outside the crowd. "I''ve met her."


    As the voice fell, the crowd slowly gave way.


    The person who came was Mr. Jackson.


    Mr. Jackson walked to Leanna with the support of his walking stick. "Youngdy, Mr. Crossley''s wife


    used to be my student. There may be no one present who is more familiar with her than me."


    At this point, Lloyd''s face was twisted into a hideous scowl. On the other hand, Georgina tried to speak


    several times but was held back by Lloyd.


    Leanna nodded at Mr. Jackson to greet him and then put her hand into her bag. After a few seconds,


    she finally took out the pocket watch and handed it to Mr. Jackson.


    Standing behind the crowd, William''s expression changed when he saw the pocket watch. Just as he


    was about to step forward, he was pulled back by the assistant beside him.


    The assistant whispered, "Sir, Lloyd''s subordinates are watching us."


    They had waited for so long for this moment; if they were discovered by Lloyd now, it would be a lost


    cause.


    William clenched his hands tightly as he looked over to Leanna again.

 Chapter 301

    Chapter 301


    Meanwhile, Mr. Jackson stared at the pocket watch in Leanna''s hand in a trance as she handed it over.


    Then, he extended his trembling hand to cradle it and raised his head to look at her in astonishment.


    Meonwhile, Mr. Jockson stored ot the pocket wotch in Leonno''s hond in o tronce os she honded it over.


    Then, he extended his trembling hond to crodle it ond roised his heod to look ot her in ostonishment.


    He flipped the pocket wotch cover, ond the photo of two people wos presented in front of his eyes.


    Then, he clutched the pocket ond wos silent for o while before muttering, "The womon in the photo is


    Sondro."


    When those words escoped his lips, everyone oround him whispered curiously, wondering how Leonno


    hod gotten ohold of the pocket wotch.


    Leonno hod envisioned countless possibilities beforehond, but when she heord the onswer, she still


    couldn''t help but gosp softly.


    It seemed thot she hod mode the right gombit.


    Suddenly, Mr. Jockson grobbed Leonno''s hond ond osked with o hint of eogerness ond curiosity in his


    tone, "Young lody, where did you get the pocket wotch?"


    "It''s..." Leonno cleored her throot os she felt her throot dry ot his inquiry. Then, ofter o moment of


    silence, she continued, "It''s my mother''s relic."


    Her voice echoed ocross the holl, ond everyone gosped in shock ond exchonged bewildered ond


    confused glonces with eoch other.


    If the pocket wotch belonged to Leonno''s mother, it meont thot Leonno wos Lloyd''s doughter, didn''t it?


    Whot obout Georgino, whom everyone hod hoiled os the doughter of the prestigious Crossley Fomily?


    Who wos she?


    At the thought of this, everyone instinctively looked ot Georgino, who looked equolly bewildered ond


    oghost. It seemed os if she wos equolly ot o loss for everything thot wos unfolding before her.


    Mr. Jockson returned the pocket wotch to Leonno ond frowned os he turned to look ot Lloyd, who hod


    been silent oll olong. "Lloyd, whot exoctly is going on here?"


    After o moment of silence, Lloyd pursed his lips ond soid, "You two,e with me."


    Georgino followed him os soon os he turned oround. "Dod, whot¡ª"


    Lloyd roised his hond to stop her. "Shush. We''ll tolk obout it loter."


    Georgino''s expression wos for from pleosont. After she took o few steps forword, she looked bock ot


    Leonno ond secretly bit the insides of her cheek in frustrotion.


    Mr. Jockson clutched his wolking stick ond soid to Leonno, "Let''s go."


    "Okoy." She nodded ond tucked the pocket wotch into her bog.


    After they left, Lloyd''s ossistonte forword ond onnounced thot the tender offering wos over ond


    thonked everyone for their porticipotion. It wos cleor to everyone thot they were eoger to end the event


    in order to sort out the mess.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    The crowd pouted ond left reluctontly os they were mode to leove, just when the plot thickened.


    Meanwhile, Mr. Jackson stared at the pocket watch in Leanna''s hand in a trance as she handed it over.


    Then, he extended his trembling hand to cradle it and raised his head to look at her in astonishment.


    He flipped the pocket watch cover, and the photo of two people was presented in front of his eyes.


    Then, he clutched the pocket and was silent for a while before muttering, "The woman in the photo is


    Sandra."


    When those words escaped his lips, everyone around him whispered curiously, wondering how Leanna


    had gotten ahold of the pocket watch.


    Leanna had envisioned countless possibilities beforehand, but when she heard the answer, she still


    couldn''t help but gasp softly.


    It seemed that she had made the right gambit.


    Suddenly, Mr. Jackson grabbed Leanna''s hand and asked with a hint of eagerness and curiosity in his


    tone, "Youngdy, where did you get the pocket watch?"


    "It''s..." Leanna cleared her throat as she felt her throat dry at his inquiry. Then, after a moment of


    silence, she continued, "It''s my mother''s relic."


    Her voice echoed across the hall, and everyone gasped in shock and exchanged bewildered and


    confused nces with each other.


    If the pocket watch belonged to Leanna''s mother, it meant that Leanna was Lloyd''s daughter, didn''t it?


    What about Georgina, whom everyone had hailed as the daughter of the prestigious Crossley Family?


    Who was she?


    At the thought of this, everyone instinctively looked at Georgina, who looked equally bewildered and


    aghast. It seemed as if she was equally at a loss for everything that was unfolding before her.


    Mr. Jackson returned the pocket watch to Leanna and frowned as he turned to look at Lloyd, who had


    been silent all along. "Lloyd, what exactly is going on here?"


    After a moment of silence, Lloyd pursed his lips and said, "You two,e with me."


    Georgina followed him as soon as he turned around. "Dad, what¡ª"


    Lloyd raised his hand to stop her. "Shush. We''ll talk about itter."


    Georgina''s expression was far from pleasant. After she took a few steps forward, she looked back at


    Leanna and secretly bit the insides of her cheek in frustration.


    Mr. Jackson clutched his walking stick and said to Leanna, "Let''s go."


    "Okay." She nodded and tucked the pocket watch into her bag.


    After they left, Lloyd''s assistant came forward and announced that the tender offering was over and


    thanked everyone for their participation. It was clear to everyone that they were eager to end the event


    in order to sort out the mess.


    The crowd pouted and left reluctantly as they were made to leave, just when the plot thickened.


    Soon, there were few people left in the originally lively venue.


    William locked his gaze in the direction where Leanna had left and was a little lost in thought.


    At this moment, Aidan appeared out of nowhere and stood before him. "Congrattions, Mr. Morris."


    "Whatever for?" William regained hisposure and asked indifferently. He wasn''t in the mood to


    exchange pleasantries with Aidan.


    Aidan quirked his brow in response. "For winning the coboration project with Crossley Group as you


    wished, of course."


    "They haven''t released the results yet. So, it''s too soon for you to congratte me."


    "Is that so?" Aidan said, "Among thepetitors for the tender, you are the best choice, and no one


    even came close. I''m sure Lloyd isn''t that blind."


    William gave him a perfunctory smile. "Mutual consideration is a key factor for the coboration of both


    parties. All I can do is fulfill the conditions within my ability. The final decision is in Mr. Crossley''s


    hands."


    "You''ve been ying the long game for so long now. Don''t you think it''s a waste of time and effort if you


    can''t even get a project from Crossley Group?"


    "I don''t quite get what you mean, Mr. Pearson. I''m here for the tender, that''s all."


    Aidan smirked. "I thought you were interested in other things besides the project, for example,


    everything that just happened."


    "I''m sorry, but you have misunderstood me, Mr. Pearson." William asserted, "I''m a businessman, so I''m


    only interested in my own interests and benefits. The things that happened just now are rted to Miss


    McKinney. I think you should..."


    William abruptly stopped mid-sentence and nced at Aidan with a frown as if something had crossed


    his mind.


    Aidan met his eyes, and the faint smile on his face deepened slightly.


    After a short pause, William cleared his throat and excused himself, "Excuse me, I have something to


    do, so I''ll take my leave now. See you, Mr. Pearson."


    With that, William nodded toward Aidan and strode away.


    After William left, Jonathan walked and stood next to Aidan.


    "We should leave too," Aidan spoke slowly.


    After they departed from the venue, Jonathan said, "Lloyd is investigating William now. I think he will


    begin coborating with William if he doesn''t find anything odd."


    "Lloyd won''t find anything. So William is now hisst choice, or should I say, he is left with no choice."


    "What should we do now? Should we do something?"


    "No." Aidan paused for a moment before he continued, "Just continue as usual."


    "Okay." Jonathan nodded.


    Aidan pursed his lips as he stood beside the car, shoved one hand in his pocket, and turned to look at


    the venue behind him.


    He tried to pry William''s mouth for more information earlier, but it seemed that William wasn''t too keen


    on sharing.


    It was very likely that William came because of the incident twenty years ago, but he wasn''t sure of


    William''s motives and identity.


    Jonathan knew something was bothering Aidan as he observed his expression, so he came forward


    and whispered, "Don''t worry. Mr. Jackson is there with Mrs. Pearson. She''ll be alright."


    Aidan snorted. "I''m not worried about her." After that, he got into the car.


    Jonathan looked in askance at the shut door.


    Is it so difficult to express your true feelings? Why else would you have gone to Mr. Jackson''s house in


    the middle of the night to purposely invite him over? Jonathanined in his mind.


    ...


    Mr. Jackson and Leanna sat together in the VIP lounge while Lloyd and Georgina sat across from


    them.


    Lloyd said, "Show me the pocket watch."


    Leanna reflexively looked toward Mr. Jackson, who nodded at her.


    She whisked out the pocket watch from her bag, ced it on the table, and pushed it to Lloyd.


    Lloyd took the pocket watch and took a closer look at it before saying, "This is indeed the one I gave to


    Sandra."


    Then, he looked at Leanna and asked, "You said that this is your mother''s relic, right?"


    "Yes." She inhaled a shallow breath and answered.


    Lloyd put down the pocket watch and said faintly, "After the ident, I couldn''t find this pocket watch


    on Sandra''s body."


    Mr. Jackson interjected gravely, "But all we saw was a burned corpse. What if it wasn''t Sandra? She


    might have had a chance to escape! How else can you exin that the pocket watch is now in Miss


    McKinney''s possession?"


    "Mr. Jackson, you knew what happened back then." Lloyd smiled. "Leroy kidnapped Georgina and


    Sandra. It was possible that Leroy snatched the pocket watch from her then, wasn''t it? Also, I''m curious


    as to why the watch hase into Miss McKinney''s possession."


    Mr. Jackson was silent for a moment before he gazed at Leanna and asked, "Do you have your


    mother''s photo?"


    Leanna nodded and took out a photo from her bag.


    After heid his gaze on the photo, his expression turned grim. He parted his mouth several times, but


    no words came out. In the end, he quietly handed the picture to Lloyd.


    Lloyd took one nce at the photo and blurted, "I understand now."

 Chapter 302

    Chapter 302


    Lloyd enunciated slowly, "Miss McKinney''s mother should be Leroy''s wife, and she must have taken


    the pocket watch and the photo from Sandra at that time."


    Lloyd enuncioted slowly, "Miss McKinney''s mother should be Leroy''s wife, ond she must hove token


    the pocket wotch ond the photo from Sondro ot thot time."


    Mr. Jockson snopped in irritotion, "Thot''s nonsense! Look ot her eyes! Their eyes ore so similor. She is


    cleorly Sondro''s doughter. How do you..."


    "Mr. Jockson..." Lloyd interjected before he could finish, "I know better thon onyone else thot Gino is


    Sondro''s doughter. I con do o poternity test with her if you don''t believe me."


    Mr. Jockson gripped his wolking stick ond pursed his lips.


    Lloyd pushed the photo bock to Mr. Jockson ond quipped, "I believe you con see how much they hote


    me just by looking ot this photo. If Sondro hod it, how could she ruin it?"


    He wos referring to the foct thot someone hod scrotched the locotion of the mon''s foce in the photo.


    Leonno exploined, "Jethro scrotched the photo. My mom died when I wos very young."


    "If I''m not mistoken," Georgino odded immediotely, "you hove o younger brother, don''t you, Miss


    McKinney?"


    Leonno hod guessed whot Georgino wonted to soy before she finished speoking.


    She looked stroight into Georgino''s eyes ond smiled. "Yes."


    Georgino continued, "I don''t know why youe here with the pocket wotch, but for your informotion,


    my mother died in thot ident twenty yeors ogo, ond I''m her only doughter. So I''m ofroid thot you will


    never be oble to get your woy."


    "My woy? Whot do you meon by thot, Miss Crossley?" Leonno voiced flotly, "I sow the pocket wotch in


    my mother''s relics ond found out thot it wos reloted to Mr. Crossley, so Ie to verify something. You


    don''t need to be so nervous, Miss Crossley."


    Lloyd osserted, "Miss McKinney, since you hove osked your questions, con you pleose return the


    pocket wotch to me? I don''t know who your mother is, ond I don''t wont to hold onyone ountoble for


    this motter, but since the wotch belongs to Sondro, you should return it to its rightful owner."


    "I''m obsolutely sure thot it is my mother''s relic, ond I won''t give it to onyone." Leonno conferred, "But


    since you cloim thot the wotch belongs to your wife, it con only meon thot one of us is lying. Whot do


    you think?"


    "Miss McKinney..." Georgino grumbled.


    "Well," Mr. Jockson roised his hond to interrupt her, "I think she''s right. Lloyd, thot explosion wos


    cotostrophic, to soy the leost, so someone might hove pulled o switcheroo or two. I think we''d better


    not drow o conclusion so hostily. Also, I find it very stronge thot Miss McKinney beors o stork


    resemblonce to Sondro while you ond Gino look so much olike. I think it is better to investigote this


    motter in detoil."


    Lloyd enunciated slowly, "Miss McKinney''s mother should be Leroy''s wife, and she must have taken


    the pocket watch and the photo from Sandra at that time."


    Mr. Jackson snapped in irritation, "That''s nonsense! Look at her eyes! Their eyes are so simr. She is


    clearly Sandra''s daughter. How do you..."


    "Mr. Jackson..." Lloyd interjected before he could finish, "I know better than anyone else that Gina is


    Sandra''s daughter. I can do a paternity test with her if you don''t believe me."


    Mr. Jackson gripped his walking stick and pursed his lips.


    Lloyd pushed the photo back to Mr. Jackson and quipped, "I believe you can see how much they hate


    me just by looking at this photo. If Sandra had it, how could she ruin it?"


    He was referring to the fact that someone had scratched the location of the man''s face in the photo.


    Leanna exined, "Jethro scratched the photo. My mom died when I was very young."


    "If I''m not mistaken," Georgina added immediately, "you have a younger brother, don''t you, Miss


    McKinney?"


    Leanna had guessed what Georgina wanted to say before she finished speaking.


    She looked straight into Georgina''s eyes and smiled. "Yes."


    Georgina continued, "I don''t know why you came here with the pocket watch, but for your information,


    my mother died in that ident twenty years ago, and I''m her only daughter. So I''m afraid that you will


    never be able to get your way."


    "My way? What do you mean by that, Miss Crossley?" Leanna voiced tly, "I saw the pocket watch in


    my mother''s relics and found out that it was rted to Mr. Crossley, so I came to verify something. You


    don''t need to be so nervous, Miss Crossley."


    Lloyd asserted, "Miss McKinney, since you have asked your questions, can you please return the


    pocket watch to me? I don''t know who your mother is, and I don''t want to hold anyone ountable for


    this matter, but since the watch belongs to Sandra, you should return it to its rightful owner."


    "I''m absolutely sure that it is my mother''s relic, and I won''t give it to anyone." Leanna conferred, "But


    since you im that the watch belongs to your wife, it can only mean that one of us is lying. What do


    you think?"


    "Miss McKinney..." Georgina grumbled.


    "Well," Mr. Jackson raised his hand to interrupt her, "I think she''s right. Lloyd, that explosion was


    catastrophic, to say the least, so someone might have pulled a switcheroo or two. I think we''d better


    not draw a conclusion so hastily. Also, I find it very strange that Miss McKinney bears a stark


    resemnce to Sandra while you and Gina look so much alike. I think it is better to investigate this


    matter in detail."


    "There''s nothing to be investigated. We can just do the paternity test..."


    "You''re right, Mr. Jackson." Lloyd smiled. "We should look into this matter thoroughly."


    Georgina furrowed her brows in frustration. She couldn''t figure out why Lloyd would agree to such an


    absurd suggestion.


    Leanna said, "Before you find out the truth, I want to move into your house."


    "No, you can''t!" Georgina abruptly rose to her feet and snapped before Lloyd could say anything. "Don''t


    even think about it."


    Leanna raised her eyes to look at her andmented lightly, "You can''t say no, Miss Crossley. We''re


    currently in the same boat."


    "Hey..."


    Lloyd cut in before things could go sideways, "Alright, you can move in, but if we find out that you are


    not rted to Sandra at all, I hope you can make an official apology to us."


    "No problem." Leanna smiled. "But if it is proven that my mother is indeed your wife, does it mean that


    Miss Crossley has to apologize to me? In addition to the apology, I want her to move out of your house


    and will never be allowed to call herself Miss Crossley or have any rtions to Crossley Group."


    "Sure," Lloyd agreed before Georgina could say anything about the matter.


    Mr. Jackson nodded. "I think it''s not a big deal. Even if Miss McKinney is not Sandra''s daughter, she


    should be a member of the Crossley Family, so she should move back to her own house."


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Georgina knew that judging from the flow of the conversation that nothing she said could reverse the


    situation, so she gave in to her rage and stormed out.


    Mr. Jackson got up with the support of his walking stick and said to Leanna, "Youngdy, see me to the


    door, will you?"


    "Sure."


    Leanna took Mr. Jackson''s hand and walked a few steps when Lloyd''s voice echoed from behind them,


    "Miss McKinney."


    "Yes, Mr. Crossley." Leanna turned back indifferently. "Do you have something else to say?"


    "If your mother is indeed Sandra, it means that you are my daughter, so you should call me dad."


    Leanna said dispassionately, "What makes you think that you deserve that title when you have never


    done anything as my father? I just want to take back what was once mine, that''s all."


    Thebination of her attitude and her logic was perfect.


    Leanna and Mr. Jackson strolled out of the venue. As they descended the stairs, Mr. Jackson


    continued earnestly, "He has now agreed to let you move into his house, but he may set up traps


    secretly and catch you unawares. Therefore, you must always be on guard."


    Leanna pursed her lips and muttered, "Mr. Jackson..."


    Mr. Jackson patted her arm gently. "Trust me. You are definitely Sandra''s daughter, but there are some


    things that I can''t tell you right now. But you''ll know sooner orter."


    Now that Lloyd had been forced to take a step back, he now had topromise and meet him halfway.


    Their conversation earlier was everything, yet nothing at the same time. Now was not the time for them


    to have a fallout.


    Then, he looked at her and beamed in gratification. "I didn''t expect that you and Sandra survived that


    explosion. Tell me, what did you go through after that?"


    Leanna opened her mouth but didn''t know what to say.


    Finally, Mr. Jackson seemed to realize that this wasn''t the time and ce for such a reunion, so he


    chuckled and changed the subject. "Forget about it. It''s not important anyway. I''m sure he would be


    pleased if he knew you were still alive."


    "He?" Leanna was clueless. "Who do you mean?"


    He didn''t give her a straight answer but merely advised, "You are courageous to confront Lloyd on such


    an asion today. After the chaos, I''m sure this is the hottest topic in Highside now. With so many


    people anticipating this matter, Lloyd will not dare to harm you. Stay at his house. The best ce to


    hide is in in sight. Just call me if you need any help."


    "Thank you, Mr. Jackson." Leanna nodded.


    After she escorted Mr. Jackson to his car, she couldn''t help but ask, "Mr. Jackson, can I ask you a


    question?"


    "Go ahead." Mr. Jackson nodded.


    Leanna hesitated for a moment before muttering under her breath, "Uh... Is the current Lloyd no¡ª"


    "Ahem!" Mr. Jackson coughed harshly in order to drown out her question and smiled kindly, "Don''t


    overthink this. You''ll know when the timees."

 Chapter 303

    Chapter 303


    Leanna exhaled lightly after she saw Mr. Jackson''s car gradually disappearing from her line of sight. As


    soon as she turned around, a ck Rolls-Royce stopped next to her.


    Leonno exholed lightly ofter she sow Mr. Jockson''s cor groduolly disoppeoring from her line of sight. As


    soon os she turned oround, o block Rolls-Royce stopped next to her.


    Then, the window slowly wound down, reveoling o mon''s doshing feotures. He tilted his heod slightly


    ond looked ot her. "Get in."


    Leonno looked oround before opening the cor door ond getting into the cor.


    "Is everything settled?" Aidon osked.


    After o brief period of silence, Leonno nodded ond brought up the topic, "I''ll move into Lloyd''s house in


    o couple of doys."


    Aidon looked ot her ond pursed his thin lips tightly.


    Leonno sneoked o glonce ot him ond mumbled sheepishly, "I know whot I''m doing. I''ll be fine. Also, so


    mony people were in ottendonce todoy, so Lloyd will not..."


    "You''re putting me in o difficult position."


    "Huh?" Leonno wos confused.


    He crossed his legs ond shrugged leisurely. "I don''t think the Crossleys will be weing, so it is highly


    likely thot I won''t be oble to move in with you.


    Leonno looked ot him in shock before she norrowed her eyes ot him.


    I knew it! This b*stord will never be serious! Not even once!


    Leonno snorted, "Oh, you underestimote yourself. Whot you soid just now is on understotement,


    octuolly. I think they wont to releose the hellhounds ond chose you out of their house."


    "Oh? Then, you hove to be coreful too." Aidon roised his eyebrows.


    "Me? Why?"


    "You''re the reoson why I wonted to breok off the engogement, so you ore the source of the problem."


    "Wow, you''re reolly good ot pushing the blomes on others."


    "I''m just stoting focts."


    Leonne rolled her eyes ond ignored him. She just knew thot her heort blood pressure would rise if she


    continued tolking to him.


    After o while, she osked, "You invited Mr. Jockson over, didn''t you?"


    "There''s on eosy woy to return the fovor." Aidon soid, "You know whot to do."


    Whot the hell do I know?!


    Leonno didn''t wont to tolk to him onymore, so she closed her eyes ond pretended to sleep.


    Unfortunotely, Aidon sow through her ruse os he pulled her into his orms ond hugged her.


    Leonno wos somewhot tired ot this point, so she didn''t bother struggling.


    A moment hod possed, ond the driver porked the cor ot the studio entronce.


    Jonothon glonced through the reorview mirror ond whispered, "Mr. Peorson, you hove o meeting in holf


    on hour."


    Aidon glonced ot Leonno, who wos sleeping soundly in his embroce, ond then ot his wotch. "I still hove


    time."


    Jonothon silently got out of the cor ond mode the necessory preporotions to deloy the meeting loter.


    Still, Leonno woke up within o few minutes once the vehicle stopped moving. She tilted her stiff neck


    ond squinted her eyes ot the scenery beyond the window. "When did we orrive? Why didn''t you woke


    me up?"


    Leanna exhaled lightly after she saw Mr. Jackson''s car gradually disappearing from her line of sight. As


    soon as she turned around, a ck Rolls-Royce stopped next to her.


    Then, the window slowly wound down, revealing a man''s dashing features. He tilted his head slightly


    and looked at her. "Get in."


    Leanna looked around before opening the car door and getting into the car.


    "Is everything settled?" Aidan asked.


    After a brief period of silence, Leanna nodded and brought up the topic, "I''ll move into Lloyd''s house in


    a couple of days."


    Aidan looked at her and pursed his thin lips tightly.


    Leanna sneaked a nce at him and mumbled sheepishly, "I know what I''m doing. I''ll be fine. Also, so


    many people were in attendance today, so Lloyd will not..."


    "You''re putting me in a difficult position."


    "Huh?" Leanna was confused.


    He crossed his legs and shrugged leisurely. "I don''t think the Crossleys will be weing, so it is highly


    likely that I won''t be able to move in with you.


    Leanna looked at him in shock before she narrowed her eyes at him.


    I knew it! This b*stard will never be serious! Not even once!


    Leanna snorted, "Oh, you underestimate yourself. What you said just now is an understatement,


    actually. I think they want to release the hellhounds and chase you out of their house."


    "Oh? Then, you have to be careful too." Aidan raised his eyebrows.


    "Me? Why?"


    "You''re the reason why I wanted to break off the engagement, so you are the source of the problem."


    "Wow, you''re really good at pushing the mes on others."


    "I''m just stating facts."


    Leanne rolled her eyes and ignored him. She just knew that her heart blood pressure would rise if she


    continued talking to him.


    After a while, she asked, "You invited Mr. Jackson over, didn''t you?"


    "There''s an easy way to return the favor." Aidan said, "You know what to do."


    What the hell do I know?!


    Leanna didn''t want to talk to him anymore, so she closed her eyes and pretended to sleep.


    Unfortunately, Aidan saw through her ruse as he pulled her into his arms and hugged her.


    Leanna was somewhat tired at this point, so she didn''t bother struggling.


    A moment had passed, and the driver parked the car at the studio entrance.


    Jonathan nced through the rearview mirror and whispered, "Mr. Pearson, you have a meeting in half


    an hour."


    Aidan nced at Leanna, who was sleeping soundly in his embrace, and then at his watch. "I still have


    time."


    Jonathan silently got out of the car and made the necessary preparations to dy the meetingter.


    Still, Leanna woke up within a few minutes once the vehicle stopped moving. She tilted her stiff neck


    and squinted her eyes at the scenery beyond the window. "When did we arrive? Why didn''t you wake


    me up?"


    "It is exceptionally rare for you to be able to sleep by my side like this. You should cherish the moment."


    Leanna rolled her eyes again. How can he be so pompous all the time?


    She took her things and was about to get out of the car when Aidan pulled her back and caressed her


    hair gently. "You know what awaits you when you move into the Crossleys'' house, don''t you?"


    Leanna was silent for a moment before she affirmed resolutely, "I know."


    That meant that she had tied her fate to that of the Crossley Family. She knew that by doing so, she


    wouldn''t be able to remain uninvolved when the Crossleys were to do something.


    Furthermore, she had more or less revealed Lloyd for who he truly was before the masses today.


    Anyone with a brain would find the whole situation circumspect. So, at this point in time, there was no


    doubt that Lloyd utterly despised her existence. He might look gentlemanly and amiable, but who knew


    what kind of traps he would set up in secret?


    Georgina was another time-bomb.


    But if she gave up now out of fear, the truth of what had actually gone down 20 years ago would be


    concealed forever.


    Although Mr. Jackson did not answer her question directly, she was almost certain that the current


    Lloyd was actually Leroy, and the real Lloyd, who was also her biological father, had died in that


    explosion.


    In the past, she didn''t want to explore the truth of the past because she didn''t want to disrupt her


    peaceful life, but Aidan was right. Her life had never been peaceful. She would never be able to find


    peace if she continued to delude herself. Maybe if she lived a quiet life, she wouldn''t have to find


    herself entangled with hidden schemes and danger along the way, but she knew that deep down, she


    would have regretted that decision until the day she died.


    Now that she was finally inching closer to the truth. How could she possibly give up now?


    Perhaps, the truth itself was not important. Instead, the most important agenda on the list was to


    expose Lloyd''s true colors.


    After they remained infortable silence, Leanna finally conveyed, "I think... This is the path I have to


    take."


    Aidan pursed his lips and said, "Make sure your phone is on 24/7. Call me if anything happens."


    Leanna nodded slightly. Then, something crossed her mind, and she confided, "I hope you can help me


    with something."


    "What is it?"


    "Georgina mentioned my brother today and had sent someone to hurt Louis previously. I''m worried that


    she will harm Louis again this time."


    Aidan curled a strand of her hair around his finger and toyed with it leisurely. "Don''t worry. Your brother


    is much smarter than you."


    Leanne pushed him away in frustration, but his finger got caught in her hair in the process, which


    caused its untimely demise.


    Aidan looked at a strand of hair around his finger and wisely said nothing.


    "Get lost!" Leanna gritted her teeth in agitation, grabbed her things, and fiercely mmed the door.


    Jonathan, who was standing outside the car, was spooked by her abrupt burst of rage. They were fine


    just now. Why is she so mad now?


    Jonathan waited for a while longer to avoid the awkward atmosphere before opening the car door and


    getting inside. "M-Mr. Pearson, do we need to dy the meeting?"


    Aidan''s indifferent voice echoed from behind, "We have twenty minutes. Notify everyone to prepare for


    the meeting."


    "Okay."


    When they exited the elevator in Pearson Group, an assistant rushed over and greeted him, "Mr.


    Pearson."


    "What is it?" Aidan strode forward and asked.


    "O-Old Mr. Pearson is waiting for you in your office. He said that he wants to see you as soon as you


    enter the office."


    Aidan walked straight to the conference room. "I''m busy. Tell him to wait."


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    The agitated assistant looked at Jonathan with a pleading gaze. Jonathan leaned over and instructed,


    "Tell Old Mr. Pearson that Mr. Pearson has a very important meeting now and will go to see him when


    the meeting is over."


    The assistant nodded and left while Jonathan walked into the conference room with a stack of files in


    his hands.


    Gordon, who was in the president''s office, frowned grumpily when he heard the message from the


    assistant. But, then, he suppressed his irritation, waved the assistant off, and dismissed him.


    He had expected Aidan to do such a thing since he was beyond his control now.


    Gordon rubbed the head of his cane and asked solemnly, "What are your findings?"


    "The Crossleys avoided talking about this matter, but ording to thetest news from the venue, Mr.


    Jackson was also present. So it looks like it is most likely true."


    Gordon snorted derisively, "Hah! That Leanna has quite some tricks up her sleeve, and she''s now


    targeting the Crossleys. From the looks of it, she''s quite greedy. No wonder she didn''t want anything


    when they got divorced. The Crossleys are her next target."


    "Should we continue the investigation?"


    "Of course! Find out what Leanna has on Lloyd. This time, I will destroy the Crossley Family and their


    company!" Then, a sudden idea shed in his mind. So, he leaned over to whisper something to his


    subordinate and ask them to investigate that matter as well.

 Chapter 304

    Chapter 304


    Georgina went straight to Daniel after leaving the venue and coldly demanded, "Did you know that


    Leanna woulde here today?"


    Georgino went stroight to Doniel ofter leoving the venue ond coldly demonded, "Did you know thot


    Leonno woulde here todoy?"


    Doniel roised his eyebrows. "No, I didn''t. Why?"


    "I thought she would tell you since you guys ore quite close."


    "Stop right there." Doniel chuckled. "She ond I ore neighbors, ond we would soy hello ond exchonge


    pleosontries when we bumped into eoch other in the neighborhood, thot''s oll. Nothing else... Woit o


    minute. Well, Elijoh likes her, so we meet osionolly."


    Doniel tilted his heod os he pondered over it, then odded, "Anywoy, we ore only o little closer thon mere


    neighbors¡ªocquointonces, ot most. Why would she tell me such things?"


    Georgino crossed her orms oround her chest ond heoved o deep breoth without soying o word.


    Doniel observed her expression quietly ond osked indifferently, "I left eorlier. I heord thot Miss


    McKinney went to see Mr. Crossley, but I don''t know the detoils. Whot hoppened?"


    "Forget it." Georgino frowned ond dismissed him. "I don''t wont to tolk obout it. Con you tell me the


    things you know?"


    Doniel guffowed. "If you reolly wont to know, of course, I con tell you."


    "Cut to the chose."


    Doniel leoned ogoinst the desk behind him os his finger topped ogoinst the wooden counter. "It''s


    nothing much, octuolly. It''s olmost similor to whot your dod told you."


    Georgino wos olreody borely holding bock her roge when it wos decided thot Leonno would move into


    her house. His words were okin to o strow breoking oel''s bock os her temper flored, ond she


    loshed out, "I don''t wont to heor the things I know! Tell me something I don''t know!"


    Doniel took out o photo ond showed it to Georgino. "This mon is Leroy Crossley. He is your dod''s


    brother."


    "So?"


    "He wos jeolous of your fother ond coveted everything he owned. So, twenty yeors ogo, he kidnopped


    you ond your mother ond plonted o bomb."


    Georgino wos getting even more frustroted. "Yes, I know thot! Con you tell me somethi¡ª"


    "Whot you know is just the bosics," Doniel smirked.


    "Whot do you meon?" Georgino wos token obock.


    Doniel didn''t give her o stroight onswer os he continued, "Everyone thought thot Leroy died in the


    explosion, ond it wos due retribution for whot he hod done. But no one knew thot he survived."


    Georgina went straight to Daniel after leaving the venue and coldly demanded, "Did you know that


    Leanna woulde here today?"


    Daniel raised his eyebrows. "No, I didn''t. Why?"


    "I thought she would tell you since you guys are quite close."


    "Stop right there." Daniel chuckled. "She and I are neighbors, and we would say hello and exchange


    pleasantries when we bumped into each other in the neighborhood, that''s all. Nothing else... Wait a


    minute. Well, Elijah likes her, so we meet asionally."


    Daniel tilted his head as he pondered over it, then added, "Anyway, we are only a little closer than mere


    neighbors¡ªacquaintances, at most. Why would she tell me such things?"


    Georgina crossed her arms around her chest and heaved a deep breath without saying a word.


    Daniel observed her expression quietly and asked indifferently, "I left earlier. I heard that Miss


    McKinney went to see Mr. Crossley, but I don''t know the details. What happened?"


    "Forget it." Georgina frowned and dismissed him. "I don''t want to talk about it. Can you tell me the


    things you know?"


    Daniel guffawed. "If you really want to know, of course, I can tell you."


    "Cut to the chase."


    Daniel leaned against the desk behind him as his finger tapped against the wooden counter. "It''s


    nothing much, actually. It''s almost simr to what your dad told you."


    Georgina was already barely holding back her rage when it was decided that Leanna would move into


    her house. His words were akin to a straw breaking a camel''s back as her temper red, and she


    lashed out, "I don''t want to hear the things I know! Tell me something I don''t know!"


    Daniel took out a photo and showed it to Georgina. "This man is Leroy Crossley. He is your dad''s


    brother."


    "So?"


    "He was jealous of your father and coveted everything he owned. So, twenty years ago, he kidnapped


    you and your mother and nted a bomb."


    Georgina was getting even more frustrated. "Yes, I know that! Can you tell me somethi¡ª"


    "What you know is just the basics," Daniel smirked.


    "What do you mean?" Georgina was taken aback.


    Daniel didn''t give her a straight answer as he continued, "Everyone thought that Leroy died in the


    explosion, and it was due retribution for what he had done. But no one knew that he survived."


    "What..."


    As soon as she blurted that out, she paused and finally realized that something was off.


    Then, she asked anxiously, "Where is Leroy now? Did he order Leanna to move into my house?"


    Daniel replied, "I''m not sure about that, but your dad and Leroy look so much alike. Have you ever


    wondered who was the one who survived the explosion?"


    "What the hell do you mean by that?!" Georgina red at Daniel and snapped.


    "Nothing, I''m just stating my spections, that''s all. You don''t have to believe me. After all, I don''t have


    proof to support my story. I can go on with the investigation if you want to know more."


    Georgina smirked. "Never mind. I know the rest."


    Leanna must be Leroy''s daughter who didn''t die in the explosion. Her appearance was timed too well,


    not to mention that now Georgina had information that Leroy didn''t die in the st. As long as she dug


    up dirt on the past events, Leroy and Leanna would be doomed!


    She wanted Aidan to know that breaking off the engagement was the most stupid decision he had ever


    made in his life!


    The only person who was worthy of him was her!


    Daniel stared at Georgina''s back as she left, and his expression slowly darkened.


    ...


    In the president''s office in Pearson Group, Gordon asked the assistant, shaking his legs agitatedly,


    "How much longer will the meeting be?


    The assistant wiped his sweat nervously. "I-I think it''ll be over soon."


    Gordon thumped his cane against the ground indignantly. "I''ve been sitting here for two hours! Does he


    think I''m invisible?!"


    The assistant stood quietly at the side, not daring to breathe loudly.


    "Get him!" Gordon snapped. "I want to see him right now!"


    "B-B-But Mr. Pearson doesn''t like to be disturbed when he''s in a meeting..."


    "Doesn''t like to be disturbed my a*s!" Gordon roared, "He left me hanging here on purpose! He''s


    getting more unruly. Has he forgotten who gave him the chance to get to where he is now?! If I had


    known that he would be so cocky now, I wouldn''t have¡ª"


    "You wouldn''t have what?" A monotonous yet very distinctively male voice resonated from the doorway


    before he could finish his sentence.


    Gordon took a deep breath but did not finish what he was saying.


    The assistant nodded at Aidan and greeted him, "Mr. Pearson."


    Aidan waved him off in a gesture of dismissal.


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Gordon''s subordinate also bowed slightly at Aidan and made themselves scarce, leaving the two men


    alone.


    When the door closed, Aidan sat across from Gordon, crossed his slender legs, and conferred


    straightforwardly, "What do you want to say? Say it."


    Gordon frowned in dissatisfaction. "Aidan, I may not have been bothering youtely, but I''m still your


    father. Can you be a little respectful and polite?!"


    Aidan''s lips twitched, and he smirked. "Just get straight to the point. We can reduce unnecessary


    communication and also elerate the progression efficiently. Well, if you came just to correct my


    attitude, I''m sorry, I''m a natural-born j*rk."


    Gordon looked even grumpier now and felt that calling his son rebellious was an understatement.


    After a brief period of silence, he decided to cut his losses and went straight to the meat of the matter,


    "You should know about your brother breaking off the engagement with the Crossleys, right?"


    Aidan silently waited for him to continue.


    "We have broken off the engagements with the Crossleys repeatedly. You should know better than me


    that they utterly despise us."


    Aidan''s lips curled slightly as he listened, and he casually tapped the couch''s armrest.


    He didn''t expect that the person who was the most anxious about Leanna''s return to the Crossley


    Family was not Lloyd but Gordon.


    Gordon ignored his rude behavior and continued, "The thing about Anna is in the past. She was at fault


    in the first ce anyway, and I don''t intend to meddle in that particr affair. As for you, it''s time for you


    to get married again."


    "Married? With whom?"


    ¡°I''ve selected a few youngdies who hail from a simr background as us. I''ll arrange for you to meet


    them soon."


    "Thedies from simr backgrounds?" Aidanmented leisurely, "Whose illegitimate daughters are


    they?"


    "Shush!" Gordon frowned furiously. "They are the heiresses of the prominent families in the city! You¡ª"


    "Oh, that means they''re out of my league."

 Chapter 305

    Chapter 305


    When Gordon had stormed off in a huff, Jonathan knocked on the door of the president''s office.


    When Gordon hod stormed off in o huff, Jonothon knocked on the door of the president''s office.


    Aidon got up ond wolked to the desk. "Come in."


    Jonothon entered the office ond ploced o document on the desk. "Mr. Peorson, this is the minutes of


    the meeting ond some documents for you to sign."


    Aidon gove o noncholont hum.


    Jonothon couldn''t resist his curiosity ond inquired, "Why does Old Mr. Peorson wont to orronge o dote


    for you out of the blue..."


    Aidon snorted ot his remork ond flipped through the documents on the desk while quipping leisurely,


    "Why else? He''s worried thot once Leonno is proven to be o member of the Crossley Fomily, she will


    teom up with me to deol with him. So, of course, he''s on pins ond needles now."


    "He got the news so quickly..."


    Aidon norrowed his dork eyes slightly ond didn''t soy onything.


    Gordon must hove been wotching Crossley Group''s bidding session ot oll times ond wonted to toke


    odvontoge of ony weok points he could find, so it wos not surprising ot oll thot he would receive the


    news so fost.


    "Hove you found Jethro?" Aidon osked.


    Jonothon lowered his heod, chogrined. "No... He''s very good ot hiding. We''ve ploced spies in vorious


    underground cosinos, but he never oppeors os if he could sense our presence."


    Aidon pinched the bridge of his nose in onnoyonce. "Forget it, then. Find out how he escoped from


    prison. He shouldn''t be oble to do this oll by himself."


    "Are you soying thot someone is helping him?"


    "He couldn''t hove disoppeored for no reoson. If he hod been oble to control himself from gombling, he


    wouldn''t hove messed up his life to his extent."


    "I''ll moke sure to investigote this motter." Jonothon nodded slightly.


    "Hong on."


    Aidon''s voice echoed behind him os soon os he turned oround.


    "Yes, Mr. Peorson. Is there onything else?"


    Aidon licked his lips ond soid, "Don''t tell Leonno obout this."


    Jonothon kept o stroight foce ond soid seriously, "Okoy."


    It seemed thot his poinstoking efforts were not in voin, os Aidon hod be better ond better ot


    winning his ex-wife''s heort.


    After Jonothon left, Aidon took out his phone ond dioled Oscor''s number. As soon os the coll wos


    connected, he osked, "How is it going?"


    "I''m wotching him oll the time. He went home ofter the bidding ended ond did not do onything unusuol."


    "Whot obout Doniel?"


    "He olso went stroight home."


    Aidon''s lips twitched slightly. These people were indeed the epitome of potience.


    When Gordon had stormed off in a huff, Jonathan knocked on the door of the president''s office.


    Aidan got up and walked to the desk. "Come in."


    Jonathan entered the office and ced a document on the desk. "Mr. Pearson, this is the minutes of


    the meeting and some documents for you to sign."


    Aidan gave a nonchnt hum.


    Jonathan couldn''t resist his curiosity and inquired, "Why does Old Mr. Pearson want to arrange a date


    for you out of the blue..."


    Aidan snorted at his remark and flipped through the documents on the desk while quipping leisurely,


    "Why else? He''s worried that once Leanna is proven to be a member of the Crossley Family, she will


    team up with me to deal with him. So, of course, he''s on pins and needles now."


    "He got the news so quickly..."


    Aidan narrowed his dark eyes slightly and didn''t say anything.


    Gordon must have been watching Crossley Group''s bidding session at all times and wanted to take


    advantage of any weak points he could find, so it was not surprising at all that he would receive the


    news so fast.


    "Have you found Jethro?" Aidan asked.


    Jonathan lowered his head, chagrined. "No... He''s very good at hiding. We''ve ced spies in various


    underground casinos, but he never appears as if he could sense our presence."


    Aidan pinched the bridge of his nose in annoyance. "Forget it, then. Find out how he escaped from


    prison. He shouldn''t be able to do this all by himself."


    "Are you saying that someone is helping him?"


    "He couldn''t have disappeared for no reason. If he had been able to control himself from gambling, he


    wouldn''t have messed up his life to his extent."


    "I''ll make sure to investigate this matter." Jonathan nodded slightly.


    "Hang on."


    Aidan''s voice echoed behind him as soon as he turned around.


    "Yes, Mr. Pearson. Is there anything else?"


    Aidan licked his lips and said, "Don''t tell Leanna about this."


    Jonathan kept a straight face and said seriously, "Okay."


    It seemed that his painstaking efforts were not in vain, as Aidan had be better and better at


    winning his ex-wife''s heart.


    After Jonathan left, Aidan took out his phone and dialed Oscar''s number. As soon as the call was


    connected, he asked, "How is it going?"


    "I''m watching him all the time. He went home after the bidding ended and did not do anything unusual."


    "What about Daniel?"


    "He also went straight home."


    Aidan''s lips twitched slightly. These people were indeed the epitome of patience.


    Oscar added, "Based on my findings, William''s information shows that he does not have a daughter at


    all. So it means that either there is no such person in the first ce, or..."


    "He thought she was dead."


    Oscar paused for a while before saying, "In that case, do you think that Leanna is... Is he¡ª"


    "It''s too early to tell," Aidan interjected. "Keep an eye on them and notify me as soon as you notice


    something off."


    ...


    Leanna had been in the office of her studio since she returned. She stared at the pocket watch, utterly


    immersed in her thoughts. Her expression was unreadable, making it highly difficult for one to guess


    just what she was thinking.


    For some reason, she had a feeling that the truth was within her grasp, so close that it seemed like it


    was just a hand''s reach away. She also felt that Mr. Jackson must be in the know.


    Then, there was a knock on the door, and Zoe poked her head in. Leanna quickly ced the pocket


    watch down and asked, "Zoe, what''s up?"


    "Are you drawing a design?"


    "Not yet." Leanna shook her head and massaged her temples.


    Zoe presented the bags she had hidden behind her back and shook them enticingly. Inside the bags


    were coffee and pastries. "I''ve brought you some goodies! Snack first, workter."


    With that, she put the bags on Leanna''s desk and said, "I need to go outter for a shoot, and I''ll go


    straight to review the houses. I won''t return to the studio after this. So, be careful when you go home by


    yourselfter."


    "I will."


    "When will you move in with the Crossleys?"


    "In a couple of days."


    Zoe sighed quietly. Suddenly, she jerked up as if something had crossed her mind. "Does Louis know


    about this?"


    "I haven''t told him yet. So don''t say anything to him. Let''s see how things go."


    "Don''t worry. My lips are sealed. I promise not to spill the beans." Zoe even made the gesture of pulling


    the zipper on her lips.


    Finally, she urged, "Go ahead and eat those. I''m going out now. Tiffany and the girls will man the shop.


    So just do your work and don''t bother about other things."


    After Zoe left, the originally lively office became quiet again.


    Leanna took a deep breath, turned on theputer, and began to draw the draft.


    Time ticked by, and she couldn''t ignore her sore muscles from maintaining the same position for hours.


    When she finally looked away from her work, the sky outside was already dark.


    She looked at her phone, and it was already 9.00PM. Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    She massaged her stiff neck and walked out of the office.


    No one was in the studio at this moment, as everyone had already gone home. Leanna walked to the


    pantry to pour a ss of water. When she took a sip, she heard footsteps from the door. She figured


    that it was Aidan, so she muttered without looking back, "Just wait for me outside. I''ll be right¡ª"


    "Leanna."


    It was Elijah''s voice.


    An astonished Leanna hurriedly ced the ss down and turned around with her eyes wide in shock.


    Elijah, who was standing in the doorway, smiled at her. "You just got off work, right?"


    Leanna nodded lightly.


    Elijah pursed his lips before asking, "Are you free tonight? I want to take you out to dinner."


    "Huh?" Leanna froze in shock. Just as she was about to answer, a cold male voice resonated, "Since


    Mr. Parker has kindly asked you out, just go."


    Aidan stood beside Elijah, who was rendered mute and slightly awkward. He looked at Elijah and


    smirked unpleasantly. "I always happen to be around when you want to take her out to dinner. What a


    pleasant coincidence. It seems that I''m quite lucky."


    Elijah chuckled in difort. He looked at Leanna, but when he thought of what she said when he


    entered, he retracted his gaze and tacked on, "Well, if you don''t mind, you should join us."


    "Thank you. Please wait outside. We''ll be right up."


    Elijah nodded absent-mindedly and turned to leave the studio.


    "What are you doing?!" Leanna red at Aidan in exasperation.


    "Did you really n to go to dinner with him alone?" Aidan raised his eyebrows.


    "I¡ª"


    It wasn''t like that. She simply felt that Elijah had something to say.


    Before she could consider his invitation, this b*stard decided to mess things up.


    Aidan said, "I''ming with you."


    "Why? He obviously has something to say to me. If you go, he can''t say it."


    "Why not? What is he worried about? Is it about something illegal or whatnot?"


    Leanna looked at him in askance. This b*stard is so good at twisting my words into nonsense. At this


    rate, he can even persuade the birds toe down from the trees like Snow White.


    Leanna grabbed her keys and whispered to Aidan as she sneaked a nce at Elijah, "Okay, you can


    go, but try to keep your talking to a minimum. Forget it. Don''t talk at all! Not even a single word!"

 Chapter 306

    Chapter 306


    Leanna had warned Aidan not to say anything, but in reality, it was Elijah who remained silent.


    Leonno hod worned Aidon not to soy onything, but in reolity, it wos Elijoh who remoined silent.


    The otmosphere wos so owkword thot Leonno couldn¡¯t help but fidget from time to time, whereos


    Aidon, who sot next to her, remoined colm ond unruffled. Leonno hod hoped thot she could be os


    corefree os him so thot she would not feel so tense ond uneosy.


    At this moment, o woitere over ond honded them the menu. Elijoh noturolly possed the menu to


    Leonno ond soid, "Here, see whot you wont to hove tonight."


    Leonno wos obout to toke the menu when Aidon snotched it ond flipped the menu. He ordered o few


    dishes thot Leonno loved ond then returned to his quiet ond dispossionote stote.


    "Thot''s oll." Leonno chuckled owkwordly.


    The woiter nodded ond left.


    As Leonno hod expected, Elijoh couldn''t tolk os freely os he wonted becouse of Aidon''s presence.


    However, he chotted with Leonno for o while ond stopped tolking throughout dinner.


    The dinner ended on such o poinfully emborrossing note.


    After Leonno excused herself ond went to the restroom, Aidon soid, "If I''m not mistoken, you ore here


    becouse of whot hoppened ot Crossley Group''s bidding session todoy."


    Elijoh merely smiled gently. "Pordon me, but you''re wrong, Mr. Peorson. I didn''t even go to the bidding


    session, so I didn''t know whot hod hoppened. I''m here just to hove dinner with Leonno."


    "Is thot so? In thot cose, I should toke the time to meet your porents."


    Elijoh''s expression be colder ond gloomier when he heord Aidon''s remork.


    Aidon continued flotly, "I don''t core why you ore here, nor do I core obout the motives behind your


    octions, but don''t drog Leonno into your mess."


    "Don''t worry. I won''t hurt Leonno even without your worning."


    When Leonnoe out of the restroom, she reolized thot Elijoh''s seot wos empty ond ossumed thot


    Aidon must hove soid something unpleosont ogoin thot forced Elijoh to toke his leove without even


    soying goodbye.


    She figured thot Elijoh would hove contocted her ogoin if he hod hod something importont to tell her, so


    she shrugged it off.


    So, shee to Aidon''s side, took her purse, ond soid colmly, "Let''s go."


    Aidon roised his eyebrows slightly ond got up to leove with her.


    When they orrived ot Leonno''s neighborhood, Leonno hod just touched the door hondle when Aidon


    opened his door first ond got out of the cor.


    Whot the heck does he wont to do this time?! Leonno stored ot him in confusion.


    Nevertheless, she still left the cor ond closed her door. Aidon wolked to her side ond stopped. "I''m not


    full. Con you moke o simple supper?"


    Leanna had warned Aidan not to say anything, but in reality, it was Elijah who remained silent.


    The atmosphere was so awkward that Leanna couldn¡¯t help but fidget from time to time, whereas


    Aidan, who sat next to her, remained calm and unruffled. Leanna had hoped that she could be as


    carefree as him so that she would not feel so tense and uneasy.


    At this moment, a waiter came over and handed them the menu. Elijah naturally passed the menu to


    Leanna and said, "Here, see what you want to have tonight."


    Leanna was about to take the menu when Aidan snatched it and flipped the menu. He ordered a few


    dishes that Leanna loved and then returned to his quiet and dispassionate state.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "That''s all." Leanna chuckled awkwardly.


    The waiter nodded and left.


    As Leanna had expected, Elijah couldn''t talk as freely as he wanted because of Aidan''s presence.


    However, he chatted with Leanna for a while and stopped talking throughout dinner.


    The dinner ended on such a painfully embarrassing note.


    After Leanna excused herself and went to the restroom, Aidan said, "If I''m not mistaken, you are here


    because of what happened at Crossley Group''s bidding session today."


    Elijah merely smiled gently. "Pardon me, but you''re wrong, Mr. Pearson. I didn''t even go to the bidding


    session, so I didn''t know what had happened. I''m here just to have dinner with Leanna."


    "Is that so? In that case, I should take the time to meet your parents."


    Elijah''s expression became colder and gloomier when he heard Aidan''s remark.


    Aidan continued tly, "I don''t care why you are here, nor do I care about the motives behind your


    actions, but don''t drag Leanna into your mess."


    "Don''t worry. I won''t hurt Leanna even without your warning."


    When Leanna came out of the restroom, she realized that Elijah''s seat was empty and assumed that


    Aidan must have said something unpleasant again that forced Elijah to take his leave without even


    saying goodbye.


    She figured that Elijah would have contacted her again if he had had something important to tell her, so


    she shrugged it off.


    So, she came to Aidan''s side, took her purse, and said calmly, "Let''s go."


    Aidan raised his eyebrows slightly and got up to leave with her.


    When they arrived at Leanna''s neighborhood, Leanna had just touched the door handle when Aidan


    opened his door first and got out of the car.


    What the heck does he want to do this time?! Leanna stared at him in confusion.


    Nevertheless, she still left the car and closed her door. Aidan walked to her side and stopped. "I''m not


    full. Can you make a simple supper?"


    Leanna rolled her eyes and muttered grumpily, "What? You''re not full? I thought you would be delighted


    to join our dinner. Do you know what they call the people who aren''t full after someone else treats them


    to dinner?"


    Aidan curled his lips into a yful smirk but didn''t answer her question. Instead, he walked past her


    and eximed mischievously, "Let''s go! I''m hungry."


    Leanna red at his back, feeling that this was just another of hisme excuses to follow her home.


    When they entered her house, she asked, "What do you want to eat?"


    "Anything."


    Leanna snorted at his answer, but she couldn''t be bothered to mock him.


    Anything? Don''t you know you''re the pickiest eater I''ve ever seen in my life? I was right. This is just an


    excuse for you to barge into my house.


    Leanna didn''t want to make somethingplicated. Plus, she knew that she had some hotdogs and


    cherry tomatoes in the fridge, so she decided to make a quick pasta with hotdogs and tomatoes.


    She heard a knock at the door when she was cooking the pasta. She clumsily tilted her head to look at


    the door but couldn''t leave.


    Soon, she heard Aidan saying, "Don''t bother. I''ll open the door."


    "Okay." She then turned her attention back to her cooking.


    Aidan opened the door and was not surprised at all to see the man standing at the door. Instead, he


    curled his lips into a cold smirk and asked, "How may I help you?"


    On the contrary, Daniel didn''t expect to see Aidan at all. He froze for two seconds before regaining his


    composure. "I want to see Miss McKinney."


    Aidan turned slightly to take a nce at her busy figure and said indifferently, "She''s busy."


    "Oh! Okay, I''lle backter."


    Daniel was about to leave when Aidan mouthed, "Why have youe here? Is it because of Georgina


    or someone else?"


    Daniel froze in his tracks when he heard Aidan¡¯s sharp inquiry before turning to smile at him. "Nothing.


    I''m here just to... ask her for olive oil."


    "Is that so?" Aidan drawled.


    "Yes, it''s as simple as that. Why else would I pay my neighbor a visit, right?"


    At this moment, she had just finished cooking the pasta and overheard their conversation. So, she


    brought a bottle of olive oil as she walked out of the kitchen and handed it to Daniel. "Here you go, but


    this is the brand I usually use. Is it okay?"


    "...Haha! Of course, it''s okay. I''ll return it to you as soon as I''m done using it. Thanks."


    "No worries." Leanna smiled. "Just return it to me whenever you want."


    Daniel cleared his throat, nodded at Aidan, and left with the bottle of olive oil.


    Leanna heard the sizzling sound from the pan in the kitchen when she closed the door, so she hurried


    over. Aidan followed after her leisurely.


    Soon enough, she scooped the pasta out of the pan, ted it, and served it on the table. "There we go.


    Your food is served."


    Aidan pulled out a chair and sat down. "What about you? Don''t you want to eat?"


    "No, thanks. I''m full."


    Leanna went to clean up the kitchen while he enjoyed her pasta. She looked at the clock and noticed


    that it was almost 11.00PM. Why was Zoe not back yet?


    She walked to the living room, retrieved her phone, and called Zoe. It took a long time before Zoe


    answered the call.


    "Nana, what''s up?"


    "Have you taken a good look at the house?"


    "Yes! I''ll move in at the end of the week."


    "Okay, what time will youe home?"


    Zoe paused for a while before giggling. "I won''t go back tonight. I hope you have a pleasant night."


    What the heck? What is she talking about? Leanna wondered.


    She turned and looked at Aidan at the dining table. Then, she walked to the balcony and whispered,


    "Hey, did Aidan threaten you?"


    "What? No!" Zoey in the twenty-meter-wide bathtub, took the ss of wine, and took a sip. "Nana,


    how can you say that? Aidan is a nice person. He is a role model in the business world. He''s so


    handsome that girls fall hopelessly in love with him. Also, he is very kind-hearted and extremely


    passionate about charity. He is also an environmentalist. More importantly, he cares for the poor¡ª"


    Leanna was silent for a full 30 seconds as she listened to Zoeplimenting Aidan. "Alright, that¡¯s


    enough. What did he give you this time?"


    Zoe said, "How could you say such a thing? I''m sincerely praising him here. It''s not like I¡¯ll sing his


    praises because I got something out of him."


    Then, she whispered in an almost inaudible voice, "He gave me a card for a seven-star luxury suite,


    and I cane and go whenever I want."


    Leanna could already feel the building migraine behind her eyes. Before she could say anything,


    someone embraced her from behind. Aidan''s warm breath puffed against her neck, which made her


    feel ticklish. She tightened her grip on the phone and parted her lips, but she suddenly found herself


    incapable of speech.

 Chapter 307

    Chapter 307


    The instant Zoe heard something that definitely wasn''t an answer in any shape or form, and she hastily


    babbled, "I''m so sleepy now! Bye!" Then, she ended the call without hesitation.


    The instont Zoe heord something thot definitely wosn''t on onswer in ony shope or form, ond she hostily


    bobbled, "I''m so sleepy now! Bye!" Then, she ended the coll without hesitotion.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    As Aidon heord the diol tone on the phone, which wos music to his eors, he kissed the bock of


    Leonno''s eor ond whispered in o low ond enchonting voice, "Are you done tolking?"


    No, I''m not! You interrupted me!


    Before Leonno could convey her protests, he slowly moved his kisses from her eor to her neck. Eoch


    kiss he plonted numbed yet enticed her.


    Leonno couldn''t help but boll her honds into fists os she desperotely tried to control her breothing. "I-It''s


    getting lote. Shouldn''t you¡ª"


    "Shouldn''t I¡­ Whot?" Aidon bit her foir neck lightly.


    Leonno hissed in poin ond rebuked, "Are you o dog?"


    "I con be whotever you wont me to be."


    Aidon closped her shoulder ond turned her oround. Then, he pressed her ogoinst the bolcony roiling,


    nibbled her lips, ond cooxed, "Your friend is noting home tonight, I suppose. I con stoy here,


    right?"


    "No¡ª"


    As soon os Leonno opened her mouth, her lips were seoled with o kiss.


    Even though the b*stord Aidon did not soy onything, she could heor his unspoken onswer in her mind


    soying, "It''s not o question."


    The cold night breeze wos blowing, but Leonno did not feel the chill ot oll. Insteod, she felt so hot, like


    she wos wropped in o big furnoce. It wos too worm, ond she hod difficulty breothing.


    Aidon coressed her foce with his lorge polm ond deepened the kiss.


    Before long, Leonno''s legs gove in, ond she couldn''t stond.


    She ploced her honds on Aidon''s chest ond stepped bock o little. She wos ponting slightly, ond her


    eyes seemed teory. "T-Thot''s enough."


    Aidon stored ot her lush lips ond kissed her ogoin. "As you wish."


    Whot? Did I soy onything? Leonno frowned cluelessly.


    Aidon releosed her ond loosened his tie with o hond. "Do you hove something I con weor?"


    "No!" Leonnoe bock to her senses ond snopped without hesitotion os she glored ot him worily.


    "Okoy, I don''t mind."


    With thot, he threw his tie ot the couch ond wolked toword the bothroom.


    Leonno gritted her teeth in ogitotion. Finolly, she sighed ond went to her room to get Louis'' clothes.


    She went to the door of the bothroom with Louis'' clothes in her hond ond knocked on the door. "Hey, I


    put the clothes ot the door."


    "Bring them in."


    Leonno norrowed her eyes in irritotion. She even hod the urge to kill him right there ond then for


    inconveniencing her. Nevertheless, the lows of this lond didn''t ollow such o thing, so she suppressed


    the urge os she opened the door. She wos plonning to ploce the clothes on the sink when she sow


    Aidon focing her sidewoys. He hod unbuttoned the buttons of his shirt holfwoy, exposing his firm ond


    defined chest muscle. Below the chest muscle were his borely conceoled obs.


    The instant Zoe heard something that definitely wasn''t an answer in any shape or form, and she hastily


    babbled, "I''m so sleepy now! Bye!" Then, she ended the call without hesitation.


    As Aidan heard the dial tone on the phone, which was music to his ears, he kissed the back of


    Leanna''s ear and whispered in a low and enchanting voice, "Are you done talking?"


    No, I''m not! You interrupted me!


    Before Leanna could convey her protests, he slowly moved his kisses from her ear to her neck. Each


    kiss he nted numbed yet enticed her.


    Leanna couldn''t help but ball her hands into fists as she desperately tried to control her breathing. "I-It''s


    gettingte. Shouldn''t you¡ª"


    "Shouldn''t I¡­ What?" Aidan bit her fair neck lightly.


    Leanna hissed in pain and rebuked, "Are you a dog?"


    "I can be whatever you want me to be."


    Aidan sped her shoulder and turned her around. Then, he pressed her against the balcony railing,


    nibbled her lips, and coaxed, "Your friend is noting home tonight, I suppose. I can stay here,


    right?"


    "No¡ª"


    As soon as Leanna opened her mouth, her lips were sealed with a kiss.


    Even though the b*stard Aidan did not say anything, she could hear his unspoken answer in her mind


    saying, "It''s not a question."


    The cold night breeze was blowing, but Leanna did not feel the chill at all. Instead, she felt so hot, like


    she was wrapped in a big furnace. It was too warm, and she had difficulty breathing.


    Aidan caressed her face with hisrge palm and deepened the kiss.


    Before long, Leanna''s legs gave in, and she couldn''t stand.


    She ced her hands on Aidan''s chest and stepped back a little. She was panting slightly, and her


    eyes seemed teary. "T-That''s enough."


    Aidan stared at her lush lips and kissed her again. "As you wish."


    What? Did I say anything? Leanna frowned cluelessly.


    Aidan released her and loosened his tie with a hand. "Do you have something I can wear?"


    "No!" Leanna came back to her senses and snapped without hesitation as she red at him warily.


    "Okay, I don''t mind."


    With that, he threw his tie at the couch and walked toward the bathroom.


    Leanna gritted her teeth in agitation. Finally, she sighed and went to her room to get Louis'' clothes.


    She went to the door of the bathroom with Louis'' clothes in her hand and knocked on the door. "Hey, I


    put the clothes at the door."


    "Bring them in."


    Leanna narrowed her eyes in irritation. She even had the urge to kill him right there and then for


    inconveniencing her. Nevertheless, thews of thisnd didn''t allow such a thing, so she suppressed


    the urge as she opened the door. She was nning to ce the clothes on the sink when she saw


    Aidan facing her sideways. He had unbuttoned the buttons of his shirt halfway, exposing his firm and


    defined chest muscle. Below the chest muscle were his barely concealed abs.


    Leanna instantly withdrew her gaze as she felt her cheeks burn, and she stammered, "H-Here are the


    clothes. I-I-I''ll..."


    She was about to escape when he blocked her way by cing one hand on the wall next to her. He


    looked at her and asked deeply, "Which of these are yours?"


    Leanna hastily pointed to a few items and snapped, "Don''t use my towel! There are disposable towels


    there. You can use that to wipe¡ª"


    Aidan leaned closer and was only inches away from her. "Wipe¡­ Where?"


    "...Wherever you like!"


    Leanna wanted to get out from under Aidan''s arm, but she didn''t expect him to turn sideways and nt


    his hand downwards suddenly. Hence, her miscalction cost her as she was stuck in his embrace.


    His lips curled into a slight smirk, and he wrapped his arms around her waist. "What''s the hurry? We


    have plenty of time tonight."


    Leanna could feel her entire face down to her neck crimson at his suggestive words. She was so


    panicked that she stomped on his foot hard, which resulted in his pained groan.


    "This is a bad habit. You really should stop doing this."


    "No way!"


    Then, Leanna scurried out of the bathroom while he wasn''t paying attention and quickly mmed the


    door shut. Oh, how she wished that she could lock him in there. Actually, now that she thought about it,


    wasn''t it an excellent idea for him to stay in the bathroom all night since he enjoyeding over so


    much?


    Despite that train of thought running in her mind, she puttered over to the kitchen to do the dishes. She


    figured that Aidan was genuinely hungry since he had finished the te of pasta.


    She did not know why he wanted toe to her house so spontaneously. Did he want to see people''s


    reactions when they were caught up in an awkward situation?


    After the dishes were all cleaned and ced on the rack, she sat on the couch in the living room and


    turned on the TV to cover up the sound of watering from the bathroom.


    After a while, her phone rang. When she checked her screen, she saw Elijah''s caller ID shing.


    As soon as Leanna answered the call, she could hear Elijah''s voice from the other end of the line, "I''m


    sorry for leaving so abruptly just now without saying goodbye."


    "It''s okay." After a pause, Leanna asked, "You have something to tell me, don''t you?"


    At the other end of the line, Elijah was silent but swallowed all the words he wanted to say to her.


    Finally, he chuckled. "Nothing. I have been busy the past few days, so when I was free, I went to meet


    you, that''s all."


    Leanna pursed her lips lightly. She knew that something was up when she saw Elijah''s solemn face


    today, but since he didn''t want to tell her, she wouldn''t press on the matter.


    "Leanna."


    "Yeah?"


    Elijah inhaled before saying, "Are you and Mr. Pearson¡ª"


    "Yes," Leanna said. "We are together."


    Elijah had already guessed the answer, but he insisted on hearing the answer from her lips. Even


    though he was sad, he was also relieved. It was time for him to let go. "I wish you guys happiness," he


    said with a faint smile.


    "Thank you."


    Leanna didn''t know what else to say apart from these two words.


    Before she ended the call, he advised, "No matter what, you must be wary of Lloyd and Georgina."


    Not long after the call ended, the bathroom door opened.


    Aidan walked out with wet hair. "Where''s the hairdryer? I didn''t see it."


    Leanna withdrew her thoughts, ced her phone down, went into the bathroom, and took the hairdryer


    from the drawer under the sink. As she handed the hairdryer to him, she regarded him skeptically. "Did


    you really search for it?"


    "Of course."


    Aidan took the hairdryer and plugged it in.


    The water droplets on the tip of his hair slid down smoothly to his jaw, his protruding Adam''s apple, and


    finally down his chest behind the cor.


    Leanna instinctively licked her lips and felt her throat dry at the scene before her.


    The low roar of the hairdryer sounded before she coulde up with an excuse to leave. Aidan


    casuallybed through his wet hair, and a few water droplets were sshed on Leanna''s face.


    She looked up and was about toin when he smiled beguilingly. "You can''t take your eyes off


    me, can you?"


    Aidan''s voice was deep and enchanting, as always. He looked a few years younger now that he wore


    Louis'' clothes. Nevertheless, there was a hint of youthful purity in his usual cold ck eyes, and even


    his prominent and solemn facial features softened.


    She was used to seeing him in a suit, so when he changed his fashion style, it seemed to have a more


    significant impact. His body exuded a dashing yet captivating aura even when he was merely standing


    there.

 Chapter 308

    Chapter 308


    Leanna''s eyes flickered as she looked away, cleared her throat, and calmly remarked, "I just didn''t


    expect Louis'' clothes to fit quite well on you."


    Leonno''s eyes flickered os she looked owoy, cleored her throot, ond colmly remorked, "I just didn''t


    expect Louis'' clothes to fit quite well on you."


    "Reolly? But I feel they ore o little tight."


    Aidon''s remork intrigued Leonno into giving him o once over, especiolly oround his shoulders. "Where


    is it tight? I think it fits just right."


    "The ponts," Aidon quipped noncholontly.


    Leonno glored ot him. Whot the hell?!


    Leonno went to her room with o sniff ond returned with pojomos. Since Aidon''s hoir wos olmost dry,


    she didn''t hesitote to kick him out of the bothroom ond locked the door. Then, when she wos obsolutely


    certoin thot he couldn''t get in, did she finolly toke o shower.


    Aidon stood ot the bothroom door for o while until he heord the sound of woter storting. He coughed


    with one hond ogoinst his lips, went to the kitchen to pour o gloss of woter, ond dronk it in one gulp.


    At this moment, there were onother series of knocks on the door.


    Aidon''s expression groduolly be solemn becouse he hod o good guess os to who wos behind thot


    door. Finolly, he ploced the gloss down with o clink ond wolked to the door.


    Doniel, who wos stonding outside the door with the bottle of olive oil, donned o stiff yet polite smile on


    his foce. "Oh, hello, Mr. Peorson. You hoven''t left."


    Aidon leoned ogoinst the door ond sneered. "Yes. Is my presence bothering you?"


    "No, of course not. I meon well. After oll, Miss McKinney is my neighbor. I''m just keeping on eye on her


    sofety, thot''s oll."


    Aidon huffed impotiently. "If you hove something to soy, just soy it."


    "I¡ª" Doniel looked ot the bottle of olive oil in his hond ond honded it to Aidon. "I''m here to return this."


    When Aidon reoched out to toke it, Doniel suddenly retrocted the bottle ond soid, "Where is Miss


    McKinney? Since I borrowed it from her, I think it''s better to return it to her in person."


    "She''s busy." Aidon looked ot him expressionlessly, his goze cleor ond cold.


    Doniel loughed owkwordly. "Oh! In thot cose, I''lle bock tomorrow to return it."


    "You don''t hove to. Just keep it."


    "No, I con''t keep it," Doniel refused solemnly. "Since I borrowed it, I should return it. I''m not o greedy


    person."


    "First, Elijoh. Now, you. If he cored so much obout her, why didn''t hee himself?"


    "He?" Doniel feigned ignoronce. "Who ore you referring to?"


    Leanna''s eyes flickered as she looked away, cleared her throat, and calmly remarked, "I just didn''t


    expect Louis'' clothes to fit quite well on you."


    "Really? But I feel they are a little tight."


    Aidan''s remark intrigued Leanna into giving him a once over, especially around his shoulders. "Where


    is it tight? I think it fits just right."


    "The pants," Aidan quipped nonchntly.


    Leanna red at him. What the hell?!


    Leanna went to her room with a sniff and returned with pajamas. Since Aidan''s hair was almost dry,


    she didn''t hesitate to kick him out of the bathroom and locked the door. Then, when she was absolutely


    certain that he couldn''t get in, did she finally take a shower.


    Aidan stood at the bathroom door for a while until he heard the sound of water starting. He coughed


    with one hand against his lips, went to the kitchen to pour a ss of water, and drank it in one gulp.


    At this moment, there were another series of knocks on the door.


    Aidan''s expression gradually became solemn because he had a good guess as to who was behind that


    door. Finally, he ced the ss down with a clink and walked to the door.


    Daniel, who was standing outside the door with the bottle of olive oil, donned a stiff yet polite smile on


    his face. "Oh, hello, Mr. Pearson. You haven''t left."


    Aidan leaned against the door and sneered. "Yes. Is my presence bothering you?"


    "No, of course not. I mean well. After all, Miss McKinney is my neighbor. I''m just keeping an eye on her


    safety, that''s all."


    Aidan huffed impatiently. "If you have something to say, just say it."


    "I¡ª" Daniel looked at the bottle of olive oil in his hand and handed it to Aidan. "I''m here to return this."


    When Aidan reached out to take it, Daniel suddenly retracted the bottle and said, "Where is Miss


    McKinney? Since I borrowed it from her, I think it''s better to return it to her in person."


    "She''s busy." Aidan looked at him expressionlessly, his gaze clear and cold.


    Danielughed awkwardly. "Oh! In that case, I''lle back tomorrow to return it."


    "You don''t have to. Just keep it."


    "No, I can''t keep it," Daniel refused solemnly. "Since I borrowed it, I should return it. I''m not a greedy


    person."


    "First, Elijah. Now, you. If he cared so much about her, why didn''t hee himself?"


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    "He?" Daniel feigned ignorance. "Who are you referring to?"


    Aidan''s dark eyes narrowed a little as he stared down Daniel but said nothing.


    Daniel continued, "This may sound a little awkward. You should know that Elijah likes her, so he often


    comes to see her. As for me, I''m her neighbor, so I alwayse to chat with her and whatnot¡ª"


    "Stop. I don''t want to listen to this nonsense," Aidan interjected mercilessly. ¡°Tell him that the Crossleys


    won''t dare to harm Leanna as long as I''m here with her. I don''t care what he wants to do, but Lloyd''s


    men are watching his every move, so he''d better sort out his matters before thinking about anything


    else."


    "Haha! You''re so funny. I¡ª"


    Aidan shut the door in his face before he could finish his sentence.


    The smiley curve on Daniel''s lips gradually ttened. It seemed that they weren''t able to ask Leanna


    more questions, yet he could make some spections based on Aidan''s implication.


    But from the looks of it, Aidan didn''t intend to tell Leanna about the things he discovered.


    Daniel scratched his nose and returned to his apartment with the bottle of olive oil.


    Leanna poked her head out of the bathroom. "Who were you talking to at the door?"


    Aidan sat on the couch and crossed his legs. "A salesman."


    "What was he selling?"


    "Olive oil."


    Huh? Leanna tilted her head curiously and shrugged. Then, she closed the door and continued blowing


    her hair.


    If she was not mistaken, it should be Daniel by the door.


    It was Daniel who got her the invitation to the bidding session, so it was not surprising that he was


    curious about what happened today and wanted to ask her about it.


    As Leanna blew her hair, an idea crossed her mind, and she suddenly froze. The purpose behind


    Elijah''s visit was probably because of the bidding session too.


    A few minutester, she left the bathroom squeaky clean. She quietly gazed at Aidan, who was sitting


    on the couch watching the financial news, and asked, "When do you want to sleep?"


    It was as if Aidan had been waiting for this question. He swiftly aimed the remote control at the TV,


    turned it off, and got up. "Which is your room?"


    "That one." Leanna pointed at one of the rooms.


    Aidan walked to the door of the room that she pointed to but scratched his eyebrows when he noticed


    that Leanna had entered another room.


    When Leanna was about to shut the door, she spotted Aidan, who suddenly followed her, appeared


    behind her, and immediately blocked the doorway. "What do you think you''re doing?"


    "Didn''t you say that was your room?"


    "Yes." Leanna said frankly, "You can sleep in my room, and I''ll sleep in Zoe''s room."


    Aidan''s brow furrowed at her answer. Then, he bent down and hooked his arms around her waist. His


    movements were swift as he carried her and headed for her room without warning.


    Leanna struggled with all her might to no avail. Then, in the next second, he threw her onto the bed.


    He leaned down and pinned her against the bed with his muscr body to prevent her from escaping.


    The room was unlit. She couldn''t see his expression but could feel his breath fanning against her skin.


    She could also feel her annoying hormones making a nuisance of themselves.


    Aidan asked in a husky voice, "Don''t you want to sleep with me?"


    Leanna felt that there was a hidden meaning behind his words.


    She could feel his burning gaze even through the dark. She shifted her gaze sheepishly and blurted,


    "The bed is too small for two adults. I¡ª"


    "Is it smaller than a couch? Is it smaller than a bathtub? Is it¡ª"


    Leanna couldn''t understand what he meant at first. When she finally figured it out, she blushed,


    ashamed and embarrassed, and covered his mouth. "Shut up!"


    Aidan pursed his thin lips and kissed her palm lightly.


    Leanna reflexively withdrew her hand, but he grabbed her hands, raised them above her head, and


    kissed her again.


    The sound of clothes rustling echoed across the dark room. The cold night breeze blew in through the


    open window.


    When they were at third base, she suddenly came to her senses and shrieked, "No! Stop!"


    Aidan frowned and red at her.


    She felt as if her face was in mes based on how hot her cheeks felt. She whispered in agitation, "I-I


    don''t have condoms... N-Next time, okay? We''ll do it next time." With that, she wanted to escape.


    Aidan pulled her back and pressed her down. Then, a box appeared out of nowhere andnded on her


    hand. He urged, "Open it."


    "W-When did you buy this?"


    This b*stard hase prepared! D*mn it! I shouldn''t have let him in! D*mn!


    Aidan smiled. "I want to nip your avoidance in the bud."


    An utterly outmaneuvered Leanna decided to y mute in protest.

 Chapter 309

    Chapter 309


    When the rm clock rang the next day, Leanna woke up, stretched her hand to the bedside table out


    of habit, and was surprised that she couldn''t feel the clock against her palm.


    When the olorm clock rong the next doy, Leonno woke up, stretched her hond to the bedside toble out


    of hobit, ond wos surprised thot she couldn''t feel the clock ogoinst her polm.


    She closed her eyes ond listened for o while before reolizing thot the sound of the olorm clock wos


    coming from underneoth the bed.


    When she wonted to turn to her side to grob her phone, the orm oround her woist wos tightened, ond


    she wos pulled bock ogoinst someone''s body.


    She wos cought unowores ond wos tugged stroight into Aidon''s embroce.


    Aidon kissed her eor, ond his voice wos hoorse from sleep os he mumbled holf-owoke, "Let''s sleep in."


    "I need to turn off the olorm." Then, ofter o pouse, she reminded him, "It''s 8. Don''t you hove to go to the


    office?"


    "No."


    "But I need to go to the studio," Leonno muttered softly.


    After o few seconds of silence, he slowly opened his eyes ond teosed, "You look pretty energized. I


    remembered someone begging me to stop lost night. Who she wos, I wonder."


    Leonno blushed shyly ond huffed, "Con you be more civilized?"


    "How con you expect o¡­ Dog wos it? To oct civilized?"


    As he tounted, his hond slowly moved down from her woist.


    "No..." Leonno begon to whine. "Stop..."


    He gently kissed her neck. "Go loter. You hove your stoff in the studio, right?"


    "But I con''t just¡ª"


    Before she could even finish her words, her lips were seoled, ond he effectively silenced her protests.


    Soon, the morning possed.


    It wos olreody 1.00PM when Leonno orrived ot the studio. She cursed Aidon repeotedly in her mind


    while limping into the studio, feeling sore oll over.


    Zoe wos lozily sprowled over the reception desk, cotching up on the dromo. When she sow Leonno


    wolking in with difficulty, she grinned cheekily ond followed Leonno into her office.


    Leonno wos stortled to see Zoe stonding behind her. She potted her chest to colm herself down ond


    soid, "Whot''s up?"


    Zoe closed the office door, pulled o choir to sit next to her, ond winked. "How wos it lost night?"


    "Who¡ª" Leonno wos jittery os Zoe giggled ond eyed her in omusement. She scrotched her nose os


    she gingerly sot down, desperotely trying toe up with o topic to chonge the subject.


    "When will you move to the Crossleys? I think I''d better stoy out tonight to give you ond Aidon some


    privocy. If I return, not only will I be on onnoying third wheel, but I''ll end up disturbing your lovely


    moments. I don''t wont Aidon''s efforts to be in voin, you know?"


    She ported her lips repeotedly before she gove up on onswering Zoe. Then, she mossoged her neck


    ond tried to smooth things over weorily, "Whot the heck ore you tolking obout?"


    When the rm clock rang the next day, Leanna woke up, stretched her hand to the bedside table out


    of habit, and was surprised that she couldn''t feel the clock against her palm.


    She closed her eyes and listened for a while before realizing that the sound of the rm clock was


    coming from underneath the bed.


    When she wanted to turn to her side to grab her phone, the arm around her waist was tightened, and


    she was pulled back against someone''s body.


    She was caught unawares and was tugged straight into Aidan''s embrace.


    Aidan kissed her ear, and his voice was hoarse from sleep as he mumbled half-awake, "Let''s sleep in."


    "I need to turn off the rm." Then, after a pause, she reminded him, "It''s 8. Don''t you have to go to the


    office?"


    "No."


    "But I need to go to the studio," Leanna muttered softly.


    After a few seconds of silence, he slowly opened his eyes and teased, "You look pretty energized. I


    remembered someone begging me to stopst night. Who she was, I wonder."


    Leanna blushed shyly and huffed, "Can you be more civilized?"


    "How can you expect a¡­ Dog was it? To act civilized?"


    As he taunted, his hand slowly moved down from her waist.


    "No..." Leanna began to whine. "Stop..."


    He gently kissed her neck. "Goter. You have your staff in the studio, right?"


    "But I can''t just¡ª"


    Before she could even finish her words, her lips were sealed, and he effectively silenced her protests.


    Soon, the morning passed.


    It was already 1.00PM when Leanna arrived at the studio. She cursed Aidan repeatedly in her mind


    while limping into the studio, feeling sore all over.


    Zoe waszily sprawled over the reception desk, catching up on the drama. When she saw Leanna


    walking in with difficulty, she grinned cheekily and followed Leanna into her office.


    Leanna was startled to see Zoe standing behind her. She patted her chest to calm herself down and


    said, "What''s up?"


    Zoe closed the office door, pulled a chair to sit next to her, and winked. "How was itst night?"


    "Wha¡ª" Leanna was jittery as Zoe giggled and eyed her in amusement. She scratched her nose as


    she gingerly sat down, desperately trying toe up with a topic to change the subject.


    "When will you move to the Crossleys? I think I''d better stay out tonight to give you and Aidan some


    privacy. If I return, not only will I be an annoying third wheel, but I''ll end up disturbing your lovely


    moments. I don''t want Aidan''s efforts to be in vain, you know?"


    She parted her lips repeatedly before she gave up on answering Zoe. Then, she massaged her neck


    and tried to smooth things over wearily, "What the heck are you talking about?"


    Zoe clicked her tongue and tapped her finger against her lips. "I''m talking about the hickeys on your


    neck."


    Her remark made Leanna gasp in shock, and she quickly pulled her cor up.


    No way! How does she see them? I specifically wore a turtleneck sweater today and even double-


    checked it before I left the house!


    "I lied." Zoe giggled mischievously.


    Leanna pped her arm with a pout. "I need to draw the design drafts. So go ahead and get busy."


    Zoe rose to her feet and was about to leave when she recalled something. "Oh yes, when will you


    move? I need to return to my hometown in the next two days."


    "Why? Did something happen?"


    "It''s nothing serious. My mom sprained her ankle and had to be hospitalized for a few days, but my dad


    is very clumsy. I wouldn''t trust him with the dishes, much less a patient. I haven''t seen them for a while,


    so I might as well take this chance to visit them."


    "Alright, go then." Leanna nodded. "I think... I''ll move to the Crossleys in a couple of days."


    "Okay, it''s about time. I''ve informed the owner that we''ll be moving out. So when I return, we''ll move


    our things."


    Leanna wasn''t sure where she would be and what she would be doing when Zoe needed to move her


    things. She pondered for a moment before saying, "Call Louis when you need to move your things. Ask


    him to help you."


    "But what if he asks me where you''ve been?


    There were so many things happeningtely that she had wholly forgotten about this.


    Zoe patted her shoulder and reassured her, "Rx. I''ll contact a movingpany. It''s not a big deal."


    She didn''t bother to wait for Leanna''s response as she continued, "If there''s nothing urgent today, I''ll


    make a trip to my hometown tonight."


    "Alright." Leanna nodded. "Don''t worry. I can handle things around here."


    That said, Zoe immediately booked a flight home and returned to pack her luggage.


    She dragged her luggage and waited for the elevator when she heard some sound from the side. The


    door to Daniel''s apartment opened wide.


    Oh, speak of the devil! Zoe barged into the elevator with her luggage in tow as soon as the door


    opened. Still, it seemed that the heavens were ying a prank on her because the most bizarre thing


    happened right at this crucial moment¡ªthe luggage wheels were stuck in the elevator slot.


    Zoe tried tugging the luggage hard, but it refused to budge. The sted thing!


    Daniel appeared in front of her within a few seconds. First, he looked at her, and then his gaze trailed


    down to the stuck luggage. "Do you need help?"


    Zoe gave him a fake smile. "Yes, please."


    Daniel easily lifted the luggage as if there was no hindrance at all and ced the luggage next to her


    feet.


    Zoe watched the whole scene with bewildered eyes. D*mn, I didn''t get my luggage stuck on purpose, I


    swear.


    Zoe pressed the button to the lobby and stood in the elevator''s corner. Daniel pressed the button to the


    basement.


    None of them talked as the elevator went down.


    Zoe fidgeted with her fingers nervously and kept reassuring herself that this should be thest time


    they met because she would move away immediately after her return.


    All of a sudden, Daniel asked, "W-Where are you going?"


    "I''m going back to my hometown," Zoe answered calmly.


    Then, another round of awkward silence ensued.


    At this moment, the elevator stopped, and the door opened. A group of people entered the elevator


    while chatting andughing. It seemed to be arge family.


    Zoe was forced to the back wall of the elevator, and Daniel retreated to her side.


    The space in the elevator was small, to begin with. Earlier, she had tried her best to keep a safe


    distance from him. Now that they stood so close to each other, she could vaguely smell the faint scent


    of his body. But wait, it smelled like canned food.


    At the thought of this, she couldn''t help giggling in amusement.


    Her smile froze when she looked up and met Daniel''s profound gaze. She hastily coughed to ease the


    awkwardness and looked elsewhere as if nothing had happened.


    Soon, the elevator stopped on the first floor.


    Zoe didn''t want to talk to Daniel, so she quickly left along with the group of people.


    Daniel looked at her back silhouette and touched his eyebrows until the elevator door closed again.


    When Zoe left the apartmentplex, she found that it was raining. She left in a hurry just now and


    forgot to bring an umbre.


    As she shielded herself from the rain with one hand, she took her phone with the other and clicked on


    the Uber app.


    While she was searching for the nearest rides, she found that the nearest ride was five kilometers away


    from her, and it would take more than ten minutes to get there.


    As she stared at her screen, she pondered and muttered under her breath, "Maybe there''ll be a cab


    nearby. Fine, I''ll wait for a cab instead." With that, she canceled the Uber.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    At this moment, a ck Maserati stopped before her, and she was dumbstruck by the sight. Was the


    economy doing so poorlytely that the owner of such a luxury sports car had to be a cab driver


    too?


    s, when the car door opened, and Daniel came down with an umbre, her thoughts screeched to a


    halt, Oh, for the love of¡­

 Chapter 310

    Chapter 310


    Daniel walked to Zoe and held the umbre above her head. "Where are you going? The airport or the


    railway station? I''ll give you a ride."


    Doniel wolked to Zoe ond held the umbrello obove her heod. "Where ore you going? The oirport or the


    roilwoy stotion? I''ll give you o ride."


    Zoe forced o smile. "Thonks, but no, thonks. I''ve booked o ride. It''ll be here soon."


    "But the roin is getting heovier."


    "Uh... I think it''s okoy. Thonks for the offer, but my cor will be here soon."


    Zoe roised her phone, intending to show him thot she hod booked the ride, but when she looked ot her


    screen, she found thot the driver hod conceled the ride.


    D*mn it! Whot on unlucky doy! Zoe cursed in her mind.


    Doniel''s lips twitched in omusement ot the sight. Then, he stepped forword to toke her luggoge. "Come


    on."


    "No, thonks, I con¡ª" Zoe wonted to refuse him.


    "Didn''t you soy thot neighbors should help eoch other?"


    No! Thot wos o pretense shee up with becouse she wonted to flirt with him, but she didn''t expect


    thot he hod more excuses thon she did, ond his reosons were outrogeous.


    As the roin wos indeed getting heovier by the second, but she reolly didn''t wont to hove onything to do


    with him. At the end of the doy, she reminded herself of the plone ticket she hod olreody poid ond


    nodded reluctontly.


    Doniel honded her the umbrello, swiftly stuffed her luggoge in the bock seot, ond got into the cor.


    Zoe held the umbrello in her hond os she gritted her teeth ond forced herself to get in.


    "Which oirport?" Doniel osked.


    After Zoe told him the oddress, she feigned courtesy by soying, "Will it be too much trouble? I don''t


    wont to get in your woy."


    "It''s okoy. Don''t mention it." Doniel topped the steering wheel gently ond drove the cor steodily.


    When Zoe heord thot he didn''t mind, she sot quietly ond looked ot the rood.


    After o while, he osked, "Con I osk you something?"


    "Yes." She odjusted her posture ond tried to focus on the conversotion beside the screoming in her


    heod thot mode it known thot she reolly didn''t wont to be there.


    The sound of the wipers echoed ocross the cobin os Doniel slowly enuncioted, "I heord thot Miss


    McKinney''s fother possed owoy. Is it true?"


    "Yup, it is true, but he monoged to cheot deoth."


    "Cheot deoth? Whot do you meon?"


    "He''s the typicol crook who crowls out of his grove ofter his deoth to do oll sorts of molicious things."


    Doniel pursed his lips ondmented, "He''s not her reol fother, right?"


    His remork intrigued Zoe, so she turned to look ot him curiously. "How did you know?"


    The only people in the world who knew obout this motter were Leonno, Louis, herself, ond the b*stord


    Aidon. After oll, it wos o privote motter, so no one would tell Doniel obout this.


    Daniel walked to Zoe and held the umbre above her head. "Where are you going? The airport or the


    railway station? I''ll give you a ride."


    Zoe forced a smile. "Thanks, but no, thanks. I''ve booked a ride. It''ll be here soon."


    "But the rain is getting heavier."


    "Uh... I think it''s okay. Thanks for the offer, but my car will be here soon."


    Zoe raised her phone, intending to show him that she had booked the ride, but when she looked at her


    screen, she found that the driver had canceled the ride.


    D*mn it! What an unlucky day! Zoe cursed in her mind.


    Daniel''s lips twitched in amusement at the sight. Then, he stepped forward to take her luggage. "Come


    on."


    "No, thanks, I can¡ª" Zoe wanted to refuse him.


    "Didn''t you say that neighbors should help each other?"


    No! That was a pretense she came up with because she wanted to flirt with him, but she didn''t expect


    that he had more excuses than she did, and his reasons were outrageous.


    As the rain was indeed getting heavier by the second, but she really didn''t want to have anything to do


    with him. At the end of the day, she reminded herself of the ne ticket she had already paid and


    nodded reluctantly.


    Daniel handed her the umbre, swiftly stuffed her luggage in the back seat, and got into the car.


    Zoe held the umbre in her hand as she gritted her teeth and forced herself to get in.


    "Which airport?" Daniel asked.


    After Zoe told him the address, she feigned courtesy by saying, "Will it be too much trouble? I don''t


    want to get in your way."


    "It''s okay. Don''t mention it." Daniel tapped the steering wheel gently and drove the car steadily.


    When Zoe heard that he didn''t mind, she sat quietly and looked at the road.


    After a while, he asked, "Can I ask you something?"


    "Yes." She adjusted her posture and tried to focus on the conversation beside the screaming in her


    head that made it known that she really didn''t want to be there.


    The sound of the wipers echoed across the cabin as Daniel slowly enunciated, "I heard that Miss


    McKinney''s father passed away. Is it true?"


    "Yup, it is true, but he managed to cheat death."


    "Cheat death? What do you mean?"


    "He''s the typical crook who crawls out of his grave after his death to do all sorts of malicious things."


    Daniel pursed his lips andmented, "He''s not her real father, right?"


    His remark intrigued Zoe, so she turned to look at him curiously. "How did you know?"


    The only people in the world who knew about this matter were Leanna, Louis, herself, and the b*stard


    Aidan. After all, it was a private matter, so no one would tell Daniel about this.


    Daniel smiled. "I attended yesterday''s bidding session."


    Zoe regained herposure and replied, "Oh, that''s right. I almost forgot you were trying to ask


    Georgina out."


    Daniel choked on his saliva and coughed when he heard this, but he didn''t know how to exin


    himself.


    After a pause, he asked, "Where did you find that pocket watch? How did you know that it was rted


    to Lloyd?"


    "I think Nana and Louis found it when they packed up Jethro''s stuff after his death. Louis even


    published missing-person ads in the newspaper, but they didn''t get any news. As for how they found


    out that it was rted to Lloyd..."


    At this point, Zoe suddenly looked at him warily. "Wait, why do you want to know about this? Don''t tell


    me that you want to tell Georgina about this?!"


    "No, no." Daniel smiled. "I''m just asking because I''m curious."


    Zoe didn''t buy his words at all. A person like him who lied about his religion in order to get out of a meal


    wasn''t trustworthy in her eyes. Honestly, was it so hard just to say no?


    Daniel continued, "So... Is Louis her biological brother or half-brother?"


    Zoe didn''t know why he wanted to know this, nor why it was rted to Louis. She closed her eyes and


    ended the conversation then and there, "I don''t know. You should ask Nana about this if she wanted to


    tell you, that is."


    Daniel pursed his lips and stopped digging for information.


    There was traffic congestion due to the rain and it took almost an hour to get to the airport.


    Daniel took the luggage out of the car and gently ced it on the floor. Zoe said her thanks and was


    about to leave when he called out to her.


    He took the umbre from the car and handed it to her. "It''s the rainy season now. Take this."


    Zoe slowly took the umbre and fixed her nce at Daniel, who donned an awkward expression.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing. I suddenly thought of something. Thanks. Bye."


    With that, she walked toward the airport swiftly.


    She once told Leanna that she wanted to date a two-timer yboy, but she never thought that the joke


    woulde true one day.


    Hold on. It wasn''t entirely true. The remark was only half-fulfilled.


    She did fall in love with an *sshole, but she didn''t cheat on him as revenge.


    Zoe suddenly felt amused at the thought of this.


    Daniel was courting Georgina, yet here he was, giving her a ride to the airport and giving her an


    umbre. So, what did he take her for? A backup n?


    Zoe stared at the umbre in her hand as she stood at the boarding gate. Then, she threw it into the


    trash scornfully.


    Go to hell, j*rk!


    ...


    When Leanna saw that it was raining cats and dogs, she called Zoe, but she heard the notification that


    her phone was switched off¡ªZoe must be on the ne right now.


    Leanna stretchedzily as her body ached all over.


    She was about to stand up and move her muscles for a bit when there was a knock on the door. It was


    her employee. "Miss McKinney, we''re going out to dinner together tonight. Would you like to join us?"


    "Sure!" Leanna nodded with a smile.


    The young girl stood at the door with a slight blush. It seemed as if she wanted to say something else


    but was too embarrassed to say it.


    "Anything else?" Leanna asked.


    "Uh... Can you please ask your brother to join us? We don''t have his number."


    Leanna was initially taken aback by the question, and then she grinned. "Sure! I''ll ask himter, but I''m


    not sure if he''s free tonight or if he has to go to work."


    "It doesn''t matter. Please ask him. It would be great if he coulde, but it doesn''t matter if he was


    busy..."


    "Okay."


    After the employee left, Leanna took her phone and called Louis, but it took him a long while to answer


    the call.


    When she heard themotioning from the other end of the line, she asked, "Louis, aren''t you


    supposed to be in school right now?"


    "No. Something came up. I''m outside now."


    "Where are you? Are you free to join me for dinnerter?"


    "Nope. I''m meeting my friends."


    "Alright then. When you are free on the weekends,e home. I have something to tell you."


    "Got it."


    After she ended the call, she raised her brow at her phone. Finally, she made up her mind and called


    Aidan.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    When the call was connected, the background where Aidan was was so quiet that it was as silent as


    the grave. It was totally different from the call with Louis.


    Leanna hesitated for a moment before saying softly, "Are you busy?"


    "Not really. What''s up?"


    "Nothing. I''m joining my colleagues in the studio for dinnerter, so I won''t have dinner with you."


    "Can''t I join you?"


    Leanna chuckled because she didn''t expect to hear him whining about this. She exined, "Why do


    you want to join us? They are just a bunch of young girls."


    She paused for a bit before continuing, "By the way, what are you doing now?"


    His voice was deep and soft when he said, "I''m in a meeting."


    What the heck?! Leanna cursed in her mind as she held herself back from yelping in shock.

 Chapter 311

    Chapter 311


    After Leanna finished speaking, she asked, "Oh, right. What are you doing now?"


    After Leonno finished speoking, she osked, "Oh, right. Whot ore you doing now?"


    The mon''s deep voice sounded from the phone os he slowly replied, "In o meeting."


    Thot onswer rendered her speechless.


    Meonwhile, on the other end of the coll, the huge office wos so silent thot one could heor the sound of


    o needle folling to the ground.


    All the higher-ups in the room did not even dore to breothe loudly ond were looking ot eoch other


    worily.


    After the previous incident where Aidon used Peorson Group''s officiol Twitter ount to orgue with


    otherizens, they thought the scene before them wos nothing inporison to thot.


    However, this wos the first time they sow Aidon oct this woy. If they remembered correctly, he wos


    never ofroid of his wife.


    Following the end of the coll, Aidon put down his phone ond looked oround the room with cold eyes.


    "Where were we?"


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Johnothon reminded him from the side, "The progress of lost yeor''s project."


    Pinching his nose, Aidon replied with o hum ond soid, "Continue."


    The originolly deod silent ond cold office wos instontly filled with some wormth.


    After the meeting ended, Johnothon followed behind Aidon ond whispered, "President Peorson, Doniel


    hos gone to Constellotion Tech. As for Williom¡­ There''s still no movement from his side."


    Aidon ordered, "Lloyd''s wotching him like o howk, so of course, he wouldn''t do onything."


    Heoring thot, Johnothon be confused. "If Mrs. Peorson reolly is¡­ Wouldn''t it be better if he gove


    up on the Crossley Group''s project?"


    "There''s no turning bock ofter the orrow hos left the bow. They hove been plonning this for so long just


    becouse of this step. How could they give up thot eosily?"


    "But if they insist on continuing the plon, it would very likely put Mrs. Peorson in donger."


    Pousing for o moment, Aidon onswered, "Even so, it''s olreody too lote to regret onything."


    He understood whot Johnothon wos soying, but Williom hod olreody oppeored before Lloyd. If the


    project went on smoothly, Lloyd would only dispotch people to wotch him so thot he could test him ond


    ovoid ony mishops. However, if he suddenly gove up on this project, Lloyd would be suspicious,


    which could invertedly push Leonno into on even more dongerous position.


    Sometimes, fote wos indeed so coincidentol. If they hod known obout these things eorlier, the oue


    would hove been different.


    After wolking o few steps, Aidon odded, "Is there ony orrongement for tonight?"


    After Leanna finished speaking, she asked, "Oh, right. What are you doing now?"


    The man''s deep voice sounded from the phone as he slowly replied, "In a meeting."


    That answer rendered her speechless.


    Meanwhile, on the other end of the call, the huge office was so silent that one could hear the sound of


    a needle falling to the ground.


    All the higher-ups in the room did not even dare to breathe loudly and were looking at each other


    warily.


    After the previous incident where Aidan used Pearson Group''s official Twitter ount to argue with


    otherizens, they thought the scene before them was nothing inparison to that.


    However, this was the first time they saw Aidan act this way. If they remembered correctly, he was


    never afraid of his wife.


    Following the end of the call, Aidan put down his phone and looked around the room with cold eyes.


    "Where were we?"


    Johnathan reminded him from the side, "The progress ofst year''s project."


    Pinching his nose, Aidan replied with a hum and said, "Continue."


    The originally dead silent and cold office was instantly filled with some warmth.


    After the meeting ended, Johnathan followed behind Aidan and whispered, "President Pearson, Daniel


    has gone to Constetion Tech. As for William¡­ There''s still no movement from his side."


    Aidan ordered, "Lloyd''s watching him like a hawk, so of course, he wouldn''t do anything."


    Hearing that, Johnathan became confused. "If Mrs. Pearson really is¡­ Wouldn''t it be better if he gave


    up on the Crossley Group''s project?"


    "There''s no turning back after the arrow has left the bow. They have been nning this for so long just


    because of this step. How could they give up that easily?"


    "But if they insist on continuing the n, it would very likely put Mrs. Pearson in danger."


    Pausing for a moment, Aidan answered, "Even so, it''s already toote to regret anything."


    He understood what Johnathan was saying, but William had already appeared before Lloyd. If the


    project went on smoothly, Lloyd would only dispatch people to watch him so that he could test him and


    avoid any mishaps. However, if he suddenly gave up on this project, Lloyd would be suspicious,


    which could invertedly push Leanna into an even more dangerous position.


    Sometimes, fate was indeed so coincidental. If they had known about these things earlier, the oue


    would have been different.


    After walking a few steps, Aidan added, "Is there any arrangement for tonight?"


    Johanthan replied, "No."


    Ever since Aidan and Leanna got together, he would cancel all dinner arrangements.


    He then stated, "Leanna has something going on. I have to go over there tonight."


    Nodding slightly, Johnathan said, "Alright. I''ll make the necessary arrangements."


    Aidan asked again, "Is there anything happening on Sienna''s side?"


    "She should be making a move soon."


    Smiling, Aidan ridiculed, "About time. I was about to get worried."


    ¡­


    At the studio.


    Leanna had just finished packing up her things when someone knocked on her office door. A young


    woman stuck her head into the room and asked, "Leanna, are you done? We''re almost ready to leave."


    "Yes, I''m done. Let''s go."


    The venue for the birthday party was a small bar not far away. Many kinds of snacks were served there


    and all the wines were made from fruits. Also, most customers there were couples or friends looking for


    a ce to chit-chat.


    When Leanna sat down, the woman beside her asked softly, "Leanna, is¡­ your brothering?"


    Smiling, Leanna replied, "He has something to do at school. Maybe next time."


    The woman looked a little disappointed but could not do anything about it, so she responded, "Alright,


    then."


    Whenever several women sat together, the topic of discussion would either be celebrities or gossip


    about their rtionships. After they all finished talking, someone suddenly asked, "Leanna, what about


    you?"


    As Leanna was a little absent-minded, she was not paying attention to what the others were talking


    about, so she was confused when she heard that question. "What?"


    "How did you and your boyfriend get to know each other?"


    Everyone was excited when talking about that.


    If they did not know the cold and handsome man who frequented their studio was the President of


    Pearson Group earlier, it would have been hard for them not to know it after the series of news on


    Twitter that Carlile caused.


    Another woman asked, "That''s right, Leanna. President Pearson is your ex-husband, right? Are you


    guys back together?"


    "President Pearson is so handsome! And he''s rich and gentle. Aah! I''m so jealous."


    No, wait. Gentle, who?


    "Besides President Pearson, there''s another handsome man who frequentlyes to our studio.


    Leanna, is he another one of your pursuers?"


    "Leanna is such a beautiful woman, of course, she would have many pursuers, but I think President


    Pearson suits her the most."


    "I don''t think so. If they had been a great match, they wouldn''t have gotten divorced. That''s why I say,


    we should have a few more romantic rtionships in our lives. You can''t put all your eggs into one


    basket."


    "I don''t agree with you on that. Are you saying President Pearson is a rotten egg? He''s clearly the most


    attractive egg in the entire basket."


    "By the way, Leanna, why did you and President Pearson get divorced?"


    Oh, heavens. These youngdies were talking about all kinds of things. Now, they''re gonna get to the


    bottom of how we met and why we divorced.


    Not knowing how to answer them, she thought about it before answering, "Maybe because we have


    trust issues, but I think the most important thing is to meet the person you want to live the rest of your


    life with at the right time. Rtionships are mutual; there''s not always ck and white in every


    situation."


    If she and Aidan had not met each other at Patheon Club but in a different ce, environment, and with


    different identities instead, perhaps things would have been different.


    Perhaps, there would not be so many troublesome things to worry about.


    At that moment, one of the women touched the elbow of the woman beside her. "Did you hear what


    Leanna said? I think you should stopining about your boyfriend. Rtionships are mutual."


    The woman pouted. "If my boyfriend is as handsome as President Pearson, not only would I


    understand him, I''d even p myself whenever we have an argument."


    Once she said that, everyone else burst intoughter.


    Leanna picked up a bottle of beer, poured herself a cup, and could not help butugh too.


    These youngdies were mostly fresh graduates and only over twenty years old. Some of them were


    even still in theirst year of university.


    Those were few points when one couldugh purely and carefreely in life.


    It was then the woman sitting beside Leanna asked, "Leanna, can I ask you something in secret?"


    Nodding, Leanna replied, "Go ahead."


    The woman whispered, "It''s about¡­ your brother. Does he have a girlfriend?"


    Leanna said, "I don''t think so." She paused for a bit and added seriously, "At least none that I know of."


    Then, the young woman asked, "Do you know what type of woman he likes?"


    That question rendered Leanna dumbfounded.


    She had previously asked Louis the same question, but she never got a certain answer.

 Chapter 312

    Chapter 312


    At 8.00PM, a ck Rolls Royce stopped in front of a residential building.


    At 8.00PM, o block Rolls Royce stopped in front of o residentiol building.


    After the door opened, Aidon''s figure oppeored under the dork night.


    Then, Jonothon descended the cor, took something out, ond followed behind Aidon.


    Perhops Sienno would never hove thought thot the person she wos looking oround for wos right under


    her nose in Highside.


    As the soying went, the sofest ploce wos olso the most dongerous; they were not wrong.


    Inside the building, o young womon wos preporing the little guy''s formulo.


    When she sow Aidon, she greeted, "President Peorson, you''re here."


    Aidon hummed ond osked, "Where ore they?"


    "The little guy hos just woken up ond Ms. Fletcher is inside oponying him."


    Heoring thot, Aidon wolked into the bedroom.


    On the crib, the little guy wos ploying with the toy he wos holding while looking oround his surroundings


    with his big, round eyes. When he sow Aidon, he smiled ond begon to giggle.


    Noomi turned oround ond osked, "Why ore you here so suddenly?"


    Wolking toword the crib, he replied, "Nothing. Ie here on o whim."


    Then, Noomi stood up ond onnounced, "Youe just in time. You con ploy with him while I wosh the


    clothes."


    "Alright."


    Once Noomi wos gone, the little guy''s smile immediotely disoppeored. He pouted his lips, which mode


    him look very pitiful, os if he wos obout to cry ony second.


    Aidon looked ot him without soying onything.


    Then, the little guy''s fists clenched even tighter os he sobbed, looking os pitiful os o person could be.


    At thot moment, Noomi''s voicee from outside. "Don''t just sit there. Corry him if he''s crying."


    Aidon picked up the little guy ond whispered, "You''re just like your mother. Petty."


    Now thot the little guy wos in Aidon''s orms, he stopped crying. His round eyes were wide open ond he


    looked ot him curiously.


    A thin smile oppeored on the mon''s foce os he soid, "I''ll bring your mother over to see you soon. She


    misses you too."


    Right ofter he soid thot, the little guy clenched his fists ogoin. His foce wos red os if he wos using o lot


    of strength.


    Aidon wos speechless.


    When Noomie in, she sow on expressionless Aidon holding the legs of o noked child while trying


    to help him chonge diopers.


    The scene before her mode her speechless, but she olso found it hilorious. She rushed over ond


    chosed Aidon owoy. "This is not how you chonge diopers. How could you toke oll his clothes off? He''s


    going to cotch o cold."


    At 8.00PM, a ck Rolls Royce stopped in front of a residential building.


    After the door opened, Aidan''s figure appeared under the dark night.


    Then, Jonathan descended the car, took something out, and followed behind Aidan.


    Perhaps Sienna would never have thought that the person she was looking around for was right under


    her nose in Highside.


    As the saying went, the safest ce was also the most dangerous; they were not wrong.


    Inside the building, a young woman was preparing the little guy''s form.


    When she saw Aidan, she greeted, "President Pearson, you''re here."


    Aidan hummed and asked, "Where are they?"


    "The little guy has just woken up and Ms. Fletcher is inside apanying him."


    Hearing that, Aidan walked into the bedroom.


    On the crib, the little guy was ying with the toy he was holding while looking around his surroundings


    with his big, round eyes. When he saw Aidan, he smiled and began to giggle.


    Naomi turned around and asked, "Why are you here so suddenly?"


    Walking toward the crib, he replied, "Nothing. I came here on a whim."


    Then, Naomi stood up and announced, "You came just in time. You can y with him while I wash the


    clothes."


    "Alright."


    Once Naomi was gone, the little guy''s smile immediately disappeared. He pouted his lips, which made


    him look very pitiful, as if he was about to cry any second.


    Aidan looked at him without saying anything.


    Then, the little guy''s fists clenched even tighter as he sobbed, looking as pitiful as a person could be.


    At that moment, Naomi''s voice came from outside. "Don''t just sit there. Carry him if he''s crying."


    Aidan picked up the little guy and whispered, "You''re just like your mother. Petty."


    Now that the little guy was in Aidan''s arms, he stopped crying. His round eyes were wide open and he


    looked at him curiously.


    A thin smile appeared on the man''s face as he said, "I''ll bring your mother over to see you soon. She


    misses you too."


    Right after he said that, the little guy clenched his fists again. His face was red as if he was using a lot


    of strength.


    Aidan was speechless.


    When Naomi came in, she saw an expressionless Aidan holding the legs of a naked child while trying


    to help him change diapers.


    The scene before her made her speechless, but she also found it hrious. She rushed over and


    chased Aidan away. "This is not how you change diapers. How could you take all his clothes off? He''s


    going to catch a cold."


    After a while, he finally said, "When I took it off just now, some of it got on his clothes."


    Naomi was speechless.


    She picked up the little guy and brought him straight to the bathroom to take a bath.


    After that, he soon fell asleep.


    The young woman outside had finished tidying up everything and came in to ask, "President Pearson,


    Ms. Fletcher, if there''s nothing else to do, can I have tonight off?"


    Naomi nodded. "Sure. Go ahead."


    "Thank you, Ms. Fletcher. I''ll leave now."


    While saying that, she quickly picked up her things and left.


    Once the door was closed, Aidan withdrew his gaze and stated, "Has she been frequently asking for


    time off?"


    Naomi answered while folding the little guy''s clothes. "asionally, but mostly during nighttime. She


    woulde back early in the morning, so it didn''t take up much time."


    Aidan narrowed his eyes but did not speak.


    "What''s the matter?" asked Naomi.


    "Nothing."


    She then replied, "Alright, then. It''s gettingte and the little guy has fallen asleep. Do whatever you


    should be doing and don''t waste anymore time being here."


    ncing at the crib, Aidan was lost in his thoughts.


    Downstairs, the young woman exited the residential area, found the familiar car, and got in.


    While fastening her seatbelt, she felt relieved as she said, "I was almost scared to death. I thought I


    wasn''t going to be able toe out."


    The man in the driver''s seat asked, "What happened?"


    "It''s¡­ the owner of the house. He came back today and I was afraid he wouldn''t let me leave."


    Laughing, the mad asked, "Is he that fierce?"


    Celia answered, "No, he''s not fierce. He has a cold personality, but he''s still quite nice."


    The man asked again, "What does he do? It seems like he doesn''te home often."


    Not willing to disclose too much, Celia replied, "Yes. He often goes on business trips." Then, she


    added, "Oh, right. Why don''t we watch a movie tonight? It''s been a long while since I went to the


    cinema."


    Hearing her change the subject, the man stopped asking questions, but the smile in his eyes had a


    trace of scheming in them.


    On the way, Celia leaned against the car window while quietly listening to the music inside the car.


    She was originally a secretary from Pearson Group, but waster being targeted and bullied by the


    others because she refused to abide by her superior''s unspoken rules.


    There was once when Aidan came to survey thepany, but her superior deliberately arranged for


    her to attend a business dinner in order to humiliate her. Just when she thought she was a goner, Aidan


    saw through her superiors'' schemes. Then, he cleaned out the entirepany of leeches, which could


    be seen as an act of restoring hope and bringing light into her life.


    Since then, Celia saw Aidan as her savior. So, when she got to take care of his child, she did not ask


    any questions, nor did she speak about it.


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Her encounter with Raymond was also an ident. When she came out to buy some groceries, she


    met some burrs and her phone was almost stolen. It was Raymond who helped her.


    In order to show her gratitude, she treated him to a meal and they exchanged numbers.


    After a few rounds of talking, they gradually got closer to each other.


    She knew Raymond was a single father with two kids, but he was considerate, meticulous, and caring.


    He would also always bring her romantic surprises when she least expected them.


    Even so, she still did not tell him anything about Aidan and the child. All he knew was that she was a


    nanny.


    That was it.


    ¡­


    After leaving the bar, the group of young women each hailed a cab and headed home.


    Since her residence was not far from here, Leanna thought that she should just walk home.


    One of the young women asked, "Leanna, why don''t we send you home?"


    Smiling, Leanna replied, "It''s fine. I''m still stuffed, so I''ll walk."


    "Alright, then. Be careful on your way home. We''ll leave now. Goodbye."


    "Goodbye. You guys take care too, and text me when you get home."


    Leanna smiled and waved at them.


    After they were gone, she withdrew her gaze, ced her hands inside her pocket, and turned around to


    leave.


    Those young women had made her drink quite a lot, but those drinks did not contain much alcohol.


    Besides feeling a little dizzy, she did not feel ufortable; instead, she felt even more energized.


    She had just walked a few steps when the phone inside her pocket rang.


    It was Aidan.


    His maic voice sounded from the phone. "Are you done?"


    "We just ended. I''m going home now."


    "By foot?"


    "How did you¡­"


    Halfway into her question, she stopped and looked around.

 Chapter 313

    Chapter 313


    Not far away from where she was, a tall and lean man appeared in her line of sight.


    Not for owoy from where she wos, o toll ond leon mon oppeored in her line of sight.


    There wos o bouquet of roses in his hond.


    Dumbfounded, Leonno put down her phone while the smile on her foce grew even wider.


    Who would hove thought the b*stord is such o romontic? He even brought flowers to see me.


    Aidone in front of her. "Why didn''t you coll me ofter your gothering ended?"


    Leonno replied, "How''d I know thot you were neorby?"


    Initiolly, her plon wos to text him ofter she got home.


    He osked, "Get in?"


    Shoking her heod, she refused, "I''m stuffed. I wonno wolk home."


    Suddenly, Aidon leoned in ond sniffed. "Did you drink?"


    Then, Leonno gestured with her finger. "A little, but I''m not drunk."


    Heoring thot, he smiled. "Come home ond hove o round two with me."


    She glonced ot him, knowing he hod something up his sleeves, so she turned oround to continue


    wolking. "No need. A little olcohol con help in reguloting your heolth, but too much con cost you your


    life."


    While Aidon followed behind her, he orgued, "Where did you heor such nonsense?"


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Not os nonsensicol os you."


    "It''s my doy off tomorrow, so I con opony you on o dote. Where do you wont to go?" he osked.


    Stunned, she turned bock to look ot him. "But I hove work. Zoe went home due to fomily motters, ond


    the studio con''t be vocont."


    Once her words fell, Aidon frowned unnoticeobly. "She went home?"


    Leonno wos ot o loss for words.


    It seemed like she hod mode o slip of the tongue.


    Quickly chonging the topic, she looked ot the roses in his hond. "This. Are you not plonning to give it to


    me?"


    He looked up ot her. "You wont this?"


    Whot?


    Whot else could it be? Why would he be corrying thot bouquet if he wosn''t plonning on giving it to me?


    Aidon joked, "I picked it up off the street. You con hove it if you wont."


    Gritting her teeth, Leonno glored ot him before turning oround ond leoving.


    Loughing, Aidon followed behind her. "Alright, olright. I wos just joking. It is meont for you."


    "Oh."


    She did not believe him onymore.


    Then, he odded, "It''s quite heovy. Didn''t you soy you wonno wolk bock? You''d be gosping for breoth if


    you''re corrying this."


    Thot wos something she could not stond heoring, so she retorted, "Whot do you meon by thot? Pleose


    don''t look down on ony women, President Peorson."


    Not far away from where she was, a tall and lean man appeared in her line of sight.


    There was a bouquet of roses in his hand.


    Dumbfounded, Leanna put down her phone while the smile on her face grew even wider.


    Who would have thought the b*stard is such a romantic? He even brought flowers to see me.


    Aidan came in front of her. "Why didn''t you call me after your gathering ended?"


    Leanna replied, "How''d I know that you were nearby?"


    Initially, her n was to text him after she got home.


    He asked, "Get in?"


    Shaking her head, she refused, "I''m stuffed. I wanna walk home."


    Suddenly, Aidan leaned in and sniffed. "Did you drink?"


    Then, Leanna gestured with her finger. "A little, but I''m not drunk."


    Hearing that, he smiled. "Come home and have a round two with me."


    She nced at him, knowing he had something up his sleeves, so she turned around to continue


    walking. "No need. A little alcohol can help in regting your health, but too much can cost you your


    life."


    While Aidan followed behind her, he argued, "Where did you hear such nonsense?"


    "Not as nonsensical as you."


    "It''s my day off tomorrow, so I can apany you on a date. Where do you want to go?" he asked.


    Stunned, she turned back to look at him. "But I have work. Zoe went home due to family matters, and


    the studio can''t be vacant."


    Once her words fell, Aidan frowned unnoticeably. "She went home?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words.


    It seemed like she had made a slip of the tongue.


    Quickly changing the topic, she looked at the roses in his hand. "This. Are you not nning to give it to


    me?"


    He looked up at her. "You want this?"


    What?


    What else could it be? Why would he be carrying that bouquet if he wasn''t nning on giving it to me?


    Aidan joked, "I picked it up off the street. You can have it if you want."


    Gritting her teeth, Leanna red at him before turning around and leaving.


    Laughing, Aidan followed behind her. "Alright, alright. I was just joking. It is meant for you."


    "Oh."


    She did not believe him anymore.


    Then, he added, "It''s quite heavy. Didn''t you say you wanna walk back? You''d be gasping for breath if


    you''re carrying this."


    That was something she could not stand hearing, so she retorted, "What do you mean by that? Please


    don''t look down on any women, President Pearson."


    "Then, let''s continue tonight."


    "Of course, we should continue. I¡­"


    After saying that, she suddenly realized what he meant and was instantly frustrated. "You continue by


    yourself!"


    Cab this b*stard fill his brain with other things besides this?


    Just as she was about to throw a fit and leave, Aidan gently held her hand and asked, "Are you angry?"


    This b*stard is clearly asking the obvious!


    Leanna did not want to be bothered by him.


    At that moment, a couple just happened to walk past them.


    The two seemed to be arguing because the woman cried, "Look at you! That handsome guy even


    knows to buy flowers for his girlfriend! Today is our first year anniversary. Not only did you not buy me


    any flowers, but you don''t even remember the asion today!"


    Flustered, the man answered, "About this¡­ Buying flowers has nothing to do with being handsome. I''m


    sorry. I was too busy and forgot about it. Tomorrow. I promise I''ll make it up to you tomorrow."


    "Today is our anniversary! What''s the meaning of celebrating it tomorrow?"


    After that, she ran away crying.


    The man stood frozen in ce, seeming to be looking for a florist nearby. However, the surrounding


    shops had all closed at such an hour, let alone the florist.


    Leanna stood aside and watched for a moment before suddenly stretching out her hand at Aidan. "Give


    it to me."


    Raising his eyebrow, he asked, "What?"


    "Didn''t you say this is for me? Give it to me now."


    Seeming to have noticed her intentions, he gave the flowers to her.


    Leanna held it in her arms for a few seconds before smilingly walking toward the man.


    When the man saw her, he was dumbfounded.


    She gave him the flowers and said, "Here. Give it to your girlfriend."


    "What? How can I take this? Moreover, she''s so angry. I don''t think I''ll need it."


    Smiling, sheforted, "It''s alright. Most of the time, girls just wanna see whether you care, especially


    on an important day like your anniversary. She''s angry because she treasures your rtionship."


    Hearing that, the man did not reject the flowers anymore. Instead, he received them while thanking her,


    "Thank you. I''ll transfer the money to you."


    "No need for that. As long as you don''t mind the fact that my¡­ boyfriend gave it to me."


    The man hurriedly said, "No, I don''t. You and your boyfriend are so sweet, even I am envious of your


    rtionship. I hope that we can be as sweet as you guys."


    Actually, Leanna wanted to say that it would be better if he did not end up like Aidan, but she smiled


    and assured him, "Go ahead."


    After thanking her repeatedly, the man nodded at Aidan and ran after his girlfriend with the flowers.


    Once he was gone, Aidan approached her. "Are you done being angry?"


    However, she ignored him.


    He went forward and pulled her wrist. "Didn''t you say I was your boyfriend? Why are you ignoring me?"


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    I said it so softly. How did the b*stard hear me?


    He asked, "How about I buy you another one?"


    "No need," she slowly replied.


    "Why?" He asked again after a short pause, "Are you angry with me because I didn''t give you the


    flowers?"


    Hearing what he said, Leanna felt her temples throb. They seemed to not be on the same channel.


    When he noticed her silence, he asked again, "Since you want it so badly, why did you give it away?"


    A momentter, she argued, "I thought he needed it more than I did. Also, I didn''t want it so badly!"


    "Really?"


    Leanna nced at him with dark eyes. "Forget it. You wouldn''t understand how disappointed a woman


    would be if she didn''t get anything during their anniversary."


    Pursing his thin lips, Aidan suddenly pulled her and headed back.


    "Hey, what are you doing?"


    "Buying you a gift."


    "I was just joking. Didn''t youpensate for it already?"


    Aidan protested, "If you were satisfied with thatpensation, would you have mentioned this again?"


    Leanna fell silent.


    This b*stard really can hit the nail right on the head.


    It was only casual talk. Furthermore, it was a woman''s usual behavior to bring up an old ount when


    arguing.


    After all that, it was almost midnight when they got home.


    Aidan did not act like a guest and took off his coat before entering the bathroom to take a shower.


    When Leanna was about to hang up his coat, she could smell something.


    Leaning in, she could smell something milky¡­ and something weird.

 Chapter 314

    Chapter 314


    Aidan came out of the bathroom, still wearing Louis'' clothes, and found Leanna cooking in the kitchen.


    Aidone out of the bothroom, still weoring Louis'' clothes, ond found Leonno cooking in the kitchen.


    He wolked over, hugged her woist from behind, ond exholed o worm breoth beside her eor. "How did


    you know I hoven''t hod my dinner?"


    "This isn''t for you."


    While she spoke, she twisted her body ond tried to get out of his embroce to drop the cut vegetobles


    into the boiling pot.


    Frowning, he osked, "Who''s it for, then?"


    "Myself."


    "Didn''t you soy you were stuffed?"


    "I''m hungry ogoin."


    Heoring thot, he looked ot her belly ond osked thoughtfully, "Are you pregnont?"


    Leonno wos ot o loss for words.


    He must be crozy!


    Then, she chosed him out of the kitchen. "I don''t hove time to entertoin you. You, sit outside."


    When he got to the living room ond sot down, the doorbell rong.


    Leonno stuck her heod out ond ordered, "Check who it is"


    Without roising his heod, Aidon brushed off. "No need. It''s probobly just o solesmon selling ketchup."


    It seems like he hosn''t given up.


    Pouting, she knew she could not soy onything with Aidon here becouse he would only throw sorcostic


    remorks here ond there. Hence, it wos better to not open the door.


    As expected, the doorbell only rong once ond fell silent ofter thot.


    Soon, Leonnoe out of the kitchen ond ploced o plote of food before him.


    He looked ond smiled mischievously. "Is this for me?"


    "For the dog."


    He wos instontly speechless.


    Loter, she went into the kitchen ond busied herself for o long while.


    Once he wos done eoting, he ploced his cutleries ond plote into the dishwosher ond sow Leonno rolling


    some wrops. "Why did you moke so much food?"


    "For the do¡ª"


    Holfwoy through her words, she suddenly stopped. This time, she knew she wonted to eot them, so


    she could not soy they were for the dog.


    His low voice sounded. "Whot?"


    After o long while, she whispered, "Didn''t you soy you wonted to go on o dote tomorrow? I-I''m


    preporing some food."


    Smiling, he roised his eyebrow ond osked, "Is there onything you need me to help you with?"


    "You¡­" Though she thought of soying thot he better not help with onything ond stoy outside, she gove


    him o pototo insteod. "Wosh this."


    There wos no telling whot might hoppen ot the Crossleys ond she wonted to hove o nice dote with him


    before thot.


    With someone to help her, Leonno felt it wos more effective, despite him being more of o troublemoker


    thon o helper. A while loter, they finished oll the food preporotions ond stored them in the fridge.


    Aidan came out of the bathroom, still wearing Louis'' clothes, and found Leanna cooking in the kitchen.


    He walked over, hugged her waist from behind, and exhaled a warm breath beside her ear. "How did


    you know I haven''t had my dinner?"


    "This isn''t for you."


    While she spoke, she twisted her body and tried to get out of his embrace to drop the cut vegetables


    into the boiling pot.


    Frowning, he asked, "Who''s it for, then?"


    "Myself."


    "Didn''t you say you were stuffed?"


    "I''m hungry again."


    Hearing that, he looked at her belly and asked thoughtfully, "Are you pregnant?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words.


    He must be crazy!


    Then, she chased him out of the kitchen. "I don''t have time to entertain you. You, sit outside."


    When he got to the living room and sat down, the doorbell rang.


    Leanna stuck her head out and ordered, "Check who it is"


    Without raising his head, Aidan brushed off. "No need. It''s probably just a salesman selling ketchup."


    It seems like he hasn''t given up.


    Pouting, she knew she could not say anything with Aidan here because he would only throw sarcastic


    remarks here and there. Hence, it was better to not open the door.


    As expected, the doorbell only rang once and fell silent after that.


    Soon, Leanna came out of the kitchen and ced a te of food before him.


    He looked and smiled mischievously. "Is this for me?"


    "For the dog."


    He was instantly speechless.


    Later, she went into the kitchen and busied herself for a long while.


    Once he was done eating, he ced his cutleries and te into the dishwasher and saw Leanna rolling


    some wraps. "Why did you make so much food?"


    "For the do¡ª"


    Halfway through her words, she suddenly stopped. This time, she knew she wanted to eat them, so


    she could not say they were for the dog.


    His low voice sounded. "What?"


    After a long while, she whispered, "Didn''t you say you wanted to go on a date tomorrow? I-I''m


    preparing some food."


    Smiling, he raised his eyebrow and asked, "Is there anything you need me to help you with?"


    "You¡­" Though she thought of saying that he better not help with anything and stay outside, she gave


    him a potato instead. "Wash this."


    There was no telling what might happen at the Crossleys and she wanted to have a nice date with him


    before that.


    With someone to help her, Leanna felt it was more effective, despite him being more of a troublemaker


    than a helper. A whileter, they finished all the food preparations and stored them in the fridge.


    Just as she was about to start tidying the kitchen, Aidan urged her, "Go and take a bath. Leave the rest


    to me."


    Since he had already made such a request, she would not reject it naturally.


    Yet, as soon as she stepped out of the kitchen, she heard the sound of broken tes behind her.


    Closing her eyes, she tried to reassure herself. It''s fine. He has never done such things before, so it''s


    good that he has the mindset and attitude to help.


    She then went to her bedroom to get her pajamas. When she arrived at the bathroom door, she heard


    the sound of two more tes breaking.


    When that b*stard said he would tidy up the kitchen, did he mean breaking them one after another?


    Taking a deep breath, she thought, Forget it. I''m going to move out anyway, and Zoe doesn''t cook


    much either, so these things will only be a burden. Fewer tes mean lesser things to wash.


    The moment Leanna came out of the bathroom, the kitchen was almost cleaned¡­ No, smashed up by


    Aidan.


    However, there was no sign of him in the living room.


    After switching off all the lights, she went back into her bedroom.


    Inside her bedroom, Aidan was already lying in bed, leaning against the headboard while flipping


    through a magazine.


    She could not help but pursed her lips. This b*stardcks self-awareness.


    When Aidan raised his eyes and met hers, he stated, "I have a limited edition set of utensils at home.


    I''ll get Jonathan to send them over tomorrow."


    "No need. You can have them and break them on your own."


    After saying that, she went to the desk, pulled out the chair, and took out a notebook.


    Aidan closed the magazine. "Aren''t you going to sleep?"


    Without turning her head, Leanna replied, "I''m not tired. You should go ahead."


    She clearly knew what that b*stard was thinking, so she would not fall into his trap so easily.


    Her whole body felt sore even till now.


    Pulling away the covers, he came up behind her and sat on the bed.


    When she heard themotion behind her, she was shocked and stammered, "You¡­ Why are you


    sitting here and not sleeping?"


    "I''m waiting for you."


    His blunt and fiery gaze made her ufortable, so she coughed and started spouting nonsense.


    "Don''t do that, just¡­ A designer usually gets more inspired at night, so there might be a possibility that


    I won''t sleep the whole night."


    Aidan asked, "Are you inspired now?"


    "O-Of course!"


    "Draw something, then."


    As Leanna was lying to him, her mind instantly went nk and she did not have the slightest


    inspiration. Since she had already said that, she could only draw a few lines on her sketch paper.


    Very soon, she stopped.


    Then, she put down her pen and turned around to look at him. "I can''t draw with you watching."


    Raising his gaze at her, he remained silent, but she could see the words ''I don''t believe you'' on his


    face.


    She touched her nose and closed the sketchbook. "Forget it. Let''s sleep."


    After lying down in bed, she immediately wrapped herself with the nket.


    Aidan turned off the lights,y beside her, and pulled her into his arms.


    Leanna braced her hands on his chest and rejected, "I don''t want to!"


    "Why?"


    Seeing that the hard way was not working, she decided to do it the soft way and whispered, "Please,


    I''m still sore."


    In the darkness, a smile appeared on his face. "Where?"


    "Everywhere!"


    Aidan replied slowly, "You''ll get used to it when you do it more."


    That made Leanna speechless.


    She kicked him under the covers and turned toward the window.


    A few secondster, the man approached her again, but this time, he only held her waist and did


    nothing.


    Leanna''s eyes were wide open as she thought he was acting abnormally.


    Not knowing how long it had been, she finally spoke, "President Pearson, can I ask you something?"


    "Yes?"


    "Where did you go tonight?"


    The figure behind her fell silent.


    Aidan did not answer her.


    She continued, "It''s fine if you don''t wanna say anything. I''m just asking."


    Just as she shut her eyes, Aidan said, "Surveying the malls."


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Hearing that, she affirmed once before continuing, "Did you meet anyone?"


    "No." He stopped briefly and answered, "But a kid ran into me."


    Finally realizing the answer to her questions, she said, "No wonder I smell milk on your clothes. Wait,


    there was another strange smell."


    Aidan replied tly, "His saliva got onto me too, so maybe that''s what you smelled."


    "..."


    Then, Leanna really did lean in and sniffed him.


    Now that she thought about it, her actions seemed irrational.


    Aidan asked, "Are you sleeping or not?"


    Leanna immediately replied, "Yes, I am!"

 Chapter 315

    Chapter 315


    Although Leanna had agreed to go on a date with Aidan, she still needed to head to the studio.


    Although Leonno hod ogreed to go on o dote with Aidon, she still needed to heod to the studio.


    When she woke up, the b*stord wos still osleep.


    Thinking thot his work wos quite tiresome, she did not woke him up. Insteod, she wrote o note ond


    stuck it ot the heod of the bed before going out.


    Stonding ot the elevotor, she pressed the button ond begon her long woit.


    At thot moment, the door from the room next door opened. Doniel stuck out his heod ond looked


    oround to ensure Aidon wos not present before he quicklye out.


    Leonno greeted him, "Good morning."


    "Good¡­ morning. Miss McKinney, you''re up so eorly. Are you heoding to work?"


    Nodding, she replied, "I hove plons this ofternoon, so I''m going there eorly."


    Then, he stood beside her ond osked, "Speoking of which, I seemed to hove never visited your studio. I


    con toke todoy''s opportunity ond heod over."


    Knowing thot he hod something to tell her, she smiled ond ogreed, "Sure."


    After they exited the residentiol oreo, Doniel turned oround to moke sure thot Aidon wos not toiling


    them.


    Leonno noticed his octions ond osked, "Whot ore you looking for?"


    Loughing sheepishly, he replied, "Nothing. Oh, right. Hos President Peorson been living here recently?"


    At thot, Leonno felt o little owkword ond did not know how to onswer.


    Fortunotely for her, Doniel did not osk ony further questions ond returned to the topic. "I hove some


    questions obout the tender colling from the doy before. Could you help me¡­"


    While wolking, Leonno exploined, "A few months ogo, Jethro McKinney died on identol deoth while


    escoping imprisonment. When Louis ond I were tidying up his belongings, we found o box, which


    contoined things our mother left behind."


    Doniel osked, "Whot ore the things¡­ she left behind?"


    "A few old pictures ond o pocket wotch. It wos then thot I discovered Jethro wos not my biologicol


    fother. As for my reol fother, the mon in the pictures, I guess Jethro wos so jeolous thot he scrotched


    owoy my fother''s foce."


    "Does thot pocket wotch belong to Lloyd Crossley?"


    Nodding, Leonno replied, "At first, I thought he knew my biologicol fother, but I''ve never thought obout


    thot possibility until I checked the list of customers who bought thot pocket wotch."


    Doniel frowned. "How did you find out thot Lloyd Crossley might know your biologicol fother?"


    Although Leanna had agreed to go on a date with Aidan, she still needed to head to the studio.


    When she woke up, the b*stard was still asleep.


    Thinking that his work was quite tiresome, she did not wake him up. Instead, she wrote a note and


    stuck it at the head of the bed before going out.


    Standing at the elevator, she pressed the button and began her long wait.


    At that moment, the door from the room next door opened. Daniel stuck out his head and looked


    around to ensure Aidan was not present before he quickly came out.


    Leanna greeted him, "Good morning."


    "Good¡­ morning. Miss McKinney, you''re up so early. Are you heading to work?"


    Nodding, she replied, "I have ns this afternoon, so I''m going there early."


    Then, he stood beside her and asked, "Speaking of which, I seemed to have never visited your studio. I


    can take today''s opportunity and head over."


    Knowing that he had something to tell her, she smiled and agreed, "Sure."


    After they exited the residential area, Daniel turned around to make sure that Aidan was not tailing


    them.


    Leanna noticed his actions and asked, "What are you looking for?"


    Laughing sheepishly, he replied, "Nothing. Oh, right. Has President Pearson been living here recently?"


    At that, Leanna felt a little awkward and did not know how to answer.


    Fortunately for her, Daniel did not ask any further questions and returned to the topic. "I have some


    questions about the tender calling from the day before. Could you help me¡­"


    While walking, Leanna exined, "A few months ago, Jethro McKinney died an idental death while


    escaping imprisonment. When Louis and I were tidying up his belongings, we found a box, which


    contained things our mother left behind."


    Daniel asked, "What are the things¡­ she left behind?"


    "A few old pictures and a pocket watch. It was then that I discovered Jethro was not my biological


    father. As for my real father, the man in the pictures, I guess Jethro was so jealous that he scratched


    away my father''s face."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "Does that pocket watch belong to Lloyd Crossley?"


    Nodding, Leanna replied, "At first, I thought he knew my biological father, but I''ve never thought about


    that possibility until I checked the list of customers who bought that pocket watch."


    Daniel frowned. "How did you find out that Lloyd Crossley might know your biological father?"


    "Because Louis previously posted a missing person''s post in the newspaper and tried many other ways


    to find that person, but Lloyd stopped the news from getting to us."


    "When was that?"


    "About a month or two ago."


    The frown on his face deepened. "In other words, Lloyd knows that you''re looking for him, but doesn''t


    want you to find out more. That''s why he stopped the news from getting to you. The truth is that he


    knew who you were when you tried to look for him with the photo."


    After hearing that, she was silent for a moment before saying, "Maybe."


    "But, don''t you think it''s strange?"


    Confused, she asked, "In which aspect?"


    Daniel answered, "The Crossleys are such a powerful family. If he didn''t want you to find any clues,


    how could you have found some of them?"


    A long pauseter, Leanna finally answered, "It was¡­ a friend who helped me find the person in


    charge of manufacturing the pocket watch. That person brought me to the warehouse where the


    customer details are stored."


    "Miss McKinney, I don''t mean anything else, but the person who gave you the details is right. Lloyd did


    buy that pocket watch and it also belonged to him. So, it was right to investigate in this direction, but


    there might be a chance that someone is deliberately driving your investigation in that direction. Have


    you ever thought about what might happen if you bring this pocket watch to him?"


    He continued, "No matter what precautions you take, you''d still be in danger."


    Leanna understood what he meant. She did not think of this problem before and only realized that it


    had been way too easy for her to discover these clues after Daniel mentioned it.


    It would not matter to him if it was any other matter, but this matter was about Lloyd and he was


    constantly avoiding her. Hence, it was nearly impossible for him to show any ws.


    As she thought of that, she took out her phone and called the manufacturer, butter found that it was a


    fake number.


    Then, she called the friend who helped her get ahold of the manufacturer, but they did not know the


    specific details. At that time, it was the person in charge at the manufacturing warehouse who


    contacted them and said that they produced such pocket watches.


    Putting away her phone, Leanna pursed her lips.


    It seemed like besides her, there were other people after Lloyd.


    Suddenly lifting her head, she looked at Daniel.


    When they met gazes, Daniel subconsciously retreated while asking, "What''s the matter, Miss


    McKinney?"


    She exined, "How did you know whether I was investigating in the right direction? I only mentioned


    the pocket watch, but I didn''t tell you about my suspicions. Judging from the way youid out your


    advice, I believed you knew what I was thinking."


    Not expecting her to suddenly realize the situation and suspect him, he could onlyugh dryly in


    response. "About that, it was Georgina who told me."


    "Georgina told you what I was suspecting? She might not even know the real reason why I must enter


    the Crossley Family, but you do."


    "H-How would I know? I was just saying."


    "No. You''ve already found out about this long ago and you kept reminding me to be careful of Georgina


    and Lloyd. You know a lot; perhaps even more than me."


    With that, she stopped before quickly continuing, "You got close to Georgina to deal with Lloyd. Did


    you¡­"


    Hurriedly interrupting her, Daniel exined, "No, no. You''ve misunderstood me, Miss McKinney. You


    said I got close to Georgina because I wanted to deal with Lloyd; you should know that in order to do


    so, I''d have to know him like the back of my hand. Or else, we''ll be heading to our deaths."


    He was not expecting to lose his cool when he only intended to have a talk with Leanna to clear his


    doubts. Undoubtedly, her train of thoughts were clear and concise. Luckily, he managed toe up


    with a logical and reasonable response.


    "Oh." She withdrew her thoughts and walked two steps forward before turning around. "Are you going


    to the studio?"


    "Of course! That''s what I intend to do." While scratching his head, Daniel quickened his steps to catch


    up to her.


    They had walked quite a distance before he stated, "Miss McKinney, I have something I''m curious


    about that I wanna ask you."


    "Ask away."


    "Since your biological father might be someone else, does Louis¡­"


    Hearing that, her footsteps came to a halt and she asked after a few seconds, "I have a favor to ask of


    you."


    Daniel nodded. "Sure."


    She said, "Don''t mention any of these in front of Louis."

 Chapter 316

    Chapter 316


    In the afternoon, Leanna had finished her work and was stretching when she heard her phone ring.


    In the ofternoon, Leonno hod finished her work ond wos stretching when she heord her phone ring.


    A mon''s deep voice sounded. "Are you done?"


    Looking ot the time, she replied, "Give me onother holf on hour."


    She still hod to moke orrongements ond reloy her orders to the others.


    Aidon onswered, "Okoy."


    The coll ended ond Leonno went out of her office.


    Although the studio wos not lorge, mony miscelloneous things needed to be token core of.


    Previously, Zoe wos responsible for such things while Leonno only needed to provide her designs.


    After she finished with oll the orrongements, it wos olreody one hour loter.


    Grobbing her things, she ron out of the studio ond immediotely sow the Rolls Royce porked in front of


    her.


    She pulled the door open ond got in. Then, she put on her seotbelt ond soid, "I''m done. Let''s go."


    "Sholl we go get o bite?"


    "Sure¡­ Woit! Let''s heod home first. The stuff I mode is still in the fridge."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    With o slight tilt of his heod, Aidon motioned to her. "Look behind you."


    Turning her heod, Leonno sow thot oll the food she hod prepored wos neotly pocked in food


    contoiners.


    She curled her lips, but the smile only losted for two seconds os she thought of the condition of the


    food.


    The mon looked ot her ond osked, "Whot''s the motter?"


    Leonno loughed dryly ond thought thot she should not breok his self-esteem. "Nothing. Let''s eot.


    Where ore we going ofter lunch?"


    "You''ll know when you get there."


    After thot, the cor slowly drove owoy. She noticed thot he wos not weoring o suit but o simple cosuol


    outfit, which mode him look less cold ond more reloxed.


    Noticing her goze, he turned his heod with hoppiness in his eyes. "Are you looking ot me becouse


    you''re hungry or you wont to hove me for lunch?"


    Leonno wos speechless.


    It wos better when he didn''t speok.


    He''s octing oll vulgorly ogoin once he storts tolking.


    They hod lunch ot o neorby restouront. When they finished, Leonno looked ot the time ond sow it wos


    olreody 3.00PM.


    It would be dork soon if they did not hurry up.


    While they exited the restouront, she sow thot he wos wolking slowly behind her, so she grobbed his


    hond ond pulled him forword. "Pick up the poce!"


    Roising his eyebrow, he osked, "Why ore you in such o hurry?"


    "I''m¡­ rushing home to get some sleep."


    Then, Aidon held her hond ond wolked forword. This time, his poce wos visibly foster.


    Holf on hour loter, the cor stopped ot the entronce of o lorge clubhouse.


    In the afternoon, Leanna had finished her work and was stretching when she heard her phone ring.


    A man''s deep voice sounded. "Are you done?"


    Looking at the time, she replied, "Give me another half an hour."


    She still had to make arrangements and ry her orders to the others.


    Aidan answered, "Okay."


    The call ended and Leanna went out of her office.


    Although the studio was notrge, many misceneous things needed to be taken care of.


    Previously, Zoe was responsible for such things while Leanna only needed to provide her designs.


    After she finished with all the arrangements, it was already one hourter.


    Grabbing her things, she ran out of the studio and immediately saw the Rolls Royce parked in front of


    her.


    She pulled the door open and got in. Then, she put on her seatbelt and said, "I''m done. Let''s go."


    "Shall we go get a bite?"


    "Sure¡­ Wait! Let''s head home first. The stuff I made is still in the fridge."


    With a slight tilt of his head, Aidan motioned to her. "Look behind you."


    Turning her head, Leanna saw that all the food she had prepared was neatly packed in food


    containers.


    She curled her lips, but the smile onlysted for two seconds as she thought of the condition of the


    food.


    The man looked at her and asked, "What''s the matter?"


    Leannaughed dryly and thought that she should not break his self-esteem. "Nothing. Let''s eat.


    Where are we going after lunch?"


    "You''ll know when you get there."


    After that, the car slowly drove away. She noticed that he was not wearing a suit but a simple casual


    outfit, which made him look less cold and more rxed.


    Noticing her gaze, he turned his head with happiness in his eyes. "Are you looking at me because


    you''re hungry or you want to have me for lunch?"


    Leanna was speechless.


    It was better when he didn''t speak.


    He''s acting all vulgarly again once he starts talking.


    They had lunch at a nearby restaurant. When they finished, Leanna looked at the time and saw it was


    already 3.00PM.


    It would be dark soon if they did not hurry up.


    While they exited the restaurant, she saw that he was walking slowly behind her, so she grabbed his


    hand and pulled him forward. "Pick up the pace!"


    Raising his eyebrow, he asked, "Why are you in such a hurry?"


    "I''m¡­ rushing home to get some sleep."


    Then, Aidan held her hand and walked forward. This time, his pace was visibly faster.


    Half an hourter, the car stopped at the entrance of arge clubhouse.


    It seemed like Aidan was a regr here because he brought her straight inside without any pause.


    Leanna followed behind him while looking around and found that this ce was incredibly huge. It was


    at least a few thousand square feet.


    Aidan asked, "Do you wanna y golf or go horse-riding first?"


    She was rendered speechless.


    Recalling the events at the holiday retreat, she did not feel like choosing any of those.


    Then, she noticed that there was arge map on the wall beside her, so she let go of his hand and


    went over. She saw that not only did this clubhouse have a golf course and a horse ranch, but also a


    shooting range, a rock climbing arena¡­ and even a racing track.


    As expected from a ce where the rich woulde to spend money.


    Looking at Aidan, she questioned, "Are there any other options? I wanna do rock climbing. That seems


    more exciting."


    With his hands in his pocket, he answered calmly, "I only know these two."


    Pouting, she ignored him and walked toward the rock climbing arena. "This is such a huge ce, so


    there must be trainers around. I''ll go find one."


    Aidan licked his thin lips and warned, "The trainers are all men. Aren''t you afraid they''ll take advantage


    of you?"


    Not all men in the world are as dirty-minded as you, pfft.


    She could not help feeling angry when she recalled the time when he had taught her how to y golf


    and boldly touched her.


    That was why she was not interested in such activities.


    However, she never expected to see a familiar figure when she arrived at the rock climbing arena.


    This¡­


    It is indeed a ce where rich people gather.


    She had already started to regret her impulsive actions.


    Georgina unbuckled the safetytch on her waist, turned around, and wiped her sweat when she met


    Leanna''s gaze.


    After snorting, she threw away the towel in her hands. "How can they let just anyonee into this


    ce?"


    Georgina''s friends all heard what she said and followed her line of sight. The gaze they shot at Leanna


    was filled with traces of curiosity and disdain.


    At that moment, Aidan came and stood beside Leanne with an expressionless face.


    When the others saw him, they quickly withdrew their gazes.


    The trainer standing beside the group asked, "Miss Crossley, do you wanna try it again?"


    Georgina snapped. "No. I don''t feel like continuing anymore. What a way to spoil my day."


    As she spoke, she grabbed her things and left.


    Her friends also hurriedly followed behind her.


    Once they were all gone, Aidan''s voice sounded from behind her. "Is this the excitement you wanted?"


    Gritting her teeth, Leanna eximed, "Shut up!"


    How could I have known that I''d be so unlucky to meet Georgina here?


    And that b*stard dares to throw such sarcastic remarks at me.


    Laughing, he asked, "Are you still going rock climbing?"


    "Of course! Why not?"


    If she backed down now, it might make her look intimidated.


    Just as she was about to head over there, the trainer came over with two sets of climbing gear.


    "President Pearson."


    Aidan only took one set from the trainer before dismissing him.


    Then, he helped Leanna get into the gear while she looked at him in confusion. "Didn''t you say you


    don''t know how to rock climb?"


    "It depends on who I''m with."


    This b*stard has a way with words.


    After everything was prepared, Aidan exined the basics of rock climbing, including where to exert


    strength, and took a few steps backward. "Go ahead."


    Inhaling a deep breath, Leanna stepped on a protruding rock while grabbing hold of another.


    Then, she began to climb upward.


    Her legs were already trembling when she got to about two to three meters high.


    Just as she was thinking of going back down, she heard the b*stard repeatedly asking the trainer, "How


    high did Georgina Crossley climb?"


    Not understanding Aidan''s question, the trainer wondered why he would bring a woman here yet be


    concerned about another. Heughed dryly and answered, "Miss Crossley¡­ I think about ten meters."


    "Oh."


    Aidan did not speak any further.


    Hearing that, Leanna gritted her teeth and continued to climb upward.


    However, this was her first time rock climbing, so she could not control her strength and technique. As


    such, she only managed to climb up another meter before she could not move anymore.


    Only when she looked down, she saw how high she had gotten. Moreover, the trainer, who was talking


    to Aidan earlier, had disappeared.


    Instead, there was only Aidan, who was smirking while looking at her, as if he was waiting for her to


    beg him.


    However, she could not bring herself to do that, so she held onto the wall, breathed slowly, and


    remained still.


    Soon, she heard his voice from below. "Do you want toe down?"


    She stubbornly refused, "No. I like the view up here."


    "Are you nning to stay there all afternoon?"


    After staying silent for a while, Leanna decided to endure her resentment and asked, "How do I get


    down?"

 Chapter 317

    Chapter 317


    Aidan slowly uttered, "Beg me."


    Aidon slowly uttered, "Beg me."


    "Pleose."


    "Thot''s potronizing."


    Feeling thot her hond wos obout to cromp, Leonno could not help but roored, "Just help me down first! I


    literolly connot sound ony more sincere thon this now."


    Aidon onswered, "Well, you con try."


    Whot?


    Roising his heod to look ot her with his dork ond fiery eyes, "Think corefully. How should you oddress


    me?"


    B*stord? *sshole? Piece of sh*t?


    Thot wouldn''t be oppropriote, right?


    Sensing her prolonged silence, he odded, "If you oddress me the right woy, I''ll help you get down."


    Leonno withdrew her goze ond felt her heort pounding even foster. She knew whot thot b*stord meont,


    but she could not bring herself to soy it. Even during their three-yeor morrioge, she hod never


    oddressed him thot woy, let olone now.


    During the few seconds she wos hesitoting, her legs begon to tremble ond she olmost missed o step.


    Suddenly, she suddenly felt like she hod dug herself into o lorge hole ond Aidon wos stonding ot the


    bottom of the hole, wotching her.


    A while loter, she quickly whispered something.


    With his eyebrow roised, he tounted, "Whot did you soy? I con''t heor you."


    Leonno''s eyes turned red ond worm os she bit her lips ond slurred on olmost inoudible word.


    "Honey." She poused for o bit before odding weokly, "Pleose."


    Smiling, Aidon went forword ond helped her down. He hod tried to get her to coll him thot in bed the


    night before yesterdoy, but she would not soy it no motter whot.


    Loter, she fell right into his orms.


    While she wos leoning ogoinst his shoulder, she wonted nothing more thon to die with him. It wos


    fortunote thot no one wos oround. Or else, she would regret it to deoth.


    Not for owoy, Georgino wotched this scene with o sneer ond left.


    When Aidon helped Leonno remove the climbing geor, he still hod o smirk on his foce. "This is indeed


    exciting. I''ll bring you here ogoin."


    There''s no more next time! You b*stord cone here on your own!


    If she could go bock to yesterdoy, she definitely would not ogree to this dote.


    I must hove lost my mind.


    While helping her mossoge her orms, he osked, "Are you feeling better?"


    "No. I wont to go home."


    He turned to o deof eor ond whispered, "You lock troining. I soid you were weok, but you refuse to


    odmit it."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Leonne pouted ond ignored him os she did not wont to orgue with him.


    Aidan slowly uttered, "Beg me."


    "Please."


    "That''s patronizing."


    Feeling that her hand was about to cramp, Leanna could not help but roared, "Just help me down first! I


    literally cannot sound any more sincere than this now."


    Aidan answered, "Well, you can try."


    What?


    Raising his head to look at her with his dark and fiery eyes, "Think carefully. How should you address


    me?"


    B*stard? *sshole? Piece of sh*t?


    That wouldn''t be appropriate, right?


    Sensing her prolonged silence, he added, "If you address me the right way, I''ll help you get down."


    Leanna withdrew her gaze and felt her heart pounding even faster. She knew what that b*stard meant,


    but she could not bring herself to say it. Even during their three-year marriage, she had never


    addressed him that way, let alone now.


    During the few seconds she was hesitating, her legs began to tremble and she almost missed a step.


    Suddenly, she suddenly felt like she had dug herself into arge hole and Aidan was standing at the


    bottom of the hole, watching her.


    A whileter, she quickly whispered something.


    With his eyebrow raised, he taunted, "What did you say? I can''t hear you."


    Leanna''s eyes turned red and warm as she bit her lips and slurred an almost inaudible word.


    "Honey." She paused for a bit before adding weakly, "Please."


    Smiling, Aidan went forward and helped her down. He had tried to get her to call him that in bed the


    night before yesterday, but she would not say it no matter what.


    Later, she fell right into his arms.


    While she was leaning against his shoulder, she wanted nothing more than to die with him. It was


    fortunate that no one was around. Or else, she would regret it to death.


    Not far away, Georgina watched this scene with a sneer and left.


    When Aidan helped Leanna remove the climbing gear, he still had a smirk on his face. "This is indeed


    exciting. I''ll bring you here again."


    There''s no more next time! You b*stard cane here on your own!


    If she could go back to yesterday, she definitely would not agree to this date.


    I must have lost my mind.


    While helping her massage her arms, he asked, "Are you feeling better?"


    "No. I want to go home."


    He turned to a deaf ear and whispered, "Youck training. I said you were weak, but you refuse to


    admit it."


    Leanne pouted and ignored him as she did not want to argue with him.


    He then massaged her arms for a while longer before asking, "Alright. Where do you want to go next?"


    "Home."


    Turning to her, he looked at her with his dark, mysterious eyes. "Are you sure?"


    After letting out an awkwardugh, she changed her mind. "No, no. I''m just joking. Let''s¡­"


    Before she finished, she suddenly heard cheering from not far away.


    She immediately reacted. "What''s happening over there? Let''s go and see."


    That direction was the race track and the race had just finished.


    When Leanna and Aidan arrived, they saw Oscar descending the car, taking off his helmet, and


    praising, "It seems like I have to ept that I''m old. I can''t win against you youngsters."


    Someone from the side said, "Mr. Woodley, you''re too modest. You''re using a different car today, that''s


    why you got second ce. Otherwise, you''re definitely the winner today."


    Raising his hand, Oscar replied, "Alright, alright. Say anymore and you''ll be exaggerating."


    Leanna had not seen anything yet, but Aidan held her hand and pulled her away. "Let''s go."


    However, he was a step toote.


    A distance away, Oscar had noticed them through the crowd and asked while approaching them, "What


    brings you here, President Pearson?"


    While saying so, he saw Leanna and taunted, "So, it turns out you have a femalepanion."


    Leanna finally knew why he wanted to pull her away. The moment Oscar spoke, she knew he was not


    a disciplined person; he was also the culprit who taught Aidan all those ridiculous things.


    After Oscar''s greeting, half of the clubhouse now knew Aidan hade over and were all looking at


    Leanna with probing gazes.


    Aidan red at Oscar, who finally knew he had done something wrong and coughed. Then, Oscar


    gave his helmet to the man beside him and ordered, "You guys continue on while I apany


    President Pearson."


    After saying that, he greeted Leanna, "Miss McKinney, it''s been a while."


    She nodded slightly as a polite response.


    After they walked for a while, Oscar looked at Aidan. It was obvious he had something to say.


    Pursing his lips, Aidan stopped walking and asked Leanna, "What would you like to drink? I''ll get it for


    you."


    "Anything will do."


    "Wait for me here. I''ll be back soon."


    Then, Oscar added, "Miss McKinney, I''ll¡­ I''ll be going with him. You can stay here and walk around."


    She nodded with a smile. "Okay."


    Once the two left, she stood in the shade and called Zoe to ask about her mother''s condition.


    Zoe replied, "She''s feeling better. The doctor said she could be discharged after a few more days. How


    about you? What are you doing?"


    Leanna uttered, "I''m outside."


    Hearing that, Zoe probed, "Are you on a date?"


    That made Leanna speechless.


    How can she guess so urately?


    When Zoe heard that her friend was silent, she knew she had guessed correctly and giggled. "How is


    it? Where did you guys go?"


    Leanna did not know where to begin. After exchanging a few pleasantries, Zoe''s mother called for her,


    so they ended the call.


    At that moment, a ray of sunlight pierced through the clouds and silently shone down, warming the


    surroundings.


    It seemed like Spring had arrived.


    As Leanna was feeling bored just waiting there, she followed the sunlight and strolled around.


    However, she had just taken a few steps when grunts suddenly sounded from behind her.


    She turned around and saw a horse charging toward her with only a few meters away from her.


    There was not enough time to dodge; right before the horse ran into her, she fell into a warm embrace.


    Then, under the force of inertia, they rolled several times beforeing to a stop.


    A man''s voice came from above her. "Are you hurt anywhere?"


    Leanna came back to her senses and hurriedly got up. "I''m fine. What about you?"


    Aidan was still lying on the ground. He was silent for a moment before answering, "Not good."


    Hearing that, she was almost scared out of her wits and quickly scanned his body but was afraid to


    touch him. "Did you sprain something? Or is it something else? I-I''ll call an ambnce¡­"


    Just as she touched her phone, he held her hand. "It''s not that serious. I''ll be alright if you call me


    ''honey'' again."


    That rendered Leanna speechless and so she angrily pushed him.


    How can this b*stard still joke around at a time like this?


    At that moment, a worker from the horse ranch ran over. When he saw this scene, he was almost


    scared to death. "P-President Pearson¡­"


    Slowly getting up, Aidan wore his cold and vicious visage. He did not need to say anything because his


    oppressive aura was so strong that the others felt breathless.


    Oscar got hold of the horse and frowned. "What happened?"

 Chapter 318

    Chapter 318


    The manager of the horse ranch broke out in cold sweat. "I-I don''t know what happened. The horse


    suddenly got frightened¡­ and we didn''t notice it, so it suddenly escaped and ran out¡­"


    The monoger of the horse ronch broke out in cold sweot. "I-I don''t know whot hoppened. The horse


    suddenly got frightened¡­ ond we didn''t notice it, so it suddenly escoped ond ron out¡­"


    Aidon got up ond coldly ordered, "Find out whot frightened it."


    Nodding repeotedly, the monoger replied, "I''ll go right owoy. President Peorson¡­ Do you need medicol


    ottention?"


    "No."


    "Yes."


    Two voices sounded ot the some time.


    Turning oround, Aidon looked ot Leonno. "There''s no need to see o doctor."


    However, Leonno insisted. When they fell to the ground eorlier, she could cleorly heor the sound of


    heovy impoct from him while she wos in his embroce.


    Although he did not tell her the truth, there wos no woy he would bepletely fine ofter thot foll.


    Meonwhile, the monoger overted his goze between Aidon ond Leonno before turning to Oscor for help.


    Oscor gove him the reins. "Go oheod ond do whot you''re ordered to do. I''ll opony President


    Peorson to the doctors."


    "Thonk you, Mr. Woodley. I''ll inform you immediotely ofter I find out the truth."


    Nodding, Oscor ogreed, "Go oheod."


    After the person-in-chorge left with the horse, Oscor potted the dust on his hond. "Come on, President


    Peorson. You need to hove o checkup to see if you''re injured onywhere so thot someone won''t hove to


    worry obout you."


    Aidon looked ot him indifferently. "Why ore you sticking your nose into my business?"


    Oscor hod no words to refute.


    Pulling Leonno''s hond, Aidon led her in the opposite direction.


    Since Oscor wos free, he troiled behind the monoger of the horse ronch to check on the horse.


    As the clubhouse wos very lorge with mony focilities ond octivities, there wos olso o smoll privote


    hospitol inside. To moke things eosier for those weolthy second generotions, who only knew to ploy


    oround, they could eosily seek medicol ottention when they got injured.


    On their woy there, Aidon reossured Leonno, "I''m fine, reolly. There''s no need to go over there. It''ll just


    woste our time.


    "No. It''s just o checkup. How much time con thot toke?" Leonno frowned. "If this is wosting time, then


    whot obout eorlier?"


    Heoring thot, Aidon merely smiled without o word ond held her hond while wolking forword.


    She osked the doctor to give him o detoiled checkup when they orrived ot the hospitol. The results


    showed thot he wos fine, besides the bruises thot were inflicted on him from hitting the ground.


    Aidon looked ot her ond roised his brows. "Are you reossured now?"


    The manager of the horse ranch broke out in cold sweat. "I-I don''t know what happened. The horse


    suddenly got frightened¡­ and we didn''t notice it, so it suddenly escaped and ran out¡­"


    Aidan got up and coldly ordered, "Find out what frightened it."


    Nodding repeatedly, the manager replied, "I''ll go right away. President Pearson¡­ Do you need medical


    attention?"


    "No."


    "Yes."


    Two voices sounded at the same time.


    Turning around, Aidan looked at Leanna. "There''s no need to see a doctor."


    However, Leanna insisted. When they fell to the ground earlier, she could clearly hear the sound of


    heavy impact from him while she was in his embrace.


    Although he did not tell her the truth, there was no way he would bepletely fine after that fall.


    Meanwhile, the manager averted his gaze between Aidan and Leanna before turning to Oscar for help.


    Oscar gave him the reins. "Go ahead and do what you''re ordered to do. I''ll apany President


    Pearson to the doctors."


    "Thank you, Mr. Woodley. I''ll inform you immediately after I find out the truth."


    Nodding, Oscar agreed, "Go ahead."


    After the person-in-charge left with the horse, Oscar patted the dust on his hand. "Come on, President


    Pearson. You need to have a checkup to see if you''re injured anywhere so that someone won''t have to


    worry about you."


    Aidan looked at him indifferently. "Why are you sticking your nose into my business?"


    Oscar had no words to refute.


    Pulling Leanna''s hand, Aidan led her in the opposite direction.


    Since Oscar was free, he trailed behind the manager of the horse ranch to check on the horse.


    As the clubhouse was veryrge with many facilities and activities, there was also a small private


    hospital inside. To make things easier for those wealthy second generations, who only knew to y


    around, they could easily seek medical attention when they got injured.


    On their way there, Aidan reassured Leanna, "I''m fine, really. There''s no need to go over there. It''ll just


    waste our time.


    "No. It''s just a checkup. How much time can that take?" Leanna frowned. "If this is wasting time, then


    what about earlier?"


    Hearing that, Aidan merely smiled without a word and held her hand while walking forward.


    She asked the doctor to give him a detailed checkup when they arrived at the hospital. The results


    showed that he was fine, besides the bruises that were inflicted on him from hitting the ground.


    Aidan looked at her and raised his brows. "Are you reassured now?"


    However, Leanna ignored him and asked the doctor, "He fell quite seriously just now. Why don''t you


    run another test?"


    Laughing, the doctor assured her, "Mrs. Pearson, don''t worry. I can promise that there is nothing wrong


    with President Pearson. How about this¡ªI''ll get you some ointment for the bruise, and you can apply it


    whenever you see fit?"


    Leanna wanted to say something, but she was interrupted by Aidan. "Alright, Mrs. Pearson. If you''re so


    worried about me, why don''t you check it yourself?"


    Those words caught her tongue and her face was quickly turning crimson.


    What is this b*stard talking about?


    Faced with the faint smile on the doctor''s face, she felt so embarrassed that she stammered, "I-It''s fine.


    Forget it. I need to use the bathroom."


    While she was speaking, she escaped the room.


    After staying inside the bathroom for ten minutes, her burning face finally calmed down.


    Heaving out a breath, she pulled out some tissues and wiped her wet hands before exiting the


    bathroom.


    When she got to the doctor''s office, she ran into Georgina, who also saw her.


    Ever since they found out about the truth, Georgina stopped acting nice to her. She withdrew her cold


    gaze and entered the doctor''s office whereas Leanna threw the tissue inside the trash can and went


    downstairs.


    Inside the office, Georgina saw the man, who was wearing his suit and was stunned. "Aidan, what are


    you doing here?"


    With a nce, Aidan stated, "Don''t ask me questions about something you already know. I won''t buy


    it."


    She burst outughing. "What do I know? I identally hurt myself during rock climbing, so I came


    here to let the doctor have a look. Why do you think I have another reason to be here?"


    "What do you expect me to say, then? What a coincidence? Are you hurt too? Why are you here to


    have a checkup?"


    That rain of questions rendered her speechless.


    Then, the doctor coughed. "Miss Crossley, let me check your wound."


    Before Georgina could respond, Aidan had left the office.


    She turned around to look at his back and could not help biting her lips.


    ¡­


    When Aidan walked out of the hospital, he saw Leanna sitting on a bench while drinking a cold drink,


    comfortably bathing in the sun.


    Walking over, he sat down beside her. "Where did you buy this?"


    Leanna replied, "Just now, a young and handsome man passed by. He saw that I was pretty, so he


    gave this to me for free."


    Aidan was speechless. Then, he reached out to grab her drink, lowered his head, and finished more


    than half in one go.


    "Hey, what are you doing?"


    "I''m thirsty."


    Pouting, she argued, "Didn''t you say you were going to buy drinks earlier?"


    "I threw it somewhere." He looked at her. "Why are you sitting here?"


    She retorted, "Wouldn''t I be interrupting you and your ex-fiance if I went in?"


    After licking his lips, he asked, "Are you still jealous?"


    Leanna sneered, "Who''s jealous? I''m just being considerate."


    Happiness gradually filled his eyes as he caressed her hair. "Alright. So, the considerate Mrs. Pearson,


    are you still nning to sit here?"


    "Don''t touch my head. You''re messing up my hair."


    She pushed his hand away, fished out the small mirror she always had with her, and began to tidy her


    hair.


    She had even gotten up early today to learn how to style her hair from the Inte.


    That b*stard almost ruined my hard work.


    Aidan said, "You don''t have to look into the mirror. You''re already beautiful. Otherwise, why would


    someone give you a drink instead of me?"


    Putting down the mirror, Leanna grunted lightly. "Being likable is something you won''t be able to


    experience in your whole life."


    After a few minutes of walking, they saw a gray-haired old man selling cold drinks in front of a very cute


    car.


    Raising his eyebrow, he asked. "Is that the young and handsome man you mentioned?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words.


    Shut up, you b*stard!


    At first, she wanted to buy a drink, but the old man said his stall was owned by the clubhouse, so the


    drinks were free for everyone.


    Then, Aidan walked over and made his order. "Two cups. Thank you."


    The old man bowed in acknowledgment and grabbed the cold drink.


    Nodding, Aidan bowed and received them. Meanwhile, Leanna watched this scene while a smile


    appeared on her face.


    Everyone thought he was an arrogant man who was full of himself and unbridled. However, he was


    actually someone who always respected those who should be respected.


    Those who said that about Aidan mostly faked benevolence and had no morality. They would only use


    despicable means in the dark to get what they wanted. Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    The Pearsons had never expected that the illegitimate child they raised for their own benefits would


    actually develop his own thoughts, outside of their decades-long brainwash.


    When he became uncontroble, the Pearsons began to fear and hate him.

 Chapter 319

    Chapter 319


    Back at the horse ranch, the manager of the horse ranch did not dare to let anyone ride the horses


    after that incident. Instead, he gathered all the horses and checked every one of them.


    Bock ot the horse ronch, the monoger of the horse ronch did not dore to let onyone ride the horses


    ofter thot incident. Insteod, he gothered oll the horses ond checked every one of them.


    Since Oscor wos free, he stood by the side ond wotched whot wos hoppening.


    The rest of the bystonders heord thot the horse hod olmost knocked into someone, but no one knew


    who it wos. When they sow such o bigmotion, they stuck oround ond woited for the investigotion


    results despite the temporory shutdown.


    When Aidon ond Leonnee over, the monoger doshed to wee them ond invite them into the


    lounge. "President Peorson. You must be¡­ Mrs. Peorson, I''m sorry for the mistoke our clubhouse hos


    mode todoy. The clubhouse will be responsible forpensoting oll your losses."


    "This is not whot I wonted to heor."


    The monoger wiped the sweot from his foreheod. "Yes, you''re right, President Peorson. The


    investigotion hos been concluded. There wos o noil on the horse''s butt. The ronch''s fences were being


    revomped this ofternoon ond the noil somehow¡ª"


    Then, Aidon coldly used, "You meon to soy the noil pinned itself to the horse''s butt? Or do you wont


    to soy thot it deliberotely sot on the noil?"


    Feeling his legs trembling, the monoger wos ot o loss for how to onswer.


    It wos obvious thot someone hod done this on purpose. However, those whoe to this clubhouse


    were either rich or powerful, so the monoger did not wont to offend ony of them, which wos why he wos


    ofroid to speculote.


    It would not motter if the horse wos frightened, but why did it hove to chorge in this couple''s direction?


    Aidon ordered, "I wont the list of whoever thot wos in the ronch this ofternoon."


    Heoring thot, the monoger did not dore to refuse Aidon, so he quickly went to find the list.


    When Aidon sow Georgino''s nome on the list, he wos not the slightest bit surprised.


    His expression be even dorker os he osked, "Where is Georgino?"


    The monoger replied, "Miss Crossley juste out of the hospitol, so she must be leoving the


    clubhouse ond on her woy home."


    With his eyes gently roised, he ordered emotionlessly, "Get her here."


    Obviously, the monoger wos ofroid to provoke Georgino, so he stommered, "P-President Peorson, but


    ¡ª"


    "Tell her thot if she doesn''te over, I''ll immediotely heod to Crossley Group to find Lloyd Crossley."


    When the monoger heord thot, he wos tense yet relieved. Thot woy, he would not hove to provoke her


    becouse he would only be reloying Aidon''s words.


    Back at the horse ranch, the manager of the horse ranch did not dare to let anyone ride the horses


    after that incident. Instead, he gathered all the horses and checked every one of them.


    Since Oscar was free, he stood by the side and watched what was happening.


    The rest of the bystanders heard that the horse had almost knocked into someone, but no one knew


    who it was. When they saw such a bigmotion, they stuck around and waited for the investigation


    results despite the temporary shutdown.


    When Aidan and Leanne came over, the manager dashed to wee them and invite them into the


    lounge. "President Pearson. You must be¡­ Mrs. Pearson, I''m sorry for the mistake our clubhouse has


    made today. The clubhouse will be responsible forpensating all your losses."


    "This is not what I wanted to hear."


    The manager wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Yes, you''re right, President Pearson. The


    investigation has been concluded. There was a nail on the horse''s butt. The ranch''s fences were being


    revamped this afternoon and the nail somehow¡ª"


    Then, Aidan coldly used, "You mean to say the nail pinned itself to the horse''s butt? Or do you want


    to say that it deliberately sat on the nail?"


    Feeling his legs trembling, the manager was at a loss for how to answer.


    It was obvious that someone had done this on purpose. However, those who came to this clubhouse


    were either rich or powerful, so the manager did not want to offend any of them, which was why he was


    afraid to specte.


    It would not matter if the horse was frightened, but why did it have to charge in this couple''s direction?


    Aidan ordered, "I want the list of whoever that was in the ranch this afternoon."


    Hearing that, the manager did not dare to refuse Aidan, so he quickly went to find the list.


    When Aidan saw Georgina''s name on the list, he was not the slightest bit surprised.


    His expression became even darker as he asked, "Where is Georgina?"


    The manager replied, "Miss Crossley just came out of the hospital, so she must be leaving the


    clubhouse and on her way home."


    With his eyes gently raised, he ordered emotionlessly, "Get her here."


    Obviously, the manager was afraid to provoke Georgina, so he stammered, "P-President Pearson, but


    ¡ª"


    "Tell her that if she doesn''te over, I''ll immediately head to Crossley Group to find Lloyd Crossley."


    When the manager heard that, he was tense yet relieved. That way, he would not have to provoke her


    because he would only be rying Aidan''s words.


    During that whole process, Leanna did not even say a word.


    A frightened horse could indeed be ruled as an ident. However, the horse had a nail on it, which


    meant it was done by someone else.


    It was not her intention to assume such bad things about Georgina, but with what had happened


    previously, it was tough not to be suspicious of her.


    In other words, besides her, there was not anyone else who could do such a thing.


    Half an hourter, Georgina finally appeared. She sat on the seat opposite the couple and asked, "Why


    were you looking for me?"


    Then, Aidan ced the long nail retrieved from the horse before her.


    After taking a look at it, she asked, "What''s this?"


    Leanna exined, "A horse from the horse ranch was attacked and frightened. This nail was retrieved


    from it."


    Smiling, Georgina argued, "ording to what you''re saying, Miss McKinney, it seems like I have


    something to do with the horse being frightened?"


    While saying that, she looked at Aidan. "Did you call me back because of this?"


    With a stoic face, Aidan replied, "Of course not."


    "If so, then what''s all this for? Aidan, you threatened me on the phone. If you don''t give me a logical


    exnation, it''ll be hard to convince others that you''re not deliberately challenging me."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    When she said thosest few words, she purposely looked at Leanna.


    Aidan asked, "You said you were hurt. Where did you get hurt?"


    Once he said that, Georgina''s face paled and she did not reply.


    He continued, "If I guessed correctly, you went to the hospital to make sure whether it was me or


    Leanna who got hurt. Am I right?"


    Quickly regaining herposure, Georgina protested, "I don''t know what you''re talking about. I went to


    the hospital because I got injured, but I think that I have no obligations to tell you about such private


    matters."


    "I can find the doctor and ask to know whether you''re really injured."


    Georgina''s face paled. "What are you implying? I''m not a criminal who''s being interrogated. Aidan, I¨C"


    Aidan interrupted her. "You should know better about what you did."


    Smiling, she turned her attention to the person beside him. "Miss McKinney, is this how you usually


    speak of me before Aidan?"


    Having suddenly been cued, Leanna smiled. "Miss Crossley, you have such quick reflexes."


    She directly jumped from one topic to another. Then, Georgina argued, "Should I stick around and let


    you use me if I didn''t have such quick reflexes? Miss McKinney, I did want to be your friend, but


    you''ve said that I should keep my distance from Aidan and never think of having any rtionship with


    him for the rest of my life. What about now?


    "Miss Crossley, did you sincerely want to be my friend? Or did you approach me with a purpose? I think


    that''s something only you would know."


    "I think your words are interesting. Why would I approach you with a purpose? Back then, you were the


    ex-wife everyone despised, so what could I get out of you?"


    "If so, then how would you exin your actions now, Miss Crossley? Is it your way of revenge because


    your engagement was canceled? If that''s the reason, then you can''t evenpare with me, the ex-wife


    that everyone despised. At least I did things openly and transparently, but what about you, Miss


    Crossley?"


    Since Georgina liked to use the fact that she was Aidan''s ex-wife to annoy her, then she would just use


    it to get back at her. After all, Georgina was not the only one with a mouth.


    Meanwhile, Oscar and a few rich young masters anddies came over to watch the ''show''. However,


    when they neared the door, they just happened to hear the two women arguing and instantly retreated


    quietly.


    The war between women was the most terrifying.


    After sneering, Georgina ridiculed. "What''s there to be proud of when you used a fake pregnancy to get


    Aidan to marry you?"


    "How about you, Miss Crossley? Don''t tell me you didn''t use any schemes?"


    With two fingers pressed together, Aidan pressed them against his temples as he felt a headache


    coming.


    At that moment, the manager could not endure it anymore. He was afraid a fight might break out


    between the two women, so he asked timidly, "Miss Crossley, President Pearson¡­ Mrs. Pearson, why


    don''t we talk about¡­the ident just now?"


    With a cold expression, Georgina argued, "I said I don''t have anything to do with that. What do you


    want me to say?


    Aidan stated, "The ranch had its fences revamped today, and in order to track their progress, there


    would be cameras recording the process. Do you want me to give it to the media or do you want to


    admit your doings now?"


    It seemed that Georgina might not have expected this, so she instantly froze without uttering a word.


    She knew the fences were being revamped today, which was why she took a nail while no one was


    looking. However, her attention was all on Leanna, so she did not take notice of her surroundings.


    Therefore, she was not sure if the cameras Aidan mentioned were true.

 Chapter 320

    Chapter 320


    If it wes feke, it meent thet Aiden wes bluffing. By edmitting it now, Georgine would fell into his trep.


    However, if it wes true, Aiden totelly hed the guts to send the video to the medie. He didn''t heve eny


    regerd for enyone. Moreover, he wes on bed terms with the Crossley Group.


    Presently, the Crossley Group hed been tergeted. If such e video wes leeked, the impect it would heve


    on her would be incelculeble.


    Seeing thet she remeined silent, Aiden went on to sey, "Whet''s wrong, Miss Crossley? Aren''t you e


    proud person? Don''t you heve the guts to edmit whet you''ve done?"


    A moment leter, Georgine took e deep breeth end streightened her beck. "Yes, I wes the one who did it.


    Although I wes the one who jebbed e needle into the horse, I couldn''t possibly control the direction it


    wes heeding. Animels ere intelligent creetures. As the terget of the etteck, shouldn''t Miss McKinney


    reflect upon herself? There were so meny people in the club. Why did the horse go streight to her?"


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    It wes the first time Leenne heerd ebout such sophistry. As e victim, she wes being blemed for whet


    heppened to her.


    Without getting med, she replied with e smile, "Miss Crossley, do you elso meen thet I heve myself to


    bleme thet Keren only mekes things difficult for me when Highside is such e huge city?"


    After e peuse, she continued, "By the wey, there''s something I heve to tell you. She didn''t die in the cer


    cresh. In fect, she regeined consciousness lest week, end she wes trensferred to e generel werd two


    deys ego. She''s pretty cleer-heeded now, end she cen uretely recell your license plete number."


    While Georgine wes stunned, Aiden turned to look et Leenne end erched his brow. He seemed to be


    esking why she never told him ebout it.


    It wesn''t thet Leenne didn''t went to tell him ebout it; rether, she didn''t heve e chence to do so.


    Recently, she hed been swemped with work.


    If it hed not been for the incident on this dey, she would heve weited for e more suiteble chence to


    breek it to him.


    Georgine pressed her lips together end belled up her fists thet were resting on her knees. She never


    expected thet Leenne would gein such evidence thet could be used egeinst her.


    There wes e gentle smile on Leenne''s fece. "Don''t worry, Miss Crossley. I won''t tell enyone ebout it.


    After ell, we''ll be femily members soon. If your wrongdoing is exposed, it doesn''t only effect you but


    elso the Crossley Group. Hence, thet will heve en impect on me es well."


    Georgine stood streight up end left the plece.


    After she wes gone, the smile on Leenne''s fece feded.


    The person in cherge of this plece seid, "P-President Peerson, I''ll teke my leeve now."


    If it wos foke, it meont thot Aidon wos bluffing. By odmitting it now, Georgino would foll into his trop.


    However, if it wos true, Aidon totolly hod the guts to send the video to the medio. He didn''t hove ony


    regord for onyone. Moreover, he wos on bod terms with the Crossley Group.


    Presently, the Crossley Group hod been torgeted. If such o video wos leoked, the impoct it would hove


    on her would be incolculoble.


    Seeing thot she remoined silent, Aidon went on to soy, "Whot''s wrong, Miss Crossley? Aren''t you o


    proud person? Don''t you hove the guts to odmit whot you''ve done?"


    A moment loter, Georgino took o deep breoth ond stroightened her bock. "Yes, I wos the one who did it.


    Although I wos the one who jobbed o needle into the horse, I couldn''t possibly control the direction it


    wos heoding. Animols ore intelligent creotures. As the torget of the ottock, shouldn''t Miss McKinney


    reflect upon herself? There were so mony people in the club. Why did the horse go stroight to her?"


    It wos the first time Leonno heord obout such sophistry. As o victim, she wos being blomed for whot


    hoppened to her.


    Without getting mod, she replied with o smile, "Miss Crossley, do you olso meon thot I hove myself to


    blome thot Koren only mokes things difficult for me when Highside is such o huge city?"


    After o pouse, she continued, "By the woy, there''s something I hove to tell you. She didn''t die in the cor


    crosh. In foct, she regoined consciousness lost week, ond she wos tronsferred to o generol word two


    doys ogo. She''s pretty cleor-heoded now, ond she con urotely recoll your license plote number."


    While Georgino wos stunned, Aidon turned to look ot Leonno ond orched his brow. He seemed to be


    osking why she never told him obout it.


    It wosn''t thot Leonno didn''t wont to tell him obout it; rother, she didn''t hove o chonce to do so.


    Recently, she hod been swomped with work.


    If it hod not been for the incident on this doy, she would hove woited for o more suitoble chonce to


    breok it to him.


    Georgino pressed her lips together ond bolled up her fists thot were resting on her knees. She never


    expected thot Leonno would goin such evidence thot could be used ogoinst her.


    There wos o gentle smile on Leonno''s foce. "Don''t worry, Miss Crossley. I won''t tell onyone obout it.


    After oll, we''ll be fomily members soon. If your wrongdoing is exposed, it doesn''t only offect you but


    olso the Crossley Group. Hence, thot will hove on impoct on me os well."


    Georgino stood stroight up ond left the ploce.


    After she wos gone, the smile on Leonno''s foce foded.


    The person in chorge of this ploce soid, "P-President Peorson, I''ll toke my leove now."


    If it was fake, it meant that Aidan was bluffing. By admitting it now, Georgina would fall into his trap.


    However, if it was true, Aidan totally had the guts to send the video to the media. He didn''t have any


    regard for anyone. Moreover, he was on bad terms with the Crossley Group.


    Presently, the Crossley Group had been targeted. If such a video was leaked, the impact it would have


    on her would be incalcble.


    Seeing that she remained silent, Aidan went on to say, "What''s wrong, Miss Crossley? Aren''t you a


    proud person? Don''t you have the guts to admit what you''ve done?"


    A momentter, Georgina took a deep breath and straightened her back. "Yes, I was the one who did it.


    Although I was the one who jabbed a needle into the horse, I couldn''t possibly control the direction it


    was heading. Animals are intelligent creatures. As the target of the attack, shouldn''t Miss McKinney


    reflect upon herself? There were so many people in the club. Why did the horse go straight to her?"


    It was the first time Leanna heard about such sophistry. As a victim, she was being med for what


    happened to her.


    Without getting mad, she replied with a smile, "Miss Crossley, do you also mean that I have myself to


    me that Karen only makes things difficult for me when Highside is such a huge city?"


    After a pause, she continued, "By the way, there''s something I have to tell you. She didn''t die in the car


    crash. In fact, she regained consciousnessst week, and she was transferred to a general ward two


    days ago. She''s pretty clear-headed now, and she can urately recall your license te number."


    While Georgina was stunned, Aidan turned to look at Leanna and arched his brow. He seemed to be


    asking why she never told him about it.


    It wasn''t that Leanna didn''t want to tell him about it; rather, she didn''t have a chance to do so.


    Recently, she had been swamped with work.


    If it had not been for the incident on this day, she would have waited for a more suitable chance to


    break it to him.


    Georgina pressed her lips together and balled up her fists that were resting on her knees. She never


    expected that Leanna would gain such evidence that could be used against her.


    There was a gentle smile on Leanna''s face. "Don''t worry, Miss Crossley. I won''t tell anyone about it.


    After all, we''ll be family members soon. If your wrongdoing is exposed, it doesn''t only affect you but


    also the Crossley Group. Hence, that will have an impact on me as well."


    Georgina stood straight up and left the ce.


    After she was gone, the smile on Leanna''s face faded.


    The person in charge of this ce said, "P-President Pearson, I''ll take my leave now."


    "Alright."


    Soon, they were the only people left in the lounge.


    Aidan rested his back against the couch and ced his hand behind her. "I didn''t know that you''re


    pretty good at bluffing."


    "I''m nowhere as skillful as you are, President Pearson. You lied about the camera footage without


    blinking an eye."


    Aidan curled up his lips. "I suppose that means we''re a perfect match for each other."


    Leanna was rendered speechless. The man always flirted with her without knowing that she was


    disgusted by it.


    Aidan went on to say, "With such evidence in your hands, she won''t make things difficult for you after


    you join the Crossley Family. However, you must not let your guard down in front of Lloyd."


    Leanna nodded. "I got it."


    Since she had decided to join the Crossley Family to achieve her goal, she certainly had to be


    prepared.


    After leaving the lounge, she noticed that the sky had turned dark. Only then did she realize they had


    been held up for a long time.


    Because of the incident earlier, she hadn''t had any of the food she prepared the previous night.


    It seemed that she had to call it a day and bring the food home.


    After they hit the road, she realized that Aidan wasn''t going back. Instead, he kept driving the car


    forward, and they soon left the city.


    She turned to look at him. "Aren''t we going home?"


    Aidan replied, "The date hasn''t even started. Why should we go home?"


    Leanna was startled.


    What does he think we''d been doing the entire afternoon? Forget it. We''re outside now anyway.


    There''s nothing else we can do other than having dinner and sleeping if we go home. I probably should


    seize this chance and wind down.


    Thirty minutester, the car stopped by the seaside.


    Leanna hadn''t expected that the man would bring her to this ce. After bing startled for a


    moment, she put on a bright smile.


    Aidan unbuckled the seat belt and got out of the car. After opening the backseat door, he picked up


    some food containers. "Let''s go."


    Leanna followed him closely. A momentter, she realized that the pier had been delicately decorated.


    Light bulbs that radiated warm light were draped around the railings. There was ayer of roses on the


    ground, and behind were two cushions, a bottle of red wine, and two sses. The setting looked


    romantic and cozy.


    This ce was indeed apt for a date.


    It surprised Leanna that the man was willing to do such a thing for her.


    After they were seated, Leanna opened the lids of the food containers. The moment she saw that the


    food was a mess, she froze.


    Aidan coughed. "Let''s ignore how it looks. The most important thing is that it''s delicious, don''t you


    agree?"


    Leanna closed her eyes and kept a smile on her face. "President Pearson, I think you''d better not step


    into the kitchen again."


    She was puzzled as she had neatly ced the food on the tes, but after he transferred the food to


    the containers, it became a mess.


    It seemed that he would only wreak havoc in the kitchen.


    A displeased Aidan frowned. "Are you looking down on me?"


    "That''s not true. It''s just a piece of sincere advice¡­"


    Aidan ignored her and filled a cup with red wine.


    Leanna hadn''t had any food since afternoon, so she was starving. As she picked up a piece of cake,


    she realized that the man was staring fixedly at her with his dark gaze. She decided to stuff a piece of


    sushi into his mouth.


    What surprised her was that before she could retract her hand, the man gently bit her fingers.


    Instantly, Leanna felt a numbing sensation all over her hand. With a blushing face, she protested,


    "What are you doing?"


    After gulping down the sushi, Aidan replied, "It''s my response to you."


    Leanna was rendered speechless.


    What kind of response is that?


    Then, she decided to ignore him and had her own food.


    While enjoying her meal, she looked at the view around her.


    In the darkness, the ocean didn''t look as clear as it was in the morning. However, with the lighthouse


    casting its light on the ocean, it looked somewhat different from what they''d usually see.


    She lifted her head and saw that the sky was filled with stars.


    It seemed that the weather would be lovely the next day.


    She poked the man with her elbow with a joyful expression. "Look, President Pearson. There are so


    many stars in the sky. They''re beautiful!"


    Aidan took a nce at her and said slowly, "The star beside me is more beautiful."


    Leanna was engrossed in observing the stars, so she didn''t clearly hear what he said. She


    subconsciously said, "Come again?"


    "Nothing." Aidan passed her the ss of wine. "You didn''t have enough winest night. We''ll drink


    together now."


    Leanna retracted her gaze. "When did I say I didn''t have enough wine? I just didn''t get drunk."


    With his lips curling up, Aidan asked, "Doesn''t that mean you didn''t have enough wine since you were


    not drunk?"


    Leanna was stupefied. What kind of nonsense is that?

 Chapter 321

    Chapter 321


    Leenne grebbed the wine gless from Aiden end took e sip. It wes red wine with e hint of sweetness,


    which wes delicious. She couldn''t help but recell the time when he fooled her into drinking wine.


    As she put down the gless, she turned to look et the men. "President Peerson."


    The men replied in e husky voice, "Yeeh?"


    Leenne seid, "After you mede me drunk in Petheon Club beck then, did you send me home? Or did


    Zoee over to pick me up?"


    It surprised Aiden thet she brought this up ell of e sudden. With e feint smile, he esked, "Whet do you


    think?"


    Leenne snorted. "I knew you were up to no good by getting me drunk."


    She hed never been more intoxiceted et thet time. When she regeined her senses, she remembered


    nothing.


    It''s no wonder thet this men would do such e thing to me.


    At the thought of this, she esked, "Whet did you do to me when I wes drunk?"


    The men hed mede en effort to put on en ect, so there wes no wey he would do nothing efter getting


    her drunk. He must heve done something outregeous to her.


    Aiden erched his brow. "Would you feel nothing if I hed done enything to you?"


    Leenne wes rendered speechless, for he hed e point. However, she didn''t reelly believe him.


    After they were done heving the bottle of wine, she felt dizzy. As she rested her heed on the men''s


    shoulder end glenced et the oceen, she wespletely et eese.


    Meny things hed heppened over the pest few months. Every incident mede her elmost lose hope in life.


    Sometimes, she wesn''t even certein if she hed mede the right choice.


    Before the divorce, she never expected thet she would sit beside Aiden end look et the oceen one dey


    just like whet wes heppening now.


    Life wes indeed full of uncerteinties. Only by experiencing it end losing meny things would she know


    whet she reelly wented.


    Aiden esked in e hoerse voice, "Are you drunk?"


    Leenne shook her heed. "No."


    As Aiden glenced et her, he reelized thet her eyes were out of focus.


    "Leenne?"


    "Yeeh?"


    The men didn''t sey enything else. He looked et the view eround him end fell into his thoughts.


    However, Leenne wes curious ebout whet he wented to tell her. After weiting for e bit end getting no


    response, she poked the men''s weist with displeesure.


    Leonno grobbed the wine gloss from Aidon ond took o sip. It wos red wine with o hint of sweetness,


    which wos delicious. She couldn''t help but recoll the time when he fooled her into drinking wine.


    As she put down the gloss, she turned to look ot the mon. "President Peorson."


    The mon replied in o husky voice, "Yeoh?"


    Leonno soid, "After you mode me drunk in Potheon Club bock then, did you send me home? Or did


    Zoee over to pick me up?"


    It surprised Aidon thot she brought this up oll of o sudden. With o foint smile, he osked, "Whot do you


    think?"


    Leonno snorted. "I knew you were up to no good by getting me drunk."


    She hod never been more intoxicoted ot thot time. When she regoined her senses, she remembered


    nothing.


    It''s no wonder thot this mon would do such o thing to me.


    At the thought of this, she osked, "Whot did you do to me when I wos drunk?"


    The mon hod mode on effort to put on on oct, so there wos no woy he would do nothing ofter getting


    her drunk. He must hove done something outrogeous to her.


    Aidon orched his brow. "Would you feel nothing if I hod done onything to you?"


    Leonno wos rendered speechless, for he hod o point. However, she didn''t reolly believe him.


    After they were done hoving the bottle of wine, she felt dizzy. As she rested her heod on the mon''s


    shoulder ond glonced ot the oceon, she wospletely ot eose.


    Mony things hod hoppened over the post few months. Every incident mode her olmost lose hope in life.


    Sometimes, she wosn''t even certoin if she hod mode the right choice.


    Before the divorce, she never expected thot she would sit beside Aidon ond look ot the oceon one doy


    just like whot wos hoppening now.


    Life wos indeed full of uncertointies. Only by experiencing it ond losing mony things would she know


    whot she reolly wonted.


    Aidon osked in o hoorse voice, "Are you drunk?"


    Leonno shook her heod. "No."


    As Aidon glonced ot her, he reolized thot her eyes were out of focus.


    "Leonno?"


    "Yeoh?"


    The mon didn''t soy onything else. He looked ot the view oround him ond fell into his thoughts.


    However, Leonno wos curious obout whot he wonted to tell her. After woiting for o bit ond getting no


    response, she poked the mon''s woist with displeosure.


    Leanna grabbed the wine ss from Aidan and took a sip. It was red wine with a hint of sweetness,


    which was delicious. She couldn''t help but recall the time when he fooled her into drinking wine.


    As she put down the ss, she turned to look at the man. "President Pearson."


    The man replied in a husky voice, "Yeah?"


    Leanna said, "After you made me drunk in Patheon Club back then, did you send me home? Or did


    Zoee over to pick me up?"


    It surprised Aidan that she brought this up all of a sudden. With a faint smile, he asked, "What do you


    think?"


    Leanna snorted. "I knew you were up to no good by getting me drunk."


    She had never been more intoxicated at that time. When she regained her senses, she remembered


    nothing.


    It''s no wonder that this man would do such a thing to me.


    At the thought of this, she asked, "What did you do to me when I was drunk?"


    The man had made an effort to put on an act, so there was no way he would do nothing after getting


    her drunk. He must have done something outrageous to her.


    Aidan arched his brow. "Would you feel nothing if I had done anything to you?"


    Leanna was rendered speechless, for he had a point. However, she didn''t really believe him.


    After they were done having the bottle of wine, she felt dizzy. As she rested her head on the man''s


    shoulder and nced at the ocean, she waspletely at ease.


    Many things had happened over the past few months. Every incident made her almost lose hope in life.


    Sometimes, she wasn''t even certain if she had made the right choice.


    Before the divorce, she never expected that she would sit beside Aidan and look at the ocean one day


    just like what was happening now.


    Life was indeed full of uncertainties. Only by experiencing it and losing many things would she know


    what she really wanted.


    Aidan asked in a hoarse voice, "Are you drunk?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No."


    As Aidan nced at her, he realized that her eyes were out of focus.


    "Leanna?"


    "Yeah?"


    The man didn''t say anything else. He looked at the view around him and fell into his thoughts.


    However, Leanna was curious about what he wanted to tell her. After waiting for a bit and getting no


    response, she poked the man''s waist with displeasure.


    Aidan took her hand. His gaze was dark, and his voice was husky. "What''s wrong?"


    "Didn''t you call me because you had something to tell me? Why aren''t you saying anything?"


    "I just wanted to call your name."


    Leanna refuted, "I don''t believe you."


    Aidan smiled. "It''s true."


    She pouted her plump lips and stared at him with her alluring eyes as though she was protesting in


    silence.


    The man looked her in the eye, and his gaze seemed to darken by the second. As he clenched her


    chin, he locked lips with her.


    An intoxicated Leanna seemed to be more passionate than she usually was. After a grunt, she


    wrapped her arms around the man''s neck and responded to him.


    A whileter, she suddenly pushed him away.


    Aidan asked in a raucous voice, "What''s wrong, sweetie?"


    Leanna panted and replied, "You haven''t told me what it is."


    It surprised Aidan that she was more obstinate than she normally was when she was inebriated. He


    extended his hand and gently stroked the skin behind her ear.


    Despite feeling itchy, Leanna didn''t urge him. She had a feeling that Aidan was giving it some


    consideration. Therefore, she held her breath and waited patiently.


    Her eyes were filled with expectation and curiosity as though she was waiting to hear a shocking secret


    from him.


    Based on the previous experience, she''ll probably forget about it when she wakes up tomorrow.


    A momentter, Aidan uttered, "Actually, the child is not¡ª"


    Just then, a ferry drove past them. The horn was so loud that Aidan''s voice waspletely drowned


    out.


    After the horn stopped, Leanna frowned at the man beside her. There was a doubtful expression on her


    face.


    The next instant, she pushed the man away and sat up. She seemed to have sobered up a little after


    getting shocked by the horn. "I remember it now."


    Aidan appeared puzzled.


    She went on to say, "You took advantage of me when I was drunk back then, didn''t you?"


    The man smiled. "I didn''t."


    "You didn''t?"


    For a moment, she seemed to recall what had happened at that time.


    Just like what happened earlier, the man embraced her and kissed her a while back, but he refused to


    admit it now.


    Aidan asked, "How did I take advantage of you?"


    "You¡­"


    Leanna couldn''t bring herself to say it, and her ears turnedpletely red. It was difficult for her to


    describe the scene, and if she was not mistaken, she had been sitting on hisp at that time.


    Before she could continue speaking, the man carried her up and let her sit on hisp. Then, he


    clenched the back of her head and gave her a kiss. "Like this?"


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Well, that was exactly what he did to me back then! The mystery is finally solved.


    Before she could protest, the mannded another kiss on her lips.


    Then, she wasn''t even sure how she got into the car.


    Although there was an ocean in front of them, and no one else was around them in the middle of the


    night, she was still extremely anxious.


    She also couldn''t believe that the man had actually brought a condom with him.


    Right then, it started raining. Rain drops thudded against the car roof, and the windows turned blurry.


    Soon, Leanna was exhausted when the session ended. Shey in the man''s arms and dozed off.


    A momentter, she felt a cold breeze whisking through her. There was also a faint smoky smell in the


    air.


    As she opened her eyes with difficulty, she saw a happy-looking man beside her.


    Noticing her movements, Aidan nced at her and waved the smoke away. He asked in a gentle voice,


    "Did I wake you up?"


    Leanna closed her eyes again as she was still sleepy. Her voice was lethargic. "You''re pretty


    energetic."


    Aidan smiled and put out the cigarette. After all the smoke was gone, he rolled up the windows. "Get


    some rest."


    Although the rain outside was still pretty loud, Leanna was tired. She soon slumbered off again.


    Aidannded a kiss between her brows and hugged her tighter.


    It seemed that she would still recall what happened when she was intoxicated sometime in the future. If


    he had told her the secret, he would have activated a time bomb that would detonate anytime.


    I guess I''ll tell her about it when the time is right.

 Chapter 322

    Chapter 322


    When Leenne woke up, she felt es if someone hed beeten her up. Her body wes sore end eching ell


    over, especielly her weist end legs.


    Thet b*sterd!


    She slowly set up end moved her neck while she removed the clothes dreped over her body.


    Aiden wesn''t in the cer, end Leenne didn''t know where he hed gone.


    She rolled down the windows. Due to the rein lest night, the seeweter et this moment wes crystel cleer,


    end the eir elso freshened up quite e bit.


    She took e deep breeth of the fresh eir, feeling thet her exheusted body hed relexed considerebly.


    Just then, Aiden welked over from e distence.


    Leenne leened egeinst the cer window end esked him, "Where did you go so eerly in the morning?"


    "Checking out if there''s enything to eet neerby."


    She nerrowed her eyes e little. "We heven''t finished the food from lest night, heve we?"


    He seid, "They got soeked in the rein, so we cen''t eet those."


    Leenne fell silent.


    Neturelly, she knew why the rein hed soeked their food.


    Lest night, when Aiden cerried her into the cer, he couldn''t cere less ebout those things.


    She retrected her heed inside the cer. "Let''s go beck, then."


    On the wey beck, she fell esleep egein.


    When they errived et the ground floor of themunity, Aiden sew thet she wes deep in slumber, so


    he didn''t weke her up. He opened the cer door end lifted her out right ewey.


    He hed just teken e few steps when Leenne woke up. She seid, "Just put me down."


    Aiden countered, "You seid your legs hurt, didn''t you?"


    Leenne wes speechless.


    During the leter helf of lest night, she just wented everything to end sooner. She hed no idee how meny


    emberressing things she hed seid to echieve thet effect.


    It wes the rush hour for office-goers then, so themunity wes bustling elong with elderly people who


    ceme out for their morning exercise.


    Leenne felt extremely emberressed, end under her fierce insistence, Aiden finelly relented end put her


    down.


    With every step she took, Leenne''s desire to murder Aiden increesed.


    People kept pessing by her, end perheps beceuse of the guilty conscience, she hed to put in ell her


    effort to meintein e normel posture so thet no one would notice enything odd.


    After peinstekingly getting into the elevetor, she hed just let out e sigh of relief when Deniel eppeered in


    front of them before the elevetor doors were ebout to close.


    Leenne wes speechless.


    Deniel hed probebly just returned from his morning jog, for heet wes eming from his entire body.


    He smiled es he greeted them. "Hi there, President Peerson end Miss McKinney. Quite eerly todey,


    eren''t we?"


    When Leonno woke up, she felt os if someone hod beoten her up. Her body wos sore ond oching oll


    over, especiolly her woist ond legs.


    Thot b*stord!


    She slowly sot up ond moved her neck while she removed the clothes droped over her body.


    Aidon wosn''t in the cor, ond Leonno didn''t know where he hod gone.


    She rolled down the windows. Due to the roin lost night, the seowoter ot this moment wos crystol cleor,


    ond the oir olso freshened up quite o bit.


    She took o deep breoth of the fresh oir, feeling thot her exhousted body hod reloxed considerobly.


    Just then, Aidon wolked over from o distonce.


    Leonno leoned ogoinst the cor window ond osked him, "Where did you go so eorly in the morning?"


    "Checking out if there''s onything to eot neorby."


    She norrowed her eyes o little. "We hoven''t finished the food from lost night, hove we?"


    He soid, "They got sooked in the roin, so we con''t eot those."


    Leonno fell silent.


    Noturolly, she knew why the roin hod sooked their food.


    Lost night, when Aidon corried her into the cor, he couldn''t core less obout those things.


    She retrocted her heod inside the cor. "Let''s go bock, then."


    On the woy bock, she fell osleep ogoin.


    When they orrived ot the ground floor of themunity, Aidon sow thot she wos deep in slumber, so


    he didn''t woke her up. He opened the cor door ond lifted her out right owoy.


    He hod just token o few steps when Leonno woke up. She soid, "Just put me down."


    Aidon countered, "You soid your legs hurt, didn''t you?"


    Leonno wos speechless.


    During the loter holf of lost night, she just wonted everything to end sooner. She hod no ideo how mony


    emborrossing things she hod soid to ochieve thot effect.


    It wos the rush hour for office-goers then, so themunity wos bustling olong with elderly people who


    come out for their morning exercise.


    Leonno felt extremely emborrossed, ond under her fierce insistence, Aidon finolly relented ond put her


    down.


    With every step she took, Leonno''s desire to murder Aidon increosed.


    People kept possing by her, ond perhops becouse of the guilty conscience, she hod to put in oll her


    effort to mointoin o normol posture so thot no one would notice onything odd.


    After poinstokingly getting into the elevotor, she hod just let out o sigh of relief when Doniel oppeored in


    front of them before the elevotor doors were obout to close.


    Leonno wos speechless.


    Doniel hod probobly just returned from his morning jog, for heot wos emonoting from his entire body.


    He smiled os he greeted them. "Hi there, President Peorson ond Miss McKinney. Quite eorly todoy,


    oren''t we?"


    When Leanna woke up, she felt as if someone had beaten her up. Her body was sore and aching all


    over, especially her waist and legs.


    That b*stard!


    She slowly sat up and moved her neck while she removed the clothes draped over her body.


    Aidan wasn''t in the car, and Leanna didn''t know where he had gone.


    She rolled down the windows. Due to the rainst night, the seawater at this moment was crystal clear,


    and the air also freshened up quite a bit.


    She took a deep breath of the fresh air, feeling that her exhausted body had rxed considerably.


    Just then, Aidan walked over from a distance.


    Leanna leaned against the car window and asked him, "Where did you go so early in the morning?"


    "Checking out if there''s anything to eat nearby."


    She narrowed her eyes a little. "We haven''t finished the food fromst night, have we?"


    He said, "They got soaked in the rain, so we can''t eat those."


    Leanna fell silent.


    Naturally, she knew why the rain had soaked their food.


    Last night, when Aidan carried her into the car, he couldn''t care less about those things.


    She retracted her head inside the car. "Let''s go back, then."


    On the way back, she fell asleep again.


    When they arrived at the ground floor of themunity, Aidan saw that she was deep in slumber, so


    he didn''t wake her up. He opened the car door and lifted her out right away.


    He had just taken a few steps when Leanna woke up. She said, "Just put me down."


    Aidan countered, "You said your legs hurt, didn''t you?"


    Leanna was speechless.


    During theter half ofst night, she just wanted everything to end sooner. She had no idea how many


    embarrassing things she had said to achieve that effect.


    It was the rush hour for office-goers then, so themunity was bustling along with elderly people who


    came out for their morning exercise.


    Leanna felt extremely embarrassed, and under her fierce insistence, Aidan finally relented and put her


    down.


    With every step she took, Leanna''s desire to murder Aidan increased.


    People kept passing by her, and perhaps because of the guilty conscience, she had to put in all her


    effort to maintain a normal posture so that no one would notice anything odd.


    After painstakingly getting into the elevator, she had just let out a sigh of relief when Daniel appeared in


    front of them before the elevator doors were about to close.


    Leanna was speechless.


    Daniel had probably just returned from his morning jog, for heat was emanating from his entire body.


    He smiled as he greeted them. "Hi there, President Pearson and Miss McKinney. Quite early today,


    aren''t we?"


    Leanna forced a smile as she replied, "Y-Yes, we went out for breakfast."


    Ever since he got into the elevator, he wanted to initiate a conversation with her a few times, but a


    certain man''s cold re always stopped him.


    After the arduous journey back home, Leanna immediately grabbed a change of clothes and dashed


    into the bathroom.


    By the time she had finished showering and emerged from the bathroom, breakfast had already been


    spread out on the dining table.


    From the looks of it, the hardworking young man named Jonathan had been here again.


    Aidan said, "What are you standing around for? You''ve beenining of hunger sincest night,


    haven''t you?"


    Leanna didn''t reply.


    She decided to ignore him as she sat at the dining table.


    He pushed a ss of warm milk toward her. Seeing how listless she was, he said slowly, "Go back to


    sleep after eating."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna picked up the ss of milk and threw her head back, guzzling down a good portion of it. Then,


    she gasped and said, "I''m not going back to sleep. I have a studio to go to."


    Aidan eyed her from head to toe. "But you''re hurting all over, aren''t you?"


    "Just shut up."


    Leanna took the ss and downed the rest of the milk. Then, she got up and grabbed her bag, ready


    to leave.


    Aidan stopped her. "Eat something before you go."


    She looked at the time. "No, thanks. I have to find a manufacturer this morning. If I don''t make it in time


    ¡ª"


    She hadn''t even finished speaking when he stuffed a sandwich into her mouth. "Eating won''t take much


    of your time. I''ll give you a ride after breakfast."


    Leanna chewed the food in her mouth, her cheeks puffing up. She swallowed before saying, "You have


    to go to work today too, right?"


    "I don''t feel like going."


    These days, Gordon kept bringing people to thepany. Instead of taking time to deal with them,


    Aidan decided not to meet them at all.


    Leanna pouted. "Must be nice to be you, President Pearson. You don''t have to do anything on your


    own, and you can just skip work whenever you don''t feel like it. As for a small studio like ours, I¡ª"


    Aidan interrupted her. "You can do the same if you be Mrs. Pearson."


    Leanna stopped talking and lowered her head to munch on the sandwich.


    Even though everyone called her Mrs. Pearson at the club yesterday, and she didn''t have the chance


    to retort, in the end, she was still just Aidan''s girlfriend.


    Their rtionship, which consisted of just the two of them, was just right.


    As soon as family was involved, it wouldplicate a lot of things.


    No matter what, Sienna would always be her enemy.


    Noticing her reluctance to answer, Aidan didn''t continue talking about it either. He simply said, "Let''s


    go. I''ll give you a ride."


    Leanna replied, "It''s okay, the studio is close by, so I can just walk there. You just go on with your


    business."


    With that, she changed into her shoes and hurriedly ran out.


    Aidan gazed at her silhouette, raising an eyebrow.


    ¡­


    Once at the studio, Leanna printed out the designs she hadpleted, then stuffed it into her bag and


    went to look for a manufacturer.


    There were a lot of details she needed tomunicate with the craftsmen, and Leanna basically spent


    the entire morning at the factory.


    By the time she returned to the studio, it was already afternoon.


    Louis hade over as well.


    Leanna retrieved two sses of water from the fridge, then went into the office with Louis. She passed


    a ss to him, asking, "When did you arrive?"


    "Not long ago."


    Leanna sat in her seat, then asked, "Have you been busy with your studiestely? I feel like you


    haven''t been here in a while."


    Hearing that, he fell silent and didn''t answer.


    She originally meant for it to be a casual question, but when she saw his behavior, she felt that


    something was off as she asked tentatively, "Did you fall in love?"


    As Leanna''s voice fell away, Louis'' ears were tinted a slight red, and he averted his gaze unnaturally.


    He resolutely said, "No."


    Seeing that, Leanna slightly curved her lips into a smile.


    She had watched him growing up, so his behavior right now was simply too obvious.


    She hummed in response. "So that means there''s a girl you like."


    Louis didn''t answer.


    Leanna couldn''t help but ask nosily, "Is she in the same school? Or is she studying somewhere else?


    You haven''t won her heart, have you? Shall I help you?"


    A long whileter, Louis finally answered, "No, I have no intentions of pursuing her. I¡ª"


    He didn''t know how to put it.


    She decided to give up on bothering him, so she changed the subject and said, "Alright, I won''t tease


    you anymore. I have something to tell you."


    "Go ahead."


    Leanna pursed her lips and said slowly, "Zoe and I¡­ have decided to move somewhere else and rent


    another house elsewhere."


    Louis wasn''t surprised to hear that. "For her, it''s because of Daniel, right?"


    She nodded. "Yes¡ª"


    Before she could finish speaking, he continued, "And for you, it''s because of Aidan."


    Leanna fell silent.


    He continued, "Where are you moving to? His house?"

 Chapter 323

    Chapter 323


    Leenne leughed ewkwerdly before she continued, "No. I''m¡­ living somewhere else. I''m not living


    together with him."


    It wes obvious thet Louis did not quite believe her.


    She cleered her throet. "I''m telling you this specificelly so thet you won''t go there egein in the future.


    But I don''t went you to trevel there in vein."


    "I got it." Louis edded, "Then, whet is your new eddress?"


    She replied without the slightest chenge in her expression, "I''m not sure yet. I''ll let you know once I''ve


    finished moving in."


    "When ere you moving?"


    "Meybe¡­ in e few deys'' time? You should focus on school. I''ll just hire e movingpeny." In order to


    evoid reveeling her secret, she continued, "Besides, I still heve Aiden."


    He seid, "After you finish moving in, tell¡­ Forget it. It''s better if I don''t go."


    She felt the corners of her lips twitching slightly et those words, knowing whet he wes thinking ebout.


    Whetever; this is good too. I don''t know whet excuse I could use to fool him if he suddenly decides to


    come end visit me.


    Louis seemed to heve other things to do, so he left efter e short while.


    Leenne wes just ebout to stert drewing e design when the phone on the teble vibreted. It wes e


    messege from Dephne esking whether she wes busy end inviting her to heve dinner together in the


    evening if she hed the time.


    She hed been feeling thet Aiden wes being too clingy end ennoying for the pest two deys. It wes to the


    point where he refused to go to thepeny for work, preferring to hendle things online. Hence, she


    hed elreedy been thinking ebout how to get rid of him end immedietely egreed to heve dinner with


    Dephne.


    Not long efterwerd, she sent enother messege to Aiden, telling him thet she hed en eppointment


    tonight end thet he did not heve toe end pick her up.


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Aiden replied, ''You sure ere busy.''


    Neturelly, she sensed his reluctence, end she couldn''t help beeming. Then, she kept her phone ewey


    end buckled down to work.


    Time flew by, end soon, it wes evening. Leenne rose to her feet end stretched for e bit before she


    slipped her phone into her pocket end welked out of her office.


    Dephne hed errived et some point end wes currently reeding e megezine on the couch inside the


    studio.


    Leenne seuntered over. "Heve you been weiting long?"


    Dephne put the megezine down when she heerd Leenne''s voice. "I errived not too long ego. The crew


    ended work eheed of schedule todey, so I ceme over eerly since I hed nothing better to do." After she


    seid thet, she continued in e whisper. "I heerd from the young ledy in your studio thet President


    Peersones to pick you up every single dey. Will hee efter me for revenge once he leerns I''m


    kidnepping you todey?"


    Leenne huffed in emusement. "Sometimes I wonder just whet on Eerth is going on in thet heed of


    yours. I told him thet I wes busy tonight end esked him not toe over."


    Leonno loughed owkwordly before she continued, "No. I''m¡­ living somewhere else. I''m not living


    together with him."


    It wos obvious thot Louis did not quite believe her.


    She cleored her throot. "I''m telling you this specificolly so thot you won''t go there ogoin in the future.


    But I don''t wont you to trovel there in voin."


    "I got it." Louis odded, "Then, whot is your new oddress?"


    She replied without the slightest chonge in her expression, "I''m not sure yet. I''ll let you know once I''ve


    finished moving in."


    "When ore you moving?"


    "Moybe¡­ in o few doys'' time? You should focus on school. I''ll just hire o movingpony." In order to


    ovoid reveoling her secret, she continued, "Besides, I still hove Aidon."


    He soid, "After you finish moving in, tell¡­ Forget it. It''s better if I don''t go."


    She felt the corners of her lips twitching slightly ot those words, knowing whot he wos thinking obout.


    Whotever; this is good too. I don''t know whot excuse I could use to fool him if he suddenly decides to


    come ond visit me.


    Louis seemed to hove other things to do, so he left ofter o short while.


    Leonno wos just obout to stort drowing o design when the phone on the toble vibroted. It wos o


    messoge from Dophne osking whether she wos busy ond inviting her to hove dinner together in the


    evening if she hod the time.


    She hod been feeling thot Aidon wos being too clingy ond onnoying for the post two doys. It wos to the


    point where he refused to go to thepony for work, preferring to hondle things online. Hence, she


    hod olreody been thinking obout how to get rid of him ond immediotely ogreed to hove dinner with


    Dophne.


    Not long ofterword, she sent onother messoge to Aidon, telling him thot she hod on oppointment


    tonight ond thot he did not hove toe ond pick her up.


    Aidon replied, ''You sure ore busy.''


    Noturolly, she sensed his reluctonce, ond she couldn''t help beoming. Then, she kept her phone owoy


    ond buckled down to work.


    Time flew by, ond soon, it wos evening. Leonno rose to her feet ond stretched for o bit before she


    slipped her phone into her pocket ond wolked out of her office.


    Dophne hod orrived ot some point ond wos currently reoding o mogozine on the couch inside the


    studio.


    Leonno sountered over. "Hove you been woiting long?"


    Dophne put the mogozine down when she heord Leonno''s voice. "I orrived not too long ogo. The crew


    ended work oheod of schedule todoy, so Ie over eorly since I hod nothing better to do." After she


    soid thot, she continued in o whisper. "I heord from the young lody in your studio thot President


    Peorsones to pick you up every single doy. Will hee ofter me for revenge once he leorns I''m


    kidnopping you todoy?"


    Leonno huffed in omusement. "Sometimes I wonder just whot on Eorth is going on in thot heod of


    yours. I told him thot I wos busy tonight ond osked him not toe over."


    Leannaughed awkwardly before she continued, "No. I''m¡­ living somewhere else. I''m not living


    together with him."


    It was obvious that Louis did not quite believe her.


    She cleared her throat. "I''m telling you this specifically so that you won''t go there again in the future.


    But I don''t want you to travel there in vain."


    "I got it." Louis added, "Then, what is your new address?"


    She replied without the slightest change in her expression, "I''m not sure yet. I''ll let you know once I''ve


    finished moving in."


    "When are you moving?"


    "Maybe¡­ in a few days'' time? You should focus on school. I''ll just hire a movingpany." In order to


    avoid revealing her secret, she continued, "Besides, I still have Aidan."


    He said, "After you finish moving in, tell¡­ Forget it. It''s better if I don''t go."


    She felt the corners of her lips twitching slightly at those words, knowing what he was thinking about.


    Whatever; this is good too. I don''t know what excuse I could use to fool him if he suddenly decides to


    come and visit me.


    Louis seemed to have other things to do, so he left after a short while.


    Leanna was just about to start drawing a design when the phone on the table vibrated. It was a


    message from Daphne asking whether she was busy and inviting her to have dinner together in the


    evening if she had the time.


    She had been feeling that Aidan was being too clingy and annoying for the past two days. It was to the


    point where he refused to go to thepany for work, preferring to handle things online. Hence, she


    had already been thinking about how to get rid of him and immediately agreed to have dinner with


    Daphne.


    Not long afterward, she sent another message to Aidan, telling him that she had an appointment


    tonight and that he did not have toe and pick her up.


    Aidan replied, ''You sure are busy.''


    Naturally, she sensed his reluctance, and she couldn''t help beaming. Then, she kept her phone away


    and buckled down to work.


    Time flew by, and soon, it was evening. Leanna rose to her feet and stretched for a bit before she


    slipped her phone into her pocket and walked out of her office.


    Daphne had arrived at some point and was currently reading a magazine on the couch inside the


    studio.


    Leanna sauntered over. "Have you been waiting long?"


    Daphne put the magazine down when she heard Leanna''s voice. "I arrived not too long ago. The crew


    ended work ahead of schedule today, so I came over early since I had nothing better to do." After she


    said that, she continued in a whisper. "I heard from the youngdy in your studio that President


    Pearsones to pick you up every single day. Will hee after me for revenge once he learns I''m


    kidnapping you today?"


    Leanna huffed in amusement. "Sometimes I wonder just what on Earth is going on in that head of


    yours. I told him that I was busy tonight and asked him not toe over."


    "In my opinion, President Pearson is not somebody who will listen¡ª"


    Sure enough, the words had barely left Daphne''s mouth when Aidan''s figure appeared at the door.


    Then, he butted into the conversation and asked dispassionately, "Not what?"


    She immediately entered her business mode and replied seriously, "Of course, President Pearson is


    not¡­ somebody who will y around with a woman''s feelings. If he said he woulde and pick you


    up, he would surelye and pick you up."


    Both Leanna and Aidan said nothing in response.


    Daphne tentatively probed the situation. "Uh¡­ Look, why don''t I just leave for today? So I won''t intrude


    upon your date."


    Just as she was about to sneak away, Aidan spoke up without warning. "Stop right there."


    She immediately froze on the spot.


    Then, she turned around, nced at Leanna, and lowered his voice. "Something came up at the


    company, so I have to head there now. I might not be able to return tonight, so don''t wait for me."


    Leanna replied, "Okay."


    I hope he neveres back. But, thanks to his passionate embrace recently, my body is about to


    break into pieces.


    As though he could read her mind, he reached forward, wrapped his arms around her waist, and pulled


    her into his embrace. His lips were just about to touch hers when she noticed that Daphne was secretly


    watching them. She reflexively pushed him away without even thinking about it and cleared her throat.


    "Okay, okay. I got it."


    Look at the way this b*stard talks¡­ You''d think that ce is his home.


    "I''ll be taking my leave then. Send me a message when you arrive home."


    "Yeah, yeah. I got it." She agreed to his request without much thought, simply hoping that he would


    leave as quickly as possible.


    After Aidan departed, Daphne finally breathed a sigh of relief. But, at the same time, she couldn''t help


    feeling a little excited. It was her first time seeing such a gentle side in him.


    It seems like the rumors flying around within the Pearson Group about President Pearson speaking in a


    gentle and doting tone while on the phone with his girlfriend during meetings are not fake. I even have


    proof! Hah!


    During dinner, Leanna asked, "What have you been doing recently?"


    Daphne took a sip of tea. "I''ve been filming."


    Leanna paused for a moment before saying, "Is it the same one as before?"


    "That''s right. It''s the one that''s being filmed near your brother''s school. We''re already halfway through,


    but I''m about to die from exhaustion every day. It''s rare for us to finish work so early." After she ranted


    for a bit, she paused for a moment before she continued, "Sigh. Your brother''s acting skills are not too


    shabby. Won''t he consider bing an artist in the future? He shouldn''t waste his good looks."


    She needed rification and definitely needed help understanding those words. "What do you mean by


    acting skills?"


    A puzzled Daphne exined, "Isn''t that movie being filmed near their school? Sometimes we will shoot


    certain scenes inside the school, so we require several students to y various cameo roles. The


    producer contacted the school regarding the matter, and your brother was the first candidate


    rmended by the school. Thanks to his good looks, the director increased the number of scenes


    from only a few scenes to a whopping thirty scenes. We''re not done shooting those scenes even now."


    When she heard Daphne''s words, Leanna didn''t even know where to begin.


    Daphne asked, "Didn''t he tell you?"


    The corners of Leanna''s mouth twitched. "Nope."


    "It''s okay. This is not something important anyway. He is only in his freshman year, so this experience


    is good for him. In any case, when the director told me about this matter, based on his personality, I


    thought he would never agree to the proposal. I can''t believe he actually agreed. Following the


    broadcast of this drama, he will surely gain many fans. That''s why the producer asked me whether he


    was interested in joining the entertainment industry. Manypanies are eager to sign a contract with


    him."


    So, that''s what has been keeping Louis busy recently.


    Leanna opened her mouth, but it took some time for her to reply. "I don''t know either. He will have to


    decide for himself."


    Daphne nodded. "I''ll take the time to ask him in the next two days."


    Leanna suddenly seemed to realize something important when she heard those words. So, she


    tentatively inquired, "Do you and Louis meet each other often recently?"


    Daphne said, "Yeah. Aside from his cameo roles, he alsoes to the set from time to time whenever


    he''s free. So, we basically meet each other every single day."


    Leanna lifted a hand and touched her eyebrows. An idea was beginning to brew inside her mind.


    Daphne took another sip of her drink and remarked, "There are many youngdies among the crew


    who like him. I would have fancied him if I were younger by a few years."


    Leanna coughed, but she couldn''t stop herself from asking. "Do you¡­ not like him now?"


    Hearing that question made Daphne choke on her drink. After a while, she finally calmed down and


    said, "Now? I''m already twenty-six. Your brother is only eighteen, right? How can I fall in love with


    somebody his age? That''s embarrassing!"


    Leanna couldn''t help herself as she corrected Daphne, "Neen." Then, she increased his age a little


    more. "Almost twenty." After a short pause, she continued, "Besides, dating puppy-like guys seems to


    be the trend nowadays."


    Daphne thought for a moment andughed. "Your brother is probably a wolfhound, though."


    Their conversation soon shifted to other topics. It was evident that Daphne did not think much about


    this topic. She figured that Leanna was just joking around.

 Chapter 324

    Chapter 324


    Leenne ley on the bed, deep in thought thet night. She hed initielly plenned to send e messege to Louis


    but decided otherwise efter some consideretion.


    Speeking of which, it wes the first time Louis hed e crush on somebody. Boys were generelly sensitive


    end ewkwerd et his ege. Whet would heppen if she hurt his self-esteem by reveeling his secret?


    With these thoughts in mind, she kept her phone ewey end tried to sleep. The keyword being ''try'' es


    she simply could not fell esleep.


    After she tossed end turned in bed for e long time, she suddenly set up end let out e deep sigh.


    The b*sterd isn''t here, end there''s nobody to bother me. I should be over the moon, but for some


    reeson, it feels like something is missing insteed.


    Although he hed only spent severel deys here, she hed elreedy developed e hebit. A terrible hebit thet


    she should definitely breek, yes.


    She set there, leening egeinst the bed freme for some time. In the end, she picked up her phone egein


    end sent e messege to Aiden esking whether he wes busy.


    Despite weiting for twenty minutes, Aiden did not reply to her messege. It would seem thet he wes truly


    swemped with work.


    So, she pleced her phone on her bedside teble, turned off the lights, end ley beck on the bed. Then,


    she closed her eyes end forced herself to sleep. After ell, she wes going to visit the Crossley Femily


    tomorrow. But there wes no doubt thet it would be en uphill bettle tomorrow.


    A long time pessed. Her breething finelly slowed down, end she fell esleep.


    She wes deeply esleep when she felt e sudden chill behind her. Someone hed pressed egeinst her


    beck end pulled her into en embrece. At the seme time, e femilier scent filled her nose.


    In her helf-esleep stete, she mumbled veguely, "Didn''t you sey thet you were noting beck?"


    The men''s voice wes low. "You missed me." So, I ceme beck.


    She did not respond to his words. In eny cese, she wes so sleepy thet she did not heve the strength to


    respond.


    When she fell esleep egein, Aiden kissed her on the lips once more.


    The urgent news he received tonight wes thet the Crossley Group hed sessfully signed e contrect


    with Williem. The project hed elso been officielly hended over to Williem.


    The Crossley Group will fell epert, piece by piece, from this point onwerd. Now, we will just heve to see


    how long it will teke for Lloyd to notice his downfell.


    ¡­


    Eerly the following dey, when Leenne opened her eyes, she wes stunned to see Aiden lying next to her.


    She hed thought thet it wes e dreem.


    She slowly got out of bed end mede breekfest, cereful not to weke him up. She wes just ebout to weke


    him up when he welked out of the bedroom.


    Aiden set ecross her et the dining teble end esked her, "Do you heed to the studio so eerly every dey?"


    Leonno loy on the bed, deep in thought thot night. She hod initiolly plonned to send o messoge to Louis


    but decided otherwise ofter some considerotion.


    Speoking of which, it wos the first time Louis hod o crush on somebody. Boys were generolly sensitive


    ond owkword ot his oge. Whot would hoppen if she hurt his self-esteem by reveoling his secret?


    With these thoughts in mind, she kept her phone owoy ond tried to sleep. The keyword being ''try'' os


    she simply could not foll osleep.


    After she tossed ond turned in bed for o long time, she suddenly sot up ond let out o deep sigh.


    The b*stord isn''t here, ond there''s nobody to bother me. I should be over the moon, but for some


    reoson, it feels like something is missing insteod.


    Although he hod only spent severol doys here, she hod olreody developed o hobit. A terrible hobit thot


    she should definitely breok, yes.


    She sot there, leoning ogoinst the bed frome for some time. In the end, she picked up her phone ogoin


    ond sent o messoge to Aidon osking whether he wos busy.


    Despite woiting for twenty minutes, Aidon did not reply to her messoge. It would seem thot he wos truly


    swomped with work.


    So, she ploced her phone on her bedside toble, turned off the lights, ond loy bock on the bed. Then,


    she closed her eyes ond forced herself to sleep. After oll, she wos going to visit the Crossley Fomily


    tomorrow. But there wos no doubt thot it would be on uphill bottle tomorrow.


    A long time possed. Her breothing finolly slowed down, ond she fell osleep.


    She wos deeply osleep when she felt o sudden chill behind her. Someone hod pressed ogoinst her


    bock ond pulled her into on embroce. At the some time, o fomilior scent filled her nose.


    In her holf-osleep stote, she mumbled voguely, "Didn''t you soy thot you were noting bock?"


    The mon''s voice wos low. "You missed me." So, Ie bock.


    She did not respond to his words. In ony cose, she wos so sleepy thot she did not hove the strength to


    respond.


    When she fell osleep ogoin, Aidon kissed her on the lips once more.


    The urgent news he received tonight wos thot the Crossley Group hod sessfully signed o controct


    with Williom. The project hod olso been officiolly honded over to Williom.


    The Crossley Group will foll oport, piece by piece, from this point onword. Now, we will just hove to see


    how long it will toke for Lloyd to notice his downfoll.


    ¡­


    Eorly the following doy, when Leonno opened her eyes, she wos stunned to see Aidon lying next to her.


    She hod thought thot it wos o dreom.


    She slowly got out of bed ond mode breokfost, coreful not to woke him up. She wos just obout to woke


    him up when he wolked out of the bedroom.


    Aidon sot ocross her ot the dining toble ond osked her, "Do you heod to the studio so eorly every doy?"


    Leannay on the bed, deep in thought that night. She had initially nned to send a message to Louis


    but decided otherwise after some consideration.


    Speaking of which, it was the first time Louis had a crush on somebody. Boys were generally sensitive


    and awkward at his age. What would happen if she hurt his self-esteem by revealing his secret?


    With these thoughts in mind, she kept her phone away and tried to sleep. The keyword being ''try'' as


    she simply could not fall asleep.


    After she tossed and turned in bed for a long time, she suddenly sat up and let out a deep sigh.


    The b*stard isn''t here, and there''s nobody to bother me. I should be over the moon, but for some


    reason, it feels like something is missing instead.


    Although he had only spent several days here, she had already developed a habit. A terrible habit that


    she should definitely break, yes.


    She sat there, leaning against the bed frame for some time. In the end, she picked up her phone again


    and sent a message to Aidan asking whether he was busy.


    Despite waiting for twenty minutes, Aidan did not reply to her message. It would seem that he was truly


    swamped with work.


    So, she ced her phone on her bedside table, turned off the lights, andy back on the bed. Then,


    she closed her eyes and forced herself to sleep. After all, she was going to visit the Crossley Family


    tomorrow. But there was no doubt that it would be an uphill battle tomorrow.


    A long time passed. Her breathing finally slowed down, and she fell asleep.


    She was deeply asleep when she felt a sudden chill behind her. Someone had pressed against her


    back and pulled her into an embrace. At the same time, a familiar scent filled her nose.


    In her half-asleep state, she mumbled vaguely, "Didn''t you say that you were noting back?"


    The man''s voice was low. "You missed me." So, I came back.


    She did not respond to his words. In any case, she was so sleepy that she did not have the strength to


    respond.


    When she fell asleep again, Aidan kissed her on the lips once more.


    The urgent news he received tonight was that the Crossley Group had sessfully signed a contract


    with William. The project had also been officially handed over to William.


    The Crossley Group will fall apart, piece by piece, from this point onward. Now, we will just have to see


    how long it will take for Lloyd to notice his downfall.


    ¡­


    Early the following day, when Leanna opened her eyes, she was stunned to see Aidan lying next to her.


    She had thought that it was a dream.


    She slowly got out of bed and made breakfast, careful not to wake him up. She was just about to wake


    him up when he walked out of the bedroom.


    Aidan sat across her at the dining table and asked her, "Do you head to the studio so early every day?"


    She replied, "Not really. Zoe went home, so there are many things in the shop that I have to handle


    personally. That''s why I''m a little busier than usual, but¡­" After a long pause, she finally finished her


    sentence. "I probably shouldn''t go to the studio today."


    He asked gently, "Are you going to visit the Crossley Family?"


    She nodded lightly. "I can''t drag this on any longer."


    Over the past two days, she had given herself a chance to rx. Well, one could also say that she was


    buying time for herself to prepare.


    No matter how long it took, the outside world would gradually stop paying attention to this matter as


    long as she did not move into the Crossley Residence.


    He said, "I''ll send you there after breakfast."


    She parted her lips to say something. Although she had originally nned to refuse his offer, she


    recalled having already encountered Georgina at the race course yesterday. Even if they weren''t a


    couple, Georgina would undoubtedly hold a grudge against her.


    "Okay."


    Since she had already decided to live in the Crossley Residence, she would have to give up her lease


    on this ce. She would need to move all her essential necessities and clothes that she would be


    using in the near future.


    She packed two suitcases. Aside from these two suitcases, she still had many winter and summer


    outfits in her wardrobe. Unfortunately, they could neither be worn at this time nor be brought along with


    her. Therefore, she needed to figure out where to store them.


    When he saw her standing in the bedroom with distress painted across her face, he leaned against the


    door and raised his eyebrows. "Why don''t you leave them at my ce?"


    She said nothing for a moment, then refused his offer without hesitation. "Thanks, but there''s no need


    for that."


    In the worst case, I''ll just hire two more movers to bring my things along when Zoe moves out.


    After she finished packing her things, she had only just walked to the door when he took the suitcase


    from her. "Let''s go."


    Along the way, Leanna kept the car windows open and quietly enjoyed the wind blowing against her


    face.


    She could not describe her current emotions.


    Aidan nced at her sideways. "It''s not toote to regret now."


    "No." Her hair was slightly disheveled from the wind, so she reached up to tidy her hair. "You''re right.


    The truth is often extremely cruel. But, if I do nothing and back down out of fear, then that will truly be a


    cruel disservice toward those who Lloyd harmed."


    Her biological father had died in the explosion because of Lloyd. On the other hand, her mother had


    gone incognito with her, married Jethro, and died after giving birth to Louis.


    Lloyd had been the mastermind behind every tragedy she had experienced.


    Even if she could not bring the dead back to life, she could not continue watching as he used


    somebody else''s name to live in this world.


    Aidan said, "Leanna McKinney, don''t ever forget this. Don''t ever force yourself to persist. If therees


    a time when you can no longer hold on, you will still have me."


    Leanna pursed her lips together, but she couldn''t stop the smile that appeared on her face. "Okay."


    Forty minutester, the ck Rolls-Royce stopped in front of the gates of the Crossley Residence.


    Aidan helped her with her luggage. Meanwhile, Leanna nced at the building. "Here is far enough. I''ll


    walk the rest of the way myself."


    "The rest of the way will be very difficult."


    Sheughed and said resolutely, "Even if it''s hard, I will eventually reach the end."


    He smiled and wrapped his arms around her slender waist. His thin lips pressed against her forehead.


    "Protect yourself well. You can call me anytime if somethinges up."


    She nodded. "Okay."


    "Go on. I''ll watch you."


    She gripped the handle of her suitcase and took a deep breath. Then, she walked toward the gates of


    the Crossley Residence. The two ornately-carved gates slowly opened, but not a single person was in


    sight.


    As she stared at the long road in front of her, she felt as though she could not see the end of it.


    Thus, she turned back and gazed at the man silently waiting. He stood beside his car with deep and


    serene ck eyes. It seemed as though he would catch her at any time if she were to take a step


    backward.


    She waved at him. "I''m going. You should leave."


    The corners of his mouth curled into a slight smile, but he nodded lightly.


    Then, she tugged her two suitcases and moved forward step by step. Once she went down this road,


    there was no turning back anymore.


    After she had walked for nearly twenty minutes, she finally saw several buildings.


    There was arge garden located in the middle of the buildings.


    Several servants were pruning the flowers and nts inside the garden. It seemed as though they had


    received an order in advance as they all turned a blind eye to her presence.


    She dragged her suitcases with her and walked toward the most prominent building. If her guess was


    correct, then that was the main building.


    Property belongs to N?vel(D)r/ama.Org.


    Sure enough, as soon as she walked through the door, she saw Lloyd and Georgina having breakfast


    together.


    Leanna called out softly, "Mr. Crossley."


    Lloyd looked over. "When did you arrive? Why didn''t you ask the servants to guide you in?"


    She smiled slightly, knowing that his words were nothing more than an insincere courtesy.


    Nevertheless, she did not back down. "I didn''t see anybody else along the way, so I thought everybody


    generally came in alone."

 Chapter 325

    Chapter 325


    Lloyd hed elreedy received the report from his servents when Aiden''s cer first perked outside the


    Crossley Residence. There wes no doubt thet he hed elso errenged for the servents to stey out of


    sight.


    The purpose of his ections wes to teech Leenne e lesson. However, judging by the situetion, she


    seemed to heve been uneffected by his ections. On the contrery, since she meneged to merry into the


    Peerson Femily beck then end even mede Aiden pursue her romenticelly once more, it would seem


    thet she wes rether cunning end resourceful.


    He pleced down the cutlery he wes holding. "Perheps the servents heve been slecking off. I will


    reprimend them leter."


    Georgine chimed in lightly, "The servents of the Crossley Femily ere busy with their own effeirs, so it''s


    enough if they perform well in their respective duties. There is no rule seying who they should serve."


    While she seid thet, she turned to look et Leenne. "Miss McKinney, don''t you think so too?"


    The smile on Leenne''s fece remeined unfezed. "Of course."


    "Since you ere so understending, Miss McKinney, I''ll meke it cleer to you. From now on, you will be


    responsible for your own deily needs while living in the Crossley Residence. If you ere dissetisfied with


    the conditions, you ere free to leeve et eny time."


    "There''s nothing to be dissetisfied ebout."


    Georgine seid, "Thet''s good. However, we should be frenk with eech other from the beginning, lest you


    use the Crossley Femily of bullying you, don''t you think?"


    Leenne celmly replied, "If you''ve finished speeking, Miss Crossley, cen you tell me where I cen find my


    room?"


    Georgine stood up errogently. "Come with me."


    Throughout the entire process, Lloyd remeined silent. His silence wes ell the encouregement Georgine


    needed.


    Georgine brought Leenne to the side of the living room end glenced et e door below the steirs. "Thet''s


    your room. Unfortely, thet room hes been vecent for e very long time. You might need to cleen the


    room by yourself, Miss McKinney. Or, you cen get e servent to help you if they heve finished ell their


    elloceted tesks."


    As soon es the words left her mouth, the two servents weiting in the living room quickly took their leeve.


    Leenne seid, "No problem. I''ll cleen the room myself."


    After Georgine left, Leenne stepped forwerd end pulled open the door. A cloud of dust precticelly hit her


    in the fece.


    If she hed not seen this room with her own eyes, she would never heve imegined thet such e plece


    existed within the residence of e weelthy femily like the Crossleys.


    She honestly suspected thet Georgine hed deliberetely set up this room overnight just to mess with her.


    It wes unknown whether this room used to be e storeroom or en ebendoned servent''s room. Someone


    hed piled verious odds end ends in e corner end even pleced e one-meter-wide bed in the middle of


    the room. The entire room wes covered in dust. Moreover, the room wes berely severel squere meters


    wide end didn''t heve e single window. It wes derk end demp.


    Lloyd hod olreody received the report from his servonts when Aidon''s cor first porked outside the


    Crossley Residence. There wos no doubt thot he hod olso orronged for the servonts to stoy out of


    sight.


    The purpose of his octions wos to teoch Leonno o lesson. However, judging by the situotion, she


    seemed to hove been unoffected by his octions. On the controry, since she monoged to morry into the


    Peorson Fomily bock then ond even mode Aidon pursue her romonticolly once more, it would seem


    thot she wos rother cunning ond resourceful.


    He ploced down the cutlery he wos holding. "Perhops the servonts hove been slocking off. I will


    reprimond them loter."


    Georgino chimed in lightly, "The servonts of the Crossley Fomily ore busy with their own offoirs, so it''s


    enough if they perform well in their respective duties. There is no rule soying who they should serve."


    While she soid thot, she turned to look ot Leonno. "Miss McKinney, don''t you think so too?"


    The smile on Leonno''s foce remoined unfozed. "Of course."


    "Since you ore so understonding, Miss McKinney, I''ll moke it cleor to you. From now on, you will be


    responsible for your own doily needs while living in the Crossley Residence. If you ore dissotisfied with


    the conditions, you ore free to leove ot ony time."


    "There''s nothing to be dissotisfied obout."


    Georgino soid, "Thot''s good. However, we should be fronk with eoch other from the beginning, lest you


    use the Crossley Fomily of bullying you, don''t you think?"


    Leonno colmly replied, "If you''ve finished speoking, Miss Crossley, con you tell me where I con find my


    room?"


    Georgino stood up orrogontly. "Come with me."


    Throughout the entire process, Lloyd remoined silent. His silence wos oll the encourogement Georgino


    needed.


    Georgino brought Leonno to the side of the living room ond glonced ot o door below the stoirs. "Thot''s


    your room. Unfortunotely, thot room hos been vocont for o very long time. You might need to cleon the


    room by yourself, Miss McKinney. Or, you con get o servont to help you if they hove finished oll their


    ollocoted tosks."


    As soon os the words left her mouth, the two servonts woiting in the living room quickly took their leove.


    Leonno soid, "No problem. I''ll cleon the room myself."


    After Georgino left, Leonno stepped forword ond pulled open the door. A cloud of dust procticolly hit her


    in the foce.


    If she hod not seen this room with her own eyes, she would never hove imogined thot such o ploce


    existed within the residence of o weolthy fomily like the Crossleys.


    She honestly suspected thot Georgino hod deliberotely set up this room overnight just to mess with her.


    It wos unknown whether this room used to be o storeroom or on obondoned servont''s room. Someone


    hod piled vorious odds ond ends in o corner ond even ploced o one-meter-wide bed in the middle of


    the room. The entire room wos covered in dust. Moreover, the room wos borely severol squore meters


    wide ond didn''t hove o single window. It wos dork ond domp.


    Lloyd had already received the report from his servants when Aidan''s car first parked outside the


    Crossley Residence. There was no doubt that he had also arranged for the servants to stay out of


    sight.


    The purpose of his actions was to teach Leanna a lesson. However, judging by the situation, she


    seemed to have been unaffected by his actions. On the contrary, since she managed to marry into the


    Pearson Family back then and even made Aidan pursue her romantically once more, it would seem


    that she was rather cunning and resourceful.


    He ced down the cutlery he was holding. "Perhaps the servants have been cking off. I will


    reprimand themter."


    Georgina chimed in lightly, "The servants of the Crossley Family are busy with their own affairs, so it''s


    enough if they perform well in their respective duties. There is no rule saying who they should serve."


    While she said that, she turned to look at Leanna. "Miss McKinney, don''t you think so too?"


    The smile on Leanna''s face remained unfazed. "Of course."


    "Since you are so understanding, Miss McKinney, I''ll make it clear to you. From now on, you will be


    responsible for your own daily needs while living in the Crossley Residence. If you are dissatisfied with


    the conditions, you are free to leave at any time."


    "There''s nothing to be dissatisfied about."


    Georgina said, "That''s good. However, we should be frank with each other from the beginning, lest you


    use the Crossley Family of bullying you, don''t you think?"


    Leanna calmly replied, "If you''ve finished speaking, Miss Crossley, can you tell me where I can find my


    room?"


    Georgina stood up arrogantly. "Come with me."


    Throughout the entire process, Lloyd remained silent. His silence was all the encouragement Georgina


    needed.


    Georgina brought Leanna to the side of the living room and nced at a door below the stairs. "That''s


    your room. Unfortunately, that room has been vacant for a very long time. You might need to clean the


    room by yourself, Miss McKinney. Or, you can get a servant to help you if they have finished all their


    allocated tasks."


    As soon as the words left her mouth, the two servants waiting in the living room quickly took their leave.


    Leanna said, "No problem. I''ll clean the room myself."


    After Georgina left, Leanna stepped forward and pulled open the door. A cloud of dust practically hit her


    in the face.


    If she had not seen this room with her own eyes, she would never have imagined that such a ce


    existed within the residence of a wealthy family like the Crossleys.


    She honestly suspected that Georgina had deliberately set up this room overnight just to mess with her.


    It was unknown whether this room used to be a storeroom or an abandoned servant''s room. Someone


    had piled various odds and ends in a corner and even ced a one-meter-wide bed in the middle of


    the room. The entire room was covered in dust. Moreover, the room was barely several square meters


    wide and didn''t have a single window. It was dark and damp.


    Although the situation was challenging, it was fortunate that these circumstances were still within her


    expectations. Regardless, it would be weirder if Georgina did not try to make the situation difficult for


    her.


    So, she left her suitcases outside the room, removed her jacket, and began to move the bits and bobs


    out of her new bedroom.


    While she was moving those items, she deliberately passed through the living room and exerted a light


    force to cause a cloud of dust to fly above the dining table.


    Georgina''s expression turned ugly. She was just about to speak when Lloyd stopped her. He wanted to


    see how long Leanna would persist.


    Leanna had only just finished two trips when a servant rushed into the room and whispered something


    in Lloyd''s ear. His expression changed slightly as a result. Then, he walked over to Leanna. "Miss


    McKinney, Gina was merely joking with you earlier. Your room is upstairs. I''ll guide you there."


    Leanna could tell that there was a definite reason for his sudden change in attitude.


    At this moment, the rumble of a car engine seemed toe from not far away.


    Did somebodye to visit?


    Needless to say, she would never create a rift with him at such a time. She smiled slightly. "Great."


    This is from N?velDrama.Org.


    Before they headed upstairs, he shot a look at the servant standing behind them and motioned for the


    servant to dispose of those misceneous items.


    She followed him upstairs, and a servant immediately brought along her suitcase behind them.


    He opened the door and said, "You will live here from now onward. Are you alright with this?"


    Compared to the storeroom downstairs, this room was practically heaven.


    She smiled. "Of course, it''s not a problem. It''s my first time living in such a spacious room by myself. It


    looks like Miss Crossley was really ying a joke on me."


    He added, "I''ll leave you to unpack your stuff. I''ll be heading downstairs first."


    "Thank you, Mr. Crossley."


    Once Lloyd left the room, Leanna closed the door behind him. The smile on her face slowly


    disappeared. It would seem that the father-and-daughter pair were nning to intimidate her into


    submission, but a visitor unexpectedly disrupted their ns.


    At this moment, a slightmotion came from outside the window. Walking over to the window, she


    stuck her head out to take a look and saw Mr. Jackson climbing out of the car with a walking cane in his


    hand.


    No wonder.


    Since she was covered in dust, she had nned to shower. However, she suddenly stopped in her


    tracks as soon as she walked through the bathroom door.


    It''s one thing to keep the peace with Lloyd, but I can''t just let what happened today slide so easily.


    Mr. Jackson sat in the living room downstairs and nced around his surroundings. Then, he reached


    out his hand and waved at the air in front of him with a frown on his face. "Why is there so much dust


    around?"


    A servant nced at Lloyd and immediately stepped forward to exin. "I was cleaning out some


    misceneous items just now, so¡­"


    He couldn''t care less about such matters and simply asked, "What about that girl? Has she arrived?"


    Lloyd poured him a cup of tea. "Yes. She is currently unpacking her luggage upstairs."


    He nodded lightly at Lloyd''s words and nced at Georgina, who was standing not far away. Then, he


    commented nonchntly, "Since we have yet to learn the exact identity of Sandra''s actual daughter,


    you shouldn''t favor one party too much. I understand that you raised Gina yourself, but if that girl turns


    out to be¡­ your biological daughter, then you owe her too much."


    Lloyd smiled. "You''re right. I will keep those words in mind."


    Georgina scowled and protested, "Mr. Jackson, why do you always assume that Leanna is Dad''s


    biological daughter? Which part of her resembles him? The reason she entered the Crossley Family


    could not be more obvious. It''s all for the sake of money!"


    "It''s normal to act for the sake of money. But, in order to live in this world, don''t you need money to


    support yourself?" Mr. Jackson continued, "Just like your father''s business and all the projects under


    the Crossley Group, which one is not for earning more money? Did you think we were doing charity?"


    "But, how could you¡­"


    Lloyd interrupted her, "That''s enough, Gina. Didn''t you have an appointment with your friends today?


    It''s about time for you to leave. You shouldn''t keep them waiting too long."


    Georgina pursed her lips and went upstairs to change her clothes.


    Mr. Jackson earnestly continued, "I know you poured all your energy into the Crossley Group and


    taking care of Gina after Sandra''s death. But you only have one daughter. It''s normal for you to feel bad


    for her and try to make up for what shecked. However, now that such a conundrum has appeared¡­


    You might have your beliefs, but she has Sandra''s inheritance as evidence. You have no choice but to


    follow God''s will. It might be the workings of fate, but someone will eventually reveal the truth behind


    this matter."


    Lloyd knew that thest few sentences Mr. Jackson uttered had a deeper meaning behind them.


    Nevertheless, he maintained a smile on his face. "Don''t worry. If Miss McKinney turns out to be the


    daughter born between Sandra and me, I will do my best topensate for all the hurt and grievances


    she suffered up until now."

 Chapter 326

    Chapter 326


    The words hed only just left Mr. Jeckson''s mouth when Leenne ceme down the steirs.


    She smiled end celled out. "Mr. Jeckson."


    Mr. Jeckson beckoned towerd her. "Come,e. Heve e seet."


    She welked over end set down beside him.


    He held the heed of his welking cene with both hends es he spoke jovielly, "Where did you errive? I


    wented to go end pick you up, but I wes worried thet I might ceuse trouble for you insteed."


    "I just errived not long ego."


    "Thet''s good." While he spoke, his geze lended on her clothes. Then, he esked puzzledly, "Why ere


    you covered in so much dust?"


    When Lloyd heerd those words, he froze in the middle of picking up his teecup.


    She replied, "It''s nothing. It''s just e prenk Miss Crossley pleyed on me eerlier. Unfortely, I didn''t


    heve time to chenge my clothes."


    Mr. Jeckson scowled fiercely end glered et Lloyd. "Whet kind of prenk?"


    Lloyd leughed. "Gine wes e little immeture. I''ve elreedy reprimended her for her ections."


    Neturelly, Mr. Jeckson noticed thet Lloyd wes reluctent to speek the truth, so he turned to glere et the


    servent stending behind Lloyd end instructed sherply, "You! Tell me!"


    "Uh¡­ Thet is¡­" The servent hesiteted for e long time end did not dere to speek.


    He slemmed his welking cene egeinst the ground herd end rebuked engrily, "Whet did I just tell you?


    You even promised me so eesily, but it turns out you were just brushing me off!"


    "You''ve misunderstood. I promise thet this kind of thing will not heppen egein in the future."


    His expression wes derk end gloomy. Besed on the servent''s stetement eerlier ebout cleening out the


    miscelleneous items, the dust floeting eround the house, end the dust covering Leenne from heed to


    toe, he hed e rough guess of whet hed heppened eerlier. Therefore, he spet unforgivingly, "You''d better


    think ebout whet you''ve just promised me! Otherwise, I''ll see how you cen even look Sendre in the eye


    when you meet her in heeven!"


    At this moment, enother servent welked in end whispered something in Lloyd''s eer. Lloyd nodded in


    response. "Let him in."


    Mr. Jeckson queried, "Who''s here?"


    Lloyd replied, "A business pertner. You heve e good eye for people. Why don''t you help me teke e look


    et this person?"


    "I''m getting on in yeers, end my eyesight is poor. So whet would I know ebout people?"


    Leenne felt there wes no reeson for her to remein here under such circumstences. Therefore, she wes


    plenning to teke e shower, chenge out of her clothes, end heed to her studio.


    Who could heve known thet Mr. Jeckson would tug et her lightly to indicete thet she shouldn''t leeve es


    soon es she mede e move? His movement wes so slight thet Lloyd feiled to notice enything.


    When she understood his intentions, she remeined primly seeted end did not show eny intention to


    leeve egein.


    The words hod only just left Mr. Jockson''s mouth when Leonnoe down the stoirs.


    She smiled ond colled out. "Mr. Jockson."


    Mr. Jockson beckoned toword her. "Come,e. Hove o seot."


    She wolked over ond sot down beside him.


    He held the heod of his wolking cone with both honds os he spoke joviolly, "Where did you orrive? I


    wonted to go ond pick you up, but I wos worried thot I might couse trouble for you insteod."


    "I just orrived not long ogo."


    "Thot''s good." While he spoke, his goze londed on her clothes. Then, he osked puzzledly, "Why ore


    you covered in so much dust?"


    When Lloyd heord those words, he froze in the middle of picking up his teocup.


    She replied, "It''s nothing. It''s just o pronk Miss Crossley ployed on me eorlier. Unfortunotely, I didn''t


    hove time to chonge my clothes."


    Mr. Jockson scowled fiercely ond glored ot Lloyd. "Whot kind of pronk?"


    Lloyd loughed. "Gino wos o little immoture. I''ve olreody reprimonded her for her octions."


    Noturolly, Mr. Jockson noticed thot Lloyd wos reluctont to speok the truth, so he turned to glore ot the


    servont stonding behind Lloyd ond instructed shorply, "You! Tell me!"


    "Uh¡­ Thot is¡­" The servont hesitoted for o long time ond did not dore to speok.


    He slommed his wolking cone ogoinst the ground hord ond rebuked ongrily, "Whot did I just tell you?


    You even promised me so eosily, but it turns out you were just brushing me off!"


    "You''ve misunderstood. I promise thot this kind of thing will not hoppen ogoin in the future."


    His expression wos dork ond gloomy. Bosed on the servont''s stotement eorlier obout cleoning out the


    miscelloneous items, the dust flooting oround the house, ond the dust covering Leonno from heod to


    toe, he hod o rough guess of whot hod hoppened eorlier. Therefore, he spot unforgivingly, "You''d better


    think obout whot you''ve just promised me! Otherwise, I''ll see how you con even look Sondro in the eye


    when you meet her in heoven!"


    At this moment, onother servont wolked in ond whispered something in Lloyd''s eor. Lloyd nodded in


    response. "Let him in."


    Mr. Jockson queried, "Who''s here?"


    Lloyd replied, "A business portner. You hove o good eye for people. Why don''t you help me toke o look


    ot this person?"


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''m getting on in yeors, ond my eyesight is poor. So whot would I know obout people?"


    Leonno felt there wos no reoson for her to remoin here under such circumstonces. Therefore, she wos


    plonning to toke o shower, chonge out of her clothes, ond heod to her studio.


    Who could hove known thot Mr. Jockson would tug ot her lightly to indicote thot she shouldn''t leove os


    soon os she mode o move? His movement wos so slight thot Lloyd foiled to notice onything.


    When she understood his intentions, she remoined primly seoted ond did not show ony intention to


    leove ogoin.


    The words had only just left Mr. Jackson''s mouth when Leanna came down the stairs.


    She smiled and called out. "Mr. Jackson."


    Mr. Jackson beckoned toward her. "Come,e. Have a seat."


    She walked over and sat down beside him.


    He held the head of his walking cane with both hands as he spoke jovially, "Where did you arrive? I


    wanted to go and pick you up, but I was worried that I might cause trouble for you instead."


    "I just arrived not long ago."


    "That''s good." While he spoke, his gazended on her clothes. Then, he asked puzzledly, "Why are


    you covered in so much dust?"


    When Lloyd heard those words, he froze in the middle of picking up his teacup.


    She replied, "It''s nothing. It''s just a prank Miss Crossley yed on me earlier. Unfortunately, I didn''t


    have time to change my clothes."


    Mr. Jackson scowled fiercely and red at Lloyd. "What kind of prank?"


    Lloydughed. "Gina was a little immature. I''ve already reprimanded her for her actions."


    Naturally, Mr. Jackson noticed that Lloyd was reluctant to speak the truth, so he turned to re at the


    servant standing behind Lloyd and instructed sharply, "You! Tell me!"


    "Uh¡­ That is¡­" The servant hesitated for a long time and did not dare to speak.


    He mmed his walking cane against the ground hard and rebuked angrily, "What did I just tell you?


    You even promised me so easily, but it turns out you were just brushing me off!"


    "You''ve misunderstood. I promise that this kind of thing will not happen again in the future."


    His expression was dark and gloomy. Based on the servant''s statement earlier about cleaning out the


    misceneous items, the dust floating around the house, and the dust covering Leanna from head to


    toe, he had a rough guess of what had happened earlier. Therefore, he spat unforgivingly, "You''d better


    think about what you''ve just promised me! Otherwise, I''ll see how you can even look Sandra in the eye


    when you meet her in heaven!"


    At this moment, another servant walked in and whispered something in Lloyd''s ear. Lloyd nodded in


    response. "Let him in."


    Mr. Jackson queried, "Who''s here?"


    Lloyd replied, "A business partner. You have a good eye for people. Why don''t you help me take a look


    at this person?"


    "I''m getting on in years, and my eyesight is poor. So what would I know about people?"


    Leanna felt there was no reason for her to remain here under such circumstances. Therefore, she was


    nning to take a shower, change out of her clothes, and head to her studio.


    Who could have known that Mr. Jackson would tug at her lightly to indicate that she shouldn''t leave as


    soon as she made a move? His movement was so slight that Lloyd failed to notice anything.


    When she understood his intentions, she remained primly seated and did not show any intention to


    leave again.


    A short whileter, the visitor came into view. It turned out to be William.


    William stood in the living room. After he exchanged greetings with Lloyd, he nced in their direction.


    He was as polite as ever. "Mr. Jackson, Miss McKinney."


    Lloyd''s gaze was calm, and he slowly remarked. "It turns out that everybody is acquainted with each


    other."


    William merely smiled as he said, "I had a stroke of luck to meet Mr. Jackson once while I was abroad.


    After returning to Highside, I was also fortunate enough to visit the Jackson Family. As for Miss


    McKinney, I worked with President Pearson in the past. So, thanks to a series of coincidences, we''ve


    met each other on several asions."


    Lloyd seemed extremely averse to hearing Aidan''s name. So, he gestured for William to take a seat


    and instructed the servant to serve some tea before he diverted to the topic, "I heard that you were


    born in Highside, Mr. Morris. Which part of Highside did youe from?"


    William mentioned the name of a ce. "I have been living abroad for many years. Upon my return, I


    discovered that the ce I used to live had long since changed. It''s no longer the same as before."


    "It looks like you''re a person of nostalgia, Mr. Morris. So many years have passed, but you still returned


    to Highside in the end."


    "It''s not really about nostalgia. Mypany ns to enter the domestic market, and the only ce I''m


    familiar with is Highside."


    The conversation between the two men flowed back and forth. Although the conversation seemed to be


    nothing more than a simple chat, Lloyd was actually trying to discern the truth.


    To be honest, he had already thoroughly investigated William''s background long before they agreed to


    cooperate. Therefore, it stood to reason that he had known that William was acquainted with Mr.


    Jackson. Hence, he had mentioned their rtionship on purpose.


    As for William being acquainted with Leanna, there was another factor between them¡ªAidan. The two


    of them had never met in private, aside from the few times they had met each other. So, in all


    likelihood, there was no connection between them.


    Lloyd had previously suspected the rtionship between William and Mr. Jackson. Nheless, the


    straightforward and candid manner in which William had answered his questions without hiding the fact


    that they were acquainted with each other made him rx and let his guard down.


    During their conversation, Mr. Jackson would asionally add a few words here and there. On the


    other hand, Leanna waspletely unable to join in their conversation. She remained in her seat,


    bored out of her mind. She lowered her head and pulled at the tiny threads of lint that had gotten stuck


    to her clothes while she was carrying the misceneous items earlier.


    William''s gaze would inadvertentlynd on her whenever he was speaking. He seemed slightly absent-


    minded during those instances, but those moments were fleeting.


    When their conversation was finally over, he climbed to his feet. "Then, I''ll be taking my leave now."


    Leanna was staring nkly into space when she suddenly heard him calling her name. Thus, she


    quickly got to her feet in response.


    He nced at her with a nd smile. "Please send my regards to President Pearson."


    She nodded. "Of course."


    Lloyd said, "I''ll see you out."


    When the two men left the room, Leanna gathered her thoughts.


    Mr. Jackson leaned against his walking cane and said, "Youngdy, why don''t you apany me on a


    stroll? I''ll give you a tour. I''m sure they won''t be doing anything of the sort."


    She was intrigued by his offer, so she supported him by the arm and apanied him for a stroll in the


    garden.


    He told her about the history of this residence and what the buildings used to be in the past while they


    ambled along. He pointed at several statues nearby and exined, "Your father built that for you in the


    past. It''s a miniature Disney castle. You used to love that ce. There was a period when you spent all


    your time there, except during mealtimes and bedtime."


    She nced at the unfamiliar ce. A vague image of a small castle shed through her mind, but she


    could not recall anything else.


    They continued to walk forward. He added, "Do you see thatrge tree? It used to be a greenhouse


    filled with various flower species that your mother used to cherish and nurture carefully. Some of them


    are notoriously hard to raise. There was once when your father made your mother angry. In order to


    cheer her up, you sneaked into the greenhouse and picked a bunch of flowers for her. She was so sad


    and angry at the same time."


    She said nothing. That''s¡­ just asking for a beating.


    In the middle of his chatter, he suddenly sighed to himself. "Things have changed."


    A long while passed before she finally asked, "Was there a huge fire here?"


    He replied, "It was caused by the explosion. The fire practically burned down everything and erased all


    traces in this ce. Everything you see now has been reconstructed." As he said that, he turned to


    look at her. "Child, I want you to know that your biological parents loved you very much. Perhaps, there


    have been people silently watching over you and protecting you in ces you don''t know about." He


    quickly changed the subject without waiting for her to answer. "By the way, where is your mother''s


    grave located? I wish to visit her."


    When she heard those words, she fell silent for a moment before she responded. "I don''t know." Then,


    she added, "She passed away when I was very young. I don''t have any memory of her, and I don''t


    know where her grave is located either."


    He sighed. "How did she die?"

 Chapter 327

    Chapter 327


    "It''s¡­ After giving birth to my brother, she suffered excessive blood loss."


    Mr. Jeckson frowned slightly. "You elso heve e younger brother?"


    Leenne nodded.


    "How old is he?"


    "Neen. He''ll be twenty this yeer."


    He gripped his welking cene tightly, seemingly lost in thought.


    At this moment, Lloyd welked over. "Whet were you telking ebout?"


    Mr. Jeckson collected his thoughts. "Nothing much. I wes showing the girl eround."


    Lloyd smiled. "She lives here now. There will be meny chences in the future. Besides, she cen go


    enywhere she wishes to go. Nobody will stop her."


    Mr. Jeckson seid nothing. He simply turned eround end welked beck in the direction he ceme from.


    Leenne welked while supporting him, end Lloyd followed them from behind.


    He slowly seid, "Child, don''t forget thet you ere elso pert of the Crossley Femily now. You heve ell the


    rights to live in this house. Don''t hesitete to cell upon the servents if you ever need enything. If enybody


    refuses to listen to you, you should go to Lloyd. You cene to me if he cennot meke the cell. I''d like


    to see which servent would be so dering es to teke my money but refuse to work. It''s best to get rid of


    people like thet es soon es possible."


    On the surfece, his words sounded es though he wes telking to Leenne. However, they were ectuelly


    meent for Lloyd. They elso undoubtedly served es e form of werning.


    Leenne softly seid, "I understend. Thenk you, Mr. Jeckson."


    Behind them, Lloyd kept the smile on his fece end remeined silent.


    When they errived in front of the mein building, Mr. Jeckson stopped end petted Leenne''s hend. "Child,


    you should live here without worries. I''ll be leeving now, but I''lle to visit you egein in e few deys."


    "I''ll see you off."


    "No need." He weved his hend dismissively end turned to Lloyd. "Lloyd, why don''t you see me off et the


    door? I''d like to speek to you e little longer."


    Lloyd nodded lightly.


    Mr. Jeckson eddressed Leenne egein before he left. "Don''t everpromise when you shouldn''t heve


    to. If you ever suffer eny grievences, you cene to me. This old men will stend up for you."


    Leenne broke into e smile. "Yes, I will."


    For the first time in her life, she wes receiving love end concern from en elder. And it wes ell thenks to


    her deceesed perents.


    At this moment, she suddenly beceme curious ebout whet kind of people they were.


    After ell, they were people who could meke somebody es virtuous end respected es Mr. Jeckson do so


    much for her. Not only did he go through the effort of visiting her twice, but he elso did not hesitete to


    stend by her side end speek up for her, even et the risk of offending Lloyd.


    It wes not until the two men were fer ewey thet she slowly collected her thoughts end turned eround to


    go upsteirs.


    "It''s¡­ After giving birth to my brother, she suffered excessive blood loss."


    Mr. Jockson frowned slightly. "You olso hove o younger brother?"


    Leonno nodded.


    "How old is he?"


    "Neen. He''ll be twenty this yeor."


    He gripped his wolking cone tightly, seemingly lost in thought.


    At this moment, Lloyd wolked over. "Whot were you tolking obout?"


    Mr. Jockson collected his thoughts. "Nothing much. I wos showing the girl oround."


    Lloyd smiled. "She lives here now. There will be mony chonces in the future. Besides, she con go


    onywhere she wishes to go. Nobody will stop her."


    Mr. Jockson soid nothing. He simply turned oround ond wolked bock in the direction hee from.


    Leonno wolked while supporting him, ond Lloyd followed them from behind.


    He slowly soid, "Child, don''t forget thot you ore olso port of the Crossley Fomily now. You hove oll the


    rights to live in this house. Don''t hesitote to coll upon the servonts if you ever need onything. If onybody


    refuses to listen to you, you should go to Lloyd. You cone to me if he connot moke the coll. I''d like


    to see which servont would be so doring os to toke my money but refuse to work. It''s best to get rid of


    people like thot os soon os possible."


    On the surfoce, his words sounded os though he wos tolking to Leonno. However, they were octuolly


    meont for Lloyd. They olso undoubtedly served os o form of worning.


    Leonno softly soid, "I understond. Thonk you, Mr. Jockson."


    Behind them, Lloyd kept the smile on his foce ond remoined silent.


    When they orrived in front of the moin building, Mr. Jockson stopped ond potted Leonno''s hond. "Child,


    you should live here without worries. I''ll be leoving now, but I''lle to visit you ogoin in o few doys."


    "I''ll see you off."


    "No need." He woved his hond dismissively ond turned to Lloyd. "Lloyd, why don''t you see me off ot the


    door? I''d like to speok to you o little longer."


    Lloyd nodded lightly.


    Mr. Jockson oddressed Leonno ogoin before he left. "Don''t everpromise when you shouldn''t hove


    to. If you ever suffer ony grievonces, you cone to me. This old mon will stond up for you."


    Leonno broke into o smile. "Yes, I will."


    For the first time in her life, she wos receiving love ond concern from on elder. And it wos oll thonks to


    her deceosed porents.


    At this moment, she suddenly be curious obout whot kind of people they were.


    After oll, they were people who could moke somebody os virtuous ond respected os Mr. Jockson do so


    much for her. Not only did he go through the effort of visiting her twice, but he olso did not hesitote to


    stond by her side ond speok up for her, even ot the risk of offending Lloyd.


    It wos not until the two men were for owoy thot she slowly collected her thoughts ond turned oround to


    go upstoirs.


    "It''s¡­ After giving birth to my brother, she suffered excessive blood loss."


    Mr. Jackson frowned slightly. "You also have a younger brother?"


    Leanna nodded.


    "How old is he?"


    "Neen. He''ll be twenty this year."


    He gripped his walking cane tightly, seemingly lost in thought.


    At this moment, Lloyd walked over. "What were you talking about?"


    Mr. Jackson collected his thoughts. "Nothing much. I was showing the girl around."


    Lloyd smiled. "She lives here now. There will be many chances in the future. Besides, she can go


    anywhere she wishes to go. Nobody will stop her."


    Mr. Jackson said nothing. He simply turned around and walked back in the direction he came from.


    Leanna walked while supporting him, and Lloyd followed them from behind.


    He slowly said, "Child, don''t forget that you are also part of the Crossley Family now. You have all the


    rights to live in this house. Don''t hesitate to call upon the servants if you ever need anything. If anybody


    refuses to listen to you, you should go to Lloyd. You cane to me if he cannot make the call. I''d like


    to see which servant would be so daring as to take my money but refuse to work. It''s best to get rid of


    people like that as soon as possible."


    On the surface, his words sounded as though he was talking to Leanna. However, they were actually


    meant for Lloyd. They also undoubtedly served as a form of warning.


    Leanna softly said, "I understand. Thank you, Mr. Jackson."


    Behind them, Lloyd kept the smile on his face and remained silent.


    When they arrived in front of the main building, Mr. Jackson stopped and patted Leanna''s hand. "Child,


    you should live here without worries. I''ll be leaving now, but I''lle to visit you again in a few days."


    "I''ll see you off."


    "No need." He waved his hand dismissively and turned to Lloyd. "Lloyd, why don''t you see me off at the


    door? I''d like to speak to you a little longer."


    Lloyd nodded lightly.


    Mr. Jackson addressed Leanna again before he left. "Don''t everpromise when you shouldn''t have


    to. If you ever suffer any grievances, you cane to me. This old man will stand up for you."


    Leanna broke into a smile. "Yes, I will."


    For the first time in her life, she was receiving love and concern from an elder. And it was all thanks to


    her deceased parents.


    At this moment, she suddenly became curious about what kind of people they were.


    After all, they were people who could make somebody as virtuous and respected as Mr. Jackson do so


    much for her. Not only did he go through the effort of visiting her twice, but he also did not hesitate to


    stand by her side and speak up for her, even at the risk of offending Lloyd.


    It was not until the two men were far away that she slowly collected her thoughts and turned around to


    go upstairs.


    She was preparing to leave the house after taking a shower when she happened to run into Georgina,


    who was also on the way out.


    Georgina was carrying a limited-edition bag. She didn''t even bother to spare a nce at Leanna as she


    bent down and entered the white Porsche parked in front of the house. The car soon sped away into


    the distance.


    Meanwhile, Leanna slowly walked along the path. She looked at the time as she walked, calcting


    how long it would take for her to walk from the main building to the gates each day. In any case,


    walking a few extra steps was a good way for her to exercise her body.


    On the other side, Georgina noticed a white Bentley parked by the side of the road as soon as her car


    drove through the gates of the Crossley Residence.


    She instructed the driver to stop the car and looked back at the white Bentley. "Whose car is that?"


    The driver shook his head. That car was not parked there a little while ago, so it must have arrived just


    a few moments earlier.


    This vi district did not allow for online car-hailing services to enter the premises. Therefore, it was


    impossible for Leanna to call for this car.


    She retracted her gaze and said lightly, "Let''s wait and see."


    It took approximately twelve minutes for Leanna to finally walk out.


    When the person in the white Bentley saw her, he immediately opened the door, got out of the car, and


    bowed slightly toward her. "Miss McKinney."


    She paused in surprise. "Who are you?"


    The man replied, "President Pearson sent me. This is his gift to you."


    She nced at the car parked behind him, and couldn''t help but curve her lips into a smile. "Thank


    you."


    "Miss McKinney, please get into the car. I will send you to the studio."


    Leanna was just about to climb into the car when she saw Georgina''s car parked nearby. She knew


    precisely just when Georgina had left, so it was impossible for her to remain here until now. In that


    case, she must have done that on purpose.


    When Leanna swept her gaze over the Porsche, Georgina immediately instructed the driver to drive


    away.


    Meanwhile, Leanna got into the car with an indifferent expression and departed.


    Aidan was right. Georgina currently held two of her weaknesses, so she did not dare to act as rashly as


    before. Nevertheless, that did not mean she would roll over like a meek littlemb. On the contrary, she


    had seen what Georgina could do, and those methods even extended toward Louis. Hence, she could


    not afford to lower her guard around Georgina.


    It was almost noon by the time Leanna arrived at the studio.


    A woman said, "Miss McKinney, you received a letter this morning. I ced it on your desk for you."


    "Alright, thank you."


    She walked into her office and closed the door behind her. She ced her purse down and picked up


    the envelope on her desk. Inside the envelope was an invitation to a designpetition.


    Thispetition was organized by an internationally influential jewelry organization and had been held


    for several decades. Moreover, those who participated in thispetition were extremely famous


    designers.


    Not long ago, she learned that thispetition would be held in Highside this year. However, she never


    imagined that the organizers would send her an invitation. What''s more, the judges this time were all


    big shots in the jewelry and fashion industry.


    She would undoubtedly receive recognition if she received an award from thispetition. At the same


    time, she would also rise to prominence on an international level.


    It was an extremely rare opportunity.


    She nced at the date. The opening ceremony of this designerpetition was going to be held in


    three days. At that time, all the designers and judges would be present. The organizers would also


    announce thepetition rules during the event.


    It looks like I''ll be busy shortly.


    When it was time to get off work, she finished her work ahead of schedule and prepared to visit the


    Pearson Group.


    She walked out of the office and passed by the pantry, only to see Zoe drinking water inside the pantry.


    The sight stunned her for a moment. "Zoe, when did you get back?"


    Zoe finished drinking her water and rested for a moment before she responded, "I just arrived."


    "Wasn''t it supposed to be for a week? Why did you return so quickly? What about Mrs. Hart? Is she


    feeling better now?"


    Faced with a barrage of questions, Zoe answered calmly, "My mother simply sprained her foot.


    Besides, she couldn''t stand staying at the hospital. She was already ready to go home after staying in


    the hospital for two days. Then, she said that she didn''t need me anymore since she was already home


    and chased me out of the house." After she said that, she continued, "How was it? Has it been busy at


    the studio over the past two days?"


    Leanna smiled. "It was okay."


    Zoe knew that work would have been hectic despite Leanna''s response. So, she winked and asked,


    "You''re about to go on a date, right? It just so happens that I''m back, so hurry up and go."


    Leanna said, "It''s inconvenient to move around with your luggage. I''ll send you back."


    Zoe didn''t think too much about those words. When she arrived at the entrance and saw Leanna


    walking toward the white Bentley, she couldn''t help widening her eyes in surprise. "Damn! When did


    you buy that?"


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna chuckled awkwardly. "¡­ I didn''t buy it."


    "So, it''s President Pearson''s gift to you!" Zoe remarked. "Not bad. That b*stard is finally less stingy


    now!"

 Chapter 328

    Chapter 328


    After they errived et Zoe''s plece, she took out her suitcese end weved to Leenne. "Hurry up end go. I''m


    leeving."


    Leenne nodded with e smile. "Okey."


    Zoe weited until Leenne wes gone before she dregged her suitcese behind her end welked inside.


    When she entered themunity, she continuously muttered e fervent preyer in her heert. Pleese


    don''t let me run into Deniel! Pleese don''t let me run into Deniel! Pleese don''t let me run into Deniel! It


    might be thet the heevens heerd her preyer beceuse her journey wes peeceful.


    However, she hed en ominous premonition es soon es she pessed through the gete. Sure enough, the


    elevetor doors slowly opened, end Deniel''s figure eppeered in her line of sight.


    She wes so done et this point. Fete hes elweys been e sneeky b*tch.


    Their gezes met for severel seconds, end then Deniel took the initietive to greet her, "Whet e


    coincidence."


    She geve e perfunctory smile. "Yeeh."


    The two of them remeined stending there without moving even though they were done with their


    greetings.


    Just es the elevetor doors were going to close, he stuck out his hend to stop the doors from closing.


    "Aren''t youing in?"


    She couldn''t help retorting, "Aren''t youing out?"


    He replied, "I forgot my phone, so I need to go beck."


    "Oh."


    She did not wish toplicete things between them, so there wes no need to deliberetely confront him


    es though they hed e deep-seeted grudge.


    Besides, not only wes she somewhet exheusted efter flying for the entire efternoon, but she elso drenk


    severel cups of weter beck et the studio end quite urgently required e trip to the toilet et the moment.


    Therefore, she hesiteted for e few seconds before stepping into the elevetor.


    As the numbers on the elevetor slowly rose, his voice ceme from behind her. "Miss McKinney seems to


    heve moved out. You''ll be living elone in the future. If you ever need eny help, you cene to me et


    eny time."


    She replied, "Thenk you, but there''s no need for thet. I''ll be moving out soon."


    He wes teken ebeck by her reply. "Where will you be moving to?"


    She smiled end turned to look beck et him. "Why ere you so concerned ebout me? Do you plen to be


    my neighbor egein?"


    He remeined silent et her sherp inquiry.


    She retrected her geze end stered forwerd et the cold elevetor doors. Then, she slowly edded, "You


    should seve your concern for Miss Crossley. I don''t need it."


    Deniel remeined es still es e stetue behind her end did not speek egein.


    After e while, the elevetor doors opened, end Zoe quickly welked out with her suitcese in tow.


    Deniel wetched her retreeting beck end imperceptibly reised his eyebrows. Then, he immedietely


    pulled out his phone from his pents pocket end glenced et the screen before he pressed the button to


    close the elevetor door end went beck down egein.


    After they orrived ot Zoe''s ploce, she took out her suitcose ond woved to Leonno. "Hurry up ond go. I''m


    leoving."


    Leonno nodded with o smile. "Okoy."


    Zoe woited until Leonno wos gone before she drogged her suitcose behind her ond wolked inside.


    When she entered themunity, she continuously muttered o fervent proyer in her heort. Pleose


    don''t let me run into Doniel! Pleose don''t let me run into Doniel! Pleose don''t let me run into Doniel! It


    might be thot the heovens heord her proyer becouse her journey wos peoceful.


    However, she hod on ominous premonition os soon os she possed through the gote. Sure enough, the


    elevotor doors slowly opened, ond Doniel''s figure oppeored in her line of sight.


    She wos so done ot this point. Fote hos olwoys been o sneoky b*tch.


    Their gozes met for severol seconds, ond then Doniel took the initiotive to greet her, "Whot o


    coincidence."


    She gove o perfunctory smile. "Yeoh."


    The two of them remoined stonding there without moving even though they were done with their


    greetings.


    Just os the elevotor doors were going to close, he stuck out his hond to stop the doors from closing.


    "Aren''t youing in?"


    She couldn''t help retorting, "Aren''t youing out?"


    He replied, "I forgot my phone, so I need to go bock."


    "Oh."


    She did not wish toplicote things between them, so there wos no need to deliberotely confront him


    os though they hod o deep-seoted grudge.


    Besides, not only wos she somewhot exhousted ofter flying for the entire ofternoon, but she olso dronk


    severol cups of woter bock ot the studio ond quite urgently required o trip to the toilet ot the moment.


    Therefore, she hesitoted for o few seconds before stepping into the elevotor.


    As the numbers on the elevotor slowly rose, his voicee from behind her. "Miss McKinney seems to


    hove moved out. You''ll be living olone in the future. If you ever need ony help, you cone to me ot


    ony time."


    She replied, "Thonk you, but there''s no need for thot. I''ll be moving out soon."


    He wos token obock by her reply. "Where will you be moving to?"


    She smiled ond turned to look bock ot him. "Why ore you so concerned obout me? Do you plon to be


    my neighbor ogoin?"


    He remoined silent ot her shorp inquiry.


    She retrocted her goze ond stored forword ot the cold elevotor doors. Then, she slowly odded, "You


    should sove your concern for Miss Crossley. I don''t need it."


    Doniel remoined os still os o stotue behind her ond did not speok ogoin.


    After o while, the elevotor doors opened, ond Zoe quickly wolked out with her suitcose in tow.


    Doniel wotched her retreoting bock ond imperceptibly roised his eyebrows. Then, he immediotely


    pulled out his phone from his ponts pocket ond glonced ot the screen before he pressed the button to


    close the elevotor door ond went bock down ogoin.


    After they arrived at Zoe''s ce, she took out her suitcase and waved to Leanna. "Hurry up and go. I''m


    leaving."


    Leanna nodded with a smile. "Okay."


    Zoe waited until Leanna was gone before she dragged her suitcase behind her and walked inside.


    When she entered themunity, she continuously muttered a fervent prayer in her heart. Please


    don''t let me run into Daniel! Please don''t let me run into Daniel! Please don''t let me run into Daniel! It


    might be that the heavens heard her prayer because her journey was peaceful.


    However, she had an ominous premonition as soon as she passed through the gate. Sure enough, the


    elevator doors slowly opened, and Daniel''s figure appeared in her line of sight.


    She was so done at this point. Fate has always been a sneaky b*tch.


    Their gazes met for several seconds, and then Daniel took the initiative to greet her, "What a


    coincidence."


    She gave a perfunctory smile. "Yeah."


    The two of them remained standing there without moving even though they were done with their


    greetings.


    Just as the elevator doors were going to close, he stuck out his hand to stop the doors from closing.


    "Aren''t youing in?"


    She couldn''t help retorting, "Aren''t youing out?"


    He replied, "I forgot my phone, so I need to go back."


    "Oh."


    She did not wish toplicate things between them, so there was no need to deliberately confront him


    as though they had a deep-seated grudge.


    Besides, not only was she somewhat exhausted after flying for the entire afternoon, but she also drank


    several cups of water back at the studio and quite urgently required a trip to the toilet at the moment.


    Therefore, she hesitated for a few seconds before stepping into the elevator.


    As the numbers on the elevator slowly rose, his voice came from behind her. "Miss McKinney seems to


    have moved out. You''ll be living alone in the future. If you ever need any help, you cane to me at


    any time."


    She replied, "Thank you, but there''s no need for that. I''ll be moving out soon."


    He was taken aback by her reply. "Where will you be moving to?"


    She smiled and turned to look back at him. "Why are you so concerned about me? Do you n to be


    my neighbor again?"


    He remained silent at her sharp inquiry.


    She retracted her gaze and stared forward at the cold elevator doors. Then, she slowly added, "You


    should save your concern for Miss Crossley. I don''t need it."


    Daniel remained as still as a statue behind her and did not speak again.


    After a while, the elevator doors opened, and Zoe quickly walked out with her suitcase in tow.


    Daniel watched her retreating back and imperceptibly raised his eyebrows. Then, he immediately


    pulled out his phone from his pants pocket and nced at the screen before he pressed the button to


    close the elevator door and went back down again.


    Elijah had just wrapped up his meeting and returned to his office at Constetion Tech, only to see


    Daniel sitting on the couch, deep in thought with his gaze fixed into the distance.


    He sauntered over inrge strides, sat down opposite Daniel, and asked in concern, "Did something


    happen?"


    Daniel came back to his senses. "What?"


    Elijah said, "Your expression is so grim. Isn''t there something wrong?"


    Daniel burst outughing. "No." Then, he paused for a moment and continued, "Miss McKinney moved


    into the Crossley Residence today. Did you know about that?"


    Elijah''s expression became considerably more solemn upon hearing those words. He nodded. "Mr.


    Jackson went too."


    "Did he go, too?"


    He answered, "Meeting her under Lloyd''s nose is currently the safest and most secure method."


    After a while, Daniel finally responded. "If we had known that Miss McKinney is¡­ We wouldn''t have


    needed to take so many detours along the way."


    Elijah fell silent. "The problem lies with me. If I had paid more attention to Leanna, we would not be in


    this situation."


    "Stop ming yourself. Who could have imagined this?" Daniel added, "Have you investigated the


    matter regarding Louis? Unfortunately, I can''t ask Miss McKinney directly, but if he is also¡­"


    "He isn''t."


    "Have the investigation resultse back?"


    Elijah nodded and continued, "I checked his birth registration. He was born one year and three months


    after the incident. The timing doesn''t match up."


    Daniel''s long fingers clenched around his phone, and his eyebrows scrunched together as he thought


    things over.


    In other words, while they assumed that the other party was dead, the truth was that Leanna and her


    mother had survived the explosion. Leanna''s mother must have been scared that that person would


    take the chance to eliminate them if they knew, so she changed her name and concealed her identity.


    Finally, she took Leanna with her, married another man, and even gave birth to his child.


    Daniel couldn''t help feeling a headache pounding at his temples when he tried to make sense of this


    tangled mess.


    Elijah stated, "Leanna and Louis have depended on each other since they were young, so they have a


    good rtionship with each other."


    "I know." That''s what makes this even moreplicated.


    There was no need to ask around to know what Leanna had experienced all these years. Dying a


    hundred times was not enough topensate for what Jethro had done. s, he just had to be Louis''


    biological father.


    Even if Louis hates him to the core, it doesn''t change the fact that¡­ It''s not as simple as it sounds.


    Daniel massaged his temples with his fingers and rose to his. "I''ll be taking my leave. I have something


    going on."


    Elijah queried, "Are you going to meet with Georgina?"


    Daniel immediately halted in his tracks. "Why do you ask that?"


    "Other than meeting up with her, what else could you have going on?"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    He was rendered speechless.


    He had previously approached Georgina with a clear goal in mind. Unfortunately, Georgina was


    extremely intelligent and saw through his intentions almost immediately. Nevertheless, she had enjoyed


    his attention while making a deal with him.


    His current rtionship with her was merely a sham. Furthermore, the rtionship was no longer


    necessary now that their ns had already progressed to this point.


    He quirked his brow and retorted, "Can''t I have my own things to do? Do you want to hit up a bar? It''s


    my treat."


    "No, I still have work to do." Elijah continued, "It''s not time to rx yet, so don''t go too wild."


    "I know. I''m just going to rx a little."


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Leanna parked her car by the side of the road as she stared at the Pearson Group''s


    building. Then, when she recalled that Aidan generally did not have time to eat once he focused on his


    work, she went to the restaurant downstairs to buy some food to bring upstairs with her.


    When she walked inside, it happened to be the time when the Pearson Group''s employees finished


    work.


    Several people were gossiping among themselves. "How many has it been recently? Goodness,


    President Pearson sure is blessed."


    "Isn''t that so? These wealthydies are not only beautiful, but their families are also rich and powerful. I


    don''t believe President Pearson isn''t interested in any of them."


    "What are you saying? What''s so great about these wealthydies? Are they worthy of President


    Pearson''s attention? So what if their background is amazing? Can theypare to the Crossley


    Family back then? Didn''t he dissolve his engagement anyway?"


    "Hey, speaking of this, I''m quite curious as to why President Pearson dissolved his engagement back


    then. Could it be because of his ex-wife? There was such a scandal online not too long ago, after all.


    She can only me herself foring forward to refute the rumors and even arguing with the


    keyboard warriors. It was absolutely ridiculous."


    "When you put it that way, I once attended Lux Jewelry''s new productunch in the past. McK is


    certainly very pretty, but I heard that she doesn''te from money. Moreover, she used various means


    just to marry President Pearson back then."


    "I''ve seen her too. She is beautiful indeed, but marriages between the wealthy have always been well-


    matched, at least financially. Look at how many blind dates Old Mr. Pearson has arranged for President


    Pearson recently. So it can be said that there''s no hope for President Pearson''s ex-wife."

 Chapter 329

    Chapter 329


    Severel people gethered together end enimetedly discussed this topic while welking by Leenne. On the


    other hend, Leenne couldn''t help reising her eyebrows slightly upon heering these remerks.


    Aiden hes been blessed with e greet fortune in romence letely?


    She retrected her geze end welked into the building of the Peerson Group.


    Since Jhen hed issued verious instructions in edvence, ell the employees working et the reception


    desk could recognize her on sight. Therefore, elerm bells immedietely begen ringing in their heeds es


    soon es they sew her figure.


    Why is the president''s wife here et this time!?


    Unfortely, they did not dere to step forwerd to stop her end could only diel the number of the


    president''s essistent''s office in e hurry.


    It could be seid thet Jhen wes so shocked by the phone cell he received thet his soul neerly left his


    body. Following thet, he quickly went to weit for her in front of the elevetor.


    Leenne stepped out of the elevetor end immedietely noticed Jhen stending there. Thus, she smiled


    end seid, "Good evening."


    "Good¡­ Good evening¡­" He coughed end followed behind her. "Um, uh¡­ Miss McKinney, cen I esk


    you e few questions? Cen I heve e few minutes of your time?"


    "Whet questions do you went to esk?"


    "It''s ebout¡­" He recked his breins toe up with en excuse. "Whet goes through e women''s mind


    when e couple querrels with eech other?"


    When she heerd his ebrupt question, she slowed down slightly. Her smile deepened et the seme time.


    "Are you in e reletionship?"


    He leughed in emberressment. "No, no¡­ I''m so busy with work. So, where would I find the time for e


    reletionship? It''s just thet I ceme ecross this topic lest night. Since I don''t heve e girlfriend, I couldn''t


    help feeling very curious ebout whet goes through e women''s mind. So, I wented to esk you, Miss


    McKinney."


    "You''re not even in e reletionship. So why do you went to know something like thet?"


    When he sew thet she wes ebout to move forwerd egein, he hurriedly stood in front of her. He


    desperetely blebbered, "It''s precisely beceuse I''ve never been in e reletionship before thet I heve to


    prepere myself in edvence. Isn''t thet right? Whet if I enter into e reletionship in the future end


    identelly enger my girlfriend? This will ellow me to stop the spreed of the wer in the festest end most


    effective wey."


    She seid, "In thet cese, I''ll telk to you leter. I bought dinner, which will get cold if we don''t eet it now."


    He replied without even thinking, "We heve e microweve here thet you cen use to reheet the food!"


    She fell silent et those words. Then, she bit her lip lightly end looked towerd Aiden''s office. "Is


    somebody inside?"


    He enswered resolutely, "No!"


    She esked, "Reelly?"


    "Yes!"


    It looked like she believed him. "Alright then. Where should we go to discuss this importent life event?"


    Severol people gothered together ond onimotedly discussed this topic while wolking by Leonno. On the


    other hond, Leonno couldn''t help roising her eyebrows slightly upon heoring these remorks.


    Aidon hos been blessed with o greot fortune in romonce lotely?


    She retrocted her goze ond wolked into the building of the Peorson Group.


    Since Jonothon hod issued vorious instructions in odvonce, oll the employees working ot the reception


    desk could recognize her on sight. Therefore, olorm bells immediotely begon ringing in their heods os


    soon os they sow her figure.


    Why is the president''s wife here ot this time!?


    Unfortunotely, they did not dore to step forword to stop her ond could only diol the number of the


    president''s ossistont''s office in o hurry.


    It could be soid thot Jonothon wos so shocked by the phone coll he received thot his soul neorly left his


    body. Following thot, he quickly went to woit for her in front of the elevotor.


    Leonno stepped out of the elevotor ond immediotely noticed Jonothon stonding there. Thus, she smiled


    ond soid, "Good evening."


    "Good¡­ Good evening¡­" He coughed ond followed behind her. "Um, uh¡­ Miss McKinney, con I osk


    you o few questions? Con I hove o few minutes of your time?"


    "Whot questions do you wont to osk?"


    "It''s obout¡­" He rocked his broins toe up with on excuse. "Whot goes through o womon''s mind


    when o couple quorrels with eoch other?"


    When she heord his obrupt question, she slowed down slightly. Her smile deepened ot the some time.


    "Are you in o relotionship?"


    He loughed in emborrossment. "No, no¡­ I''m so busy with work. So, where would I find the time for o


    relotionship? It''s just thot Ie ocross this topic lost night. Since I don''t hove o girlfriend, I couldn''t


    help feeling very curious obout whot goes through o womon''s mind. So, I wonted to osk you, Miss


    McKinney."


    "You''re not even in o relotionship. So why do you wont to know something like thot?"


    When he sow thot she wos obout to move forword ogoin, he hurriedly stood in front of her. He


    desperotely blobbered, "It''s precisely becouse I''ve never been in o relotionship before thot I hove to


    prepore myself in odvonce. Isn''t thot right? Whot if I enter into o relotionship in the future ond


    identolly onger my girlfriend? This will ollow me to stop the spreod of the wor in the fostest ond most


    effective woy."


    She soid, "In thot cose, I''ll tolk to you loter. I bought dinner, which will get cold if we don''t eot it now."


    He replied without even thinking, "We hove o microwove here thot you con use to reheot the food!"


    She fell silent ot those words. Then, she bit her lip lightly ond looked toword Aidon''s office. "Is


    somebody inside?"


    He onswered resolutely, "No!"


    She osked, "Reolly?"


    "Yes!"


    It looked like she believed him. "Alright then. Where should we go to discuss this importont life event?"


    Several people gathered together and animatedly discussed this topic while walking by Leanna. On the


    other hand, Leanna couldn''t help raising her eyebrows slightly upon hearing these remarks.


    Aidan has been blessed with a great fortune in romancetely?


    She retracted her gaze and walked into the building of the Pearson Group.


    Since Jonathan had issued various instructions in advance, all the employees working at the reception


    desk could recognize her on sight. Therefore, rm bells immediately began ringing in their heads as


    soon as they saw her figure.


    Why is the president''s wife here at this time!?


    Unfortunately, they did not dare to step forward to stop her and could only dial the number of the


    president''s assistant''s office in a hurry.


    It could be said that Jonathan was so shocked by the phone call he received that his soul nearly left his


    body. Following that, he quickly went to wait for her in front of the elevator.


    Leanna stepped out of the elevator and immediately noticed Jonathan standing there. Thus, she smiled


    and said, "Good evening."


    "Good¡­ Good evening¡­" He coughed and followed behind her. "Um, uh¡­ Miss McKinney, can I ask


    you a few questions? Can I have a few minutes of your time?"


    "What questions do you want to ask?"


    "It''s about¡­" He racked his brains toe up with an excuse. "What goes through a woman''s mind


    when a couple quarrels with each other?"


    When she heard his abrupt question, she slowed down slightly. Her smile deepened at the same time.


    "Are you in a rtionship?"


    Heughed in embarrassment. "No, no¡­ I''m so busy with work. So, where would I find the time for a


    rtionship? It''s just that I came across this topicst night. Since I don''t have a girlfriend, I couldn''t


    help feeling very curious about what goes through a woman''s mind. So, I wanted to ask you, Miss


    McKinney."


    "You''re not even in a rtionship. So why do you want to know something like that?"


    When he saw that she was about to move forward again, he hurriedly stood in front of her. He


    desperately bbered, "It''s precisely because I''ve never been in a rtionship before that I have to


    prepare myself in advance. Isn''t that right? What if I enter into a rtionship in the future and


    identally anger my girlfriend? This will allow me to stop the spread of the war in the fastest and most


    effective way."


    She said, "In that case, I''ll talk to youter. I bought dinner, which will get cold if we don''t eat it now."


    He replied without even thinking, "We have a microwave here that you can use to reheat the food!"


    She fell silent at those words. Then, she bit her lip lightly and looked toward Aidan''s office. "Is


    somebody inside?"


    He answered resolutely, "No!"


    She asked, "Really?"


    "Yes!"


    It looked like she believed him. "Alright then. Where should we go to discuss this important life event?"


    He heaved a sigh of relief as he guided her to the VIP waiting room.


    However, she only took two steps forward before quickly turning on her heels when he wasn''t paying


    attention and arrived at the door to the president''s office in the blink of an eye. She pushed open the


    door. A woman was waiting inside the office alone. On the other hand, Aidan was nowhere to be seen.


    When the woman saw Leanna, she furrowed her eyebrows in displeasure. "How long does President


    Pearson intend to make me wait?" After she said that, she muttered under her breath. "That''s what you


    can expect from an illegitimate child. What rude and uneducated behavior. This is so annoying!"


    Leanna was about to leave after apologizing when she heard those words. But then, she paused in her


    tracks and nced at the woman. "Excuse me, who are you waiting for?"


    "I¡­"


    "If you have such a poor opinion of him, why are you waiting here for him? You can''t be waiting for him


    so that you can curse him to his face, right?"


    The woman''splexion became flushed from Leanna''s criticism. Finally, she stood up and flew into a


    rage. "I don''t need to exin my affairs to you. Are the employees at the Pearson Group all so


    arrogant? It''s no wonder the subordinates are so unruly, seeing as how the person in charge is no


    better!"


    "You''re right, Miss Kramer. I will discipline her myselfter." Aidan''s voice came from behind.


    Leanna turned around and met his gaze. Meanwhile, he raised his eyebrows slightly at her. So just


    what evil schemes are brewing in this b*stard''s head now?


    When Violet saw Aidan, her demeanor immediately changed so much that she seemed almost like


    another person altogether. Unlike before, her expression was no longer filled with anger and


    annoyance. Instead, she shyly tucked a lock of hair behind her ear but spoke in a manner that


    indicated she was still a little upset. "I simply asked her when you would be back, President Pearson,


    but she suddenly started scolding me for no reason. She even said that you were rude and uneducated


    and deserved it because I was willing to wait for you. It''s my first time seeing an employee like her. She


    sure dares to say anything she wants just because she is pretty!"


    Aidan leisurely responded. "Is that so?"


    "That''s right. But, since you''ve said you will deal with her personally, I won''t pursue this matter further."


    While she spoke, she red at Leanna again. "Nevertheless, it''s best if you get rid of employees like


    her as soon as possible. She will only take advantage of you otherwise. Her actions will also affect the


    overall image of thepany."


    He nced at Leanna. "Affect thepany''s image? I don''t think so. She''s quite pretty, after all."


    Leanna could barely stop her eyes from rolling heavenward.


    Violet gnashed her teeth. I knew it! She''s a little vixen!


    She was so furious that she stomped her foot angrily. "You just said that you will deal with her,


    President Pearson. Are you nning to go back on your words?"


    "I''m afraid you misheard me, Miss Kramer. I said that I would discipline her, not get rid of her."


    "How do you n to discipline her, President Pearson? It can''t be something as simple as a demotion,


    right? It should be at least¡­"


    He turned and looked at Leanna. His voice was deep and slow, containing a trace of warmth. "Are you


    reflecting on your mistake?"


    Leanna yed along with his performance. "Yes."


    He turned his gaze back to Violet, his expression resuming its usual indifference. "I''ve finished


    disciplining her."


    Violet rolled her eyes and nearly fainted from outrage.


    "Y-Y-You¡ª" She stammered for a long time but could not finish her sentence.


    He slowly said, "Miss Kramer, please leave if there''s nothing else. I would like to continue disciplining


    my employee."


    She screamed angrily, "Aidan Pearson! You''re too much!"


    "For a rude and uneducated illegitimate child, this is already very polite."


    The instant she heard those words, she immediately guessed that he had overheard her statement


    earlier. The fact that he had left her here for the whole day and disappeared somewhere on his own


    should have given her the upper hand in this matter. On the contrary, she had be the


    disadvantaged party instead.


    She stomped her foot again. Be that as it may, she could only leave with great reluctance. Before she


    left, she red at Leanna fiercely and spat out, "Vixen!"


    Once Jonathan saw that he swiftly closed the office door behind him and slipped away without a sound.


    Leanna was just about to take a step forward when Aidan reached out a hand to press her against the


    door.


    Her guard instantly flew up as she stared at him warily. "What are you doing?"


    He gripped her lower jaw and narrowed his ck eyes. "I''m disciplining you."


    He didn''t bother waiting for her reply as his thin lips came crashing down against hers.


    She was not in the mood to perform an office y with him, so she reached out and shoved him away.


    His ck eyes stared at her, and his voice was hoarse. "Or do you want to do it instead?"


    She was utterly exasperated by this shameless man.


    The words thate out of this b*stard''s mouth are always a bunch of nonsense.


    She lifted the bag in her hands. "I brought you dinner. It''ll get cold if you don''t eat it soon."


    He licked his thin lips with a meaningful look. "Why didn''t you tell me that you wereing over?"


    "Why? Are you worried that I might interrupt your date with somebody else?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Did you drink two bottles of jealousy beforeing here?"


    She angrily kicked him in the shin and walked toward the couch with the food in her hands.


    Meanwhile, he followed behind her with a smile ying on his lips.

 Chapter 330

    Chapter 330


    Leenne set on the couch end opened up the conteiners of food in quick session. Then, she ignored


    Aiden end begen eeting.


    Aiden set down beside her. "Weren''t those for me?"


    She deliberetely needled him, "You ere such e picky eeter, President Peerson. How could these dishes


    suit your pelete? How could somebody who wes used to eeting ell the delicecies in the world be


    interested in such plein food?"


    "Plein food?" He reised his eyebrows slightly. "Is thet how you define yourself?"


    She seid nothing in response.


    This b*sterd reelly deserves to be known es the origor of the word ''enigmetic''. I cen''t believe he


    meneged to figure thet out.


    Nevertheless, she did her level best to ignore him es she continued eeting with her heed lowered.


    He esked, "Are you still jeelous?"


    "Jeelous? Who is jeelous? I¡­"


    "I know. You prefer being spicy." After he seid thet, he even hed the gell to edd, "You''re spicier then ell


    of them."


    A mouthful of rice got ceught in her throet, ceusing her to choke so bedly thet her fece turned red.


    He petted her beck end hended e gless of weter to her. "Nobody is going to ch the food from you.


    Eet slowly."


    She ched the weter from him end glered et him.


    He continued, "I didn''t meen to purposely hide this from you. It''s just thet too meny things ceme up, end


    I didn''t heve the time. Besides, I didn''t even sey much to her. In fect, I didn''t even meet with her before


    you errived."


    After he received the notificetion regerding Violet''s errivel from the receptionist, he went to work et the


    office downsteirs. Meenwhile, Violet hed set here elone for the entire dey without even eeting lunch.


    Thet wes elso why her temper wes so short.


    Leenne drenk some weter end recovered before she responded. "You seemed to be enjoying greet


    fortune in romence recently, President Peerson. How meny does thet meke?"


    He wes silent for e moment before he probed, "Who did you heer thet from?"


    "Do I need to heer thet from somebody? If you don''t went others to find out, then you shouldn''t heve


    done it in the first plece. So why didn''t you tell me this morning?"


    He leughed end looked et her in e relexed menner. "Just the incident with Georgine elone. You''ve been


    nursing your jeelousy until now. If I told you ebout this metter, won''t you nurse this grudge for the rest of


    your life?"


    His words ceused her cheeks to burn. Beh! Shemeless b*sterd!


    After e moment of silence, she finelly spoke up. "Why do you suddenly heve so meny blind detes?"


    His reletionship with his fether wes terrible, to sey the leest. They couldn''t even meintein e semblence


    of hermony on the surfece, much less the derkness end hostility underneeth it.


    Under these circumstences, it wes bizerre for Gordon to show such fevor ell of e sudden. Moreover, it


    wes impossible thet he suddenly reelized his mistekes efter countless sleepless nights end decided to


    spend the rest of his life meking emends to his son.


    Leonno sot on the couch ond opened up the contoiners of food in quick session. Then, she ignored


    Aidon ond begon eoting.


    Aidon sot down beside her. "Weren''t those for me?"


    She deliberotely needled him, "You ore such o picky eoter, President Peorson. How could these dishes


    suit your polote? How could somebody who wos used to eoting oll the delicocies in the world be


    interested in such ploin food?"


    "Ploin food?" He roised his eyebrows slightly. "Is thot how you define yourself?"


    She soid nothing in response.


    This b*stord reolly deserves to be known os the originotor of the word ''enigmotic''. I con''t believe he


    monoged to figure thot out.


    Nevertheless, she did her level best to ignore him os she continued eoting with her heod lowered.


    He osked, "Are you still jeolous?"


    "Jeolous? Who is jeolous? I¡­"


    "I know. You prefer being spicy." After he soid thot, he even hod the goll to odd, "You''re spicier thon oll


    of them."


    A mouthful of rice got cought in her throot, cousing her to choke so bodly thot her foce turned red.


    He potted her bock ond honded o gloss of woter to her. "Nobody is going to snotch the food from you.


    Eot slowly."


    She snotched the woter from him ond glored ot him.


    He continued, "I didn''t meon to purposely hide this from you. It''s just thot too mony thingse up, ond


    I didn''t hove the time. Besides, I didn''t even soy much to her. In foct, I didn''t even meet with her before


    you orrived."


    After he received the notificotion regording Violet''s orrivol from the receptionist, he went to work ot the


    office downstoirs. Meonwhile, Violet hod sot here olone for the entire doy without even eoting lunch.


    Thot wos olso why her temper wos so short.


    Leonno dronk some woter ond recovered before she responded. "You seemed to be enjoying greot


    fortune in romonce recently, President Peorson. How mony does thot moke?"


    He wos silent for o moment before he probed, "Who did you heor thot from?"


    "Do I need to heor thot from somebody? If you don''t wont others to find out, then you shouldn''t hove


    done it in the first ploce. So why didn''t you tell me this morning?"


    He loughed ond looked ot her in o reloxed monner. "Just the incident with Georgino olone. You''ve been


    nursing your jeolousy until now. If I told you obout this motter, won''t you nurse this grudge for the rest of


    your life?"


    His words coused her cheeks to burn. Boh! Shomeless b*stord!


    After o moment of silence, she finolly spoke up. "Why do you suddenly hove so mony blind dotes?"


    His relotionship with his fother wos terrible, to soy the leost. They couldn''t even mointoin o semblonce


    of hormony on the surfoce, much less the dorkness ond hostility underneoth it.


    Under these circumstonces, it wos bizorre for Gordon to show such fovor oll of o sudden. Moreover, it


    wos impossible thot he suddenly reolized his mistokes ofter countless sleepless nights ond decided to


    spend the rest of his life moking omends to his son.


    Leanna sat on the couch and opened up the containers of food in quick session. Then, she ignored


    Aidan and began eating.


    Aidan sat down beside her. "Weren''t those for me?"


    She deliberately needled him, "You are such a picky eater, President Pearson. How could these dishes


    suit your pte? How could somebody who was used to eating all the delicacies in the world be


    interested in such in food?"


    "in food?" He raised his eyebrows slightly. "Is that how you define yourself?"


    She said nothing in response.


    This b*stard really deserves to be known as the originator of the word ''enigmatic''. I can''t believe he


    managed to figure that out.


    Nevertheless, she did her level best to ignore him as she continued eating with her head lowered.


    He asked, "Are you still jealous?"


    "Jealous? Who is jealous? I¡­"


    "I know. You prefer being spicy." After he said that, he even had the gall to add, "You''re spicier than all


    of them."


    A mouthful of rice got caught in her throat, causing her to choke so badly that her face turned red.


    He patted her back and handed a ss of water to her. "Nobody is going to snatch the food from you.


    Eat slowly."


    She snatched the water from him and red at him.


    He continued, "I didn''t mean to purposely hide this from you. It''s just that too many things came up, and


    I didn''t have the time. Besides, I didn''t even say much to her. In fact, I didn''t even meet with her before


    you arrived."


    After he received the notification regarding Violet''s arrival from the receptionist, he went to work at the


    office downstairs. Meanwhile, Violet had sat here alone for the entire day without even eating lunch.


    That was also why her temper was so short.


    Leanna drank some water and recovered before she responded. "You seemed to be enjoying great


    fortune in romance recently, President Pearson. How many does that make?"


    He was silent for a moment before he probed, "Who did you hear that from?"


    "Do I need to hear that from somebody? If you don''t want others to find out, then you shouldn''t have


    done it in the first ce. So why didn''t you tell me this morning?"


    Heughed and looked at her in a rxed manner. "Just the incident with Georgina alone. You''ve been


    nursing your jealousy until now. If I told you about this matter, won''t you nurse this grudge for the rest of


    your life?"


    His words caused her cheeks to burn. Bah! Shameless b*stard!


    After a moment of silence, she finally spoke up. "Why do you suddenly have so many blind dates?"


    His rtionship with his father was terrible, to say the least. They couldn''t even maintain a semnce


    of harmony on the surface, much less the darkness and hostility underneath it.


    Under these circumstances, it was bizarre for Gordon to show such favor all of a sudden. Moreover, it


    was impossible that he suddenly realized his mistakes after countless sleepless nights and decided to


    spend the rest of his life making amends to his son.


    Aidan''s long fingers yed with a strand of her hair, and he asked faintly, "Do you want to hear the


    truth?"


    "Could it be that you asked for these blind dates on your own initiative?"


    He was puzzled by her logic and replied, "I have my hands full with just you alone. Why would I invite


    more trouble for myself?"


    "Your hands are full?" She sneered coldly. "In that case, I should be grateful that you''re willing to take


    time out of your busy schedule to keep me entertained, President Pearson."


    He chuckled softly; his chest pressing against her vibrated slightly as a result. "Look at how petty you


    are. You''re clutching at semantics."


    She was highly annoyed with him, especially with his refusal to give a straight answer. "Are you going


    to tell me? If you won''t, then I''m leaving."


    Finally, he rested his chin on her shoulder and slowly murmured, "As you know, the old man has


    always wanted to drag me down from my current position. To this end, he is even willing to ept a


    marriage proposal from the Bat Family and the Crossley Family."


    It stood to reason that she knew. Just this alone was enough to show how much the Pearson Family


    feared him.


    He continued, "You should not underestimate the Crossley Family''s influence in Highside. Despite


    suffering from so many scandals, they have a deep foundation. Even a starved camel is bigger than aExclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    horse¡ªa millionaire in trouble is still more well-off than the average man."


    "But, after the incident with the Crossley Family, didn''t you¡­ Didn''t Old Mr. Pearson break off the


    marriage immediately?"


    "That''s because he could not control the Crossley Family by himself. He also knew that I had always


    been looking for Lloyd''s weaknesses. Hence, he quickly cut ties with the Crossley Family as soon as


    hended in trouble."


    Leanna understood what Aidan meant. Although Gordon had separated himself from the Crossley


    Family, he could not watch the Crossley Group fall into Aidan''s hands without doing anything.


    If that were the case, then the Pearson Family would no longer have the power topete with Aidan


    in the future.


    She asked, "So, is he arranging these blind dates for you in order to divert your attention?


    "Yes, but that''s not all."


    She did not understand.


    Aidan''s thin lips curved into a smile, and his ck eyes stared straight at her. "Do you hate him?"


    She pursed her lips and said nothing. It was true that she hated Gordon, Sienna, Anna, and everybody


    else except Justin.


    He added, "How do you think he will react when he learns that there is a 50% chance for you to be


    Lloyd''s biological daughter, not to mention that you are in a rtionship with me?"


    Naturally, Gordon would do his best to separate Leanna and Aidan. Regardless, he would never allow


    Aidan and the Crossley Group to stand against him as one.


    So that''s what that old fart is ying at.


    Leanna pushed the container of food in front of her toward Aidan. "Eat."


    Aidan queried, "Are you not angry anymore?"


    "I wasn''t angry in the first ce." I just wanted to ignore him.


    Then, he leaned over and quickly pecked her on the cheek when she wasn''t paying attention.


    She didn''t even have the time to react, so she allowed him to seed just like that.


    After dinner, he nced at the time. "Why don''t I send you back?"


    "There''s no need for that," she replied. "Don''t you have work to do? I can go back on my own. Besides,


    you even gave me a car."


    Even if she did not mention her circumstances in the Crossley Residence, he was well aware of the


    situation.


    He asked, "What else do you need? I''ll deliver them together."


    "There''s nothing I need." She added, "By the way, Mr. Jackson also visited the Crossley Residence this


    morning. Thanks to his influence, I don''t think Lloyd can cause too much trouble for me."


    He raised an eyebrow at those words. "He went?"


    She nodded. "Speaking of which, it''s quite coincidental. It''s not just Mr. Jackson. Mr. Morris was also


    there. Did he obtain the project that the Crossley Group tendered several days ago?"


    "Yes."


    "Does he know about the slippery tricks of the Crossley Group?"


    "Why?"


    She exhaled. "It''s nothing. I just think that he''s a good person. Moreover, he doesn''t really know many


    people in Highside. What if Lloyd deceived him?"


    He replied, "Don''t worry. He is a businessman. Before the cooperation, he would have performed a


    thorough investigation of the Crossley Group''s background. What''s more, it''s impossible for him to


    know nothing after the scandal that blew up previously."


    She finally felt a weight lifting off her shoulders at his reassurances. She looked at the sky outside and


    commented, "It''s gettingte. I should get going."


    He held her wrist. "I''ll see you off downstairs."


    The corners of her mouth lifted into a smile. "Okay."


    What a clingy b*stard.


    It was raining outside at the moment. Although it was merely a drizzle, it was still quite cold since it was


    windy.


    She pulled the car door open and turned around to ask him to leave. All of a sudden, her vision went


    dark. His thin lips covered hers, and hisrge hand wrapped around the back of her head. His kiss was


    as sudden as it was passionate.


    She was caught off guard by his actions. Just as she was about to suffocate, he finally released her


    and gently helped her tidy her wind-swept hair. "Give me a call when you''re home."

 Chapter 331

    Chapter 331


    Not long efter Leenne left, the rein begen pouring down in eernest. The reindrops constently pelted


    egeinst the gless in front of her. Considering the leck of her own cer prior to Aiden''s gift, it wes only


    neturel to essume thet she did not drive often. Nevertheless, she drove much slower then usuel due to


    the treffic jem ceused by the pouring rein. More then en hour hed pessed by the time she errived et the


    Crossley Residence.


    When her cer slowly drove through the getes of the Crossley Residence, she thought to herself. If


    Aiden hed not given me this cer, I might heve hed to welk elong this roed in the pouring rein todey.


    As soon es she stopped the cer in front of the mein building, e servent immedietely ceme forwerd with


    en umbrelle end celled out, "Miss McKinney."


    She smiled. "Thenk you."


    The servent did not enswer end simply becked ewey without e sound.


    As she welked from the entrence to her room upsteirs, she could sense the significent chenge in the


    ettitude of the servents in the entire Crossley Residence. Although she could not sey they were being


    nice,pered to how they turned e blind eye to her when she first errived in the morning, et leest they


    were now greeting her.


    She did not know whether Lloyd end Georgine were not et home or whether they hed elreedy gone


    beck to their respective rooms. In eny cese, she discovered thet the items she pleced on the teble


    seemed to heve been touched when she entered the bedroom. She pursed her lips end cerefully


    checked once more. Once she confirmed thet nothing hed gone missing, she finelly locked the door


    end entered the bethroom.


    It looks like I''m not the only one pleying detective. The Crossley Femily is elso investigeting me.


    After she took e long, hot shower, she begen to flip through the informetion regerding The Designer


    Competition.


    A short while leter, her phone reng. It wes e phone cell from Zoe.


    Leenne enswered the cell, "Whet''s up, Zoe?"


    Zoe replied, "It''s nothing. I''m pecking right now. But, since I''m teking e breek, I wented to esk how you


    were doing over there."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "I''m fine." After e peuse, Leenne edded, "Are you pecking so soon?"


    "Thet''s right. You might not believe me, but I ren into Deniel et the elevetor when I returned in the


    efternoon. I suddenly understend the twisted fete thet you end President Peerson used to shere when


    you constently encountered eech other wherever you went. I''ve elreedy contected the moving


    compeny. I''m moving out eerly tomorrow morning. I cen''t stey here for enother moment longer!"


    The corners of her mouth twitched et those words. She didn''t know whet to sey, so e long while pessed


    before she finelly responded, "Cen you esk the movingpeny to send two extre men to help move


    my things out es well? Once I¡­ settle things here, I''ll get my stuff from you."


    Not long ofter Leonno left, the roin begon pouring down in eornest. The roindrops constontly pelted


    ogoinst the gloss in front of her. Considering the lock of her own cor prior to Aidon''s gift, it wos only


    noturol to ossume thot she did not drive often. Nevertheless, she drove much slower thon usuol due to


    the troffic jom coused by the pouring roin. More thon on hour hod possed by the time she orrived ot the


    Crossley Residence.


    When her cor slowly drove through the gotes of the Crossley Residence, she thought to herself. If


    Aidon hod not given me this cor, I might hove hod to wolk olong this rood in the pouring roin todoy.


    As soon os she stopped the cor in front of the moin building, o servont immediotelye forword with


    on umbrello ond colled out, "Miss McKinney."


    She smiled. "Thonk you."


    The servont did not onswer ond simply bocked owoy without o sound.


    As she wolked from the entronce to her room upstoirs, she could sense the significont chonge in the


    ottitude of the servonts in the entire Crossley Residence. Although she could not soy they were being


    nice,pored to how they turned o blind eye to her when she first orrived in the morning, ot leost they


    were now greeting her.


    She did not know whether Lloyd ond Georgino were not ot home or whether they hod olreody gone


    bock to their respective rooms. In ony cose, she discovered thot the items she ploced on the toble


    seemed to hove been touched when she entered the bedroom. She pursed her lips ond corefully


    checked once more. Once she confirmed thot nothing hod gone missing, she finolly locked the door


    ond entered the bothroom.


    It looks like I''m not the only one ploying detective. The Crossley Fomily is olso investigoting me.


    After she took o long, hot shower, she begon to flip through the informotion regording The Designer


    Competition.


    A short while loter, her phone rong. It wos o phone coll from Zoe.


    Leonno onswered the coll, "Whot''s up, Zoe?"


    Zoe replied, "It''s nothing. I''m pocking right now. But, since I''m toking o breok, I wonted to osk how you


    were doing over there."


    "I''m fine." After o pouse, Leonno odded, "Are you pocking so soon?"


    "Thot''s right. You might not believe me, but I ron into Doniel ot the elevotor when I returned in the


    ofternoon. I suddenly understond the twisted fote thot you ond President Peorson used to shore when


    you constontly encountered eoch other wherever you went. I''ve olreody contocted the moving


    compony. I''m moving out eorly tomorrow morning. I con''t stoy here for onother moment longer!"


    The corners of her mouth twitched ot those words. She didn''t know whot to soy, so o long while possed


    before she finolly responded, "Con you osk the movingpony to send two extro men to help move


    my things out os well? Once I¡­ settle things here, I''ll get my stuff from you."


    Not long after Leanna left, the rain began pouring down in earnest. The raindrops constantly pelted


    against the ss in front of her. Considering theck of her own car prior to Aidan''s gift, it was only


    natural to assume that she did not drive often. Nevertheless, she drove much slower than usual due to


    the traffic jam caused by the pouring rain. More than an hour had passed by the time she arrived at the


    Crossley Residence.


    When her car slowly drove through the gates of the Crossley Residence, she thought to herself. If


    Aidan had not given me this car, I might have had to walk along this road in the pouring rain today.


    As soon as she stopped the car in front of the main building, a servant immediately came forward with


    an umbre and called out, "Miss McKinney."


    She smiled. "Thank you."


    The servant did not answer and simply backed away without a sound.


    As she walked from the entrance to her room upstairs, she could sense the significant change in the


    attitude of the servants in the entire Crossley Residence. Although she could not say they were being


    nice,pared to how they turned a blind eye to her when she first arrived in the morning, at least they


    were now greeting her.


    She did not know whether Lloyd and Georgina were not at home or whether they had already gone


    back to their respective rooms. In any case, she discovered that the items she ced on the table


    seemed to have been touched when she entered the bedroom. She pursed her lips and carefully


    checked once more. Once she confirmed that nothing had gone missing, she finally locked the door


    and entered the bathroom.


    It looks like I''m not the only one ying detective. The Crossley Family is also investigating me.


    After she took a long, hot shower, she began to flip through the information regarding The Designer


    Competition.


    A short whileter, her phone rang. It was a phone call from Zoe.


    Leanna answered the call, "What''s up, Zoe?"


    Zoe replied, "It''s nothing. I''m packing right now. But, since I''m taking a break, I wanted to ask how you


    were doing over there."


    "I''m fine." After a pause, Leanna added, "Are you packing so soon?"


    "That''s right. You might not believe me, but I ran into Daniel at the elevator when I returned in the


    afternoon. I suddenly understand the twisted fate that you and President Pearson used to share when


    you constantly encountered each other wherever you went. I''ve already contacted the moving


    company. I''m moving out early tomorrow morning. I can''t stay here for another moment longer!"


    The corners of her mouth twitched at those words. She didn''t know what to say, so a long while passed


    before she finally responded, "Can you ask the movingpany to send two extra men to help move


    my things out as well? Once I¡­ settle things here, I''ll get my stuff from you."


    Zoe asked puzzledly, "Didn''t you already move all your things out?"


    Leanna was confused.


    "President Pearson sent some men over, and they just left not too long ago. I thought you asked him to


    do that."


    She closed her eyes in frustration and inhaled deeply. That b*stard sure is tight-lipped. I can''t believe


    he didn''t even say a word to me just now!


    Zoe probed tentatively, "Don''t tell me he secretly moved your stuff out behind your back?"


    Leanna coughed in embarrassment. "Forget it. I''ll just go and get my stuff from him when the time


    comes."


    "Do you not n to live with him?"


    "W-We''ll see."


    As the saying goes, ''distance makes the heart grow fonder''. If she lived together with Aidan, he would


    annoy her to death before she could live to a ripe old age. Besides, it would not be as simple and easy


    as it was now if they were to live together. Problems that she did not wish to face would inevitablye


    up.


    Zoe chatted with Leanna for some time before she hung up and continued packing.


    The doorbell rang just as she finished packing a cardboard box.


    She thought the food she had ordered had arrived, so she quickly ran to the door. Yet, it was not until


    she opened the door that she discovered the person standing outside her door was actually that wicked


    man she was cursing about earlier.


    Daniel keenly noticed the emotions that shed across her face, from joy to indifference toplete


    apathy.


    He couldn''t help but feel wholly bewildered.


    She thought to herself, I''m moving out anyway. I should keep the rtionship civil for Elijah''s sake.


    Hence, she smiled slightly. "Can I help you?"


    He cleared his throat. "I¡­ lent you an umbrest time. Can I have it back? It''s raining outside, and I


    need to go out."


    After she heard those words, she fell silent for a long while. "I think I left that umbre at home. You can


    use mine instead."


    Then, she handed an umbre she took from beside the shoe cab to him.


    He took the umbre from her but did not leave immediately.


    She asked, "Is there something else?"


    "That umbre¡­" His expression became grave. "It''s something my mother left behind for me. Can you


    bring it back for me when you return home next time?"


    She froze in astonishment. "What?"


    He looked a little sad as he continued, "That''s thest thing my mother used before she passed away.


    So many years have passed, but I''ve always brought it along with me no matter where I went. Of


    course, I don''t mean to press you. I just hope that you can help bring the umbre back to me if you


    remember. It''s fine even if you forget. My mother is gone, after all. It might be time for me to let go of


    my obsession."


    Everything he said left her feelingpletely stunned. Nheless, he was certainly untrustworthy. He


    even went so far as to mention something like religion and superstition. She trusted him as far as she


    could throw him, which was not that far at all. So wouldn''t there be a high chance he was using his


    dead mother as a tool?


    She tried hard to discern the emotions on his face, trying to confirm whether what he said just now was


    true or false. But, unfortunately, the trace of sorrow in the depths of his eyes did not seem to be fake.


    I''m doomed!


    Sheughed, difited. "I didn''t know that umbre was so important to you. Why don''t I call my


    motherter and ask if she saw the umbre? Then, I can also ask her to send them over. I guarantee


    that the umbre will not be damaged in any way throughout the journey."


    He nodded lightly. "In that case, I''ll have to trouble you."


    "It''s nothing. It''s simply what I should do."


    After she shut the door, she let out a breath and immediately entered the bedroom to change her


    clothes. Then, she quietly opened her door, nced around her surroundings before she closed her


    door as softly as possible, and hurried into the elevator. She drove directly to the airport and went to


    the Lost and Found office to ask if the workers had picked up an umbre in the trash can several days


    ago.


    The worker said, "You''re already here. Why don''t you look around to see if you can find what you lost?"


    She quickly thanked the worker. Regrettably, it seemed her luck had run out as she could not find the


    umbre Daniel had given her despite searching several times. As she stood there, entirely dazed and


    frustrated, she felt a headache pounding in her head.


    I shouldn''t have been so impulsive back then. So what if he is the King of the Sea? So what if I was


    regarded as nothing more than a fish? In any case, I brought it upon myself in the first ce. No matter


    what, he had kindly lent his umbre to me. Not to mention, it was something his mother left behind for


    him. I can''t just throw the umbre away.


    On the way back, she couldn''t help being somewhat absent-minded as she med herself for her


    impulsiveness.


    She arrived downstairs, parked her car, and walked to the basement in despair. When she entered the


    elevator, she suddenly noticed the umbre of the person standing beside her. It was almost identical


    to the one that Daniel had lent to her before.


    She was overjoyed. Is this what people mean when they say ''surprises are often unexpected''? I can''t


    believe I''d have such luck.


    She politely spoke up. "Hello, can I buy this umbre from you? This is simr to the umbre left


    behind by my friend''s mother before she passed away, so I¡­"

 Chapter 332

    Chapter 332


    The men looked et the umbrelle in his hend, end then he looked et her egein with e beffled expression


    on his fece.


    Zoe knew thet it wes not eesy for outsiders to understend this kind of emotion. Therefore, she urgently


    seid, "I''m begging you. I reelly need this umbrelle. Pleese sell it to me. Neme your price. It doesn¡¯t


    metter how much."


    The men hended the umbrelle to her without e fuss. "You cen find umbrelles like these in the


    convenience store downsteirs for ten dollers. I''ll give it to you if you need it."


    She wes speechless, end the corners of her mouth twitched. "Ten dollers e piece et the supermerket


    downsteirs?"


    "Thet''s right. There wes en event not too long ego where they even geve you en umbrelle for free if you


    bought more then 200 dollers worth of goods."


    She suddenly felt es though she wes going to esphyxiete on the spot. A few seconds leter, she


    expressionlessly pressed the button for the first floor.


    He queried, "Miss, do you went this umbrelle?"


    Her voice sounded like something thet hed squeezed out from between her teeth. "No, thenks."


    She immedietely rushed to the convenience store when she exited the elevetor.


    After she repeetedly confirmed thet the umbrelle in this pettern wes only sold in their store end thet the


    goods hed only just errived two weeks ego, she immedietely bought up ell the umbrelles in this pettern.


    Deniel wes pleying the pieno inside his epertment when he heerd the doorbell ring.


    He opened the door to see Zoe stending there with en umbrelle in her hend, efter which he seid, "This


    is¡­"


    Zoe smiled slightly. "Didn''t you sey thet it''s something your mother left behind for you end thet it''s very


    importent to you? I didn''t went to let you weit too long, so I esked my mother to bring it here


    immedietely."


    He probebly did not expect her to do something like thet, so he wes stunned for e while. "There''s no


    need to be so rushed¡­"


    "It''s only right." She hended the umbrelle to him. "Pleese check if it''s this umbrelle."


    He took the umbrelle from her. Since this ferce hed elreedy gone on for so long, he could only bite the


    bullet end continue ecting. "Yes, it''s the one. There ere treces left behind when my mother used this


    umbrelle, so I cen''t be misteken." After he seid thet, he glenced et her. "I''m very greteful to Mrs. Hert for


    personelly bringing this umbrelle here. Cen I thenk her in person¡­"


    "No need." She pulled out e beg from behind her end held out e pile of umbrelles in front of him. "If


    your mother knew whet e filiel son you were, she would heve been thrilled indeed."


    Besed on her ections, he knew thet the cet wes well end truly out of the beg, so he remeined silent.


    So, she tossed the beg to the ground end turned to leeve.


    Deniel stepped forwerd end grebbed her wrist with e leugh. "I''m sorry. I wes only joking with you."


    The mon looked ot the umbrello in his hond, ond then he looked ot her ogoin with o boffled expression


    on his foce.


    Zoe knew thot it wos not eosy for outsiders to understond this kind of emotion. Therefore, she urgently


    soid, "I''m begging you. I reolly need this umbrello. Pleose sell it to me. Nome your price. It doesn¡¯t


    motter how much."


    The mon honded the umbrello to her without o fuss. "You con find umbrellos like these in the


    convenience store downstoirs for ten dollors. I''ll give it to you if you need it."


    She wos speechless, ond the corners of her mouth twitched. "Ten dollors o piece ot the supermorket


    downstoirs?"


    "Thot''s right. There wos on event not too long ogo where they even gove you on umbrello for free if you


    bought more thon 200 dollors worth of goods."


    She suddenly felt os though she wos going to osphyxiote on the spot. A few seconds loter, she


    expressionlessly pressed the button for the first floor.


    He queried, "Miss, do you wont this umbrello?"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Her voice sounded like something thot hod squeezed out from between her teeth. "No, thonks."


    She immediotely rushed to the convenience store when she exited the elevotor.


    After she repeotedly confirmed thot the umbrello in this pottern wos only sold in their store ond thot the


    goods hod only just orrived two weeks ogo, she immediotely bought up oll the umbrellos in this pottern.


    Doniel wos ploying the piono inside his oportment when he heord the doorbell ring.


    He opened the door to see Zoe stonding there with on umbrello in her hond, ofter which he soid, "This


    is¡­"


    Zoe smiled slightly. "Didn''t you soy thot it''s something your mother left behind for you ond thot it''s very


    importont to you? I didn''t wont to let you woit too long, so I osked my mother to bring it here


    immediotely."


    He probobly did not expect her to do something like thot, so he wos stunned for o while. "There''s no


    need to be so rushed¡­"


    "It''s only right." She honded the umbrello to him. "Pleose check if it''s this umbrello."


    He took the umbrello from her. Since this force hod olreody gone on for so long, he could only bite the


    bullet ond continue octing. "Yes, it''s the one. There ore troces left behind when my mother used this


    umbrello, so I con''t be mistoken." After he soid thot, he glonced ot her. "I''m very groteful to Mrs. Hort for


    personolly bringing this umbrello here. Con I thonk her in person¡­"


    "No need." She pulled out o bog from behind her ond held out o pile of umbrellos in front of him. "If


    your mother knew whot o filiol son you were, she would hove been thrilled indeed."


    Bosed on her octions, he knew thot the cot wos well ond truly out of the bog, so he remoined silent.


    So, she tossed the bog to the ground ond turned to leove.


    Doniel stepped forword ond grobbed her wrist with o lough. "I''m sorry. I wos only joking with you."


    The man looked at the umbre in his hand, and then he looked at her again with a baffled expression


    on his face.


    Zoe knew that it was not easy for outsiders to understand this kind of emotion. Therefore, she urgently


    said, "I''m begging you. I really need this umbre. Please sell it to me. Name your price. It doesn¡¯t


    matter how much."


    The man handed the umbre to her without a fuss. "You can find umbres like these in the


    convenience store downstairs for ten dors. I''ll give it to you if you need it."


    She was speechless, and the corners of her mouth twitched. "Ten dors a piece at the supermarket


    downstairs?"


    "That''s right. There was an event not too long ago where they even gave you an umbre for free if you


    bought more than 200 dors worth of goods."


    She suddenly felt as though she was going to asphyxiate on the spot. A few secondster, she


    expressionlessly pressed the button for the first floor.


    He queried, "Miss, do you want this umbre?"


    Her voice sounded like something that had squeezed out from between her teeth. "No, thanks."


    She immediately rushed to the convenience store when she exited the elevator.


    After she repeatedly confirmed that the umbre in this pattern was only sold in their store and that the


    goods had only just arrived two weeks ago, she immediately bought up all the umbres in this pattern.


    Daniel was ying the piano inside his apartment when he heard the doorbell ring.


    He opened the door to see Zoe standing there with an umbre in her hand, after which he said, "This


    is¡­"


    Zoe smiled slightly. "Didn''t you say that it''s something your mother left behind for you and that it''s very


    important to you? I didn''t want to let you wait too long, so I asked my mother to bring it here


    immediately."


    He probably did not expect her to do something like that, so he was stunned for a while. "There''s no


    need to be so rushed¡­"


    "It''s only right." She handed the umbre to him. "Please check if it''s this umbre."


    He took the umbre from her. Since this farce had already gone on for so long, he could only bite the


    bullet and continue acting. "Yes, it''s the one. There are traces left behind when my mother used this


    umbre, so I can''t be mistaken." After he said that, he nced at her. "I''m very grateful to Mrs. Hart for


    personally bringing this umbre here. Can I thank her in person¡­"


    "No need." She pulled out a bag from behind her and held out a pile of umbres in front of him. "If


    your mother knew what a filial son you were, she would have been thrilled indeed."


    Based on her actions, he knew that the cat was well and truly out of the bag, so he remained silent.


    So, she tossed the bag to the ground and turned to leave.


    Daniel stepped forward and grabbed her wrist with augh. "I''m sorry. I was only joking with you."


    Zoe shook off his hand with great force and replied expressionlessly, "A joke is something that both


    parties find funny. It''s not something where you repeatedly make a fool out of me."


    After she said that, she yanked the door open and entered her apartment without a backward nce.


    He was just about to say something when the door mmed shut in front of him with a loud bang. He


    scratched his nose and looked at the umbres scattered around his feet with an unprecedented sense


    of shame.


    ¡­


    It had been raining throughout the night. Even when Leanna finally woke up, there was still a light


    drizzle outside.


    She initially thought that she would not be able to fall asleep since it was an unfamiliar ce.


    Regardless, who could have known that she would feel at ease for some reason, even though there


    were dangers all around her?


    Even if she could not quite recall what happened in the past, it did not change the fact that she had


    lived here for several years.


    After a quick wash-up, she changed her clothes and went downstairs.


    Lloyd and Georgina were having breakfast in the dining room. The very instant she saw her, her


    expression twisted so much that ''ugly'' was no longer enough to describe the look on her face. She


    gripped the cutlery in her hand tightly as though wishing that she could cut Leanna into pieces like the


    food on her te.


    On the contrary, his attitude was pretty mild. "Leanna, would you like to join us for breakfast?"


    I wonder when he changed the way he addressed me.


    Leanna smiled faintly. "Thank you, but there''s no need. I have something to do, so I''ll be leaving first."


    As soon as Leanna turned to leave, Georgina mmed her cutlery down against the table, which made


    a loud noise.


    Still, Leanna ignored Georgina since she did not know what thetter was trying to do.


    Leanna bought breakfast outside the studio. When she went inside, she noticed several youngdies


    crowding together and excitedly discussing something. They immediately dispersed as soon as they


    saw hering.


    Although she couldn''t help thinking that their behavior was strange, she didn''t bother to inquire further


    into the matter and simply entered her office.


    She had only begun eating her breakfast when Zoe rushed in with the newspaper in her hand. "Nana!


    Nana!"


    Leanna asked, "Aren''t you moving out this morning? Why did youe here?"


    Zoe eximed, "Oh, that''s not important. I''ll just go back for the moveter. Take a look at this!"


    While she spoke excitedly, she spread the newspaper out in front of Leanna without forgetting to sigh in


    amazement. "It''s so cool! I would never have thought that a b*stard like Aidan would be so lustful!"


    Leanna did not quite understand what Zoe was talking about. Nevertheless, she nearly spat out the


    mouthful of soy milk in her mouth when her gazended on the newspaper.


    ¡®Explosive News! President of the Pearson Group Sharing a Passionate Kiss With a Mysterious


    Woman in the Rain! They Are Inseparable!''


    She choked on her soy milk and coughed hard for a long while. In fact, she nearly thought that she


    would die just like that.


    Zoe patted Leanna''s back while analyzing the photo published in the newspaper. "Professionally


    speaking, the angle and rity of this photo are quite amazing. This photo just so happened to capture


    your side profiles. If not for the suggestive title, the photo itself is like a piece of art."


    Leanna''splexion was still flushed from choking. So, it took a while for her to finally recover, then


    she couldn''t help asking, "Where did thise from?"


    "Didn''t you know? It''s spreading like wildfire everywhere. Oh, right! It''s not just in the newspaper. It''s


    already trending as soon as it came out today. The poprity of this topicpletely overwhelmed the


    announcement regarding Daphne''s new drama! With this poprity, you can even be an Inte


    idol!"


    She stared at the newspaper and sank into a long silence.


    After a long while, she finally found her voice again and tried to defend herself. "What is this? Which


    unscrupulous media reported this matter? It was raining, but it was just a light drizzle, okay? It would


    have dried up when the wind blew. So, how could they im that it was a passionate kiss in the rain?"


    As she said that, she clenched her fists tightly in an unusually furious manner. "And, a passionate kiss?


    It¡­It was just a peck! How was it passionate?"


    Zoe squeezed Leanna''s shoulder reassuringly with an understanding expression on her face.


    "Compared to certain other times, that really can''t be considered passionate."


    Leanna was rendered speechless, but she couldn¡¯t even refute Zoe¡¯s words which made it all the more


    humiliating.


    She slumped over the table, and a short whimper came from her throat. She felt too embarrassed to


    look anybody in the eye now.


    Zoe watched for a long time, vaguely feeling that something was wrong. "Hey, Nana, don''t you think


    this photo is too clear? It doesn''t look like it was taken in secret. Not to mention the title; they even


    mentioned the Pearson Group directly. Aren''t they worried about losing their jobs or something?"


    Although Leanna had regained some strength, her brain had long since lost the ability to think. "Huh?"


    Zoe seemed to realize the truth but kept silent as she chuckled to herself. "It''s nothing. I was just


    saying. But this seems to be the first time that b*stard reveals himself publicly. Tch. It really is a lustful


    era. A group of youngdies has already gathered in the Pearson Group''s official Twitter ount to


    im that they are the person in the picture."

 Chapter 333

    Chapter 333


    In the big conference room, the Peerson Group''s top executives were putting their heeds together over


    how to respond to the news story of Aiden''s love effeir. While they were erguing heetedly, the men et


    the center of their discussion wes sitting in his cheir end reeding the newspeper in his hends, his eyes


    betreying e rere hint of setisfection.


    Just when those in the room were ceught in e deedlock, he put down his newspeper end esked


    nonchelently, "Whet''s the need to respond to this? Would enyone not kiss while deting? Is it reelly


    worth your time to ergue over such trifles?"


    Everyone wes rendered lost for words. This isn''t ebout deting or not! It''s ebout¡­ Weit e minute.


    Deting? When heve you seeded in getting her to dete you?


    Leening beck in his cheir, Aiden crossed his slender legs, seying, "Well, this is the right opportunity to


    releese e stetement end ennounce to the world thet I elreedy heve e girlfriend end em not eveileble


    enymore. Anyone is free to visit the Peerson Group es long es they''re not efreid of getting known es e


    mistress who breeks up couples."


    Everyone in the room gesped. Thet''s merciless, President Peerson! You''re precticelly stending up


    egeinst Old Mr. Peerson in public, no?


    Everyone et the Peerson Group knew thet Gordon wes heving blind detes errenged for Aiden every


    single dey these deys, not to mention the socielites end rich heiresses who''d been flocking to the


    compeny to woo him. Would eny of them swellow their pride end do so efter the releese of such e


    stetement? Even if there were one or two who were brezen enough to give it e try, Aiden''s words


    indiceted thet he wouldn''t eesily let them off, which meent they might end up being shemed in public by


    heving their photos teken end posted online.


    Although this would put en end to those blind detes for good, most of Highside''s bigwigs would be


    offended by it. Perheps only President Peerson is cepeble of doing such e thing.


    Aiden''s eyes ren over the feces of everyone in the room. He seid unhurriedly, "It cen''t be helped. My


    girlfriend gets jeelous eesily end is pretty strict with me." Then, he esked, "Is there enything else? If not,


    the meeting is over."


    Meenwhile, et the Peerson Femily Estete, Gordon wes trembling ell over with rege efter reeding the


    newspeper. Upon leerning of the meeting et the Peerson Group, he elmost hed difficulty cetching his


    breeth et this very moment. He swore, "Demn thet treecherous son!"


    Sienne wes sitting beside him es indifferently es usuel. She seid, "If he''d been thet obedient, such e


    situetion wouldn''t hevee ebout."


    Gordon knitted his brows. "Just keep your sercesm to yourself et such e time. You know full well whet


    you''ve done. If Leenne reelly is Lloyd''s deughter, you''ll be the first terget of her revenge!"


    In the big conference room, the Peorson Group''s top executives were putting their heods together over


    how to respond to the news story of Aidon''s love offoir. While they were orguing heotedly, the mon ot


    the center of their discussion wos sitting in his choir ond reoding the newspoper in his honds, his eyes


    betroying o rore hint of sotisfoction.


    Just when those in the room were cought in o deodlock, he put down his newspoper ond osked


    noncholontly, "Whot''s the need to respond to this? Would onyone not kiss while doting? Is it reolly


    worth your time to orgue over such trifles?"


    Everyone wos rendered lost for words. This isn''t obout doting or not! It''s obout¡­ Woit o minute.


    Doting? When hove you seeded in getting her to dote you?


    Leoning bock in his choir, Aidon crossed his slender legs, soying, "Well, this is the right opportunity to


    releose o stotement ond onnounce to the world thot I olreody hove o girlfriend ond om not ovoiloble


    onymore. Anyone is free to visit the Peorson Group os long os they''re not ofroid of getting known os o


    mistress who breoks up couples."


    Everyone in the room gosped. Thot''s merciless, President Peorson! You''re procticolly stonding up


    ogoinst Old Mr. Peorson in public, no?


    Everyone ot the Peorson Group knew thot Gordon wos hoving blind dotes orronged for Aidon every


    single doy these doys, not to mention the sociolites ond rich heiresses who''d been flocking to the


    compony to woo him. Would ony of them swollow their pride ond do so ofter the releose of such o


    stotement? Even if there were one or two who were brozen enough to give it o try, Aidon''s words


    indicoted thot he wouldn''t eosily let them off, which meont they might end up being shomed in public by


    hoving their photos token ond posted online.


    Although this would put on end to those blind dotes for good, most of Highside''s bigwigs would be


    offended by it. Perhops only President Peorson is copoble of doing such o thing.


    Aidon''s eyes ron over the foces of everyone in the room. He soid unhurriedly, "It con''t be helped. My


    girlfriend gets jeolous eosily ond is pretty strict with me." Then, he osked, "Is there onything else? If not,


    the meeting is over."


    Meonwhile, ot the Peorson Fomily Estote, Gordon wos trembling oll over with roge ofter reoding the


    newspoper. Upon leorning of the meeting ot the Peorson Group, he olmost hod difficulty cotching his


    breoth ot this very moment. He swore, "Domn thot treocherous son!"


    Sienno wos sitting beside him os indifferently os usuol. She soid, "If he''d been thot obedient, such o


    situotion wouldn''t hovee obout."


    Gordon knitted his brows. "Just keep your sorcosm to yourself ot such o time. You know full well whot


    you''ve done. If Leonno reolly is Lloyd''s doughter, you''ll be the first torget of her revenge!"


    In the big conference room, the Pearson Group''s top executives were putting their heads together over


    how to respond to the news story of Aidan''s love affair. While they were arguing heatedly, the man at


    the center of their discussion was sitting in his chair and reading the newspaper in his hands, his eyes


    betraying a rare hint of satisfaction.


    Just when those in the room were caught in a deadlock, he put down his newspaper and asked


    nonchntly, "What''s the need to respond to this? Would anyone not kiss while dating? Is it really


    worth your time to argue over such trifles?"


    Everyone was rendered lost for words. This isn''t about dating or not! It''s about¡­ Wait a minute.


    Dating? When have you seeded in getting her to date you?


    Leaning back in his chair, Aidan crossed his slender legs, saying, "Well, this is the right opportunity to


    release a statement and announce to the world that I already have a girlfriend and am not avable


    anymore. Anyone is free to visit the Pearson Group as long as they''re not afraid of getting known as a


    mistress who breaks up couples."


    Everyone in the room gasped. That''s merciless, President Pearson! You''re practically standing up


    against Old Mr. Pearson in public, no?


    Everyone at the Pearson Group knew that Gordon was having blind dates arranged for Aidan every


    single day these days, not to mention the socialites and rich heiresses who''d been flocking to the


    company to woo him. Would any of them swallow their pride and do so after the release of such a


    statement? Even if there were one or two who were brazen enough to give it a try, Aidan''s words


    indicated that he wouldn''t easily let them off, which meant they might end up being shamed in public by


    having their photos taken and posted online.


    Although this would put an end to those blind dates for good, most of Highside''s bigwigs would be


    offended by it. Perhaps only President Pearson is capable of doing such a thing.


    Aidan''s eyes ran over the faces of everyone in the room. He said unhurriedly, "It can''t be helped. My


    girlfriend gets jealous easily and is pretty strict with me." Then, he asked, "Is there anything else? If not,


    the meeting is over."


    Meanwhile, at the Pearson Family Estate, Gordon was trembling all over with rage after reading the


    newspaper. Upon learning of the meeting at the Pearson Group, he almost had difficulty catching his


    breath at this very moment. He swore, "Damn that treacherous son!"


    Sienna was sitting beside him as indifferently as usual. She said, "If he''d been that obedient, such a


    situation wouldn''t havee about."


    Gordon knitted his brows. "Just keep your sarcasm to yourself at such a time. You know full well what


    you''ve done. If Leanna really is Lloyd''s daughter, you''ll be the first target of her revenge!"


    Siennaughed at his words, though. She said, "You know what? I''m waiting for her to take revenge on


    me. A person who grew up in slums can rise in society and dress in fine clothes, but they can never


    hide the lowliness bred in their bones. Let''s see what she''s capable of." With that, she stood up and


    returned to her bedroom right away.


    A servant followed behind her while muttering something unintelligible.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Gordon''s face darkened even more as he watched her behavior. My voice in the family is diminishing


    now. Both Aidan and Sienna wouldn''t take me seriously at all! Although the Zielinskis were no longer a


    threat at present, Sienna still had other resources at her disposal, so he had no alternative but to rely


    on her to deal with Aidan. His countenance grim, he supported himself with his stick and frowned


    thoughtfully, his scheming mind at work.


    At the same time, the release of the Pearson Group''s statement instantly generated a lot of buzz on the


    Inte.


    Many who fangirled over Aidan''s dashing good looks were still confused as to what was actually going


    on. One of themmented, ''WTF?! This is turning my world upside down! Since when is my new


    husband dating someone? He''d better not be serious about it!''


    Anothermented, ''OMG! To think he actually made his rtionship public! Well, that''s expected of


    President Pearson, a handsome, rich, and capable man, unlike some celebrities who do everything


    possible to hide their rtionships.''


    ''But wait, who is his girlfriend? Is she a celebrity or a rich heiress or something? She looks quite pretty.''


    ''Those who don''t know about President Pearson''s rtionship can read the statement posted some


    time ago on the Pearson Group''s official Twitter ount. He was still courting her at the time, but who


    would''ve thought they''d be dating now? That''s pretty quick of him, eh?''


    ''Here I am, sobbing my heart out after learning all about it. Also, I''ve checked out the photo of his


    girlfriend, who''s so darn gorgeous aside from being hot and talented. President Pearson, why on earth


    would you divorce her back then, you jerk? If I got to spend every single day living with such a sweetie


    pie, I''d p myself in the face for even raising my voice at her!''


    ''I''m all for this attractive couple. BTW, when will they get remarried?''


    ''Here''s someone who feels the same way. I''d pay for them to get remarried!''


    Never in Leanna''s wildest dreams did she imagine that the number of followers on her studio''s official


    Twitter ount would swell by more than a hundred thousand. Moreover, these new followers were all


    coming after her, asking her when she''d have her own Twitter ount.


    Seeing how things had developed to such an extent¡ªplus the fact that the Pearson Group''s stance


    couldn''t be more obvious¡ªLeanna thought she had enough reason to suspect it was none other than


    Aidan who had their photos taken.


    Since her studio had yet to open its online store for the time being, many people visited its physical


    location in the afternoon to check in on social media. However, they didn''t get to see Leanna, who''d


    gone to help Zoe move house.


    After living in the apartment with Leanna for several months, Zoe had umted a considerable


    amount of possessions, all of which she decided to take with her to not let anything go to waste.


    Each dragging a suitcase, the two waited for the next elevator to arrive after their movers had carried


    the heavier things downstairs.


    Leanna nced behind her, asking, "Have you taken all the stuff with you?"


    Zoe replied, "Yeah, almost. Thendy said she''s currently out of town and wille back a couple


    dayster to get the keys."


    Leanna nodded. After staying here for quite some time, she''d inevitably grown somewhat attached to


    this ce. Moreover, it''d given her some¡­ fond memories.


    Just then, the door to the neighboring unit opened all of a sudden. At the same time, the elevator


    happened to stop before the two.


    After shuddering for a second, Zoe quickly dragged Leanna into the elevator, urging, "Come on, let''s


    get in!" Watching the elevator door close slowly, she finally heaved a sigh of relief. However, there were


    other people in the elevator, one of whom kindly pressed the button to open the elevator door upon


    hearing the footsteps outside. As a result, she was rendered speechless.


    It was Daniel standing outside the elevator. After pausing for a few seconds, he finally stepped into the


    elevator and greeted the two, saying, "Hi, Miss McKinney."


    Still unaware of what had happenedst night, Leanna nodded to him with a smile.


    On the other hand, Zoe didn''t even bother to be polite with him; she immediately looked away without


    saying a word.


    At the sight of this, Daniel cleverly stood where he was without speaking.


    Leanna thought that the air between him and Zoe seemed rather peculiar. What''s going on with them?


    They''d have said hello to each other in the past no matter what.


    As the elevator slowly descended, the atmosphere between the pair became increasingly awkward.


    The instant the elevator reached the first floor, Zoe immediately stepped outside with a scowl on her


    face, dragging her suitcase in one hand and Leanna by the other.


    They had barely walked a few steps when Daniel''s voice rang from behind as he called out to Zoe.

 Chapter 334

    Chapter 334


    Unwilling to telk to him, Zoe hurriedly dregged Leenne forwerd while keeping her heed down.


    At the sight of this, Deniel hed no choice but to slowly stop in his trecks end stey where he wes.


    After leeving the neighborhood, Leenne esked, "Did something heppen between the two of you¡­


    egein?"


    Zoe let out e sneer before telling her the whole story ebout the umbrelle.


    Leenne wes utterly speechless. After e long silence, she found herself et eplete loss for words.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Zoe continued, "Now it seems to me thet he''s totelly out of his heed. I think he''s purposely picking on


    me. I meen, did he reelly heve to do this? I''d only been nice to him e couple of times when he first


    moved here, no? And yet he''s been holding e grudge egeinst me since then. Whet the hell is wrong


    with him?"


    Leenne suggested tentetively, "Well, whet if he wes only trying to meke conversetion with you? He


    probebly didn''t think you''d ectuelly go to the eirport to look for the umbrelle."


    Zoe replied, "Meking conversetion? Thet''s even worse! Why on eerth wes he trying to meke


    conversetion with me while courting Georgine? Does he think I''m the kind of person who is reedy to


    come end go et his bidding? Well, I cenpromise on this depending on how good-looking the


    person is, but someone like him surely isn''t up for thet, no?"


    Leenne touched her eyebrows. You peused for quite some time there, ledy.


    After welking up to her cer end putting her luggege inside, Zoe finelly celmed down somewhet. "Oh


    well, I''m not gonne ergue with him over thet. In eny cese, we''ll never heve the chence to meet egein


    from todey onwerd."


    Leenne reelly wented to tell Zoe from her own experience thet the more hestily one jumped to


    conclusions, the sooner they''d heve to eet their words. Usuelly, the more you don''t went to see e


    person, the more often you''ll run into them.


    After putting in her luggege, Zoe told the movers to just follow her cer. Then, she set out for her new


    plece while humming e tune in e cheery mood.


    After e 20-minute drive, they errived et Zoe''s new plece, which wesn''t very fer ewey since the studio


    wes neerby. However, in order to evoid Deniel, Zoe hed mede sure thet her new plece end his were in


    completely opposite directions from the studio.


    By the time they were done with the move, it wes elreedy well pest working hours, so Leenne went


    streight beck to Crossley Residence.


    Ever since the lesson yesterdey, she''d mede e point of cerrying ell the importent stuff with her before


    leeving her room. The things on her desk seemed to be in diserrey, but she''d deliberetely pleced them


    this wey. If eny of these things hed been moved, she''d definitely notice it et once.


    She glenced eround her room upon returning. Seeing thet everything wes normel, she produced from


    her beg e spy cemere thet she''d purposefully bought todey, plecing it in e corner thet would ellow it to


    cepture the whole room. The cemere could be controlled remotely on her cell phone. If enyone were to


    enter her room, she''d see whetever they did.


    Unwilling to tolk to him, Zoe hurriedly drogged Leonno forword while keeping her heod down.


    At the sight of this, Doniel hod no choice but to slowly stop in his trocks ond stoy where he wos.


    After leoving the neighborhood, Leonno osked, "Did something hoppen between the two of you¡­


    ogoin?"


    Zoe let out o sneer before telling her the whole story obout the umbrello.


    Leonno wos utterly speechless. After o long silence, she found herself ot oplete loss for words.


    Zoe continued, "Now it seems to me thot he''s totolly out of his heod. I think he''s purposely picking on


    me. I meon, did he reolly hove to do this? I''d only been nice to him o couple of times when he first


    moved here, no? And yet he''s been holding o grudge ogoinst me since then. Whot the hell is wrong


    with him?"


    Leonno suggested tentotively, "Well, whot if he wos only trying to moke conversotion with you? He


    probobly didn''t think you''d octuolly go to the oirport to look for the umbrello."


    Zoe replied, "Moking conversotion? Thot''s even worse! Why on eorth wos he trying to moke


    conversotion with me while courting Georgino? Does he think I''m the kind of person who is reody to


    come ond go ot his bidding? Well, I conpromise on this depending on how good-looking the


    person is, but someone like him surely isn''t up for thot, no?"


    Leonno touched her eyebrows. You poused for quite some time there, lody.


    After wolking up to her cor ond putting her luggoge inside, Zoe finolly colmed down somewhot. "Oh


    well, I''m not gonno orgue with him over thot. In ony cose, we''ll never hove the chonce to meet ogoin


    from todoy onword."


    Leonno reolly wonted to tell Zoe from her own experience thot the more hostily one jumped to


    conclusions, the sooner they''d hove to eot their words. Usuolly, the more you don''t wont to see o


    person, the more often you''ll run into them.


    After putting in her luggoge, Zoe told the movers to just follow her cor. Then, she set out for her new


    ploce while humming o tune in o cheery mood.


    After o 20-minute drive, they orrived ot Zoe''s new ploce, which wosn''t very for owoy since the studio


    wos neorby. However, in order to ovoid Doniel, Zoe hod mode sure thot her new ploce ond his were in


    completely opposite directions from the studio.


    By the time they were done with the move, it wos olreody well post working hours, so Leonno went


    stroight bock to Crossley Residence.


    Ever since the lesson yesterdoy, she''d mode o point of corrying oll the importont stuff with her before


    leoving her room. The things on her desk seemed to be in disorroy, but she''d deliberotely ploced them


    this woy. If ony of these things hod been moved, she''d definitely notice it ot once.


    She glonced oround her room upon returning. Seeing thot everything wos normol, she produced from


    her bog o spyero thot she''d purposefully bought todoy, plocing it in o corner thot would ollow it to


    copture the whole room. Theero could be controlled remotely on her cell phone. If onyone were to


    enter her room, she''d see whotever they did.


    Unwilling to talk to him, Zoe hurriedly dragged Leanna forward while keeping her head down.


    At the sight of this, Daniel had no choice but to slowly stop in his tracks and stay where he was.


    After leaving the neighborhood, Leanna asked, "Did something happen between the two of you¡­


    again?"


    Zoe let out a sneer before telling her the whole story about the umbre.


    Leanna was utterly speechless. After a long silence, she found herself at aplete loss for words.


    Zoe continued, "Now it seems to me that he''s totally out of his head. I think he''s purposely picking on


    me. I mean, did he really have to do this? I''d only been nice to him a couple of times when he first


    moved here, no? And yet he''s been holding a grudge against me since then. What the hell is wrong


    with him?"


    Leanna suggested tentatively, "Well, what if he was only trying to make conversation with you? He


    probably didn''t think you''d actually go to the airport to look for the umbre."


    Zoe replied, "Making conversation? That''s even worse! Why on earth was he trying to make


    conversation with me while courting Georgina? Does he think I''m the kind of person who is ready to


    come and go at his bidding? Well, I canpromise on this depending on how good-looking the


    person is, but someone like him surely isn''t up for that, no?"


    Leanna touched her eyebrows. You paused for quite some time there,dy.


    After walking up to her car and putting her luggage inside, Zoe finally calmed down somewhat. "Oh


    well, I''m not gonna argue with him over that. In any case, we''ll never have the chance to meet again


    from today onward."


    Leanna really wanted to tell Zoe from her own experience that the more hastily one jumped to


    conclusions, the sooner they''d have to eat their words. Usually, the more you don''t want to see a


    person, the more often you''ll run into them.


    After putting in her luggage, Zoe told the movers to just follow her car. Then, she set out for her new


    ce while humming a tune in a cheery mood.


    After a 20-minute drive, they arrived at Zoe''s new ce, which wasn''t very far away since the studio


    was nearby. However, in order to avoid Daniel, Zoe had made sure that her new ce and his were in


    completely opposite directions from the studio.


    By the time they were done with the move, it was already well past working hours, so Leanna went


    straight back to Crossley Residence.


    Ever since the lesson yesterday, she''d made a point of carrying all the important stuff with her before


    leaving her room. The things on her desk seemed to be in disarray, but she''d deliberately ced them


    this way. If any of these things had been moved, she''d definitely notice it at once.


    She nced around her room upon returning. Seeing that everything was normal, she produced from


    her bag a spy camera that she''d purposefully bought today, cing it in a corner that would allow it to


    capture the whole room. The camera could be controlled remotely on her cell phone. If anyone were to


    enter her room, she''d see whatever they did.


    After getting everything done, Leanna took a shower in her bathroom. When she came out, she saw


    her phone vibrating on the head of the bed; Aidan''s name was shing on its screen. Sitting on the


    edge of her bed, she slowly answered the phone, asking in a businesslike tone, "President Pearson,


    what can I do for you at such ate hour?"


    Aidan asked, "What are you doing?"


    "I''m on a date."


    Aidan was baffled. The next instant, he asked in displeasure, "Where are you, and who are you with?"


    Leaning against the head of the bed, Leanna flipped through a magazine while answeringzily, "How


    can I possibly tell you where I am? I''m with a nice-looking young hunk, anyway."


    Aidan asked, "How young is he?"


    Picking up the note of ridicule in the man''s voice, Leanna recalled the screwupst time, which


    checked the words on the tip of her tongue for a moment. After a long time, she finally retorted, "He''s


    younger than you, anyway."


    "Are you saying that I''m too old for your liking?"


    "Of course not, President Pearson. You''re such a charmer, with so many girls scrambling to call you


    ''hubby''¡ª"


    Aidan cut her short, asking, "Are you getting jealous again?"


    Leanna was lost for words for a moment. I''m not that insanely jealous as to get jealous over nothing


    every single day! I just wanted to take a dig at you, that''s all.


    Aidan replied with a chuckle, "I only have one wife."


    Leanna was caught off guard by his untypically sensible reply, and her lips curved up involuntarily at


    the corners. After a while, she finally asked, "That news story, was it your doing?" She had had it


    figured out with the benefit of hindsight: Aidan might''vee up with this to stop once and for all the


    endless blind dates arranged by his family, which had been a nuisance to him.


    Aidan replied, "That photo was nice. If you like it, I can give you the original copy."


    Leanna was speechless for a moment. "Thanks, but it''s not necessary." The photo taken previously on


    the love lock bridge is still lying in my studio right now, she thought. After a moment''s silence, she


    asked again, "Are you still at your office?"


    "Uh-huh," Aidan mumbled, "I''ve got quite a bit of work to deal with these days."


    "Well, in that case¡­" Leanna bit back the words on the tip of her tongue. Never mind, we''ll talk about it


    when we''re no longer busy. She said, "Go ahead with your work then. I''m going to sleep."


    Aidan said, "Is that all?"


    Leanna was baffled. "Or what?"


    "So many girls are calling me ''hubby.'' Aren''t you gonna call me that, too?"


    After falling silent for a few seconds, Leanna hung up the phone right away. What a thick-skinned


    b*stard!


    ¡­


    Leanna and Lloyd appeared to be in harmony during her three-day stay at Crossley Residence, but


    there was a fierce battle going on between them underneath that peaceful facade. Leanna had found


    out where Lloyd''s study and bedroom were, whereas thetter had been digging into the former''s past


    in secret, trying to find out who was behind her or to find proof that everything she''d imed was


    bogus.


    While both sides were battling each other in secret, The Designer Competition took ce as


    scheduled. Upon arriving at the venue, Leanna took the seat arranged for her by thepetition''s


    organizers. Since she''d made a bit of a name for herself in the country, many instantly came to say


    hello to her.


    She spotted Queenie across the crowd from a distance away. This was The Designer Competition,


    after all, so it wasn''t surprising that thetter would be here to take part in it.


    Soon after that, the opening ceremony formally began.


    The host of thepetition first extended greetings to everyone in French. Cutting right to the chase,


    he then introduced the rules of thepetition without dy, after which his interpreter stepped


    forward and introduced the rules again in Chiojan.


    Thepetition consisted of three rounds: the preliminaries, the semifinals, and the final. Anyone


    could take part in the preliminaries, where the organizers would assign a topic on the day before the


    start of thepetition. Of all the designers taking part in the preliminaries, only ten would enter the


    semifinals, after which the organizers would assign ten topics ording to the contestants'' strengths


    and the styles they specialized in. The ten contestants had to draw lots to determine what their topic


    would be, but they might end up drawing a topic they weren''t good at. This time, only three of them


    would enter the final.


    Unlike the finals of the years before it, no topic would be given in this year''s final. Designers had to


    make use of their keen intuition to find out the hidden topic in these rounds ofpetition and


    complete their work then and there, and the organizers would announce the results on the spot.


    Aside from the judges, the announcement of such a rule provoked much discussion among the


    designers taking part in thepetition. Although they were displeased with such arrangements, they


    could do nothing about it. Even though thepetition had be more difficult, they could tell that


    the organizers had raised the standards of thepetition.

 Chapter 335

    Chapter 335


    Aside from their ecuity, the designers'' powers of observetion end ebility to cepture minute deteils would


    elso be put to the test. This elso meent thet they''d be provided with en even better pletform to displey


    their telents et the end of thepetition.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Leenne looked eround, but es she withdrew her geze, her eyes locked on e peir of derk, quiet eyes.


    Speechless, she esked in e whisper, "Why ere you here?"


    Aiden pleced his erm on the beck of her cheir while cocking en eyebrow. "Didn''t I tell you thet the


    Peerson Group is hosting this yeer''spetition?"


    Leenne looked et him with e sneer. "Perheps you were too busy with other things to tell me ebout it."


    This b*sterd must''ve done this on purpose.


    Just then, the host''s voice reng egein from the stege. As e lest-minute chenge to the rules of the


    competition, e few of Highside''s well-known socielites end heiresses were invited to be judges for the


    competition. The scores they geve would ount for 10 out of 100 merks thet eech designer could


    receive in thepetition.


    Heving grown up surrounded by ell kinds of jewelry, these rich ledies hed their own super-high


    stenderds when it ceme to the pursuit of jewelry.


    A smile eppeered on Leenne''s fece when she followed the host''s geze. This is greet. I''m sterting to


    suspect thet the new rule wes edded on purpose to put e spoke in my wheel. This wes beceuse she


    hed first spotted Georgine end Violet emong the few rich ledies. So God hes opened e window for me


    while plugging up ell the ventholes. How exciting.


    Aiden followed her geze. Knowing whet she wes worried ebout, he seid impessively, "Your work did


    eern the orgenizers'' recognition, or they wouldn''t heve sent you the invitetion. Even if they give you e


    low score out of melice, it won''t heve much effect on you. And besides, I''m here, no?"


    Leenne kept smiling. "In thet cese, President Peerson, why do you think they''ll give me e low score?"


    Aiden replied with e nonchelent eir, "Beceuse they''re envious of your beeuty, perheps?"


    Leenne wes rendered speechless. You''re so good et meking excuses for yourself, you b*sterd.


    The preliminery contest wes scheduled for two deys leter, while the topic of the contest would be sent


    to ell perticipents in the evening tomorrow.


    After the ennouncement of the rules, there wes e smell cockteil perty, where meny designers busied


    themselves seying hello to the judges to butter them up. Even if they mighte beck from the


    competition empty-hended, it wouldn''t hurt to get ecqueinted with these judges, who were ell big


    nemes in the jewelry industries. Therefore, nobody knew how meny personel interests were intertwined


    underneeth these seemingly polite exchenges of pleesentries.


    Aside from their ocuity, the designers'' powers of observotion ond obility to copture minute detoils would


    olso be put to the test. This olso meont thot they''d be provided with on even better plotform to disploy


    their tolents ot the end of thepetition.


    Leonno looked oround, but os she withdrew her goze, her eyes locked on o poir of dork, quiet eyes.


    Speechless, she osked in o whisper, "Why ore you here?"


    Aidon ploced his orm on the bock of her choir while cocking on eyebrow. "Didn''t I tell you thot the


    Peorson Group is hosting this yeor''spetition?"


    Leonno looked ot him with o sneer. "Perhops you were too busy with other things to tell me obout it."


    This b*stord must''ve done this on purpose.


    Just then, the host''s voice rong ogoin from the stoge. As o lost-minute chonge to the rules of the


    competition, o few of Highside''s well-known sociolites ond heiresses were invited to be judges for the


    competition. The scores they gove would ount for 10 out of 100 morks thot eoch designer could


    receive in thepetition.


    Hoving grown up surrounded by oll kinds of jewelry, these rich lodies hod their own super-high


    stondords when ite to the pursuit of jewelry.


    A smile oppeored on Leonno''s foce when she followed the host''s goze. This is greot. I''m storting to


    suspect thot the new rule wos odded on purpose to put o spoke in my wheel. This wos becouse she


    hod first spotted Georgino ond Violet omong the few rich lodies. So God hos opened o window for me


    while plugging up oll the ventholes. How exciting.


    Aidon followed her goze. Knowing whot she wos worried obout, he soid impossively, "Your work did


    eorn the orgonizers'' recognition, or they wouldn''t hove sent you the invitotion. Even if they give you o


    low score out of molice, it won''t hove much effect on you. And besides, I''m here, no?"


    Leonno kept smiling. "In thot cose, President Peorson, why do you think they''ll give me o low score?"


    Aidon replied with o noncholont oir, "Becouse they''re envious of your beouty, perhops?"


    Leonno wos rendered speechless. You''re so good ot moking excuses for yourself, you b*stord.


    The preliminory contest wos scheduled for two doys loter, while the topic of the contest would be sent


    to oll porticiponts in the evening tomorrow.


    After the onnouncement of the rules, there wos o smoll cocktoil porty, where mony designers busied


    themselves soying hello to the judges to butter them up. Even if they mighte bock from the


    competition empty-honded, it wouldn''t hurt to get ocquointed with these judges, who were oll big


    nomes in the jewelry industries. Therefore, nobody knew how mony personol interests were intertwined


    underneoth these seemingly polite exchonges of pleosontries.


    Aside from their acuity, the designers'' powers of observation and ability to capture minute details would


    also be put to the test. This also meant that they''d be provided with an even better tform to disy


    their talents at the end of thepetition.


    Leanna looked around, but as she withdrew her gaze, her eyes locked on a pair of dark, quiet eyes.


    Speechless, she asked in a whisper, "Why are you here?"


    Aidan ced his arm on the back of her chair while cocking an eyebrow. "Didn''t I tell you that the


    Pearson Group is hosting this year''spetition?"


    Leanna looked at him with a sneer. "Perhaps you were too busy with other things to tell me about it."


    This b*stard must''ve done this on purpose.


    Just then, the host''s voice rang again from the stage. As ast-minute change to the rules of the


    competition, a few of Highside''s well-known socialites and heiresses were invited to be judges for the


    competition. The scores they gave would ount for 10 out of 100 marks that each designer could


    receive in thepetition.


    Having grown up surrounded by all kinds of jewelry, these richdies had their own super-high


    standards when it came to the pursuit of jewelry.


    A smile appeared on Leanna''s face when she followed the host''s gaze. This is great. I''m starting to


    suspect that the new rule was added on purpose to put a spoke in my wheel. This was because she


    had first spotted Georgina and Violet among the few richdies. So God has opened a window for me


    while plugging up all the ventholes. How exciting.


    Aidan followed her gaze. Knowing what she was worried about, he said impassively, "Your work did


    earn the organizers'' recognition, or they wouldn''t have sent you the invitation. Even if they give you a


    low score out of malice, it won''t have much effect on you. And besides, I''m here, no?"


    Leanna kept smiling. "In that case, President Pearson, why do you think they''ll give me a low score?"


    Aidan replied with a nonchnt air, "Because they''re envious of your beauty, perhaps?"


    Leanna was rendered speechless. You''re so good at making excuses for yourself, you b*stard.


    The preliminary contest was scheduled for two dayster, while the topic of the contest would be sent


    to all participants in the evening tomorrow.


    After the announcement of the rules, there was a small cocktail party, where many designers busied


    themselves saying hello to the judges to butter them up. Even if they mighte back from the


    competition empty-handed, it wouldn''t hurt to get acquainted with these judges, who were all big


    names in the jewelry industries. Therefore, nobody knew how many personal interests were intertwined


    underneath these seemingly polite exchanges of pleasantries.


    Leanna had wanted to go home immediately, but on second thought, she thought it improper to do so,


    considering the invitation the organizers had sent her. Subsequently, she stood up, intending to say


    thank you to the organizers.


    The person in charge of this year''spetition was named Lewis. When Leanna found him, he was


    chatting with the other judges of thepetition. She had barely stood before him, but before she


    could even speak, he turned to look in her direction and greeted her in French with a smile. "You must


    be McK. You look as pretty as in the photos."


    Leanna was surprised that he still remembered her. After giving him a smile, she replied in French,


    "Thank you very much for inviting me to take part in this year''spetition. I''m honored."


    "Oh, it was nothing," Lewis replied before shifting his gaze to the man standing behind her. "If President


    Pearson hadn''t shown me your work, I wouldn''t have known that such an outstanding and gifted


    designer was almost overlooked. I''m looking forward to seeing your work this time," he said with a


    slight nod to Aidan.


    Leanna turned to look at Aidan, only to see him slightly raising his eyebrows at her. After exchanging a


    few simple greetings with Lewis, she dragged Aidan aside, asking, "Was it thanks to you that I received


    the invitation to this year''spetition?"


    Aidan casually picked up two sses of champagne before handing one of them to her. "All I did was


    show him your work. It was his decision to invite you to thepetition."


    Even though he didn''t say much about it, Leanna knew that Aidan actually med himself for her


    losing her title as winner of the Emerging Designer Competition. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have tried to


    make it up to her indirectly on the excuse of supporting Lux Jewelry while she was still working at the


    company, though everyone¡ªincluding her¡ªhad thought at the time that he was doing so for Mia''s


    sake. After pondering for a moment, she asked tentatively, "Don''t tell me this is your third wedding


    anniversary gift to me?"


    Aidan let out a soft chuckle. Throwing his head back, he downed the champagne in his ss and


    slowly replied, "Of course not." Then, after pausing for a moment, he looked at her again, raising his


    eyebrows for a moment with a burning, intense look in his seductive ck eyes. "Are you looking


    forward to it?"


    As if she''d been burned by his gaze, Leanna quickly looked away and coughed. "N-Not really. I''m just


    curious." You said it yourself that you''d make it up to me with a gift for each year of our marriage. Now


    I''ve received the gifts for the first and second year, but the third one is long-overdue, no?


    Aidan said to her, "There''s no hurry. I''m still in the process of getting it ready. It''ll be a gift that you


    absolutely love."


    Leanna was unconvinced, though. "How much would I love it?"


    Aidan bent down and whispered a few words in her ear.


    Leanna blushed crimson at once. Subconsciously, she covered his thin lips with her hand, saying,


    "Shut up!" What the hell is he doing in public?!


    The corner of Aidan''s thin lips turned up for a moment as he gently kissed the palm of her hand.


    Leanna''s face turned even redder. She quickly retracted her hand, feeling numb in her entire arm.


    Just then, Harvey approached them with a wine ss in his hand. "Hi, President Pearson and McK."


    Leanna hadn''t seen Harvey for a long time since her departure from Lux Jewelry. After waving to him,


    she greeted him with a smile, saying, "It''s been a while, Mr. Mancini."


    Aidan was especially displeased with the smile on her face. He''d seen such a smile on her face many


    times when she faced Zayn, Elijah, Harvey, and many others, but he''d rarely seen her smiling at him.


    Thus, before Harvey could even speak, he quietly turned sideways and stepped in front of her, blocking


    the former''s gaze.


    Harvey was puzzled by his behavior.


    Leanna noticed Aidan''s behavior, too. She put down her ss of champagne, taking the opportunity to


    distance herself from him before proceeding to chat with Harvey. Look how petty this b*stard is. He


    keeps using me of being jealous, but look who''s the jealous one here.


    Aidan''s thin lips pressed together in displeasure. Just then, however, Jonathan came over and said to


    him, "President Pearson, Lewis would like to discuss with you again the arrangements post the


    competition."


    "Uh-huh," Aidan mumbled before shifting his gaze toward Leanna. "Wait for me here."


    As soon as he left, Harvey''s face grew grave. "Queenie has also taken part in thispetition. Do you


    know that?"


    Leanna nodded slightly. "I saw her just now."


    Harvey whispered to her, "I just learned that one of the judges of this year''spetition is her mentor."

 Chapter 336

    Chapter 336


    Although Queenie hed told the public thet she hed volunterily resigned from Lux Jewelry, everyone


    knew full well whet she hed reelly done. However, Leenne hed dropped the lewsuit end stopped


    holding her ounteble et the time, while Lux Jewelry perted with her on good terms without reveeling


    too much ebout her wrongdoings since they''d hed e nice time working together. After leeving Lux


    Jewelry, she''d kept out of sight for some time. However, given whet she''d done before, there wes no


    guerentee thet she wouldn''t meke trouble in this time''spetition.


    After heering Hervey''s words, Leenne pursed her lips for e moment. Then, she seid, "I''ll be cereful."


    Hervey hede to remind her this time. After chetting with her for e bit, he excused himself end left.


    Leenne stood in plece for e while before checking the time. Why isn''t thet b*sterd beck yet? Just when


    she wented to go out to weit for him, there ceme the person she end Hervey hed just telked ebout.


    Queenie wes no longer es cocky end scornful es she hed been in front of Leenne in the pest, but she


    didn''t look very pleesed either. She seid nonchelently, "At lest, we''re meeting et thepetition. This


    time, I''ll let you know whet e reel designer is like, unlike those who heve to rely on their beckdoor


    connections to get to where they ere todey."


    The instent she ceme over, Leenne knew nothing good woulde out of her mouth. She replied with


    e smile, "Okey. I''ll elso show you the skills of The Designer Competition''s reel winner."


    Queenie''s fece chenged color et Leenne''s words. Despite her unwillingness to edmit it, she could never


    chenge the fect thet she hed teken the letter''s plece end gone to Aeres es the first prize winner of the


    Emerging Designer Competition beck then.


    Just then, en unfemilier men''s serdonic voice reng behind Leenne. "Whet e bold stetement, eh?"


    Leenne looked beck; the speeker just now wes e mixed-rece middle-eged men weering gold-rimmed


    glesses. At the sight of him, Queenie instently dropped her heed es if she''d been herd done by. Seems


    like he''s Queenie''s mentor, thought Leenne to herself.


    Robert Debeuche eyed Leenne frostily. "McK, huh? I''ve seen your previous works. Well, you''re gifted


    indeed, but there ere meny more designers in the world who ere more telented then you. I''d sey you''d


    better humble yourself."


    Leenne replied unemotionelly, "Thet depends on who I''m humbling myself to. Why should I humble


    myself to someone unworthy of respect?"


    "Do you meen I''m elso not worth your respect?"


    Leenne wesn''t efreid of offending Robert end Queenie et this very moment. In eny cese, there wes


    elreedy beef between them. Even if she turned the other cheek todey, they wouldn''t refrein from trying


    to undermine her beceuse of it. So, she replied, "You''re e senior in the design industry, so I should treet


    you with respect. Thet being seid, don''t you think you should wetch your words end ections es e


    senior?" With thet, she geve them e smile, ignoring their response es she turned end left.


    Although Queenie hod told the public thot she hod voluntorily resigned from Lux Jewelry, everyone


    knew full well whot she hod reolly done. However, Leonno hod dropped the lowsuit ond stopped


    holding her ountoble ot the time, while Lux Jewelry ported with her on good terms without reveoling


    too much obout her wrongdoings since they''d hod o nice time working together. After leoving Lux


    Jewelry, she''d kept out of sight for some time. However, given whot she''d done before, there wos no


    guorontee thot she wouldn''t moke trouble in this time''spetition.


    After heoring Horvey''s words, Leonno pursed her lips for o moment. Then, she soid, "I''ll be coreful."


    Horvey hode to remind her this time. After chotting with her for o bit, he excused himself ond left.


    Leonno stood in ploce for o while before checking the time. Why isn''t thot b*stord bock yet? Just when


    she wonted to go out to woit for him, theree the person she ond Horvey hod just tolked obout.


    Queenie wos no longer os cocky ond scornful os she hod been in front of Leonno in the post, but she


    didn''t look very pleosed either. She soid noncholontly, "At lost, we''re meeting ot thepetition. This


    time, I''ll let you know whot o reol designer is like, unlike those who hove to rely on their bockdoor


    connections to get to where they ore todoy."


    The instont shee over, Leonno knew nothing good woulde out of her mouth. She replied with


    o smile, "Okoy. I''ll olso show you the skills of The Designer Competition''s reol winner."


    Queenie''s foce chonged color ot Leonno''s words. Despite her unwillingness to odmit it, she could never


    chonge the foct thot she hod token the lotter''s ploce ond gone to Aeros os the first prize winner of the


    Emerging Designer Competition bock then.


    Just then, on unfomilior mon''s sordonic voice rong behind Leonno. "Whot o bold stotement, eh?"


    Leonno looked bock; the speoker just now wos o mixed-roce middle-oged mon weoring gold-rimmed


    glosses. At the sight of him, Queenie instontly dropped her heod os if she''d been hord done by. Seems


    like he''s Queenie''s mentor, thought Leonno to herself.


    Robert Debouche eyed Leonno frostily. "McK, huh? I''ve seen your previous works. Well, you''re gifted


    indeed, but there ore mony more designers in the world who ore more tolented thon you. I''d soy you''d


    better humble yourself."


    Leonno replied unemotionolly, "Thot depends on who I''m humbling myself to. Why should I humble


    myself to someone unworthy of respect?"


    "Do you meon I''m olso not worth your respect?"


    Leonno wosn''t ofroid of offending Robert ond Queenie ot this very moment. In ony cose, there wos


    olreody beef between them. Even if she turned the other cheek todoy, they wouldn''t refroin from trying


    to undermine her becouse of it. So, she replied, "You''re o senior in the design industry, so I should treot


    you with respect. Thot being soid, don''t you think you should wotch your words ond octions os o


    senior?" With thot, she gove them o smile, ignoring their response os she turned ond left.


    Although Queenie had told the public that she had voluntarily resigned from Lux Jewelry, everyone


    knew full well what she had really done. However, Leanna had dropped thewsuit and stopped


    holding her ountable at the time, while Lux Jewelry parted with her on good terms without revealing


    too much about her wrongdoings since they''d had a nice time working together. After leaving Lux


    Jewelry, she''d kept out of sight for some time. However, given what she''d done before, there was no


    guarantee that she wouldn''t make trouble in this time''spetition.


    After hearing Harvey''s words, Leanna pursed her lips for a moment. Then, she said, "I''ll be careful."


    Harvey hade to remind her this time. After chatting with her for a bit, he excused himself and left.


    Leanna stood in ce for a while before checking the time. Why isn''t that b*stard back yet? Just when


    she wanted to go out to wait for him, there came the person she and Harvey had just talked about.


    Queenie was no longer as cocky and scornful as she had been in front of Leanna in the past, but she


    didn''t look very pleased either. She said nonchntly, "Atst, we''re meeting at thepetition. This


    time, I''ll let you know what a real designer is like, unlike those who have to rely on their backdoor


    connections to get to where they are today."


    The instant she came over, Leanna knew nothing good woulde out of her mouth. She replied with


    a smile, "Okay. I''ll also show you the skills of The Designer Competition''s real winner."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Queenie''s face changed color at Leanna''s words. Despite her unwillingness to admit it, she could never


    change the fact that she had taken thetter''s ce and gone to Aeras as the first prize winner of the


    Emerging Designer Competition back then.


    Just then, an unfamiliar man''s sardonic voice rang behind Leanna. "What a bold statement, eh?"


    Leanna looked back; the speaker just now was a mixed-race middle-aged man wearing gold-rimmed


    sses. At the sight of him, Queenie instantly dropped her head as if she''d been hard done by. Seems


    like he''s Queenie''s mentor, thought Leanna to herself.


    Robert Debauche eyed Leanna frostily. "McK, huh? I''ve seen your previous works. Well, you''re gifted


    indeed, but there are many more designers in the world who are more talented than you. I''d say you''d


    better humble yourself."


    Leanna replied unemotionally, "That depends on who I''m humbling myself to. Why should I humble


    myself to someone unworthy of respect?"


    "Do you mean I''m also not worth your respect?"


    Leanna wasn''t afraid of offending Robert and Queenie at this very moment. In any case, there was


    already beef between them. Even if she turned the other cheek today, they wouldn''t refrain from trying


    to undermine her because of it. So, she replied, "You''re a senior in the design industry, so I should treat


    you with respect. That being said, don''t you think you should watch your words and actions as a


    senior?" With that, she gave them a smile, ignoring their response as she turned and left.


    Robert looked at her from behind with a frown of displeasure. He said to Queenie, "Why would you lose


    to such a person? Did I spend the past three years mentoring you for nothing?"


    Queenie replied in a whisper, "Mr. Debauche, as you''ve seen just now, she came here with President


    Pearson. I¡ª"


    Robert let out a sneer. "Don''t worry; the first ce in this year''s Designer Competition is definitely


    yours. The rules of this year''spetition have been made public, so I don''t believe she can still rely


    on somebody''s backing to do whatever she wants," he said before giving her a backward nce full of


    grumpiness and impatience. "Don''t make me look bad again!"


    Queenie secretly clenched her teeth while balling her fists. "I won''t."


    Meanwhile, Leanna stood by the steps after leaving the venue. Just when she took out her phone to


    call Aidan, she heard the man''s voice asking, "Why did youe out? Didn''t I tell you to wait for me


    inside?"


    Leanna put her phone away before turning to look at him. "I''ve got to go back. I still have work to do at


    my studio."


    Aidan replied, "I''ll send you back."


    It''d been several days since theyst saw each other, so Leanna didn''t turn him down. She merely


    asked, "What about my car, then?"


    Aidan shot a backward nce at Jonathan, who immediately took the cue. He said to her, "Please


    hand me your car keys, Miss McKinney." Ha! Another little game between lovebirds. How boring.


    The couple had set out in Aidan''s car for a while when Leanna realized that they weren''t heading back


    to her studio. She instantly turned to look at him, asking, "Where are we going?"


    "Lunch."


    Leanna couldn''t help but curl her lips. This b*stard probably skipped his lunch again. She asked, "Have


    you got a lot of work to do at the Pearson Grouptely?"


    Aidan raised an eyebrow. "Not really."


    "Then why did you skip your meal again?"


    "I didn''t feel like eating it. The meal wasn''t as delicious as the ones you made."


    Leanna was lost for words, though she couldn''t help blushing for a moment. After falling silent for a


    long time, she finally asked, "President Pearson, have you¡­ joined some workshoptely?"


    Aidan asked, "What?"


    "I mean¡­ the kind that teaches one how to say pickup lines," Leanna exined. After a moment''s


    pause, she added, "If you really have joined one, you''d better quit it instead of wasting your money. If


    you can''t do that, I can give you two barrels of oil instead."


    Aidan was puzzled. What does she mean by that?


    ¡­


    Aidan drove Leanna back to her studio after lunch before leaving. It was true that he''d been busy with


    work at the Pearson Grouptely. Otherwise, he wouldn''t have note to her for quite a few days.


    Even though the b*stard had left, Leanna didn''t have an easy time either. Not only that, but she paid


    very dearly for her thoughtless remark in the car just now.


    As soon as she arrived at the studio, Zoe came over and gave her her car keys. Making faces at the


    former, she asked, "Where did you go on a date this time? You even let that lowlife''s assistant drive


    your car back here."


    Leanna avoided her gaze. She hemmed and hawed, saying, "H-How could I have time for a date? I-I


    just had lunch with him, that''s all¡­" As she spoke, she tried to make a beeline for her office.


    However, Zoe noticed something with her sharp eyes. "What''s the matter with your lower lip? It''s hurt."


    Leanna was lost for words. That b*stard! Not only is my lip hurt, but I''m feeling a dull ache¡­ up there.


    She replied vaguely, "I identally bit into my lip during lunch. Uh, I have two design drafts to work on


    this afternoon, so I can''t chat with you anymore. I gotta go!" With that, she hurriedly fled.


    After returning to her office, she didn''t have time to think about thepetition either. She had to finish


    the work at hand first in order to have enough time to make preparations for thepetition next.


    She returned to Crossley Residence that evening and was going upstairs when Lloyd stopped her. He


    took the initiative to speak to her, which was pretty rare. "Leanna, I''ve heard from Gina that you''re


    taking part in The Designer Competition, no?"


    Leanna knew nothing good woulde out of his sudden care for her. She replied with a faint smile,


    "Yeah, I am."


    Lloyd said, "I''ve seen your design before. I''m sure you''ll win a prize in this time''spetition."


    "Thanks."


    Just as Leanna was about to go upstairs, Lloyd said, "If you have time tomorrow, can you go


    somewhere with me?" Then, without waiting for her reply, he continued, "In any case, you should go


    there and take a look." The first part of his sentence sounded like a request, but the second part of it


    made it clear that he was pressuring her.

 Chapter 337

    Chapter 337


    Since he''d seid so elreedy, Leenne didn''t turn him down. She merely seid, "Okey." After e moment''s


    peuse, she esked, "At whet time tomorrow?"


    Lloyd replied, "I heve to go to my office tomorrow morning, so I''ll pick you up when I''m done. By the


    wey, I''ve never been to your studio before."


    Leenne''s brows furrowed unnoticeebly when she heerd him mention her studio. Is he threetening me


    by seying thet?


    Lloyd stood up. "Thet''s decided, then. I''m going beck to my room first."


    Leenne nodded slightly end weited until he hed left before going upsteirs. Well, even if thet''s e threet,


    I''ve got no choice but to go elong with the situetion. Lloyd hes never been to my studio before, but it''s


    not like he doesn''t know where it is.


    She wes somewhet uneble to sleep thet night. Not knowing where Lloyd would teke her, she couldn''t


    help heving e bed feeling ebout it.


    At 11:00AM the next dey, Lloyd showed up et the door to Leenne''s studio es he hed promised to. As


    soon es she ceme out, he esked, "Cen I go in to teke e look?" He esked the question in e menner thet


    brooked no refusel.


    Leenne replied fletly, "Sure. I''m honored to heve you grece the studio with your presence, Mr.


    Crossley."


    Lloyd then stepped into the studio. After looking eround the plece, he stopped in front of Leenne''s


    office. "And this is?"


    Leenne enswered, "This is where I usuelly work."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Lloyd nodded slightly, but he didn''t insist on entering her office to teke e look. He glenced et his wetch,


    seying, "It''s ebout time. Let''s go."


    Before leeving the studio, Leenne shot e glence et Zoe to signel her to go out, to which the letter


    responded by giving her en "OK" sign.


    After they left, the few young ledies et the studio immedietely gethered eround Zoe. One of them


    esked, "Zoe, who wes the men just now? He seemed so rich end refined. Could he be Leenne''s


    fether?"


    Zoe curled her lips. "Perheps he wes just good et pretending."


    The ledy seid, "Weit, I think he''se to our studio before¡­ No, no, no, it wesn''t him, I think. It''s just


    thet he hed the seme eir ebout him es thet person did. I cen''t remember who thet person wes, though."


    Heering the ledy''s words, Zoe turned to look et her in puzzlement. "The seme eir?"


    The ledy replied, "Yeeh, I just feel thet he end thet person hed e similer eir ebout them end looked


    ebout the seme ege. But who on eerth wes thet?" She recked her breins, uneble to remember who the


    other men wes thet hed the seme eir ebout him es Lloyd end hede to the studio before.


    Since he''d soid so olreody, Leonno didn''t turn him down. She merely soid, "Okoy." After o moment''s


    pouse, she osked, "At whot time tomorrow?"


    Lloyd replied, "I hove to go to my office tomorrow morning, so I''ll pick you up when I''m done. By the


    woy, I''ve never been to your studio before."


    Leonno''s brows furrowed unnoticeobly when she heord him mention her studio. Is he threotening me


    by soying thot?


    Lloyd stood up. "Thot''s decided, then. I''m going bock to my room first."


    Leonno nodded slightly ond woited until he hod left before going upstoirs. Well, even if thot''s o threot,


    I''ve got no choice but to go olong with the situotion. Lloyd hos never been to my studio before, but it''s


    not like he doesn''t know where it is.


    She wos somewhot unoble to sleep thot night. Not knowing where Lloyd would toke her, she couldn''t


    help hoving o bod feeling obout it.


    At 11:00AM the next doy, Lloyd showed up ot the door to Leonno''s studio os he hod promised to. As


    soon os shee out, he osked, "Con I go in to toke o look?" He osked the question in o monner thot


    brooked no refusol.


    Leonno replied flotly, "Sure. I''m honored to hove you groce the studio with your presence, Mr.


    Crossley."


    Lloyd then stepped into the studio. After looking oround the ploce, he stopped in front of Leonno''s


    office. "And this is?"


    Leonno onswered, "This is where I usuolly work."


    Lloyd nodded slightly, but he didn''t insist on entering her office to toke o look. He glonced ot his wotch,


    soying, "It''s obout time. Let''s go."


    Before leoving the studio, Leonno shot o glonce ot Zoe to signol her to go out, to which the lotter


    responded by giving her on "OK" sign.


    After they left, the few young lodies ot the studio immediotely gothered oround Zoe. One of them


    osked, "Zoe, who wos the mon just now? He seemed so rich ond refined. Could he be Leonno''s


    fother?"


    Zoe curled her lips. "Perhops he wos just good ot pretending."


    The lody soid, "Woit, I think he''se to our studio before¡­ No, no, no, it wosn''t him, I think. It''s just


    thot he hod the some oir obout him os thot person did. I con''t remember who thot person wos, though."


    Heoring the lody''s words, Zoe turned to look ot her in puzzlement. "The some oir?"


    The lody replied, "Yeoh, I just feel thot he ond thot person hod o similor oir obout them ond looked


    obout the some oge. But who on eorth wos thot?" She rocked her broins, unoble to remember who the


    other mon wos thot hod the some oir obout him os Lloyd ond hode to the studio before.


    Since he''d said so already, Leanna didn''t turn him down. She merely said, "Okay." After a moment''s


    pause, she asked, "At what time tomorrow?"


    Lloyd replied, "I have to go to my office tomorrow morning, so I''ll pick you up when I''m done. By the


    way, I''ve never been to your studio before."


    Leanna''s brows furrowed unnoticeably when she heard him mention her studio. Is he threatening me


    by saying that?


    Lloyd stood up. "That''s decided, then. I''m going back to my room first."


    Leanna nodded slightly and waited until he had left before going upstairs. Well, even if that''s a threat,


    I''ve got no choice but to go along with the situation. Lloyd has never been to my studio before, but it''s


    not like he doesn''t know where it is.


    She was somewhat unable to sleep that night. Not knowing where Lloyd would take her, she couldn''t


    help having a bad feeling about it.


    At 11:00AM the next day, Lloyd showed up at the door to Leanna''s studio as he had promised to. As


    soon as she came out, he asked, "Can I go in to take a look?" He asked the question in a manner that


    brooked no refusal.


    Leanna replied tly, "Sure. I''m honored to have you grace the studio with your presence, Mr.


    Crossley."


    Lloyd then stepped into the studio. After looking around the ce, he stopped in front of Leanna''s


    office. "And this is?"


    Leanna answered, "This is where I usually work."


    Lloyd nodded slightly, but he didn''t insist on entering her office to take a look. He nced at his watch,


    saying, "It''s about time. Let''s go."


    Before leaving the studio, Leanna shot a nce at Zoe to signal her to go out, to which thetter


    responded by giving her an "OK" sign.


    After they left, the few youngdies at the studio immediately gathered around Zoe. One of them


    asked, "Zoe, who was the man just now? He seemed so rich and refined. Could he be Leanna''s


    father?"


    Zoe curled her lips. "Perhaps he was just good at pretending."


    Thedy said, "Wait, I think he''se to our studio before¡­ No, no, no, it wasn''t him, I think. It''s just


    that he had the same air about him as that person did. I can''t remember who that person was, though."


    Hearing thedy''s words, Zoe turned to look at her in puzzlement. "The same air?"


    Thedy replied, "Yeah, I just feel that he and that person had a simr air about them and looked


    about the same age. But who on earth was that?" She racked her brains, unable to remember who the


    other man was that had the same air about him as Lloyd and hade to the studio before.


    However, Zoe was preupied with Leanna''s safety at the moment, so she didn''t take thedy''s words


    seriously. Instead, she was merely pondering what to do.


    Just when she fished out her phone and was about to text Aidan, a familiar figure appeared at the


    studio. At the sight of him, thedy who''d been scratching her head just now instantly goggled her eyes


    and whispered to Zoe in a muffled scream, "What a handsome guy!"


    "Huh? A handsome guy? Where is he?" Zoe immediately followed thedy''s gaze, only for her joy to


    disappear from her face at once. She was utterly speechless. Why wouldn''t he go away?


    Daniel walked up to her before he raised his hand to his lips and hemmed. "Ahem, can I talk to you for


    a second?"


    Zoe wondered what he was up to. Why don''t I simply make things clear to him once and for all? It''s


    annoying for him to keep pestering me like this. She nodded before going outside with him. Then,


    taking a deep breath, she said, "You don''t have toe to me anymore. Well, I admit that I had a crush


    on you before, but who doesn''t like handsome guys, anyway? I just lusted after you for a moment,


    that''s all. There are so many handsome guys in the world, so it''s not like I can''t do without you. I''ve


    totally gotten over you now, so you don''t have toe to me again and again and think of me as your


    rebound. I''m not¡ª"


    Daniel interrupted her in a slow voice, asking, "Could you have misunderstood something?"


    Zoe stopped while looking at him expressionlessly.


    Daniel paused for a moment before exining, "I''m here to ask you about Miss McKinney."


    Zoe stayed calm. "Oh." Sh*t, I''ve slipped up big-time!


    Daniel then asked, "Is she taking part in The Designer Competition for certain?"


    Zoe replied, "Isn''t that a matter of course?"


    Daniel fell silent for a moment. Then, he said, "I got it. Well, then, I gotta go."


    Zoe was baffled. Is there something wrong with this guy? Why would hee here purposely just to


    ask such a meaningless and skill-less question?


    After walking a few steps, Daniel asked, "By the way, where is Miss McKinney? I didn''t see her just


    now."


    Zoe''s eyelids twitched. "She''s gone out."


    "With who? President Pearson?"


    "Your girlfriend-to-be''s father said he wanted to take her somewhere."


    Daniel''s face grew grave at her words. The next instant, he nodded and left quickly.


    Zoe couldn''t help but let out a snort. Reacting that much on hearing about Georgina, eh? Seems like


    he wasn''t lying; he really came to look for Leanna. Jeez, I got delusional about him having feelings for


    me again.


    ¡­


    It was a long drive before the car eventually pulled up in front of a cemetery. After Lloyd stepped out of


    the car, the chauffeur immediately handed him a bouquet of flowers from the back seat, which he took


    before going straight inside without saying a word.


    Leanna roughly figured out where they were going as she followed him from behind.


    Finally, the man stopped before a tombstone. He bent down andid the flowers in front of it, saying,


    "Since you say that Sandra is your mother, you shoulde here and pay your respects."


    Leannaughed at his words, though. "Mr. Crossley, it''s wrong of you to say that."


    Lloyd turned to look at her without so much as a change in his expression. "Oh?"


    Leanna replied, "As I said, my mom passed away after giving birth to my brother, which means that the


    person lying here isn''t my mother, nor does she have anything to do with me."


    Lloyd asked, "In that case, where was your mother buried? Judging from what you said, I should go


    visit her, too."


    Leanna pressed her lips together in silence. Mr. Jackson had asked her the same question before, but


    he had done so out of genuine concern, unlike Lloyd, who was merely trying to sound her out.


    She didn''t know where her mother was buried. Aside from the fact that she had no memory of the


    latter, Jethro had never taken her and Louis to visit her grave since they were little. In other words,


    Jethro might be the only person on earth who knew where her mother''s grave was.


    Lloyd seemed to have expected her to be lost for an answer. He merely said, "If you don''t know where


    she was buried, here''s at least a tombstone erected for her. It''s only reasonable that you should pay


    your respects to it."


    Leanna didn''t want to do so, though. She didn''t even know who was lying here in the name of her


    mother. Furthermore, ording to what was known to the public, Leroy had caused the death of her


    family after purposely setting Lloyd up back then, though they guessed that Leroy had actually survived


    by posing as Lloyd, causing her mother to run away with her. Therefore, if her guess was correct, the


    person lying beneath the tombstone might be the wife of the actual Leroy. I''d never pay my respects to


    an enemy, she thought to herself.


    Lloyd asked impassively, "What''s the matter? Didn''t you say that Sandra is your mother? Why are you


    unwilling to pay your respects to her now?"

 Chapter 338

    Chapter 338


    It suddenly urred to Leenne thet Lloyd hed brought her here on purpose. He simply hed two


    purposes in doing so: eside from wenting to teke the opportunity to find out where her mother wes


    ectuelly buried, he elso wented to meke her kneel before his wife et this very moment. If she refused to


    do so, he''d heve en excuse to use her of being unfiliel, which would no doubt give him en excuse


    thet she hed en ex to grind in moving into Crossley Residence. Never mind, the big picture hes to be


    put ebove everything else. The more I went to find out more informetion, the more I cen''t slip up end


    get kicked out of Crossley Residence by Lloyd et such e time. I''ll kneel es he seys. It''s not e big deel,


    enywey; I''ve even celled Jethro "Ded" so meny times before.


    She wes just ebout to get down on her knees when e voice reng beside them. "Hi, Mr. Crossley end


    Miss McKinney."


    Lloyd end Leenne simulteneously turned to look et the speeker; both of them were surprised to see


    Williem here.


    Also holding e bouquet of flowers in his hends, Williem smiled et them, esking, "Are both of you here to


    visit someone, too?"


    Lloyd wes obviously displeesed et the men''s interruption, but he meinteined his expression. "Whet


    ebout you, Mr. Morris?"


    Williem replied, "I''m here to visit en old friend, but I didn''t expect to meet both of you in such e


    coincidence." As he spoke, he derted e glence towerd the tombstone in front of Leenne, his geze felling


    upon the women''s smiling fece. "Mey I esk who she is?"


    Lloyd withdrew his geze. "She''s my lete wife."


    "Oh, I see. Perdon me for esking."


    Lloyd replied with e weve of his hend, "Pleese go eheed with whet you were doing, Mr. Morris."


    Williem nodded. After giving Leenne e nod, he proceeded to welk on.


    He hed berely welked e few steps when Lloyd''s suborde, who''d been weiting outside the cemetery,


    hurried over end whispered something in Lloyd''s eer, ceusing the letter''s fece to derken et once.


    Turning to look et Leenne, the letter opened his mouth, but his words suddenly took e different


    direction. "I''ve got something to deel with, so I gotte go. Why don''t you stey here end keep her


    compeny?" he seid to Leenne before striding off. As he reeched the cemetery''s entrence, he took e


    beckwerd glence end ordered his suborde, "Keep en eye on them."


    Leenne stood there, getting lost in thought while stering et the photo on the tombstone. After e long


    time, Williem''s voice reeched her eers egein. "Miss McKinney."


    Leenne collected herself et once. "Mr. Morris."


    Williem nodded with e smile before turning to look et the tombstone. Nobody knew whet he wes


    thinking, but efter e long time, he finelly seid, "You look very much like your mother, Miss McKinney."


    Leenne replied, "I cen''t remember whet she looked like. Whenever I see e picture of her, I feel like I cen


    veguely recell something, but I cen''t gresp it et ell. It''s es if I were in e dreem." It wes precisely beceuse


    of this thet whenever she looked et the photos of her mother, she felt es though she were looking et the


    photos of e strenger.


    It suddenly urred to Leonno thot Lloyd hod brought her here on purpose. He simply hod two


    purposes in doing so: oside from wonting to toke the opportunity to find out where her mother wos


    octuolly buried, he olso wonted to moke her kneel before his wife ot this very moment. If she refused to


    do so, he''d hove on excuse to use her of being unfiliol, which would no doubt give him on excuse


    thot she hod on ox to grind in moving into Crossley Residence. Never mind, the big picture hos to be


    put obove everything else. The more I wont to find out more informotion, the more I con''t slip up ond


    get kicked out of Crossley Residence by Lloyd ot such o time. I''ll kneel os he soys. It''s not o big deol,


    onywoy; I''ve even colled Jethro "Dod" so mony times before.


    She wos just obout to get down on her knees when o voice rong beside them. "Hi, Mr. Crossley ond


    Miss McKinney."


    Lloyd ond Leonno simultoneously turned to look ot the speoker; both of them were surprised to see


    Williom here.


    Also holding o bouquet of flowers in his honds, Williom smiled ot them, osking, "Are both of you here to


    visit someone, too?"


    Lloyd wos obviously displeosed ot the mon''s interruption, but he mointoined his expression. "Whot


    obout you, Mr. Morris?"


    Williom replied, "I''m here to visit on old friend, but I didn''t expect to meet both of you in such o


    coincidence." As he spoke, he dorted o glonce toword the tombstone in front of Leonno, his goze folling


    upon the womon''s smiling foce. "Moy I osk who she is?"


    Lloyd withdrew his goze. "She''s my lote wife."


    "Oh, I see. Pordon me for osking."


    Lloyd replied with o wove of his hond, "Pleose go oheod with whot you were doing, Mr. Morris."


    Williom nodded. After giving Leonno o nod, he proceeded to wolk on.


    He hod borely wolked o few steps when Lloyd''s subordinote, who''d been woiting outside the cemetery,


    hurried over ond whispered something in Lloyd''s eor, cousing the lotter''s foce to dorken ot once.


    Turning to look ot Leonno, the lotter opened his mouth, but his words suddenly took o different


    direction. "I''ve got something to deol with, so I gotto go. Why don''t you stoy here ond keep her


    compony?" he soid to Leonno before striding off. As he reoched the cemetery''s entronce, he took o


    bockword glonce ond ordered his subordinote, "Keep on eye on them."


    Leonno stood there, getting lost in thought while storing ot the photo on the tombstone. After o long


    time, Williom''s voice reoched her eors ogoin. "Miss McKinney."


    Leonno collected herself ot once. "Mr. Morris."


    Williom nodded with o smile before turning to look ot the tombstone. Nobody knew whot he wos


    thinking, but ofter o long time, he finolly soid, "You look very much like your mother, Miss McKinney."


    Leonno replied, "I con''t remember whot she looked like. Whenever I see o picture of her, I feel like I con


    voguely recoll something, but I con''t grosp it ot oll. It''s os if I were in o dreom." It wos precisely becouse


    of this thot whenever she looked ot the photos of her mother, she felt os though she were looking ot the


    photos of o stronger.


    It suddenly urred to Leanna that Lloyd had brought her here on purpose. He simply had two


    purposes in doing so: aside from wanting to take the opportunity to find out where her mother was


    actually buried, he also wanted to make her kneel before his wife at this very moment. If she refused to


    do so, he''d have an excuse to use her of being unfilial, which would no doubt give him an excuse


    that she had an ax to grind in moving into Crossley Residence. Never mind, the big picture has to be


    put above everything else. The more I want to find out more information, the more I can''t slip up and


    get kicked out of Crossley Residence by Lloyd at such a time. I''ll kneel as he says. It''s not a big deal,


    anyway; I''ve even called Jethro "Dad" so many times before.


    She was just about to get down on her knees when a voice rang beside them. "Hi, Mr. Crossley and


    Miss McKinney."


    Lloyd and Leanna simultaneously turned to look at the speaker; both of them were surprised to see


    William here.


    Also holding a bouquet of flowers in his hands, William smiled at them, asking, "Are both of you here to


    visit someone, too?"


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Lloyd was obviously displeased at the man''s interruption, but he maintained his expression. "What


    about you, Mr. Morris?"


    William replied, "I''m here to visit an old friend, but I didn''t expect to meet both of you in such a


    coincidence." As he spoke, he darted a nce toward the tombstone in front of Leanna, his gaze falling


    upon the woman''s smiling face. "May I ask who she is?"


    Lloyd withdrew his gaze. "She''s myte wife."


    "Oh, I see. Pardon me for asking."


    Lloyd replied with a wave of his hand, "Please go ahead with what you were doing, Mr. Morris."


    William nodded. After giving Leanna a nod, he proceeded to walk on.


    He had barely walked a few steps when Lloyd''s subordinate, who''d been waiting outside the cemetery,


    hurried over and whispered something in Lloyd''s ear, causing thetter''s face to darken at once.


    Turning to look at Leanna, thetter opened his mouth, but his words suddenly took a different


    direction. "I''ve got something to deal with, so I gotta go. Why don''t you stay here and keep her


    company?" he said to Leanna before striding off. As he reached the cemetery''s entrance, he took a


    backward nce and ordered his subordinate, "Keep an eye on them."


    Leanna stood there, getting lost in thought while staring at the photo on the tombstone. After a long


    time, William''s voice reached her ears again. "Miss McKinney."


    Leanna collected herself at once. "Mr. Morris."


    William nodded with a smile before turning to look at the tombstone. Nobody knew what he was


    thinking, but after a long time, he finally said, "You look very much like your mother, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna replied, "I can''t remember what she looked like. Whenever I see a picture of her, I feel like I can


    vaguely recall something, but I can''t grasp it at all. It''s as if I were in a dream." It was precisely because


    of this that whenever she looked at the photos of her mother, she felt as though she were looking at the


    photos of a stranger.


    William replied, "You''ll remember her someday."


    Leanna dropped her gaze for a moment. Afterposing herself, she looked up again, asking, "Are


    you done visiting your friend, Mr. Morris?"


    William replied, "Yeah, I am. Speaking of it, it''s a coincidence that myte friend and Mrs. Crossley are


    laid to rest in the same cemetery. If I''d known that Mrs. Crossley was also buried here, I''d havee to


    pay my respects long ago."


    Leanna smiled a faint smile. "It''s not necessary to go to such trouble. God knows who is buried in


    here?"


    At this, William looked at her and pursed his lips without saying a word. Finally, he asked, "Miss


    McKinney, are you leaving?"


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    They left the cemetery together, but as soon as William asked if Leanna needed to get a ride from him,


    Lloyd''s subordinate came over and said to her, "Miss McKinney, the car''s waiting right there."


    Seems like Lloyd is still a good enough actor by not leaving me alone here, thought Leanna. She said


    to William, "Well, Mr. Morris, I gotta go first."


    "See you again," replied William.


    Leanna had the chauffeur drive her back to her studio right away. After seeing her off, Lloyd''s


    subordinate immediately returned to Crossley Residence.


    Sitting in his study, Lloyd asked with a frosty expression, "What did they talk about?"


    His subordinate recounted the conversation he''d overheard at the cemetery.


    Lloyd turned the conversation over in his mind with a frown. Their conversation sounds normal; it


    doesn''t sound like there''s anything peculiar.


    His subordinate asked, "Mr. Crossley, are you suspecting that Leanna was sent by William?"


    Lloyd replied, "There''s no reason for her to suddenly learn about what happened in the past. And


    besides, she sounds like she''s certain of who I am."


    "Then why do you still¡ª"


    Lloyd exined, "Things will only get even more troublesome if they escte at this point." He


    narrowed his eyes. "And besides, she''s still got Aidan behind her." Most importantly, he knew full well


    that it''d be a devastating blow to the Crossley Group if more confidential information about the


    company was leaked. It would no longer be an issue that could be solved by scapegoating two of the


    company''s top executives. Leanna is the best candidate for this in the first ce. Since she came to


    me on her own, she can''t me me for doing this.


    However, his subordinate argued, "But the background check on William showed nothing wrong. Mr.


    Crossley, why don''t you¡ª"


    "That''s the point¡ªthat we didn''t find anything wrong about him." Lloyd let out a sneer. "How could a


    businessman with apany thisrge have nothing dirty up his sleeve? Even Aidan has crippled God


    knows how much of Old Mr. Pearson''s power while battling against the Pearsons both openly and


    covertly over so many years. William, on the other hand, is Chiojan by birth. Do you think it''s possible


    that he achieved his present status with no backing behind him?"


    He agreed to this time''s coboration because, for one thing, he was interested in the strength of


    William''spany. For another thing, he also wanted those who were watching him to know that


    everything was normal at the Crossley Group and that the projects were still running. And besides, he


    wanted to sound out William''s motives. After a while, he added, "Go find out about the friend whose


    grave he visited today. Find out who the person is or if the person even exists."


    "Roger that, Mr. Crossley," his subordinate replied before leaving.


    As the door to the study was closed again, Lloyd took the pocket watch out of the drawer with his face


    showing a hint of cold ferocity. I''ve managed to get through such a dangerous night. How can I so


    easily let those with evil intentions take away from me everything that I''ve worked so hard to own


    today?


    ¡­


    That evening, Leanna received an email from The Designer Competition''s organizers, who announced


    the topic for this time''spetition. It was ''Confession of Love,'' and contestants were required to


    produce a piece of jewelry that had a simple, straightforward design while being as touchingly romantic


    as a love confession.


    In reality, the topic wasn''t a difficult one, since it mostly depended on the designer''s own understanding


    of the topic and how they gave y to their imagination.


    Thepetition wouldst for a week. In addition to drawing the final product, designers also had to


    produce the actual product and have both the finished product and their drawings delivered a week


    later at 7:00PM sharp to the venue specified by the organizers. Early orte submissions were strictly


    prohibited. Considering the time it''d take to produce the finished product, there actually wasn''t much


    time left for them.


    Preupied with what had happened at the cemetery this afternoon, Leanna couldn''t focus her mind


    to think about her design at all, nor did she have any inspiration for it. She looked up and rubbed her


    eyes, only to notice that it was already dark and raining outside without her realizing. Perhaps due to


    an early-spring cold spell, the weather had gotten a lot colder again these days.


    She rose from her chair and took her ss to pour herself something to drink.

 Chapter 339

    Chapter 339


    Aidan was busy with his work on the couch in the studio. Leanna joined him after pouring herself a


    ss of water before she said, "This is already like a second office to you, President Pearson. Perhaps


    you should just move your things in here as well."


    "Should I?" he asked with his brows raised.


    "I''m kidding," came the response after a momentary pause.


    Then, he closed the file in front of him and turned his gaze at her. "How long until you''re done?"


    "Not sure," she answered, pursing her lips slightly. As inspiration hadn''t struck her yet, there was a


    possibility that she might need to spend the night in the studio instead of going home tonight.


    Coming into a few assumptions upon noticing the sadness on her face, he then asked, "Have you


    received the theme of thepetition?"


    Sitting on a single-seater couch beside him, Leanna only grunted a response akin to a ''yes.''


    "What is it?"


    "Shouldn''t the president know about it?" She turned to him.


    Aidan frowned. "Pearson Group is only the organizer of thepetition. Why would I need to care


    about these trivial matters? Even if I did want to know about it, that would only be a scandal waiting to


    happen. By then, you would be affected as well."


    Since Queenie had already dered that she hade to this point in her life all for Aidan, it went to


    show that there were others who shared the same sentiment even if they didn''t voice them out loud.


    Hence, should he have known about the theme in advance, the people would start rumors of their own


    even if he hadn''t said anything to Leanna.


    Looks like this b*stard here is quite attentive this time, Leanna thought with her lips twitching.


    Seemingly waiting for Leanna to answer, Aidan rested his arm on the back of the couch as he loosened


    his tie.


    Then, she said slowly, "Confession of Love."


    As his eyebrows raised slightly, he gave off a look that seemingly showed that he didn''t understand


    what she just said.


    "That is the theme for thispetition," she continued.


    "Then, why are you so stressed out?" Without waiting for her reply, he continued, "Is it because you


    haven''t been confessed to before?"


    Puzzled, she was stunned into silence as she thought, Why is this b*stard saying things like this?


    With a slight movement, he leaned over in front of her and looked at her with his deep ck eyes


    before he said deliberately, "Haven''t you received many confessions before?"


    Feeling an inexplicable sense of guilt from how he was staring at her, she retorted, "I-It''s not like you


    have had any less yourself. Unless you''re saying that it''s true?" Upon that, she was immediately


    afflicted with regrets, as she not only felt that their conversation was bing more like an argument


    between elementary school children, but also like an argument to show who felt more jealous of the


    other. No longer wanting to continue the conversation, she got up and left for the office with her ears


    reddened. "I have to continue thinking about the design. If there''s nothing else, you should head back,


    President Pearson."


    He held her wrist before he said unhurriedly, "What''s the rush? It''s not like you have any inspirations,


    right?"


    Looks like he found out.


    "After all, if you did have some sort of inspiration, you wouldn''t be so grumpy right now."


    Leanna took a deep breath before she replied with an "Oh." Sounds about right. It''s because I''m


    lacking inspiration that I can''t help but feel slightly annoyed.


    "I know what your problem is," he continued.


    At his words, she looked at him with a curious expression, as though she was curious to hear just what


    sort of nonsense he would say.


    Then, he continued casually, "Although you''re a designer, you didn''t even bother to properly


    contemte the theme. How will you be inspired if that is the case? Wasn''t it because you''ve had a


    personal experience that you''ve managed toe up with ''First Love'' back then?"


    Leanna frowned. She couldn''tprehend just why she felt that there was some truth to what he just


    said.


    "Hence, if you want to find inspiration for the theme, then you should try making a confession. As for


    the target of the confession, I guess I can take up the role, albeit reluctantly."


    Immediately, she became speechless with the man. She had thought that he was going to impart a


    grand wisdom that could help her out, but instead, it all came to this in the end. She was about to retort


    but managed to hold her tongue as she realized that she indeed hadn''t had the experience of


    confessing to someone else before.


    Although she and Zack both liked each other, no one took the step of confessing to the other, so their


    rtionship only remained as close friends. There wasn''t even the need to mention how it went with


    Aidan. Even though he had been spewing innuendoes one after the other, he had never properly


    confessed his love for her.


    Looking back, it felt as though the concept of confession was alien to Leanna. The way she saw it, it


    was only when one possessed youthful ignorance, only held one person so dearly in their heart, the


    ideal age, and the appropriate atmosphere, would they make a confession of love.


    She couldn''t seem to imagine the scene of confession, regardless if it was Aidan confessing to her or it


    was her confessing to Aidan, as it just felt wrong to her. She couldn''t fathom why she felt as though


    once one had reached a certain age, one would gradually stop expressing their love verbally to another


    person.


    Are confessions only something you do at the beginning of rtionships? No. On the contrary, it''s


    something that has its ce in rtionships of those who are madly in love. Suddenly, inspiration


    struck Leanna, so she broke away from Aidan''s hand and said, "I''m going to get busy now. You should


    head back home first."


    Looking at his hand currently grasping at air, Aidan gently licked his thin lips.


    As soon as she entered her office, Leanna went into aplete immersion as she started drawing up a


    draft at a fast pace. When she was done, she stretched her back and noticed that it was two past


    midnight. Since she didn''t feel like going home when she was feeling the inspiration, she decided to


    simply put together the final design. Just as she stretched her neck and was about to continue working,


    she heard a knock at the door with a voice saying, "Come and have something to eat."


    She was surprised that Aidan hadn''t left yet. Taking two steps toward the door, she opened it to find the


    man outside. "President Pearson, why are you¡­"


    With one hand in his pocket, he replied, "I can''t sleep alone."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Her eyelids twitched as she was ovee with a heavy warning to not continue this line of


    conversation, so she just walked past him to find there were a number of dishes on the table. It was


    then that it urred to her that she had skipped dinner. She walked over before she sat on the couch


    and couldn''t help drooling slightly at the sight of the delicious-looking dishes. Taking a nce at the


    insted container on the table, she said in surprise, "There''s even soup?"


    "It''s your favorite, right?" he said while taking a seat beside her.


    At a closer look, she noticed that it was a fish stew infused withtro. "Did Alice prepare this?"


    Saying that, she took a sip, but couldn''t help frowning upon tasting it.


    Aidan asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "This taste is¡­" She took another sip before she turned to him with a look of uncertainty. "Are you sure


    Alice made this?"


    "Who else?"


    "I feel like Ms. Fletcher''s the one who made this."


    "Is that so?" Aidan took the spoon from her hand and took a sip. "It tastes the same to me. Isn''t it all the


    same if it uses the same ingredients?"


    Leanna remarked, "Would you be able to make this if I gave you the exact ingredients?"


    He stayed silent at her question.


    Nevertheless, she felt that there was some substance to his words. Back at the Castor Vi, she had


    discussed Naomi''s cooking method with Alice and concluded that the fragrance of the soup was further


    enhanced with the addition of thetro. Maybe I am overthinking it.

 Chapter 340

    Chapter 340


    When Leanna was done with her meal, she feltfortable, a feeling that she seemed to have missed


    for the past couple of days.


    Noticing that, Aidan asked, "Are the Crossleys not feeding you properly?"


    Nestled on the couch, she replied, "I''m reluctant to eat with them. I''m afraid that I''ll end up with an


    upset stomach instead." During her stay with the Crossley Family over the past few days, her schedule


    was basicallying into the office to have a meal in the morning and taking another meal in the


    evening before going back. It was already hard enough for her to stay with them under the same roof,


    let alone share the same table to have meals with them. To her, it was worse than death by a thousand


    cuts. Sighing as she mulled over these thoughts, she then said, "Alice''s cooking is really good. It''s so


    much more delicious than take-outs."


    "You''ll be able to have them every day once you move back in with me," he said casually.


    Leanna cleared her throat as she knew just what the man was insinuating. As she didn''t want to


    continue with that line of the conversation, she said, "By the way, Lloyd brought me to the cemetery to


    pay respects to his wife today."


    "Did you?"


    "Nope, but guess who I bumped into there."


    "Who?"


    "William Morris. It''s quite a coincidence, isn''t it? He has a friend who is also buried there."


    "It is," Aidan replied indifferently.


    "Actually, I feel that William is a mysterious man." After a brief moment of thought, she then continued,


    "Since he''s a businessman, he should be well aware of what''s going on with the Crossley Group. Yet,


    he still chose to coborate with them at such a time. Either he ns to use Crossley Group as a


    stepping stone and use this short period of coboration as an opportunity to expand his business,


    or¡­"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Aidan''s eyes grew darker as he stared at her. "Or what?"


    "Nothing." She shook her head. She suddenly had a thought that William specifically came after Lloyd.


    Not only that, but she felt an inkling that the former might even have something to do with Daniel. Very


    quickly, however, she thought the idea seemed ridiculous.


    Just as she was slowly drowning in her thoughts, Aidan flicked her forehead with his finger and said,


    "You should finish your work before starting to worry about someone else."


    She rubbed her forehead while looking at him with dissatisfaction. Then, she ordered him off the studio.


    "You should go now!"


    "Are you still nning to continue?"


    "Yeah. Haven''t I told you before? I would often work without sleep when inspiration strikes."


    "Is inspiration more important than your life?"


    Before she could retort, she was pulled into Aidan''s arms. Resting his chin on her head, he whispered,


    "Don''t move. Stay with me and sleep for a while." There were heavy signs of exhaustion in his tone.


    Forget it, she thought as she pursed her lips. Since she was done with the draft, the finalized design


    would be much better. Perhaps she was full from her meal, she was gradually ovee with


    sleepiness as she yawned and slowly closed her eyes. Just as she was about to fall asleep, Aidan


    said, "If you have nothing to do in theing two days, try probing Lloyd''s intentions."


    Since she thought he was going to say something important, she sobered up and asked, "What


    intentions?"


    "What are the chances of me moving into the Crossley Residence to stay with you," he answered


    slowly.


    At this juncture, Leanna really wanted to pry open the man''s brain just to have a look at what went on


    in his mind. She pushed the man away and said, "I think the chances of you getting killed are higher.


    You can try it if you don''t believe me, President Pearson."


    "That bad?"


    "Obviously. Did you think that Lloyd would wee you into their home by fetching you over there in a


    luxury car?"


    He looked at her with his eyebrows slightly raised. "Then, when do you n to allow me to wee


    you into my home with a luxury car?"


    Leanna could only stay silent as he touched her sore spot. In the end, she closed her eyes and said,


    "Go to sleep." At that, Aidan became silent. Amidst her drowsiness, she only felt the warm embrace by


    her waist as she drifted into a sweet dream.


    ¡­


    The next morning, Zoe came to the studio door to find severaldies there, clearly hesitating in entering


    the studio. "What''s wrong? Did you all forget your keys?" Saying that, she was about to open the door


    when one of thedies tugged her hand and gestured for her to be quiet before directing her gaze at


    what was inside the studio with her finger.


    Upon looking over, she widened her eyes in shock. What is with this situation? She cleared her throat


    and gestured for thedies to go away before saying, "I''m sure all of you haven''t had your breakfast


    this early, right? Go and have them. It''ll be my treat. It doesn''t matter what''s on the menu as long as


    you bring one set back for me."


    When thedies left, Zoe quickly took her phone out and called Leanna. However, thetter had left her


    phone on mute in the office. Have they never slept before in their lifetime? How are they so deep in


    their sleep? Putting her hands on the window, she knocked on it.


    When Leanna woke up, she felt some pain in her neck and thought to herself that she wouldn''t have


    slept there if she knew this was going to happen. As soon as she raised her head, she happened to


    meet Zoe''s glittering eyes. After a few seconds of silence exchanged between them, she realized the


    situation she was in, so she quickly stood up from the couch with a scuffle, which woke Aidan up.


    Seeing that they were awake, Zoe went away with her head hung so as to not make Leanna feel even


    more embarrassed. And so, the chaotic event this morning ended with Aidan''s departure.


    Noticing the glittering eyes of thedies, Leanna was so ovee with regrets that she felt her


    stomach getting upset. Nheless, she hadn''t expected Lloyd had given her a call as he was


    concerned that she still hadn''t returned homest night. When she ended the call, Zoe came in and


    clicked her tongue. "Looks like that man is really good at putting up an act. As expected of Georgina''s


    father."


    Leanna smiled faintly. "Is something the matter?"


    Zoe ced a pile of drawings in front of her. "These are the sample drawings of the trinkets in the


    studio. Take a look and see if there are any problems with them. I''ll go ahead and have the factory start


    manufacturing them if there aren''t."


    After briefly going over them, Leanna replied, "No problems. Oh, right. I sent the factory a customer''s


    customized drawing two days ago. It should be done by now, so can you grab them for me while you''re


    at it?"


    "Sure," Zoe answered. Then, she suddenly added, "I almost forgot, Daniel came to look for you


    yesterday."


    Leanna was puzzled. "He came to look for me? Did he say anything?"


    Zoe couldn''t help curling her lips as she remembered yesterday''s incident. "He started spouting some


    sort of nonsense at first before I told him that Georgina''s father had taken you somewhere out. He


    suddenly grew nervous at that as though he was afraid that no one knew that he was his future father-


    inw."


    That meant Daniel knew that I was with Lloyd? The brief thought she hadst night resurfaced in her


    mind.


    Seeing that Leanna was lost in her thoughts, Zoe waved her hands in front of her and asked, "Nana,


    what are you thinking about?"

 Chapter 341

    Chapter 341


    Leanna collected her thoughts and smiled. "It''s nothing."


    Zoe picked up the drawings and said, "Then, I''ll take my leave. Call me if anything happens."


    "All right. Go ahead."


    Later that morning, when Leanna went to the pantry to take a ss of water, a youngdy slowly


    scooted over and whispered, "Miss McKinney, can I ask you a question?"


    When Leanna heard her voice, her hand shook as she unconsciously remembered the humiliating


    incident in the morning.


    She ced her ss down and turned around with a small smile. "Of course. What is it?"


    "It''s just¡­" The youngdy hesitated a little, as if she did not know how to begin.


    Leanna didn''t rush her either and waited for her to figure it out.


    After a while, the youngdy asked, "Miss McKinney, do you remember who the people who came to


    our studio were? He was a middle-aged man in his forties, and he looked wealthy and elegant."


    Leanna was puzzled by her question. "Why are you asking this all of a sudden?"


    The youngdy let out a sigh and continued, "Yesterday, the man who came looking for you in the


    studio¡­ he was your dad, right?"


    Leanna pursed her lips, indicating for her to continue.


    "After I saw him, I couldn''t help but think of someone else. I kept getting a simr aura from the both of


    them. The other person must''ve visited our studio, but I just couldn''t remember who he was, and I


    couldn''t remember anything even after thinking about it all night. I hope you don''t mind, Miss McKinney,


    but I''ve always been like this since I was little. I won''t give up on something until Ie up with the


    answer."


    Leanna smiled. "It''s fine. That happens to me asionally too."


    The youngdy added, "With all the peopleing to the studio every day, you probably don''t


    remember. It''s okay if you don''t, I''m just asking."


    If she had asked this question earlier, Leanna might indeed have had no impression. However, this


    morning, she was just thinking about this particr person, and so, as soon as the youngdy brought


    it up, she knew who it was. Still, there was a difference between Lloyd and William.


    Lloyd''s gentle elegance was deliberately feigned, and after all these years, it had almost be a


    thick mask that became one with him, so that his emotions would not be easily revealed. On the other


    hand, William was a gentleman through and through. However, Aidan was right when he said that he


    was a businessman who asionally had his scheming moments. These two might be simr to a


    certain extent, but if one looked closely, they would realize that they were fundamentally different.


    Leanna said, "There must be someone like that. It rings a bell for me as well."


    Hearing that, the youngdy exhaled deeply. "You think so too? The other girls didn''t believe me when I


    told them. It''s a good thing that this person exists; it proves that I wasn''t hallucinating. Anyway, I''ll get


    back to work, Miss McKinney."


    "Off you go."


    After returning to the office, Leanna took out her phone and pondered for a long moment before dialing


    Elijah''s number. "Elijah, are you free now?"


    "I am. What''s wrong?"


    She asked in a soft voice, "Can youe out for a cup of coffee?"


    Without any hesitation, he immediately agreed.


    After deciding on a meeting spot, Leanna tidied her things and left after notifying the other girls in the


    studio.


    When Leanna got into the car, she had just inserted the keys when she recalled something. She


    retrieved her phone from her pocket and sent a message to Aidan. ''I''m going to see Elijah. There''s


    something I want to ask him.''


    It''s better to make things clear in advance before that b*stard gets jealous all of a sudden again.


    Aidan must''ve been busy as she didn''t receive a reply.


    There was a bit of traffic on the way there, and by the time she arrived, Elijah was already waiting for


    her.


    She took the seat across from him and apologized, "I''m sorry. Did I keep you waiting?"


    He smiled as he waved a server over. "I was earlier than you by only two minutes. What do you want to


    drink?"


    After Leanna ordered an iced Americano, Elijah took the menu from her and ordered two desserts


    before handing it back to the server. "That is all."


    After the server left, Leanna didn''t waste any time and got straight to the point. "When you came


    looking for me earlier¡­ did you have anything you wanted to ask?"


    Likely not expecting her question, Elijah paused for a moment before replying, "Why did you bring this


    up all of a sudden? Leanna, I didn''t mean anything by that. I just wanted to see you¡­" That''s all.


    Leanna said, "That day, at Crossley Group''s bid meeting, he said in front of everyone that I might be


    Lloyd''s daughter. You know about this, right?"


    He nodded. "I''ve heard of it."


    "Before this, Daniel reminded me many times to be careful of Lloyd and Georgina. That''s why, I''m


    guessing that the reason why he approached Georgina is not because he likes her, but to achieve


    some kind of purpose, am I right?"


    This time, Elijah''s face turned a little more grave, and he opened his mouth, but did not speak.


    She continued, "Combined with the things that happened in Crossley Group some time ago and what


    Daniel did, I have good reason to suspect that these things must have some sort of meaningful


    connection to him. Even if he didn''t n it himself, he must''ve been contributing to it secretly."


    "Leanna, I¡­"


    "I know that you and Daniel are not just friends, and all of these things are just my spection.


    Besides, I won''t tell anyone, and I won''t ask either. It has little to do with me whether your purpose is to


    obtain the Crossley Family, or to destroy it."


    Saying that, Leanna took a small breath. "I just want to know something. Besides you people, is there


    anyone who has the same goals?"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Elijah broke into augh. "Leanna, you know that person."


    Without waiting for her response, he continued, "In this series of incidents in the Crossley Family,


    President Pearson''s contributions were no less than ours."


    He added, "In fact, although Lloyd is running Crossley Group well, the things he gets up to secretly


    aren''t as morous, so he''s made a lot of enemies. What''s more, in this part of the business world,


    there are never any permanent friends, only unchanging interests."


    Leanna seemed to expect that he would not tell the truth. She didn''t hold out much hope either, so she


    only smiled lightly.


    Just then, the server returned with their coffee, ending their conversation.


    Using this opportunity, Elijah changed the topic. "I heard that you joined The Designer Competition.


    How are your preparations going?"


    Leanna nodded. "It''s all right. I''m still in the preliminary stage, so I''ll have to wait and see."


    "You have the skills to go international a long time ago, but¡­"


    "It''s all in the past."


    Elijah sighed quietly. "Yes, it''s all in the past."


    However, while some things could be left in the past, that wasn''t always the case for everything else.


    When they parted ways, Elijah called out to her. "Leanna."


    She turned around and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "You¡­" He pursed his lips before continuing, "If possible, don''t look into Lloyd. He''s more dangerous


    than you think."

 Chapter 342

    Chapter 342


    After parting from Elijah, Leanna had just entered the car when she received a call from Aidan.


    His low voice carried a hint of displeasure as he asked, "Where are you?"


    While putting on her seatbelt, she answered, "Out for a meal."


    "What did you eat?"


    Casting an eye at a restaurant nearby, Leanna casually gave him a name.


    Hearing that, he asked, "When are you going back?"


    All of a sudden, she was in the mood to tease him and deliberately said, "I don''t know. We made ns


    to watch a movie after our meal."


    "Are you going to go shopping after the movie?"


    A surprised Leanna asked, "How did you know that?"


    "That''s not a bad n."


    Before she had a chance to speak, there was a knock on the passenger window. When she turned her


    head to look, she fell silent for a moment.


    How awkward. I shouldn''t have put on that show earlier.


    With a pout, she put away her phone and unlocked the car. Soon after, the door opened, and Aidan got


    in.


    She asked, "Why are you here?"


    He rebuked with a raised eyebrow, "Are you going to the movies alone if I don''te over?"


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Shut up, you b*stard!


    Sheughed dryly. "I was just joking. I still have to go back to the studio, President Pearson¡­"


    It was moments after she finished speaking when she received a call from Zoe, who asked, "Nana, are


    you done?"


    "I''m done. I''m heading back¡­"


    ? N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Hey, take your time. I was just about to tell you that the power cable outside the studio was damaged


    during construction and the power is out. Repairs will only be finished at night, and I''ve asked all of the


    girls to head home, so you can take this opportunity to get some rest."


    Her words puzzled Leanna. How could there be such a coincidence?


    After hanging up, Leanna turned to Aidan, her eyes turning dubious. "Is this your doing?"


    "Am I such a crude person to you?"


    "Well¡­"


    It''s not a big deal anyway. Fine, I''ll just go and watch a movie.


    With that thought, Leanna turned on her GPS and picked a movie theater that was closest to them,


    asking, "What do you want to watch, President Pearson?"


    He replied, "Just choose what you like."


    Spotting a new animated film with an adorable art style that had just started airing two days ago,


    Leanna decided to book two tickets.


    ¡­


    After finishing the movie and dinner, Leanna felt a little sore in her back, perhaps because she didn''t


    sleep well the previous night. She wanted to return home, thinking there was nothing else to do at the


    mall.


    However, Aidan dragged her into a luxury store and randomly pointed out a few pieces. "Except for


    these, pack the rest ording to her size."


    The shop assistants hurriedly went to work at his word.


    Leanna tugged on his shirt and said, "What are you doing? I have enough to wear."


    He replied, "I was the one who sent you to the Crossley Residence. Do you think that I don''t know how


    much you brought with you?"


    It was true that she only had a few clothes.


    "But¡­"


    It didn''t mean that he had to go this far.


    After selecting the clothes, Aidan took her to the jewelry store next door. When he was not satisfied


    after looking around, he said, "Forget it, I''ll ask Jonathan to send it to you tomorrow."


    Leanna froze before she realized that he was referring to the jewelry she returned to him previously


    and blurted out, "Have you done something wrong? Why are you suddenly being so nice to me all of a


    sudden?"


    However, he seemed unhappy with her words and retorted, "Don''t I treat you well enough normally?"


    She could not refute, but she still felt that he was treating her a little too well today.


    As they had bought so much that Leanna wasn''t able to carry everything, Aidan instructed them to


    send it to the Crossley Residence.


    After leaving the mall, he got into the driver''s seat and asked, "Where else do you want to go?"


    "Forget it, I want to go home. My back hurts."


    At her words, he looked at her with a meaningful gaze. "Your back hurts?"


    In other words, he had not done anything the previous night.


    Leanna closed her eyes and took a deep breath before reprimanding, "Wouldn''t my back hurt after


    sleeping on the couch all night long? What kind of nonsense are you thinking all day long?"


    Aidan withdrew his gaze, the corner of his lips curling upward.


    Half an hourter, they arrived at the entrance of the Crossley Residence. Aidan unfastened his


    seatbelt and got out of the car while Leanna looked around. "How are you going back?"


    "Jonathan will pick me up." Saying that, he turned to look at her. "If not, you can invite me for a drink


    inside."


    "Goodbye." Leanna went back to the driver''s seat and was just about to enter the car when she paused


    before saying, "I think I''ll wait for Jonathan before leaving."


    Aidan trained his dark eyes on her as a smile hovered on his lips. "Worried about me?"


    Leanna replied gravely, "I just think that you can be easily mistaken for a thief if you stand out here all


    ale at night like this."


    "Will there be a thief as handsome as me?"


    At that moment, she suddenly recalled that he had said that even if he was a thief, he would be one


    who stole hearts. She couldn''t help butugh at the thought. This b*stard wouldn''t even bat an eyelid


    when he''s saying things like this.


    Seeing that, Aidan pressed his tongue against his teeth, his voice lowering as he asked, "What are you


    laughing about?"


    Leanna raised her eyes to meet his gaze. "Am I not allowed tough? I¡­"


    Before she could finish, her lips were covered as he swallowed her smile with his lips.


    She didn''t expect him to be bold enough to do something like this at Crossley Residence''s entrance, so


    she reached out and hammered his chest a few times, trying to push him away, but he easily grabbed


    her wrist and pressed her against the car door, deepening the kiss.


    Then, a blinding light shone at them, and there was a long honk of a car horn. Aidan let go of Leanna


    and pulled her behind him to block the light.


    Georgina sat before them, watching them with a nk expression. After a few seconds, she got out of


    the car and walked up to them, saying indifferently, "Are you sending Miss McKinney back, Aidan?"


    Aidan replied, "Is it not obvious enough?"


    She took a sharp inhale, her expression turning unpleasant.


    Meanwhile, Leanna fell silent. Clearly, Georgina was still not qualified to y mind games with Aidan.


    A beatter, Georgina said to Leanna, "Since Aidan is already here, why didn''t you invite him inside?"


    Leanna smiled faintly in response. "He''s busy. He''s about to leave soon."


    Hearing that, Georgina smiled mockingly. "I assumed that even though I don''t have the ability to ask


    Aidan to go inside, you''d be different, Miss McKinney. But¡­"


    Aidan drawled, "Since you''ve already said that, Miss Crossley, I''ll make sure to pay a visit another day."


    As he spoke, he added lightly, "I was just wondering if Mr. Crossley would wee me."


    Georgina was rendered speechless by his words, not knowing what to say.


    Just then, a ck Rolls-Royce came to a stop next to them, and Jonathan exited the car before


    greeting, "Good evening, President Pearson, Miss McKinney, Miss Crossley."


    Aidan looked at Leanna and said, "I''m leaving."


    Then, under Georgina''s stare, he gently kissed Leanna''s forehead.

 Chapter 343

    Chapter 343


    At the Crossley Residence, Leanna was about to make her way upstairs when Georgina called her.


    Leanna turned around and asked, "What do you want?"


    "I just thought I''d remind you that Aidan is breathing down our necks right now. If you''re going to insist


    that you''re one of the Crossleys, then I suggest you stay away from him for your own good."


    Leanna sputtered at this. "New tactic, Miss Crossley?"


    Georgina snorted. "You can take my advice or leave it, but Dad will be very unhappy if you choose the


    latter."


    "I think you''ve mistaken something, Miss Crossley," Leanna said as she stopped in the middle section


    of the staircase. She borated steadily, "I''m only here at the Crossley Residence to take back what''s


    rightfully mine, and it''s nobody''s business whom I decide to be with."


    "As long as you live here in our house, you''ll have to y by our rules. I told you as much when you


    first came here. Guess you thought I was joking," Georgina bit out.


    "Were you the one who made the rules?" Leanna demanded. "Where do you think I stand in the


    Crossley Family, then?"


    A dark look passed over Georgina''s face when she heard this. Is she saying that I''m in no position to


    make up the family rules?


    Without missing a beat, Leanna added, "I''d rather we didn''t speak if we can''t stand each other, Miss


    Crossley. There is no need for you to feign concern for me. At least that would make putting up with


    each other a lot easier, don''t you think?"


    Another snort escaped Georgina as she taunted, "Let''s hope you bring that same confidence with you


    during thepetition."


    "Naturally," Leanna said, then walked up the stairs without casting the other girl so much as a second


    nce.


    When Leanna had disappeared around thending, Georgina scoffed and withdrew her gaze. It was


    then that she noticed Lloyd standing not too far away. "Dad, did you hear everything?" she asked.


    Lloyd hummed in response, then said, "Come with me."


    Georgina did as she was told and followed Lloyd into the study, then he closed the door behind them


    and perched on his desk. "I know you hate her, Gina, but you must be patient. She''ll leave on her own


    ord when the timees."


    She had no idea what he meant by this. "Is it because she has Mr. Jackson to back her up?"


    "That isn''t pertinent," he replied, his eyes narrowing deviously. "You''ll know when it happens.


    Everything will fall into ce in due course." When his daughter did not respond, he emphasized,


    "Anyway, don''t meddle with the designpetition. I have ns of my own for that."


    "I know," Georgina answered through gritted teeth. She was not so foolish as to pull a fast one on


    Leanna in front of many people.


    Besides, Leanna wasn''t exactly popr among the other contestants, either. It was only a matter of


    time before they got sick of her and decided to do something about it.


    ¡­


    A week went by in the blink of an eye.


    Leanna had finished her design and showed up to deliver her work at the time and ce set by the


    organizingmittee.


    She had only just arrived when she saw a small crowd of designers standing outside, and they did not


    look happy at all.


    "I don''t know what''s wrong with the person in charge of thepetition this time. I mean, it''s bad


    enough that they came up with all these ridiculous requests, and now that we''ve shown up at the exact


    time and ce they told us to, they''re nowhere to be seen! All that''s here is a locked-up office. Are they


    trying to torture us or something?"


    "Calm down. They''re the organizingmittee, after all, so whatever they say goes. We''re in no


    position toin."


    "But don''t you think they''ve crossed the line? It''s like they don''t care about us at all! We''re here as


    contestants, but they''re treating us like monkeys who must dance at the snap of their fingers! This is an


    outrage!"


    As the seconds ticked by, the designers''ints grew even louder, and they looked even more


    agitated than they had been when Leanna first saw them.


    Just then, Leanna noticed the cubby holes set up outside the locked-up office. She counted them and


    realized that there were enough for each designer who was present.


    After a moment of thought, she spoke softly, "I think we can just leave our designs in here."


    When the other designers heard this, they looked at her incredulously, though most of them paid no


    attention to what she had just said.


    A majority of these contestants were older and more renowned than her. They had applied and gone


    through all the necessary rounds to get this far in thepetition, unlike Leanna, who was directly


    invited by the organizingmittee.


    The preferential treatment Leanna received did not sit right with any of these designers. Nheless,


    they refrained from picking on her because of her rtionship with Aidan.


    However, there was always a leader in every pack that started the fight.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Presently, Queenie gave Leanna a skeptical look, then crossed her arms and asked, "How do you


    know where we shall put our designs?"


    Leanna shrugged and said frankly, "I just guessed."


    Queenie snorted. "You guessed it? Do you think we''re gullible? How could you say something so


    irresponsible?"


    Someone else started chiming in after hearing Queenie confront Leanna. "She''s right. How could you


    make wild guesses about apetition as important as this one? Besides, I believe the organizing


    committee wouldn''t be so stupid as to set up doorless cubby-holes for us to put our designs in. Are you


    suggesting that we just leave our work in any cubby-hole we want? And there isn''t even a single


    employee in sight! What if someone steals our designs?"


    Queenie added, "Good point. The organizingmittee has made a ton of changes for thepetition


    this year, and we don''t know what they''re ying at either. Come clean with us, McK. Did President


    Pearson tell you that the organizingmittee wants us to leave our work inside these cubby-holes? If


    that''s the case, then we''ll do as you say."


    Everyone else fell quiet when they heard this, but their eyes were filled with contempt and disgust when


    they fixed their icy gaze on Leanna.


    However, Leanna was unfazed as she said cidly, "Paranoia can be such a crippling illness. You


    should see the doctor. The key to recovery is early treatment." Having said that, she shoved her design


    into a random cubby hole and turned to give Queenie a mild look. "Basic legal knowledge would tell


    you that insinuating that someone from Pearson Group has leaked trade secrets is a crime. You


    wouldn''t want thepany toe after you and demand reparations, would you? Because if you


    work hard enough, you might find yourself getting a free stay in prison."


    At that moment, Queenie looked so thunderous that it was a miracle that a lightning bolt didn''t shoot


    out of her eyes.


    After Leanna left, the rest of the designers exchanged pensive looks. Over ten minutes had passed


    since the time the organizingmittee had set for them to submit their work. Surely the person in


    charge would not be so tardy.


    Regardless of whether Leanna had received any confidential information from Aidan, the designers


    were convinced that her rtionship with him would save her from elimination before the preliminary


    rounds. Nothing would go wrong if they just did what she had done.


    With that in mind, each of them shoved their work into the cubby holes and left the scene.


    They weren''t worried that their work would be mixed up with the others, seeing as the sketch and final


    product would ultimately be mailed to the organizingmittee.


    Once the scene was empty, a few employees walked up to the cubby holes and emptied them. They


    sequentially ced the designs into boxes and hauled them into the car, then brought them over to the


    panel of judges.


    Just like that, the designs were all arranged at random. No one knew who had designed what except


    for the organizingmittee. The judges would appraise each work from a neutral standpoint, and the


    winner would be decided solely on the merits of his or her work.

 Chapter 344

    Chapter 344


    When Leanna returned to the workshop after submitting her design, the organizingmittee emailed


    her to let her know it had been received and would soon be judged. She was asked to wait patiently for


    the results.


    So, I am right about those cubby holes, she thought.


    She set her phone down and let out a breath of relief. Atst, she could finally kick back and rx for a


    couple of days.


    A momentter, a knock came on the door, and Zoe poked her head in. "Hey, Nana. Are you free right


    now?"


    "No, why?" Leanna asked.


    Zoe came in and closed the door behind her. "It''s been a while since ourst retreat. The girls and I


    were talking about it, and we thought it''d be nice if we had a barbecue in the woods this weekend.


    What do you think?"


    Leanna nodded in agreement. "Sure. I''m down for it."


    "Great! I''ll make the arrangements," Zoe offered brightly. Then, she leaned in as though to tell Leanna


    something scandalous and whispered, "By the way, we''re allowed to bring a plus-one for this retreat.


    You might want to bring someone along in case you end up feeling lonely."


    Leanna gave her friend a bewildered look. She tugged at Zoe''s sleeve and asked, "Wait, are you


    bringing anyone?"


    Zoe chuckled mischievously and raised a brow at Leanna. "Well, of course. I got to know a really cute


    guy on the Inte not too long ago, and he has the most amazing voice. He even sent me photos of


    his abs! I figured this is a good opportunity for us to meet up in person."


    "I hope you haven''t been catfished..."


    "Oh, rx! There''s a higher chance of me catfishing him than the other way around. Besides, we''re


    going to see each other in real life soon. I might as well test the waters and see if he''s anything like he


    made himself out to be on the Inte," Zoe said wistfully. "If this retreat turns out well, I''ll finally have a


    boyfriend!"


    The corner of Leanna''s lips twitched as she pointed out, "I think this whole thing is a little dubious. You


    ought to watch out."


    Zoe gave her a firm pat on the shoulder and reassured her, "I''m a big girl; I know what I''m doing. Now,


    let''s talk about you. Are you going to bring your darling President Pearson along?"


    The word "darling" made the blood rush to Leanna''s cheeks. She cleared her throat and countered


    primly, "W-Why would I bring him to a team-building retreat? We''d probably end up on the barbecue pit


    if he were to go."


    Huh. She has a point, Zoe thought as she looked at Leanna speechlessly. She paused, then shrugged


    and said nomittally, "Well, don''t say I didn''t warn you. Don''t be too envious of the rest of us whenExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    we show up with our boyfriends."


    That weekend, everyone gathered at the workshop''s entrance so they could leave for the barbecue site


    together. The girls had brought along their boyfriends, and it took only a round of pleasantries before


    the men became friends.


    Leanna nced at the time and asked Zoe, "Hey, where''s the cute guy you mentioned? He''ste."


    Just then, a Maybach pulled up by the curb, and one of the men eximed, "Damn, is this the guy you


    were talking about? You didn''t say he was loaded!"


    Zoe''s eyes nearly bugged out of her head. She clutched Leanna''s arm nervously. Holy crap, did I catch


    a big one this time?


    At that moment, the door on the driver''s side of the luxury car swung open, and a towering figure


    emerged and stood tall and straight in front of them.


    The crowd gave a collective sigh of disappointment. They had been holding their breath for nothing.


    Aidan took in their reaction. "Am I not wee here?" he asked dryly.


    Everyone felt a chill run down their spine. Some hurriedly made a feeble excuse to get drinks from the


    vending machine, while others ran off to the washroom. They would rather be anywhere but in Aidan''s


    vicinity right now.


    Zoe was visibly crestfallen as she muttered begrudgingly, "What happened to the other car, President


    Pearson?"


    "It''s in the shop getting serviced," Aidan answered tly. His gaze flickered over to Leanna as he


    asked, "Where are you all headed?"


    He had asked Leanna about her weekend ns in hopes of asking her out on a date, but she had a


    team-building retreat to go to. In the end, she lied to him and said she would be working through the


    weekend.


    She didn''t think he would actually show up to verify the truth.


    An awkwardugh escaped her. She tried to run, but when she turned around, she was greeted by the


    sight of a grade school kid with chubby cheeks. He even had a backpack on.


    The kid looked at Zoe, then at Leanna. A secondter, he asked calmly, "Which one of you is the


    Enchantress?"


    Leanna, Aidan, and Zoe gaped at the little boy in astonishment.


    Zoe, in particr, did not for a moment think her social media handle could sound so embarrassing


    when read aloud.


    She took a hesitant step forward and crouched down to the little boy''s eye level, then squeezed out a


    tight smile. "Hi, there. How may I help you?"


    He extended a hand toward her and introduced himself politely, "I''m Hogbunny. Pleasure to meet you."


    Excuse me? She nced around and pressed, "Did youe here with your brother or your uncle or


    something? Isn''t there an adult with you, kid?"


    "No, I came here on my own. You invited me toe along to a barbecue, right?" The little boy huffed


    impatiently. "You have no idea how long it took me to persuade my mom to let mee. Speaking of


    which, you''ll have to drop me home as soon as we''re done with the meal. My mom thinks you might


    kidnap me."


    At this point, Zoe could no longer keep up her smile. "K-Kidnap you?"


    Hogbunny nodded slowly. "Yes, that''s right."


    "And if I really were nning to kidnap you, what makes her think I''d drop you home?"


    "Don''t worry about that. I have my ways," he replied coolly.


    If Zoe weren''t already so jaded after her many experiences with douchebags who only knew how to toy


    with her, she was sure she would have fainted on the spot and been sent to the intensive care unit.


    Next to her, Leanna looped her arm through Aidan''s, her face turning red with her effort to keep herself


    fromughing out loud.


    On the other hand, Aidan merely looked at the child with an unreadable expression.


    Zoe took a deep breath, stood up, squared her shoulders, and said, "Come on, I''ll drop you home right


    now!"


    Hogbunny took two hurried steps back and said with newfound resolve, "No! You told me you were


    going to let me tag along to a barbecue. I won''t go home until I''ve eaten!"


    Presently, Zoe''s co-workers were returning from the vending machine. They saw the little boy standing


    before her and quickly made their way over, then asked, "Zoe, is this your little brother? He''s adorable!"


    As they gushed over the child, one of them reached out to pinch his chubby cheek.


    Clearly displeased by the unsolicited contact, Hogbunny frowned and hid behind Zoe.


    One of the men, who was oblivious to what had happened before their return, asked Zoe innocently, "Is


    your boyfriend stilling?"


    Zoe wanted nothing more than to evade this conversation. Flustered, she snapped, "No, he''s not! His


    car broke down on the way. Alright, gang, let''s move out! Go, go, go!"


    "Let''s go!"


    Zoe and Leanna had not anticipated Aidan''s or the little boy''s arrival when they did the headcount for


    the carpool arrangements previously.


    With admirable wit, Zoe immediately tucked Hogbunny into Aidan''s car. She didn''t wait for Aidan to


    protest as she said cheerily, "I''ll leave the kid to you, President Pearson! I owe you big time!"


    She hurtled into her car and mmed the door right after that.


    Seeing this, Leanna asked quietly, "Aren''t you worried that the kid might not make it out of Aidan''s car


    alive?"


    "Natural selection will take its course. The stronger one will survive the ordeal," Zoe said heartlessly.


    Leanna wasn''t sure what to say, but she didn''t have time to remind Aidan to be nice to the kid. She


    trusted that as sharp-tongued as the man was, he would not wound a kid with his words.


    Besides, it was only a one-hour drive up to the barbecue site. Indeed, the kid could survive the journey.


    With this thought, Leanna shook herself out of her reverie and climbed into the car.


    Meanwhile, inside the plush confines of the Maybach, Aidan cast a sideways nce at the little boy


    behind him. "Put your seatbelt on."


    Hogbunny set his backpack aside and mumbled obediently, "Okay."

 Chapter 345

    Chapter 345


    When they got to the woods and scouted a spot near the stream, they began to set up camp and the


    barbecue pit.


    The only ones who didn''t do any work were Aidan and Hogbunny. They sat on foldable chairs, and


    where the former seemed perfectly at ease, thetter took in the scenery with wide eyes filled with


    wonder.


    Leanna sauntered up to Aidan and crouched down next to him, then snapped, "Are you here to watch


    us work, President Pearson?"


    Aidan nced down at her and said slowly, "I would have brought Jonathan here had you told me you


    guys were going camping."


    She rolled her eyes in exasperation. Somehow, his brazen response did not surprise her at all.


    He added, "Besides, it''s not as if I have nothing to do."


    She frowned. "What have you done thus far?"


    Aidan nced at the little boy who was sitting next to him. "I''m keeping an eye on him in case he runs


    off on his own and gets lost. You wouldn''t want to have to exin to his mother about his


    disappearance, would you?"


    Leanna let out a dry chuckle and decidedly ignored him. Then, she reached into her knapsack, filled


    with snacks, and handed Hogbunny a small yogurt bottle. She ruffled his hair affectionately and said,


    "Here you go, kid. Stay put, and don''t run off on your own, alright? There might be a couple of big, bad


    wolves lurking in those woods."


    She heard Aidan snort beside her, clearly holding her old-fashioned methods of keeping children in


    ce in disdain.


    Hogbunny, on the other hand, clutched the yogurt bottle close to him and nodded solemnly. "I promise I


    won''t run off on my own. I''ll be good."


    Leanna beamed and rose to her feet. "Attaboy. Anyway, this, uh, mister over here will keep you


    company while I help my friends with the barbecue. I''ll call you when the meat''s ready."


    When he heard this, Aidan grumbled, "Howe you were never this nice to me?"


    She gritted her teeth. "Shut up, mister!"


    He blinked at her in disbelief but did not say another word in retort.


    When Leanna had walked off to the barbecue pit where the others were gathered, Hogbunny turned to


    look at Aidan and handed him the yogurt.


    "I don''t drink yogurt. Besides, she gave it to you," Aidan pointed out coolly.


    "I know. Can you please open the bottle for me, mister?" Hogbunny asked.


    Aidan scoffed. "You''re old enough to know how to open a bottle."


    The little boy deadpanned, "I saw you take the candy from thatdy''s mouth when you got down from


    the car earlier."


    The vein near Aidan''s temple throbbed as he glowered at the kid, his eyes like ice.


    However, Hogbunny was not the least bit intimidated by his imposing demeanor. "If you won''t open it


    for me, then I''ll get her to¡ª"


    Before he could finish his stance, Aidan snatched the yogurt bottle out of his hands, twisted the cap


    open, and then handed it back to him.


    "Thank you," Hogbunny said cheerily, then tipped his head back and drank the yogurt in silence.


    Aidan watched him and asked, "Hey, brat, won''t your family mind youing out with a bunch of adults


    like this?"


    Having finished the yogurt, Hogbunny corrected the older man primly, "I''m not a brat. I''m ten. Haven''t


    you ever gone out with friends before when you were a kid, mister? Did your family keep you at home


    most of the time?"


    Aidan''s lips pursed into a thin line.


    On the other end of the campsite, Zoe added briquettes to the barbecue pit while ncing over her


    shoulder to check on the kid. "I didn''t think the brat would get along so well with President Pearson. Do


    you think they''ve met their match?"


    "Oh, so he was a cute guy before, and now he''s just a brat?" Leanna teased.


    Zoe shot her a look of mute despair. "Stop rubbing salt in my wound," she wailed. She had never


    before found life so tiresome. "I''ll drop him home right after this. I swear, the little con artist has


    completely warped my sense of trust for people I meet on the Inte!"


    Leanna countered, "Maybe there''s been a misunderstanding. I think he''s rather adorable, and his


    manners are impable, too. Did you read too much into his messages?"


    Zoe retorted aggravatedly, "That''s not possible! He even sent me photos, remember? I wasn''t reading


    too much into anything! I give up on love. I''ve met countless douchebags in this lifetime to put me off


    dating forever. Lying, cheating scumbags, and those with fish ponds, too... What are kids learning


    these days at school? Does scumbag training start this young? Maybe I''m just not meant to find love. I


    might as well join a convent!"


    Leannaughed and patted her friend''s shoulder as sheforted, "Now, now, don''t jump the gun. You


    can mingle after thepetition. There''s a higher chance of you meeting the right guy if you just get


    away from the Inte for long enough."


    "Forget it," Zoe muttered grimly. "What am I if not a douchebag ma? I should just ept my fate


    and swear off men entirely."


    At that moment, Leanna looked at the young coupleughing and bantering by the stream. She smiled


    and mused wistfully, "It''s nice to be young, huh?"


    Zoe followed her line of sight and sighed in the most jaded way she could. "Yeah. I wouldn''t have to


    worry about meeting douchebags if I were their age."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    That afternoon, the campers dug into their own packed lunches and snacks. When they were done, two


    pairs of lovebirds decided to make their way to the flower field they had seen on the map. The


    remaining campers either retreated into their tents to nap or huddled together by the stream, gazing out


    at the woods.


    Leanna sat next to Aidan as she asked quietly, "Are you bored, President Pearson?"


    Aidan cast her a sideways nce and smiled, "Not when you''re with me."


    The corners of her lips curled upward as she stared at the glimmering surface of the water. After a


    while, she said, "Sometimes when I get overwhelmed by work, hanging out with this bunch of kids


    reminds me to take it easy."


    "Kids? You''re not that much older than them, you know," he pointed out in amusement.


    She argued good-naturedly, "Yes, but I''m older than them nheless, even if by a few years. I treat


    them the same way as I would with Louis. They''re like my little sisters and brothers."


    Aidan snaked an arm around her shoulders and pulled her close, then murmured huskily, "I''m only a


    couple of years older than you, but you called me mister."


    She was rendered speechless by this.


    While she was still stunned, Aidan leaned in and nibbled her earlobe yfully. "Hmm?" he teased.


    Blood rushed to her cheeks at once as she gave him a weak push. "Watch yourself. There are people


    here."


    "Where?" Aidan asked, looking around to make his point.


    The only other person here was the kid doing his homework with his back to them. Zoe appeared to


    have skulked off somewhere else as well.


    "We still can''t," Leanna said as she used her hand to keep the distance between them.


    "Can''t what?" he asked as he chuckled roguishly.


    She couldn''t believe he was still teasing her when they were in the open. She ignored him, but when


    she was about to get up, he pulled her back and said, "Okay, I''ll stop. Just sit here with me, will you?"


    He sounded tired. She looked at him for a moment and asked, "Have you been busy these days?"


    He hummed in response, then exined slowly, "There''s a lot of work to be done, and I''m going on a


    business trip tomorrow."


    "You never told me."


    "I was going to, but then you decided to bring your whole workshop on a camping trip."


    She quirked her lips. Well, I me myself for this, she thought guiltily. She paused, then asked, "When


    will you be back?"


    "A week, if I''m lucky," Aidan answered. He wasn''t worried about her safety, given that he had hired a


    team of bodyguards to secretly keep watch over her during his absence. Still, there was something else


    on his mind.


    Leanna straightened up in his arms and pressed, "Are you okay? You''ve been acting strange today."


    Aidan smirked. "How so?"


    "For starters, I''ve rarely seen you so serious."


    "So you like it when I''m not serious, then?"


    Once again, Leanna had no reply.

 Chapter 346

    Chapter 346


    Zoe strolled around in the surrounding woods. She hoped that nature would cheer her up, but


    unfortunately, it added insult to injury. She tripped and twisted her ankle while on her walk, so she grew


    even more agitated.


    She limped back to the stream and saw the couple perched by the running water with their arms


    around each other. Exasperation filled her, and she felt as if she had just shot herself through the foot.


    To think, she had organized this whole camping trip only to make a fool of herself at the end of the day.


    Zoe nced at the child sitting on the little foldable table. He had his head bent as he went through his


    workbook. Sighing, she couldn''t help her guilt and shake the feeling that she was corrupting this little


    boy who would eventually stand at the forefront of this country.


    Ah, screw the pride. Having made up her mind, Zoe walked over to the table, sat down next to the kid,


    and then asked, "Hey, brat, what grade are you in?"


    "Fourth grade," he replied nonchntly.


    She nced at the textbook. At least he''s honest.


    She went on to press, "You''re too young to know how to pick up... I mean, make up lies on the


    Inte."


    Hogbunny set his pencil down and countered solemnly, "Miss Enchantress, I didn''t make anything up. I


    was¡ª"


    "Hold on just a second," Zoe cut him off hurriedly. "You can just call me Zoe. We did meet by chance,


    after all, so no honorifics required."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    "Oh, okay," he said.


    He''s rather polite, she decided, then continued, "If you weren''t making things up, then why did you


    send me that... picture?" She didn''t think she had it in her to mention the word ''abs'' in front of a child.


    Hogbunny tipped his head to the side and pointed out blithely, "Weren''t you the one who asked for it?


    The Inte told me that pictures would help build trust, so I found the best-looking picture there was


    and sent it to you."


    She was not expecting this answer or the boration that came with it. She reminded herself not to be


    irked by a child and let out a slow breath.


    Zoe turned around then and grabbed a bag of ice from the container where the team stored food. She


    reached for a piece of cloth, wrapped it around the ice bag, and held it against her ankle.


    As soon as Hogbunny saw this, he pulled out a bottle of pain-relief spray explicitly designed for athletes


    from his backpack and handed it to her.


    Zoe gaped at the canister in surprise. "Where did you get that?"


    "My mom''s a doctor. She wants me to carry this spray and antiseptic around in case of an emergency."


    Her eyes glimmered with interest when she heard this. "I see. And what about your dad? What does he


    do for a living?"


    The little boy''s eyes darkened as he grew reticent and looked down at his hands.


    It was only then that she realized she might have touched on a sensitive topic. She tried to relieve the


    awkwardness by letting out a dryugh, then changed the subject swiftly, "By the way, which school do


    you go to?"


    "I don''t go to school."


    "Why not?"


    Hogbunny gave her a wary look, then said hesitantly, "No reason. My mom doesn''t want me to go to


    school because it isn''t safe. She says there are a lot of bad guys out there."


    Zoe looked at the little boy speechlessly. So, his mother will not let him go to school because there are


    plenty of bad guys out there, but she will let him hang out with someone he met on the Inte?


    The nonsensical aspect of this made her want to snort in disbelief. She was going to have to talk to the


    kid''s parents when she dropped him offter. How can they just let him hang out with strangers? What


    if I am just a silly woman who got catfished? What will happen to him if I am a predator lurking in


    cyberspace, preying on children?


    Not long after, the sky began to darken, and everyone returned to base.


    Leanna was standing next to the barbecue pit after putting in the briquettes. Aidan walked up to her,


    shrugged off his coat, and shoved it into her arms. "Stand aside."


    "Do you know how to do this?" she asked skeptically.


    He took off his watch, raised a brow at her, then said arrogantly, "There''s nothing I can''t do."


    The b*stard''s getting pleased with himself again, she thought in resignation as she rolled her eyes.


    Nheless, she grabbed the watch he handed her, found a clean spot to set down his things, and


    then went to help him.


    Leanna had only just approached the pit when she picked up a pungent, burning smell.


    I knew this was gonna happen. Stumped, she could only sigh and offered, "Come on, let me do it."


    What did she expect from Aidan? He was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and everything he ever


    needed was done and provided for without question. Asking him to do culinary work was like inviting an


    apocalypse to fall upon mankind.


    Then, he stepped aside. Now that he had an excuse, he pointed out defensively, "Alright, but for the


    record, you were the one who refused my help."


    Leanna red at him. She couldn''t believe how thick-skinned he was.


    Soon, the delicious smell of meat sizzling over a hotbed of briquettes wafted through the woods.


    The food was prepared beforehand, and most of them came in ready-to-eat packages. All the campers


    needed to do was add a dash of seasoning and set the food on the grill; no fancy cooking was


    required.


    As such, it was beyond her understanding how Aidan could manage to burn the food in the short time


    she turned away from the barbecue pit to set her things down.


    A few girls from the workshop nned to help, but when they saw his imposing figure standing behind


    Leanna with his hands in his pockets, they faltered and walked away.


    Just then, Leanna''s phone buzzed. Her hands were full, so she said to Aidan, "Would you mind taking


    the call for me, President Pearson?"


    He did as he was told and grabbed the phone. ncing at the number, he sauntered off to the side


    where it was quiet, then put the call through.


    The caller was quiet for what seemed like a long moment. Then, an odd chuckle filled the other line.


    "Leanna, I heard through the grapevine that you''ll be going for apetition soon. How much is the


    prize money this time?"


    Aidan was indifferent when he heard the man''s voice. He replied coolly, "That depends on whether


    you''ll live to take the money."


    Jethro probably did not expect Aidan to be the one answering his call. A long pauseter, Jethro said


    congenially, "Aidan, that''s no way to speak. You and my lovely daughter don''t need the money, do you?


    What I''m asking for is not even worth a dime of your fortune."


    "And how much would a dime be?"


    Jethro chuckled hoarsely and sounded even more maniacal as he said, "Three hundred million."


    "Oh, that''s no bother at all. I''d wire the money to you if hell had a bank."


    As though sensing that Aidan would hang up soon, Jethro quickly said, "Aidan, I''m warning you, there


    are many people who are after me right now. Do you want to guess what they''re trying to find out from


    me? I wouldn''t have called Leanna on my own if I didn''t care about the good old days we shared. After


    all, those people who want answers from me will be more than willing to pay me good money."


    Aidan was unruffled as he corrected, "They''re not quite as virtuous as you think. You''d sooner rot away


    in the gutter than get money from them."


    Jethro panicked. Judging by the slight echo in the older man''s voice, Aidan deduced he must be calling


    from a spacious but empty room. "Aidan," Jethro began. "I know you''re only trying to scare me, and I


    know these are vicious people I''m dealing with, which is why I''ve been hiding from them all this while.


    How about if I settle for a hundred million instead? That''s all I''m asking for! Once I have the money, I''ll


    go far, far away and leave you both alone for good!"


    "You''re certainly optimistic," Aidan drawled sarcastically. Pausing, he looked at the number on the


    screen, then frowned as he bit out grimly, "Don''t call Leanna ever again. She doesn''t have the kind of


    money you''re asking for, and she finds you repulsive."


    "I know that, but... how will I get in touch with you?"


    Aidan gave him Jonathan''s number, then said, "Given that you''re asking for that much money, you


    should at least have something to show for it."


    Jethro knew what Aidan meant and said hastily, "I understand. I''ll give you the films, too."


    Not wanting to spend another moment speaking to him, Aidan hung up and blocked the number.


    When he returned to the barbecue pit, most of the food had already been cooked. Everyone was


    huddled around the campfire, singing, and pping.


    Leanna spotted Aidan and walked over to him. She stopped by his side and asked in concern, "Took


    you long enough. Who called?"

 Chapter 347

    Chapter 347


    Aidan gave Leanna her phone back and said breezily, "It was a cold call."


    Leanna eyed him skeptically. "You would''ve hung up right away."


    "I was analyzing the national economic trend for him," he quipped.


    She nearly snorted. She wasn''t sure if he was too bored or too twisted.


    Suddenly, someone shouted across the site, "Hey, Leanna! P-President Pearson! The food''s getting


    cold!"


    Leanna shoved her phone into her pocket and said to Aidan, "Come on."


    When she and Aidan sat down by the campfire alongside the others, thetter threw a sideways nce


    at Hogbunny, who was happily munching away, before jerking his chin. "Scoot over."


    Hogbunny red at him and clenched his little fists, but upon realizing that he was greatly outmatched


    by Aidan, he mutely scooted over to make room.


    At the sight of this, Leanna rolled her eyes at Aidan and asked, "Must you pick on the kid?"


    Aidan stared at her indifferently. "I''m pushing him to grow in the face of adversity."


    Ignoring him, Leanna proceeded to roast a few more meat skewers and handed them to Hogbunny


    after they were cooked through. The little boy took the skewers as he chewed on his food. "Thank you."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Zoe was seated next to him, and she couldn''t help tutting as she remarked, "Look at him wolfing down


    his food. Hey, kid, I''m pretty sure you ate your fill during lunch."


    "I''m just respecting food," Hogbunny said without missing a beat.


    The others blinked, unsure what to make of the child''s eloquence and wittyebacks.


    When all the food had been finished, someone suggested that they yed games, and the loser would


    have to sing in front of everyone. In the end, the only two who refused to participate in the fun were


    Hogbunny, who insisted that he had to finish his homework, and Aidan, who just so happened to have


    gotten a call from work that he simply had to take.


    By the time Aidan returned, Leanna was seated by the fire, the yellow glow bringing out the gentle


    slopes and curves of her features. She was smiling; her presence dazzling even on this dark night.


    Aidan stood on the side and watched her. He wasn''t sure how long he did that for, but the corners of


    his mouth were curled up in a quiet smile.


    Just then, a childish voice broke through his reverie. "Say, mister, you must really like thatdy over


    there, huh?"


    Aidan looked away from Leanna and fixed his cool gaze on Hogbunny.


    The little boy continued with the jaded tone of an adult, "You don''t have to lie to me. I can tell you like


    her from the look in your eyes."


    "I have no intention of lying to you," Aidan said. "She''s my wife, after all."


    "Oh. Doesn''t look like it to me," Hogbunny pointed out.


    Aidan''s tongue poked the inside of his cheek as he sputtered derisively. "Are you challenging me?"


    Hogbunny exined, "No, you''ve got it wrong, mister. I was only stating the truth."


    "I think you''re just itching for a beating," Aidan grumbled.


    Unfortunately for him, Leanna had just walked over at that exact moment and caught what he said


    without context. She frowned and demanded, "Are you bullying the kid again?"


    Hogbunny darted around Leanna and hid behind her, looking like a puppy that had just been kicked.


    Scoffing at this, Aidan shot the brat a dark look as though to say, "You''d better watch your back."


    Later that night, when the food was finished and the games had been yed, the campers began to


    pack up to go home. They tidied up the site and put their belongings into the trunk of the car, then got


    ready to leave. No changes had been made in the number of people, so they left exactly the same way


    as they came.


    Zoe, however, was visibly conflicted. She doubted her beat-up car could keep up with Aidan''s shy


    ride, but asking him to wait for her by the workshop entrance upon their return was like a death wish


    she couldn''t bring herself to make. After a moment of thought, she said, "President Pearson, I¡­"


    Aidan knew what she was about to say and reached out to grab Hogbunny by the back of his cor. "I''ll


    drop him home."


    Zoe''s eyes lit up. "Thank you, President Pearson!" she eximed gratefully.


    Leanna, on the other hand, didn''t expect such generosity from Aidan, but she was worried that he


    might pick on Hogbunny. As such, she gave the little boy her number and rubbed his head


    affectionately before saying, "Give me a call if you run into trouble, okay?"


    "Thank you, miss. Goodbye," Hogbunny said cheerily, then waved goodbye to Zoe.


    Zoe maintained her smile and waved back, thanking the heavens that the nightmare was finally ending.


    It didn''t take long for the three cars to pull out of the campsite and disappear into the night.


    Inside the ck Maybach, Aidan asked tly, "Where do you stay?"


    Hogbunny clutched his backpack close to his chest and answered carefully, "You can just drop me off


    at the workshop. I can make my way home after that."


    Aidan gave a light, almost devilish chuckle when he heard this. "You won''t tell me? Fine, then. Seeing


    as I''m in a good mood, I''m gonna show you a magic trick. Close your eyes, and when I call your name,


    you''ll find yourself home."


    Hogbunny made no reply. A somber look passed over the little boy''s face as his lips pressed into a thin,


    hard line.


    Aidan matched his steely silence and merely stepped on the gas, speeding down the road.


    An hourter, the car rolled to a stop in front of a prestigious high-rise residential building.


    Hogbunny tightened his grip on his backpack, and Aidan turned to throw him a smug look. "Scared?


    Can''t feel your legs?"


    The little boy kept calm and bit out, "Thank you for sending me home, mister. I''ll go up on my own."


    As he said this, he quickly flung the car door open and made a run for it. However, he had barely


    covered any distance when Aidan grabbed him by the back of his cor once more.


    Blood rushed to Hogbunny''s face as he iled his arms helplessly. "Let me go!"


    "Only if you promise to walk normally. If you try to run again, I''ll bind you up and drop you off at your


    doorstep," Aidan warned in a low, threatening voice.


    "Okay, I got it," the boy mumbled.


    Aidan set him down after hearing himply. Hogbunny picked up the backpack he had dropped on


    the ground and dusted it off, then slowly pulled the straps over his shoulders. Having done so, he


    trudged reluctantly toward the building entrance.


    ncing at the time, Aidan sighed impatiently and snapped, "Hurry up. I don''t have all day."


    Hogbunny glowered at him resentfully. "Don''t you know patience is a virtue? You''re so boor-headed, it''s


    no wonder the prettydy isn''t your wife!"


    Aidan saw no point in arguing with a child.


    When they entered the building, Hogbunny reached out and pressed down on the elevator button with


    more force than usual. The elevator doors opened two minutester, and he gripped the straps of his


    backpack tightly as he enunciated, "Okay, mister. Thanks for dropping me home. This is my floor."


    Aidan looked at the floor number and asked, "This is the floor?"


    "Yes," Hogbunny replied insistently.


    "Then go out," Aidan said, raising a finger to press the number above Hogbunny''s supposed floor.


    Seeing this, the little boy frowned and stepped back into the elevator. He was evidently furious, but he


    did not have the nerve to speak up against Aidan.


    The elevator doors opened once more with a ding, and Aidan was the first to walk out. Hogbunny


    followed him begrudgingly.


    They stopped in front of a door, whereupon Aidan said curtly, "Open it."


    Hogbunny huffed angrily and keyed in the passcode. The door opened, but just as he had burrowed


    through the gap and tried to m the door shut in Aidan''s face, a familiar male voice asked aloud from


    somewhere inside the apartment, "Cameron, is that you? You''re homete. Where have you been?"


    As fast as Hogbunny tried to be, Aidan was much faster; thetter was already halfway through the


    door.


    The man inside the apartment froze when he saw Aidan.


    In stark contrast to the man''s shocked demeanor, Aidan looked perfectly at ease as he greeted, "Mr.


    Morris." Seamlessly, he took Hogbunny, who was desperately trying to block the doorway with his little


    body, by the arm and dragged him to one side, then walked into the apartment.


    William looked at the child first, then at Aidan, and asked bewilderedly, "What''s going on here,


    President Pearson?"


    Aidan closed the door behind him and said in a clipped tone, "I was hoping you could tell me, Mr.


    Morris."


    While the adults were talking, Hogbunny finally broke free of Aidan''s grip and hid behind William.


    Secondster, William patted the kid on the head and murmured, "Cameron, go into your room. I just


    need a moment here with our guest." Then, he fixed his gaze on Aidan and said courteously, "Come on


    in, President Pearson."

 Chapter 348

    Chapter 348


    After William poured a ss of water for Aidan, the former sat opposite thetter and asked aloud,


    "Why did youe back with Cameron, President Pearson?"


    Aidan folded his slender legs, tapped the armrest of the couch lightly with his fingers, and said lightly, "I


    think you should ask him this question."


    William turned his head and nced at the child who was lying against the door frame. Thetter


    withdrew his head and closed the door tightly.


    Seeing this, William said gently, "If Cameron offended you in any way, I apologize to you. He¡ª"


    "There''s no need to apologize." Aidan''s voice grew colder. "He went to find Leanna."


    Hearing this, William was startled. He did not expect this to happen. Hence, his expression became a


    little stiff. Aidan didn''t know what Cameron was thinking. "This child is like a ticking time bomb. If he


    finds Leanna today, he''ll go find Lloyd tomorrow. If Leanna is implicated because of him, do you think


    it''s a small matter, Mr. Morris?"


    William pursed his lips and said after a long while, "Don''t worry, President Pearson, I promise that this


    will not happen again."


    "I didn''te to listen to any promises. I just wanted to remind you that sometimes, even a little


    omission will be fatal. You should understand this fact better than me."


    "I understand what you mean, President Pearson."


    Aidan was about to get up and leave, but then he thought of something. He sat down again, raised his


    eyebrows, and spoke up, "I have a question to ask you."


    William replied, "Please. Go ahead, President Pearson."


    Aidan said slowly, "Although you''ve returned to Highside after many years, I can imagine that you don''t


    know many people here. However, I think there is a name that you should have some impression


    about."


    William didn''t answer. He picked up the ss and took a sip of water, waiting for Aidan''s next words.


    Aidan continued, "The name is Jethro McKinney. Does that ring a bell for you, Mr. Morris?"


    "Who is that?"


    With his cold eyes, Aidan stared at William with a deep smile. "It''s nothing. It''s just an irrelevant


    swindler. Since you don''t know him, just pretend that I didn''t ask you about him, Mr. Morris. I don''t think


    you will be interested in his whereabouts."


    William didn''t say a word.


    After Aidan took a few steps away, William suddenly said, "If you need any help, you can let me know,


    President Pearson."


    "I''m going on a business trip to Italy tomorrow. Please, Mr. Morris, take care of my wife."


    After Aidan left, Cameron came out of the room with his head lowered the entire time as if he knew he


    had done something wrong. He then whispered, "Uncle William, I''m sorry for causing you trouble."


    William walked up to him and squatted down, then began rubbing his head. "It doesn''t matter; it''s not


    your fault. Cameron, will you tell me why you did that?"


    Cameron bit his lip, tears rolling in his eyes. He choked for a long time before he said, "I read on the


    Inte that she is Mr. Crossley''s¡­"


    Before he finished speaking, William could already guess what he wanted to say. Cameron was the


    son of the employee who met with an ident in the project under Crossley Group. Thepany


    originally wanted to get rid of the family, but William rushed over in time to take the wife and son away.


    However, during the process, Cameron''s mother also met with a car ident and was lying in the


    hospital to this day in aa. Hence, this child undoubtedly hated the entire Crossley Family.


    Recently, in order to cover up what happened in the past, Crossley Group secretly publicized the news


    of Leanna''s return to the Crossley Family. In this way, most of the outside world will be focused on this


    gossip, and few people would really pay attention to the situation at Crossley Group.


    After a while, Cameron sobbed and said, "I didn''t do anything; I just wanted to go and have a look."


    He first found the contact information of the studio on social media, he thereafter added Zoe and


    fabricated an identity to have today''s meeting.


    William sighed silently and patted Cameron''s twitching shoulder. "I know, but Cameron, you are too


    impulsive. What you did was dangerous. You can''t do it again."


    Cameron nodded with tears in his eyes before wiping them away. "I know. I won''t do this next time.


    Uncle William, that beautiful woman is a good person though. I believe she is not a bad person who


    would harm my parents. Besides, everyone was nice to me today!"


    After speaking, he clenched his fists angrily and added, "Except that bad uncle!"


    It took William a few seconds to realize who the "bad uncle" he was talking about was.


    He got up with a smile and replied, "Okay. You should go to sleep now."


    After Cameron returned to the room, William stered a serious expression on his face. He took out


    his phone and dialed a number. "Have you found the whereabouts of Jethro?"


    "Not yet. He is hiding very well. Other than us, Aidan and Lloyd are all looking for him."


    William walked to the balcony and looked at the scenery outside. "Go to the neighborhood where we


    saw himst time and expand the search area. Find him as soon as possible."


    There must be something up with Jethro. Otherwise. Aidan wouldn''t mention him deliberately.


    "Yes."


    After hanging up the phone, William stood there for a long time. In the end, he took out his phone and


    dialed another number¡­


    On Monday, when Leanna arrived at the door of the studio, she saw a group of girls lying against the


    wall next door. They were looking at something excitedly.


    At this time, Zoe just arrived. She was drinking soy milk while saying, "What are they doing?"


    Leanna shook her head.


    A girl then said in a hushed but excited voice, "Oh my God. He''s really handsome!"


    When Zoe heard that there was a handsome guy, her eyes lit up and she rushed over. "Where is the


    handsome guy?"


    Shey against the door with the girls, but she only saw rows of figures inside and didn''t even see the


    handsome guy anywhere. "Um, where is he?"


    "Zoe, you don''t get it. Rumor has it that this ce has been set up as a music studio. The boss is a


    super handsome guy. Those people inside are all vying to sign up."


    Zoe stood on tiptoe and stuck her head to look inside. There was a huge crowd, so she thought that


    this boss must really be handsome. "I think it''s time for me to cultivate my musical expertise. I think I''ll


    sign up too."


    The man in question inside seemed to have sensed the talk outside and slowly stood up. When Zoe


    saw his face, the light in her eyes dissipated instantly. As if she had seen something bad, she quickly


    fled back to the studio.


    As Leanna was pouring a ss of water in the room, she saw Zoe rushing back and asked with a


    smile, "Didn''t you see the handsome guy?" Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Zoe couldn''t help but click her tongue. "Don''t mention him! It''s really bad luck."


    Before Leanna could ask her what was wrong, Daniel appeared at the door and greeted them with a


    smile. "Miss McKinney, Zoe."


    Zoe was speechless. Who allowed him to greet me in such an affectionate way?!

 Chapter 349

    Chapter 349


    Leanna nodded slightly, then said in a somewhat puzzled tone, "What are you doing here?"


    Danielughed. "I haven''t nned to leave Highside yet, so I opened a music studio to have something


    to do."


    Zoe was speechless. If he has nothing to do, go sit in a prison or something! Why is he here to annoy


    me?


    Leanna didn''t expect things to turn out like this, and she didn''t know whether it was a coincidence or a


    deliberate act. Daniel continued, "We will be neighbors again in the future. If you need help, you can


    come to me directly."


    Leanna nodded politely. "Okay."


    Before leaving, Daniel looked at Zoe again and smiled at her.


    Zoe didn''t say anything.


    After Daniel left, the girls returned to work one after another, while Zoe walked to the office with Leanna


    without a word. As soon as the office door was closed, she couldn''t help cursing frantically, "Is there


    really something wrong with him? It''s definitely intentional! I was just interested in his looks and simply


    flirted with him for a bit. Did he need to do this?"


    Leanna sat in her seat and did not speak for a while. She also felt that Daniel''s sudden appearance


    was definitely not just a simple coincidence, but she didn''t know what he came here for. At least, she


    could be sure that Daniel was not here to harm her, otherwise, he wouldn''t have waited until now.


    In the office, Zoe spoke more and more angrily. "I seriously suspect that he has been with Georgina for


    too long, which has caused him to be twisted! He probably thinks that I like him, and deliberately


    came here to find a sense of ego! Nana, did you hear him just now? He called me Zoe! When did I ever


    have such a good rtionship with him? He even looked at me with a perverted look when he left. I''m


    sure he''s here to seduce me!"


    Leanna stared at her in confusion.


    Then, Zoe mmed the table and felt that the whole situation was intolerable. "This won''t do. I''m going


    to make it clear to him now. Starting today, we will beplete strangers!"


    Before she made an irreversible mistake, Leanna hurriedly grabbed her. "Zoe, calm down. It''s unclear


    what his purpose is, so let''s observe for a while."


    Taking two deep breaths, Zoe calmed down and sighed to herself. "Speaking of which, it''s my fault. I


    shouldn''t have been so charming to him before. He couldn''t forget me for such a long time, and now


    he''s here for me."


    After speaking, Zoe raised her hand and smelled it. "Nana, do you think there is a special smell on my


    body that attracts scumbags?"


    Leanna held back herughter and said seriously, "Actually, I don''t think Daniel should be considered a


    scumbag. He and Georgina are just¡­"


    Zoe pouted. "Forget it. Don''t exin on his behalf. I''ve never seen such an outrageous and ridiculous


    person. That jerk, Aidan, is much better than him."


    At this time, Leanna''sputer beeped. There was an email from the organizer of The Designer


    Competition, informing her that she had sessfully passed the preliminary round and entered the


    next round. The organizer invited all designers who had passed the preliminary round to go to the


    competition venue to draw the topic for the next round in three days.


    Zoe and Leanna were very calm when they saw that they had passed the preliminary round. Since they


    worked hard for so long, it was needless for them to be worried about a simple preliminary round. Only


    ten of dozens of designers entered the next round, which also meant that theterpetition would


    only be more difficult. Whether it was Queenie, Violet, or Georgina, they would not give up easily.


    Zoe didn''t bother Leanna anymore; she simply patted Leanna on the shoulder and went out. Leanna


    also closed the email and started working.


    At noon, Leanna put down her paintbrush and stretched her body. Just when she was about to call Zoe


    for lunch, there was a knock on the office door.


    "Come in."


    Soon, Alice''s figure appeared in sight, carrying a few insted food containers in her hand. Since


    Leanna said that she had to eat in the studio every day before returning to Crossley Residence, Aidan


    asked Alice to bring her meals every night. However, it was only noon now.


    Seeing Leanna''s doubts, Alice said with a smile, "Mrs. Pearson, before Mr. Pearson left for his


    business trip, he requested me to send you two meals a day in the future. Let me know whatever you


    would like to eat."


    Leanna was startled, and her ears turned a little red. "No, it''s too troublesome for you toe twice a


    day. Just do as usual. Only dinner is fine¡­"


    "Oh, Mrs. Pearson, what are you talking about? My job is to take care of you and your husband. So,


    why would it be troublesome for me?"


    As if afraid that Leanna wouldn''t agree, Alice said, " Mr. Pearson warned me before he left. He said that


    if you lose weight in a few days, he will deduct my sry."


    Leanna was speechless. He''s just a jerk who only exploits working people!


    Alice put the container in front of her and said, "Mrs. Pearson, what do you want to eat at night? I''ll


    make it for you."


    Leanna pondered for a while before replying, "Fish soup, as usual."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Sure, I''ll go to the market to buy fish in a while."


    When Alice was about to leave, Leanna suddenly stopped her. "Alice, can I ask you something?"


    "Of course, Mrs. Pearson. Why are you being so polite to me?"


    Leanna flipped through her phone and said after a few seconds of silence, "Do you remember what


    you were doing on the 15th of this month?"


    After asking this question, Leanna thought it was absurd. If it were her and if she heard this, she


    probably wouldn''t know what she was doing at that time. Just when she was about to say it was


    nothing, Alice pondered and replied, "The 15th? Was it a Friday?"


    Leanna nodded. "Yes."


    Alice said, "I remember that I had my daughter''s school parent-teacher meeting that day, so I specially


    asked Mr. Pearson for a day off."


    "Then when did you return to Castor Vi?"


    "The next morning. Yes, I remember. After returning, Mr. Pearson told me to bring dinner to you."


    After speaking, Alice asked tentatively, "Mrs. Pearson, is there something wrong?"


    Hearing this, Leanna smiled. "It''s alright. I''m just asking casually. Alice, go get busy."


    After Alice left, Leanna retracted her thoughts and looked at the container in front of her, feeling a little


    dazed. So, her guess that day was correct, and the fish soup was indeed cooked by Naomi. But why


    did Aidan deliberately lie to her? Since Naomi cooked the fish soup, she must be in Highside. However,


    Aidan never told her about it. What the hell is the jerk doing?


    Leanna couldn''t think of a reason. She took a deep breath, reached out, rubbed her temples, then got


    up and sat in front of the coffee table. After taking a few bites, Leanna vaguely felt that something was


    wrong. She didn''t have time to think about it. In order to confirm her guess, she quickly got up and went


    out with the car key.

 Chapter 350

    Chapter 350


    Forty minutester, the car stopped in front of a residential building. Leanna sat in the car, looked left


    and right, and realized she was parked in the same spot where Aidan had brought her previously.


    Then, she opened the door and got out of the car. Themunity was veryrge, and there were


    many people, so she had no clue where to start. Thus, she found a ce with a good view, sat on the


    bench, and waited, which was the most straightforward but inefficient method.


    She couldn''t ask Aidan, as he would definitely not tell her. Moreover, he would take precautions against


    her, which would be ineffective. She might as well try her luck like she was doing now, just in case it


    worked.


    Hence, she just sat motionless, staring at everyone who came in and out of themunity. Time


    passed minute by minute, and soon, the sky gradually darkened. She took out her phone and looked at


    it, then sighed silently; it seemed she still had no good luck. She put her bag on her back and turned


    around, but she had just taken a few steps when she saw a figure walking toward her.


    Leanna stopped to take a better look, and sure enough, it was the young woman Aidan had taken her


    to see at the mallst time. Noticing her stare, Celia looked over and was surprised for a moment, but


    she was actually more baffled instead. "Miss McKinney?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Leanna approached and nodded at her. "Hello."


    Celia said, "Miss McKinney, why¡ª"


    Leanna interrupted, "I happened to be doing something nearby and passed by here. I remembered that


    Aidan brought me herest time and said that you lived here, so I stopped by to have a look. I didn''t


    expect to meet you by chance."


    She nced at what Celia was holding in her hand. "Did you just buy the groceries? Are you going


    back?"


    Celia reacted and replied, "Yes... I just came back from buying groceries."


    Leanna smiled. "Your bags look quite heavy. Let me help you. I bought something for the little boy too. I


    would like to go up and see him."


    Not quite expecting her to say this, Celia was stunned for a moment and subconsciously wanted to


    refuse. Nevertheless, Leanna had already taken the bags from her hand, so she swallowed her words.


    If she declined directly, it seemed like it would be too obvious and make Leanna more suspicious.


    Celia said quickly, "Since you''re here, Miss McKinney, please stay and have some food with me. I''ll go


    buy some food."


    After that, she wanted to take the opportunity to walk away. But Leanna stopped her and smiled.


    "There''s no need to go to so much trouble. I still have something to do. I''ll just go up and see the little


    boy, then leave since I haven''t seen him for a long time."


    "Then... There is no fruit at home. I''ll go buy some."


    A fruit stand was next to them, so Leanna said, "I''ll go buy some."


    No matter what, it didn''t seem right to go to someone else''s house empty-handed. When Leanna


    walked to the fruit stand, she nced back and noticed that Celia was following behind her without any


    unusual behavior. Leanna tilted her head, looked away, and bought some seasonal fruits. However,


    when she was not paying attention, Celia took out her phone and quickly sent a message. When


    Leanna looked over, she pretended nothing had happened and smiled at her.


    After buying the fruits, Leanna followed Celia upstairs. Celia took the initiative to speak. "Miss


    McKinney, I read on the Inte that you set up a studio by yourself, right?"


    "Not alone; it was with a friend."


    "Oh, that''s still quite amazing. There are very few people who are as beautiful and capable as you,


    Miss McKinney."


    Leanna smiled. "It''s just a stroke of good luck."


    Celia said, "Miss McKinney, don''t be modest. Luck and capability are both important. I have seen your


    designs, and they are very well done. Sometimes I envy you. If I have your skills, I will not..."


    Halfway through speaking, she stopped.


    Leanna asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Celiaughed. "It''s nothing. It''s just ahead, Miss McKinney, let''s go."


    "Sounds good."


    Celia approached the door and took out the key to open it. After looking inside, she turned around and


    said to Leanna, "Miss McKinney, pleasee in. The house is a little messy, so please don''t mind it."


    "It''s alright; it''s normal for households with children to have many things."


    Celia put all the groceries and fruits she bought on the table, walked to the bedroom, and carried the


    little boy with big eyes out. "Miss McKinney, please help me take care of the baby, and I''ll make dinner."


    Leanna held the little boy carefully as if afraid of scaring him and then lowered her voice. "Okay."


    Celia hurriedly took her things into the kitchen and finally let out a breath. The little boy seemed thrilled


    to see Leanna. He was gurgling in his arms all the time, clenching his fists with his little hands and


    waving them happily in the air.


    The corners of Leanna''s lips curved up, and she sat down on the couch with the little boy in her arms.


    She wanted to find a toy for him to y with, but none were visible in the living room. Thus, she carried


    the little boy to the nursery to get a toy for him. When she was about to leave, Leanna stopped, looked


    around the empty room, and frowned slightly.


    She carried the little boy to the door again, and her eyes fell on the shoe cab. She then looked


    around her. In this room, there was no trace of another person living there, which made it even weirder.


    How could Celia leave such a small child at home and go out shopping alone? This was outrageous.


    At this time, Celia came out of the kitchen and stood in front of Leanna. "Miss McKinney, sorry for


    troubling you. Here, give me the child."


    Leanna smiled and handed the child over. She said slowly, "Are you taking care of the child alone?"


    Celia''s scalp was tingling from Leanna''s sudden question, and she didn''t know how to answer for a


    long time. "That''s not true. When I''m too busy, I will a-also ask the neighbors to take care of him for


    me."


    Leanna realized she hadn''t thought of this before, but then she suddenly said, "Oh, so your neighbor


    helps you to take care of the child. What about your husband? I remember you have another child,


    right? Is he in kindergarten or elementary school?"


    "U-Um¡­"


    There were drops of sweat on Celia''s forehead.


    Leanna said again, "I don''t see any photos of you, your husband, or your other child here."


    When Leanna spoke, she always kept a faint smile, as if she was just asking casually. But Celia knew


    what she meant. After all, President Pearson had already exined it to her in advance. Otherwise,


    she wouldn''t have done that in the mall.


    Celia was nervous when the doorbell abruptly rang, and she hurriedly said, "I-I''ll go open the door."


    The door opened to reveal an ordinary-looking young man and a five- or six-year-old child. The man


    said, "Darling, don''t be mad at me. Even if you don''t want to talk to me, for the sake of the child,e


    home with me."

 Chapter 351

    Chapter 351


    After the man finished speaking, the child also sped Celia''s leg. "Mommy, I miss you and bro."


    Celia reacted quickly and immediately said, "I told you to leave me alone so that I can calm down, and


    you should reflect on what you did wrong. Fortunately, my parents bought me a house before marriage.


    Otherwise, I would have nowhere to go with the baby after a fight!"


    "Yes, yes, what you said is right. It''s all my fault; it''s all my fault. I will definitely reflect on it this time and


    promise not to make you angry again in the future."


    She reluctantly said, "I don''t want to talk to you. I have a guest here today, so I''ll settle the ount with


    youter!"


    When she was done talking, she turned her head and looked at Leanna with an embarrassed


    expression. "Miss McKinney, I''m sorry to let you see all this. Um..."


    Leanna said, "It doesn''t matter. I''m the one who needs to apologize."


    She took her bag and said, "Since you still have something going on, I won''t disturb you."


    Celia said, "Then, shall I send you off, Miss McKinney?"


    She looked at the little boy in Celia''s arms, stretched out her hand, poked his face, and smiled. "No


    need. You may carry on."


    When leaving, Leanna rubbed the head of the child next to her and turned to leave. After the door was


    closed, Celia and the man who had just arrived both breathed a sigh of relief simultaneously. But the


    little boy in his arms started to cry loudly. She was afraid that Leanna would hear it, so she hurriedly


    carried the child into the nursery.


    Leanna walked to the elevator and faintly heard a baby''s crying from behind, but it disappeared in


    an instant. She was a little lost from the elevator to the outside. She also wanted to tell herself that she


    had overthought, that things were not what she thought, and that she was too sensitive. But for some


    reason, those details repeatedly appeared in her mind. It seemed that all her doubts had been


    exined one by one, but the more so, the more uneptable it was. How could such a coincidence


    happen?


    She recalled that Aidan had brought her there on Christmas Day. Did Celia then quarrel with her


    husband and live alone with the little boy all this while? Even if she made concessions, and this was


    the case, it had been a long time since Celia lived with the little boy alone. Yet, her husband did not


    come to find her all this time and only appeared the moment when Leanna visited today. This could not


    possibly be a coincidence; it was as if everything was deliberately shown to her.


    Sitting in the car, Leanna leaned on the driver''s seat, looked at themunity gate, and slowly


    exhaled, not knowing what she was thinking. She just sat and waited for two hours, but nobody came


    out. Soon, she closed her eyes, feeling a bit exhausted. She couldn''t tell whether she was overthinking


    or they were hiding a deep secret, so much so that they had to do all this.


    After a while, she finally gave up and drove away. After she left, the man parked in the ck car not far


    away took out his phone and dialed a number. "Mr. Pearson, Miss McKinney has left."


    On the other end of the phone, Aidan hummed softly, but there was no indication of any emotion in his


    tone.


    "President Pearson, what should we do now?"


    After a few seconds of silence, Aidan said, "Move away tonight."


    "But if we do this and if Miss McKinney finds out, I''m afraid it will be even more¡ª"


    Aidan said, "There''s no time to care so much. Move out first, and we''ll talk about what happens


    afterward when I get back."


    The subordinate responded, "Okay."


    Meanwhile, in Italy, Aidan put down his phone and pinched the bridge of his nose. He was unprepared


    for Leanna''s sudden suspicion and even went over to check it out herself. Fortunately, everything was


    carried out on time. However, this time it wouldn''t be so easy to deceive her.


    At this time, Jonathan knocked on the door and came in. "President Pearson, the meeting will start


    soon."


    Aidan retracted his thoughts and asked in a low voice, "How long will the work herest?"


    Jonathan looked at the itinerary. "It will take at least five more days."


    Hearing this, Aidan couldn''t help frowning. Knowing that he was worried about Leanna, Jonathan


    tentatively said, "If you''re afraid that something will happen to Mrs. Pearson, I have a solution."


    Aidan looked sideways at him. "What solution?"


    ...


    When Leanna returned to Crossley Residence, it was already veryte. However, she did not expect


    Georgina to sit in the living room waiting for her. Seeing Leanna going upstairs, Georgina stopped her.


    "I heard that you passed the preliminary round, Miss McKinney. Congrattions."


    Leanna wasn''t in the mood to lie to her at the moment, so she just looked at her lightly. "Are your


    congrattory words so insincere, Miss Crossley?"


    Georgina probably didn''t expect her to say such a thing and was stunned for a few seconds before


    saying, "What do you mean?"


    "Since you''re congratting me, why do youe empty-handed?"


    In an instant, Georgina snorted in anger at her. "Oh, so you came with this purpose in mind."


    Leanna replied without expression, "I made it very clear early in the morning that I just want to get what


    I deserve. If you don''t n to send me a gift, it''s better to withdraw your words as soon as possible."


    Without waiting for Georgina to answer, Leanna went upstairs without looking back. Georgina stood


    where she was, feeling that Leanna was unprecedentedly absurd. It was the first time she had seen


    someone who could confidently speak such shameless words. I really don''t know what Aidan likes


    about her.


    Back in the bedroom, Leanna went to the bathroom to take a hot shower, then came out andy on the


    bed, not wanting to move at all. It took a long time for her phone, which had been thrown on the table,


    to make a harsh vibration. She turned over and covered her head with the quilt, not wanting to pick it


    up. On the other hand, the phone seemed to want to go against her, as it repeatedly rang, which was


    annoying to listen to.


    Leanna sat up abruptly, got up to answer the phone, and frowned. "Aren''t you going to sleep yet? It''s


    sote."


    Hearing the anger in her words, Aidan took a deep pause before saying, "It''s still daytime here. Are you


    asleep?"


    She snorted, then sat at the end of the bed. "I was sleeping, but you woke me up."


    "Why do you sound so upset? Who made you angry?"


    The moment she opened her mouth, she knew how furious she was. She hugged the pillow and said


    irritably, "No, I''m just in a bad mood."


    "You''re in a bad mood for no reason?"


    "Yeah."


    Aidan said in a deep and slow voice, "Are you having PMS?"


    Leanna was speechless. Why is this jerk so knowledgeable?


    She took a deep breath and calmed down. "No, maybe it''s because the pressure has been a little


    heavy on me recently. I''ll just get some sleep."


    "Aren''t you happy to be in the next round ofpetition?"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Leanna continued, "The pressure increases because of thispetition. You won''t understand


    anyway."


    "Okay, I won''t understand. If you have anything to say, just tell me. Don''t hold back and feel bad about


    it."

 Chapter 352

    Chapter 352


    When Leanna heard this, she had the urge to ask Aidan what the hell was going on, but she could hold


    back the words long enough to prevent them from escaping her mouth. If the jerk was going to tell her


    the truth, he wouldn''t wait for her to ask, and he wouldn''t find so many people to lie to her.


    After a long time, she suddenly said, with an unprecedented seriousness in her tone, "Aidan, let''s have


    a child."


    On the other end of the phone, he waspletely stunned.


    Not hearing his answer, she said lightly, "Don''t you want to? Forget it then."


    After a long while, he said, "I''m not saying I don''t want to. You must first exin why you have this idea.


    If the reason is reasonable, I will apany you to do it every day."


    Leanna ignored the imprudence in his words and said slowly, "I had a dreamst night."


    "Huh?"


    "I dreamed about the child we lost in the car ident. In the dream, he kept calling me Mommy and


    smiling at me. It was so real that it seemed to make me feel that he never left at all. Maybe he is


    somewhere in this world where I don''t know and he''s living healthily."


    Aidan said, "It seems that you are indeed under too much pressure. When Ie back, I will


    apany you to interpret your dreams."


    She replied, "Okay. I''m sleepy now. Goodbye."


    After speaking, she hung up the phone without hesitation.


    She looked at the phone in front of her, which still disyed the recent phone call. Then, she threw her


    phone aside and slept under the covers.


    ...


    After sleeping all night, Leanna felt that going to bed early was much morefortable than going to


    bedter. To avoid seeing Lloyd and Georgina, she went out early in the morning. After arriving at the


    studio, she put things down and went to the storage room to sort things out. When she came out, she


    saw a staff member approach her with a huge bouquet of roses.


    "May I ask who is¡ª"


    Zoe stood in front of him. "I am the receiver and I don''t ept it. Please return it to him, thank you."


    The flower shop staff was stunned. Are couples quarreling so badly nowadays?


    Zoe continued, "Have him stop sending these in the future. I will never forgive him, never!"


    He seemed to be in a dilemma and finally said, "Miss McKinney, if you don''t ept it, it''s hard for us to


    do our job. Please don''t be angry¡ª"


    "Wait," Zoe interrupted him with a confused expression. "Who is this for?"


    The staff looked at the card on the flowers. "For Miss McKinney. Aren''t you the receiver?"


    Zoe was speechless. She covered her face with her hands and ran into Leanna''s office. This was really


    embarrassing!


    The flower shop staff scratched his head, looked around the studio again, and asked, "Excuse me, who


    is Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna sighed silently. "Give it to me."


    "Okay, please sign here."


    After delivering the flowers, the staffpleted the task and left quickly. Two girls gathered around and


    said enviously, "Leanna, President Pearson is so kind to you. He doesn''t even forget to buy flowers for


    you when he''s on a business trip. He''s so romantic."


    Sheughed dryly. Romantic? What the hell does the jerk do this time?


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    When Leanna brought the flowers into the office, Zoe sobbed and buried her face in her desk. "It''s


    really going to kill me."


    Leanna ced the flowers on the small table next to her and asked, "Did something happen again that


    I don''t know about?"


    Zoe looked sullen. "My life is too hard."


    Yesterday afternoon, since Leanna went out, Zoe had not been well. Daniel ordered afternoon tea for


    their entire studio. He then asked them if anyone wanted to learn piano, and he could teach them for


    free. In short, he treated the studio as his own home and went back and forth without hesitation.


    When Zoe decided she could take it no longer and tried to converse with Daniel in person, he was


    nowhere to be found. After a while, someone came to her with a bouquet of flowers, saying that Mr.


    Daniel wanted to apologize. So when she saw someoneing to deliver flowers today, she thought¡­


    Afterward, shey on the table and whimpered, unwilling to face reality for a long time.


    It was fine that Leanna saw it, but the other girls in the studio were watching, so her reputation had


    definitely been ruined!


    Hearing this, she smiled and patted Zoe''s shoulder. "Okay, it''s not a big deal. You can rest here before


    going out."


    After Zoe moped around for a while, she suddenly raised her head and said, "Oh, why did you and


    President Pearson quarrel again?"


    Leanna almost didn''t react in time to the sudden shift of topic. She paused before saying, "We aren''t."


    Zoe sneered, "I''m telling you, men are no good. He must have done something wrong to send flowers


    to you."


    After thinking about it, she became vignt again. "Is he having a fling with some blonde abroad?"


    Leanna was speechless, but she agreed with Zoe''s first sentence. She exhaled and said, "No."


    "Then, why?"


    "I always feel that Aidan has something to hide from me. Every time I feel as if I''m about to get close to


    the truth, what was ced in front of me seems to be an irond fact. In addition, the fact repeatedly


    tells me that I''m just thinking too much."


    She felt she could never figure out the most important clue, so she could never be sure of the doubt in


    her heart¡ªit was just a vague suspicion. There wasn''t the slightest bit of real evidence, and there was


    no way for her to actually do anything.


    Zoe adjusted her posture and rested her chin on her folded arms. "This is hard to say. If he deliberately


    hides it from you, you will definitely not know the truth of the matter, but if it is..."


    Leanna sighed silently and continued with the rest of her words. "If it is me thinking too much, then I''m


    the one making trouble unreasonably."


    Zoeforted her, "That''s not quite right either. Well, if you really doubt things, you can try checking


    again. If it doesn''t work once, then just try again. If that jerk is really hiding something from you, it''s


    impossible for him to hide it perfectly every time."


    After hearing this, Leanna felt that it sounded very reasonable. She should try again. After all, she had


    only gone therest night, and they certainly wouldn''t expect her to go again today.


    She nodded. "Yes, I''ll try again."


    Moreover, Aidan was not in the country, so she had more time and opportunities. Zoey on the table


    weakly again and replied, "It''s great that you''vee to your senses. I''ll lie down here and sleep for a


    while. You can carry on and be busy with your work; don''t worry about me."


    Leanna patted her head gently. "Go to sleep. I''ll wake you for lunch."

 Chapter 353

    Chapter 353


    Leanna was done with her work around three in the afternoon. After a nce at the clock and around


    her office to ensure there was nothing else to do, she packed up her things and headed to the door.


    Now that she knew where Celia lived, she could drive straight over to Celia''s home. Of course, even if


    Celia had left, her neighbors would surely know something about where she went.


    However, just as she reached the door, a familiar figure appeared before her.


    Carly awkwardly smiled at her.


    Leanna paused and greeted, "Miss Bat."


    "Don''t," Carly said with a bitter smile. "Do not be so formal. With how the Bats are doing, you do not


    need to call me Miss Bat."


    Leanna nced at Carly''s stroller and took a few steps away from the door. "Come in."


    Today, Carly was dressed extremely casually, without a proper piece of jewelry. She did not look at all


    like a proud daughter of the Bats. Perhaps it was because she was with her child.


    Leanna asked for two sses of water from the receptionist before leading Carly to the break room.


    Carly was visibly uneasy the entire time. She only rxed slightly after she downed the whole ss of


    water.


    "Miss..."


    Leanna had subconsciously called out "Miss Bat" before recalling what Carly had just said. She


    faltered as she wondered what she should call Carly now.


    "If you don''t mind, you can just call me Carly," said Carly as she put her ss on the table.


    Leanna nodded. "Carly."


    A momentter, she continued, "Is there something you need, Carly?"


    Distress shed across Carly''s eyes when she heard that. "I''d been meaning to visit you for a while,


    but there was so much to do at home. My child is still a baby, and I could not find the time. It is why this


    visit took so long. I wanted to... apologize to you."


    "Apologize to me?" Leanna was confused.


    Carly seemed anxious as she took a deep breath before replying, "I had been biased against you from


    the start and have been bad-mouthing you behind your back."


    Hearing that, Leanna smiled. "It is fine. After all, the way I married into the family... It was rather


    scandalous. It is normal for you to dislike me."


    "No," said Carly. "It is not just that. I-I even..."


    She found it hard to speak at the end.


    Seeing Carly''s difficulty in speaking, Leanna interrupted, "It is all in the past now. We should look to the


    future instead."


    Carly shook her head. "While it is in the past, I still have to apologize. It bothers me all the time. My


    nights are filled with nightmares; I am constantly worried and afraid..."


    She stopped and looked down at the child sleeping in the pram.


    "As a mother, I have a duty to take responsibility for my past mistakes." She closed her eyes and


    continued, "Do you still remember when you fell into the swimming pool on the Pearson Family


    Estate?"


    Surprised that she would mention that incident, Leanna stared at her for a moment before replying, "I


    do."


    It was then that Aidan found out she was pregnant.


    "That was not an ident," stated Carly. "I had someone push you in."


    Shocked, Leanna blurted, "Why?"


    "Anna was so insistent on getting even with you back then that she seemed mad. Something seemed


    off about it, so I stopped her. That was when I found out about your pregnancy. Zayn had just returned


    home back then, and you were close to him. Thus, Anna and I thought your baby was..."


    "The baby was likely Zayn''s," Leanna calmly continued.


    Carly nodded. "Our families were going to tie themselves together with a marriage. I did not want the


    engagement to fail because of that. It was why I did it. I am not saying all this to ask for forgiveness. I


    merely feel it is not right for me to continue hiding it. Living a life constantly gued with worry is worse


    than epting the brutal consequences now. No matter what happens, I deserve it."


    Leanna turned her gaze to the pram and calmlymented, "You would have been about to give birth


    back when it happened."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    That statement seemed to be one of Carly''s sore points, as her eyes immediately went red.


    Even if she did not want to admit it, she had undoubtedly nned on killing Leanna''s baby that day.


    A few long momentster, Leanna burst out, chuckling. "I did not realize so many people found it so


    hard to ept a single baby''s existence that they would take away his chance to live in this world."


    "Miss McKinney, I am so sorry. I..."


    Leanna snapped out of her thoughts and nkly looked at Carly. "Forget it. There is no meaning in


    apologizing. It does not change what happened, nor can it change one''s fate."


    She still had not expected something like that to have happened.


    Carly wiped away her tears. "Either way, the Bats owe you a favor. If you need anything in the


    future, feel free to ask. I will do anything to help, even if I have to sacrifice everything."


    "Now, now, Miss Bat," Leanna replied, "why would I ever need you to do anything that requires you


    to sacrifice everything?"


    The sudden change to "Miss Bat" had Carly opening her mouth to retort, but she was at a loss for


    words.


    A few secondster, she stood up. "I-I will be heading back now. If you need anything, you only need to


    ask."


    Leanna stood up as well. "Let me walk you out."


    At the studio entrance, Carly could not resist the urge to turn around to say, "Miss McKinney, I know


    you will not forgive me. I did not tell you that just to excuse myself from the me. I merely found the


    situation... off."


    "You know as well as I do that Anna is someone who believes everything she hears," she continued.


    "She made the sudden decision to go to you because she just found out about your pregnancy. If she


    knew before, she would not have waited until that day. Now that I know that... that woman was also


    there."


    Leanna frowned upon hearing that.


    "I do not know if I am overthinking this," Carly said. "However, Iter found out the hospital you went to


    for your check-ups was the hospital I regrly go to. She has been there with me a few times. I...


    Perhaps I should not speak further when I have no proof, but I hear you have been living with the


    Crossleystely. Hence, I have to say this; be careful. I have known Gina for over ten years, yet I have


    only recently discovered she is not what I thought she was."


    She then nodded in farewell to Leanna before walking out of the studio.


    Leanna nkly stared after her.

 Chapter 354

    Chapter 354


    Zoe walked over to Leanna and turned to see what Leanna was looking at, but she only saw a busy


    street.


    She waved her hand before Leanna''s eyes. "What are you thinking about?"


    Leanna blinked and snapped back to reality. "Nothing," she eventually replied.


    "Who was that?" Zoe asked. "Why have I never seen her before? What did she want?"


    "That was¡­" Leanna hesitated before continuing, "Zayn''s older sister. She came to¡­"


    Leanna trailed off because she did not know how to exin Carly''s visit.


    Thankfully, Zoe was focused on who Carly was. "Zayn''s sister?" she curiously asked. "Should she not


    be some rich kid? Why does she look so fatigued? She did not even have a bodyguard or servant with


    her."


    Leanna never paid attention to the Bats after Zayn left, but now that she thought about it, they must


    be going through bad times.


    If theirpany abroad was not doing well, the entire family might not be able to survive in Highside.


    "Oh, right. You were leaving, right?" said Zoe. "Go now. If you dy any further, it will be dark soon."


    To her surprise, Leanna shook her head. "It''s fine. I am not going."


    Everything had been going so smoothlytely that she had forgotten everything that had happened


    before.


    For various reasons, a lot of people did not want her child to be born; be they Carly, Anna, Sienna, and


    even¡­


    No one wanted that baby to be born.


    In that case, how could she let her baby live in such a ce?


    She let out a sigh and returned to her office to sit in silence.


    Outside her window, the world slowly darkened.


    She did not know how much time had passed before her phone began buzzing, snapping her out of her


    thoughts.


    When she saw the number disyed, the irritation she had felt surged once more.


    She ended the call without hesitation and blocked the b*stard as well.


    Meanwhile, Aidan, who was in Warkin, found his call ended with the message that the other party was


    busy. When he called Leanna once more, he could not even get the call to start ringing.


    He was confused.


    He turned to Jonathan and nkly asked, "This is the solution you thought of?"


    Jonathan drily chuckled. "M-Mr Pearson, to get something, you must give something away. It is normal


    for her to be angry at you when old matters are brought up again. She will calm down by the time you


    head back. You just need to be more loving then."


    Aidan stared at Jonathan, speechless.


    He pursed his lips as impatience shed across his cold face.


    Subconsciously, Jonathan gulped and took a step back to keep a safe distance from Aidan.


    "Leave." Aidan flung his phone onto the couch.


    "Yes, sir."


    Jonathan dashed out of the room faster than a rabbit running for its life.


    Aidan stood before the floor-to-ceiling windows and pinched the bridge of his nose as his temple began


    to pound in panic.


    ¡­


    Leanna kept Aidan blocked for the next few days, including on her social media ounts. Finally, he


    was out of sight and out of her mind.


    On the day she was meant to draw lots for thepetition, she had just arrived at the entrance when


    she bumped into Robert and Queenie. She politely nodded to Robert but said nothing.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Robert watched her walk away with a sneer on his lips. "She is lucky to have passed the preliminaries.


    Now, it is time to test her actual talents. There is no way she can pass."


    "Mr. Debauche, did Lewis really leak the question to President Pearson?" Queenie asked.


    "How would I know? There is nothing that money cannot buy. Do you think he would explicitly tell me if


    he had actually been bribed? Use that brain of yours."


    The harsh response made her stop asking any more questions.


    Once all ten designers arrived, thepetition staff began to announce the rules.


    They were numbered ording to how highly they scored in the preliminaries.


    Inside the box were ten lots, numbered one to ten. If a contestant drew the lot numbered one, that


    contestant would have to answer the current round''s question with the first contestant''s preferred style.


    If the contestant drew their own number, they would select a different number once everyone else had


    gone.


    Their results from the preliminaries would then be announced once everyone had finalized what topics


    they would like to tackle.


    Currently, the designers went up on the stage again to draw lots.


    The number Leanna drew was nine, which meant her work for this round was to be done in the ninth


    contestant''s style.


    Every lot drawn was to be recorded by a staff member.


    Once everyone had drawn a lot, one of the staff walked forward with their notebook. "That is all for now.


    However, we have also encountered the expected oue of one of the contestants drawing their own


    number. To the contestant who drew lot number two, please step forward and announce which number


    you would like instead."


    Everyone watched as Queenie stepped forward. She did not turn to look at anyone before calmly


    dering, "I choose nine. It is my lucky number, after all."


    "Would the contestant who drew the lot numbered nine please exchange your slip of paper with hers?


    That is all for now."


    Everyone began to look around, exchanging whispers and asking about who took the lot numbered


    nine.


    A few momentster, Leanna stepped forward. "It is with me."


    Queenie did not look shocked upon seeing Leanna, making Leanna wonder whether she asked for that


    specific number on purpose or if it was a coincidence.


    After exchanging numbers, Leanna returned to her original spot.


    "We will now announce the results of the preliminaries," stated the staff member. "Let me make it clear;


    contestants were scored based on aprehensive rubric. The scoring takes into ount both the


    work submitted and the designer''s adaptability, along with a few minor qualities."


    "Tenth ce with 93 points, Geoffrey Hunt."


    "Ninth ce with 93.5 points, Elliot Watts."


    "Eighth ce with 94 points, Sofia Evans."


    Soon, they began to announce the top three contestants.


    Queenie''s face turned uglier as more names were called out.


    "Second ce with 96.5 points, Queenie Wojzicki."


    "First ce with 98 points, Leanna McKinney."


    She had the highest score among all contestants.


    As soon as the announcement was made, someone spoke up. "What kind of minor qualities are you


    scoring? That is a lot of points. Are we scored based on how powerful our backers are?"


    Immediately, people began to murmur their agreement with that statement.


    It was evident they were not satisfied with their given scores.


    Everyone here was a famous designer who had participated in fashion weeks abroad, yet none of them


    scored higher than some young woman no one had even heard of.


    The staff member raised their hand in a demand for silence. "Everyone, please rest assured that we


    have been absolutely fair and just when it came to the scoring. Our judges are experts in the field. As


    for the additional scores given, those were determined by your behavior. Thepetition started the


    moment everyone attended the opening ceremony. We even took into ount our request for certain


    works to be sent to certain locations at specific times."

 Chapter 355

    Chapter 355


    Everyone instantly went quiet.


    The person who suggested cing the work on the shelf, and the first to do so, was Leanna.


    If that was taken into ount when it came to the scoring, then it was logical to expect her to score


    highly on her reaction time and adaptability.


    However, just then, someone softly said, "Who knows? Maybe she knew we had to do that


    beforehand."


    The staff member on stage continued their announcement. "Since all of you have chosen to participate


    in thispetition, we trust you believe thispetition is extremely important to us. We will be fair


    and just the entire time with no impartiality. If anyone still doubts the fairness of thepetition, we


    would like to offer you the option to withdraw to avoid the contestants'' inability to ept future results."


    As soon as they said that, the room went silent, and no one spoke again.


    "That is all for today," dered the staff member. "You are now free to head back and prepare for the


    competition. You have ten days this time. After ten days, please return here with your creations. I will


    be waiting here for you. We are looking forward to seeing the masterpieces you''ll create."


    The staff member then left the hall. After a few long moments of silence, someone finally gathered the


    courage to whisper to their neighbor.


    "I think they are ying us for fools. Why would they not tell us the rules beforehand? Why must we


    guess? Who could have guessed?"


    "Yeah," said another person. "I thought we werepeting as designers. Someone else might have


    thought this was an escape room or something. Do the organizers even respect us? They act as if we


    are here because we begged them."


    "Enough," said someone else. "Why did none of you speak up when the staff member made the


    announcement? Why are youining now? With the time at hand, should you not be working on


    your submission?"


    The group grumbled and whined as they left the building. As soon as Leanna exited the halls, a young


    woman ran over to her. "Hi, McK. My name is Sofia Evans."


    When Leanna heard the name, she knew Sofia was the designer who had been quite popr over the


    last two years even though Sofia was only older than Leanna by one year.


    "Hello," said Leanna.


    Sofia went straight to the point. "Can we talk? I¡­ I drew your lot."


    Leanna nodded. "Sure."


    Sofia had not expected Leanna to agree that easily. She nkly stared at Leanna for a few moments


    before smiling. "Let me treat you to a cup of coffee. There is a cafe just nearby."


    Leanna nced at the time. "Okay." She had nothing to do anyway.


    Once they sat down with their coffee, Sofia started talking. "I actually really like your work. I even


    bought your First Love series. I never had the chance to get to know you though. When I saw you at


    the opening ceremony, I was too afraid to say hi."


    Leanna was surprised to hear that. "Why?"


    "Aren''t you the ex-wife of the president of Pearson Group?" Sofia awkwardly replied. "It always feels


    that people like you, who are at the top, are hard to get along with. I don''t think that now though. Last


    time, you could have ced your work on the shelf and left. However, you told us about it. I realized


    you were not as unapproachable as I thought."


    Leanna smiled. It was not easy to be one of the top percentiles either. Even Aidan went through


    unimaginable pain and suffering.


    "I was just open to trying things out," she responded.


    "Oh, your mindset is great. You know how the people in our field are; we are easily bound by the rules


    and topics stated. It is why there are so many rules in thispetition. The organizers are encouraging


    us to be innovative." Sofia sighed. "It is like our work. Every designer has their own unique style that


    matures by the day. However, they are now asking us to draw ording to someone else''s art style. If


    the contestants do not understand why the organizers are doing this, then they would likely end their


    journey here."


    The organizers designed thepetition this way for two reasons; one, as Sofia said, to encourage


    innovation, and two, to make them break free from previous constraints and boldly try new things.


    "It is quite hard to suddenly change your art style," said Leanna. "But you just need to find the correct


    direction and the rest will slowlye to you."


    Sofia nodded as she sipped her coffee. "You are right. Speaking of which, you swapped lots with


    Queenie, right? That means you have to copy her style?"


    "Yes."


    "It really is a small world," Sofiamented. "You''re not aware, are you? Queenie used to always bad-


    mouth you atworking events. She said she left Lux Magazine because the boss had a crush on you


    and would give you all the good opportunities while she was left with no chance to develop her career."


    "While she did not explicitly say all that," she added. "She kept implying you were sleeping with the


    higher-ups of Lux Magazine. Hriously enough, after she said all that, someone on the Inte said


    you are President Pearson''s ex-wife. I did not get to see her reaction to that, but it must have been


    funny."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna did not find the revtion strange. When Queenie was still working with Lux Magazine, she


    would spread false rumors about Leanna. After leaving Lux Magazine, everyone wondered why.


    Naturally, she had to make up an excuse.


    After a few minutes of chatting, Sofia realized Leanna did not hide anything about her designs at all.


    Instead, Leanna would straight-up tell her what she had been thinking as she designed. She was so


    much better as a person than those who called themselves Sofia''s seniors in the field while looking


    down their noses at her.


    Seeing the time, Sofia stood up. "I apologize for taking up so much of your time. How about I treat you


    to a meal after thepetition is over?"


    "Oh, it''s nothing," replied Leanna. "It is what I should do."


    The two women then walked out of the cafe.


    In a ck car not far away, Queenie was spying on Leanna. She narrowed her eyes before turning to


    hand the artworks in her hands to the man sitting beside her. "Here are my previous works and drafts.


    You just need to copy them while adding in your usual design ir."


    Elliot epted the stack and confidently replied, "Leave it to me. I guarantee that everything will go


    smoothly."


    "Half of the agreed-upon amount has been transferred to your ount," said Queenie. "Once this is


    done, you will be paid the rest."


    "No rush. I look forward to working with you," he said while his hand casually stroked her thigh. She


    frowned and smacked his hand away. "Have some respect!" she eximed.


    Heughed. "I thought we were the same kind of person since you would do something like that. Fine,


    fine. I will be more respectful."


    He then straightened his tie before getting out of the car with the artworks she handed him.

 Chapter 356

    Chapter 356


    Once Elliot was gone, Queenie pulled a face in disgust as she scrubbed her hands with a wet wipe.


    "Let''s go," she said to the driver.


    A few minutester, the car pulled to a stop before a beauty salon.


    With her bag in hand, Queenie strolled in.


    In one of the VIP rooms, there was a woman sprawled out across the bed while undergoing a full-body


    treatment.


    "Miss Kramer," Queenie greeted.


    Violet opened her eyes and waved her hand at the employee servicing her. "Leave us."


    "All done?" Violetnguidly asked, not even moving to sit up.


    "Yes." Queenie frowned. "However¡­"


    "What is it?"


    "Elliot Watts does not look like a reliable man. I am afraid he will ruin our n."


    Violet let out a scornful chuckle. "Men like him can be pacified with some money. Anyone who can be


    dealt with using money is the most reliable person on earth."


    Queenie did not reply to that.


    Violet turned to look at her. "Is there anything else?"


    "Miss Kramer, what if we get caught?" Queenie asked.


    "As long as none of us say a word about it, it will be fine," answered Violet. "It is even more impossible


    for the person being paid to tell anyone about this either. Anyway, your teacher is one of the judges. Do


    you think he is happy you lost to someone else? Perhaps you are trying to say you are not confident in


    your skills. Well?"


    "I am confident, but¡­"


    "Confidence is everything. I am only helping you get rid of a pesky problem. Drawing ording to


    someone else''s art style is a great challenge. You must conserve your energy for the final round so that


    you can stomp that witch into the ground!"


    At the word "witch", Violet clenched her jaw hard in anger.


    She would never forget the humiliation she suffered at the Pearson Group office.


    "Alright, if that is all, you may leave," Violet said. "I will inform you if there are any issues."


    "Okay. I will be going now."


    Violet hummed in response. "Tell the employee toe back when you leave. I am only halfway


    through my treatment."


    Queenie then let out a heave of breath before turning to leave.


    When she returned to her home, she was about to key in her passcode when she heard someone


    walking behind her. "Who''s there?" she called out as she warily turned around.


    "It''s me."


    The man standing behind her slowly raised his head. It was Ron.


    Her hand tightened around the door handle. "R-Ron, why are you here?"


    "Mr. Wojzicki is in the hospital," he said. "If you''re free, go visit him."


    Hearing that, revulsion shed across her face. "I am busy with thepetition, so I do not have time.


    Moreover, I am not a doctor. What use am I?"


    She then opened her door to enter her home.


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    Just as she was about to close the door behind her, he stuck his hand in to stop the door from closing.


    "Queenie, is Leanna participating in thatpetition as well?"


    "Why are you asking me that?" she shot back with a frown.


    It took Ron a few moments before he eventually replied, "Just¡­ focus on thepetition. Do not think


    about anything else. I will take good care of Mr. Wojzicki."


    "What do you mean by that, Ron? What would I be focusing on other than thepetition? Do you


    think I am going to do something to her with some underhanded tricks?"


    "That is not what I mean."


    "If you did not mean that, you would not have said it." She frowned harder and looked him up and


    down. "Why are you suddenly bringing her up? Do you like her? Oh, true. She is so beautiful that any


    man would like her."


    The mocking tone in her voice made him scowl in anger. "It is not like that. I only think it took you a lot


    of effort to get to where you are today. Being honest and hard-working will not make you lose to


    anyone, so there is no need to use other methods to¡­"


    "Enough," she interrupted. "I know what you want to say. Well, as long as she does not provoke me, I


    will leave her alone. I do not even want to bother with her anyway."


    He pulled his hand back. "Focus on yourpetition. I have to go now."


    Just as he turned around, she mmed the door shut.


    She bit her lip and smacked her bag hard against the wall. Since when did the people she trusted and


    loved decide to favor Leanna instead? Why? Why does Leanna get the best of everything while all I get


    are her scraps?


    The chance to study in Paris; jobs at Lux Magazine, and even Aidan¡­


    She was clearly not weaker than Leanna, so why was she always a step worse than her?


    She could not ept it!


    She must win The Designer Competition this time!


    ¡­


    Leanna had just gotten back to the studio when she saw Daniel standing in the sun outside the studio


    door. "You''re back, Miss McKinney," he greeted.


    She greeted him back with a nod. Words swelled up in her throat, but she swallowed them all down.


    Seeing her hesitancy to speak, he asked, "Do you have something you wish to say to me?"


    "I have not seen your piano studio yet," she replied, more willing to speak since he initiated the


    conversation. "Can I take a look?"


    "Of course. I am honored."


    Currently, two girls were learning the piano in the studio along with a staff member.


    "We have a second floor. Would you like to look around upstairs?" asked Daniel.


    "Sure."


    The second floor was very quiet. It must be reserved as a break area for tired staff. The piano


    downstairs sounded faint here.


    "Would you like a cup of coffee?" Daniel asked, walking over to the coffee machine.


    "It is fine. I just had some. A ss of water will do."


    "Okay."


    He poured her a ss of warm water and handed it to her.


    Leanna paused to gather her thoughts before saying, "Can I ask why you decided to open a piano


    studio here?"


    He raised his eyebrows and leaned against the railing. "Did I not tell you? I will be staying in Highside


    for a while longer. It is boring to stay at home all day, so I decided to do something."


    "Well, then did you intentionally open up your studio next to mine, or was it a coincidence?"


    He smiled but did not say a word in response.


    "I am very grateful for what you have done," she added. "You do not look like a yboy, but your


    actions sometimes create a lot of trouble for my friend."


    "I merely wish to apologize to her for what I did."


    "If you do not n on developing your rtionship with her further, I do not think there is a need for you


    to apologize."


    He licked his lips, unsure of what to say.


    She let out a sigh. "If you started this studio just for that, I think¡­"


    "I did not."

 Chapter 357

    Chapter 357


    Daniel paused before continuing, "There must be a misunderstanding, Miss McKinney. While I


    sincerely wish to apologize to Zoe, I did note here for her."


    Leanna tilted her head in confusion.


    Nevertheless, it was clear he did not n oning clean to her. "I am your ally and your friend, Miss


    McKinney. That is all you need to remember."


    Hearing that, she chuckled. "I think friends are friends because they are honest with each other and


    foster trust between them. What do you think?"


    He cleared his throat as his mind raced to find a response.


    "I know you are cautious of me," said Leanna. "There are a lot of things you do not want to tell me.


    Elijah is the same. While I do not know your true motives or what kind of person you are, I can ignore


    all that. However, I hope that we both know our limits and do not cross them."


    "Miss McKinney, I¡­"


    "I have actually wondered before. Why did you move all the way here? If not for Zoe, then it is for me,


    right?" she interrupted. "I do not care what your goal is, or if you are cozying up to me to get to the


    Crossleys as well. Either way, in my mind, you might not be my enemy, but you are definitely not a


    trustworthy friend."


    She spoke so decidedly and swiftly that Daniel burst out chuckling. "That really is not the case."


    Still, he could note clean to her. After all, he was here to protect her.


    If he told her, it would have the opposite reaction he wanted. In fact, it might even make a mess of


    things.


    He softly sighed. "I know you will not let down your guard no matter what I say. I can only swear that I


    have no intention of harming you."


    "I know you will not hurt me. Still," said Leanna. "I will say this; if you do not like Zoe, please avoid


    seeing her in the future."


    "I will remember your words."


    She nodded and thanked him before leaving the studio.


    He leaned against the railing and tapped it with his long slender fingers. If things continued on like this,


    she would whole-heartedly suspect he had ulterior motives.


    Elijah had enough reasons to properly stay by her side. Now, it was Daniel who had to scrounge up


    dozens of ns to make up an excuse.


    Not only that, he also had to be known as a yboy and a scumbag.


    He was sacrificing way too much.


    ¡­


    Just as Leanna sat down in her chair in the studio, Zoe came running to her. "How did it go today? Are


    you confident in what you will do for this round?"


    "I drew Queenie''s lot," Leanna replied.


    Zoe stared at her, speechless.


    "What cursed luck," she eximed with a scoff.


    Exhausted by her trip today, Leanna leaned back and stretched before slowly saying, "Currently, I do


    not even have a clue on how to start. Thankfully, I have ten days this time."


    Zoe frowned. "What about Queenie? Who did she get?"


    "I think she got Elliot Watts," Leanna answered after a pause.


    Zoe did not know the industry as well as Leanna, so she did not recognize any designer other than the


    particrly famous names. "Who is Elliot Watts?" she asked.


    "He is quite a great designer. He has won many international awards," replied Leanna.


    "Anyway, I just don''t get this rule. My head is spinning just thinking about it." Zoe patted her on the


    shoulder. "Good luck, Enchantress! Take them down!"


    Leanna could not help butugh. "Is that not your handle? Why call me that?"


    Zoe''s WhatsApp handle had always been Enchantress. Aftermitting social suicide, she hurriedly


    changed it. "That is not important. I am now passing the title on to you. Work hard. You will be the


    victor!"


    When Leanna heard that, she suddenly asked, "Are you still in contact with that kid?"


    Zoe chuckled. "No. He blocked me. His mother likely thought I am too unreliable as a friend. I only just


    realized that the brat was doing that just to mooch a meal off of me."


    If others found out about it, her reputation would be ruined!


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Perhaps Aidan was so fierce when he escorted the kid home that his parents


    thought we were bad guys."


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    "I really like your exnation," Zoe solemnly said. "That is it. He is the problem, not us."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by that.


    Zoe was about to leave when she was struck by a thought. "Is the fight that serious this time?" she


    asked, turning around.


    Leanna blinked at her a few times. "Huh?"


    "He has not called you for a few days, nor has he sent you any flowers. It feels like a serious fight."


    She felt her strength sap out of her body when she was reminded of that. "We did not fight. I just do not


    want to see him."


    Just looking at him irritated her.


    Zoe found her logic quite rtable. "True. While the devil is away, we can let our hair down for a few


    days. My friend is hosting a gathering. Apparently, there will be hot guys there. I''m gonna join in the


    fun, wannae?"


    Leanna shook her head and tiredly looked at herputer. "No, I still have to draw up some drafts."


    "You said you have ten days, right? Anyway, you have no inspiration right now. If you go out and have


    fun, maybe you''ll find some inspiration. Come on!"


    Zoe insistently dragged her out of the office. "Let''s get drunk tonight!"


    ¡­


    When the clock struck eight that evening, not a single ray of sunshine could be seen.


    Zoe stopped the car by the road and looked at the crowded building. "As I thought, this is where young


    people are nowadays. If I want a boyfriend, I have toe to a ce like this," shemented with a


    huff.


    "Forget about it," said Leanna. "Do not fall for some yboy''s trap again."


    "Hot guys are all yboys¡ªwell, not really. Their hearts have just been shattered into a million pieces


    with each piece in love with different people."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by that.


    She had to concede when faced with Zoe''s nonsensical logic.


    Zoe led Leanna out of the car, making their way through the crowd before finally stopping at a table.


    One of the women seated there waved to them. "Why are you sote, Zoe? We have all started." She


    then turned to Leanna. "You must be Leanna. Hello, I am Jamie Collin."


    "Hi," Leanna greeted with a slight smile.


    Jamie proceeded to introduce the other people seated at the table.


    Zoe looked around. "Where''s the hot guy you mentioned?"


    "What''s the hurry?" Jamie whispered back. "The hottie is always thest to arrive. Don''t rush it. Wait."

 Chapter 358

    Chapter 358


    Jamie was Zoe''s childhood friend, so Leanna had heard Zoe mentioning Jamie''s name several times


    previously, but since Jamie was in another city and only came to Highside this year, this was the first


    time they met.


    At this moment, the music seemed to be ying at the highest volume. It made Leanna feel like her


    brain was going to explode.


    She scrolled through her phone while counting the days, feeling bored. The b*stard should be back in


    two days.


    Then, she thought, Should I remove him from my cklist? If not, the b*stard will turn around and scold


    me again without sparing me.


    Just when this thought came up in her mind and before she could actually act on it, the incredibly


    handsome guy that Jamie mentioned had arrived.


    Seeing that, Zoe went closer to Leanna and whispered, "He''s really quite good-looking. Gosh, look at


    those alluring eyes. What''s missing is just the phrase ''I''m a jerk'' on his face."


    At the same time, Leanna looked over in the direction of Zoe''s gaze and just so happened to meet the


    man''s eyes. When thetter saw that, he raised his brows at her frivolously.


    Leanna responded to him with a smile out of courtesy and pocketed her gaze. Then, she whispered,


    "True."


    "I really shouldn''t expect anything." Zoe sighed.


    On the other hand, Freddie took out his phone and sent a text in the group chat. ''There are gorgeous


    women at Tavern. Come, quick.''


    Oscar replied, ''Didn''t you juste back to Highside?''


    Freddie answered, ''So? It doesn''t stop me from ogling gorgeousdies.''


    Oscar texted in response, ''The girls overseas couldn''t satisfy you, eh?''


    ''I''m already tired of them. That''s why I came back to look at girls from our country. I''m quite lucky to


    have met a super gorgeousdy as soon as I came back,'' replied Freddie before continuing, ''Where''s


    our President Pearson? Why is he so quiet?''


    Oscar answered, ''He made his wife angry. He''s self-reflecting right now.''


    ''What? I thought he was divorced,'' texted a confused Freddie.


    ''Do you not have ess to the Inte abroad?'' replied Oscar.


    ''Oh, I usually just go on the Inte to ogle at prettydies. I don''t care about all this gossip,'' texted


    Freddie in response. ''Well, are you guysing or not? Don''t me me for not giving you the chance


    for fair y. I''m going to proceed if you guys aren''ting.''


    While Oscar was still typing, Freddie suddenly sent a photo into the group chat.


    Although the light was dim and there were rows of bottles in the middle, Oscar could still recognize the


    familiar face in the photo.


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    Oscar stopped typing.


    ''She''s hot, right? The one beside her looks okay too, but there was a look of contempt in her eyes


    when she looked at me. I guess it''s not easy for her to take the bait,'' Freddie texted.


    ''I''d advise you to buy a flight ticket now and fly back to Sydon,'' said Oscar.


    Seeing that, Freddie typed a question mark slowly.


    At the same time, a message popped up in the group chat all of a sudden. ''Address.''


    When Freddie saw that this entrapment was as useful as expected, he quickly sent his location and the


    table number he was at to them.


    After that, he sent a text to Oscar privately. ''Didn''t you say that he has a wife? He couldn''t hold out


    against the temptation when he saw the hotdy, though.''


    He continued to text, ''I know that all men are evil, especially married ones who still look for other


    women.''


    ''This is also why I don''t want to get married.'' He sighed mncholically.


    ''Whatever. Good luck,'' replied Oscar, to which Freddie responded with an answer and a smiling emoji.


    After he sent the text, he put down his phone and raised his wine ss, facing the opposite table.


    Then, he downed the wine first.


    Seeing that, both Zoe and Leanna were speechless.


    Zoe couldn''t help but ask Jamie, "Where did you find such a yer? He''s flirting so obviously."


    However, Jamie didn''t feel anything special about it. "Is that so? When I was driving yesterday, I


    identally scratched his car. Not only did he not ask me forpensation, he even helped me to call


    the insurancepany. I thought he was quite nice, so I got his number. Also, didn''t you always ask


    me to introduce you to some good-looking men? There''s one here now, but you''re still so picky!"


    "I can''t handle this level of handsomeness. I''ll leave him for you to slowly enjoy yourself."


    "Pfft!"


    Just as the two of them were whispering to each other, Freddie suddenly said, "Hey,dies. I have a


    friendingter. Do you guys mind?"


    Hearing that, Jamie quickly said, "We don''t mind as long as he''s good-looking."


    She said thetter part of the sentence in a very soft voice. Since the music was sting, Freddie


    didn''t hear her clearly. He only heard them saying that they didn''t mind.


    Other than Leanna and Zoe, there were still a few of Jamie''s friends there. After a while, all of them


    started to y games.


    When Zoe realized that Leanna was a little absent-minded, she used her elbow to poke her. "Are you


    still thinking about that b*stard?"


    Hearing that, Leanna snapped out of her thoughts and put on a smile. "I-I wasn''t¡­"


    "You''ve ignored him for such a long time now. I guess he already knows that he''s wrong. Don''t go


    overboard."


    Leanna sighed, "I''ll think about itter. Either way, he''s not back yet."


    "That''s true." Zoe patted Leanna on the shoulder. "Don''t think about it now, then. Leave all these


    troubled thoughts for tomorrow and just enjoy yourself today!"


    Not sure whether it was because she drank or because it was too stuffy in there, Leanna felt her head


    spinning after a while, so she went to the washroom.


    When Freddie saw that, he followed behind her when the others were not paying attention.


    In the washroom, Leanna washed her hands and put her cold hands on her heated cheeks. She felt


    much better after that.


    She left the washroom after using a tissue to wipe her hands, but an arm blocked the path in front of


    her. Then, a deep and flirty voice sounded. "Do you need help?"


    At this moment, she stood there and looked at him with a poker face. "No, thank you."


    He noticed that she wanted to leave, so he took a step forward. "Don''t worry, it''s normal to help each


    other out when we''re out here enjoying ourselves. I think you''re a little drunk. Why don''t I send you


    home? My car is just outside."


    When Leanna heard that, she took a deep breath and said calmly, "I have a boyfriend."


    Hearing that, he just raised his brows a little, not minding what she said. "It doesn''t matter. My friend¡­


    Someone I know stilles out to enjoy when he has a wife. Girl, men are all evil. Don''t treat him like


    such an important person."


    "Is that so?" she replied.


    "Of course, look around here. How many of them are as open as I am? I never hide anything. If we get


    along well, we can take things further and get rid of your boyfriend. You can hang out with me after


    that. If we don''t get along well, we can still be friends. What do you think?"


    As he was talking, he reached out his hand in an attempt to raise Leanna''s chin, but she flicked his


    hand off. "Although my boyfriend is no good indeed, you''re still nothingpared to his one finger."


    This was the first time in Freddie''s life that someone told him something like this, but he wasn''t


    enraged. He just said with a smile, "Oh, really? I really want to meet your boyfriend now to see how


    great he is that I can''t even bepared to his one finger."


    Meanwhile, not far from them, Aidan stood at the same spot, watching this scene with one hand in his


    pocket while secretly licking his lips. Just as he took a step forward, he retreated at once, seemingly


    wanting to see how Leanne would answer.

 Chapter 359

    Chapter 359


    Without thinking much, Leanna took out her phone and found a photo to show Freddie.


    As he looked at the photo, he asked in confusion, "This is your boyfriend?"


    "Yes," she answered righteously.


    That was actually a photo of a male celebrity who was quite popr recently. He had fans from all age


    groups. In fact, she couldn''t remember when she saved his photo, but she was taking this as an


    emergency savior at this moment.


    Just then, Freddieughed. "Girl, are you really brushing me off this way? This man in the photo is one


    of the celebrities in mypany. He''s¡­ queer."


    Hearing that, she became speechless. What the f*ck?


    She took back her phone calmly and looked at the screen. "Oh, my bad. Wrong photo."


    Then, she continued to scroll through her album, trying to find Louis'' photo. Yet, even after scrolling for


    some time, she still couldn''t find it.


    Did I not save any pictures of him? How could I not save any photos of my handsome little brother?


    Just then, Leanna''s hand was emptied, and her phone was snatched away. A tall and slim figure stood


    beside her, and the cold voice of a man resonated from the side. "I''m her boyfriend. Do you have any


    problem with it?"


    She was stunned when she heard his voice. Why is this b*stard back already?


    Likewise, Freddie was stunned for a few seconds too. Then, a clear smile tugged on his lips. Well, well.


    I didn''t know Aidan was so good at flirting with girls, intervening when he sees injustice and saving this


    damsel.


    When he felt that he didn''t have much of a chance anymore, he thought that he should let Aidan be


    with her. So, when he left, he said very cooperatively, "Okay, I''m not worthy." He then left happily after


    that.


    Meanwhile, behind him, the two people standing there were in silence. After a few seconds, they parted


    their mouths at the same time.


    "I thought you''re supposed toe back two dayster."


    "Am I just a decorative boyfriend to you?"


    I know that he''d turn around and scold me. Leanna mumbled under her breath, "I don''t even have your


    photo."


    "Is this the best you cane up with?" Aidan was so enraged that he felt his stomach aching.


    He waited there for so long, waiting for her to mention his name in front of Freddie. Yet, she actually


    used a queer man''s photo and said that he was her boyfriend. Am I such an embarrassment to her?


    His questioning tone was what Leanna hated the most, so she said righteously, "I don''t need a reason.


    I just wanted to say so!"


    After that, she left without giving him another look.


    Looking at her from the back, Aidan felt his temples twitching. Is she actually angry right now?


    When Leanna returned to her table, she took the wine ss in front of her and gulped down the wine in


    one shot. Zoe didn''t even manage to stop her.


    Just when she was about to ask what happened, she saw a familiar figure seated beside Freddie.


    When Zoe saw that, she was confused. Well, that''s a surprising pair. Why is that b*stard here?


    On the other hand, Freddie was speechless as well since he pretended not to know them just now to


    give Aidan a chance. By the look on his face, did he get rejected too?


    At this thought, he couldn''t help but click his tongue. He then filled Aidan''s ss with wine and told him


    in a low voice that only the two of them could hear, "Girls outside are too wild. It''s better for you to go


    home and stay with your wife."


    "Shut up," Aidan said coldly.


    With his brows lifted, Freddie thought, Never mind, you ungrateful b*stard.


    On the side, the carefree Jamie kept gesturing to Zoe. "This one''s hot! Oh my God, he''s so good-


    looking! And he doesn''t look like those yers either. What do you think?"


    "I still cherish my life," Zoe replied to her.


    In case Jamie would have some awkward misunderstandingter, Zoe whispered something into her


    ears.


    After that, Jamie became silent at once and didn''t even dare to talk.


    Without the mood-maker named Jamie livening up the party, coupled with another person who could


    freeze the atmosphere all around him joining the table, the atmosphere turned awkwardly cold at once.


    Taking this as a chance, Freddie cleared his throat and suggested, "It''s quite boring to keep ying


    games, though. Why don''t we y something else?"


    "Like what?" someone asked.


    "Truth or dare, but we''ll change the rules a little. Whoever the spinning wheel points at, the yer


    needs to execute the action. No running away with drinks; just ying. What do you all think?"


    What he meant was that when they yed truth or dare, even if the yer was asked a question they


    didn''t want to answer, or was asked to do a dare they didn''t want to do, there would be no choice but to


    do it no matter how outrageous the dare was.


    Tsk, his intention is so obvious.


    Despite that, many people agreed to y the game. Although it was quite a brutal rule, it would be


    much more exciting.


    Then, Freddie looked at Zoe and Leanna. "How about you twodies?"


    Just as Zoe wanted to reject him for Leanna, she actually heard Leanna saying, "I''m in."


    Hearing that, Freddie snapped his finger and asked a waiter to bring them a spinning wheel.


    The game officially started.


    Unexpectedly, Leanna was the first yer.


    "Truth or dare?" Freddie asked.


    "Truth."


    This was what he was waiting for. Thus, he immediately asked, "Do you really have a boyfriend?"


    When Leanna heard that, she nced at the b*stard opposite her and deliberately said, "No."


    At this moment, Freddie put on a face saying, I knew you were just brushing me off. He even used his


    elbow to poke Aidan a few times with a delighted face.


    On the side, Aidan just scoffed with a ss of wine in his hand.


    Seeing that, Zoe and Jamie sat closer to each other, trying to warm each other up and seek some


    encouragement from each other.


    After a few rounds, the spinning wheelnded on Leanna again. Freddie then asked, "You chose to tell


    a truth during thest round. Do you want to try a dare this time?"


    "Why not just tell me what you want me to do?" Leanna said calmly.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    "Let''s try something a little more exciting. Choose one of the men here and kiss him on his cheek."


    Hearing that, Jamie coughed a little. "L-Let''s just stop here. I think¡­"


    "Okay," Leanna answered.


    The ce fell silent again, and Zoe could seemingly hear the sound of a ss breaking.


    She was regretting it very much now. If I knew that the b*stard hade back, I wouldn''t have brought


    Leanna to this party.


    At this moment, a smile tugged on Freddie''s lips, and he waited to see the following scene.


    Leanna stood up gradually under everyone''s stares.


    Just as all of them were guessing who she would choose, she stopped in front of Freddie.


    Seeing that, Zoe closed her eyes in despair. Is this God''s punishment for me?


    However, before the curl on Freddie''s lips wasplete, he saw Leanna bending over and turning her


    head to the side. Her lipsnded on the lips of the man beside Freddie urately.


    Leanna didn''t say a thing after that.


    That''s against the rule! Didn''t he say to kiss someone on the cheek?


    In fact, Aidan was still angry a moment before this, but after her kiss, he was still shocked for a while.


    He could sense that she was standing here just now, so he just turned his head around subconsciously.


    Seeing that, Freddie was speechless. Gosh, Aidan. I thought he was just joking, but he''s actually


    cheating on his wife! What''s worse is that he''s actually doing it so brazenly! He''s really crossing the


    line!

 Chapter 360

    Chapter 360


    After that kiss, the iciness around Aidan''s frown had seemingly dissipated, and most of his anger


    faded. A mere smile tugged on his lips, and he stared at Leanna with his ck eyes.


    Yet, she red at him. "What are you looking at? Is this the first time you''ve seen a gorgeousdy?"


    Meanwhile, Freddie couldn''t take it anymore. He decided to take the responsibility as a friend and said


    imperatively, "L-Lady, you''re really gorgeous. You can do anything to me, but he''s married. It''s a little¡­


    immoral for you to do that."


    When she heard that, she hummed and turned to look at Aidan. "You''re out here to y when you


    have a wife? You b*stard!"


    Speechless, Aidan turned around and looked at Freddie with a poker face. Then, thetter sighed while


    resting his arm on Aidan''s shoulder. "It''s not that I don''t want to help you, but I just can''t fool myself.


    Even when I usually look like a yer, it''s undeniable that I have had the word ''justice'' engraved in my


    bones since birth. I don''t care about the others, but I will never allow my friend to do things that will hurt


    his family in front of me!"


    "So, if you want to do anything, just do it to me. I''m willing to sacrifice myself." As he said that, he even


    wiped his tears. "It''s what I''m supposed to do for the happiness of my friend''s family. I can help you as


    long as you repent. It''s never toote."


    Leanna knew that there were no normal people among Aidan''s friends. There was Oscar, who always


    came up with wicked ideas, and now a yer, who looked like something was wrong with him.


    She didn''t want to waste her time here with them anymore, so she picked up her things and said,


    "Something hase up, and I need to leave now. You guys should enjoy yourselves."


    Just as she was leaving, Freddie wanted to chase after her from behind, but Aidan stood up faster than


    him.


    When he saw that, he said angrily, "Did whatever I said just now sound like nonsense to you? How can


    you do this to your lovely wife?"


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    Hearing that, Aidan turned around and gave him a look. "If you''re really bored, you should check your


    brain."


    He strode out of the bar after saying that.


    Once they left, Jamie realized that it was gettingte already, so she ended the party.


    As Freddie was walking out, he called Oscar. "Is Aidan so wild now? Or does he not have a wife? Are


    you fooling me?"


    "What? Didn''t he go to cheer his wife up tonight?"


    "What? Cheer his wife up? I think he just used this as an excuse toe out and flirt with other girls.


    The worst thing is that he actually got the girl. I didn''t know that I''d lose to him after ten years of flirting.


    This shouldn''t be it!"


    When Oscar heard that, he scoffed. Idiot.


    Freddie continued, "This won''t do; I''m getting angrier the more I think about it. Do you have Aidan''s


    wife''s phone number? I''m going to tattle on him."


    After a few seconds of silence, Oscar replied, "I do."


    On the other hand, after Leanna left the ce, she stood by the roadside to get a cab. However, since


    there were too many people outside the bar, she needed to wait in a long line regardless if she used e-


    hailing services or called a cab.


    She then found a ce to sit and reached out her hand to massage her twitching temples.


    All of a sudden, Aidan''s voice resonated beside her. "You''re not even good at drinking. Why did you


    push yourself? Are you regretting it now?"


    Leanna turned her head, not wanting to be bothered by him.


    At this moment, Aidan sat beside her and opened a bottle of water before handing it to her. "You can at


    least give me a reason for being angry at me. Are you nning to ignore me in the future as well?"


    "Don''t you know everything? Do you still need me to tell you?"


    With his hand stretching toward hers on the bench, he said sluggishly, "If I knew, would I be so clueless


    now?"


    Hearing that, she scoffed and thought, This b*stard is really good at acting. She took over the bottle of


    water in his hand and took a few sips. Only after that, she said, "I went to Ms. Shaffer''s son-inw''s


    ce a few days ago."


    He lifted his brows. "Really?"


    "You didn''t know?" she questioned him back.


    "You didn''t tell me. How would I know?"


    "I thought you''re a prophet."


    After licking his lips unnoticeably, he asked, "Are you angry because of this?"


    "No," she answered.


    "What else is it, then? Tell me all at once."


    After a deep breath, she said, "Zayn''s sister came to look for me and told me some things."


    "What things?" he asked.


    "She told me that the incident where I fell into the water in the Pearson Family Estate wasn''t an


    ident. She was the one who got someone to do it." Leanna looked at the front aimlessly. "These


    days, there''s only one question in my mind. Did I do so many horrible things that karmanded on my


    two children? Otherwise, why would people n on not letting theme to this world even before


    they were born?"


    Hearing that, Aidan frowned a little. "You didn''t do anything horrible, and you''re not the reason for that


    to happen."


    She then said calmly, "I tried everything I could think of to marry you at that time, and it made you hate


    me for three years. Is that not horrible enough?"


    "Why are you bringing this up again?" He pushed his tongue behind his teeth.


    "You''re the one who asked."


    "It''s all history. Don''t think about it anymore." He put his hand on her head and stroked it gently. "If you


    want a baby because of this, I can¡­"


    However, she cut him off. "Thanks, but no thanks. You''re right. I didn''t do anything horrible, but you did


    quite a lot."


    At this moment, he had noeback for it.


    Leanna sighed. "After all, no father in this world would think of ways not to have his own child be born.


    You should bear this deadly sin yourself. Don''t pass this on to the next generation."


    When Aidan heard that, he felt his temple twitching uncontrobly. He tried hard to suppress his anger


    and asked, "How much did you drink?"


    "Who''d keep track? I just kept drinking since I wasn''t happy," she answered.


    He checked the time and said, "Don''t go back to the Crossley Residence tonight."


    "No. I''m going back."


    He didn''t n to waste time talking to her anymore, so he stood up and carried her in his arms before


    leaving.


    Meanwhile, she didn''t want to struggle as well. She just closed her eyes quietly in his arms.


    I''ve taunted him and even said things so cruelly, but this b*stard is still not telling me anything. Perhaps


    I''m really overthinking it.


    Just then, the phone in her pocket started ringing. When she took it out, she saw that it was a call from


    an unknown number, but she simply picked up the call. "Hello, who is this?"


    "Hi, I''m¡­ a good Samaritan. It''s like this; your husband is drinking at the bar alone tonight. Actually, I


    think that it''s good spice for husband and wife to fight as long as you two don''t go overboard. Why not


    give him a call now and ask him to go home?"


    "You''ve got the wrong number. I don''t have a husband," Leanna answered.


    On the other side of the phone, Freddie asked in confusion, "What? This is the number Oscar gave


    me."


    After a moment of silence, she suddenly asked, "Did he kiss someone in the bar?"


    "Huh? Oh¡­ Well, since you already know about it, I won''t hide it from you anymore. As a friend, I really


    despise what he''s done. What happened was that¡­"


    All of a sudden, a man''s voice cut him off mercilessly. "Freddie Sutton, what''s your problem?"

 Chapter 361

    Chapter 361


    On the other end of the line, Freddie stayed silent for a few seconds before saying in confusion, "That


    can''t be. Right now, you should be¡ª"


    "I am her boyfriend. Do you have a problem with that?"


    "Of course I do. Isn''t appeasing your wife on the agenda tonight?"


    Based on everything he had done tonight, Freddie felt that he looked like an idiot. He tried his best to


    argue, saying, "me Oscar. He was the one who gave me this phone number!"


    With that, he hung up at the fastest speed possible, then made another call to scream and shout at


    Oscar.


    Meanwhile, as Leanna listened to the engaged tone over the phone, she couldn''t help but fling her


    hand before she slid her phone in her pocket.


    At the sight of them approaching, the driver, who was waiting at the side, hastily opened the door for


    them.


    Aidan leaned over and plopped her inside, then said to the driver, "To Castor Vi."


    Leanna refused. "No!"


    He turned around and stared at her with his dark eyes. "In that case, where do you want to go?"


    She replied, "I''m simply not going there."


    Aidan pursed his thin lips, then told the driver another address.


    As the car cruised along the road, Leanna felt that her headache was worsening, and she even felt like


    throwing up.


    She threw herself at the window and retched, but nothing came out.


    Aidan patted her back gently, his thin lips turning up. "Now, you know how bad it feels."


    Leanna ignored him as she silently enjoyed the cool breeze. A long whileter, she said, "It was even


    worse when I had morning sicknessst time."


    "Are you actually drunk or not?"


    "Don''t you know that people can get half-drunk?"


    After saying that, Leanna fell silent and allowed the wind to tousle her hair.


    A whileter, Aidan pulled her inside and rolled up the windows.


    Soon, the ck Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of a luxury apartment in the heart of the city.


    She said, "Are you walking on your own, or should I carry you?"


    "I can walk on my own."


    With that, Leanna opened the car door and walked out with wobbly steps.


    Meanwhile, the tip of Aidan''s tongue pushed against his teeth as he followed behind her.


    On a few asions, she seemed like she was about to fall, but she regained her bnce after that.


    After walking a few minutes like that, she finally sensed that something was wrong as she turned


    around and asked, "Where is this ce?"


    Aidan stepped forward and pulled her into his embrace, guiding her to the side.


    There was only one unit on each floor of this building, so the elevator doors opened to reveal a


    spacious entrance.


    He grabbed a pair of slippers for Leanna from the shoe rack. "I only have my own stuff here, so just


    wear this first. I''ll get some clothes for you."


    As he spoke, he loosened his tie as he walked into the bedroom.


    Leanna felt a little sleepy, and even changing out of her shoes felt like a chore.


    As such, she just sat down on the soft cushion by the shoe rack.


    When Aidan came out with a change of clothes, Leanna was already fast asleep while leaning against


    the wall.


    He ced the clothes on the couch, then walked up to her. He got down on one knee, then grasped


    her ankle as he took her shoes off.


    He had just worn the flip-flops on her feet when she felt a little annoyed. The movement was disturbing


    her sleep, so she extended her leg and kicked him.


    Aidan red at her, his dark eyes narrowing dangerously. "By the looks of it, I think I should help you


    shower."


    Leanna was silent.


    In an instant, her eyes shot open. She carelessly stuck the men''s slippers on her feet, then took a few


    steps inside the house. She grabbed the clothes on the couch and held them close to her chest.


    "Where''s the bathroom?"


    Aidan lifted his chin. "Over there."


    She walked over to the bathroom. To prevent him from barging in, she even locked the door on


    purpose.


    As she stood under the hot water, she rubbed her face furiously, trying to sober up a little.


    After Aidan listened to the movements in the bathroom, he opened the fridge and swept a nce at its


    contents. His temples throbbed as he closed the fridge again. Then, he picked up his phone and dialed


    a number.


    When Leanna was done with her shower and had dried her hair, it was around an hourter when she


    emerged from the bathroom.


    She was wearing Aidan''srge and loose clothes. Her small face was flushed¡ªit was because of the


    alcohol or due to the hot steam in the bathroom.


    Aidan ced a hangover cure on the dining table. "Come here."


    Leanna walked over to him, staring straight at the mug on the table. "It''s not poisoned, is it?"


    "I didn''t make it."


    "Oh, that sounds fine."


    She picked it up and drank it straight away.


    He was speechless. Then, he reached up and pinched the bridge of his nose. "Is there anything you


    want to eat?"


    After downing the entire mug, Leanna slowly let out a burp. "No, I don''t feel like eating."


    "Go to sleep, then."


    Leanna blinked, her moist eyes gazing at him. "I can''t sleep."


    Seeing that, Aidan discreetly licked his thin lips as he swallowed. His voice turned a little deeper as he


    said, "What do you want to do since you can''t sleep, hm?"


    She didn''t reply. Instead, she turned and looked all around her. "Do you live here often?"


    He answered, "Sometimes. I haven''t been here in a long while."


    After thinking for a bit, Leanna said, "In those three years before, you''d live here if you didn''t want to


    see me, right?"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Back then, Aidan didn''t want to return to Castor Vi, much less the Pearson Family Estate, so of


    course he would be living somewhere else. Leanna knew that, but she never asked about it.


    Hearing that, Aidan suddenly regretted bringing her here.


    He said slowly, "Not really. It''s not that I didn''t want to see you; it''s just that I had a lot of business trips


    back then."


    Leanna responded, "Oh."


    She obviously didn''t believe him.


    Aidan rubbed his temples. He shouldn''t have tried to talk logic with a drunk woman.


    "It''s gettingte. You have work tomorrow, right? Go and sleep."


    Leanna stood up. "Where am I sleeping?"


    Aidan brought her to the door that led to the bedroom.


    After entering, she shut the door without hesitation. "Thanks. Goodnight."


    He was speechless.


    She was truly exhausted from the day. Leanna flopped onto the bed and closed her eyes, but the more


    she tried to sleep, the faster her mind worked, and she couldn''t be more awake.


    Some timeter, there were soundsing from the door as if someone was unlocking the door with a


    key.


    Right after that, steady and firm footsteps sounded.


    Leanna had finally gotten drowsy and was beginning to fall asleep when she felt something biting her


    lip. It hurt a little, and it was itching a bit.


    Soon, that prickly sensation made its way down to her neck.


    She was going to reach out and push him away when her hands were lifted above her head, bound by


    something.


    The man''s low and hoarse voice rang out in her ear. "Be good, baby."


    Every time this b*stard called her ''baby'', it would only mean trouble.


    Leanna said quietly, "Aidan."


    "Hm?"


    "Do you like me?"


    He kissed between her eyebrows. "I do."


    Leanna asked, "Why did you lie to me, then?"


    Aidan''s actions paused for an instant as he said in a low voice, "I didn''t lie to you."


    "Do you dare swear on it? If you''ve ever deceived me, our entire lives¡ª"


    Aidan kissed her on the lips deeply, swallowing all the words she didn''t manage to speak.


    Hah, you b*stard.

 Chapter 362

    Chapter 362


    When Leanna woke up the next day, she felt her entire body aching, and her head hurt.


    The feeling was as terrible as they came.


    She supported herself with one hand and sat up on the bed. The entire world seemed to be spinning in


    front of her eyes.


    Just then, someone opened the door to the bedroom. A deep man''s voice rang out. "You''re awake?"


    Leanna looked at him, then with thest remaining slivers of her energy, she grabbed a pillow next to


    her and threw it at him. "You b*stard!"


    Aidan didn''t say anything.


    He caught the pillow in his arms, then curved his thin lips. "I treated you wellst night, didn''t I? Why


    are you getting so mad when you''re awake now?"


    Leanna''s ears were burning red. This b*stard even has the nerve to talk about it!


    Even though she really was drunk yesterday, it wasn''t to the point where she couldn''t remember


    anything.


    The b*stard had taken the opportunity to exploit her when she was drunk.


    If not, she wouldn''t be feeling so terrible like she did right now.


    Aidan strode up to her with his long legs, then put down the pillow. "Fine, it''s my fault. Why don''t you


    sleep in a bit longer?"


    "You can sleep all you want."


    Leanna removed the nkets and got out of bed. When she stepped onto the floor, her legs were


    trembling.


    Aidan supported her as he suppressed the smile at the corners of his lips. "I''ll be more careful next


    time."


    "In your dreams! There will be no next time!"


    Leanna waved his hand away in annoyance, then entered the bathroom.


    Aidan looked at the back of her figure, sticking a hand in the pocket of his pants. There was a wry grin


    on his lips.


    Leanna was feeling extremely unwell, so she took some time soaking in the bathtub.


    When she got up, she felt that the sore spots on her body had gotten much better.


    After the bath, Leanna was pondering over what to wear when Aidan''s voice sounded outside the door.


    "I''ve ced your clothes at the door."


    Leanna closed her eyes, refusing to respond to him.


    When the footsteps receded, she finally reached out and took the clothes.


    The clothes were all in her size, both inside and out.


    Leanna took a deep breath, then slowly put them on.


    When she walked over to the living room, Aidan was engaged in a call at the balcony. Some simple


    dishes wereid out on the dining table.


    Leanna rubbed her empty stomach, then sat down and ate.


    Some timeter, Aidan came over after ending his call. He pulled up a chair and sat right opposite her.


    "Has the theme for the rematch been announced?"


    Leanna weakly responded in affirmative.


    Seeing that, Aidan asked, "Is it difficult?"


    "Not really. It''s just a little inconvenient."


    To be honest, she never thought that she wouldnd on Queenie''s work.


    She didn''t know if she should call it a coincidence or fate.


    Aidan raised an eyebrow. "So you''re upset just because of this, and that''s why you sulked and ignored


    me?"


    Leanna fell silent.


    This b*stard should really watch his mouth.


    Leanna swallowed the food in her mouth before replying, "The theme for the rematch was just


    announced yesterday. It has nothing to do with me ignoring you."


    Aidan licked his teeth and decided to drop the issue. He knew he wouldn''t hear anything nice from her


    anyway. Instead, he just said, "I''ll take you to work after eating."


    After the meal, when Leanna went out, it was already 11.00AM. By the time she arrived at the studio, it


    was 11.30AM.


    Before Leanna got out of the car, Aidan said, "I have an appointment at night, so I can''t pick you up. Go


    home as early as you can."


    "Got it."


    Leanna was just reaching out to open the car door when Aidan pulled her back. His dark eyes stared


    intently at her as he asked, "Are you still mad?"


    "No."


    She decided not to be mad at him, for she would be the only one suffering from the anger.


    Aidan frowned. "What on earth are you sulking about? Can''t you just tell me?"


    Leanna looked at him quietly. "I''ve already told you. You just think it doesn''t matter."


    "Which words from you have I ever disregarded? Just because I didn''t agree when you wanted to have


    a child? Last night, didn''t we¡ª"


    "Shut up!"


    Aidan curved his lips a little. "Be good and stop making a fuss. You wanted to see Ms. Shaffer''s


    grandson, right? I''ll bring you there in a few days."


    Leanna stared at him as if trying to catch a hint of weakness on his face.


    But obviously, she failed.


    His expression was nonchnt as always, making it seem like the one in the wrong had always been


    her.


    Leanna gave up and lowered her head as she said, "I have to work on thepetition over the next


    few days. Let''s talk about it another day."


    "Sure."


    After entering the studio, Leanna flopped onto the office desk, zoning out as she gazed at the baby''s-


    breath outside the window.


    Some timeter, she finally perked up and took a deep breath. She turned on theputer and began


    looking up Queenie''s previous works. The research took her an entire afternoon.


    Even when Zoe came in to give her some tea, she didn''t notice it at all.


    At night, Leanna finally had an idea of what to do. She drew up a rough line draft, then went home.


    When she entered the Crossley Residence, Leanna saw an unfamiliar car parked in the garden.


    In the living room, Lloyd was talking to a man she didn''t recognize.


    When the man saw her, he stood up and smiled faintly. "Hello, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna nced at Lloyd, then looked at him. "And you are?"


    "I am a legal advisor of Crossley Group. I''m here on the matter of Mr. Crossley transferring ten percent


    of his shares to you, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna frowned. "Shares?"


    Lloyd spoke up. "I''ve been considering this for a long time, but you''re right. You deserve it."


    Leanna tugged at her lips, her smile faint.


    Lloyd couldn''t possibly be so nice. He must haveid out a trap waiting to ensnare her.


    However, Leanna couldn''t refuse straight away. They were right about her, for she was indeed here for


    the money.


    She picked up the document on the table and gave it a casual nce. "So I just have to sign this


    document?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    The legal advisor hastily took out a pen. "Yes, yes. You just have to sign your name and mark your


    fingerprint at the end of the document."


    Leanna smiled at him. "Sorry, I''m not very familiar with thew. Can I bring it back and have a detailed


    look at it? Once I''ve signed it, I''ll deliver it to you."


    "Which part are you confused about, Miss McKinney? I can answer your questions."


    "I have to see how much I can benefit from this transferring of shares. I have to know all the terms


    before I sign, after all. If not, I won''t be able to defend myself if I were at a disadvantage."


    The legal advisor hesitated. "Well¡­"


    At the same time, he looked at Lloyd.


    Thetter waved his hand and stood up, saying, "Feel free to take it to anyone who knows thew so


    that they can help you with it. Just get it done within this week."


    "In that case, I shall thank you in advance, Mr. Crossley."


    With that, Leanna nodded in thanks, then went up to the second floor without looking back.


    The legal advisor asked in a small voice, "Mr. Crossley, are you okay with her taking the documents


    away just like that?"


    Lloyd said, "It wouldn''t change anything even if she takes it away."


    There was absolutely nothing wrong with the share transfer.


    Lloyd narrowed his eyes and said, "You just have to deal with the remaining matters. I''ll handle things


    here."


    "Understood."


    The legal advisor replied, then left.


    Once Leanna sessfully signed the share transfer agreement, half of their ns would have


    seeded.

 Chapter 363

    Chapter 363


    Once she was back in her room, Leanna locked the door and sat at the table as she read the terms of


    the share transfer in detail.


    However, despite flipping through it a few times, she couldn''t find anything wrong with it.


    Leanna felt her eyes getting weary from the reading, so she put down the document and went into the


    bathroom to shower.


    After getting out, she opened up the draft she brought back and continued working on it.


    By the time she had finished the base draft, it was already dawn.


    Leanna stretched and looked at her phone. She realized that Aidan had called her twice about an hour


    ago.


    She replied to him with a message, ''What?''


    Aidan typed back, ''Why didn''t you pick up?''


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Leanna replied, ''I was working on my design.''


    She thought for a bit, then continued typing.


    ''Are you still at thepany?'' she asked.


    Aidan replied, ''Yes, I''m still in a meeting.''


    Leanna retorted, ''In that case, how did you call me?''


    Aidan exined, ''We had a ten-minute break just now.''


    Leanna sent, ''...''


    She then continued, ''Focus on your meeting, then. I''m going to sleep.''


    This b*stard can even divide his attention at a meeting.


    Leannay on the bed as she scrolled through her phone. However, for some reason, she somehow


    navigated to the photo she took of the child back when she was in Underwood Lane.


    Leanna looked at the photos, the smile on her lips gradually widening.


    So cute.


    After looking at the photos, she flopped on the pillow and thought about everything that had happened


    recently, as well as the scene when she first met the child.


    Without realizing it, she fell asleep.


    In her dreams, she heard someone calling her ''Mom'', but the shadow was hazy, and she couldn''t make


    it out no matter how hard she tried.


    Leanna was terribly anxious, but the more she tried to look for it, the more distant the voice sounded.


    All of a sudden, she was startled awake.


    Leanna sat on the bed and looked at the gloomy weather through the window, and she gradually heard


    the sounds of rain.


    She looked at the time. It was 7.30AM.


    Leanna was shaken by the dream, and when she went to the toilet, she suddenly realized she was on


    her period. She couldn''t help but feel a little stunned.


    Could it be that the b*stard was right? Was it just PMS?


    After a hot shower, Leanna changed her clothes and went out.


    After getting to the studio and putting down her designs, she went straight to the most famousw firm


    in Highside.


    After understanding her intentions, the receptionist brought her to an office. "Please wait here for a


    moment. Awyer will be here shortly."


    "Okay."


    Leanna had just taken her seat when the receptionist poured a cup of water for her.


    She said, "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. Ourwyer will be ready in five minutes."


    With that, the receptionist went out.


    Leanna looked at the huge office, her gaze falling upon the documents in front of her. She couldn''t help


    but frown.


    What trap did Lloydy for her this time?


    She really couldn''t figure anything out.


    Just when she was pondering, someone opened the door of the office. A man''s voice sounded, "There


    was an emergency on my way here. Sorry for making you wait¡ª"


    Leanna turned around and watched as the man tidied his hair while putting on his tie with one hand.


    She was silent for a few seconds.


    He probably just woke up with a hangover.


    Freddie also didn''t expect her, of all people, toe this early in the morning forw-rted enquiries.


    He immediately smiled and said, "Yes? Are you here to ask about divorce? If it is, I can be yourwyer


    free of charge."


    Leanna stood up. "Thanks, but no thanks."


    Seeing that she was about to leave, Freddie hastily stopped her. "I''m here, aren''t I? Where are you


    going?"


    "I suddenly¡­ have some matters to attend to. We can talkter."


    Freddie didn''t believe her at all. Based on her expression, she was obviously thinking, ''I don''t think I


    can trust you enough, so I''m getting anotherwyer.''


    He said, "I am the acewyer in ourw firm. You cannot find a more trustworthywyer in all of


    Highside."


    Leanna said, "Didn''t you say that your family runs an entertainmentpany?"


    "Yes, but that doesn''t affect my job as awyer." With that, he sighed. "Perhaps I''m just the rich guy in


    the legends who, even after failing at court, can still go home and inherit the hundreds of millions in


    family property."


    Leanna was speechless.


    Freddie walked toward the office desk as he said, "There was an international case some time ago,


    and I stayed in Sydon for a whole year beforeing back. Oh, do have a seat. We''re family, after all.


    Make yourself at home."


    Leanna smiled half-heartedly. Fine, she should just go along with it. If a hugew firm like this allowed


    an ipetentwyer into their ranks, they would only be ruining their own reputation.


    She sat down in front of Freddie and pushed the document in her hand toward him. "I want you to help


    me read through the terms of this share transfer."


    Hearing that, Freddie seemed a little disappointed. "So it''s not divorce?"


    Leanna''s eyelids twitched a little, but she had no intention of answering.


    Freddie was as professional as he imed. He quickly scanned through the document, then said,


    "There''s no problem with it. It''s just a normal share transfer, and it will take effect as soon as you sign


    it."


    "So there are no hidden terms?"


    "You can''t really make anything out from this; you have to analyze it from various angles, mainly the


    intentions behind the person who''s transferring the shares to you." Freddie was halfway through his


    speech when he suddenly remembered something. He paused, then flipped through the document


    again, saying in surprise, "Crossley Group? Why would Lloyd want to transfer ten percent of his shares


    to you?"


    Leanna said half-heartedly, "Perhaps it''s because of my looks."


    "That''s true¡­ But that''s¡ª"


    Leanna stood up again and took the document. "I got it, thanks."


    With that, she was about to go out and pay the consultation fees.


    Freddie said, "Hey, even though I can''t analyze things for you from various angles, you''d better not sign


    this share transfer. It''s definitely a trap."


    Leanna nodded, then thanked him again before leaving.


    When the office door was closed, Freddie couldn''t help but find it fishy. He had no idea how Aidan''s


    wife would be involved with Lloyd. He massaged his temples. He shouldn''t have drunk so muchst


    night, for his brain was barely working.


    He took out his phone and dialed Aidan''s number, saying right off the bat, "Your wife talked to me."


    Aidan said, "About the share transfer?"


    Freddie was even more shocked now. "How did you know?"


    "I already knew about it yesterday."


    He had always been keeping an eye on Lloyd, so no matter thetter''s movements, he would know


    right away.


    Aidan said, "Is something wrong with it?"


    "No, which is why it''s so weird. The share transfer is as simple as theye¡­ By the way, what is


    your wife''s rtionship with Lloyd? Only a biological daughter can be treated like this, right?"


    "I''m hanging up."


    Hearing the beep over the phone, Freddie felt that this right here was an insult to him.


    He didn''t believe it, so he turned on hisputer and entered a few keywords to search.


    In an instant, he felt as if he had opened the door to a whole new world.

 Chapter 364

    Chapter 364


    After returning to her office, Leanna was greeted by ady who came running to her before she could


    even sit down. She then whispered secretively in her ear, asking, "Are you avable at the moment,


    Miss McKinney?"


    "Nope. Why?"


    Thedy spoke in an even softer voice, "The handsome man from next door came by just now and left


    a message. He wanted me to tell you to meet him, but you mustn''t let Zoe know about it."


    "What is it that I can''t know?"


    She was frightened by the voice as she turned around and saw Zoe''s face just right beside hers. Thus,


    she chuckled awkwardly in an attempt to y it off. "N-Nothing." Struggling to talk her way out of this,


    thedy saw no reason for her to continue sticking around, so she quickly brushed Zoe off with an


    excuse and fled the scene.


    Then, Zoe leaned on the desk and asked, "What were youdies talking about? You two were acting


    like spies."


    Nheless, Leanna reacted with a smile and said, "It was really nothing. It was just that¡­" Daniel


    wants to see me. Believing it was the words that Zoe said earlier, Leanna surmised that was the reason


    Daniel avoided them when he came over to leave her a message.


    In the meantime, Zoe was not entirely unaware of what was going on, having seen an employee from


    the next door talking to thedy outside earlier. However, she went on to stretch herself and said, "I''m


    going to take a cat nap at the back. Holler at me if you need anything."


    "Sure." Leanna put down her belongings and left her office not long after Zoe walked away.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Meanwhile, Daniel was sitting in front of his piano, pausing what he was doing, when he saw Leanna


    arrive. He then shot a gaze at the other employees beside him before they sensibly walked out the


    door.


    "I heard you wanted to see me. What''s it about?" Leanna asked.


    He closed the keyboard cover and replied, "Lloyd is the legal advisor of Crossley Group, and I believe


    he just gave you the equity transfer agreement, didn''t he?"


    Leanna nodded, knowing that Daniel had been keeping his eyes on Crossley Group, which was why


    she didn''t find the man''s question surprising at all.


    "What do you have in mind?"


    "I approached awyer to go through the agreement earlier today. Nothing seems to be wrong."


    Daniel stood up and replied, "Well, that''s precisely why it seems fishy. Don''t you think so?" While


    Leanna remained silent and waited for him to continue, Daniel went on and added, "Previously,


    Georgina came to me for help in investigating the matter that happened twenty years ago but judging


    from her words, I believe she is trying to drag you into the mess amidst Crossley Group."


    "Me?"


    "Miss McKinney, once you sign the agreement, the Crossley Group''s interest will matter as much as


    yours will, which means you''re going to be in trouble should anything happen to thepany. In fact,


    you may even¡­" Be used as a scapegoat. When she heard Daniel''s spection, Leanna didn''t seem


    to be surprised, knowing Lloyd and believing it wasn''t his first time doing that. Soon, Daniel added,


    "Therefore, you mustn''t sign the agreement, Miss McKinney."


    A few momentster, Leanna replied, "However, I''ll be given the power to vote in the Crossley Group if


    I sign the agreement, right? That means I have the right to go through every project that thepany


    is going to engage in and even hear about any insider info."


    "You''re right, but that''s just too dangerous."


    "Well, someone''s gotta do it, no matter how dangerous it may be." She brushed it off with a chuckle.


    "What do you mean, Miss McKinney¡­?" Daniel was stunned.


    "I''ll think about your suggestion. If signing the agreement is going to bring more good than harm, I


    wouldn''t mind taking my chances." Deep down, Leanna saw this as an opportunity to gather the


    evidence she needed after she failed to do so despite having lived with the Crossley Family for a while.


    This is going to have to work because there will be no turning back for me once I sign that paper.


    He puckered his lips, seemingly wanting to say something, just when Leanna''s phone rang. She then


    glimpsed her phone and saw an iing call. "Thank you for your kind intention, Mr. Daniel. I promise


    I''ll think carefully before I act. I will not let my impulse get the better of me." As soon as she finished her


    words, she turned around and walked away.


    The next moment, Daniel stepped forward in an attempt to catch up with Leanna, only to be stopped by


    the other employees who had been waiting outside earlier. "There is someone watching outside." They


    responded with a soft voice. Stunned upon learning that, Daniel decided to retreat to the store without


    saying anything. He then peeked through the ss window and saw a ck Jetta. As soon as Leanna


    disappeared from sight, her stalkers hit the road and drove off. At the sight of what he just saw, Daniel


    couldn''t help but frown out of concern. I can''t believe Lloyd is onto me now.


    In the meantime, Leanna went back to her office and returned the missed call. A few secondster, she


    heard a man''s maic voice from the other side of her phone. "Are you busy now?"


    "Not really. I was just in the middle of something."


    "I heard you met up with Freddie," Aidan said.


    "Yeah, he said he would help me with my divorce settlement in court."


    Aidan was speechless upon hearing thedy''s words just as Freddie, who was in his office, felt chills


    running down his spine and sneezed. A few momentster, Aidan asked, "What time are you going to


    leave work?"


    Leanna glimpsed the drafts on her desk and answered, "I don''t know. It depends, I guess."


    "I have a meetingter, and I''lle over once I''m done. If you''re not in a hurry, why don''t you bear


    with me for a bit?"


    "Sure," she responded with a deep voice. After hanging up the call, she turned on herptop and spent


    a few minutes collecting her thoughts before she continued with her work. Although she was given ten


    days toplete her work, she still had a lot to amend, feeling worried as it was already her third day.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Lloyd was in his residence, where he chuckled gleefully upon hearing his


    subordinates'' reports. "I knew he was up to something." Although his men didn''t manage to listen in on


    the conversation between Daniel and Leanna, he couldn''t help but find it fishy for the two of them to


    meet up just after the day he gave Leanna the equity transfer agreement. After all, it all seemed too


    much of a coincidence to him.


    As for Daniel, Lloyd still had not found anything substantial about the mysterious man''s background.


    However, he was sure that Daniel had a hidden agenda because thetter was just a musician, who


    should have left Highside sooner after his tour concert in that region was done. But instead, he stuck


    around and even showed up in ces he shouldn''t have in the past few days. At the thought of that,


    Lloyd suddenly asked, "Did you just say he lived next door to Leanna''s ce?"


    "Yeah, he moved in right before his tour concert."


    Lloyd knitted his eyebrows. "Well, why did he have to rent since he was just here for a tour concert?


    Unless¡ªhe was using his concert as a front."


    "He seems to be closely associated with Constetion Tech. Would you like us to do a little digging


    about Elijah, Mr. Crossley?"


    "No need for that," Lloyd replied. Deep down, he had known that Elijah''s father was Mr. Jackson''s


    schoolmate even without conducting any investigation. Daniel, Elijah, Mr. Jackson, and Leanna. They


    are only brought together because of one thing. Lloyd squinted, his eyes filled with indifference.


    Thinking all four of them had made their moves, he believed they were all motivated by the same


    incident that happened twenty years ago, although he wasn''t sure how much they knew about it. After


    all, there was no one else besides them who would make a move against him for the same reason.


    Well, that''s better still because I can now take them all down once and for all.

 Chapter 365

    Chapter 365


    Meanwhile, Daniel went up to the second floor and gave Elijah a call. "I guess my cover is blown, so I


    think we need to pause our n."


    Having prepared for the day that they were exposed, Elijah curiously asked, "How did that happen?"


    "I got careless." Daniel sat on the couch and added, "I met up with Leanna to discuss the equity


    transfer agreement she was handed earlier, but I didn''t realize Lloyd had his men spying on us until it


    was toote. That slippery old man isn''t going to give up so easily even though he has no idea what we


    were talking about."


    "Alright, I heard you. However, we don''t have any useful leads at the moment, so even if we really get


    exposed, Lloyd is not going to get anything much that will dispel his doubts." Upon pausing for a few


    seconds, Elijah added, "Anyway, I think you''re probably going to be followed by his men for a while, so


    keep your eyes peeled."


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    After hanging up the call, Daniel looked outside the window in a preupied manner. Deep down, he


    believed Lloyd was just trying to lure him into the light by handing Leanna the equity transfer


    agreement, knowing he had a bigger ulterior motive behind him. In the meantime, Lloyd''s men were


    secretly observing Daniel in the shadows from afar but failed to notice anything strange with thetter.


    After all, the only ce he went to after leaving his piano lounge was the bar.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Leanna was still busypleting her drafts even though it had already turned dark


    on the outside. Soon, she was interrupted by a knock on the door, whereupon Zoe poked her head into


    her room and asked, "Aren''t you going to make a move, Leanna?"


    "I-I''ll probably leave a littleter." Leanna looked up.


    "Alright then, it''s raining outside, so don''t forget to bring an umbre with you when you leave. You


    don''t want to catch a cold after all." Zoe put on a mischievous smile.


    "Okay. Stay safe on your way home." Leanna nodded. As soon as Zoe disappeared from sight, she


    stretched herself and cracked her tight neck. It was then that her attention was caught by the rain that


    was pitter-pattering on the roof on the outside. She then shifted her gaze to the clock and realized it


    was almost 9.00PM. Wondering whether Aidan wasing over, she reached for her phone to give the


    man a call, but before she was about to do so, she heard footsteps approaching the door.


    Thinking it was Aidan, Leanna walked up to the door and opened it, only to see Ron standing outside.


    The man was drenched from head to toe in a disheveled manner. As he walked closer to Leanna, the


    lady backed away in fear. Sensing thedy''s terror, Ron stopped in his tracks and said, "I have news


    about Jethro."


    "Where is he?" Leanna frowned and asked.


    "I need money." Ron made his point without beating around the bush.


    "How much?" Leanna pursed her lips.


    "Five hundred grand."


    "I don''t have that much money now, but I promise tomorrow¡­"


    "I want it tonight." Ron cut thedy short.


    As Leanna was about to say something more, she noticed red water dripping onto the ground,


    believing Ron was injured. A few secondster, she gave him a card and said, "This card has three


    hundred grand inside. For the bnce, I''ll transfer it to you with my phone."


    "Thank you." Ron took the card and replied, "Jethro is now in an abandoned warehouse, so you''d


    better not rush into a bad decision recklessly. He is smart, and he knows the ce well. So, if you''re


    not in a hurry, I''ll go there again in the next few days. I promise I won''t let him get away again this time."


    Leanna nodded in response. "Alright, I heard you. Like I said earlier, I will honor my promise and pay


    you the rest of the money as soon as you find him. Not a single penny less." After that, Ron turned


    around and was about to disappear in the rain when he heard Leanna''s voice again. "Wait."


    Ron looked back and stared at thedy in the rain.


    "Where are you going?"


    "To the hospital."


    Leanna responded with silence for a few seconds and grabbed her car keys. "Let me give you a ride


    there. God knows how long it''s going to take until you g down a cab that is willing to stop for you." At


    thedy''s words, Ron was surprised, standing in the rain without saying anything. In the meantime,


    Leanna couldn''t care less about cleaning the mess, even though she noticed the rainwater on the


    ground was slowly turning red. She then double-backed to her office and grabbed her car keys, as well


    as her important belongings and two umbres. After locking her office, she came back out and gave


    Ron an umbre. "My car is over there. Let''s go."


    Ron hesitated for a few moments before he eventually decided to take the umbre from Leanna''s


    hand. After the duo entered the car, thedy asked, "Which hospital do you want to head to?"


    Ron soon gave Leanna an address before she proceeded to get her GPS ready. As the rain became


    heavier and heavier, Ron, who had remained silent for most of the time, asked, "You do know that


    you''re alone with me, don''t you? Aren''t you afraid that I''d do something terrible to you?"


    With her eyes fixed on the road ahead, Leanna replied, "You could have done that back in the office if


    that was your intention. I wouldn''t have been a match for you in a fight anyway, so it wasn''t necessary


    for you to go through so much trouble."


    Ron didn''t say anything in response as the rainwater, mixed with his blood, began to drench the seat.


    When they arrived at the hospital, Ron immediately opened the door and stepped out of the car as


    soon as Leanna pulled over. Having her eyes on the man''s rear silhouette, she hesitated for a while


    and eventually decided to follow him. Soon, she found herself at the front desk, where she saw Ron


    trying to pay the bill. Nheless, the scar on his face and his bloodied appearance frightened the


    nurses out of their wits, but fortunately, Leanna quickly walked closer and took the bill from the man


    before giving it to the nurses along with her bank card. It was then that they gave up the idea of calling


    the police.


    Leo Wojzicki? When Leanna saw the patient''s name on the bill, her intuition instantly told her that the


    person was Queenie''s father.


    After making the payment, the nurse returned the card and the bill to Leanna. "W-We have just


    processed the payment for the patient''s first operation, as the card doesn''t have sufficient bnce. H-


    However, you''re wee to pay the remaining bnce when the next treatment is due."


    "Thank you." Leanna took the bill and returned it to Ron, who held it in his hands and darted upstairs to


    see the doctor. The operation is going to take ce tomorrow, so I need the money by tonight, or it''s


    going to be toote.


    Nevertheless, Leanna didn''t tag along and was about to make a move, only to feel her phone vibrating


    in her purse. Thus, she reached for it and saw a dozen missed calls from Aidan. Speechless, she


    immediately returned the call shortly before she heard the man''s indifferent voice. "Where are you?"


    "I-I''m¡­ At the hospital now."


    "Stay there. I''ll be on my way."


    "Wait..." Before Leanna could say anything, Aidan had already hung up the call as she speechlessly


    rubbed her forehead. I might have forgotten my date with this man, but couldn''t he have spoken with a


    less intimidating tone, at least? He was scaring me!


    While Leanna was still standing at the hospital''s entrance, she heard a voiceing from behind her.


    "Thanks for the help."


    Thedy turned around and calmly replied, "No worries. By the way, I just transferred the remaining two


    hundred grand to you. Check it out."


    "I saw that." After two seconds of silence, Ron said, "I''ll find Jethro once Mr. Wojzicki''s operation is


    over."


    "Don''t worry about that. He''s been in hiding for god knows how long anyway, so I''m pretty sure that can


    wait. For now, you should get yourself patched up first."

 Chapter 366

    Chapter 366


    "It''s just a minor injury. I''ll live. I''m used to it anyway," Ron replied.


    Leanna knew how Ron sustained those injuries even though she didn''t ask him. I bet he must have


    been wounded when he was trying to gather the money for Queenie''s father. "I''ll head to the bank and


    pay you the remaining one hundred grand."


    "But I haven''t found Jethro¡­" Ron was stunned.


    "Didn''t you just say you were sure you could find him?" Leanna smiled.


    Ron pursed his lips without saying a single word. A few momentster, he was approached by the


    security guards when they noticed a pool of blood around him. Just as they were about to ask Ron


    what happened, he quickly darted into the rain and disappeared.


    The guards then gazed at Leanna and asked, "Who is that man,dy? What was he talking to you


    about?"


    "He was just asking for directions, but after I told him I couldn''t help him, he just left," Leanna


    answered.


    However, the guards didn''t seem to believe Leanna, but as they were about to press on with their


    question, a ck Rolls-Royce stopped just right in front of them. Then, when they saw the man exiting


    the vehicle, they could instantly feel the cold and intimidating aura that he was radiating, even more so


    than Ron whom they just saw. As the man walked closer, they couldn''t help but feel chills running down


    their spine.


    After walking up to Leanna, Aidan noticed the pool of blood on the ground, his eyes filled with


    indifference. "Are you hurt? Where are you hurt?" He could feel his throat slightly constricting.


    Leanna paused for a second, understanding what he meant, before she reacted with a smile. "No, it''s


    not me. I''m fine."


    Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    "What happened? And you¡­" Aidan stopped mid-sentence when he noticed the security guards were


    listening in on them. Nevertheless, they immediately left and told the janitor to clean the ce when


    they met his eyes.


    Leanna gently pulled Aidan''s sleeve and spoke with a soft voice. "I''ll tell you moreter, but I''m


    unharmed."


    It was only after noticing Leanna''s dry clothes without any signs of injuries on her that Aidan was able


    to put his mind to ease. He then wrapped his arms around thedy and asked in a deep voice, "Were


    you trying to give me a heart attack? Why didn''t you answer my call?"


    While it was Leanna''s first time seeing Aidan so nervous, she responded by wrapping her arms around


    his waist and exining calmly. "My phone was on silent mode, so I didn''t hear your call."


    Aidan reacted by tightening his arms around Leanna. Deep down, he couldn''t stop thinking about the


    moment that he nearly went crazy when he saw no signs of Leanna in her office and the pool of blood


    outside her workce. Thank god she called back, or I would have confronted Lloyd and made him pay


    with his life.


    Although it wasn''t crowded in the hospital, the duo''s interaction still drew the attention of the nurses


    who passed by them. Soon, Leanna began to feel embarrassed as she nudged the man. "Alright, I''m


    fine now, okay? Let''s get into the car and talk."


    A few momentster, Aidan let go of Leanna and said, "I''ll give you a lift home."


    "But¡­"


    "Jonathan is here. Give him your car keys." Aidan asserted his dominance just as Leanna was


    reminded of what had happened earlier. Thus, she decided to go along with the man. As soon as they


    got into the ck Rolls-Royce and left the hospital, Aidan asked, "Can you tell me now?"


    "Well, it wasn''t that much of a big deal either. It was¡­ Ron. He swung by earlier."


    "He still had the cheek to see you?" Aidan asked sternly with a pair of furrowed eyebrows.


    "It''s not like what you think it is. He knows where Jethro is," Leanna answered.


    "Where is he?"


    Leanna then went on to tell Aidan about Jethro''s location and added, "You know what? Ron was right.


    It''s easier for him to find Jethro than it is for us, so I think it''s better for us to let him handle the matter,


    or Jethro is going to get away again this time."


    When he heard what thedy said, Aidan pursed his lips without talking back, knowing well that Ron


    was the best person he could trust to find Jethro because his men struggled to find any useful lead


    despite their effort. Well, I suppose I have to admit that Ron does know Jethro better, so maybe it''s


    better to let him take care of it. While Aidan remained silent, Leanna felt relieved, knowing that the


    man''s reaction was a gesture of concession. However, she was quickly caught off guard by Aidan, who


    suddenly spoke in a stern manner. "You mustn''t see him when you''re alone."


    "Alright, I heard you." Leanna nodded, agreeing with Aidan that she should stay away from Ron due to


    their differences in values, even though he didn''t seem hostile to her recently. Well, I guess I have just


    cleared my debts that I owed him after helping him this time.


    Soon, they arrived at the Crossley Residence. While Leanna thought Aidan would leave after Jonathan


    arrived with her car like he did previously, Aidan drove through the Crossley Residence''s gate,


    rendering thedy confused.


    "Seriously? It''s pouring out here, and you want me to wait outside?" Aidan asked.


    "But¡­"


    "Don''t worry. I don''t think he is really going to drive me out of his house."


    Since the car was already within the Crossley Residence''spound, Leanna figured there was


    nothing much she could say. She then took a look at the time, thinking Lloyd shouldn''t be in the living


    room at that hour. A few minutester, the car stopped just right in front of the garden, but when


    Leanna was about to step out of the vehicle, Aidanmanded her to remain still. "Sit." He then


    opened the car door and took the umbre from the maid, whereupon he circled to the front passenger


    seat and opened the door with his hand stuck out.


    In response, Leanna was amused, her lips curling upward delightedly. He is such a lovely rascal, isn''t


    he? Despite the distance they had to walk from the garden to the house, Leanna didn''t get wet at all


    besides her shoes.


    On the other hand, Lloyd was reading the newspaper in the living room when he heard someone


    opening the door and looked up. Without any signs of surprise on his face, he put away the


    newspapers and reacted cially. "To what do I owe you the pleasure, Mr. Pearson? Don''t you find


    your sudden visit a little¡­ inappropriate?"


    "Inappropriate?" Aidan replied calmly, "Guess what? Miss McKinney had invited me so many times in


    the past that I was starting to feel a little embarrassed to turn her down until today. Since there wasn''t


    much going on this evening, I figured it was a perfect opportunity for me to finally drop by. Didn''t you


    know about that, Mr. Crossley? Or did you not talk to her at all?"


    Leanna was speechless, fearing that Lloyd would drive Aidan out of the house in a fit of pique due to


    the aggressive way in which he put his words.


    "Even so, don''t you know that you shouldn''t visit somee at night? Where are your manners?"


    Lloyd sarcastically picked on Aidan with an emotionless expression on his face.


    "Easy, Mr. Crossley. I was just fulfilling my duty as a boyfriend by taking my girlfriend home. If I failed to


    do that, I''d be worse than a man without manners."


    While Lloyd''s face darkened, Leanna quickly tried to defuse the situation. "He gave me a ride back


    because it was raining, but he won''t stay here long, so I hope you wouldn''t mind seeing him here, Mr.


    Crossley."


    "He should leave now, then. The Crossley Family doesn''t wee strangers." Lloyd rose from his seat.


    "Mr. Crossley," Aidan called out to Lloyd. "I have something I''d like to talk to you about." While Lloyd


    fixed his eyes upon Aidan, Leanna was also puzzled by Aidan''s unexpected reaction, shooting him a


    confused gaze.


    Nevertheless, Aidan didn''t meet Leanna''s gaze but instead chose to exchange eye contact with Lloyd.


    "If you''re busy right now, I suppose I can drop by your office tomorrow."


    Lloyd stood in ce for the next few seconds, pondering in a preupied manner before he said,


    "Come with me."


    As soon as Lloyd turned around, Aidan rubbed Leanna''s head andforted her. "Go back to your


    room. I''ll tell you what happenedter."

 Chapter 367

    Chapter 367


    Lloyd sat down in his study, folding his arms while resting them on the desk. "Talk."


    Aidan sat right in front of him and replied, "I have a few questions to ask regarding your decision to


    transfer 10% of the Crossley Group''s shareholdings to Leanna."


    "You have nothing to do with the Crossley Group''s decision." Lloyd wasn''t a pushover, so he wasn''t too


    happy about Aidan''s statement.


    Aidan curled his lips upward and said, "I''m afraid I''m going to have to correct you there, Mr. Crossley.


    Leanna is not only my ex-wife but also my girlfriend. In fact, she is going to be my wife again, which is


    why I''m going to have a say about the shareholdings Leanna is going to own."


    "You''re no doubt a businessman, calcting meticulously with every step you take."


    "Of course." Aidan added, "We both know how hard it is to take advantage of you, thanks to your


    shrewdness and cunning nature. Thus, do you think I''m really going to be a fool and let that chance


    pass?"


    Lloyd responded calmly. "This is not going to sound nice, but let me make this clear. The Pearson


    Family was at fault for calling off the wedding several times in the first ce. Because of that, I swear


    the Crossley Family will not go down in history as aughingstock, no matter how desperate we may


    be."


    Despite the man''s words, Aidan wasn''t surprised at all. "I understand what you''re thinking, Mr.


    Crossley. In fact, I don''t care how the Crossley Family fares in the future, but if you insist on dragging


    Leanna into your mess, I wouldn''t mind making it even more¡ªchaotic."


    While Lloyd''s face darkened bitterly, Aidan had made himself clear about what he would do to him


    should he transfer 10% of the Crossley Group''s shareholdings to Leanna. Those shareholdings are


    likely going to end up in Aidan''s hands in the end. If that happens, I could put myself in a lot of trouble,


    Lloyd thought to himself.


    Soon, Aidan added, "Mr. Crossley, I believe you know what you should do to minimize the potential


    loss."


    "Hmph! Your audacity really knows no bounds!" Lloyd paused for a few moments and sniggered.


    "A clever mind is all one needs to survive and possibly even excel in the business world. Don''t tell me


    you''re new to that, Mr. Crossley."


    "Good thinking!" Lloyd stood up and continued to add, "But let me remind you one thing. Leanna is


    staying in my house, not to mention the fact that she insists she is a part of the Crossley Family.


    Therefore, I will make sure she doesn''t marry you so long as I''m still breathing."


    Aidan remained seated, but the expression on his face started to turn cold. A few secondster, he


    calmly replied, "I wouldn''t be so sure if I were you, Mr. Crossley. I always get whatever I want, and no


    one can stand in my way. For that, you might want to take good care of yourself so that you can live


    long enough to find out which of us has thestugh." Aidan nodded at him as a gesture of saying


    goodbye before he turned around and walked away. Exclusive content from N?velDrama.Org.


    While Lloyd fixed his gaze on Aidan and thumped the desk with his clenched fists, Georgina entered


    the house from the outside. "Dad."


    "Did you hear everything just now?" Lloyd pulled himself together and asked to which Georgina nodded


    in response. "Aidan is such an arrogant and disrespectful man. We must beware of him." In order to get


    rid of Leanna, Lloyd knew he must first get rid of Aidan.


    Georgina paused and said, "Well, in that case, I suppose we can continue our partnership with the


    Pearson Family since they¡­"


    Lloyd chuckled coldly and waved his hand. "The Pearson Family is simply just a paper tiger. They


    wouldn''t have found themselves in such a tight spot if they had been able to handle Aidan."


    "What''s your n then, Dad?"


    "I know the Pearson Family is recently searching for Aidan''s actual mother." Lloyd squinted and added,


    "Guess what? My men are keeping tabs on them." When the time is right, all I have to do is secretly


    make a move against them and tip the scales in my favor. When Aidan realizes what happens, it''ll be


    toote, and he''ll have no idea who is responsible for that.


    With her mouth left wide agape, Georgina seemingly wanted to say something but decided to swallow


    her words. Then, Lloyd shot a gaze at her and continued to say, "By the way, you should distance


    yourself from the guy named Daniel. He is probably associated with Leanna, considering the fact that


    she is going to marry into the Pearson Family sooner orter. For that, I''m convinced that they are


    likely on the same side."


    "Alright, I heard you." Georgina nodded.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Leanna had been on edge and disturbed ever since Aidan and Lloyd entered the study. Not


    knowing how long had passed, sheter heard the whirring sound of a car''s engineing from


    downstairs. Thus, she walked closer to the window and peeked outside, seeing Aidan leaving the


    ce. It was then that she was finally able to heave a sigh of relief and put her mind to ease. After that,


    she grabbed her pajamas and entered the bathroom for a shower, whereupon she sat at the desk and


    started working on her drafts. Nevertheless, she was barely able to focus as she couldn''t really take


    her eyes off her phone until the screen brightened up. In less than a second, she quickly answered the


    iing call. "Have you reached home?"


    "Miss me already?" Aidan smiled yfully on the other side of the phone.


    Speechless, Leanna rolled her eyes upward. "Come on, just cut the crap and tell me what happened."


    "The reason Lloyd gave you the equity transfer agreement is that he wants you to be his


    scapegoat if anything goes wrong with the Crossley Group. Are you aware of that?" Aidan exined


    and asked.


    "Yes, I am." Leanna nodded. In fact, she had been thinking about that ever since she left thew firm.


    After all, she had Daniel to thank for alerting her about Lloyd''s evil scheme.


    Aidan removed his necktie and tossed it onto the couch. "I only reminded him of our rtionship. Once


    he transfers the shares to you, they will all eventually be mine as well since we are getting married,


    anyway."


    After hearing Aidan''s words, Leanna was speechless, not knowing how to speak her mind even though


    she was about to react with a witty reply. How unpredictable this rascal is! Amidst the few seconds of


    silence, she heard some rustling sound of fabric and curiously asked, "What are you doing?"


    "I''m taking off my clothes, Honey. They are all wet, thanks to the rain," the man answered in a deep


    voice.


    When Leanna heard how she was called, she couldn''t help but recall the intimate moments they


    shared in the past. Furthermore, the fact that Aidan told her he was undressing filled her mind with


    those amorous images, which was beginning to turn her on. Thus, she turned panicky and blurted, "W-


    Well, then maybe I should leave you to it. We can always talk another time."


    "Leave me to it?" Aidan asked, "Why? I''m not busy now."


    "But I am." Leanna bit her lower lip unconsciously, hanging up on Aidan before the man could say


    anything further. She then opened the window to get some fresh air and let the cold breeze cool her


    down. After that, she sat at her desk and took the equity transfer agreement out of her briefcase.


    With Aidan''s interference, I believe Lloyd has probably given up on whatever monkey business he was


    nning, but even so, I doubt he will ask me to return the agreement. At the thought of that, Leanna


    wondered how she could use the agreement to serve her purpose. A few momentster, she let out a


    sigh, thinking she ought to put that matter aside as she had apetition to get ready for. I don''t have


    much time until thepetition, so I mustn''t waste any more time. Therefore, Leanna decided to


    concentrate on her work and started working on her drafts until midnight.

 Chapter 368

    Chapter 368


    A few days after that, Lloyd did not bring up the topic of transferring shares to Leanna anymore,


    seemingly as if he had wanted to y it down. As for Leanna, she was not in a hurry to settle this, as


    she had waited long enough for this, so another two days wouldn''t make a difference. Moreover, she


    was busy with thepetition.


    On the day of the semi-final, all the participants arrived at the scene and handed in their work. This


    time, it wasn''t the same as the previous round, which had some odd tests. Instead, the staff was


    waiting at the spot to register each of the artworks.


    "Thank you all for your hard work during these ten days. The result will be announced in three days, so


    please prepare for the final."


    The organizer had said before that when the semi-final result was announced, the three designers who


    had entered the final round would give their work to the judges, and they would check the works on site


    before announcing the result. Hence, there was no way that the participants could rx within these


    three days. Instead, they needed to be on high alert.


    Just as Leanna had handed in her work and was about to leave, Sofia came up and said, "McK, I was


    going to treat you to dinner, but it looks like we aren''t in it for now. Let''s have a meal together after the


    competition is over. I''d be like everyone else without your help, so I really owe you one."


    Listening to her words, Leanna looked over and saw a few people with grim expressions. It was clear


    that they were not satisfied with their work and knew they would have no hope of entering the final


    round.


    "Don''t sweat about it. It''s what I''m supposed to do," she replied.


    Sofia''s skill was undeniable. Although the other designers would discuss their work in private, it looked


    like it didn''t end well.


    "I''ll be leaving then. See you at the final," said Sofia.


    "See you at the finals." Leanna nodded gently.


    After Sofia had left, Leanna took a few more steps forward before she heard Queenie''s voice, which


    was filled with irritation. "I said that I''m in the middle of apetition. Can''t I go home and visit him


    when I have the time? Do you know how important thispetition means to me?" Before the person


    in front of her could say anything, Queenie continued, "There are still a few more days left before the


    finalpetition. Can you please stop bothering me?"


    After her words fell, there was a short moment of silence before a male voice spoke up. "Good luck at


    the final." Then, the man turned around and was met with Leanna''s gaze.


    At that moment, Queenie also saw Leanna. Then, she frowned and took a step back, distancing herself


    from Ron.


    Ron seemed to have sensed her intentions when he turned his head and looked at her. Then, he


    lowered his hat and left the scene quickly.


    "Don''t you know it''s rude to eavesdrop on others'' conversation?" Queenie crossed her arms together


    and demanded with an unfriendly tone.


    "All I know is that this is a public area, and I don''t have the responsibility to move my way out for you,"


    Leanna replied faintly.


    Hearing her words, Queenie sneered in disdain, "Aren''t you a bit too full of yourself? It seems to me


    you''re delighted with your work."


    "By the nervous looks on your face, are you dissatisfied with yours?" Leanna retorted.


    When Queenie realized Leanna had refuted her, her face darkened. However, Leanna did not intend to


    talk to her any longer and turned around. At that moment, Queenie shouted, "Are you that confident


    that you will be thest man standing?!"


    Hearing her words, Leanna stopped in her tracks and said, "When have I ever said such a thing?"


    "Well, isn''t that what you think?"


    "I never thought about this before. I just feel that we should bepeting by using our skills and


    expertise. Let the strength speak for itself, okay?" Then, Leanna looked at her and added, "Instead of


    worrying about me, why don''t you visit your father?"


    As Queenie listened to her words, her face twisted in anger, and she growled, "That is none of your


    business!"


    Listening to her words, Leanna twitched her lips and didn''t say anything. As she left, she thought to


    herself, Does she think I''m willing to mind her business?


    When she returned to the studio, Zoe came up with a hesitant expression. Seeing the look on her face,


    Leanna asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Louis is here," Zoe whispered.


    Hearing her words, Leanna was startled momentarily. Just as Leanna was about to ask Zoe why he


    was present on a weekend, she saw Zoe''s expression and knew that something had happened.


    Hence, she just looked at Zoe and said, "Okay."


    Then, Leanna walked toward her office.


    Inside the office, Louis had his back against her, so she couldn''t see the expression on his face. As she


    entered the room, she shut the door behind her and asked, "Why are you here, Louis? Don''t you have


    sses to attend?"


    At that moment, Louis raised his head slowly while pursing his lips into a thin line. Then, he took a


    photo out of his bag and showed it to Leanna. As Leanna lowered her eyes and looked at the photo,


    she saw that it was Lloyd and her. By the scene of the picture, she guessed it must have been taken by


    someone on the day of the auction.


    Thinking about it, she sat down and said softly, "I didn''t mean to hide this from you, Louis. This is too


    complicated, and I didn''t know how to tell you."


    "So, he is your biological father, right?" asked Louis.


    At that, Leanna opened her mouth but didn''t exin, which indicated a silent agreement. This isn''t the


    right time to tell him about this, she thought.


    After a while, he asked, "Is Jethro stilling to you?"


    "No." Leanna shook her head.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Okay." As Louis spoke, he stood up and left.


    Seeing that he was about to leave, Leanne called out, "Louis¡­"


    However, Louis had his back against her, and his tone was monotonous as he spoke. "I''m fine. I was


    just here to check with you. Since I still have sses at night, I''ll be going then." Then, he left.


    Although Leanne chased after him, she lost sight of him as he left quickly.


    At that moment, Zoe walked over to her and asked, "What happened? I saw that Louis looked grim


    when he came."


    "I guess he knew about my rtionship with the Crossley Family," Leanne replied.


    Hearing her words, Zoe scratched her head in confusion and said, "Well¡­ I''m sure it''s not a big deal.


    Maybe he will even be happy for you."


    "That''s not the point," said Leanne as she shook her head. Then, she went back to her office and


    dialed Daphne''s number. When Daphne answered the phone, she asked, "Is Louis still with the crew?"


    "No, he isn''t. He has finished his part for quite some time. What''s wrong?" Daphne replied.


    "It''s nothing. I was just¡­" As Leanne spoke, she sighed quietly and continued, "Forget it. I''ll hang up


    now."


    On the other end of the call, Daphne was confused about why Leanne had called her. After keeping her


    phone away, she asked the staff next to her, "Has Louis been in the crew for the past few days?"


    "I''m not sure, but I saw him by the school gate in the afternoon. Speaking of which, isn''t he filthy rich?"


    the staff said.


    When Daphne heard the staff''s words, she was confused. "What''s that supposed to mean?" she asked.


    Then, the staff said, "I saw a mane looking for him in the afternoon. He was driving a luxury car


    and was in a suit. He looks like one of the most sessful people. Looking at him from afar, I thought


    he and Louis looked alike, so I''m guessing that the man is his father, right?"


    When Daphne heard the staff''s words, she immediately knew that the man wasn''t Louis'' father, as she


    had heard about Leanne''s father. At that moment, she grabbed her stuff while saying, "Tell the director


    that I will be leaving first."


    "We are having dinner together, though. Where are you going?" the staff asked.


    "Something came up. I''ll treat you guys next time. For today, you guys go on without me," replied


    Daphne.

 Chapter 369

    Chapter 369


    After leaving the crew, Daphne went to Louis'' school, but none of his ssmates knew where he went


    because he was absent from his afternoon lectures. Then, Daphne went to the dormitory, but the


    answer was still the same. With that, she scratched the back of her head. Just as she was about to


    leave, she saw Louis return with a grim expression. Before she could go up to him, he had already


    entered the dormitory. Seeing him in this state, Daphne felt that something had happened. Thus, she


    took out her phone and dialed Louis'' number, but no one answered.


    As she stood outside for a moment, she was about to ask someone to help her call for Louis when she


    saw hime out of the dormitory with his luggage. When Daphne saw him, she immediately walked


    up to him and asked, "Where are you going?"


    When Louis saw her, he frowned and asked, "Why are you here?"


    "I went to look for you in ss, but your ssmates said you were absent, so I came here. I even


    called you, but you didn''t answer." As Daphne spoke, she looked at the bag Louis was holding. "Now,


    can you tell me what''s going on?"


    When Louis noticed that she was looking at his bag, he subconsciously hid the bag behind him and


    said faintly, "Nothing''s wrong. I''m going to stay at home for a few days."


    "It''s not even the weekend. Why are you going home?"


    "Something came up."


    Hearing his words, Daphne hummed and said, "Alright, let''s go together. It''s been a long time since I


    last saw Leanna."


    When Louis heard her words, he frowned deeply. However, Daphne urged him as she walked, saying,


    "Come on."


    Then, Louis looked like he was at the end of his wits. "I''m going to my old house. She doesn''t live


    there."


    When Daphne heard his words, she was not surprised at all. Then, she quickly reacted, saying, "I''ll


    give you a ride then. Since it''s rush hour, you won''t be able to get a ride that easily. Moreover, didn''t


    you say that you would treat me to a meal? I can have a free meal if I give you a ride."


    Hearing her words, Louis didn''t say anything.


    Then, Daphne stared at him for a moment before saying, "Well, it looks like you aren''t going home. So,


    where are you going?"


    When Louis heard her words, he pursed his lips and stated coldly, "That''s none of your business." His


    tone was distant.


    Hearing his words, Daphne was startled. She opened her mouth but didn''t know what to say. At that


    moment, she felt that she had overstepped his boundaries. However, Louis was Leanna''s brother, so


    she also treated him as one of her own. Since they had been on good terms in the crew, she


    subconsciously thought they had a closer rtionship, almost like siblings or friends. Thus, when she


    heard Louis'' words, she felt like knives stabbed into her heart.


    As she was in her thoughts, Louis walked past her and stomped off. Watching him leave, Daphne felt


    she shouldn''t care too much. So, she sent Leanna a text.


    ''Louis had packed his things and left the dormitory.'' Then, she kept her phone and left.


    On the other hand, when Leanna got Daphne''s message, she immediately called Louis. However, the


    line was blocked. At that moment, she knew that something serious had happened.


    Then, she quickly grabbed her things and left the room. "I''m heading out, Zoe. I think I''m noting


    back tonight."


    Hearing her words, Zoe nodded but still asked, "Hey, where are you going?"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    "Louis had packed his things and left school. I have a feeling that something is going to happen. I have


    to find him." After finishing her words, Leanna left hastily.


    As she ran out of the studio, she encountered Daniel, who had just returned. When Daniel saw her, he


    was about to ask her what had happened, but she had already gone inside her car.


    At that moment, Daniel frowned. Just as he was about to look away, his eyes met with Zoe''s. After a


    few seconds of silence, he still decided to walk up to her and asked, "What happened?"


    Zoe looked at him and said faintly, "Louis hade to the studio, but something seemed off. Just now,


    Nana said that he had packed his things and left the school grounds."


    When Daniel heard it, his expression was serious, and he immediately ran back to his car and chased


    after Leanna.


    Seeing that both Leanna and Daniel had left, Zoe had a serious look on her face. What is going on?


    At the same time, Leanna was driving toward Louis'' school while on the phone with Daphne. "Did he


    say anything to you when you met him?"


    On the other end of the call, Daphne curled her lips and said, "He didn''t say much, but I can feel that he


    was in a terrible mood."


    Hearing her words, Leanna pursed her lips.


    "Oh yeah," Daphne added. "He told me that he was going home, but I have a feeling that he was lying.


    Didn''t you guys move out of that house? Where is he going to stay?"


    When Leanna heard her words, she stepped on the brakes abruptly. I have to see it, even if there is a


    slim chance. Thinking about it, she quickly changed the direction she was heading.


    Daphne continued, "There''s one more thing. I heard from the crew staff that a man met Louis at his


    school in the afternoon. He was driving a luxury car and looked simr to Louis. My senses are telling


    me that this has something to do with his sudden change of behavior."


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna sat still while trying to process the situation. However, there was


    no time for her to think this through. At this moment, her priority was to find Louis as soon as possible.


    When she arrived at the house Jethro had sold, she parked the car by the road and rushed upstairs.


    When she went upstairs, she saw that the door was half-closed, and the room was being thrashed. It


    looks like Louis did return.


    "Oh, Leanna, you''re back. I just saw your brother downstairs alone. I didn''t even have the chance to


    say hello to him when he ran off." As the neighbor spoke, she saw the inside of the room and asked,


    "Are you guys moving out? I suppose that''s a good thing. After all, it''s bad for you guys to live here


    when it has been quite some time since your father passed. It''s time to sell the house."


    "When was thest time you saw Louis?" Leanna asked.


    "I saw him ten minutes ago when I was fetching my grandson. It looks like he was heading toward


    where your father used to y poker. He had a scary look on his face," the neighbor said.


    When Leanna heard her words, she thanked thetter and closed the door behind her. Just as she


    went downstairs, her phone rang, and she saw that it was an unknown number. Immediately, she


    picked up the call and said, "I want you to put aside Jethro''s matter first and help me find Louis. He is


    heading toward where Jethro used to gamble."


    "Okay," Ron replied.


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna sighed and gripped her phone tightly. Ron knows better about the


    casinos here than me. I''m sure he knows better how to act ordingly.


    Just as she was about to get in the car, she remembered how worried Aidan was thest time. After


    hesitating for a moment, she still decided to give him a call.


    However, it was Jonathan who answered the phone. "Miss McKinney, is there something you need?


    President Pearson is in a meeting now, and I''ll report it to him after the meeting is over."


    "It''s nothing. I was just¡­ Forget it. I''ll talk to him after the meeting," Leanna said.


    Hearing her tone, Jonathan knew that something had happened. Thus, he said, "Send me the address,


    Miss McKinney. I sent someone over there immediately."


    "Sure." Leanna didn''t reject.

 Chapter 370

    Chapter 370


    Leanna barged into a few cardrooms and underground casinos in a row to search for Louis, but to no


    avail. Instead, she attracted unwanted attention from the people hanging out in the casino, who grew


    unamused at her behavior.


    Noticing that she was there without apanion, they threw banters and teases at her.


    "Hey gorgeous, why are you hanging out by yourself? Are you interested in gambling?"


    "Why don''t you save a little time and settle in? Are you trying to makeparisons?"


    "Prettydy, there''s a difference between a casino and a man, y''know? You need to follow different


    rules in different casinos, but you can choose whichever man catches your attention. We promise that


    you won''t be disappointed."


    The men exchanged nces during the conversation and shared a knowing smile that had a deeper


    meaning than it showed.


    At that moment, one of them mustered his courage and approached her. "How about starting with me?


    Hehe, I promise you won''t regret it."


    Before he could finish his words, someone grabbed his hair from behind and mmed his head


    violently against the wall.


    A swear word escaped the man as he turned around, attempting to fight back his assant. When he


    recognized the person in front of him, he involuntarily took a step back. "R-Ron? What brings you


    here?"


    With an expressionless face, Ron stared at them. "Since when do I need to report my whereabouts to


    you?"


    The onlooking men around changed their attitude within a split second of his arrival. Smiling


    obsequiously at him, the first man replied, "That''s not what I mean. We''re merely concerned about your


    well-being. It''s been a while since west saw you. How are you doingtely?"


    Ron let the man''s pleasantries slip and cut to the chase. "Have you noticed a man in histe teens


    around here?"


    "There''s no such a person. I swear. There aren''t any new faces inside the casino the whole day other


    than the prettydy over there."


    The others joined the conversation to support his stance. "He''s telling the truth, Ron. As you know, the


    people hanging around are regrs and we know their faces. It''s hard to forget if a new face showed


    up here."


    At that, Ron turned to Leanna and stated, "It seems like he has never been here."


    Furrowing her brows, she allowed her eyes to roam around the men in front of her for a while before


    she urged, "Let''s go."


    Once she turned around to leave, Ron ordered the group, "Report to me as soon as you see him


    around here."


    After that, he kicked the man, who was trying to make a move on Leanna a moment ago, and


    reminded, "Mind your own business and cut the nonsense."


    "Yes, of course. There won''t be a next time."


    Withdrawing his gaze, Ron turned on his heel to leave.


    At that moment, one of the men, who had been keeping silent the whole while, strode over to him.


    "Wait a minute, Ron. I''ve got something to tell you¡ªI saw the jerk, Jethro, today. Are you perhaps


    looking for him?"


    As his words reached the duo, they turned around to watch him.


    Ron inquired, "Where did you see him?"


    "Over the junction out there, all alone. At first, I only thought he seemed familiar. If it isn''t because of¡­ I


    won''t even remember seeing him today."


    Ron''s expression grew more serious as he suddenly reached out his hands to grab the man by the


    cor. "Has Jethro been heretely?"


    The man''s face stiffened for a moment before he let out a strained chuckle. "No, he hasn''t. I remember


    you asked us to report his whereabouts to you when we saw him here, but he''s never here."


    "Don''t try my patience."


    Noticing that Ron was on the edge of losing his temper, the man shuddered but spoke through


    clenched teeth nheless. "I''m telling the truth. I won''t dare lie to you."


    Before Ron could answer, the man, who got his head shoved into the wall, chimed in as blood trickled


    down his face, "You bettere clean. Jethro isn''t the best person you should hang out with. Don''t


    ever expect to get any benefits from him."


    "I''m not¡ª"


    Leanna then interrupted them casually, "How much did he give you? I''ll give you double."


    The man rolled his eyes in anticipation as he was tempted by the suggestion, but Ron''s presence


    discouraged him from epting. Thus, he whined, "Geez, prettydy. It''s not about money."


    The next second, Ron''s fist smashed into the wall behind the man as he ordered with a cold tone, "One


    last chance¡ªmoney or life?"


    The threat in his tone was obvious, so the man knew better than to continue covering up for Jethro. He


    swallowed out of nervousness before he began, "Alright, alright. He was here two days ago for a few


    rounds. He got lucky that night and won a lot. He gave me some of the money, asking me not to tell the


    others about his arrival. Ron, you must know that I was left with no other option but to ept it. Lately,


    my girlfriend is nning to leave me for another guy, so I''m in dire need of money to bring her back to


    me, and you know what happened next."


    Ron released him and asked for further information with a serious tone, "Did he ever tell you about the


    location of his temporary shelter?"


    "He didn''t. He was alert the whole time I followed him, wary that someone might be hot on his tail."


    "Where did you lose him?"


    At this point, the man saw no point in leaving any information out, so he immediately added, "I followed


    him all the way to the abandoned and upleted building right out there. I was worried that he might


    notice me, so I didn''t follow him inside. That ce has nothing to shelter him and it''s rainingtely, so I


    doubt he lives there."


    Ron ignored the man''s remark. Instead, he took a few steps toward Leanna and suggested, "Wait for


    me in the car. I''m going to check it out."


    She pondered for a moment before speaking, "I''ming with you."


    She worried that if Louis looked for Jethro in the building, there was zero possibility that he would follow


    Ron and leave the ce.


    Meanwhile, Ron didn''t argue with her as he nodded. "All right."


    The casino wasn''t far from the abandoned building, and it only took a few minutes to arrive by car.


    However, there were alleys everywhere which cars couldn''t go through. The duo didn''t want to waste


    any time looking for another entrance, so they walked into the alleys and began their search of the


    abandoned building.


    The closer their distance to the building, the more Leanna had a feeling that Louis was there.


    When they arrived near the abandoned building, they noticed grass as tall as their waist growing, and


    stray animals that had built their dens around it. Besides, a putrid smell permeated the air.


    The surroundings were quiet, and one could only hear the sound of the wind swaying the grass.


    Ron then turned to Leanna. "Wait here. I''m heading inside."


    She nodded lightly in response.


    He took the initiative to go into the building while Leanna took her time to check out the structure of the


    abandoned building.


    Her eyes first met the noticeably reinforced concrete, before they shifted to the wooden nks and


    other materials unused for the project. Moreover, there was standing water on the floor.


    Judging by its appearance, she couldn''t imagine it to be a suitable shelter for any person.


    Even though Jethro was in hiding, he was still gracious when he paid the man in the casino. Thus, she


    doubted he would need topromise with his choice and live in such a ce.


    At that moment, the wind brought the noise of a fight breaking out on the rooftop to her.


    Leanna immediately raised her head in that direction and saw Louis'' silhouette fleeing across the


    rooftop.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Feeling her heart flutter, she involuntarily opened her mouth to call out his name, but her concern about


    his well-being got the best of her. Therefore, she parted the grass in front of her and rushed forward.


    As soon as she set foot at the entrance, arge wooden que crashed before her feet.


    Leanna''s heart dropped to her stomach and she was drenched in sweat as she stopped in her tracks.


    She raised her head the second time and found a person''s upper body leaning out of the rooftop edge.


    The person was swinging his hands in the air, struggling to live due to his survival instinct.


    If her guess was correct, the person was none other than Jethro.


    However, there was a distance between where Leanna was and the rooftop. She couldn''t hear any


    words, and could only pray that Ron would be able to stop them in time.


    Slowly clenching her fists, she took a deep breath and continued with her journey.

 Chapter 371

    Chapter 371


    On the rooftop, although Jethro was being held by the neck and his face was flushed due tock of


    oxygen, he didn''t stop talking for a second. "You''re an ungrateful brat! A jerk! Is this how you repay me


    after I raise you? I should have¡ª"


    He couldn''t finish the rest of his sentence. His voice grew quieter, as if the words died in his throat.


    Louis stared at the older man with a cold look in his eyes, his expression neutral. "You should''ve been


    dead a long time ago. A scum like you is better off dead."


    Poking out his tongue, Jethro tried to retort, but no sound could escape his throat as his eyes rolled


    back in his head.


    Just when he thought he was going to die, he felt the airing back into his lungs as Louis was


    pushed away from him by force.


    Jethro had both hands on his knees and he coughed violently as he watched the scene unfold before


    him.


    Louis wasted no time in striking a blow on the face of the man behind him, his face contorted in anger.


    "Get lost!"


    Ron was brought a few steps back from the unexpected attack. He wiped the blood away from the


    corner of his lips with his finger, and furrowed his brows at Louis. "Murdering him? Are you out of your


    mind?" This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Perfect timing. I''ll get rid of both of you right here." The intention to kill settled on Louis'' expression as


    he clenched his fists. "You colluded with each other and set Leanna up."


    Jethro''s hystericalugh echoed from behind at that moment. "No wonder the ungrateful brat was


    acting weird! You''re trying to stand up for your sister, aren''t you?! What? Are you sour because she''s


    the daughter of a rich family while you''re the son of a loser like me? Do you think she''ll reward you if


    you im credit for killing me?"


    Louis'' expression turned cold as he headed for Jethro, but Ron stopped him from doing so.


    Between coughs, Jethro chuckled. "Forget about it. She''s a noblewoman. There''s a huge difference


    between her life and our life. She gets to drive a fancy car and live in a luxury mansion, while we can


    only dwell in a sewer that carries waste and a putrid smell. That''s a gap that can never be closed. You


    can''t me others but yourself for being born into this world with such a family background. You''re my


    son. You''re destined to suffer like the poor! Even if you killed me today, it won''t change the fact that


    you''re my son. If you loathe me, you should jump off here after you''ve killed me. Do you think she sees


    you as her brother? I''ll be honest with you¡ªpeople like us are merely dogs in rich people''s eyes.


    They''ll treat us with care whenever they''re in a good mood, but toss us aside when they''re unhappy. If


    she cares about you as you expect her to, she won''t allow you toe to me. Instead, you could


    already have enjoyed a luxurious life by her side. Do you think you share a bond? Don''t be ridiculous!


    Everything was but an act. If you want a better life, don''t forget that I''m your father. I might be willing to


    share some money with you if you put me in a good mood. I won''t lose anything even though you


    resent me. As long as you''re not dead, I haven''t lost everything. You''re my flesh and blood. You can


    never change the fact. Don''t raise your hopes for Leanna. You''re my son, after all. Her hatred against


    me weighs the same as hers against you. Do you still believe that¡ª"


    Before Jethro could finish his words, Leanna showed up at the rooftop without warning.


    She only remarked calmly, "Have you ever heard about a viin''s monologue always leading to their


    doom?"


    Meanwhile, Louis and Ron were busy fighting as their attention was fixed on each other.


    However, it was less like a fight and more like Louisnding blow after blow on Ron one-sided, while


    thetter struggled to defend himself by avoiding hurting Louis.


    Even so, there were many bruises on Ron''s skin.


    When Leanna''s voice reached Louis, he stopped for a moment as the fist he was about tond on Ron


    paused in midair.


    Ron then seized the opportunity to turn around and subdue Louis.


    After making sure that Louis was safe, Leanna withdrew her gaze from the duo and steered her


    attention back to Jethro as she closed the distance between them. "You''re right. A sewer that carries


    waste and a putrid smell is the best amodation for a man like you. You can only dream of standing


    under the sunlight."


    Jethro opened his mouth to retort, but another severe bout of coughing reced his words.


    At that, Leanna continued, "I indeed resent you, but do you think it''s only about yourck of


    compassion? There''s more to it. I resent you because I used to think you were my father. I asked


    myself why an inhumane father without a limit like you even exists in the world. Can''t you tell that my


    loathe toward you is building on the fact you let us down and put us in despair again and again? In


    other words, when I learned the truth that we aren''t rted, I found the exnation for everything that


    happened to me at the same time. I stopped ming the world for treating me unfairly because I was


    only having ill luck to have met you. As for Louis, he is my brother and unrted to you. You''ve never


    fulfilled any obligations as his father since he was young, so you have no right to say that he''s your


    blood. His only responsibility for you is to mourn you on every anniversary of your death anniversary.


    Other than that, don''t get your hopes up with anything."


    An entricugh escaped Jethro''s throat. "Don''t speak too soon. Even if you don''t mind what


    happened in the past, what about your father? A scum like me isn''t worth anything to society. However,


    it''s a shame that¡ª"


    Suddenly, Louis growled at him, "Shut up!"


    Leanna turned to her brother and began with a calm tone, "Louis, Lloyd came to you, didn''t he?"


    She couldn''t think of any other possibilities, or else Louis wouldn''t behave unlike himself the whole day.


    Moreover, Leanna thought of Daphne''s words, about a man in a luxury caring to Louis.


    She continued, "I have no idea about the conversation between him and you, but you only need to


    remember that you''re my younger brother. You''re my only family in this world."


    Louis calmed down at her words. Looking down at the ground, he clenched his fists as blood dripped


    down his knuckles.


    At that moment, Jethro took the initiative to jump off the rooftop when none of them were paying


    attention to him.


    Leanna rushed over to the edge of the rooftop and found a tform next to the level under the rooftop,


    which was built before the construction was terminated. The mannded right on the tform when he


    jumped off, and was now heading inside the building at full speed.


    When she was figuring out the situation, she caught a silhouette shing past from the corner of her


    eye. It turned out that Ron leaped off right after Jethro.


    Although Jethro wasn''t as strong as Ron, the former had been hiding inside the building for a long time.


    Using his knowledge about the building structure to his advantage, he got the upper hand. When he


    reached the bottom of the building, he pushed away the grass and revealed a hole behind them. Then,


    he crawled inside it.


    Jethro turned his head to spit in loath, proud that he was able to escape from them. However, to his


    astonishment, he found a group of men standing at the end of the path, as if they were waiting for his


    arrival.


    It was consideredte for him to withdraw himself when Ron jumped over the wall.


    The three parties maintained a tense stand-off for a moment. Just when Jethro nned to make an


    exit, he heard a bang before he fell to the ground. Hugging his leg, he swore, "Who sent you after me?


    How dare youy hands on me?! I¡ª"


    He decided to shut up when he came face to face with the gun barrel.


    Ron''s eyes darted to Jethro and he involuntarily scowled as the men closed their distance with Jethro.


    There was no way Jethro could escape now.

 Chapter 372

    Chapter 372


    Once again, the rooftop fell into silence after Jethro and Ron left. Leanna walked over to Louis and took


    a few seconds to study his bruised knuckles before she reached out a hand to hold his arm lightly.


    "Let''s go."


    After a moment of silence, he muttered, "Aren''t you going to ask me any questions?"


    "You would''ve told me everything before this if you nned to. Since you aren''t willing to share your


    thoughts, I don''t see the point in asking."


    At that moment, the footsteps echoing from the staircase caught their attention, and Oscar eventually


    showed up at the rooftop.


    He stopped to catch his breath. "Geez, what''s wrong with young people nowadays? Can''t you seek a


    lower ground to deal with your problems? Why must you choose the rooftop?"


    Pursing his lips tightly, Louis didn''t answer.


    Leanna turned to Oscar. "Everything''s all right now. Let''s go."


    Casting a nce at Louis before turning back to her, Oscar raised his eyebrows, ready to ask


    something. However, he eventually decided to let it slip.


    Once the group made their way back to the entrance, they didn''t find either Jethro or Ron around, let


    alone hear the noise from amotion.


    A man walked toward Oscar and whispered something to him. Oscar''s expression slightly changed at


    his report, but he only waved a hand in dismissal. "Keep looking."


    "Yes, Mr. Woodley."


    After that, Oscar shifted his focus to Leanna. "Need a ride?"


    She nodded at his offer before an idea urred to her. "My car''s out there."


    "Give me the keys."


    She passed him the car key. After picking up the key from her, he tossed the key at the man behind


    him before asking her for her destination.


    Once the group got into the car, Oscar watched the siblings from the rear-view mirror and asked,


    "Where are we heading?"


    "The hospital," Leanna answered.


    At that moment, Louis, who kept silent the whole time, spoke. "Just drop me off anywhere."


    Ignoring his request, she emphasized, "The nearest hospital in the area."


    "Sure."


    Twenty minutester, the car rolled to a stop in front of a private hospital.


    Louis scowled at the sight of the hospital. When he was about to protest, Leanna interrupted, "I won''t


    waste my time on lecturing you. See the doctor to treat your wounds, or else I''ll beat you up myself."


    In the end, he had no choice but to walk inside the hospital without a word.


    Meanwhile, Leanna followed him and walked away from the car for a few steps before turning back to


    Oscar. "Thanks for the ride. I''ll settle the rest myself."


    "All right. I''ll be going."


    "Sure. See youter."


    Oscar waved at her and they then parted ways.


    Leanna made an appointment for Louis and waited for him on the chairs outside once he visited the


    doctor in the room. Massaging the spot between her brows, she let out a deep sigh.


    After a while, she took out her phone and dialed Ron''s number, but to no avail.


    On usual days, he would change his number frequently to avoid others tracking him down. Besides, he


    was always the one who called the other party.


    Hence, she was left without any options but to wait for him.


    Feeling a little bit tired, she leaned against the back of the chair for a quick nap when steady footsteps


    echoed through the corridor.


    Her eyes fluttered open, and she met the person''s expressionless face.


    Leanna was taken aback by his presence for a moment. "Aren''t you having a meeting? Why are you


    here?"


    Aidan took an empty seat next to her. "The meeting''s over."


    When his gazended on the bloodstain on her sleeve, he immediately scowled.


    Noticing where his gazended, she immediately exined, "It''s not my blood. It belongs to Louis."


    Pursing his thin lips for a moment, Aidan held her cold hands in his. "What is it about this time?"


    "It seems like Lloyd came to see him. I don''t know what they''ve talked about, but¡ª"


    "I bet it''s not something pleasant."


    Leanna lowered her head. "It''s all my fault. If only I exined everything to Louis earlier, we could''ve


    avoided the ident today."


    His calm remark came out right after. "You tend to take every responsibility on your shoulders.


    However, there are many people in the world, and you can''t help everyone."


    She couldn''t help but scowl at. "You''re right that I can''t help everyone, but he''s my brother, I''m


    obligated to take care of him."


    "Since you have the heart to take care of your brother, why don''t you steer some of your attention


    toward your husband?"


    Leanna stared at him in disbelief. She thought that they were having a serious conversation, but here


    the b*stard went again.


    She drew her hand out of his grasp petntly. "For your information, I''m not married. There''s no such


    person for me to take care of."


    "If you wish to have one, we can get engaged tomorrow. Then, you''ll get yourself a perfect husband."


    "Thanks, but no thanks."


    To Leanna''s surprise, the few exchanges of words between her and the b*stard lightened her mood.


    The sense of uneasiness that almost suffocated her disappeared within a split second.


    At that moment, Louis opened the door and walked out of the room.


    The doctor had treated his wound, but he looked disheveled nheless.


    Leanna and Aidan got up from their seat as she asked, "What did the doctor say?"


    "It''s nothing serious."


    "What about¡ª"


    Aidan onlymentedzily, "He would''ve fainted way earlier if his wounds were serious. Do you think


    he could still walk around freely?"


    As Leanna found his words usible enough, her words of concern eventually died in her throat.


    Once the group left the hospital, Louismented, "I''m leaving."


    "Wait a minute." Leanna stopped his attempt to leave. "Where do you think you are going in such a


    condition?"


    "I''m going back to school."


    However, she insisted, "It can wait until you''re healed. There''s no need to rush. Besides, how are you


    going to exin your condition to your friends and mentors?"


    Louis knew that his sister was worried about him going after Jethro again.


    After a moment, he continued, "I''ll stay in the hotel."


    "No, you won''t."


    Even though she said so, Leanna had no idea where she should amodate Louis at the moment.


    As she was staying with the Crossleys, she couldn''t think of a good ce for him to stay.


    Aidan pulled the door of his car open and suggested with a neutral tone, "He can stay at my ce."


    She stared at him in surprise. "Your ce?"


    He stretched out his hand and poked her forehead with a finger. "Where''s your head at? Do you think


    that I have no ce for him to stay?"


    "It''s not that, but¡ª"


    "Don''t worry. There''s no restriction in my ce except one¡ªI''ll break his legs if he tries to run away


    without healing."


    All of a sudden, Leanna agreed with Aidan''s words.


    Thus, she nodded as she epted his suggestion before she turned to Louis. "You''ll stay at his ce.


    He''s my representative when I''m not around, so you have to listen to him."


    Louis frowned, disagreeing with their decision. "What makes you think I''ll go with him?"


    Aidan knocked on the car''s window with his slender finger. "I''m your brother-inw. What else? Let''s


    go."


    Noticing that Louis was standing still, Aidan added, "I won''tin if you feel like walking. I''ll ask


    someone to follow you and point out the directions for you."


    As soon as he finished his words, Jonathan, who had been waiting on the side, took a small step


    toward the group. He cast an awkward but polite smile at Louis, signaling to the other man that he


    would apany him for the walk.


    Pursing his lips, Louis took a deep breath and eventuallypromised as he pulled the door open and


    bent over to get into the car. N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    After watching him getting into the car, Aidan shifted his attention to Leanna. He raised his brows and


    tilted his head in the car''s direction. "Get in the car."


    A smile formed at the corner of her lips as she brushed past him and got into the car.


    Jonathan went back to his original spot and sighed in relief when he realized that he won''t have to


    sacrifice himself to be Louis''panion tonight.


    After the car pulled into the road, he asked, "President Pearson, where are you nning to go?"


    Aidan turned to Leanna, waiting for her answer. Getting the hint from him, she replied, "My car''s with


    Oscar. I''ll meet up with him."


    At that, he suggested, "Ask him where he is right now."

 Chapter 373

    Chapter 373


    When Leanna went back to the Crossley Residence, she found Georgina reading a magazine in the


    living room.


    She wasted no time shooting a question at the servant. "Where''s Mr. Crossley?"


    The servant turned to her before casting another nce at Georgina, fumbling for words as they


    refused to answer.


    Georgina didn''t even raise her head when she flipped to the next page as she asked with a neutral


    tone, "What''s your business with Dad?"


    As Leanna was in a bad mood at the moment, she didn''t bother to be friendly with the other woman.


    "It''s between us. It has nothing to do with you."


    Hearing those harsh words, Georgina paused for a moment as a frown formed between her brows. She


    looked at the other woman and scoffed. "I''m right about you. You''re an uneducated woman."


    "Miss Crossley, you can consider doing self-care when you''re free. I''m not in the mood to y word


    games with you unless you don''t mind if I spread the video about what happened in the club to others?"


    As Leanna expected, Georgina''s expression immediately darkened at her suggestion.


    Seeing that, the servant hastily broke into their conversation to avoid further conflict. "You can find Mr.


    Crossley in the study room."


    Wasting no more time bickering with Georgina, Leanna withdrew her gaze and headed for the study


    room.


    Georgina got up from the couch and watched Leanna''s receding figure before she tossed the


    magazine into the bin out of anger.


    Lloyd was perusing the contracts in the study room when someone barged inside without warning.


    He turned his head in that direction, his expression unfazed. "Aren''t you supposed to be polite and


    knock on the door beforeing in?"


    Leanna sneered at his reaction before she began with a cold tone, "Mr. Crossley, you have no right to


    use me of not respecting your privacy after you went to see my brother without informing me."


    Lloyd didn''t seem surprised at all when her words reached him as he shut the files. "I went to see him


    because I want the best for you."


    "I can''t see how it is doing good for me."


    Leaning back against his chair, Lloyd held his hands together and exined, "You im to be Sandra''s


    daughter, so I won''t doubt that for the moment. Since you possess her belongings, I won''t initiate any


    investigation into them. However, if you''re speaking the truth, your brother will no doubt tarnish the


    name of the Crossley Family. I merely reminded him of the truth, so he knows his ce and stays away


    from you. What makes you think I''m not doing this for your own good?"


    Although Leanna had prepared herself that Lloyd''s meeting with Louis no doubt wouldn''t be a pleasant


    one, she only thought Lloyd would use Jethro as Louis'' weak point, nothing more. Never would she


    imagine that Lloyd spoke such harsh words to Louis.


    Pursing her lips, Leanna announced, "He''ll always be my brother. Nothing''s going to change that fact."


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    At that, Lloydmented, "People''ll always choose something over another thing to survive in the


    world. Since you''ve chosen to live a luxurious life with us, I''ll treat you with everything you deserve.


    However, you''ll have to make a sacrifice for the better life you''ve chosen, which is leaving behind the


    people who will drag you down. Your opinion on them doesn''t matter, but now you''re one of the


    Crossleys, and your stance is representing us. You have to remember to think twice before you make a


    decision."


    Leanna scoffed in response. "This is the first time I know I bear such significance to the family."


    "I''m telling the truth. You should know that once you be one of us, the outsiders will keep a close


    eye on you and seek the opportunity to drag you down."


    "Mr. Crossley, since you prioritize the family''s name and image over everything, you should spend


    more time on disciplining Miss Crossley, rather than wasting your energy on me."


    "I have other ns to deal with Georgina." Lloyd then continued, "She grew up in a different


    environmentpared to you. She knows what she is doing. She won''t do anything that will possibly


    endanger the family''s name. Thus, I have more confidence in her than in you."


    His words put Leanna at ease. "Mr. Crossley, you''re implying that she hasn''t done anything that harms


    the family reputation and nothing wille to light, yes?"


    Hearing the words from her, Lloyd narrowed his eyes but didn''t deign to answer.


    She took his silence as a signal to continue. "Mr. Crossley, you know best that I want a simple life.


    However, if youy your hands on the people I care about, I won''t hesitate to drag you down with me.


    After all, I''m a woman with nothing to lose."


    As she finished her words, Leanna didn''t wait for another moment as she turned around and left.


    Behind her, Lloyd''s expression turned steel-cold as he watched her leave.


    After getting back to her room, Leanna locked the door and put everything aside before she fell on her


    bed.


    Even though she hadn''t done much physical work today, she was exhausted.


    After enjoying a moment to herself, her phone in her pocket rang and caught her attention.


    She dragged it out of her pocket and saw Aidan''s name on the screen. Letting a breath out, she pulled


    herself together and answered it.


    His voice reached her from the other side. "Are you home?"


    "Yes, I''ve been home for a while now. What about you?"


    "We''ve just arrived."


    Leanna was about to ask Aidan about Louis'' whereabouts, but decided to not say it even though the


    words already reached the tip of her tongue.


    Even so, Aidan guessed her mind as he took the initiative to exin, "He''s with me in Castor Vi. I let


    him sleep on the floor."


    She was taken aback by the statement.


    Aidann then further exined, "I''m taking the master bedroom and the guest room belongs to you, so


    he has to take the floor."


    "This is¡ª"


    Aidan interrupted, "That''s enough for the day. Don''t worry about it." He added, "I supposed you''ve seen


    Lloyd?"


    She hummed in displeasure as a response.


    On the other side of the phone, Aidan shot her a question. "What did he say?"


    She whispered, "Didn''t you just say it''s probably not something pleasant?"


    "That''s right, but your brother needs to reflect on himself too. He''s young and impulsive. The others


    only need a few words to y with his mind, and people will take advantage of him. Leanna, I


    understand that you care about him, but you need to know that you''re unable to protect him from the


    world forever."


    With a frown between her brows, she couldn''t help but retort when she heard his usation. "He''s not


    impulsive! Louis is more mature and sensible than peers his age."


    "He beat me up the first time we saw each other! In what term is he not impulsive?"


    It was then that Leanna knew Aidan still held a grudge against Louis. Thus, she began slowly, "It''s


    because he thought¡­ Wait, that''s not right. It''s because you indeed wronged me."


    As the words escaped her, she fell into silence once again as she recalled Louis losing his temper


    every time only to stand up for her.


    It was based on the same reason when he struck Aidanst time, or he intended to kill Jethro today.


    After a few beats, Aidan''s voice reached her from the other side. "It''s gettingte. You should sleep."


    Leanna didn''t need him to say twice to understand that he wanted to avoid recalling their divorce.


    Before she ended the call, she remembered something and added, "There''s one more thing. If


    possible, please help me look for Ron."


    Aidan scowled in displeasure although she couldn''t see him. "Why?"


    "He was there today and ran after Jethro. I''m worried." She then exined, "You don''t have to, though.


    I''ll find a way myself."


    Aidan fell into silence at her words, wondering when he told her he wouldn''t help.


    Leanna also took the opportunity to add, "That''s all. I''m ending the call. I need to take a shower."


    Licking his lips in anticipation, Aidan drawled, "Who made the rule that you can''t stay on the phone


    when you''re taking a shower?"


    "I made them!" With that, Leanna ended the call without waiting for his reply.


    She was deeply annoyed by the dirty thoughts that wandered in his mind the whole time.

 Chapter 374

    Chapter 374


    In Castor Vi, Aidan obviously did not let Louis sleep on the floor. Instead, he instructed Alice to clean


    up the extra room downstairs for Louis.


    Louis, on the other hand, sat quietly on the couch, the dry blood stains on his shirt still visible.


    Aidan went downstairs and threw the shirt he was holding to Louis. "Change your clothes."


    However, Louis merely grunted and remained motionless. Nobody knew what he was thinking about.


    Seeing that, Aidan took the seat across from Louis. Crossing his slender legs, he asked, "Are you


    reflecting on what you did, or are you figuring how to make the situation more difficult for Leanna?


    Louis reflexively furrowed his brows when he heard that. "That''s not my intention," he said after a few


    seconds of hesitation.


    "But that''s exactly what you did."


    He fell into silence with pursed lips.


    Aidan then continued, "I understand your desire to exact revenge for her by killing Jethro. If you


    manage to kill him today, you''ll think you''ve removed a true scumbag for society on behalf of justice,


    but that''s not thew. After you kill him, you''ll be known as the person who murdered his own father.


    This is exactly what they want. They would then target Leanna and reveal everything that happened in


    the past. She would gain nothing but malicious spections and reproaches."


    When Louis heard that, he furrowed his brows even more. "I assumed everything would end as long as


    Jethro was dead."


    "That''s just your wishful thinking." Aidan went on calmly, "Things are not as simple as you believe.


    Lloyd was simply making use of you to cause everything that happened today. As for his real motive¡­"


    Halfway through his sentence, Aidan narrowed his eyes.


    If he had guessed correctly, Jethro was most likely in Lloyd''s hands right now.


    That crafty fox was indeed capable enough to be able to locate Jethro.


    "But isn''t Lloyd¡­" Louis wanted to say something more, but Aidan snapped out of his reverie and


    interrupted Louis. "He isn''t."


    A tinge of surprise and confusion shed across Louis'' face.


    "Your sister did not want to tell you these as she doesn''t want you to worry, but this gave Lloyd an


    opportunity toe in between instead," Aidan exined. "Your sister is right. All you have to


    remember is that your sister''s blood kin is only you¡­"


    Aidan then paused for a moment before continuing, "And the other two."


    "What?" Aidan''s words were lost on Louis.


    Aidan, however, simply stood up and spared Louis a nce before he said in disgust, "Go clean


    yourself up."


    Shortly, Alice came out from the room after tidying it and handed Louis some necessities.


    "Thank you," he said in a low tone.


    "Don''t worry. You are Ms. McKinney''s brother. This is what we should do."


    He nodded his head to express his gratitude and entered the room.


    After his bath, he leaned against the bed frame on the bed, sweeping his gaze across the unfamiliar


    room with his fingers pressing against his brows, and fell into deep silence.


    He then put down his hands after a while, and took out his phone to call Leanna.


    The call was answered after a few rings.


    "I''m sorry." This was the first thing Louis said.


    Leanna went silent for a few seconds after hearing that before saying, "There is nothing to be sorry


    about, Louis. I should have told you everything earlier."


    "I''m aware of everything now."


    She was taken aback for a moment. "Was Aidan the one who told you?"


    Louis responded with a light hum.


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    Sighing, she continued, "This is aplicated situation, and I don''t want you to get involved. But I


    should have known that it was only a matter of time before Lloyd got his hands on you."


    Louis said nothing in response.


    Leanna then asked, "How did you know where Jethro was?"


    "He told me."


    Leanna froze for a moment before realizing Louis was actually referring to Lloyd.


    Lloyd has clearly nned for this, she realized.


    "Louis, don''t get involved in this anymore, and don''t listen to anything Lloyd says from now on. Go back


    to school after your injury has healed; he won''t dare to do anything to you."


    "Okay."


    This was the only thing Louis could do at this point.


    The irony was that the most helpful assistance he could provide to her now was to do nothing.


    He remained a burden to her no matter how much time had passed.


    Before they ended the call, Leanna asked, "By the way, when Daphne looked for you today, did you


    say anything to irritate her?"


    When she mentioned it, his brows furrowed, as if to indicate his admission.


    "She is concerned about you. Whatever happens, you should give her a call and apologize," Leanna


    said.


    Louis'' Adam''s apple bobbed. After a long while, he mumbled, "Okay."


    He scrolled his phone to Daphne''s contact after the call ended, but he couldn''t bring himself to dial it.


    Just as he was about to put down his phone, he identally clicked on the number.


    As he stared at the screen, he instinctively wanted to end the call, but after a few seconds of hesitation,


    he brought the phone closer to his ear.


    Shortly, a man''s voice could be heard on the other end of the line. "Who are you?"


    Louis pursed his lips and remained silent.


    Daphne''s voice echoed a few secondster. "Who''s that?"


    "I''ve no idea. There''s no sound," the man answered.


    "Perhaps it''s a scam call. Just hang up," she continued.


    "Have you taken your bath?" the man asked.


    Louis quickly ended the call before the other side did.


    Then, he stared at the ceiling, seemingly in deep thought.


    After a while, he took his phone again and dialed a number.


    "Look at the time now. Don''t you need to sleep?" said the person who answered the phone, yawning.


    Before he could finish his sentence, Louis cut him off.


    "I agree," he said nonchntly.


    This immediately alerted the person at the other end of the call. "What did you say? Can you repeat


    yourself? Forget it; I''m pretty sure I''m not dreaming. That''s a deal, then! We''ll sign the contract


    tomorrow. Send me your address now and I''lle pick you up!"


    "That''s not necessary. Send me your address. I''ll send you whatever that''s necessary then."


    "What if you back out at the veryst minute?"


    "I won''t."


    He could only protect those he cared about if he grew stronger, Louis reasoned.


    The person on the other end of the phone then went on to say, "Okay. I''ll prepare the contract and meet


    you at thepany at 10.00AM. I''ll send you the address right away."


    "Sure," Louis responded.


    Shortly after the call ended, he received a message containing an address.


    He then took a nce at the address before putting his phone down and closing his eyes.


    It was a sleepless night for him.


    Aidan went downstairs early the next morning and saw Alice serving breakfast. "Is he still sleeping?" he


    inquired casually.


    "No. Louis woke up around 7.30AM and went out, iming to have some other matters to attend to."


    "Did he say where he is going?" Aidan asked coldly.


    Alice shook her head in response. "He didn''t, but he did say that he knows what he should do and that


    he will never be used by anyone again. He wants both Miss McKinney and you to stop worrying about


    him."


    Aidan let out a light hum when he heard that. That''s good, then.


    Just as he pulled the chair and was about to take his seat, Alice opened her mouth and said, worriedly,


    "Master, I seem to have inadvertently blurted out something¡­"

 Chapter 375

    Chapter 375


    After hearing what Alice said, Aidan furrowed his brows as he finally understood why Leanna was so


    insistent on asking about the child.


    She had already assumed Naomi was in Highside, so she naturally began to suspect other things.


    Alice worriedly asked, "Master, will anything bad happen?"


    At that, Aidan snapped out of his reverie and responded nonchntly, "It won''t be a problem."


    After finishing his breakfast, he got onto the Rolls-Royce parked outside.


    As soon as he got into the car, Jonathan said, "President Pearson, we still haven''t found Jethro.


    President Woodley''s men said that there was a pool of blood left at the scene. Perhaps Jethro¡­"


    Aidan simply leaned against his backseat and said, "Keep a close eye on Lloyd and notify me


    immediately if he makes any moves."


    "Noted."


    After a while, Aidan asked again, "Was there anything about Ron at the scene?"


    This took Jonathan aback, as he had not expected Aidan to bring up Ron. "What do you mean,


    President Pearson?"


    "Leanna said he chased after Jethro."


    Aidan''s eyes narrowed as he said this. If Jethro was indeed taken away by Lloyd''s men, the odds were


    most likely stacked against him now.


    After a while, Aidan continued, "When looking for Jethro, keep an eye out for Ron as well. If he''s still


    alive, bring him back."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "Okay." Jonathan nodded.


    ¡­


    The day for The Designer Competition had arrived. Aside from the organizers and panel judges, arge


    number of media representatives were present, eagerly anticipating thepetition''s live broadcast


    later.


    Leanna arrived on the scene almost the same time as Queenie. When they met, Queenie gave Leanna


    a dismissive look before walking away.


    Leanna, on the other hand, simply gave a faint smile before walking to her seat and sat down.


    In no time, all ten contestants arrived. They were all waiting for the organizer to announce the list of


    finalists.


    The reporters were also discussing heatedly as to who would win the first ce.


    Leanna, Queenie, and a few other designers were all popr contenders for the championship.


    Though Leanna was considered a neer in the designer field, her design won first ce in the


    competition three years ago. Her potential remained even though she missed the opportunity to study


    abroad due to some circumstances of hers.


    Furthermore, when she made herebackst year, she immediately signed a contract with Lux


    Magazine, the leading publication in the jewelry industry. She was the only designer for Lux Magazine


    at the time.


    Then, at the end of the year, she left Lux Magazine tounch her own brand. Despite not being a luxury


    brand, it became the most popr niche brand, gaining the support of many celebrities. Even today''s


    most popr actress, Daphne, wore Leanna''s brand whenever she appeared in public.


    Leanna was a dark horse in the designing industry¡ªno one knew how far she could go or how much


    potential she possessed.


    Queenie, on the other hand, was the apprentice of Robert, a prominent figure in the design world.


    During her three years in Aeras, she had made a name for herself on a global scale. Her design skills


    and capability were nowparable to Leanna''s, whereas all of the other popr contestants had


    their own unique strengths


    Nobody could predict who woulde out on top.


    The public was still in heated discussion when the organizer''s staff finally took the stage. "Sorry to keep


    you all waiting. We now have the top three finalists. I''ll start with the third and work my way down. They


    are..."


    He purposefully dragged his final word, leaving everyone hanging onto his words.


    When everyone was so nervous that they almost stopped breathing, he continued, "In third ce, Sofia


    Evans."


    Warm apuse rang out from beneath the stage. Everyone around Sofia immediately congratted


    her, their faces envious yet bitter.


    Some of the contestants already knew they wouldn''t make it to the finals after handing in their designs.


    Sofia responded with smiles and nods, thanking everyone who had congratted her.


    Then, the staff continued, "The second ce, McK."


    In fact, Leanna obtaining the second ce was well within everyone''s expectations.


    But, since she came in second, the first ce would be¡­


    Everyone then turned their attention to Queenie, who had her chin slightly raised.


    It was also under their gaze that the staff on the stage slowly announced, "First ce, Queenie


    Wojzicki."


    Hearing that, Queenie curved her lips slightly, as if she wasn''t surprised at all by the mention of her


    name at all. To her, the first ce was supposed to be hers from the start.


    One of the panel''s judges began praising Robert, saying that he had done well in training his


    apprentice and that he now had a sessor.


    Robert, too, had a contented grin on his face.


    The voice of the staff rang out once more at this point. "Please take a short break. Half an hourter,


    the three finalists will be required to enter the room over there. You will be given three hours toe


    up with your design, and when the time is up, all of the judges will rate the designs and decide the


    winner of thispetition.


    There were three rooms in the direction where the staff pointed. All of the rooms were surrounded by


    transparent ss, indicating that thepetition was open and impartial.


    After the staff left the stage, Leanna took a deep breath and stood up, preparing to go to the


    washroom.


    Two stepster, she noticed Robert speaking to Queenie, his face filled with delight andpliment.


    He looked at Leanna asionally as he spoke with a disdainful look.


    Leanna smirked in response when she noticed this. It was only now that she knew where Queenie''s


    arrogant personality came from. Queenie''s father was a simple and quiet man, and she most probably


    got such an attitude from her haughty master.


    Leanna then averted her gaze and walked away.


    Robert, too, retracted his smile and asked coldly, "Are you ready for thepetitionter?"


    "Yes." Queenie nodded.


    "You just have to maintain your usual level of performance. Since you defeated her in the semi-finals


    and took the first ce, you can definitely win the final as well. As long as you don''t make any


    mistakes, I guarantee you''ll win."


    Queenie moved her lips, as if she wanted to say something, but nothing came out of her mouth.


    Robert then left after telling her to stay focused on thepetition.


    Just seconds after he left, Elliot appeared in front of Queenie before she could breathe a sigh of relief.


    Her expression immediately changed to one of horror. "I''ve already said I''ll give you the money once


    thepetition is over! Why are you here?" she asked quietly.


    "Of course I''m here to congratte you." Elliot smiled in response.


    As he spoke, he patted her on the shoulders and moved his hand down her shoulders deliberately.


    "You''re too tense. Rx."


    Queenie did not want to be in thepany of someone like him at all, and she brushed his hand away


    harshly. "I don''t need you to congratte me. This is something I have earned."


    Elliotughed at that. "Fine, fine. You''re right. You clearly deserve the first ce."


    Though he wasughing, the sarcasm in his words was revealing.


    Queenie took a deep breath and did not want to waste any more time with him. Just as she turned


    around to leave, Elliot stuffed a key card into her bag. "I''ll be waiting for you after thepetition is


    over. See youter."

 Chapter 376

    Chapter 376


    Queenie looked at his leaving silhouette, a feeling of disgust arising in her heart.


    Then, she went to look for Violet, who was admiring her new manicure. "Don''t worry, I''ve already made


    all of the arrangements, and the money will be transferred to him once thepetition is over. As for


    you..."


    Unconcerned, Violet looked at Queenie from head to toe and stated, "If he wants you to see him, just


    see him then. Perhaps he would like to share his experiences with you. After all, you''re both in the


    same boat right now. He will not force you if you are unwilling."


    Queenie frowned as she sensed that Violet was ditching her after making use of her. "Miss Kramer,


    both of us are the ones in the same boat."


    Violet only gave an uninterested smile. "Well, it doesn''t really matter. In any case, we all have the same


    goal. Don''t tell me you''re now regretting after things have progressed to this point."


    "I''m not. I''m just¡­"


    Violet''s limited patience had been depleted as she interrupted, "Okay, fine. I know what you''re thinking.


    I will send someone to tell himter that you won''t be going. You''re just so troublesome."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Queenie was irritated by Violet''s attitude, but she couldn''t argue head-to-head with her. Hence, she


    could only reply, "Thank you, Miss Kramer."


    Violet hummed in response and raised her head to look at the door, implying to Queenie that she


    should leave right away.


    After leaving the restroom, Queenie stood motionless for a few moments before heading to the stairs,


    her phone in hand.


    She was thinking about Elliot. Though he had a reputation, it was mostly negative, and it wasn''t his first


    time assisting people in faking results. Furthermore, he was well-known for being a yboy with dirty


    tricks.


    She then stood by the stairs and dialed Ron''s number, but all she got was the operator telling her that


    Ron''s phone had been turned off.


    She couldn''t help but frown when she heard that. After pausing for a moment, she dialed her house


    number, which went unanswered as well.


    A tinge of frustration filled her heart. What are all of them doing?


    They always sound nice, but whenever something happens, no one is there for me.


    ¡­


    Leanna stayed in the washroom for ten minutes and only left when someone else entered.


    After only a few steps, she saw a man smoking by the balcony.


    Aidan met her gaze too. With his brows raised, he brushed off the cigarette ashes and said in a deep


    voice, "I almost thought you fainted in the restroom."


    Leanna was speechless before she muttered, "Didn''t you have something else nned and wouldn''t


    being?"


    "What other matters can be more important than you?"


    She then walked towards him while raising a hand to brush a finger over her brow.


    Putting out his cigarette, Aidan asked, "Are you nervous?"


    However, she refused to admit it. "What gave it away?"


    "It''s written all over your face, honey," he murmured as he flicked her brow with his finger. "Your


    furrowed brows can even trap a fly in it now."


    That caused her to raise her hand subconsciously to feel her brows, but as she did so, she heard his


    laughter.


    He''s just making fun of me!


    Leanna punched him hard on the chest and said angrily, "How can you joke around now?"


    "I just want to relieve your nervousness," he replied, his lips curved.


    Leanna then leaned against the wall beside him and closed her eyes. "I''m not nervous about the


    competition."


    Despite her best efforts to adjust her emotions, she couldn''t sleep well since Louis'' incident. Ron was


    unreachable, and no one knew what Lloyd''s next move would be.


    "You don''t have to be concerned about that. Your only battlefield is thepetitionter."


    That surprised her a little as she probably didn''t expect him to say such things.


    After a while, Leanna opened her mouth and asked, "Aidan, if I win thispetition, can I ask for a gift


    from you?"


    He raised his brows when he heard that. "But of course. I can give you anything you want, not just a


    gift."


    "I only want the truth from you," Leanna said slowly as she looked at him.


    Faced with herpelling gaze, Aidan remained calm and responded casually, "Every sentence of


    mine is truthful. If that''s all you want, wouldn''t it be too easy on me?"


    She fell silent after hearing that. "Forget it; take it as I''ve never said that before."


    This b*stard really knows how to keep his mouth shut.


    Shortly after, the time for the next stage of thepetition arrived.


    "I''ve to go now. It will take three hours, so you better get busy with your work," Leanna muttered, to


    which Aidan replied, "I''ll apany you from the outside."


    "I don''t need that. You''ll only affect my performance."


    That rendered him speechless.


    After she finished her words, she turned and headed to thepetition venue.


    The designers who had made it to the semifinals were still sitting in their seats, seemingly waiting to


    see who would win with their own eyes.


    Leanna, Queenie, and Sofia then entered their respective rooms, as directed by the staff.


    Though the room was transparent, the soundproofing was excellent. They couldn''t hear what was


    going on outside.


    Furthermore, the ss was unique in that the inside could be seen from the outside, but not the other


    way around. This preserved thepetition''s impartiality while also ensuring that the designers on the


    inside were not influenced by the outside.


    As soon as they entered the room, the timers on the tables started counting down.


    Everyone on the outside was staring at them nervously. Queenie and Sofia had begun to draw, but


    Leanna remained motionless and staring at the paper. Nobody could tell what she was thinking.


    People from the outside began discussing among themselves. "The organizer did not explicitly spell out


    the theme for the final. The contestants have to guess it themselves, and this is not an easy feat. It all


    comes down to luck! The one who can blindly guess it correctly will win."


    "Both Queenie and Sofia appear confident. Most likely, they have managed to guess the hidden theme.


    But look at McK, though. She looks like she had no idea at all."


    "I believe Queenie will be the winner this time. After all, she has spent three years in Aeras learning


    about designs, and she was taught by Robert personally. As for McK, well, her works are ingenious, but


    they are generally middle-ss and unsuitable for grand events; they would never make their way to


    the international arena."


    Just as they were heatedly discussing, a man''s cold voice echoed, "So, you mean that the creations of


    those who have never gone to Aeras will always be inferior?"


    "This isn''t just my personal opinion, pal. Aeras is the ce that every designer desires to go. As long


    as they can get there, they will be able to broaden their horizons and learn far more than the others. It


    is truly a loss for McK to not be able to expand her career in Aeras. Anyway, it appears to me that she


    will be unable to beat Queenie this time."


    The reporter finally sensed the silence around him when he ended his sentence. Everyone else had


    their heads lowered, avoiding his gaze and hoping to go unnoticed.


    As if sensing something, he stiffly turned his head around, only to discover that the person sitting


    behind him was Aidan, the president of Pearson Group, who was well known for spoiling his wife and


    would even fire his bullets at the keyboard warriors for her.


    At this instant, the reporter felt as if he had been struck by lightning.

 Chapter 377

    Chapter 377


    Time flew by, second after second. After forty minutes, Leanna finally began sketching.


    Everyone who was feeling nervous for her outside the room breathed a sigh of relief when they saw her


    moving her hands.


    Aidan, on the other hand, sat calmly in his seat, his slender legs crossed as he looked at her.


    Meanwhile in the room, Leanna wasn''t designing a new piece of work. Instead, she was sketching a


    creation of hers which she designed previously.


    It was the ne she sent to the Bat Family at their charity dinner. However, the ne went


    missing and had not been found till now.


    The theme for this round of thepetition was that it had no theme.


    From the rules of the beginning of thepetition to its subsequent developments, and to the final


    round now, all of them exuded an overall message¡ªto break through any existing constraint and not


    be limited by any themes. The crucial point was to be daring enough toe out with bold innovations.


    Hence, it meant that no matter what designs that the contestants handed in, they were all in line with


    the theme.


    The previously designed pocket watch ne had never been shown to the public. Other than


    Leanna herself, Harvey was the only one who had seen it.


    That being the case, if anyone questioned her design now, it meant that the stolen ne was in the


    hands of that person.


    Despite this, she still made some changes to the minute details of the design, but the changes she


    made were difficult to be noticed by anyone other than herself.


    Thepetition''s three-hour time limit was quickly reached. Leanna put down her stationery and took


    a deep breath.


    After the staff took their designs away, Leanna and the two other contestants exited their room.


    The panel judges who were seated stood up and entered the meeting room that had been prepared for


    them.


    Before Violet left, she deliberately took a nce at Leanna and snorted, seemingly expressing that she


    would not let Leanna have her way.


    Georgina, on the other hand, behaved more maturely. She maintained herposure throughout the


    competition, with a slight smug look on her face.


    When Leanna found Aidan, she was surprised to see him sitting in the reporters'' area, whereby the


    reporters were standing in a corner, looking around and trying hard not to be noticed.


    She found them behaving weirdly.


    Aidan approached her at this point and asked, "What are you looking at?"


    "Why did they¡­"


    "Perhaps they''re ufortable sitting for that long," he replied slowly, not even turning his head.


    After a few seconds of silence, he took Leanna''s hand in his and said, "Don''t be bothered about them.


    Let''s grab something to eat."


    She indeed felt hungry after being in the room for that long. However, she wasn''t sure of leaving. "But


    thepetition isn''t over yet."


    "They need another hour to get the results. You can''t do anything by sitting here anyway," he


    responded.


    He has a point.


    "Let''s go, then."


    Their departure caused spections in the remaining crowd.


    To them, Leanna appeared to bepletely confident to be able to leave at this point of time.


    But in fact, she did not feel confident at all. For her, the design had been handed in, and there was


    nothing she could do about it. Thus, she would rather have a nice meal than waste time waiting for the


    results and doing nothing here.


    While they were eating, she asked, "How is Louis doing at your ce?"


    "He''s fine, eating and sleeping well," Aidan answered as he poured water into her ss.


    "I''m asking about his injury."


    "He didn''t break any bones, and the person who was beaten up wasn''t him either. He has long since


    recovered."


    As Aidan spoke about this, Leanna furrowed her brows and asked further, "Do you have any news


    about Ron yet?"


    To that, he gave a disappointing answer. "He wouldn''t have lived until now if he could be easily found."


    Hearing that, she went silent without refuting what he had said.


    Aidan then added, "As I''ve said, you don''t need to be concerned about that. I will take care of it."


    "But you are also in a mess now."


    "What mess?"


    "The Pearsons began making new moves recently, didn''t they?"


    If they didn''t, Aidan would not be so busy now.


    He smiled when he heard her words. "That''s nothing new to me. I''m used to it."


    The Pearsons were doing nothing more than convening a board meeting and making some


    unreasonable demands.


    Though he said it casually, Leanna knew it wasn''t as simple as he made it sound.


    After a while, she opened her mouth again. "Ms. Fletcher¡­"


    "What?" Aidan raised his gaze and looked at her.


    Leanna quickly dodged his gaze. "Nothing. I''m just wondering if I can pay her a visit once this busy


    period is over."


    "You can."


    Leanna only wanted to test the waters at first, but he agreed to her request so quickly that she was at a


    loss for words. After a brief pause, she decided to bring the topic back to Louis. "What is Louis doing


    these few days? Did he go out?"


    "He leaves early in the morning and returnste," Aidan answered, and Leanna was perplexed by this.


    "What has he been up to?"


    "Anything is fine as long as he is notmitting heinous crimes."


    Hearing Aidan''s rxed tone, Leanna was assured that she had nothing to worry about. Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Louis would most likely not act rashly again now that he had learned his lesson and was living together


    with Aidan.


    They finished their meal in no time. When they returned to thepetition venue, there were still


    fifteen minutes until the results were announced.


    Just as Leanna sat down, some reporters approached her for an interview.


    Many people predicted that either she or Queenie would win. Adding to that, Leanna was also backed


    by powerful people. Even if they didn''t say it out loud, everyone knew that the organizer would more or


    less show Aidan some respect.


    As such, Leanna is most likely to win.


    This was why the reporters were so eager to interview her right now.


    However, Leanna merely smiled and responded politely, "Let''s wait until thepetition is over."


    epting the interview now would be a shame if she wasn''t the winnerter.


    After being rejected by her, all of the reporters walked away regretfully.


    Aidan, on the other hand, asked in a soft tone, "Are you not confident in yourself?"


    "I simply feel that it is better to be humble," she casually responded. "Besides, if I lose thepetition,


    it won''t be my fault. I''m just taking the bullets for you."


    He looked at her doubtfully when he heard that.


    "I heard that wealthy families are normally close with one another, and their daughters gather


    frequently for rxing activities like afternoon tea or facials, right?


    "Yes."


    "So, President Pearson, do you think the twodies you''ve previously offended would team up with the


    otherdies to target me?"


    Aidan pursed his lips in response. "You are the one who offended one of them," he said after a few


    seconds.


    Leanna scoffed at that.


    B*stard.


    He then held her hand and said graciously, "It doesn''t matter if you lose thepetition. I will provide


    for you."


    She, however, did not even want to y along with him and immediately took out her phone to reply to


    Zoe''s message, which she had received just minutes ago.


    Regardless of the oue, Leanna had put in all of her effort and hard work, which was why everyone


    in the studio had nned to have a meal together after thepetition ended.


    After considering for a while, Leanna then sent a message to Daphne, asking if she was free tonight.

 Chapter 378

    Chapter 378


    Reality proved that Leanna''s guess was correct. Including Georgina and Violet, all thedies from the


    wealthy families in Highside invited to thepetition as guest judges had given her the lowest scores


    possible.


    The rest of the professional judges exchanged nces with each other but said nothing. After all, these


    people came from powerful and influential families. Nobody was willing to rock the boat over such a


    trivial matter.


    Once they finished giving their scores, the staff arranged for them to leave the venue in an orderly


    manner.


    Violet nced at the two other judges before she left the venue, and they nodded almost imperceptibly


    in response. Hence, she retracted her gaze with a satisfied expression. If that little vixen wins this


    competition, I will never call myself Violet Kramer again!


    Meanwhile, Georgina watched their brief exchange from nearby. The sight caused a smug smile to


    spread across her face. It was evident who would triumph in thispetition.


    After she left the conference room, she departed immediately since she did not wish to stay there for a


    moment longer. She had only just entered her car when she received a phone call from Lloyd''s


    assistant. His voice came out as a whisper. "Miss Crossley, Mr. Crossley has summoned you to the


    company."


    She couldn''t help reacting with impatience. "Why?"


    However, the assistant did not say anything else and hurriedly ended the call. She red at her phone


    with a scowl and instructed the driver to head to thepany. "Take me to thepany."


    "Yes, Miss."


    As soon as she stepped foot into thepany, she heard several employees whispering about


    something among themselves. But they quickly looked away and fell silent when they noticed her.


    Afterward, they quietly dispersed and went back to their posts.


    This situation caused her scowl to deepen even further. Finally, she randomly detained one of the


    employees and angrily interrogated the other party, "What were they talking about?"


    The employee stammered hesitantly, "That¡­ Um¡­ Mr. Crossley prohibited us from speaking about


    that."


    "Even to me?"


    "I¡­ Miss Crossley, you will know once you meet with Mr. Crossley."


    She inhaled deeply as she suppressed her anger, got into the elevator, and went up to Lloyd''s office.


    She stood outside his office, knocked on the door once, and then pushed the door open without pause.


    "Dad, what happened? I¡­"


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Before she could finish her sentence, she caught sight of a man''s smiling face. This person was no


    stranger to her.


    Freddie waved at her jovially. "Long time no see, Miss Crossley."


    Georgina responded coldly. "Why are you here?"


    He replied, "Well, the thing is¡­ I came here on behalf of my client."


    While he spoke, he took out a stack of documents from his briefcase.


    She expressionlessly asked, "Did Leanna ask you toe? What does she want?"


    "I''m afraid you''ve misunderstood the situation, Miss Crossley. The reason I''m here has nothing to do


    with her." His lips curved into a smile. "But, I''m quite interested regarding the issues between the two of


    you. Is there a chance for us to chat in private?"


    "You¡­"


    Then, he shoved his phone into her face. A video was ying on the screen. The person in the video


    was none other than Karen, who had fallen into aa due to severe injuries from a car ident. She


    was awake. More importantly, she seemed in excellent spirits if one were to disregard the bandages


    around her head.


    In the video, she imed that Georgina caused her current state. Furthermore, she admitted that she


    had done many harmful things to a particr individual under orders from Georgina. Although she did


    not explicitly state the target of her actions, anybody who had taken a brief interest in that incident


    would know that she was talking about Leanna.


    Georgina''s expression immediately changed drastically. Her lips trembled slightly, but for a time, she


    did not know what to say.


    Freddie kept away his phone. "I''m sorry. I was careless when operating my phone earlier and


    identally uploaded this video on the Crossley Group''s official website. Fortunately, the IT


    department took it down very quickly. Don''t worry; I believe the employees of the Crossley Group will


    not spread the word regarding this matter."


    Although he imed to be sorry, his expression did not show the slightest sense of apology. Instead,


    he even nced at Lloyd, sitting at the desk halfway through his speech, and dragged Lloyd into the


    conversation. "Isn''t that right? Mr. Crossley."


    Lloyd frowned and said nothing.


    It was apparent that Freddie had deliberately uploaded the video on the Crossley Group''s official


    website. Who could be so stupid as to be careless to that extent and make such a mistake?


    Georgina took a deep breath and rified, "I don''t know this person, and I don''t know what she is


    talking about either."


    Freddie was far from surprised by her answer. He simply raised an eyebrow in response to her words.


    "Of course. You''re right, Miss Crossley. I didn''te here to interrogate you. I simply came here at the


    request of my client. It''s just part of the procedure. I believe that you''re not like that, Miss Crossley. But


    I''m running a business, not a charity, you see. There''s no reason for me to refuse a potential client. At


    any rate, you can be rest assured, Miss Crossley. Even if she files awsuit against you, she has no


    evidence or witnesses. The oue of thewsuit will definitely favor you. When I receive the legal


    fees, I will definitely treat you to dinner."


    It was evident that she was not in a good mood, unlike him. On the contrary, she was gripping her


    dress tightly in frustration.


    At this moment, Lloyd abruptly stood up and inquired, "Freddie, when did you return?"


    Freddie smiled and replied, "I''ve only been back for a few days."


    Lloyd walked over and sat across from Freddie. He picked up the teapot and poured himself a cup of


    tea. "You were away for so long. Now that you''re back, you should spend some quality time with your


    parents. Are they okay with youing back to work so quickly?"


    "Mr. Crossley, as you know, I''m not the type of person who can stand being idle. I like to go out for


    some fun and drinks whenever I have time on my hands. Compared to that, my parents generally


    prefer that I work hard instead."


    He picked up the teacup in front of him and took an elegant sip. "Working hard is good, but you are the


    only son born to your parents. It''s about time for you to stop ying around and think about taking over


    thepany''s management."


    "There''s no hurry. My father is very healthy. So, I can still focus on that after enjoying my life for a few


    more years.


    "I met your fatherst month. He is indeed in great health, but you need to n ahead for certain


    things. Otherwise, it might be toote by then."


    "You''re right, Mr. Crossley. So, I will keep that in mind."


    "Once you''ve taken over thepany, your father and I will finally have more time to chat over tea.


    Thepany will have to rely on you youngsters in the future. It''s time for us to retreat behind the


    scenes."


    Despite seeing that Lloyd was starting to y the emotional card, Freddie maintained a strictly polite


    smile. "What are you saying, Mr. Crossley? You''re not that old. It''s too early to consider such matters."


    "I only have one daughter, Georgina. For her sake, there are things I must consider and prepare for in


    advance. Otherwise¡­"


    He was astonished. "Speaking of which, there''s something I''m curious about. I heard rumors iming


    that Miss McKinney is also your daughter, Mr. Crossley. What is that about?"


    Lloyd''s expression stiffened. He knew that Freddie was deliberately diverting the topic, so he ced


    the teacup down. "It''s a mistake from many years ago. Let''s not mention it."


    "A mistake? You''re quite blessed, Mr. Crossley. You gained a daughter in the blink of an eye. What''s


    more, it may not be long before Aidan has to call you ''Dad''."


    After Freddie''s statement fell from his lips, the office fell into an awkward silence again, and the


    atmosphere became very tense.


    Not to mention, both Lloyd and Georgina had horrid expressions.

 Chapter 379

    Chapter 379


    Freddie feigned guilt as he said guilelessly, "Did I identally say something wrong again? Mr.


    Crossley, as you know, I''ve been away from Highside for a long time. So, I am ignorant about many


    things. I hope you won''t take offense at my words."


    Lloyd dispassionately replied, "It''s nothing. It''s all in the past."


    Freddie nced at the time. "I still have other things to doter, so I''ll take my leave now. See you next


    time."


    After he said that, he nodded to both of them and departed with a smile on his face.


    He felt his entire body rxing as soon as he stepped out of the Crossley Group.


    The moment he got into his car, he dialed Aidan''s number. "I''ve done everything you asked me to do.


    When will you be treating me to lunch?"


    "Why are you in such a hurry?"


    "There''s something wrong with you if you''re not interested in eating."


    Aidan said, "Eat by yourself and send me the bill. I''ll reimburse you."


    After he finished speaking, he curtly ended the call.


    Freddie stared at his phone speechlessly. The sayings ''burning the bridge after crossing the river'' and


    ''killing the donkey as soon as the work is done'' must refer to people like him who toss people aside


    once they cease to be useful.


    On the other side, the results of thepetition were out.


    The final champion was Queenie. Although she was the most popr contestant this year and had


    many supporters backing her, there was an uproar among the audience when the organizers


    announced that she was the champion of thepetition.


    Leanna''s loss was not a big deal, but it would be a tant p to Aidan''s face.


    Everybody carefully turned their attention to Leanna and Aidan. To their surprise, the expressions of


    those two remained the same as usual. In fact, the two of them seemed utterly unaffected. It was as


    though they were not surprised by this result.


    On the other hand, many reporters gathered around Queenie for an interview after she was announced


    as the champion of thepetition.


    Leanna observed the situation. "Whates next doesn''t have anything to do with us anymore. Let''s


    go."


    Aidan raised his eyebrows, leaned toward her, and whispered something in her ear.


    His words left her speechless. Lunatic.


    The words he just murmured in her ear were, "Since you didn''t win the championship, then I''ll just have


    to humble myself and give myself to you."


    He curled his lips into a smile and took her hand. "Let''s go."


    When they left the venue, somebody called Leanna''s name as they were leaving.


    Leanna turned to look behind her. Sofia walked over, seeming nervous to see Aidan. "P-President


    Aidan¡­"


    Aidan nodded lightly in acknowledgment and turned toward Leanna. "I''ll wait for you in the car."


    "Okay."


    Once Aidan left, Sofia finally breathed a sigh of relief. "Thepetition is finally over. Do you have time


    for a meal together?"


    Leanna replied, "I have a prior appointment with my friend. Why don''t we meet up at another time?"


    "Sure," Sofia agreed." Speaking of which, I''m d I coulde this far. I''m happy that I managed to


    take third ce in thepetition, but I can''t help feeling it''s a shame. You should have gotten first


    ce instead¡­"


    Leanna chuckled at those words. "There''s nothing to regret. My skills were simply inferior. It''s normal to


    lose for that reason."


    Sofia pouted unhappily. "Your work was much better than Queenie''s. There''s something wrong with the


    judges this year. I seriously wonder what is going through their heads." After her brief rant, she


    continued, "But that doesn''t matter. It''s just apetition. I''m sure your future will be even brighter."


    Leanna thanked Sofia sincerely, "Thank you."


    Then, Sofia made a ''work hard'' gesture at Leanna. "I''ll be going first. Bye! Let''s meet up next time!"


    "Bye."


    Leanna watched Sofia leave before she got into the car.


    Aidan inquired, "Are you very close?"


    She replied, "Not really. We talked twice."


    He didn''t say anything else after that and instructed the driver to return to the studio.


    After a while, she suddenly voiced out. "Wait, I¡­ want to go somewhere."


    When she mentioned the address, he frowned. "Why are you going there?"


    "I''m¡­ just going to check on something. Don''t worry about it."


    He repeated her words. "Don''t worry about it?"


    It felt very troublesome to exin the situation to him. However, she noticed that his expression had


    turned gloomy, and he seemed to be sulking. She murmured softly, "I didn''t mean it that way. In any


    case, I''ll exin it to youter, okay?"


    "Up to you."


    Half an hourter, the car stopped in front of the hospital entrance.


    Leanna opened the door and said, "Wait here for me. I''ll be back soon."


    Although she hurried into the hospital, she waspletely clueless about the situation. Therefore, she


    had no choice but to ask around at the nurse''s station.


    A few days had passed since Ron went missing. But, even if he needed to hide, he would never


    abandon Queenie''s father.


    When she recalled the name she saw on the medical record the other day, she made her inquiry, "I


    would like to ask about a patient named Leo Wojzicki. Which ward is he staying in?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    The nurse searched for the information on theputer and frowned at the results. "Who are you to


    the patient?"


    "I''m¡­ here to visit on behalf of a friend."


    "Leo Wojzicki has been dead for a few days now. His corpse has been lying in the morgue, and no


    family members havee forward to im him. If you are acquainted with his family members,


    please let them know about this."


    Leanna involuntarily widened her eyes in surprise at those words. She was filled with absolute shock.


    "When did that happen?"


    The nurse mentioned the exact time of death.


    Leanna mulled over this information. That''s one hour before Ron called me the other day. So, at that


    time, Queenie''s father had already¡­


    She pursed her lips tightly. If I had known earlier, I would not have asked Ron toe and help me


    search for Louis.


    When she did not respond, the nurse reached out and waved a hand in front of her face. "Excuse me?"


    She collected her scattered thoughts and apologized, "I''m sorry." After a while, she continued with an


    additional question. "Have you contacted his family?"


    The nurseined in resentment, "It''s said that he has a daughter. But, although we''ve tried calling


    her number several times now, our phone calls have never gone through. What kind of daughter is


    she? Her father has passed away, but she didn''t even bother to visit the hospital."


    Leanna pleaded, "Please try to contact her again. If¡­ you can''t get in contact with her, please just


    follow the hospital''s procedures. I will pay for all the expenses."


    The nurse nodded. "Come with me."


    After she left the hospital, she looked up at the night sky in the distance with a slight sense of


    dissociation. She suddenly felt that everything in the world was easily changed with a quick snip of


    Fate''s scissors.


    Queenie was currently immersed in the joy of winning the championship, utterly ignorant of the fact that


    her father was no longer in the world of the living.


    Aidan walked over to her. "Are you done?"


    "Yeah. Let''s go."


    He nced behind her. It was not difficult to guess what she came here to do. Thus, he asked, "Did


    you get any information on him?"


    She shook her head. "Mr. Wojzicki is¡­ gone. His corpse has been left in the morgue. It looks like Ron


    has not returned. I''m sure something happened to him."


    "What if he ran away?"


    "He won''t. No matter what happens to him, as long as he can still stand up, he will never abandon Mr.


    Wojzicki here without a care."


    He nonchntly remarked, "You sure understand him well."


    She was confused by his reaction. What? No way. Is he jealous?


    Nevertheless, she tried to exin and defend herself. "It''s not that I understand him; I just¡­"


    "I''m not interested."


    "Okay." She nced at him, the corners of her mouth curling into a smile. "Are you still angry?"


    He replied, "I''m not as petty as you are." He opened the car door and tilted his head toward the car.


    "Get in the car."

 Chapter 380

    Chapter 380


    After the interview ended, the satisfied reporters scattered and left.


    Robert walked over to stand beside Queenie and remarked approvingly, "Not bad. At least you didn''t


    embarrass me."


    The corners of Queenie''s mouth lifted into a smile. It was just as she had imed; the championship


    had always belonged to her from the beginning, whether it was thepetition three years ago or the


    competition that had just ended.


    This was her true strength.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He nced at the judges and organizers standing not far away. "I made a reservation at the hotel


    under your name. You should properly express your gratitude and discuss your future cooperation with


    them while you''re at it."


    She nodded. "Okay."


    At this moment, somebody came over and called upon Robert. Thus, he left with that person.


    Meanwhile, she nced around and noticed Violet was just about to leave. So she hurriedly rushed


    over and called out to Violet. "Miss Kramer."


    Violet turned around and nced at Queenie with an air of arrogance. "What is it?"


    "I¡­"


    "Oh, right." She continued, "I have yet to congratte you on your win. Well? How does it feel to win?"


    Queenie pursed her lips for a moment before she responded. "Thank you, Miss Kramer. About Elliot¡­"


    Violet giggled. "Elliot? Oh, that''s right. There was that incident involving him. You couldn''t possibly think


    that I only helped you to win over Elliot, right? The other two over there were much more difficult to


    handle than him."


    Queenie followed Violet''s gaze and discovered that the people Violet mentioned were two of the judges


    who were very well-established in the design industry. The sight stunned her for a moment. "What do


    you mean, Miss Kramer?"


    Violet clicked her tongue in exasperation. "Naturally, I''m saying that you obtained victory because of


    me. You would have been eliminated in the semi-finals if it weren''t for me. To be honest, although I hate


    that little vixen to the core, she is certainly more talented than you. Your passion iscking; you should


    train for another two years."


    After she said her piece, she swung her bag over her shoulder and sashayed out of the building.


    Queenie stared at Violet''s departing figure, herplexion turning pale.


    No¡­ No, it can''t be¡­


    Although Elliot had helped her in the semi-finals, she had simply been preserving her skills at the time.


    The championship would have belonged to her even without him! Her work was definitely a hundred


    times better than Leanna''s!


    At this time, her phone rang. When she saw the unknown number on her phone, she couldn''t help


    scowling and hanging up without any hesitation.


    s, that number called again a short whileter. She lost her temper and answered the call.


    "Hello, is this Miss Wojzicki? I am calling from Mercy Hospital¡­"


    "Are you insane? Stop calling me!"


    After she yelled into her phone, she repeatedly jabbed her fingers against the screen of her phone to


    end the call.


    At this moment, Elliot brushed past her and deliberately bumped into her with his shoulder. It was a


    reminder so that she did not forget about their promise tonight. Then, he sauntered away with an


    ambiguous smile on his face.


    As soon as Elliot left, Robert strode over. "It''s almost time. Let''s go."


    She suppressed the nausea surging in the pit of her stomach and nodded.


    ¡­


    Not long after Leanna sent the message to Daphne, a reply came from her. It just so happened that


    she was free for the day, so she decided to join them.


    As for the others, they were thedies from the studio. This get-together was unlike the previous one,


    which everybody had attended with their respective partners. Therefore, Leanna did not allow Aidan to


    apany her.


    Aidan was puzzled and asked with great displeasure, "Why can''t I go?"


    Leanna patiently exined, "It''s a whole group of girls. Won''t you feel embarrassed and awkward if you


    came along?"


    "Nope."


    "But, I will."


    He retorted, "Then, you should just get over it."


    She couldn''t help pouting. "Please don''t go. I''ll treat you to a private dinner tomorrow, alright?"


    When he heard her offer, he mulled in silence for a moment. "Only for dinner?"


    "Yeah. What else were you expecting?"


    "Since you don''t allow me to attend today, don''t you think you shouldpensate me a little?"


    The messages from the group chat kept flooding in. Thedies from the studio and Daphne had


    already arrived at the venue. Unfortunately, she was the only person left who had yet to arrive.


    At this moment, she was desperate to cate him so she could leave quickly. Thus, she carelessly


    nodded in agreement. "Fine. We''ll talk about it tomorrow."


    While she spoke, she opened the car door to leave.


    He grabbed her hand tightly and pulled her back in. "You can only leave after we''vee to an


    agreement."


    As she noticed that he was being extraordinarily clingy and persistent, she decided to lean over and


    peck him on his thin lips. Then, she hurriedly fled while he was not paying attention.


    All the others had already arrived by the time she arrived at the private room.


    Leanna took a seat, and Daphne came over to gossip. "Where''s President Pearson? I can''t believe he


    actually allowed you toe alone!"


    At the mention of Aidan''s name, Leanna couldn''t help fidgeting nervously. "There are only women here.


    So why would hee?" She randomly came up with a reason without the slightest change in her


    expression. "Besides, he is busy with hispany affairs."


    Zoe leaned over when she heard those words. "There''s still Louis. President Pearson would not have


    been alone."


    Leanna was taken aback. "Did you invite him?"


    "That''s right." Zoe added in a whisper, "These youngdies have been harassing me all afternoon,


    asking me to invite him. So, I casually invited him toe."


    "Is heing?"


    "I think he''s nearly here."


    Leanna said, "Okay."


    Beside them, Daphne maintained a nd smile on her face and stayed out of the conversation.


    Ten minutester, the door to the private room swung open. Louis had arrived.


    He had removed the bandage on his hand. Only two band-aids remained on the bridge of his nose and


    his lower jaw.


    As there were no other seats open aside from a seat next to Daphne''s, he only hesitated for two


    seconds before he walked over and sat down.


    A few youngdies swooned at the sight of him, and they practically spammed messages in the group


    chat feverishly.


    ''Oh, my God! How is he so handsome?''


    ''Why are the genes in their family so strong? I''m so jealous! I''m so envious!''


    ''It feels like that band-aid is stuck on my heart! How is he so handsome?''


    ''I''ve decided! I''m going to break up with my boyfriend tonight, so I can openly drool over this handsome


    young man!''


    ''Please! Be sure to ask what type of girl he likes tonight! I can change myself for him!''


    ''I think it''ll work. Didn''t Zoe say that we''ll be going Karaoke tonight? So let''s do it, girls! Our victory or


    defeat depends on this!''


    As everyone behaved themselves at the quiet dining table, the others were utterly oblivious to the dark


    undercurrents flowing beneath the surface.


    On the contrary, Leanna noticed something else that was unusual. She swept her nce back and


    forth between Daphne and Louis. It felt as though there was an invisible sense of distance between


    them, even though they were sitting right next to each other.


    Didn''t I ask Louis to call and apologizest time? Did he not go? Or did they fail to reconcile with each


    other?


    Zoe, who was out of the loop, raised the wine ss in front of her and made a toast at this time.


    "You''ve all worked hard during this period. At the same time, we are also celebrating Nana''s first time


    receiving the second prize in thepetition. Cheers!"


    Everybody remained silent.


    Leanna smiled, knowing that Zoe was trying to liven up the atmosphere and secretlyfort her


    simultaneously. If she set aside her grudge against Queenie, taking second ce in a design


    competition of this level was certainly not a bad result.


    Halfway through dinner, Leanna and Daphne went to the bathroom. Then, unexpectedly, they ran into


    Queenie and Robert while walking along the corridor.


    The world sure was small indeed; it was only inevitable for enemies to encounter each other often.

 Chapter 381

    Chapter 381


    Robert gave Daphne a once-over before he shifted his gaze toward Leanna. Then, his facial


    expression shifted into one of derision as he mocked, "Oh, what''s the matter? Are you guys having a


    celebratory dinner here too?"


    Leanna just nodded slightly out of courtesy and basic respect.


    However, Robert''s attitude only worsened as he snorted disdainfully, "That makes sense too. After all,


    you probably will never be the winner in this life, so you might as well celebrate getting second ce


    now. Otherwise, who knows if you''ll evene close to even earning a spot next time."


    Unlike Leanna, who had to keep her tongue in check due to reasons that she would love to kick to the


    curb but couldn''t, Daphne didn''t have such problems. So, she didn''t hesitate to put the pompous little


    man in his ce as she crossed her arms in front of her chest and retorted, "Who the hell let this weird


    and crazy foreigner out of captivity? Excuse me. Are you not ashamed to be barking at us with your


    not-so-fluent Chiojan? Didn''t your Chiojan teacher teach you how to speak thenguage properly?"


    Robert shifted his attention from Leanna to Daphne at her insult. His facial expression had gotten a


    little cold as he sized her up. Daphne Shirley¡ªshe''s no stranger to me, considering her face is in the


    posters of advertising endorsements all over the major shopping malls. As far as I know, she even


    endorses quite some luxury brands.


    Queenie immediately chose this opportunity to butt in, "Miss Shirley, you don''t need to attack Mr.


    Debauche like this verbally, do you?"


    When Daphne heard Queenie''s voice, she turned her attention to Queenie and inquired lightly, "And


    you are?"


    At once, Queenie''s facial expression stiffened at Daphne''s slight. Then, just as she was about to


    answer, Daphne added, "Never mind. I''m not interested in getting to know you either. You''re just a


    nobody to me. Besides, how could you say that I was verbally attacking this guy? I was clearly


    reprimanding some disrespectful seniors that clearly enjoy taking advantage of their qualifications and


    have some issues with their speech. But I can''t help it if you want to assume that I was referring to


    you."


    Queenie was infuriated by Daphne''s remarks. "You¡ª"


    Finally, Leanna couldn''t bear to see her friend being attacked from all sides as she looked at Robert


    and said tly, "I respect you and tolerate your brashness the best I can because you''re a senior.


    However, I''m also quite grateful to you for letting me understand the principle behind the saying,


    ''people make the government''. Indeed¡­ some students do naturally take up their teacher''s traits, don''t


    they? It matters not to me that I have lost thepetition today. Still, I do hope you two can show this


    same offensive behavior as you have now when you twopete in the actual international


    competitionter."


    After she finished saying those words, she tugged on Daphne''s hand and left hand-in-hand.


    When they got to the bathroom, Daphne asked, "Why did we leave? Why did you drag me away? I


    wasn''t finished with them."


    Leanna nced at Daphne and replied, "It''s useless to talk to people like them." Her father''s corpse is


    still waiting to be picked up in the mortuary, yet Queenie is still here throwing a g. Come to think of it.


    It''s somewhat ironic, isn''t it?


    After she washed her hands, she turned her head and asked, "What''s up with you and Louis? Did you


    two fight?"


    Daphne was perplexed by her questions. She was stunned for a while before she answered, "No, we


    didn''t."


    "Why is the atmosphere between the both of you so awkward then?"


    Daphne didn''t react. Instead, she smiled as she said, "Well, I don''t know him very well. So, it''s normal


    for us to have an awkward rtionship, is it not?"


    However, Leanna didn''t buy it. Therefore, she pressed for answers and asked, "But aren''t you two


    filming in the same production?"


    "Yeah, that''s true, but we don''t have many scenes together. Plus, we''re mostly in different crews. So,


    we don''t interact much with each other," exined Daphne. After she finished washing her hands, she


    took out a piece of tissue paper. As she wiped her hands, she continued, "Don''t tell me that you


    actually think Louis and I are close like friends."


    Although Leanna didn''t know about the situation on Daphne''s side, she was aware of what was


    happening on Louis'' side.


    So, she stopped probing for questions as she curled her lips upward into a smile and thanked Daphne,


    "Regardless, thank you for taking care of Louis during this period."


    "You''re wee. It''s what I should do." Daphne threw the crumpled tissue paper into the trash can and


    suddenly asked, "By the way, did he tell you anything about the thing that came up?"


    Leanna was puzzled by the sudden topic change, "What thing?"


    When Daphne saw that Leanna didn''t seem to know anything, she swallowed the words that she was


    about to blurt out and swiftly changed the topic again. "Never mind. It''s none of my business. Maybe


    he''ll find a chance to tell you about it himself."


    Just like that, they ended their topic of conversation. Leanna also didn''t bother trying to rify things


    despite her immense curiosity.


    Nheless, the two didn''t expect they would bump into Lewis, the person in charge of the party, on


    their way back.


    When Lewis saw Leanna, he approached her and asked, "McK, can I talk to you for a moment?"


    Leanna nodded slightly, then said to Daphne, "Why don''t you return to the private room first?"


    "Okay."


    Lewis and Leanna made their way toward the hotel''s balcony after Daphne left.


    He had a regretful look on his face as hemented, "Your work is truly superb, but I''m afraid there''s


    nothing much I can do. So I guess we can only say that each judge has their respective criteria when it


    comes to judging."


    Leanna didn''t intend to make things difficult for him as she merely smiled in understanding. "I


    understand, and I''m especially grateful to you for giving me this opportunity."


    Lewis sighed. "You have to believe that you still have a long way to go. Getting second ce doesn''t


    mean that you''re lesser than anyone. At the end of the day, people with skill and talent will always get


    their chance to shine."


    After the two chatted for a while, he spoke again, "I''m not sure if this is too much to ask or if the timing


    will be convenient for you, but I would like to arrange a special show for your brand for this year''s


    International Fashion Week. If you were to participate in this event, I''m sure that you would be able to


    present your works to a bigger audience."


    Perhaps she didn''t expect to be given such an opportunity, so she was momentarily too stunned for


    words after hearing Lewis'' suggestion.


    After all, only highly remarkable designers would receive the offer to have a special show for their


    brands at the International Fashion Week. So, frankly, it was logical to assume that Lewis should only


    discuss this with her if she were thepetition''s winner.


    In other words, Leanna felt that only the winner was qualified to receive such a fantastic offer.


    Therefore, she didn''t understand why Lewis brought this up with her but not to Queenie.


    Naturally, Lewis sensed her hesitation and exined with a smile, "Didn''t I just say that be it the winner


    or the second ce, it doesn''t signify anything? We value unlimited potential more in the designer


    industry than rankings, and I think you are the best candidate."


    When she heard his reassurance, she wanted to agree to his offer so badly. After all, this golden


    opportunity came straight knocking at her door. Hence, it was impossible for Leanna to decline it. Even


    so, she wasn''t sure whether she had the spare time to put in the effort it deserved if she took the offer.


    At once, Leanna fell into a dilemma. The daily workload in the studio is already taking up a significant


    portion of my time. But, on the other hand, since it''s a special show for my brand, I am bound to devote


    more time and energy to the project if I agree to participate in the International Fashion Week. I''m


    afraid that I won''t be able to do well for both sides when that happens.


    Suddenly, Lewis'' voice sounded again as he said, "It''s fine. There are still a few days left since I have


    to go back to prepare the contract and rted matters too. So you can take your time and think over


    my offer."


    Leanna lightly breathed out a sigh of relief at that. "Thank you."


    "In that case, I won''t bother you anymore for today. Please consider my offer. There''s no rush, so you


    can just get in touch with me after you have made up your mind."


    "Sure."


    Queenie only came out of the corner after the two had left. She lowered her gaze to her mobile phone,


    pressed the pause button, and stopped the recording.


    When Leanna returned to the private room, Zoe immediately asked, "Where have you been? The food


    is getting cold."


    "Something came up."


    Then, just when everyone was about to take a cab and head to a karaoke lounge for a karaoke


    session, Daphne suddenly said, "You guys go ahead and have fun. I''m not joining as I still have work


    tomorrow and have to get up early."


    Leanna swiftly responded by saying, "Is that so? In that case, Louis is leaving soon too. Let him drive


    you back."


    Louis furrowed his brows and was about to say something before he was cut off, "I¡ª"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    She ignored his protest, pulled him up, and said, "Didn''t you tell me just now that something came up at


    school, and the administration requested you to return to the campus? Well, this is perfect timing. You


    can send Daphne back to her ce and head to campus. So hurry up and go."


    He pursed his lips and got up. However, just after he took two steps forward, Daphne abruptly turned


    her head and smiled, "It''s okay, Louis. You don''t have to drive me back. My driver is already waiting


    downstairs. So you guys just go ahead and enjoy the night."


    As she spoke, she waved goodbye to Leanna and Zoe. Then, she took her belongings and left.


    In the meantime, Louis remained frozen on the spot, not moving a muscle.


    Leanna whispered, "What''s the matter with you? Didn''t I ask you to apologizest time? Did you not do


    so?"


    The corners of Louis'' lips moved slightly. But, s, just as he was about to speak, Zoe leaned in and


    asked, "Louis is returning to campus? Why didn''t I hear anything about this? So, is Louis not joining us


    for karaoke?"


    Leannaughed awkwardly and tried to sweep the matter under the rug. "Nothing. He suddenly


    changed his mind and decided not to return to campus."

 Chapter 382

    Chapter 382


    Still, Louis didn''t join them for karaoke either in the end.


    When Leanna noticed his listlessness, she asked Zoe and several other youngdies to head to the


    karaoke lounge first. As for her, she would join themter after she sent Louis back.


    Once they got inside the car, Leanna said, "I heard from Aidan that you leave home early and return


    late every day. What are you up to?"


    Louis stayed silent for a while before he parted his lips and gave a vague answer, "I''ve got stuff to do."


    "What is it?" Leanna asked.


    However, Louis merely looked away and said nothing.


    Judging from how he reacted, Leanna knew he wasn''t willing to talk about it. Hence, she stopped


    forcing the matter and changed the topic. "Louis, no matter what happens in the future, you can''t act as


    impulsive as before. You only need to keep this one thing in mind forever: you are my younger brother.


    You are my only kin in this world. Therefore, no one is more important to me than you."


    Louis paused for a while before he asked, "How about Aidan?"


    Perhaps not expecting to receive such a reply from him, she smiled and replied, "Boyfriendse and


    go, but you''re my only younger brother."


    "Got it. I won''t do anything impulsive in the future, and I also won''t let them use this as an excuse to


    ckmail you." The conversation died down naturally, but Louis seemed to remember something. He


    frowned as he began, "You and Ron¡­"


    Then, he decided to cut his losses midway and trailed off. The topic in discussion was far too


    complicated.


    Nevertheless, she didn''t mind as she replied sinctly, "He rescued me, so everything is in the past. I


    found him some time ago, asked him to help me look up Jethro''s whereabouts, and paid him the


    corresponding remuneration. That''s it."


    When Louis heard what she said, his brows furrowed deeper. "In the past?"


    Leanna hummed. After a while, she spoke again, "Actually, Louis, Ron wouldn''t havee after us if


    Jethro hadn''t borrowed money from a usurer. Moreover, it was Jethro who single-handedly nned


    that incident. Ron merely did as he was told by retrieving the money he was owed, that''s all."


    There was a point in her life when she hated Ron as much as she hated Jethro.


    Yet, now that she thought about it, she realized she couldn''t ce the me solely on Ron.


    She couldn''t judge whether Ron was a good or bad person. It was just that she had witnessed Ron''s


    humane side when he was in contact with Queenie''s father.


    From Leanna''s point of view, it seemed that everyone chose different ways of living because they were


    just trying their best to survive in this cruel world. That was all.


    Louis didn''tment on it and simply gazed out the window.


    When they pulled over at Castor Vi, she said, "It looks to me that your injury will be fully healed soon.


    Return to the campus once the weekend is over, alright?"


    Louis nodded obediently at that. "Okay."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Louis opened the car door, then turned to look at her and asked, "Aren''t youing in?"


    Leannaid her gaze on that familiar ce and smiled as she declined with a shake of her head.


    "Nah¡­ I''ll pass."


    "Okay. I''ll get going then."


    "Sure. Bye."


    After Louis left, she spaced out in ce for a while before driving away.


    Meanwhile, in Castor Vi, Louis saw Aidaning down the stairs as soon as he entered the living


    room. When Aidan saw him, he asked, "Where did you go again?"


    "Dinner gathering."


    Aidan couldn''t help but frown as he didn''t let the matter go by asking, "What dinner gathering?"


    When Louis picked up the confusion in his tone, he asked knowingly, "Leanna didn''t invite you?"


    Aidan didn''t have aeback to that.


    Louis also knew not to expect an answer as he continued, "She just left not long ago after she sent me


    back."


    At this moment, Aidan could feel his temples throbbing and immediately looked coldly at Louis, who


    was all calm and unruffled. Then, he swiveled and headed upstairs in a huff.


    As he watched as displeasure lined Aidan''s back silhouette, he couldn''t help but feel that


    schadenfreude did make one feel better. He even had proof as the suffocating swirl of emotions


    lightened at the sight.


    Once Aidan returned to his room, he whisked out his phone. Regardless, just as he was about to call


    Leanna, he suddenly changed his mind. It''s pointless. Not only does she not want to return here to


    Castor Vi, but she also doesn''t even want toe in even when she''s right at the door.


    When his train of thought arrived at that station, he tossed his phone on the couch. Then, he swept his


    gaze across the quiet room. Finally, he reached up, pinched his nose bridge, and pursed his thin lips


    lightly. All in all, I am the reason behind her decision.


    Aidan only grabbed his phone and called Oscar''s number after a long while. Once the call was


    connected, he asked tly, "Have you identified his whereabouts?"


    Oscar answered promptly, "No, not yet. That old fox is as cunning as f*ck! I have no idea where he took


    the person. But isn''t Freddie constantly bugging him? He probably doesn''t even have the time to give


    Leanna a hard time."


    "Keep a close eye on the situation at the hospital. Don''t allow him even a sliver of a chance to take


    undue advantage of the loophole."


    "Don''t worry. The person has already been transferred."


    Aidan hummed in satisfaction, then continued, "The Crossley Group''s new project has beenunched.


    Someone will be handling the rest of it. You just have to ensure that Lloyd and Georgina are too busy


    to seed in their schemes during this period."


    Oscar responded with an okay.


    After Aidan hung up the phone, he remained on the couch, going through his ns in his mind before


    he suddenly rose to his feet.


    As soon as he made his way downstairs, Louis came out of his room. When Louis noticed that Aidan


    seemed to be in a hurry, he asked, "Where are you going?"


    "None of your business," answered Aidan.


    For some reason, Louis could feel that Aidan wasn''t rushing out to meet Leanna. Could it be that Aidan


    is seeing another woman on the side?


    As he thought of that, a feeling of uneasiness crept into Louis'' heart. So, he quickly trailed after Aidan.


    Meanwhile, inside his ck Rolls-Royce, the corner of Aidan''s lips curved upward into a smile as he


    nced at the car that was trailing him through the rearview mirror. He managed to lose Louis with


    ease after circling the neighborhood several times.


    Half an hourter, his car stopped in front of an ordinary residential area.


    When Aidan arrived, the little guy was ying by himself in the cradle¡ªthe toy in his hand was fully


    coated with his saliva as he nibbled it.


    His finger was stained with saliva as he reached out and poked the corner of the little guy''s lips. When


    he noticed this, he immediately frowned and wiped his hand with a piece of tissue.


    At this moment, Naomi popped out of the kitchen. "Aidan, you''re here?"


    Aidan threw the tissue into the trash can as he inquired, "Why are you the only one here? Where''s the


    little guy''s nanny, Celia?"


    "Celia has gone out shopping for groceries."


    "Grocery shopping at this hour?"


    Naomi replied, "It just so happens that the refrigerator is empty, so I asked her to pay the supermarket


    a visit."


    "I''ll have someone to take you to Cliffery, a city far away from here, next week," Aidan suddenly said.


    Naomi was stunned for a moment when she heard that. "Did Leanna find out about this ce too?"


    "She''s been moring about wanting to see you. So I''ll go with her next week."


    Naomi sighed when she heard his words, "How long do you intend to keep her in the dark?"


    Aidan made himselffortable on the couch and retorted tly, "After I''ve finished dealing with


    Sienna."


    Then, Naomi asked again, "What about the little guy after I left? Who''s going to look after him?"


    Aidan looked at the cradle and said, "I will hire someone to look after him. You can just take over again


    once you return."


    "Well¡­ I guess we just have to settle with this n for now."


    Suddenly, the doorbell rang after the two had chatted for a while. Naomi figured Celia had finally


    returned with groceries in tow, so she walked over to open the door. Yet, she saw a strange young man


    with a frigid expression standing outside.


    A puzzled Naomi asked, "How may I help you?"


    Louis didn''t bother introducing himself as he merely said, "I''m looking for Aidan Pearson."


    Immediately afterward, he strode in before Naomi could answer.


    Perhaps because he didn''t expect Louis to be able to locate this ce, so he couldn''t help but show


    the surprise on his face when he saw Louis.


    If Leanna had not advised Louis not to act impulsively on their way back earlier, he would have


    punched Aidan in the face by now.


    Right at this moment, Celia also returned from her grocery shopping trip. When she saw Naomi


    standing by the door and an unknown person in the house, she whispered in bewilderment, "Ms.


    Fletcher, what''s going on? Why is the door open?"


    When Louis saw this, he couldn''t bear it any longer. He grabbed Aidan by the cor and reprimanded


    angrily, "How could you do this?! What did you promise me back then?!"


    Naomi swiftly closed the door and hurried over. "Aidan, what''s going¡­"


    Before she could say anything else, Aidan quickly interrupted her, "Nothing."


    Then, he looked at Louis and said, "Since you''ve found out, I have no reason to keep it from you any


    longer."

 Chapter 383

    Chapter 383


    Louis released him roughly. His brows furrowed together in anger, and just when he wanted to snap,


    something soft grabbed his fingers.


    For a moment, he was stopped short by the sudden sensation, so he blinked his eyes as he


    reorientated himself and looked down. He saw a child, who was only a few months old, looking at him


    with curious, rounded eyes. The child had a wide grin as he babbled nonsensical words.


    Louis lowered his voice at the sight of a young one. "This is¡­"


    Aidan tidied himself on the couch as he saidposedly, "He''s my son."


    The anger that had subsided a little within Louis red up again, and he shot a re at Celia, unaware


    of the situation. She was rightfully startled by the fury in his eyes, which quickly clued her into what he


    was probably thinking. So, the instant she realized that he had gotten the wrong idea, she waved her


    hands frantically as though she was warding the devil.


    "I''m only here to take care of the child under President Pearson''s orders. It''s not what you think it is!"


    Toward the end of her words, her tone even turned slightly shrill in her panic.


    The knot between Louis'' brows loosened a little, and he turned to Aidan again. "What the hell is going


    on?"


    "I''ll tell you the truth if you promise not to breathe a word about everything you saw here today to


    Leanna."


    "As long as you didn''t betray her, there''s no reason for you to be afraid of this."


    Aidan lifted his gaze at him. "I just don''t want toplicate things further."


    Well, considering that both men weren''t about to go on a stampede, Naomi knew that the person who


    just barged in wasn''t a bad person. Therefore, she turned her attention to Celia and said, "Celia, I''m so


    sorry. Please take the rest of the day off."


    Celia gave her a nod, dropped off the groceries on the dining table, and scurried off.


    The second the door closed, Naomi picked up the child on the couch. "It''s feeding time for the baby. So


    don''t wait up."


    Naomi held the child in her arms with practiced ease and went into the room with the child leaning


    against her shoulder. The baby''s eyes were fixed on Louis as he iled his arms around, trying to say


    something.


    As Louis took a closer look at the child''s features, he suddenly had a thought in his mind.


    In fact, earlier, when the youngdy said that she was just here to babysit, an idea had already shed


    past his mind. However, the idea was so unbelievable to him that he didn''t delve further into it.


    When he could no longer ignore those thoughts, he uttered in disbelief, "Could he be¡­"


    Aidan''s brows lifted ever so slightly. "Yeah."


    "Leanna doesn''t know about this?"


    "All she knows is the existence of this child, but nothing else."


    "Why did you hide it from her, then?" Louis asked.


    "I told you that I don''t want things to get even moreplicated," Aidan said.


    Louis unconsciously raised his voice at the offense he felt for his sister. "But this is her baby! You know


    exactly how upset she is over this baby, but you¡­ Don''t you think that you''re taking this too far?!"


    The look on Aidan''s face turned a few notches colder. "The baby was born prematurely and was in


    emergency rescue right after he was born. So if you are in my shoes, how do you n to break the


    news to her? Are you going to make things worse for her when she''s at her most miserable and


    helpless state?"


    A stunned Louis didn''t know what to say all of a sudden and said after a few seconds, "But isn''t he


    doing well now? Why did you¡ª"


    "Before you went to look for Jethro, did you tell her everything?"


    Louis abruptly went still as he could probably understand Aidan''s situation, and the room fell silent.


    After a while, Aidan rose to his feet. "Remember what you promised me. If you go back on your word,


    you can forget about the kid acknowledging you as his uncle."


    Louis didn''t protest and merely watched as Aidan headed toward the door. Then, he peered at the


    room where his nephew was. "Are you leaving just like this?"


    "Or else, what?" Aidan asked. "Do you want to stay here instead?"


    Louis retracted his gaze and then left together with Aidan. On the way back, he asked, "Earlier, you


    said that he has been in emergency care since he was born. How is he doing now?"


    "He''s rather frail, so he falls sick often. But the doctores to check up on him regrly."


    "When will he recover?"


    "Once he''s a little older, and his immunity system gets stronger, he might do better."


    Louis frowned and asked no further questions.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, after hitting the karaoke bar, the group left by themselves, and because Zoe had some


    drinks in the evening, she couldn''t drive. So, Leanna drove her home instead.


    On the way, Zoe said, "Nana, what are your ns after this?"


    "Me?" Leanna gave it a thought before saying, "I guess I''ll get the studio on track."


    Several issues cropped up this year. Previously, she was busy preparing for thepetition, and


    because of a series of troublesome incidents, she didn''t have the time for the studio at all.


    Zoe nodded. "That''s what I think as well. Look, after these few months, our studio has gained a small


    reputation within the country, but we haven''t been using such publicity to the fullest. So after this, we


    should run some ads and hire some famous influencers to promote our product or something. We''ll


    definitely make it big in time!"


    Leanna agreed to her n with a light yet firm nod. "Yes, we will."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    "That''s why I said it''s really not important that you didn''t win the first spot. So what if you''re second? In


    my heart, you''ll always be number one! Now and forever!"


    Leanna chuckled in amusement before she teased, "Are youforting me?"


    Zoe blinked. "Oh, you noticed it?"


    "It''s okay. I expected this. Moreover, to be able to enter such a prestigiouspetition is already such


    a rare opportunity for me. Plus, I even won a spot; all in all, it''s a win for me."


    Zoe nodded her head vigorously, agreeing to her statement strongly. "Yes, you''re right! That''s exactly


    what''s on my mind. Just treat this as an experience."


    As the karaoke bar was nearby Zoe''s ce, they reached her ce within ten minutes by car.


    Zoe pushed the door open and said, "Nana, I''m going home, then. Drive carefully on your way home


    and drop me a text once you''re home."


    Suddenly, Leanna called out to her, "Zoe."


    Zoe caught the seriousness in her tone, so she plopped herself back into the seat and asked anxiously,


    "What''s wrong?"


    Then, Leanna told her everything Lewis had said in the hotel.


    A couple of minutes passed by before Zoe finally opened her mouth. "No, maybe I had too much to


    drink. Give me a second here. So, that guy said that he wants to have a special show for our brand at


    the international fashion week?"


    "Yes," Leanna answered.


    Zoe pped her thigh in her joy and appeared to have sobered up. "That''s good news! Excellent news!


    Did you agree to it?"


    "Not yet. I''m still considering it."


    "What''s there to consider when it''s such an amazing thing? I told you that the position really doesn''t


    matter! Look, Lady Luck has finally decided to bless us, after all!"


    "The studio has been epting orders, and if it''s a special show for the brand, I''ll have toe up with


    a lot of jewelry designs, and I''m afraid that I''ll burn out," Leanna mumbled, expressing her concern.


    Zoe calmed down a little and suggested, "Should we stop epting custom orders from now on and


    just produce pieces for our brand? That way, you can fork out more time to prepare for the fashion


    week."


    "Stop doing custom orders?"


    "Yeah. What do you think? If it''s okay with you, we''ll just make arrangements for that."

 Chapter 384

    Chapter 384


    Leanna hadn''t considered such a thing, but now that Zoe had brought this up, she recalled that their


    initial purpose when they set up the studio, was to create their own brand. They only decided to ept


    custom orders in the beginning as a way to promote their items.


    They would have misced their priorities if they continued epting custom orders and missed an


    opportunity like this.


    "You''re right," Leanna said. "I''ll think this over carefully at home."


    Zoe patted her shoulder in reassurance. "I''m d you can think this way. I''m going home now. See you


    tomorrow."


    Leanna nodded and worriedly watched as Zoe staggered out of the car and asked, "Should I


    apany you upstairs?"


    "It''s okay. I''m already in the lobby and will reach my apartment after taking the elevator." Then, she


    closed the car door and cheerfully waved at her. "Go home quickly and give me a call when you''re


    home."


    "Okay."


    When Zoe disappeared from her sight, Leanna looked away and drove off.


    Meanwhile, Zoe reached the elevator, pushed a button, and waited for it to arrive. While she stared at


    the changing numbers signifying the elevator''s current floor, her vision gradually became blurry.


    A few secondster, she couldn''t help but burp, and right then, she suddenly heard the sound of


    hurried footsteps behind her.


    She instinctively turned to look over her shoulder, but before she could get a good look at the person,


    she was suddenly pulled into a warm embrace.


    Suffice to say, she was caught off guard and struggled to break free. Just as she was about to start


    screaming, she heard a familiar husky voice asking, "Are you still mad at me?"


    "Huh?" she blurted. Am I so drunk that I''m hallucinating?


    Weirded out but drunk enough that her rationality was taking a temporary backseat, she reached out


    tentatively and pinched the man''s waist. Her actions earned her a pained grunt.


    Oh, this isn''t my imagination.


    Once that thought registered, she shoved him away and berated, "What''s wrong with¡ª"


    Daniel looked at her earnestly. "I''m sorry. It''s my fault, and I promise I won''t do it again."


    While Zoe was still confused about what he was up to, the elevator doors slid open at this time. As she


    didn''t want to deal with him any second longer, she marched into the elevator with a disgruntled face.


    To her dismay, he followed her like a duckling chasing after its mother.


    She felt her lips pulling down to a frown and was about tosh out at him when another man joined


    them in the elevator. Unfortunately, she wasn''t that drunk that she was about to air out their grievances


    with an audience around. Thus, she could only force the bubbling tirade down her throat.


    It didn''t help that Daniel stood behind her the entire time, either tugging at the strap of her handbag or


    the hem of her clothes as though they were very close.


    Zoe was already frustrated, but she couldn''t give voice to it. Hence, she could only express her anger


    by clutching her bag to her chest and tugging her shirt away from his grasp before sticking herself to


    one corner of the elevator.


    When she lifted her head after she was satisfied that Daniel couldn''t pester her any longer, she


    identally met the eyes of the stranger. When the man noticed this, he merely looked away


    nonchntly.


    The frown on Zoe''s face deepened. Although she only met his eyes for a brief second, she felt even


    more disgusted by the emotions she caught sight of in his eyes. The revulsion she felt for that stranger


    was stronger than that she had for Daniel.


    The moment the elevator reached her floor, she quickly stepped out. But, just as she thought he would,


    Daniel followed after her, and so did that stranger, who then pretended to be looking for his keys near


    them.


    Zoe''s hand paused momentarily as she considered her options. Both of them seem like trouble. Will


    anything happen to me if I open the door now?


    While she was hesitating, Daniel said, "Baby, I came here especially to apologize to you. Let me in,


    okay?"


    When she heard him call her ''baby'', goosebumps formed all over her body. Yet before she could voice


    her protest, their eyes met, and he signaled her by narrowing his eyes and nodding softly.


    Spinning her head around, she saw the man standing not far off, and she quickly unlocked the door


    and went in before Daniel.


    After the door closed with a click, the stranger finally stopped moving his hands and stared at the


    closed door, approaching it slowly.


    In the apartment, Zoe picked up the baseball bat next to the doorway she had previously bought for


    self-defense and pointed it at Daniel. "Stay where you are, and don''t move!"


    Daniel raised both hands in surrender and showed that he had no ill intentions, but she remained


    cautious.


    "What''s wrong with you? And what about that person¡ª"


    The sounds of footsteps outside the door made Daniel ce a finger to his lips, and he gestured for her


    to remain silent.


    Zoe nced at the door and directly tossed a slipper at it.


    Perhaps he wasn''t expecting her to do something like this, so he clicked his tongue and dodged swiftly.


    The slipper struck the door, startling the man on the other side and he hurriedly pulled away, forcibly


    stopped from eavesdropping.


    Zoe stomped into the living room, baseball bat in hand, stopped by the kitchen entrance and said


    expressionlessly, "You can speak now."


    "Okay, I apologize for earlier. That man has been following me, and I have no other way but to¡ª"


    "You''re the one he''s following. What has that got to do with me? Why did you drag me into this?"


    He chuckled sheepishly, "They''re probably trying to find out why I opened up a store next to your


    studio."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    "Yeah, why?" she asked, equally puzzled.


    "I¡­" Daniel looked at her and continued, "The reason doesn''t matter, but after this, I may need your


    help to put up an act with me."


    She didn''t hesitate to decline, "I refuse."


    Daniel had no choice but to bait her into it. "Things are tooplicated, so I don''t know how I''m


    supposed to exin this whole mess to you. But based on the current situation, Miss McKinney is in


    danger right now."


    For a moment, Zoe didn''t understand what he was saying. Why is his problem suddenly connected to


    Leanna?


    When he saw her confusion, he exined patiently, "There''s only you and Miss McKinney in the studio.


    So I have to show up because of one of you, right?"


    "There are many young girls in our studio as well," she mumbled under her breath.


    Daniel didn''t expect such a retort, but heposed himself and continued, "I''m serious."


    Zoe organized her thoughts and said, "In other words, you set up a store next to us because of Nana?"


    He gave her a nod in admittance.


    "Why? You know that she¡ª"


    "All I can tell you is it''s because we have the same enemy. I only did that because I want to protect


    Miss McKinney, nothing else."


    Zoe slowly lowered the baseball bat in her hands and ced it on the floor with a firm thunk. "So,


    what''s your n?"


    A smile broke out on his face. "Let''s date."


    The muscles on her face froze, and she picked up the baseball bat again.


    Daniel hurriedly eximed, "I mean, fake a rtionship! We just need to convince them that I''m there


    because of you. It won''t harm Miss McKinney in any way, and once this act is over, I promise I won''t


    pester you and stay far away from you."

 Chapter 385

    Chapter 385


    Zoe sat on the couch, utterly immersed in her thoughts. Her eyes were half-lidded, and she was as still


    as a statue.


    Daniel stood opposite her, shifting on his foot when she left him hanging. After a while, he started


    wondering whether she might have fallen asleep and asked tentatively, "Why don''t you¡­ put away the


    thing in your hands first? It''s kinda scary."


    When she heard that, her grip on the bat tightened, and he cleared his throat in difort before


    taking a step back.


    After a few seconds, Zoe finally said, "Themon enemy you mentioned. Do you mean Lloyd?"


    Daniel nodded, and she pressed, "So, you and Georgina¡­"


    "That was all for show. I approached her with my own motives, and despite knowing this, she still made


    use of me."


    A few seconds passed, and she remarked sarcastically, "Just a show, eh? Just like what you''re doing


    now?"


    "Well¡­ not really," he fumbled for a logical reason. "We''re doing this for justice. The nature behind our


    actions is entirely different."


    "Mhm," Zoe hummed, unconvinced.


    After he waited for a few minutes, he slowly broached the question, "So, have you considered it?"


    "Are you sure that they won''t harm Nana if I agree to put on this act with you?" she gazed at him


    sharply as she inquired.


    "At least they won''t be able to ckmail her by trying to catch a hold of me, and if they tried from other


    aspects, I''d try to think of a way to stop them."


    Zoe furrowed her brows as she finally asked the one thing that had been bothering her the entire time,


    "Who the hell¡­ are you? No, maybe I should be asking, what''s your motive?"


    He smiled mysteriously and promised, "Once this act is over, I''ll tell you."


    ¡­


    When Leanna returned to the Crossley Residence, she noticed that the entire house was engulfed in


    an air of oppression. All the servants were shying away from her, just the same as when she arrived on


    the first day.


    The moment she entered the living room, a servant came over and said, "Miss McKinney, the master is


    asking for you in the study."


    Then, she left in a flurry of skirts without bothering to wait for Leanna''s answer.


    She stood rooted on the spot for a few seconds before her feet carried her in the direction of Lloyd''s


    study.


    Then, she knocked on the door and said dispassionately, "To what do I owe the pleasure, Mr.


    Crossley?"


    Lloyd raised his head behind a pile of documents. "Take a seat."


    She pursed her lips, walked over confidently, and took a seat in front of him. The instant she was


    seated, he pushed a document before her. When she swept her gaze over the words, she saw that it


    was an indictment against Georgina.


    She curled her lips into a smirk and deliberately asked, "Oh my. What''s this?"


    Lloyd didn''t pander to her games and merely said, "I know that you and Georgina have always been in


    a conflict because of Aidan, but no matter what, your squabbles should stay within the Crossley Family.


    There''s no reason to blow up this matter."


    "I don''t understand what you mean, Mr. Crossley," Leanna said as she inspected her nails. "I''m not the


    intiff stated here. How is this rted to me?"


    "But you''re the cause of this conflict. When the timees, as long as youe forward and rify


    that these usations are false, the indictment will be rendered meaningless."


    Leanna understood what he was getting at. In fact, Lloyd could easily handle a person like Karen with a


    twitch of his fingers. He only had to manipte some facts to get the deed done, but the problem now


    was that she was involved in this situation.


    As Lloyd knew that many eyes were watching him and Leanna, he didn''t want to take the risk. Hence,


    he wanted her toe forward and deny Karen''s usations.


    Once she denied it, then the chips would be in his favor since it would be obvious that Karen was lying.


    Plus, with a little bit of maniption behind the scenes, he could easily present Karen as the true


    mastermind of it all. He could paint her as the person staging the whole incident for ckmail and


    extortion.


    And they say you could dream faster than you could make a wish, Leanna scoffed in her mind.


    "Previously, I''ve asked you if everything Miss Crossley did could be exposed to the public eye, and I''ve


    always thought of myself as the victim in this incident the whole time. I''ve never received the apology I


    deserve, so why should Ie forward for others, my¡­ Bully no less?" she enunciated slowly. She


    was ying with fire, but with such a golden opportunity presented before her, there was no way she


    could help herself.


    "We can settle everything in private," Lloyd answered. "Since you''re a member of the Crossley Family,


    you have a duty to care for our reputation."


    "You''re making it sound like such a big deal, Mr. Crossley. Even though I''m living with the Crossleys,


    I''ve never enjoyed any benefits of actually being one. So, what are these duties you speak of?"


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Lloyd narrowed his eyes as his expression gradually sank when he saw that she wasn''t going to let the


    matter go so easily.


    Finally, he said, "State your terms."


    Leanna smirked at that. "You''re a daring man indeed, Mr. Crossley."


    Then, she whisked out the equity transfer papers she always brought with her and ced them before


    him in a flourish.


    The moment heid his gaze on the file, he said, "This is what I''ve promised you before. If this is what


    you want in exchange, I can sign it right now."


    "No," she dragged the refusal out for a moment. "I would like to let you know that rather than asking for


    the shares of Crossley Group, I would prefer something more practical."


    A bad premonition started to bubble up in his heart as he furrowed his brows. "What do you want?"


    Leanna mentioned a few ces and said, "I want all thesends."


    "That''s out of the question!" Lloyd said sternly.


    The ces she mentioned were expensive, and some of them included a project that Crossley Group


    was currently developing. If thend were given to Leanna, that would mean that she had the biggest


    say over the whole project.


    She covered her mouth and giggled yfully, "Oh, it''s fine if you''re not agreeable to it. I''m merely telling


    you what I want. I''ve made the calctions. All thesends only make up thirty percent of the Crossley


    Group properties, and I think this is what I deserve."


    "What arrogance! If I really hand them over to you, you definitely won''t be able to manage them well by


    yourself. The Crossley Group will be ruined in your hands when the timees!"


    "Oh please, Mr. Crossley. I know that I have no head for business, and that''s why I''m only asking for


    thend. I won''t interfere with anypany projects and will be fine with just receiving the money."


    Lloyd gave her a gimlet stare, sitting there without a word.


    Leanna''s conditions was basically turning the shares into cash. If she merely held the shares, he would


    have a multitude of ways to control her, but thosends were an asset he couldn''t afford to lose. Once


    it was transferred to her, it would be under her name. When the timees, he would need her


    signature if anything should happen to the Crossleys, and they would like to sell thend or anything


    rted to the project.


    How could Lloyd ever agree to her request?


    She wasn''t worried in the slightest, so she continued, "If that''s the case, I won''t bother you anymore,


    Mr. Crossley. Think about it carefully. I''m not in a rush."


    The one who is in a real rush is the one being used, she thought yfully and promptly left the


    study.


    As Lloyd stared at the equity transfer papers, the look on his face turned even glummer.


    Meanwhile, Leanna reached her room and was about to enter when Georgina''s voice rang behind her.


    She tilted her head and asked, "And how can I help you, Miss Crossley?"


    "You''re the one behind this matter, aren''t you?" Georgina said coldly.


    A sweet smile spread across Leanna''s face. "If you believe thinking this way would make you feel


    better, then I have nothing against it as well. But¡­"


    "But, what?"

 Chapter 386

    Chapter 386


    Leanna stared straight at her as she spoke slowly and surely, "Without you clearing the path with your


    grand performance, I wouldn''t have had the chance to set the stage for mine."


    Georgina¡¯s face twisted into a scowl before she calmed and sneered, "Don¡¯t think for a second that


    you¡¯ve won."


    "I think I speak for the both of us when I say that I¡¯m only getting started. After all, we both know that


    you¡¯ve done far worse," Leanna answered indifferently. "Actually, I''ve always wanted to ask you


    something, Miss Crossley, but I feel like I''m asking the obvious and being a little extra. Still, why don¡¯t


    you humor me just this once, hm?"


    Georgina cocked her head indifferently, crossing her arms across her chest as though awaiting


    Leanna¡¯s performance.


    "You''re the one who told Anna about my pregnancy, aren''t you?" Leanna asked.


    Georgina remained unppable. "From how you worded it, you probably already assumed that it''s me.


    So no matter what I say, it will merely sound like excuses to you. But since you''ve mentioned this,


    there''s something I''m curious about. Is your pregnancy something to be ashamed of? It''s been so long,


    but you''re actually questioning me about it now."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "There''s nothing to be ashamed of to be pregnant, of course. Unfortunately, some people have such


    dark and filthy hearts that they are afraid of seeing the light. Or should I say, terrified of being


    prosecuted?" Leanna ended the conversation right then and there and left without hesitation.


    Georgina inhaled deeply as she eyed the closed door. Her expression was utterly frigid. When she


    returned to her own room, her cell phone started vibrating as an unknown number called her, but she


    hung up in frustration.


    However, that unknown number called again after a few minutes.


    She heard Queenie''s voice from the other end when she picked up. "Hello, Miss Crossley. It''s Queenie


    speaking."


    "What is it?"


    Queenie tentatively started, "I''m aware that you hate Leanna as well, so I¡ª"


    "So?" Georgina interjected indifferently.


    She was flummoxed when she heard Georgina¡¯s curt response, so she paused for a few seconds and


    said, "Back then, when I was in Lux Jewelry, I could feel it even though you didn''t make it clear, Miss


    Crossley. But please don''t get the wrong idea. I''m not using this to ckmail you. There''s something in


    my hands that I think you''ll be interested in."


    "Oh?" Georgina leaned against the couch as she said, "Maybe you have the wrong idea. I don''t hate


    Leanna. Since she doesn''t affect my interests, I have no reason to dislike her. Are you going to use me


    as a guise to do something to hurt her?"


    Queenie bit her lip. "It''s not like that, Miss Crossley. I just feel that a person like Leanna isn''t worthy at


    all. She doesn¡¯t deserve to receive President Pearson''s love or be a part of the Croasley Family, not to


    mention¡ª"


    "Not to mention win the first spot in thepetition, right?" Georgina finished the sentence for her.


    When Queenie didn''t answer, she took it as a silent acknowledgment and continued nonchntly, "But


    aren''t you the champion of this illustriouspetition this time? It looks like you¡¯re right, she truly isn¡¯t


    worthy, and neither does she have the ability and talent to back her up."


    "I''ll y a voice recording for you, and you''ll understand everything, Miss Crossley."


    From the other end, Lewis and Leanna''s conversation at the hotel started ying after some rustling


    noises.


    Unfortunately, there wasn''t any reaction from Georgina, and Queenie couldn''t help but raise her voice


    in agitation, "Only the winner of thepetition has the right to hold a special show during fashion


    week, but Lewis gave this opportunity to her instead. Don''t you find this unfair, Miss Crossley?"


    "It''s just apetition," Georgina said. "Anyone who takes it seriously is the loser."


    "I think it has something to do with one person now that the organizer has made such a decision,"


    Queenie argued.


    "Who?"


    "President of the Pearson Group."


    "Why do you say that?" Georgina asked leisurely.


    "The Pearson Group is originally the organizer of thepetition this time, and back then in Lux


    Jewelry, President Pearson had been giving all sorts of opportunities in fashion to Leanna. So I have


    reasons to suspect that the entirepetition is just the Pearson Group cooperating with the


    organizers, so it doesn''t matter who the winner is because Leanna is the one they want to promote,"


    Queenie exined.


    "That''s the Pearson Group you''re speaking about. You better keep your tongue in check if you don''t


    have any proof."


    On the other end, Queenie clutched the phone tightly. Initially, she thought that Georgina would fly into


    a rage if she mentioned Aidan. After all, Georgina was once his fianc¨¦e, and he was back together with


    Leanna now; Queenie didn''t think anyone could take this lying down.


    After a few seconds of silence, she added, "The voice recording in my hands and the rtionship


    between Leanna and President Pearson are the best proof."


    "So, what if you have the proof?" Georgina asked. "You already know that it''s an inside job. You can''t


    possibly expose them to the media, can you? The only ones who aren''t afraid of the Pearsons are only


    the mediapanies owned by them."


    Queenie couldn¡¯t think of what to say, but she was able to retrieve some vital information from


    Georgina''s words¡ªshe had to expose this to the media and a mediapany that wasn''t afraid of


    Aidan at that.


    Queenie furrowed her brows slightly as she contemted for a few seconds and suddenly understood


    what Georgina was implying.


    Aidan had always been on terrible terms with the rest of the Pearsons. She wanted to expose this


    matter, but she couldn''t implicate herself in this, so the best way was to pass the recording to someone


    from the Pearsons.


    Georgina didn¡¯t bother to wait for Queenie¡¯s answer as she left a few parting remarks, "That''s all. I''ve


    said what I should. This has nothing to do with me, so I would advise you to keep mum about this. But,


    even without thispetition, do you think that Leanna wouldn''t be able to hold a special show in the


    fashion week with the help of the Pearson Group?"


    Queenie gritted her teeth in anger as she screamed in her mind, If that''s true, I will never allow it!


    "Thank you for your advice, Miss Crossley. I know what I should do now," she said.


    The moment Georgina heard the dial tone, she gazed at her screen as a vicious smirk painted her lips.


    I would like to see how long Leanna can live her days happily, she thought. Then, if I¡¯m lucky, she


    would have suffered her retributions without me lifting a single finger.


    On the other end, Queenie was at a loss after the phone call. That was because she had no idea how


    to contact anyone from the Pearsons.


    In addition, she already had a feud with them when she reported that Leanna was a sugar baby of the


    Pearsons.


    Although she was released without any charges, the Pearsons had been keeping an eye on Ron the


    whole time. If she appeared before them now, they would suspect her motives, which just wouldn¡¯t do.


    Queenie thought it over for a long time before bringing the recorder, making a few copies of the


    recording, and cing it into a box. Then, she took a cab to another spot, called the number Ron gave


    her before and ordered a courier to have the parcel delivered to the Pearson Residence. She even


    made a note on the box that it had to be personally opened by Gordon himself.


    With all that done, she finally breathed a sigh of relief and was about to call a cab home when she


    received a call.


    Soon, Elliot''s disgruntled voice echoed from her phone,ining, "I''ve waited for you the entire


    night. When are youing back?"


    She frowned in disgust as she blocked his number straight away. Then, after she gave it some thought,


    she called Ron and her family, but nobody picked up as always.

 Chapter 387

    Chapter 387


    When Leanna reached the studio in the morning, she saw that Zoe had yet to arrive and asked the


    sales girls in her store. "Is Zoe here yet?"


    One of them answered, "Not yet. Miss Hart is usually here at this time. What''s up with her today?"


    "I''ll give her a call," Leanna said.


    However, after she called, nobody picked it up for a long time. Zoe went home drunkst night, and


    she''s not picking up my call now, her mindunching into terrible scenarios as she picked up her car


    keys.


    But when she reached the door, she saw Zoe hopping off a Porsche, and the person stepping out of


    the driver''s seat was Daniel.


    The sight of the two of them utterly confused her to the point where she started questioning her vision.


    What''s going on? Are my eyes ying tricks on me?


    Besides a shocked Leanna, the other sales girls from her studio also gathered over, craning their necks


    as they leaned out to catch a glimpse of such a scene.


    Zoe naturally felt theirser-focused gaze and was somewhat embarrassed. So, she powerwalked her


    way into her office.


    Meanwhile, Daniel stared at her back, raised his brows, and went into the store next door.


    In the studio, before Leanna could open her mouth, the girls already had a significant headstart


    bombarding Zoe with questions.


    "Miss Hart, why did youe with Daniel? What''s happening between you two?"


    "Yeah, are you guys seeing each other? I remember that you took a detour when you saw him a few


    days ago."


    "What''s happening? Quick, spill us the tea."


    Their questions made Zoe''s face bright red, and after a while, she stammered, "I-It''s nothing, actually.


    He''s courting me."


    Everyone was struck dumb, but she couldn''t me them for not believing her because she almost bit


    her own tongue when her brain-to-mouth filter finally registered.


    She shoved the people aside. "Alright, that''s enough. Get back to work and be snappy about it," she


    said and hid in the lounge.


    When Leanna had made some coffee, she went in and gently closed the door.


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Finally, she ced the cups on the table, sat on the couch, and stared at Zoe, who was curled into a


    ball. "What''s going on, Zoe?"


    An embarrassed Zoe raised her head. "It''s¡­ just as I said earlier. He''s courting me."


    When she heard such a thing, she was in no mood for gossip and asked solemnly, "Is he serious?"


    "Nobody knows, but that''s what he says." She straightened herself as she hugged her knees to her


    chest. "Don''t worry, Nana. He may be courting me, but I haven''t given him the green light yet."


    "I think you''re not far off from that."


    Zoe tried toe up with an excuse but ultimately kept her lips sealed. I have no other choice. In order


    to make it real, I must put up aplete act, including ying hard to get. But I could make my dream


    to be a flirte true. I''ll just leave him hanging and never date him. Fake or otherwise.


    "Even if you''re going to give in to him, don''t do it so quickly," Leanna advised. "I think Daniel doesn''t


    have any huge issues, but he doesn''t seem so reliable regarding romantic rtionships."


    Zoe nodded in agreement. "That''s what I think as well." Then, she asked, "Hey, what about that thing


    we spoke aboutst night? Have youe to a decision?"


    Leanna gave her a nod. "Almost."


    Zoe already knew what her answer was, and she was immediately energized. "I''ll inform other


    customers immediately that we are no longer epting customs orders. Once you''re finished with the


    orders at hand, I reckon the timing will be just perfect."


    "Alright," Leanna answered, rising to her feet. "I''m going back to the office first. Let me know if anything


    crops up."


    "Okay, go ahead."


    After she returned to her office, she decided to give Aidan a call.


    Soon, she heard his husky voice saying, "Baby, are you missing me already?"


    She retorted huffily, "Wake up."


    A grin appeared on Aidan''s face. "What happened?"


    "Are you the one who got Georgina sued?" she asked.


    Leanna was quite mad after what happened with Louis, but she was busy with thepetition at that


    time and nned to make use of the incident with Karen to strike back once everything was over.


    Regardless, she didn''t think that Aidan had organized everything ahead behind her back.


    "It doesn''t have much to do with me," he answered nonchntly.


    But Leanna didn''t buy his words. "Not much, eh? Then how much is it?"


    "She wanted to fight for her own interests, and I merely introduced awyer to her."


    "Freddie Sutton?"


    "Uh-huh."


    Finally, she understood the situation. It looks like it''s not a coincidence that Freddie suddenly returned


    to the country. Karen has been awake for a while now, and given her personality, she will never suffer


    such a loss for nothing. There was no doubt that she would do her best to swallow Georgina whole,


    bones and all.


    Meanwhile, although Freddie was just awyer, his family was famous in Highside. Lloyd wouldn''t want


    to fall out with him over this, which was why he had the absolutely brilliant idea of approaching her.


    Aidan actually started nning this far ahead, but she didn''t notice a thing.


    When he heard no answer from her, he prompted, "What terms did you have for Lloyd?"


    "Nothing escapes you, huh," she muttered, pouting.


    "I''m the director of the show. If I can''t even predict this, I might as well step down, shouldn''t I?"


    "I asked for a fewnds from him."


    "Did he agree?"


    "He said no," she replied.


    "That''s still within my calctions, then," he said indifferently. "It would be suspicious if he had agreed


    to them right away."


    "Well, I''m not the one in a hurry. So, I can spend my time wearing him down."


    "Freddie won''t let this slide so easily, and Lloyd will look for you again in three days, at the most." Then,


    after a short pause, he added, "Once this is over, I''m taking you out."


    "Where are we going?" she asked.


    "Where would you like to go?"


    Before she could answer, she heard a knock on the door, and Jonathan''s voice said, "President


    Pearson, the meeting will begin shortly."


    "Okay," Aidan answered and said to Leanna, "Wait for me after work."


    "Sure," she said, smiling.


    After she ended the call, she fished out the name card Lewis had given her yesterday and called the


    number.


    "Hi, Lewis. It''s me, McK," she said.


    Lewis chuckled when he heard her voice. "Let me guess, you bring good news?"


    She chuckled in amusement before she said, "Thank you, but I may need some time to prepare


    because there are many things left to do in my studio."


    "There''s no rush. There are still a few months to go before the fashion week. You''ll have ample time to


    prepare."


    After they went into detail about what was expected of them, Lewis said he would send the agreement


    over once it was ready. As Leanna nkly stared at the custom orders they had received before this,


    she inhaled deeply as she buried her head in work.

 Chapter 388

    Chapter 388


    Meanwhile, at the Pearsons, Gordon had just stepped out of the study when a servant hurriedly came


    over to him with a parcel in his hands. "Sir."


    Gordon frowned as he swept his gaze over the box. "What''s this?"


    "This was deliveredst night, and it''s written here that¡­ you should open it personally."


    He snorted derisively as he paced to the couch with his walking stick and sat down, saying coldly,


    "Who''s so great that I have to open this parcel myself?"


    The servant stood at the side and didn''t dare to make a sound.


    "Throw it out," Gordon instructed.


    "Yes, sir," the servant answered with a nod.


    Right before he left the living room, Gordon suddenly said, "Hold on."


    Immediately, the servant returned. Then, he ordered, "Open it. I would like to see what''s inside."


    The servant answered and opened the courier box, only to find a voice recording in the box.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Gordon jutted his chin out and gestured at the servant to y the recording, but after hearing the


    contents, he frowned. "What''s this?"


    His subordinate at the side answered, "Miss McKinney entered apetition recently, and this is


    probably her conversation with the organizer."


    An incredibly displeased look washed over Gordon. "Why is someone sending me their conversation?"


    "The Pearson Group is the organizer of thispetition, and when thepetition was ongoing, there


    were a lot of rumors questioning the authenticity of thepetition. They said that President Pearson


    told Miss McKinney thepetition rules in advance in order to let her win first ce, but these were


    all false usations. In the end, the one who won thepetition wasn''t her but someone else," the


    subordinate continued.


    Gordon narrowed his eyes in contemtion as he picked up the voice recorder and yed it again.


    Gordon was far from a fool. So, after he heard the information earlier, coupled with the contents of the


    recorder, he immediately understood the intentions of the person who sent him this.


    He sneered and tossed the recorder aside. "After all these years, this is the first time someone has the


    nerve to make me pull the trigger."


    But with this recording, I just need to pull some strings, and Aidan will be charged with abuse of power.


    This is an excellent way to snatch the Pearson Group away from him, he thought and ordered his


    subordinate, "Take this to our men. They''ll know what to do."


    The man immediately did as he instructed. Then, as he sat on the couch, deep in thought, he barked to


    the servant on standby, "Find out who sent this to me. The nerves of them to make use of me. I would


    like to find out who has such guts!"


    ¡­


    At night, Leanna lifted her head from a pile of drafts and stretched out the crick on her neck. When she


    saw that it was alreadypletely dark out, she checked the time on her phone and saw that it was


    already 9.00PM. Yet, when she walked around the studio, she didn''t see Aidan anywhere.


    Didn''t the b*stard tell me to wait for him? So why isn''t he here yet? she wondered.


    When she was about to call him, she thought that he might be busy, so she gave up the idea and


    decided to look for him instead.


    After she tidied her things, she locked the studio door and drove to the Pearson Group.


    When she was halfway there, she suddenly received a call from Zoe. "Nana, did you see the news on


    the Inte?"


    "I''m driving now and didn''t check my phone," she answered. "What happened?"


    "Damn, I must really hand it to them. Some idiot recorded your conversation with Lewis and posted it


    on the Inte. Many people are now saying that thepetition was held because President Pearson


    wanted to promote you on purpose, and it has lost all of its impartiality. Now, the official Twitter ount


    of the Pearson Group and the organizers have been called to question, filled with keyboard warriors


    demanding an exnation."


    Leanna furrowed her brows. "When did this happen?"


    "About half an hour ago. I just saw it as well. Where are you now? Are you home already?"


    "I''m on the way to look for Aidan."


    "I think you shouldn''t do it," Zoe said. "I think the entire Pearson Group must be on tenterhooks now,


    and you may not meet him even if you go there."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "It''s okay. I''ll try to take a look, and it''s fine if I don''t get to meet him."


    After she hung up, she opened her browser and saw that this topic was trending, and there was even


    the word ''HOT'' at the end of the search, proving just how huge of a mess this was.


    She clicked on the first video, which contained a thirty-second voice recording. The beginning and end


    had been edited off, and only the part where Lewis said that he would let her brand have a special


    show was left.


    The parts of the conversation where she said she would consider it waspletely nonexistent, and


    there were a plethora of harsh criticisms in thements section.


    ''Heh, this is absolutely amazing. President Pearson is a loving husband indeed. To be able to do


    something like this, he''s really holding the g of capitalism high in the air.''


    ''As a designer myself, I''m disgusted by this. If he really wants to promote her so much, he should just


    throw in the money directly. Is there really a need to stage such a huge show? Does he take us for


    fools? This is outrageous!''


    ''Back then, when McK participated in thepetition, I already sensed that something was off, but I


    didn''t think that it would turn out this way. I just feel sorry for the designers who worked so hard on their


    designs and didn''t even imagine that this was all an inside job. In the end, they wasted so much energy


    and effort for nothing.''


    ''That''s a really grand show! At this point, I really take my hat off to McK. Even after the divorce, she


    could still wrap him around her little finger. She should publish a tutorial when she''s free.''


    In addition to these, many started to badger her in her DMs. Finally, she took in a breath, set her phone


    aside, and stepped on the gas pedal, speeding toward the Pearson Group.


    The Pearson Group was utterly shrouded in a depressing cloud, and nobody dared to get off work.


    Leanna went upstairs using the elevator and headed for the president''s office but saw Jonathan


    standing at the door quietly. "How are things?" she asked, approaching him.


    "Old Mr. Pearson is here," he murmured softly.


    A furrow appeared between her brows, and just when she was about to speak, she heard something


    being smashed inside the room like it had struck the wall.


    Jonathan immediately led her to the lounge. "Miss McKinney, please wait for President Pearson in this


    room."


    She nodded and took a seat on the couch. A couple of minutester, Jonathan returned with a ss of


    warm water.


    Leanna bit her lip before she voiced, "Did this issue cause a huge impact on the Pearson Group?"


    He answered, "This type of baseless usation doesn''t have much impact, to begin with, as long as it


    is rified. But as you know¡­ Old Mr. Pearson has always wanted to rece President Pearson.


    So¡­"


    Although he didn''t finish his sentence, she understood what he meant. There was no doubt that the


    Pearsons were grasping onto this like leeches and refused to back down, using this as a tool against


    Aidan.


    Just then, Jonathan''s phone started ringing, and he said to her, "I''m leaving now, Miss McKinney. Call


    me if you need anything."


    "Sure."

 Chapter 389

    Chapter 389


    Leanna sat in the lounge for half an hour, scrolling through the news on her phone the whole time.


    Unfortunately, the situation had taken a turn for the worse, with many iming to be designers stepping


    forward to demand a reasonable exnation. It was also highly suspicious that not one of the


    designers who participated in thepetition before this made a scene at all.


    Clearly, these people were bribed by someone to blow up this matter on purpose. She only switched off


    her phone when her eyes started burning due to the strain.


    Another thirty minutes passed, and the footsteps echoed from the door. Leanna sprang to her feet, but


    the one who came in was Jonathan instead.


    "Miss McKinney, Old Mr. Pearson has asked for an emergency shareholders meeting right now, and I


    don''t know when it will end," he said. "Why don''t you return first?"


    When she heard that, she was quiet for a few seconds before nodding softly. "Okay."


    Staying here won''t be of any help at all, she thought.


    After Jonathan sent her downstairs, he returned into the building again in a rush. She turned her head


    around, stared at the brightly lit building, and knitted her brows. Then, suddenly, she knew what she


    had to do.


    In the car, she whisked out her phone and found Freddie''s number that she had saved previously. After


    he picked up the phone, she didn''t bother beating around the bush, "Are you free? I would like to


    discuss something with you."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Freddie happened to be on the way. "Sure. Where are we meeting?"


    Leanna asked for his location and chose a coffee house nearby. After ten minutes, she literally got out


    of the car at the same time as him.


    He raised his brows when he saw her. There was no need for her to say the purpose behind her


    invitation; he knew why she requested for a meeting.


    When they werefortably seated in the coffee house, he asked, "I saw the news. Are you nning


    to sue the people for nder? But this matter is such a bigmotion now, so I reckon that it won''t


    have much effect."


    To his surprise, she shook her head. "I just want to ask you how things are going with Georgina''s


    case."


    He was taken aback as he probably didn''t expect her to ask about this and only answered after a


    pause, "Lloyd is still trying to hold this off, but don''t worry. At the most, in less than a week, I can¡ª"


    "Tonight."


    Freddie thought he had misheard her for a moment and rified, "What?"


    Leanna aligned her ns. "Tonight, send awyer''s letter to Georgina directly using Karen''s name. It''s


    okay for the other details to be vague, but you have to point out that Karen went to my studio to make a


    scene under Georgina''s orders and tried to harm my brother when he was only a student."


    He immediately got what she meant. Previously, the Crossley Group had some trouble because of


    issues with the project. Nevertheless, if one pointed out that Georgina had done something so


    malicious and even tried to destroy a university student through filthy means, it would cause quite a


    commotion amongst the public.


    "Do you n to use this as a diversion?"


    Leanna nodded. "That''s only one part of it. One week is too long, long enough for Lloyd to make other


    preparations. This is the only way to catch him off guard."


    "If we do this, he''ll definitely know that you have something to do with this."


    A chuckle escaped her lips. "I''ve been an eyesore to him since the beginning. Even if I don''t do any of


    this, will he treat me with kindness?"


    She has a point, Freddie thought. To pit against a wily old fox like Lloyd, she might as well just beg for


    mercy on her knees if she has so many concerns and is afraid of offending him.


    "Okay, I''ll return to my office right now." He checked the time and said, "It will take at least an hour for


    the letter to be out. Is that okay?"


    "That''s fine." Leanna rose to her feet. "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. This is my job," he said and quickly departed, not staying for even a second longer as


    his mind whirled with possibilities.


    On the other hand, Leanna didn''t leave. Instead, she took a sip of her coffee and made a phone call to


    Lewis.


    In the meantime, Lewis was utterly bewildered due to this incident, but the number of angryizens


    was so high that it wouldn''t help at all if they issued a rification at this time. Also, they couldn''te


    up with any evidence to prove that the truth wasn''t how it was depicted on the Inte.


    This was the kind of situation where one had to think of a way to prove that they were themselves, and


    these rumors were ridiculous and unreasonable.


    When he received Leanna''s call, he immediately exined, "McK, we''re discussing how we should


    deal with this issue. Rest assured, we''ll give everyone a reasonable exnation."


    "I''m the one who has dragged you down with me this time, and I''m calling now to ask who were the


    people who joined us for dinner that day," Leanna said.


    Her words got Lewis by surprise. "You''re saying that this recording may be recorded and leaked out by


    someone at the table that day?"


    "No." After she thought it over, she rephrased her question, "Among the judges that went for the dinner


    that day, there shouldn''t be anyone who gave me a low score, right?"


    When she put it this way, he carefully thought about the situation that day.


    After the final results came out, Robert and Queenie invited all the judges to dinner, but a few of them


    came up with an excuse and didn''t bother showing up. The ones who attended after that, besides him


    and Robert, there were two other judges. The judges who voted for Leanna weren''t there.


    What coincidence is this? he asked himself.


    When she heard the silence from the other end, she already knew the answer, and she exined,


    "Imagine you''re a judge and gave a high score to the work you like. However, that didn''t win in the end,


    but another one did. Will you attend the dinner party organized by the designer who won the


    competition?"


    Lewis paused at her question. If that were him, he wouldn''t bother attending.


    On the one hand, it would be awkward because he didn''t give a high score. But, on the other hand, he


    would more or less feel sorry for the talented designer who could have won but lost instead.


    That time when Leanna didn''t get first ce, he thought it was highly unusual. Queenie''s design was


    good, and she had her highlights, too. But, despite that, her design was one level beneath Leanna''s in


    every aspect.


    Besides, he showed up at that dinner because he was the organizer of thepetition. So no matter


    who the winner was, he had to congratte them.


    At the thought of this, he suddenly found the road beyond the fog.


    At the same time, Leanna managed to verify her questions, and she didn''t even have to doubt the


    person who gave this recording to the media because there were only that many people in the hotel


    that day.


    She knew very well what kind of person Queenie was.


    If she thought that it was normal for there to be a winner and losers in apetition, then this incident


    was enough to prove that Queenie didn''t deserve her title as the champion. Because of this, she feared


    someone would take away her chance to be the champion.


    In other words, if Queenie were worthy of her title as the champion, there wouldn''t be so many


    problems in the aftermath of thepetition.


    "I''ll look into this carefully and give you an exnation as soon as possible," Lewis said gravely.

 Chapter 390

    Chapter 390


    At 11.30PM, just as everyone on the Inte was engrossed in the incident that urred during the


    designer''spetition, a legal letter suddenly materialized and it was unexpectedly meant for


    Georgina.


    Initially, the topic did not trend as someone intentionally kept a lid on the news. Somehow, as it got


    closer to 12.00AM, someonemented below the discussion, revealing that the university student of


    interest mentioned in that legal letter was the provincial championst year.


    As soon as thisment was posted, a lot more students showed interest in this matter. Most of them


    came forward andmented that Georgina was such a lunatic to have gone after a student using


    such despicable methods.


    Furthermore, many of them tagged the official ounts of the press to draw their attention to this


    matter.


    Although it was midnight, the topic was still at the top of the chart as one of the trending topics.


    Furthermore, it was removed from the trending topic several times. Consequently, the crowd who


    usually had nothing much to do but specte on rumors also persisted in refreshing the topic regrly.


    "What the heck! This is exactly what capitalism truly is; look at how it rears its ugly head! They''ve been


    continuously removing the topic from the trending chart andparing it to the incident during the


    designer''spetition. This is clearly the Crossleys'' actions out of their guilty conscience."


    "The person above is right on point. Though the matter has now been blown out of proportion, the


    Pearson Group hasn''t been removing any topic rted to them from the trending charts. Instead, they


    are open and transparent in their actions. Have we been going after the wrong side?"


    "Honestly, I realized that earlier on. Didn''t you all notice that the ones who kicked up a huge fuss were


    actually random, unknown designers? The slightly renowned ones who participated in the design


    competition didn''t utter a single word at all. How dare those who didn''t even qualify to participate in the


    competition have the nerve to spew nonsense!"


    "I think so too. The people earlier were so harsh with their words that I didn''t even dare to say anything.


    If there''s really something wrong with thepetition, then those designers aren''t dumb either. Why


    would they have kept mum and tolerated the injustice? Some people just hold grudges against the rich


    and that''s why they continue to harp on about the issue."


    "Well, honestly speaking, I really enjoy every single product designed by McK. The ''First Love'' series


    she designed back then was so popr that I bought every single piece in that series. I''m in love with


    all of them."


    "I''m an ex-staff of Lux Jewelry and I''m here to reveal some insider scoop. In the past, President


    Pearson had, in fact, intended to help McK by arranging for the best resources in the fashion world for


    her, but McK didn''t even hesitate in rejecting him. So, this rumor about how President Pearson


    organized thispetition to boost McK''s poprity is just in nonsense!"


    "Hmm. Hahaha. I reckon that President Pearson isn''t someone like that either. If he really wanted to


    provide McK with anything, he would have just done it directly. There''s no need for him to resort to all


    these unnecessary measures. Do you guys really think that he''s got nothing else better to do?"


    Despite these pertinent statements, there were plenty of objecting statements too, but the situation and


    thements had clearly improvedpared to previously.


    On the other hand, Georgina''s social media ount was swamped byments.


    "Crossley Group had just gone through such a major incident earlier on. Do they really think that the


    people on the Inte have no recollection at all? They should really just keep a low profile and stop all


    this nonsense. How dare they actually go after a university student! How heartless can they get, huh?"


    "Hahaha. Actually, I''m not surprised to hear that Georgina did something like this because the incident


    previously was such a major issue that it caused casualties, yet it was merely resolved by shifting the


    me to a few management-level staff. Crossley Group is totally rotten to the core, so how could one


    possibly expect them to do anything with conscience?"


    "Oh my gosh! I just saw this viral topic. The provincial champion was from our school. He''s not only the


    ultimate top student, but he''s also extremely good-looking!"


    "On a side note, does anyone have a photo of him?"


    Soon, someone posted a photo of Louis'' side profile while he was in ss.


    "Sh*t! Georgina Crossley should rot in hell! How dare she use such despicable methods against my


    future husband! Ahhh! This is so frustrating!"


    "His looks are out of this world! My gosh! I really want him as my husband!"


    "Those two above, are you guys alright??"


    "Oh my God! I''m so pained by this. That poor boy there is so pitiful, despite being so good-looking and


    talented. He''s so unlucky to have encountered Georgina!"


    "Little boy, you''re so good-looking. Why don''t you enter the entertainment industry if you ever find


    yourself out of a job? I''d be your number one fan and do anything at all for you!"


    Due to the surge in this post, this topic once again hit the charts and the system suffered a backlog,


    rendering the topic unremovable.


    In just one night, Crossley Group''s share prices plunged dramatically and dropped to the lowest point


    ever.


    Meanwhile at Pearson Group, Gordon was indignantly requesting for Aidan to provide an exnation in


    front of the other shareholders when Jonathan rushed into the room. "President Pearson, Old Mr.


    Pearson, fellow shareholders, the situation on the Inte is finally under control."


    As soon as everyone heard that, not only was Gordon shocked, even Aidan¡ªwho had an indifferent


    expression on his face¡ªturned to look at Jonathan.


    Gordon maintained hisposure. "How?"


    Beforeing over, he had made the necessary arrangements that the situation would only escte


    further under his n, so there was no way that things could get under control.


    Jonathan responded, "Uh¡­ It wasn''t something that we did, but something that happened, which drew


    everyone''s attention."


    Gordon frowned upon hearing that. "What is it?"


    Jonathan did not borate further on the exact situation and merely said, "Something happened to the


    Crossleys."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    At that moment, Aidan''s indifferent voice rang out. "Do you all think that it is necessary to continue


    holding this shareholders'' meeting?"


    Inside therge conference room, everyone exchanged awkward looks with each other, but none of


    them dared to utter anything unnecessarily. The entire ce was so quiet that one could practically


    hear a pin drop.


    Suddenly, Gordon held himself up with the cane. "The issue that the Crossleys are facing has nothing


    to do with us. You need to exin your misdeed."


    At that point, Aidan snorted. "My misdeed?"


    Then, he scanned the room casually. "What did I do wrong? This is quite ridiculous and there''s nothing


    concrete at all. It''s all just spection. Do you guys seriously believe the nonsense on the Inte and


    come herete at night to interrogate me?"


    The crowd lowered their heads further and none of them dared to catch his eyes.


    Yet, Gordon added, "Thements on the Inte aren''t unfounded, though. Otherwise, why did you


    select the runner-up instead of the champion for thatpetition? Isn''t it quite obvious that you''ve


    secretly pulled some strings?"


    "Why else could that have happened? Well, obviously it was because she deserved the champion


    position." Aidan replied nonchntly, "If I had intended to pull some strings, then I could have just


    easily handed over Pearson Group to her. I wouldn''t merely give her the exclusive rights to the


    International Fashion Week."


    As soon as Aidan said that, the originally quiet conference room descended into a chilling silence. The


    hearts of those present thudded hard against their chests.


    Naturally, Gordon lost his temper as expected and he stood up straight before banging the conference


    table with his fist. "Do you even know what you''re talking about? You! You''re too¡­"


    In contrast to his furious look, Aidan appeared to have regained hisposure. "It was just a figure of


    speech and I didn''t give her anything. After all, she refused to ept half of the shares I owned when I


    tried to transfer it to her back then."


    As soon as Gordon heard that, he was so enraged to the point where he could not help taking two


    steps back. At that point, he looked as if he was about to copse any second now.

 Chapter 391

    Chapter 391


    After Leanna arrived back at the Crossleys'', she went straight into her room and disregarded the


    brewing storm out there. She remained in her room without stepping a foot out at all.


    Frankly, there would be much more people in an agonized state that nightpared to her.


    Leanna was just about to ce down her phone and take a shower when she saw that Louis'' personal


    information had been revealed on the Inte.


    With a frown, she dialed Freddie''s number instantly.


    Freddie was totally oblivious to this matter as he responded, "I didn''t arrange this. It must be a


    coincidence."


    After Leanna hung up the phone, she considered the situation for a moment before dialing Louis''


    phone number.


    Soon, he answered the call and she asked in a soft voice, "Louis, are you back at school?"


    Louis affirmed, "I got back in the afternoon."


    "Have you seen the news on the Inte?"


    "Yes, I did."


    Leanna replied, "Ignore them. You just have to get through tonight and everything will be fine


    tomorrow."


    Louis replied, "I got it."


    After a brief pause, he added, "How are things on your end?"


    "Everything''s fine. Everything is ording to n and there won''t be any slip-ups."


    At that moment, Leanna''s phone went off and she took a look at the caller ID before saying, "I''ve got


    another call to take, so I''ll talk to you another time. Enjoy your sses."


    The other person on the line was Zoe. As soon as Leanna answered the call, she heard Zoe''s excited


    voice ring out. "Nana, have you gone on Twitter? Georgina''s ugly self has finally been revealed to the


    public! Right now, everyone on the Inte is condemning her and I''m so pleased by that!"


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''ve seen them." Leanna replied, "Why are you still up at this time of the night?"


    "This matter is way too exciting, so how can I possibly fall asleep?! I''m honestly so¡­"


    Before Zoe could finish her sentence, a male voice rang out from the side. "Could you express your


    excitement tomorrow? I''ve got something to ask."


    At that point, Zoe was rendered speechless.


    Leanna was also dumbfounded on the other end of the line.


    Suddenly, she felt that she must be dreaming. She grabbed her phone to check the time and confirmed


    that it was midnight. The two of them are still together at this hour?!


    Before Leanna coulde back to her senses, Daniel had taken over the phone from Zoe and spoke


    calmly, "Miss McKinney, can I ask you something?"


    Leanna responded, "Sure."


    "Were you the one who revealed Georgina to the public?"


    "Yes."


    Daniel continued to ask, "Did you, at any point, consider the consequences of your action? Lloyd won''t


    let you get away with this lightly."


    Leanna replied, "I''ve considered this carefully. Even if I didn''t do so, Lloyd wouldn''t let me off the hook


    anyway."


    As soon as Daniel heard that, he was taken aback and could note up with the words to say.


    They had always made the effort to put distance between her and Lloyd to dampen the animosity


    between them so that she would be in a safer position, yet unexpectedly, she had single-handedly


    ced herself into this tough situation.


    Leanna continued, "Besides, I''d be able to achieve what I''m after too. Ultimately, I benefited from this."


    Daniel continued the conversation for a moment before Zoe grabbed the phone from him. "By the way,


    I saw Louis appear on the trending topic. He''s got his own trending topic too. Everyone ismenting


    that he should enter the entertainment industry. What does Louis think about that? If he does join the


    entertainment industry, then I want to be the president of his fan club!"


    Previously, Daphne had also asked Leanna about this, but Leanna did not manage to find the chance


    to ask Louis about it. Hence, she could only say, "I''m not too sure. I''ll wait and see what he decides to


    do."


    "If Louis does join the entertainment industry, then it''d be awesome. He''s not only a top schr, but


    he''s so good-looking too. Boohoo. There will be a lot more others vying for his attention by then."


    Meanwhile, Daniel stood dumbfounded by the side.


    Leanna had also realized this issue. Nheless, she did not pursue the topic any further as to why


    Zoe was still with Daniel at this time of the night. Leanna coughed slightly before saying, "It''ste now,


    so I need to take a shower. You¡­ You should get some sleep."


    "Sure thing! See you tomorrow."


    Once Zoe put away her phone, Daniel got up subsequently. "I should make a move too."


    Zoe nced at the time. Only then had she realized that it was indeedte, so she nodded hastily.


    "Yes. You should leave now."


    Daniel was rendered speechless by that. Am I really not weed here?


    As such, he left Zoe''s ce and entered his car. From the rearview mirror, he took a look at the familiar


    ck car behind him and could not help sneering coldly.


    They haven''t given up yet! Crossley Group has such a huge matter to deal with tonight. Aren''t they


    upied with dealing that first?


    Daniel sped off in his car and stepped hard on the elerator as his car whizzed off in the darkness.


    The person tailing him did not expect him to make such a move, so they quickly stepped on the


    elerator to keep up with him.


    However, Daniel seemed to be intentionally leading them on a wild goose chase as he drove in circles


    around the town center several times. Finally, he turned into a tiny alley and sped off without them


    realizing it.


    Driving toward a junction, he then alighted from the car and entered a ck, ordinary-looking car that


    was parked by the roadside. The person inside the ck car then obtained Daniel''s car keys and drove


    off in Daniel''s car.


    As for the person tailing Daniel, as soon as they realized that he had shaken them loose, they quickly


    sped toward the direction of Daniel''s house instead.


    Seeing that Daniel''s car was already parked in the garage, they finally heaved a relieved sigh.


    On the other hand, Daniel went off right away to see William.


    As soon as the door was opened from the inside, Cameron came running out of the ce. "Uncle


    Daniel."


    Daniel reached out to ruffle Cameron''s hair. "Why are you still up at this time?"


    Cameron shifted his head and continued to check out the news on his tablet.


    Meanwhile, Daniel did not even have to hazard a guess to figure out what was on Cameron''s mind. He


    then removed the tablet from the little guy''s hands. "Go to bed. Why are you looking at this?"


    At that moment, William came out of the study room, which prompted Cameron to snatch the tablet


    from Daniel and ran off into his room.


    With a cold look in his gaze, William appeared to be upset as he said, "Have you contacted her?"


    Daniel nodded. "She has her own ns and there is nothing I can say to change her mind."


    William sat on the couch and massaged in between his eyes with a weary and defeated look on his


    countenance.


    Simrly, Daniel took a seat across from him. "Don''t worry too much. At least we''ve got Mr. Jackson


    around right now, so Lloyd wouldn''t dare to go after her tantly."


    "He wouldn''t do it tantly, but what if he secretly goes after her?"


    It was then Daniel recalled the episode that Jethro and Louis faced previously. By then, he stopped


    speaking.


    After some time, William mentioned, "Have they located Jethro?"


    Daniel shook his head. "He must have been captured by Lloyd''s men."


    "Jethro would ultimately be a ticking time bomb in Lloyd''s hands."


    "His intention might only be to stabilize the situation. As long as we have Cameron with us, Lloyd would


    have to consider every move carefully and he wouldn''t dare to take any unnecessary action."


    William leaned back against the couch and shut his eyes. "I hope so."


    After a brief pause, Daniel stated probingly, "Actually, I reckon that under such circumstances, the best


    way would be to tell Miss McKinney the truth. If she''s aware of the truth, the next time she encounters a


    simr situation, she wouldn''t¡ª"


    William interjected calmly, "That''s not necessary."


    He had yet to figure out how to face her¡­ as well as her younger brother.

 Chapter 392

    Chapter 392


    While Leanna was drying herself after shower, she noticed her phone buzzing on the bed. Shey on


    her stomach in bed to answer the call from Aidan.


    Once the call got through, a man''s gruff voice could be heard. "Were you sleeping?"


    "Nope," she replied before pausing and continuing, "I can''t sleep."


    It was true; she did not feel sleepy, since so many things had happened today.


    "Is it because you miss me too much?" he teased.


    Leanna went speechless. Can''t he be serious for once?


    "So, how''s the situation going on over there?" She veered into another topic.


    He responded indifferently, "The board of directors meeting ended. Don''t worry. They can''t do anything


    to me."


    "But it''s caused such a huge ruckus. The Pearson Family¡ª"


    "It is their n from the beginning. They made a big fuss over it."


    Hearing that, Leanna was stunned. "They did it? But I''m pretty sure Queenie taped it."


    Her response did not surprise Aidan as he reciprocated, "She''s quite smart for getting a scapegoat for


    herself."


    "You mean she did record it, but she used the Pearsons because she didn''t wanna offend you?"


    Everyone was aware of the schemes and enmity between Gordon and Aidan, despite being a family.


    After Gordon''s numerous attempts went down into failures, he became especially resentful and wished


    to have something over Aidan''s head at all costs.


    Queenie was a clever yet daring person for her decision to include Gordon into her n.


    Leanna went silent for a couple of seconds. "Since now we know who''s behind this, what are we gonna


    do?"


    "There''s no need for the rush," cooed Aidan. "We''ll wait for a couple more days."


    "Okay." If her guess was right, he might leverage the issue to do something.


    He then asked, "Did Lloyd look for you?"


    "Nope."


    "Let''s wait. He''ll stop by tomorrow morning at thetest."


    Leanna nodded in agreement as she figured the issue would escte for the worst after what had


    happened tonight. If Lloyd intended to resolve the problem before it blew out of proportion in order to


    minimize the loss, the next morning would be his final bet.


    She inquired, "Are you still at work?"


    Aidan hummed. "I put off a lot of work today."


    "I assume you''ll be workingte today?"


    "Wanna keep mepany?"


    "I''m sleepy. Bye." She hurriedly terminated the call. After taking her sweet time lying in bed, she


    entered the bathroom to dry her hair. She checked on the time, which showed that it was 1.00AM. It


    would be ridiculous to head out right now.


    But¡­ That b*stard will forget to eat something whenever he''s busy.


    Lying in bed, she decided to order a food delivery for Aidan. Later on, she thought of how tiring


    Jonathan would be as Aidan''s assistant and added another order for him.


    Done with the food delivery, she logged onto her Twitter ount, only to see Louis'' issue still


    mentioned in the trending hashtags. Destructivements directed at Georgina did not die down


    either.


    It seemed like many could not sleep tonight.


    As the night sky turned somber, silence sat upon the air and the sound of tree leaves ruffling along the


    blowing wind could be heard at times.


    Soon, the pitter-patter of rain resounded, causing the temperature in the house to dip.


    Staring at the leaden night sky through the window, Leanna suddenly thought of the scene where Ron


    appeared in her studio covered in blood, as well as Leo, whose body was left unbothered in the


    mortuary.


    It took her a while before she heaved a soft sigh. Since she did not owe them anything now, she would


    not go easy on them anymore.


    ¡­


    The rainy night would not pass in peace.


    Ever since the recording pen was delivered to the Pearson Family, Queenie had been keeping a close


    watch on the online articles. Once the recorded tape was revealed, she sighed in relief, feeling the


    wave of contentment washing over her.


    Now that the issue had blown out of control with the Pearson Group''s involvement, be it the organizer


    or the Pearson Group, they would release an announcement to refute the content of the recording for


    sure. That way, Leanna would lose the chance to disy her work.


    However, Queenie waited for the whole night and there was no news from neither the Pearson Group


    nor the organizer. All she received was the news of Georgina getting into trouble.


    When Georgina''s matter drew everyone''s attention away from Leanna, Queenie indeed panicked.


    It was then her phone rang; it was from an unknown number. Assuming that it was Ron, she quickly


    answered the call as if it was her savior. "Ron, I¡ª"


    "Do you not have my number?"


    The mischievous voice made her brows furrowed. "It''s you."


    Elliot said, "Yeah, it''s me. I asked you toe to the hotel. Why aren''t you here?"


    Queenie countered, "Have you lost your memory? I gave you what you wanted, so why should I go?"


    He guffawed. "Stop pushing me away. What do you mean by you''ve given me what I want? I haven''t


    gotten what I truly want yet. I''ll give you another chance. Come and meet me at the hotel or I''ll reveal


    what you''ve done."


    The grasp on her phone tightened as she attempted to hold in her anger. "And what have I done?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Oh? It hasn''t been long since the deal ended, but you forgot about it so soon?" He wasid-back. "It''s


    alright. I don''t mind reminding you about it."


    "No!" Queenie took a deep breath. "You said that it''s a deal, right? So, shouldn''t you shut your mouth


    after getting the money?"


    "Yes, yes, yes. You''re right. I should shut my mouth after taking the money, but that is only a part of the


    money. About the fact that you bribed the two judges, I haven''t received one cent for that yet."


    "I did not bribe them, it was Vio¡ª" she replied icily.


    "Didn''t she do it for you? You were the winner; it wasn''t me nor Miss Kramer. Don''t you think that I''m


    right?" Elliot interrupted.


    "Are you trying to threaten me with this?"


    "Why would I do that? I told you that we''re of the same kind. I just wanna get to know more about you."


    He then added, "I''ve messaged you the address to the hotel and the room number. If I don''t see you in


    an hour¡­"


    He took his time to continue the rest of the sentence. "Thepetition is still a hot issue on the


    Inte. There must be a lot of media that''s willing to buy an exclusive at a high price, don''t you think?


    I''m gonna rake in big cash this time."


    Clenching her teeth, Queenie pressed the phone screen so hard just to end the call. After standing


    right at the same spot for a couple of minutes, she dialed Ron''s number, but his phone was turned off.


    She formed a fist with her hands, and at the sight of the fruit knife on the table, she picked it up and


    delved it into her bag before changing her clothes to head out.

 Chapter 393

    Chapter 393


    The rain poured heavier gradually. Queenie read the online articles, which were getting on her nerves.


    Once the car halted in front of the hotel, she hurriedly entered the building with an umbre. She


    covered her face with it throughout the whole walk and did not even keep her umbre in the elevator.


    Standing before the room Elliot informed her of, she stretched out her arm to ring the doorbell.


    Soon, the door swung open, revealing Elliot, whose lower body was covered with a towel. He teased


    upon seeing her. "Not bad, you''re quick."


    She looked at him coldly. "Just what do you want?"


    He scanned her from head to toe. "Let''s talk inside. It''s no fun standing here."


    It was not until she entered the room that she kept her umbre. Elliot walked toward the wine rack


    while weing his guest. "Have a seat."


    Queenie''s gaze trailed along with him and she sat on the couch in the living room.


    A whileter, he came out with two sses of red wine before cing one of them in front of her.


    "Nevertheless, congrattions on your win," said Elliot as he raised her wine ss for her.


    Frowning, she smothered the repulsiveness and hatred in her. She took the ss from his hand and


    took a small sip under his watchful eyes. He was content with her reaction as he stared at her.


    She put down the ss. "Tell me how much you want. I''ll get it for you."


    "No, no, no." He polished off his drink before seating himself next to her. "If I wanted money, I wouldn''t


    havee to you. Miss Kramer is rolling in cash! As for the reason why I called you, it is to talk about


    some personal matters between us.


    Saying that, he ced his hand on her thigh.


    Queenie sprang to her feet. "Show some respect!"


    He burst intoughter but soon put on a serious face. "You came to my room and you''re talking about


    respect, huh?"


    "I''m here because¡ª" She was halfway through her words when the surroundings suddenly blurred out


    in her vision. Meanwhile, Elliot just sat there with a smile that deepened in malice.


    rmed, she rooted around her bag for the knife with quivering hands. Even her voice was trembling


    uncontrobly. "G-Get away from me or I''ll¡ª"


    Her reaction amused him instead of angering him. "Well, well, well. Seems like you''re prepared. Didn''t


    see thising."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Queenie''s head grew hazy and she found it difficult to stand still on her feet. He snatched the knife


    away with ease before pinning her onto the couch aggressively. "If that''s the case, don''t you me me


    for this!"


    A few hourster, the medicine finally wore off and so Queenie got up. After reaching for a cloth to


    cover herself, she picked up her phone to call the police.


    Sitting beside her was Elliot, who narrowed his eyes while smoking. "Sue me if you want to."


    Following that, he threw a phone in her direction. "The evidence is here. All you have to do is to file a


    lawsuit.


    She bit her lip, for she did not expect him to record the entirety of it. He exhaled a puff of smoke before


    adding, "I''m a coward too. If I''m under interrogation, I''d be super nervous that I''d tell them everything


    that happened between us. I don''t mind, but it''ll be such a shame for you. It hasn''t been long since you


    won thepetition and yet, you''re going to prison."


    After a long silence, she began to put on her clothes. Just as she was going to leave, he piped up,


    "Rx. As long as you make sure that you''re always one call away, I won''t tell anyone about the video


    orpetition."


    Her body went stiff at that as her hands balled up into fists. Still, she could only rein back her anger and


    leave with hisughter ringing behind her.


    ¡­


    From the hotel, Queenie did not head to her contemporary ce but to her real home instead.


    However, the route of the water-logged street could not be discerned due to the torrential downpour.


    In sodden clothes and shoes, she trudged along the street until she arrived at the doorstep of her


    ce. No matter how long she knocked onto the door, the only response she received was the pitter-


    patters, which showed no sign of stopping.


    The knocking went on a while until it disturbed the neighbor. An old man in his sixties doddered out. It


    took him some time to recognize the person standing before him. "Oh, Queenie. Your father is out. You


    can stop that now."


    She turned her head as rage seeped into her voice. "Where has he gone to?"


    "He wasn''t feeling well a while ago, so he went to the hospital. He hasn''t been back since then."


    "What about Ron?"


    "Ron took your father to the hospital and didn''te back either." After saying that, he wheeled around


    and entered his house.


    Queenie gazed at the potted nt, which grew under Leo''s utmost care. The ire in her red,


    prompting her to kick it against the wall and the pot smashed into pieces. As the soil covered the nt,


    it slowly lost its essence of vitality.


    The old man next door looked back upon hearing the nging noise. "Tsk tsk." He then shook his head


    and closed the door.


    Subsequently, Queenie headed to Ron''s ce in a hope to find a clue that led to his whereabouts. At


    this point, Ron was the only person that could help her go against Elliot.


    After finding the keys left by Ron under the window, she entered the house only to realize how dusty


    the space was. It seemed like it had been a long time since he was gone.


    Still, she could not bring herself to leave the ce. In the end, she found a piece of paper and pen to


    leave her contact number so that he could call her immediately.


    On her way back, she turned her head to look at the building perching in the rain as the filthy smell of


    trash shrouded it.


    I will nevere back here ever again in my life!


    ¡­


    Even if Leanna slept for only a few hours, she felt refreshed when she opened her eyes. The dark


    clouds were still weeping; no one knew how much longer it was going to pour.


    She changed her clothes before heading downstairs. Just as she reached the living room, a maid came


    up to her in a hurry. "Miss McKinney, Mr. Crossley wants to see you in the study."


    "Got it."


    She strode toward the study and knocked onto the door. Lloyd''s icy voice resounded from the inside.


    "Come in."


    Leanna stepped into the room and asked indifferently, "Is there something you''d like to talk about with


    me, Mr. Crossley?"


    The gaze in his eyes grew fierce as he gazed at her. Probably due to how he spent the whole night


    awake, that gentle facade of his was long gone.


    Looking him into the eyes, she remained unfazed and showed no hints of backing down. A few


    momentster, he finally gave a response. "I bet you know what''s on the Inte, don''t you?"


    She nodded. "It''s blown up and there are articles everywhere. It''s not easy to not know about it."


    "You heard of it from the news?"


    "Where else but there?" Leanna questioned back.

 Chapter 394

    Chapter 394


    Lloyd snorted coldly and the smile on his face clearly looked insincere. Clearly, he did not trust Leanna.


    Right before that, someone had exposed the matter between Pearson Group and Leanna. Soon after


    that incident, Georgina''s incident was revealed, so this was definitely an intentional act by one.


    After a moment, he mentioned, "As for your request from before, I''m fine with it, but I have a condition


    too."


    Leanna was not surprised at all by his answer, so she smiled. "Mr. Crossley, I''m all ears."


    Lloyd continued, "I''d only be able to provide you with half of the locations you asked for. You should be


    aware that Crossley Group is currently facing a tumultuous moment and the incident with Georgina has


    also resulted in the plummet of our share prices. This is the most that I can give you at the moment."


    She licked her lips silently without saying a word as she waited for Lloyd to finish his words.


    He added, "Other than this, you''ve got to give me a written confirmation letter, promising that you will


    not interfere in any of Crossley Group''s projects. I will also promise you that you''ll definitely gain


    everything that you deserve and not lose out on a single cent."


    As Lloyd spoke, he brought forward the documents he had printed out and slid them in front of her. He


    had already signed the document and Crossley Group''s stamp was also on it.


    Leanna took a nce at the document and lifted her head once again. "I can give you my word too, Mr.


    Crossley, but I hope that you don''t bother Louis anymore. This is my final request and Miss Crossley


    must apologize to him as well. Her actions have severely disrupted my brother''s studies and his life.


    Otherwise, even if I agree not to pursue this matter any further, I wouldn''t be able to justify things to my


    brother."


    Lloyd narrowed his eyes slightly. After some time, he finally piped up, "You should be clear, though, that


    the apology will only be made in private."


    "Yes, I''m aware. I just want Miss Crossley to apologize in person to my brother. I don''t care about the


    rest."


    Lloyd stopped speaking and it appeared that he had acquiesced.


    Leanna then emphasized, "Mr. Crossley, I know that you''re someone who keeps your word, and once


    you''ve promised something, you definitely won''t renege on it. In fact, I have been petty."


    As she said that, she ced a recording device on the desk.


    Instantly, his expression changed upon seeing that.


    She stated with a torn expression, "I had no other option because someone used the same method to


    coerce me yesterday, so I had to learn from that lesson. Well, Mr. Crossley, as long as you don''t renege


    on your words, then the content in this recording should be redundant."


    After she finished her words, she switched off the recording device and took a pen from the desk


    before signing her name at the bottom of the document. Subsequently, she uncovered the ink pad on


    the side and pasted her thumbprint on the document.


    As Leannapleted the procedure, she rose to her feet with the document and recording device in


    her hand. "Don''t worry, Mr. Crossley. I''ll definitely sort out everything properly."


    She walked out of the study room and saw Georgina standing at the entrance with a very ugly look on


    her face. Clearly, Georgina had overheard the entire conversation.


    With a smile, Leanna greeted, "Good morning, Miss Crossley."


    Georgina clenched her teeth. "Do you really think that you''d be able to take over the Crossleys by


    doing all that?"


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    "I never have that notion at all. After all, the Crossley Family''s fortune is massive and this is considered


    nothing. However, life''s too short, so we should make merry while we can."


    After Leanna said that, she turned out and left without even bothering to see Georgina''s response.


    As her enemy walked off into the distance, Georgina clenched her fist disgruntledly and entered the


    study room. "Dad, are you going to agree to her request so easily?"


    Lloyd got up and stood in front of the window. He rested his hands behind his back while expressing


    indifferently, "They''re sacrificable. She can have them if she wants to."


    "But¡ª"


    "Gina," Lloyd interrupted her words. "You should reflect on your behavior as well. You''re too careless in


    your ways. Not only did you leave incriminating evidence behind, you also ended up being a victim of


    threats."


    At that point, Georgina was seemingly at a loss for words as she lowered her head.


    Lloyd continued, "Were you involved in the incident that happened at Pearson Group yesterday?"


    "I¡­"


    Georgina stammered for quite some time before admitting, "Don''t worry, Dad. They won''t be able to


    find out that I was involved."


    "That would be for the best, then."


    After a moment, he concluded, "That''s all."


    Georgina affirmed and left the room.


    At the same time, Lloyd''s phone went off after which he answered the call before a low voice rang out.


    "Mr. Crossley, the person we brought backst time¡­ has escaped."


    Lloyd narrowed his eyes in response before it was followed by a sinister look on his face. "How long


    has it been since he escaped?"


    "Less than ten minutes."


    "Locate him. There is no need to bring him back this time. End him."


    "Yes, sir."


    ¡­


    Rain sttered all the way as Leanna drove to the studio. She nced at the document on the


    passenger seat and pursed her lips gently.


    Right now, she had achieved what she intended to obtain, so she was obliged to step up and clear the


    air regarding the rumors on the Inte about Georgina.


    Nheless, Lloyd did not give her a specific time frame, so she was in no hurry to do that. It was fine


    as long as she executed her promise within the day.


    She arrived at the studio and found the youngdies engrossed in discussing the news on the Inte.


    To her surprise, they stood by the entrance to do so.


    Leanna asked, "Why are you guys standing here?"


    The youngdies shook their heads in unison. "We''re fine standing here. It''s cool here."


    Leanna noted that and took a look inside the studio. Judging by their reactions, she figured out what


    was going on, so she lifted her brows and smiled. "Let''s go in. It''s raining out there."


    After she said that, she made a move and headed inside.


    She pushed open the office door and saw Aidan, who appeared to be asleep, sitting on the couch with


    his eyes shut.


    Then, Leanna closed the door behind her gently and walked over to his side. Subsequently, she took


    the throw on the couch and carefully covered him with it.


    Having done so, she maintained her position and leaned in slightly as she continued to stare at him. He


    must have been up the entire night. There are dark circles underneath his eyes.


    Leanna kept her eyes on him for quite some time before suddenly approaching him to nt a kiss on


    his lips.


    Unexpectedly, just as she was about to retreat and get up into a standing position, the man before her


    suddenly opened his obsidian eyes.


    Leanna was caught off guard by that.


    Maintaining his gaze on her, Aidan uttered in a low voice, "Did you just steal a kiss?"


    "I¡­"


    Before Leanna had the chance to exin herself, she felt him grabbing her wrist and falling into his


    embrace soon after.


    He kept his dark eyes on her. "You can kiss me openly and there''s no need to do so secretly. I wouldn''t


    mock you for that."


    At that moment, Leanna''s eyelids twitched and she felt that she had made a wrong move earlier.


    He noticed that she was silent, so he nuzzled his chin against her shoulders and spoke in a hoarse


    voice, "If you''re not going to kiss me, then I''ll kiss you now."


    He mentioned this merely to inform her, not to seek permission.


    As soon as his words fell, he bit her lips slightly and kissed her passionately after the night of longing


    he had experienced.


    Leanna patted him on the chest to indicate that they were in her office and someone could walk in on


    them at any moment.


    However, Aidan disregarded thatpletely and held her firmly on the back of her head. Pinning her


    against the couch, he continued to express his longing through his kiss.

 Chapter 395

    Chapter 395


    Reality proved that Leanna''s worries were justified after all.


    When the knock on the door came, she used all her strength to shove the person on top of her aside


    and quickly threw herself on the couch.


    At the same time, the office door opened.


    Zoe''s voice came floating in. "Nana, you¡­"


    She had only just opened her mouth to speak when she noticed that Leanna was sitting on the couch


    with a disheveled appearance and flushed cheeks. Meanwhile, a man was sitting on the ground in front


    of Leanna. He bent one of his legs at the knee while he casually stretched out the other in front of him.


    He looked at Zoe and licked his lips dangerously.


    She immediately sensed the unspoken threating from him. So, she hurriedly mmed the door


    shut as she eximed, "Huh? That''s strange. Why was there nobody inside?"


    Leanna was speechless. How atrocious.


    When the door closed behind Zoe, Aidan nced at Leanna and spoke in a husky tone, "Shall we


    continue?"


    Leanna stood up in a huff. "What do you mean by continue? I need to work."


    She sat in front of herputer, pressed the power button, and took out a mirror to touch up her


    makeup. However, when she saw her appearance in the mirror, she had the sudden urge tomit


    murder


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    No wonder Zoe had such an odd expression on her face when she walked in on us just now!


    She swiftly straightened her clothes. Then, she used a tissue to wipe off her lipstick from the corners of


    her mouth and reapplied a newyer of makeup.


    He sat on the safe behind her, pulled her chair over, and turned her around to face him. "What work


    keeps you so busy that you don''t even have the time to spend with me?"


    She kept away the tube of lipstick in her hand as she retorted, "Of course, I''m busy. If I don''t work


    harder, people will gossip about me. They will say that I relied on you to obtain everything I have


    today!"


    He raised his eyebrows at those words. "Isn''t it good to depend on me? If you wish for it, I can even


    give you everything."


    "Thanks, but no thanks."


    She wriggled slightly in her chair, trying to turn her chair back around. But, s, he had no intention of


    releasing his grip on her chair. Finally, she blew out a puff of air in frustration, stopped her ineffective


    struggles, and asked, "Have you eaten breakfast?"


    "Nope."


    She replied sternly, "Then, why don''t you take a nap on the couch for a bit? I''ll go out and order some


    food for you. It will be delivered soon."


    He stared at her without saying anything.


    When she noticed his pursed lips showing a hint of displeasure, she couldn''t help bursting into


    laughter. "I was joking. I haven''t eaten either. Let''s have breakfast together."


    He continued to stare at her, his ck eyes narrowing slightly with a dangerous look in them. "I see


    you''re now brave enough to tease me, hm?"


    When she saw that he seemed to be thinking of doing something inappropriate again, she quickly


    avoided his gaze and stood up with a cough. "Alright, let''s go. I''m hungry."


    Before they left the office, she took the time to confirm once again that there was nothing out of ce


    about her appearance.


    There were several clients in the studio by the time she walked out. Thedies were no longer crowded


    around her door but had resumed their daily duties. On the other hand, it seemed as though Zoe had


    disappeared somewhere. Nevertheless, she could hazard a guess that Zoe was probably next door.


    Along the way, Aidan asked her a question. "Has Lloyde to you?"


    Leanna nodded lightly. "He came to negotiate the conditions with me. Regrettably, out of what I


    originally asked for, he only agreed to half of them."


    He replied indifferently, "That''s in line with the sly old fox''s personality."


    "But, I demanded Georgina to apologize to Louis."


    "Did he agree to that?"


    She shrugged. "I don''t think he has a choice to disagree in this matter. Now that things have blown up


    so disproportionately, the incident involving Louis ounts for the most important parts."


    He inquired further, "Are you sure he can do it?"


    "Of course." She blinked innocently and turned to look at him. "I recorded the conversation."


    Heughed and reached out to ruffle her hair. "It looks like the lesson you learned this time was quite


    meaningful."


    She pouted and sulked in silence for a moment. "How do you n to deal with the incident involving


    Queenie?"


    "It''s not her turn yet. I''m dealing with them, one by one."


    She knew that he was nning to target the Pearson Family first.


    After a while, she finally spoke again, "I''ve already contacted thepetition organizers. They are


    currently investigating the issue. I''m sure the results wille out quickly. As for Queenie, once the


    fact that she was cheating in thepetitiones to light, this will ruin her entire career forever."


    He said, "She should have considered these consequences before she chose to do those things."


    She nodded in agreement. It was not that she sympathized with or felt terrible for Queenie. It was just


    that she would inevitably think about another person whenever she looked at Queenie.


    She probed further. "Is there still no news about Ron?"


    "No." He continued, "Oscar is still investigating this matter. Don''t worry. Even if Lloyd dies, he won''t


    die."


    That was the truth. Ron had grown up with a rough childhood. Even after he became an adult, he had


    always been living dangerously. Therefore, he had his own rules of survival. As long as he wished to


    survive, few people in this world could do anything to harm him.


    After breakfast, Aidan walked Leanna back to the studio and said, "I''ll be busy for some time. Let me


    know if you miss me. I will take some time out of my schedule toe and see you. So, don''t be shy


    about your feelings."


    She said nothing. This man truly loves to talk nonsense.


    His lips curved into a smile, and he gave her a light peck on the forehead before he left.


    When Aidan turned around and departed, Zoe finally came out from somewhere nearby. She couldn''t


    help clicking her tongue in amusement. "It''s still pretty early in the morning. Don''t you think you''re


    already showing too much physical affection for each other?"


    Leanna felt the veins in her temples throbbing in anger. She turned around and snarled, "You¡­"


    Zoe quickly raised her hands in surrender. "I didn''t see anything. But, of course, I was talking about the


    drama I watched on TV just now."


    Leanna had no intention of entertaining this topic. She promptly dragged Zoe into her office and faced


    Zoe. "Speaking of which, I haven''t had the time to ask you about that matter yet. It was already sote


    yesterday. Why were you with Daniel? Didn''t you say you haven''t agreed to be his girlfriend yet?"


    Zoe did not expect Leanna to bring up this topic. An unnatural expression flitted across her face for a


    moment, then she sank down on the couch and answered hesitantly. "It''s nothing¡­ He simply sent me


    home and stayed for a ss of water."


    "Wow. How did you manage to drink water until midnight?"


    Zoeughed awkwardly. "No. We simply chatted about some poems and songs about the philosophy of


    life."


    Leanna stared at Zoe speechlessly.


    Zoe wished she could p herself the moment that pitiful excuse fell from her lips. What am I even


    saying!?


    Leanna sighed softly. "I have no objections toward Daniel. I simply believe that you should wait a little


    longer even if your feelings for him are very strong."


    Zoe nodded repeatedly. "I know. Don''t worry. I know my limits."


    Leanna was just about to say something. But, when she opened her mouth to speak, she realized that


    their current exchange seemed to contain the same content as the time when Zoe had earnestly


    advised her to reconsider her options before she began dating Aidan.


    The world hade full circle indeed. When that thought crossed her mind, the earnest advice that


    was on the tip of her tongue got caught in her throat. She couldn''t bring herself to say them anymore.


    On the contrary, Zoe seemed to be in high spirits. She excitedly leaned over and eximed, "Hey! Did


    you check the Inte this morning? There are all sorts of posts cursing at Georgina online. It was


    absolutely refreshing to read them. When I read thements, I suddenly realized that my method of


    insulting others was extremely shallow. I''ve already learned some new things so that I can keep


    insulting her! I''ll bet that Georgina would never expect that the persona she worked so hard to establish


    would be branded as scum overnight! That''s retribution for you!"


    An intrigued Leanna took out her phone and sent a message to Freddie.

 Chapter 396

    Chapter 396


    When afternoon rolled around, the number of people criticizing Georgina did not decrease. On the


    contrary, their numbers had increased sharply. The stock price of the Crossley Family also fell steadily


    as a result.


    At this time, a media reporter managed to photograph Georgina sneaking into aw firm in disguise.


    Two hourster, her attorney posted an article online iming that all the rumors floating around on the


    Inte were false and considered defamatory. Moreover, the public was asked to stop spreading


    these rumors any further, or they would be held legally responsible for nder and defamation.


    After Georgina''s attorney posted the article, Leanna also used the studio''s official Twitter ount to


    post a statement for rification. She imed that it was true that Karen hade to the shop and


    kicked up a fuss. Therefore, what happened to Louis was not false either. However, there was no


    evidence pointing toward Georgina as the mastermind of the incident.


    The rification ended there. The rest of the content was unrted to her, so making that statement for


    rification was more than enough.


    Afterward, people iming to be Karen''s acquaintances kept stepping forward to reveal more dirty


    secrets. In short, there were all kinds of people who were rted to her.


    In the end, a blogger came forward to summarize and analyze all the information online. They revealed


    that Karen usually relied on swindling and defrauding others for money. She had probably set her


    sights on Leanna''s studio initially, but she failed to obtain any money despite causing such a massive


    scandal. Sheter decided to target Georgina for some reason. That was how she eventually resorted


    to nning such arge-scale fraud and extortion case.


    In truth, they had all been deceived by her.


    This incident remained at the top of the trending news for several hours before everything died down


    quietly, indicating that this matter had blown over. Nevertheless, the discussion amongizens did not


    come to an end.


    ''I have to say; capitalism sure is powerful. They glossed over the entire incident with just a few words.


    But why am I unconvinced by their version of the truth?''


    ''I don''t know about the rest of you, but I sure don''t believe that''s the truth. One person using


    Georgina could be said to be a fraudster, but two? I have not forgotten the incident involving Carlile.


    Does Georgina take us all for fools?''


    ''Yeah, yeah! I remember that incident with Carlile. She also went and kicked up a fuss at McK''s studio.


    In the end, she broke down and spilled the beans when she saw that the Crossley Group was in


    trouble.''


    ''But, why would McK help her rify this matter? That''s pretty strange. Logically speaking, McK''s


    backer is the Pearson Group. Is the Pearson Group afraid of the Crossley Group?''


    ''I think it''s not a matter of fear. The rtionship between the Pearson Group and the Crossley Group is


    veryplicated. Weren''t President Pearson and Georgina engaged in the past? In the end, President


    Pearson canceled the engagement. However, the most shocking thing was that the Crossley Group


    agreed to an engagement with President Pearson''s elder brother shortly after that incident! Hmmm¡­


    It''s hard to say what is actually going on between them.''


    ''President Pearson has an elder brother? That''s so shocking!''


    ''I don''t think what McK posted can be considered a rification. Did you see how she worded her post?


    There is no evidence! What does that mean? It means that she did not explicitly mention that this


    incident is unrted to Georgina. What she means is that Georgina is too cunning to be caught so


    easily.''


    ''I think so too. I looked back at the photos of the events that Georgina had attended previously. She


    has always been smiling, but she always gave off a sense of pretentiousness. Even if she repeatedly


    tried to get rid of McK, how could she possibly leave behind any evidence of her involvement?''


    ''That woman sure is terrifying. In any case, I won''t believe her, no matter how she tries to exin and


    defend herself. If Karen only kicked up a fuss at McK''s studio for the sake of extorting money, then why


    did she ask her daughter to approach McK''s brother? I don''t believe she has the ability to discover their


    rtionship with each other.''


    ''Hahahaha! It doesn''t matter. It''s enough if everybody knows the truth of the matter. In any case, her


    family is wealthy enough that they can suppress this incident with money. So it''s useless no matter


    what we say. I''m curious to see how long it will take for the Crossley Group to fall. How much longer


    can Georgina keep up that arrogant demeanor?''


    ¡­


    Although theizens continued to discuss this incident on the Inte, this topic did not be one


    of the trending topics again. It was simr to the time when an incident urred at the Crossley Group


    previously. They simply offered up several high-level executives as sacrificial goats, and the incident


    blew over just like that.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, before Leanna posted her statement in the studio, she had already discussed the matter


    with Zoe. Zoe had supported Leanna''s decision at the time, iming that revenge was best served


    cold. Moreover, she couldn''t help feeling bubbly with glee when she saw how many people were


    cursing at Georgina.


    At this moment, Zoe was scrolling through thements while sipping on her milk tea. "By the way,


    Nana, the incident involving Georgina can be said to have been resolved. But what about The Designer


    Competition?"


    Leanna was in the middle of drawing, and that question made the movement of the brush in her hand


    pause slightly. "Let''s wait a little longer and see."


    Zoe burped loudly. "I believe that Queenie was behind that incident. It''s a sure thing; I can''t be wrong


    about that. But, aside from her, nobody else would do something so morally depraved. In fact, it might


    be that she had nned out everything together with Georgina. The two of them are like-minded


    people, after all."


    When the words left Zoe''s mouth, Leanna opened her mouth to respond. Yet, a knock on the door


    sounded before she could utter a single word. A young woman stuck her head into the room and said,


    "Zoe, Miss McKinney, there are reporters outside asking for an interview."


    At this point, this was the nth wave of reporters who came for an interview that afternoon. Zoe refused


    without even thinking about it. "Send them away."


    Leanna chimed in, "If anybody elsees, just tell them that I''m not here."


    The young woman nodded, then she closed the door and left.


    Zoe sighed and continued toze around on the couch. "As expected, one should never be too


    outstanding. Otherwise, trouble will be just a knock away."


    Leanna smiled but said nothing.


    Among the people who came to interview her, some came because of The Designer Competition, while


    others came because of the incident with Georgina. Regardless of the reason for their arrival, they


    were hoping to dig up an exclusive scoop from her.


    After a while, Leanna took out a document folder from her bag. "Zoe, I''m going out for a bit. I probably


    won''t return tonight."


    Zoe nodded. "Okay. Where are you going?"


    Leanna lowered her head and nced at the documents in her hands. "Thew firm."


    Although she had already signed the document, it was best if she asked Freddie to confirm the


    authenticity of the document. Besides, she felt uneasy holding on to such an important document.


    Hence, she went straight to Freddie after leaving the studio and handed the document to him.


    Freddie looked over the document and said, "There''s nothing wrong with the document. You''ll be a rich


    woman from now on. Congrattions."


    Leanna remained silent. As expected of Aidan''s friends, they are all cut from the same cloth.


    After a short pause, she asked, "Do you know what''s going on at the Pearson Group right now?"


    Even though Aidan had imed that things were going smoothly, she knew that he would not have told


    her the entire truth.


    Freddie leaned back against his chair and sped his hands in front of him. "Old Mr. Pearson


    previously took the opportunity to ce many of his own people in the Pearson Group, so Aidan is


    currently rooting them out of thepany once and for all. That''s not all. These people are also


    connected to many of the well-hidden long-time employees. One can say that everybody in the


    Pearson Group is currently in danger. Tsk. Tsk. The losses suffered by Old Mr. Pearson are extensive.


    They can even say that he has lost everything."


    "Then¡­ what about Aidan?" This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.

 Chapter 397

    Chapter 397


    It was impossible to say that Aidan waspletely unaffected by this incident. It was just that he had


    managed to minimize the impact in the span of one night, even going so far as to reverse the situation


    entirely. Moreover, Gordon could no longer suppress him by using The Designer Competition as


    leverage.


    Nevertheless, the stigma would persist forever if the truth did note to light.


    After Leanna departed from thew firm, she went straight to the Pearson Group.


    She arrived just as Aidan came out from a meeting. The atmosphere in the entire building was heavy


    and lifeless. The employees didn''t even dare to breathe too loudly.


    As she was unable to locate Jonathan, she walked over to the president''s office and reached out to


    knock gently on the door.


    Aidan was sitting in front of his desk and reading some documents inside his office. There was no


    saying whether he had heard the knock on the door earlier.


    She softened the sound of her footsteps and walked over. She cleared her throat lightly to announce


    her presence before she continued solemnly, "President Pearson, should I brew you a cup of coffee?"


    Aidan answered coldly without even lifting his head. "Do you even need to ask?"


    "Then, should I prepare dinner for you?"


    When he heard that, he paused for a moment and slowly looked up. When he caught a glimpse of her,


    the chill in his ck eyes gradually melted away, reced by warmth. "When did you arrive?"


    "I just arrived." Leanna sat down across from him and probed, "So, do you only n to drink coffee and


    not eat?"


    Aidan lowered his head, swiftly signed his name on the document, and grunted in reply, "Eating alone


    is boring."


    She looked at him and couldn''t resist asking another question, "Why didn''t you recognize my voice


    when I asked you whether you wanted coffee but realized my identity when I asked about dinner?"


    He casually replied, "Assistants with such high sries generally do not practice the foolish behavior of


    asking so many questions in quick session."


    She was rendered speechless by his words. Eat sh*t, you b*stard!


    He added, "Give me a few minutes."


    "Okay."


    After that, the only sound that she could hear in the room was the flipping of pages and the scratching


    of his pen against the paper.


    Leanna felt bored sitting next to Aidan, so she reached out to fiddle with the decorations on the table.


    Just as she was having fun, she caught sight of a photo frame ced on the desk out of the corner of


    her eye.


    It was something that left her utterly stunned. It was a photo of them at the love lock bridge.


    I can''t believe that b*stard gave me such an ugly photo frame when he himself changed to such a


    beautiful one instead! Hah¡­ Truly, theedian of the century.


    After ten minutes had passed, he finally ced the document in his hand and raised his head to look at


    her. "Let''s go."


    She was somewhat startled out of her thoughts by his voice, so she failed to respond immediately to


    his words. "Where are we going?"


    "Didn''t you want to eat dinner?"


    Leanna pouted. "I didn''te here to have dinner with you."


    Aidan looked at her. "What?"


    She opened her bag and took out the document from within. "This is what Lloyd gave to me. I''ve asked


    Freddie to look through the document and confirm that there are no issues with the documents. But I''m


    currently living at the Crossley Residence. So it''s not convenient to keep this document with me."


    The corners of his lips curled into a smile. "So, you want to leave this document with me for


    safekeeping?"


    She answered seriously, "No. I n to open a safety deposit box at a bank."


    "Is the safety deposit box at a bank safer than leaving the document with me?"


    She couldn''t be bothered to squabble over something so stupid, so she ced the document on the


    table and pushed it toward him. "Please help me keep this. I have not figured out what to do with this


    document for the time being. Also, you can also go ahead and use this if it''s beneficial for you."


    His gazended on the document, and then he looked back at her. His ck eyes darkened


    considerably. "Are you sure?"


    His gaze was so straightforward and scorching that she didn''t dare to look him in the eye. She looked


    away, gazing at the decorations, and coughed awkwardly before she said, "In¡­ In any case, you''re


    also dealing with the Crossley Family. This has always been my wish, so you can consider it as doing


    my part."


    Aidan chuckled softly when he heard her reasons. "Alright. Since you said so, then I''ll happily ept


    it."


    Then, he ced the document in the deepest part of his drawer, locked the drawer, and raised his


    eyebrows at her. "Can we go for dinner now?"


    Leanna pondered silently and abruptly dered, "I want to visit Ms. Fletcher."


    He was not surprised by her answer in the slightest. So, he simply picked up his jacket and stood up.


    "Let''s go."


    At first, she thought that he simply meant that they were going for dinner when he told her, "Let''s go."


    After all, she had only said that she wanted to visit Naomi. The visit could have been arranged to be


    included in their schedule sometime in the future. There was no need to make the visit immediately.


    It wasn''t until the helicopter appeared in front of them that she froze in astonishment. This¡­


    He met her astonished gaze. "Didn''t you say you wanted to go and visit her?"


    "But I meant that we can go after you settle everything here, not¡­"


    "It''s not important. Since we''re already here, just get on."


    He pulled her onto the helicopter without further ado while she was still reeling in confusion.


    A short whileter, a thunderous roar came from above their heads as the helicopter took off slowly.


    Aidan looked down at his watch and pulled her into his embrace. "It''ll take us a few hours to arrive.


    Sleep."


    Leanna opened her mouth to object but ultimately decided against saying anything.


    Lloyd and Georgina were upset with her at the moment. So it might be better that she didn''t return. Not


    only would she enjoy some peace and quiet, this visit would also spare her from having to deal with


    their attitudes.


    ¡­


    At the same time, Queenie received a phone call from Elliot while she was home.


    He said, "The same rules apply. Don''t make me wait for you."


    She gripped her phone tightly. "Are you done?"


    "Just look at the way you''re talking. What do you mean whether I''m done? Don''t we have a cooperative


    rtionship? Or do you want to bring this video to the police yourself? I''ve already copied the video on


    a disc. There are several of them. If you want one, I can even give you one."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    She immediately hung up on him. Then, she inhaled deeply, changed her clothes, and left the house.


    Along the way, she repeatedly called Ron''s number. Unfortunately, her calls couldn''t be connected after


    all this time.


    At this moment, she keenly felt as though somebody was stalking her.


    Queenie turned back sharply but saw nothing.


    So, she retracted her gaze and continued walking forward. The sound of footsteps gradually began to


    increase. That could only mean that more than one person was following her.


    Her heart immediately jumped to her throat. The instant she saw a convenience store ahead, she


    immediately rushed inside and stood at the doorway gasping for breath.


    The store clerk and the other customers inside the shop stared at her with bewildered expressions.


    As soon as she saw other people around her, she finally breathed a sigh of relief. She bought a bottle


    of water and sat down at a table inside the convenience store. Then, she called Elliot. "Somebody is


    stalking me. I can''te¡ª"


    "That''s fine with me. If you refuse toe, I''ll upload this video on the Inte."


    She gritted her teeth in frustration. Before she could say anything else, he hung up on her.


    In the end, she sat inside the convenience store for a few minutes before she pulled up an app to call


    for a cab.


    A car soon stopped in front of the entrance of the convenience store.


    Queenie walked out of the convenience store with an irritable expression on her face. Right after she


    entered the car, someone quickly pulled the car door open once more. A man swiftly slid into the car


    and sat beside her.


    The driver in the front seat reflexively asked, "Do you know each other?"


    Even though the man beside her was wearing a baseball cap pulled down low over his face, she


    immediately recognized him. Her heart leaped with joy, and she quickly answered the driver, "Yes, we


    know each other."

 Chapter 398

    Chapter 398


    The driver was already suspicious of them. In order to prevent causing unnecessary trouble or


    attracting unwanted attention, Queenie did not speak to Ron throughout the entire journey. Likewise,


    Ron kept his head lowered so that his baseball cap blocked most of his face from view.


    When the cab finally arrived at the destination and came to a stop, they got out of the car together.


    Ron walked in front and stood motionlessly at an intersection next to a hotel. There was nobody in their


    surroundings.


    As soon as he turned around, Queenie hurriedly asked, "Ron, have you seen the note I left you?"


    He nodded. "What happened?"


    She sounded very anxious. "Where have you been? That goes for my father too! He hasn''t been home


    all this while."


    "Queenie, Mr. Wojzicki is¡­"


    "Forget it. That''s not important right now. We can talk about itter." She interrupted him and continued,


    "Ron, I''m in great trouble. You need to help me! You''re the only person who can help me now!"


    Hence, he was forced to swallow the words that were on the tip of his tongue once more. "Speak."


    Ten minutester, Elliot was preparing a bottle of red wine in the hotel room when he suddenly heard


    the doorbell. He immediately put the wine ss down and opened the door while humming cheerfully.


    "You sure were quick¡­"


    Before he could finish his sentence, he saw the man fully dressed in ck standing outside the door.


    He scowled fiercely at the sight. "Who are you looking for?"


    At the same time, the man slowly raised his gaze. His eyes were filled with cold murderous intent.


    Elliot immediately sensed that something was wrong. The man kicked him in the stomach just as he


    was about to call for help. He mmed against the wall with great force and copsed to the ground.


    He clutched at his stomach and curled up in pain. The pain was so great that he couldn''t make a single


    sound.


    Meanwhile, Ron closed the door behind him. He dragged Elliot by the hair and walked into the hotel


    room. Elliot''s screams were gradually drowned out by the music in the room.


    In the short exchange just now, Elliot was keenly aware that he was no match for this man. Therefore,


    he hurriedly begged for mercy. "Did that b*tch Queenie send you? How much did she offer you? I will


    pay you double, no¡­ triple! I will give you however much you want!"


    Ron casually picked up the ashtray from the table and smashed the ashtray against Elliot''s head


    without any hesitation.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    The man who had been trying to bargain just now immediately copsed to the ground without a


    sound.


    Ron picked up Elliot''s phone from the couch and searched the room. After he found several discs, he


    swiftly departed.


    Every single moment that Queenie spent waiting downstairs felt like the most torturous time in her life.


    When she finally waited until Ron came back downstairs, she immediately stood up and asked


    anxiously, "Ron, how is it?"


    Ron took out the phone and the discs from his pocket and handed them to her.


    She took them from him with shaky hands. "Is this everything?"


    "That''s everything."


    She breathed a sigh of relief. But then, she seemed to remember something and inquired, "You haven''t


    seen the video, right?"


    He shook his head. "No."


    "Good."


    When she put the stuff in her bag, she noticed the blood dripping from his body. Hence, she


    instinctively took a step back with a horrified expression on her face.


    He looked down. "It''s from my injury."


    She probed, "Then¡­ Those people were stalking me earlier¡­ Were they there because of you?"


    "They probably found out about our rtionship, so they followed you hoping to capture me."


    She abruptly widened her eyes in shock. "Then, why did youe looking for me? What if they knew


    that we had met? What will I do?"


    He opened his mouth but didn''t know what to say in response.


    Meanwhile, she nced around worriedly and frantically urged him to leave. "Hurry up and go. Don''t


    come looking for me again in the future."


    When he remained motionless, the anxiety in her heart climbed even higher. She was deathly afraid


    that somebody might learn that they were in contact, so she wanted to leave as soon as possible.


    "Queenie." He called out to her. As he looked at her retreating back, he asked, "Aren''t you worried


    about Mr. Wojzicki''s current condition?"


    Every little thing had been an annoyance to her recently. Before she could feel relieved after Ron got


    rid of Elliot, she learned that Ron had brought more trouble down on her. Therefore, she was currently


    at the peak of her rage. "Why should I care about him? I''m already drowning in my own affairs. Who


    would care about me?"


    He did not say another word, and she left in a hurry.


    When Queenie returned home, she smashed Elliot''s phone and all the other discs to pieces as though


    destroying these items would finally allow her to release some of her anger and stress.


    Now that Elliot was dead and these recordings had been destroyed, nobody else in the world could


    threaten her from now on.


    Unfortunately, unbeknownst to her, Elliot had avoided Ron''s lethal blow and survived the ordeal.


    Elliot was unconscious inside the hotel room for approximately an hour. When he finally regained


    consciousness, he endured the excruciating paining from his body and stood up. He initially


    wanted to use his phone to file a police report, but his phone was nowhere to be found inside the hotel


    room.


    As he leaned against the wall for support, he slowly fumbled out of the hotel room. He vaguely saw


    somebody in front of him, but he copsed to the ground before he could make a single sound.


    The hotel staff was frightened out of their wits when they saw that his face was covered in blood. They


    didn''t dare to dy a moment longer as they immediately called for an ambnce and filed a police


    report.


    ¡­


    The helicopternded in Cloudpoint at 10.00PM.


    Leanna opened her eyes blearily and nced at the time, only to realize that several hours had gone


    by.


    She wriggled out of Aidan''s embrace and stretched the kink in her neck.


    She had to admit that she had slept pretty well during these few hours.


    There was a car waiting for them beside the helicopter.


    After they entered the car, she stared at the scenery whizzing past the window and yawned. "Aren''t


    things at thepany hectic right now? Won''t it affect your work if youe here all of a sudden?"


    Aidan sped her hand and yed with her fingers in the palm of his hand. His voice was low and


    maic, "Even the strongest man needs time to rest."


    "In that case, the price of your rest is too high. You should have gotten a good night''s sleep at home


    instead."


    "Didn''t you say you wanted toe here?"


    "I merely¡­"


    She discovered that she was bound to lose this back and forth. There was no way she could win


    against him in an argument, so she decided to keep silent instead.


    The car only drove for twenty minutes before arriving at the ce Naomi lived.


    After they got out of the car, Leanna discovered that the environment was very serene. There was a


    small house with a garden and a small vegetable garden.


    It was undoubtedly an ideal ce to live in.


    When Aidan noticed that she was standing there motionlessly, he asked in a low voice, "Why are you


    just standing there?"


    "Do you think Ms. Fletcher could be asleep?"


    He said, "No. I gave her a call before we came."


    She replied, "Oh."


    The truth was that she had been thinking about something. If a small child appeared here, then her


    previous spection would have been true. But, if she didn''t see him, that just proved how foolish her


    previous hopes were.


    When he noticed her head lowered, he couldn''t tell what she was thinking. So, he calmly pursed his


    lips and took her hand in his. Then, he walked toward the house without hesitation.


    Once she collected her thoughts, she felt that the hand that he was holding was sweating


    unconsciously. The distance between them and the house was short, but she held her breath with


    every step she took.


    All her spection and doubts were about to be verified soon.

 Chapter 399

    Chapter 399


    The fragrance of food wafted through the house.


    Hearing footsteps at the door, Naomi came out. "Leanna, Aidan, take a seat. Food will be ready in a


    minute."


    Leanna then volunteered, "Let me help you, Ms. Fletcher." Saying that, she took off her coat and


    handed it to Aidan before entering the kitchen.


    Aidan took it and raised his eyebrows.


    Naomi said, "It''s fine. I''ll be done soon."


    "You should''ve been asleep by this hour, but we still came to bother you."


    "It''s no big deal. I live here alone, and it gets lonely sometimes. I''m really d that you guys came to


    visit me!"


    "You actually¡­ live alone here?"


    Naomi seemed not to notice anything and replied, "Yes. What''s wrong?"


    Leanna smiled and shook her head. "It''s nothing. I just recalled that Ms. Shaffer mentioned that she


    was going to stay with you, so I thought you two¡­"


    "Oh, Ms. Shaffer." Naomi grabbed the cutleries while uttering, "You know how restless she is. It''s too


    quiet here, so after staying for a while, she went on a trip with her friends. She''s now having so much


    fun."


    Hearing that, Leanna did not prod further. Sure enough, she was just overthinking.


    After eating, Naomi spoke, "It''s gettingte now. I''ve already tidied the room. You should head up and


    rest."


    Leanna had already slept on the way here, so she wasn''t drowsy at all. She decided to volunteer to


    clear the table. "Ms. Fletcher, go to bed. I''ll clean up."


    "Sure." After saying that, Naomi went back to her room.


    Once Leanna cleared the table and was about to wash it in the basin, someone snatched the tes


    away.


    "Go and rest. I''ll do it," said Aidan.


    Leanna couldn''t bear to dispel his enthusiasm, but she also started feeling bad for the dishes.


    After leaving the kitchen and sitting on the couch for less than five minutes, she heard the sound of


    tes breaking.


    One was a te while the other was a spat.


    Leanna was so used to it that she didn''t even raise her head. Twenty minutester, Aidan came out


    with a long face.


    Leanna sincerely praised him, "Seems like it went well today. At least, you only broke one te."


    "Shut up."


    Hearing that, she couldn''t help but smirk, feeling lighter than before.


    Aidan yanked his tie off with one hand, saying, "I''m going to take a shower."


    Only then did Leanna notice that most parts of his shirt were wet.


    He managed to make himself drenched just by washing the dishes. How incredible.


    "Huh¡­" Leanna quickly spoke, "Is there only one room?"


    After taking a few steps, he turned around and questioned, "What did you expect?"


    Leanna couldn''t help pouting. She knew this would happen.


    Once Aidan went upstairs, Leanna stayed on the couch and hugged her knees while looking out the


    window, seemingly in thought.


    Just then, the door to the bedroom beside the couch was opened. Naomi walked out and spoke,


    "You''re still awake."


    "Ms. Fletcher¡­" Leanna snapped out of her daze.


    Naomi took a seat beside her and inquired, "Is work taking a toll on you? Seems like you lost a lot of


    weight."


    In response, Leanna chuckled. "Isn''t it summer now? It''s the best time to lose some weight."


    "Nonsense. Why would you lose more weight when you''re so skinny?"


    Leanna then changed the subject. "Are you used to living alone here?"


    "I''m used to it after living alone for such a long time. Staying anywhere is the same for me," replied


    Naomi in a light tone.


    That was true.


    After a while, Leanna continued, "Ms. Fletcher, have you been living here since you left Underwood


    Lane?"


    Naomi paused before saying, "I''ve stayed elsewhere too."


    Leanna''s eyes suddenly lit up. "W-Where?"


    "In Weavside, but I couldn''t get used to it. So, I moved here."


    The light in Leanna''s eyes dimmed little by little, and after a few seconds, she nodded in agreement.


    "Weavside is actually quite busy. Only Underwood Lane has the quietest neighborhood."


    Naomi agreed with a hum. "What about you? I saw the news circting on the Inte recently. Is it


    affecting you a lot?"


    "Well, I wouldn''t say it affects me a lot, but it''s quite frustrating. Problems areing at me one after


    another like endless waves," replied Leanna.


    "Take your time to sort it out. Everything will eventuallye to an end."


    This time, Leanna suggested, "Once everything is settled,e back with us to Highside."


    "We''ll see by then." Naomi chuckled.


    Leanna totally understood how Naomi must have gotten used to living alone. Even though she might


    feel lonely asionally, it was better than having to deal with troublesome matters all day long.


    Honestly speaking, being alone was quite pleasant sometimes.


    Naomi then got up and said, "Alright. I''m going to sleep now. You should rest up soon. Don''t you have


    to get up early and return to Highside tomorrow?"


    She nodded. "Okay. Goodnight, Ms. Fletcher."


    After Naomi returned to her room, Leanna also went upstairs. The moment she opened the door, she


    saw Aidan, who just came out of the bathroom. His dark hair was still wet from the shower.


    Their eyes met for a few seconds.


    Leanna was a little speechless. She then asked, "Why aren''t you wearing anything?"


    "They''re wet." He sounded pretty righteous.


    She could feel her ears getting warm now. "Can''t you just¡­ get something to cover up a little?"


    "Which part of me have you not seen?" he questioned.


    Unable to win him, Leanna went into the bathroom.


    Although she didn''t bring any change of clothes, at least her clothes were dry, so she could still wear


    them after taking a shower. It was better than that b*stard who wasn''t wearing anything at all.


    After taking a shower and going out, she saw that Aidan was already lying on the bed.


    Leanna''s eyelids twitched. She really didn''t want to sleep with him.


    Now that she was lying down, she huddled near the side of the bed, keeping a distance from him. Not


    long after, however, a warm body crept up beside her.


    The man''s breath was right behind her ears, and his voice was hoarse and flirty, "Why are you wearing


    the same clothes?"


    Leanna gulped and replied, "I didn''t change."


    "Take it off, then. It smells."


    She stubbornly grabbed the hem of her clothes to prevent him from getting his way. "You won''t be able


    to smell it if you don''te so close to me."


    Aidan was speechless at that. Then, he continued seducing her, "I won''t smell it either if you take it off."


    Leanna knew what he was up to, so she furrowed her brows and asked in a hushed voice, "Are you


    trying to do it here? There''s nothing here."


    nting a kiss on her temple, he uttered, "We can just have a baby."


    "No way."


    "Why?"


    "I don''t want to get pregnant," Leanna responded while turning her back against him.


    This time, Aidan pulled her back and uttered, "Don''t you like kids?"


    After being silent for a while, she replied, "Liking them is one thing, but if I don''t have the ability to


    protect them, what''s the use of having them? Having them just because I like them without considering


    the actual consequences isn''t a responsible thing to do."


    "Is it that serious?" Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Hearing his nonchnt tone, Leanna couldn''t help but kick him in the shin. "If you''re so desperate for a


    child, have one yourself!"

 Chapter 400

    Chapter 400


    Leanna woke up far too early as her digital clock shone at her with the time of 6.00AM. She turned her


    attention to her window and saw that it was still dark. Still, she didn''t get up as she remained deep in


    thought.


    She spent the whole night trying to figure out why Aidan chose this time to bring her to meet Naomi.


    It was definitely not because Leanna had mentioned it to him.


    Before this, whenever she mentioned wanting to meet Naomi, he would always change the topic. So,


    she didn''t expect him to bring her here directly this time.


    She didn''t understand what was going on in that head of his.


    Since there was no way Leanna was returning to sleep with her hyperactive brain, she pushed off the


    covers after a while and headed to the garden.


    When she quietly shut the door, Aidan slowly opened his eyes.


    The sun slowly made its appearance and painted the dawn sky with a myriad of colors. When Leanna


    arrived at the garden, it was bright enough for her to make out a walking path.


    Then, she sat down on a swing as it rocked gently.


    The air was crisp and the breeze brought along the faint fragrance of flowers.


    She had been a bundle of nerves due to recent events. It was rxing to be able to sit there and let her


    mind wander.


    She spent about an hour in the garden as her thoughts began to settle. By then, the sun was shining


    brightly.


    When she took a look at her phone to check the time, she realized it was almost time for breakfast. So,


    she headed to the kitchen to prepare food.


    That was because they would have to return to Highside right after breakfast. Even then, it would have


    been noon when they arrived.


    When Naomi freshened up, she saw that Leanna had already prepared breakfast and asked, "Why


    didn''t you sleep in, Leanna?"


    Leanna smiled. "I had a good night''s rest. Unfortunately, I couldn''t fall back asleep once I woke up."


    Naomi offered, "Leave the rest up to me. You should wake Aidan up."


    "Sure," Leanna answered as she went up the stairs and pushed open the door to see Aidan putting on


    a shirt.


    She looked at him quizzically with one eyebrow raised. After that, she swept her gaze at the shirt on


    the couch and questioned, "Didn''t you say you didn''t have any change of clothes?"


    "Well, you''re dumb enough to believe me."


    Leanna was so annoyed that she could only let out a huff of disbelief as she cursed, Die, you b*stard!


    A corner of his lips curved up as Aidan picked up the tie and went to Leanna. He raised his eyebrows


    slightly. "Help me?"


    She snorted, "You can do it yourself perfectly even when I wasn''t around."


    He smirked and leaned down to whisper into her ear, "I can put it on myself, but it''s not as nice."


    When she recalled just what had urredst night, she turned beet red and hastily snatched the tie


    from his hand. She quickly tied it around his neck and hissed, "Have some shame. Will you?"


    When they went downstairs, the flush on Leanna''s face had not subsided.


    Naomi saw and asked with concern, "What''s wrong, Leanna? Did you get a cold? The temperature


    difference between the day and night is pretty big here. Do you need some medicine?"


    Leanna frantically waved her hands in refusal. "No. No. I''m fine. I just¡­"


    She could note up with an excuse and stomped on the culprit''s leg under the table out of


    frustration.


    However, Aidan calmly replied in her stead, "She''s fine. She''s like that when she gets excited."


    Naomi was confused. "Excited?" Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    He slowly exined, "She was too excited, probably because she woke up and saw such an amazing


    and perfect boyfriend like me."


    Both Naomi and Leanna were rendered speechless by his courage.


    Leanna could only wish that she had the guts he did. So, she wouldn''t feel so awkward that she wanted


    to dig a hole and bury herself.


    Naomi let out a light cough and promptly switched the topic. "Alright. We''re almost done eating. You


    two should get going. It''s gettingte."


    Leanna nodded quickly. "I''ll go up and get my stuff."


    She practically ran away from the table after thatme excuse.


    Naomi looked up and watched as Leanna disappeared up the stairs and asked in a hushed tone,


    "How''s the little guy?"


    Aidan ced the ss down and answered, "Pretty good."


    After a short pause, he continued. "I''ll get someone to send you back in the afternoon."


    She sighed. "You''re really¡­"


    She could not finish her sentence and just shook her head slowly as she picked up the tes and


    brought them into the kitchen.


    Aidan sat at the dining table and clicked his tongue.


    Now that he had brought Leanna here, all her previous suspicion should disappear. At least it could


    pacify her for some time if nothing unexpected happened.


    He raised his hand and pinched the nose of his bridge with a cold expression on his face.


    Soon, Leanna came down with her bags. "I''m ready. Let''s go."


    Then, she jogged to the kitchen''s entrance and informed Naomi, "We''re leaving, Ms. Fletcher. You take


    care, alright?"


    Naomi nodded. "I will. Don''t worry."


    After the couple left, Naomi came out of the kitchen and started to clear the things in the fridge.


    Leanna felt that the journey back somehow felt a lot quickerpared to when they came. She didn''t


    even sleep through the helicopter ride to Highside.


    Aidan sent her to her studio and ruffled her hair gently. "I''ll be leaving now."


    She nodded. "Are you heading straight to the office?"


    "Yes."


    She reached out her hand to open the door. "Okay. You should leave quickly. I¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, he pulled her close, leaned down, and kissed her deeply. After a


    moment of passion, he finally released her and said contentedly, "Alright. You should head in."


    Her lips curled into a small smile as she left the car in high spirits.


    The driver up front asked, "Are you heading back to the office, President Pearson?"


    Aidan looked at Leanna''s silhouette and ordered. "We''ll go to the other ce first."


    The driver understood him. "Yes."


    When Leanna entered the studio, Zoe followed behind her into her office and asked, "Where did you


    go, Nana?"


    She sat on a chair and answered, "I traveled interstate for a bit. Why?"


    Zoe told her quietly, "Lloyd came looking for you this morning. I think he''s not happy about what you


    posted yesterday. He wants the studio to make another post. It was a good thing you weren''t here. You


    have to be careful when you go home today. He seemed to be in a terrible mood and might use this


    against you."


    "It''s alright," Leanna reassured her. "He has never been in a good mood when dealing with me


    anyway."


    Her decision not to return homest night was a good one. If not, Lloyd would have forced her to make


    a different post, but she wasn''t around.


    Now that it was dyed, it was pointless to make another statement now.


    Zoe sat beside her and slumped over the table as she sighed, "How long do you have to stay with the


    Crossleys? No. I should ask when Lloyd and Georgina''s true colors will be exposed to the masses?"


    Leanna''s hands froze upon hearing that, and her smile turned faint.


    Even if she were to dismiss the deep roots the Crossleys have built over the years, just looking at Lloyd


    and his actions showed how meticulous he was with his schemes.


    If she genuinely wanted to get a hold of his weakness, she had to wait until he made a mistake or


    obtained concrete evidence. If not, she could nevery a finger on him.


    It was already apparent how challenging this would be when even Mr. Jackson could not go up against


    Lloyd directly.

 Chapter 401

    Chapter 401


    Meanwhile, when Aidan opened the door, he realized that Louis was the only one taking care of the


    little one. On the other hand, Celia was nowhere to be seen. He took a look at the baby and asked


    calmly, "Is he asleep?"


    Louis nodded. "He fell asleep a while ago."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan demanded, "You should go back to school when Celia returns."


    Louis replied, "Oh." Evidently, he didn''t take Aidan''s words seriously as he stared fixedly at the little


    one. A momentter, he asked, "When are you going to break it to my sister?"


    "You''ll find out when that happens."


    Louis furrowed his brows. Just as he was about to say something, Celia returned.


    She bowed her head. "President Pearson." Then, she also nodded at Louis.


    Aidan got up and was ready to leave, but Celia called out to him. He turned around and motioned for


    her to go on.


    After hesitating for a bit, Celia questioned, "When is Ms. Fletchering back, President Pearson?"


    "She''ll be back before 6.00PM." He paused for a moment, then asked, "Do you have any ns?"


    Celia quickly waved her hands. "No, I was just asking. I''m worried that no one will be here to take care


    of the child when I head out to get groceries. It''ll be pretty inconvenient¡­"


    Aidan ordered, "Just get someone to send you the things you need."


    In reality, Celia''s heart had leaped to her throat when she asked the question earlier. Aidan told her a


    while back that she shouldn''t head out unless it was necessary, and she could only ask someone else


    to get her the things she needed.


    Initially, she did as she was told and stayed in the house most of the time. However, after getting to


    know Raymond, she beganing up with excuses to leave the house. In the past, she met up with


    the man every three days, but now, she would look for him every day.


    Seeing that Aidan did not probe her further, she let out a sigh. "Alright."


    Aidan then nced at Louis. "Let''s go."


    After they went downstairs, Louis asked, "Where did you find that woman? Is she reliable? Can she


    take care of the child on her own?"


    Aidan replied, "She''s not on her own."


    Before Louis could speak, Aidan looked around and continued, "There are people everywhere, but you


    just don''t see them. She''s only responsible for taking care of the little punk while the others handle the


    rest."


    Louis was too stunned to speak. The little punk? Who in the world calls their son that?


    Aidan took a look at the wristwatch and demanded, "Get in the car now. I''ll send you to school and


    attend to my matters."


    Louis replied, "There''s no need for that. I''m not going to school." Then, he turned around and left.


    Aidan directly got into the vehicle and spoke in a dispassionate voice. "I told you to investigate what


    Celia has been doing. Have you found out anything?"


    Jonathan replied, "It seems that Celia has fallen in love. We tailed her on several asions and found


    her making out with a man. Whenever she left the house, she would meet up with the man."


    Aidan''s subordinate informed him that Celia had been spotted leaving the house frequently. With that


    said, he had personally hired Celia, so she was a trustworthy person. Hearing his subordinate''s words,


    he grunted. "Look for a new caretaker."


    Jonathan replied, "We''re already doing that, but there are some uncertainties. Also, we''re worried that


    Mrs. Pearson will¡­"


    "I''ll let them meet up before Celia leaves and tell Leanna that they''re ready to emigrate."


    Jonathan couldn''t help but think that Aidan''s move was brilliant. To a mother, it was a ruthless thing to


    do. He wondered if Leanna would forgive Aidan if she found out the truth.


    ¡­


    After Aidan and Louis were gone, Celia headed to the bedroom in a hurry and fished out her phone.


    "Hello? I suppose I can leave the house in the evening, but it''s not certain yet. I''ll let you knowter."


    On the other end of the line, Raymond said, "We haven''t met for one week, Celia. Why don''t you


    resign? I can provide for you."


    Celia chastised him in a small voice, "What are you talking about? My employers did me a favor in the


    past. I don''t work for them entirely for money. Anyway, they told me that once the issue is settled, I''ll be


    able to resign. That will be six months away at most."


    Raymond went on to say, "I miss you very much, though. Why don''t you bring the kid to the park? We''ll


    meet up there."


    Celia directly turned him down. "No way."


    "It''s not like the child should be confined to the house for such a long time. He has to get some


    sunshine once in a while. Look out the window; the weather is lovely. It''ll be alright to have a walk


    outside. Moreover, kids should bask in the sun to produce Vitamin D."


    Previously, Celia used to go on frequent strolls with the kid outside, but Naomi was always with her, so


    she just had to follow them. She had never tried bringing the kid out on her own. After hesitating for a


    moment, she replied, "Alright. However, I''ll have to get permission first."


    "Sure. Drop me a messageter."


    After hanging up the call, Celia didn''t dare to ask Aidan directly. Instead, she called the person who had


    been guarding the house outside. He was Aidan''s subordinate, and he was responsible for protecting


    the child and her.


    When Keaton learned that she wanted to bring the kid out to bask in the sun, he didn''t think it was a big


    deal. The sun was indeed bright on this day, so he agreed to it on the spot.


    Hearing that, Celia was ted. She put down her phone and got changed. After packing up the child''s


    milk powder, thermal sk, and diapers, she left the ce with the kid in a stroller. Soon, she heard


    footsteps from behind her. It was apparent to her that Keaton was following her.


    Whenever she headed out with the little one, Keaton would follow them from a distance to ensure their


    safety, so she was used to it. Nevertheless, she still sent a message to Raymond while Keaton wasn''t


    paying attention. She told him not toe over as she would look for him when she had the chance.


    It was arge park where the parents had fun with the kids.


    Celia sat down on a bench under a tree and picked up the child to amuse him.


    A whileter, she felt her phone buzzing. After reading the message, she put the child back into the


    stroller and messaged Keaton, saying that she wanted to use the washroom, so she needed him to


    take care of the child for a while.


    Keaton soon stepped out from a shaded ce. "Go on."


    Celia replied, "Thanks, I''ll be right back."


    After she rounded a corner, she saw Raymond approaching her. She took his hand in a hurry and said


    in a small voice, "I told you to wait for me. Why did youe over?"


    Raymond looked in the direction where she wasing from and pocketed his gaze with squinted


    eyes. He ced his hands on her shoulders and replied, "I just couldn''t wait to see you."

 Chapter 402

    Chapter 402


    Celia turned around and made sure that Keaton wasn''t paying attention to her before she lugged


    Raymond away.


    After she sat down on a bench, Raymond bought her a drink and sat down beside her. "Why don''t we


    watch a movieter?"


    She took the drink and shook her head. "I have to go back in ten minutes."


    Raymond scowled with displeasure. "Why are you in a rush?"


    "I have no choice," Celia replied. "Why don''t we watch a movie in the evening? I''ll be free by then."


    Raymond questioned, "You were able to leave the house frequently a while back. What''s been going


    on recently?"


    Celia took a sip of the drink and exined, "Ms. Fletcher hasn''t been around, so I''ve been the only one


    taking care of the child. I can''t leave the child unattended for a long time. Anyway, she''ll be back in the


    evening."


    "Ms. Fletcher?" Raymond asked cautiously. "Is she a nanny as well?"


    Hearing that, Celia parted her lips, but she wasn''t sure how to respond to him. She then replied


    vaguely, "No, she¡­"


    After a pause, she continued, "Anyway, I''ll have some free time when Ms. Fletcher is back."


    Raymond stopped asking so as not to arouse her suspicion. He then smiled and fished out his phone.


    "What movie would you like to watch? I''ll book the tickets first."


    Celia leaned in closer to him and selected a movie. "This looks great. Why don''t you book the tickets at


    ater time? I''ll let you know when Ms. Fletcher is back."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    "Alright."


    A whileter, Celia took a look at her wristwatch and got to her feet. "I should get going."


    She looked around but couldn''t find the trash can. A considerate Raymond extended his hand. "Give it


    to me. I''ll dump itter."


    With a smile, Celia kissed his cheek and said, "I''ll take my leave now. See you tonight."


    "Bye."


    After she was gone, the smile on Raymond''s face faded. He clenched the empty cup as a sinister glint


    shed through his eyes. If he wasn''t mistaken, the so-called ''Ms. Fletcher'' that Celia mentioned earlier


    was supposed to be Aidan''s biological mother.


    However, everyone thought that she was dead, so the fact that she was still alive surprised Raymond.


    It seemed that his spection was right; Aidan had asked his mother to take care of the child.


    Thinking of something all of a sudden, he put down the cups and shuffled in the direction where Celia


    had left. Soon, he hid behind a tree and peered at the man beside Celia, his dark gaze. Then, he took


    out his phone and snapped some photos.


    Sensing something, Keaton hurriedly turned around.


    Raymond quickly pocketed his gaze and concealed himself behind the tree.


    Celia turned to look at Keaton. "What''s wrong?"


    Since there wasn''t an anomaly, Keaton replied calmly, "Nothing. We''ve been outside for quite some


    time. Let''s go back."


    Celia nodded. "Alright."


    On the other hand, Raymond didn''t dare to get any closer, for he had almost exposed himself earlier.


    After giving it some thought, he got into his car and waited for them at the entrance of the residential


    area. It wasn''t his first time looking for Celia after they moved into this area, so he knew which entrance


    they''d pass through.


    Celia and Keaton had left the house with the kid in the stroller without using a car, so they returned to


    the residential area on foot.


    Raymond had been waiting for 20 minutes when they came back. He could see that Celia was at the


    front while the man kept a distance from her. Soon, they entered the residential area.


    Several minutester, the man left the residential area and got into an SUV parked by the road. He


    never left the vehicle after that.


    Raymond memorized the license te and deliberately passed by the SUV with his car. He took a peek


    and realized that there was more than one person inside.


    After he was gone, someone in the SUV said, "I think that car belongs to Celia''s boyfriend, Keaton."


    Keaton nced at the rearview mirror and grunted. Recalling what happened earlier today, he furrowed


    his brows as he finally realized why Celia had suggested taking the child out to bask in the sun.


    His subordinate then asked, "Should we tell President Pearson about it?"


    Keaton dismissed his suggestion. "It''s pointless to inform President Pearson about it. He''s already


    looking for a new nanny."


    A momentter, he continued, "Keep your guard up. We can''t afford to be negligent."


    "Yes."


    ¡­


    At 4.00PM, Leanna was working on her draft in the studio when the phone on her table started


    vibrating all of a sudden. She picked it up and realized it was Lewis.


    He said, "We found some other problems during the investigation, McK. Do you have time toe


    over now?"


    Since her draft was almostplete, Leanna replied, "Sure."


    After she hung up, she kept the phone in her pocket, picked up her bag, and left the ce. Her phone


    rang again when she was on the way. However, it was an unfamiliar number. She pulled her car over


    and connected the call. "Hello?"


    Nevertheless, other than some indiscernible noises, no one spoke. She clenched her phone and


    asked, "Ron?"


    No one responded to her. Before she could speak further, the other party ended the call. She took a


    look at the dim screen and let out a sigh. It seemed that it was just a call meant to harass her. She put


    down the phone and drove her car forward.


    When she arrived at Lewis'' office, she extended her hand and knocked on the door.


    Soon, Lewis said, "Pleasee in."


    Leanna opened the door and greeted him. Lewis then pointed at the chair across from him and said,


    "Have a seat, McK."


    After she was seated, she asked gently, "Is it about thepetition?"


    Lewis crossed his fingers and ced his hands on the table. With a scowl, he let out a sigh. "I talked to


    the judges, and they assured me that they didn''t help Queenie cheat. They''re internationally renowned


    figures, but Robert has been vouching for Queenie. I¡­"


    Understanding what he meant, Leanna replied with a smile, "It''s fine. I''m sorry for troubling you. I''ll look


    into the rest."


    Now, she and Lewis didn''t have solid evidence to go against those important figures. If they used


    those people with only spection, not only would things turn ugly, but they wouldn''t be able to


    convince everyone.


    Lewis continued, "Anyway, it''s not the only reason I asked you toe here. Do you remember the


    rules of the semi-final, McK?"


    It startled Leanna when he brought up the semi-final all of a sudden. A momentter, she replied,


    "Yes."


    Lewis said, "Ten designers were asked to draw a random number andplete the corresponding


    designers'' work."


    "Is there any problem with that?"


    Lewis nodded solemnly. "Yes."

 Chapter 403

    Chapter 403


    Since the semi-final was over, everyone''s focus was on the submissions and results of the final.


    However, many things happened since then, and no one knew what took ce behind the curtains.


    Therefore, Lewis decided to go through all the artwork in the preliminary round and the semi-final. Like


    what he expected, there was a problem.


    He pushed two artworks with the designers'' names concealed toward Leanna. Then, he asked, "Can


    you see the problem with these two pieces?"


    Leanna took the artworks and scrutinized them.


    One of the pieces had a distinct style where the lines were rugged, and it was apparent that it had been


    drawn by a male designer.


    On the other hand, the one beside it had some slight differences. The lines were softer, and there were


    also some other elements in them. Despite that, it couldn''t conceal the designer''s distinctive style.


    It seemed like the male designer had used some other techniques in the second piece of artwork, but it


    was not his forte, so the style seemed rather awkward.


    After examining the two artworks for a while, Leanna said slowly, "I believe these two pieces were


    drawn by the same person."


    Lewis asked, "What makes you think so?"


    Leanna pointed at the first drawing. "This one has a very unique style. Moreover, the person is an


    intelligent and outstanding designer. There''s his ingenuity in the artwork he created. On the other hand,


    the artwork beside it has been modified, but it still can''t conceal his ingenuity."


    She put them down and continued, "Usually, it''s hard to tell if they were drawn by the same designer.


    However, when these pieces are put together, one can see the problem with a little more caution."


    Lewis nodded with satisfaction, then peeled off the stickers on the designers'' names.


    When Leanna saw the names, she was startled.


    Lewis pointed at the first artwork. "It belongs to Elliot."


    Then, he looked at the one beside it. "On the other hand, this one belongs to Queenie. I don''t think you


    need me to tell you what''s going on."


    Leanna parted her lips as a thought shed across her mind, but she found it inconceivable. She


    couldn''t believe that Queenie had the guts to do such a thing. It took more than audacity to get Elliot to


    help her cheat in thepetition.


    Lewis assured, "Don''t worry. I won''t tolerate any cheating during thepetition. I''ve tried contacting


    Elliot, but his phone has been turned off. If there''s a need, I''ll file a police report to restore fairness to


    thispetition."


    Leanna dipped her head. "Thanks."


    Lewis replied, "There''s no need to thank me. In fact, it''s my fault for failing to prevent such a thing from


    happening. Although I''ve said that the ranking of thepetition doesn''t mean everything, you deserve


    to be the winner, McK."


    ¡­


    After leaving Lewis'' office, Leanna got into her car and spaced out in the driver''s seat.


    She initially thought that even though Queenie was haughty, she truly loved designing. However, it


    surprised Leanna that the woman had done such a thing to be the winner.


    When she returned to her studio, she saw Elijah talking on the phone at the door.


    Seeing her, Elijah said something to the person on the other end and kept his phone. "Leanna."


    She shed a smile at him. "How long have you been waiting?"


    "I''ve been waiting¡­ for a while." Worried she might misunderstand, he exined, "In fact, I''m not the


    one who wants to see you today. It''s someone else."


    In the lounge, Mr. Jackson was having a chat with Zoe. His hands were on his cane as he smiled.


    Hearing the noises at the door, he turned his head and beamed. "Hi, Leanna."


    She nodded. "Mr. Jackson."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Seeing that, Zoe rose from the couch. "I''ll leave this gentleman to you, Nana. See you."


    Mr. Jackson watched her leave and smiled. "That girl is interesting."


    Instead of entering the room, Elijah closed the door from outside.


    Leanna sat across from the older man. "I''m sorry for making you wait. I had to head out a while ago."


    "It''s fine. I happened to pass by this ce, so I decided to drop by," Mr. Jackson exined. "By the


    way, did the father and daughter from the Crossley Family harass you again?"


    Leanna shook her head. "They''ve been in hot water recently, so I don''t think they''ll have time to deal


    with me."


    There was a look of relief on Mr. Jackson''s face. "Eli told me what happened recently. You''re just as


    brave as your mother, little girl."


    Leanna''s lips curved into a smile when she heard that.


    Mr. Jackson let out a sigh. "Unfortunately, we haven''t found out where her grave is."


    After a moment of silence, Leanna said, "Perhaps there''s only one person in the world who knows


    where it is."


    "You mean¡­"


    Leanna nodded. "I''ve been looking for him, but he''s most probably in Lloyd''s hands now."


    Hearing that, Mr. Jackson furrowed his brows. "It''s a little thorny, then. Don''t worry, though¡ªLloyd


    wouldn''t dare to make any rash moves now. I think he just regards the person as his trump card now."


    After a pause, he continued, "I''ll stop beating around the bush. I''m here to tell you something


    important."


    Leanna had guessed it, so she said, "Please go ahead, Mr. Jackson."


    He went on to say, "It''ll be the Crossley Group''s 60th anniversary next month. I don''t think Lloyd will tell


    you about it, but you have to attend the party and force him to acknowledge that you''re the only


    illegitimate heir to the Crossley Group."


    "But¡­" Leanna hesitated. "Lloyd told me to move into the Crossley Residence without verifying my


    identity. He intends to bnce the situation out and keep things as they are. I don''t think he''ll give up


    on Georgina."


    "Don''t worry," Mr. Jackson said grimly. "It hase to a point where it''s no longer up to him to make


    any decisions."


    Leanna pressed her lips together, knowing that the older man was about to take action. She asked


    gently, "What do you need me to do?"


    Mr. Jackson replied, "You don''t have to do anything. Just keep yourself safe before the Crossley


    Group''s anniversary party starts."


    Leanna dipped her head. "Alright."


    Then, Mr. Jackson rose from the couch and said, "I''ve told you everything you need to know, so I''ll take


    my leave now. I''ll remind you one more time, little girl. Even though Lloyd wouldn''t dare to harm you


    right now, you still have to be careful. He might take drastic measures if pushed over the edge."

 Chapter 404

    Chapter 404


    Presently, Daniel was in the piano room on the second floor, watching as Mr. Jackson left. After he


    looked at the ck car on the roadside, he licked his lips. Then, he fished out his phone and ordered


    something online.


    In just an hour, staff members from the flower shop arrived with a bouquet.


    Daniel took the bouquet and shuffled toward the building beside him.


    Seeing that, thedies from the flower shop seemed excited.


    Zoe was stretching her back when she saw the man, so she began flushing in an instant. Before she


    could speak, Daniel asked, "Do you want to have dinner with meter?"


    She took the flowers. Instead of agreeing to his suggestion on the spot, she questioned, "What in the


    world is wrong with you today?"


    Daniel was rendered speechless. He coughed and lugged her toward the lounge at the back. "Where''s


    Miss McKinney?"


    Zoe knew that he wasn''t here to see her, so she jutted her chin toward the office. "She''s inside."


    Daniel turned around and made sure that the others weren''t following him to the entrance before


    saying in a small voice, "I''ll talk to her now."


    Zoe replied, "Okay."


    Soon, Daniel entered Leanna''s office.


    Zoe''s lips curved into a smile as she held the roses in her arms. She hung her head low and fell into


    her thoughts.


    Inside the office, when Leanna heard someone knocking on the door, she asked the person toe in.


    Then, she lifted her head and saw Daniel. She asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Daniel replied, "I saw Mr. Jackson with you earlier."


    Leanna nodded. "He told me about the Crossley Group''s anniversary party."


    "What else did you guys talk about?"


    "We also talked about Jethro. I believe he''s in Lloyd''s hands now."


    Daniel agreed with her. "That''s indeed the oue of our investigation. Don''t worry, we''ll find out his


    whereabouts as quickly as we can."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna cocked her head to one side. "We?"


    Realizing that she was trying to sound him out, Daniel came to his senses. "I mean Mr. Jackson, Elijah,


    and me."


    Leanna smiled and put down her pen. "After spending some time with you, I realize there''s something I


    can never figure out."


    Daniel asked subconsciously, "What do you mean?"


    "Are you helping me because Lloyd is ourmon enemy? Or is there something else?"


    If Daniel had said so back then, she would''ve believed him. After all, before she went looking for Lloyd


    at the tender conference, she wasn''t close to Daniel, who merely helped her get the invitation card.


    However, after the event, she realized that Daniel had been overly helpful and concerned about her.


    Nevertheless, she could tell that he wasn''t in love with her. As for the reason behind it, she was unable


    to figure it out. Furthermore, Elijah seemed hesitant at that time.


    Daniel replied with a smile, "Well, we''re friends now. Aren''t friends supposed to help each other?"


    Before Leanna could speak, he continued, "Although you might not think that we''re friends yet, I


    already regard you as one. You''re on good terms with Elijah, after all."


    Leanna was speechless. She felt that this man was better at sophistry than Aidan. A momentter, she


    said, "I think you have something to do with the incident back then."


    Daniel yed dumb. "What incident?"


    Leanna replied seriously, "The explosion that took ce at the Crossley Residence 20 years ago."


    "Oh, I''ve heard about it," Daniel admitted. "I was very young at that time, though. It wasn''t until I started


    investigating the Crossley Group that I found some information, but it doesn''t amount to much."


    Leanna eyed him for a while, attempting to figure out if he was lying. She wasn''t sure whether he had


    concealed it well or she was reading too much into it, for she was unable to spot anything. Then, she


    said, "Forget it."


    Daniel secretly let out a sigh. "I''ll take my leave then, Miss McKinney."


    "Wait a minute," Leanna called out. "A while back, I asked you whether you had feelings for Zoe. Do


    you remember your answer?"


    Daniel was stumped, for he had forgotten about it.


    Leanna added, "I know that a person''s mind changes as time passes, but I hope that if you love Zoe,


    you''ll treat her well. Stop acting like you used to."


    Daniel smiled. "I got it. Don''t worry."


    Leanna watched him leave, still feeling uneasy.


    Zoe had been betrayed by Anthony back then, and it took her a lot of time and effort to regain her


    confidence. If Daniel turned out to be a craftier womanizer, she would probably lose hope of finding


    love again.


    A worried Leanna followed him.


    Meanwhile, Zoe was still spacing out with the roses in her arms in the lounge. When she heard the


    door opening, she pulled herself together and put down the flowers. Following that, she rose from the


    couch and asked subconsciously, "Are you guys¡­ done?"


    Daniel grunted and set his eyes on the roses before asking, "It''s gettingte. Why don''t we have dinner


    now?"


    Hearing that, Zoe was startled for a moment. "Aren''t you here to talk to Nana?"


    "Yes, the talk is over." Daniel shuffled forward and said softly, "Didn''t I say that we''d have dinner


    together?"


    Zoe thought it was just an excuse he hade up with, and it surprised her that he meant it. After a


    cough, she tried to keep herst bit of reservedness and rationality, saying, "It''s not time to get off work


    yet. We''ll see."


    Daniel''s lips twisted into a smile. "I''ll wait for you outside, then."


    Zoe replied in a fluster, "Alright. I got it."


    Before Daniel left, he nced at the bouquet of roses. "Do you like them?"


    For a moment, Zoe didn''t understand what he was referring to. "Huh?"


    "You seem to like them. If you don''t, I''ll get flowers from another florist next time."


    Zoe protested in a hushed voice, "T-They''re all the same. What''s the difference?"


    Daniel arched his brow. "I''ll assume you like them, then."


    A blushing Zoe pushed him out of the ce. "It''s not like I''ve never received flowers before. It doesn''t


    matter whether I like them or not. Go back now. I''m busy."


    Meanwhile, Leanna had been hiding ever since they left the lounge. She let out a sigh and thought, It


    seems that they''re getting along well. She stroked her nose and returned to the office.


    After she sat down in front of her desk, she went through her drafts and found the pocket watch


    ne she had designed in the past.


    Following a moment of deliberation, she saved the original draft on herputer and modified the


    details ording to the ideas she hade up with during the designers''petition. Then, she


    ced the draft along with the rest that would be sent to the factory.


    She had stopped epting new orders, so the orders that had been piling up previously were getting


    fulfilled in no time.


    She leaned back against the seat and looked out at the stars above the sky. Recalling the garden in


    front of Naomi''s home, she gently tapped the table with her pen.


    Minutester, an inspiration sprang into her mind, so she reached for a new sheet of drawing paper.

 Chapter 405

    Chapter 405


    Leanna returned to the Crossley Residence in the evening. Just as she was about to go upstairs, Lloyd


    stepped out of his study and said impassively, "I told you that there are rules in the Crossley Family.


    Since you live here now, you have to abide by them."


    She replied with a smile, "I''m sorry, Mr. Crossley. It''s my terrible memory again. With your reminder, I


    won''t make the same mistake."


    Lloyd''s face fell when he heard that.


    Leanna went on to say, "By the way, I''ve published a rification as per your request. When will you


    fulfill your promise?"


    Lloyd refuted, "Do you think your rification is good enough?"


    "How could you say that, Mr. Crossley? I feel wronged." Leanna started talking nonsense with an


    innocent expression. "I asked the bestwyer in town to draft the rification for me. He said that since


    I was representing the entire studio and not just myself, I had to be careful with how the statement was


    worded and minimize the impact on everyone else. The rification was posted after a lengthy process


    of deliberation."


    She shifted the me to Freddie easily.


    Lloyd frowned as he doubted her statement, and his expression remained dark.


    Leanna continued, "I''m a businesswoman myself, Mr. Crossley. Regardless of what happened, most


    netizens are standing up for me. If I side with Miss Crossley at this point, I''ll be criticized. Several


    people suspect that I''ve received some benefits or have been threatened. If I still do it now, their


    suspicions will be proven right. You''re a businessman yourself, Mr. Crossley, so I''m sure you''ll


    understand why I''ve chosen to publish such a rification."


    Lloyd squinted his eyes. He wasn''t aware that Leanna was such a calcting person back then. He


    snorted. "It seems that there are some clever people behind your back."


    Leanna replied, "Well, I''m on good terms with many wonderful people. Anyway, I''m notparable to


    Miss Crossley, who can solve all the problems with money."


    Lloyd knew that she was hinting at everything that had happened so far, so he silently returned to his


    room with a cold expression.


    Once the door was closed, Leanna pocketed her gaze. As her smile faded, she shuffled to the second


    floor.


    The moment she arrived at the studio the next morning, many notifications popped up on her phone.


    Before she could take a look, Zoe dashed into her office and panted, saying, "Good news, Nana!"


    Leanna asked tentatively, "Is there a mega sale going on at a nearby mall?"


    Zoe was stumped for a moment before refuting, "What on earth are you talking about? Haven''t you


    scrolled through Twitter today?"


    "I was about to do that. What''s wrong?"


    "It''s about Elliot, the guy who took part in the designers''petition with you. Do you remember?"


    Leanna nodded. "Yes, I do. What happened to him?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe replied, "He posted a tweet 20 minutes ago, iming that Queenie cheated in thepetition. He


    even showed us evidence of Queenie transferring arge sum of money to him. Also, he said that


    Queenie only became the winner because she bribed the judges, whose names have been revealed."


    Hearing that, Leanna was rooted to the spot.


    Lewis had talked to her about this issue the day before, and she didn''t expect that it would be solved so


    soon.


    Just then, her phone started ringing. She picked it up and realized it was Lewis.


    However, he admitted that he had no idea Elliot would post such a tweet, for he hadn''t managed to


    contact him so far.


    After the call ended, Zoe said, "Look, Nana! He just posted a new tweet."


    When Elliot posted on Twitter a while ago, many people, who had been criticizing Leanna over the


    inte, doubted his ims. There were also spections that the reason he defended Leanna and


    shifted the me to Queenie was that he had received money from the Pearson Group.


    Faced with such doubts, a well-prepared Elliot posted the conversation between them in the car that he


    had secretly recorded when she persuaded him to help her cheat in thepetition.


    The recording revealed that Queenie had asked Elliot to imitate her style andplete the work in the


    semi-final.


    Following that, Elliot posted another tweet with several photos of him being hospitalized. In the photos,


    he was soaked in blood and he even attached his medical record.


    He imed that Queenie intended to silence him forever, so she sent someone to kill him. After


    escaping from death''s door, he realized that he had done the wrong thing. Therefore, he decided to


    expose Queenie and give himself a second chance.


    The tweets soon caused a heated debate on the inte.


    The organizer of thepetition and the Pearson Group announced that they were paying attention to


    this matter and would file a police report.


    Seeing all that, Zoe let out a long breath. "As the saying goes, what goes aroundes around. The


    wrongdoings of Georgina and Queenie have been exposed, and it''s exhrating."


    On the other hand, Leanna rested her chin on her palm and said slowly, "Queenie is usually cautious.


    Since she has given Elliot so much money, why would she even think about killing him? Moreover, she


    can''t possibly deal with Elliot on her own, unless¡ª"


    She caught herself as she realized something all of a sudden.


    Zoe didn''t detect the anomaly as she uttered, "They must have a secret deal, and they started biting


    each other after the deal fell apart. Anyway, just let them go on biting one another. We''ll just watch the


    show from the sidelines."


    Leanna came to her senses and nodded in agreement.


    An hourter, Queenie posted a tweet as well.


    To everyone''s surprise, she admitted to cheating in thepetition and apologized to the organizer for


    affecting the fairness of thepetition by seeking Elliot''s help. In addition, she was willing to give up


    her ranking.


    However, she denied bribing the judges and attempting to kill Elliot. She dismissed Elliot as framing her


    for not being happy with the amount of money.


    Their pathetic fans started arguing with each other on the inte.


    Like what Zoe had said, both sides were biting one another.


    Leanna decided to stop reading thosements, choosing to wait for the oue.


    However, after giving it some thought, she reckoned that she had to visit Elliot at the hospital in the


    afternoon.


    If Elliot was telling the truth, the person who had attacked him could very well be Ron.


    Queenie was a careful person; she was averse to bearing any responsibilities, so it was unlikely that


    she had taken the huge risk of hiring someone to kill Elliot.


    Moreover, Elliot was about six feet tall. Barely anyone could hurt him badly with a strike.


    There''s only one possibility.

 Chapter 406

    Chapter 406


    When Leanna arrived at the hospital, she stopped a nurse and asked where Elliot was. After thanking


    her, she shuffled in that direction.


    Meanwhile, the police were talking to Elliot in the ward. Seeing that, Leanna decided to wait outside the


    room. Only after the police left the ce 20 minutester did she knock on the door. Elliot said


    impatiently, "I''ve told you everything. What else¡ª"


    He caught himself when he saw Leanna appearing at the door. The impatience on his face vanished as


    he squinted his eyes and asked cautiously, "Why are you here?"


    Leanna replied, "I''m here to ask you something."


    "It''s about the designers''petition, right?" Elliot questioned. "Everything I''ve said is true. I''d helped


    her cheat in thepetition, and she''d bribed the judges."


    Leanna smiled and sat down on the couch. "There''s one thing I don''t understand, though. Given


    Queenie''s background, making you help her cheat in thepetition was already the best she could


    do. How did she bribe the judges?"


    Faced with her doubt, Elliot was unflustered as he had already prepared an excuse. "You''re also aware


    that her mentor is Robert, who is on good terms with the judges. Moreover, he was determined to let


    Queenie win so as not to embarrass him. It wasn''t hard for him to bribe the judges for her sake."


    "Just like what you''ve said, Robert was determined to help Queenie win. Then, why would he tell you


    that he''d bribed the judges?"


    Her question surprised Elliot, but he soon came up with an excuse. "I overheard it. There are no


    secrets in the world that could be kept forever, are there?"


    Leanna continued, "Are you also going to tell me that Queenie has decided to kill you because she''s


    found out that you''re aware of the bribery?"


    Elliot still hadn''t found a good excuse for that. Hearing her words, he yed along by saying, "Right,


    right, right. That''s exactly the reason. That woman has gone mad for wanting to be famous, so


    she did something so despicable. You should''ve been the winner. I feel sorry for you."


    Leanna arched her brow as she had no idea how much truth there was in his words.


    A momentter, she decided to cut to the chase, asking, "Do you remember what the attacker looked


    like?"


    The police had asked Elliot the same question earlier. He narrowed his eyes and questioned doubtfully,


    "Why do you want to know?"


    Left with no choice, Leanna exined impassively, "Queenie had repeatedly tried to harm me back


    then. I want to find out whether the person who attacked you is also the one who harmed me."


    Elliot never doubted her, for all the designers knew that she and Queenie were on bad terms. One just


    had to ask around to find out what Queenie had done during her tenure at Lux.


    Thinking they were on the same boat, Elliot replied, "He was wearing a hat, so I couldn''t make out his


    face. But¡­"


    He furrowed his brows, as though trying to recall the man''s appearance.


    "Is there a scar on his face that runs from the corner of his left eye to his chin?"


    Upon her reminder, Elliot dipped his head. "Right, right, right. There''s indeed a scar on his face."


    After getting the answer, Leanna decided to leave as she rose from the couch.


    Elliot called out, "If you want to know anything about Queenie, just look for me. I''ll tell you everything I


    know."


    Hearing that, Leanna turned to look at him. "Consider yourself lucky that you survived."


    Then, she left the ce directly.


    As Elliot watched her leave, he snorted and fished out his new phone from beneath the pillow. Then, he


    essed the file on the cloud and grinned. With this, I can destroy Queenie.


    ¡­


    After leaving the hospital, Leanna got into her car and drove toward the main road, but she was a little


    absent-minded.


    All the evidence suggested that Ron was the one who had assaulted Elliot. In other words, he had


    probably escaped from Lloyd''s confinement.


    But where is he? If I want to find out Jethro''s whereabouts, I must get to Ron.


    At the thought of this, Leanna stepped on the brake and steered the car around.


    ¡­


    Presently, Queenie was getting probed at the police station. Regardless of what the police said, she


    denied hiring someone to attack Elliot.


    Moreover, the surveince footage from the hotel and the fingerprint left behind at the scene didn''t


    point to her.


    Nevertheless, she was a suspect, so she couldn''t leave the police station directly. Someone had to bail


    her out. She called Robert, who soon hung up on her. Are you kidding me?! She recalled the number


    only to hear dull beeping noises that indicated that the call didn''t go through.


    A displeased Queenie subsequently made several calls, but she was still unable to reach the man.


    She bit her lip. Left with no choice, she could only contact one of her family members. However, the


    person who was supposed to pick up her call was already dead. Unable to contact anyone for help, she


    finally broke down and smashed the phone into the wall.


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    As the phone dropped to the floor, a figure came into her sight. Leanna looked at her with a calm


    expression, her gaze cold.


    ¡­


    Queenie had never expected that when there was no one to help her, Leanna would be the one who


    bailed her out. After leaving the police station, Leanna stopped in her tracks and turned to her. "I''ll only


    ask you one question."


    Queenie clenched her fists and remained silent.


    "Where''s Ron?" Leanna demanded.


    A momentter, Queenie replied, "I¡­ don''t know."


    Leanna replied with a sneer, "I can go back in any moment and tell the police that Ron was the one


    who had assaulted Elliot. Do you think you''ll still be able to leave the police station by then?"


    Queenie stiffened, and her face was transformed by fear. She bit her lip out of nervousness. "I¡­ don''t


    know. That day, I''d told him not to look for me again."


    Leanna scoffed. "He''s helped you a lot. Is this how you treat him?"


    "It''s not like there''s anything I can do about it. We''re from different worlds, after all. Furthermore, he


    knew that some people were tailing him, and he still looked for me despite knowing that he might put


    me in danger." Queenie was increasingly agitated. "Also, what help has he offered anyway? He


    couldn''t even deal with Elliot. Look what''s happened to me now. It''s all his fault!"


    "You''re good ating up with excuses, aren''t you? Don''t you think that there''s a problem with you?"


    With reddened eyes, Queenie roared, "What''s the point of you mocking me now?! I admit that I''d


    cheated in the designers''petition. However, many people loathe you. Do you think you''ll be the


    winner after destroying me?"

 Chapter 407

    Chapter 407


    Leanna knew that she couldn''t reason with Queenie, so shemented dispassionately, "You''re right.


    A lot of people hate me, and I can''t make everyone like me. However, I''m not the one who is supposed


    to worry about getting the bacsh for what I''ve done."


    Then, she got into her car and left. On her way back, she received a call from Aidan.


    The man''s masculine voice was heard over the phone. "At what time are you getting off work today?"


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Leanna replied, "I have no idea. I''m outside."


    "Where have you been?"


    "There was something I had to deal with."


    A momentter, Aidan said, "Wait for me in the studio after you get off work."


    "Hmm. Got it."


    After putting down her phone, she caught a glimpse of a friend request on WhatsApp. The person''s


    name was Elliot.


    Seeing that, she knitted her brows and directly dismissed it. That guy is obviously up to no good. He


    ims that he needs a second chance to be a better person, but he has never considered donating the


    money given to him by Queenie to the charity.


    When she stopped her car at the sight of the red light, her phone buzzed. She connected the call and


    realized it was a scam call this time.


    "Congrattions! There''s a lucky draw going on, and you''re¡ª"


    Leanna hung up before the person could finish his words. While gazing at the phone, she fell into her


    thoughts. A momentter, she drove her car forward at the sight of the green light and passed through


    the crossroads before pulling the vehicle over on the roadside. Then, she found the unfamiliar number


    from two days ago and called, only to find that the other party''s phone wasn''t turned on.


    She lowered her phone and let out a breath. Perhaps I''ve been overthinking things. If it was Ron, he


    would contact me again.


    ¡­


    Since the police didn''t have evidence to prove that Queenie had hired someone to attack Elliot, and


    Ron''s face wasn''t shown in the surveince footage, the strife between Queenie and Elliot came to an


    end.


    On the other hand, the organizer of thepetition soon announced that Queenie''s results would be


    revoked. Additionally, she and Elliot would never be allowed to take part in any designers''petitions


    or fashion events.


    In other words, they had been shut out from the fashion world.


    Following the announcement, the organizer posted another tweet showcasing Leanna''s work during


    the preliminary round, the semi-final, and the final. They also revealed her score.


    There was no denying that she deserved to be the winner.


    After the tweet was posted, a lot of people left theirments.


    ''McK''s name has finally been cleared. I''ve said that she should''ve been the winner, given her talent.


    Some people had spread rumors that President Pearson helped her shoot to fame. Are they blind or


    something?''


    ''Those who spread rumors are really something. They''re risking their lives by ndering the Pearson


    Group. I admire their courage.''


    ''Based on what has happened so far, it''s not hard to figure out the people who have been spreading


    rumors.''


    ''Hahaha. There''s no need for any spection. I had just visited Elliot''s page. He''s posted a new tweet


    and used Queenie of her wrongdoings.''


    ''So, everything started because Queenie''s jealous of McK. She made Elliot side with her and bribed the


    judges. However, she didn''t live up to her fame, so the exclusive show that was supposed to be hers


    was given to McK instead. Therefore, she became furious and sought Elliot''s help. That was when the


    conversation was recorded.''


    ''Gosh, the previousment is spot on! Queenie and McK have been on bad terms since their tenure


    at Lux. My friend is a staff member from Lux, so she has shared some secret information with me.''


    ''What secret information?''


    ''Please share it with us as well.''


    ''Please DM me with the secret information.''


    ''Second that.''


    ''Anyway, I don''t think Queenie is powerful enough to do such things. Although Elliot is deplorable, he''s


    pretty famous in the fashion world. It would require a lot of money for Queenie to make him help with


    the cheating. Does she have so much money? Moreover, the judges are important figures in the


    fashion industry. Could they be bribed so easily?''


    ''Queenie is a nobodypared to them, but she has a mentor. It wouldn''t be hard for Robert to bribe


    those people.''


    ''I can''t believe Robert is that kind of person. That''s gross.''


    ''Gosh! He''s one of the most influential designers. I suggest the organizer cklist him, along with


    Queenie and Elliot.''


    ''He''s such a terrible guy. It''s no wonder his apprentice did such a thing.''


    The me over the inte gradually shifted from Elliot and Queenie to Robert, who promptly posted a


    rification on hispany''s social media.


    In the statement, he imed that he wasn''t aware of Queenie''s wrongdoings during thepetition.


    Moreover, he respected the organizer''s decision and felt devastated that Queenie turned out to be such


    a person. He regretted taking her on to be his apprentice. From that day onward, he had nothing to do


    with her anymore.


    After the rification was posted, many people doubted Robert, for Queenie wasn''t capable of bribing


    the judges.


    Just as the discussion over the inte became increasingly heated, the organizer posted a tweet to


    say that Robert had nothing to do with this incident. They would continue investigating the bribery case


    and let everyone know when the oue was ready.


    At this point, the incident regarding the designers''petition was over.


    As Queenie went through all thements in her home, she went mad and swept theputer and


    draft papers to the floor.


    After she threw a tantrum, she caught a glimpse of an old phone lying among some misceneous


    items. She inserted a SIM card and dialed a number in a hurry. The person on the other end asked in a


    languid voice, "Who are you?"


    Hearing her voice, Queenie was ted. "It''s me, Miss Kramer. I''m Queenie. Have you seen all the


    comments on the inte? What should I do now?"


    Violet snapped, "That''s your problem. What does it have to do with me?"


    Queenie bit her lip. "How could it be my problem? I listened to your advice and did such a thing.


    Moreover, you were the one who had found Elliot and bribed the judges. I''ve never told anyone about


    any of those things. Can you lend me a hand? I have no idea what to do now."


    "Stop spouting nonsense, will you? I just thought you were friendly and had a talk with you during the


    competition. I''ve never given you any advice or told you to do anything. Also, I don''t know the guy


    you''ve mentioned."


    "But Miss Kramer, I¡ª" The call ended before Queenie could finish her sentence.

 Chapter 408

    Chapter 408


    When Leanna left the office in the evening, the staff members in the shop were ready to get off work.


    "We''ll take our leave now, Leanna." They informed her before leaving.


    She nodded with a smile. "See you tomorrow."


    After they were gone, she took a nce at Zoe, who was already wearing her bag, and arched her


    brow. "You¡­"


    Zoe coughed to conceal her embarrassment. "I''m not going to do anything. I''m just going to work out."


    Leanna shuffled toward the pantry and poured herself a cup of water before teasing her with a smile.


    "You''re going on a date with Daniel, aren''t you?"


    Zoe walked up to her and leaned against the wall. "Well¡­" She hung her head low and clenched the


    bag''s strap. "We''re just going out for dinner."


    Leanna took a sip of the water and nced at the person outside. "Go now. He''s waiting."


    Seeing that she looked outside, Zoe followed her gaze and pursed her lips. After giving it some


    thought, she suggested, "Since there''s nothing else to do in the studio now, why don''t youe with


    us?"


    "I can''t. Aidan¡­ ising over."


    Bothdies appeared to have ns after work. At the mention of Aidan, Zoe sported a cheeky smile as


    she bid Leanna goodbye. "I''ll get out of your way, then. See you."


    Leanna dipped her head. "Be careful."


    After Zoe left, Leanna closed the ss door. Just as she was ready to return to the studio, she saw


    someone peering at her from a car across the street. The car had been there for quite a while.


    Noticing her stare, the person in the car pocketed his gaze and left the ce, following behind Daniel''s


    car.


    Seeing that, Leanna pressed her lips together. If she wasn''t mistaken, that person was supposed to be


    Lloyd''s subordinate.


    When she returned to the office, she put down the cup and picked up a pen. After some contemtion,


    she still couldn''t draw anything. Instead, she jotted down some names on the draft paper¡ªLloyd,


    Georgina, Daniel, Mr. Jackson, Elijah, and Mr. Muston, who had passed her the key to the warehouse


    and then disappeared previously.


    She swept a nce over the names on the paper, and after pondering on it for a moment, she added


    one more name¡ªWilliam.


    Although William didn''t seem to have anything to do with the series of incidents, he had all sorts of


    connections with the people on the list.


    Leanna recalled that when she and Elijah dropped by Mr. Jackson''s house the other day, William and


    Elijah didn''t seem to know each other. They only exchanged greetings politely.


    That was odd, for Elijah was on good terms with Mr. Jackson, who seemed to be closer to William than


    they appeared.


    With Mr. Jackson around, Elijah and William would have had chances to meet up. The only exnation


    was that they weren''t close, or they pretended not to know each other. Regardless, all of them¡ªDaniel,


    Mr. Jackson, and the others¡ªshared the same goal, which was to destroy Lloyd.


    On the other hand, William, who was seemingly an outsider, managed to sessfully bid for a


    Crossley Group project by chance. When all the dots were connected, it was hard for anyone to believe


    that William had onlye to this country to expand his business.


    Though having a vague idea of the rtionships, Leanna could not figure out what went on behind the


    scenes. Irritated, she scratched all the names with her pen.


    Just then, a man whispered in her ear. "What are you doing?" he asked.


    An unsuspecting Leanna was astounded, so she subconsciously tipped her head back and identally


    crashed into the man''s warm chest.


    Aidan''s lips curved into a smile as he ced his hands on her shoulders. She was speechless, thinking


    that the man had done it deliberately.


    Aidan asked, "Have you had dinner?"


    "Didn''t you tell me to wait for you?"


    The man raised his brows. "Let''s go, then."


    Leanna packed up her stuff and pulled the draft paper off. Then, she crumpled it into a ball and threw it


    into the trash can.


    Sitting at the dinner table with the man, she took the chance to ask for some input. "I saw the Pearson''s


    Group announcement today. What do you think of the incident?"


    "Are you talking about the cheating or the bribery case?"


    Leanna asked doubtfully, "Aren''t they the same thing?"


    Aidan filled her cup with water. "They used to be the same thing, but now we''re dealing with them


    separately."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Someone has used Queenie of cheating in thepetition and bribing the judges. There''s solid


    evidence for the cheating case. As for the bribery case, there isn''t any evidence to prove his im.


    Additionally, the judges have denied receiving any bribes. So, we can only deal with the cases


    separately."


    Hearing that, Leanna furrowed her brows. "There''s indeed no solid evidence to prove that Queenie is


    guilty of bribing the judges. Moreover, I don''t think she''s powerful enough to do such a thing. However,


    the organizer has investigated Robert and found that he''s not the culprit."


    Aidan uttered slowly, "Since she''s not capable of doing such a thing, we don''t have to waste any more


    time on her."


    Leanna was startled for a moment before realizing something. She had almost forgotten that Georgina


    and Violet had also participated in the designers''petition. "You mean Georgina and Violet? Who do


    you think is the culprit?"


    "Either of them might be the culprit." Aidan paused for a moment, then continued, "However, there''s a


    fashionpany under the Kramer Group that works closely with the judges."


    Hearing that, Leanna finally figured it out.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    The culprit was Violet. Furthermore, it was more than just a bribery case. Since her fashionpany


    worked closely with the judges, no one could find out any wrongdoings as there were formal contracts


    and transfers of money between both sides. That was the reason Lewis could not find any evidence.


    Realizing the crux of the problem, Leanna tutted.


    Aidan asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing. I just think that you''re too charming, President Pearson."


    Aidan didn''t understand what she meant, but since she was stuffed, she rose from the chair. "I''m full.


    See you."


    Aidan licked his lips and followed her.


    The moment Leanna opened the car door, Aidan slid into the passenger''s seat.


    His action confused her. "What are you doing, President Pearson?" she questioned.


    An unfazed Aidan replied, "I''m here to keep you safe while you go home."


    Yet Leanna ignored him. Just as she was ready to fasten the seat belt, she saw Aidan leaning closer to


    her. "W-What are you doing?" She subconsciously moved backward.


    Aidan took her hand and plugged thetch te into the buckle. Then, he said in a slightly raised voice,


    "I was helping you to fasten the seat belt. What else do you think I was doing?"


    Leanna felt a heat flushing through her as she gazed at the face just inches away. She coughed and


    rolled down the window before pushing his chest. "Sit properly. You''re blocking my sight."


    As she spoke, she pretended to take a look at the side-view mirror. Then, she drove the car forward.

 Chapter 409

    Chapter 409


    After a week, Leanna and Lewis signed the contract. The exclusive show would be held in September,


    which was six months away. Therefore, she had ample time to get prepared.


    After that, Lewis walked her to the door with what appeared to be remorse. "I never expected so many


    things to happen during thepetition. As for the two judges¡­ If you need any help in the future, feel


    free to contact me, McK."


    Although they were fully aware that the two judges were not impartial, they were unable to find any


    evidence to prove that thetter had epted bribes. Hence, the case remained unsettled.


    Leanna put on a smile. "Thanks. Anyway, I should thank you for giving me this chance."


    "I didn''t give you this chance. You deserved it."


    After they chatted for a while more, Leanna left the ce. Lewis watched her leave with a look of


    approval on his face.


    Not long after Leanna returned to the studio, an unwee guest arrived.


    Elliot''s head was still covered in bandages, but that didn''t stop him from looking around greedily. When


    he saw Leanna, he quickly put on a smile. "I''m here to ask what you''re going to do about Queenie."


    Leanna shot him a dispassionate nce. Without telling anyone to get him a cup of water, she


    questioned, "What do you mean?"


    Elliot leaned against the seat and ced his hands on the back of the couch. "Well, we''re in the same


    boat now. Queenie has hurt you terribly. Are you going to let her off just like that?"


    "Whether I''ll let her off the hook, it''s got nothing to do with you."


    Faced with her impoliteness, Elliot didn''t feel embarrassed at all. Instead, he smiled confidently. "It has


    something to do with me, of course. I''ve fallen into such a state because of her. Since we have a


    common enemy now, why don''t we join forces and discuss how to deal with her to make sure that she''ll


    never get back on her feet again?"


    "You''ve been cklisted by the fashion industry, but you''re more concerned about dealing with


    Queenie?" Anyone would be amazed by Elliot''s irrational suggestions.


    "Well." Elliot waved his hand nonchntly. "That doesn''t matter. So what if they''ve cklisted me?


    Many people are willing to pay me to work for them. Why would I even care about being blocked since I


    don''t have to worry about money?"


    "It seems you''ve earned a lot of money through this incident."


    Elliot guffawed. "That''s for sure. Why would anyone do something that would destroy their future


    without enough money?" Then, he examined Leanna''s studio. "This is a nice ce. I''ve been mulling


    over the prospect of building my studio. Do you have any advice for me? Why don''t we make it a


    franchise or something? Don''t worry. You''ll get the money you deserve."


    Leanna stared at him coldly. "It seems that Violet has been generous."


    "That''s¡ª" Elliot caught himself as his expression changed slightly. He coughed. "What did you just


    say?"


    Calmed andposed, Leanna spoke with poise. "Violet. Have you forgotten about her so soon?"


    "M-Miss Kramer, right? I remember her, of course. She''s one of the special judges of thepetition."


    Leanna smiled without delving into the topic. "I still have work to do. See you."


    "Don''t chase me away yet," Elliot called out desperately. "I''m serious about the franchise business.


    Why don''t you think it over? Let''s exchange contact numbers. We can talk about the details on


    WhatsAppter."


    "There''s no need for that." Then, Leanna got to her feet and entered the office directly.


    Elliot squinted his eyes and watched her leave. This woman is beautiful, clever, and charismatic. More


    importantly, she''s Aidan''s woman. If I can get her, I''m sure she''ll prove to be more interesting than


    Queenie.


    After leaving the studio, he got into his car and was ready to head home. Suddenly thinking of


    something, he grinned and entered an address on the navigation system in the vehicle.


    ¡­


    Queenie had shut herself in the house for several days. All of them¡ªRobert, Georgina, and Violet¡ª


    had abandoned her. She couldn''t even contact Ron. That''s it! This is the end of me! While in a groggy


    state, she heard the doorbell ringing. She lifted her listless gaze in the darkness and nced at the


    door. The doorbell was still ringing, so it wasn''t a hallucination.


    She quickly got to her feet and opened the door, saying, "I knew you wouldn''t give up on me, Ron. I¡ª"


    Before she could finish her words, she realized it was someone else outside the house.


    Her pupils dted as an unconscious response to anxiety. With all that was left in her, she attempted to


    close the door in a hurry. However, before she could do that, Elliot barged into the house and grasped


    her hair before he dragged her to the bedroom.


    Queenie screamed, but the man soon clenched her neck, causing her face to flush.


    Elliot red at her with a hideous expression. It wasn''t until she almost cked out that he released


    her. Before Queenie could gasp for air, he pped her forcefully and cursed, "What a b*tch! How dare


    you get someone to deal with me? Who do you think you are? Since I''ve survived, I''ll make life a living


    hell for you!"


    He stuffed something into her mouth and bound her hands with duct tape. Then, he violently ripped her


    clothes apart and tortured her without mercy.


    She could only re at the man, but she couldn''t even let out a sound as her tears slid down her face.


    When the ordeal was over, Elliot tossed her to the ground and entered the room directly.


    Queenie came to her senses and struggled to her feet. "What are you trying to do? Get lost! You¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, the man pped her in the face again, which caused her to fall to


    the ground. Then, he walked around the room recklessly and threw all the trophies and award-winning


    works she had always treasured to the floor before trampling on them.


    Soon, all the valuable items in her bedroom had been crushed into pieces.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    She red at Elliot and cursed, "You''ll get your retribution one day!"


    After venting his fury, Elliot squatted in front of her and showed her a video on his phone. He barked,


    "Do you think you''ve destroyed everything? There''s still a copy with me."


    When Queenie saw herself in the video, she let out a high-pitched shriek.


    Seeing that, Elliot guffawed smugly.


    All of a sudden, Queenie jumped to her feet and pounced on him like a mad person. However, she was


    no match for him. He shoved her to the ground and strode over her body before spitting on her. "Go to


    hell!"


    A long time after Elliot was gone, Queenie remained paralyzed on the floor. She looked at the front with


    an expressionless face, and her eyes werepletely out of focus.

 Chapter 410

    Chapter 410


    After Elliot left the studio, Zoe entered the office with a confused frown. "Was that the guy who fell out


    with Queenie?"


    Leanna nodded slowly.


    "Wait a minute." Zoe pulled a chair toward herself and sat down beside the woman. "Why was he here?


    Did you see how smug he looked? If I had no idea what had happened, I''d have thought he had been


    honored instead of getting cklisted by the fashion industry."


    Leanna replied, "Perhaps he''s trying to add fire to the fuel since I''m ready to deal with Queenie."


    Zoe couldn''t help but click her tongue. "Although Queenie deserves karma, Elliot is also a terrible guy.


    Whenever I recall how smug he looked, I have goosebumps all over my body. I''m disgusted."


    After giving it some thought, she asked, "Didn''t you meet Lewis today? How is he going to deal with the


    two judges?"


    Leanna leaned against the chair and replied calmly, "We don''t have any solid evidence now, so we can


    only let them off."


    "What?! They''re not going to be punished for their wrongdoings?"


    Leanna smiled. "Don''t worry. As long as they''re guilty, their wrongdoings will be exposed sooner or


    later."


    Zoe nodded in agreement. "You have a point."


    Leanna stretched her back. "Alright, let''s get to work now."


    "I''ll go back to work now. Call out to me if you need me."


    "Alright."


    Zoe then left the ce. Just as Leanna was ready to start working on her draft, her phone on the table


    buzzed. She picked it up and realized it was a junk message. Then, she put the phone down and


    slightly pressed the space between her brows.


    Two hourster, she heard a knock at the door, so she lifted her head. "Pleasee in."


    Zoe pushed the door open and entered the office with boxes of essories. As sheid them down on


    the table, she uttered, "These are the essories that the factory has just produced, Nana. Please


    take a look and tell me if there''s a problem. If there''s none, I''ll contact the customers to pick them up."


    Hearing that, Leanna put down her pen and opened the boxes one by one. After examining all of them,


    she said, "There''s no problem. You can start contacting the customers."


    "Alright."


    Just as Zoe was about to leave, a staff member rushed into the office with a box. "There was one more


    box in the car, Zoe."


    Zoe patted her head. "Oh, I''ve forgotten about it!" She took the box from the staff member and passed


    it to Leanna. "Have a look at it as well."


    When Leanna opened the box and saw the ne, she fell into a dazed state for a moment.


    Seeing that, Zoe asked in a hushed voice, "What''s wrong, Nana? Is there a problem with it?"


    "No." Leanna shook her head with a smile. "It was one of my works. I sent the draft paper to the factory


    previously."


    As Zoe nced at the ne, she recalled something and asked probingly, "It looks like the lost


    ne you''d prepared for the charity g dinner the other day."


    Leanna replied, "It''s based on that ne. I''d made some modifications during thepetition."


    Upon learning that, Zoe said, "It''s no wonder I find the ne familiar. It looks gorgeous. Did you get


    the inspiration from the pocket watch?"


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Leanna pressed her lips into a line and nodded.


    Seeing that, Zoe stopped asking further. A momentter, she asked, "Why don''t we have dinnerter,


    Nana?"


    "Huh?"


    "It''s to celebrate that you''ve won thepetition and secured an exclusive show. Also, Georgina''s true


    colors have been exposed, and Queenie and Elliot are now fighting with each other."


    After pondering on it for a moment, Leanna nodded. "Alright, then. Have you invited anyone else?"


    Zoe winked at her cheekily. "Don''t worry. I''ve invited President Pearson."


    Leanna''s ears reddened as she coughed. "Stop saying nonsense. He''s just a friend¡­"


    "Right, right, right. Your friend." After a pause, Zoe added, "By the way, I''ve also invited Louis and


    Daphne. Is there anyone else you''d like to invite?"


    Leanna replied, "Tell Daniel toe over as well."


    This time, it was Zoe''s turn to blush as she refuted meekly, "Why are you inviting him?"


    Leanna chuckled. "Doesn''t he send you home every day now? It''s not like today will be an exception."


    "But¡ª"


    "It''s fine. Just tell him toe over. He''s helped me a lot."


    Zoe cleared her throat. "Alright. However, I don''t think he''s in the piano room now. I''ll call himter."


    "Alright."


    After the door was closed, Leanna pulled out the lowest drawer at her desk and opened a box. Then,


    she picked up a pocket watch and ced it on her table.


    Previously, she had found Lloyd through the pocket watch, but the man turned out to be a sham; her


    biological father passed away a long time ago.


    This pocket watch was probably thest thing he had left behind in this world.


    After staring at it for a while, Leanna put the pocket watch and the ne into the same box and


    closed the drawer.


    At 7.00PM, Leanna left her office and saw Zoe waiting for her on the couch. "I''m ready, Zoe. Let''s go."


    Zoe got to her feet. "Sure."


    The moment they left the studio, they saw a ck Rolls-Royce pulling over by the road.


    Zoe tactfully left the ce to get her car. "I''ll send you the restaurant''s address, Nana. See youter."


    Before Leanna could say anything, the other woman had run away. She pocketed her gaze and


    shuffled toward the Rolls-Royce. Aidan lowered the window and gestured to her. "Get in."


    Leanna opened the door. Just as she was ready to get into the vehicle, she saw a bouquet of flowers


    on the seat. Her lips curved into a smile as it surprised her that the man was pretty romantic.


    Aidan picked up the flowers for her, after which she slid into the passenger''s seat and closed the door.


    Then, she asked, "Hasn''t Zoe informed Jonathan about the restaurant''s address? Why did youe


    all the way here instead of going there directly?"


    Aidan''s lips twisted into a smile. "Because I wanted to see you earlier."


    The smile on Leanna''s face widened. After taking the roses from him, she smelled them. All of a


    sudden, she lifted her head and questioned with a frown, "Did you do anything wrong?"


    Aidan was speechless at that.


    "You''ve never given me flowers before."


    Aidan''s lips squirmed for a moment before he uttered, "No."


    Leanna observed his lips and felt that what he truly wanted to say was: where''s your conscience?


    With that said, the man had indeed given her many things, though he had only passed her the gifts


    personally on several asions.


    "Forget what I''ve said."


    Aidan raised his hand and flicked her forehead. "How ungrateful."


    Leanna ignored him. With the flowers in her arms, she lowered the window and looked out at the night


    view.

 Chapter 411

    Chapter 411


    At the hotel''s entrance, Zoe''s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets when she saw Daniel exit the car


    before he was followed by Elijah. What on earth is going on?


    Elijah met her gaze and greeted her with a grin, "Hi, Zoe."


    She forced a smile and waved at him. "Um! Daniel, can you apany me to get something?"


    He nodded, turned to Elijah, and said, "You should go up first."


    "Sure."


    As soon as Elijah left, Zoe pulled Daniel aside and demanded, "What are you doing?"


    "What?" He was perplexed by her unexpected question.


    "What exactly have you said? Why did you ask Elijah toe?"


    "I was with him when you called, and you told me to invite my friend to Miss McKinney''s birthday


    banquet. So, I invited him." Then, he continued, "Aren''t you guys his friends?"


    She gritted her teeth and emphasized, "Of course we are! Perhaps you should have given this some


    consideration. You knew Elijah had pursued Nana in the past, and President Pearson would be present


    at this banquet. Don''t you think it''ll make things awkwardter?"


    Zoe''s words caught Daniel off guard. "You didn''t tell me President Pearson would also being."


    She was at aplete loss for words and found it challenging to convey her point to him.


    He pondered for a moment before saying, "It''s nothing to worry about. Anyway, it''s all in the past.


    Besides, isn''t Miss McKinney currently in a rtionship with President Pearson? Moreover, Elijah has


    moved on."


    She drew a deep breath and sighed, "Never mind. You won''t get it even if I exin it to you."


    At that moment, Zoe pulled out her phone and was about to text Leanna alerting her to a potentially


    awkward situation, when a Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of her. Suddenly, Aidan appeared in her line


    of sight. She quickly hid the phone behind her back; perhaps her guilty conscience prompted her to act


    in such a manner. Then, he cast a cursory look in her direction. Did he notice her odd behavior earlier?


    Concurrently, Leanna exited the car from the other side. Although Zoe made a valiant effort to wink at


    her, she failed to catch on and raised an eyebrow in confusion.


    After a while, Leanna tentatively inquired, "W-What''s wrong?"


    Aidan averted his gaze from Zoe and then blocked Leanna''s path, iming, "Her eyes are hurt."


    Leanna rubbed her neck as she attempted to sort out her confusion. As a result, Zoe had no choice but


    to ept whatever path life had in store for them.


    Meanwhile, the awkward atmosphere pervaded the room upstairs as well.


    Daphne had a nearby job that day, so she headed straight to the hotel upon finishing work and was the


    first to arrive. Shortly after she sat down and pulled out her phone to text Zoe, the door to the private


    room opened. Then, Louis entered the room. Instantaneously, the entire room fell into a hushed, eerie


    silence.


    She was six years older than him, and while his words had hurt her at that time, she had long since


    forgotten about them. Then, she decided to break the silence. "Did youe here right after school?"


    He pursed his lips and lightly nodded his head.


    Daphne continued, "I just got here, too. It may take some time for your sister to arrive."


    "Okay." After providing a cursory response, Louis remained silent and did not say anything else.


    Nheless, she was pretty exhausted and did not bother toe up with anything to talk to him


    about, so she left him be. She picked up the ss and was about to reach out and grab the pitcher so


    she could pour some water when a bony hand reached across her, grabbed the pitcher, and poured


    water into her ss instead.


    Daphne was stunned for a second before she said, "Thanks."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "You''re wee." Afterward, Louis sat beside her.


    Suddenly, she began to feel ufortable. She had never anticipated that he would sit next to her and


    assumed he would maintain some physical distance from her. As she tried to think of a way out, a


    subdued male voice emanated beside her. "I''m sorry for what happenedst time."


    She bit her lower lip and responded, "Last time? I have entirely forgotten about it."


    "You didn''t forget."


    His response left Daphne bewildered.


    "You wouldn''t respond in such a snappy manner at mentioning what happened between us back then,"


    Louis replied.


    She was left speechless as she huffed angrily, "Louis, are you trying to trick me by asking me that


    question?"


    When she mentioned his name, Louis could not help but frown. After an awkward pause, he said, "I''m


    here to offer you my sincere apologies."


    "Okay. You''ve been forgiven," Daphne answered.


    When he heard that, he pursed his lips and was about to say something, but in the end, he did not say


    anything.


    She picked up the ss, drank from it, and said, "Have you told your sister about that matter?"


    "About what?"


    "Regarding your contract with Jellyfish Entertainment."


    "Not yet," Louis responded in a low voice.


    Daphne nodded and uttered, "This, I suppose, has nothing to do with me. Moreover, I have no right to


    be nosy. When you''re ready, just let her know."


    "Didn''t you tell me you have forgiven me?" he inquired as he raised his eyebrows.


    She calmly replied, "Yeah."


    When they were about to proceed with their conversation, the door to the private room abruptly


    opened, and Elijah walked in.


    Daphne had met Elijah at Leanna''s house for a barbecue during Thanksgiving several years ago;


    neither was a stranger to the other. After exchanging greetings, she could finally excuse herself to the


    restroom.


    She washed her hands at the sink as she thought about something that made her smile. Louis is still


    young and appears to have learned a lesson from me today.


    Women were notoriously vindictive, and many took pleasure in rehashing old grudges even if they


    imed to have forgiven and moved on.


    After washing her hands, Daphne grabbed a paper towel to dry them. However, before leaving, she


    caught a glimpse of her smiling reflection in the mirror. She was in disbelief and thought, I just made


    fun of a boy who isn''t even twenty years old; why is that funny? She retracted her smile and returned to


    the private room, appearing calm.


    At that moment, Leanna entered the private room and saw Elijah. In an instant, she was startled before


    reflexively turning her head and meeting Zoe''s gaze. Then, she learned that Zoe had been hinting at


    her earlier. Afterward, Leanna quickly snapped out of it and smiled at Elijah. Since he is here, let''s not


    make the situation even more awkward!


    However, not everyone agreed with her.


    Aidan spoke indifferently, "President Parker, do you have a lot of spare time these days?"


    Elijah smiled. "You may say so. I am certainly less busy than you, President Pearson."


    "Then, shouldn''t you reflect on yourself?"


    When Leanna noticed the two men squabbling, she coughed and asked Zoe, "Have you ced your


    order for the food yet?"


    Zoe responded quickly, saying, "No, not yet. Why don''t I go out and ce the order right now?"


    "It''s fine; I''ll go." While saying that, Leanna pulled Aidan along and said, "Let''s go."


    Aidan arched his brow and turned to look intently at Elijah.


    Elijah withdrew the grin from his face and remained silent. It turned out that some words were simple to


    express, but when he saw them with his own eyes, he was still conscious of their rtionship.

 Chapter 412

    Chapter 412


    After leaving the private room, Leanna frowned and questioned, "Why do you always give Elijah a hard


    time?"


    Aidan slid his hand into his pants pocket and replied nonchntly, "Why don''t you ask him? Why did he


    try to hit on you?"


    "I-I thought that was all in the past."


    "Then, why does he show up here?"


    Leanna parted her lips but was at a loss for words because she knew why Elijah hade, so she


    responded in a hushed voice, "Anyway, he''s only here for a meal. Moreover, many guests are here


    today, so it''s not like he''s the only person here."


    When he heard this, Aidan smirked but kept his cold expression as he bent down slightly and leaned


    closer to her.


    "What do you want?" she questioned.


    He tilted his head and fixed his gaze on her lips.


    She was speechless, and after ncing around, she whispered, "There are many people here. Can''t


    we do it at home?"


    "Then, tell Elijah to leave."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    Leanna could not help but curl her lips. What a b*stard! Then, she took advantage of Aidan''s distraction


    to steal a kiss from his cheek. "Happy?"


    He straightened up and answered, "I guess so."


    As she snorted in response to his remark, the waiter approached them and inquired what they wanted


    to order.


    As they walked to the private room after cing their order, Leanna grabbed Aidan''s hand and gently


    reminded him, "Remember your promise to me."


    "What did I promise you?"


    She clenched her teeth and grunted, "Stop picking on Elijah."


    He arched his brow in response. "Have I said that?"


    She took a deep breath and said, "Then, I''ll send you downstairs. Anyway, Jonathan hasn''t gone very


    far, so there''s a chance he can turn around ande back to pick you up."


    Leanna''s unexpected statement left Aidan speechless.


    When they returned to the room, the tension had subsided. Since Daniel was the source of the


    problem, Zoe had no choice but to liven up the mood to avoid making it so awkward and formal. After


    the meal, she felt utterly wiped out. Zoe turned her head, but to her surprise, she locked eyes with


    Daniel smiling at her. She could not help but re at him. What is so funny? It''s all your fault!


    Seemingly sensing her thoughts, he coughed and refilled her ss with water.


    At that moment, Elijah''s phone rang, and he nced at it briefly before announcing, "I''m sorry,


    everyone. Something important came up at work, so please excuse me."


    As soon as he left, the ambiance calmed down and returned to normal.


    Afterward, Daniel started talking. "Miss McKinney, I heard you signed a contract with Fashion Week for


    a brand show. Congrattions."


    "Thanks," replied Leanna with a smile.


    Aidan rested his arm on the chair behind her andmented, "You''re quite well-informed."


    As he realized that Aidan had deliberately responded scornfully, he nced at Zoe, sitting next to him,


    and gazed at her with adoration. "I heard about it from Zoe."


    As soon as she met his adoring eyes, Zoe started to choke on her drink. She set the ss down hastily


    and began coughing so hard she could hardly catch her breath.


    Daniel responded immediately by reaching out to pat her on the back andforted her gently, "Don''t


    rush it. Drink slowly."


    In an instant reaction, she began coughing even more vigorously.


    It wasn''t just Aidan who was grimacing and looking disgusted as he watched the scene; everyone


    present had a feeling that was a little hard to put into words.


    Zoe felt embarrassed, and she desperately wanted to crawl under the table. This guy must have a


    severe acting addiction. Why does he suddenly act out in front of everyone here?


    Suddenly, Daphne''s phone vibrated on the table; she picked it up and nced at the screen. Afterward,


    she began packing her belongings and said, "I have to go. Have fun, you guys."


    On the other hand, Louis caught a glimpse of her phone screen. He recalled the man who had


    previously answered his call, and his brows knitted together covertly. Leanna kicked him under the


    table and gave him a subtle hint to apany Daphne, but he did not respond. So, she covered the


    expression on her face by picking up a ss of water before kicking him again.


    Aidan took the ss out of her hands and said, "You''re kicking me."


    At that moment, Leanna was at a loss for words, and it was her turn to wish she could crawl under the


    table.


    On the other hand, Daphne was oblivious to the events transpiring around her, so after she packed her


    belongings, she excused herself. "President Pearson, Leanna. It''s time for me to get going."


    As she said that, she bid farewell to Zoe and Daniel before turning around to leave.


    Leanna watched Daphne leave the room, and before she could respond, Aidan turned to Louis and


    asked, "What are you waiting for? Do you want me to send you off?"


    Louis pursed his lips, thought for a moment, and then jumped to his feet and ran after Daphne.


    She was perplexed by his brother''s abrupt reaction, and after some time, she inquired, "H-How did you


    know?"


    He replied, "Everyone with eyes can see what''s going on."


    Zoe eventually came to her senses; it was clear she had no idea what was happening around her, so


    she asked, "What''s going on?"


    Leanna coughed drily and said, "Nothing. Let''s eat." Unfortunately, not everyone who has eyes can see


    what is happening.


    When they were done eating, Zoe excused herself because she was ufortable being the third


    wheel, and Daniel followed behind her.


    Leanna sighed heavily and looked at her phone, realizing it was still early. Then, she inquired,


    "President Pearson, do you have to work overtime tonight?"


    "Do you want to ask me out on a date?" Aidan questioned in a low tone.


    She was taken aback by his response and stated, "No. Forget about it."


    Afterward, he took her hand and made a tentative suggestion. "Come on. I''ll take you to a ce."


    "Don''t tell me we have to go to a ce only essible by helicopter!"


    "If you''d like, we can."


    In fact, the location Aidan wanted to take her to was only ten minutes away, putting it within reach of


    the helicopter shortly after it had lifted off.


    Soon after walking into the shopping center, Leanna saw that he was heading toward the children''s


    yground. After a short while, she wondered, Why is he bringing me here? Suddenly, she stopped in


    her tracks.


    After a few strides, he noticed she was not trailing closely behind him, so he turned around and asked,


    "What''s the matter?"


    She pursed her lips and said, "Forget it. Let''s not go over there."


    "Hmm?"


    Leanna drew a slow and steady breath before saying, "It''s not nice to interfere with other people''s lives.


    It''ll be inconvenient for them."


    "What made you think that?" Aidan inquired.


    She lowered her head in silence.


    She liked the little guy and had told Aidan she wanted to see the child. She tried to verify a presumption


    she had made about him, but it seemed at this point that she was giving too much thought to the


    situation. Under these circumstances, there was no justification for her to make the situation more


    difficult for other people.


    Aidan gave Leanna a quick flick across the forehead and remarked, "Where do these strange ideas


    come from that gue your mind constantly? We''re merely meeting him asionally; it''s not as if we''re


    bringing him home. It''s not as bad as you imagine in your mind."


    "I''d rather not. They will dislike us for our actions. You may not mind, but it bothers me."


    After closing his eyes, he attempted to stifle the anger rising inside him by pressing the tip of his tongue


    against the teeth in his mouth. He exhaled and asked, "Are you sure?"


    "Yes. I''m sure," she replied earnestly.


    "Fine." Aidan turned around and remarked, "This will be thest time you see him. Don''t me me for


    not telling you."

 Chapter 413

    Chapter 413


    Aidan said, "Their entire family is going to migrate soon." A momentter, he continued, "I told you that,


    didn''t I?"


    The unexpected statement left Leannapletely speechless. You didn''t tell me any b*llshit!


    Then, he continued, "If you don''t want to go, then forget about it. If I continue to bother them, I''m afraid


    they will also grow to dislike me."


    She gritted her teeth and mused, This b*stard is doing it on purpose!


    So, Leanna grabbed his arm, clung tightly, and whispered, "Sorry."


    "What?"


    She slightly raised her voice and said, "As I was saying, you''re quite annoying!"


    Aidan''s gazended on her arm, and he leaned forward ever-so-slightly to whisper in her ear, "If I''m


    annoying, why are you clinging to me so tightly?"


    She responded immediately by releasing her grip on his arm.


    Then, he smirked as he took her hand and led her to the yground.


    Celia was usually sitting in the parents'' waiting area with her child. Leanna looked up and recognized


    the man who had picked up Celia previously, along with his child.


    When Celia saw them, she greeted them, "Hello, President Pearson and Miss McKinney."


    Leanna shifted her attention away from the man and smiled at Celia. After a brief conversation, Celia


    excused herself to get some water, handing the little guy she was holding over to Leanna before


    rushing off.


    She carried the little guy over to the bench and sat down with him in her arms, her smile widening


    inexplicably at the sight of him. His hands wiggled in the air as he waved at her as if he was ecstatic to


    see her. Then, she pulled a toy from the stroller and gave it to him.


    While the little guy was distracted by the toy, Leanna abruptly looked up at Aidan and said, "President


    Pearson."


    "Yeah?"


    "Do you think he has quite a bit of a resemnce to you?"


    He looked deeply at the child in her arms and asked calmly, "Is he?"


    She nodded and babbled gibberish in a solemn tone, "I didn''t realize it then, but now that he''s grown a


    little, I notice how much his features resemble yours."


    "If that''s true, you may want to worry about it."


    "Why would I¡ª" Halfway through her reasoning, Leanna suddenly understood what he meant.


    Consequently, she pursed her lips and turned her body to the side while holding the child in her arm to


    prevent herself from staring at Aidan.


    He chuckled upon seeing her reaction and ced his hand on her shoulders. "I''m just kidding."


    She was ying with him, and the child bore no resemnce to him.


    Afterward, she asked, "Um¡­ What happens to Wendy if their entire family migrates?"


    "She''s not leaving."


    Leanna frowned upon hearing that. "Will she be left alone, then?"


    Aidan replied indifferently, "You should ask them about it. I''m not sure."


    "Oh," she responded curtly.


    She knew she couldn''t have asked Celia herself, so instead, she queried Aidan casually.


    Afterward, Leanna stared at the little guy in her arms while her hand gently grasped his teeny fingers


    as she was reluctant to let him go. Although she had only known this child for a short time, she


    believed that it was kismet that brought her to him because it wasn''t long after she had a miscarriage


    that the child happened to enter her life simultaneously. Despite that, she had always had a hunch that


    the little guy was her biological child. However, she needed to admit the reality of the situation.


    Later, she carefully ced him back in the stroller, prompting Aidan to inquire. "She hasn''t returned.


    Don''t you want to keep cuddling him?"


    As she stared at the little guy in the stroller, she had to take a lot of willpower to tear her eyes away


    from him. She shook her head andmented with a sad note, "Since they are migrating, we won''t be


    able to see each other again. Why should I try to hold on? The sooner I let go, the better."


    Aidan stared at her, his thin lips slightly pursed. Momentster, he broke the silence. "It''s not as if they


    will never return after migrating. If all else fails, I can take you abroad to see him."


    Leanna rejected the suggestion. "It''s fine. This is where I should formally bid him farewell." It was


    possible to interpret that as her final farewell to her unborn child.


    "They''re migrating, and it''s not a big deal."


    "You don''t understand." She red at him.


    Since his family is moving abroad, the little guy and I will have to part ways soon. It is futile to persuade


    them to stay, as it will only cause trouble.


    Perhaps, Aidan had picked up on her train of thought because, after a brief pause of silence, he asked,


    "What if they don''t migrate?"


    "Then, I¡ª" Leanna paused halfway through her sentence. "They won''t migrate?"


    He averted his gaze and said, "I''m just saying. Migrating to a different country is not a simple process.


    They may be unable to leave for a variety of reasons."


    She furrowed her brows and thought about how fickle he was.


    At that moment, Celia returned with several water bottles in her arms and offered one to Leanna. "Sorry


    to keep you waiting for so long, Miss McKinney. I''ve got you a bottle of water."


    With a bright grin, Leanna declined. "No thanks. We have to get going."


    Celia then nodded her head. "Goodbye, Miss McKinney."


    "Bye."


    As they walked away, Leanna could not help but sneak a few nces at the little guy in the stroller as if


    she were going to say something, but no words came out.


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    After leaving the children''s yground, she wandered aimlessly throughout the shopping center. Aidan


    trailed after her, oblivious to the thoughts going through her head.


    Shortly after the aimless stroll, Leanna spotted the washroom sign and turned to look at him. "President


    Pearson, please wait for me here. I''m going to the washroom."


    "Sure."


    When he saw her enter the washroom, he averted his eyes, pulled out his phone, and dialed a number.


    After the call was connected, Keaton answered, "President Pearson, everything is ready. Shall we


    make arrangements for Celia to leave?"


    "No."


    Those words caught Keaton off guard. "Do you mean¡ª"


    Aidan told him tly, "Let her stay and send somebody to keep an eye on her and her boyfriend."


    "Yes, sir," replied Keaton.


    After that, Aidan hung up the phone and nced down at the screen with his lips pursed.


    Leanna emerged from the washroom a few minutester. "Let''s go."


    She took a couple of steps before someone grabbed her arm. Then, Aidan said, "This way."


    Then, Leanna turned around to study the sign and remarked, "The exit is this way."


    "Who said we''re leaving now?"


    "Huh?"


    "I bought us movie tickets. Let''s go." As he spoke, he took her hand and walked forward.


    After giving it some thought, Leanna realized they hadn''t watched a movie together in quite some time,


    so sheplied with his request. Aidan had chosen the film randomly, but as soon as they walked into


    the hall, she could tell it was a dramatic love story.


    The story began when the female protagonist suffered a miscarriage and was rushed to the hospital.


    The male protagonist held her hand and wept bitterly, insisting that he was to me and vehemently


    denying any involvement with any other women, but that was all an act. Disheartened by the man''s


    lies, the heroine closed her eyes, took off the ring on her finger, and hurled it at him.


    Leanna and Aidan were speechless as they watched the scene unfold.

 Chapter 414

    Chapter 414


    Meanwhile, after Louis chased Daphne down the stairs, he saw her strolling leisurely along the street.


    Seeing that, he quickly caught up with her and asked in a low voice, "Where''s your car?"


    Hearing his voice, Daphne was startled and uttered after calming herself down, "I¡­ My driver got


    caught up with some personal matters, so he went home early."


    "What about your assistant?"


    "I have no more work today, so I let her go off early."


    After a moment of silence, Louis responded, "I see."


    As they walked, Daphne asked, "Are you returning to school? This doesn''t seem to be the right way."


    Louis hummed in response and offered, "Let me walk you back."


    Daphne probably didn''t expect him to say that, so she was taken aback for a moment before smiling.


    "I''m a grown-up. I don''t need you to see me off. So, go ahead now, or the school will be closed soon."


    "It''s still early," he insisted. Daphne could tell he wasn''t going to leave her.


    After pondering for a while, she uttered seriously, "I''m going to meet a friend. She lives near here and


    it''ll only be a short walk. You don''t have to¡ª"


    "I''ll take you to her ce then."


    Hearing that, Daphne was speechless. She licked her lips, at a loss for words.


    The two walked silently, and since they were in a business district, she couldn''t find a chance to make


    him leave at all. When they finally entered a neighborhood, she spoke, "My friend''s house is here.


    Thanks for sending me. Bye."


    Louis stopped and stood on the spot while nodding. "Go on in."


    Daphne chuckled dryly, bit the bullet, and entered the housing area.


    The guard at the entrance of the neighborhood questioned her, "Where''s your ess card?" Since she


    had been acting all the way, she couldn''t just give up. "I''m here to meet my friend."


    "Call her and tell her toe and fetch you. We don''t allow any visitors without an ess card,"


    uttered the guard. Under his scrutinizing gaze, Daphne had no choice but to take out her phone from


    her bag slowly, but she hesitated for a long time to make the call, reluctant to turn around because she


    could sense that Louis was still standing outside.


    Seeing her standing still, the security gradually grew suspicious. "What are you actually here for?"


    "I¡­" Just as Daphne was caught in an embarrassing situation, a cold male voice sounded beside her,


    "Sorry, we got the wrong address." After speaking, he pulled her away.


    Only after they walked a distance did she notice that he was still holding her hand, so she quickly


    withdrew it, wanting to exin what happened earlier, but she parted her lips yet didn''t know where to


    start.


    However, instead of talking about the matter earlier, he fished out his phone and asked her, "Where do


    you stay?" Without a choice, Daphne told him her address. Louis hummed and quickly tapped the


    screen with his long fingers before putting away his phone.


    The two stood by the side of the street, feeling the cold, evening breeze.


    Daphne turned sideways to look at the boy, who was a head taller than her.


    Under the dim light of the streemp, half of his features were shrouded in the dark, while the other half


    was brightly lit, and the outline of his jaw was clear.


    Undeniably, their family genes were strong. Leanna was pretty and her brother was not inferior to her in


    terms of looks. Once he joined the entertainment circle, he could easily be a chick ma. What


    a handsome boy.


    Just as she was caught staring at him in a daze, a white car stopped in front of them. Louis then


    uttered softly, "Your ride is here." Daphne quickly withdrew her thoughts, coughed awkwardly, and


    touched the back of her neck unnaturally to cover up her embarrassment.


    Louis took a step forward and opened the car door. Seeing that, she hurriedly entered the car.


    Subsequently, he bent over and entered the car as well. After he got in the car, Daphne couldn''t help


    moving away from him to keep a distance between them.


    That''s weird. This wasn''t the first time a guy offered to send her home, but somehow, she felt especially


    awkward this time.


    Sensing her movement, Louis shut the car door without saying a word.


    The ride was quiet along the way, save for the music from the radio that the driver had been ying on


    a loop. It was a song from the eighties or nies and was yed at a loud volume.


    When she realized that Louis was looking at her, Daphne secretly took out her earphones and shoved


    one into her ear. In a hushed tone, she asked, "Want this?"


    He nodded, so she passed the other earphone to him. When he took it, he leaned a little closer to her.


    Daphne''s eyes widened involuntarily. These are wireless earphones, Louis! Our distance won''t affect


    the sound!


    However, since he had already leaned closer to her, there was nothing she could say, so she


    proceeded to turn on her ylist and picked a bad song.


    After a while, Daphne realized that giving Louis one of the earphones was the wrong move.


    It was fine that she couldn''t block out the extremely rhythmic music yed by the driver, but she was


    now caught in the middle of a bad in her right ear, and a nies disco music in her left ear. She felt


    like she was going to have a meltdown soon.


    Due to that, she nced at Louis quietly and noticed that he was quietly looking out the window,


    seemingly unaffected at all.


    Fine. So be it.


    After about half an hour, the car finally stopped.


    Daphne hurriedly got out of the car to give her ear some peace. After closing the car door, she felt like


    she was alive again.


    When Louis got out of the car, she turned off the music and pointed behind him. "My house is here. You


    should go back now."


    Louis then said, "I''ll leave after you go in."


    Daphne was speechless. What was wrong with this kid? Was he doubting her?


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    After a dry cough, Daphne exined, "I do live here."


    Louis smiled at her. "I know."


    Daphne took a few steps back and stretched out her hand to wave at him. "Erm¡­ Bye, then."


    "Bye."


    Daphne smiled and turned around to enter her housing area.


    Watching her back, Louis felt his lips twitch, but he eventually didn''t say another word and merely


    watched her enter the housing area.


    Once she was out of sight, he took the earphone out and looked at his palm while smiling.


    When Daphne got home and took out her earphone, she realized that the other one was missing, so


    she called Louis. "Did you leave already?"


    "Yeah."


    Daphne plopped down on the couch. "Is my earphone with you?"


    "Is it?" Louis paused for a moment before saying, "It is."


    Before Daphne could speak, he continued, "Are you in a rush to get it? If not, I''ll bring it to you


    tomorrow."


    "It''s okay. It''s just an earphone. It''s not that important," Daphne replied. "Then¡­ Just be careful on the


    way back."


    "Sure," responded Louis. "Should I text you when I reach?"


    "Huh?" Daphne was taken aback by his question.


    "To let you know I''ve arrived safely."


    "Oh¡­ sure."


    Louis smiled, "Okay. Bye."

 Chapter 415

    Chapter 415


    After the movie ended, it was already 11.30PM.


    Leanna was the first to speak. "I wanna go home now."


    Aidan hummed and replied in a subdued voice, "I''ll send you home."


    "Okay."


    Along the way, Aidan did not talk a lot. It seemed that the movie earlier had a big impact on him.


    Leanna lowered the car window, feeling the cold breeze, and smiled.


    After a while, the car arrived at the entrance of Crossley Residence. Leanna unbuckled her seat belt


    and reached out to pull the car door. When she touched the handle, she suddenly turned around and


    said, "I''m leaving now."


    Aidan replied, "If you want me to send you in, I can do that."


    Leanna stayed silent for a moment before saying, "Forget it." With that, she opened the door and got


    out of the car.


    After walking a few steps, she halted in her tracks again and turned her head, only to see his car still


    parked at the spot as if he had no intention of leaving.


    If she wasn''t hallucinating, she seemed to hear the sound of a lighter when she got out of the car


    earlier. After pondering for a moment, Leanna walked from the back of the vehicle to the driver''s seat.


    Sure enough, Aidan was smoking.


    Noticing her sudden presence, Aidan waved his hand to brush away the smoke in front of him while


    staring at her. "Why did youe back?"


    Leanna ced her hands on the car window and looked at him without blinking.


    Aidan looked at her with a puzzled expression.


    It might be due to the movie earlier, but he felt her gaze was somehow meaningful. He felt


    ufortable by her stare, so he attempted to look away. At that moment, she suddenly asked, "Are


    you guilty?"


    "Guilty of what?" Aidan licked his teeth discreetly.


    Leanna then uttered seriously, "I read a test on the Inte. It said that if couples look at each other for


    15 seconds, they usually can''t help kissing each other, but you are avoiding my sight. Are you guilty or


    something?"


    "Are you giving me a hint?"


    "I¡­"


    Before Leanna could speak, an arm hooked around her neck. Instantly, the man''s thin lips that carried


    the smell of cigarettes sealed her lips. When the cigarette butt was about to be extinguished, Aidan let


    go of her, his voice was low and hoarse. "Why don''t youe with me so we can kiss all we want?"


    She pushed him away. "In your dreams!"


    Aidan chuckled at that. "Weren''t you the one who asked for it?"


    "I just¡­" Unbothered to bicker with him, shended her gaze on the cigarette box beside him. "I''m the


    one who should be sad. Why did you get emotional?"


    Aidan held her hand and said, "I just feel sad for you."


    Leanna pouted. "It''s just a movie. Why are you so serious about it?"


    Aidan replied lightly, "It''s nothing. I just feel sorry for you sometimes."


    "Sometimes?" Shouldn''t it be all the time?


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    When Aidan looked at her, she immediately shut up.


    After a while, she pulled her hand out. "That''s enough. Let''s not waste time here. I''m going in."


    Aidan stared at her intensely, pulled her head down without warning, kissed her for a while, and urged,


    "Go on in."


    Just as Leanna was about to leave, she seemed to remember something. "Stop smoking."


    "Got it." He smiled.


    Leanna was still worried, so she reached out to him. "Give it to me."


    Grabbing the cigarette box and lighter, he ced them in her palm.


    Seeing that, Leanna smiled. "I''m going in now. Drive home safely."


    Aidan rarely smoked unless he was in an extremely bad mood, but she couldn''t fathom why he would


    be emotionally affected by a movie.


    "Okay."


    Leanna shoved his cigarette pack and lighter into her bag before entering Crossley Residence.


    However, she didn''t drive home today, so she had to walk a distance before reaching the house. After


    taking two steps, the streetlights on both sides suddenly went dark following a loud snap. Thereafter,


    her surroundings turned pitch ck without even a small glimmer of light.


    Leanna stood on the spot for a moment, and just as she was about to take out her phone to turn on the


    shlight, a dazzling light suddenly lit up behind her. She squinted her eyes and turned her head to see


    the bright lights emitted by a car. The smile on her face grew wider at the sight.


    Turning back, she no longer fished for her phone as she walked on the road. The distance from the


    headlights was far enough for her to cover the entire road. Moreover, walking on the road alone didn''t


    make her feel lonely at all.


    Once Leanna entered the garden, there were lights around her, so she took out her phone and sent a


    message to Aidan, saying that she had arrived. After the message was sent, the car lights in the


    distance faded in a few seconds.


    She then put away her phone, and when she went upstairs, she caught a glimpse of Lloyd''s study door,


    which was open. She didn''t know if it was his habit or to guard against her deliberately, but since she


    moved to Crossley Residence, Lloyd''s study room was always locked except when he was around.


    Leanna looked around, raised her brows indistinctly, and looked back. She then went back to her room,


    locked the door behind her, and took a shower.


    After she entered the bedroom, a maid came out from the corner, walked to Georgina''s room, and


    knocked lightly on the door.


    "Come in," Georgina said coldly.


    The maid hurriedly opened the door and greeted her, "Miss Crossley."


    Georgina was sitting on the couch, flipping through the magazine in front of her. "Is Leanna back?"


    "Yes. She just went back to her room."


    Georgina then questioned, "Didn''t I tell you to turn off the lights? Why did shee back so soon?"


    The maid hesitated, not knowing what to say. "Well¡­"


    Georgina frowned, knowing that it was not what she wanted to hear. So, she raised another question.


    "Did you leave the study open?"


    "Y-Yes, I did. Miss McKinney even took a nce at the study when she came back. I think she noticed


    that the door was left ajar."


    Georgina snorted coldly and continued flipping through her magazine. "Okay, keep an eye on her from


    now on and inform me as soon as she enters the study."


    The maid then expressed her worries. "But Mr. Crossley isn''t at home these days. If he finds out what


    we did, will he¡ª"


    "What''s there to worry about when I''m here?"


    Hearing that, the maid quickly lowered her head, not daring to speak again.


    Georgina then instructed, "Leave if there''s nothing else you want to say. Leanna isn''t dumb. She will


    pick a time when no one is around, so don''t go to sleep tonight and stay outside the study."


    "Yes, miss," replied the maid.


    "You may leave now."


    Once the maid left, Georgina shut the magazine and tossed it on the table in annoyance.


    She used to have something on Leanna, but she suffered a huge loss because of it, so she couldn''t


    just let it go. Moreover, she already made someone install a surveince camera in the study in


    advance. As long as Leanna sneaked in alone, she would have a reason to drive her out of Crossley


    Residence, leaving her no chance of finding any clues.

 Chapter 416

    Chapter 416


    Meenwhile, in Leenne''s room, efter she got out of the shower, she ley down on her bed end soon fell


    esleep. On the other hend, the servent weited downsteirs ell night for her, but the servent didn''t see her


    descend the steirs.


    The following morning, Leenne woke up leter then usuel. When she went downsteirs, Georgine wes


    heving her breekfest. Leenne smiled upon seeing her end seid, "Good morning, Miss Crossley."


    Georgine geve Leenne en icy stere while ignoring her greeting.


    Then, the servent who hed been stending by the side quickly retreeted.


    Leenne edvenced two steps before retrecing her steps. "By the wey, when I returned home lest night, I


    noticed Mr. Crossley''s study door wes open. I think you should close it in cese something goes


    missing."


    As she sipped her gless of milk, Georgine seid indifferently, "Ded hes treveled ebroed end will not


    return for severel deys. Perheps, he forgot to close the door before leeving." After thet, she geve her


    enother glence. "The only other people here besides us ere the servents. Do you believe enyone would


    ettempt to steel from his room?"


    Leenne kept her grin permenently effixed to her fece. "You should know better." With thet, she turned


    eround end left.


    With e stony expression, Georgine slemmed the gless of milk down on the teble. As it turned out,


    Leenne wes more intelligent then Georgine hed enticipeted. How could Leenne resist doing something


    she''d elweys wented to do? Nheless, Georgine hed other plens to force her to leeve Crossley


    Residence.


    Leenne hed just stepped out of the house end wes ebout to heil e ceb when she spotted her Porsche


    perked on the shoulder of the roed. Then, Aiden''s suborde stepped out of the cer end informed her,


    "Miss McKinney, President Peerson instructed me to heve the cer delivered to you."


    "Thenks."


    After getting inside the vehicle, Leenne turned eround to cest e sidelong glence in the direction of the


    Crossley Residence, then everted her geze end drove ewey.


    Since Lloyd''s study room is elweys locked, there is sufficient evidence to conclude thet it conteins


    confidentiel end significent informetion. In eddition to his ceutiousure, it is inconceiveble thet he


    would forget something es substentiel es locking the door. Moreover, he is still on e business trip end


    will be ewey for severel deys. I feel like Georgine hes set e trep for me to welk into, but only the neive


    will fell for it.


    Meenwhile, Leenne hedpleted severel orders over the previous few deys, which reduced her


    workloed significently end ellowed her to relex. She pulled out her phone when she entered the studio


    end sterted mindlessly browsing through Violet''s Twitter feed.


    Meanwhile, in Leanna''s room, after she got out of the shower, shey down on her bed and soon fell


    asleep. On the other hand, the servant waited downstairs all night for her, but the servant didn''t see her


    descend the stairs.


    The following morning, Leanna woke upter than usual. When she went downstairs, Georgina was


    having her breakfast. Leanna smiled upon seeing her and said, "Good morning, Miss Crossley."


    Georgina gave Leanna an icy stare while ignoring her greeting.


    Then, the servant who had been standing by the side quickly retreated.


    Leanna advanced two steps before retracing her steps. "By the way, when I returned homest night, I


    noticed Mr. Crossley''s study door was open. I think you should close it in case something goes


    missing."


    N?velDrama.Org holds ? this.


    As she sipped her ss of milk, Georgina said indifferently, "Dad has traveled abroad and will not


    return for several days. Perhaps, he forgot to close the door before leaving." After that, she gave her


    another nce. "The only other people here besides us are the servants. Do you believe anyone would


    attempt to steal from his room?"


    Leanna kept her grin permanently affixed to her face. "You should know better." With that, she turned


    around and left.


    With a stony expression, Georgina mmed the ss of milk down on the table. As it turned out,


    Leanna was more intelligent than Georgina had anticipated. How could Leanna resist doing something


    she''d always wanted to do? Nheless, Georgina had other ns to force her to leave Crossley


    Residence.


    Leanna had just stepped out of the house and was about to hail a cab when she spotted her Porsche


    parked on the shoulder of the road. Then, Aidan''s subordinate stepped out of the car and informed her,


    "Miss McKinney, President Pearson instructed me to have the car delivered to you."


    "Thanks."


    After getting inside the vehicle, Leanna turned around to cast a sidelong nce in the direction of the


    Crossley Residence, then averted her gaze and drove away.


    Since Lloyd''s study room is always locked, there is sufficient evidence to conclude that it contains


    confidential and significant information. In addition to his cautious nature, it is inconceivable that he


    would forget something as substantial as locking the door. Moreover, he is still on a business trip and


    will be away for several days. I feel like Georgina has set a trap for me to walk into, but only the naive


    will fall for it.


    Meanwhile, Leanna hadpleted several orders over the previous few days, which reduced her


    workload significantly and allowed her to rx. She pulled out her phone when she entered the studio


    and started mindlessly browsing through Violet''s Twitter feed.


    Violet''s personality was the pr opposite of Georgina''s. She loved posting about every aspect of her


    life on social media tforms, and she would do so regardless of whether she was traveling abroad or


    having afternoon tea with her closest friends.


    Although there was no evidence from the organizer that the two judges epted bribes from Violet,


    Leanna had no choice but to drop the matter, but she would not give up without a fight.


    As she scrolled through Violet''s page, she found nothing of interest and put down her phone. At the


    same time, Zoe entered her room and sat down on the couch. "Nana, do you remember my friend


    Jamie Collin?"


    After giving it some thought, Leanna asked, "The one with whom we had a drinkst time?"


    "Yes! That''s when President Pearson joined us."


    Leanna nodded. "Yeah, I do. Why?"


    Zoe replied, "She texted me stating that Violet nned to celebrate her birthday with a grand party this


    weekend. Jamie is among the many guests who have been invited. She said the event would be


    spectacr and asked if I wished to attend. Do you think this is a wonderful opportunity?"


    Leanna arched her brow as she had just contemted the incident involving Violet, but she had not


    expected the opportunity to present itself so soon.


    Zoe noticed Leanna''s expression and inquired, "Shall I inform her that both of us will be attending?"


    "Nah. I''ll go on my own when the timees," said Leanna.


    "How do you n to attend?" questioned Zoe.


    Leanna grinned. "Doesn''t all she wanted for her birthday be a fun-filled celebration? I will bring her a


    massive gift. She''s not going to stop me from attending, is she?"


    Zoe began to wonder what sort of massive gift Leanna would prepare.


    ¡­


    Soon, it was the weekend. Since Violet was the only girl in her family, and it was her 21st birthday, the


    celebration was particrly extravagant. In addition to inviting some well-known celebrities, daughters


    of wealthy families, and a few acquaintances, her father also invited many prominent business figures.


    However, he did not anticipate receiving a gift from Pearson Group the night before Violet''s birthday.


    When he realized how expensive the gift was, he reasoned that Aidan was trying to smooth things over


    in light of the past events that had ced the two families in an awkward situation. So, he quickly


    extended an invitation to Aidan.


    Violet was so ecstatic to have received the gift that she immediately posted a tweet about it on Twitter


    to show off. Hence, she paid for the promoted trends and tweeted that Pearson Group''s president


    would spend a substantial amount to impress a beauty.


    Manyizens were taken aback by the tweet''s shocking content.


    ''Can you please exin to me what is happening?''


    ''Good graciousness! How can something with only a thousand views and a few hundred tweets trend in


    the top five? If she has the money, she should get stic surgery.''


    ''Huh! Can someone please tell me who this woman is?''


    ''I believe she''s the Kramer Family''s darling daughter. I overheard a friend mentioning that tomorrow


    was her birthday and that she had invited many people, including some reporters, to make it appear as


    though they were holding a press conference. Nheless, isn''t it obvious that she paid to promote the


    trend? Unfortunately, nobody has ever heard of her.''


    ''Haha! What do you mean that President Pearson is trying to impress a beauty? Didn''t he just give her


    a present under thepany''s name? I genuinely wonder what goes through Miss Kramer''s head.''


    ''Exactly. What is meant by "impress a beauty"? Surely McK is more attractive than she is, right? I doubt


    President Pearson is interested in Miss Kramer unless he ispletely blind.''


    ''I agree! This woman does not evene close to having McK''s personality. To put it bluntly, I can''t


    fathom the mindset of the affluent.''


    Everyone who followed the trend criticized Violet, and some evenpared her to Leanna to show


    how shecked Leanna''s appearance and temperament. As soon as she saw that, she immediately


    became enraged, and immediately after that, she demanded that the trend be deleted. Leanna,


    Leanna, and more Leanna. It''s always that vixen!


    The following day, Violet made arrangements with a team of hairstylists and makeup artists to make


    her look as stunning as possible. She was already prepared with the appropriate caption to apany


    the post she would maketer. Isn''t Leanna just a vixen? How can she be better than me?


    Soon, night came. When Violet arrived at the hotel, she first went to the area designated for the media


    to take some photographs. Afterward, she approached the exquisitely decked-out birthday party setup


    and requested that her photographer take additional photographs of her in that setting.


    At that moment, many guests also arrived. They all couldn''t help butpliment her when they saw


    her, "Oh, Violet! You look gorgeous!"


    She let out a snort and then continued to strike a pose. "Of course I am!"


    Suddenly, another voice chimed in, "Exactly. Violet is the daughter of the Kramers. She''d undoubtedly


    look more beautiful than pheasants who try hard to be a phoenix."

 Chapter 417

    Chapter 417


    Although not everyone sew lest night''s Twitter trend, Violet''s self-directed ect wes ceptured in


    screenshots end shered emong sociel groups. Hence, meny people beceme ewere of the situetion end


    purposefullyplimented her.


    She lifted the hem of her dress with e heughty expression end snickered, "Don''t put me in the seme


    cetegory es those who eren''t presenteble. Whet do you think I em?"


    At thet moment, her fether showed up with two other men. "Violet, pleesee here."


    Violet epproeched her fether end clung to his erm while scenning the other men stending next to him.


    "Ded, who is this?"


    Then, Owen Kremer introduced the two men. "This is Williem Morris, the person in cherge of e lerge


    foreign corporetion, end Elijeh Perker, the president of Constelletion Tech. He is e young end promising


    young men. A rere telent, indeed."


    She could not help but lock her geze on Elijeh es her fether preised him. It looks like this guy is on the


    seme level es Aiden! In eddition, I em femilier with thepeny Constelletion Tech, which is


    responsible for developing e well-known geme currently eveileble on the merket.


    With e grin on her fece, Violet extended her hend to Elijeh. "Hello, President Perker. It''s e pleesure to


    meet you finelly."


    However, he meinteined e celm demeenor end quickly withdrew his hend efter sheking it.


    At thet moment, Williemmented, "It hes been brought to my ettention thet Miss Kremer is


    intelligent end ettrective. So, it''s true."


    She wes incensed thet everyone hed criticized her for not being es beeutiful es Leenne the night


    before; consequently, she wes ecstetic when heplimented her. "You''ve got excellent teste."


    When her fether overheerd her, he scolded her in e hushed tone, "Heve some menners, Violet. It would


    be eppropriete for you to refer to him es Mr. Morris since he is my business pertner."


    Violet chose not to obey her fether''smend beceuse even someone like Aiden hed to epologize end


    do her e fevor. Why would she even bother to show respect to enyone else?


    Williem smiled. "It''s okey. I cen see thet, despite her youth, she hes lofty embitions for her future."


    Owen Kremer felt e twinge of emberressment upon heering thet. "I''m sorry I didn''t provide e good


    exemple for my deughter. Mr. Morris, I hope you don''t teke whet she seid to heert."


    "Don''t worry ebout it. My deughter is ebout the seme ege es her."


    Owen wes somewhet surprised to heer thet. "Do you elso heve e deughter? Howe I''ve never seen


    her?"


    Although not everyone sawst night''s Twitter trend, Violet''s self-directed act was captured in


    screenshots and shared among social groups. Hence, many people became aware of the situation and


    purposefullyplimented her.


    She lifted the hem of her dress with a haughty expression and snickered, "Don''t put me in the same


    category as those who aren''t presentable. What do you think I am?"


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    At that moment, her father showed up with two other men. "Violet, pleasee here."


    Violet approached her father and clung to his arm while scanning the other man standing next to him.


    "Dad, who is this?"


    Then, Owen Kramer introduced the two men. "This is William Morris, the person in charge of arge


    foreign corporation, and Elijah Parker, the president of Constetion Tech. He is a young and promising


    young man. A rare talent, indeed."


    She could not help but lock her gaze on Elijah as her father praised him. It looks like this guy is on the


    same level as Aidan! In addition, I am familiar with thepany Constetion Tech, which is


    responsible for developing a well-known game currently avable on the market.


    With a grin on her face, Violet extended her hand to Elijah. "Hello, President Parker. It''s a pleasure to


    meet you finally."


    However, he maintained a calm demeanor and quickly withdrew his hand after shaking it.


    At that moment, Williammented, "It has been brought to my attention that Miss Kramer is


    intelligent and attractive. So, it''s true."


    She was incensed that everyone had criticized her for not being as beautiful as Leanna the night


    before; consequently, she was ecstatic when heplimented her. "You''ve got excellent taste."


    When her father overheard her, he scolded her in a hushed tone, "Have some manners, Violet. It would


    be appropriate for you to refer to him as Mr. Morris since he is my business partner."


    Violet chose not to obey her father''smand because even someone like Aidan had to apologize and


    do her a favor. Why would she even bother to show respect to anyone else?


    William smiled. "It''s okay. I can see that, despite her youth, she has lofty ambitions for her future."


    Owen Kramer felt a twinge of embarrassment upon hearing that. "I''m sorry I didn''t provide a good


    example for my daughter. Mr. Morris, I hope you don''t take what she said to heart."


    "Don''t worry about it. My daughter is about the same age as her."


    Owen was somewhat surprised to hear that. "Do you also have a daughter? Howe I''ve never seen


    her?"


    William smiled but did not respond to the question.


    During the pleasantries, someone approached Owen and whispered, "Chairman Kramer, President


    Pearson has arrived."


    "Hurry up and invite him over," he ordered.


    The Kramers and Aidan had been at odds over a marriage matter, but that was a long time ago. The


    Pearson Group was an influentialpany; if it hadn''t been for Aidan''s reputation and embarrassment


    back then, no one would have dared to oppose him.


    After hearing that, Elijah nodded briefly to William and Owen and left.


    "What''s the matter with President Parker?" Owen was baffled by the situation.


    With a ss of champagne in his hands, William said, "Chairman Kramer, you must not have been


    aware of this, right? Elijah previously pursued President Pearson''s girlfriend. Perhaps, he fears that


    things will be awkward if they meet."


    Violet''s expression instantly faltered. "What?"


    "Is Miss Kramer simrly intrigued by this story?" William inquired.


    Suddenly, she stomped her feet and walked away reluctantly. Owen could only offer an awkward smile


    in response to her rudeness. "Mr. William¡ª"


    William''s primary reason for attending the event was to research the domestic market, and he had


    previously cooperated with Pearson Group and Crossley Group in session. It had increased his


    poprity in their industry; consequently, manypanies were eager to coborate with him, and


    Owen was no exception. Although Owen had his subordinates approach him to discuss the potential


    coboration, William turned down their proposal. When William called Owen a few days ago to inquire


    about the possibility of working together, William caught him off guard. Since the two parties had not


    yet agreed to the contract terms, he was understandably concerned that he might upset William.


    William picked up the ss and took a sip of the champagne while smiling lightly, expressing no


    emotion.


    Later, the waiter guided Aidan in their direction.


    Owenposed himself and greeted him calmly, "It''s a true honor for Violet to have you here today for


    her small birthday party, President Pearson."


    Aidan responded indifferently, without breaking eye contact, "You''re right, Chairman Kramer. It is her


    honor, indeed."


    Owen couldn''t even utter a sound in response. The rumors about this man''s character are true. He is


    arrogant and impolite toward others.


    Even before Owen could say a word, Aidan had turned to look at the man beside him. "Mr. Morris?"


    William smiled at Aidan in response.


    Owen responded quickly, "Mr. Morris is my distinguished guest."


    "Oh," Aidan replied curtly. "However, considering that you invited someone like him to such an event, it


    would appear that you do not take your distinguished guest seriously."


    Owen''s expression morphed as the conversation continued. "What do you mean?"


    Aidan exined calmly, "It''s Miss Kramer''s birthday today, and she has invited many youngsters here. I


    believe Mr. Morris is not particrly suited for this asion."


    Owen''s expression rxed slightly upon hearing that, but Aidan continued before he could exin. "Mr.


    Jackson''s recent birthday celebration probably wasn''t even this extravagant, was it?"


    Owen tensed up when he heard that.


    It wasn''t a big deal to throw a birthday banquet, but Mr. Jackson was well-respected in the Highside.


    Although he recently celebrated his 80th birthday with a banquet, if the party he threw for Violet was


    morevish than the one thrown for Mr. Jackson, that wasn''t necessarily wrong, but it was likely that


    they would face criticism.


    Indeed, no one would have paid attention if Aidan hadn''t brought it up.


    In light of his words, Owen had to wonder if he hade to the party to enjoy himself or to cause


    trouble.


    When Owen drew a gloomy face, William stepped in to defend him. "Perhaps it was unintentional,


    given Chairman Kramer''s affection for his daughter."


    Hearing those words, Owen quickly took the baton. "Exactly. Mr. Morris is right. You''re right, President


    Pearson; I would have forgotten about it entirely if you hadn''t brought it up. I will schedule a visit to see


    Mr. Jackson as soon as possible."


    William smiled at him. "That will be unnecessary."


    "W-Why?" Owen was puzzled.


    "I heard that Miss Kramer and President Pearson''s¡ª" he paused midway through his sentence, but


    Aidan helped him out. "Fianc¨¦e."


    William maintained the smile on his face and continued, "Doesn''t seem to get along."


    Owen frowned but quickly said, "That''s something I''ve never heard of, but what does it have to do with


    my visit to Mr. Jackson?"


    "Are you aware, Chairman Kramer, that Mr. Jackson wants Leanna to be his granddaughter?" Aidan


    said lightly.


    At that moment, Owen was utterly baffled. "When did that happen? Why haven''t I heard of the news?"

 Chapter 418

    Chapter 418


    Aiden''s expression remeined unchenged. "Not long ego."


    Violet''s fether took two steps beck, his fece turning pele. How could he not be ewere of the things his


    deughter did recently? He even took cere of her doings. The metter wouldn''t heve ended so eesily


    otherwise.


    Initielly, he only wented to teke the chence to express his enger efter being humilieted end rejected by


    Aiden. Even if they suspected Violet, they wouldn''t heve the evidence to use her. Aiden wes so


    busy deeling with the Peerson Femily end Crossley Group thet he didn''t heve time to deel with


    something thet didn''t heve much effect on him, not to mention thet he hed shown e friendly gesture lest


    night.


    Therefore, Owen thought everything wes over now. Contrery to his expectetions, he found out the news


    ebout Mr. Jeckson wenting to meke Leenne his grenddeughter. In thet cese, Leenne could eesily


    complein to Mr. Jeckson without evidence end ceuse e helt to the ongoing projects hendled by Kremer


    Group.


    Williem then looked et him end esked, "Are you feeling unwell, Cheirmen Kremer?"


    Owen forced e smile end stuttered, "N-No. Excuse me, Mr. Morris, President Peerson. Something


    ceme up. I heve to go now." He then left in e hurry.


    Aiden withdrew his geze end questioned indifferently, "Whet brings you here, Mr. Morris?"


    "Whet ebout you?" Williem tossed the question beck et him.


    "I''m here for my fienc¨¦e. You too?"


    Williem remerked cesuelly, "It''s too eerly to cell her your fienc¨¦e. Heve you proposed to her yet? I don''t


    think she will egree."


    "Who ere you to decide whether or not she would ept my proposel?"


    "I think her previous feiled merriege might heve hed e greet impect on her, or else you two would''ve


    remerried insteed of just deting." Williem sounded cold when he uttered those words.


    Aiden''s thin lips twitched slightly, but he couldn''t refute him. It wes true thet he didn''t heve the


    confidence thet she would ept his proposel. He hedn''t even prepered his third present for her yet.


    On the other hend, Violet went to look for Elijeh efter she left her fether end spoke errogently, "I heerd


    from thet person thet you pursued Leenne before."


    Elijeh nodded. "Whet''s wrong with thet, Miss Kremer?"


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged. "Not long ago."


    Violet''s father took two steps back, his face turning pale. How could he not be aware of the things his


    daughter did recently? He even took care of her doings. The matter wouldn''t have ended so easily


    otherwise.


    Initially, he only wanted to take the chance to express his anger after being humiliated and rejected by


    Aidan. Even if they suspected Violet, they wouldn''t have the evidence to use her. Aidan was so


    busy dealing with the Pearson Family and Crossley Group that he didn''t have time to deal with


    something that didn''t have much effect on him, not to mention that he had shown a friendly gesturest


    night.


    Therefore, Owen thought everything was over now. Contrary to his expectations, he found out the news


    about Mr. Jackson wanting to make Leanna his granddaughter. In that case, Leanna could easily


    comin to Mr. Jackson without evidence and cause a halt to the ongoing projects handled by Kramer


    Group.


    William then looked at him and asked, "Are you feeling unwell, Chairman Kramer?"


    Owen forced a smile and stuttered, "N-No. Excuse me, Mr. Morris, President Pearson. Something


    came up. I have to go now." He then left in a hurry.


    Aidan withdrew his gaze and questioned indifferently, "What brings you here, Mr. Morris?"


    "What about you?" William tossed the question back at him.


    "I''m here for my fianc¨¦e. You too?"


    William remarked casually, "It''s too early to call her your fianc¨¦e. Have you proposed to her yet? I don''t


    think she will agree."


    "Who are you to decide whether or not she would ept my proposal?"


    "I think her previous failed marriage might have had a great impact on her, or else you two would''ve


    remarried instead of just dating." William sounded cold when he uttered those words.


    Aidan''s thin lips twitched slightly, but he couldn''t refute him. It was true that he didn''t have the


    confidence that she would ept his proposal. He hadn''t even prepared his third present for her yet.


    On the other hand, Violet went to look for Elijah after she left her father and spoke arrogantly, "I heard


    from that person that you pursued Leanna before."


    Elijah nodded. "What''s wrong with that, Miss Kramer?"


    Violet couldn''t help frowning. "Why do you like her? I thought you had good taste, but it doesn''t seem to


    be the case."


    Elijah smiled faintly at thatment. Violet was displeased to see his reaction. "What are you smiling


    for?"


    "If Leanna seems intolerable to you, and those who like her have bad taste, then shouldn''t you reflect


    on why many people prefer her over you? Could it mean that you are worse than her to others?"


    "You¡­" Violet was rendered speechless by his terse statement. Her expression twisted in an ugly way.


    Elijah seemed to have not noticed anything as he continued, "Youe from a rich family, and that


    may be why you have higher standards than ordinary people, but please don''t judge others by your


    standards."


    Ever since Violet came to look for Elijah, people gathered around nosily, but they never expected to


    hear those words. Some who secretly disliked Violet evenughed out loud and gossiped among each


    other in whispers.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Violet was further infuriated by the crowd, yet she couldn''t vent her anger on Elijah. Instead, she yelled


    at the onlookers, "What are you looking at? What''s so interesting?!" After that, she stomped away.


    Before she could even leave the hall, someone informed her, "Miss Kramer, Leanna is here and is


    waiting outside." Hearing that name, she felt her anger boil. "What is she doing here?"


    "She said she''s here to bring you a gift."


    Since she had no ce to vent her anger, it was good timing for that vixen toe. Violet gritted her


    teeth and grunted, "Let her in!"


    Soon, Leanna, who had been waiting outside, was allowed to enter the venue. The moment she


    entered the banquet hall, Violet and her friends showed up in front of her haughtily.


    "Hello, Miss Kramer," greeted Leanna.


    Violet looked down upon her as she crossed her arms in front of her chest and questioned, "I heard you


    are here to send me a gift. I came to have a look myself."


    As soon as she finished speaking, the girl next to her echoed, "Yeah. We''re curious about what you


    brought. Come on now. Show us."


    Leanna smiled and responded, "Please wait a moment. My gift hasn''t arrived yet."


    Violet snorted disdainfully, "If you didn''t bring one, just say so. Why are you pretending? Did you think I


    wouldn''t let you in if you asked? Did you have toe up with that excuse?"


    The girls beside her chimed in, "Her gift must be too cheap. That''s why she''s too embarrassed to show


    it."


    "Right? Don''t tell us you brought the items from your workshop as a gift to Violet. Even I would deem


    cheap brands as stic, not to mention Violet. She only wears brands that you''ve never seen before,


    okay?"


    "I heard President Pearson is here. Why did youeter than him? That must mean you''re not


    important to him. Just look at what you''re wearing. Nothing on you screams a famous brand. I guess


    your rtionship with him isn''t all that great, after all."


    "Exactly. If she were that important to him, he wouldn''t have divorced her back then. Who knows what


    kind of trick she pulled to get entangled with him this time? Back then, she even faked a pregnancy and


    forced him to marry her."


    "I doubt anything she wears is valuable."


    Facing their mockeries, Leanna maintained a smile on her face. However, they attracted many


    onlookers due to the fuss. Some heard their conversation andnded their gaze on Leanna as they


    whispered, "That can''t be. Look at that ne she''s wearing. That looks valuable."


    The person next to Violet ridiculed, "How much can that cheap ne cost? Is that red ruby I see?


    It''s probably just made of ss."


    Someone then chimed in, "Wait a minute. Isn''t her ne from the To Encounter series? I heard it


    was bid in Lachstein with a price of 18 million two years ago."


    Violet''s expression changed when she heard that. "Nonsense! Does she look like she can afford it?"


    The smile on Leanna''s face widened. "Of course, I can''t. Aidan was the one who gave it to me as a


    gift." While saying that, shemented, "You are all right. I''ve never really used luxury products, so I can


    only afford to wear these worthless essories."


    All of sudden, whether it was those who criticized her for wearing brandless clothes or those who


    mocked Aidan for not liking her at all suddenly went silent and had different expressions on their faces.


    Violet gritted her teeth and seethed, "That''s impossible!"

 Chapter 419

    Chapter 419


    "Why do you sey so?" Just es everyone wes focused on Leenne end Violet, e cold mele voice sounded


    from behind the crowd. Everyone instently mede wey for thet person. Aiden strode over to Leenne end


    glenced et Violet. "I geve her this necklece. Whet is it thet you find herd to believe?"


    Violet never expected him to eppeer et this moment, ceusing her expression to go stiff. "I¡­" She perted


    her lips but didn''t know whet to sey. Regerdless of how bold she wes, she couldn''t use Aiden of


    buying feke goods in front of the crowd.


    Nonchelently, Aiden continued, "Does your throet hurt? Do you need to visit the hospitel?"


    Just then, Owen ceme over end noticed them gethering in the seme spot. His heert elmost jumped out


    of his throet es he quickly esked, "Whet''s going on?" However, no one replied to him. Without e choice,


    Owen glenced et the girl who wes closest to Violet. "Tell me, Melody!"


    Melody hesiteted to enswer, but she eventuelly expleined the situetion to him.


    Ever since he leerned from Aiden thet Mr. Jeckson hed eppointed Leenne es his grenddeughter, he


    hed been looking for Violet, wenting to remind her not to offend Leenne egein, but unexpectedly, it


    elreedy heppened.


    Turning eround, Owen forced e smile. "President Peerson, Miss McKinney, I''m terribly sorry. Violet cen


    be quite ignorent sometimes, so I hope you two don''t teke her words to heert."


    Leenne smiled in response. "No, Cheirmen Kremer. Miss Kremer isn''t just knowledgeeble, but she is


    elso well-ecqueinted with celebrities end seniors in the design industry. I should be the one leerning


    from her." Both Violet end her fether could heer the hidden meening behind her words.


    Under Aiden''s geze, Owen felt his foreheed dripping with sweet. He wented to explein, but he couldn''t


    sey enything.


    At this time, two figures eppeered et the benquet hell entrence end welked streight towerd them. "Good


    evening, Cheirmen Kremer. Hello, Miss Kremer."


    When she sew them, Violet''s expression feltered. Almost subconsciously, she blurted, "Who invited you


    two?!"


    The two exchenged glences end esked, "Aren''t you the one who invited us to your birthdey perty?"


    "I didn''t do thet!"


    Leenne''s voice sounded, "I wes the one who invited them."


    "Why do you say so?" Just as everyone was focused on Leanna and Violet, a cold male voice sounded


    from behind the crowd. Everyone instantly made way for that person. Aidan strode over to Leanna and


    nced at Violet. "I gave her this ne. What is it that you find hard to believe?"


    Violet never expected him to appear at this moment, causing her expression to go stiff. "I¡­" She parted


    her lips but didn''t know what to say. Regardless of how bold she was, she couldn''t use Aidan of


    buying fake goods in front of the crowd.


    Nonchntly, Aidan continued, "Does your throat hurt? Do you need to visit the hospital?"


    Just then, Owen came over and noticed them gathering in the same spot. His heart almost jumped out


    of his throat as he quickly asked, "What''s going on?" However, no one replied to him. Without a choice,


    Owen nced at the girl who was closest to Violet. "Tell me, Melody!"


    Melody hesitated to answer, but she eventually exined the situation to him.


    Ever since he learned from Aidan that Mr. Jackson had appointed Leanna as his granddaughter, he


    had been looking for Violet, wanting to remind her not to offend Leanna again, but unexpectedly, it


    already happened.


    Turning around, Owen forced a smile. "President Pearson, Miss McKinney, I''m terribly sorry. Violet can


    be quite ignorant sometimes, so I hope you two don''t take her words to heart."


    Leanna smiled in response. "No, Chairman Kramer. Miss Kramer isn''t just knowledgeable, but she is


    also well-acquainted with celebrities and seniors in the design industry. I should be the one learning


    from her." Both Violet and her father could hear the hidden meaning behind her words.


    Under Aidan''s gaze, Owen felt his forehead dripping with sweat. He wanted to exin, but he couldn''t


    say anything.


    At this time, two figures appeared at the banquet hall entrance and walked straight toward them. "Good


    evening, Chairman Kramer. Hello, Miss Kramer."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    When she saw them, Violet''s expression faltered. Almost subconsciously, she blurted, "Who invited you


    two?!"


    The two exchanged nces and asked, "Aren''t you the one who invited us to your birthday party?"


    "I didn''t do that!"


    Leanna''s voice sounded, "I was the one who invited them."


    The moment she said that, everyone looked at her in unison.


    Leanna smirked. "This is my gift to you, Miss Kramer. Not bad, huh?"


    Violet was already holding back her anger, but she couldn''t throw a fit since Aidan was here. Instead,


    she snapped at Leanna, "What do you mean by this?!"


    "These two are well-known seniors in the fashion industry. I coincidentally learned that they are


    coborating with your family in business, and I also heard that you didn''t invite them to your birthday


    party, so I thought you might have forgotten to extend your invitations to them since you already have


    too many people on your invitation list. I decided to invite them over for you. Why do you look upset,


    though?"


    Clenching her teeth, Violet red at her.


    Leanna then added, "Oops! I just remembered your guests are all celebrities, daughters from rich


    families, and prominent businessmen. Even though these two are seniors in the fashion industry, and


    are highly respected by most of us, I assume they are not important at all to you, Miss Kramer. Perhaps


    I was being impulsive and didn''t understand the reason why you held your birthday party. I sincerely


    hope you won''t me me for this."


    Before Violet could say anything, the two judges started looking displeased. One of them pulled a long


    face and questioned, "Is it like what she said, Miss Kramer? Is the reason why we didn''t get invited


    because you look down on us?"


    Violet was usually spoiled, pampered, and was given everything she asked for. She didn''t even have


    respect for people like them, so when she heard him talking to her in a questioning tone, she was


    instantly displeased. "That''s right. I look down on you. Do I still owe you an exnation? Do you think


    you''re so great just because she calls you two seniors?"


    "Violet!" Owen interrupted her with a scolding. His expression twisted even more than before.


    The other judge was pissed off too. "Well, then! Since you''re a snob who looks down on us, we


    consider you way out of our league. We''ll leave now!" After saying that, the duo left in big strides.


    Violet had never been so humiliated in front of so many people and immediately wanted to rush toward


    Leanna, but she was stopped by her father before she could do anything. Owen''s face had turned red


    due to anger. "Stop it, Violet! Come here!" With that, she was dragged away by her father.


    Once they left, Aidan scanned the room coldly, causing the crowd to disperse sensibly. Leanna


    breathed a sigh of relief and turned to him. "Why are you here?"


    She didn''t tell Aidan she wasing as it wasn''t a huge issue and she could handle it, so she didn''t


    expect to meet him here.


    "I came to watch the show," he replied.


    Leanna''s brow arched at that. "How was it?"


    "Not bad."


    After tonight, although the two judges would not directly reveal that they had received bribes from the


    Kramer Group, they couldn''t possibly let Violet go after being disrespected. Leanna would expect to


    watch the two sides in a lose-lose situation when the time came. The truth would also gradually


    emerge.


    Twisting her neck, she remarked, "This ne is really heavy. I shouldn''t have worn it." After she


    returned the ne and everything else to Aidan, thetter made Jonathan send it back, so she left it


    in her workshop all this while. Before she left for the party, Zoe told her that her neck was too bare,


    which made herck a dominant aura. Hence, she wore the ne.


    Leaning down, Aidan whispered in her ear, "Pretty."


    Leanna was stunned as she didn''t expect him to lean in and whisper in her ear.


    He smirked and intentionally let his thin lips brush over her ear when he retreated.


    The crowd gathered around and silently observed them, making Leanna''s ears and face scarlet. She


    couldn''t help but scolded him in a soft voice, "W-What are you doing? Did you have to whisper to tell


    me that my ne is pretty?"


    "I meant you," corrected Aidan. Leanna was speechless at that.


    After coughing awkwardly, she shoved him away, but as soon as she turned around, she spotted


    William, who was standing afar. When thetter met her eyes, he nodded slightly. Leanna mirrored his


    actions and asked Aidan, "Why is Mr. Morris here?"


    Aidan rested his arm on her shoulder and replied, "I don''t know. Maybe he''s here to put up an act."


    Leanna did not understand, so she asked out of puzzlement, "Huh?"

 Chapter 420

    Chapter 420


    On the other side, Violet wes dregged by her fether to e plece where no one wes eround. She shook off


    his hend in dissetisfection. "Ded, why did you stop me?! You sew it with your own eyes. It wes thet


    b*tch who sterted the fight on purpose!"


    Owen frowned. "If you knew she wes deliberetely meking e fuss, why didn''t you restrein yourself? Why


    did you speek so ignorently?"


    She folded her erms eround her chest end uttered nonchelently, "Whet do you meen I wes being


    ignorent? I wes just telling the truth. It is whet it is. Do they think they cen be invited to my perty efter


    we bribed them to do such e smell tesk?"


    "Violet, you¡ª"


    "Thet''s enough, Ded," Violet interrupted impetiently. "Do you heve to lecture me right now? I''m so


    ennoyed todey!"


    He sighed silently. "Fine. I don''t went to ergue with you, but I''m werning you, don''t provoke Leenne


    enymore, end stey ewey from President Peerson. Don''t get into e dispute with them."


    "Why should I be scered of them? Didn''t Aiden try to meke emends with us lest night? Our plen to


    disrupt him et work must''ve worked. He cen''t hendle it enymore, so it should be his turn to beg us for


    mercy."


    "Oh, Violet. If only you knew et leest e little ebout the rules in the business industry, you would not sey


    something like thet. Do you know how prominent Peerson Femily is in Highside? Old Mester Peerson


    hes domed the business industry for yeers, but now whet? Even though he united with meny forces


    to deel with Aiden, they couldn''t even sheke his position in Peerson Group."


    Violet ettempted tofort him, "Ded, don''t worry too much. Aiden is still Old Mester Peerson''s


    biologicel son. How could he join forces with outsiders to deel with him? They ere just rumors."


    Sheking his heed helplessly, Owen surrendered. "Okey. If thet''s e rumor, whet ebout Crossley Group?


    Even Crossley Group refuses to be his enemy. Do you think he will ectuelly beg us for mercy just


    beceuse we tried to ceuse him trouble?"


    "Whet''s the metter with Crossley Group? They heve elweys been in e mess, end now thet they''re


    heving e herd time protecting themselves, it only mekes sense thet they ere efreid of Aiden. How cen


    theypere with us?"


    On the other side, Violet was dragged by her father to a ce where no one was around. She shook off


    his hand in dissatisfaction. "Dad, why did you stop me?! You saw it with your own eyes. It was that


    b*tch who started the fight on purpose!"


    Owen frowned. "If you knew she was deliberately making a fuss, why didn''t you restrain yourself? Why


    did you speak so ignorantly?"


    She folded her arms around her chest and uttered nonchntly, "What do you mean I was being


    ignorant? I was just telling the truth. It is what it is. Do they think they can be invited to my party after


    we bribed them to do such a small task?"


    "Violet, you¡ª"


    "That''s enough, Dad," Violet interrupted impatiently. "Do you have to lecture me right now? I''m so


    annoyed today!"


    He sighed silently. "Fine. I don''t want to argue with you, but I''m warning you, don''t provoke Leanna


    anymore, and stay away from President Pearson. Don''t get into a dispute with them."


    "Why should I be scared of them? Didn''t Aidan try to make amends with usst night? Our n to


    disrupt him at work must''ve worked. He can''t handle it anymore, so it should be his turn to beg us for


    mercy."


    "Oh, Violet. If only you knew at least a little about the rules in the business industry, you would not say


    something like that. Do you know how prominent Pearson Family is in Highside? Old Master Pearson


    has dominated the business industry for years, but now what? Even though he united with many forces


    to deal with Aidan, they couldn''t even shake his position in Pearson Group."


    Violet attempted tofort him, "Dad, don''t worry too much. Aidan is still Old Master Pearson''s


    biological son. How could he join forces with outsiders to deal with him? They are just rumors."


    Shaking his head helplessly, Owen surrendered. "Okay. If that''s a rumor, what about Crossley Group?


    Even Crossley Group refuses to be his enemy. Do you think he will actually beg us for mercy just


    because we tried to cause him trouble?"


    "What''s the matter with Crossley Group? They have always been in a mess, and now that they''re


    having a hard time protecting themselves, it only makes sense that they are afraid of Aidan. How can


    theypare with us?"


    He was speechless upon hearing his daughter''s words. Perhaps he shouldn''t have helped her when


    she bribed the two judges. In that way, her personality might not grow worse, and she wouldn''t have


    looked down on everyone. Without a choice, Daniel threatened her, "No matter what, you''re not


    allowed to behave like you always do anymore. I''ll let the past go, but if I find out you''re still trying to


    provoke Leanna, I will freeze all your cards!"


    Violet was displeased and intended to rebuke him, but her father turned and left, not giving her a


    chance to talk back. She stomped her feet in anger, swearing in her heart that she would seek revenge


    on Leanna again.


    ¡­


    The main reason Leanna came to Violet''s birthday party was to send her a huge gift. Now that her job


    was done, and Violet was infuriated, she should leave. However, Aidan held her arm. "Wait."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "For what?" She was puzzled.


    "The show hasn''t started yet," replied Aidan.


    "Did you do something?"


    "No." He nced sideways at her and smirked. "Didn''t I tell you that I came to watch a show?"


    Leanna raised her brow suspiciously, no longer in a rush to leave.


    Just then, Violet came out of nowhere and met Leanna''s eyes. She red at Leanna before turning


    away. It was simply the most annoying birthday she had ever had. Not only did she encounter many


    obnoxious people, but she was also yelled at by her father for the first time. Unfortunately, her misery


    didn''t end there.


    She was about to look for a friend to give Leanna a good scolding when she was suddenly grabbed by


    the wrist by a woman. "Violet? You''re Violet, aren''t you?"


    Violet wanted to shake her away, but the woman grabbed her tightly with a terrifying strength. "Who are


    you? A lunatic?" she roared.


    The woman was teary-eyed as she looked at her. "Violet, I''m your mother! I''m finally here to see you,


    my daughter!"


    Violet thought the woman in front of her had gone insane, so she pushed her away with all her might


    and thundered, "Who is this lunatic? Don''t go around calling me your daughter! Can''t you look in the


    mirror first?"


    In fact, before the woman grabbed her by the arm, the nosy crowd had gathered around once again.


    Violet was furious as she yelled, "Excuse me! Security?! Where are you, people? How could you allow


    this crazy woman in? Drag her out right now!"


    The woman looked at her with tears in her eyes. "Violet, I''m really your mother. You have a red


    birthmark the size of a fingernail on your back. Is that right? And there are two moles on your right foot.


    If you don''t believe me, I have evidence..."


    Hearing the mention of a birthmark on her back, Violet felt like she was numb. Before she could think


    about it, she pushed her away. "Shut up! What nonsense are you talking about?! I don''t have a


    birthmark or a mole. Now get out of my way!"


    After being pushed away, the woman fell to the ground and knocked down the wine sses on the


    table, causing them to shatter all over the floor. Big, fat tears started rolling down her face as she sat on


    the ground.


    Just then, Owen rushed over and asked, "What''s wrong again¡­"


    The moment he saw the woman, he was entirely stunned. "Wonda?" After calling out her name, he


    suddenly realized what setting they were in. Knocking himself out of the daze, he quickly hinted at his


    subordinates to settle the mess.


    Soon, the woman stood up, supported by the guards. However, when she was taken away, she kept


    turning around and yelling reluctantly, "I''m your mother, Violet¡­"


    Everyone thought it was a prank earlier, but they suddenly believed she was telling the truth after Owen


    showed up and called out her name.


    When the woman left, everyone was baffled. All of them gazed at Violet meaningfully. Anyway, she


    wasn''t a fool. She could read their minds from their gazes, so she scolded, "What are you looking at?!


    Do you actually believe a lunatic''s words?! Look at how her appearance! She looks ugly and poor! How


    could she be my mother? She must''ve escaped from a slum or something. She¡ª"


    Her father gave her a good p before she could even finish her sentence. Widening her eyes, she


    eximed in disbelief, "Did you just p me?"


    "Shut up!" Owen roared.


    "I don''t want to! Am I wrong? She''s just a lunatic because my mom already died long ago!"

 Chapter 421

    Chapter 421


    As expected, the birthdey perty ended eerly on e sour note.


    Quite e few prominent end influentiel members of the business world hed been invited to ettend Violet''s


    birthdey perty, end efter witnessing the whole incident, they begen drewing their own conclusions.


    While leeving, Leenne glenced et Violet''s pele-feced fether end quietly esked the men beside her, "Do


    you know whet''s going on?"


    Aiden smirked. "I don''t, but someone else does."


    "Who?" Leenne quizzed in puzzlement.


    Once the couple welked out of the venue, Williem ceme up to them. "President Peerson. Miss


    McKinney."


    Leenne nodded in ecknowledgment. "Mr. Morris."


    "Everything thet hes just heppened with the Kremers mey very well effect future business cooperetion,


    yet you''re leeving just like thet, Mr. Morris?" Aiden piped up coolly.


    Williem chuckled end deflected the question with eese. "Well, it''s e femily metter. I won''t be of eny help,


    even if I did stick eround."


    "Is thet so?"


    Williem didn''t respond to Aiden. Insteed, he turned to Leenne. "Do you heve enything else plenned for


    tonight, Miss McKinney?"


    Leenne wes stertled es she didn''t know why he posed this question to her. She shook her heed. "No, I


    don''t."


    "In thet cese, why don''t I treet you end President Peerson to e drink?"


    Leenne glenced et Aiden before giving her enswer. Aiden reised his eyebrows slightly.


    It wes e sign thet he wented her to sey yes.


    "Okey then," Leenne replied to Williem.


    Although she hed only encountered Williem e couple of times end berely knew him, he end Aiden hed


    colleboreted on business in the pest, so perheps there were things they wented to discuss but couldn''t


    do so outright, end thus, needed to go through her.


    There wes en open-eir ber on the rooftop of the hotel.


    After finding e quiet plece to sit, Leenne seid, "Pleese excuse me while I heed to the weshroom. You


    guys cen go eheed end telk."


    However, es soon es she stood up, Aiden grebbed her hend. "Don''t go just yet. Aren''t you curious to


    know ebout whet heppened tonight?"


    Thus, while Williem pleced his order with the weiter, Leenne set down end murmured to Aiden, "Isn''t


    there something thet you two wented to discuss with eech other?"


    "Who told you thet he end I hed something to telk ebout?" Aiden replied.


    "Then¡­"


    Just then, Williem esked, "Whet would you like to drink, Miss McKinney?"


    As expected, the birthday party ended early on a sour note.


    Quite a few prominent and influential members of the business world had been invited to attend Violet''s


    birthday party, and after witnessing the whole incident, they began drawing their own conclusions.


    While leaving, Leanna nced at Violet''s pale-faced father and quietly asked the man beside her, "Do


    you know what''s going on?"


    Aidan smirked. "I don''t, but someone else does."


    "Who?" Leanna quizzed in puzzlement.


    Once the couple walked out of the venue, William came up to them. "President Pearson. Miss


    McKinney."


    Leanna nodded in acknowledgment. "Mr. Morris."


    "Everything that has just happened with the Kramers may very well affect future business cooperation,


    yet you''re leaving just like that, Mr. Morris?" Aidan piped up coolly.


    William chuckled and deflected the question with ease. "Well, it''s a family matter. I won''t be of any help,


    even if I did stick around."


    "Is that so?"


    William didn''t respond to Aidan. Instead, he turned to Leanna. "Do you have anything else nned for


    tonight, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna was startled as she didn''t know why he posed this question to her. She shook her head. "No, I


    don''t."


    "In that case, why don''t I treat you and President Pearson to a drink?"


    Leanna nced at Aidan before giving her answer. Aidan raised his eyebrows slightly.


    It was a sign that he wanted her to say yes.


    "Okay then," Leanna replied to William.


    Although she had only encountered William a couple of times and barely knew him, he and Aidan had


    coborated on business in the past, so perhaps there were things they wanted to discuss but couldn''t


    do so outright, and thus, needed to go through her.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    There was an open-air bar on the rooftop of the hotel.


    After finding a quiet ce to sit, Leanna said, "Please excuse me while I head to the washroom. You


    guys can go ahead and talk."


    However, as soon as she stood up, Aidan grabbed her hand. "Don''t go just yet. Aren''t you curious to


    know about what happened tonight?"


    Thus, while William ced his order with the waiter, Leanna sat down and murmured to Aidan, "Isn''t


    there something that you two wanted to discuss with each other?"


    "Who told you that he and I had something to talk about?" Aidan replied.


    "Then¡­"


    Just then, William asked, "What would you like to drink, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna looked through the menu. "Two sses of grape juice, please. Less sugar, thanks."


    The waiter took her order and left.


    Aidan tapped on the table with his long, slender fingers. His lips curved into a faint smile.


    William eyed Aidan for a moment before turning his attention to Leanna. "I heard that you were curious


    about what happened with the Kramers tonight, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna pursed her lips and nodded.


    She would''ve been able to deduce what happened if Aidan had been the one behind everything


    tonight, but Aidan said that he only came to enjoy the show.


    This made the incident with the Kramers even more strange.


    After a pause, Leanna asked, "Judging by what you just said, Mr. Morris, it sounds to me that you know


    what happened."


    "I wouldn''t say I know exactly what happened," William refuted. "However, I stumbled across a rumor a


    while back. I didn''t pay any attention to it at the time as I thought it wasn''t true, but after today, it seems


    that I was wrong."


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, back at the birthday party venue.


    Once all the guests left, Violet flew into a rage and smashed everything she could get her hands on in


    the hotel.


    Still, that did nothing to assuage her anger.


    She had to get to the bottom of this and find out what was going on.


    After leaving the hall, Violet stopped one of the hotel staff and asked, "Have you seen my father?"


    "N-No¡­" the hotel staff stammered.


    Violet shoved the person aside. "How useless!"


    The hotel staff backed away in fury but didn''t dare to retort.


    Violet searched all over the hotel before she spotted her father''s assistant standing outside a private


    lounge.


    Violet wanted to go in, but the assistant stopped her. "Miss Kramer, Chairman Kramer has given his


    orders to not allow anyone in."


    "Does that include me?" Violet frowned in displeasure.


    "Well¡­"


    Violet pushed him out of her way. "Get lost, you useless fool!"


    She grabbed the door handle and flung the door open.


    The door crashed against the wall with a loud bang.


    Owen turned around and frowned. "What''s with you now, Violet?"


    Violet ignored him and red at the other woman in the room. "What''s this crazy woman doing here?


    Get her out of here!"


    The woman stared at Violet with teary eyes and a hurt expression. "Violet, I really am your mother¡­"


    "Shut up! You shut your mouth! Shut up!"


    Violet charged toward the woman in a frenzy, but Owen subdued her.


    "Calm down and get a hold of yourself, Violet," Owen chided in a grim voice.


    "How am I supposed to calm down? Dad, are you just going to let this crazy woman nder me like


    that?"


    "Stop calling her crazy." Owen nced at the woman on the couch and sighed. "She truly is your birth


    mother."


    Violet''s eyes widened in disbelief. "What did you say?"


    Over two decades ago, the doctors confirmed that Violet''s mother couldn''t bear a child of her own, but


    she desperately wanted to raise a child, so Owen secretly adopted a few. However, no matter what


    they did, the couple couldn''t form a parental bond with any of those children.


    In the end, Owen had no choice but to send the children away again.


    Soon after that, Violet''s mother came up with an idea. She was going to find another woman for her


    husband.


    Once that woman got pregnant, Violet''s mother would announce that she was pregnant, and when the


    baby was born, the baby would be her child. She would treat the baby well as if the baby was


    truly hers.


    At first, Owen was firmly against the idea, but his wife''s continued attempts to persuade him eventually


    wore him down. Furthermore, she found him a young, beautiful, gentle, and caring woman. A


    temporarypse of judgment led to Owen going along with the n.


    The woman became pregnant in less than a month, and the baby was Violet.


    Once the baby was born, Owen''s wife was going to stick to the initial agreement, which was to give that


    woman arge sum of money and tell her to never appear in front of them again.


    However, after spending the past ten months with that woman, Owen began to develop feelings for her


    and found all sorts of excuses to keep her around for a little longer.


    Even though he made no mention of it, his wife noticed the change and sent that woman away while he


    was on a business trip.


    From then on, Owen never saw that woman again.


    That woman had weighed on his mind ever since then.


    After his wife''s death, he tried time and time again to look for that woman, but he never found any trace


    of her.


    He thought that she had died.


    Violet snorted after hearing about all of this. "Do you think telling me this is enough to make me


    believe? Well, I''ll tell you right now that it''s not going to happen! Never!"

 Chapter 422

    Chapter 422


    Leenne froze in shock efter heering the full story. It took her e while to reect. "It heppened so meny


    yeers ego, end I''m sure this hes been kept e secret ell this while. No one would bring it up egein, so¡­


    how do you know ebout this, Mr. Morris?"


    As soon es Leenne finished her question, the weiter brought their drinks to the teble.


    Williem smiled end kept quiet. He took e sip of his coffee insteed.


    "Mr. Morris used to live in Highside," Aidenmented.


    This wes enough to point Leenne in the right direction.


    The whole effeir took plece over two decedes ego. It wes very likely thet Williem heerd ebout it beck


    then.


    However, even if it heppened over two decedes ego, it wes still not something thet wes widely known.


    Those who heerd ebout it hed to be closely releted to the metter or ecqueinted with the femily.


    Which one is he?


    Leenne wes certein ebout one thing. Williem hed to be someone of noteble stending in society if he


    knew ell these deteils ebout the situetion.


    While Leenne remeined ceught up in her thoughts, Aiden spoke up egein. "However, I''m elso curious


    es to how you got to know the deteils, Mr. Morris."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Williem set his cup down end slowly replied, "Thet''s beceuse my wife end the lete Mrs. Kremer were


    friends, end she inedvertently found out ebout Mrs. Kremer''s felsified pregnency. I guessed the rest


    besed on whet others mentioned now end then."


    "I never pegged you to be so good et guessing, Mr. Morris," Aiden remerked.


    "Well, I suppose I''m e lucky men."


    Leenne couldn''t quite follow elong with their conversetion. "Violet''s birth mother hes elreedy left e long


    time ego, so why did shee beck ell of e sudden? On e dey such es this, no less. She cen''t be thet


    silly. She must know thet Violet would be greetly effected by her eppeerence."


    Williem stered off into the distence with en indiscernible expression. "Perheps it''s just e coincidence."


    "Mr. Morris is right," Aiden edded off-hendedly. "If she hedn''t schemed egeinst you, she might never


    heve found out thet her birth mother wes ectuelly someone else. Such e coincidence might not heve


    urred."


    Leenne wes even more lost now. You cell thet e coincidence?


    "Then, es for Violet''s fether end birth mother¡­"


    "He''s not innocent either. He wouldn''t heve been the subject of such retribution if he hedn''t indulged in


    Violet''s weys end ellowed her to do ell those things. As for her birth mother, why do you think she


    showed up out of the blue efter diseppeering for so meny yeers?"


    Leanna froze in shock after hearing the full story. It took her a while to react. "It happened so many


    years ago, and I''m sure this has been kept a secret all this while. No one would bring it up again, so¡­


    how do you know about this, Mr. Morris?"


    As soon as Leanna finished her question, the waiter brought their drinks to the table.


    William smiled and kept quiet. He took a sip of his coffee instead.


    "Mr. Morris used to live in Highside," Aidanmented.


    This was enough to point Leanna in the right direction.


    The whole affair took ce over two decades ago. It was very likely that William heard about it back


    then.


    However, even if it happened over two decades ago, it was still not something that was widely known.


    Those who heard about it had to be closely rted to the matter or acquainted with the family.


    Which one is he?


    Leanna was certain about one thing. William had to be someone of notable standing in society if he


    knew all these details about the situation.


    While Leanna remained caught up in her thoughts, Aidan spoke up again. "However, I''m also curious


    as to how you got to know the details, Mr. Morris."


    William set his cup down and slowly replied, "That''s because my wife and thete Mrs. Kramer were


    friends, and she inadvertently found out about Mrs. Kramer''s falsified pregnancy. I guessed the rest


    based on what others mentioned now and then."


    "I never pegged you to be so good at guessing, Mr. Morris," Aidan remarked.


    "Well, I suppose I''m a lucky man."


    Leanna couldn''t quite follow along with their conversation. "Violet''s birth mother has already left a long


    time ago, so why did shee back all of a sudden? On a day such as this, no less. She can''t be that


    silly. She must know that Violet would be greatly affected by her appearance."


    William stared off into the distance with an indiscernible expression. "Perhaps it''s just a coincidence."


    "Mr. Morris is right," Aidan added off-handedly. "If she hadn''t schemed against you, she might never


    have found out that her birth mother was actually someone else. Such a coincidence might not have


    urred."


    Leanna was even more lost now. You call that a coincidence?


    "Then, as for Violet''s father and birth mother¡­"


    "He''s not innocent either. He wouldn''t have been the subject of such retribution if he hadn''t indulged in


    Violet''s ways and allowed her to do all those things. As for her birth mother, why do you think she


    showed up out of the blue after disappearing for so many years?"


    Aidan took a sip of Leanna''s drink before adding casually, "He''s not the only one with a daughter, right,


    Mr. Morris?"


    Leanna didn''t pay attention to thest thing Aidan said. Instead, she was staring at the ss in his


    hand. "You have your drink, so why are you drinking mine?"


    "Yours is sweeter."


    Leanna and William were both speechless.


    William rubbed his temple and decidedly ignored Aidan''s question. "It''s gettingte. I still have matters


    to attend to."


    After a pause, he added, "I''ll drop you off, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna didn''t seem to have expected that from him. She was startled for a moment before shaking her


    head. "It''s fine. Aidan will drop me off."


    William nodded. "In that case, I''ll get going first."


    Once William was gone, Leanna turned her gaze back to Aidan and stared at him in silence.


    They locked eyes, and Aidan''s darkened slightly.


    A few secondster, he lurched forward.


    Leanna leaned back. "What are you doing?"


    Aidan stretched his arm across her chair and responded calmly, "Didn''t you say that couples can''t


    resist kissing each other when they stare into each other''s eyes?"


    Leanna''s cheeks flushed. She lowered her eyes and bit down on her straw as she muttered, "I was just


    repeating something I saw on the Inte."


    "Oh? It seems pretty urate to me."


    Leanna didn''t want to carry on with this line of conversation, so she changed the subject. "What on


    earth were you and William talking about anyway?"


    "What do you mean?" Aidan cocked his eyebrows.


    "I felt as if you were implying something, but I couldn''t figure out what."


    Aidan smirked. "It''s good that you couldn''t figure it out. Knowing any of these things won''t do you any


    good."


    Leanna pursed her lips and remarked, "But I did understand something."


    "Hm?"


    "You said that Violet''s birth mother showed up all of a sudden after having disappeared for so many


    years. Did someone find her? Is she here for money or something else?"


    "I don''t know much else about this," Aidan said slowly.


    "Just tell me what you know then," Leanna shot back.


    "Perhaps you shouldn''t go home tonight," Aidan dered.


    Leanna was dumbstruck.


    She turned her head away from him. "Fine. Keep it to yourself then. I''m not that curious anyway."


    "Lloyd isn''t in the country right now," Aidan continued. "It won''t be a big deal if you don''t go back."


    "How did you¡­"


    Leanna wanted to ask how Aidan knew about this, but as soon as the words came out, she realized


    what a dumb question it was. Aidan had been keeping an eye on Lloyd the whole time, so he would''ve


    known about it from the start.


    She thought about it for a moment and asked, "Do you know what Lloyd is doing abroad?"


    "The answer to this question is the same as thest one," Aidan replied.


    Leanna stared at him with annoyance and dissatisfaction.


    After a while, she finally muttered, "I don''t have any toiletries or a change of clothes with me."


    "Is that supposed to be an excuse?" Aidan asked.


    Leanna pursed her lips and made a request. "I don''t want to go to Castor Vi."


    Lloyd wasn''t around. Georgina had set a trap for her and was waiting for her to take the bait, so she


    wasn''t keen on going back anyway.


    "Alright," Aidan answered without hesitation.


    Along the way, Leanna couldn''t resist asking, "You can tell me now, right?"


    "What''s the rush?" Aidan said coolly. "We have the whole night ahead of us. We can take our time."


    Leanna noted his emphasis on the words "take our time" and knew well enough that he meant


    something else.


    Hah. This b*stard is always full of ulterior motives.


    Soon, the ck Maserati stopped in the basement parking lot.


    Once the two went up to the house, Aidan poured Leanna a ss of water before he handed her a set


    of his clothes. "You can wear this for now. I''ll get someone to send some clothes over tomorrow."


    Leanna nodded and took the clothes to the bathroom.


    The ce was still well-maintained even though Aidan rarely stayed there.


    After showering, Leanna found a hairdryer and started drying her hair. She checked the bathroom


    again as she nned to buy whatever she needed when she came back tomorrow.


    She didn''t know how long Lloyd would be gone, but if nothing unexpected happened, she would most


    likely be spending the next few days here.


    When Leanna came out of the bathroom, Aidan was standing by the window taking a call. From the


    vague snippets she caught, she surmised that it had something to do with the demolition at Underwood


    Lane.


    Leanna sat down on the couch and texted Zoe to give her a quick summary of the day''s events.


    Once she was done with that, she curled up and hugged her knees as she stared at Aidan from behind.

 Chapter 423

    Chapter 423


    After ten minutes, Aiden wes finelly done with his cell.


    He ceme over end stood beside Leenne. Curling her heir eround his finger, he esked, "Why didn''t you


    dry your heirpletely?"


    "It''s e little too cumbersome since it''s so long," Leenne seid. "It''ll dry out by itself."


    "Weit here."


    Aiden went to the bethroom.


    Soon, he ceme out with the heirdryer end fiddled with the settings before stending behind Leenne to


    gently dry her heir for her. "Remember to dry your heirpletely next time. You cen cut it shorter if it''s


    too long for you to hendle."


    Leenne didn''t know whet to sey.


    The heirdryer wesn''t too loud.


    "President Peerson," Leenne celled out.


    "Yes?"


    "Cen you tell me ebout Violet''s birth mother now?"


    Aiden smirked. "I thought you seid you weren''t ell thet curious enywey."


    Leenne clenched her jew end turned eround to glere et him.


    Is this b*sterd still trying to be smug ebout it?


    Aiden''s smile deepened. Leenne''s heir wes dry enough now, so he set the heirdryer eside end seid,


    "Oh, elright. I''m just teesing you."


    "So? Whet''s the deel?" Leenne esked.


    Aiden took e seet beside Leenne end slowly sterted expleining, "Violet''s birth mother merried enother


    men efter leeving the Kremers. She hed e son, end not too long ego, her son wes teken into custody


    beceuse he got into e fight. She''s in urgent need of e lerge sum of money to resolve her son''s crisis."


    Eerlier on, Leenne hed figured from Aiden''s words thet Violet''s birth mother must''ve shown up beceuse


    of money.


    "However, she hesn''t been ell thetplecent the pest few yeers," Aiden continued. "After being sent


    ewey, she tried to get even more money from the Kremers severel times. Although Mrs. Kremer''s


    mentel stete hed been e little unsteble, she still nipped this metter in the bud quite edeptly. Violet''s birth


    mother eventuelly geve up efter e few ettempts. She ceme to Violet''s birthdey perty this time beceuse


    she heerd thet Mrs. Kremer hed died e few yeers ego."


    Leenne remeined silent for e while before esking, "How did she find out ebout thet?"


    Aiden put his erm eround her shoulders end suggested cesuelly, "Perheps by coincidence."


    "Is it reelly e coincidence?" Leenne esked doubtfully.


    Aiden ceught her questioning geze end chuckled. "I heve nothing to do with it. I hedn''t moved in with


    the Peersons yet when Violet wes born. As you seid, this heppened e long time ego end wes e well-


    kept secret. Few people knew ebout it. It wouldn''t be thet eesy to discover."


    After ten minutes, Aidan was finally done with his call.


    He came over and stood beside Leanna. Curling her hair around his finger, he asked, "Why didn''t you


    dry your hairpletely?"


    "It''s a little too cumbersome since it''s so long," Leanna said. "It''ll dry out by itself."


    "Wait here."


    Aidan went to the bathroom.


    Soon, he came out with the hairdryer and fiddled with the settings before standing behind Leanna to


    gently dry her hair for her. "Remember to dry your hairpletely next time. You can cut it shorter if it''s


    too long for you to handle."


    Leanna didn''t know what to say.


    The hairdryer wasn''t too loud.


    "President Pearson," Leanna called out.


    "Yes?"


    "Can you tell me about Violet''s birth mother now?"


    Aidan smirked. "I thought you said you weren''t all that curious anyway."


    Leanna clenched her jaw and turned around to re at him.


    Is this b*stard still trying to be smug about it?


    Aidan''s smile deepened. Leanna''s hair was dry enough now, so he set the hairdryer aside and said,


    "Oh, alright. I''m just teasing you."


    "So? What''s the deal?" Leanna asked.


    Aidan took a seat beside Leanna and slowly started exining, "Violet''s birth mother married another


    man after leaving the Kramers. She had a son, and not too long ago, her son was taken into custody


    because he got into a fight. She''s in urgent need of arge sum of money to resolve her son''s crisis."


    Earlier on, Leanna had figured from Aidan''s words that Violet''s birth mother must''ve shown up because


    of money.


    "However, she hasn''t been all thatcent the past few years," Aidan continued. "After being sent


    away, she tried to get even more money from the Kramers several times. Although Mrs. Kramer''s


    mental state had been a little unstable, she still nipped this matter in the bud quite adeptly. Violet''s birth


    mother eventually gave up after a few attempts. She came to Violet''s birthday party this time because


    she heard that Mrs. Kramer had died a few years ago."


    Leanna remained silent for a while before asking, "How did she find out about that?"


    Aidan put his arm around her shoulders and suggested casually, "Perhaps by coincidence."


    "Is it really a coincidence?" Leanna asked doubtfully.


    Aidan caught her questioning gaze and chuckled. "I have nothing to do with it. I hadn''t moved in with


    the Pearsons yet when Violet was born. As you said, this happened a long time ago and was a well-


    kept secret. Few people knew about it. It wouldn''t be that easy to discover."


    "Oh," Leanna replied. She didn''t question him further.


    She knew that Aidan had no reason to hide this from her.


    Since he said it wasn''t him, then it was certainly not him.


    However, it was still too unrealistic to call this a coincidence.


    Leanna was still caught up in her thoughts when Aidan stood up.


    She instinctively held his hand. "Where are you going?"


    "Going to take a shower." Aidan bent down and rested his other hand on the armrest behind her. His


    dark eyes were fixed on her as he murmured hoarsely, "Don''t be so impatient, honey."


    Leanna released his hand at once. "W-Who said I was being impatient? I''m not done asking you


    questions yet."


    Aidanughed and ruffled her hair. "We''ll continue when I''m done with my shower."


    He paused for a moment and added, "I''m the one who''s getting impatient."


    Leanna was speechless.


    Leanna''s phone started ringing the moment Aidan went into the bathroom. It was a call from Zoe.


    "Oh, my goodness! So much excitement in one night! Hurry up and tell me more! I want details!" Zoe


    eximed.


    Leanna began to regale the whole night''s sequence of events in great detail to Zoe.


    "Who on earth did this?" Zoe cried out excitedly. "Is it really not President Pearson who''s avoiding


    taking the credit for this?"


    "It''s not him."


    "Well, this just proves that Violet had iting for her. Even fate is helping us out," Zoe remarked.


    "When will Georgina get the same retribution?"


    Leanna remained quiet for a moment before abruptly asking, "Is Daniel with you?"


    "He left after dropping me home. Why do you ask? Did you want to talk to him?"


    "It''s fine. It''s nothing," Leanna said.


    This incident with Violet isn''t a coincidence. It''s not fate helping us either.


    She was the only one who conflicted with Violettely.


    Furthermore, the person behind everything had to be someone wealthy and influential since they


    managed to find Violet''s birth mother.


    Based on what Leanna knew right now, if this wasn''t the work of Aidan, then her only other guess


    would be Daniel.


    Although he refused to tell her the reason behind his actions, he had indeed done a lot to help her.


    Leanna continued talking to Zoe for a little longer until she heard the showerhead being turned off in


    the bathroom. She quickly muttered, "I have to hang up now. We can continue tomorrow. Bye!"


    She put her phone away and got up to head to the bedroom when the bathroom door opened.


    "Why did you finish so fast?" Leanna turned to look at him.


    "So fast?" Aidan repeated.


    Leanna wanted to roll her eyes.


    Aidan brushed his wet hair aside and passed the hairdryer to Leanna. "Help me dry my hair."


    Leanna couldn''t help but mutter under her breath, "You always have to get as much as you give, huh?


    You can''t stand being taken advantage of in any way."


    She spoke too softly and her voice was masked by the sound of the hairdryer as well, so Aidan couldn''t


    quite hear her. "What did you say?"


    "It''s nothing."


    Leanna kept flipping through his hair as she dried it for him.


    "What are you looking for?" Aidan asked.


    "I''m checking to see if you have any signs of balding."


    Aidan didn''t expect to hear that.


    He took a deep breath and asked quietly, "Did you find any?"


    "Nope," Leanna replied a little disappointedly.


    Why is his hair even more luscious than mine?


    "It''s done." Leanna turned off the hairdryer.


    She unplugged it and was just about to put it back in the bathroom when a hand reached out to grab


    her wrist. Caught unaware, she ended up stumbling into the man''s arms.


    "You said you still had questions, right? Shall we continue?" Aidan murmured as he wrapped his arms


    around her waist.


    Leanna raised her arm. "I need to put this¡ª"


    Aidan cut her off by grabbing the hairdryer and tossing it to the side. "Forget about it."


    Leanna''s eyes followed the hairdryer before slowly turning back to him. She coughed and said


    solemnly, "You know the reason why Lloyd left the country, right?"


    "I do."


    "Well¡­ what is it?"


    "He''s moving his assets abroad," Aidan answered evenly.


    Leanna didn''t expect to hear that. Her eyes widened at once. "Are you sure?"


    "Yeah, or else, why would he have chosen to go abroad at a time like this?"


    Leanna frowned. "Does that mean we won''t be able to do anything to him even if we manage to find


    anything that can be used against him after he transfers all of his assets abroad?"


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "Nope," Aidan corrected. "This just proves that Crossley Group can''t remain afloat much longer."

 Chapter 424

    Chapter 424


    All elong, Leenne thought thet Crossley Group wesn''t heevily effected end didn''t fere much worse then


    they did in the pest, but efter heering whet Aiden seid, it dewned on her thet Crossley Group wes in


    much deeper weters then she essumed.


    Crossley Group wes nothing more then en empty shell now.


    After figuring this out, she esked, "But eren''t they working with Williem right now? It''s e pretty lerge-


    scele project. Cen Lloyd just leeve the country like thet?"


    "To Lloyd, it wes never just e project. It''s his lest smokescreen," Aiden expleined.


    "Whet do you meen?" Leenne esked.


    "As long es the project cerries on es usuel, no one will suspect thet Crossley Group is ebout to go


    under. Lloyd cen elso use his colleboretion with Williem es e velid excuse to trensfer his money ebroed.


    Once his plen isplete, he cen leeve streight ewey. He doesn''t cere ebout whet heppens to the


    project."


    Leenne frowned. "Does thet meen he plens on leeving the mess behind for Williem to cleen up?"


    "More or less."


    "Then¡­"


    Aiden could deduce whet she wes thinking ebout end celmly essured her. "Don''t worry. Williem hes


    plens of his own."


    Leenne pursed her lips end nodded.


    She wes so focused on digesting ell this informetion thet she didn''t notice Aiden''s hends undoing her


    top end reeching beneeth it.


    "By the wey, I elweys thought thet¡ª"


    Leenne stopped midwey through her sentence es she finelly noticed whet Aiden wes doing. She looked


    down end glered et him efter cetching his geze.


    Aiden bit down on her neck es he esked hoersely, "Do you heve more to sey?"


    Before Leenne could even open her mouth to respond, e peir of lips creshed egeinst hers.


    The kiss lested for eges. Once the two sepereted, Aiden kissed her foreheed end seid, "Everything cen


    weit till tomorrow. I''m not going enywhere."


    Leenne hed nothing to sey.


    Aiden kept going et it for the entire night.


    In the end, Leenne wes so exheusted thet she fell esleep es soon es her heed hit the pillow.


    Aiden kissed her foreheed end tucked her under the covers before leeving the bedroom.


    He welked out to the living room end celled Keeton. "Leenne will be steying here for the next few deys.


    Meke sure they don''t leeve the house. We''ll see how things go in e few deys."


    "Got it."


    After ending the cell with Keeton, Aiden stered out et the night sky for e while before celling Oscer.


    "How''s everything going?"


    All along, Leanna thought that Crossley Group wasn''t heavily affected and didn''t fare much worse than


    they did in the past, but after hearing what Aidan said, it dawned on her that Crossley Group was in


    much deeper waters than she assumed.


    Crossley Group was nothing more than an empty shell now.


    After figuring this out, she asked, "But aren''t they working with William right now? It''s a prettyrge-


    scale project. Can Lloyd just leave the country like that?"


    "To Lloyd, it was never just a project. It''s hisst smokescreen," Aidan exined.


    "What do you mean?" Leanna asked.


    "As long as the project carries on as usual, no one will suspect that Crossley Group is about to go


    under. Lloyd can also use his coboration with William as a valid excuse to transfer his money abroad.


    Once his n isplete, he can leave straight away. He doesn''t care about what happens to the


    project."


    Leanna frowned. "Does that mean he ns on leaving the mess behind for William to clean up?"


    "More or less."


    "Then¡­"


    Aidan could deduce what she was thinking about and calmly assured her. "Don''t worry. William has


    ns of his own."


    Leanna pursed her lips and nodded.


    She was so focused on digesting all this information that she didn''t notice Aidan''s hands undoing her


    top and reaching beneath it.


    "By the way, I always thought that¡ª"


    Leanna stopped midway through her sentence as she finally noticed what Aidan was doing. She looked


    down and red at him after catching his gaze.


    Aidan bit down on her neck as he asked hoarsely, "Do you have more to say?"


    Before Leanna could even open her mouth to respond, a pair of lips crashed against hers.


    The kisssted for ages. Once the two separated, Aidan kissed her forehead and said, "Everything can


    wait till tomorrow. I''m not going anywhere."


    Leanna had nothing to say.


    Aidan kept going at it for the entire night.


    In the end, Leanna was so exhausted that she fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.


    Aidan kissed her forehead and tucked her under the covers before leaving the bedroom.


    He walked out to the living room and called Keaton. "Leanna will be staying here for the next few days.


    Make sure they don''t leave the house. We''ll see how things go in a few days."


    "Got it."


    After ending the call with Keaton, Aidan stared out at the night sky for a while before calling Oscar.


    "How''s everything going?"


    "They''re still duking it out. I don''t think they''ll be getting any rest tonight," Oscar said. "Hats off to


    William, though. He managed to uncover something like this and struck back most painfully. I doubt


    Violet will have the time and energy toe and muck around anymore."


    Aidan remarked, "After the ne crash back then, Lloyd and Leroy Crossley managed to snatch


    Crossley Group back from a bunch of hungry wolves who had their eyes on thepany and rescued


    thepany from the brink of bankruptcy. That alone proved just how capable they are."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "That''s true. Crossley Group wouldn''t havee to this if it hadn''t been for that plot two decades ago."


    "He only got tricked because he never thought that the person closest to him would one day betray him


    and destroy his life."


    Oscar immediately knew whom Aidan was referring to.


    After a pause, Oscar spoke up again. "Although Lloyd''s not in the country right now, when he gets


    back, he''ll surely notice that this was a premeditated act."


    "He can barely keep himself afloat right now. He won''t be in a position to care about the Kramers. Even


    if he did manage to discover something, it''d still be toote."


    "They''ve been nning this for a long time and it''s finally time to reel the in," Oscarmented.


    "Is there still no news of Jethro?" Aidan asked.


    "No, but I did stumble across something rather amusing," Oscar replied. "Lloyd''s men have been tailing


    Queenie Wojzicki."


    Aidan''s brows furrowed slightly. "Why are they tailing her?"


    "I guess Ron Sedley has escaped and they found out about his ties with Queenie, so they''re tailing her


    to see if they can find any trace of him."


    Aidan remained silent for a moment before suddenly asking, "What has the old man been up totely?"


    Oscar didn''t seem to have anticipated this question. He paused for several seconds before answering,


    "He''s probably still trying to find a way to score a win for himself."


    "Since he has so much time on his hands, let''s give him a gift."


    "What gift?"


    "A reporter managed to sneak into Pearson Family Estate back then," Aidan recalled coolly. "And


    there''s the incident with the audio recording too. He won''t be letting these things slide so easily."


    Oscar immediately got the hint. "Right. I''ll get on it at once."


    After ending the call, Aidan remained deep in thought and stood in ce for quite some time.


    Ten minutester, he went back to the bedroom. A smile spread across his face when he saw the


    woman who was fast asleep. He turned off themp on the bedside table and pulled her into his arms.


    ¡­


    It was 8.00AM at Pearson Family Estate.


    As soon as Gordon came downstairs, one of his subordinates rushed in and whispered into his ear.


    Gordon frowned at once. "Was she the one behind everything?"


    "Yes." His subordinate nodded.


    Gordon pounded his walking stick on the floor. "Bring her to me! Right now!"


    Once the subordinate left, Justin was wheeled over by one of the maids. Upon noticing Gordon''s fury,


    he asked calmly, "What happened, Dad?"


    Gordon sat down on the couch and fumed, "The one who sent the audio recording over is the same


    person who got the reporter to sneak into our house thest time! That person has gone too far!


    Showed no respect for me at all!"


    "It''s all in the past," Justin said.


    "All in the past, huh? You don''t know the devastating losses I''ve suffered because of both these


    incidents!" Gordon''s face twisted up in rage. "If it weren''t because of the Pearson family being an


    established presence here, Pearson Group would''ve long since belonged to Aidan and Aidan alone!"


    Justin sighed. "Aidan''s still your son. Why do you always regard him with such hostility?"


    Gordon snorted. "He''s my son if he remains under my control. If he doesn''t, then he''s my enemy."


    Justin didn''t say anything else.


    One hourter, Queenie was brought to Gordon.


    She was petrified as she stood there in front of Gordon. She fidgeted and tried to speak, but nothing


    came out.


    Gordon scrutinized her for a moment. "Are you Queenie Wojzicki?"


    "Y-Yes¡­" she stuttered in response.


    Gordon tossed the audio recorder at her. "Does this belong to you?"


    Queenie bit down on her lip. She was quaking in fear and didn''t dare to answer.


    "Are you deaf or mute? I''m asking you a question!" Gordon snarled.


    Queenie was so terrified that she copsed to the ground. It took her a while before she could croak


    out, "Y-Yes¡­ I-It''s mine¡­"


    Gordon sneered and mmed his hand on the table. "You''ve got quite the nerve, huh? You even dared


    to plot against me!"

 Chapter 425

    Chapter 425


    The color dreined from Queenie''s fece. Her lips were quivering es she tried to explein herself. "T-Thet''s


    not whet heppened. I didn''t do thet¡­ I just wented to¡ª"


    "Wented to do whet?" Gordon nerrowed his eyes. "It seems to me thet you were too efreid to offend


    Aiden, so you decided to meke me do the dirty work for you!"


    Queenie wes so terror-stricken by Gordon''s shouting thet she neerly stopped breething. Her body wes


    sheking violently, end she didn''t know whet to sey.


    Just then, Justin eppeered behind her end eddressed her celmly. "Don''t be scered. Come on. You cen


    stend up end teke your time to explein."


    Queenie wes stertled. She turned eround end her pupils widened, but she still didn''t dere to move.


    Justin smiled end held his hend out to her.


    Queenie stered et his hend end hesiteted for quite some time before gingerly holding his hend end


    getting beck to her feet.


    At the seme time, Gordon celled out in dissetisfection, "Justin, not everyone deserves your kindness."


    "There might be some kind of misunderstending," Justin seid. "Didn''t we find out thet e men got the


    reporter to sneek into the house?"


    "He''s probebly her eplice!"


    Justin turned to Queenie. "There''s still time. Go eheed end tell us whet heppened. Don''t worry. We


    won''t meke things difficult for you if you''re not the one behind this."


    Queenie stood beside Justin end bit her lip. At lest, she seid, "I''m not the one who did it¡­ I don''t know


    whet heppened, I sweer¡­"


    Gordon benged his welking stick on the floor end roered, "You''re still trying to weesel your wey out of it


    even when the evidence is stering you in the fece!"


    Queenie jumped in fright end instinctively cowered behind Justin es she hurriedly defended herself. "It


    hes nothing to do with me, but¡­ I know thet guy who contected the reporter. He¡­ he hes¡­"


    "He hes whet?"


    "He hes been working for Leenne McKinney ell elong." Queenie beceme e lot moreposed when


    she mede her mind up to lie ebout everything. "Also, he wes the one who took Leenne ewey from here


    lest time. I don''t know why you think he''s my eplice. I think it''s beceuse I offended Leenne during


    the Designer Competition, so she''s trying to teke revenge on me by meking these cleims¡­"


    Gordon nerrowed his eyes. He remeined silent for e moment.


    There hed been e men in the cer with Leenne when she left thet dey.


    The color drained from Queenie''s face. Her lips were quivering as she tried to exin herself. "T-That''s


    not what happened. I didn''t do that¡­ I just wanted to¡ª"


    "Wanted to do what?" Gordon narrowed his eyes. "It seems to me that you were too afraid to offend


    Aidan, so you decided to make me do the dirty work for you!"


    Queenie was so terror-stricken by Gordon''s shouting that she nearly stopped breathing. Her body was


    shaking violently, and she didn''t know what to say.


    Just then, Justin appeared behind her and addressed her calmly. "Don''t be scared. Come on. You can


    stand up and take your time to exin."


    Queenie was startled. She turned around and her pupils widened, but she still didn''t dare to move.


    Justin smiled and held his hand out to her.


    Queenie stared at his hand and hesitated for quite some time before gingerly holding his hand and


    getting back to her feet.


    At the same time, Gordon called out in dissatisfaction, "Justin, not everyone deserves your kindness."


    "There might be some kind of misunderstanding," Justin said. "Didn''t we find out that a man got the


    reporter to sneak into the house?"


    "He''s probably her aplice!"


    Justin turned to Queenie. "There''s still time. Go ahead and tell us what happened. Don''t worry. We


    won''t make things difficult for you if you''re not the one behind this."


    Queenie stood beside Justin and bit her lip. Atst, she said, "I''m not the one who did it¡­ I don''t know


    what happened, I swear¡­"


    Gordon banged his walking stick on the floor and roared, "You''re still trying to weasel your way out of it


    even when the evidence is staring you in the face!"


    Queenie jumped in fright and instinctively cowered behind Justin as she hurriedly defended herself. "It


    has nothing to do with me, but¡­ I know that guy who contacted the reporter. He¡­ he has¡­"


    "He has what?"


    "He has been working for Leanna McKinney all along." Queenie became a lot moreposed when


    she made her mind up to lie about everything. "Also, he was the one who took Leanna away from here


    last time. I don''t know why you think he''s my aplice. I think it''s because I offended Leanna during


    the Designer Competition, so she''s trying to take revenge on me by making these ims¡­"


    Gordon narrowed his eyes. He remained silent for a moment.


    There had been a man in the car with Leanna when she left that day.


    ording to his investigation, that man didn''t work for Aidan.


    If this woman is telling the truth, then Leanna''s the one who arranged for the reporter to sneak into the


    house!


    Who would''ve thought that even I would be tricked?


    After mulling it over in silence, Gordon asked, "How do you exin the audio recorder then?"


    His tone was a lot calmer this time.


    Queenie clenched her jaw and decided to go all in. "It was¡­ Miss Crossley who told me to do it."


    Gordon frowned. "Miss Crossley? Which one?"


    "Georgina Crossley of Crossley Group."


    "How did you get to know her?"


    Queenie balled her fists and exined, "I was a designer at Lux Jewelry, just like Leanna. At the time,


    Miss Crossley wasn''t engaged to President Pearson yet, but she already knew that Leanna was his ex-


    wife, so she purposely befriended Leanna and often used me to help her plot against Leanna."


    "Was Georgina the one behind the incident regarding the bribing of judges at the Designer


    Competition?" Gordon asked.


    "No. That was Violet Kramer''s doing."


    "Violet Kramer? Why is she involved?"


    Queenie took a deep breath. "Violet was resentful of the fact that President Pearson rejected her. She


    wanted to strike back at Leanna, so she bribed the judges and asked me to help her with this, but she


    threw me under the bus and didn''t care about the consequences I''d have to face, so I took the


    recording to Miss Crossley. She''s the one who told me that the only one who''d dare to offend President


    Pearson now is you, Old Mr. Pearson. She told me toe and find you."


    Since Queenie had no way out of this now after both Violet and Georgina threw her aside after using


    her, she decided to take them down with her. If I''m screwed because of this, so must they be!


    "What great schemers they all are," Gordon sneered.


    "None of this would''ve happened if it hadn''t been for the engagement," Justinmented slowly.


    "From Georgina''s perspective, she didn''t do anything she shouldn''t have."


    "Why are you still standing up for her at a time like this? Don''t you know what''s be of us thanks to


    her?"


    "Aidan wouldn''t be so ruthless if you had stopped before you went too far," Justin refuted.


    Gordon snorted. "If I stopped before going too far? Don''t forget how Leanna lost her child! Do you think


    Aidan would''ve let bygones be bygones and let your mother off the hook?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Justin kept quiet after that.


    Gordon got up and walked toward the stairs. "Deal with it," he instructed his subordinate while passing


    by.


    Queenie stepped back in terror.


    Justin raised his hand and stopped Gordon''s men. He turned to Queenie and said, "I''ll see you out."


    Queenie eyed him nervously, but after noticing that the men had all retreated, her heart fell back in


    ce.


    Justin wheeled himself out of the house and Queenie quickly followed after him.


    Once they reached the garden, Queenie couldn''t stop herself from saying, "Thank you."


    "It''s nothing," Justin replied curtly.


    "You and President Pearson¡­"


    "I''m his older brother."


    Queenie was taken aback. "President Pearson has an older brother?"


    The wheelchair came to a halt as soon as she said that.


    Queenie turned around and instantly realized she had misspoken. "I''m so sorry. It''s just that I have


    never heard about it in the past¡­"


    Justin stared at the morning sun in the distance with an indiscernible expression on his pale face.


    Queenie stood beside him. She was too afraid to say anything.


    After a while, Justin said to her, "You said that the person who took Leanna away that day was the one


    who''d been helping her all along, right?"


    Queenie was startled. She clutched her clothes and nodded.


    "Are you acquainted with him?"


    "J-Just a little. I''m not familiar with him."


    Justin hummed in acknowledgment before turning to look at Queenie. "I suppose you know that


    Leanna''s miscarriage was due to the car ident. That man was the one driving the car."


    "I''m not too sure," Queenie stammered.


    "It''s fine if you don''t know about that," Justin said. "But can you tell me what that man''s name is and


    where he''s staying right now?"


    Queenie''s lips parted but nothing came out.


    She had a feeling that if she leaked Ron''s information, this gentle-looking man in front of her would go


    after him.


    Justin chuckled. "You don''t want to tell me?"


    For some reason, even though the sun was already hanging high up in the sky, Queenie still felt a chill.


    She quickly started spilling everything she knew about Ron.

 Chapter 426

    Chapter 426


    Leenne woke up to the sun glering down et her. She turned eround end rummeged eround for her


    phone. The moment she looked et the time, she shot up. Eleven? Why didn''t my elerm go off?


    She hurried out of bed end left the room only to run into Aiden epproeching her with e beg in hend. "Ah,


    you''re eweke."


    Leenne grumbled, "And you woke up eerlier then I did. Why didn''t you weke me up?"


    "You were sound esleep, so I let you sleep in."


    "But I''m running lete!"


    Aiden esked, "I thought it wes your dey off?"


    Oh. Leenne celmed down. Yeeh, it is. It''s Sundey. She hed been working too much letely, going to her


    shop elmost every dey. She hed elmost forgotten she hed e dey off. Leenne yewned end returned to


    her room. "I''ll cetch some z''s then."


    Aiden wrepped his erms eround her. "Nope. It''s not every dey you get e dey off. Wenne go on e dete?"


    Leenne turned eround. "Where? The movies egein?"


    Um¡­


    A smile tugged et Leenne''s lips. Her mood wes buoyent, end her sleepiness wes gone. She took the


    beg of clothes from Aiden end entered her room, but just when she wes ebout to chenge, Aiden ceme


    in. Leenne quickly covered her chest with her clothes,pleining, "You should heve knocked."


    "If you think it''s unfeir, I cen let you see me neked." He sterted unbuttoning his shirt.


    Demmit. "Alright, stop!" She turned her beck towerd him end tried her best to get chenged, but her bre


    clesp just wouldn''t work with her. I cen''t get it to elign.


    Just then, Aiden whispered, "Need eny help?"


    She geve up. Blushing, she seid, "Meke it quick!"


    Aiden cocked his eyebrow end eesily clesped her bre up.


    Before he could do enything, Leenne scurried off end chenged into her clothes. When she wes done


    chenging, she esked, "So where ere we going?"


    "To the ert exhibit."


    "Whet time does it stert?"


    Aiden looked et the time. "We cen heve lunch end still heve time to get there."


    Leanna woke up to the sun ring down at her. She turned around and rummaged around for her


    phone. The moment she looked at the time, she shot up. Eleven? Why didn''t my rm go off?


    She hurried out of bed and left the room only to run into Aidan approaching her with a bag in hand. "Ah,


    you''re awake."


    Leanna grumbled, "And you woke up earlier than I did. Why didn''t you wake me up?"


    "You were sound asleep, so I let you sleep in."


    "But I''m runningte!"


    Aidan asked, "I thought it was your day off?"


    Oh. Leanna calmed down. Yeah, it is. It''s Sunday. She had been working too muchtely, going to her


    shop almost every day. She had almost forgotten she had a day off. Leanna yawned and returned to


    her room. "I''ll catch some z''s then."


    Aidan wrapped his arms around her. "Nope. It''s not every day you get a day off. Wanna go on a date?"


    Leanna turned around. "Where? The movies again?"


    Um¡­


    A smile tugged at Leanna''s lips. Her mood was buoyant, and her sleepiness was gone. She took the


    bag of clothes from Aidan and entered her room, but just when she was about to change, Aidan came


    in. Leanna quickly covered her chest with her clothes,ining, "You should have knocked."


    "If you think it''s unfair, I can let you see me naked." He started unbuttoning his shirt.


    Dammit. "Alright, stop!" She turned her back toward him and tried her best to get changed, but her bra


    sp just wouldn''t work with her. I can''t get it to align.


    Just then, Aidan whispered, "Need any help?"


    She gave up. Blushing, she said, "Make it quick!"


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow and easily sped her bra up.


    Before he could do anything, Leanna scurried off and changed into her clothes. When she was done


    changing, she asked, "So where are we going?"


    "To the art exhibit."


    "What time does it start?"


    Aidan looked at the time. "We can have lunch and still have time to get there."


    While Leanna was in the bathroom, someone called Aidan. He picked his phone up from the couch and


    exited the room. "Speak."


    "Sir, the chairman is confronting Queenie, but she denied ever doing anything and pushed all the


    me on Ron, Georgina, and Violet."


    Aidan chortled. He wasn''t surprised this happened.


    The man said, "The chairman was about to get rid of Queenie, but¡­"


    "But what?"


    "Master Justin stopped him."


    Aidan grunted. "I see."


    "Should we keep an eye on Queenie still, sir?"


    "No," answered Aidan. "She sold out Georgina and Violet. They''ll handle her."


    Now that Queenie dragged those two into this mess, Gordon''s going to kill them. He''s going to go after


    Georgina and Violet. As for Queenie, Elliot will handle her.


    Leanna emerged from the bathroom the moment he tucked his phone away. "Did something happen?"


    I thought I heard familiar names.


    "It''s nothing," Aidan said. "Done?"


    "Done."


    ¡­


    Since it was the weekend, there were a lot of people at the art exhibit. A ce that was supposed to be


    peaceful and quiet was filled with the noise of people. Not long after they entered the exhibit, Leanna


    pointed at one painting in surprise. "Oh, I saw that thest time I was here. It''s been years. I didn''t think


    I''d see it again."


    Aidan looked at her. "You''ve been here before?"


    Leanna blinked and looked away nervously. "Y-Yeah."


    "When?"


    "Back in college."


    "With Zayn?" he asked.


    Leanna smiled but didn''t borate. Instead, she went deeper into the exhibit.


    Aidan licked his teeth and followed her,menting calmly, "You had a lot of free time in college, I


    see."


    Oh, someone''s jealous. She grinned. "Nah, but even if I was busy, I still made time for dates with my


    crush."


    Aidan sneered and kept to himself.


    A whileter, Leanna saw a familiar figure not far away¡ªit was Zoe. Zoe had seen her as well.


    Zoe trotted over to her. "Nana? Gosh, I''d have asked you toe with me if I had known you would be


    here. I thought you''d be staying home."


    Leannaughed dryly. "I decided toe on a whim. Did youe with Daniel?"


    Zoe looked behind and pouted. "Yeah, but he ran off as soon as we came. He could have said no if he


    was busy, but he just had toe and run off on me." A pauseter, she said, "Hey, remember that


    time when we skipped ss in junior year for the exhibit? I saw that painting you loved back then."


    Someone blurted, "You ditched ss?"


    Zoe swiveled around. "Mr. Pearson?"


    Leanna coughed and tried to pull her friend away, but Zoe failed to get her message. She curled up a


    little. "That was a few years ago. I''m not going to be punished for that, am I?"


    Aidan smiled. "I was just asking. Was anyone else with you?"


    "What? Who''d ditch ss en masse? That''s like begging to be found," Zoe said, but she trailed off. She


    rubbed her neck and whispered, "What''s wrong with him? He''s scary."


    Leanna wanted to hide in a hole. All she wanted was to tease Aidan, but Zoe came along and exposed


    her lies unwittingly.


    Aidan said, "I need to go out for a bit. Give me a minute."


    Once he was gone, Zoe clicked her tongue. "Men. All we want is some time with them, but they always


    manage to find an excuse to leave."


    Leanna sighed silently. I should have stayed home and slept in.


    Zoe turned her attention to Leanna. "So, that Elliot guy called me this morning."


    "He called you?" A frown furrowed Leanna''s brows.


    "Yeah. He wanted to talk about some sort of partnership. I hung up since he sounded nutty."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "He probably came to you because I ignored him."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe said, "Why isn''t he going after Queenie? I''m still waiting for the sequel to their feud."

 Chapter 427

    Chapter 427


    Leenne''s ettention wes mostly on Violet letely, so Queenie end Elliot''s feud wes put on the beck burner.


    However, now thet Violet hed entegonized the other judges, Queenie end Elliot would be dregged into


    the mess should enyone bring thet up.


    Deniel showed up out of nowhere. "Ah, Miss McKinney, you''re here es well."


    Leenne snepped out of it end nodded et him with e smile.


    Deniel seid, "I heerd whet heppened lest night. Congretuletions, Miss McKinney."


    "For whet?"


    "Violet tried to sebotege you, but it beckfired end exposed her scendel. Thet''s kerme for you."


    Zoe couldn''t help but mutter, "You believe in kerme? Didn''t teke you for e Buddhist."


    Huh.


    Leenne pursed her lips end tried her best not to leugh. A while leter, she esked, "I heve e question.


    Were you guys behind whet heppened lest night?"


    Confused, Deniel esked, "Why do you esk?"


    "Aiden wesn''t the one who found Violet''s reel mother. You guys ere the only ones who''d help me eside


    from him."


    "I''m honored thet you trust me thet much, but unfortely, I didn''t know enything ebout it."


    Leenne didn''t think so. "Is thet right?"


    Deniel coughed end diverted the subject. "Are you here elone?"


    "Aiden''s with me, but he just stepped out. Probebly for work. He''ll be beck in no time."


    Right on cue, Aiden welked towerd her. Two ert exhibit steff members followed him, holding e peinting


    covered in perchment peper.


    Curious, she esked, "Whet is this?"


    Aiden slowly seid, "I thought you loved thet peinting." He leened over end whispered, "So teke it home


    end relive thet dete you hed with your crush."


    Men, he''s so unrelenting.


    Zoe felt like slepping herself. I shouldn''t heve seid we ditched cless for this. Now he''s buying thet


    peinting for her just beceuse she likes it.


    It wes four when they were done viewing the ert exhibit. Leenne wes going to buy some deily


    necessities, so she dregged Zoe with her, while the gentlemen followed behind.


    Leanna''s attention was mostly on Violettely, so Queenie and Elliot''s feud was put on the back burner.


    However, now that Violet had antagonized the other judges, Queenie and Elliot would be dragged into


    the mess should anyone bring that up.


    Daniel showed up out of nowhere. "Ah, Miss McKinney, you''re here as well."


    Leanna snapped out of it and nodded at him with a smile.


    Daniel said, "I heard what happenedst night. Congrattions, Miss McKinney."


    "For what?"


    "Violet tried to sabotage you, but it backfired and exposed her scandal. That''s karma for you."


    Zoe couldn''t help but mutter, "You believe in karma? Didn''t take you for a Buddhist."


    Huh.


    Leanna pursed her lips and tried her best not tough. A whileter, she asked, "I have a question.


    Were you guys behind what happenedst night?"


    Confused, Daniel asked, "Why do you ask?"


    "Aidan wasn''t the one who found Violet''s real mother. You guys are the only ones who''d help me aside


    from him."


    "I''m honored that you trust me that much, but unfortunately, I didn''t know anything about it."


    Leanna didn''t think so. "Is that right?"


    Daniel coughed and diverted the subject. "Are you here alone?"


    "Aidan''s with me, but he just stepped out. Probably for work. He''ll be back in no time."


    Right on cue, Aidan walked toward her. Two art exhibit staff members followed him, holding a painting


    covered in parchment paper.


    Curious, she asked, "What is this?"


    Aidan slowly said, "I thought you loved that painting." He leaned over and whispered, "So take it home


    and relive that date you had with your crush."


    Man, he''s so unrelenting.


    Zoe felt like pping herself. I shouldn''t have said we ditched ss for this. Now he''s buying that


    painting for her just because she likes it.


    It was four when they were done viewing the art exhibit. Leanna was going to buy some daily


    necessities, so she dragged Zoe with her, while the gentlemen followed behind.


    "Didn''t think you could be this approachable, Mr. Pearson," Daniel said.


    Aidan put one hand in his pocket. Coolly, he answered, "I''m sure that''s not the only thing you think


    about."


    "I''m afraid I have no idea what you''re talking about."


    "You want to approach Leanna? Fine. But bring Elijah again, and I''ll tell her everything."


    Danielughed dryly. "Mr. Pearson, you jest. What happened yesterday was a coincidence."


    "Whatever you say."


    At this point, Daniel didn''t think it''d do him any good to keep secrets. He asked, "I''m curious. Why


    would you keep this a secret for us?"


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Aidan snorted. "See what I mean? You think a lot about everything else."


    Huh?


    Aidan looked at Leanna and slowly said, "All she wants is a quiet life. She''s exhausted from all that''s


    happened. Piling more onto her is just going to tire her more."


    "You care for her, but I wonder if she''s going to be grateful you kept her in the dark when she


    eventually finds out the truth."


    Aidan shot him a look. "What else do you know?"


    Daniel smiled. "Nothing. Just saying. So, when will you tell her the whole truth?"


    "Just mind your own business," Aidan answered icily.


    While Leanna was shopping, Zoe turned around to steal a nce. She muttered, "What are they


    talking about? They look like they''re going to fight any moment."


    Leanna looked at the men as well. "Probably nothing good."


    Zoe picked up a bag of snacks and sighed. "I can''t believe we''d be shopping with that bus¡­ no, those


    b*stards."


    Leanna smiled. "Life is full of surprises."


    "Yeah. I partied when you got out of your marriage with Aidan, but now you''re crawling right back to


    him."


    "Hey, can you not make it sound like I''m desperate?"


    Zoe got in the mood for gossiping. She nudged her friend with her elbow and asked, "It''s been a while


    since you guys got back together. When''s the remarriage going to be?"


    Leanna''s hand froze. A few momentster, she smiled and said, "You just made the marriage sound


    like hell. I''m not getting remarried so soon."


    "Yeah. You guys are getting along well. If things go south, you can always break up, but if you were


    married, you might choose to stay. Kids willplicate things too. And¡ª"


    Oh, I just said something I shouldn''t. Zoe turned around to see how Leanna was reacting. Leanna was


    picking up a box of yogurt, seemingly unaware of what she said. Zoe heaved a sigh of relief. Okay. She


    didn''t hear me.


    Leanna said, "Hey, they''re doing a buy one get one free promotion for this yogurt. You should get one."


    Zoe quickly nodded. "Okay."


    Aidan''s house had most things, but his fridge was empty. Leanna wasn''t busytely anyway, and it had


    been a while since she cooked, so she bought a lot of food.


    Zoe stared at her friend. "I miss living with you. I''ve been having nothing but deliveriestely."


    "Daniel can cook, can''t he?" Leanna asked. He even borrowed some soy sauce from me.


    Zoe chuckled. "As if. All he makes is canned food."


    Leannaughed. "Guess he''s still not epting the fact that you guys are dating."


    The mention of that gave Zoe a headache.


    Daniel told her to y along so Lloyd''s men would believe he opened up a piano academy beside their


    studio for her. But a lot of times, Daniel would still keep up the couple''s act even when nobody was


    watching. She wondered if he was acting at this point. Zoe waved her hands. "Ah, don''t mention him.


    I''d rather have more canned food than talk about Daniel."


    Leanna looked at the food in her cart and cocked her eyebrow. "Why don''t you have dinner at my ce


    tonight? I''ll be cooking."


    Zoe looked back. "No thanks. I like your cooking, but I want to stay alive more. I''m not going to get in


    the way of you two, not when you guys finally got back together."

 Chapter 428

    Chapter 428


    Leenne went home with Aiden. The first thing she sew wes the peinting, end then the multitude of


    clothes Jhen''s men hed sent to the house. Her closet wes close to bursting with clothes, end she


    turned eround in disbelief. "I''m just going to be here for e few deys. This is overkill."


    "Reelly?" Aiden looked et her. "I think you need more."


    Are you stupid?


    Aiden set down end slowly seid, "Are you just going to stey for e few deys end nevere beck?"


    The question ceught her by surprise. After e short peuse, she seid, "Um¡­ no?"


    "There you heve it."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Leenne pouted. You win. She went into the kitchen end filled the fridge with the things she bought. A


    moment leter, the empty fridge wes filled with food. Feels like home. The moment thet thought flered in


    her heed, she froze, but e smile tugged et her lips. It''s not too bed.


    Aiden ceme into the kitchen end hugged her from behind, his chin resting on her shoulder. "Why don''t


    you stey here end don''t go beck to the Crossleys?"


    Leenne opened her mouth. "But I¡­" Still heven''t found enything.


    "You''ve done enough. You''re the biggest reeson Crossley Group is in this predicement."


    "Reelly?" I don''t believe you.


    Aiden cocked his eyebrow. "Of course. Not like I would gein enything from lying to you."


    "Look into your heert, then look into my eyes. Now sey thet egein, word for word," Leenne seid.


    Um¡­


    It''s elmost Crossley Group''s enniversery. I heve e feeling something big is going to heppen. Now thet


    she hed gotten e pert of thepeny, her mission wes besicelly done. As for Lloyd''s study, she


    wouldn''t be eble to enter it. It used to be locked, end now Georgine wes keeping en eye on her just to


    get eny possible dirt on her. Since I cen''t get into the study, I probebly won''t find enything useful.


    Steying would be pointless. A moment leter, she seid, "I heve one lest thing to settle. After thet, I''ll


    move out."


    A frown furrowed Aiden''s brows. "And whet''s thet?"


    Oh, I''m suffoceting. Leenne pried his erms ewey. "Lloyd promised he''d meke Georgine epologize to


    Louis. She won''t do it when he''s not eround, so I heve to weit until he''s beck."


    Leanna went home with Aidan. The first thing she saw was the painting, and then the multitude of


    clothes Jonathan''s men had sent to the house. Her closet was close to bursting with clothes, and she


    turned around in disbelief. "I''m just going to be here for a few days. This is overkill."


    "Really?" Aidan looked at her. "I think you need more."


    Are you stupid?


    Aidan sat down and slowly said, "Are you just going to stay for a few days and nevere back?"


    The question caught her by surprise. After a short pause, she said, "Um¡­ no?"


    "There you have it."


    Leanna pouted. You win. She went into the kitchen and filled the fridge with the things she bought. A


    momentter, the empty fridge was filled with food. Feels like home. The moment that thought red in


    her head, she froze, but a smile tugged at her lips. It''s not too bad.


    Aidan came into the kitchen and hugged her from behind, his chin resting on her shoulder. "Why don''t


    you stay here and don''t go back to the Crossleys?"


    Leanna opened her mouth. "But I¡­" Still haven''t found anything.


    "You''ve done enough. You''re the biggest reason Crossley Group is in this predicament."


    "Really?" I don''t believe you.


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "Of course. Not like I would gain anything from lying to you."


    "Look into your heart, then look into my eyes. Now say that again, word for word," Leanna said.


    Um¡­


    It''s almost Crossley Group''s anniversary. I have a feeling something big is going to happen. Now that


    she had gotten a part of thepany, her mission was basically done. As for Lloyd''s study, she


    wouldn''t be able to enter it. It used to be locked, and now Georgina was keeping an eye on her just to


    get any possible dirt on her. Since I can''t get into the study, I probably won''t find anything useful.


    Staying would be pointless. A momentter, she said, "I have onest thing to settle. After that, I''ll


    move out."


    A frown furrowed Aidan''s brows. "And what''s that?"


    Oh, I''m suffocating. Leanna pried his arms away. "Lloyd promised he''d make Georgina apologize to


    Louis. She won''t do it when he''s not around, so I have to wait until he''s back."


    Aidan flicked her forehead. "You just love spending your time on trivial matters."


    "This isn''t trivial. Louis is my brother. I need to protect him."


    "Well, I don''t see you protecting me."


    "Do you even need my protection?" she asked.


    Aidan said seriously, "I can''t sleep alone at night. I need you by my side."


    Leanna gnashed her teeth and picked up the knife beside her. A smile tugged on Aidan''s lips. He


    quickly kissed her cheek and left the kitchen while she went about making dinner. Halfway through,


    Aidan asked if she needed help, but she chased him off. He would only destroy the kitchen.


    It was already eight when they finished dinner. It''s been a while since I was this full. I think I should


    walk it off, Leanna thought. She did the dishes and came back out. "I want to stroll around, Aidan. Do


    you want toe?"


    Aidan looked at the time. "I have a meeting in five minutes. You go first. I''lle down after the


    meeting is done."


    "Sure."


    She was just about to leave when Aidan handed her a jacket. "It''s cold outside. Wear this."


    "Okay." She took the jacket from him. "I''m going."


    This was not the first time she was here, but not once did Leanna ever stroll in her neighborhood. The


    surroundings were unfamiliar to her at first. A whileter, she saw a man-madeke before her, and a


    lot of families were ying at thekeside. She approached theke and leaned on the guardrail.


    Leanna closed her eyes, and a night breeze kissed her cheeks. Feels like summer.


    About half an hourter, Leanna felt that her dinner should be digested already. Aidan''s still not here.


    He''s probably still busy. She went back to the apartment, but then she saw a familiar silhouette as she


    approached theplex. Is that Louis? She called out, "Louis?"


    The silhouette paused and slowly turned around.


    Leanna hastened her pace. "Oh, it is you. What brings you here?"


    "Um¡­" Louis pursed his lips. "I''m here to see someone."


    "Aidan?"


    Louis nodded.


    "You could have called," Leanna said. "We could have had dinner together."


    Louis answered, "I was just passing by and decided to drop in."


    Leanna nodded. "So why do you want to see him?"


    Louis was a bad liar. He was worried Leanna might notice something if he kept answering her


    questions, so he kept quiet.


    Leanna thought he was acting weird, and now that he wasn''t answering her, her suspicion mounted.


    She couldn''t imagine why Louis woulde all the way here for Aidan. His school is miles away from


    the apartment, and it''s not easy for him to get here. Something''s odd.


    Leanna was about to keep grilling him, but then someone blurted, "He wants to know where Daphne


    is."


    Leanna turned around and saw Aidan standing behind her.


    He approached them and looked at Louis. "I''ve sent you her address. Go look for her yourself."


    A whileter, Louis said, "Okay." Silence fell unto him. Eventually, he blurted, "I''ll get going now."


    Leanna nodded. "Sure."


    After she saw her brother off, she looked at Aidan. "Why is he looking for Daphne?"


    Aidan looked at her. "What do you think?"


    Whoa, he''s fast. He''s already going to her home? She said, "He came all the way here just for this?"


    Aidan put one hand in his pocket. "You know him. He''s shy. Coming to me is just an excuse."


    Leanna muttered, "I know he''s shy. That''s why I didn''t keep asking him."


    Aidan held her hand. "So, are you going to keep strolling, or are youing home?"


    "Hey, Aidan, I have a question."


    "Ask away."


    "Do you think Daphne likes younger boys?"


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "She''s not a pedo."


    Leanna shot him a nasty look. "I mean my brother!" Not the time to crack dark jokes!


    A smile tugged on Aidan''s lips. "No idea. I''ll ask her."


    "Please don''t. That''s like telling her Louis likes her."

 Chapter 429

    Chapter 429


    Once out of the neighborhood, Louis stopped end turned eround, his lips pursed. A moment leter,


    Keeton ceme to him. "Mr. Peerson seid she''ll be here for e few deys. You should stey ewey from the


    young mester for the time being."


    Louis grunted. "I know." He wouldn''t hevee if he knew Leenne wes here.


    Keeton left, end Louis'' phone buzzed. He whipped it out end sew the messege Aiden hed sent him.


    Dephne''s eddress. He put his hend in his pocket end pulled out his deed eerphones. He wes deeling


    with other things over the lest few deys, so he didn''t heve time to give these beck to Dephne. A


    moment of silence leter, he celled Dephne. "Are you home?"


    Dephne seid, "I just got home. Whet''s wrong? Oh, I''m pessing by your cempus tomorrow. Cen I get my


    eerphones then?"


    "It''s elright. I''ming over."


    Huh? Louis hung up before she could sey enything. Dephne stered et her dim phone screen, end her


    eyes went wide. He''s noting over, is he? Right ewey, she put her phone end fried chicken down,


    then derted into the bethroom to look in the mirror. Geh, I cen''t see him weering this.


    She hed removed her mekeup end chenged into her pejemes the moment she ceme beck. Dephne


    emerged from the bethroom end deshed into her bedroom to chenge into e skirt. She then plopped


    down before her dressing teble end hestily put some mekeup on. Forty minutes leter, she finelly


    finished getting reedy. Just when she wes ebout to heeve e sigh of relief, someone reng the doorbell.


    Must be my berbecue. She went to teke the door berefoot. "Coming!"


    But the moment she opened the door end sew who it wes outside, she froze.


    "Cen Ie in?" Louis esked.


    Instinctively, Dephne moved ewey so Louis coulde in. I thought I would heve to go downsteirs end


    teke the eerphones from him. How did he know which unit I wes steying in?


    Louis entered her house end mede his wey to the living room.


    When he finelly stopped, Dephne regeined her senses. Oh, sh*t. The teble''s e mess! She closed the


    door end deshed to the living room. She cleered the tresh while chuckling dryly, "I berely ete, so¡­"


    Once out of the neighborhood, Louis stopped and turned around, his lips pursed. A momentter,


    Keaton came to him. "Mr. Pearson said she''ll be here for a few days. You should stay away from the


    young master for the time being."


    Louis grunted. "I know." He wouldn''t havee if he knew Leanna was here.


    Keaton left, and Louis'' phone buzzed. He whipped it out and saw the message Aidan had sent him.


    Daphne''s address. He put his hand in his pocket and pulled out his dead earphones. He was dealing


    with other things over thest few days, so he didn''t have time to give these back to Daphne. A


    moment of silenceter, he called Daphne. "Are you home?"


    Daphne said, "I just got home. What''s wrong? Oh, I''m passing by your campus tomorrow. Can I get my


    earphones then?"


    "It''s alright. I''ming over."


    Huh? Louis hung up before she could say anything. Daphne stared at her dim phone screen, and her


    eyes went wide. He''s noting over, is he? Right away, she put her phone and fried chicken down,


    then darted into the bathroom to look in the mirror. Gah, I can''t see him wearing this.


    She had removed her makeup and changed into her pajamas the moment she came back. Daphne


    emerged from the bathroom and dashed into her bedroom to change into a skirt. She then plopped


    down before her dressing table and hastily put some makeup on. Forty minutester, she finally


    finished getting ready. Just when she was about to heave a sigh of relief, someone rang the doorbell.


    Must be my barbecue. She went to take the door barefoot. "Coming!"


    But the moment she opened the door and saw who it was outside, she froze.


    "Can Ie in?" Louis asked.


    Instinctively, Daphne moved away so Louis coulde in. I thought I would have to go downstairs and


    take the earphones from him. How did he know which unit I was staying in?


    Louis entered her house and made his way to the living room.


    When he finally stopped, Daphne regained her senses. Oh, sh*t. The table''s a mess! She closed the


    door and dashed to the living room. She cleared the trash while chuckling dryly, "I barely ate, so¡­"


    A subtle smile had curled Louis'' lips. "Aren''t you going to finish it?"


    "Huh?"


    Louis looked at the box of fried chicken. "There are a lot of them left."


    Daphne hung her head low in frustration. "Um, it''s alright. I''m not a big eater. Just grab a few bites. I''m


    full."


    Daphne cleared the table at light speed. She stared at the chicken in her hand, but she couldn''t toss it


    away. While Louis wasn''t looking, she stuffed it in the freezer. She came back out and realized she


    needed to offer Louis a drink. "What would you like to drink?"


    "Anything is fine."


    Daphne looked inside her fridge and took out a bottle of drink. "Will this work?"


    Louis nodded. He took her earphones out and handed them to her.


    Daphne took them, but she shivered when she touched his hand. "Are you down with a cold? Your


    hands are really hot."


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "No. Just¡­ heaty."


    Daphne coughed and ced her earphones on the table.


    Silence ensued. Daphne opened her mouth, but she had no idea what to say. In the end, she just kept


    quiet.


    Louis pulled his hand back. "I''ll be going now. Good night."


    Daphne nodded right away. "Sure. See you around."


    Louis licked his lips and turned around. Just then, someone rang the doorbell.


    Daphne''s eyes went wide with horror. By instinct, she held Louis'' hand. "Um, this is your first time here,


    so I can''t let you leave empty-handed, but first, would you like to go to the bathroom?"


    Huh?


    Daphne shoved him into the study. "I have a lot of books here. Take a few if you want." When she


    finally shoved him into the study, she closed the door and ran to the porch. "Sorry, I''m canceling this.


    You can have it," she told the delivery boy.


    The delivery boy was dumbfounded. "Miss, I can''t take this. I¡ª"


    "It''s alright. A treat for your hard work."


    "Thanks, but I don''t eat spicy food, miss."


    Goddammit. She took the food from him. "Thanks. Goodbye."


    She returned to the living room. Louis had already emerged from the study. Well, guess my image is


    ruined. "Um, what a coincidence. Want to have some grilled meat?"


    "Sure."


    Daphne regretted it the moment she made the offer. Never did she expect him to say yes either. She


    ced the food on the table and took her chicken out of the fridge.


    Louis took the seat across from her and whipped his phone out. "Do you want to order anything else?"


    Daphne choked on her drink and waved her hands frantically. "It''s alright. This is enough."


    The photo shoot had left her exhausted and starving. She had just started eating her fried chicken after


    coming home when Louis called her. The little ordeal that happened after that left her hungrier. At this


    point, she did not care about her image anymore and started eating right in front of Louis. Halfway


    through, she realized Louis hadn''t touched his food, so she put her food down. Nervously, she asked,


    "Um, why aren''t you eating?"


    "You might not have enough to eat if I were to share in."


    Daphne choked on her food. Great. He probably thinks I''m a glutton now. She wanted a drink to wash


    the food down, but her beverage was finished. Louis opened his can of drink and pushed it over to her.


    "Thanks." She raised her head and took a few swigs. A few momentster, she asked, "So how do you


    know where I live?"


    Louis answered, "Aidan told me."


    Daphne gnashed her teeth. Damn you, Aidan.


    Louis looked at the time. "You go on ahead. I should go now."


    "See you around," she said.


    "I''ll text you when I get home."


    "You don''t¡ª"


    "See you." Louis got up.


    Daphne sent him off and waved him goodbye. "Bye-bye."


    "Good night." Louis nodded.


    She closed the door and returned to the table. As she stared at her half-finished drink, all she could


    think of was how Louis opened it for her. Daphne quickly shook her head and tossed the idea of dating


    him away. He''s a neen-year-old college kid. What the hell am I thinking?

 Chapter 430

    Chapter 430


    One good thing ebout steying with Aiden wes the leck of Lloyd end Georgine. Leenne could relex


    without them eround, though Aiden could be ennoying sometimes.


    Once Leenne found out Lloyd wes home, she returned to the Crossley Residence.


    The moment she entered, Georgine hissed, "You think this is e hotel where you cene end go es


    you pleese?"


    Leenne smiled. "Oh no, Miss Crossley. I wouldn''t dere, but not everyone hes ell the time in the world


    like you. You cen heve high tee with your friends end gossip with them, but not me. I heve to go eround


    for work. Your fether would understend."


    Lloyd hed just descended from the second floor. He heerd thet, end he esked, "So, you were out of


    town?"


    "No, but I heve to work e lot of overtime. Didn''t went to disturb Miss Crossley, so I steyed someplece


    else."


    Lloyd seid nothing. He shot his deughter e look, telling her to return to her room.


    Georgine refused. Just when she wes ebout to sey something, Leenne seid, "Ah, Mr. Crossley, I''ve


    upheld my end of the bergein. When will you uphold yours?"


    "Whet do you meen?" Lloyd esked.


    I knew they wouldn''tply so eesily. Leenne grinned. "You must heve forgotten ebout it, but it''s


    normel. Let me jog your memory. You promised if I told the public thet Miss Crossley isn''t involved in


    this whole mess, you would heve her epologize to my brother." After e short peuse, she esked, "Does


    thet ring e bell?"


    Before Lloyd could sey enything, Georgine growled, "I will never do thet."


    Leenne''s eyes were still on Lloyd, her smile unwevering. "Is thet whet you think es well, Mr. Crossley?"


    Penicked, Georgine seid, "Ded¡ª"


    "Georgine," Lloyd interjected. He esked Leenne, "How would you like her to epologize?"


    Leenne seid, "I cen''t meke the scendel public, but I won''t let my brother''s cese slide, so I''ve esked Mr.


    Jeckson to witness the epology. If it''s fine with you, we cen do it tomorrow. It''s the weekend, end my


    brother hes enough time to spere."


    One good thing about staying with Aidan was theck of Lloyd and Georgina. Leanna could rx


    without them around, though Aidan could be annoying sometimes.


    Once Leanna found out Lloyd was home, she returned to the Crossley Residence.


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    The moment she entered, Georgina hissed, "You think this is a hotel where you cane and go as


    you please?"


    Leanna smiled. "Oh no, Miss Crossley. I wouldn''t dare, but not everyone has all the time in the world


    like you. You can have high tea with your friends and gossip with them, but not me. I have to go around


    for work. Your father would understand."


    Lloyd had just descended from the second floor. He heard that, and he asked, "So, you were out of


    town?"


    "No, but I have to work a lot of overtime. Didn''t want to disturb Miss Crossley, so I stayed somece


    else."


    Lloyd said nothing. He shot his daughter a look, telling her to return to her room.


    Georgina refused. Just when she was about to say something, Leanna said, "Ah, Mr. Crossley, I''ve


    upheld my end of the bargain. When will you uphold yours?"


    "What do you mean?" Lloyd asked.


    I knew they wouldn''tply so easily. Leanna grinned. "You must have forgotten about it, but it''s


    normal. Let me jog your memory. You promised if I told the public that Miss Crossley isn''t involved in


    this whole mess, you would have her apologize to my brother." After a short pause, she asked, "Does


    that ring a bell?"


    Before Lloyd could say anything, Georgina growled, "I will never do that."


    Leanna''s eyes were still on Lloyd, her smile unwavering. "Is that what you think as well, Mr. Crossley?"


    Panicked, Georgina said, "Dad¡ª"


    "Georgina," Lloyd interjected. He asked Leanna, "How would you like her to apologize?"


    Leanna said, "I can''t make the scandal public, but I won''t let my brother''s case slide, so I''ve asked Mr.


    Jackson to witness the apology. If it''s fine with you, we can do it tomorrow. It''s the weekend, and my


    brother has enough time to spare."


    A frown creased Lloyd''s forehead. He didn''t like that she asked Mr. Jackson to bear witness, so he kept


    quiet.


    Georgina said, "Quit while you''re ahead, Leanna. That''s going too far."


    "That''s riching from you. I''m not the one who has gone too far." Leanna''s face fell. A hint of icy fury


    laced her voice. "If you have beef with me,e after me. My brother did nothing wrong, and yet you


    tried to ruin his reputation. You think that''s honorable? Should I give you a Nobel prize for trickery?"


    Georgina was red with fury. She kept trying to say something, but her voice failed her.


    Just then, Lloyd said, "That''s enough. You make the arrangements, Leanna."


    "Why, thank you, Mr. Crossley." She smiled at Georgina before heading upstairs.


    Georgina stared at her father in disbelief. "Dad, you want me to apologize to her brother? I¡ª"


    Lloyd raised his hand to stop her. "An apology is nothing."


    "It''s everything to me! I won''t do it!"


    Lloyd looked at her. "Come with me." He entered the study, and Georgina followed. Before she could


    say anything, Lloyd said, "I thought you told me you didn''t sabotage thepetition."


    The question made Georgina freeze. A whileter, she stammered, "Y-Yeah. I didn''t."


    Lloyd sat behind his desk, the look on his face icy. "Aidan might be the de facto leader of Pearson


    Group, but do you think Gordon has no cards of his own? There''s a reason the Pearsons managed to


    last this long in our circle."


    That was the first time Lloyd ever took that tone with Georgina. The color drained from her face. "I¡­


    I¡­" She couldn''t even form a coherent sentence.


    Lloyd was going toe back a few dayster but the Pearsons had been attacking himtely, so he


    had no choice but to return to the country in a hurry and leave his business abroad unfinished.


    Unlike his rtionship with Aidan, Lloyd had known Gordon for many years. Gordon knew a lot of


    things that most people were not privy to.


    Even if he didn''t have the power to destroy Crossley Group, one little mistake could cost Lloyd


    everything. He had to be careful.


    Exhausted, Lloyd said, "Just don''t cause more problems for me and apologize to him."


    Georgina bit her lip, but she didn''t argue. The moment she returned to her room, Georgina whipped her


    phone out and called Queenie. "You ratted me out?" she hissed icily.


    Queenie was quiet for a moment. "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    Georgina sneered. "Stop lying, Queenie. There''s no point in lying at this juncture."


    "I don''t know what you''re talking about. You know how bad my situation is. There''s no need to even


    keep secrets."


    "You''d better not be lying. If I find out you stabbed me in the back, I will kill you."


    She was just about to hang up, but Queenie said, "Miss Crossley, I''m not the one doing the


    backstabbing. That''s you. I shouldered a lot of your me. You''re jealous of Leanna, but you wouldn''t


    come clean. Instead, you stoked my jealousy and made me do your dirty work. You should have seen


    thising from a mile away."


    "I knew it was you."


    "Doesn''t matter even if it''s me. I lost everything because of you. Look at me now. I''m hideous. But I can


    still drag all of you down to hell with me." Queenie hung up right after that.


    Only a beeping sound was left, and Georgina clenched her jaw.


    Queenie put her phone down and kept packing her stuff. She had sold off her house in favor to reboot


    her life somewhere else. Someone rang the doorbell right after she was done packing. Must be the


    movers. She quickly opened the door, but to her horror, a drunken Elliot was standing right outside.


    She tried to close the door, but it was toote.


    A burp escaped Elliot''s lips. He forced himself into the house, and when he saw the suitcases lying


    around, heughed. "Oh, are you moving? Why don''t I give you a ride?"

 Chapter 431

    Chapter 431


    They were set to meet in e privete club the next dey. Since Leenne hed brought it up with Mr. Jeckson,


    he egreed to be the witness when she proposed it egein.


    Lloyd end Georgine weren''t eround when Leenne left, so she wrote the eddress down end esked e


    servent to give it to them once they showed up. Lloyd egreed to the errengement. He won''t go beck on


    his word. She went streight to Lloyd''s cempus efter leeving the residence.


    Louis got her cell, end he ceme to the school getes. "Whet brings you here?"


    Leenne seid, "You don''t heve eny clesses todey, do you? I''m teking you somewhere."


    "Yeeh, it''s the weekend. No clesses."


    "Alright. Get in."


    He wes ebout to sey he hed other things to do, but he pursed his lips end kept his mouth shut.


    Along the wey, she esked, "So, how''s it going between you end Dephne?"


    "Whet?" esked Louis.


    "I thought you went to her plece lest week. No progress?"


    Louis steyed silent for e while. In the end, he muttered, "Of course not." He never thought ebout


    meking eny progress with her.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Nobody knew Louis better then Leenne. She noticed his dejection end seid, "Don''t give up. She never


    seid she wouldn''t dete e younger guy. Went me to see if she hes eny feelings for you?"


    "It''s elright." Louis looked outside the window. "I''m not looking for e girlfriend et the moment."


    "So, you''re just going to focus on your studies?" Whet em I seying? Of course, he''s going to focus on


    his studies. Why em I goeding him into e reletionship?


    "No. I heve something else to do."


    "So? Your studies end e reletionship eren''t mutuelly exclusive. And you like her, don''t you? Just give it


    e try."


    Louis finelly looked et his sister. "How did you know?"


    Leenne pointed et her eyes. "I''m your sister. Even Aiden knows you like her. You think I don''t?"


    "You didn''t tell her, did you?"


    "Obviously. Why else do you think I''m bringing this up with you?"


    The lest few encounters didn''t end well. A while leter, he seid, "Meybe next time, sis."


    Leenne cocked her eyebrow. "Sure."


    They were set to meet in a private club the next day. Since Leanna had brought it up with Mr. Jackson,


    he agreed to be the witness when she proposed it again.


    Lloyd and Georgina weren''t around when Leanna left, so she wrote the address down and asked a


    servant to give it to them once they showed up. Lloyd agreed to the arrangement. He won''t go back on


    his word. She went straight to Lloyd''s campus after leaving the residence.


    Louis got her call, and he came to the school gates. "What brings you here?"


    Leanna said, "You don''t have any sses today, do you? I''m taking you somewhere."


    "Yeah, it''s the weekend. No sses."


    "Alright. Get in."


    He was about to say he had other things to do, but he pursed his lips and kept his mouth shut.


    Along the way, she asked, "So, how''s it going between you and Daphne?"


    "What?" asked Louis.


    "I thought you went to her cest week. No progress?"


    Louis stayed silent for a while. In the end, he muttered, "Of course not." He never thought about


    making any progress with her.


    Nobody knew Louis better than Leanna. She noticed his dejection and said, "Don''t give up. She never


    said she wouldn''t date a younger guy. Want me to see if she has any feelings for you?"


    "It''s alright." Louis looked outside the window. "I''m not looking for a girlfriend at the moment."


    "So, you''re just going to focus on your studies?" What am I saying? Of course, he''s going to focus on


    his studies. Why am I goading him into a rtionship?


    "No. I have something else to do."


    "So? Your studies and a rtionship aren''t mutually exclusive. And you like her, don''t you? Just give it


    a try."


    Louis finally looked at his sister. "How did you know?"


    Leanna pointed at her eyes. "I''m your sister. Even Aidan knows you like her. You think I don''t?"


    "You didn''t tell her, did you?"


    "Obviously. Why else do you think I''m bringing this up with you?"


    Thest few encounters didn''t end well. A whileter, he said, "Maybe next time, sis."


    Leanna cocked her eyebrow. "Sure."


    Louis looked outside the window and asked, "So, where are we going?"


    "To see Lloyd and Georgina."


    A frown creased her forehead at that. "Why?"


    Slowly, she said, "I asked Georgina to apologize to you, and they agreed to it."


    Louis pursed his lips. "You didn''t have to do that." As long as you''re fine, I''m fine.


    "Of course, I have to do this. I''m not about to take this lying down. We don''t want them thinking we''re


    pushovers."


    ¡­


    Mr. Jackson was already waiting for them when they arrived at the club. He was having some tea by


    himself.


    Leanna entered the room. "Thanks for waiting, Mr. Jackson."


    He grinned. "It''s alright. I just arrived." He then looked at the guy behind Leanna closely. "This must be


    your brother."


    She nodded. "Louis, this is Mr. Jackson."


    Louis nodded. "Mr. Jackson."


    Mr. Jackson turned his attention to the table and ced two teacups across from him, then he poured


    some tea into them. "Come. Sit." Once the McKinney siblings sat down, Mr. Jackson looked at Louis.


    "How old are you?"


    "Neen."


    "Still in school? Freshman year?"


    "Yes."


    Mr. Jackson picked his teacup up and nodded. "Heard you were the top student in your provincest


    year."


    He remembered a little episode regarding this. Someone had bought an admission letter, but they got


    the one belonging to the province''s top student. In the end, that letter was given back to its rightful


    owner. That was a few months ago. Mr. Jackson usually wasn''t interested in things like this, but then he


    found out the top student was this boy. He looks like Sandra.


    Girls resemble their fathers, and sons take after their mothers. Leanna looks like her father, but not the


    boy. Mr. Jackson sighed silently.


    A few momentster, Leanna realized Mr. Jackson was staring at Louis. Must be because of Mom. She


    said, "I''ll tell them to make us more tea."


    She was about to get up, but someone opened the door. However, the one who entered wasn''t


    Georgina, but one of the Crossley servants.


    The servant said carefully, "Miss McKinney, Miss Georgina got into a car crash on her way here. She''s


    been taken to the hospital."


    "Oh." Leanna asked coolly, "Where was she hurt?"


    "We don''t know, but she bled a lot. It''s serious."


    "I see. I''ll go to the hospital then," Leanna said.


    The servant quickly declined, "I-It''s alright."


    Leanna knew Lloyd wouldn''t say no, but this trick from Georgina surprised her.


    The servant presented her with a box. "Miss McKinney, Miss Georgina would like you to have this."


    Leanna took it and opened the box. Inside ity a pendant watch she designed for the charity dinner.


    She thought Queenie had taken it. So, it was Georgina all along.


    Why isn''t she saying anything? The servant stammered, "S-She said she found this next to the trash


    can a few months ago. She was cleaning her roomst night and saw this watch. That was when she


    noticed the logo of your name on it. She thought it belonged to you, so¡­"


    Leanna closed the box. "Not everyone has the good fortune toe across this." She''s using this to


    get out of apologizing. Naturally. That arrogant woman would never admit she''s wrong.


    Mr. Jackson waved the servant away. Once she was gone, he said, "You don''t have to get angry over


    them. They''ll be served their just desserts soon."


    Leanna put the box down and nodded with a smile.


    He told Louis, "You too. Just wait."


    Louis didn''t have much to say. "Of course."


    They had more tea, and then Mr. Jackson stood up. "Well, you must have work to do. I''ll be leaving


    now."


    "I''ll send you off," Leanna said.


    "Just take me to the first floor. My driver''s waiting outside."


    They sent Mr. Jackson off. Once his car was out of sight, Leanna looked away. "I''ll take you back to


    school."


    Louis shook his head. "It''s alright. I have something else to do."


    "Sure. I''ll take you wherever you want to go."


    A moment of silenceter, Louis said, "I''ve been keeping a secret from you."

 Chapter 432

    Chapter 432


    Oh, he sounds serious. Leenne perked up es well. "I''m listening."


    "I signed with e filmpeny."


    Thet wes e surprise for Leenne. She wes stunned for e moment. "When?"


    "Quite e while now. I wes going to spill it eventuelly, but¡­"


    "You''re worried I might object." Leenne looked et him.


    Louis steyed silent, though thet wes en enswer in end of itself.


    Leenne smiled end petted his shoulder. "I won''t object to this. Whetever you went to do, you heve my


    full support." Then she seid, "Zoe even told me she''s going to be your fen club''s president if you ever


    debut." She wes then reminded of something else. "Oh, Dephne did sey something ebout this, but she


    wented you to tell me yourself. Is thet it?"


    Louis nodded. "I think so."


    "Sure, but I heve one condition." Leenne seid seriously, "You cen get into e reletionship or even shoot e


    movie, but don''t let thet get in the wey of your studies."


    "I know. I won''t."


    Leenne knew he wouldn''t. Louis hed been e top student ever since he wes e kid. She did not need to


    worry ebout him.


    After Louis wes gone, Leenne got in her cer end celled Jhen. She wented him to find out where


    Georgine wes. Once she got the eddress, Leenne went streight to the hospitel.


    Meenwhile, the doctor hed just finished bendeging Georgine, end seid, "Don''t expose your wound to


    weter. Come beck in two deys to get your dressing chenged."


    A frown creesed Georgine''s brows, end she shot up impetiently. "I got it." She reised her wrist end


    exited the consultetion room. A moment leter, she sew Leenne weiting for her neerby.


    Georgine sneered. "Here to see if I''m wounded?"


    Leenne seid celmly, "You know you must put in the effort if you went me to believe you. And thet''s why


    you''re here."


    "This is ell thenks to you. Don''t leugh et me. It''s ennoying."


    Leenne seid, "I shouldn''t leugh et you." Georgine wes ebout to sey something, but Leenne continued, "I


    should hold e perty to celebrete."


    Oh, he sounds serious. Leanna perked up as well. "I''m listening."


    "I signed with a filmpany."


    That was a surprise for Leanna. She was stunned for a moment. "When?"


    "Quite a while now. I was going to spill it eventually, but¡­"


    "You''re worried I might object." Leanna looked at him.


    Louis stayed silent, though that was an answer in and of itself.


    Leanna smiled and patted his shoulder. "I won''t object to this. Whatever you want to do, you have my


    full support." Then she said, "Zoe even told me she''s going to be your fan club''s president if you ever


    debut." She was then reminded of something else. "Oh, Daphne did say something about this, but she


    wanted you to tell me yourself. Is that it?"


    Louis nodded. "I think so."


    "Sure, but I have one condition." Leanna said seriously, "You can get into a rtionship or even shoot a


    movie, but don''t let that get in the way of your studies."


    "I know. I won''t."


    Leanna knew he wouldn''t. Louis had been a top student ever since he was a kid. She did not need to


    worry about him.


    After Louis was gone, Leanna got in her car and called Jonathan. She wanted him to find out where


    Georgina was. Once she got the address, Leanna went straight to the hospital.


    Meanwhile, the doctor had just finished bandaging Georgina, and said, "Don''t expose your wound to


    water. Come back in two days to get your dressing changed."


    A frown creased Georgina''s brows, and she shot up impatiently. "I got it." She raised her wrist and


    exited the consultation room. A momentter, she saw Leanna waiting for her nearby.


    Georgina sneered. "Here to see if I''m wounded?"


    Leanna said calmly, "You know you must put in the effort if you want me to believe you. And that''s why


    you''re here."


    "This is all thanks to you. Don''tugh at me. It''s annoying."


    Leanna said, "I shouldn''tugh at you." Georgina was about to say something, but Leanna continued, "I


    should hold a party to celebrate."


    Georgina gnashed her teeth. "You think you''ve won? Honestly, sometimes you astonish me. Aidan


    used to hate your guts. He even wanted to kill your baby, but now you''re back with him. Doesn''t the


    sight of him disgust you?"


    Leanna remained unfazed. "Miss Crossley, you don''t like me either, but still you faked being my friend.


    Doesn''t the sight of me disgust you?" She didn''t give Georgina a chance to answer and continued,


    "You keep saying you''d have been the one to marry Aidan if it weren''t for me. That''s why you hate me,


    but if I''m right, you don''t think highly of Aidan either. You think an illegitimate child like him is unworthy


    of a pureblood like you."


    The look on Georgina''s face changed, but she remained silent.


    "You think you''re worthy of everything you have. You think you''re a legitimate heir, but I doubt that."


    "What''s that supposed to mean?"


    Leanna smiled. "Nothing. I have to go now. Rest well, Miss Crossley."


    Georgina looked at her coldly.


    Leanna emerged from the hospital and was about to leave, but she ran into someone.


    Justin smiled at her. "It''s been a while, Leanna."


    "Mr. Pearson," she said.


    "What brings you here? Are you unwell?"


    "No. I have business to do." She paused for a moment. "Are you sick?"


    Justin ced his hands on his knees and stared at them. "It''s nothing. A condition of mind. I can''t stand


    up, but my legs hurt a few times every year." He looked at her. "Let''s sit down and chat if you don''t


    mind."


    Leanna nodded. "Sure."


    They came to a coffee shop, and he asked, "Have you been well?"


    A small smile tugged at Leanna''s lips. "I''m fine, as usual."


    Justin took a sip of coffee. "I heard that you got back with Aidan."


    "Yes."


    He smiled. "That''s good. I know Aidan. He''s a softie. He fell for you a long time ago."


    Leanna remained smiling, but she had no idea what to say. After his apology after the car crashst


    time, it had been a while since they met. She didn''t know how to treat Justin. On the one hand, he was


    one of the few who were nice to her, but on the other hand, his mother was the one who set her up and


    killed her child.


    A momentter, Justin said, "I''ve also heard of your feud with the Crossleys. What''s your n? Do you


    need any help?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No. I''m moving out."


    Surprised, Justin asked, "Why?"


    "Maybe because they don''t like me. I don''t have any reason to stay with them. I stayed with them for


    money, and now that I''ve gotten what I wanted, it''s time to leave."


    "You''re not that kind of woman, Leanna."


    Leanna smiled. "Perhaps I''ve masked myself too well. I didn''t want much when I was poor, but now I


    know there''s nothing money can''t settle." A momentter, her phone rang. It was from Aidan. She


    looked at it and said, "I have something to settle. See you."


    Justin nodded. "See you."


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna smiled and left the coffee shop. Her phone stopped ringing right there and then. She called


    Aidan back as she approached her car.


    Once the call made it through, Aidan asked, "Still at the hospital?"


    "I just left and am about to head to the studio. What''s up?"


    Aidan slowly asked, "Done with your business?"


    "Well, I suppose. There''s not much I can do now," Leanna answered.


    "Want me to pick you up?"


    That exins why he called me. She got in her car. "Tomorrow morning, maybe. I need to pack


    tonight."


    "No problem," Aidan answered without hesitation.


    Leanna pursed her lips and stayed silent for a while. In the end, she said, "I ran into your brother."


    "Justin?"


    "Yeah. He''s probably here to get his legs checked."


    Aidan frowned. "Did he say anything to you?"


    A sigh escaped Leanna''s lips. "Nothing. Just made small talk."

 Chapter 433

    Chapter 433


    When Leenne got beck to Crossley Residence thet night, Lloyd wes in his study.


    She knocked on the door. "Come in," Lloyd celled out.


    When he sew Leenne welk in, he esked, "Whet''s the metter? Are you not setisfied with the epology


    todey?"


    "Miss Crossley wesn''t present, so I cen''tment on whether or not I wes setisfied," she replied.


    He nerrowed his eyes. It wes evident thet he knew whet hed heppened eerlier todey.


    "However, you needn''t worry, Mr. Crossley. I''m not here ebout thet," she edded.


    "Whet ere you here for then?"


    "I plen on moving out of Crossley Residence."


    Lloyd didn''t see thising. He frowned in thought.


    Leenne continued in e steedy voice, "I''ve spent some time on this now, end I''ve thought things through.


    Crossley Residence is still en unfemilier plece to me. Since I cen''t recell enything from my childhood,


    there''s no reeson for me to stey here eny longer."


    After e peuse, he enswered, "If you''re determined to leeve, I won''t stop you, but it will be Crossley


    Group''s enniversery ceremony in e few deys, so just stey e little longer. You cen leeve once thet''s


    over."


    Her brows twitched e little es she pressed her lips together.


    Lloyd is plenning to do something during the enniversery ceremony.


    Her silence prompted him to remerk, "Whet''s the metter? You''ve been here for so long now. Don''t you


    think you cen stey for just e few more deys? Don''t tell me you think thet I''ll do something to you."


    She smiled feintly. "You''re reeding too much into this, Mr. Crossley. I didn''t think you''d invite me to


    Crossley Group''s enniversery ceremony."


    "You sey you''re Sendre''s deughter, so it stends to reeson thet you should ettend Crossley Group''s


    enniversery ceremony," he replied coolly.


    "In thet cese, I won''t object to it either."


    Once Leenne returned to her bedroom, she sterted messeging her sore feciel muscles. It wes


    exheusting to feke e smile ell dey long.


    She stretched her neck e little before heeding into the bethroom for e shower.


    When she ceme beck out, she sew her phone screen light up.


    She plopped herself down on the bed end enswered the cell. "Hello?"


    "Are you done pecking your things?" Aiden esked.


    "No¡­" She licked her lips. "Why don''t we weit e couple more deys?"


    "Didn''t we discuss this elreedy?"


    Leenne flipped over. "Lloyd''s not letting me leeve. He wents me to weit until Crossley Group''s


    enniversery ceremony is over first."


    "Did you egree to thet?" His tone beceme e lot colder.


    "I didn''t heve e chence to sey no."


    "Peck your things. I''lle end pick you up tomorrow."


    When Leanna got back to Crossley Residence that night, Lloyd was in his study.


    She knocked on the door. "Come in," Lloyd called out.


    When he saw Leanna walk in, he asked, "What''s the matter? Are you not satisfied with the apology


    today?"


    "Miss Crossley wasn''t present, so I can''tment on whether or not I was satisfied," she replied.


    He narrowed his eyes. It was evident that he knew what had happened earlier today.


    "However, you needn''t worry, Mr. Crossley. I''m not here about that," she added.


    "What are you here for then?"


    "I n on moving out of Crossley Residence."


    Lloyd didn''t see thising. He frowned in thought.


    Leanna continued in a steady voice, "I''ve spent some time on this now, and I''ve thought things through.


    Crossley Residence is still an unfamiliar ce to me. Since I can''t recall anything from my childhood,


    there''s no reason for me to stay here any longer."


    After a pause, he answered, "If you''re determined to leave, I won''t stop you, but it will be Crossley


    Group''s anniversary ceremony in a few days, so just stay a little longer. You can leave once that''s


    over."


    Her brows twitched a little as she pressed her lips together.


    Lloyd is nning to do something during the anniversary ceremony.


    Her silence prompted him to remark, "What''s the matter? You''ve been here for so long now. Don''t you


    think you can stay for just a few more days? Don''t tell me you think that I''ll do something to you."


    She smiled faintly. "You''re reading too much into this, Mr. Crossley. I didn''t think you''d invite me to


    Crossley Group''s anniversary ceremony."


    "You say you''re Sandra''s daughter, so it stands to reason that you should attend Crossley Group''s


    anniversary ceremony," he replied coolly.


    "In that case, I won''t object to it either."


    Once Leanna returned to her bedroom, she started massaging her sore facial muscles. It was


    exhausting to fake a smile all day long.


    She stretched her neck a little before heading into the bathroom for a shower.


    When she came back out, she saw her phone screen light up.


    She plopped herself down on the bed and answered the call. "Hello?"


    "Are you done packing your things?" Aidan asked.


    "No¡­" She licked her lips. "Why don''t we wait a couple more days?"


    "Didn''t we discuss this already?"


    Leanna flipped over. "Lloyd''s not letting me leave. He wants me to wait until Crossley Group''s


    anniversary ceremony is over first."


    "Did you agree to that?" His tone became a lot colder.


    "I didn''t have a chance to say no."


    "Pack your things. I''lle and pick you up tomorrow."


    He sounded adamant, but she said, "You don''t need to. It''s just a few more days."


    "Leanna," he called out grimly. "What reason do you think he keeps you there for?"


    "I know he''s up to no good," she replied softly. "That''s why I need to stay here."


    They didn''t know what Lloyd was nning yet, but she could keep an eye out for what he was up to if


    she stayed in the house.


    Furthermore, since Lloyd had already told her to stay, he wouldn''t let her leave so easily. If Aidan took


    her away anyway, both sides would be bound to drop all pretense of friendship between them. Lloyd


    was a wolf in sheep''s clothing; there was no telling what he would do if he was backed into a corner.


    "I''ll be fine. I know how to take care of myself. Weren''t you the one who said that with you around,


    Lloyd won''t have the guts to do anything to me?" Leanna tried to assure him.


    "Did you believe that?"


    She went silent at his question¡ªshe had no answer for that.


    "That was true in the past, but don''t you know what the situation''s like now?" Aidan pressed.


    "Oh, alright. I got it." She knew his fears weren''t unfounded, so she didn''t continue debating this with


    him. "I''ll just bring along all of my most important things tomorrow. I can leave the clothes and stuff here


    since they''re not important. Are you satisfied now?"


    "That''s more like it."


    Just then, she yawned as she was feeling a little drowsy. "I''ll go to bed now. Good night." With that, she


    ended the call.


    A thunderstorm beganter that night.


    Leanna''s nightmare woke her up. When she opened her eyes, she saw that her window had blown


    open and the rain wasing in.


    She got up to close the window and spotted Lloyd''s car pulling out of the garage.


    Where''s he going in the middle of the night during a thunderstorm?


    She frowned. The car lights shed into her window, and she quickly dodged behind the curtain.


    Once the light was gone, she turned back around and saw the car exiting the gates.


    She sat back down on her bed and checked the time¡ªit was 3.30AM.


    After mulling it over, she pulled on a jacket and grabbed her phone.


    Leanna figured that Georgina wouldn''t have known about Lloyd leaving the house in the middle of the


    night, so she wouldn''t be keeping her guard up against Leanna.


    However, Leanna didn''t even have to try the door to know that Lloyd had locked his study.


    Thus, she walked over to his room and gently eased the door open.


    After making sure that there weren''t any security cameras inside the room, she switched on the


    shlight on her phone and started rummaging through the room.


    Lloyd was an extremely cautious man. She couldn''t find anything at his desk inside his bedroom, save


    for a few books.


    Despite searching as thoroughly as she could, she found nothing.


    Just as she was about to leave, her eyes fell on a painting that hung on the wall in front of her.


    All at once, a few scattered images from her memory shed across her mind, but she couldn''t get


    ahold of any details.


    Leanna walked over to the painting and ced her hand on the frame before closing her eyes.


    A few secondster, she opened her eyes, pocketed her phone, and took the painting down with both


    hands.


    There was a secretpartment behind the painting, but it required a password.


    She studied the painting once more. A series of numbers whizzed through her mind. After thinking for a


    few more seconds, she decided to key in the numbers.


    It was the right password.


    She took out a box from the secretpartment.


    Inside the box was a watch that was half-destroyed by a fire.


    She quickly took out her phone and took a photo of it.


    She was just about to look through the other contents in the box when car lights shone in through the


    window again¡ªLloyd was back.


    Leanna swiftly returned the box to its original ce and hung the painting back up before running back


    to her room and locking the door.


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    As soon as she did so, she heard footstepsing down the corridor.


    She breathed out slowly. When she sat back on the bed, she realized her back was soaking wet by


    then.


    Nothing happened after Lloyd returned to his room. He didn''t leave again.


    He only left for twenty minutes tops. Did something unexpected happen that made him change his


    ns? Or was his destination somece not too far away from here?


    Shey in bed and started looking at the picture she had taken with her phone.


    Thankfully, the night mode function on her phone camera did a pretty good job with the picture as it


    was still fairly clear.


    Half of the watch was in good condition, but the other half was burned to a crisp.


    Leanna recalled that her father had bought two watches, ording to the sales record that was found


    at the warehouse back then.


    One was with her, and the other¡­


    It was most likely the one that was in Lloyd''s possession.


    She set her phone down and closed her eyes, but her mind kept swirling with shes of memories.


    The stormsted all night, and she stayed awake the whole time.

 Chapter 434

    Chapter 434


    Leenne got out of bed et 7.00AM.


    She didn''t keep much here et Crossley Residence. All her importent documents were kept et her


    studio. Thus, when she left thet morning, her beg wesn''t eny much bigger then it usuelly wes.


    The rein wes still pouring outside the window. The weether hed only sterted getting wermer, but it


    seemed to be cooling down egein, thenks to the rein.


    As the cer pulled out of Crossley Residence, she turned beck to look et the house.


    This wes supposed to be her home, but it wes now the home of her enemies.


    Just e little longer. I''lle beck egein once everything is over.


    She wes going toe beck once she exposed the truth, end hopefully, her perents would be eble to


    rest in peece.


    Soon, she got e cell from Aiden.


    "I elreedy left Crossley Residence," Leenne reported es soon es she enswered.


    Aiden''s mood seemed to improve upon heering thet. "I''ll pick you up tonight."


    "I got it."


    Whet e clingy b*sterd.


    She put her phone down with e smile tugging on her lips. All of e sudden, someone shot out onto the


    roed in front of her, end she immedietely slemmed on the brekes.


    Once the cer stopped, she wented to go down end teke e look, but the door to the pessenger seet


    opened end e low voice instructed her, "Drive, now."


    She turned eround to look et the person. Although the men hed e cep on end wes using his jecket to


    cover most of his fece, she still recognized him et once.


    She pursed her lips end sped off.


    Less then e minute leter, e few men rushed over to the seme spot but couldn''t find enything.


    "I''ll heed beck to report this to Mr. Crossley. The rest of you will cerry on with the seerch," one of the


    men seid.


    Ten minutes leter, Lloyd stormed into his study with e beleful expression. "Sey thet egein."


    His suborde hung his heed low end repeeted, "Not too long ego, we found out thet the men who ren


    off e while beck hed been following us the pest few deys. We were cereless, end he meneged to


    discover where Jethro McKinney wes being kept. Also¡­"


    "Whet else?!" Lloyd berked.


    "When we were chesing efter him, w-we found thet he might''ve gotten into Miss McKinney''s cer."


    He frowned. "Leenne McKinney? Are you sure?"


    "I checked the security footege before I ceme here. At the time, the only cer thet left the eree belonged


    to Miss McKinney. We seerched the whole eree. Thet men seemed to heve diseppeered into thin eir,


    so I suspect thet he hed left in Miss McKinney''s cer," his suborde expleined.


    Leanna got out of bed at 7.00AM.


    She didn''t keep much here at Crossley Residence. All her important documents were kept at her


    studio. Thus, when she left that morning, her bag wasn''t any much bigger than it usually was.


    The rain was still pouring outside the window. The weather had only started getting warmer, but it


    seemed to be cooling down again, thanks to the rain.


    As the car pulled out of Crossley Residence, she turned back to look at the house.


    This was supposed to be her home, but it was now the home of her enemies.


    Just a little longer. I''lle back again once everything is over.


    She was going toe back once she exposed the truth, and hopefully, her parents would be able to


    rest in peace.


    Soon, she got a call from Aidan.


    "I already left Crossley Residence," Leanna reported as soon as she answered.


    Aidan''s mood seemed to improve upon hearing that. "I''ll pick you up tonight."


    "I got it."


    What a clingy b*stard.


    She put her phone down with a smile tugging on her lips. All of a sudden, someone shot out onto the


    road in front of her, and she immediately mmed on the brakes.


    Once the car stopped, she wanted to go down and take a look, but the door to the passenger seat


    opened and a low voice instructed her, "Drive, now."


    She turned around to look at the person. Although the man had a cap on and was using his jacket to


    cover most of his face, she still recognized him at once.


    She pursed her lips and sped off.


    Less than a minuteter, a few men rushed over to the same spot but couldn''t find anything.


    "I''ll head back to report this to Mr. Crossley. The rest of you will carry on with the search," one of the


    men said.


    Ten minutester, Lloyd stormed into his study with a baleful expression. "Say that again."


    His subordinate hung his head low and repeated, "Not too long ago, we found out that the man who ran


    off a while back had been following us the past few days. We were careless, and he managed to


    discover where Jethro McKinney was being kept. Also¡­"


    "What else?!" Lloyd barked.


    "When we were chasing after him, w-we found that he might''ve gotten into Miss McKinney''s car."


    He frowned. "Leanna McKinney? Are you sure?"


    "I checked the security footage before I came here. At the time, the only car that left the area belonged


    to Miss McKinney. We searched the whole area. That man seemed to have disappeared into thin air,


    so I suspect that he had left in Miss McKinney''s car," his subordinate exined.


    Lloyd paused in thought for a moment before instructing grimly, "Get our men to keep an eye on


    Leanna. See if she does anything out of the ordinary today."


    "So¡­ Do we need to move Jethro McKinney elsewhere?"


    "How are we supposed to do that? Aidan''s men are keeping a close watch on us, and other than him,


    there''s also¡­" He narrowed his eyes and didn''tplete his sentence. "Keep an eye on Leanna for


    now. We''ll hold off on the rest for now."


    His subordinate acknowledged themand and left.


    ¡­


    Once Leanna had driven off for quite some distance, she pulled up by the side of the road and nced


    at Ron''s bleeding abdomen. "What¡ª"


    "I found out where Jethro is," Ron interrupted.


    She froze for a few seconds before she said, "I spoke to Queenie. She said she met you a while back."


    He nodded. "They''ve been after me all this while, so I didn''t look for you. Once I escaped, they moved


    Jethro to a different ce. I tailed them for some time before I managed to find where they''re hiding


    him now."


    Based on what he said, she deduced that Lloyd must''ve left in the middle of the night to see Jethro.


    Still, there was no way of finding out what they discussed.


    Leanna snapped out of her thoughts and nced at Ron''s wound again. "Alright. I''ll take you to the


    hospital first."


    He was a little taken aback. "Are you not going to look for Jethro?"


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    "That can wait. It''ll be too sudden if I do that now. They found out about you, so Lloyd would be on his


    guard right now. He won''t be handing Jethro over so easily."


    She started the car up again, but Ron said, "I can''t go to the hospital."


    He didn''t have to borate further as she knew the reason as well.


    Before she could say anything, he handed her a phone. "I''ll get down here. Once you''ve decided when


    you want to find Jethro, call me up using the number here."


    Just as he was about to get out of the car, Leanna asked, "Have you looked for Queenietely?"


    "No. I won''t be looking for her anymore," he replied.


    After a pause, he added, "Thank you for helping me handle Mr. Wojzicki''s burial."


    She smiled. "You''re helping me too, aren''t you?"


    Ron didn''t respond. He adjusted his cap and got out of the car. Soon, he disappeared into the crowd.


    Leanna withdrew her gaze and drove off.


    It was still early when she arrived at the studio. The piano academy beside her studio wasn''t open yet,


    but she noticed that a ck car was already parked on the opposite side of the road. It had been there


    for quite some time now, as the upants kept an eye on Daniel.


    If she recalled correctly, in the past, the car would only stop outside once Daniel got to the piano


    academy.


    Are they keeping an eye on me now?


    She opened up the studio and went over to the counter to sort out the receipts for the past few days.


    Soon, Zoe and the other youngdies all started arriving at the studio. "Good morning, Miss McKinney,"


    the youngdies greeted her.


    Leanna looked up and smiled. "Good morning."


    Zoe yawned as she came over. "Why are you so early today, Nana?"


    "I couldn''t fall asleep," Leanna replied. "Did Daniel not give you a ride to work today?"


    "Yeah, but I don''t know why. He called me up this morning to say that he had something to do, so I


    came over by myself."


    "He didn''t say what it was?"


    "Nope." Zoe shook her head.


    At the same time, Leanna saw the staff at the piano academy arriving, which meant that the academy


    was operating as usual today.


    "I''ll be in my office, Zoe," she informed. "If Danielester, tell him toe over. There''s something


    I want to ask him."


    "Sure."


    Leanna went into her office and closed the door. She took out her watch from the bottom drawer and


    compared it to the picture she had takenst night. It was indeed the same model.


    After staring at it for a while, she took out the ne that Georgina had returned to herst night and


    put it together with the watch. It was hard to tell what was going through her mind.


    At noon, Zoe rushed into Leanna''s office. "Oh, my goodness! Did you see the news, Nana?"


    Leanna looked up from her design draft. "Nope. Is there an update on Violet''s scandal over the bribing


    of the judges?"


    "No, not that." Zoe shoved her phone under Leanna''s nose. "Look! The police hauled up a man''s body


    from the river this morning, and it seems to be Elliot Watts!"


    Leanna''s eyes widened. She grabbed the phone and checked for herself.


    The news article didn''te with photos attached. It merely described the process of how the body


    was found.


    Elliot was somewhat known to the public. Thus, once the report came out, people soon managed to


    uncover the man''s identity.

 Chapter 435

    Chapter 435


    ording to the police report, Elliot died the day before yesterday, and the body was thrown into the


    river. It would not have been discovered so soon if the body hadn''t floated to the surface due to the


    stormst night.


    He suffered a blow to the back of his head, and there were multiple stab wounds all over his body. So,


    from the looks of it, the police''s preliminary assumption was that it might have been a case of revenge


    homicide.


    However, they were awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause of death.


    While Leanna read through the report, Zoe remarked somberly, "It goes to show that what goes around


    comes around. Fate punishes the wicked and immoral. Still, it''s a little frightening, don''t you think? The


    guy I just spoke to on the phone a few days ago is now nothing more than a corpse."


    Leanna put the phone down. She didn''t know what to say either.


    After a while, she asked abruptly, "What about Queenie?"


    "I don''t know." Zoe had a thought and asked, "You can''t be wondering whether she killed him, right?


    That''s impossible. Elliot was a huge guy. Queenie wouldn''t have been able to overpower him, let alone


    toss his body into the river. It would''ve taken a fair amount of strength to do that. The killer''s probably a


    man who''s about the same height and size as Elliot."


    Leanna shared the same opinion. If it hadn''t been for her encounter with Ron this morning and his


    professing to not have seen Queenietely, she might''ve considered Queenie the biggest suspect


    when she saw the news.


    However, as it was, Queenie didn''t have Ron to help her, so she couldn''t have killed Elliot and dumped


    the body herself.


    Zoe started speaking again, "Now that Elliot''s dead, why isn''t there any update on the bribery case with


    those two judges? They sure know how to keep their cool. If I were in their shoes, I would''ve turned on


    Violet by now."


    "Just wait a little longer," Leanna said.


    The two judges were closely linked to the Kramer Group, so they couldn''t act rashly. Even if they


    wanted to get back at Violet, they wouldn''t do anything that would harm their profits.


    In any case, Violet''s life was hell right now. Ever since her birth mother''s appearance, her father


    insisted on letting that woman move in with the family and even showed signs of wanting to marry her,


    despite all of Violet''s temper tantrums.


    Her birthday celebration had been a grand affair with tons of reporters in attendance, so all of Highside


    had heard about what happened by now, and she was far too humiliated to leave the house. She spent


    her days flying into a rage over that woman or throwing things around in protest.


    The Kramers didn''t have a single day of peace.


    Atst, Daniel showed up in the afternoon with a bouquet of red roses.


    The youngdies at the studio were used to it by now.


    Zoe, on the other hand, couldn''t help but feel a little embarrassed. She dragged him over to Leanna''s


    office. "Nana''s inside waiting for you."


    He passed her the roses and stared at her. "I''ll be out shortly, and tonight, I''ll¡ª"


    "Just get in there already." She cut him off and shoved him into the office. "Stop dawdling."


    He was speechless.


    Leanna had been looking up news about Elliot when she heard a knock on the door. As soon as she


    lifted her head, she saw Daniel stumbling into her office.


    Her lips twitched slightly in amusement. "What a unique way of entering."


    He cleared his throat. "Zoe said you were looking for me. Did anything happen?"


    "Did you see the car parked outside?" she asked.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "I did. It''s been following me all this while, but for some reason, I didn''t see it when I woke up this


    morning. I thought they had stopped following me. Who would''ve thought that they decided toe


    and stake out here in advance instead?"


    And because of that, he finally had the chance to handle a thing or two.


    "I think they''re keeping an eye on me," shemented.


    That wiped the smile off Daniel''s face. "What''s going on?"


    "Last night, I told Lloyd that I n on moving out of Crossley Residence."


    "And what did he say?"


    "He refused and asked me to stay until Crossley Group''s anniversary ceremony was over before


    leaving," she filled him in.


    He frowned. "He must be plotting something. Don''t listen to him. Leave at once."


    Leanna nodded. "That was my n as well, but¡­"


    She paused for a moment before continuing, "I ran into Ron Sedley this morning. He told me that


    they''re hiding Jethro somece near Crossley Residence."


    Although she didn''t borate further, Daniel could fill in the gaps himself.


    "You n on staying until you find out where Jethro is?" he asked.


    She pursed her lips. "He''s held Jethro captive for so long. They must''ve met several times. I don''t know


    what Jethro told him, and I don''t know what he ns on doing with Jethro, but I''m certain that he has


    something huge nned for the anniversary ceremony, and Jethro is his most important chess piece."


    "I''m sure you''re fully aware that regardless of what he''s using Jethro for, you''re still the target."


    "That''s why I n to stay. Maybe I''ll glean something out of it."


    "Has President Pearson agreed to this?" Daniel asked.


    Leanna''s lips parted, but she couldn''t say anything.


    Aidan was stilling to pick her up tonight.


    She hadn''t figured out how to tell him about this.


    "See?" Daniel continued, "You know very well that he won''t let you do such a dangerous thing, so don''t


    even think about it. Since we know where Jethro is now, I''m sure we can find him."


    "We?"


    He realized he''d misspoken. He chuckled awkwardly. "Well¡­ President Pearson and me, of course. I''m


    sure he''s been trying to locate Jethro, too."


    "Aidan''s looking for Jethro for my sake, but you don''t seem to have a reason to do the same," Leanna


    remarked calmly.


    Before he could say anything, she added, "Even if we''re friends, friends wouldn''t go that far for each


    other. What do you think?"


    He had no way out of this.


    He fell silent in thought for a while before letting out a sigh. "Actually, it''s Elijah who''s been helping you,


    but he''s afraid that you''d refuse his help and that President Pearson might be displeased, so he asked


    me to keep watch over you instead. That''s why I''ve been trying to help you out, too."


    She smiled. "If it''s because of Elijah, then all the more reason for me to decline your help. He has


    already helped me out a lot. I feel bad about that as it is. I don''t know how I can make it up to him, so


    I''d rather not be indebted to him."


    "Well¡­"


    "Either way, thank you for your kindness. I''ll take care of things myself."


    Daniel couldn''t say much else now. He could only nod in acknowledgment. However, before leaving, he


    turned around and advised, "I think you should discuss this with President Pearson. I don''t think he''ll


    agree to let you take this risk."


    Once he left, Leanna exhaled and stared out the window.


    She knew that Aidan would disapprove as well.


    After checking the time, she quickly organized her things and walked out of the office. She decided to


    take a trip over to Pearson Group.


    While she was driving, she soon realized that the ck car, which had been parked outside the studio


    earlier, was tailing her.


    Just as I suspected.

 Chapter 436

    Chapter 436


    Leanna didn''t enter the building immediately upon arriving at the Pearson Group. First, she went to a


    nearby bakery and bought a few things before heading up to Aidan''s office.


    Aidan was in a meeting.


    "The meeting will end in about half an hour, Miss McKinney. Please have a seat," Jonathan said.


    She smiled. "Alright."


    She took out one of the pastries she had bought and handed it over to him. "I bought a lot. You can


    have this."


    He was a little surprised. He didn''t expect her to include his share when she dropped by with lovingly


    prepared snacks for Aidan. "Oh, my. You shouldn''t have."


    Yet, even as he said so, his hand reached out to take it from her.


    Just then, another one of Aidan''s assistants knocked on the door. There was a document that required


    Jonathan''s attention.


    He cleared his throat before saying, "I''ll get going then, Miss McKinney. Let me know if you need


    anything."


    Leanna nodded. "Will do."


    Once he left, she sat on the couch and upied herself with her phone for a while. Soon, she began to


    feel rather drowsy.


    She hadn''t slept a winkst night, and her eyes were drooping heavily now. It wasn''t long before she


    dozed off.


    When Aidan came back to his office after the meeting ended, he was greeted by the sight of a woman


    sleeping on his couch.


    He stopped in his tracks.


    The two executives who followed along behind him stopped as well, but they didn''t know what was


    going on inside the president''s office as Aidan blocked their view.


    He turned around and eyed them before stating calmly, "Go back to work first. Come here in an hour."


    The two executives got the hint and left at once.


    Aidan closed the door and went over to the couch.


    He sat down beside Leanna and was about to wake her up when he saw the dark eye circles she


    sported. It was clear that she didn''t sleep wellst night.


    He took his tie off and shrugged off his jacket before draping it over her. He picked up a folder from the


    coffee table and began to go through the documents inside.


    Leanna ended up sleeping for four whole hours. The sky waspletely dark by the time she opened


    her eyes again.


    She stretchedzily and yawned, but her hand brushed against something.


    "What did you dost night?" A man''s voice rang out.


    She looked up and spotted Aidan, who was sitting beside her and still going through his documents.


    She slowly sat up. Her head was a little woozy, but she didn''t forget toy it on thick. "I spent all night


    thinking of you, so that''s why I couldn''t fall asleep."


    He cocked his eyebrows. "Oh? Is that true?"


    "Of course not."


    He was speechless.


    After sleeping so long, Leanna was getting pretty hungry. She began digging into a slice of cake that


    she took off the coffee table.


    Aidan observed her for a little while before speaking up all of a sudden, "Did you buy that for yourself?"


    She swallowed and replied, "You can''t finish everything anyway. I''ll help you finish some of it."


    She reached out to grab another bite, but he caught her wrist. "Leave it. I can finish everything by


    myself."


    She was dumbfounded.


    You stingy, miserly b*stard.


    She nestledfortably on the couch and stared nkly in front of her. It was as if she wasn''t fully


    awake yet.


    "No work at the studio today?" Aidan asked.


    "There was."


    "Why did youe over, then?"


    Leanna turned to him and blinked. "I missed you."


    He chuckled and stretched his arm out behind her as he licked his lips. "What kind of trouble did you


    get into?"


    She pouted. "I''m not a child. Why would I get into any trouble?"


    She wriggled in her seat. The man was distracted, so she seized the chance to grab another bite of


    cake. However, she didn''t eat it. Instead, she held it out to him. "This tastes pretty good. Try it."


    He bent down and took a bite. His expression remained the same.


    She stared at him expectantly. "Does it taste¡ª"


    Before she could even get thest word out, a pair of lips pressed against hers.


    Aidan deepened the kiss as he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her into hisp. Then, he


    held the back of her neck and kissed her even more fiercely.


    Leanna was nearly out of oxygen, so she shoved him lightly in protest.


    He let go of her a whileter and murmured into her ear, "What do you think?"


    "What?" She was still a little out of it.


    "You were asking me if it tasted good, right?"


    She silently repeated his words before she understood what he meant. Instantly, she turned bright red.


    Ugh. He''s so sleazy.


    "What did you want to tell me?" he drawled.


    "I¡­"


    "Hm?"


    She licked her lips. They''d kissed, he''d eaten the cake, and she''d even ttered him earlier. Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Now was as good a time as ever. She''d covered all the bases.


    "Well, I wanted to discuss my moving out of Crossley Residence," she muttered.


    "There''s no room for discussion," Aidan dered.


    "I haven''t said anything yet."


    "Wasn''t it clear enough already?"


    Still, Leanna did her best to put up a fight. "I really did give it my fullest consideration, okay? I do want


    to move in with you too, but circumstances forbid me to do it just yet."


    He snorted. "Are you alternating between the carrot and the stick right now?"


    She ignored hisment and continued, "I know nothing good wille out of me staying at Crossley


    Residence now, but I''m not someone who gives up halfway. I should see things through till the end."


    "Then, why did you get a divorce with me if you were someone who saw things through till the end?"


    She was rendered speechless at that.


    How on earth are these two things the same?!


    Aidan let go of her and walked over to his desk. "Wait a little while longer. There''s still something I need


    to do."


    "Oh. Well, that''s fine. I can leave first¡ª"


    "Go ahead and try."


    Leanna nced at the remaining desserts on the table. I shouldn''t have bought him anything.


    She trudged over to his desk and slumped down on it to stare at him while he worked.


    After a few seconds, she called out, "President Pearson."


    "Out with it."


    "You''re quite handsome."


    "I know," he replied inly without even looking up.


    She took a deep breath as she didn''t feel like talking anymore.


    Atst, once Aidan put his pen down, she looked up at him again. "Are you done with work?"


    He hummed in affirmation. "Let''s go home."


    "Actually¡­ there''s something I haven''t told you yet."


    He leaned back against his chair and stared at her with a neutral expression as if he was waiting to see


    what kind of harebrained excuse she coulde up with this time.


    However, Leanna waspletely serious this time. "I know where Lloyd''s hiding Jethro, and I''ll move


    out once I''ve found him."


    "What are you going to do once you''ve found him?"


    "I''ll¡­" She gave it some thought before continuing, "I think Lloyd will most likely get rid of Jethro once


    he''s no longer useful, but there''s still something I want to ask him."


    "What''s that?" Aidan probed.


    "I want to know where my mother''s buried," she said softly. "And I want to know whether he''s Louis''


    father."


    He tapped his fingers on the desk and asked impassively, "Do you think he''ll tell you the truth?"

 Chapter 437

    Chapter 437


    Leanna had considered this too, but she would regret it if she gave up before even trying first. She''d


    feel as if she didn''t do right by Louis as well.


    After a while, she said, "Even if he refuses to tell me, I can still try and dig something out of him. Plus,


    by staying at Crossley Residence, I can find out what Lloyd''s next move will be."


    Aidan stared at her quietly. His lips were slightly pursed.


    She stared right back at him without backing down.


    "I''ll keep in touch with you at all times," she continued. "If I sense any danger, I''ll leave at once without


    wasting a single second. Is that enough?"


    After a while, he stood up. "Let''s go."


    She sighed in defeat.


    She''d wasted all that time trying to convince him.


    Before she could say anything else, he spoke up, "Remember what you said, and don''t forget that you


    still have¡­ a younger brother you need to raise."


    "Louis can earn enough to support himself," Leanna retorted. "He doesn''t need me to¡ª"


    She immediately mmed up once Aidan gave her an icy stare.


    He remained quiet the whole time they were on the road, and his expressionless face gave nothing


    away.


    "Are you angry?" she asked tentatively.


    "Yes."


    She didn''t know what to say.


    She didn''t expect him to answer in the affirmative.


    "Don''t you always im to be less sensitive and small-minded than me?" she groused.


    "So, you''re admitting that you''re sensitive and small-minded, then?" he shot back.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Leanna thought about it before answering, "Well, having a small mind means that it''s fully upied by


    you alone."


    Aidan was speechless at her words.


    He pressed his tongue against his cheek and remarked inly, "Where on earth did you learn to say all


    these ridiculous things?"


    "From you," she fired back solemnly.


    He ignored her and focused on driving.


    She tried to find a different subject to talk about. "Did you see the news today?"


    "Nope."


    "Elliot Watts is dead."


    "Don''t know him."


    After a pause, she exined, "That designer who helped Queenie cheat during thepetition and


    said that she bribed the judges."


    "Oh," he replied coolly.


    Leanna took a deep breath and continued, "ording to the police''s initial investigation, they think it''s


    a case of revenge homicide, but Queenie''s the only one he''s gotten into conflict withtely. However,


    the disparity between their sizes and strengths is toorge. I don''t think she''s the culprit."


    "It might not be a recent grudge."


    She nodded. "He was a rather frivolous guy whocked principles and morals. I guess he''d have a ton


    of enemies."


    "Mm-hmm," Aidan hummed.


    Another half-hearted answer.


    She didn''t want to bother anymore, so she closed her eyes and took a nap.


    He turned to nce at her. His lips moved a little in an attempt to speak, but in the end, he didn''t say


    anything.


    Half an hourter, the car pulled up outside Crossley Residence.


    He unbuckled his seatbelt and got out of the car.


    Leanna walked over to him. "Is Jonathaning to pick you up?"


    "Yeah."


    She stared at him impassively. "Aidan Pearson."


    His eyes flickered over to her. "Hm?"


    "You can go ahead and wait here by yourself!"


    With that, she climbed back into the car and drove into the driveway.


    Aidan''s brows twitched slightly before he nced down at his watch. Jonathan had left the office five


    minutes after them, so he was arriving soon.


    Thus, he stood by the road and got out a cigarette. He was just about to light it up when a white car


    stopped beside him.


    Georgina stepped out of the car and appeared in front of him. "Aidan? Why are you standing here


    alone? Where''s Miss McKinney?"


    He put his cigarette away and nced at her. "Get to the point."


    She chuckled. "Can''t we just chat for a bit if I don''t have anything specific to talk to you about?"


    "There''s nothing to chat about between us. Do you want to talk about when I''m getting married or


    whether you''re attending Leanna''s and my wedding?"


    She pursed her lips, and her expression became a lot more unpleasant.


    After a moment of silence, she finally said, "We did grow up together. It''s been so many years, yet you


    always take this attitude with me."


    "I take this attitude with everyone," Aidan replied.


    "Not with Miss McKinney, right?"


    "You can''tpare yourself to her."


    "I still don''t get it." Georgina scoffed. "What do you even like about her?"


    "You don''t need to get it." He eyed her and said curtly, "You should just focus on yourself, Miss


    Crossley."


    Just as he was speaking, a ck Rolls-Royce stopped beside them.


    She stood in ce as she watched Aidan leave.


    She closed her eyes, and her expression hardened.


    Meanwhile, inside the house.


    As soon as Leanna went back to her room, someone came to the study and reported the day''s


    observations to Lloyd.


    "Did she meet anyone else?" Lloyd asked.


    "We started surveilling her when she got to the studio. As for what she did before that¡­"


    Lloyd waved his hand. "I got it."


    Once his subordinate left, Georgina entered the study. "Dad."


    "What is it?"


    She bit her lip. "I didn''t handle things wellst time. That''s why they managed to find something to link it


    back to me."


    He got up and went over to the window. "Forget it. It''s all in the past."


    "I heard the maids saying that Leanna wants to move out, but you didn''t agree to let her do so," she


    said. "Why did you¡ª"


    "Georgina," he cut her off. "Do you see the wisteria over there?"


    She looked out the window. "Yes, I see it."


    "Although you can see it from here, if you want to pluck the flowers, you need to get past this window


    and walk some distance away. However, if you plucked it beforehand and ced it in a vase, you can


    keep it within arm''s reach at all times."


    Georgina understood what Lloyd meant. She knew he wanted to be able to control Leanna easily. Even


    so, she couldn''t help but frown. "But¡ª"


    "Start packing your things. We''ll leave for Europe as soon as the anniversary ceremony is over. You


    won''t be seeing her ever again."


    She froze in shock. "Are we nevering back again?"


    "There won''t be a reason for us toe back," he said. "I''m sure I don''t have to tell you the state that


    Crossley Group is in right now. Furthermore, all the things you''ve done recently are still on everyone''s


    minds. Even though we''ve attempted to clear your name, we still can''t control what other people say.


    I''ve made all the arrangements over in Europe. We can just head over without needing to do anything


    else."


    "Then¡­ are we just going to let Leanna keep everything we gave herst time?"


    He chuckled. "Since she wants it so badly, just let her have it. Still, it remains to be seen whether she''s


    capable of holding onto it."


    There was more that Georgina wanted to say, but Lloyd turned around. "That''s enough. Start packing


    everything important to you. We''re leaving immediately after the anniversary ceremony. Don''t tell


    anyone that we''re going to Europe. Once we''re there, there''s no reason for you to contact any of your


    old friends again."

 Chapter 438

    Chapter 438


    The next afternoon, Leanna got a call from the police, iming they saw Ellioting to her studio


    sometime before he died. They noticed his frequent contact with the studio, so they wanted to ask her


    questions and see if they could find any clues. After she ended the call, she got up and took her stuff


    before leaving her office.


    Seeing her exiting the office, Zoe asked, "Where are you going, Nana?"


    Leanna responded, "The cops just called. They said they needed my help in the investigation of Elliot''s


    death as they found out that he hade to our workshop before and that he had a beef with me."


    A frown creased Zoe''s forehead. "What''s that got to do with you? You''re the victim here."


    Leanna smiled faintly. "It''s fine. Just a testimonial record. I''ll be back soon."


    "Okay. Call me if you need anything."


    "Sure."


    Once at the police station, the cops first told Leanna to tell them who she was, then they asked her


    about the rtionship she shared with Elliot. They also wanted to know when thest time she saw him


    was. She answered all questions honestly. After the testimonial was done, one of the cops gave her an


    appreciative nod. "Thanks foring. Your cooperation is much appreciated."


    "No problem." A momentary pause swooped in. And then, she asked, "How is the investigation going?" Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    Just as the cop was about to answer, she saw Queenie arrive at the police station.


    Queenie nced at Leanna before approaching the cop. "I''m Queenie Wojzicki. I''m here to provide my


    testimonial."


    The cop turned to Leanna and said, "That''s all for today. We''ll call when we find any clues."


    "Sure. Thanks."


    The cop then turned his attention to Queenie. "Come with me."


    Queenie hummed in acknowledgment and went with the cop, looking calm.


    Leanna saw her off. She pursed her lips as a few thoughts ran across her mind. Instead of leaving right


    away, she chose to wait outside the police station.


    One hour had psed, and Queenie finally came out.


    Unlike Leanna''s beef with Elliot, Queenie''s feud with him was public knowledge. He imed Queenie


    had assaulted him before and that he was even hospitalized for that. Thus, she had be the prime


    suspect in his murder. However, just as Leanna and the others had suspected, Elliot''s killer was a


    grown man. No matter the situation, Queenie could never overwhelm him, let alone kill him.


    When the cops asked her if she had hired someone to assault Elliot, Queenie remained firm on the


    stance that she had no idea about it. She imed Elliot ndered her because she wouldn''t give in to


    his harassment. There was no evidence proving the veracity of his testimonial, and the cops did notice


    how raunchy his private life was. Queenie''s testimonial fit the bill, so they let her go.


    The moment she left the police station, she saw Leanna standing right outside. Her fists were balled,


    and no longer did she look calm. She mocked, "Are you happy now?"


    "Why should I?" Leanna asked.


    "Elliot is dead, and now I''m the prime suspect. You got your wish. I''ve paid for sabotaging the


    competition."


    A silent chuckle escaped Leanna''s lips. "Oh, you''re so charming. You make it sound like I''m shifting the


    me for his murder to you. If you aren''t the real killer, you have nothing to worry about."


    Queenie lost herposure for a moment, but she quickly calmed down. "Just trying to vent."


    Leanna stared at her. "Have you seen Rontely?" she blurted.


    rm bells rang in Queenie''s head. "Why do you ask?"


    "Nothing. Just wanna see him."


    "I don''t know anything. Don''t ask me. I have nothing to do with Elliot''s murder."


    Icily, Leanna remarked, "That was a simple yes or no question. Why did youplicate it?"


    Queenie gnashed her teeth. "I said I have nothing to do with this. Stop asking me." With that, she tried


    to leave.


    Leanna stood around for a few moments before she turned around. Her voice was a whisper, but


    Queenie heard it anyway. "I know you have something to do with Elliot''s murder."


    And she''s going to push all the me onto Ron. Thest time I brought him up, she looked frustrated.


    She even med him for not handling the Elliot problem well. But now, she looks rmed instead. The


    cops will find out she and Ron have a connection sooner orter. If she losesposure in front of


    them and gives them vague answers, they''re just going to think she''s trying to cover for him.


    Queenie froze at that. She turned around once more, her teeth clenched. "I know you hate me, but


    don''t try to pin the murder on me."


    Leanna responded, "And your next line will be, ''I might not be the murderer, but I won''t sympathize with


    Elliot. The murderer did God''s work. All the better if he''s already a fugitive.'' Am I right?"


    "Well, odd to hear you say that. Yes, Ron and I are childhood friends, but I was overseas for three


    years. I have no idea what he was up to during that time, and his business is none of my concern. Ever


    since I found out he was a sc*m, I never contacted him again. But you¡­ You wouldn''t stop bringing him


    up, and you''re trying to make him look innocent. Are you trying to pin the murder on me when you''re


    the real murderer?" Queenie questioned, but her eyes were looking elsewhere.


    Leanna smiled. "Good point, but you know why he''s being hunted. Do you think pinning the me on


    him will help you out?"


    Queenie snapped, "I have no idea what you''re talking about. I will not confess to something I never


    did."


    And I''m not going to argue anymore. Leanna took a few steps forward, and then she turned around.


    "Oh, did you know? Your father died."


    That statement surprised Queenie, and the look on her face changed. "Leanna McKinney, you witch!


    First, you try to make me a murderer, and now you''re cursing me?!"


    Leanna continued, "He''s been dead for a month at least. I''m just trying to tell you about it. This isn''t a


    curse, Queenie. You''re overreacting." After that, she got into her car without saying another word.


    The car vanished into the distance. Queenie tried to say something, but not a word came out of her


    mouth. He''s dead? Impossible. That b*tch is lying. She was about to call her father when she abruptly


    stopped what she was doing. If he''s dead, then at least there won''t be anyone left to drag me down.


    Nobody will look down on me anymore.

 Chapter 439

    Chapter 439


    Right after Leanna returned to the studio, Zoe came up to her and dragged her into the pantry. "So,


    what did the cops say? Did they get any clues?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No. They just asked me some basic questions."


    Zoe clicked her tongue. "That Elliot guy probably had a lot of enemies. It''s gonna be hard to find who''s


    the killer."


    Feeling rather thirsty, Leanna grabbed a cup and poured herself some water. "I saw Queenie, by the


    way."


    "Why was she there?"


    "Same reason I was there." Leanna took a swig of water before continuing, "But I think¡­"


    "What? Did you notice something?" asked Zoe.


    Leanna snapped out of it and shook her head. "It''s nothing. We should wait for the results."


    "I called Jamie. We''re gonna hang out at the bar we went tost time. You wannae? I got Daniel


    with me. Why don''t you call Aidan, too?"


    "Better not. He''s still angry at me."


    It had been nearly a day, but Aidan didn''t even give her a call or text. She texted him good morning


    earlier, but he still hadn''t replied to her.


    Happily, Zoe said, "Cool. Let''s go, then. We can let loose without him around."


    Leanna heaved a sigh. "You guys have fun. I''ll have to get through the pile of drafts."


    Well, work is the top priority. "Sure. Don''t burn the midnight oil, though. Don''t stress yourself out," Zoe


    reminded.


    Leanna smiled. "Sure."


    She spent the whole afternoon in the officeing up with a few drafts. Once she was done with the


    last one, she stretched her arms. Whoa, it''s already dark outside. What''s the time? Whoa, eleven?


    That''ste. She looked at her phone, but there were still no texts from Aidan. He''s so petty, she


    grumbled in silence before she packed her stuff and left the office, calling Jonathan at the same time.


    Once the call connected, Jonathan asked, "How may I help you, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna asked, "Is Aidan still at work?"


    "Yes, he is. Things have been hectictely. He''s been calling meetings the whole day."


    "I see. So, where''s he staying over thest couple of days? Castor Vi or the condo in the city


    center?"


    Jonathan had no idea why she asked that, but he knew she didn''t really like Castor Vi, so he


    answered tentatively, "The condominium, I believe."


    "I see. Good luck at work."


    She hung up and locked the door before getting into her car and driving her way to the condominium.


    Meanwhile, Jonathan was still holding his phone with a baffled expression. Ten minutester, Aidan


    emerged from the conference hall, and Jonathan went up to him. "President Pearson, Mrs. Pearson


    just called."


    "What did she say?" Aidan asked.


    "She wanted to know if you were still working." Jonathan recounted the whole conversation, including


    his answer. "I told her, yes, and I said you''ve been working the whole day."


    Oh, I haven''t replied to her good morning text. He whipped his phone out and looked at Jonathan. "Is


    that all?"


    "No." Jonathan thought back to the call. "She also asked whether you''ve been staying in Castor Vi or


    the condo."


    Aidan frowned. "So, what did you answer?"


    "The condo."


    Aidan pressed his lips together and stopped in his tracks. He took a sharp turn and entered the


    elevator. On his way to the condominium, he had called Leanna a few times, but she didn''t take them.


    "Drive faster," he ordered the driver coldly.


    In the meantime, Leanna had set her phone to silent during work and had forgotten to change the


    setting. Her eyes were on the road, so she had no idea calls wereing in. Once she parked her car


    at theplex, she turned around and saw that the ck car was still tailing her.


    She got out of the car, ignoring the stalker. Then, she went straight to the condominium. It waste at


    night, and not a single soul was out. Dark silence draped itself over the neighborhood. She was about


    to enter theplex when she saw a familiar figure nearby. It made her freeze for a moment. She tried


    to have a closer look, but the lights were too dim for her to recognize who it was. Without thinking, she


    went after that silhouette.


    Just a bit closer, and I can see who it is. However, before she could call out to the silhouette, Aidan


    appeared before her.


    His breathing was ragged. It was as if he had been running all the way here.


    She stared at him in confusion.


    Despite being out of breath, Aidan looked as calm as usual and asked, "What brings you here?"


    "Just¡­ passing by." Shoot. Why am I getting distracted? She then shoved him away, but the silhouette


    was long gone.


    "You seem to have taken a long detour, though," hemented tly.


    Alright, he''s being sarcastic again. She replied in all her seriousness, "Probably because I was blind for


    a while."


    She was about to leave, but he held her arm. Slowly, he said, "And you might still be blind. Don''t run


    around."


    Dammit, Leanna cursed in silence.


    "Under such circumstances, you should seek help from me. I could have given you a ride home."


    "I''d rather call the cops. They''re more reliable."


    "You sure you won''t ask me for help?" Aidan queried.


    "I won''t."


    "Fine. Then, you''reing home with me," he answered.


    Gee, A+ forprehension.


    Content is ? 2024 N?velDrama.Org.


    His hand moved downward, and their fingers interlocked.


    Leanna closed her eyes. "That''s enough. We''re still in a fight, you know."


    "I don''t remember us fighting." Unfazed, Aidan took her into theplex. Since she came to me, she''s


    better not thinking about running away.


    After they entered the elevator, she tried to pull her hand out but failed. I give up. She stared at the


    rising floor number and asked, "I think I saw Celia. Is she here as well?"


    He spared her a nce before answering coolly, "You need to get your eyes checked."


    She chuckled. "I could have caught up to her if you hadn''t shown up. That person looked like her."


    "Have you been rushing drafts the whole afternoon?"


    "Huh? Yeah, but¡ª"


    "You have overworked your eyes and were probably hallucinating. Don''t worry about it, though. Your


    eyes will get better after some rest."


    I am not worried about anything. F*ck it. He''s not gonna tell me anything useful. She ignored him and


    tried to pull her hand out once more.


    Just when she was finally breaking free, Aidan pulled her into his embrace. With a voice as soft as a


    whisper, he said, "There''s a surveince camera here. Don''t get handsy."


    I am most certainly not going to get handsy!

 Chapter 440

    Chapter 440


    At the same time, Lloyd received a call saying Leanna had gone to Aidan''s ce. He told his men to


    keep an eye on them and said nothing else. He then looked outside the window before leaving the


    study. Not a momentter, he got into the car that was parked in the garden.


    Jethro was locked up in a warehouse near the residence. It used to be a storage room of sorts, but it


    was slowly getting abandoned. Nobody woulde near the ce, so Lloyd transferred Jethro here


    not long after Ron escaped.


    Jethro was lying on the single bed in the warehouse, watching a movie ying on an old TV before


    him. It wasn''t too messy around him, but it certainly wasn''t clean, either. Food containers and old


    newspapers were strewn all over the floor and table, though it was obvious someone would clean the


    ce up from time to time. His broken leg hung limply on the bed, and he hummednguidly.


    Imprisonment didn''t seem to take a toll on him.


    A momentter, someone opened the door, and the light from the streemp flooded the room.


    He sat up, squinting at the man who just entered.


    Lloyd came in, and hisckey turned on the lights.


    Blinded by the ring light, Jethro held his hand up to cover his eyes.


    Lloyd shot hisckey a look. The guy left the room and closed the door behind him.


    He approached Jethro and took a seat on the couch before him. "So, what is your decision?"


    Jethro chuckled and rubbed his fingers together. "Give me what I want, and I''ll tell you what you want."


    "You are insatiable."


    "Hey, I had to spend tons of money raising a b*tch I call my daughter. She finally got married, and I


    thought she could help me out, but that ingrate won''t even give me a single cent. So, I gotta help


    myself."


    Slowly, Lloyd said, "Your greed might be your downfall, you know."


    Jethro shrugged it off. "I don''t care. I''ll talk when I see the money. Imma hold the cash tight even if


    that''s thest thing I do. It''ll probably give me luck when I go to hell."


    Lloyd chortled. "Someone''s optimistic."


    "If you give me the money, I''ll tell you everything." Jethro then added, "And you won''t lose anything. I


    still have dirt on you, but if you give me what I want, you won''t see me ever again. Never in your life.


    But if you refuse, I''ll expose your little secret."


    Unfazed, Lloyd responded, "I don''t have any secrets."


    Jethro''s burn mark contorted as he smiled, hisughter tinted with a hint of cackle. "Yes, you do. You''re


    not Lloyd, are you? No matter how much you try to mimic him, you''re still not him." Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Lloyd''s eyes narrowed, murder shing within them.


    "And I''m not scared of death. Remember the guy who escaped? I told him all about it. If I die, he''ll tell


    everyone who you really are. But if I get the money, I''ll split it with him fifty-fifty. Only an idiot wouldn''t


    make this deal."


    "You think everyone will believe you just because you said so?"


    "No, but I have evidence." He grinned. "It''s right in my wife''s grave. I bet Lloyd had never expected his


    wife to marry me. Hah! I can''t wait to see the look on his face when I tell him all about it in the afterlife.


    No regrets."


    Lloyd stood up and looked at him like he was a dead man. "One more question. Answer me, and you


    get everything you want."


    Generously, Jethro said, "You can ask me hundreds of questions if you want."


    "Leanna''s brother¡­ Whose son is he?"


    A big grin cracked across Jethro''s lips, contorting his scar even more. He looked like he had just heard


    a joke. "Mine, of course."


    "Are you sure?" Lloyd asked.


    "You''ll have to give me more for that question." Jethro gesticted. "This much, and I''ll tell you."


    Hearing that, Lloyd left without saying another word.


    Jethroy back down on the bed, shouting at him, "Hey, turn the lights off." The only response he got


    was the closing of the door. He shuffled over to turn the lights off and peeked through the crack under


    the door. He clicked his tongue as he saw Lloyd leaving in his car. He spat in Lloyd''s direction and


    thought, You''re just a fake, *sshole. Over the years of running from his debt collectors, Jethro had


    trained himself up to be a glib talker. He lied about telling Ron about Lloyd''s secret. I don''t even make


    enough, and you expect me to share?


    ¡­


    Leanna entered Aidan''s house and poured herself a ss of water. A sense of hunger welled within


    her. She had skipped lunch and dinner, after all. She went to open the fridge only to find the same


    things she boughtst time lying in there. Well, at least I can make something.


    Just when she went to get some water, Aidan showed up and hugged her from behind. "How did you


    know I didn''t have dinner yet?"


    She wanted to roll her eyes when she heard that. "I''m making dinner for one, thank you very much."


    He cocked his eyebrow. "I thought you were on a no-dinner diet to lose weight."


    She did say that, but only because she wouldn''t feel hungry at night after having lunch. "And you


    believed that?" She threw his quote back at him.


    "Oh, I get it. No means yes when ites to you," he said.


    Leanna wondered what he was talking about. All of a sudden, he swiveled her around and bit her lips.


    Ouch! She wanted to push him away, but he was already holding her hand and pushing her back


    against the counter. A long kisster, she huffed breathlessly, "You''re so annoying. I have to make


    dinner. Shoo."


    A smile tugged at Aidan''s lips. He took a step back and let her make dinner.


    She turned around. A pauseter, she asked, "You said Celia and the others are going overseas. Are


    they gone?"


    He leaned on the wall and answered calmly, "Not yet."


    She then shot him a curious look. "Why?"


    "Migration isn''t easy. Their process is still ongoing."


    "I see." She turned her attention away. "And you looked so sure, too. I thought they were going to leave


    right away."


    "So, do you want them to leave, or not?"

 Chapter 441

    Chapter 441


    "Can you stop asking me weird questions?"


    "Huh?"


    Leanna took a deep breath and looked at him. "You''re making me think that kid is mine." That was the


    first time she said something so straightforward to him. She had tried to see if the kid was hers before,


    but every answer she got was opposite to her assumption.


    For some reason, Aidan loved asking questions like that. He stared at her for a moment and finally


    chuckled. "You''re reading too much into it. I just think I can be that brat''s godfather if you like him so


    much. That way, you can see him anytime you want."


    "Thanks, but no thanks."


    He added, "I''m in no hurry for an answer. Take your time. Answer me when you''re ready." Right then,


    his phone rang, and he left the kitchen to take the call.


    Leanna ced her pot on the stove and turned the heat on. She spaced out at the blue mesing


    from the stove. Eventually, her eyes started to hurt. I''ve probably been overworking my eyes. She


    rubbed her eyes and turned her attention to the vegetables.


    There''s no way he would bring that kid up for no reason. Either the child is my son, or he''s just trying to


    fill in the void left by my unborn child. If it''s the former, then everything he said so far would have been


    a lie, and he didn''t even flinch when he lied.


    She spaced out again as she was deep in thought. She had forgotten to put her knife, so ultimately,


    she cut her finger. The searing pain cut off her train of thought. The de had cut her flesh open,


    drawing blood. Right away, she turned the faucet on and washed her wound with cold water.


    Aidan came back after the call and noticed the blood on the knife and chopping board. A frown creased


    his forehead, and he strode up to Leanna. "You cut your finger?"


    "Yeah. Would you get me some Band-Aid? It''s not a deep cut. I¡ª"


    Before she could finish, he turned the faucet off and held her hand as he led her to the couch. "Sit." He


    turned around and whipped out a medical kit from under the coffee table. He then took out a bottle of


    iodophor and some Q-tips to disinfect her wound.


    The pain made her gasp. "Gentler, please."


    He pursed his lips slightly and did as she said. "I''ll take you to the hospital tomorrow."


    "For this? Nah, that''s overkill."


    "No. To get your eyes checked."


    Dammit, Aidan. Can''t you say something good for once?


    Aidan finished cleaning her wound and wrapped it with a Band-Aid.


    Leanna got up and was about to return to the kitchen when he suddenly said, "Sit back down. I''ll do it."


    "It''s alright. I can do it." I don''t want you to destroy the kitchen equipment, you know.


    He shot her an icy look that said, Are you doubting me?


    "Forget it. Just kill the heat. I''ll get delivery. I''m now in the mood for some grilled stuff."


    Without saying another word, he went into the kitchen and killed the heat.


    Leanna then heard a sounding from the kitchen. She was about to tell Aidan not to clean anything


    up, but it was toote. Something was smashed. How the hell did he manage to break at least one


    thing every time he goes into the kitchen? Not like she could do anything about it, so she threw it out of


    the window and ordered delivery. He doesn''t like spicy or grilled stuff, and he has gastric problems. In


    the end, she got them something light. It was alreadyte to start with. When the delivery arrived, it


    would already be half past twelve. While she was waiting, she took her clothes and went to the


    bathroom.


    However, just before she could enter the bathroom, Aidan emerged from the kitchen and stood before


    her.


    Huh?


    He asked, "You''re hurt. Do you need my help?"


    Without a second thought, she locked him out of the bathroom.


    Aidan licked his lips and returned to the living room. After he plopped down on the couch, he made a


    call.


    Soon, the call was picked up, and Keaton''s voice came from the other line. "President Pearson, I think


    Miss McKinney saw Celia."


    Aidan grunted. "But it''s alright now."


    "Will Miss McKinney stay around for long? Should I move Celia and her friends somewhere else?"


    Aidan pinched the bridge of his nose and said, "Let me think about it first."


    "Of course."


    "Has Celia been seeing her boyfriendtely?"


    "She went out earlier and ran into Miss McKinney after that. Other than that, no."


    Last week, Leanna stayed in the condominium as well. Celia and Naomi had stayed inside, and Celia


    only met her boyfriend once in a few days. So, it was not much of a big deal.


    "I see. Keep an eye on them," Aidan ordered. "I don''t have time to see them right now. So, take care of


    them."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "Yes, President Pearson."


    Aidan hung up and looked at his drenched shirt. He went into his room to get his clothes before barging


    into the bathroom.


    Leanna was washing her hair when he came in. The foam blurred her sight, and the moment he


    opened the door, she gasped, "What are you doing?"


    He stood beside her and unbuttoned himself with one hand. "Mind somepany?"


    She was rendered speechless. Obviously, he wasn''t there just to get showered.


    She washed the foam off her hair and picked her towel up. She''d rather skip cleaning her body just to


    get out of there.


    However, before she could leave, Aidan pulled her back and whispered, "You need to clean your body."


    "I¡ª"


    "I''ll help. And you''re wee."


    ¡­


    It was only when someone rang the doorbell that the couple stopped making out. Leanna had no


    strength left even to move, so she kicked Aidan. "You go answer the door."


    He cocked his eyebrow, but he got changed and went to take the delivery.


    Leanna took another shower and slowly changed into her pajamas. She was hungry, to begin with, and


    the activity earlier exhausted her further. It didn''t take too long for her to finish all her food. Then, she


    set her eyes on Aidan''s portion.


    Seeing that, he remarked, "If you wanna eat, you can always tell me. Not like I won''t give you."


    She then took his food without even saying a word. "Hey, I bought these. Of course, I can eat them."


    She ordered a lot just in case he didn''t have enough. The food was enough for both of them.


    He looked at her, and a smile tugged at his lips. "Living with me is a lot more convenient than living


    anywhere else, don''t you think?" he eximed.


    "Nope."

 Chapter 442

    Chapter 442


    It was a sleepless night. Mostly. Leanna woke up at 10.30AM. She was alreadyte, so she skipped


    the studio and went straight back to the Crossley Residence. When she came to the junction where


    she ran into Ron, she stopped for a few moments before driving down that path.


    However, along the way she drove, there was grass everywhere and not a house or shack in sight. At


    the end of the road sat another branching path behind a steel fence. It meandered deep into the


    distance. She was about to check it out, but then, two guys came out. She saw one of them working in


    the Crossley Residence before. She quickly turned around and drove back the way she came from. I


    guess that''s where Jethro is locked.


    Leanna came to the residence and went upstairs only to run into Georgina, who just emerged from her


    room. Georgina chortled. "You stayed out the whole night and came back just to get changed?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    "I have changed my clothes, but thanks for the concern." With that, Leanna turned and walked into her


    room.


    Georgina looked at her before pursing her lips and descending the stairs.


    She got into the car, and her driver asked, "Where would you like to go, Miss Crossley?"


    She told him where she wanted to go. Then, she looked at Leanna''s car, musing over something.


    Half an hourter, an angry Violet stormed into a coffee shop. She snapped, "I''m in a bad moodtely.


    This better be good."


    Georgina sipped some coffee and said slowly, "I know. That''s why I asked you out. So that you can


    calm down."


    Violet took the seat across from Georgina and stayed silent. Her erstwhile friends were eitherughing


    at her or wouldn''t hang out with her. Georgina was the first to ask her out after such a humiliating


    incident happened to her. Violet got herself a cup of drink. "Spit it out. I don''t have time to talk in


    circles."


    Georgina put her cup down. "You should drink a bit. Look at you, all angry and fuming."


    Violet cursed, "That b*tch just wouldn''t leave my house, and my dad wouldn''t kick her out because he


    loves her. How do you expect me to stay calm and drink?!"


    "Violet, you''re a smart girl. You should stay rational and see things through an objective lens."


    "What do you mean?"


    A smile had curled Georgina''s lips. "It''s easy to kick that woman out. Your father had broken up with


    her for years. Do you think she''d stay single for him that long? Even if she has no children from her


    prior marriage, she was still married at one point. Find her ex-husband and expose her past to your


    father. Then, he''ll kick her out for good. He won''t stand for that humiliation, after all."


    Violet frowned. That''s a good idea. Before this, she kept throwing tantrums and abused that woman in


    an attempt to chase her away, but that backfired. Her father loved that woman even more, and he even


    started showing contempt toward her. A momentter, she said, "Sure. I''ll get a private investigator to


    look into this. If this works, I owe you one."


    "Skip the formalities. We''re friends," Georgina responded.


    "You didn''t ask me out just to help me with my situation, did you? So, what''s the sitch? I''ll help you if I


    can."


    Georgina picked up her teaspoon and stirred her coffee. "You know Queenie, right?"


    rm bells rang in Violet''s head. "What do you mean?"


    Queenie might have bribed the panel of judges, but that was between her and Elliot. Violet had an exit


    strategy ready so that she didn''t get dragged into the mess. Georgina shouldn''t have known.


    "Calm down. I''m on your side. There''s a reason I''m telling you this. I just discovered something


    interesting."


    "What is it?"


    "You wanna know why that woman came to you all of a sudden? Wanna know why everyone is staying


    away from you?"


    Violet frowned upon the words. "Why?"


    Georgina''s lips curled. "That''s because Queenie sold you out."


    "Impossible. She doesn''t have the guts. And if Aidan found out I was behind it, he''d kill m¡ª" Violet


    froze up, and her frown deepened. "Wait a minute. Queenie sold me out to Aidan, and he''s the one


    who sent that woman after me. Is that what you mean?"


    "You''ll have to get all the details from Queenie. She ratted to Gordon, but I wonder if Gordon had told


    Aidan about it. If you don''t believe me, ask your father. Your family''spany might be under attack


    from the Pearsons."


    Gordon was the head of the Pearsons, while Aidan was the head of the Pearson Group. Violet knew


    that much. "But even if I did bribe the panel, that was only an attack on Leanna. Why would the


    Pearsonse after me?"


    "Do you have any idea how much the Pearsons have lost over this? Gordon needs to vent. So, he


    sought Queenie out since she was the one who gave him the recording. And she sold you out just to


    get out of trouble."


    Wait. Something''s off. "How did you know she was the one who provided the recording to Gordon?"


    "I have my sources. Whether you believe me or not is up to you."


    Violet believed her. I knew that b*tch wouldn''t just show up out of nowhere. She then stood up angrily.


    "I''m going to find Queenie right now."


    Georgina didn''t stop her. She leaned back on her chair and sipped her coffee as she saw Violet off.


    Queenie wants to drag everyone down with her? Well, I''m kicking her down to hell first. And Violet''s the


    perfect choice for that.


    Violet told the driver to go straight to Queenie''s house, but no matter how much she rang the doorbell,


    nobody came to take it. She shouted, "Queenie, you b*tch! You ratted on me?! I hope you die and


    nevere out! If I see you roaming the streets, I''ll make you wish you were never born!"


    rmed by her shouting, the neighbors curiously spectated the scene.


    Violet shot them a look. "What are you looking at? Your neighbor''s an *sshole. I hope she dies!" she


    cursed further and kicked the door before she left the ce. While she was on her way home, she


    contacted a private investigator and tasked him to look into that woman''s past, just like what Georgina


    said.

 Chapter 443

    Chapter 443


    Leanna didn''t have much else to do at the Crossley Residence. She merely came back because she


    was worried Lloyd might think she wouldn''t return after she stayed at Aidan''s ce the night before.


    But thanks to this trip, I have finally found out where he locked Jethro up.


    She emerged from her room, and her attention turned to Lloyd''s bedroom. She had a feeling the safe


    didn''t just contain the watch. Something more important was in there. But I''ve gone in there once and


    escaped out of pure luck. I cannot risk it further.


    Sheposed herself and left for the studio. Daniel was there when she came in. She said hi to


    everyone and entered her office.


    Zoe took the chance to get away from Daniel. She, too, went into Leanna''s office.


    Leanna had just sat down when Zoe came in. She asked, "What''s wrong?"


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Zoe leaned on her table and sighed. "I don''t know. I just think he''s annoying."


    "He''s annoying?" Leanna asked.


    Zoe nodded. "Yeah."


    "What kind of annoying?"


    "Um¡­" Zoe mused over it. "I just feel annoyed every time hees near me, every time he talks to


    me, and especially every time he''s being nice to me."


    At that, a smile had curled Leanna''s lips. She said, "I used to be in the same ce."


    Zoe''s eyes shone. Finally, someone who can understand me. "When?"


    "Back when Aidan started wooing me."


    Why do I even ask? Zoe thought to herself.


    Leanna wasn''t afraid to say she felt annoyed because Aidan made her confused about her feelings. On


    the one hand, she wanted to stay as far away from him as she could, but on the other, her heart would


    flutter every time he was nice to her. Zoe felt annoyed because she liked Daniel, but at the same time,


    she was afraid of being hurt, so she was annoyed by him making a move on her.


    Zoe fiddled with some files and sighed. "I just think he''s unreliable."


    Daniel had a lot of secrets, so Leanna wouldn''t convince her friend to date him. Though, rtionships


    wereplex. They might even start going out over one little spark of the moment.


    A whileter, Zoe asked, "So, what''s Louis up to? He seems to be busytely."


    "Oh, I forgot to tell you. He''s signed on with a filmpany now."


    That perked Zoe up. "Really?"


    Leanna nodded. "Yeah. And it''s been a while."


    "So, whichpany is he affiliated with? A subsidiary of Pearson Group?"


    "I don''t think so. I didn''t ask. Aidan would tell me if Louis signed on with one of hispanies."


    Zoe then asked, "So, has he started with any work? Or is he doing something else?"


    "No, I don''t think so. I asked him to put studies first, though."


    "This is it!" Zoe gushed, "Louis is handsome. He''s born to be a star. Your whole family''s hot, and now


    you''re dating Aidan. To be fair, that *sshole is handsome as heck. I bet your kids are gonna be super


    cute. I wanna be their godmother."


    Leanna smiled. "Sure."


    Zoe realized the sadness lingering in her voice. Oh, I shouldn''t have said that. "It''s in the past now,


    Nana. Let it go. You''ve gotten back together with him. You guys will have another kid soon."


    "I hope so," Leanna mumbled.


    Zoe stopped talking about that subject and diverted the conversation. A whileter, someone knocked


    on the door¡ªit was Daniel. Zoe quickly whispered, "Don''t let him in."


    Leanna nodded in acknowledgment. "Do you need anything?"


    "I wanna talk to Zoe."


    "She''s not here."


    Huh? But I saw her go in, he thought to himself in bewilderment.


    Leanna continued to lie, "She''s unwell, so she has gone home. If you need anything,e back


    tomorrow."


    With that, Daniel went silent. A whileter, he responded, "Sure."


    He walked off, and Zoe heaved a sigh of relief.


    Leanna said, "I need to finish some drafts. Stay here. He might still be out there."


    Zoe thought so, too, so she started scrolling through her phone. "Sure. I''ll stay right here."


    A while after workter, Leanna looked up and realized her friend was asleep. She stretched her arms


    and was about to lie down for a while. Just then, her phone rang. It was an unknown number. She went


    to the pantry to take the call. "Hi, this is Leanna speaking." There was no answer. She then looked at


    her phone. It''s still connected. She put her phone beside her ear once again. "I''m hanging up if you


    aren''t saying anything."


    A whileter, someone said, "It''s me."


    Leanna didn''t expect a call from Queenie. "What is it?"


    "I can be your witness if you want to sue Violet for bribery and nder, but you need to help me out."


    "What are the terms?"


    "Give me money and help me get out of Highside," she replied. "I know you can do that." She was still


    the prime suspect in Elliot''s murder. She couldn''t escape by herself. If she did, everyone would think


    she was the murderer.


    Amused, Leanna asked, "And why should I help you?"


    "I also have evidence that Georgina tried to sabotage you. I think that''s enough chips to exchange


    favors."


    "Keep your chips. I do not need them."


    The answer surprised Queenie. Panicked, she asked, "They tried to ruin you. Don''t you want to let


    them have a taste of their own medicine?"


    Leanna said slowly, "You know, what you''re doing right now is going to hurt me, not them. I know what


    they did. I have evidence of Violet bribing the panel and Georgina sabotaging me. Thanks for the offer,


    but keep it."


    Queenie clenched her teeth. "Leanna, I know Ron helped you out a ton. For his sake, help me this one


    time."

 Chapter 444

    Chapter 444


    What a shameless b*tch she is. Leanna leaned on the wall and said tly, "I have no idea why you


    think you have the right to negotiate with me, but I won''t help you, no matter for whose sake. I''ve


    already helped you enough by not telling the cops what you told me back at the police station."


    Queenie hissed, "You''ll regret this, Leanna!"


    Leanna chuckled. "Sure. Do your worst." And then, the call ended. She tucked her phone away. All her


    sleepiness was lost, so she made herself a cup of coffee and returned to her office.


    Zoe had already woken up. She was staring out the window and yawning. Once Leanna came in, she


    rubbed her eyes. "Where did you go, Nana?"


    Leanna answered, "I was dozing off, so I made some coffee. Want some?" Zoe nodded, so Leanna


    gave her the cup of coffee and went to make another one.


    Zoe drank the coffee and sat down, waiting for the caffeine to hit her. A whileter, she had shaken off


    her sleepiness, so she got up. "Nana, I''m hungry. I wanna get something. You want some?"


    "I''m fine with anything."


    "Okay. I''ll get you something, then." Zoe stretched her arms and left the office. Her destination was the


    mall beside them.


    Just as she had taken a few steps, Daniel appeared beside her. "Hi. What a coincidence."


    Zoe''s lips twitched. "Your shop is right beside ours. Yeah, fancy seeing you here."


    He cocked his eyebrow, but he said nothing. Instead, he followed her into the mall.


    Zoe went to the bakery in the basement to get some pastries. Then, she made a beeline for the snack


    bar she frequented to get some snacks.


    And Daniel followed her all the way. Then, he said, "Pick this. I saw an ad for it before, and I think it''d


    taste good."


    She wanted to roll her eyes, but she refrained.


    He ced two bags of snacks in her cart and looked around. "That one''s nice, too. Youdies are


    gonna love it." He ced a few bags of that snack into her cart.


    She turned around abruptly. "Why did youe here anyway?"


    "I wanna shop with you."


    Zoe looked around. "Those guys aren''t here. You can stop acting now, bye." This wasn''t the only time


    they weren''t around. She noticed that nobody was tailing Danieltely, but he kept appearing around


    her like usual. He even offered to take her home. She was annoyed by that. That''s going too far.


    He smiled, but he said nothing. He just kept picking snacks for her.


    In the end, she chose a few cans of snacks and paid for all her stuff. She asked the cashier for a stic


    bag and handed the canned stuff to Daniel. "Here, for you. Thanks foring with me."


    Canned snacks, huh?


    Since he wasn''t taking them, she stuffed the cans in his arms and left.


    He held them and followed her. "Are you still mad at me, Zoe?"


    She kept walking. "Why should I? You''re not my boyfriend. I don''t have to be so petty."


    "Then, why did you¡ª"


    Zoe then answered thoughtfully, "I thought you liked these snacks, but I can relieve you of them if you


    don''t want them."


    She tried to take them, but he dodged her. "Oh? You don''t want to give them away? So, you do like


    them, don''t you?" she uttered.


    "No!" Daniel exined, "I don''t exactly like them. It''s just the food was gonna expire. And I don''t waste


    food."


    She smirked and kept walking ahead, but just her luck, she ran into a moron.


    Anthony stopped in front of Zoe, surprised that he would run into her. "Zoe?"


    God, I wanna gag. "No, you got the wrong person." she denied at once. I''m your daddy.


    She was about to go around him, but Anthony held her arm. "Do you live nearby? No wonder I couldn''t


    find you."


    She pulled her arm back. Impatiently, she said, "What do you want, son?"


    The mockery flew over his head, and his eyes were filled with sorrow. "Zoe, I''m sorry. Really, I am. I''ve


    broken up with her. Let''s start over again, alright? You wanna get married, don''t you? We can get


    married right away."


    "What is the matter with you? You''re the most disgusting, vile man I''ve ever seen in my life. I don''t even


    wanna call you trash because that would be an insult to trash. You cheated on me, and now you''re


    acting like you''re a loyal guy? Go drown yourself in a sewer."


    Anthony''s face fell. Just when he was about to say something, a guy appeared right beside Zoe. He


    wrapped his arm around her shoulder. Softly, he said, "Is this your friend, honey?"


    She got goosebumps, but she didn''t shove Daniel away. Anthony''s still around. "No. Probably a beggar.


    Said some weird stuff."


    "Zoe, what are you¡ª"


    Daniel shot Anthony an icy look. "What do you want?"


    Anthony was half a head shorter than Daniel, and Daniel looked like a foreigner. One withering look


    from Daniel, and Anthony backed off a little.


    Daniel took the stuff Zoe was holding, and then he held her hand. "Let''s go home. I''ll make dinner for


    you."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    God, that sounds so mushy. It took all her strength not to pull her hand out as she left with Daniel.


    Anthony saw them off, and he clenched his teeth in anger.


    Once they were out of the mall, she pulled her hand out and wiped the sweat off her pants. Then, she


    looked away stiffly. "Thanks."


    "For what?"


    Zoe opened her mouth, but she had no idea what to say, so she closed it back up again.


    A momentary pauseter, Daniel asked, "Was that your ex?"


    "No."


    Huh?


    Zoe sneered. "Sooner orter, I''ll make him regret meeting me. That''s who he is¡ªmy enemy."


    He coughed into his hand in amusement. Guess Zoe''s really nice to me. Rtively speaking.

 Chapter 445

    Chapter 445


    After Zoe returned to the studio, she divided the food among the girls and took the rest to Leanna''s


    office. As soon as she sat down, she sprawled on the table before letting out another long sigh.


    Seeing this, Leanna asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "I met Anthony." Zoe immediately blew her top when she brought this up.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Leanna also let out a frown when she heard that. "How did you bump into him?" she asked quickly.


    "I don''t know," Zoe grumbled. "Probably because I forgot to check the almanac before I went out. That


    was why I stepped on sh*t."


    "What did he do to you?"


    "He didn''t do anything other than beg for my forgiveness. I chewed him out, but¡­"


    When Leanna heard the pause, she tilted her head and waited for her friend to finish her sentence.


    Zoe suddenly pulled and tugged her hair as she muttered, "Forget it! Just thinking about it annoys me!"


    As she spoke, she tore open a bag of snacks but just as she was about to stuff her face, she suddenly


    realized this was the snack that Daniel chose.


    She looked at the bag again and felt she needed to be rescued for a moment there. What amazingly


    sh*t fate is this? she fumed. Why is everything I kept chosen by Daniel?


    Dejected, she grumbled, "I''m not eating anymore."


    Leanna couldn''t help butugh as she looked at Zoe''s antics. "What do you want to eat?" She then


    picked up her phone. "I''ll get something delivered."


    "Pizza! Let''s go after work."


    "Sure."


    ¡­


    The Crossley Group''s anniversary ceremony finally came after a few peaceful days went by.


    When Leanna went outte in the morning, Lloyd informed her, "The event is at 6.00PM. You can go


    there straight from work."


    "Okay." Leanna smiled.


    After she left, Lloyd turned his head to Georgina and asked, "Is everything prepared?"


    Georgina nodded in response. "It''s done," she replied, to which Lloyd added, "We will leave after


    everything has been put in the car."


    He then stood up after he spoke, but Georgina quickly called out to him again. "Dad, are we really not


    "Yes." That was all he uttered before he entered the study.


    Now that she was left alone, Georgina pursed her lips and trudged out of the living room.


    The subordinate, who was waiting off to one side, saw her and immediately went over to greet her.


    "Miss Crossley."


    "Do as I say."


    As soon as her subordinate heard that, he nodded and shuffled away.


    Georgina continued to look into the distance when augh suddenly slipped. Let''s see who else can


    save Leanna this time.


    Lloyd, who was in the study, took out a few documents from the table and he sneered when he looked


    at the contract he had signed with Leanna.


    He was going to give her everything including the Crossley Group if that was what she wanted.


    Before leaving, he turned his head and nced at the books in the room, his gaze growing sinister.


    The things here were all arranged ording to his preferences so that people wouldn''t find anything


    odd and yet, he didn''t need any of this anymore.


    After today, he could finally tear off this disgusting mask and be himself again.


    He went to the warehouse after leaving the Crossley Residence. "Bring him here," he ordered while


    sitting in the car.


    His subordinates gave a short reply of acknowledgment before Jethro was promptly dragged out of the


    warehouse, yelling, "Where are you taking me? What about the money you promised me?!"


    Lloyd swiftly lowered the car window and threw a check out, in which Jethro pulled away from the


    people that held him. He then picked up the check from the floor as though it was a treasure. "This is


    the first time I''ve ever seen so much money!" he said in a singsong voice.


    As he spoke, he counted the profusion of zeroes on it.


    "Are you done confirming the amount?" Lloyd threw out. "Come in if you''re done."


    At that, Jethro held the check and approached Lloyd. He still wasn''t at ease as he stood right outside


    the car window. "This isn''t a nk check, is it? What if I don''t get the money?"


    "It''s under the Crossley Group," Lloyd said unhurriedly. "Do you think such a bigpany can''t afford


    to pay the sum?"


    "Fine, I''ll believe y¡ªno. I''ll believe the Crossley Group one more time."


    The Crossley Group''s headquarters alone were dozens of stories tall. Furthermore, they couldn''t lie


    their way around it since Lloyd''s name was written on the check.


    Before leaving, Lloyd reminded Jethro, "Remember what you should and shouldn''t say. Say anything


    wrong and I will have the check burned."


    "Hehe, don''t worry. I got it. I told you I¡¯ll make sure you¡¯re satisfied."


    ¡­


    Leanna was still on the road when she received a call from Aidan saying that he woulde to pick


    her up in the afternoon.


    Right when she arrived at the studio, Daniel also came over to talk to her about the anniversary


    ceremony tonight as he always did.


    Everyone knew that Lloyd would make a big move, but they didn''t know what he would do, not to


    mention that Jethro was still in his hands.


    "But don''t worry," Daniel reassured her. "We have a n as well. Regardless of what he does, his true


    colors will be exposed¡ª"


    Leanna nced at him when she heard that.


    Daniel almost bit his tongue when he remembered the lessonst time, and he quickly added, "We as


    in, me and¡­ President Pearson."


    "I didn''t know you guys are close," she countered.


    He could only let out an awkwardugh. "We''re not particrly close. It''s just that we¡­ have the same


    goal."


    Leanna fell silent for a second, but she suddenly stated, "After the issue has been resolved tonight, can


    you tell me who exactly ''we'' are? And also the reason why you''re going after Lloyd."


    "Um¡­"


    "No rush. We still have the whole day before tonight. You can take your time to think about it.


    Something tells me that ''we'' are the people rted to the explosion twenty years ago, but I don''t know


    who they are. I don''t remember a lot of things after the explosion. I might have forgotten about


    someone important." She then chuckled, "Still, my intuition is wrong most of the time. I might also have


    looked too deep into it."


    Not knowing what to say, Daniel, who happened to hear Zoe''s voice, used that as his excuse to leave.


    Just as Leanna started eating breakfast, the phone on the desk rang¡ªshe had received a message


    from an unfamiliar number. ''I got it.''


    She only took a brief look at the message before she set the phone down to take a sip of her soy milk.


    When Aidan came to the studio at 3.00PM, Leanna couldn''t help eximing, "You''re here early."


    "Early?" He looked back at her.


    She knew that she had to change, but it wouldn''t take long. Still, she told him, "Have a seat. I''ll be done


    in a bit."


    Aidan''s eyes fell on the draft she was working on and he seemed to be in deep thought as his slender


    fingers tapped on the table lightly.


    After a while, she raised her head at him. "And I''m done. You¡ª"


    "Don''t you think you owe me something?" He gazed at her with his dark eyes when he abruptly asked


    that question.


    "What?"


    His fingersnded on the draft. "If you need a model, I can take a day off and help you with it."


    Leanna fell quiet when she heard that, but she soon rejected him. "Thanks, but I don''t need that."


    However, Aidan''s tone was firm, leaving no room for her to say no. "Yes, you do."

 Chapter 446

    Chapter 446


    A ck Rolls-Royce stopped at the entrance of the hotel at 6.00PM sharp.


    Aidan then got out of the car. After he walked around to the other side, he opened the door and had his


    sleek eyebrows slightly raised when he reached out to the person inside.


    Seeing this, Leanna put her palm in his hand and lifted the hem of her dress. The corners of her lips


    were lifted when she stepped out of the car.


    She was wearing avender dress that made her skin look fairer and more delicate, and she had a


    dainty ne around her neck. Upon closer look, one would find that the pendant was in the shape


    of a pocket watch.


    She stood beside Aidan and the man stretched out an arm, and she gently linked hers through.


    The couple then walked into the hotel together.


    A lot of guests who saw this scene couldn''t help but talk about them.


    "That pair just now. That was President Pearson and his ex¡­ girlfriend, wasn''t it?"


    "I''ve heard that she''s pretty but now that I''m seeing her in real life for the first time, she''s way more


    gorgeous than any celebrity."


    "They look like a match made in heaven. I wonder why they got divorced in the first ce."


    "It''s all because of those trifle matters in the past. Everyone knew that she faked a pregnancy to marry


    into the Pearson Family at that time. That must be the reason for the divorce."


    "That doesn''t sound right. If that was the case, why did President Pearson make it such a big deal


    when he pursued her some time ago?"


    "Let me tell you. Speaking of President Pearson''s ex-wife, she''s had one helluva life. I heard that she


    was sold to the Patheon Club." The person who spoke lowered his voice. "And word is that it was her


    father who sold her. She met President Pearson there. You can probably guess what happened next.


    After that one night they spent together, it didn''t take long before she approached the Pearson Family."


    "You left out the reason President Pearson pursued her again after the divorce!"


    The person who was speaking at first continued, "Calm down. I''m not done. Do you still remember the


    annulment of the engagement between President Pearson and Georgina Crossleyst year? You know


    that the Crossleys looked down on President Pearson because he is an illegitimate child and felt that


    he was not worthy of Georgina, who is of blue blood, right? That was why they decided against the


    marriage atst."


    Right then, a cold voice asked, "What happened next?"


    "Man, you can''t tell me this isn''t fate at work. President Pearson''s ex-wife actually went to Georgina


    with some kind of keepsake and imed that she was Lloyd Crossley''s long-lost biological daughter!


    Even though Lloyd Crossley didn''t believe it, he eventually took her in a blur when she brought along


    the things Crossley''s deceased wife left behind. Don''t forget she has Mr. Jackson to back her up."


    The person took a breath and continued, "Think about it. How can President Pearson not be tempted


    when it''s revealed that his ex-wife is the real daughter of the Crossley Family? As long as he marries


    her, the Crossley Group will be his. I have to say, President Pearson sure has a vision. He got the


    Crossley Group so easily."


    After the man finished speaking, he suddenly noticed that his surroundings had been quiet for a while


    now. The few people who had gathered together to gossip had taken a few steps back at some point


    and distanced themselves from him. The atmosphere was terrifyingly quiet.


    He stiffly turned around, only to see a face with a half-smile looking back at him.


    "That was an interesting plot you came up with," Oscar drawled.


    "M-Mr. Woodley."


    "If Aidan knew that you made up such an inspirational story for him, he would surely give you a big


    round of apuse."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    The man''s face hardened in an instant. "I... I heard it from someone else. I definitely didn''t make it up


    and I didn''t mean to nder President Pearson behind his back. I just¡ª"


    Freddie was the one who leaned over and interrupted rather kindly, "The maximum sentence for


    spreading rumors is three years. Get in touch with me if you need me. I will give you a discount."


    No one uttered another word after that.


    ¡­


    After Leanna and Aidan arrived in the banquet hall, they saw Lloyd talking to Mr. Jackson. They then


    walked over to greet their elders. "Mr. Jackson, Mr. Crossley."


    Mr. Jackson smilingly nodded in acknowledgment. However, he didn''t seem all that pleased when he


    looked at Aidan. "You''re here as well, President Pearson?"


    Aidan was confused by the reply. Am I not supposed to be here?


    Elijah also came over to stand beside Mr. Jackson then.


    Seeing this, Aidan stated tly, "Toilet break."


    He pulled Leanna along with him after throwing those curt words out.


    They had only taken a few steps when Leanna asked, "Why are you bringing me along? I don''t need to


    use the washroom."


    The man only peered at her. "Do you want to be alone with Elijah?"


    She did not know how to reply to that. Jealous much? Leanna mused. How am I supposed to be alone


    with him when hundreds of people are in this hall? I can''t even if I want to.


    Truth was, Aidan didn''t need to use the washroom. It was just his excuse to take her to a ce with


    fewer people.


    Leanna asked again, "So are you going to stop Elijah and me from ever seeing each other?"


    She came to a pause after asking that but out of fear Aidan would misunderstand, she continued,


    "asions like today''s, for example."


    Holding a ss of champagne in his hand, he drawled, "The more you can avoid him, the better. You


    can avoid him during events like this as well."


    "Why do you treat him like an enemy? It''s not like I''ve¡­" I''ve ever liked him.


    Aidan looked at her as he muttered, "You even brought him home to meet your parents. You would


    probably have talked about marriage if I hadn''t interrupted with my visit back then."


    "You still remember something that happened centuries ago well, huh?" She let out an awkwardugh.


    Whoever said women liked bringing up old scores was wrong because apparently, men did too!


    Aidan took a sip of his champagne before heined again. "I even remember things that


    happened millennia ago. You and¡­"


    His lips were pressed into a tight line just when the name was about to leave his mouth.


    Seeing how quiet he was, Leanna couldn''t stop herself from chuckling. She had never seen anyone so


    jealous he couldn''t even bring himself to say his rival''s name.


    Her rtionship with Zayn hade to an end three years ago. Even before her divorce, she had


    never had any hope of being together with Zayn. And here he is, being petty over nothing.


    She quickly retorted, "I didn''t say anything when I used to live with your ex-fianc¨¦e."


    "And who did I do that for?" he stated.


    "Sounds fair."


    "Of course."


    Oscar and Freddie walked over when the couple was in the middle of conversing. "You''re arguing


    again? Seems like there will be more entertaining rumors being spread tonight."


    Aidan took a nce at them when he heard that. "What nonsense are you two on about?"


    "Nothing much," said Oscar. "We overheard about your¡­ legacy before you became what you are?"


    Freddie, on the other hand, waved at Leanna. "Long time no see. Come find me if you ever need a


    divorce. My service will be free of charge."


    Neither Aidan nor Leanna said anything in return.


    Thepany''s anniversary ceremony officially began just when everyone was enjoying themselves.


    Lloyd proceeded to stand on the stage and talked about corporate culture, corporate development, and


    various official announcements, which earned him a round of apuse from the audience.


    "The show''s about to begin," Oscar brought up in a calm voice, to which Aidan replied, "He isn''t the


    only person who will direct the show tonight."


    When Leanna heard their conversation, she pursed her lips and her eyes fell on Lloyd.

 Chapter 447

    Chapter 447


    With the entire hall watching, Lloyd slowly announced again, "I''m sure everyone is curious about what


    happened to the Crossley Group recently. There is one thing that I am also curious about, which is the


    explosion twenty years ago, what exactly happened after that, and whether Georgina is my biological


    daughter. I spent a lot of time and energy investigating the truth and eventually found a key person."


    After he finished speaking, Jethro came out apanied by two bodyguards.


    This was Jethro''s first time at this kind of event, but he didn''t feel out of ce at all. Instead, he was full


    of smiles as he greeted everyone who looked at him.


    Lloyd''s voice continued to ring out. "Miss McKinney once took my deceased wife''s belongings and told


    me that they belonged to her mother. Well, this is the father who raised her. Whether or not Miss


    McKinney''s mother was my deceased wife, he is the only one who knows what the truth is."


    Freddie, who was in front of the stage, whispered, "Seems like he''s going to make Jethro say that the


    belongings and what you said are fake so that he can kick you out of the Crossleys."


    "Looks like it," Leanna replied.


    Standing not far away with a walking stick in his hand, Mr. Jackson looked at the scene with a solemn


    expression.


    "Even I am curious just what is going on," Lloyd added again. "But before the truth is revealed, I am


    going to make another announcement. No matter what the result is, I will hand over the entire Crossley


    Group to Leanna regardless of who my biological daughter is."


    The audience was immediately in an uproar as they got into fervent discussions after hearing his


    words.


    Lloyd''s move was definitely cutthroat and well-nned. As long as he bribed Leanna''s gambler of a


    father ahead of time, even if Leanna was his biological daughter, the Crossley Group would end up


    falling into Georgina''s hands. Not only would Leanna get nothing, but her reputation would also take a


    hit.


    However, it was still confusing for some if that was all. If Leanna was his biological daughter, then what


    was his purpose for doing this? Could it be that he had developed fatherly love for her after he raised


    her for decades, despite her being someone else''s daughter? Did he not care about the formalities


    because his fake daughter was more important to him than his biological one?


    If they traced back, it would seem that Leanna fabricated everything about her biological mother and


    her belongings because she coveted the Crossleys'' wealth. She would have herplete defeat and


    fall from grace here tonight.


    Everyone was now clear about who was behind Leanna¡ªLloyd waspletely nning to make an


    enemy out of the Pearson Group.


    No matter what, any decision he made felt inconceivable to people.


    Just as everyone was expecting to hear something, Jethro walked up to Lloyd and rubbed his hands


    together. ncing at the audience, he finally said with a smile, "I didn''t expect that I would ever be able


    to deal with so many rich people... Oops, I went off-topic. Mr¡­ Mr. Crossley here came to me today


    just to ask me what happened twenty years ago. He wants to know whether Leanna is my daughter or


    his daughter. But geez, is there even a need to ask that? I raised my good daughter till she''s all grown


    and beautiful. Obviously, she''s my daughter."


    Jethro paused to look at the different expressions of everyone in the audience, and he instantly felt that


    he was the center of attention. He had never been prouder than this and presently, he straightened his


    back and chuckled. "But unfortunately, she''s not my biological daughter."


    He then began to reminisce about what seemed to be a sad memory for him. "I remember it was a dark


    and windy night when I came home to a mother and daughter lying next to some grass. I rescued them


    out of kindness then. I wanted to call the police for help in looking for their family, but the woman said


    that bad people were looking for them and she wouldn''t let me call the police. As such, I had no choice


    but to let them stay and provide them with the best."


    Someone in the audience raised a question. "Leroy Crossley died in an explosion and Mr. Lloyd woke


    up after being in aa for three months. There were reports in the newspapers at the time. Why did


    they seemingly disappear instead of returning to the Crossley Residence after that?"


    The smile on Jethro''s face became even more distorted as he replied, "What do you think could be the


    reason? Of course, it''s because she and I started having feelings as time went by! She was reluctant to


    go back."


    "Bullsh*t!"


    "Why don''t you find out if that was ''bullsh*t'' by asking around? She also gave birth to our son. My son


    is a provincial champ¡ª"


    "Shut your trap!" A woman''s cold voice rang out.


    No one had noticed it, but Leanna was now in front of Jethro.


    The man only looked at her and tried to get on her good side. "My dear daughter, I didn''t raise you in


    vain after all. I would have sent you back to your real home if I had known your biological father is such


    an important person. I wouldn''t have made you suffer with us."


    Leanna proceeded to ignore him and look at Lloyd. "You got the answer you want, Mr. Crossley. Why


    let him stay?"


    That immediately put an unsatisfied frown on Jethro''s face. "How can you talk to me like that? I did


    raise you for years, my daughter. Are you not going to care about your poor dad just because you''ve


    found your rich dad?"


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    At the same time, Lloyd raised his hand to signal for someone to take Jethro away.


    Thetter keptining the whole way out, but he didn''t stay back either.


    He was soon out of the crowd, leaving the hall deadly silent.


    No one expected to hear him admit that Leanna was the real daughter of the Crossley Family.


    Does¡­ Lloyd''s words earlier still count?


    Just when everyone was busy guessing, Lloyd got their attention again. "I feel regretful and ashamed


    about what happened back then. If I had spent more energy looking for Sandra and Leanna, things


    wouldn''t have turned out this way. Leanna wouldn''t have had to suffer for so many years out there as


    well."


    Seeing the cold smile and look in Leanna''s eyes, he continued, "I won''t go back on what I said earlier.


    To make up for my regrets of these years, I will hand over the entirepany to Leanna and let her


    handle it. I will never intervene in anything about the Crossley Group after Leanna takes over.¡±


    There was amotion as soon as he uttered those words.


    The crowd couldn''t believe how different things were from what they imagined.


    Lloyd was just about to leave the stage when Leannamented in a calm voice, "There is something


    I would like to talk to you about, Mr. Crossley."


    "You should change the way you address me, Leanna. Let''s talk it out after we leave the stage. I want


    to have a nice chat with you."


    Leanna smiled at that. "No need to trouble ourselves. Let''s have a nice chat here. I''m sure everyone is


    curious about what I''m about to ask you."


    Standing there, Lloyd pulled his eyebrows together into a frown but only for a brief moment. "Ask


    away," he offered.


    "Since my mother and I went missing together, where exactly does Miss Crossleye into the


    picture? I was seven then. Are you trying to say that you got the wrong person, Mr. Crossley?"

 Chapter 448

    Chapter 448


    Lloyd''s expression did not change much when he heard her question, and he exined unhurriedly,


    "Since you have already asked about this, let me tell you one thing¡ªGeorgina was adopted by me. I


    was unconscious in the hospital for three months and by the time I woke up, all my loved ones were


    gone in that explosion. I searched all over the city''s orphanages but there was no trace of you. I


    thought you and your mother were no longer in this world. That was when I met Georgina. She was


    about the same age as you and she was abandoned by her parents for some reason. I adopted her out


    of pity. Not long after I brought her home, she fell seriously ill and she forgot everything when she woke


    up. For so many years, I have always treated Georgina as my own daughter and because I didn''t want


    her to know about it, I never mentioned it to anyone. As for you showing up with Sandra''s belongings, I


    insisted that Georgina is my daughter because I didn''t believe you and I didn''t want to make her sad.


    But now that your adoptive father has already confirmed the truth of your birth, I have no reason to not


    believe it any longer."


    The audience was dumbstruck when they heard his answer. They could do nothing but look forward to


    whether there would be more reversals.


    After Lloyd finished speaking, he looked at Leanna. "Any other questions?"


    She calmlymented, "You must have investigated the kind of person Jethro is, Mr. Crossley."


    Lloyd only squinted and said nothing.


    "He is a liar and gambling addict who is chased by loan sharks every day and yet, you believe his


    words, Mr. Crossley? Aren''t you afraid that he is joining hands with me to get the Crossley Group?"


    After a while, Lloyd let out a small sigh. "Leanna, I know you still hold a grudge against me. I can''t


    make you change your mind no matter what I say, and I won''t ask you to forgive me. I just want you to


    live well."


    "Don''t say that, Mr. Crossley," Leanna murmured. "I have something I believe will be of interest to you."


    She then raised the brown paper bag in her hand and smiled. "There is a paternity test result inside.


    Would you like to see it, Mr. Crossley?"


    Not knowing what she was up to, Lloyd began, "Leanna, let''s talk somewhere else."


    Right then, a mature but powerful voice came from the crowd. "A paternity test result, eh? I want to see


    it."


    After the words were uttered, Mr. Jackson walked to Leanna''s side with his cane and took the brown


    paper bag from her. After he looked at it a few times, he frowningly handed it to Lloyd. "Exin this," he


    demanded.


    Despite the gloom on Lloyd''s face, he stayed calm as he took it from Mr. Jackson.


    This was the paternity test between him and Georgina from twenty years ago.


    It was a copy from his house.


    "I don''t know what''s going on," he responded calmly. "I''ve never done this before."


    Hearing that, Mr. Jackson asked again, "You mean this is a fake report?"


    "That''s the only possibility."


    Leanna slowly raised her hand before she unclenched her balled-up fists. A metal chain was dangling


    there in an instant. "What about this, Mr. Crossley? I bet you would like to say you don''t know what this


    is about as well."


    A half-burned pocket watch appeared in everyone''s sight.


    Lloyd''s expression immediately fell. He parted his mouth to say something, but he eventually held


    back.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Mr. Jackson frowned when he saw the pocket watch. "Show it to me, child."


    Leanna retracted her hand and passed it to him then.


    As Mr. Jackson fiddled with it, his frown continued to deepen. "Did you bring your mother''s piece?" he


    asked Leanna.


    "I did." She opened the purse she was holding to take the other pocket watch to give to Mr. Jackson.


    Mr. Jackson held one pocket watch in each hand topare them. After a while, he concluded, "These


    are definitely the two that Lloyd hadmissioned. Even though one of them is badly damaged from


    the fire, there are still traces left."


    After hearing Mr. Jackson''s confirmation, Leanna looked at Lloyd again. "How will you exin this, Mr.


    Crossley? The pocket watch and paternity test were found in the safe in your room. Are you trying to


    say that these are not yours?"


    Even if Lloyd could deny that the paternity test was not his, he couldn''t say the same about the pocket


    watch.


    The moment he denied the pocket watch, he would prove that he wasn''t the real Lloyd Crossley.


    However, he managed to keep his emotions at bay as he answered easily, "You have all seen how


    badly damaged the pocket watch is. It was lost in the explosion twenty years ago. I don''t know where


    the one you have is from. As for the safe, I don¡¯t know what¡¯s going on. I¡¯ve never had a safe in my


    room.¡±


    "We''ll know if you have a safe or not just by sending someone over to check," Leanna insisted.


    As soon as her words fell, Lloyd''s subordinate hurried over and reported nervously, "Something has


    happened, Mr. Crossley. We received word from the estate that¡­ that..."


    Impatient, Lloyd barked, "Spill! Don''t drag it out!"


    "The house is on fire, Mr. Crossley!" the subordinate blurted out.


    Once again, the audience was caught off-guard by the turn of events.


    Lloyd only waved a hand dismissively before he turned to Leanna. "Is this what you want, Leanna?"


    Leanna opened her mouth, but she couldn''t find a word to say.


    She didn''t think the Crossley Residence would so coincidentally catch on fire at a time like this. It was


    as if she was framing him and destroying the evidence to prove his innocence!


    Seeing her tongue-tied, he stated again, "Thank you very much foring to the Crossley Group''s


    anniversary celebration. I have already finished what I should say today. Now that something has


    happened at home, I must go back. I will have to take my leave first."


    As Lloyd bid his guests farewell, he hurriedly stepped off the podium and jogged toward the door. He


    was just about to reach the door when a male voice came from behind. "Mr. Crossley."


    Darkness shed across Lloyd''s eyes and he paused for a few seconds before turning his head. "Is


    there anything else, Mr. Morris?"


    William approached him while keeping a gentle smile on his face. "I heard so much from you earlier,


    Mr. Crossley, and I''m curious about something."


    "Let''s talk about itter. My house is on fire! I have to hurry¡ª"


    "It takes professionals to deal with fires, Mr. Crossley. There''s no point in you going back now."


    Without waiting for Lloyd to answer, William added, "You said that the Crossley Group''s full authority is


    given to Miss McKinney. Can I understand it as Miss McKinney will be responsible no matter what


    happens to thepany, Mr. Crossley?"


    "For apany as big as the Crossley Group, she naturally has to take responsibility for the


    cooperation worth hundreds of millions."


    "Now that''s interesting. As far as I know, the Crossley Group has been suffering serious losses recently


    and even arge amount of funds disappeared in the past few months. At present, the Crossley Group


    might look like it''s operating as usual, but it is nothing but a skeleton now. Once this skeleton is


    dismantled, the Crossley Group will bear hundreds of billions of debts. For you to hand thepany


    over to Miss McKinney under such circumstances¡­ Surely, you''re not trying to get her to take on the


    debts on your behalf, Mr. Crossley?"

 Chapter 449

    Chapter 449


    "I don''t know what you are talking about." Lloyd frowned. "The Crossley Group is doing just fine.


    There''s no so-called debt or anything. I handed the Crossley Group to her because she is my daughter


    and she should be thepany''s sessor."


    At this time, Aidan emerged out of nowhere and mentioned in a cold tone, "Why do I not see Miss


    Crossley tonight? There should be no reason for her not to participate in such a big event."


    Lloyd stood with his hands behind his back as hemented, "Georgina is not feeling well. She is


    resting in her room upstairs."


    "Is that so? Please send someone to bring her here. I have something I would like to ask her."


    Lloyd swiftly peered at Aidan from the corner of his eye. "I said she is not feeling well."


    "Is she really unwell or is she absent because she can''t ept the fact that she only stood in as the


    daughter of the Crossleys by robbing something that is rightfully someone else''s?"


    "I was the one who adopted Georgina. She hasn''t got a clue about any of this. I admit that I owe


    Leanna a lot, but I have already given her thepany. Please don''t be too harsh, President Pearson."


    "Do I have to tell you again what sh*tty state the Crossley Group is in now?"


    Just as Lloyd was about to speak, a video suddenly yed on the screen on the stage.


    The video showcased all the information on the ident that happened to the Crossley Group a few


    months ago.


    Most of the guests who were in attendance were people extremely sensitive to finances and numbers.


    They already noticed the problem after reading only a few pages.


    The numbers of this project were wrong and caused such arge difference, especially when arge


    amount of project funding had disappeared.


    Moreover, for such arge project to still be running as usual without the support of huge funds showed


    how inferior the materials used were.


    In the photos that appeared consecutively, there were many material details and financial transactions,


    all of which were signed by Lloyd.


    It turned out that nothing was as Lloyd said. The problem was with several high-level executives¡ªall


    the details of this project were handled by Lloyd.


    At the same time, a reporter had snuck into the crowd at some point, and there was a burst of snapping


    camera lights at the screen on the stage.


    Many guests even wondered who took photo evidence of something so confidential.


    "These were taken by my father. He used to work as the Crossley Group''s project manager. After he


    discovered all this, he found a chance to take pictures of the evidence. Unfortunately, he was killed by


    Lloyd before he managed to make it public. The Crossley Group announced to the outside world that


    my father died from an ident during a project when Lloyd was the one who killed my father!"


    A child''s voice suddenly rang out in the banquet hall.


    Upon hearing that, Leanna looked over and saw a young child filled with vengeance pointing at Lloyd. It


    was the child that Zoe met online!


    Lloyd''s eyes shifted in William''s direction then. By now, the malice in his eyes was no longer


    concealed. "I knew it was you."


    "It''s only because I have business with the Crossley Group that I have to protect my interests," William


    murmured with a smile. "I had an investigation done and I was surprised to find out that the Crossley


    Group has such a big hole that is leaking. I couldn''t not worry about this whole situation, so I came here


    to ask you about it, Mr. Crossley."


    "Who the hell are you?!"


    "Me? I''m just an honest businessman."


    Lloyd snorted when he heard that. "Now that things havee to this, you don''t have to put on an act


    any longer. You are all working together, aren''t you? I should have seen through this earlier."


    Mr. Jackson walked over with his cane, his face solemn. "You¡¯re the one who doesn¡¯t have to put on an


    act anymore. Leroy Crossley, how much longer are you going to keep acting dumb?"


    As soon as these words came out, the initially quiet banquet hall became restless.


    "I didn''t hear that wrong, did I? Leroy Crossley? Didn''t he kill himself in the explosion twenty years


    ago?"


    "Exactly! He has been dead for too long toe back to life suddenly. What is Mr. Jackson talking


    about?"


    "Ah... I suddenly remembered that Leroy Crossley and Lloyd Crossley are identical twins. So, the one


    standing in front of us is actually Leroy Crossley, not Lloyd Crossley?"


    "What the hell¡­ I''m getting goosebumps."


    Facing everyone''s unhidden discussions, Lloyd stayed calm as he said indifferently, "Mr. Jackson, I


    don''t understand what you are talking about."


    "Don''t understand? I think you understand very well!" Mr. Jackson hissed. "The paternity test report just


    now was on you and Georgina. You realized you couldn''t pretend to be Lloyd by yourself after the


    explosion that year because you had too many ws. That was why you tirelessly looked for your


    illegitimate daughter outside. Since she happened to be the same age as Leanna, you made her


    rece Leanna!"


    "As I said, I adopted Georgina. What illegitimate daughter are you talking about? That''s absurd!"


    "Care to take her to the hospital for a paternity test now?" Mr. Jackson continued sharply with his cane


    in both hands. "Of course not! Not only are you afraid that the results of the paternity test will show that


    she is your biological daughter but you''re also afraid that the DNA will show that you''re not the real


    Lloyd! This is why you didn''t want to do a paternity test with Leanna back then!"


    Aidan was the one who slowly spoke up this time. "Is there anything else you would like to say, Mr.


    Crossley?"


    "Every one of you is making things up!" Lloyd roared. "You''re pinning a crime on me that I didn''t


    commit. I can''t say anything when all of you have ganged up on me!"


    Jonathan walked over right then. "It''s done, President Pearson," he reported.


    Hearing that, Aidan gave a small hum before he continued, "I have great news for you, Mr. Crossley.


    The fire at the Crossley Residence has been put out. The only thing that caught on fire was a couch, so


    the damage can''t possibly be serious. We can get the safe to prove your ''innocence'' now, yes?"


    "Good job, all of you!" Lloyd sneered and took a few steps back. "I have nothing to say."


    Suddenly, the lights hanging on the ceiling of the banquet hall exploded with a bang. As the lights went


    out, the surroundings fell into darkness.


    Screams began to arise in the area then. No one knew who the person in front of them was.


    Leanna didn''t even notice where she was until she was squeezed by the crowd. Suddenly, she felt a


    hard bump on her back that made her stagger. She felt herself falling into a warm and familiar embrace


    when she was about to fall. At the same time, another hand held her by the wrist.


    Aidan is the one who is hugging me, so whose hand is on my wrist?


    The emergency lights turned on after a few seconds and she felt the hand holding her wrist withdraw.


    She thought she saw William''s retreating figure in the split second the ce went bright again.


    Aidan''s voice rang out from above her head then. "You should be gazing at me with love and gratitude-


    filled doe eyes right about¡­ now. But where exactly are you looking?"


    Leanna was speechless and she looked away. "I prefer it when you keep quiet."


    Geez, the atmosphere''s all ruined because of Mr. President right here.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    When everyone came back to their senses, they found that Lloyd... No, Leroy, had disappeared.

 Chapter 450

    Chapter 450


    After Leroy got into the car, he glumly yanked off his necktie. "Where is she?"


    "Miss Crossley is already on the way," replied the driver in front.


    Leroy turned to look behind. "Speed up," he instructed with a worried voice.


    What happened that night was uncalled for. He had already nned to give Crossley Group to Leanna


    so that she would shoulder all the subsequent responsibilities. In fact, he even set fire to the Crossley


    Residence to support his cause, only for chaos to ensue unexpectedly.


    Halfway through the drive, the driver nced at the rearview mirror, and his tone became tense when


    he informed Leroy, "A few cars are tailing us, Mr. Crossley."


    A frown immediately covered Leroy''s face. They are quicker than I expected.


    Not expecting them to catch up to him so soon, he coldly barked, "Go to the overpass."


    "Are we not heading to the airport?"


    "No." Leroy squinted and instructed, "To the helipad."


    "What about Miss Georgina¡ª"


    Leroy immediately cut him off. "That''s not our concern now."


    Hearing that, the driver said no more and elerated to the overpass. The cars behind Leroy must not


    have expected the sudden move, which resulted in them falling behind. However, they promptly sped


    up to tail Leroy¡¯s ride.


    Leroy couldn''t help having a feeling of impending doom when he saw the pursuit.


    It seems like they are determined to catch me tonight.


    ¡­


    Georgina was sitting in the VIP lounge of the airport. As she waited, she took out her phone impatiently


    to check the time. The first thing she saw the second she turned on the screen was a news notification.


    She immediately clicked on it when she saw ''Crossley Group'' in the title.


    It turned out to be news that exposed everything that happened at the anniversary ceremony of the


    Crossley Group. It even pointed out at the end that thepany''s current chairperson might be Leroy,


    who died in the explosion 20 years ago, instead of Lloyd.


    Georgina''s eyes widened abruptly as she carefully read the news from beginning to end. However, she


    only found one brief mention of Lloyd''s true identity, while the rest of the news were reports rted to


    Crossley Group''s projects.


    She hurriedly gave Lloyd a call but couldn''t get through.


    In that instant, she felt a chill up her spine as the flowing blood in her body seemed to freeze.


    Subconsciously, she gripped her phone tightly and jumped to her feet.


    Her subordinate was beside her when he saw this. "Miss Crossley? Is something the matter?"


    "It''s nothing." Georgina quickly came back to her senses and regained herposure. "I''ll head to the


    washroom for a bit."


    Her subordinate nodded in reply. "It''s 20 minutes until boarding, Miss Crossley. Doe back soon."


    Georgina only let out a small hum of acknowledgment before she left with her phone.


    After walking a certain distance, she nced at her subordinates waiting there behind her, and she


    spun and left the airport.


    Now that such a significant incident had happened, and she couldn''t reach her father''s phone, things


    would definitely not turn out favorably if she left ording to the original n.


    Sure enough, she had only left for two minutes before a group of people shuffled over and forcibly took


    both her and her luggage.


    ¡­


    The crowd was still in shock after the emergency lights in the hotel came on. Leanna promptly slid out


    of Aidan''s arms, and she found Cameron hiding in the corner. "Are you okay?" she asked, concerned.


    After seeing her face, the child wiped off the hatred on his face and beamed at her. "We meet again,


    Pretty Leanny¡ª"


    He hadn''t even finished his words when someone grabbed him by the cor, pulling him back and


    away from Leanna.


    Aidan''s lukewarm voice rang out from behind immediately after that. "Just ''Leanna'' is fine. There''s no


    need for adjectives."


    Upset, Cameron struggled out of his hold and hid behind Leanna. "But she is pretty! Is it wrong to call


    her that?"


    Aidan''s eyes were squinted when his dark pupils fell on the arm holding Leanna''s. "Get your butt over


    here," he warned.


    "No!" As Cameron yelled, he lifted his chin to look at Leanna''s face. "Save me, Leanna! This old fart


    here is such a brute! He punished me after he sent me homest time."


    Aidan added, "You¡¯ll be grounded if you don''t get here right this instant."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Feeling an iing headache from the two''s argument, Leanna reached out to hold Aidan back.


    "Enough. You, stop talking. Don''t you see that you''re scaring him?"


    With that said, she turned around and patted Cameron on the head. "It''s okay, you¡­"


    She was going to ask him why he was there, but she couldn''t find the words to say through her parted


    lips when she recalled how the boy had pointed his finger at Leroy earlier.


    Sensing her reluctance, Cameron picked up where she had left off and introduced himself. "My name is


    Cameron White, but you can call me Cameron just like everyone else does, Leanna."


    Leanna smiled at him when she heard that. "Alright, Cameron." She then came to a slight pause before


    she asked, "Who did youe here with?"


    As though unwilling to tell her, Cameron looked around and unknowingly let go of her to take a few


    steps back.


    Leanna didn''t probe when she saw his reaction. Instead, she looked at Aidan. "It''s almost over, isn''t it?"


    she asked.


    "Mm."


    "Let''s go then." She offered Cameron, "Can we send you home?"


    "Sure!" The boy nodded, making Aidan''s eyebrows raise. However, the man managed to suppress his


    anger without a word. Most of the guests in the banquet hall had left at this point.


    Leanna took Cameron with her, and they saw Elijah walking over as soon as they arrived at the door.


    "Leanna." He stood in front of them as his gaze fell on Cameron. "I''m here to pick Cameron up."


    Cameron let his head hang dejectedly while he trudged to Elijah''s side. "Elijah will send me home,


    Leanna. I won''t be able to go home with you¡­"


    Aidan only cast a nce at the boy andmented, "How about you study for at least another two


    years so that you understand words better?"


    The disappointed look on Cameron''s face was instantly reced by a willful one. The child had stuck


    his tongue out at Aidan before he turned around and ran away.


    Elijah couldn''t help chuckling when he saw this. "I''ll be taking my leave then, Leanna, President


    Pearson."


    "Bye-bye." She nodded and waved at him, only to have her palm pulled down and held in Aidan''s hand


    when she was raising it.


    Seriously?


    Thankfully, Elijah didn''t say anything else as he proceeded to leave with Cameron.


    Leanna turned her head to Aidan as soon as they left and deadpanned, "It''s fine if you don''t let me


    meet Elijah, but you''re picking on a child now?"


    "I am picking on him, you say? Didn''t you see that attitude he gave me?"


    Leanna didn''t want to continue arguing with him about this, but after a momentary silence, she


    suddenly realized something. "Elijah was the one who brought him here, which means he should have


    been with him the whole time. It''s probably no coincidence that Cameron found Zoe''s contact number,


    huh?"


    "Are you finally realizing what a scheming little fox that brat is?"


    Still, there were things Leanna was still confused about. "But why did he get in touch with Zoe? Zoe''s


    not involved in this¡ª"


    As if she had realized something, her words came to an abrupt stop halfway through.


    If Cameron hadn''t approached Zoe for a reason, there was a high possibility the child''s actual target


    was Leanna. Leroy killed Cameron''s father¡­ Did he approach me because he thought I was Leroy''s


    daughter?

 Chapter 451

    Chapter 451


    Before Leanna could continue to think about it, Aidan was already leading her forward by the hand.


    "Let''s go. We might be done here, but there is still something unresolved waiting for us."


    Leanna collected her thoughts and lightly pressed her lips into a thin line upon hearing his words. She


    knew that Aidan was talking about Jethro.


    With Leroy gone after he made his escape, Jethro was probably in Aidan''s hands. Aidan soon took her


    to the VIP lounge not far from the banquet hall, where Jonathan was waiting outside. As soon as


    Jonathan saw the couple, he addressed them. "President Pearson, Miss McKinney."


    "Is he still breathing?" Aidan asked.


    "Yes, sir."


    Aidan had given instructions before that they could get violent with Jethro if he resisted, so long as they


    didn''t kill him.


    Although Jethro didn''t resist much, he had been yelling about all sorts of unpleasant things and even


    cursed Leanna out. To make him stop, Jonathan had a few men beat him up while they kept his head


    intact. He was still in there, yelling at this very moment.


    The trio could hear his voice after Jonathan opened the door to the lounge.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    When they saw Jethro, he was curled up on the floor, his hands clutching his stomach. He would let out


    a moan or two from time to time. His cries only got louder when he raised his head to look in the


    direction he heard the door open.


    Aidan started calmly, "You being able to make a sound now means that my underlings haven''t been


    rough enough."


    When Jethro heard these words, he immediately got up and forced a smile on his bruised and swollen


    face. "Hehe, we meet again, my wonderful daughter and son-inw. I have missed you very much


    during this time."


    It was Leanna''s turn to peer at him with a frigid gaze. "I didn''t think I would see you again," she


    hummed. "You should''ve died a long time ago."


    "It''s because I''m a lucky man! With how promising both my children are, it would be a pity for me to just


    die before I even get to enjoy the blessing."


    "You are the most shameless person I''ve ever met in my life," Aidan couldn''t helpmenting.


    Leanna soon continued, "Where is my mother buried?"


    Ah! This question! Jethro showed another eerily smile. "Why would you need a tomb for a dead


    person? I had her body burned to a crisp a long ago. I also flushed her ashes."


    Leanna only stared at him with a deep frown on her face for a long minute before she abruptly turned


    around. "I have no other questions."


    She knew that Jethro would never tell her the truth. It felt pointless for her to ask about Louis.


    Jethro proceeded to yell at the top of his lungs despite her showing no interest. "My good girl, you can''t


    just leave me be! I even said good things about you in front of so many people! I have raised you for


    years, and now that you have money, you¡¯re turning your back on your old man!"


    Leanna only ignored him and left the room.


    Aidan walked up to Jethro then, and he casually brought up his previousments. "Remember what I


    told you."


    Jethro''s face immediately froze when he looked at Aidan; he felt a chill creep up his back. He quickly


    swallowed the words that were already forming at the tip of his tongue.


    Aidan then turned on his heel, not forgetting to leave another instruction for Jonathan at the door.


    "Take care of him."


    "Yes, sir."


    Another figure approached Jonathan again not long after Aidan left.


    Like before, Jonathan greeted him with a nod. "Mr. Morris."


    William nodded in return before he peeked at the room. "Can I take this person with me?"


    "Definitely."


    "Good work."


    After leaving the hotel, Leanna walked outside. She seemed deep in her thoughts as she looked at the


    night sky.


    Aidan''s long strides soon brought him to her side. "It''s over," he informed her, and she softly hummed


    as a reply. "Yeah¡­ It''s over."


    After a few seconds, Aidan told her again, "I''ll help you with the moving tonight."


    Hearing that, she couldn''t help wondering, No foreshadowing whatsoever?


    He went on and held her hand when they went down the steps. "Let''s go home, Mrs. Pearson."


    Her lips moved a few times when she heard that, but she couldn''t get herself to talk back. She


    eventually decided to let him off the hook. Since she was too tired to deal with the man, she would let


    him talk all he wanted.


    Aidan received a call on the way back to the Crossley Residence. After speaking into the phone, he


    turned to Leanna and told her, "Leroy ran away. Georgina has disappeared as well."


    Leanna was taken aback when she heard that. "Didn''t Oscar bring a group with him to go after Leroy?"


    "He made his escape mid-drive. But don''t worry. He can''t get out of Highside."


    "I only hope karma gets back at him so that my parents can rest in peace."


    Aidan''s tongue darted out the corner of his mouth after she said that. He seemed to have something to


    tell her, but he ended up not saying anything before Leanna asked again, "What about Georgina?"


    "She has long gotten used to the life of a wealthy youngdy. She can''t hide for long when she is


    penniless and has her bank card frozen."


    "Ah¡­ What do you n on doing when you find her?"


    Aidan only replied, "She should pay for everything she''s done."


    Leanna pursed her lips and went quiet after that. Even though Georgina wasn¡¯t good, her crimes were


    far from Leroy''s. Leanna could at least not worry about Georgina when thew would take care of her.


    Aidan''s ck Rolls-Royce slowly drove into the Crossley Residence half an hourter.


    The situation there was not what Aidan described, where only one couch was burned. The fire was bad


    enough to cause more than half of the entire residence to be covered in ashes.


    The garden where the neatly nted nts grew had been trampled into a mess, and all the servants


    were nowhere to be seen.


    After Leanna opened the car door, she walked in to find the nearly undamaged living room, apart from


    its slightly gray walls.


    It looked like the fire started from upstairs.


    And so, she walked up the stairs to the second floor. The deeper she went, the worse the damage from


    the fire was. Many metal ores painted on the walls were piled on the ground like scrap iron.


    She eventually reached Leroy''s room at the end of the corridor.


    She wanted to go in, but Aidan grabbed her hand to stop her. "You should get changed. Don''t the


    clothes you''re wearing now get in your way?"


    Hearing that, she lowered her head, and he only realized that she was still wearing the evening dress.


    Not only that, the hem of the skirt had been stained ck by the soot.


    She let out a small grunt before turning to her room.


    Just as she was about to close the door, the man suddenly tilted his body and slid into the room with


    her.


    Speechless, she huffed after a while. "I''m getting changed. Why did youe in?"


    "I haven''t been to your room. I''m just looking around."


    She snorted in reply as she walked a few steps inside. She noticed that her room had been badly


    burned, but fortunately, the closet was still intact. Even though it was suddenly filled with the smell of


    smoke, at least she could find some clothes to wear temporarily.


    Hugging her fresherundry, she was just about to walk to the bathroom to get changed when Aidan


    cooed, "Don''t be a stranger, now."


    "Oh, piss off!" Leanna finally exploded.


    Bang!


    She shut the door, leaving the despicable man outside. After she took off her dress and put on her own


    clothes, she felt much morefortable.


    As soon as she left the bathroom, she saw Aidan, with a stern look on his face, holding his phone. She


    had a feeling that he had taken a call when she was inside.


    Curious, she asked in a small voice, "What''s the matter?"


    "It''s nothing." He looked at her. "Are you done changing?"


    "Mhm, I''m done. I want to take a look at Leroy''s room."


    "Go ahead."

 Chapter 452

    Chapter 452


    Leroy''s room had been burned so badly that Leanna could hardly make out the room''s original


    appearance. The safe on the wall was also deformed by the fire, and its door was loosely hanging. The


    contents inside had all been burned to ashes.


    Just as she was taking her time watching everything, Aidan''s voice came from behind. "Was Ron


    Sedley the person who gave you the things?"


    She gave a small hum in reply.


    Hearing that, he asked again, "How did you know the password?"


    She started to recall and, before long, spoke in a calm voice. "I remember how my biological father''s


    birthday was the same as Lloyd and Leroy''s. I gave it a try, then. I didn''t think I''d get lucky."


    "Do you have any other memories of your biological father?"


    Leanna shook her head. "I don''t even remember how he looks. How can I remember anything else?"


    "Do you want to see him again?"


    Leanna took some time before she turned to look at Aidan. "I can confirm now that my guesses are all


    wrong," she concluded solemnly. "It''s because you''re always talking about nonsensical things like this."


    The corners of his lips curled into a smile. "Alright, have you finished your sightseeing? Let''s leave if


    you are."


    "Let''s go," Leanna agreed. It wasn''t like there was much to see there.


    She went back to her room and took out the suitcase from the closet. She then took away all the


    clothes that could be worn, still following her principle of not wasting any resources.


    After getting in the car, Aidan tapped the steering wheel with his long fingers and asked casually, "What


    are Ron Sedley''s conditions?"


    Leanna started putting on her seatbelt as she asked, "What?"


    "He didn''t have any conditions for helping you?"


    "Nope. He probably didn''t mention anything because I helped him before." Her tone was soft; it was


    like she had anticipated everything.


    Aidan''s forehead immediately wrinkled when he looked at her. "You mean when you sent him to the


    hospital?"


    "Not really¡­ But there''s another reason."


    When Aidan didn''t say anything in return, she added, "Geez, it''s tooplicated to tell you everything


    now. I''ll tell you some other time."


    "Don''t meet up with him alone again in the future."


    Leanna paused when she heard that, but she eventually asked, "Are the Pearsons still trying to get a


    hold of him?"


    "What do you think?"


    She hesitated for a second before bringing up the topic. "Um¡­ Can I¡ª"


    "No." Already knowing what she was going to say, he rejected her without any hesitation.


    "But I haven''t said anything!"


    "I know what you''re thinking. You''re trying to get me to make my father let Ron off the hook."


    She quickly exined, "It was just a passing, hypothetical question. It''s not like I want you to do it. Also,


    I wouldn''t want to make things difficult for you if it''s too much trouble."


    "Leanna." Aidan gave her a side-eye andughed without warning. "Why do you always remember


    these little favors so clearly? Did you forget what he has done to you?"


    "I haven''t forgotten anything, but all that happened a long time ago. Instead of remembering other


    people''s wrongdoings, it''s better to remember his good deeds. Life''s easier that way. In all fairness, he


    never really took the first step to harm me. It was because of the usury Jethro owed at first, and then..."


    Not wanting to mention Queenie, she came to a halt before continuing, "Compared to all that, I should


    remember what he''s done for me. It''s fine if you can''t handle it from your side. I''ll try my best to repay


    him myself."


    Aidan''s dark eyes narrowed slightly when he heard that. "I can handle this matter, but I have a


    condition."


    "What is it?" she asked tentatively.


    "Stay with me at Castor Vi."


    Hearing this, she pursed her lips and quietly let her head hang.


    His voice rang out again during her silence. "I know you have many unhappy memories there, but I


    promise I will spend the rest of my time making good memories with you there."


    Leanna was just about to say something when she heard him say, "Leanna, that''s our home."


    Those words took her aback, and she didn''t know what to say at that instant.


    After a while, she muttered, "Give me a few days to think about it."


    "Sure." He slightly raised his sleek eyebrows.


    She lowered the car window, and after ncing at the vi engulfed in the darkness behind them, she


    prompted, "Let''s go."


    And throughout the rest of the drive, she was deep in her thoughts as she stared out the window.


    Aidan took a nce at her. "Leanna?" he called out after licking his thin lips.


    "Mm?" She came back to her senses. "What''s the matter?"


    "Work''s pretty easy these days. I can send you to the studio. Wait for me at night."


    "But I have a car. You should just focus on doing your thing."


    He only calmly informed her, "Your car broke down."


    Seeing the confused look on her face, he remained impassive as he told her, "When Jonathan asked


    someone to drive you back, your car was rear-ended, and Jonathan had to send it in for repair."


    "I can take a cab."


    "You''re really against me picking you up, aren''t you?" he grumbled out of dissatisfaction.


    Sleepy, Leanna stretched out her limbs. "I just don''t think it''s necessary with how much trouble I''ll


    cause you. Your work''s more important, and it''s not like I can''t do all that by myself."


    "Let''s talk about this when we catch Leroy and Georgina."


    Knowing what he was worried about, she didn''t refute anymore. After arriving at the apartment, Leanna


    took a set of her pajamas and went into the bathroom. The clothes she had on still reeked of smoke.


    Aidan only looked away with a stony face when the bathroom door was closed. He took out his phone


    from his pants pocket and dialed Jonathan''s number. "How are things now?"


    "He''s still in the emergency room. It''s¡­ not looking so good."


    "Get the best doctor to save him."


    Jonathan hummed a reply and continued, "We''ve looked into it, President Pearson. Other than the


    brakes, the gas pedal has also been tampered with. If he jumped out of the car anyter, he would


    have¡ª"


    "Enough." Aidan stopped him from borating.


    "Should we investigate who did it?"


    "Who would act at such a crucial time other than Leroy and Georgina? Widen the scope of the search


    and find these two people as soon as possible."


    "Yes, sir."


    After the call ended, Aidan tossed his phone on the couch and pinched the bridge of his nose.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Almost.


    The culprit was this close to getting Leanna this time.


    If Leanna was the one who drove the car tonight, she would be the one lying in the emergency room.


    In the bathroom, Leanna felt much more at ease after taking a shower. Even her fatigue had


    disappeared. After blowing her hair half-dry, she was about to go to the kitchen to see if there was


    anything to eat when Aidan suddenly walked over and hugged her.


    Surprised that he was waiting for her, she raised her hand to pat him on the shoulder. "Take¡­ Take it


    easy. I can''t breathe."


    "I''m the one who can''t breathe."


    She quickly noticed how his voice sounded lower than usual, as though he was holding something


    back. Instead of struggling against his hold, she asked in a small voice, "What''s wrong?"


    "It''s nothing. Just let me hug you for a bit."


    This b*stard''s trying to take advantage of me, isn''t he?

 Chapter 453

    Chapter 453


    After finally breaking free from Aidan''s shackles, Leanna walked to the kitchen. "What do you want to


    eat?" she asked. "Since I''m in a good mood today, I''ll make it for you."


    The man let out a chuckle at that. "Is it because you want to eat something yourself, or are you going


    out of your way to prepare food for me?"


    She only ignored his question and urged, "Just tell me if you want to eat."


    "Yeah." He gazed at her with his dark eyes. "I''m not a picky eater at all. I can eat anything."


    Is that supposed to sound believable? she thought to herself.


    She opened the refrigerator and saw that there were no ingredients that could be used. Fortunately,


    she still had a few boxes of pasta that she had bulk-boughtst time to save trouble.


    I''ll cook pasta then.


    As she was filling a pot with water, she happened to catch sight of her luggage in the living room.


    "Aidan, help me keep an eye out on the pot. Call me when the water starts to boil."


    Aidan swiftly hummed in reply. Hearing his response, she turned her head in his direction, only to see


    that he was on the phone.


    It was probably a work-rted call, but she was sure it wouldn''t be a problem for him to talk on the


    phone while watching the water.


    She opened the suitcase and squatted on the floor to take out the clothes inside. Noticing how they


    were soaked in the smell of smoke, she carried them in her arms and put the clothes in the washing


    machine.


    She only returned to the living room after pouringundry detergent and turning on the machine.


    Aidan was standing in the kitchen while wearing a white shirt and ck pants with the buttons at his


    cor left undone. With one hand in his pants pocket and the other holding his phone, he continued to


    talk casually into the phone while asionally ncing at the pot.


    When he saw that the water had started boiling, he slipped out the hand in his pocket and lowered the


    temperature of the induction hob.


    His conversation on the phone never ceased throughout the entire process.


    Somehow, he managed to make something so trivial look natural.


    Life suddenly felt miraculous to Leanna in this instant.


    Aidan was the kind of person whom anyone would think was an arrogant man when they saw him for


    the first time. It was as if he was a warmthless person everyone feared approaching.


    But contrary to his cold appearance, one would find out after getting to know him that he had a potty


    mouth, and he treated everyone equally. Anyone who stepped on his toe was bound to experience his


    sass.


    Before Underwood Lane, Leanna always thought that Aidan was a superior being who looked down on


    everyone and everything else. To her surprise, he got along well with the neighbors at Underwood


    Lane.


    Despite his expressionless face, everyone liked him,


    Leanna remembered him saying that he, too, grew up in such an environment.


    In that instant, she had a feeling that Aidan was not born cold-blooded and ruthless. ording to


    Naomi, he was sharp-tongued since he was young. However, he had to bare his fangs to protect


    himself, growing up with the ogre-like Pearson Family.


    Then little by little, he became the now-feared president of Pearson Group.


    It seemed like life was a b*tch to everyone, in one way or another.


    Just when Leanna was lost in thought, the person who was standing in the kitchen had already finished


    his call and was walking up to her. When he met her gaze, he smilingly teased, "Am I that good-


    looking?"


    She snapped back to reality and, while grinning, let out a humorlessugh, "Are you only realizing


    today that you look better than the average person, President Pearson?" She threw those words right


    back at him.


    Before he could speak, she walked past him and cooked the pasta in the pot after she opened the


    pasta box on the marble countertop.


    The smile in the man''s eyes deepened as he looked at the back of her torso.


    After she made the pasta and brought it out, she realized that he was no longer in the living room, and


    there was the sound of water in the bathroom.


    What a slowpoke, she thought before setting their tes on the dining table and getting two sses of


    water.


    Sitting there with nothing to do, she took out her phone and gave Zoe a call after carefully considering


    it.


    "Zoe? Are you sleeping already?" she asked right after the call got through.


    "Not yet. I''m watching the news. That devil Lloyd¡ªI mean, Leroy¡ªhas finally shown his true colors!


    Tonight has seriously been such an exciting night. If I had known all this would happen, I should have


    gone and joined in the fun!"


    "Fun?" Leanna chuckled. "More like f*ckery."


    After a slight pause, she continued, "What about Daniel? Is he with you?"


    Speaking of this, Zoe immediately started pouting. "He is not. He probably won''te to me anymore."


    "Huh? What happened?"


    "I haven''t told you this because I didn''t want you to worry. s! But now that everything''se to an


    end, I''m sure it doesn''t matter anymore. Remember how Daniel pursued me back then? It was all an


    act. Llo¡ªLeroy had someone tail Daniel back then, and since Daniel didn''t want to cause you any


    trouble, he imed that he was interested in me. That was also why he moved next to our studio."


    "Zoe¡­" Leanna frowned, not expecting things to take such a turn.


    "It''s alright. You don''t have to feel sorry. So many things have happened recently, but I couldn''t help


    you with anything. This is both the least and the most I can do for you." Zoe added, "Anyway, that''s


    how things are. Daniel and I were just acting. Now that Leroy no longer has eyes on us, our little y


    hase to an end."


    Leanna''s lips parted, but no word came out until a long minute had passed. "I''m sorry, Zoe."


    "I told you not to say that to me. Ah, Mom''s calling. I''m hanging up. Let''s talk at the studio if there''s


    anything else."


    "Sure."


    After the call ended, Leanna quietly held onto her phone before she decided to give Daniel a call.


    Daniel only picked up right before Leanna reached his voicemail box. "Is something the matter, Miss


    McKinney?"


    Hearing the background noise from his end, she asked, "Are you outside?"


    "Yes. I''m still looking for Leroy Crossley after he escaped."


    They had expected Leroy to escape on his helicopter, and so Daniel had been waiting there with some


    other men. However, that old fox jumped out of the car halfway before he reached the helipad. He was


    a truly cunning man.


    "Don''t you worry, Miss McKinney. We will definitely find him." He gave her his word, reassuring her.


    "Thanks, Daniel."


    It wasn''t the right time to ask about anything else. I''ll ask him about the rest at the studio tomorrow.


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    She didn''t take up more of his time and swiftly hung up. Aidan happened toe out of the shower


    right about then.


    Combing his fingers through the strands of his wet, raven hair, he asked, "Who were you talking to?"


    "Daniel. He said he''s hunting Leroy down."


    Aidan took a seat across from Leanna. "It''s a waste of time. Leroy must have made sufficient


    preparations for him to escape mid-drive. How can we easily get him when he''s probably hiding


    somewhere impossible for us to find?"


    Leanna only spoke again after some time had passed. "Do you know who else is there with Daniel


    other than Elijah?"

 Chapter 454

    Chapter 454


    Meanwhile, after sending Cameron back, Elijah was just about to leave when he bumped into Daniel,


    who had just returned.


    "Have you found him?" he asked.


    Daniel walked to the kitchen and poured out a ss of water. He threw his head back and downed the


    entire ss before saying, "No, but my men are on the lookout. He won''t be able to leave Highside."


    Elijah nodded. "What about William?"


    "He hasn''t returned yet. I heard he took Jethro away, though."


    Hearing that, Elijah was silent for a bit. "Now that things are almost resolved, does he still intend to


    keep Leanna in the dark?"


    Daniel put down his ss and drawled, "Miss McKinney had also asked me a simr question, but I


    think he won''t."


    "Is it because of Louis?"


    "Perhaps that''s part of the reason." Daniel made a rational guess.


    "What about the other parts?"


    "Someone who has been considered dead for many years suddenly makes an appearance, and it''s in


    the form of another person. No one can get over that so easily."


    William wouldn''t have stayed here for long if it weren''t for Leanna. When everything was over, he would


    leave immediately.


    Lloyd would truly disappear from the face of this.


    Elijah frowned. "But you also know that things are different now. Leanna has a right to know; we can''t


    keep hiding it from her."


    "I know that, but what use is there in knowing? Are you able to convince him?"


    Elijah pursed his lips and said no more. Even though William appeared to be aposed and polite


    gentleman, they all knew that he had put in a tremendous effort for the sake of revenge. There were


    even some actions of his that could be safely described as cruel.


    The Lloyd in the past had already died in the explosion.


    Daniel stated, "As for all those things you mentioned, we can''t be hasty. We haven''t even caught Leroy


    at this point, so let''s take things one at a time."


    Acknowledging the suggestion, Elijah nodded. "Then I''ll head back first."


    "Sure."


    After Elijah left, Cameron came out of his room. "Uncle Daniel."


    Daniel pinched his cheek. "What''s up?"


    Cameron looked up at him. "Did I avenge my parents today?"


    "Of course. You did very well." Daniel thought for a bit before adding, "You''ve done everything you


    should, so you don''t have to think about revenge anymore. Go back to school and continue your


    studies."


    "Then, when will he be caught?" The child seemed to have his doubts.


    "Someday, for sure. You have to believe that justice will be served eventually, be it in a decade or two


    decades. As long as he hadmitted a crime, he would receive due punishment."


    "I know. Uncle William came back for revenge too."


    Daniel chuckled. "You know that too?"


    Cameron gave a humph. "I hear you guys talk about it, so, of course, I know."


    "Now that you mention it, there''s a score I have yet to settle with you. Did you look for Zoe''s number on


    my phone? And you even met up with her?"


    Cameron took two steps backward. "I''m suddenly feeling sleepy now. Goodnight, Uncle Daniel!"


    With that, he turned around and dashed back into his bedroom.


    Daniel let out augh as he watched Cameron go, then closed the door and left.


    After getting into the car, Daniel held the steering wheel with one hand while another was ced on the


    car window. He gazed silently in front of him, and his thoughts were unknown.


    He originally came to Highside toplete this n, so now that things were wrapping up, logically


    speaking, he should be going back now. However, after staying here for a few months, he suddenly felt


    reluctant to leave.


    Daniel licked his lower lip. As if a thought had urred to him, he put on his seatbelt and drove


    forward.


    ¡­


    After watching the news, Zoe was about to go to sleep when she suddenly heard the doorbell ring.


    I didn''t order any takeout, so who could it be at this hour?


    Zoe walked over and looked at the disy screen at the door, not expecting the person to be Daniel.


    She opened the door just a crack and showed only half of her small face. "What''s your business here?"


    Seeing her behavior, Daniel said incredulously, "Do you have to behave like that? I''m not a criminal."


    "Can''t say for sure. After all, no decent man would knock on a single woman''s door in the middle of the


    night."


    Daniel fell silent for a while. "It''s good to be on guard when you''re living alone, but you don''t have to do


    that if you''re with me."


    Zoe said, "Just state your business. I''m about to go to sleep."


    "Just¡­ Can''t you let me in to talk?"


    She felt that if she had time to waste with him, she could bear with whatever troublesome matter he


    had brought to her. Hence, she decisively opened the door. "Come in, then."


    "Thank you."


    Zoe sat on the couch and grabbed a pillow to hug as she said slowly, "I watched the news today. Don''t


    tell me you came all the way here just to say that Leroy is exposed, and we no longer have to put up


    the act? Even if you don''t tell me that, I know¡ª"


    Daniel interrupted her. "It''s not that."


    She was surprised. "It''s not that? Then what is it?"


    "I just want to say that I''ve given you quite a lot of trouble recently."


    "Oh, that. That''s even more unnecessary. After all, I wasn''t helping you; I did it for Nana."


    Daniel coughed. "Actually, there''s something else."


    Zoe asked, "What is it?"


    "I might¡­ have to leave here soon."


    Hearing that, Zoe was stunned for a moment. Perhaps she hadn''t expected that, but she also felt that it


    was a reasonable turn of events.


    He had already achieved his mission here, so he no longer had a reason to stay.


    Zoe suddenly looked at him, raising her guard. "Why are you telling me this? Are you suggesting that I


    treat you to a meal?"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Before he could reply, Zoe said, "All right, fine, since we''ve known each other for so long, and you''ve


    treated me to quite a lot of meals already, it''s only proper that I treat you to a meal as well, as a way of


    seeing you off."


    After a pause, Zoe continued, "Then, when are you leaving?"


    "I haven''t decided on that yet. Perhaps after Leroy gets arrested."


    "All right," Zoe responded. After a moment, she added, "Then¡­ I can treat you to whatever you want,


    but don''t get anything too expensive."


    Daniel said, "Don''t worry, I''m not picky."


    Zoe said, "Well¡­ Bye for now, then?"


    Realizing that she was suggesting that he leave, Daniel didn''t stay any longer as he got up and said,


    "I''ll be off now. Don''t stay up toote."


    When Daniel was leaving, Zoe didn''t even see him off.


    As soon as she heard the door close, she fell back onto the couch and weakly took out her phone, then


    sent Leanna a message. ''Nana, I got my heart broken again.''


    After sending the message, Zoe tossed her phone to the side, then got up and went to the kitchen for a


    can of beer.


    She had just walked back to the couch when she noticed her phone ringing. It was a call from Leanna.


    Zoe sat down cross-legged, then answered the phone as she opened the can of beer. "Nana, you''re


    still awake?"

 Chapter 455

    Chapter 455


    "Uh-huh," Leanna mumbled softly. "What''s wrong with you?"


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Zoe let out a sigh before saying wistfully, "It''s nothing. It''s just that Daniel came to me just now and said


    he''s leaving."


    Leanna involuntarily frowned at her words. "When?"


    "It still needs to be decided. He just said he''ll probably leave after Lloyd gets arrested."


    "Are you¡­ Stop it!"


    Zoe was puzzled. What''s going on?


    A noise could be heard on the other end. Then, Leanna finally continued, "I mean, no matter what,


    you''ve got to talk things through with him instead of letting him go like this."


    "Never mind. It''s a good thing that he''s leaving, anyway." Zoey down on the couch and took a


    swallow of wine to drown her sorrows. "I''d better go out with someone younger than me instead. I''ve


    got plenty of money for that, after all."


    "Zoe, I¡­ Aidan!"


    Zoe was rendered speechless. Suddenly, she realized that she might''ve made a grave mistake. She


    hastily said, "Alright, then. If there''s anything, let''s talk about it at our studio tomorrow. I gotta go! Bye!"


    With that, she quickly hung up the phone, feeling as though having saved herself from the brink of


    mortal danger.


    On the other hand, Leanna couldn''t help but frown as she turned to look at Aidan. "You''re so annoying!"


    The man looked up at her. "Don''t you get annoyed for having to leave me behind halfway through our


    business?"


    She was at a loss for a reply. Feeling somewhat guilty, she said in a softened voice, "Well, I can''t ignore


    Zoe, right? She has said that, after all."


    He wrapped his arm around her waist, his thin lips pressing down on hers. In a deep and husky voice,


    he said, "There''s no time to lose, honey."


    ¡­


    A long time had passed after the ringing of the rm clock when Leanna woke up the next day. She


    rolled over, feeling sore all over. All of a sudden, she regretted moving back in with Aidan. Nobody''s


    gonna be able to stand being like this every single day. Shey in bed for a while before pushing


    herself out of bed and entering the bathroom. After taking a hot shower, she felt much more


    comfortable.


    Aidan happened to have just returned from buying breakfast when she came out of the bedroom. He


    raised an eyebrow, saying, "You''re up?"


    Leanna asked, "Why did you turn off my rm clock?"


    He ced the breakfast bag on the dining table. "Didn''t youin about being tiredst night?"


    "But I have to go to the studio."


    "I asked about it. They said you don''t have much work at the studiotely."


    She curled her lips. This b*stard is so good at making excuses. She sat down at the dining table, eating


    the breakfast Aidan had bought. Halfway through her meal, the voice of the man across from her rang


    without warning. "Have you made up your mind?"


    For a moment, Leanna didn''t realize what the man meant. She asked in puzzlement, "About what?"


    Aidan''s dark eyes were fixed upon her. "Moving back into the Castor Vi, I mean."


    Leanna''s lips twitched at the mention of this. She gave a dryugh, saying, "Well, I''ve got to take my


    time to think about it, no? And besides, have you given me time to think about it? It''s just¡­ Let''s talk


    about it sometimeter."


    "Give me a deadline."


    She pondered for a moment before venturing, "How about a week?"


    He agreed without hesitation, "Okay."


    Leanna was rendered speechless. Did he agree that easily? Had I known this would happen, I''d have


    said I needed a month so that I could bargain with him.


    A smile yed across the man''s lips when he saw how vexed she looked. "Go on with your breakfast.


    I''ll send you to the studio when you''re done."


    "Aren''t you going to your office?"


    "I''ll go in the afternoon."


    "Oh," Leanna replied. With that, she lowered her head and continued with her breakfast without saying


    another word.


    ¡­


    It was noon when the ck Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of the studio. Leanna unbuckled her seat


    belt, saying, "See youter, then."


    "Uh-huh," Aidan replied. Then, he said impassively, "I''ll pick you up this evening."


    Leanna replied, "It''s really unnecessary to go to such trouble. I can just hail a cab¡­" However, seeing


    the man''s imperturbable gaze, she felt she was preaching to deaf ears, so she eventually bit back the


    rest of her words.


    After she got out of the car, Aidan withdrew his gaze and dialed Keaton''s number. "She''s arrived at the


    studio. I''ll pick her up this evening, so keep a tab on the time."


    Keaton replied, "Roger that, President Pearson." After pausing for a moment, he asked, "Are you sure


    you''re not gonna change ces?"


    Aidan replied, "It''s not necessary." The Pearsons and Sienna''s men have been watching me all this


    time. If I change ces too frequently, they''ll get suspicious. After ending the phone call, he tossed the


    phone into the passenger seat and drove off.


    Half an hourter, his car pulled up in front of the hospital. As soon as he got out of the car, Jonathan


    went up to him. "President Pearson."


    Aidan strode forward. "How is he?"


    "His surgery waspleted at six this morning, but he''s still in the ICU and is still in critical condition."


    Stopping in front of the ICU, Aidan, his expression frosty, looked at the man inside, who was on a


    venttor while showing no signs of life. He asked in an icy voice, "Have they been found?"


    "Lloyd and Georgina have yet to be found, but we''ve found the person who sabotaged Madam''s car.


    ording to him, the person ordering him to do so was¡­ Georgina."


    Unsurprised at the answer, Aidan let out a snort. After a couple of seconds, he asked, "Where have


    you searched?"


    "We''ve searched all properties under the Crossley Group''s name and everyone who''s had connections


    with the Crossleys," Jonathan exined. Then, he continued, "Also, I have a feeling that they ran away


    separately, so we''ve got no choice but to search for them separately."


    "Mm-hmm," Aidan replied, "Just search for Georgina. Someone else will search for Lloyd instead."


    "Roger that."


    Aidan stood in front of the ICU for two minutes before turning to leave. He ordered Jonathan, "You stay


    here and wait till he regains consciousness before going back to the office."


    "Alright, President Pearson," Jonathan replied.


    ¡­


    When Leanna arrived at the studio, Zoe was bent over her desk, letting out one sigh after another. She


    went over and sat down across from thetter, asking, "Have you eaten yet?"


    Zoe replied listlessly, "I guess I have."


    Leanna suggested, "What would you like to eat? Let''s go out for lunch."


    "All I want to do is drink my sorrows away."


    Leanna was lost for words.


    Only then did Zoe collect her thoughts and pull herself together a little. "Oh, right, I forgot to ask you


    something. Have you¡­ moved back in with that President B*st¡ªno, President Pearson?"


    Leanna let out a cough before nodding slightly. "The Crossley Residence has burned down, so I¡ª"


    "You don''t have to exin it. I understand," Zoe replied. Shemented, "Seems like I can''t call you at


    night as I please anymore."


    Leanna chuckled. "What nonsense are you talking about?"


    Just then, there was a knock on the door, and a youngdy poked her head in. "Zoe, there are flowers


    for you."


    Zoe was startled for a moment. "For me?"


    The youngdy nodded and came in before handing the flowers to her with a look of envy. "Daniel''s so


    nice to you; he sends you flowers every now and then. If only my boyfriend were one-tenth as romantic


    as he is!"


    Zoe was stunned. After all, Daniel had said goodbye to her like thatst night, so there was supposedly


    no reason for him to keep on acting. Seeing a card attached to the bouquet of flowers, she opened it to


    take a look, only to feel like throwing up at once.

 Chapter 456

    Chapter 456


    Seeing how Zoe instantly grimaced with disgust and tossed the flowers aside, Leanna picked up the


    card to see what was written on it. Just when she did so, the former urged, "Don''t look at it! It''ll dirty


    your hand and your eyes."


    However, it proved toote for her to say this because Leanna had already opened the card. It read,


    ''My dear Zoe, after ourst encounter, I went home and recalled many wonderful memories from when


    we were together. I think I still can''t forget about you. Please give me another chance. Love you


    forever, Anthony.''


    Leanna was rendered speechless. No wonder Zoe is so filled with disgust. She put the card back in its


    ce, asking, "When did you meet him?"


    "Just a couple of days ago. I went out shopping, remember? Who would''ve thought that I''d run into him


    in the mall? He came up to me and said some disgusting stuff right away, but luckily¡­" Zoe exined


    before suddenly breaking off mid-sentence.


    Leanna raised an eyebrow at the sight of this. "Luckily?"


    Zoe replied, "It''s nothing; it''s not important. Anyway, that was how I met him, but I didn''t expect him to


    find out that I''m here. What a shameless swine! I wonder what''s gotten into him."


    Seeing how she became angrier and angrier as she spoke, Leanna soothed her, saying, "It''s fine. Just


    ignore him. If he sends flowers here again, just return them."


    Leanna went out that afternoon. When she came back, she noticed that the music room next door had


    been closed.


    Surprisingly, however, the music room didn''t open for several days after that, nor did Daniel ever show


    up again. A youngdy couldn''t help but ask, "Zoe, has the music room been sold to someone else or


    something?"


    Zoe responded somewhat absentmindedly, "Huh? Why''d you ask me about that?"


    The youngdy replied, "Isn''t Daniel your boyfriend? Didn''t he tell you about it?"


    Zoe gave a dryugh. "You''ve got the wrong idea. We''re not dating. He''s just¡­"


    As they were talking, someone from the florist came in with a bouquet of flowers in his arms.


    The youngdy said enviously, "Oh, stop denying it. He''s been sending you flowers for a couple of


    days in a row now, no? Don''t be shy about it, Zoe. We understand."


    However, Zoe''s face darkened as she looked at the bouquet of flowers. Anthony, that jerk! He''s been


    sending me flowers nonstop like crazy over thest couple of days. Even after I''ve returned them, he


    still has the cheek to send them here again.


    The person from the florist asked, "Is Miss Zoe Hart here? Here''s a bouquet of flowers for her to sign


    for."


    Zoe walked up to the person expressionlessly. "I am Zoe Hart." She looked at thetter. "Do you have


    the phone number of the person who ordered the flowers from you guys?"


    "Well¡ª"


    "Rx. I just want to thank him, that''s all."


    Upon hearing this, the person hesitantly gave her the phone number.


    Zoe dialed the number and thanked the person with a smile. After that, she turned and went into the


    pantry.


    The person looked stupefied. "Hey! These flowers still have to be signed for."


    Leanna came out of her office. "Please return them instead."


    Seeing the situation, the person had no choice but to reply, "Okay." As soon as he turned around, he


    heard a yelling voiceing from the pantry. Instantly, he hastened his pace and fled. How scary!


    In the pantry, Zoe let fly at Anthony without giving him any chance to speak before hanging up and


    blocking his phone number. After that, she felt much better. Much to her dismay, however, the man


    came in person that afternoon after the phone call. Not only that, but he showed up with a bunch of red


    roses in his arms.


    Zoe felt her blood boil when she saw this. She yelled right away in front of everyone, "Are you nuts?"


    Anthony''s face was full of remorse, guilt, and fondness. "Zoe, I know I''ve made a lot of mistakes, and


    I''m not expecting you to forgive me. I just want to prove to you with my actions that I love you."


    Zoe retorted, "Stop saying f*cking things like you love me or something like that. Did it ever cross your


    mind that you loved me when you slept with another chick? Now that you''ve been cuckolded, you


    finally remember that you love me, huh? Can you quit using that word? Hearing it is so disgusting that it


    makes me want to puke."


    Anthony exined, "It was Jete who seduced me in the first ce. As you know, I was alone in a


    foreign country and didn''t know anyone else. She took the opportunity when I was drunk¡ª"


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe sneered. "You''re something else, aren''t you? How can you talk about it innocently as though


    someone had held a knife to your throat and forced you into cheating on me? You think that you''ve


    been wronged, don''t you? Stop shifting me between one another. Yeah, she''s a b*tch, but you''re an


    *sshole, too. Both of you aren''t decent people."


    Anthony frowned. "Zoe, you can''t treat me like this. In any case, you''ve got to give me a chance."


    "How shameless of you to say that! Why should I do so?"


    "If Leanna and President Pearson can get back together, why can''t we?"


    Zoe instantlyughed in anger at his words. "You? Why don''t you look at yourself in the mirror instead?


    If you''re too poor to buy a mirror, I can lend you a dime for that."


    Anthony seemed to disagree with her. He retorted, "How am I inferior to President Pearson? I''ve only


    been with Jete, whereas he''s been rumored to be in rtionships with more women than our


    fingers can count! Is it because I''m not as rich as him? I know Leanna is only with him for his money,


    but we''re different. It''s love that brought us together¡ª"


    "I''ll be damned if I f*cking love you!" Zoe snatched the bouquet of flowers from his arms and threw it to


    the ground outside before literally flinging him out right away. "Get out of my face¡ªnow!"


    Anthony wasn''t willing to give up, though. "Zoe, I¡ª"


    "Stay here any longer and I''ll call the police!"


    Anthony adjusted his wrinkled clothes and straightened up. "I''m not giving up."


    Zoe was just about to swear at the man when she noticed that many had gathered outside to watch the


    spectacle before she knew it. It''s all thanks to this piece of garbage! She shut the ss door to the


    studio right away, saving her breath instead of swearing.


    The instant she turned around, she realized that the few youngdies in the studio were staring goggle-


    eyed at her with shock written all over their faces; they seemed to have been frightened by her


    demeanor just now. Feeling physically and mentally exhausted, she said with a wave of her hand, "Just


    go on with what you were doing."


    "Alright." The few youngdies immediately scattered in all directions.


    "Wait a minute."


    The few youngdies instantly came together again to await her orders.


    At the sight of this, Zoe was rendered speechless. Just how scary was I just now? After letting out a


    cough, she said in embarrassment, "Don''t tell Leanna about what happened today and what that


    sc*mbag just said. Just pretend that nothing ever happened." Leanna happened not to be here


    because she was delivering design drawings to the factory today.


    Thedies nodded simultaneously.


    Zoe waved her hand again. "That''s it. You all may leave now." With that, she walked to Leanna''s office,


    feeling utterly speechless once again. Lying across the desk, she stared at the baby''s breath growing


    outside. All of a sudden, she thought that Anthony was totally clueless about what the lives of rich


    people were like. That''s what love is! When will I have such f*cking pleasure?

 Chapter 457

    Chapter 457


    Meanwhile, Leanna went to Constetion Tech after leaving the factory. She was driving Zoe''s car


    today because Aidan said her car had been sent for repairs after the rear-end ident. Before setting


    out, she had wanted to call the man and tell him about it to prevent him from getting jealous again for


    no apparent reason. However, fearing that he was in a meeting, she called Jonathan instead.


    Just as she had expected, Aidan was indeed in a meeting. As a result, she sent him a text message


    saying that she was going to meet Elijah to discuss something important and would leave immediately


    after she was done. After that, she ced her cell phone aside and set out for her destination.


    On the other hand, thanks to the uncovering of Leroy''s wrongdoings, there were tons of things that had


    to be dealt with at Constetion Tech. These things had been carried out in secret before, but now they


    could finally be brought into the open. Because of this, Elijah was so busy that he hadn''t had time to


    return home over thest few days. Luckily, Daniel was kind enough to stay here with him all this time


    despite his zero knowledge about doing business.


    When Elijah was atst able to rx a little, he returned to his office, plonked himself down on the


    couch, and looked at the man across from him who was listening to music. "What on earth are you


    here for?"


    Daniel''s expression waszy. "I''m ying some soothing music for you, no? You''re so hard at work,


    after all," he said before looking around. "Your office''s quite spacious. I''ll bring the piano here tomorrow


    and y it for you myself."


    Elijah was utterly speechless. He replied, "It''s not necessary."


    Daniel raised his eyebrows. Turning off the music, he got down to business, asking, "How are things


    going on your side?"


    Elijah shook his head. "It''s a real mess. There are lots of problems within thepany besides those


    we''ve found out about. Now that Leroy has run away, nobody''s taking over the Crossley Group, so it''s


    already in a state of chaos. Many things can neither be looked into nor be straightened out."


    "What about William?"


    "I think he probably doesn''t want to care about the Crossley Group. He wants to leave it to fend for


    itself."


    Daniel said, "The Crossley Group already belongs to Leroy now. He''s callous, so he wouldn''t care


    about it, of course. And besides, whoever takes over this mess will have to take over the entire


    Crossley Group and risk implicating themselves by the slightest mistake. Wasn''t that the reason Leroy


    publicly handed the Crossley Group over to Leanna back then?"


    Elijah let out a sigh. "That being said, in any case, the Crossley Group is the fruit of the work of several


    generations. It''s be like this because of Leroy, but at least its foundations are still there."


    Daniel leaned back on the couch. "Perhaps we''ll understand how William feels after we go through


    those things that he''s experienced."


    "You''re right."


    At this moment, the assistant knocked on the door from the outside. "President Parker, there is a Miss


    McKinney downstairs who''d like to see you."


    Elijah was stunned for a moment. Then, he quickly said, "Send her in."


    "Yes, President Parker," the assistant replied before leaving to pick Leanna up.


    Compared to Elijah, Daniel was rather surprised. He asked, "Why would shee to you? You''re a


    thorn in Aidan''s flesh, no?"


    Elijah gave an embarrassedugh. "Who am I to deserve to be called that?" he replied. After pausing


    for a moment, he continued, "Perhaps it''s for the Crossley Group''s sake."


    Daniel''s expression turned rather serious at the mention of this. "She knows we''re working together,


    but she''s always been suspecting that there''s someone else behind us. Perhaps that''s her purpose in


    coming here."


    "William¡­ Is he still not gonna talk about it?"


    "He''s dealing with both Jethro and the coborative project with the Crossley Group at the moment, so


    he probably can''t make time for it. Let''s hide it from her for the time being."


    Leanna had arrived as they were speaking. When she saw Daniel, she paused for a few seconds and


    then heaved a sigh of relief. "It''s perfect that you''re here."


    Daniel was puzzled; he didn''t understand what she meant.


    As it turned out, Leanna''s purpose in meeting Elijah was totally not what the two men had guessed.


    She was here for Zoe''s sake. She had wanted to speak to Daniel through Elijah, but she didn''t expect


    Daniel to be here as well. Well, this saves me a lot of trouble. She sat down and exined, "Zoe has


    told me about what happened between you and her earlier on. But don''t you think it''s somewhat


    unjustifiable to use acting as an excuse in rtionships?"


    Clueless, Elijah asked with a frown, "Acting? What do you mean?"


    Daniel gave a dryugh. "It''s nothing. The fault is mine forcking consideration. I shouldn''t have done


    that."


    Leanna pursed her lips for a moment. "No matter what, I should thank you for what happened earlier,


    so I believe you''re not the kind of jerk who toys with people''s feelings. Also, I hope you can face up to


    your feelings. If you like Zoe, you should make it clear to her, but if you have no feelings for her, you


    shouldn''t have gone that far earlier on."


    Daniel fell silent; he had to admit that his earlier behavior had gone beyond the scope of ''acting'' that


    had been agreed upon at first. Neither did he know how he hade up with the idea of using acting


    as an excuse.


    Not knowing about this at all, Elijah looked at Daniel, asking, "What the hell''s going on with you?"


    After being silent for a while, Daniel finally replied, "I do have feelings for her, but¡­" The problem was,


    he wasn''t a responsible lover, to begin with. His past rtionships were all consensual; once the


    novelty wore off, he simply broke up with thosedies without ever finding himself reluctant to part with


    them. However, he could tell that Zoe was a decent woman who was serious about rtionships and


    whom someone like him was unworthy of. Therefore, he couldn''t promise her anything for fear of


    hurting her.


    Elijah knew about his past rtionships, so he understood what thetter meant when he saw how the


    latter paused halfway through his speech.


    Leanna hadn''t dated a lot, but she understood what Daniel meant, too. A gorgeously handsome mixed-


    blood guy like Daniel must''ve had lots of girlfriends. Why would he mend his ways for one of them?


    She said, "Well, if that''s the case, you should properly say goodbye to Zoe. After all, you''ll be leaving


    Highside soon, so you two will never meet again."


    Before she left, Daniel suddenly said, "I saw her ex-boyfriend at the mall the other day."


    "Mm-hmm," Leanna mumbled impassively. "Zoe broke up with him after he cheated on her. After the


    three of you met in the mall that day, he found our studio''s address and has been sending flowers to


    her every day since then."


    Upon hearing this, Daniel couldn''t help but frown. "Sending flowers? Why?"


    Elijah chimed innguidly, "Why else can it be? He wants to start over with her, that''s why."


    "Didn''t he cheat on her? How can he have the cheek to try to get back together with her?" Daniel said.


    Then, he asked Leanna, "Don''t tell me Zoe has agreed to it?"


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    Leanna replied, "How would I know that? But I do have a bit of experience in this kind of thing. If a man


    pesters her all the time, she may agree to it."


    Daniel was lost for words.


    Leanna said, "Well, I gotta go. Have a nice trip."


    Elijah stood up. "Let me see you out, Leanna."

 Chapter 458

    Chapter 458


    After they reached downstairs, Leanna said, "I''ll go by myself from here. My car''s parked by the


    roadside."


    Elijah smiled. "Alright. I''ll sound Daniel out about Zoe, but the words you said to provoke him just now


    will probably work."


    Leanna''s lips curled into a smile. "Hopefully. Still, I hope Zoe will find someone nice to her as long as


    she lives."


    Elijah replied, "She will."


    "Well, then, I gotta go. Bye."


    "Goodbye."


    Elijah kept watching her from behind until she was out of his sight. After that, he withdrew his gaze,


    turned around, and went upstairs.


    Meanwhile, Leanna drove back to Jethro''s former old house after leaving Constetion Tech. Opening


    the door with the key, she said softly toward the balcony, where the curtains were swaying in the wind,


    "It''s me."


    It wasn''t until a few secondster that Ron climbed onto the balcony from the outside.


    Leanna said, "Don''t worry. Nobody woulde here at the moment other than me, so you can stay


    here with peace of mind."


    Ron replied, "Thank you."


    Leanna took out the various medicines that she''d bought on her way here. "Your wound was still


    bleeding thest time I saw it. Just treat it properly. You don''t have to thank me for this, though. To put it


    bluntly, we''re just getting what we want from each other."


    "Have you found Jethro?"


    "I have," Leanna replied before pausing for a moment. Then, she said with a smile, "But I didn''t get


    anything out of him."


    Ron asked, "Need my help with that?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No, it''s not necessary. Let''s leave it at that," she said while producing a card


    from her purse. "Here''s the three million that I promised you earlier. Also, you''ve done a lot of stuff on


    my orderstely, and I''ve told Aidan about it. He''s dealing with the Pearsons now. Their men will pull


    out very soon, by which time you''ll be able to walk out of here in broad daylight without having to hide


    anymore."


    Ron frowned upon hearing this. "Don''t you hate me for what I did to you?"


    "As I told you before, what happened between us is already dead and buried. Now we''re just tying up


    some loose ends." Leanna let out a heavy breath. "You probably have no idea how important to me the


    stuff that you helped me take out of the Crossley Residence a few days ago was. You deserve this."


    Ron stared at the card on the table without saying another word.


    Leanna said, "I gotta go. Just make yourselffortable here. I''ll call you after the Pearsons are dealt


    with."


    After she left, Ron sat on the couch and lifted his shirt; blood was seeping out of a hideous-looking


    wound in his stomach. He took out the medicines and the gauze she had bought and applied them to


    the wound. Then, having treated all the wounds on his body, he cleaned up the trash and began


    scrutinizing the old house.


    Jethro was addicted to gambling and had started borrowing from loan sharks many years ago. Not only


    that, but he''d even gone so far as to sell his own daughter. Still, he never mortgaged this old house.


    Why is that so? This ce can''t sell for a lot of money, but it won''t be a problem to sell it for a few


    hundred thousand. It''s already routine for someone like Jethro to gamble away all his property, but it''s


    never crossed his mind to sell this house. This is strange.


    Well, I''ve got nothing else to do while staying here, anyway, thought Ron. With that, he began to search


    every corner of this house thoroughly.


    ¡­


    On her way back from the old house, Leanna noticed that it was gettingte, so she phoned Zoe and


    told thetter that she wasn''t going back to the studio. The fridge in her apartment was almost empty,


    so she felt like doing some grocery shopping.


    To her surprise, however, she ran into Celia in the grocery store.


    Celia was shopping for fish when Leanna saw her. When she saw thetter, her pupils dted at once;


    it took a long time before she finally made a sound, saying, "M-Miss McKinney¡­"


    Leanna smiled as she greeted her. "Do you live around here?"


    The word ''yes'' sprang to Celia''s lips, but she bit her tongue and choked it back. Instead, she made an


    excuse, saying, "No, I don''t. I''m just hanging around here with my friends today. I noticed that the fish


    here are quite fresh, so I thought it''d be nice to buy a couple of fish and make some fish stew at home."


    Leanna darted her eyes toward the fish counter. "They''re fresh, indeed."


    At this moment, Celia promptly said, "I''ve got something else to do, so I gotta go. See you next time,


    Miss McKinney."


    "Hold on a minute."


    Celia felt her blood freeze the very instant Leanna stopped her. Her neck stiffened, and she turned


    around, asking, "I-Is there anything else?"


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    Leanna handed the shopping bag nearby to her. "You forgot to take your fish."


    Celia quickly took the shopping bag from her while forcing a weak smile. "Thank you, Miss McKinney.


    Well, then, I gotta go."


    "See you around."


    Carrying the shopping bag in her hand, Celia dashed to the payment counter, paid the bill, and left


    without buying anything else.


    At the sight of this, Keaton, who was following Celia at a short distance, let out a quiet sigh of relief and


    left as well. Luckily, President Pearson has instructed before that Madam Fletcher and Celia are not to


    go out at the same time during this period. To think they ran into each other here today! He seems to


    have some foresight indeed.


    Leanna also bought two fish. Just when she was about to leave, though, she saw a card left on the


    floor; she picked it up and saw that it was an ess card to one of the floors of Aidan''s apartment


    complex. Seems like Celia has dropped this. Putting the card away, she put the two fish in her


    shopping cart and continued with her grocery shopping.


    As she left the grocery store after buying tworge shopping bags full of groceries, she happened to


    get a phone call from Aidan. He asked, "You''ve gone to meet Elijah?"


    "Uh-huh," Leanna replied. "I left his office long ago and have just done some grocery shopping. When


    are youing back? There''s too much stuff; I can''t carry them all by myself."


    "Wait for me there. I''lle over in a minute."


    "You don''t have to. I''m already in the car. It''s just that I can''t carry them upstairs."


    "Well, then, wait for me downstairs in the neighborhood. I''ll be there in half an hour."


    "Okay."


    After ending the phone call, Leanna put her phone away and slowly drove back. The grocery store was


    very close to their apartment; it''d only take about ten minutes to cover the distance on foot, while a step


    on the gas pedal was all it took if one were to drive. Still, she got stuck in traffic for a few minutes since


    it was the evening rush hour.


    It''d only been ten minutes since the phone call between her and Aidan just now when she arrived


    downstairs. She didn''t want to stay in the basement, which was stuffy and poorly ventted. Leaving


    the groceries in the car, she went upstairs to the ground floor and took a stroll in the garden.


    Sitting on a bench nearby, she fished the ess card out of her purse. However, it had only the


    building name and the floor number on it; no unit number wasbeled on it.


    After sitting there for a while, she got a phone call from Aidan, who had arrived in the basement. "Oh,"


    she said, "Give me a minute. I''ll be there right away." With that, she put the card back in her purse and


    went to the basement.


    No sooner had she reached the basement than she saw Aidan. She showed him the way, saying,


    "Over there!"


    Aidan couldn''t help but raise his eyebrows at the sight of the tworge bags of groceries when she


    opened the car door. "Did you have to buy so many things?"


    Leanna replied, "Yeah. I''ve decided not to move back into the Castor Vi for the time being. Let''s put it


    off until sometimeter. I like this neighborhood, after all."


    Aidan was rendered speechless.

 Chapter 459

    Chapter 459


    After returning to the apartment, Leanna took the bags from Aidan''s hands and set them on the


    countertop before extracting the contents and putting them into the fridge one by one.


    Seeing this, he licked his lips and ced his hand on her shoulder, turning her around to face her.


    "Didn''t I tell you before? What''s with you?"


    She replied, "I''m not regretting it. I just think that staying here isn''t a bad idea, so I''ll move back after a


    while. By the way¡­ I''ve always felt that the decor in Castor Vi is a little too drab and monotonous, so


    let''s use this opportunity to redecorate it. After the renovation, it''ll be just right for us to move back in."


    His brow furrowed imperceptibly. He pursed his lips slightly.


    Leanna blinked and looked at him innocently. "What''s wrong? Are you¡­ upset that I''m staying here? If


    that''s the case, I''ll just move out. Zoe even asked me to move in with her the day before yesterday."


    Her words rendered him silent. Who taught her to be so passive-aggressive?


    A momentter, he spoke again, saying, "Not at all."


    Leanna hummed in reply before continuing, "Or are you in such a hurry for me to move back to Castor


    Vi because there''s something you don''t want me to find here?"


    Aidan loosened his grip on her and asked, "I''m in a hurry?"


    "You look like you are."


    "Well, you''re wrong," he said nonchntly. "I''m free these days, so I can take you to the hospital to


    have your eyes looked at."


    Ha, what a b*stard.


    After chasing him out of the kitchen, she spent nearly half an hour tidying the fridge.


    She heard Aidan speak again when she went to the living room. "What design do you want to change it


    to?"


    Leanna was taken aback for a moment before she came back to her senses, realizing that he was


    referring to her wishes to renovate Castor Vi. However, that was just an excuse she came up with on


    the fly, so she naturally had no opinion on the matter.


    After a pause, she replied, "I''m fine with anything, as long as it''s different from before."


    Aidan hummed in reply and saidnguidly, "I''ll get a designer to speak to you at your studio tomorrow."


    She hesitated for a moment before asking, "Are you really going to renovate the vi?"


    "What else?" He raised his eyes to look at her and rebutted, "Did you think I was brushing you off?"


    Leannaughed dryly before turning around and entering the kitchen again. "I''ll go and make dinner."


    Dinner was simple, and it was just right for both of them.


    Amid their meal, Leanna suddenly spoke up. "President Pearson."


    When he heard her calling him like that, Aidan pressed the tip of his tongue against his teeth. She


    hadn''t called him like that for a long time. Clearly, it wasn''t anything good.


    However, she wasn''t waiting for him to respond and proceeded to bombard him with another question


    without a pause. "What do you think of this fish stew today?"


    Aidan pursed his thin lips, slowly spitting out a single word. "Tasty."


    Leanna nodded. "I think so too. By the way, I met Celia at the mall today. She doesn''t live nearby, but


    she came over for these fish, so I followed suit and bought them as well. They really aren''t bad at all."


    Aidan picked up thedle and served her a bowl full of fish stew. "In that case, have some more."


    Immediately after, he picked both of the fish''s eyes and put them onto her te. "This is good for your


    eyes."


    She fell silent. In the end, she left this battle of wits in defeat.


    At night, she kept her back facing toward Aidan, neither budging an inch nor responding to him no


    matter what he did.


    Seeing that, he asked, "What''s with you today? Did I make you angry?"


    She closed her eyes and said, "No, you didn''t. Don''t talk to me. I''m annoyed."


    "At what?"


    "Everything."


    Looking at you is making me even more annoyed.


    Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist and turned her around to face him. "Is it your premenstrual


    syndrome again?"


    Leanna carelessly hummed in reply. If he thinks that''s the case, then so be it.


    At her reply, he lowered his voice. "As I recall, your period ended barely ten days ago."


    She fell silent before turning around again. "Haven''t you seen someone''s premenstrual syndrome


    coming twenty days early?"


    "I see it now."


    Content rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna closed her eyes, refusing to reply.


    A momentter, she heard Aidan''s voice once more. "Why exactly are you upset?"


    "What''s the point of telling you?"


    "You''ll find out after you tell me."


    Leanna opened her eyes in the darkness and looked at the translucent white curtain. Her lips moved,


    but she did not make a sound in the end. Even if she told him now, Aidan would still not tell her the


    truth. He was just looking for a new excuse.


    Previously, she had been too impulsive, so he could always lead her away easily. Since she already


    had sufficient evidence this time, she had to be calm and prevent him from realizing that she had


    already begun to suspect him, or he would dispel her suspicions by other means again.


    Besides, she was nowpletely sure that the person she saw downstairs in the neighborhood that


    night was Celia. If Aidan wasn''t guilty of anything, why would he keep avoiding the matter? With all


    these reasons, it would be too far-fetched to say that it was a coincidence every time.


    At that thought, the suspicion that had been rooted at the bottom of her heart resurfaced, filling her


    chest and spreading to her brain and all her limbs, leaving her wide awake. Hence, she decided to sit


    up and left with her pillow in her arms.


    Confused by her sudden actions, Aidan asked in a low voice, "What are you doing?"


    "It''s hot here. I''ll sleep on the couch."


    After saying that, Leanna did not stay any longer and immediately exited the bedroom. Soon, the sound


    of the door closing could be heard. Aidan sat up, one of his long legs slightly bent as his head hung a


    little, making it impossible to see his expression.


    Meanwhile, in the living room, Leanna hugged her pillow andy down on the couch, looking aimlessly


    ahead as she fell into a daze. Muchter, the bedroom door opened. After hearing the sound of


    footsteps, she hurriedly closed her eyes, pretending to be asleep. Not a momentter, a nket was


    gently ced on her body, followed by a warm kiss that fell on her forehead. Her eyshes trembled,


    but she still didn''t move.


    Aidan just sat on the carpet, seemingly having no intention of leaving either. Soon, the entire house fell


    quiet. Only the sounds of the wind blowing could be heard asionally. As time passed, Leanna fell


    asleep before she knew it. When he heard her breathing gradually getting even, he came back to his


    senses and gazed at her with his dark eyes.


    After Celia left the mall, Keaton called him to tell him that they had encountered Leanna. He had


    expected her to ask him straight away, but she acted unconcerned about the matter instead, yet


    inadvertently revealing a sharp hostility. She had begun to suspect him, and this time, more precisely


    than any other time in the past. He couldn''t find any better excuse to fool her anymore.


    Aidan held her hand, his voice low as he said, "Can you give me a little more time? Wait for me to sort


    everything out."

 Chapter 460

    Chapter 460


    In the meantime, in the Kramer Residence, Violet had used the instructions Georgina left for her to get


    rid of that woman, but it was as if her father had turned into a different person and didn''t love her as


    much as he used to. Even seeing his face became a rare urrence. However, after all that crying for


    so long, she was happy to be able to rx.


    Just as she was emerging from the pool, a maid hurriedly walked over with a frantic expression. "Miss


    Kramer¡­"


    Seeing that, Violet asked unconcernedly, "What?"


    The maid said in a small voice, "Someone''s here to look for you."


    Hearing that, Violet immediately frowned. "Did that womane back again?"


    "No, Miss Kramer." Saying this, the maid looked around before leaning over and whispering something


    to her.


    Instantly, Violet''s expression became somewhat inscrutable. She narrowed her eyes and only said after


    a moment, "Bring her to my room. Remember, don''t let anyone see her."


    The maid received her order before turning around and walking away quickly. Violet picked up the


    bathrobe next to her and put it on, then slowly returned to her bedroom. She took a seat on the couch


    and opened a bottle of red wine.


    Not longter, the maid returned from her trip and said, "Miss Kramer, I''ve brought her over."


    Violet hummed in reply, taking an elegant sip of her wine. Then, the maid turned around and left,


    shutting the bedroom door behind her.


    Violet looked at the door and asked, "Why are you here at this hour?"


    As Georgina walked over, it was clear that she had lost her usual arrogance and elegance. She even


    seemed a little shabby.


    She took a seat opposite Violet and let out a long sigh. "I''m here to ask for your help."


    Hearing that, Violetughed disdainfully. "Me? What can I help you with?"


    "I have nowhere else to go, so let me stay at your ce for a while."


    "Look at the way you''re speaking. I''d think you were ordering me if I didn''t know the truth."


    However, Georgina''s expression remained unchanged in the face of her mockery. "My current


    predicament is only temporary. When I find my father, everything will be resolved, and I''ll give you


    whatever you want by then."


    "Your father?" Violet shook withughter as if she had heard a hrious joke. "You must be kidding me.


    Now, everyone in Highside knows that your father is an impostor, so what can you do even if you find


    him? Oh, they always say that the higher you climb, the harder you''ll fall. It seems that you still haven''t


    given up after your fall."


    Georgina refuted defensively, "What do you know? Those are all made-up lies!"


    Violet looked at her and clicked her tongue. "I guess you really won''t give up even though things have


    come to this."


    Georgina took a deep breath before continuing, "All of this was part of Leanna''s n. Since she first


    joined our family, I knew she had this intention in mind. If she didn''t have Aidan at her back, how could


    Crossley Group have be like this? Are all of you going to believe her just because she said that


    she''s the real daughter of the Crossley Family and that I''m a fake?"


    Violet''s hand that was holding the wine ss faltered. "Are you saying that those so-called truths from


    twenty years ago were all an act that Leanna and Aidan put together?"


    "Of course." Georgina clenched her fist that was resting on her knee. "Leroy tried to harm my father


    back then, but he died in that explosion. That was his retribution, and sooner orter, Leanna will go


    through the same thing too. I''ll find the evidence and prove that everything she said is false!"


    Violet looked Georgina up and down, obviously not taking her words seriously. The issue with Crossley


    Group was a big deal a while ago, and it was clear enough who Leroy and Lloyd were. What Georgina


    was currently doing was nothing but fooling herself.


    Violet said, "Forget it. Because you helped me before, I''ll take you in for a few days, but you''d better


    keep in mind that this is my home, so keep that temper of yours in check. I will not tolerate any of that."


    Georgina looked rather discontented at her words, but she did not retort. Soon, Violet asked the maid


    to prepare a room for her, but it was obvious at a nce that the small room was a part of the staffContent rights belong to N?velDrama.Org.


    quarters. However, Georgina had gone without a good night''s sleep for several days, and even though


    she knew that Violet''s actions had humiliated her, she did not object.


    The next day, when Georgina saw that Violet was about to leave, she went up to her and asked,


    "Where are you going?"


    "I''m going shopping. Why? You wannae with me?"


    Georgina remained rooted in ce with her face drawn tight, remaining silent.


    Violet put on her sunsses and continued walking forward. "Don''t worry. Since I''ve already allowed


    you to stay here, I won''t tell anyone."


    Under Georgina''s stare, Violet entered the car in her high heels. After the car had traveled some


    distance, she took out the ID card and passport from her bag and smiled disdainfully.


    Soon, she fished out her phone and made a call. "Hey, in the next two days, put the house up for sale


    to see if anyone''s interested in buying¡­ My dad? Come on, he doesn''t evene home anymore.


    Why would he care about the house? I''ll tell him directly when that timees, and he''ll get half the


    money we sold the house for."


    After receiving a reply from the other end of the phone, she said, "As long as someone is willing to buy


    it, it doesn''t matter if the price is lower. I don''t need this amount of money anyway. I want to sell it while


    I can. This house is full of bad luck now, so fire all the maids too. I''m going abroad for a while, so don''t


    bother me. You can decide what to do with the house."


    ¡­


    After Violet went out, Georgina kept waiting until the evening. When she didn''t see her return, a bad


    feeling suddenly rose in her heart. Moreover, after she woke up from a night''s sleep, all of the maids in


    the Kramer Residence disappeared, leaving nobody but her in the house.


    Immediately, Georgina knew that Violet had tricked her. Fortunately, there was still food in the fridge¡ª


    enough to sustain her for a few days. However, she knew very well she couldn''t go on like this. She


    went into Violet''s room and rummaged through the whole room before finding plenty of jewelry. These


    things used to be as worthless as trash in her eyes, but now, they were her only lifeline.


    Georgina fished out a bag in Violet''s closet and put everything she found in it. She had just walked


    downstairs when she heard a conversation in the distance¡ªsomeone hade to view the house.


    She hurriedly hid to the side and quickly left while they were entering the house.


    And after looking at Violet''s house, the person who came called her and said, "Violet, did someone


    break into your house? It seems like all your jewelry is gone."


    On the other end of the phone, Violet sneered. "Who else but a thief could''ve done that?"


    The father had stolen someone else''s life, and his daughter was no better than him. She never thought


    that Georgina, who was so prideful and lofty, would actually do such a thing. Violet wouldn''t take her


    loss lying down either and immediately sent a message to Aidan''s men, saying that Georgina was


    wandering around the Kramer Residence these days.

 Chapter 461

    Chapter 461


    Leanna had been busy these past few days. Apart from her studio''s affair, Aidan had found her a


    different work. She was tasked tomunicate daily with the designer regarding the renovation of


    Castor Vi.


    Back then, it was only an excuse she came up with, so she was taken aback when Aidan agreed to it.


    Initially, she nned to go along with his ideas with the room decorations. She never had thought that


    Aidan''s n was the renovation of the entire Castor Vi itself with the garden included.


    Since this was, without a doubt, a huge project for Leanna, each and every detail needed to be


    scrutinized to be exactly how she wanted.


    Each day, the designer would be waiting outside the studio early in the morning and would not leave


    throughout the day. However, upon noticing Leanna had some free time from her work, the designer


    would immediately go to her with a tablet in hand and would hound her until Aidan came to pick her up


    from work. It was to the point that Leanna suspected that this was Aidan''s deliberate n.


    No, I''m certain that man was being intentional with this.


    After Leanna hid in the office several times, Zoe followed suit as well. "Nana, I wanted to ask you two


    days ago, but what are your thoughts on renovating the house?"


    "Please, don''t bring that up. I finally understand what it feels like to shoot myself in the foot," Leanna


    replied with a wryugh.


    Zoe took a seat across from Leanna. "But it looks like that b*stard has his heart set on the matter,


    seeing that he''s willing to go with your ideas here."


    "This feels more like torture to me." Leanna was too preupied with the renovation to do anything


    else.


    "If only I can experience such wonderful torture. All you have to do is spend his money," Zoe said with


    a sigh.


    Hearing this, Leanna thought briefly before she asked, "Did Daniel look for you recently?"


    "Nope. Why would he be looking for me?" Zoey across the table. "If he''s looking for me to buy me


    dinner, then it''s better if he stays away. At least he''ll save some food costs that way."


    Leanna fell silent and said nothing further.


    Since Anthony stoppeding over the past few days, the studio was quite peaceful and calm. Now, it


    would be perfect if Aidan''s designer wasn''t here as well, thought Leanna.


    Zoe said, "We''re having dinner together tonight. Don''t forget to let President Pearson know not to pick


    you up today."


    It was the time for the studio''s monthly gathering.


    "Alright." Leanna nodded. She couldn''t wait to be rid of Aidan, even if for a little while.


    Just as Leanna left her office to get a cup of coffee that afternoon, the designer, who had been waiting


    for some time, immediately came over to her. "Miss McKinney, I have some new ideas about our


    discussion this morning, so I want to run it by you¡­"


    "We''ll go with your idea. I''m fine with anything," said Leanna.


    "That won''t do. President Pearson instructed that every house crevice must be done the way you like


    it."


    Leanna''s eyebrow twitched. "Fine, let''s hear it."


    The designer then hurriedly went over their discussion this morning and added a few fresh ideas to it.


    Throughout the designer''s exnation, Leanna allowed her mind to wander. It was only when the


    designer finished exining did she nod seriously. "I think that''s fine. Let''s do just that."


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Relieved, the designer added, "Then, as for the others¡­"


    Coming back to her senses, Leanna said, "Oh, there will be a team dinner tonight. I''m sure you''ve


    noticed that the employees here are all youngdies, so I won''t be extending an invitation to you. You


    can leave work early today."


    "That''s¡­"


    "I''ll call President Pearsonter to let him know." Then, Leanna continued slowly, "I won''t be going


    anywhere and will only be staying in the studio today, so you don''t have to keep an eye on me."


    The designer smiled and gave a burst of dryughter as he said, "Miss McKinney, what are you


    saying? I''m not here to keep an eye on you. Now then, since you have other matters to attend to, I


    won''t take up more of your time. I''ll see you tomorrow, Miss McKinney." Then, he left the office


    posthaste with his tablet in hand.


    After the designer left the studio, he quickly gave Aidan a call and reported the situation, to which Aidan


    only responded with an indifferent "Okay."


    A few minutester, Leanna called him. "Are you busy?" she asked quietly.


    Aidan answered, "No. What is it?"


    "I''ll be having a team dinner tonight, so you don''t have toe and pick me up today."


    "It just so happens I have to workte today as well. Send me a message when you''re done with your


    dinner."


    Leanna was stunned into silence. The only thought she had then was to escape this situation. Even so,


    she replied, "Fine, I will." Can''t this b*stard give me some breathing room? Why must he keep such a


    tight leash on me?


    Listening to the disconnected toneing from the other end of the line, Aidan broke into a smile. Just


    then, there was a knock on the door to his office. "Come in," he said while putting away his phone.


    "President Pearson, we have news about Georgina," Jonathan said as he entered the office.


    "Where?" Aidan directed his attention to the man.


    "It seems she was located near the Kramer Residence. I have already gotten someone to verify the


    information."


    "Kramer Residence." Aidan frowned slightly.


    Jonathan nodded. "Yes. I''ve also heard that Chairman Kramer hasn''t returned to the family for a long


    time now. Moreover, Violet Kramer had left for abroad a few days ago while auctioning off the Kramer


    Residence at a dirt-cheap price. I guess that she was in a rush to dispose of it."


    After hearing Jonathan''s report, Aidan scoffed and took a seat at his desk. "Georgina Crossley is a


    smart and conceited woman. Who would''ve thought she would fall for Violet''s trick?"


    Jonathan was perplexed. "Do you mean it was Violet who leaked Georgina''s whereabouts, President


    Pearson?"


    "Who else but her?" Gently tapping his long, slender fingers on the desk, Aidan continued, "Not only


    were there seemingly no interactions between the two of them, but there was also the incident with the


    Kramer Family a while ago. Because of all these, no one would think to investigate the Kramer Family."


    "Since Violet had already taken Georgina under her wing, why would she sell off the house?"


    "It''s just lip service. Violet is no saint. Given how egoistic Georgina is, I doubt she would ever think


    highly of Violet. As for Violet, rather than extending her hand to Georgina, I''m sure she''s just waiting for


    Georgina to make a fool of herself."


    Listening to his president''s exnation, Jonathan couldn''t help but sigh. "Women are truly frightening."


    Raising his eyebrows, Aidan thought back on the woman who had been nothing but a pain back home


    recently and, very rarely, agreed with Jonathan. "They are, indeed." After a while, he continued, "Any


    news on Lloyd Crossley?"


    "No, but I did hear that William left town this morning."


    "What of his destination?"


    "We are unclear about that, but he came back in the afternoon as though he was looking for something,


    but to no avail."


    "It seems like he was yed by Jethro," Aidan said deliberately. "Are there no clues yet about Leanna''s


    mother''s grave?"


    Jonathan shook his head. "Madam said that her mother had faced difficulties when giving birth to Louis.


    After I went through all the information at the time, I only managed to find her mother''s death


    certificate."

 Chapter 462

    Chapter 462


    The dinner ended at 10.00PM. Some of thedies'' boyfriends came to pick them up, and some took a


    cab home.


    Zoe took out her car key from her bag. "Nana, how are you going back? Shall I give you a ride?"


    In response, Leannaughed dryly. "Aidan ising to pick me up. He''s on the way."


    Zoe clicked her tongue, thinking she had asked an unnecessary question. Then, she said, "I''ll stay with


    you until the b*stard arrives."


    The weather turned warm recently, so the streets turned noisy and busy with pedestrians.


    After a while, Leanna suddenly asked, "Zoe, are you busy tomorrow?"


    Zoe answered, "No, I''m not. I don''t have any shooting tomorrow."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Can you go to a ce for me?"


    "Sure. Where should I go?"


    Leanna took out an elevator keycard from the bottom of her bag. "I don''t know which household they


    live in, but there are only four households on each apartment floor. So¡­"


    Before she could finish, Zoe took the keycard from her. "So, I have to check them all one by one. Okay,


    no problem. Tell me about the appearance of the person you''re looking for."


    Leanna said, "She''s a woman in her twenties, with short hair and fair skin. She''s pretty too."


    "Are there any other characteristics?"


    Leanna tried to recall, but there were no other characteristics of Celia. So, she added, "If you find her,


    find a way to get in and see if there''s a baby in her home. If there is, stop her and contact me


    immediately. I''lle to you right away."


    No one else on the same floor could match Celia''s features with a baby at home.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    If there was such a person, the coincidence could only mean that someone did it on purpose.


    When Zoe looked at Leanna''s expression, she knew this was serious. So, she immediately assured


    Leanna, "Don''t worry. I''ll take care of it."


    Afterward, Leanna added, "They might have someone guarding outside. So, when you go, be careful


    not to get caught."


    "Okay, leave it to me."


    As soon as Zoe finished speaking, a ck Rolls-Royce stopped in front of them. Seeing this, she


    waved at Leanna. "Nana, I''ll get going now. See you tomorrow."


    Leanna smiled at her. "Yeah, see you tomorrow."


    Aidan had the designer keep Leanna upied every day so that she would be distracted and not have


    time to do other things. He didn''t need to do this if he had sent Celia elsewhere.


    Hence, Leanna suspected that Celia was still there.


    However, she couldn''t check it herself as Aidan''s men knew her. She would most probably get caught


    the moment she arrived at the entrance.


    Hence, she could only ask Zoe to take the trip for her.


    The car door opened from the inside as Aidan''s voice came. "Why are you standing still?"


    Quickly, Leanna collected her thoughts and got into the car without saying a word.


    Sensing the gloomy aura emanating from her, Aidan said without warning, "Are you still having PMS?"


    Leanna couldn''t respond to the remark for a moment.


    Then, she looked at the driver in the front row and red at Aidan. "Shut up."


    Aidan raised his eyebrows. "I''ll take you somewhere tomorrow."


    "Where to?"


    "Underwood Lane."


    At that, Leanna froze as her heart missed a beat. Is Aidan sending me away on purpose because he


    knows I asked Zoe to check on the apartment?


    Seeing that she was silent, he slowly asked, "You don''t want to go?"


    She said calmly, "Nothing of the sort. Why are we going there tomorrow?"


    "The demolition will start the day after tomorrow. Didn''t you always like it there? Why not take onest


    look at it tomorrow?"


    Leanna parted her lips. The words of refusal came to her lips, but in the end, it became a simple


    "Okay."


    If she went there with him, he would let his guard down, plus she could keep an eye on him in case he


    contacted his men.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, after Zoe parked her car and walked some distance into the neighborhood, she had


    a feeling that someone was following her. However, when she looked back, she didn''t see anyone.


    A cold breeze blew by at that moment. She felt a chill running down her back and touched her neck.


    Impossible. I didn''t drink tonight, so why am I hallucinating?


    Tightening her grip on her phone, she picked up her pace to leave.


    Fortunately, as she reached the elevator, one came down in time. Then, she hurried in when the door


    opened.


    She breathed a sigh of relief when she arrived home. Subsequently, she reached out to enter the


    passcode.


    With a beep, the door unlocked.


    Then, she pulled the door open and was about to enter. However, a man suddenly hugged her hard


    from behind.


    "Zoe, Zoe! I missed you so much. Please forgive me. I promise I will never contact that woman again.


    Let''s be together!"


    Zoe could smell the scent of alcohol enveloping her entire body, and she struggled hard. "You


    madman! It''s the middle of the night! Enough of your drunken craze! Let go of me, or I''ll call the police!"


    Instead of letting her go, Anthony tightened his hug around her and kissed her everywhere.


    He was restraining her arms, so Zoe couldn''t push him away. She could only tilt her head to avoid his


    kisses. She was so mad the urge to kill rose within her. "Anthony, you f*cking lunatic! I''m warning you


    onest time! If you don''t let go of me right now, I won''t hold back anymore!"


    "You can''t do that to me. Say, where''s that boyfriend of yours? If you ask me, he''s just a piece of


    garbage! Can he be as good as I am to you? Did you forget how we used to be¡­ Ouch!"


    Zoe was mmed into the wall by force, and behind her came Anthony''s miserable scream.


    Before she could look back, Daniel''s cold voice rang. "Get in!"


    Zoe grabbed the doorknob with a shuddering breath but paused for a while before entering. Then, she


    finally closed the door without hesitation.


    Even through the door, she could still hear Anthony being beaten.


    It wasn''t a fight, but a one-sided beating.


    After an indefinite amount of time, themotion outside stopped.


    Anthony finally fled in despair.


    Shortly after, Daniel asked hesitantly, "Are you alright?"


    Zoe crouched down on the floor with her back against the door, her eyes red. She replied, "Do I look


    alright to you?"


    "I can''t see anything."


    Zoe was speechless at his reply.


    He asked tentatively, "Why don''t you open the door for me? I can take a look at your injury then."


    However, she sniffled and answered, "No, thanks. Please leave."


    "How about I take you to the hospital?"


    When she heard that, Zoe said in annoyance, "I said no! Just leave. Why do you care?"


    Daniel was feeling helpless. "Be reasonable, will you? He''s the one who bullied you, but you''re so


    mean to me."


    "You men are all up to no good!"


    He remained silent at the remark.


    Then, it took a few seconds before he spoke again. "I''m leaving, then."


    Zoe hugged her legs while burying her head in her knees and ignored him.


    All at once, the surroundings became quiet. The sound of footsteps and elevator doors was crisp to the


    ear.


    Soon, there was no more sound outside the door.

 Chapter 463

    Chapter 463


    Zoe raised her head and stared nkly at the front as she looked exhausted.


    She hadn''t expected that Anthony would find his way here.


    He was crazy too.


    She saw how terrifying a man''s strength could be for the first time.


    W-Without Daniel tonight, I shudder to think what the consequences would have been.


    Zoe squatted on the ground for an unknown amount of time. Her feet were numb when she got up.


    Bracing herself against the door, she stood up, but she almost cked out.


    Someone knocked on the door when she was about to go to her room.


    Stunned, she turned vignt all at once.


    Could it be Anthony the b*stard has returned?


    Daniel''s voice rang out as she touched the baseball bat sitting in the foyer. "I saw you grazed your


    hand, so I bought you medicine and left it at the door. You cane out and get itter."


    After Daniel spoke, he didn''t hear anything inside.


    He frowned and couldn''t help but worry. He moved closer to the door. "Zoe, can you hear me?"


    Did she pass out from crying?


    When he took out his cell phone and was about to call Zoe, the door suddenly opened.


    Zoe''s hair was messy, and her eyes and nose were red. Her clothes were ruffled and wrinkled, and she


    had a baseball bat in her hand.


    Because of that, Daniel subconsciously took a step back while raising both his arms. "I don''t mean


    anything else. I''m just bringing you medicine."


    As Zoe cried earlier, her voice sounded nasal. "Where''s the medicine?"


    Then, Daniel picked up the medicine from the ground and handed it to her.


    Zoe reached out and took it, then lowered her head for a long time before saying, "Thank you."


    "You''re wee. It''s nothing, really."


    Then, she looked at him. "Aren''t you leaving yet?"


    "Right, I''m leaving now."


    After a moment of silence, Zoe said, "Do you want toe in?"


    Daniel looked at her, then looked down. "Why don''t you put that thing in your hand down first?"


    Only then did Zoe realize she had been holding the baseball bat. So, she casually tossed it aside,


    turned around with her medicine, and headed inside.


    Daniel licked his lips, followed her in, and then shut the door behind him.


    Zoe sat on the couch. Then, she lifted her arms only to notice that in addition to the torn skin, there


    were bruises from Anthony''s vigorous strangtion.


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    There were bruises on both arms, and it hurt.


    While she was applying medicine to her injuries, Daniel said while sitting on the single couch next to


    her, "Has he been harassing you recently?"


    Zoe hummed. "He just went to the studio. However, now he found his way here."


    "You''ve been together for years?"


    Upon hearing that, Zoe looked up at him. "Why are you asking that?"


    Daniel raised his hand to show he didn''t mean anything wrong. "I''m sorry, it''s just my curiosity."


    Zoe continued, "We''ve been together since college for four years. We were going to get marriedst


    year, only to find out he cheated."


    "Marry?"


    Then, Zoe slowly said, "Why are you in such a shock? Is getting married a crime?"


    Daniel tugged the corner of his mouth. "No, I just thought¡­"


    Zoe picked up his words and said lightly, "Maybe the concept of marriage is so foreign to you, and you


    never thought about it."


    Daniel did not deny it.


    In fact, from the first moment Zoe saw him, she knew that Daniel believed in marriage-free life. His


    appearance was attractive to girls, and he was obviously a Casanova.


    After Zoe treated the injuries on her arms, she cleaned up the trash.


    Seeing this, Daniel pointed to her face, "There''s more there."


    Zoe was taken aback. "What?"


    Daniel continued pointing at the face. "There''s still blood at that spot."


    Upon hearing that, Zoe raised her hand to touch the face. "Here? Hiss¡­"


    She pulled out her cell phone to look at it. Then, she saw a wound on the left chin that was as long as a


    fingernail and was oozing faint blood.


    Zoe opened the iodine bottle again, dabbed it with a cotton swab, and applied it to the wound.


    However, it was inconvenient to do so while holding the cell phone in one hand. Someone suddenly


    picked up the cotton swab from her hand when she was about to go to the bathroom to clean up in


    front of the mirror.


    At some point, Daniel had taken a seat beside her. "I''ll do it."


    Her pupils dted when Zoe looked up at him.


    Before she could say anything, Daniel gently applied the medicine to the wound on her chin with the


    cotton swab.


    Zoe stared at him with her eyes wide open.


    When Daniel met her gaze, he was startled.


    It waste at night, and the lights lent a gentle ambiance to the surroundings. Consequently, their


    breathing turned ambiguous.


    The atmosphere was just right for a single man and woman.


    So, he moved the swab away to kiss her.


    As their lips were about to meet, Zoe suddenly raised her hand and pped his face, then said calmly,


    "You men are really always up to nothing good."


    Daniel was stunned.


    Then, he put one hand over his lips and cleared his throat. He silently backed away from her to put


    some distance between them. "I''m sorry. If nothing else, I''ll get going¡­"


    When Daniel just stood up, someone pulled on his hand.


    He didn''t expect Zoe to do this. He was caught off guard and fell onto the couch as she pulled him.


    "You¡­"


    Before Daniel could finish his words, Zoe sat astride him to cup his face and kissed it.


    Their pheromones were spreading rapidly in the air. The atmosphere was getting heated.


    After the long kiss, their breaths were haggard.


    Then, Daniel tightened his arms around her waist as his voice turned hoarse. "Are you sure about


    this?"


    In response, Zoe hooked his neck with her arms. Her lips turned all glossy and sparkly under the lights,


    and there was a hint of flirtation in her eyes. "We''re grown-ups. We''re no longer virgins, and I don''t


    need you to be responsible for me, so stop dilly-dallying."


    The look in Daniel''s eyes deepened, and he resumed the kiss.


    The temperature in the living room began to rise. Before long, only gasps and heavy breaths could be


    heard.


    As a muffled thunderp sounded outside the window, the rain poured for the rest of the night.


    ¡­


    The following day, the cell phone beside her bed vibrated before Zoe woke up.


    So, she answered the phone with her eyes closed, and Leanna''s voice came. "Zoe, I''m going to


    Weavside today. I''ll probably be back tonight, ortest by tomorrow."


    Zoe hummed in assent. She was sleepy, so she said instinctively, "Should I still go to that ce today?"


    Leanna stayed silent. Then, she replied, "Yes. However, don''t be rash. I''ll send you a message after I


    get off the ne."


    "Okay."


    Afterward, Leanna said, "You can go back to sleep. Aidan''s here. I''m ending the call now."


    Hearing the disconnected toneing from the cell phone, Zoe put away the phone and stuffed her


    head into the pillow.


    At this moment, she felt a hand ced on her waist.


    Secondster, she shot open her eyes, her drowsiness long gone.


    She sat up abruptly to lift the covers and saw a topless man next to her. All at once, an explosion was


    set off in her head.

 Chapter 464

    Chapter 464


    Daniel''s nice-looking brows furrowed, possibly due to the sudden light.


    Scenes from the previous night shed through Zoe''s mind as she looked at the messy bed sheets and


    the clothes scattered on the floor.


    That sent shivers up Zoe''s spine. Am I crazy?


    What have I done? She scratched her head, wanting to smack herself against the wall.


    Although she always told Leanna that she wanted to flirt and find a yboy for a one-night stand, she


    was merely saying it for fun.


    However, her words had nowe true! Why didn''t I simply find a random stranger? At the very least,


    we don''t know each other and can go our separate ways after today. But no! It''s Daniel here! Sh*t!


    What am I supposed to do now?


    Zoe picked up the clothes on the floor and wrapped them around herself before entering the bathroom,


    not forgetting to take a clean set of clothes with her.


    Hopefully, this man is discreet enough to know that he should leave quietlyter, just as a man who has


    had a one-night stand should. At the very least, if we meet again in the future, we can pretend nothing


    has happened.


    With this in mind, she remained in the bathroom and purposefully made some loud noises to wake him


    up. Then, while waiting for Daniel to leave, she slowly blew her hair dry in the bathroom.


    She stayed in the bathroom for more than an hour beforeing out.


    Just as she entered the dining room and poured herself a ss of water, a voice echoed from behind.


    "Good morning."


    Thatpletely took her aback. Why hasn''t he left?


    Zoe was choked by the water and began coughing, but she stubbornly refused to turn her head.


    Seeing that, Daniel walked to her front. "Are you going to the studio? I can send you there; I''m going


    the same way as well."


    "Thank you, but that''s not necessary. I have other matters to attend to."


    Daniel moved his brows slightly when he heard that. "Find a new ce to stay in. He might show up


    again," he said.


    Even without him saying, Zoe had already decided to move.


    Thus, she replied, "Yes. I''ll look for a new ce on the inteter."


    They both then fell silent. After a brief pause, Daniel stated, "Thendlord has not yet rented out the


    house where you previously stayed with Miss McKinney. Maybe you can¡­"


    "No. I live alone and don''t require such arge space."


    At this moment, Zoe''s phone in the bedroom rang, rescuing her from her awkward situation. She


    quickly walked into the bedroom, not forgetting to close the door behind her, separating herself from


    everything outside the room.


    Daniel raised his brows when he saw that. He stood motionless for a few seconds before turning


    around and walking out of the door.


    The sound of the door closing echoed. Hearing that, Zoe exhaled a deep breath of relief and copsed


    onto the bed, as if all her energy had been drained.


    ¡­


    A flight touched down at Weavside Airport at 1.00PM.


    It was drizzling outside, as it had been on Highside.


    When Leanna got off the ne, she felt the air was fresher here.


    Weavside was, indeed, a better ce to settle in than Highside.


    Throughout her journey to Underwood Lane, Leanna gazed out the window, admiring the scenes of


    drizzling rain falling on the streets.


    She turned around and asked Aidan, "Will tomorrow''s works go on as nned if it continues to rain?"


    "If the rain doesn''t stop tomorrow, the work will be dyed for at most two days."


    "Are you returning only after the works arepleted, or whenever you want?"


    Aidan looked at her. "How long do you wish to stay?"


    "I''m fine with anything since the studio isn''t busy for these few days. If you can''t leave, I can stay for a


    few days longer," Leanna replied.


    Hearing that, Aidan raised his brows. "You can''t bear leaving me, huh?"


    Leanna was stumped for words. This b*stard really has no decent wordsing out of his mouth!


    At this point, they arrived at Underwood Lane and the car came to a halt at the intersection.


    The driver stepped out of the car and went to open the backseat door, with an umbre in his hand.


    Leanna wanted to open the car door, but Aidan grabbed her hand to stop her from doing so. "Wait


    here."


    Then, he got out of the car, took the driver''s umbre, and walked to the other side of the car.


    When the car door opened on her side, Leanna saw Aidan standing straight up in the rain, holding an


    umbre.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    He is indeed eye-catching. At least this b*stard is good-looking enough to make me feel better


    whenever we fight.


    After she got out of the car, both of them then walked side by side down Underwood Lane.


    It appeared as if no one was staying there anymore, as there was no sign of any household on either


    side of thene. The long pathway was covered in yellow, dried leaves, making the entire ce look


    quiet and lonely.


    When they arrived at Naomi''s house, Leanna came to a halt.


    "Do you want to have a look inside?" Aidan''s low voice resonated.


    Leanna shook her head in response. "Forget it."


    She''s no longer here, so it''s pointless for me to look around.


    They then walked to a nearby small stream. Leanna watched the raindrops fall into the stream, causing


    ripple after ripple.


    This ce looked the same as before; nothing had changed.


    After standing for a while, Aidan asked, "Where else do you want to go?"


    "It''s raining; where else can we go? Let''s return to the hotel," Leanna answered.


    Aidan lowered his head and took a look at his wristwatch. "Okay. I have a meeting at 4.00PM as well.


    Let''s go."


    Her eyes sparkled when she heard Aidan say that he had a meetingter.


    Great chance. Things will be easier this time since Jonathan isn''t here.


    When they went back to the hotel, Aidan ordered a meal.


    After they finished their meal, the time was just right.


    "I''m leaving now. Have a good rest; I''ll bring you out tonight," he said.


    Leanna stood up together with him. "Where''s your meeting?"


    "It''s in this hotel," he answered. "I''ll be backtest 6.00PM."


    "I''ll go with you. I don''t have anything to do here anyway." She added, "I will wait for you outside and


    won''t interrupt your meeting."


    Aidan''s brows furrowed reflexively when he heard that. Her demeanor now resembled that of her


    obedient and well-behaved self from three years ago.


    Without giving him a chance to consider, Leanna grabbed his hand and dragged him outside. "Let''s go


    now. Your meeting is about to begin; don''t bete."


    When they arrived at the conference room, she realized that she had previously met with all of the


    people who were going to have a meeting with Aidan.


    Hence, she politely greeted them before turning to Aidan, saying, "I''ll wait for you outside."


    "Sure."


    After a few steps, she turned around and returned to him. "Would you like me to keep your phone?"


    "What?" Aidan asked, his voice low.


    "I recall you would always hand your phone to Jonathan before attending a meeting. If there is a call for


    you, I will answer it first and ry the message to you after your meeting has concluded."


    Leanna''s tone of voice remained constant throughout her sentence. She tried to keep her cool so that


    her true intentions were concealed.


    Aidan pursed his lips when he heard that. It wasn''t clear whether he had any suspicions. Without


    saying a word, he handed his phone to Leanna.


    Leanna took it. "Don''t be nervous. I''m not going to simply scroll through your phone."


    "Well, you won''t be able to find out anything anyway."


    "Do you mean I can scroll whatever I want?"


    She had previously read on the inte that no girlfriend would be able to escape unharmed after


    looking through their boyfriends'' phones.


    To that, Aidan slowly said, "Do it as you wish. My password is your birthday."


    Leanna was rendered speechless right away. When did this b*stard change his password?


    She suddenly felt a little guilty and uneasy.

 Chapter 465

    Chapter 465


    While the meeting was going on, Leanna sat in the lounge next to the conference room, lowering her


    head and looking at the phone on her knees.


    She had no intention of scrolling through Aidan''s phone. All she wanted was to prevent him from


    communicating with his people in Highside.


    After taking a deep breath, she took out her phone and called Zoe, instructing her to go over to the


    ce right now.


    Zoe had long prepared for this. After receiving Leanna''s call, she immediately left her house.


    On the other hand, Leanna sat inside the lounge, looking at the clock ticking away while waiting for


    further news.


    Throughout the entire time, Aidan''s phone did not ring even once.


    About one hourter, Leanna''s phone rang. It was a call from Zoe.


    Leanna almost couldn''t breathe when she saw the caller showing on the screen and answered right


    away. "How''s it, Zoe?"


    Zoe said, "I''ve already gone through a few houses. One is upied by a middle-aged couple, the other


    by a single man, and the other two are empty. I''ve asked the couple, and they told me that one of the


    empty households is upied by a young couple, while the other went outstation two months ago and


    hasn''t returned since."


    Then, Zoe went on, "I even ran into the security guards on their rounds. They said they have no


    impression of the person you mentioned, and that they did not hear any crying sounds of children at


    night either."


    Leanna pursed her lips, unsure whether to be d or disappointed.


    So, is this just another coincidence?


    Perhaps the elevator keycard I picked up isn''t Celia''s.


    But I indeed¡­


    "If you''re still concerned, Nana, I can stay here until tonight to double-check everything. Do you want


    me to check the surveince footage?" Zoe inquired.


    To that, Leanna said, "That''s not necessary. You can go back now."


    Leanna leaned against the couch after hanging up the phone, feeling tired as she raised her hands to


    massage her brows.


    With the situation progressing this way, she felt under so much pressure that she appeared to be ill,


    and she became overly sensitive and would overthink things.


    Things had always been this way. It was as if she was only one step away from the truth, but whenever


    she asked Aidan or investigated herself, the results were always far from what she thought to be the


    truth.


    There was not a single exception.


    She looked out the window, dazed, with disappointment in her mind.


    She had no idea how long it had been before the door to the lounge swung open. "What happened?"


    Aidan asked as he walked to her.


    Leanna quickly gathered her thoughts. "Nothing. I''m just a little dizzy."


    Aidan reached out his hand, ced his palm across her forehead, and frowned. "It''s burning. I''ll send


    you to the hospital now."


    But Leanna shook her head in response and took his hand down. "There''s no need for that. Perhaps I


    caught the flu as a result of the drop in temperature in these few days. I''ll take some flu medicine when


    I get back to the roomter, and I''ll be better after a good night''s sleep."


    Aidan pursed his thin lips when he heard that. "Let''s go back now." He took off his coat and draped it


    over her shoulders.


    "Has your meeting ended?"


    He gave a light hum in response.


    Leanna then stood up and handed him his phone. "There is no call for you, but there are a couple of


    messages. They''re most likely work-rted. I didn''t read any of them."


    Hearing that, Aidan raised his brows slightly. "Why did you not read them? I''ve already told you the


    password."


    "I''m afraid I''ll find something I don''t want to know in your phone. So, I''d better not make things difficult


    for myself."


    That rendered Aidan speechless.


    Leanna then grabbed his hand and continued, "Let''s go back. I''m tired."


    "Okay."


    "What I mean is, if you don''t have anything else nned, let''s go back to Highside. I don''t want to stay


    here any longer."


    Aidan replied, "Can we go back tomorrow morning instead? If the rain doesn''t stop tonight, I''ll have to


    talk to them about a new start date for the construction works."


    Leanna nodded at that. "Sure."


    Aidan smiled as he caressed her head. "What makes you so obedient today?"


    Leanna, unbeknownst to him at this point, was not only obedient, but she also surprised him when they


    returned to their room.


    Just after Aidan requested the reception to send some flu medicines and was pouring Leanna a ss


    of water, Leanna grabbed his shirt before his chest and fell on him.


    Both of them crashed onto the couch and the ss of water that Aidan was holding spilled. He looked


    at her and, his gaze dim and his voice hoarse, asked, "Are you not taking your medicine?"


    Leanna wrapped her arms around his neck as she blinked her watery eyes, saying, "I don''t want to."


    "So, what do you want to do?" His voice was extremely manly and seductive.


    Leanna fixed her gaze on his thin lips, lifted his chin, and kissed him.


    Aidan took the initiative as he wrapped one arm around her slim waist and ced the ss on the


    coffee table with his other hand before pressing on the back of her neck to deepen the kiss.


    He pressed Leanna down on the couch. Her hands were tightly clutching his shirt.


    Their temperature rose steadily, and passion and desire overtook them in seconds.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Aidan stood up and kissed Leanna on her forehead before saying, "Give me a second."


    She knew what he was about to do. Hence, she extended her hand and grabbed his arm.


    "What is it?" The man''s voice was hoarse.


    "Let''s just keep going," she said, her eyes blurring and her breath slightly panting.


    "Keep going?"


    "Yes."


    Aidan dimmed his gaze and didn''t say anything further.


    Leanna was exceptionally proactive tonight.


    It was only until the wee hours that she shut her eyes out of tiredness.


    Aidan carried her in his arms. "Take the medicine before you sleep."


    "You want me to take the pills now because I didn''t let you rubber up?" she asked weakly.


    What is she saying? Aidan was perplexed.


    "Take your medicine now. You''re so sick right now that you can''t even think straight."


    Leanna was at a loss for words.


    She forced her eyes open, took the medicine he handed her, and popped it into her mouth.


    Aidan then turned around to get a ss of water, which he fed to her before cing her on the bed.


    Noticing that he was about to leave, Leanna grabbed his arm. "Where are you going?"


    "I''ll clean up the couch," he answered.


    She quickly turned her body around for some unknown scenes that came to mind. "Okay."


    Aidan curved his lips slightly at that. After tucking her in, he went to the living room.


    The couch was in a mess.


    Twenty minutester, when he returned to the bedroom, Leanna was already sound asleep.


    He knelt beside her and gently pinched her ears. "Do you want to eat anything, Leanna?" he asked in


    hushed tones.


    All he got in response was her even breathing.


    He then slightly tidied her hair before leaving the bedroom and heading straight to the balcony, holding


    his phone in his hand.


    The call he made was quickly answered. "Yes, President Pearson."


    "How''s the situation today?" Aidan asked.


    Keaton then reported, "Miss McKinney''s friend came. But don''t worry President Pearson, everything


    has been arranged exactly as you instructed, with no loopholes at all. Madam Fletcher and the young


    master have been relocated to a different block."


    Aidan leaned against the balcony railings and lit a cigarette. "Alright, I got it," he said tly, his tone


    devoid of emotion.

 Chapter 466

    Chapter 466


    Leanna was jolted awake by her grumbling stomach at midnight. She hadn''t eaten anything other than


    the flu medicine before sleep since she returned with Aidan after the meeting.


    She sat upright on the bed, then realized he wasn''t lying next to her.


    Taking a random shirt of his inside the room and putting it on, she staggered out of the bedroom with a


    heavy head.


    He was working on his tasks on hisptop in the living room.


    The lights in the room stung her eyes as she struggled to keep them open. "It''ste. Why are you still


    up?"


    "I need to check on the rest of the documents." He turned to her. "Why did you get up?"


    She put a hand on her stomach and gave him an honest answer. "I''m hungry."


    He added, "I''ve asked for room service just now. You can see if the food is still warm. We can reorder if


    it''s gotten cold."


    A dining trolley waiting at the door grabbed her attention. She walked over and lifted the food cover.


    "It''s still warm."


    It was in its perfect state.


    Leanna served the dishes on the dining table. Aidan already stood before her when she was about to


    call him over for the meal. He stretched out his arm and felt her forehead with the back of his hand.


    "Are you feeling better?"


    "It''s the same as before."


    "Remember to take medicine again after food."


    She gave a simple response and sat at the dining table for supper.


    In the middle of her meal, she looked out of the window. "It''s still raining."


    He only hummed.


    She added, "It seems like the construction is inevitable to postpone."


    "We could still leave tomorrow afternoon at thetest."


    She pondered for a moment before suggesting, "I can go back on my own if you''re too busy."


    He tore his attention away from the food and met her gaze. "You were being clingy during the day, but


    now I''m nobody to you?"


    She was too shocked to retort his tease. Then, she gave him a quiet answer. "Shut up and eat."


    After supper, Leanna returned to bed for the second time.


    Sitting on the bedside, Aidan whispered a question, "Are you still feeling sick?"


    She replied, "It''s not about that. Just feeling tired."


    "Then sleep." He said softly, "We''re going back to Highside tomorrow."


    She hummed in understanding. "You should go back to your work. Don''t worry about me. I can


    manage."


    Aidan lifted the bed sheet andy next to her. "Forget about that. I can deal with them tomorrow. For


    now, I''m worried that you''ll have trouble falling asleep without me."


    This b*stard is so shameless.


    He switched themp off and wrapped her body in his arms. "You have to go to the hospital if you still


    wake up to the cold."


    Shutting her eyes, she dismissed his words. "We''ll see."


    After a while, she could feel his hand gently patting her back.


    An emotion she couldn''t make out enveloped her in a split second.


    Her voice caught him off guard. "Aidan."


    He lowered his voice in the dark. "What''s wrong?"


    "Are you sure you aren''t hiding something from me?"


    His hand didn''t stop caressing her when he said with ease, "What makes you think so?"


    "Nothing. Just want to seek your assurance." She avoided giving him a detailed exnation. "If things


    are going fine on your side, then probably it''s my problem."


    Aidan inquired further, "What do you mean?"


    She pursed her lips. "It''s nothing."


    She decided to put going to a therapist on schedule once they returned to Highside.


    After a few seconds of silence, he continued, "You''ve got a lot of pressure on youtely, but the


    business with the Crossley Family hase to its end. You already did what needed to be done, so


    leave the rest to me."


    "I understand." She shifted closer and wrapped her arms around his waist. Her voice was barely a


    whisper. "I''m trusting you wholeheartedly at the moment. Therefore, I''ll never doubt your words or


    specte about them when you said you aren''t hiding something from me. However, if it turns out to be


    your lie the whole time one day, I won''t stay with you. It''s better if we stop seeing each¡ª"


    Before she could finish her words, he pressed his lips to hers.


    He began, "You can''t sleep, can you?"


    She met his gaze. "You''re guilty, aren''t you?"


    He pursed his thin lips in conflict and finally spoke up inpromise after debating back and forth.


    "There''s something I didn''t tell you, but I''m not able to share it with you."


    His words put a scowl between her brows. Did I guess it right?


    He continued, not aware of her expression, "All I can tell you is there''s someone behind Daniel. He has


    a deep connection with the Crossley Family, but it seems like he doesn''t n to reveal his identity to


    you. Thus, I can''t do it without his permission."


    As she wasn''t expecting the answer, she took a moment to collect herself before continuing, "This is


    what you''ve been hiding from me?"


    "What else?"


    Oh. We''re on a different wavelength.


    He continued, "Sometimes, it''s the circumstance that holds me back from telling you the truth. It won''t


    do you any good even if you know more about it."


    "I understand¡­ but I have the right to learn the truth if it involves me."


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "People have their reasons not to tell. One day, you''ll learn the truth about everything. It''s only a matter


    of time."


    She parted her lips to retort, but no words came out.


    He wrapped his arms around her tighter. "That''s it. Don''t worry about it. Just remember one thing¡ªthey


    don''t mean any harm."


    Pursing her lips tightly, she couldn''t manage to reply to his words.


    Daniel and his fellows had been a great help since the beginning of the series of events regarding the


    Crossley Family.


    At first, she thought they shared a mutual enemy.


    As things developed, their enemy remained the same, but it seemed like her allies saw protecting her


    as their priority, and Daniel even moved in next to the studio.


    She had been specting William was the person superior to Daniel. However, she didn''t have any


    evidence. Thus, it was all her guess.


    There were hints everywhere, as the same group of people had been dealing with the Crossley


    Family''s business the whole time.


    Mr. Jackson had always been aware that Lloyd was an impostor while William and Daniel were


    acquaintances with the other man. Furthermore, William was the one who stopped Leroy from making


    a haste exit the other day.


    It seems like my guesses are right.


    William''s true identity was thest question that troubled her for the moment.


    Leanna stopped talking when she was lost in her thoughts as she knitted her brows.


    Aidan licked his lips quietly. Knowing her thoughts already wandered somewhere else instead of


    lingering on their recent conversation, he said calmly, "That''s all you need to know. I hope you won''t


    say such things again."


    She hummed a response.


    ...


    Leanna woke up in the afternoon. She looked out of the window at the cleared-up sky. The sun was


    shining brightly, almost blinding her.


    She stretched luxuriously. Sliding off the bed, she walked out of the bedroom and found Aidan on a


    call.


    Based on the fragments of the conversation, it sounded like the construction of Underwood Lane would


    begin as scheduled, which was starting today.


    She poured herself a ss of water in the dining room and let out a sigh of relief.


    She thought to herself that a dreamless slumberst night might be the reason for her lifted spirits,


    which she found betterpared to yesterday.


    After finishing the call, Aidan shoved the phone back into his pocket and came over to her. "The


    construction starts at three. We''ll return to Highside by flight at five. Is that okay with you?"


    She dipped her chin for a nod. "No problem."


    After that, he added, "Get dressed. We''re going somewhere."


    His words alerted her. "Don''t tell me it''s the love lock bridge again."


    A low chuckle escaped him before his answer reached her. "I''ll dly take you there if that''s what you


    want."


    "Thanks, but no thanks. I''m not interested at all."


    She didn''t want to set foot on the love lock bridge ever again for the rest of her life when she recalled


    the colorful photo frame, which held a picture of them, at home.

 Chapter 467

    Chapter 467


    Leanna was surprised to see Aidan bring her to the exhibition hall, where the architectural model of


    renovated Underwood Lane was showing.


    There weren''t many visitors in the exhibition hall while soothing music was ying in the background.


    At that moment, the person in charge approached them. "President Pearson, is there anything I can


    help you with?"


    Aidan declined politely, "Don''t worry about us."


    "Alright. I''ll grab both of you some water."


    Leanna was focused on studying thendscape ns when Aidan stopped beside her. "What do you


    think?"


    She turned to him. "Looks good. Once the project isplete, this ce will most likely be the


    largest resort in Weavside. Besides, it has a unique architectural style. I guess it could attract many


    tourists in the future."


    He raised his brows, his interest piqued as he wasn''t expecting such opinions from her.


    He coaxed, "Anything else?"


    "Hmm¡­" She pondered for a moment as she steered her attention back to the building model in front


    of her. The river between the hotel building caught her attention, and she whispered, "What is this?"


    Aidan answered, "It''s the stream in Underwood Lane. We widened it."


    Realization immediately dawned on her. No wonder I found it familiar.


    Other than the heritage residences along Underwood Lane, the stream was the most distinctive local


    attraction.


    On a hot day, the locals would rather sit beside the stream and enjoy the breeze, which was nicer than


    staying in an air-conditioned room.


    The river water eventually flowed into ake.


    Theke also got a reconfiguration. It was now nned as an attraction next to the hotel. Leanna could


    see a few boats floating on theke.


    Studying the model for a while, she suddenly found that the hotel''s architectural style was developed


    based on the river and theke as key points before adding a few new elements to them.


    It exined her observation that the model set off the unique features of Underwood Lane, and nothing


    seemed off because the project prioritized retaining its soul.


    After she had a good look at the model, another question came to her mind. "How long will it take?"


    "Three years at fastest, five years at slowest."


    Leanna nodded. It was indeed a huge project, so finishing it in three years was considered fast.


    She suggested, "Once the hotel is inaugurated, we shoulde here for vacation."


    His lips curved into a smile. "Of course."


    ¡­


    It was night when the pair returned to Highside.


    When Leanna turned on her phone in the car on their way back to the city, she found a notification


    about a few missed calls from an unknown number.


    Casting a nce at Aidan, she made sure that he was looking at the data, and she pursed her lips


    nervously.


    Once they got home, she strode into the bedroom when he wasn''t looking before closing the door and


    dialing the number. "What''s wrong?"


    On the other side of the phone, Ron asked, "Are you not around Highside these days?"


    She saw no point in denying the truth as she hummed. "I''ve traveled to Weavside a few days ago, but


    I''m back in town now. You called when I was on the ne. What happened?"


    Ron cut to the chase, saying, "You shoulde over tomorrow. I might''ve found the thing Jethro hid in


    the house."


    His words confused her. "The thing he hid?"


    "Right. I''ll tell you the details in person tomorrow." After a pause, he continued, "You better bring your


    brother along."


    Her grip tightened around the phone when she noticed the seriousness in his tone. "Alright. I got it."


    After ending the call, she dialed Louis'' number and asked him about his schedule tomorrow.


    Louis replied, "I only have one ss in the afternoon."


    "Alright. I''ll go pick you up. We''re going back together."


    "Did Jethro cause another trouble?"


    "It''s not about him. Jethro¡­ He can no longer cause us any trouble."


    Even though Leanna never asked Aidan about what happened to Jethro, his fate wasn''t hard to


    foresee.


    Furthermore, she didn''t even want to know what happened to him. For the time being, she would just


    pretend that Jethro died in the prison a long time ago.


    Louis answered, "I''ll wait for you at the campus entrance."


    She gave him a quick answer. As she put her phone aside, someone pushed the bedroom door open.


    Aidan threw a question straight at her. "Who were you talking to? You took so long."


    "Louis. I''m meeting him tomorrow."


    "Did something happen?"


    She opened her mouth, but the story about her business with Ron didn''te out at all as Aidan didn''t


    like to see her hanging out with the other man. Besides, she had no idea about Ron''s agenda, so she


    decided to tell Aidan after she got hold of the situation.


    She kept her expression neutral. "It''s nothing. I haven''t seen him for a long time. It''s my responsibility to


    check up on his well-being as his sister."


    Aidan hummed. "You''re right. Since I''m his brother-inw, I should join both of you."


    His determination put her at a loss for words.


    She pushed him out of the room. "Oh,e on. Stop following me around. Focus on your work


    instead."


    He wrapped his arms around her waist. "Alright, alright. I''m just kidding. Let''s shower?"


    "You go first. I¡ª"


    "Let''s do it together."


    Before her protests could ever leave her tongue, he dragged her into the bathroom.


    ¡­


    The next day, when she descended to the underground parking lot, Leanna was met by Jonathan,


    standing before a brand-new Bentley. He greeted Leanna and Aidan with a smile. "Good to see you,


    President Pearson, Miss McKinney."


    She turned to Aidan and tilted her head, prompting the answer from him.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Receiving the car key from Jonathan, Aidan passed it to her. "The old car is still under repairs. You can


    use this one at the moment. It''s inconvenient to alwaysmute in another''s car."


    She was confused. "Is the tailgating that serious?"


    Jonathan took a step forward. "Here''s the thing, Miss McKinney. That car''s problem isn''t serious, but its


    insurance is. Both parties haven''t resolved the matter yet, so the car is forced to be left with the


    insurancepany as evidence."


    She had zero ideas about car insurance, so she could only agree with him. "I see."


    Opening the door, she looked at Aidan. "I''ll get going now."


    He pursed his thin lips in conflict before finally walking over and grabbing her wrist. "Be careful on the


    road."


    She nodded. "I always drive with caution. I won''t speed up on the road."


    "You should check if there''s a mark indicating someone pried the door open before you get in the car.


    Make sure the seat belt, brake, and elerator have no problem before you hit the road. Don''t answer


    a stranger if they knock on the window. Lock the door and call me, no matter where you are."


    It was a rare sight when he was talking to her with a severe tone, and she was finding his


    uncharacteristic behavior strange.


    She tried to pry. "Did something happen?"


    "Nope. Just be careful. Unless you want to keep traveling in my car."


    "... Thank you. I''ll make sure to be careful."


    After that, she hurried into the car.


    The corner of his lips curled into a smile, and he knocked on the window.


    A few secondster, the window rolled down and showed her face. "Anything else?"


    He said, "I have a meeting in the afternoon, but I don''t know when I''ll be done. So, you can go straight


    home after work. No need to wait for me."


    "Alright." She asked, "Can I go now?"


    Withdrawing his hand, he shoved it into his trouser pocket. "Go on."


    The window rolled up as the conversation ended. The white Bentley was soon out of sight.


    Jonathan walked over to Aidan. "President Pearson, why didn''t you just tell Miss McKinney about the


    ident?"


    Aidan answered calmly, "She has been tense living with the Crossleystely and barely has the


    opportunity to rx, so it''s better not to tell her anything for now. Have someone to keep an eye on the


    studio. Don''t let Georgina or Lloyd''s men get to her."


    "Yes, President Pearson."

 Chapter 468

    Chapter 468


    At the studio, Leanna found Zoe slumping on the cashier counter and sighing every five seconds. So,


    she walked up and asked the youngdy beside Zoe softly, "What''s wrong with her?"


    "I don''t know either. She''s been like this since yesterday."


    "Zoe, have you had your breakfast?" Leanna walked to her side.


    A lifeless Zoe looked up and replied, "I have."


    "What did you have?"


    "A lesson."


    This made Leanna speechless before she dragged Zoe to her office. "What''s wrong? Are you feeling


    sick?"


    Zoe had dead eyes. "What? Maybe? I do feel very unwell."


    At that, Leanna stated, "I''ll send you home, then. You should rest up for now. Or do you want to go to


    the hospital?"


    Yet, Zoe only shook her head andy down on the couch. "It''s alright. I just didn''t have the best


    morning today. I''ll be fine after a short rest."


    Her condition told Leanna that she must have gotten hurt by love again. Without prying any further,


    Leanna ordered a set of breakfast for her before setting down her phone. "Rest up. I''ll wake you up


    later."


    Nodding, Zoe closed her eyes. Half an hourter, the breakfast finally arrived, and she continued to


    nap after her meal until noon.


    Just as she woke up and stretched, someone knocked on the door before a youngdy poked her head


    in. "Miss McKinney, Miss Hart, umm¡­ Mr. Daniel''s here." This made Zoe instantly freeze in her


    stretching position, speechless.


    Leanna asked her, "Did he say why he came?"


    "He didn''t. He dide by yesterday afternoon, but Miss Hart wasn''t here. After waiting for about half


    an hour, he left, stating that he would swing by again today."


    Leanna gazed at Zoe. "So, he''s here for you."


    Zoe slowly put her hands down. "Just say that I''m not around¡ªno¡ªsay that I''m out of town, abroad,


    and I won''te back for another ten years or so!"


    The youngdy and Leanna were caught speechless by her words.


    Then, Leanna told the youngdy, "You can tell him that Zoe has gone for a shoot today. If he asks you


    about the location, just say that you don''t know."


    "Okay."


    When the door was closed, Leanna inquired, "Did you two¡ª"


    To this, Zoe had an exaggerated reaction. "We did not! Nothing happened!"


    Leanna was puzzled by her. Pausing for two seconds, she then stared at her, wide-eyed. "You were too


    rash."


    Zoe was remorseful. "Don''t bring it up. I regret it immensely! What was I thinking? Still, I have to chalk it


    up to that b*stard, Anthony. If not for him making such a ruckus in the dead of night, I wouldn''t have


    made such a stupid decision¡­"


    Hearing this, Leanna frowned. "Anthony? Did hee seeking trouble?"


    Zoe exined briefly, "I don''t know how he managed to find my ce, but he was making a scene


    when Daniel showed up."


    This made the frown on Leanna''s forehead deepen. "You can''t stay there anymore. Have you found a


    new ce?"


    "I have been doing that, but no suitable ones have popped up. I stayed at a hotelst night."


    Leanna took a look at the time before suggesting, "I''m going to pick Louis up before going to Jethro''s


    ce for a while. When those are done, I''lle with you to look for a new ce."


    Nodding, Zoe asked, "Why are you and Louis going back there?"


    "Ron wanted me to go over. I don''t know why either."


    "Ron?"


    Leanna replied, "He has been staying there for the time being."


    When she stood up and wanted to leave, Zoe followed suit. "I''lle with you since it''s meaningless to


    stay here."


    Considering her current situation, Leanna thought that would be better for her to get some fresh air


    than to stay cooped up in here, so she agreed to it.


    At the sight of their exit, Daniel wanted to approach them when he saw them entering the car,


    seemingly heading to a destination. Without any hesitation, he trailed after them.


    After arriving at the school and picking Louis up, Zoe had changed from a sullen expression to an


    excited one. "Louis, do you have any handsome men in your school that has a six-pack? It''d be best if


    they''re athletes, like ying basketball, super into sports, and has a great body. If there are any,


    introduce them to me."


    Louis did not know how to answer her, so he said, "Did you break up with Daniel?"


    Zoe''s smile froze up upon hearing this, and sheughed awkwardly afterward. "I''m not even in a


    rtionship with him, so why would you say that?"


    Obviously, he did not buy her words.


    After a short while, the car arrived outside an old apartment block.


    Leanna pulled open the car door. "Let''s go." As the one who was leading them, she cautioned the


    group when they were ascending the stairwell. "The lights are not functioning, so walk slowly." The


    stairwell was very dark, for no light was able to shine through.


    Not familiar with the environment, Zoe identally had a misstep and screamed. She thought she was


    about to fall when somebody suddenly held onto her arm, pulling her into their embrace.


    At the same time, Leanna and Louis turned around, wanting to ask her if everything was alright. Yet,


    the scene made them quietly look away and continued to climb the stairs.


    After Zoe had returned to her senses, she quickly stood up and distanced herself from the person.


    "Why are you here?"


    Daniel withdrew his arms and revealed a smile. "I''m here for you."


    She did not say anything else and only ignored him before catching up to Leanna.


    Unlocking the door, Leanna waited for everyone to be in the residence before she announced, "Come


    out."


    As usual, Ron came in from the balcony. Seeing that it was him made Louis frown, and Ron did not


    expect so many people in attendance either, so it raised his caution.


    Noticing this, Leanna stated, "They are my friends. Since we had something else going onter, they


    came with us. I can talk in private with you if you want to."


    He replied, "No need." He knew that if she wanted to do something to him, she would not have let him


    stay here for so long. Subsequently, he led them to Jethro''s room. "Come in."


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    At the sight of an empty closet with clothes and trash scattered on the floor, Louis asked, "What do you


    want to show us?"


    Ron stood in front of the closet and replied, "ording to my knowledge of Jethro, he would have


    thought about selling the house after umting so much debt. That made me think that there might


    be something up with this ce. My theory is that he hid something here." After a slight pause, he


    continued, "I searched around for a few days before concluding that the back of the closet is hollow. I''m


    pretty sure whatever it is he''s hiding is in there."


    This made Leanna ask, "Haven''t you opened it yet?"


    "No. Regardless of what is hidden inside, I thought that I should open it in front of you guys."


    She knew what he meant, for he wanted to avoid any suspicion directed at him. No matter what it was,


    it was something that belonged to Jethro''s family, so it was only appropriate for them to find out what it


    was.


    Finally, Ron grabbed a metal rod from the ground and smashed it against the back of the closet.

 Chapter 469

    Chapter 469


    As Ron was smashing the closet, everyone looked at its insides with bated breath. The space behind


    the cab was tiny, and there was barely any space for maneuvering after Ron crawled in.


    It was then Leanna asked him, "Did you find anything?"


    Shaking his head, he found this situationpletely off. Jethro couldn''t have put so much effort into


    making a human-sized enclosure yet not put anything in it.


    As Louis entered and scanned the enclosed space, he reached out to touch the wall. "This wall is


    unlike the others in the room. It''s so rough, and you can see that the cement was not covered on some


    parts of the wall."


    Leanna parted her lips and understood her brother''s words, but she could not wrap her head around


    the situation. What is this thing for Jethro to build a wall behind his closet?


    At this point, Zoe peeked inside and asked, "It''s quite troublesome to tear down a wall. How about we


    call the experts to do it?"


    Ron looked at the pock-marked wall and use his rod to knock on it. Immediately, some chunks fell off.


    "Since the cement did not cover the entire wall, it''s not hard to tear it down," hemented.


    With one look, they could tell that Jethro had very limited strength and energy when building this wall,


    hence the shoddy workmanship.


    Finding the biggest crack in the wall, Ron struck at it with all his might, instantly copsing the wall. It


    was then a rectangr wooden box revealed itself in the corner of the wall.


    At that, Zoe could not help but express, "He did hide something in here! Could it be some priceless


    treasure?"


    The moment Leanna saw the box, she mped up on the spot with a bad premonition and instinctively


    grabbed onto Louis'' arm. Meanwhile, Ron kneeled on the rubble before taking out a dagger to pry open


    the box.


    The instant it was opened, everyone on the scene froze.


    A chilly wind ran down Zoe''s spine and she was so shocked that she almost bit her tongue while


    talking. Subconsciously, she stumbled backward only to hit an object. Turning around, she saw that


    Daniel was staring ahead with a gaze darker than Leanna''s and Louis''.


    After an unknown time had passed, Leanna slowly closed her eyes and uttered with a shaky voice,


    "Let''s call the police."


    In the past, she had always thought that Jethro was an avid gambler and a bit of an *sshole, yet she


    never thought that he was capable of doing this.


    With tightly pursed lips, Louis looked like he was suppressing something within him.


    Just as Zoe fished out her phone wanting to call the police, Daniel grabbed her hand. "Wait."


    She was confused. "For¡­ what?"


    He gazed at Leanna and asked, "Miss McKinney, a word?"


    Snapping back to reality, she turned toward Ron. "You should go first. I''ll tell the police that we found


    this ce by ident."


    Ron nodded, for he was just as shocked as everyone. After all, who would have thought that such a


    slovenly and useless b*stard like Jethro would hide a body in his secret enclosure?


    After he left, Leanna and Daniel walked to the living room. "What do you want to talk about?" she


    asked.


    He replied, "Although I know that my words might be a little rude and impolite, I believe that the person


    inside might be your¡ª"


    She cut him off with a soft tone. "I know."


    "If we call the cops now, once news of this gets out, it''ll cause a huge buzz. It might even give Leroy,


    who is hiding God knows where, a chance."


    His words made her frown." What do you suggest, then?"


    "We should handle this matter quietly. I can arrange it for you."


    Leanna shook her head. "I appreciate your kindness, but this is my mother. I see no reason to leave


    this matter in your hands."


    Pursing his lips, Daniel said, "Miss McKinney, you should know by now that I will not harm you."


    Yet, she looked at him with an unwavering gaze. "Yes, I know that you won''t harm me. Although I am


    curious as to why you had such a huge reaction upon seeing my mother''s remains, so much so to the


    point where you were even more shaken than Louis and I was. Who are you, exactly? Or should I say,


    what do you want?"


    "I¡­" Her question caught Daniel off guard.


    After a while, he closed his eyes and said, "Miss McKinney, what I can tell you is that Jethro is in our


    hands. We''ve been trying to locate where your mother''s tomb was from him all this time. He has led us


    one too many times on a wild goose chase. All we want is for your mother to rest in peace."


    Leanna argued, "If so, then you only need to give me one reason why I should hand her remains over


    to you."


    Still, Daniel could not answer her.


    She continued, "Now that Louis and I are here, regardless if we called the police or not, from my point


    of view, I can''t possibly let some stranger handle this. You say that you have Jethro and that your


    people have been searching for my mother''s tomb. I believe that, but don''t you think it is time for you to


    convince me rather than make me blindly believe in your words every time?" With a pause, she added,


    "You and whoever is behind you¡ªwho are you guys? And what rtionship do you share with my


    mother?"


    It was then that Zoe and Louis walked out of the room, looking as if they were waiting for Daniel''s


    answer too.


    A few minutes had passed, and he let out a chuckle. "This matter is not for me to decide." After a short


    silence, he finally caved in. "Please wait while I make a call." He then went downstairs.


    When the door closed, Leanna proceeded to sit on the couch and shut her eyes. Yet, her brain


    reyed the scene from the back of the closet.


    Zoe sat down beside her and patted her back gently. "Nana, don''t think about it. We can always just


    call the cops. That''s the best option for me, at least."


    Looking lifelessly forward, Leanna finally spoke after a long silence, "I never thought that Jethro would


    do this."


    Zoe added, "Me too. That''s insane. He''s truly nuts, hiding a body in the wall that''s behind his closet, no


    less. This person has lost his marbles."


    Standing there with a sullen expression, Louis suddenly announced, "I''m heading out too."


    When he left, Zoe felt more afraid as she closed the distance between her and Leanna.


    Who could have thought that the body was not buried at a graveyard after twenty years? Instead, it was


    ced in that very house in its entirety.


    It was then they found out how truly terrifying Jethro was. He could live with a body for twenty years.


    Now that they thought about it, if he couldmit such a heinous act, then sending her daughter to


    Patheon Club was nothing to him.


    As one would say, never judge a book by its cover.


    This had indeed been a rollercoaster ride, an utterly frightful one. Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.

 Chapter 470

    Chapter 470


    At Pearson Group''s building, Aidan was immediately approached by Jonathan after he emerged from


    the meeting room. "President Pearson, something happened," Jonathan reported.


    Aidan came to a halt with a tense jaw. "Is it Leanna again?"


    "Yes¡­ and no."


    Expressionless, he reminded Jonathan, "Don''t leave me hanging."


    Jonathan hurriedly added, "Mrs. Pearson went back to Jethro''s ce with Louis, and she found out that


    ¡ª"


    Aidan clenched his jaw. "What? Is that a top secret too?"


    Technically, there was nothing secretive about Jonathan''s discovery. However, in his thirty years


    serving Aidan, which he considered eventful, he had note across anything like that. The more he


    thought about it, the more he felt terrorized.


    He whispered, "They found her mother."


    "Where?"


    "At¡­ Jethro''s ce."


    Aidan turned over with a hardened expression. "You sure?"


    Jonathan nodded. "I got the news from them. I heard that Daniel was there too. This news is almost


    confirmed."


    Aidan''s eyes narrowed, and after a pause, he went in a different direction as he ordered coldly, "Dy


    my schedule for now. I''m heading out."


    Jonathan followed closely behind him. "Sure." Next, he quickly took out his phone to settle Aidan''s


    schedule for the day.


    When they were in the car, Aidan checked with him. "So, how''s the situation over there?"


    "Are you asking about William''s or Mrs. Pearson''s?"


    "Both."


    "Judging from the situation, Mrs. Pearson probably has not made a police report. I assume Daniel


    stopped her from doing so because we all know this would be shocking news. None of us would


    benefit from the exposure. If Leroy Crossley learns about this in his hiding, there''ll be more trouble for


    us." He added, "William must''ve heard about the news because Daniel was at the scene. I''m not sure


    how they would take care of the matter. Should we ask?"


    Aidan pursed his lips and fell silent for a while. Then, he replied, "No. We will get to know soon."


    ¡­


    Daniel had not returned after heading out to make the call. Not only that, Louis was nowhere to be


    seen.


    As for Leanna, she remained seated on the couch and stared nkly out of the windows. Something


    was clearly on her mind.


    After what seemed like an eternity, she heard footsteps near the door. Zoe quickly stood up to check


    and observed that the man was Aidan; his presence was wee because they would feel less fear.


    As a result, she made an excuse to meet with Daniel and went out.


    Aidan took a seat beside Leanna and wrapped an arm around her shoulders, coaxing her softly, "It''s


    okay. Everything''s alright now."


    In a daze, she nced at him and said, "Why are you here? I thought you had work today."


    "You are my priority."


    She tightened her grip on his shirt and mumbled, "I never thought it''d be like this¡­"


    He hugged her but could note up with anyforting words.


    This was a ce where she and Louis had lived for two decades. They spent numerous days here,


    unaware that a body was hidden in the wall. To make matters worse, it was their mother''s corpse.


    Aidan patted her back gently and provided her with silentpany. Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    A whileter, they heard uneven footsteps apanied by amotion near the door.


    She looked up from his arms and saw someone being pushed into the room. It was Jethro.


    He was no stranger to being treated in this way. He scrambled up from the floor, dusted his shirt, and


    finally noticed that the wall behind his cab was knocked down. His face paled as he stumbled into


    the room with his injured leg. He bellowed, "Who did this? How could you damage my house? I''m going


    to file a police report!"


    Louis entered at this time and dered icily, "I did it."


    Jethro immediately took him by the cor and started cursing, "You b*stard! I should''ve drowned you


    when you were born. It''s a waste of my effort raising you, you wretched thing!"


    Someone pulled him aside midway, but he kept cursing with filthy words.


    Leanna went up to him without much emotion. "You want to file a report? Sure, go to the police. I


    wonder how many years you''d get for hiding a body behind the wall."


    He spat and berated her, "What do you know? That''s my woman. I can bury her wherever I want. Am I


    in the wrong? I¡­"


    He wanted to argue but cowered a bit after seeing Aidan beside her. Anyway, he was a man at the end


    of his rope, and he had nothing to lose after his dirtiest secret was revealed.


    Jethro was being held back by others but still went on. "A body would be buried in the ground anyway!


    Why can''t I bury her in the wall? I''m doing this in my house! Tell me why!"


    Leanna had never hoped to retrieve any useful information from conversations with him. Suddenly, she


    felt that all her energy had been drained of her. Before she cked out, she reached out to grab Aidan


    and attempted to say something, but she could not make a sound at all.


    Right before she lost consciousness, she sensed that she had fallen into a warm and firm embrace.


    She heard echoes of people calling out to her, but at the same time, she could not make out a thing


    from the noises around her.


    Soon, she plunged into pitch-darkness.


    ¡­


    At the hospital, Jonathan whispered while staring concernedly at the woman in the bed. "President


    Pearson, the police have left."


    "What about the body?"


    "It''s sent to the coroner. Once the post-mortem''s done, we can start with the funeral preparations."


    "Okay." Aidan asked again, "Did he not show up at all?"


    Jonathan shook his head. "Nope."


    "Got it. You can leave now."


    Once Jonathan was gone, he turned his attention to Leanna, his big hands holding hers. There was


    some telepathy between them. At that moment, hershes fluttered, and she slowly opened her eyes.


    After nkly surveying her surroundings, she finally managed to focus on Aidan after some time. "Am I


    in the hospital?"


    "Yes. You fainted. How do you feel now?"


    Leanna propped herself up with an arm. "I feel a bit dizzy¡­ Oh, where is Louis?"


    "He''s at the police station."


    It took her a while to respond, "Did someone go with him?"


    "Daniel and Zoe did."


    She let out a relieved sigh. "That''s better."


    "Why are you worried about him? You''re the one lying in the hospital now."


    "I''m afraid he would find it hard to ept the terrible news."


    He chided her, "And did you seriously think you''d cope with it better than he would?" He scanned the


    hospital room andmented without reservation, "Like how you''re doing now?"

 Chapter 471

    Chapter 471


    She pursed her lips, responding with silence.


    He pressed the incline button for the bed and put a pillow behind her back. Sounding slightly stiff, he


    asked her, "What do you want to eat? I can buy it for you."


    "Anything will do."


    "Okay. Stay here and don''t move around. Press the call button for the nurse if you don''t feel well."


    She looked at him with pitiful eyes. "Okay."


    Why is he angry?


    Soon, he left to get food. A tiny sigh of relief escaped from her mouth. She tried to search for her phone


    around the headboard storage but failed. Since she did not have much energy for any other activities,


    she sat on the bed doing nothing. Thankfully, Aidan was back in no time.


    She stared at the tons of hearty food he bought and gasped. "I can''t eat everything."


    He replied coolly, "I know you don''t always see me as human, but I need to eat too."


    She did not reply, thinking that something must be wrong with Aidan. She had no idea how she had


    offended him.


    She wanted to get out of bed, but he instantly ordered her to remain seated. Feeling the pressure, she


    quickly obeyed.


    Then, he ced some hot soup and bread in front of her. She watched as he returned to his spread of


    food on the coffee table. Comparing their food, shemented, "Am I only eating this?"


    He was expressionless. "I thought you said anything would do."


    "Yes. I''m okay with soup and bread, but I saw some other food."


    He responded firmly, "Those are for me."


    She took a deep breath and decided to let this slip. Nibbling on the bread and sipping the soup, she


    thought they were tasteless.


    On the other hand, Aidan had ordered all her favorite dishes for himself.


    That b*stard! He must have bought those types of food to provoke me! How can he eat those dishes


    when he can''t even handle spicy food?


    Finally, she begged in a mosquito voice, "Aidan, can you let me have a taste of¡ª"


    "No."


    "Just one bite."


    "Not even half bite."


    She sulked. Great. Get out, you b*stard!


    Pushing aside the soup and bread, shey on the bed and pulled a nket over her head to stop


    herself from being enticed by the mouth-watering smell of his meal.


    The doctor and nurse visited shortly after to give her a quick check. They concluded that she was fine


    and that she was only overwhelmed by the extreme stress and sudden shock earlier, so she fainted.


    Therefore, she was prescribed a few days'' rest.


    She asked, "When can I be discharged?"


    "Well¡­"


    Aidan joined the discussion. "In two weeks."


    She gasped in shock. "I merely fainted! I don''t have a broken leg. Why so long?"


    The doctor coughed awkwardly. "Your condition isn''t serious, but you can''t overexert. Dealing with


    people and other life matters can affect your mood, which is why I rmend two weeks stay in the


    hospital. When your body has fully recovered, you can be discharged."


    Not giving her a chance to argue, the doctor excused himself. "We''ll leave now. If you have anything,


    press the call button for the nurse." Then, they hurried out of the room without giving her the time to


    object.


    When the door closed, Aidan said to her, "Did you hear him? Time to sleep now."


    Leanna turned toward him and protested sternly, "He said it was a suggestion, which I can technically


    refuse to follow."


    His eyes twitched and his lips were pursed.


    Noticing that, she knew that he would admonish her again. So, she quickly pulled the nket over


    herself and shut her eyes. "Alright, I''ll sleep now. Let''s talk about this tomorrow."


    He did not reply to that.


    Indeed, she was bone-tired and exhausted, both mentally and physically. Soon after, she drifted into


    dreand. After some time, she sensed a weight on the other side of the bed, and she was hugged


    from the back.


    Perhaps they were used to each other''s presence after living together for some time. Even in the


    hospital room, she did not feel odd about the proximity. She flipped around reflexively and wiggled into


    his arms.


    Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his chin on the top of her head. His cold steely


    eyes were shining with warmth again.


    Since she did not n to tell him about the incident at Jethro''s ce, he could not fathom the oue


    if he had not been there when she fainted.


    The thought of that possibility angered him again. She was breathing evenly in her sleep, and he


    yfully gave her a venomous bite on the lip, leaving marks behind.


    She frowned in her sleep and was about to bat him away, but he had already pulled back and


    embraced her tighter. It would be better to keep her at the hospital for now, away from those worrisome


    matters¡­


    ¡­


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    It was already 11.00PM when everything was settled at the police station.


    Since Jethro had originally broken out of jail by feigning death, and he was considered an inmate


    serving a sentence, he was sent back again to prison and would only be trialed if there was any


    progress on the case of his wife.


    Still, he had been cussing at Louis up until the moment he was hauled away, warning his son that he


    would never escape from the shadow of his father due to their blood ties.


    Throughout the ordeal, Louis was emotionless and silent.


    When they left the police station, Zoeforted him. "Louis, he''s a madman who speaks nonsense.


    Don''t take it to heart."


    He was pulled back from his thoughts and nodded. "Sure."


    She was at a loss for words at his careless reply. Her attempt atforting him was apparently


    ineffective.


    Thankfully, Daniel interjected and told him, "It''ste. I''ll send you back to campus."


    Louis replied, "It''s alright. The school is closed at this hour."


    "How about crashing at my ce?"


    "No, it''s fine."


    Zoe questioned, "Where are you staying for tonight?"


    Louis answered, "Don''t worry about me. I have a ce to go."


    "No, that can''t do. I need to make sure that you are in safe hands before I leave. If not, I can''t assure


    Leanna." She brought up Leanna to force him toply. "Plus, she''s still in the hospital. You can''t


    possibly make her worry about you."


    At that, Louis merely frowned without a word.


    Daniel added, "Alright now. Louis, you can stay at my ce. I''m not going to be home tonight. So, you


    can rest well."


    Suddenly, Zoe sensed that something was off from Daniel''s suggestion and stole a look at him.


    Coincidentally, she found him staring at her too. Why is my wretched intuition always spot on? Is he


    nning to follow me home instead?


    She dodged his stare and told Louis, "You can also check in at a hotel if you want."


    He paused before saying, "I''ll go to the hospital."


    She reminded him, "Aidan must be by her side now. Aren''t you afraid that he might not wee you?"


    He pursed his lips. "I won''t step into her room."

 Chapter 472

    Chapter 472


    Zoe was going to persuade him, but helplessness clouded her when words surged to her tongue. This


    kid is way more stubborn than Leanna.


    Daniel suggested, "Let''s head there together. I wanna meet Miss McKinney too."


    She was speechless at that suggestion. Why does he keep butting into others'' business?


    At the hospital, the trio stood in front of the door to the patient room, noticing the lights in it were turned


    off. She whispered, "She must be asleep. Should we leave?"


    Louis seated himself on a chair and leaned his head against the wall. Indifferently, he replied, "You


    guys can leave. I''ll stay."


    "But you¡ª"


    Daniel pulled Zoe before she could finish her words. He then spoke to Louis, "Very well, then. Ring us


    up if there''s anything."


    Louis hummed in response and Daniel dragged her out of the hospital, at which she released herself


    from his grasp. Her brows knitted together. "How could you let him stay right at the door all alone? He''s


    ¡ª"


    "It''s gonna be a white night for him anyways," he elucidated. "Instead of letting him do something stupid


    somewhere we don''t know, Aidan''s men are at the hospital. They''ll keep an eye on him. Besides, Miss


    McKinney is just right in there. He won''t do anything impulsive."


    Zoe figured that he had a point. No matter what, the one who was hurt the most and suffered from a big


    blow was Louis. Just why does he have such a feckless father? If only he doesn''t have Jethro''s blood


    in him¡­


    Noticing her dazed expression, Daniel approached closer to her. "Something on your mind?"


    Raising her gaze, she looked at that face in close proximity and retreated instinctively. However, she


    did not expect the fleet of stairs behind her and she fell backward, unprepared.


    He hurriedly stretched and wrapped his arm around her waist to pull her back, but her face fell at that


    instant. Why do we keep getting touchy today? It''s like I''m doing it on purpose!


    After stabilizing her footing, she widened the distance between them and smiled lightly. "Sorry for the


    trouble today. We should head-on with our way from here. I¡ª"


    "Where do you live?"


    "Huh?"


    He added, "I went to your cest night, but no one''s there."


    "Who would live there after that incident?" muttered Zoe. Wait, but why was he looking for me?


    "A hotel?" Daniel questioned. Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Zoe nodded in hesitation as she was unsure why he asked that.


    "I''ll give you a lift."


    "No, thanks. I can take the cab." She refused right at the same time he offered his help.


    Having said that, she hurried to the roadside to see the empty streets. Forget about cabs, she barely


    even saw any vehicles. She took out her phone and called for an Uber, which was rushing to her from


    about three miles away.


    Zoe noticed that Daniel had not left too; he was standing just right behind her. Frustration bubbled in


    her, urging her to cancel that Uber request just to request someone nearer. Still, the app notified that


    that was the nearest driver to her at the moment.


    Left with no choice, she could only wait while he riveted at that spot. It seemed like he had no intention


    to approach her, and she did not know what was on his mind.


    She held her phone with both hands and her body was stiff. It was an endeavor to maintain her sturdy


    posture.


    Over ten minutes had passed, and a white car halted in front of her. After confirming the license te,


    Zoe quickly opened the door and hopped into the car.


    Seeing her off, Daniel took note of the license te and turned around. There was a bunch of work


    waiting for him tonight, so he could not tag along.


    He left the hospital and headed toward Jackson''s ce, where there were already three of them


    waiting for him. All of them were there for what happened today.


    Watching Daniel enter, Jackson propped himself to his feet with his cane. "How was it? Is it settled?


    Have you confirmed who''s the victim?"


    Daniel nodded. "They haven''t performed an autopsy yet, but I''m pretty much sure. I''ve spoken to the


    police. They will keep every information confidential."


    Jackson was so incensed that his body trembled. "Preposterous! How could such a person even exist?


    I did not expect this to happen!"


    Elijah held him to offer some support. "Calm down, Mr. Jackson. You gotta beware of your health."


    Jackson sat down, but his expression was still grim. "I just can''t imagine those years she spent all


    alone in that wall. What¡ª"


    Halfway through his exmation, he coughed a few times and William coldly piped up, "Where''s


    Jethro?"


    "Behind the bars."


    "What did he say?"


    Daniel supposed that it was fortunate that he was the one staying there, not William. Otherwise, things


    would have gone beyond control. After a moment of silence, he replied, "He said dead people are


    gonna be buried anyway, so he buried her in his own house, not someone else''s ce. He imed that


    he did not do anything wrong."


    William sniggered, but his countenance was icy. Jackson, who took a while to regain hisposure,


    questioned, "Where''s her body? Where is she?"


    "The forensic team is performing the autopsy. Only when they''re done can we proceed with the funeral,


    but¡­"


    "But what?"


    "The family has to identify the body," William continued without any warmth in his voice.


    Jackson coughed again. "That''s another case. The truth is out and has revealed Leroy''s true colors.


    Just tell Leanna everything. What is the use to keep her in the dark?"


    While William''s visage tensed up in silence, Elijah exined, "Mr. Jackson, Leanna and Louis have


    grown up together. He''s the most important person to her, as well as her only family."


    Jackson''s brows knitted. "So what? I''ve met that youngd. He''s good-looking and nice. Above all, he''s


    Sandra''s son. You¡ª"


    "Louis and Miss McKinney do share the same mother, but his father is Jethro. Jethro has put her in


    danger many times before this. And now this? Hiding a body? If we tell her the truth, it''s gonna put


    everyone in a difficult position."


    Jackson sighed before adding, "Are you sure about that? Is that boy not¡ª"


    Daniel shook his head, for they had reconfirmed over and over again¡ªLouis was indeed Jethro''s son.


    William stood up. "It''s gettingte. You should get some rest."


    Jackson nodded. When Daniel and Elijah were trailing behind him, Elijah whispered, "How''s Leanna?"


    "I''ve visited her at the hospital. She''s asleep and Aidan is apanying her."


    "Go there again tomorrow."


    "What about you?"


    Elijah forced a smile. "Aidan might drive me out once I arrive at the entrance."

 Chapter 473

    Chapter 473


    As she had fallen asleep since afternoon, Leanna was awake before the sun rose to the sky. She


    stretched her body before turning around to look at the sleeping man next to her. Hushing her breath,


    she did not want to wake him up.


    Anyone would fall in love with the sight of Aidan deep in slumber. Quietly, she watched him for a while


    and lifted the nket. Just as she was going to get off the bed, someone grabbed her wrist.


    The man''s husky yet sleepy voice resounded. "Where are you going?"


    "T-To the toilet," replied Leanna in an undertone. "You''re up? It''s still early. You should get some more


    sleep."


    He hummed with closed eyes, but his grasp remained. So, she hovered over him. "Aidan?"


    Receiving zero response, she continued, "I need to use the washroom. I won''t run away."


    Only then did the grasp around her hand slowly loosen. She got out of bed and covered the nket


    over him before heading to the toilet. Once she came out, drowsiness had faded and so she stood by


    the window, relishing in the scenery.


    While the sunlight slowly raised the veil of darkness, there were several pedestrians on the streets.


    Although summer wasing soon, clouds of mists still injured amidst the morning air. It seemed


    chilly.


    After standing there for a couple of minutes, she returned to the bed and in a soft voice, she called,


    "Aidan?" After a momentary pause, she added, "I''ll wander downstairs ande back half an hour


    later. Sweet dreams."


    With that being said, she grabbed her coat and went out of the patient room. By the time she arrived at


    the entrance, she did not expect to see the person in the corridor.


    Leanna was dazed for a second. "Louis, why are you here?"


    "How are you feeling?" Louis rose to his feet. Judging from his haggard face, he spent the night without


    a wink of sleep.


    "I''m fine. I feel much better already." She stared at him with knitted brows. "You spent the whole night


    here?"


    Instead of answering her question, he imed, "Since you''re fine, I should get going."


    However, she thwarted him the moment he turned around. "Wait."


    She then took a nce at the patient''s room before yanking him out to the garden at the hospital,


    where only silence filled the empty area.


    Leanna withdrew her hand. "I know what you''re thinking, but I''m telling you, just snap out of it. You are


    my brother. You have nothing to do with someone else. Do you hear me?"


    Louis stretched a smile, a self-mocking one.


    She pursed her lips and added, "Louis, Jethro''s the one who did everything. It has nothing to do with


    you. You are just you. Got it?"


    The atmosphere went quiet for a while until his voice cut the air. "Impossible."


    "What?" She did not catch his word clearly.


    "It''s impossible." He watched her with hollow eyes. "I''m his son; his blood is running in me. I can never


    escape from his shadow."


    "Louis¡ª"


    "You don''t have to say anything. I understand."


    Leanna continued, "And what do you understand? If you really do, you won''t be standing here right


    now. Louis, we cannot choose our parents, but the future is in our hands. You are not Jethro, and you


    will never turn into someone like him. You''re my brother and I''m always proud to have someone like


    you. We''re each other''s family. This is what you should keep in mind."


    Leaving him no time to speak, she added, "I don''t care what Jethro told youst night. Just get back to


    school and study. Have you forgotten about your promise to look after me? Be a man of your word. I''m


    still waiting here."


    While he hung his head low without uttering a word, she patted him on the shoulder. "Alright. It''s school


    time."


    Louis hummed in response. "Okay."


    After watching him leave, she withdrew her gaze and intended to moon around the garden when she


    saw the man standing not far away from her. She approached him. "How long have you been down


    here?"


    Aidan''s deep eyes stared right into hers as his voice was husky. "Not long ago."


    She was not buying it. If her guess was correct, he followed her all the way down here because he


    could not sleep when she left the room. It''s not like I''ll run away.


    "Let''s head upstairs," suggested Leanna.


    "Didn''t you say you want to wander around?" he reconfirmed.


    "Don''t feel like it anymore."


    "Do women change their minds as fast as you do?"


    Going speechless momentarily, she shot res at him. "Are youing or not? Or should I go alone?"


    The corner of Aidan''s lips curled upward as he trailed behind her, heading to the patient room. Tucking


    in bed, she checked on the time. It was only about 6.00AM, but drowsiness did note to her.


    She gazed at the man who was kneading his brows on the couch and asked softly, "Not gonna sleep


    anymore?"


    He hummed. "You should sleep now."


    Chewing it over again, she decided to bring that topic up. "About Ron, have you settled it? I¡ª"


    Before she could finish her words, his gazended on her coldly.


    She reminded him, "You promised me."


    "And I''ve told you not to meet him alone."


    "Then¡ª"


    "And you didn''t n on telling me about the huge incident that happened yesterday."


    Leanna elucidated, "It''s not like I wasn''t nning to tell you, but Ron just wanted me and Louis to drop


    by. I didn''t know what was actually happening. It''s only after the wall was demolished¡ªI haven''t


    gathered my thoughts yet, so how am I supposed to tell you?"


    "Well, you''ve got a bunch of excuses." Aidan''s voice spoke of indifference.


    She corrected, "It''s not an excuse but the truth."


    He reclined into the back of the couch and crossed his legs. "What else?"


    She licked her lips. "You could tell?"


    "It''s written all over your face. How can I not?"


    "It''s¡­ about Louis."


    He reciprocated slowly, "So, you want me to check if he''s Jethro''s son?"


    She nodded.


    "They looked into it, though."


    She pursed her lips. Indeed, Daniel did feel her out to get the answer to the matter. Aside from them,


    no one would probably care about it. She went silent for a moment. "I''m not sure how they dig into it,


    but I reckon they haven''t run a DNA test."


    "So, you want to run one?" concluded Aidan.


    Leanna said, "You know how Jethro runs his mouth with only lies. The more he insists that Louis is his


    son, the more reason for me to not believe it. Plus, he''s taking pleasure in mocking Louis with his


    name. Not to mention that he was in Leroy''s hands before this; they couldn''t run a DNA test."


    "What if the result is different from your assumption?"


    "I''ll admit it, then."


    "Fine. I''ll ask someone to get on it."


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


    Leanna broke into a smile. "Thanks."


    He stood up. "I prefer actions to words."


    Words failed her when she heard that.

 Chapter 474

    Chapter 474


    At 10.00AM, Aidan left only after Zoe arrived. Before he did, he calmly instructed, "Keep an eye on her,


    and don''t let her leave the hospital."


    Though without any expression, he exuded a strong oppressive aura while reminding, so Zoe could


    only nod in response instinctively.


    Once the door was shut, she finally came to her senses. "What''s wrong with him? He makes it sound


    like you''re a fugitive."


    Leanna sat up in bed and chuckled dryly. "He''s mad at me."


    "Why?"


    "Because I didn''t let him know about yesterday''s incident and went to meet Ron by myself."


    Zoe clicked her tongue. "President Pearson gets jealous of any male you get into contact with, huh? I


    mean, I get it if he''s jealous of Elijah. After all, he did openly pursue you, but Ron¡ª"


    Leanna interjected, "He just finds Ron dangerous."


    Regarding this matter, Zoe shared the same opinion as Aidan and nodded in agreement. "Ron is


    dangerous. Besides, he''s in cahoots with Queenie. I think President Pearson''s worries aren''t baseless.


    You''d better not meet him alone again."


    "He isn''t actually a bad guy. He''s totally different from Queenie and only forced by life circumstances."


    Zoe heaved a sigh. "By the way, I haven''t heard anything about her for some time now. How''s she


    doing? Have they caught the perpetrator in Elliot''s case?"


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


    Leanna shook her head. "I don''t know about that. Back when the police took my statement, they said


    that they would let me know once they caught the perpetrator, but they haven''t called me yet, so they


    must not have resolved the case."


    As for Queenie, there had been no news from her ever since Leanna spoke to her on the phone a while


    ago. Ron had been staying at Jethro''s house over this period and had not been in contact with her


    either.


    Zoe switched the topic. "What did the doctor say?"


    Leanna responded, "It''s nothing major. He said that I have been stressed out recently and was mentally


    strained, so I fainted after being triggered."


    "I do think that you should take a break. You''ve been so busy with work every day and have so many


    bothersome things to deal with. I''d feel mentally strained if I were you."


    Leanna nodded slightly. It took her some time before she said, "I want to see a psychiatrist."


    Zoe was caught by surprise. "Is it that bad?"


    "It''s not because of this." Leanna chuckled. "Actually, I wanted to see a psychiatrist a few days ago and


    I finally have time to do so now."


    "Was it because¡­ of that matter when you told me to visit the apartment?"


    Leanna did not deny it and continued, "I don''t know since when, but I keep having this niggling sense


    that the kid is still alive. I was so sure that it was true every time, but the reality is, everything is just my


    imagination. I think it''s probably because there''s something wrong with my head."


    Zoe replied, "That''s not the case. Perhaps it''s because there have been too many coincidences.


    Besides, you''ve mentioned before that Aidan has been keeping something from you, what if¡­"


    Leanna shook her head. "He is, but it''s something else."


    As soon as Zoe heard that, she became curious. "Something else? What is it?"


    "I keep having the feeling that there is another mastermind behind Daniel. If I''m not mistaken, that


    person should be William."


    "William?" Zoe could not help frowning.


    "Yes."


    She seemed to be considering that name in her mind until it suddenly dawned upon her. "Ah. Is he that


    really gentlemanly guy? I recall a young woman mentioning before that he has an air simr to


    Lloyd''s¡­ Actually, no. He''s simr to Leroy."


    As soon as Leanna heard that, she was stunned. Initially, she did not take that description to heart


    because she did not think that William would be linked to the incident regarding the Crossleys, but now,


    she was pretty certain that he was the one controlling things behind Daniel. Furthermore, she had been


    wondering who he was.


    Zoe''s words ignited an epiphany in Leanna. After a moment, she asked, "Do you think so too?"


    Zoe tilted her head and analyzed. "Several months have gone by, and frankly speaking, I''m not too


    familiar with his looks. However, I keep seeing Leroy''s sanctimonious look on the news, so I''m quite


    familiar with that."


    Indeed, after the bomb st twenty years ago, Leroy had been intentionally impersonating someone


    else. He appeared to be putting up a front and living his life under a different identity. However, one''s


    mannerisms, behaviors, and actions were something that was inborn and could not be amended even


    if one changed their looks.


    Leroy had maintained his pretense for so long, but truthfully, one could tell from the asional air of


    hostility he exuded. Still, no one considered the situation from that angle since no one batted an eye


    back then when Leroy was the one who had survived instead of Lloyd.


    Yet, at this stage, there was someone who lookedpletely different from Leroy yet exuded an air


    that made everyone feel like the two were identical in certain ways.


    Leroy may have put on an act, but the other person behaved naturally the same way as Leroy would.


    The person had ulterior motives and intended to go after Leroy. He was determined to uncover the truth


    back then and reveal it to the public.


    Furthermore, the person was intent on protecting Leanna, as evident in how he had gone to great


    lengths to locate her mother''s grave. After piecing the puzzles together, there was only a single


    conclusion she arrived at.


    At that point, Zoe noticed Leanna to be lost in thoughts as she gazed hollowly into the distance. "Nana,


    what''s on your mind?" She waved her hand in front of Leanna.


    It was only then that Leanna came back to her senses and parted her lips to say something, but she


    could not quitee up with the words to say.


    Zoe ced a hand on Leanna''s forehead. "Are you okay? Do you want me to get the doctor for you?


    President Pearson''s going to find fault with me again if you end up being sick."


    Leanna continued to hold Zoe''s hand. After some time, she piped up, "Zoe, I suddenly have a scary


    notion."


    "What''s wrong?"


    "I need your opinion. Do you think my biological father would let Jethro get away if he was still alive?"


    Zoe did not even pause to consider the situation. "Of course not. Even I would be keen to dismember


    Jethro. It''d be considered mercy by just killing him."


    Leanna muttered under her breath, "Then¡­ How about Jethro''s biological son?"


    Zoe suddenly felt goosebumps all over her body. "Sh*t! I''m stumped by this question. Personally


    speaking, I think Jethro''s actions should not be med on anyone else. Louis grew up together with


    you and you regard him as your only family member, so you wouldn''t me Louis for what Jethro did to


    you. However, if it was your biological father in question, then I wouldn''t be as confident to assume so.


    After all, everyone has their own opinion, and it depends on what he thinks. As a bystander, my view


    would be that Louis isn''t rted to him and Louis has repeatedly attempted to harm you. He even


    caused harm to your mom¡­ All in all, Louis is that jerk''s son. Under extreme rage, a person might not


    consider the situation carefully and maintain rationality. It seems inevitable that they would¡­ resort to a


    vengeful act."

 Chapter 475

    Chapter 475


    Zoe''s words hit as soon as a knock sounded on the door. Leanna lifted her head and nced in that


    direction.


    It was Daniel; he entered the room and put down the bouquet in his hands. "Miss McKinney, are you


    feeling better?"


    She replied, "Thanks. I''m feeling much better."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Zoe felt uneasy as soon as she saw him and deduced that he had something important to discuss with


    Leanna, so she came up with an excuse and left the room.


    Once the door was shut, he mentioned, "That''s great, Miss McKinney. You shouldn''t worry too much


    about everything else too. President Pearson and I¡­ will sort things out."


    Leanna pursed her lips slightly and replied after a few seconds, "How do you n on handling things?"


    "That would be dependent on the result of the autopsy."


    Previously, she had allowed Jethro to live because she wanted to find out from him about the past and


    the location of her mother''s grave. However, it almost seemed insignificant at this point.


    Leanna replied, "No matter what it is, these are all done solely by Jethro."


    Daniel nodded in response. "I know."


    She felt that he did not get what she meant, so she remained silent for a moment before adding, "It has


    nothing to do with Louis."


    In response, he affirmed, "That''s for sure, but¡­ why did you suddenly bring this up?"


    She mentioned, "It''s nothing, really. You''ve seen yesterday''s situation and Jethro''s just like a maniac.


    He goes after anyone he can pounce on. He just wants to drag Louis down with him."


    Daniel agreed with her statement as Jethro had been full of abusive words yesterday, using extremely


    vulgar and ugly words to abuse her. Although he knew that Jethro was indeed a piece of trash, it was


    inevitable for one to feel upset having a father like Jethro.


    He sat on the couch and spoke up slowly, "Louis is twenty years old and has his independent thoughts


    and views. I trust that he would not take this to heart. As for this incident, President Pearson has


    already assigned some men to deal with it, so word won''t get out and it won''t affect Louis untowardly in


    any way at all."


    She hummed softly in response. "Besides, right now, I have a suspicion that Jethro might not be Louis''


    biological father."


    As soon as Daniel heard that, he was surprised. "Miss McKinney, do you mean¡­"


    "You must not know Jethro that well, but I do. He''s full of lies and he relishes in the thought of seeing


    others miserable. He keeps iming that Louis is his son and that he wouldn''t be able to escape from


    his influence in this lifetime. In other words, he just wanted to see Louis in pain. Under such


    circumstances, it''d be hard for me to believe that he''s Louis'' biological father."


    Daniel revealed a frown. "But we''ve investigated the situation thoroughly. The birth records¡ª"


    "Anything can be forged." Leanna nced at him and uttered softly, "Including a person''s past


    encounters and looks, isn''t that so?"


    Under her gaze, Daniel felt her question hit too close to home and somehow felt sheepish to the point


    he could not help but avert his eyes.


    However, before he could say a word, her voice rang out subsequently. "Leroy managed to keep up his


    pretense for so long without anyone realizing, so it should be a piece of cake for Jethro to amend a


    birth record."


    As soon as Daniel heard Leanna mention Leroy, he heaved a sigh of relief and reckoned that she was


    on point. "That makes sense. Jethro appears to be an imbecile and rather useless. He''s just a piece of


    trash who could resort to hiding a dead body in his wardrobe for years, so he is very gutsypared to


    most ordinary people."


    She continued, "That''s why I reckon that this matter isn''t as simple as it seems."


    After some slight consideration, he replied, "Still, back when Louis was born, how could Jethro have


    predicted all of these incidents to happen right now? How could he have known that he should amend


    Louis'' birth record?"


    Leanna exined, "He wasn''t good enough to be able to predict all this. When Jethro ''died'' in prison,


    Louis and I went to collect his belongings and discovered a diary. From the stuff he wrote in there, he


    must''ve been in love with my mother for some time and could even be considered obsessed. After the


    Crossley Family encountered trouble, for some unknown reason, my mother moved into his house with


    me after staying at several locations. Then, she ended up marrying him. What if before any of that


    happened, my mom was already pregnant with Louis? Then, she would be considered Jethro''s legal


    wife from her pregnancy until she gave birth. Whatever it is, it could be because of his ego or that he


    was so unconditionally in love with my mom that he was okay with seeing Louis as his son. This would


    all make sense, then."


    "I get what you mean. I''ll investigate the matter further."


    She smiled slightly. "Thanks, but that''s not necessary. Aidan is onto it."


    By then, Daniel did not continue the topic anymore after hearing that. He was worried about arousing


    her suspicions if he did.


    She paused for a moment before adding again, "Louis used to stay with you for some time. He must''ve


    been a pain for you, but I reckon that your rtionship is fairly good. So, could you do me a favor?"


    "Miss McKinney, that''s too courteous of you. Just be frank and say what''s on your mind."


    "I''d like for you to take care of him."


    Perhaps he was taken aback by that request, so he appeared perplexed right then. Although he adored


    Louis, they did not generally get the chance to meet up.


    Daniel replied, "Louis is mostly at school most of the time, so I hardly get to see him. However, if there


    is anything that he needs help with, he can feel free toe to me." Even though he reckoned that


    Louis would never seek help from him at all.


    Leanna smiled and halted the topic at that point. "Thanks for your help."


    Following that, he did not remain in the ward any longer and left after a brief exchange of pleasantries.


    He had just gone down the stairs when he saw Zoe sitting on a bench not too far from him with her


    head up toward the sky, seemingly lost in thoughts. As such, he paused in his tracks and stood there


    for at least two minutes before walking over to her.


    Since she had slepttest night and woken up too early this morning, she felt drowsy as the sunray


    hit her. Her head lolled sideways, and a maic male voice suddenly rang out from her side. "Have


    you found a suitable ce?"


    Zoe was suddenly jolted awake and no longer felt drowsy. She turned around and saw that Daniel had


    been sitting by her side for who knew how long. After a pause, she finally came up with a response. "N-


    Not yet. I''ve been too preupiedtely, so I didn''t have the time to do so."


    She stealthily shifted to the other side as she spoke and maintained a distance from him.


    Daniel appeared to be unaware of that as he spoke, "I''ve asked thendlord next door and he said that


    you can move back anytime you want to."


    She bared her teeth and smiled perfunctorily. "I think that''s unnecessary. I tend to get bored easily and


    prefer to have a change in environment after remaining at a ce for some time."


    He nced at her. "Let me know once you''ve found a ce to stay. I''ll help you with the move."


    At that point, Zoe was rendered speechless. Thanks, but no thanks.


    She kept her palms pressed against the bench and her fingers curled to the side. After some hesitation,


    she voiced out, "I heard you''re leaving Highside. When will that be?"

 Chapter 476

    Chapter 476


    Leanna looked up and down in the ward for her phone but still couldn''t find it. Left with no other


    choices, he gave up. It seems like Aidan took my phone.


    After a while, Zoe came back. She was slouching and looked feeble.


    When Leanna saw that, she could only think of one reason. "Did Daniel meet up with you?"


    Zoe nodded and buried herself on the couch.


    "What did he say?"


    A furious Zoe replied, "I asked him when he would be leaving, and do you know what he said?"


    "What?" Leanna sat beside her.


    "He said he''s not leaving for now!" Zoe clenched her fists. "He''s not leaving! If I had known that earlier,


    I wouldn''t even¡­ no matter how impetuous I was that night. I just thought that since we won''t have


    anything to do with each other anymore in the future and we''re both adults, we can free ourselves a


    little. But now! He''s not leaving anymore!"


    As she said that, shey on the couch, weary apparent on her face. "And it was just a one-night stand.


    Isn''t it a norm for him? Why is he acting like he has feelings for me all of a sudden and even offering to


    help me move? Everything is just strange."


    When Leanna heard that, a smile tugged on her lips, and she patted Zoe''s shoulder. "It''s okay. Since


    he''s not leaving, just see how things go. Who knows? Perhaps he likes you."


    Zoeughed wryly. "Forget it. He is just like a yer. I don''t think he can even count the girls he had a


    crush on. I don''t want to be one of the millions and bring trouble on myself."


    That''s quite true. Leanna stopped convincing her. "There''s nothing much for you to do here, so you


    should go back to the studio."


    However, Zoe rejected her directly. "No way. President Pearson asked me to look¡­ He wanted me to


    keep youpany. I''m staying here on a mission. What if he looks for trouble if I leave?"


    Hearing that, Leanna was speechless. After a while, she said, "He took my phone. I can''t go anywhere


    even if I want to."


    "Really? That b*stard is ruthless. Who can live without a phone now? Is he punishing you in another


    way?" Zoe asked.


    With a smile, Leanna answered, "Maybe."


    "Well, that''s another reason for me not to leave. You''ll be so bored without me here. You can still talk to


    me when I''m here so that you won''t imagine things."


    In the afternoon, Leanna was lying on the bed, and a variety show was ying on the television not far


    away, but her mind was already out of the ward.


    She couldn''t bear staying in the hospital for a day, let alone for half a month.


    She pocketed her gaze and saw that Zoe was sleeping on the couch, so she moved slowly and quietly


    to go downstairs to take a walk and exercise her body a little. She had already been lying down for a


    whole day.


    It was around 4.00PM when Leanna avoided the crowd and walked to the garden at the back. Just as


    she wanted to sit on the long bench and enjoy the sun, a familiar figure appeared in her sight.


    At the same time, the other party was turning around, ready to leave. She saw Leanna as well, and


    panic crawled onto her face at once.


    Leanna met her eyes and said calmly, "Miss Bat."


    At this moment, Carly was holding her hands together and looking a little nervous. After she hesitated


    for two seconds, she walked over to Leanna. When she saw the hospital gown on Leanna, she couldn¡¯t


    hold back her curiosity. "What happened, Miss McKinney?"


    "Nothing serious. I fainted because of anemia." Out of courtesy, Leanna also asked, "What about you,


    Miss Bat?"


    "M-My father had a cerebral hemorrhage. He was just rescued."


    Leanna didn''t expect this to be the answer, nodding out of habit following after. "I shouldn''t disturb you


    then."


    Just then, Carly clenched her dress and bit her lip. "Miss McKinney¡­"


    "Yes?" Leanna looked at her.


    Carly looked like she wanted to say something, but other patients were seen strolling around the same


    area. Therefore, she didn''t continue her sentence, saying something else instead. "Zayn¡­ should be


    on his way back."


    Hearing that, Leanna was startled. After being stunned for a few seconds, she said, "Is Mr. Bat in a


    serious condition?"


    "My father has already been unwell for quite some time, actually. Although he was rescued this time,


    the doctor said that his body wouldn''t be able to handle it anymore. We''re asked to prepare ourselves


    for the worst. My father is also afraid that he will pass away all of a sudden, so he wants to meet Zayn


    for onest time," Carly exined.


    ¡­


    When Leanna returned to her ward, Zoe had just woken up and was going to look for her.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She heaved a sigh of relief when she saw Leanna back in the ward. "Where did you go, Nana? You


    scare me. I thought you ran away."


    With a smile, Leanna replied, "Where else can I go? I just went downstairs for a stroll."


    After getting her answer, Zoe yawned andy back on the couch. She took out her phone and said,


    "Let''s drink something to refresh ourselves. What do you want?"


    "Zoe." Leanna sat by the bed.


    "What''s up?"


    "I met Carly downstairs just now."


    After a pause, Zoe asked, "Carly? Zayn''s sister?"


    "Yes." Leanna nodded.


    "Why is she here?"


    "Mr. Bat is hospitalized. His condition is quite serious, so Zayn ising back soon."


    When Zoe heard that, she couldn''t help but pity the Bats. "The Bat Family is really going


    downhill these two years. Their business overseas is starting to grow, but Mr. Bat fell sick again.


    Now that the Bat Group needs someone to handle the business, Zayn might not leave once he


    comes back this time."


    As she said that, she sighed with emotion, "Compared to Zayn, Elijah is nothing but a love rival. It looks


    like President Pearson is going to have a hard time being jealous again."


    Seeing that Leanna was not saying anything and was looking nkly outside the window, Zoe reached


    out her hand and waved in front of her. "Hello? I''m just joking. Don''t tell me that you still have feelings


    for Zayn."


    Leanna was speechless. She held Zoe''s hand and said, "What are you talking about? I''m just thinking


    about Carly."


    "What about her?" Zoe asked.


    "I think she looked a little weird. It seems like she gets nervous and panics when she sees me."


    "Did she do anything that would hurt you, so she''s feeling guilty?" Zoe suggested.


    Leanna had never told Zoe that Carly was the one behind the incident of her falling into the water in the


    Pearson Residence, but when she heard Zoe''s guess, she couldn''t help but frown. "Is that so?"


    She remembered that when Carly confessed that incident to her, her expression was filled with guilt


    and remorse when she left the studio. She didn''t look nervous or panicked at all.


    At this moment, Zoe said, "Of course. Only people who have done something wrong will have that


    expression. But wait, the Bats have beenying low for quite some time because they''re afraid to


    get involved in any sort of trouble. So, by right, Carly will never risk offending Aidan by doing something


    to you."


    Hearing that, Leanna shook her head. Maybe I''m overthinking. If Carly wanted to harm me, she


    wouldn''te to apologize to me and even remind me to beware of Georgina.


    At this thought, she let this matter slide.

 Chapter 477

    Chapter 477


    Zoe apanied Leanna in the ward until Aidan arrived, and she left swiftly right after. Meanwhile,


    Leanna sat by the bed, staring at him spiritless. "I want to be discharged."


    As Aidan loosened his tie with one hand, he sat on the couch nonchntly. "Didn''t I say half a month?"


    When she heard that, she parted her lips and wanted to say something, but she felt like it would just be


    an ineffective protest. Suddenly, she recalled what Zoe had said in the afternoon. So, she licked her


    lips andy on the bed. "Okay then. I can do half a month. Zayn ising back just in time, so I can


    meet him and talk to him a little."


    At this moment, he was quite shocked, as he only knew about Dous being hospitalized this


    afternoon. The Bats had kept this a strict secret, so they didn''t tell anyone about it. They probably


    wanted to wait until Zayn returned and rearranged everything in thepany.


    "Who told you that?" he asked.


    "I met Carly downstairs. She told me."


    "They''re in this hospital?"


    "Yeah. Such a coincidence."


    Hearing that, Aidan scoffed and stood up sharply.


    "Where are you going?" Leanna looked at him.


    "Didn''t you say that you wanted to be discharged? I''m going to do the paperwork." He strode out of the


    room after saying that. Meanwhile, she looked at his figure from the back with a smile on her lips. Well,


    that was quite effective.


    On the way back, she asked, "My phone is with you, right?"


    "Is it?" he questioned with a poker face.


    At this moment, she was speechless. This b*stard is so childish. "Give me back my phone. I have


    many things to deal with." She didn''t feel like dealing with him.


    "Like what?"


    "There are just many things. I haven''t seen my phone since yesterday. What if someone is looking for


    me?"


    "No one is looking for you," he replied calmly.


    After a pause, she asked, "You looked through my phone?"


    "Is there anything that I can''t see?"


    "No, but provided that we trust each other, shouldn''t you tell me before you look through it?"


    "Since when did you trust me?" He was still not showing any emotions.


    At this moment, she couldn''t help but pout. This b*stard is such a quibble. I''ve never seen someone


    pettier than him.


    Before she could say anything, he announced, "I can give you back your phone."


    Leanna was shocked for a second.


    "But you can''t go to the studio for these few days. You need to rest at home." Then, Aidan added, "Or


    you cane to my office with me."


    When she heard hisst sentence, she replied without thinking twice, "I''ll stay at home!"


    A mere smile tugged on his lips as soon as he heard her answer. Only then did she realize that she


    had stepped into his trap. "If you feel bored alone, I can work from home to keep youpany." Finally,


    he showed his true color.


    Hearing that, she didn''t know what the best reply was she could give. "No, thank you." Like really!


    Please don''t.


    "I''ll have Alicee over and cook for you for these few days. You can go anywhere you want, but


    there needs to be someone beside you. Choose between me and her."


    "I''m not a kid. Why do I need someone to follow me around?"


    Aidan asked, "Where should I look for you if you faint again?"


    Hearing that, Leanna pressed her lips together. "That was just an ident, I¡­"


    "Didn''t you hear what the doctor said? You''re under too much pressure these days, and you''re


    emotionally unstable. You need to rest well, or else there will be a possibility of fainting again if you''re


    triggered again."


    "I don''t think I heard thest sentence."


    "We need to prepare ourselves for the long run."


    When Leanna heard that, she turned to look outside the window and didn''t want to talk to him anymore.


    He thinks that he''s always right anyway.


    She took a shower after they returned to the condo. Then, she entered the guest bedroom and locked


    the door.


    As expected, a knock came on the door after a while, but she covered the nket over her head and


    pretended to have fallen asleep. Soon after, Aidan went up to her. "You don''t want your phone


    anymore?"


    Hearing that, she pulled down the nket a little and looked like she was contemting.


    Within a minute, Aidan''s voice could be heard again. "Your brother sent you a message."


    "What did he say?" She sat up in bed.


    "I didn''t look."


    Leanna slowly put on her slippers and walked to the door. After she opened it, she reached out her


    hand to him. Under her stare, his body trembled slightly as he raised his arm and held her hand with


    his big palm.


    At this moment, she was speechless. She just looked at him without any expression. "I want my


    phone."


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    "Oh, I misunderstood." He raised his brows.


    Just as she wanted to say something, he tightened his grip on her hand and pulled her out of the guest


    room with his other arm hugging her around her waist. "Why are you sleeping here?"


    "Didn''t the doctor say that I''m under too much pressure and I''m emotionally unstable?"


    "So?"


    "I think I should be alone in such a situation so that I won''t affect you."


    "Who said that you''ll affect me?"


    She replied to him with his very own sentence. "We need to prepare ourselves for the long run."


    When he heard that, his brows twitched.


    Meanwhile, she freed her hands to look through her phone. Several people had messaged her over the


    It seemed like Aidan about looking through her phone.


    "Didn''t you say that Louis messaged me?" she asked.


    "Did he not? I was wrong then," he replied.


    Leanna knew that would be his answer. This b*stard always has so many excuses.


    After she came out of his embrace, she turned around and walked into the guest room. "I''m going to


    sleep¡­"


    Yet, before she could finish her sentence, he pulled her back again and carried her in his arms. Then,


    he walked into the master bedroom and put her on the bed. "Don''t throw tantrums anymore, okay? Be


    good."


    "I''m not throwing tantrums. I just want to be alone and think about something," she answered seriously.


    "Think about what?"


    She moved a little and turned her head to the side to avoid eye contact with him. "Nothing."


    Nevertheless, he pinched her chin and turned her head back to the front. "You have so much advice for


    other people, but why don''t you have any for yourself?"


    "It''s not because of Jethro. I just¡­"


    "You what?" he asked in his deep voice while looking at her with his ck eyes.


    Leanna pressed her lips together and remained silent. Yet, Aidan was not rushing her either, as he


    waited for her in silence. After a while, only then did she say, "I''m afraid that he will hurt Louis."


    "Who?"


    She looked down and stopped talking again. Seeing thedy keep quiet, he pushed his teeth with the


    tip of his tongue and asked softly, "You already knew?"


    She hummed softly. "I should''ve guessed it. There''s no such thing as kindness or hatred with no


    reason."


    It was not a coincidence at all that time at the cemetery. William went there to save her blushes. He


    had probably known it for quite some time.


    At this moment, Aidan stroked her hair. "So, what are you going to do now? Do you want to ask him


    about it?"

 Chapter 478

    Chapter 478


    Leanna shook her head. "Since he knew about it before I did but chose to keep quiet, he must have


    had his reasons."


    "Are you saying that you''ve forgiven him?"


    "He didn''t do anything that hurt me, so there''s nothing for me to forgive him about."


    She was also relieved that they hadn''t revealed the secret all along. Otherwise, she wouldn''t be able to


    imagine how things would turn out if Louis knew about it.


    If that happened, it might put everyone in an awkward situation.


    Aidan probably saw through her thoughts, so he frowned slightly and said, "You just need to know what


    you want to do. You don''t have to consider everybody''s feelings."


    Leanna patiently repeated, "Louis is my brother, and he''s also my only¡ª"


    "Leanna, it doesn''t matter if he''s the only one or one of the many. You need to know that you need to


    prioritize yourself; the otherse after. There''s nothing wrong with living for yourself just once."


    At this moment, she parted her lips, seemingly wanting to rebuke him, but before she could say


    anything, he continued, "Do you know why you are under so much pressure? It''s because you always


    care about others'' feelings, and that causes you to overthink things. That''s why you''re living a tiring


    life."


    "I don''t always care about others'' feelings. I just don''t want to let Louis¡­"


    "He''s already 20. He''s an adult. If he can''t even ept and digest this little matter, do you think


    everything you''ve done for him is worth it?"


    After some time, she said softly, "But that''s what I want to do. No one is more important to me than


    Louis. If I need to choose one person in my life, I''ll only choose him."


    "Not even me?" He lifted his brows.


    Hearing that, she looked him in the eyes and said softly, "Why must you invite humiliation upon


    yourself?"


    Aidan had noeback for that. After he turned off the light, he said, "It''s time to sleep."


    Leanna blinked in the dark. "Are you mad again?"


    "No." His emotions at that moment couldn''t be discerned from his voice.


    "Why did you ask such a question when you already know the answer? Also, didn''t you ask me to


    prioritize myself? I''m just following my heart."


    Right then, he scoffed. "Huh."


    When she saw him like that, a smile tugged on her lips, and it was evident that she was in a better


    mood. She no longer rejected the idea of Alice following her anymore and even said, "I want to go


    shopping tomorrow. What time will Alice be here?"


    "She''ll be here when you wake up."


    "Oh." This b*stard talks like there''s dynamite in his mouth.


    That night, she couldn''t sleep at all, unsure if it was because she had slept too much these two days or


    because her mood had suddenly improved. And with that powder keg, which was about to explode at


    any time, sleeping right next to her, she couldn''t help teasing him.


    "President Pearson," she said softly.


    Yet, Aidan ignored her.


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    Seeing that, Leanna moved into his arms and raised her hand to poke his waist. "Are you asleep?"


    The man beside her did not react.


    "Never mind, then," she said.


    Suddenly, someone grabbed her hand in mid-air, and a man''s voice could be heard. "What do you


    mean by that?"


    "Nothing, it''s just that I can''t seem to fall asleep. I want to talk to you, but you look tired. You should


    sleep. Good¡­"


    Before she could finish her sentence, her lips were blocked.


    The man whoy beside her a moment ago was on top of her all of a sudden. Even in the dark, danger


    could be sensed from his gaze.


    He said, "Don''t sleep if you can''t."


    ¡­


    Leanna was slightly regretting her actions; she knew that Aidan was a vengeful man, but she still gave


    herself up to let him get his revenge after provoking him. Indeed, she had shot herself in the foot.


    It was already noon by the time she woke up the next day, and Aidan had already left for work.


    When Leanna went shower, she looked at the marks Aidan had left on her body and couldn''t help


    clicking her tongue. I need to change into something that can cover my neck.


    As soon as she left the bedroom, she could smell a delicious aroma.


    Meanwhile, when Alice heard the noise, she came out of the kitchen with a smile. "Hi, Madam. Lunch


    will be ready soon. Please wait for a little while."


    "Okay." Leanna smiled.


    She walked to the dining table and poured herself a ss of warm water. Then, with her hand propped


    on the table, she sat on the chair slowly. That b*stard is such a monster.


    While Alice was busy preparing her meal in the kitchen, Leanna texted Zoe.


    ''Zoe, are you at the studio?''


    Zoe''s reply came within seconds. ''Yeah. What''s up?''


    Leanna responded, ''Let''s go shopping if you''re free in the afternoon.''


    The studio was not hectic these days, and Zoe didn''t have much to do. She didn''t want to just stay in


    the studio either, so she agreed to it at once.


    Just as Leanna finished texting Zoe, Alice came out of the kitchen with a tray in her hands. "Sorry to


    keep you waiting, Madam. It''s already noon. You must be starving. Quick, dig in," she said while


    pouring Leanna a bowl of stew.


    After that, Leanna used both her hands to take the bowl. "Thank you foring all the way here."


    "Don''t say that, Madam. The Castor Vi is under renovation these days. Master has let me rest for


    such a long time, but he still pays me as usual. I feel bad about that. I''ve been bored from staying at


    home, so it''s my pleasure toe to take care of you," Alice replied.


    After Leanna finished half of the stew, she asked, "Is Castor Vi¡­ being renovated right now?"


    "Yes. I went there yesterday, and it lookspletely different than before. There are many nts in the


    garden, and the house''s color palette is so much warmer." As Alice spoke, she tried probing, "Madam,


    you''ll move in with Master after the vi is renovated, right?"


    "Maybe." Leanna had a faint smile on.


    When Alice noticed that Leanna didn''t want to talk about this, she didn''t continue asking and went to


    clean the kitchen.


    After Leanna finished her lunch, shey on the couch again for a while. When she felt that she had


    regained her energy a little, she texted Zoe and got ready to leave.


    Just as she reached the underground garage, Aidan''s driver walked over to her. "Madam, President


    Pearson has assigned me to drive you around for these few days."


    Hearing that, she didn''t say much since Aidan had already sent the driver over, which meant that he


    had nned everything. It wouldn''t matter even if sheined.


    When the car gradually left the underground garage, the sun slowly appeared in front of their eyes. The


    weather is quite nice today.


    As soon as the car arrived at the mall, Leanna could see Zoe standing at the entrance from afar. As


    such, she turned around and said, "Alice, my friend is already here. You can find a ce to sit


    downstairs. I''ll call you when I''m done."


    "Okay, no problem." Alice nodded.


    Aidan had instructed Alice to keep Leannapany and take care of her so that she wouldn''t be


    alone. Now that Leanna had a friend with her, she didn''t need to follow along.

 Chapter 479

    Chapter 479


    Although Leanna hadn''t visited the mall in a while, she was never short of fancy clothes. After all, Aidan


    would always rece the clothes in her closet with thetest ones every season. Therefore, Leanna


    didn''t have to buy much for herself, unless it was something that caught her eye at first sight.


    For that, she usually bought men''s apparel for Aidan. When Zoe saw what Leanna bought, she clicked


    her tongue and mocked the other woman, saying, "Seriously? Are you trying to make me feel bad or


    something?"


    In response, Leanna smiled and said, "Yeah, you don''t say. By the way, your birthday is just around the


    corner. Is there anything you want? Tell me, and I''ll grant your wish."


    "I want a boyfriend."


    While Leanna was speechless, Zoe replied solemnly, "Fine, forget that I asked." Then, she sat on a


    bench and set her eyes on the couple who were holding hands outside.


    "Come on, why is it so hard for me to get a boyfriend when it''s a piece of cake for everyone else? Did I


    do something to piss Cupid off? All the men I''ve met are either jerks or idiots." She sighed. A few


    secondster, Zoe added, "You know what? I wish I could read my mom''s mind. She''s been calling and


    asking me to join speed dating."


    "Speed dating?"


    "Yeah, she said that her former schoolmate''s son will be joining. She even told me that this guy has a


    promising job in a multinationalpany. Furthermore, my mom knows the man''s parents, so she


    assures me that this guy isn''t the same as Anthony."


    "What''s your take, then? Are you going to meet him?"


    Zoe sighed and replied, "I don''t want to, but my mom is threatening to cast me away from home if I


    don''t go." She paused for a second and continued, "Anyway, I have to admit that it may not be such a


    bad idea to spend the rest of my life with a man like this guy. At least I know my life is going to be


    peaceful and happy. However, I¡­ I don''t want to force myself to ept someone I don''t love at all. If I


    had to do that, I''d be better off looking for a housemate instead."


    "I think your mom is worried about you. Perhaps you should sit down and talk to her about it." Leanna


    nodded.


    "Alright, that''s enough. I wish you''d know how tired I am of her nagging. Fine, I''ll do as she wishes this


    weekend and think of a reason to turn the man down by then. That should keep my mom''s mouth shut


    for a while."


    "Sounds like a n."


    A few momentster, Leanna''s phone rang before she realized it was a call from Daniel. Thus, she


    walked to a corner and answered the call. Soon, she heard Daniel saying, "Miss McKinney, the autopsy


    results are out."


    "What does it say?" Leanna''s fingers tightened around the phone.


    "I''m not sure about the details, which is why I''m calling you toe with me. I believe we''re going to


    find out from the forensic doctors as soon as we get there." Daniel proceeded to ask, "Where are you


    now? Perhaps I could give you a ride or something."


    "It''s alright. Send me the address instead. I''m not at home, so I''ll just find my way there," Leanna


    replied.


    "Sure," Daniel responded affirmatively.


    As soon as the call disconnected, Leanna received the address from Daniel right away. Then, she put


    away her phone, turning her attention to Zoe just as she came closer. "Zoe, I have something to attend


    to, and I need to head there now."


    "What''s wrong?" Zoe asked while enjoying her coffee.


    Leanna pursed her lips. "My mom''s autopsy report is out."


    Zoe stood up abruptly. "Alright, I''ming with you."


    "Um¡­ Are you sure about that? Daniel is going to be there too."


    Zoe went silent for a few seconds and chuckled. "O-Of course, I''m going to keep youpany, not to


    meet him. It doesn''t matter whether he is there or not." After all, Zoe was still rather curious about what


    she would find with the autopsy report, not to mention her concern that Leanna might faint again like


    she didst time.


    When she noticed Zoe''s determination, Leanna decided not to change her mind. After getting into the


    car with Zoe, she forwarded the address of her destination that she received from Daniel to the driver.


    Half an hourter, the car pulled up outside the building, whereupon Leanna said, "Please wait for me


    right here, Alice. I''ll be back once I''m done."


    Alice nodded her head. "Sure, Madam. As you wish."


    In the meantime, Daniel was already waiting at the entrance outside the car along with Elijah right


    beside him. When Leanna and Zoe came closer, Elijah asked, "Hey, Leanna. Wait a second. Didn''t you


    tell Louis about this?"


    "I didn''t. He is in the middle of ss right now. Moreover, I wasn''t sure about the situation, so¡­ Well, I''ll


    worry about thatter." Deep down, the only thing Leanna could remember about her mother was that


    she died of dystocia after giving birth to Louis. Nheless, she couldn''t help but think something was


    wrong, considering the sequence of events that happened subsequently. Therefore, she reckoned she


    should find out more about it before telling Louis about it.


    "Let''s head inside," Daniel said.


    Upon their arrival, they were ushered by someone into theb where they saw the forensic doctor


    waiting for them. "Which of you is a family member of the deceased?" The forensic doctor gazed at the


    few of them and asked.


    "I am," Leanna answered.


    The forensic doctor then took a file from the desk and said, "We''ve confirmed that the deceased was


    killed by a severe blow to the skull."


    "A severe blow to the skull?" Leanna echoed the doctor''s words in disbelief.


    "Here is the report. You may take a look at it." The forensic doctor nodded and ced the document


    right in front of her.


    As Leanna frowned and took a closer look at the report, the forensic doctor added, "When the


    deceased was sent here, we were told that she died of dystocia. However, after running a few tests, I


    was sure she didn''t die of dystocia, although it was indeed hard to ascertain her cause of death with


    only her skeleton left. After all, there were obvious signs of physical trauma on her skull, which were


    probably what killed her."


    While Leanna kept her head down and bit her lips in a ponderous manner, Daniel took the autopsy


    report and put it on the desk. "In other words, she was murdered."


    The forensic doctor nodded. "The deceased suffered severe physical trauma in the back of her head.


    Someone might have delivered a huge blow to her head by shoving her toward the wall in a fierce fight.


    That, coupled with the fact that she didn''t receive proper treatment in time, was the cause of her


    death."


    Leanna closed her eyes after knowing that, her body shivering from head to toe. What Jethro told me


    about my mom dying of dystocia was all a lie! It was his words against mine. He was the one who killed


    Mother and buried her body in the wall after that. That means he must have raised me because of guilt,


    fear, or to cover his tracks, but as time went by, he still showed his true colors in the end. At the thought


    of that, Leanna quickly felt grateful about the fact that she and Louis were able to live until that day with


    Jethro.


    R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Meanwhile, Zoe noticed something wrong with Leanna and quickly gave her hand to help her stand.


    "Are you alright, Leanna?"


    Leanna opened her eyes and shook her head. "I''m fine."


    Zoe noticed that Leanna''splexion seemed better, so she knew that the woman was fine. She then


    looked toward the forensic doctor and said, "Well, is there anything else? If not, we''ll be taking our


    leave."


    "Please sign your name here." The forensic doctor pointed at the space at the bottom of the results.


    Leanna grabbed the pen and did as she was told.


    "I''ll take it from here, Leanna. You should probably take some rest," Elijah said.


    Leanna put down the pen in her hand. "It''s alright, I''m fine. I may not remember much about her, but¡­"


    She continued in a sobbing voice and added, "I think I should be with her for onest time."

 Chapter 480

    Chapter 480


    With Elijah and Daniel around, it didn''t take them long toplete the entire procedure. Since they had


    already found a ce to bury Leanna''s mother, her body was taken there right away after all the


    examinations were done. When they left, Leanna gave Louis a call and sent him the address of the


    ce where their mother was buried. Then, she leaned against the car window and set her eyes


    outside quietly.


    "Are you alright, Leanna?" Zoe asked softly.


    Leanna responded with a chuckle. "Don''t worry about me. I''m fine. In fact, I''ve gotten used to this."


    Zoe let out a sigh and patted Leanna''s shoulder, not knowing what to say. A few momentster, the car


    finally came to a stop. At the same time, Leanna pulled herself together and took a deep breath. Just


    when she extended her arm to reach out for the door, someone opened it from the outside. When she


    looked up, she saw a familiar face and asked, "What brings you here?"


    Aidan bent over and held Leanna''s hand that was hanging in the air. "How can I not be here? This is


    important."


    Leanna pursed her lips and entered the car. Not long after she spoke to Daniel over the phone, she


    sent Aidan a message and told him that she was on her way to theb. However, since he hadn''t


    replied, she thought he was in the middle of his meeting, only to be surprised when she saw him there.


    Upon getting out of the car, she saw Mr. Jackson standing not far away in a preupied manner with a


    walking stick in his hand. Hmm, I guess Daniel must have told him about that, Leanna thought to


    herself after seeing no one else around her.


    Knowing what Leanna had in her mind, Aidan merely wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "Let''s


    go."


    A few momentster, it started drizzling as Leanna stood in front of a headstone with her head kept


    down. At the same time, Aidan was standing next to her with an umbre over their heads. Soon, Louis


    arrived, but instead of walking up to them, he chose to watch from afar in silence, his emotionless


    expression even more unfathomable with the chilly mist.


    Although many guests came to pay their respects, neither of them said a single word throughout the


    burial. It was only until it was over that Mr. Jackson sighed and said, "After all those years, Sandra can


    now finally rest in peace."


    "I''m afraid it''s not as simple as it seems," Aidan responded with a deep voice.


    "What do you mean?" Mr. Jackson looked at the man with a pair of furrowed brows.


    "What happened after the explosion back then? Why didn''t she ask for help throughout the time she


    was staying there? Why did she marry Jethro? Also, why did her husband kill herter? None of us


    here has answers to any of the questions I just mentioned."


    Mr. Jackson knitted his eyebrows even more while holding his walking stick after hearing Aidan, yet he


    didn''t know what to say. Aidan then added, "Well, I suppose the only person who has all the answers is


    Jethro."


    "But we''ve tried everything we could. Even if he agrees to talk, I doubt anything thates out of his


    mouth is true," Daniel said.


    "That''s because he knows he is still too useful to be killed," Aidan replied.


    "Can you make him talk, then?"


    "No."


    While the crowd was speechless, Leanna pulled Aidan''s sleeve as a gesture to tell him to stop talking.


    Aidan then held thedy''s hand and said, "My point is to remind all of us here that the situation is not


    as simple as it seems. Because of that, none of us here should let our guard down."


    Meanwhile, Elijah finally said something after a few moments of silence. "Leroy is to me for all the


    chaos that happened. Although he''s gone into hiding, I believe it''s only a matter of time before we find


    him. So, Mr. Pearson, I wonder¡­"


    "Well, it wouldn''t be much of a problem if Leroy was the one behind all this."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Are you saying Leroy had someone else to help him back then?" Mr. Jackson asked.


    "I was just venturing a guess. After all, you guys are the people who know him well, yet you have not


    managed to catch him even though your men have been dispatched to all the ces he might have


    shown up. You even instructed them to spy on him, so there''s no way Leroy could have escaped


    unless someone has been helping him."


    "We''ve thought about that as well, but we didn''t find anything useful after investigating every single


    person who was suspected to be rted to him," Mr. Jackson said.


    "He knew you guys were hunting for him, so he wouldn''t show up at any of the ces you could think


    of."


    Upon hearing that, Daniel asked, "So, are you saying the person who''s helping Leroy doesn''t appear to


    be rted to him? Instead, whoever has been helping him might have been coerced to do so, and this


    could be rted to the incident that happened 20 years ago. Is that what you''re saying?"


    "Possibly." Without any concrete evidence, Aidan''s deduction remained unproven. Thus, everyone else


    went silent once again.


    Soon, Leanna looked at Aidan and said, "There is a ce I''d like to go. Come with me, would you?"


    "Sure." Aidan looked back at her and gave an affirmative reply.


    Leanna then politely bowed to Mr. Jackson and said goodbye to him, whereupon she walked up to


    Louis and Zoe. "Let''s go, guys."


    While Louis nodded and took onest nce at the headstone before leaving, Zoe, who turned around


    to walk away, happened to meet Daniel''s eyes. In that instant, she somehow knitted her eyebrows


    unnaturally and quickly made her way out of there. When the few of them found themselves outside the


    building, Leanna suddenly stopped in her tracks. "Zoe, there is a ce I need to go to. Would you


    please take Louis back to where he needs to be?"


    "Wait, aren''t you going to meet Jethro now?" Louis asked right after Zoe replied affirmatively.


    "I know he is probably not going to tell me the truth, but I''m still going to give it a shot, considering how


    serious things have be."


    "I''lle with you."


    "No, I think it''s better that you stay behind."


    "But¡­" Louis knitted his eyebrows.


    "Aidan will be with me, so you should go back to school," Leanna replied.


    Just when Louis was about to say something, Zoe seized his arm and took him to the car. "Listen to


    your sister and stay out of this matter. Jethro is an¡­ Nothing good will evere out of his mouth,


    which is all the more reason you shouldn''t be there." Despite the disdain she had for Jethro''s


    unforgivable actions, Zoe restrained herself from calling him an idiot since he was Louis'' father.


    "Don''t worry about me. I''m just going to ask a few questions there. I''ll leave if I can''t get anything useful


    out of it." Leanna smiled at her brother.


    It was then that Louis pursed his lips and reluctantly walked toward the car as Zoe waved her hand at


    Leanna. "Bye, Nana. We''ll get going now."


    "Alright." Leanna nodded.


    The few of them left by taking the car with which Leanna came to theb. As soon as they were gone,


    Aidan held Leanna''s hand. "Let''s go."


    When they entered the car, Leanna asked, "You must have discovered something about that incident,


    right?"


    "Hm?"


    "You never mentioned anything about what you said before today. You must''ve found out about


    something to say that, right?"


    With his hands on the steering wheel, Aidan replied calmly, "I don''t know anything, but¡­"


    "But what?" Leanna pressed on with her question.


    "But there is one thing that caught my attention." Aidan squinted and added coldly, "The year in which


    the tragedy befell the Crossley Family was also the year that Justin was caught in the ident. Guess


    what? In that same year, I was taken back to the Pearson Family." Upon hearing the man''s words,


    Leanna''s eyes widened in disbelief and gazed at him in surprise.

 Chapter 481

    Chapter 481


    Previously, Aidan had been paying too much attention to Leroy until he started to notice the mysteries


    that subsequently surfaced about the explosion 20 years ago.


    Having managed to escape, Leanna''s mother could have approached Mr. Jackson for help anytime


    throughout the three months in which Leroy was unconscious in the hospital. However, she didn''t do


    that. Instead, she took her daughter with her and married a scoundrel. Maybe Jethro was indeed a


    decent man back then, but I can''t understand why she''d do that unless she was hiding something or


    was threatened to do so. Anyway, Leroy was lying in the hospital at that time, so he wouldn''t have been


    capable of pulling any of those off. Furthermore, he thought they were killed in the explosion.


    "In the same year?" Leanna probed.


    Aidan replied with an affirmative hum. "During the ident that Justin was caught in, he was the only


    survivor while his driver and the one who caused the tragedy died on the spot. However, he was left


    with his legs paralyzed for the rest of his life, and he could never stand on his feet again."


    "H-How did the ident happen?"


    "It was a case of drunk driving."


    When Leanna heard that, she frowned in response. "Both drivers must have been speeding to cause


    an ident that took two lives away. Look, I know that driver was at fault for drunk driving, but what


    about Justin''s driver? Justin was in his car, so why was he speeding?"


    "That''s a good question. You''re pretty smart," Aidan said with a chuckle.


    Leanna was speechless for a second before she continued, "You''d better start talking." Come on, man!


    Considering what just happened, how can you not be serious?


    Aidan replied, "That''s the problem. After the ident happened, there were no signs of attempted


    braking on the scene."


    "Are you saying the two cars rammed each other headlong?" Leanna paused and continued, "But


    wouldn''t that have been too obvious? Didn''t you¡­ Or Old Master Pearson investigate the matter?"


    "We did. We just didn''t find anything useful. That driver had been working for the Pearson Family for


    years. We knew he didn''t have a family, and we weren''t sure about his motive as well. On the other


    hand, the other driver just got promoted to supervisor of his department. Before the tragedy happened,


    he had just left a celebration, and there was nothing suspicious about his motive. In the end, the tragic


    incident could only be ssified as an unfortunate ident."


    Even so, Leanna continued to frown. "Well, it sounds like the two of them were innocent, but¡­"


    Something still sounds wrong here.


    "Well, I was confused too when I started investigating the matter a few years ago, but thankfully, I''m


    beginning to find some useful leads," Aidan replied.


    "What do you know?"


    "It was too much of a coincidence that the Pearson Family and Crossley Family found themselves in


    trouble at the same time." Aidan tapped the steering wheel gently with his fingertips and added calmly,


    "If someone else was indeed behind all this, it would exin everything. As for the two deceased


    drivers, we haven''t managed to find anything unusual with that."


    After hearing Aidan''s exnation, Leanna thought everything hade to an end the moment Leroy''s


    wickedness was exposed, only to realize it was just the beginning. At that moment, Aidan''s phone rang


    shortly before he pulled over and answered the call.


    "Talk." Upon learning what he was told from the other side of the call, Aidan furrowed his eyebrows and


    clenched his jaw.


    "What''s wrong?" Leanna noticed the man''s reaction, and she asked nervously as soon as he hung up


    the call.


    "Jethro is dead," Aidan answered coldly. Meanwhile, Leanna was in disbelief, and she couldn''t snap out


    of her trance.


    ¡­


    Standing in front of Jethro''s corpse, they could see his pale face and stiffened limbs. It was then that


    Leanna realized that her father was truly dead this time. "He appeared to have died for quite some time


    when we found him. As far we''re concerned, it looks like hemitted suicide, but we''re waiting for the


    forensic department to confirm that," the warden said.


    The next second, Leanna closed her eyes, feeling as though her energy had been drained from her


    body. After all, her hopes had been dampened when she thought she could perhaps learn something


    useful from Jethro.


    Soon, Aidan wrapped his arms around thedy from behind her while trying to console her. "A man like


    him is better off dead than alive."


    "I''ll be fine here. Perhaps you should return to your office," Leanna said as soon as she stepped out of


    the penitentiary.


    "You know what? You should probably carry a mirror with you all the time," Aidan replied. While Leanna


    was left speechless, Aidan continued to say, "Those bold words wouldn''t havee out of your mouth


    had you seen the look on your face."


    Really? This guy is never serious, eh? Leanna silently thought to herself, having nothing to say in


    response.


    "Come on, let me take you somece else to take your mind off this matter." Aidan held her hand.


    "But it''s raining now. Where else can we go?" Leanna didn''t know where they could go, and she was


    instantly taken aback when Aidan took her to a rock-climbing gym. Standing there, she recalled some


    unpleasant memories and shifted her gaze to the man next to her with an emotionless look. "Do you


    think this is going to help me rx?"


    Aidan curled his lips upward. "I thought you were an adventurous person. If this isn''t exciting enough,


    we could try bungee jumping next time."


    Leanna was speechless, wondering what was wrong with Aidan. Is this guy out of his mind? Having


    learned from her lesson, Leanna demanded that Aidan join her when the attendants brought them their


    climbing gear. "Put them on. You''reing with me."


    "Hm? Starting to miss me already?" Aidan raised his eyebrows.


    "Hurry up." Leanna nudged Aidan, thinking she should eliminate all chances of the man peeking at her


    from below.


    Not long after that, the duo put on their gear, whereupon Aidan was the first to climb. A few seconds


    later, Leanna jerked the rope and began to follow as well. Unlike Leanna, Aidan''s agility allowed him to


    quickly widen the gap between him and her. He then looked down, setting his eyes on thedy with a


    casual smile. "Do you need help?"


    "There''s no need for that!" Leanna bit her lip and continued climbing. At the same time, she looked


    down, thinking she had made better progress than she previously didst time.


    Well, the tform doesn''t seem as high as the one back in the club, so I think I can make it to the top.


    At the thought of that, Leanna took a deep breath and was ready to go all out to make her way up to


    the top.


    Nevertheless, she quickly regretted it; Leanna had overestimated herself when she started struggling to


    continue climbing. The next second, she lost her grip and bnce, but just when she was about to fall


    onto the other side, she suddenly felt someone''s arm around her waist before she was pulled into his


    arms. She then immediately turned around and asked, "I thought you were up there. Since when did


    youe down?"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Does that matter?" With his arm around her waist, Aidan looked down and asked, "Do you want to get


    down?"


    Leanna went silent for almost ten seconds, thinking she should ignore him. I knew he would be waiting


    for me here, but thankfully, I saw thating. As long as I don''t let go of him, he is going to tire out


    sooner orter. By then, he is going to get us down. Meanwhile, Aidan, who felt Leanna''s arms


    tightening around his body, smiled mischievously. "Are you scared or something?"


    "No, I''m not. I''m just¡­" Fine, I should probably not waste my breath exining to him.


    "I don''t mind indulging myself in your sweet cuddle, but if you ever see yourself on the news tomorrow,


    don''t me it on me," Aidan remarked cheekily just as Leanna turned her head around and realized


    dozens of cameras looking at them.

 Chapter 482

    Chapter 482


    Many youngsters were at the rock climbing gym, and they recognized Leanna. Then, they looked at the


    person beside her. Although they couldn''t see Aidan''s face clearly, they were able to guess since


    Leanna was hugging him tightly. At that moment, they were shrieking while taking pictures of them.


    Never would Leanna have expected such a thing to happen. At that moment, she buried her face into


    Aidan''s embrace and whispered, "Hurry up and get me down!"


    Aidan wrapped one of his arms around her and said casually, "Of course, but are you forgetting


    something?"


    Hearing his words, Leanna gritted her teeth and said, "You are doing this on purpose."


    "How can you say that? Aren''t you the one who pushed me up here?"


    "That¡­" Just as Leanna was going to say something, she realized that this wasn''t the best ce to


    talk. Then, she pinched Aidan''s waist secretly and said, "Hurry up!"


    Aidan groaned quietly and whispered in her ear, saying, "Babe, did I ever tell you that a man''s waist is


    not to be simply touched?"


    Judging by his words, it seemed that he wasn''t going to go down any time soon.


    Seeing that the atmosphere between them was getting hotter and even more people were gathering


    down there, Leanna couldn''t get those words out of her mouth. Then, she said, "Why don''t we do it at


    home?"


    "When have you ever kept your promise?"


    "I swear that I will keep it this time."


    Hearing her words, Aidan looked at her and seemed to be in thought. Then, he said, "If you promise to


    call me ''honey'' every day when we get home, I might consider it."


    This b*stard is pushing his luck, thought Leanna.


    Before she could object, Aidan said, "What do you think?"


    "You didn''t even give me time to think about it." Leanna huffed exasperatedly.


    "It''s not me, it''s them."


    At this moment, many people were gathering together down there. Moreover, they were spending way


    too much time up here. If the photos were to be leaked out, Leanna didn''t know far it would spread.


    "Alright, I promise." She nodded her head.


    Hearing her words, Aidan smiled and tugged on the rope. At the same time, he said to her, "Hold on


    tight."


    Initially, Leanna was already hugging him tightly. When she heard his words, she instantly closed her


    eyes and wrapped her arms around him tightly. After mere seconds, she felt her whole body falling.


    Soon, her feet touched the ground, and she quickly released Aidan as she breathed out a sigh of relief.


    While putting away the equipment, Aidan asked with a smile, "Are you throwing me away after using


    me?"


    However, Leanna ignored him.


    At this moment, a staff member came up and said, "How should we settle this, President Pearson?"


    "It''s fine. Tell them that I''ll pay for everything tonight and they can keep the photos. Just don''t share it in


    public," said Aidan as he turned around and looked at Leanna.


    When Leanna heard his words, she wondered if he had lost his mind. After all, who would have the


    spare time to admire such a thing?


    The staff hummed in response and evacuated the crowd.


    Then, Aidan took a nce at the time and said, "Do you want to watch a movie?"


    "No, thanks, I''ll pass," replied Leanna.


    "Why?"


    "You said that we are here to rx, but I feel more upset than before."


    Hearing her words, Aidan raised his eyebrow and said, "Is that so? Why do I feel like you are in a good


    mood?"


    At that moment, Leanna couldn''t help but kick him in the leg before turning around and leaving.


    Aidan trailed behind her and held her hand as he spoke. "Let''s go home."


    After such an eventful day, Leanna didn''t realize she was mentally exhausted when she was already


    physically tired. All she wanted to do right now was to take a hot shower and liefortably in bed.


    On the road back, Daniel gave her a call, saying that the funeral had ended. If it weren''t for them, this


    matter would''ve been troublesome, and they would need to waste a lot of time dealing with it.


    After thinking for some time, Leanna gripped the phone and said, "Jethro is dead."


    On the other end of the phone, Daniel didn''t expect to hear such news. Thus, he paused for mere


    seconds before saying, "Did you see his body?"


    Leanna hummed in response and replied, "Yes. The police said that it was a suicide attempt, and the


    forensic doctor is conducting an autopsy."


    Hearing her words, Daniel was silent for a moment before he said, "Although he should have rotted in


    hell, it''s too easy for him to die just like this."


    Leanna didn''t say anything more. After chatting with Daniel for a while, she hung up the phone.


    Just as she kept her phone away, she heard Aidan''s voice. "Do you think that they are the ones who


    did it?" he asked.


    "What?" Leanna was stunned.


    "Jethro''s death," replied Aidan.


    Hearing his words, Leanna pursed her lips and nodded. To be honest, she didn''t believe it when she


    heard that a man like Jethro would kill himself. Hence, she thought about two possibilities. The first


    possibility was that he had been murdered by someone lurking in the dark, while the second possibility


    was that William had killed him. That was why she had told Daniel about it just now, wanting to see if


    he knew anything about this. However, it seemed like he had no clue at all.


    "It''s normal for you to think that way. After all, Jethro would die hundreds of times for what he did," said


    Aidan.


    Leanna whispered, "It doesn''t matter who the killer was because Jethro''s death would alert everyone.


    However, he died in prison, which meant that not many people could kill him. If¡­"


    If she were William, she would have chosen to kill Jethro after sending him back to prison to avoid


    making a stir.


    Just as she thought about it, she heard Aidan''s voice again. "Based on your understanding of him, do


    you think he''s the one behind this?"


    When Leanna heard his words, she shook her head and felt lost. To be honest, she didn''t know much


    about William. She had met him several times, and he was always a gentleman. Unfortunately, it


    seemed like she had underestimated him. He returned to get revenge, so he wouldn''t be as innocent


    as he looked. Moreover, even the kindest person would have a change of heart after going through


    such a terrifying experience. Hence, how could William not change during the past 20 years he had


    been waiting for?


    After some time, Leanna said, "He isn''t the killer."


    "Oh? Why is that so?" asked Aidan.


    "Even if he wanted to kill Jethro, he wouldn''t choose to do it at a time like this. As you said, there are


    still many unsolved questions about Jethro, so William wouldn''t rush to kill him even if he loathed the


    man. Moreover, Daniel''s right; it would be a shame that he died so easily."


    "You''re right." Aidan smiled slightly.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "If that''s the case, it would be those guys who killed Jethro." Leanna frowned.


    "Since they chose to kill him at this moment, it could only mean that Jethro had something that they


    were afraid of. That was why they wanted to kill him as soon as possible. It also proves that what we


    had guessed about them was right," said Aidan.


    When Leanna heard his words, she nodded and thought, He''s right.


    Seeing that she was frowning, Aidan curled his fingers and flicked them against her forehead. "Alright,


    let''s not think about this anymore. I think it''s better if you think about what you promised me. After all,


    it''s toote to take your words back now."

 Chapter 483

    Chapter 483


    When Leanna returned home, she was forced to call Aidan ''honey'' since she had fallen into his hands.


    Ultimately, she was so embarrassed that she wanted to kill him.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    After taking a break for a week, she still decided to see a therapist.


    If it is a mental illness, whether it is anxiety or something else, I should get it treated properly.


    Otherwise, who knows if I''ll end up likest time¡ªmy emotions were a wreck, I overthought too much,


    and I even felt paranoid.


    Beforeing to this decision, she had discussed it with Aidan the night before.


    When Aidan heard her words, he frowned slightly. He paused for a moment before saying, "If you think


    that you are not rxed enough yet, I can rearrange my work and travel with you in a few days. You


    don''t have to see a therapist."


    "I think I''m sick. This isn''t something about whether my emotions are calm or not, nor is it a problem


    that can be solved by traveling," Leanna replied seriously.


    Aidan was unhappy when he heard her words. "You are not sick. You just think too much and hurt your


    brain," he said.


    "Overthinking is also an illness. If I hadn''t overthought so much, I wouldn''t have kept thinking that my


    child was still alive and right in front of me. With this thought, I couldn''t control myself and was


    obsessed with this matter."


    Hearing her words, Aidan pursed his lips and said nothing.


    On the other hand, Leanna continued, "Moreover, you are also responsible for this."


    Aidan clenched his jaw and gulped. Then, he looked at her and said slowly, "What?"


    "If you didn''t keep telling me that you would take my child away, I wouldn''t have thought about it."


    "Well then, do you want to?"


    "See, you''re doing it again," said Leanna as she looked at him emotionlessly.


    Looking at her, Aidan chuckled and grabbed her shoulder, saying, "This isn''t an illness, Leanna."


    "I''m not obsessed about it. It''s just that¡­"


    "You''re thinking about it."


    Hearing his words, Leanna was speechless.


    Then, Aidan reached out and cupped the back of her head as his lips pressed against hers. "You don''t


    need to see a therapist because of this. I can treat you."


    "I''m being serious," said Leanna as she raised her hand and blocked him.


    "So am I." Aidan moved her hand away and kissed her fingertips. "I''ve told you before that I can get


    anything you want, whether it''s a child or that little punk," he said slowly.


    At that moment, Leanna felt exhausted and said, "I''ve also told you before not to give me such


    hallucinations."


    "What hallucinations?"


    "It''s obvious that you dislike children, but why do you keep taking me to see someone who isn''t blood-


    rted¡­"


    Before she could finish her words, Aidan cut her off and said, "I don''t like children, but I like you,


    Leanna."


    When Leanna heard his words, she was momentarily stunned. It seemed as though she didn''t expect


    to hear such an answer from him.


    Aidan stared at her deeply and said slowly, "I will love everything that you like, whether it is the children


    or anything else."


    Staring into his eyes, Leanna couldn''t see any trace of him lying or fooling with her. All she could see


    was the calmness in his eyes. At that moment, she felt like she had been persuaded by his words.


    Before she could speak, Aidan kissed her again.


    Just as he was about to get up and take something from the nightstand, Leanna held his arm and said,


    "Don''t."


    "What?" Aidan said deeply.


    "Didn''t you say that¡­ you want a child?"


    They had unprotected sex in Weavside back then, but it seemed like she hadn''t gotten pregnant.


    After hearing her words, Aidan paused for a moment, seemingly in thought.


    When Leanna saw his reaction, she turned to the side and said, "It''s fine if you don''t want to."


    "Why wouldn''t I want to?" As Aidan spoke, he leaned down and hugged her. His voice was raspy.


    Although things are gettingplicated, it''s fortunate that there are many people here to protect her. It


    won''t be a problem if she gets pregnant. After all, I''ll still have to wait at least ten months for her to give


    birth to my child. With such an extended period, I''m able to deal with everything, thought Aidan.


    ¡­


    After a steamy night, Leanna woke up at noon the next day. Then, she thought about it thoroughly and


    felt that seeing a therapist might not be the best idea. After all, she had to strengthen her inner self to


    ovee these difficulties.


    However, she couldn''t withstand staying in the house any longer after a long rest. Hence, she went to


    the studio after lunch.


    Just as she sat down in her office chair, Zoe entered the room and said, "Why don''t you rest a little


    longer, Nana?"


    "I''m well-rested. If I rest any longer, I''m not going to be able to feel my limbs anymore," replied Leanna.


    Zoe sat in front of her and sprawled on the table. "Speaking of which, Zayn came by the other day.


    When he heard that you were sick and was resting at home, he left without saying anything."


    Hearing her words, Leanna paused for a moment and said, "Did¡­ Did he say anything about his


    father''s condition?"


    "I did ask him about it, and he said that it''s all good. However, judging by his expression when he


    answered, it doesn''t seem like his father''s condition has gotten better. I couldn''t pry for more


    information, so I left it at that."


    "It''s good news as long as there isn''t any news," said Leanna with a nod.


    Although nothing was going on between her and Zayn, the Bats still disliked her because of Anna.


    No matter how much time passed, Carly''s actions would always be a pain in her heart. Although she


    did not hold onto it after things had passed, she still couldn''t forgive the Bats that easily. Plus, there


    was no need for visiting as it would only make both parties awkward.


    After thinking about it, Leanna snapped out of it and said, "Have you found a house?"


    "Yes, but I was afraid that Anthony would find it again. Thus, I deliberately found a house further away,"


    replied Zoe.


    "Has Anthony been looking for you recently?"


    "No, he finally gave up. I should go to church during Christmas to thank Jesus for protecting me."


    Hearing her words, Leanna smiled and said, "That''s good. If you ever reencounter him, remember to


    call me."


    "What about you? Have you gone to a therapist? What did they say?" asked Zoe.


    Leanna shook her head and said, "I didn''t. I guess I''m just too overwhelmed since many things have


    happened recently. I might get better after having some rest."


    Zoe agreed with her words and said, "I was thinking the same thing too. If I were you, I would be too


    shocked to do anything in those situations. However, you were brave enough to let yourself into a


    crucial situation and kill the mastermind. With that, you are a courageous heroine."


    Hearing her words, Leanna felt that she was exaggerating and said, "Okay, now that''s too much."


    Zoe smiled and said, "I mean it. Now that this is over, you can finally be at ease. Speaking of which, did


    you find Georgina?"


    "No."


    "She''s too good at hiding. Where could she have possibly hidden?"


    Ever since Georgina left Violet''s house, she was never seen again. Leanna felt that she was hiding in a


    ce that no one had expected.

 Chapter 484

    Chapter 484


    Meanwhile, in the hospital, Carly and Marilyn rushed to Zayn when they saw himing out of the


    ward. "How is he, Zayn?" they asked anxiously.


    "Dad has fallen asleep. The doctor who did a check-up on him mentioned that he is recovering well, so


    don''t worry about him," Zayn answered.


    Hearing that, Marilyn sighed as she sat down on a chair next to them. "I know that you are trying to


    comfort me, but I know his condition well. He spends less time conscious, and he''s asleep most of the


    time. How could his condition be better?"


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


    "Mom, the doctor said that it will take time for him to recover. You should go home and get some rest


    since you''ve spent so many days in the hospital," suggested Zayn while squatting in front of Marilyn.


    "I''m fine. However, you''ve been back for a while now, yet you''ve been in the hospital for so many days.


    You haven''t stepped foot at home, so you need to rest more than I do."


    "I''m fine. There''s still some work that I need to take care of in thepany..."


    "Zayn," Carly suddenly uttered. "You should listen to Mom and go home to get some rest. Our family is


    already in such a situation, and we wouldn''t know what to do if you copse too."


    Upon hearing that, Zayn pursed his lips and slowly got up. "Alright, I''ll go home and returnter in the


    evening."


    As he was about to leave, Marilyn suddenly grabbed his hand. Her expression was solemnpared


    to earlier on. "Zayn, there''s something that I need to tell you about."


    Seeing that, Carly''s expression turned grave, and she stretched her hand out to tug Marilyn''s blouse.


    "Mom¡­"


    "There''s no point hiding it from him at a time like this. Moreover, how are you nning to exin it to


    him when he sees her with his own eyes once he gets home?" Marilyn exined.


    Carly''s face instantly turned pale. She stammered as she opened her mouth, but she couldn''t say a


    thing.


    "What happened?" Zayn furrowed his brows and asked.


    "Your sister did something really silly. She got someone to push Aidan''s ex-wife into the water. It


    caused amotion back then, but she was fine after she got out of the water," Marilyn whispered.


    "I know about this," replied Zayn as he pursed his lips. However, it wasn''t as simple as that.


    "Your sister went to apologize to her after that. We thought that we could put the incident behind us, but


    who''d have thought this incident was used to get a hold over the Bat Family?! Because of this, your


    sister has been suffering from insomnia and drastic weight loss."


    "No matter what, I''ll bear the consequences of my actions. However¡­ As you can see, Dad is currently


    in such an unstable condition. The doctor said that we shouldn''t provoke him. Moreover, the Bat


    Family has be vulnerable, and a lot of people have set their sights on us. In other words, they''re


    hoping to get a hold of us. If this news gets out, the Bat Family will be done for!"


    "Who has been threatening you?" Zayn asked.


    "It''s¡­ It''s¡­"


    Seeing that she was stammering, Marilyn revealed, "It''s Georgina."


    "I watched that child grow up. Yes, Carly made a mistake, but she kept holding that information against


    us and threatened us with it. Carly and I are just worried that your father might not be able to take it


    when he finds out about the incident. That''s why we didn''t dare to tell him about it and let her stay at


    the Bat Residence." Marilyn sighed.


    "Zayn, you might not be aware of what has happened within the Crossley Family recently, she¡­"


    "I''m aware of it," he responded.


    He was concerned that Leanna''s g might be affected, so he had been keeping an eye on news that


    was happening within the country even though he was at Swiysal. At times, although he might only find


    out about thingster on or without too many details, he couldn''t have been unaware of the major


    incident that happened to the Crossley Family.


    At that moment, Carly''s legs suddenly gave way as she stumbled against the chair. As she covered her


    face with her hand, she said in a quavering voice, "I don''t know what to do. Aidan''s men are looking for


    her, and if he finds out that the Bat Family has been hiding Georgina, he will not let us off the hook.


    The thing is, I can''t tell dad about this either¡­"


    Hearing that, Zayn squatted before her as he pursed his lips and said after a brief pause, "Carly, you


    are part of the Bat Family, and we will stand by you no matter what."


    "What about dad¡­"


    "I''ll get someone to watch over him, and I will also remind the doctors and nurses to never let any news


    get to him."


    "Does it mean that you''re ready to hand Georgina over to Aidan? Have you thought of the


    consequences? The Bat Family might be done for if we do so."


    "The Bat Family is now an empty shell. If it wasn''t for the sacrifice that Leanna made and her


    discussion with the Pearson Family, the Bat Family wouldn''t have been able to hold up until now,"


    Zayn responded impassively.


    Marilyn was speechless after hearing that. After the marriage with the Pearson Family was called off,


    they initially thought that it would all be over for the Bat Family. However, they were surprised to


    find out that the projects they had previously negotiated weren''t against the contract. It was also


    because of these projects that the Bat Group was able to survive until now.


    "We are indebted to Leanna. We should make up to her whenever we can." Both Marilyn and Carly


    were quiet after hearing that.


    "Is Georgina still at the Bat Residence?" Zayn asked after a short pause.


    "She is staying in the backyard. She was worried that someone might discover her, so she''s been


    asking us to send her things over. However, after Dad was hospitalized, I arranged a maid and


    reminded her repeatedly not to reveal to anyone that Georgina is staying at our house."


    "Got it," Zayn answered.


    When she saw him standing up, Carly suddenly grabbed his shirt and asked, "Zayn, what are you


    nning to do? Are you nning to send her over to Aidan directly? If we make amotion, I''m


    afraid¡­"


    "Let me handle it. I''ll make sure to take care of things properly."


    Hearing that, Carly slowly retracted her hand. After Zayn left the hospital, he dialed Aidan''s number as


    soon as he got into the car.


    Just as the call went through, Aidan said calmly, "Mr. Bat, do you have a business to discuss with


    me upon returning to the country?"


    "I have something to speak to you about," Zayn replied.


    "I don''t think there''s anything to discuss between us."


    "In that case, I''ll have to look for Leanna."


    Aidan was speechless upon hearing that and replied as he licked his mouth, "What is it?"


    "I know where Georgina is," Zayn uttered.


    "Where?" Aidan''s tone had be cold.


    "My house."


    Upon hearing that, Aidan chuckled as he knew the reason why the Bat Family was helping


    Georgina to hide. He then lightly tapped the table with his finger and said coldly, "Are you turning


    against your family?"


    "My dad had fallen sick, so both my mother and sister are concerned about his condition. They don''t


    want the whole thing to escte, and they were even threatened by Georgina. However, I guarantee


    you that I will personally send Georgina over by today."


    "Alright," answered Aidan, his gaze darkening.


    After the call ended, Zayn put his phone down and drove toward the Bat Residence.

 Chapter 485

    Chapter 485


    In the afternoon, just as Leanna was about to go home, she received a call from Aidan.


    After she answered the call, he asked in a deep voice, "Aren''t you at home?"


    "I was bored, so I came to the studio. I''m heading home now," she replied.


    "Alright, I have something to take care of, so I''ll be homete. Rest early," he said.


    "Did something happen at work?"


    "Nope, it''s nothing major. I''ll tell you about it when I get home."


    "Alright."


    After the call ended, Zoe poked her head into the room from the outside and asked, "Nana, aren''t you


    leaving?"


    "Let''s go." Leanna stood up.


    Since Zoe took the cab over, Leanna decided to send her home.


    While on their way home, Zoe asked curiously, "Did President Pearson urge you to head home today?"


    Hearing that, Leannaughed and responded, "He has to take care of some work, so he''ll be home


    "By the way, that b*stard seemed idle at times, but he''s really busy when there''s work to do. However,


    that''s when you can get a breather since he won''t be clinging onto you all day long."


    Leanna was distracted when she heard Zoe''s words, for her statement would be a big joke if it was


    applied to Leanna''s and Aidan''s rtionship a year ago. Who would have thought that so much had


    changed within less than a year? Not longter, the car reached its destination with help from the


    navigation system.


    "Is this the ce?" Leanna wound her mirror down and looked outside.


    "Yes. Thanks for the ride. Drive safe," Zoe responded.


    "Alright."


    After Zoe left, Leanna shifted her gaze to the front and drove away. When she reached the apartment,


    she could hear a baby''s cry next door upon exiting the elevator, and she halted her footsteps. It was


    her first time hearing a baby''s cry after staying there for some time.


    She then continued walking, but as she was about to reach her unit, the elevator door suddenly opened


    again to reveal a figure walking out from it.


    "Louis? Why are you here? It''ste." She was puzzled to see him.


    Louis, however, looked calm and answered as he stood there, "I''m here to have dinner."


    Leanna had previously invited him multiple times toe over for a meal, but he rejected her offers


    each time. Thus, his presence took her by surprise. However, after giving it some thought, she thought


    that he mustn''t have felt good after what had happened before that, which could be why he was there


    to see her.


    She then walked toward her unit''s door and entered the passcode. "Come on in," she offered.


    Hearing that, he followed behind her and took a look at the next door before entering.


    "What do you feel like eating?" Leanna entered the kitchen after changing into her house slippers.


    "I''m fine with anything." Knowing that Louis wasn''t a picky eater like Aidan, she took a look at the


    ingredients she had in the fridge and nned to cook with whatever ingredients she had.


    As she was cooking, Louis walked to the kitchen door and asked her, "Isn''t Aidan at home?"


    "He has something to do, so he''ll bete," she replied while slicing the vegetables.


    "Something to do? What is it?" Louis furrowed his brows and asked.


    "No idea. I didn''t ask him."


    "Why didn''t you ask him? What if he''s lying to you?" Louis asked again.


    "If he is lying to me, he could easilye up with an excuse even if I ask him." Leanna turned around


    to look at him.


    "Aren''t you worried that he would look for other girls behind¡­" Louis pursed his lips but couldn''t bring


    himself to finish the sentence.


    "He won''t do that," Leanna uttered.


    "Do you trust him that much?"


    Hearing that made Leannaugh. "You''ll understand me after you are in a rtionship. If someone


    likes you, no matter how big the temptation is, it would be nothing for him. However, if he doesn''t like


    you, it would still happen even if you''re worried about it," Leanna replied.


    "What about you? Have you been seeing Daphne recently?"


    Louis'' ears became red at the mention of Daphne''s name. He looked away and answered, "I don''t


    know."


    "What do you mean? It''s either a yes or a no."


    "Her new movie is premiering soon, so she is on tour around the country," Louis uttered.


    "You seem to know her schedule well." Leanna smirked.


    "It was all over the inte. You weren''t paying attention."


    After Leanna was done with cooking, she arranged the utensils and beckoned Louis toe over.


    "Let''s eat."


    "I previously heard Aidan say that you were resting at home, but I noticed that you just came back from


    somewhere. Where did you go?"


    "It seems like Aidan and you keep in touch quite often." Leanna smiled.


    A guilty Louis was speechless, and he kept quiet as he chewed his food.


    Leanna had been teasing him, so she changed the topic. "Well, how''s the contract with the film and


    entertainmentpanying along?"


    "It''s fine," Louis replied.


    Just then, Leanna''s phone rang. It was Aidan.


    With that, she stood up with the mobile phone in her hand and said, "Louis, please excuse me. I have


    to answer this."


    "Alright."


    Leanna then walked to the balcony and swiped her phone screen to answer the call. "What''s wrong?"


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Have you reached home?" Aidan was heard asking.


    "Yes, I''m at home. Louis came over, and we are having dinner together." After a brief pause, she


    continued, "What time are you reaching home? Should I prepare some food for you?"


    "That won''t be necessary. I''ll bete," Aidan answered.


    "Got it. Carry on with your work, then," Leanna uttered.


    "Aren''t you going to ask what I''m doing?"


    "You''d tell me if you want to. You will juste up if an excuse if you don''t feel like telling me, so what''s


    the point of me asking?"


    Hearing that, Aidan chuckled and responded, "Alright, I''ll tell you when I get home."


    After the call ended, Leanna walked toward the dining table. When she saw Louis, she seemed


    hesitant as she pursed her lips. She then sat in front of him and said, "Louis, there''s something that I


    haven''t told you."


    "Is it rted to Jethro?" Louis asked after a brief pause.


    "He died¡­ On the day of the funeral." She nodded as she spoke.


    However, she didn''t ask Aidan about Jethro''s autopsy results. She wouldn''t be of much help even if she


    knew about it, after all.


    Upon hearing that, Louis seemed calm, and there wasn''t a trace of surprise on his face. "He should


    have been dead," he said impassively.


    "Since he''s already dead, the whole thing has ended. Don''t upy your head with silly thoughts. Go


    study or get yourself a girlfriend." He was speechless after hearing what Leanna said.


    After dinner, Louis brought the bowls into the kitchen and washed them. After a while, he walked out


    and announced, "I shall take my leave."


    "I''ll see you out," Leanna responded.


    "There''s no need for that. I''m not a child. Bye," Louis replied.


    Leanna smiled as she looked at his back. To Louis and her, the incident was far from being resolved.


    Whatever happened in the future, her only hope was for Louis not to be hurt in any way.


    After she heard the sound of the door closing, she walked back to her bedroom. As shey in bed, she


    took her phone out and started scrolling through several online articles.


    It turned out that Daphne was on a tour around the country, and it just started not long ago. It might


    take her some time before she would get back to Highside. Just as she was about to put her phone


    down, she saw the news about the Crossley Group. After a brief pause, she clicked into it.

 Chapter 486

    Chapter 486


    Meanwhile, since Dous was hospitalized, Carly and Marilyn never returned to Bat Residence.


    Although Carly specially arranged for a servant to deliver meals to her, Georgina still kept her guard up


    all the same.


    Georgina had secretly inquired about Leanna''s situation before. Therefore, she learned from the


    information she acquired that Leanna didn''t get into a car ident. This could only mean one thing¡ª


    her n failed.


    Even so, Aidan''s men were still looking for her. So, Georgina held the jewelry she took from Violet and


    wandered around several ces. Eventually, she seeded in sneaking into Bat Residence


    without anyone the wiser.


    Fortunately, she hadn''t been in touch with Carly for a long time. In addition, the Bats could hardly


    fend for themselves now. Thus, Aidan would never suspect Georgina to hide in Bat Residence.


    Then again, staying here is not a long-term solution either. I have to find a way to get the Bats to


    send me abroad. Now that Zayn is in Swiysal, the Bats should have a way to get me out of the


    country without being discovered by Aidan!


    When she thought of the usibilities, she immediately gave Carly a call. Yet, Carly never once picked


    up her phone.


    Georgina furrowed her brows slightly as a wave of annoyance rose within her. She also couldn''t help


    but feel snubbed while she thought, I can''t go out now, and I don''t know Mr. Bat''s current condition.


    If Carly intends to avoid me, there''s a high chance she would drag her feet when meeting me.


    Soon, she heard the sound of footsteps from outside the door just as the sky turned dark.


    However, unlike the set of footsteps from before, these sounded firm and purposeful. So, when she


    considered these factors, she quickly concluded that an unknown man was sauntering down the


    corridor.


    Georgina instantly made a mad grab for the fruit knife on the coffee table. She curled her fingers


    around her choice of weapon tightly as she gave the door a sharp re.


    Shortly after, the door opened, and in came a man with a slender and tall figure.


    Nevertheless, her frown only deepened at the sight as she gasped in disbelief, "Oh, it''s you." Then,


    after a beat, she added, "Why are you here? Wait. No. When did you return?"


    Zayn stood by the door and merely stared at her quietly. His gaze gradually traveled downward and


    landed on the fruit knife in her hand. Finally, he parted his lips and drawled, "Miss Crossley, you are a


    guest of the Bats, so of course, I have to greet you in person."


    Even after hearing Zayn''s words, Georgina still didn''t let her guard down. She just regarded him coldly,


    "Since Carly told you about me living here, you should know why. It would affect the Bats greatly if


    words about the things she did were to get out. Aidan will never let her off the hook."


    s, he only gave her a slow smirk and said, "Miss Crossley, since you have so graciously brought this


    topic up, I find myself in need of an answer. Carly and Leanna have never interacted, so how did she


    know that Leanna is pregnant?"


    "Anna told her."


    "Is that so?" Zayn pursed his lips doubtfully before he continued, "Then, how did Anna learn about


    this?"


    Georgina remained silent in the face of his interrogation. However, her facial expression turned colder.


    "I think you and I both know who the true mastermind behind this incident was. But, Miss Crossley, did


    it never cross your mind that the situation would turn out this way before you did all these things?"


    She sneered scornfully, "It was all thanks to Leanna that I ended up like this! But that wasn''t enough for


    her. She even harmed the Crossleys! Can''t you see?! That woman manipted Aidan into marrying


    her a few years ago. Plus, she even uses tricks to nder my dad and me today! You guys are the


    ones who are utterly fooled by her maniptive nature! Mark my words: the truth will be revealed


    sooner orter!"


    Zayn demanded coldly, "Miss Crossley, considering you are adamant that you were ndered, so did


    Leanna ce you at gunpoint to force you to scheme against her?"


    "I¡ª" Georgina was momentarily at a loss for words. Nheless, she quickly tried to defend herself,


    refuting coldly, "I just want to reveal her true colors, that''s all."


    "If so, why did you have someone tamper with her car, hoping that Leanna would die in the car crash?


    Is that also a part of your n to reveal her true colors?"


    "She deserved that! She robbed me of everything! She even caused the Crossley Group to end in such


    a tragedy! However, I never expected that she would change her ns at thest minute!"


    Zayn simply stared her down as he said dispassionately, "Miss Crossley, you should know very well


    that you have to pay for what you did. It was only a matter of when."


    Georginaughed in amusement and jeered, "Sure. I will pay for what I did! But what about Carly?


    Shouldn''t she pay for what she did too?"


    "Of course," he replied promptly.


    The instant she heard his reply, the confident smile painted across her lips faded once the implication


    behind his words set in.


    Then, Zayn took a few steps away and freed up the room''s entrance while keeping a sharp eye on her.


    The corridor lights also turned on the moment he was a safe distance away from the door.


    Only then did Georgina realize that several people other than Zayn had arrived at the garden at some


    point. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw that Aidan was also among them.


    As Aidan stood under the night sky, his voice sounded chilly and biting as he questioned, "Why don''t


    you tell me what Leanna stole from you? Me?"


    Georgina''s face instantly twisted in resentment at his remarks.


    Then, he continued, "As long as you possess a modicum of self-awareness, you should be well aware


    that even if Leanna didn''t show up in my life, I still wouldn''t fancy you." After that, he mused as though


    he was genuinely confused. "So, I''m quite curious. What exactly were you thinking when you said


    these words?"


    It seemed that his words had thoroughly incited Georgina''s anger as she roared, "You are just an


    illegitimate child! How could you not fancy me?! You should be grateful that I even gave you even a


    sliver of attention!"


    Aidan wasn''t the slightest bit angered as he chuckled, "Miss Crossley, I have you to remind you of one


    thing. Your dad, Leroy Crossley, was never married and had no legal children. Therefore, you are, at


    best, the illegitimate daughter he brought home to deceive others when he had no other choice.


    Speaking of which, you were the one who stole what belonged to Leanna and lived as her for twenty


    years."


    "Bullsh*t!!"


    Still, he didn''t intend to continue discussing this issue with her any longer. Instead, he tilted his head


    and said to Kurt, the police chief who followed him here, "Chief Higgins, you should have heard the


    crime she confessed to just now."


    As soon as those words escaped his lips, he turned and left without further ado.


    Before Georgina could react, she saw a few personnel in police uniforms crowding around her.


    Blood drained from her face, and she turned ghastly pale. Then, amid her struggle to break free, she


    identally cut her face with the fruit knife she held in her grasp. When she felt warm blood welling up


    from the cut, she touched her cheek with trembling hands. When she tried to wipe the blood away, she


    only managed to smear half her face in blood once she realized what had happened.


    At that moment, everyone could hear only Georgina''s uncontroble screams across the backyard.


    After Aidan stepped outside the Bat Residence, he turned his head to gaze at the man behind him.


    Then, he questioned tly, "Why are you following me? Don''t tell me that you think that I should be


    thanking you."


    He didn''t bother waiting for Zayn''s answer as he continued, "You guys have hidden Georgina for so


    long. So, I''m being rather magnanimous by not pursuing this matter."


    "I want to apologize to Leanna on behalf of Carly," Zayn replied.


    Aidan immediately answered, "I will convey your apologies to her, so there''s no need for you to meet


    her."


    After a few seconds, Zayn suddenly chuckled in amusement.


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


    "What are youughing at?" Aidan demanded as he frowned in displeasure.


    "President Pearson, I just didn''t expect you to be so afraid of me meeting Leanna. This only shows that


    you aren''t confident in your rtionship."


    Aidan merely graced the man he regarded as a pest with a huff of disdain.


    Shortly after, Zayn spoke again, "I still have to deal with several matters upon my return, so I probably


    won''t have time to find Leanna. Regardless, I heard that many things have happened to Leanna


    recently. President Pearson, I hope you can take good care of her."


    "You don''t have to remind me of that."


    Finally, Zayn advised, "President Pearson, since you im to love Leanna, you should know her true


    personality. She will only give you one chance at most for some things, so I hope you will cherish it


    well."


    Aidan narrowed his eyes at the other man and remained silent.


    "I still have to go to the hospital. Take care, President Pearson."

 Chapter 487

    Chapter 487


    In the middle of the night, just when Leanna almost fell into a deep slumber, she suddenly felt a dip in


    the bed behind her. Soon, she was wrapped in a warm embrace.


    She kept her eyes closed, but her voice wasced with tiredness. "Did you just return?"


    Aidan replied with a hum and gently patted her back with his big palms and murmured in his deep


    voice, "Go back to sleep."


    Leanna turned around and wrapped her arms around his waist out of habit. Shortly after, she fell back


    asleep.


    In the dark, Aidan nted a long kiss on her forehead.


    They had gotten ahold of Georgina now, but Leroy was nowhere to be found.


    He was like a ticking bomb, unsure when it would explode.


    At the moment, the Crossley Group was a mess. Many of their financial statements did not add up, and


    multiple managers ran or jumped ship because of that. As such, only the oblivious employees were left


    behind.


    If no one stepped up, the great family that once stood over Highside for hundreds of years through the


    blood, sweat, and tears of their generational leaders would fall to its feet overnight, never to be seen


    ever again. Many of thepany''s employees and their families would also suffer a major blow. R¨ºAdt??St chapters at Novel(D)ra/ma.Org Only


    Everything happened because of Leroy. Due to his agenda, he caused harm to thousands of people.


    He would not be able to repent for his wrongdoings even if he died.


    ¡­


    The ringing of the rm clock woke Leanna up the next day, but Aidan wasn''t by her side.


    She got up with a yawn and got ready before walking out of the bedroom.


    When she went down, Alice was already in the kitchen making breakfast. "You''re up, Madam. Breakfast


    is almost ready."


    Leanna looked around the room before asking, "Where''s Aidan?"


    Alice replied, "Master had just left when I arrived. He said that something came up in the office and


    asked me to let you know that he''ll be busy. Also, he doesn''t want you to think about him."


    Leanna was speechless.


    Who''s thinking about him?!


    When she was halfway through her meal, she suddenly thought of something and asked, "Alice, did


    our neighbor have a baby? I think I heard a baby crying yesterday."


    Alice shook her head. "I''m not sure about that. I''ve never seen the neighbors."


    "I''ve never seen them either."


    Alice smiled. "If you like children, Madam, you could have one yourself."


    Hearing that, Leanna paused and didn''t speak.


    Alice saw Leanna''s reaction and assumed that she was thinking about the child from before, so she


    carefully asked, "Madam, did I say something wrong?"


    Leanna assured her, "No, I just think that children are quite cute."


    Aidan had not put on a condom during theirst few sessions. She wasn''t sure if she''d get pregnant


    and decided to just go with the flow.


    After breakfast, Leanna headed to the studio.


    Since she had taken a break for some time, a lot of work was waiting for her.


    Even though fashion week was several months away, some things had to be confirmed and prepared


    in advance.


    Time passed. In the afternoon, Zoe knocked on her door while asking quietly, "Are you busy, Nana?"


    Leanna stretched her arms. "I''m not that busy. What''s up?"


    "There are two people out front saying that¡­ they''re from the Crossley Group. They want to meet you."


    Leanna was stunned. "Me?"


    Zoe nodded. "Yes. If you don''t want to meet them, I''ll reject them."


    It had been a while since the Crossley Group''s anniversary celebration.


    Leanna didn''t keep tabs on the Crossleys, but she saw the newsst night whereby a few important


    projects of theirs had stopped. As such, many of their coborators had gone up to the office and made


    a scene. However, there was no one left in the Crossley Group to give them an answer. It was a no-


    brainer that the employees were on pins and needles.


    After staying silent for a while, Leanna ordered, "Let them in."


    "Okay."


    To her surprise, she knew the two people who came.


    One of them was Jimmy, the guy who forced Maya to drink during one of their dinners.


    The other was Raymond, whom Maya wanted to introduce to her single father.


    Compared to theirst meeting, Jimmy was very emotional and filled with tears as he entered the


    office. He went up and reached out his hands, wanting to grab her hand. "Miss McKinney, I''m so


    grateful that you''re willing to meet us despite your busy schedule. I am¡ª"


    Leanna avoided his outreached hand and said quietly, "You''re wee. Let''s get straight to the point."


    Jimmy wiped away the beads of perspiration on his forehead awkwardly and sat down on the couch.


    "We only discovered that you are the true heir to the Crossley Group during thepany''s anniversary


    celebration. You know the situation thepany is in right now. We have no choice but to¡ª"


    Raymond cut him off and took over. "I''ll continue, Miss McKinney. After Mr. Crossley''s disappearance,


    the Crossley Group is in chaos. Neither the coborators nor the employees know what the future


    holds for them. No one knows what will be of thepany. As such, we''re here to ask what you


    think of the situation."


    Leanna replied coldly, "I''ve got nothing to do with the Crossleys."


    Jimmy agreed, "Yes. Yes. Those problems were caused by Mr. Cross¡ªLeroy. We know that it wouldn''t


    be fair for you to take over thepany in this situation, but the thousands of employees in the


    Crossley Group are innocent, let alone the numerous coborators. They all have families to feed. If


    the Crossley Group goes down, it won''t affect anyone else but these people who have put so much


    money and effort into the business. I can''t even imagine how manypanies are going to shut down,


    as well as the families that will be torn apart."


    Hearing his speech, Leanna furrowed her brows but stayed silent.


    Then, Raymond picked up after him. "We know that you have no obligation to take responsibility for the


    employees of thepany. However, that''s not just thousands of people''s lives at stake¡ªit''s also


    thousands of families."


    Jimmy hurriedly continued, "Yes, that''s right. The rest of the high-level managers all ran away. We have


    worked here for so long, and the employees are like family to us. We can''t bear to see this happen to


    them."


    Leanna suddenly looked up at those words. "The employees are like family to you?"


    He thought that Leanna''s reaction was a sign that she would agree and pped his thigh. "That''s right!


    We can''t possibly abandon our family."


    Leanna hummed and slowly drawled out her words, saying, "In that case, I must have been living


    under a rock. It''s a first for me to see people forcing their family to drink and trying to cause them


    harm."


    In an instant, Jimmy''s red face was filled with awkwardness and embarrassment.


    However, he still tried to exin, "That¡­I was drunk back then and acted out. I hope you won''t take


    that to heart."


    Raymond added, "Miss McKinney, despite Mr. Onder''sck in certain areas, he has been with the


    Crossley Group for more than ten years. You can''t deny his deep connection with thepany."


    "Ray is right. The Crossley Group is like my family. Now that it''s going down, who could just watch that


    happen?" Jimmy then sighed heavily. "If you are still angry about what happened before, I could¡ª"


    However, Leanna interrupted him curtly, "So, what is the purpose of your visit? What do you want me to


    do?"

 Chapter 488

    Chapter 488


    The silence in the office was shattered when Raymond spoke. "We hope that Mrs. Pearson will step in


    and lead the Crossley Group. That''ll allow everyone to settle down and buy us more time."


    "More time? What for?"


    "Here''s the thing; we''ve been working with Mr. Cnder to pull in more investmentstely. We''ve been


    trying to alleviate some of the Crossley Group''s current predicament, but they didn''t have anyone in


    charge before this. Nopany is willing to work with us, and no bank will loan us any money."


    Jimmy continued, "However, if Mrs. Pearson takes over Crossley Group, that''ll give everyone more


    confidence in us. They''ll be more willing to cut a deal."


    Leanna was never one for tact. She cut in, "Are they confident because of me? Or because of Aidan?"


    Jimmy couldn''t help but nce at Raymond. "Well¡­ when you put it like that¡­"


    Raymond didn''t miss a beat and replied nonchntly, "It''s true that we''re hoping to capitalize on


    President Pearson''s stature. But at the end of the day, you''re the Crossleys'' rightful heir. If you helm the


    family, the employees and partners will feel at ease. Otherpanies and banks will also be willing to


    give Crossley Group another chance on ount of you and thete chairman."


    Jimmy breathed a sigh of relief. "He''s right. I''ve never met thete chairman, but I''ve heard much about


    him. When the Crossleys almost split up, he was the one who held them together and saved the day.


    You could see his affection for the family. Now that he''s no longer here, I''m afraid you''re the only one


    who can save the Crossley Group, Mrs. Pearson."


    Raymond and Jimmy kept trying to convince Leanna.


    They had an ace in the hole, and they hoped she would do this for her father''s sake.


    Unfortunately for them, they didn''t know that her biological father was still alive.


    He couldn''t be unaware of Crossley Group''s current straits. Since he wasn''t even going to lift a finger to


    help, it meant that he was displeased with them.


    However, they did make a good point; thousands of employees working for the Crossley Group were


    innocent.


    Leanna shut her eyes. There was a sudden stab of pain in her temple.


    "Mrs. Pearson, we¡ª"


    Jimmy was about to say something when Raymond shushed him.


    Then, Raymond said, "We''veid a lot of new information on you today, Mrs. Pearson. We''ll give you


    some time to think things through. There''s no hurry, and we''ll wait for your reply."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Leanna nodded, trying hard to hide her relief. "We''ll talk soon, then."


    He was right; she did need time to digest all this information.


    Meanwhile, Jimmy looked dissatisfied. As soon as they left the office, he burst out, "We wasted so


    much effort to woo her. Are we just going to leave it at that?"


    Raymond was unppable. He said calmly, "Mr. Onder, even if we forced her to agree with us today,


    do you think Aidan would give in so easily when he hears about this?"


    Jimmy hesitated for a couple of seconds before letting out a snort. "Please. By then, things would have


    been finalized, and everyone will have their eyes on us. Not even Aidan Pearson would dare to step


    out of line."


    "I''m afraid you''ve underestimated Mr. Pearson on this. No one can force him to change his mind if he


    doesn''t want something. The consequences will be damned."


    Jimmy snorted once again. "If I weren''t so afraid that this whole thing would end up with an egg on my


    face, I wouldn''t have made this trip. I hated looking at that spoiled girl''s face."


    Although Leroy had fled, he didn''t bring his wife and children, nor did he bring all the property his family


    had amassed. Without any preparations at all, he couldn''t simply escape.


    He had been hiding for some time but would eventually be dug out of his hideout. He''d have to exin


    himself sooner orter.


    Jimmy wondered what sort of exnation Leroy would give them.


    Regardless of whatever happened, Jimmy would not be caught in the crossfire.


    Until then, he had no choice but to help Raymond in wooing Leanna.


    He would have a lot fewer problems as soon as she agreed to take over Crossley Group, after all.


    Raymond chuckled. "Mr. Onder, you know as well as I do that Mrs. Pearson is the Crossleys'' golden


    child. If they ever get back on track, we''ll also end up working for her."


    Jimmy hastily waved his hand. "Come on, you know the Crossleys as well as I do. They''re a stubborn


    lot. They''ll limp on as long as they can, but they''ll never make aeback. That spoiled princess can''t


    do anything at all. We''re only just using her to distract the outsiders."


    Raymond made no reply to that, and he merely narrowed his eyes.


    Compared to Jimmy, he was a lot more rxed.


    He knew he had a trump card in his hand, and he wasn''t worried about getting out unscathed.


    The only thing on his mind was when he should use it for the maximum benefit.


    Jimmy then piped up, unable to bear the silence, "Well, at the end of the day, the Crossley Group might


    survive this."


    Raymond smiled, slightly surprised. "Why is that so?"


    Jimmy chortled and patted Raymond on the shoulder. After stepping into the car, Jimmy continued,


    "They''ll stand a chance if thete Lloyd Crossley crawls out of the dirt."


    Raymond rolled his eyes. "You have a sick sense of humor. Lloyd Crossley''s been dead for years."


    "That''s what I''m trying to say. The Crossley Group is finished."


    After closing the door to his car, Jimmy continued, "Alright, I''ll get going. I''ll leave the rest to you. I


    never want toe back here again."


    Raymond nodded. "Drive safe."


    With that, he watched Jimmy''s ck car drive off.


    Once he was sure Jimmy had left, Raymond''s gaze shifted to the nearby office. His lips curled into a


    curious sneer as he ran through the details of his scheme once again.


    He was interrupted by the beeping of his phone. He nced at the number and picked up the call. In a


    soothing voice, he said, "Yes, Celia?"


    Celia breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing his voice. "I finally got to go out today. Are you working? If


    you''re not too busy, can we get dinner?"


    "Of course." Raymond started the engine. "Speaking of which, you never told me where you moved to."


    "I''m still in the same neighborhood. I just moved next door to the boss."


    "Next door?"


    "Yeah. At first, I was worried that the boss'' girlfriend might find out, but he seems to think the safest


    ce to be is out in the open."


    After being with Raymond for so long, Celia was no longer as guarded or wary. She told him


    everything.


    The only information she withheld was Aidan''s name. She only referred to him as the ''boss.''


    While ncing at the office, Raymond said, "Well, your boss seems like one smart cookie."


    "That''s true. However, I lost the floor card once, and he made a big fuss over it. I was scared to death."


    He sighed. "Why don''t you quit? I can take care of you. You''ve beening out less and less. It''s so


    hard to get together nowadays."


    "It''s not the right time. The boss has been so good to me. Please, just wait a little longer until things


    settle down."


    He impatiently drummed his fingers on the steering wheel. "What is he waiting for?"

 Chapter 489

    Chapter 489


    On the other end of the phone, Celia replied, "I have no idea. That''s the boss'' business. It''d be weird if I


    asked him about it. What I do know is that the child was born prematurely because of his family. His


    family situation is quiteplicated. I guess he wants to deal with all the messy stuff at home quickly."


    "All of this¡­ messy stuff at home, is there any chance it could involve you?"


    "No way. Don''t worry about it."


    Raymond shut his eyes and massaged his brows. "Alright, I''ming to pick you up."


    "Alright, see you soon."


    With that, he tossed the phone onto the passenger seat. Then, he yanked at his tie and red at the


    office with mockery and contempt.


    ¡­


    After Raymond and Jimmy left, Zoe strutted into the office. "Nana, what did they want?"


    Leanna pursed her lips and stared aimlessly into the distance. "It''s about the Crossleys."


    "The Crossleys? What about them?"


    "They''ve been leaderless since Leroy fled. They''re a mess right now."


    "That has nothing to do with you. Why did theye to bug you about it?"


    Leanna whispered, "They want me to take over the Crossley Group to help them secure investments


    and bank loans."


    Zoe frowned, for the whole thing smelled fishy. "Don''t do it. With Crossley Group''s current state,


    whoever gets involved would be equivalent to digging their graves. Let them do whatever they want. It


    has nothing to do with you."


    Leanna hummed. "That''s what I thought at first, but ¡­"


    "But what?"


    "Crossley Group isn''t the only one affected; it''s their employees as well. They''re innocent."


    Zoe pursed her lips. "Well, that might be true. Leroy has done a great job screwing everything up. Lots


    of people are caught in the crossfire. However, that has nothing to do with you. You don''t have to take


    responsibility for their mess. You don''t have to care at all."


    Hearing this, Leanna lowered her eyes. Her voice was low and sullen. "I know."


    Zoe couldn''t help but sigh.


    Of course, Leanna knew all of this. However, that might not affect her decision.


    After a spell of ufortable silence, Leanna suddenly asked, "Zoe, do you still talk to Daniel?"


    Zoe flushed. "No. I haven''t spoken to him."


    Thest time they saw each other was at the funeral of Leanna''s mother.


    Leanna nodded. That was good, for it would save everyone a ton of heartache.


    She said, "I want to talk to him."


    Zoe tilted her head slightly in confusion. "Does he have a solution for this mess?"


    "Nope."


    Leanna didn''t know what to say. After a pause, she ventured, "It''s just that¡­ he has a better picture of


    the Crossley Group''s situation than I do."


    Zoe nodded reluctantly. "That''s true. He went through a lot of trouble while getting close to Georgina."


    A teasing smile darted across Leanna''s face. She couldn''t help but ask, "Are you jealous?"


    "D-Don''t be ridiculous. I just think he''s quite the charmer. Even someone as aplished as Georgina


    isn''t immune to his lies."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay, then. I''m going to visit himter. Do you want toe along?"


    Zoe shifted her feet. "I won''t be joining you. I have a date tonight."


    Leanna faintly remembered Zoe mentioning that, but she was still surprised. "That''s tonight?"


    "Yeah, it''s just dinner. I''ll juste up with a reason to leave after we eat."


    Leanna nodded thoughtfully. "In that case, when are you leaving?"


    Zoe checked her watch. "Well, we''re meeting at 6.00PM. I should probably get going at 5.30PM. The


    ce is pretty close, and I can get there in ten minutes."


    Leanna rubbed her palms together. "That''s great. I''ll drop you off."


    Zoe shook her head. "It''s fine. I''ll drive."


    Leanna had a grave expression on her face. "You don''t get it. If you think the blind date''s going well,


    you can get him to send you home after dinner. If you drive, you won''t get that option. Besides, you can


    always call a cab if things go badly and you need to leave."


    Zoe chuckled mischievously. Her friend was making a lot of sense. "That''s true. I can get him to drop


    me home if he''s dreamy."


    "It''s settled, then. I''ll drive you there."


    "Cool, let me change and put on my makeup. I couldn''t get ready this morning; things were too hectic."


    "Go on, then."


    As soon as Zoe left, Leanna breathed deeply to steady herself. Then, she called Daniel.


    She asked, "Are you free to meet up?"


    He replied flippantly, "Sure. Where?"


    "I''m still at the office. I''ll send you the address soon."


    "Okay."


    After hanging up, Leanna frowned. ncing around the office for a while, she then messaged Aidan to


    ask when he would be home tonight.


    After ten minutes slogged by and Aidan had not replied, she decided that he must be pulling another


    all-nighter at his office.


    Turning to herptop, she searched up the Crossley Group.


    Every news article portended doom for that poor family.


    In a photo of one of their suspended projects, arge group of workers hunched over the ground


    dejectedly. Their toolsy beside them, inert and impotent. The workers had nk looks on their faces,


    and the sight of this made Leanna squirm in her seat.


    In an interview with a reporter, the workers said they hadn''t been paid a penny. They didn''t dare go


    home, so they milled about the site, not knowing what they were waiting for.


    In another news article, the head of the Crossley Group''s partner couldn''t bear the pressure. He tried to


    jump off a building but was saved. He got nothing for his troubles except more worries and a broken


    leg.


    The list of simrly gloomy articles continued on and on.


    This was just the tip of the iceberg.


    Unable to read on, Leanna closed the web browser. She leaned back against her chair and let out a


    long exhale.


    He must''ve seen these articles as well. What is he thinking? thought Leanna.


    She stared out the window, lost in her thought.


    Suddenly, there was a rapping at the door. It was Zoe. "Leanna, it''s almost time. We should get going."


    Leanna got up. "Let''s go."


    Despite being a weekend, the streets were deste. There was no traffic, and they arrived at the


    restaurant in ten minutes.


    Zoe undid her seatbelt. "Well, I''ll be going. Drive safe."


    Leanna managed a thin smile. "Have fun."


    After ensuring Zoe entered the restaurant, Leanna parked a bit further from the restaurant and sent the


    address to Daniel.


    Daniel was at home. He wasn''t that far away, and he''d arrive in 20 minutes.


    Meanwhile, Leanna stood next to the restaurant, waiting for him.


    She straightened her back when she saw Daniel walking up to her. He raised a hand in greeting and


    said, "I''m sorry. You must''ve waited long."


    Leanna shrugged. "No biggie. After all, I''m the one who sprung this on you suddenly."


    "Well, shall we go in?"


    Upon entering the restaurant, Leanna scanned around and saw Zoe sitting by the window. There was a


    man across from her, but his back was facing Leanna, so she couldn''t get a good look at his face.


    Leanna picked a spot where she could look at Zoe and her date. "Let''s sit here."


    Daniel shrugged and plopped down on his seat.


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


    However, he immediately spotted Zoe after a quick look around.

 Chapter 490

    Chapter 490


    When Daniel sat down, he looked up to see Zoe sitting not far away from him. And a man was sitting


    opposite her.


    He didn''t know what they were talking about, but Zoe was smiling happily.


    Leanna watched the scene unfold but pretended not to notice. She coughed and tugged on Daniel''s


    shirt to get his attention. "Let''s order some food."


    Although he kept his eyes on the couple, he still casually replied, "You should order. I''ll eat anything."


    It was her first time dining at this restaurant as well, so she asked the waiter for rmendations.


    She turned to look at Daniel after ordering, only to find him still looking at the couple with a frown. His


    hands were clenching a ss of water.


    Seeing this, Leanna raised an eyebrow curiously as she slowly sipped her drink.


    It was only when the waiter came back to serve the appetizers did Daniel finally look away. "She¡­


    Whom is she eating with?"


    Leanna slowly put down her ss and said softly, "I think it''s a blind date that our family set up for her.


    I''ve heard good things about him; he''s a very down-to-earth man who works at a state-owned


    enterprise. Seeing how well they''re getting along now, it won''t be long until we hear the wedding bells


    ring. I think we''d give them a year."


    "That soon?"


    Leanna''s tone became serious as she exined, "You have no idea how our family works. As long as


    both sides of the family agree on this blind date and the two people hit it off, they will be forced to get


    married in a sh. I was just being generous when I said a year. They''ll probably be married in two to


    three months."


    Hearing this, Daniel frowned harder. "Don''t they want to get to know each other better first? I think it''s


    too hasty to be marrying someone like this."


    "It''s our two families that set them up. They would know more about each other than normal people. If


    they get along well, don''t you think that two to three months is enough?"


    Daniel pursed his lips but said nothing.


    After a while, he asked, "Does she really want to get married?"


    Leanna said, "She doesn''t really mind, but her parents are in a hurry to marry her off. Matchmaking


    depends on fate too. I think they''re quite suitable for each other, so it''ll be great for them to marry."


    Daniel replied coldly, "I don''t think they should marry."


    With one look, anyone could tell that the man with Zoe wasn''t up to any good. It was clear that he was


    a yer, and he was just whispering sweet nothings. Leanna was always good with her judgment.


    There was no way that she couldn''t see through that man.


    However, Leanna just smiled faintly. "It''s up to them whether they get married or not."


    Daniel was speechless when he heard that.


    After regaining his senses, he broke the silence. "Miss McKinney, why did you invite me for dinner


    today?"


    When he mentioned it, the smile on Leanna''s face fell. "You probably have seen the recent news about


    the Crossley Group."


    He immediately knew what she was referring to and gave the nod. "I have."


    "I asked you out to ask about your opinions. Are you just going to ignore it?"


    Daniel mumbled, "We''re dealing with it."


    "How are you dealing with it?"


    He didn''t know how to answer her.


    The issue at hand wasn''t an easy one to solve. No matter what they did, it would amount to a drop in


    the ocean. The only way to solve it was to face it head-on. However, it posed a great risk.


    Leanna pursed her lips. "I''ve heard a lot of news today. Although Leroy Crossley is definitely guilty, the


    others are innocent. They''ve been kept in the dark by him for so long. Moreover, Leroy is the only one


    who did those things, not the entire Crossley Group. Although I don''t feel anything for the Crossley


    Group, if they''re left to fend for themselves, the dreams of countless people would be crushed."


    Perhaps he was overthinking it, but something in him told him that the things Leanna said were not


    directed at him.


    Although Leanna had asionally asked who exactly they were, it was the first time she had used this


    tone of voice to talk about the Crossley Group.


    With that thought in mind, Daniel asked hesitantly, "Miss McKinney, do you know something?"


    She looked at him, unperturbed. "What should I know?"


    Hearing this, he forced augh and didn''t answer. Instead, he picked up his ss of water and drank it.


    Then, she continued, "I just think that we have the same goal all this while, and now that Leroy is


    missing, I don''t think you''ll sit idly by with the mess he made."


    Daniel was silent for a while before saying, "Miss McKinney, the matter isn''t unmanageable, but it''s also


    not an easy problem to deal with. It can''t be solved overnight. Please give us more time."


    Leanna shook her head. "We don''t have time anymore."


    He sighed and asked, "What do you mean?"


    "Two higher executives from the Crossley Group came to see me today. They want me to step up and


    help stabilize thepany''s situation."


    Daniel was surprised to hear this. "And you agreed?"


    "No, I''m still thinking about it."


    "Miss McKinney, no matter why they propose to you, don''t agree with the Crossley Group''s requests.


    Once you do, they aren''t the easiest to get rid of."


    Leanna said with certainty, "I know."


    However, to maintain peace, no matter how troublesome things got, someone should step up and do it.


    Daniel opened his mouth to say something but quickly swallowed back his words. In the end, he said,


    "Miss McKinney, before you make any rash decision, I suggest you discuss with President Pearson. I


    believe he wouldn''t agree to it either."


    Leanna nodded. "I will."


    Just like how Jimmy and Raymond hade to her for advice, everything she did now would inevitably


    implicate Aidan.


    Across from their table, Zoe and her blind date had finished their dinner. They were talking,ughing,


    and already heading out.


    Daniel stood up in a hurry. "I will discuss this with Elijah¡­ as soon as I get back. We''ll try to figure out


    other possible solutions. If there''s nothing else, I''ll excuse myself first."


    As he spoke, his eyes followed Zoe, and so did he. He strode out of the restaurant and disappeared


    the next second.


    At this moment, a waiter came to Leanna and asked, "Madam, would you like me to clean up?"


    Leanna smiled. "Yes, please pack them up for me."


    "Alright."


    Once the waiter finished packing the food for her, Leanna went out, took out her phone, and looked at


    it. Aidan hadn''t replied to her message yet.


    His meeting was going on for way too long.


    She got into her car, ced her phone aside, and headed straight toward the Pearson Group.


    As soon as Leanna got out of the elevator, Jonathan passed by her with documents in his hands. The


    moment he noticed her silhouette, he turned his attention to her. "Miss McKinney."


    She asked, "Is Aidan still in the meeting?"


    Jonathan nodded and said, "It''s been going on all afternoon. It''ll probably take a while more. Let me


    bring you there."


    Leanna nced at the documents in his hands. "It''s alright; you''re busy. I''ll head there myself."


    "Alright."


    With that, he hurried off to the conference room.


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    As for Leanna, she took a deep breath before heading toward Aidan''s office.

 Chapter 491

    Chapter 491


    On the other hand, after exiting the restaurant, Brandon said, "Let me see you off."


    However, Zoe politely declined, "No worries, my house isn''t very far. I can just take a cab from here. On


    top of that, you don''t live in that direction, so it''ll just be very troublesome for you."


    Hearing this, he smiled and said, "How is it troublesome to send a girl home? My mother will give me


    an earful if I don''t send you home safely."


    Zoe, who was also under the pressure of her parents, knew how scary it was to go against them. So,


    after thinking about it, she nodded.


    She had to admit that she and Brandon got along well.


    She had been through many blind dates with friends. They were either too high maintenance or


    mommy''s boys, so she didn''t expect anything much this time.


    Maybe theck of expectations led her to feel that this date was great.


    He wore a pair of gold-rimmed sses, and he wasn''t very handsome. But he was the type of man that


    girls would like. No matter what he did or said, it was all very gentle and elegant. If she stayed with him,


    she would always feel taken care of.


    Besides that, he was also very knowledgeable and soft-spoken.


    He wasn''t pretentious, and she didn''t feel ill at ease when staying around him.


    All in all, he was pretty pleasant to hang out with.


    While sending Zoe back, Brandon continued, "I heard Mrs. Hart say that you''re a very busy woman.


    You didn''t evene back during Christmas."


    Hearing this, Zoeughed. "Whenever I get back home, she would ask me, along with my rtives,


    about marriage. I''m just saving them the trouble."


    "Does it have anything to do with your past rtionship?"


    "Yeah. At the time, we were already talking about marriage. I thought we would already be married


    around this time of the year."


    Brandon replied, "Thankfully, you found out that he was having an affair before you got married. People


    would be talking behind your back if you had gotten married."


    Zoe sighed. "Yeah, I guess I was pretty lucky."


    After talking for a while, they arrived at Zoe''s house.


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    She unfastened her seatbelt and said, "Thank you for today. Be careful on your way back."


    Suddenly, Brandon called out to her. "Zoe."


    She looked up at him curiously. "What''s the matter?"


    He asked, "Would you like to go to the movies tomorrow?"


    Even if she had never been on a blind date, she knew this was the next step of a growing rtionship.


    To be honest, she wasn''t dissatisfied with Brandon, nor did she dislike him.


    But something just feels¡­


    Brandon saw her hesitation, so he smiled and said, "It''s alright. You can decideter. I think we''ve


    already had a good date today. If you don''t mind, we can keep in touch."


    Zoe was silent for a second before sheughed. "Sure thing."


    Maybe she could just try this out. Maybe some good woulde out of it if they kept in contact.


    Wasn''t that what blind dates were about?


    Brandon said, "Okay, I''ll pick you up tomorrow."


    Hearing this, she nodded and opened the door. "I''ll see you tomorrow."


    After getting out of his car, Zoe waved Brandon goodbye. It wasn''t until he drove off slowly that she


    turned around to enter the apartment neighborhood.


    But as soon as she turned, she noticed Daniel standing under a tree not far away, staring at her


    emotionlessly.


    Zoe was stunned.


    She looked around the area, and after confirming she was alone, she scratched her head, confused.


    Why''s he looking at me like that?


    It was as if she had wronged him.


    Zoe didn''t want to greet him, so she looked away and went into the neighborhood.


    After walking for a while, she heard clear footsteps behind her.


    A few stepster, Zoe suddenly realized a problem.


    Wait a second. I thought I moved. How did he find out where I''m living?


    Zoe stopped and turned to look at him. Her eyes were full of wariness.


    When she stopped, Daniel also stopped. He met her eyes unashamedly with no hesitation.


    However, she didn''t back down. "Why are you following me?"


    Daniel immediately turned away and looked around. "I''m nning on moving recently, and the


    environment here seems pretty good."


    Zoe was speechless to hear this.


    He must be insane.


    Without missing a beat, she immediately asked, "How did you know I live here? Did you get someone


    to look into where I moved to?"


    "No."


    "Then what are you¡ª"


    "I followed you."


    "Followed me¡­" Zoe mumbled, then frowned. "Were you in the restaurant too?"


    Daniel didn''t answer or deny it.


    Zoe felt even more weirded out. "That''s not a good reason to stalk me."


    Daniel was quiet.


    Then, he patiently said, "That''s not stalking."


    "You followed me home without my permission. Isn''t that stalking?"


    At this point, Daniel didn''t know how to exin himself.


    In the end, he pursed his lips and said, "I came here to see you."


    Zoe retorted, "I don''t think we have anything to talk about."


    He replied, "I have a lot of things to do these days, so I couldn''te to see you."


    Hearing this, she was puzzled. "What does that have to do with anything?"


    With a frown, he answered, "Didn''t you go on a blind date because I didn''t visit you?"


    Sheughed dryly. "You overthink. My blind date had nothing to do with you."


    "So, the reason for your blind date is you want to get married?"


    Although she wanted to tell him that that was not the whole point of blind dates, she ended up saying,


    "Yes. I''m in my twenties, after all. If I don''t marry soon, I''ll have my kids at ater age. Of course, I''m in


    a rush to find a partner."


    "Even if you''re in a rush, you can''t marry someone you just met."


    Zoe said, amused, "Then, who should I marry? You?"


    Hearing her words, Daniel tried to speak, but noments came out.


    She sighed. "Enough. I don''t know what you came here to talk about, but I have nothing to say to you."


    Then, she continued solemnly, "Anyways, you saw me going on a blind date. Medusa has men lining


    up for her, and she turns them into stone at will. Even if you don''t like it, you''d better note up to me


    and say weird things like this."


    Daniel frowned, not understanding what she meant.


    This was her weak attempt to scare him with folklore, but he didn''t understand.


    It was pointless.


    In the end, she rubbed her forehead and walked away. "I''m going home now, bye."


    Zoe had just taken a few steps when he grabbed her wrist from behind. He asked, "Do you want to


    marry him?"


    "Are you the one giving the dowry?"


    This immediately shut him up.


    Then, she shrugged off his hand and said, "If you''re not paying for the dowry, why should you care if I


    get married?"

 Chapter 492

    Chapter 492


    Meanwhile, at Pearson Group.


    Jonathan stepped out of the meeting room after he delivered the necessary documents over. Then, he


    poured a ss of water before handing it to Leanna. "Have things been hectic in thepany


    recently?" Leanna asked after a moment of hesitation.


    "It hasn''t been too hectic," he replied in a rather cautious tone. She froze upon hearing this. "What has


    Aidan been up to, then? He seems busy nowadays," she uttered with a frown. "Did something happen


    in the Pearson Family?"


    Seeing that she had misunderstood the situation, Jonathan hastily attempted to rify things for her.


    "It''s not the Pearson Group, nor is it the Pearson Family, Miss McKinney. It''s¡­" He hesitated to finish


    his sentence. If President Pearson didn''t tell her anything, it means that he doesn''t want her to know


    about this. In that case, I''m not sure if I should tell her anything.


    "I knew it. He''s cheating on me, isn''t he?" Leanna''s face remained nk as she spoke. Jonathan nearly


    choked on his saliva at this point. "No. President Pearson has simply been busy with Crossley Group''s


    matters," he finally exined.


    "Crossley Group?" She was surprised to hear this.


    "Yes," he replied with a nod. "Miss McKinney, you may not know this, but Leroy had messed things up


    in Crossley Group when he was still around. This resulted in a lot of trouble when they tried to tally their


    ounts. Furthermore, with the current state that they are in, most of their projects have been halted.


    A good number of businesses went bankrupt because of this matter, and many staff members were


    also impacted by this."


    "Is that what¡­ Aidan has been up to?" she muttered.


    "Well, the Crossley Group is one of thergestpanies in the country, both in terms of scale and


    influence. Furthermore, they''re an independent corporation, so the help that the Pearson Group can


    provide is pretty limited," Jonathan exined. Leanna was silent after that.


    She hadn''t expected Aidan to be dealing with the mess that Crossley Group had left behind. She shut


    her eyes and thought about the situation for a while. This must be a really tough situation since Aidan


    and Daniel can''t seem to deal with it even when they''re handling it together. In that case, I guess I have


    no other choice. No wonder Jimmy and Raymond came to look for me, she thought.


    "You need to trust President Pearson, Miss McKinney. He can handle all of this. He simply needs a bit


    more time because of the way the Pearson Family is eyeing his every move," Jonathan continued.


    Leanna pressed her lips together and hesitated for a moment before responding, "I got it." After that,


    Jonathan nodded before heading out of the office.


    She sat on the couch and stared out of the window with a dazed expression on her face. No one knew


    what she was thinking about. The bright skies were reced by a dark, grayish tint as the time


    continued ticking. Darkness fell eventually, and the streemps started to light up. Yet, Leanna had


    been upied with the same thought since Raymond came over to speak to her.


    She was still contemting this matter, although Zoe and Daniel had both told her not to agree to it.


    Both of them had said this would cause her too much trouble, but they had never mentioned that it''d be


    a total mistake for her to get herself involved. Everyone knew the only way they could revive the


    Crossley Group was for Leanna to step out of the shadows.


    It might be because she had been brought up in a way where her priority was her own life, so now, all


    she wanted was to live a stable life and protect her loved ones. However, with the current situation that


    she faced, she felt like she had to step in regardless of what the other party''s intentions were. She had


    to do it for her own sake, for the sake of the thousands of workers, as well as for the sake of Aidan.


    She was immersed in her thoughts when a man''s deep voice sounded behind her. "When did you


    come here?"


    She turned around to realize that Aidan had returned. "I wasn''t here for long. Are you¡­ done?" she


    asked. He sat down beside her as he loosened his tie and massaged his temple. "No. I still have a


    bunch of documents to handle," he muttered.


    "Are you having a headache?" Leanna asked gently when she saw the look on the man''s face. "Yeah,"


    he replied. "Should I give you a massage?" she offered.


    He nced at her before raising an eyebrow. "Sure," he said. She was just about to stand up when he


    shifted his weight to lie down on the couch, with his head resting on her legs. She stared at him


    speechlessly. Okay, I guess. She reached her hands out to gently massage the man''s temples while he


    shut his eyes to get some rest.


    After a short while, she checked to make sure that the man wasn''t asleep before she started talking to


    him. "I heard you''ve been helping the Crossley Group to deal with their mess," she said.


    "Was Jonathan the one who told you about this?" Aidan asked.


    "You don''t need to know who told me about this," Leanna uttered before pausing. "So, why are you


    doing it?" she asked.


    "What do you mean?" he asked in return.


    "Well, technically speaking, the Crossley and Pearson Groups are not affiliated with one another. Even


    if the Crossley Group goes bankrupt, this has nothing to do with the Pearson Group. You''ve always


    been a cold-blooded businessman who puts yourself first, so it is out of character for you to do such a


    thing," Leanna responded.


    The man shifted his gaze to stare at her. His dark, unblinking eyes remained fixed onto hers for a while


    as he looked at her silently. She felt somewhat self-conscious to have him staring at her, so she


    reached her hand out to cover his eyes. "I''m giving you a massage. You''re supposed to close your


    eyes and enjoy it," she said.


    Aidan pulled her hand away. "Do you think of me as an evil, blood-sucking businessman?" he asked.


    "No. I was just asking," she muttered before she pressed his eyes shut and continued to give him a


    massage. "If you''re doing it for me, then you shouldn''t do it at all. I''m sure you know that I don''t want to


    be affiliated with the Crossley Group in any way," she uttered.


    "Are you scolding me or belittling me now?" he asked.


    "I''m praising you. I didn''t expect you to be such a responsible man, President Pearson. You''ve blown


    my mind," she uttered.


    He paused for a few moments before he spoke, "Leroy had created such a huge mess¡ªthis is no


    longer just the Crossley Group''s business anymore. Their actions also impacted a whole lot of other


    things. Even though I might be a cold-blooded businessman, I have my days where I feel like being the


    good guy."


    Leanna didn''t know what to say at that point. Why do those words sound so familiar? "I want to be the


    good guy for once, too," she finally said. Aidan opened his eyes and fixed his dark pupils on her face


    as he knitted his sharp brows into a frown. She quickly covered her hands over his eyes. "Hey, didn''t I


    tell you not to open your eyes?" she protested.


    "Did someone tell you something?" he asked.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "No¡­ Well, it doesn''t matter if anyone told me anything. I saw the news regarding Crossley Group, and


    I thought¡­" Right then, she felt a heavy feeling in her chest that she couldn''t seem to get rid of. Before


    she coulde up with a proper excuse, he interjected, "You don''t have to bother yourself with these


    matters."


    "I know, but they still matter to me, and¡­ I want to be like you¡ªI''d like to be a nice person for once,"


    she announced.


    "Have you thought this through?" he asked.


    Leanna lowered her head before nodding to him. "Yeah, I have," she replied. Since Aidan has been


    dealing with this for so long, I have no reason to avoid it, right? Besides, it sounds pretty nice to team


    up and work with him, she thought.


    Aidan straightened his figure upon hearing her words. Then, he pinched her chin before letting out a


    dryugh. "I knew you''d do this."


    She smiled when she met his gaze. "Well, it seemed like I''m a pretty responsible citizen of our society,


    too, huh?"

 Chapter 493

    Chapter 493


    Even though they came to a decision, Leanna couldn''t just head over to Crossley Group abruptly,


    especially since she didn''t know what was going on within thepany itself. Aidan had the same


    concerns, so he quickly got Jonathan to deliver some files over. She felt her head throbbing just at the


    sight of the thick files.


    "Jonathan will brief you about the situation, and you can ask me if you have any questions," Aidan


    offered.


    "Okay." Crossley Group''s core issues were mostly the ones that she had known. However, Jonathan


    gave her a detailed breakdown of the main projects that were affected, the people in charge of these


    projects, thepanies they had partnered with, and the overall progress of the projects. Furthermore,


    he also told her about the severity of the state of debt that the Crossley Group was in.


    Though, he only managed to find an approximation of the debt they had¡ªhe couldn''t get the exact


    value just yet. After hepleted his report, he gave Aidan and Leanna a nod before heading out of


    the office. Aidan sat in front of the desk as he started to work on the files that were ced before him.


    Meanwhile, Leanna sat on the couch as she skimmed through the files that Jonathan had just passed


    to her.


    Whenever she got to a part she didn''t understand, she highlighted them so that she could ask Aidan


    about themter that night. They were both immersed in their work, and it was way past midnight by


    the time Aidan looked up from his desk. At that point, Leanna had already fallen asleep on the armrest


    of the couch, with the documents still in her hands. He strode over before gently removing the files from


    her hands and cing them on the coffee table. Then, he took off his coat and put it over her.


    Leanna seems really tired. She doesn''t look like she''s about to wake up anytime soon, he thought as


    he knelt beside her. His gaze was loving and gentle as he tucked a few strands of her hair behind her


    ear.


    ¡­


    The sun was out by the time Leanna next opened her eyes. She rubbed the back of her hand against


    her eyes as she got up. The coat that had been ced over her slid down the couch, so she picked it


    up before looking around the office in search of Aidan. When she couldn''t see him anywhere, she let


    out a yawn before checking the time on her phone¡ªit was 9.30AM. She hadn''t expected herself to


    sleep for so long.


    She figured she should head home to take a shower and get changed. She left Aidan''s coat on the


    couch and was just about to leave the office when someone knocked and opened the door. Jonathan


    came in with a bag. "President Pearson ordered someone to send this over, Miss McKinney." She took


    one nce into the bag to see her clothes inside.


    "There''s a lounge and shower area at the back of President Pearson''s office. You can use that space,"


    he continued. Leanna nearly forgot to ask about this, so she was d that Jonathan had brought it up.


    "Got it. Thank you," she uttered with a nod. After he left, she headed to the lounge area. She felt a lot


    more refreshed after she took a shower. By the time she stepped out in her new change of clothes,


    Aidan was already back in the office.


    "Did you have something to do earlier in the morning?" she asked.


    He sank into the couch as he nodded and pinched the bridge of his nose. "It''s just some tiny issue. It''s


    no big deal." He paused for a moment before looking at her. "Are you heading to the studio?"


    "Yeah. I think I''ll only go to Crossley Group tomorrow," she answered. For some reason, she had a


    feeling that Jimmy and Raymond were still going to approach her that day. "Okay," he replied.


    After a moment of hesitation, Leanna asked, "Are you going home tonight?"


    Aidan raised an eyebrow at her question. "Can''t fall asleep without me around?" he responded as he


    curled his lips into a smirk.


    She red at him speechlessly. I knew I shouldn''t have asked such questions. This b*stard can never


    give me a serious response. "I''m heading off. It doesn''t bother me whether youe home¡ªI just


    want you to leave me a text to let me know your decision. I''ll head out for a meal with Zoe if you''re not


    coming home," she muttered as she picked her bags up.


    Before he could say anything, she was already out of the room. Jonathan showed up in the office a


    while after she left. "President Pearson."


    Aidan wiped the small smile off his face before asking coolly, "What is it?"


    "The news is out. I''m sure William will find out about Mrs. Pearson''s decision to go to Crossley Group


    by this afternoon." Jonathan paused before continuing in a rather cautious tone, "But based on their


    previous reactions¡­ Do you think it''s likely for William to go back to Crossley Group, President


    Pearson?"


    "Who said anything about wanting William back in the Crossley Group?" Aidan pressed his slender


    fingers against his temple. Jonathan didn''t seem to understand his words entirely. "So, what you mean


    is¡­"


    "We haven''t found Leroy, so things are not over yet. William made a rather dumb move of admitting his


    true identity at a time like this. However, he was also partially responsible for Crossley Group''s current


    state, so I don''t think he could just abandon them without doing anything," Aidan uttered.


    "They''ve been trying to fix the mess that Leroy left them with," Jonathan added.


    "Have they really done anything?" Aidan asked in an unimpressed tone. Jonathan was quiet as he


    realized that they hadn''t made much progress. It didn''t matter who¡ªthem or William¡ªattempted to


    help out with Crossley Group''s situation. The scale of the problem was toorge, so whatever they did


    merely felt like a Band-Aid being stered onto a gunshot wound.


    Aidan continued in his monotonous voice, "William has clearly given up on Crossley Group for now¡ª


    he''s simply watching as they fall apart. He probably even hopes that they can just disappear since he


    no longer cares for thepany. If anything, Crossley Group was probably the initial source of his


    resentment."


    "If what you''re saying is true, then it seems like there''s nothing wrong with his decision," Jonathan


    commented.


    Aidan let out a deep grunt. "Leroy''s not the only one responsible for the tragedy that happened 20


    years ago. William was part of it, too." William already knew the sort of person that Leroy was¡ªeven


    Leroy''s parents never had high hopes for him. Yet, William was a stubborn and individualistic man who


    went against the majority''s opinion¡ªhe was the one who allowed Leroy to enter thepany.


    Little did he know, his actions were the cause of this whole mess, Aidan thought.


    Twenty years ago, Lloyd was a polite and generous man, who was also charismatic and smart in his


    field of work. However, he was simply too unguarded and simple-minded. If he had been a little more


    cautious with Leroy and hadn''t handed everything to him, perhaps Leroy wouldn''t have had the chance


    to climb up thedder. Perhaps the entire explosion wouldn''t have happened, and Leanna wouldn''t


    have ended up roaming around on her own for 20 years or even met someone like Jethro.


    Finally, William stepped out of the shadows after 20 years. At this point, all he felt running in his blood


    was the hatred and resentment that he had carried for so long. So, he needed to know that Leanna


    was heading to Crossley Group so that he would shift his focus back to thepany instead of


    engaging in other pointless actions.


    "Do you think this will be helpful, President Pearson?" Jonathan asked.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Well, it all depends on how William makes sense of this matter." Aidan had thought it all out¡ªhe knew


    that he would be able to handle everything after Leanna went to Crossley Group, even if William wasn''t


    there.


    After a slight pause, Aidan shifted the topic. "How''s Georgina?"


    "She keeps throwing fits in her cell. The wound on her face is really deep, and the doctor said that it''s


    going to leave a scar. Her looks will probably be ruined," Jonathan exined.


    Aidan didn''t show a hint of emotion on his face. "It seems like Leroy decided to give up on his precious


    daughter at a crucial time like this," he muttered.


    "He can barely save himself. I don''t think he can care for his daughter now,¡± Jonathan replied.

 Chapter 494

    Chapter 494


    It was nearly noon by the time Leanna got to the studio. When she reached, she found Zoe sprawled


    over the front counter, and she could hear Zoe let out a few sighs as she walked over. "What''s wrong?"


    she asked gently.


    Zoe looked up and stared at Leanna with a nk look in her eyes. "It''s nothing much. I''m just tired,"


    she said.


    "Do you want to head home and rest? There''s nothing much to do today," Leanna offered.


    "It''s fine. I''m just emotionally drained," Zoe replied.


    Leanna raised an eyebrow upon hearing this. "Did Daniele over to meet you yesterday?" she


    asked after dragging Zoe to the pantry. Zoe nodded before letting out another sigh. "What did he tell


    you?" Leanna asked.


    "It was nothing much. He mentioned some odd stuff and asked me if I was about to get married. Then, I


    asked him if he nned on giving me a gift, but he didn''t say anything. Isn''t he just asking for trouble?


    Why should he care if I''m getting married?" Zoe remarked.


    Leanna went silent for a while before continuing, "So, what happened then?"


    "Nothing happened after that. I ignored him, and I headed home," Zoe said.


    "How about the guy that you''ve been seeing? How''s that going?" Leanna asked.


    "It has been pretty good. It''s much better than I had expected it to be. He''s a pretty nice guy, and we


    have a lot ofmon topics. He even asked me out for a movie," Zoe responded.


    "Did you agree to it?" Leanna asked.


    "He was thinking of using this movie date to see if things would work out for us, and I agreed as I


    thought that it was a good idea, too," Zoe exined. Leanna pressed her lips together without saying


    much. She had intended to give Daniel a push, but it seemed like her actions didn''t have that much of


    an effect. Well, all I wanted was for Zoe to find her happiness. Since the date she has been meeting is


    working out, I guess she can try things out with him, she thought.


    Zoe let out a yawn before turning around to make a cup of coffee. "What about you? Didn''t you meet


    Daniel to talk about the issue with Crossley Group? What did he say?" she asked.


    Leanna let out augh upon hearing Zoe''s words. "His advice was pretty much the same as yours,"


    she replied.


    "Yeah, you should just go along with what we¡ªI mean, what I said. Don''t go to Crossley Group, and


    don''t get involved with their business; it doesn''t matter what happens to Crossley Group. We should


    just enjoy our quiet and peaceful lives," Zoemented.


    "I''ve already decided, Zoe," Leanna announced.


    Zoe sipped on her freshly brewed cup of coffee before she spoke, "Trust me. This is the right thing to


    do. You¡ª"


    "I''m nning to head to Crossley Group."


    Zoe nearly spat her coffee out after hearing what Leanna said. Then, she gave Leanna a look of


    disbelief¡ªshe thought she had heard it wrong. "What?!"


    "I''m nning to go to Crossley Group," Leanna repeated herself.


    "Why? Didn''t you decide against that yesterday? We all told you not to go."


    Leanna nced out of the window as she spoke, "I was still in the process of thinking about it


    yesterday. Crossley Group''s situation isplex now. If I take over thepany, not only will I not get


    anything in return, but I might also be taken advantage of by people with ulterior motives."


    "Then¡ª"


    "That was why I was hesitant at first. But after I went to Pearson Group yesterday, I found out that


    Aidan has been helping them out all along. So, I figured that I had no reason to avoid them. I mean,


    Aidan was not rted to the Crossleys in any way and had no obligation to help out the Crossley


    Group, yet he did it anyway. So, why couldn''t I? Besides, I should be the one dealing with it, to begin


    with, not him," Leanna said.


    I''m not sure when this started, but I feel like everyone has been trying to protect me by keeping me out


    of this whole mess. However, there are some things that I simply can''t avoid. Some things are simply


    unavoidable, she thought to herself.


    After Leroy messed up the entire Crossley Group, all the staff were disunited. The only way things


    could be resolved was if the Crossleys stepped forward to do something. Only then would Crossley


    Group be able to start over. However, since the Crossleys weren''t willing to step forward, Leanna had


    to do it instead.


    Zoe couldn''t help but frown. "But it''s not your fault that Crossley Group is in this state. It''s all Leroy and


    Georgina''s fault! They''re a pretentious bunch!"


    Leanna shook her head. "Now''s not the time to me anyone. The problems that Crossley Group is


    currently facing are affecting a lot of people¡ªif we don''t get things in control soon, more people will be


    affected."


    Zoe didn''t know what to say after that. Leanna''s right. I''ve seen a lot of my friends posting about the


    loss of their jobs on social media, and I''ve seen some people talking about losing their entire


    businesses. This is all because of what''s going on with the Crossley Group. After a while, she spoke


    again, "When are you going over, then?"


    "Probably tomorrow," Leanna replied.


    "Alright. You don''t have to worry about the studio. I''ll handle things here. But¡­ shouldn''t you be


    preparing for fashion week?" Zoe asked.


    "I''m not that great at managing apany. My guess is that the guys who approached me yesterday


    merely wanted me to make an appearance. I''ll figure things out tomorrow. Don''t worry. I''ll keep up with


    the preparation for fashion week," Leanna uttered. This was her dream, after all.


    Zoe patted Leanna on her shoulder. "Well, you should give it your all since you''ve decided to do this. I''ll


    always have your back. So, don''t worry about anything, and go for it!"


    Leanna chuckled. "Well, I''m worried about you, though. I hope you can find your other half soon," she


    uttered.


    Zoe shrugged before responding nonchntly, "I wouldn''t have to worry about finding my other half as


    long as I''m rich." Leanna stared at the woman speechlessly. "Did you just take a page out of Aidan''s


    book?" she grumbled.


    "Yes and no. Aidan is rich, whereas I''m just exaggerating my words," Zoemented.


    ¡­


    That afternoon, they went out for lunch together. When they returned to the studio, the admin greeted


    them, "Miss McKinney, Miss Hart, Daniel is here." Zoe was stunned. He''s not here to ask about the


    wedding again, is he?


    "He came with someone else," the admin continued before Zoe could say anything.


    "Who is it?" Leanna asked.


    "I''m not sure what his name is, but he came together with Daniel," the admin exined.


    "Have you seen him around in the past?" Leanna asked.


    "I think he came over with President Pearson once a really long time ago. I''m not too sure, but I think


    they''re the same person," the admin said. Leanna could guess who the other person was by then.


    "Alright. Are they in the lounge?" she asked before pursing her lips. N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Yeah. They''ve been in there for about half an hour," the admin replied.


    Leanna hung her head low and stood there for a while without moving. "What is it? Who''s the other


    person?" Zoe whispered.


    "I think it''s¡­ William."


    Zoe was puzzled. "Isn''t he Aidan''s partner? Why did hee with Daniel? It seems like he''s affiliated


    with a lot of people," shemented.


    Leanna let out a dryugh as she didn''t know what else to say. I know I should go in to greet them, but


    my legs just won''t move, she thought.


    Zoe could sense her hesitation, so she offered, "Should I get them to leave? You don''t seem eager to


    meet them."


    "It''s fine." Leanna shook her head. She gathered her emotions and tried to pick her mood up. "Why


    don''t you get us two sses of water, Zoe?" she said before walking into the room.


    "Okay," Zoe replied.

 Chapter 495

    Chapter 495


    Standing outside the door, Leanna put her hand on the handle and took a few deep breaths before she


    knocked on the door and went in. Daniel sat there and greeted her as usual, "Miss McKinney."


    Smiling slightly, she responded, then looked at the person beside him and said softly, "Mr. Morris."


    When Daniel saw this, he hurriedly said, "I met Mr. Morris outside the door, and he happens to have


    something to ask you, so we came together."


    She tugged at her lower lip, then sat down opposite them. "What do you need from me, Mr. Morris?"


    William didn''t beat around the bush and said directly, "I heard you n to take over Crossley Group,


    Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna nodded slightly. "Yes."


    "Since I have cooperative ties with Crossley Group and have worked closely with them over the years,


    no one knows the current situation better than I do. Thepany''s name is all that''s left to keep it


    afloat at this point. Furthermore, internal management ispletely anarchic. Anyone taking over the


    company is immediately liable for all its obligations. Perhaps, Miss McKinney, you should reconsider."


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


    She replied, "I have already given it much thought and consideration. You''ve already mentioned that


    thepany''s name is all left to keep it afloat, which speaks volumes about its impact. Recently, there


    have been numerous articles in the media about the Crossley Group. So, how many articles have you


    seen that did not discuss thepany''s influence on unwitting third parties?"


    After a brief pause, she pursed her lower lip and went on with her exnation. "Since the situation has


    progressed to this point, the question of whether or not Crossley Group can handle the situation on its


    own is no longer relevant. However, in terms of finding solutions to these issues, Crossley Group is


    merely the starting point."


    A slight frown formed on William''s face, and he found himself at a loss for words. In response, Daniel


    promptly remarked, "Miss McKinney, the Crossley Group has implicated many individuals, but we have


    been working hard to find a solution to this problem. My gut tells me that a solution won''t be far off in


    the foreseeable future."


    Leanna smiled. "I can wait, but are those workers and thosepanies that have shut down one after


    the other able to wait?"


    "Still¡ª"


    "I am fully aware that you are acting in this manner with my best interests at heart. So far in my life, I''ve


    been able to rely on everybody else to watch out for me. However, some things need to be done. As


    things stand, I am the best person for the job, and I don''t see any way out of this situation."


    After a brief pause, William spoke up, his voice filled with inaudible emotion. "Since Crossley Group


    has reached this stage, it does not matter what you do; you will not be able to reverse the situation.


    Therefore, the best option is to shut down thepany. The Complex''s headquarters have decided to


    relocate to Highside. Individuals negatively impacted by this incident will receive remuneration from


    Complex, giving them a fresh start. The influence of the Crossley Group will onlyst for a short time


    before it ispletely forgotten."


    She pointed out, "I don''t know much about running a business, but I do know that whether it''s a


    bankruptpany or apany on the verge of bankruptcy, or a worker who doesn''t know what to do


    and can only wait at the construction site, all of these things have one thing inmon: uncertainty. All


    of them must be shown concrete signs of optimism, not just promises of a future that are impossible to


    visualize."


    After Leanna had finished speaking, there was a sudden, eerie silence. Daniel ced one hand over


    his mouth and coughed to break the awkward silence. After having known each other for a long time,


    he knew her personality had always been quite reasonable. She was open to discussion on any topic,


    and even if she asionally suspected that he had other ulterior motives, she would not speak in such


    a harsh manner. On the other hand, she demonstrated absolutely no mercy in that situation.


    While he was considering what to say to alleviate this awkward situation, there was a knock on the


    lounge door. Zoe walked in carrying a tray with two sses of water. She couldn''t help but clear her


    throat as she took in the environment in front of her. What is causing the tense atmosphere?


    She set the ss of water down and was about to leave when Daniel reached out and grabbed her


    wrist. "Why don''t you sit and converse with us, too?"


    She was speechless. What a crazy guy! I n on getting out of here as soon as I can!


    However, now that there were outsiders around, she was also nervous. "T-Talk about what?"


    "Miss McKinney wants to take over Crossley Group. Help us persuade her against it."


    When Daniel finished talking, Leanna stood up and dered, "No, I''ve made my decision, and I''m not


    going back on it."


    Then, she nodded slightly to them. "I still have work, so excuse me."


    Once Zoe saw Leanna leave the lounge, she feltpelled to go after her. However, Daniel''s grip on


    her wrist remained firm, and he had no intention of releasing it under any circumstances.


    William got up, said nothing, and left in silence. After he left, Zoe struggled and said, "What are you


    doing? Let go!"


    Daniel said, "We weren''t done talking yesterday."


    "We have. It''s not like you''ll get anything from my marriage. What else do you want to talk about?"


    "Do you have to marry?"


    Obviously, that was not necessarily the case.


    Zoe paused, then looked up at him. "Yes, I''ll be single forever if I don''t get married."


    He frowned. "Do you have to marry him?"


    "I think he''s pretty good, so why not?"


    "You''ve only known each other for a day; how can you tell?"


    "I''m afraid you''ll never get the concept of love at first sight."


    As soon as Zoe had finished what she needed to say, she withdrew her hand and walked away without


    turning around. Daniel watched as she left the room while he ran his tongue across his teeth.


    ¡­


    After leaving the lounge, she went to Leanna''s office, knocked on the door, then pushed it open. She


    saw Leanna staring out the window in a daze. So, she walked in and waved her hand in front of


    Leanna. "Nana, what are you thinking about?"


    Leanna withdrew her thoughts and shook her head. "Nothing."


    She was baffled as to why she had just spoken in such a harsh manner. In the past, Daniel or, at most,


    Elijah would be the one tomunicate with her. However, William came in person, which was all


    needed to see how strongly he disapproved of her taking over Crossley Group. It was ultimately for her


    good, but she lost control of her emotions for a split second.


    Zoe pulled up a chair and sat next to her, then sighed, "Still, what they said actually makes sense, and


    your idea is also not wrong. There can''t be a perfect solution in this world. Anyway, if you''ve already


    decided, just do it."


    Leanna rubbed her brows and smiled. "Okay."


    At that moment, Zoe''s phone vibrated. She pulled it out to nce at the screen and said, "Nana, do you


    have any movie rmendations?"


    Leanna raised her eyebrows. "Is that your blind date?"


    "Yes, he''s asking me to go to the movies, and he now wants me to choose what to watch."


    Leanna replied, "I haven''t been to the cinema for a while, but Daphne''s movie appears to have been


    released, and the reviews seem quite good. You can go and watch that."


    Zoe instantly typed a reply, then said simultaneously, "Okay, I''ll watch that one. No wonder I haven''t


    seen her much recently. It turns out she''s promoting her movie. I''ve only heard herin about not


    getting even a few days of rest throughout the year. Ugh, her boss is inhuman."


    Leanna didn''t say a word.

 Chapter 496

    Chapter 496


    At the end of the day, the evidence showed that Leanna''s assumption was correct. When Raymond


    returned to see herter that day, he brought a letter of support signed by all thepany''s top


    executives currently employed by the Crossley Group. As long as she was willing to take over Crossley


    Group, the senior management and all the Crossley Group employees would be willing to work with her


    to the best of their abilities and cooperate with her.


    After she read themitment letter, she said nothing, so he continued, "Miss McKinney, maybe in


    your opinion, the Crossley Group is a hot potato, but in the past, it was a well-known and influential


    existence in Highside, and now that it has be like this, it is really¡ª"


    She put down themitment letter and said calmly, "If I take over Crossley Group, will you be able to


    fulfill the promises in this letter?"


    "Of course, the high-level executives have all signed it. Miss McKinney, Mr. Onder currently holds the


    highest position in the Crossley Group, and he made a personal visit to see you the other day. He will


    uphold his end of the bargain."


    Leanna said, "If you want me to take over Crossley Group, that''s fine, but I have a few requests you


    have to promise me."


    Raymond replied, "Miss McKinney, please tell me."


    "First, I need the wages of all current employees of Crossley Group to be paid immediately. The wages


    of those who left after what happened to the Crossley Group should also be paid ordingly."


    He hesitated and said, "Unfortunately, the Crossley Group''s current ount is empty. In addition to the


    employees'' wages, there is substantial debt."


    She added, "Doesn''t Crossley Group still have a few high-level executives? Since they are all willing to


    ask me to take over Crossley Group, they are optimistic about thepany''s future. When we finally


    ovee this challenge as a team and get back to making more money, they will receive the


    compensation that is rightfully owed to them, right?"


    The smile on the corner of his mouth froze for a moment. "Miss McKinney, you''re right."


    "I know this sum is sizable regardless of whether ites from the construction or project funds. They


    won''t be able to finance those right away, but they cane up with something to address the issue of


    the employee''s wages. It shouldn''t be too challenging for them."


    Raymond nodded. "I will convey it to Mr. Onder."


    As he spoke, he continued, "Miss McKinney... Do you have any other requests?"


    Leanna said, "Yes. Secondly, I would appreciate it if you could provide me with the information of the


    Crossley Group executives who were let go after the incident."


    "Miss McKinney, what do you intend to do?"


    She smiled and uttered, "I will let you know once I have finished reading all the information."


    Crossley Group was a giant corporation; consequently, only some were as maniptive as Leroy or


    aggressive as Jimmy. Still, some of them contributed positively to the organization. When the incident


    urred, it was obvious that the few high-level people dragged out to serve as shields were not in


    cahoots with Jimmy. Therefore, she needed to recruit a few high-level employeesmitted to their


    work to save Crossley Group. Nevertheless, those are the only conditions under which survival is even


    possible.


    Leanna''s second request was much less challenging to implement than the first one, so Raymond


    nodded and agreed. "I''ll send it to you tonight."


    "Okay." She continued, "The third requirement; you said just now that the person who holds the highest


    position in thepany is Mr. Onder, right?"


    "Yes."


    She stated, "My third request is that after I take over Crossley Group, my position must be the highest,


    and Mr. Onder must listen to me."


    He hesitated again. "This¡ª"


    Then, she returned themitment letter to him. "It''s okay; I understand you can''t make a decision.


    You can talk it over with them and get back to me with an answer."


    He was silent for a while and then said, "As long as we agree to your three requests, you will take over


    Crossley Group, right?"


    "Certainly."


    "Then, Miss McKinney, please wait a moment. I''ll discuss it with Mr. Onder now."


    Soon after he finished talking, he left. Getting in the car, he called Jimmy and told him about Leanna''s


    three conditions. After Jimmy heard this, he was so angry that he almost jumped up. "This girl is too


    much! Which of these three conditions is eptable at all? What does she want those people''s


    information for? That''s Leroy''s decision! It has nothing to do with us. Could it be that she wants to settle


    ounts afterward?"


    Raymond took his time and exined, "Mr. Onder, given that you are also aware that this was Mr.


    Crossley''s decision in the past, then providing her with this information will not have any bearing on us


    in any way."


    "You should give it to her if you want to. I don''t care! Also, I won''t pay any money!"


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


    Raymond exined, "It''s not just you, Mr. Onder; Miss McKinney said all the current Crossley Group


    high-level executives are liable. You need to think about the long run; if Miss McKinney doesn''t take


    over Crossley Group and we let things continue to simmer, sooner orter, they will find you if they


    can''t find Mr. Crossley. When that moment arrives, you will lose more than this amount of money."


    Jimmy remained silent as if he were processing the information in his head. Raymond continued, "It


    was Miss McKinney who suggested that she should have the highest position, which is not a bad idea


    in and of itself. Didn''t Mr. Crossley say she''d inherit the Crossley Group? Furthermore, considering the


    current situation at the Crossley Group, her position, regardless of how high it may be, will not be of


    much use, and she won''t be able to aplish much. Instead, with increased authorityes


    increased responsibility, making her the one everyone looks for when Crossley Group goes bankrupt


    rather than you."


    Despite Raymond''s words, Jimmy continued to feel slightly annoyed. After all these years, he was


    ranked lower than a woman, not just any woman, but a young girl in her twenties.


    "Mr. Onder, we are running out of time."


    "Okay, okay, just do what she says. You should inform the other high-level executives and ask for a


    contribution toward the wages of each of them. I''ll just pay a small amount as a gesture of goodwill.


    Make sure the ountant handles it smartly."


    "Mr. Onder, don''t worry."


    After hanging up the phone, Raymond immediately reached out to the other high-level executives. The


    remaining employees were either Jimmy''s faction or those financially strapped to the point where they


    couldn''t afford to leave thepany even if they wanted to. They became slightly aggravated when


    they learned that they were being asked to crowdfund their employees'' wages. However, given the


    current state of affairs, if Leanna did not take over Crossley Group, their predicament would deteriorate


    further than it already had. If thepany went under and Jimmy''s standing plummeted, it would hurt


    them. So, these people gritted their teeth and collected the money to pay their employees'' wages.


    Two hourster, Raymond reappeared before Leanna and put down the documents she asked for.


    "Miss McKinney, I have already done the three things you asked me to do."


    "Have the wages been paid yet?"


    He replied, "The finance department has been notified to work overtime, and it will be done before they


    get off work tomorrow at thetest."


    She nodded, took the information, and said, "Okay."


    Raymond asked again, "When do you n to take over Crossley Group?"


    "Tomorrow." Leanna flipped through the information. "Please help me schedule a meeting for tomorrow


    at 10.00AM. All high-level executives are required to attend, and anyone who fails to attend or arrives


    late will be required to pay the wages of all workers whose projects are stalled."


    He replied, "I will inform them."


    "Great then. See you tomorrow."

 Chapter 497

    Chapter 497


    After Raymond had left, Leanna continued to study the documents in front of her. Her assumption was


    urate that these high-ranking executives were valuable contributors who were unfairly made to take


    the fall for thepany. To conceal the truth, he only provided her with a short list of the names and


    titles of thepany''s executives, along with brief descriptions of the respective departments and the


    projects over which they oversaw.


    In addition, she requested Jonathan to look into it for her, and the evaluation for thoseid off was


    uniformly positive. After some time had passed, she checked the time on her phone and discovered it


    was alreadyte. Moreover, she had difficulty tracking these individuals because no contact information


    was on the list. Soon, something came to mind, and she texted Aidan that she would returnter. Then,


    she sent the message and left without waiting for Aidan to respond.


    Suddenly, Zoe asked, "Nana, are you going home? Where are you going?"


    Leanna put down the phone. "I''m looking for Maya, but she hasn''t answered her phone. Do you know


    where I can find her?"


    Zoe asked, "Why are you looking for her?"


    "I recall that her husband was a high-level executive at the Crossley Group and was one of the select


    few made to take the fall after the incident."


    Zoe thought for a while and replied, "I''m not sure; she was the most active in the ss group before;


    she always showed off her husband''s gifts daily. Since something happened to her husband, we


    haven''t heard from her for a long time."


    After a pause, Zoe added, "Wait a minute. I''ll ask the ss monitor. I heard Maya tried to borrow money


    from her, so maybe she knows."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    After some time had passed, Zoe received a response to her message. In the aftermath of the incident,


    Maya''s family invested heavily in their connections and only managed to resolve the situation.


    However, they had to sell the family home and car and take out arge loan. As a result of taking the


    fall for Crossley Group, Maya''s husband''s reputation in the industry was also ruined. Since he still had


    children, he could only find a security guard job in a hotel because nopany would risk hiring him.


    Maya, who had been a housewife for several years, was also coerced into going to work, and she is


    now employed as a salesperson at a luxury store.


    Zoe forwarded the address to Leanna after obtaining it. "Are you leaving right now? Do you want me to


    apany you?"


    Leanna smiled. "I''m not going to fight them, so I can just go by myself." As she spoke, she continued,


    "Weren''t you going to watch a movie? Why haven''t you gone yet?"


    "He has something to do right now, so there is a slight dy. I''ll be in the studio waiting for him. You


    should get going first."


    "Okay, then I''ll go first."


    While seated in the car, she entered the address Zoe had sent her into the navigation system and


    checked the driving distance. Due to the current traffic situation, the drive will take around 40 minutes.


    At that moment, she received a call from Aidan, so she switched on the loudspeaker and answered his


    call. Then, she looked in the rearview mirror and drove off; she spoke, "Are you done with your work?"


    His voice was tinged with tiredness. "The meeting just ended; where are you going?"


    "I''m going to find a ssmate whose husband previously worked for Crossley Group."


    On the other end of the phone, there was a pause before he asked, "The one who was drunk before?"


    Leanna said, "Yes, it''s her."


    "When are youing back?"


    "I''ve just set out, and the trip there will take me roughly 40 minutes. I don''t know if I''ll be able to meet


    with her. It could be quitete before I get home. When you return home, get some sleep before


    worrying about me."


    Aidan was speechless. He pinched his nose and said, "Do you think I can sleep? Send me the


    address, and I''ll find you."


    She said, "No, it''s fine; what will you do, anyway? Get some rest at home. I''ll give you a ring when I''m


    finished."


    He struggled to find the right words before saying, "Did anyone look for you today?"


    "Yes." She pursed her lips slightly. "Let''s talk about it when I return. I''m driving now."


    He grunted, then said again, "Send me the address. I won''t go there. I just want to know where you


    are."


    Leanna remained silent for a while as if she was thinking about the validity of his words. Aidan said


    indifferently, "Not only this time. No matter where you go alone at night, you must give me the address;


    otherwise, I will worry."


    Hearing thest few words, she unconsciously raised the corner of her lips. She cleared her throat and


    said thoughtfully, "Okay, I''ll send it to youter."


    "Drive safe."


    "Sure."


    She had just hung up the phone when she came to a stoplight, so she pulled over to send the address


    before continuing. The light eventually turned green, and she continued on her way. When she arrived


    at the store''s entrance, she found a parking spot nearby and quickly exited the car.


    As soon as she entered, she heard theughter of two women. "Oh, didn''t you always say that your


    husband is an executive of a bigpany? Doesn''t he give you enough money? How did you end up


    like this today?"


    "Why don''t you wear that jewelry that you usually unt? Are they not worthy of your identity?"


    "I guess they''re either pictures stolen from the Inte or fake, and she''s too embarrassed to wear


    them."


    "This is why we must always be more practical and reasonable. Be content with what you have and try


    not to constantly think about how to outdo other people or brag about it. It will be extremely


    embarrassing when someone finds out who you are and exposes you for it."


    The statements had left a pallor on Maya''s face as she faced these two women. The few other


    employees in the store, except those who were entertaining customers, gathered around to watch the


    show and whispered to each other simultaneously.


    She seemed furious as she moved her lips and said, "I wasn''t bragging; those were all true¡ª"


    "Since it''s true, then why don''t you just stay home as the wife of a wealthy businessman? Why do you


    come out and work?"


    "She''s audacious. How dare she make such a bold assertion after seeing it with our own eyes?"


    "She doesn''t give up and admit it, does she? Do we have to expose her on social media before she


    can admit the truth?"


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Right, she also boasted that her husband is an executive of a bigpany. I heardst time that he''s


    just a security guard at a small hotel."


    "My God, this bragging is too outrageous."


    Listening to their ridicule one after another, Maya was utterly embarrassed, and her face turned pale.


    Leanna walked over and said lightly, "Do you have time now? I want to talk to you."


    As soon as the words came out, everyone looked at her. One of the salespersons was stunned, and


    then she whispered, "Isn''t this that famous designer?"


    "Oh, I remember her! Isn''t she the wife of the president of the Pearson Group?"


    In an instant, the atmosphere in the entire store changed. The person who mocked Maya just now


    looked left and right, not knowing what to say. Between the two of them, Maya felt even more


    embarrassed when she saw Leanna. "Why are you looking for me?"


    "I want your husband''s contact information. If he wants, he can return to Crossley Group anytime."

 Chapter 498

    Chapter 498


    Maya was stunned, thinking she must have been mistaken.


    She then thought Leanna was lying and just ying a prank on her.


    Before she could say a word, Leanna said, "It is not just him. All of the executives who left Crossley


    Group during the crisis can return to their previous positions."


    Maya was thoroughly shocked by the news.


    "W-Why?" she eventually asked after a pause.


    Leanna nced at her watch and looked around. "Are you sure you want to talk here?"


    That snapped Maya back to reality, and she led Leanna away while ignoring the stares of the crowd


    around them.


    Either way, she did not want to work there anymore.


    There was a cafe not far from where they were.


    After sitting at a table inside the cafe, Maya stared at the ss of water in front of her with her hands


    nervously sped together. "Were you telling the truth?"


    "What else?" Leanna shot back. "Did you think I was doing it to get you out of a tough spot?"


    "Still, the decision is Crossley Group''s," Maya said doubtfully. "Are you sure you can do this? Is this a


    prank?"


    "Unlike you, I am a busy woman. If I have the time to y a prank, I would be focusing on other tasks."


    "However, Crossley Group¡­"


    "You don''t have to worry about that," Leanna interrupted. "Just tell me¡ªdoes your husband wish to


    come back and work for Crossley Group?"


    Maya clenched her jaw. Her family had fallen from grace because of this incident. Why would he not


    want the job?


    He would never truly be happy to work as a hotel security guard for the rest of his life, right?


    "You can ask him about it tonight," Leanna continued. "If he is happy toe back, tell him to report to


    the office in the morning for a meeting."


    "I-Is that all? There are no other conditions?" Maya asked.


    "Of course, there are conditions to the offer."


    Maya snorted. "I knew it. You would never be so generous."


    Leanna smirked. "I never said I was a good person."


    "Tell me, then," Maya demanded, tilting her chin up. "I will tell him about the offer only if it is good."


    "As I have just said, I want the other executives who left thepany toe back as well." Leanna


    took a sip of her coffee. "Of course, I would not force anyone back to their jobs. They are free toe


    or go as they please. My condition for your husband''s offer is that he must contact them on my behalf


    to tell them of my offer."


    Those people all left the Crossley Group due to dreadful situations, and they had to shoulder the me


    for anything bad that happened in the past few years.


    It was inevitable that they hated thepany. Leanna would thank her lucky stars if even one or two of


    them were willing to go back to their jobs.


    "Is that all you want?" Maya asked.


    "Did you expect me to demand 1.8 million as a deposit fee?"


    Hearing that made Maya let out a sigh of relief. "I see. I will pass on the message."


    "Crossley Group is not what it used to be," Leanna stated. "It may be difficult at first, but I guarantee


    that as long as we can get through this current crisis, they will get what they are owed and not a penny


    less. Not only that, but I will get rid of the toxic behavior and corrupted employees from the previous


    management."


    After a pause, she continued, "I only need you to tell them that."


    Time was running out, and she could not seek them out one by one.


    All she could do was offer a show of her sincerity.


    She did not need to say anything else. After all, it was hard for anyone not to know what was going on


    at the Crossley Group after all the fuss.


    Now that she was done with her speech, she stood up. "That is all for now. I will take my leave."


    Maya was still dumbfounded by Leanna''s resolute words when the movement snapped her out of her


    thoughts. She thereafter stood up as well. "Then¡­ I¡­"


    "What do you not understand?" Leanna asked, turning to look at her.


    That was not the case at all. Maya merely did not think Leanna, who she thought was a nobody, would


    save her twice.


    The first time Leanna saved her was at the party. Then, the former was currently saving thetter and


    her husband by giving them a new chance at life.


    "You spoke quite well, like a powerful woman," Maya eventually uttered.


    "You are quite the strong woman as well. You raise your kids while working," replied Leanna.


    "I do not n on working there any longer," Maya spat out. "When I am there, I am either ostracized or


    bullied."


    "All jobs are like that,"mented Leanna.


    In all honesty, Maya had been quite lucky before. Her husband was promoted to an executive of


    Crossley Group with a sry of millions despite his young age. Furthermore, he loved her and always


    bought her gifts. He had no w other than never having the time to be with her.


    More importantly, she was happy with her life.


    Life was different for everyone. Perhaps that was what made her happy.


    After exiting the cafe, Leanna messaged Aidan as she walked back to her car.


    When the message was sent, she put her phone away and pulled out her key. The moment she looked


    up, she found Aidan leaning against her car.


    With an emotionless expression on his face, he was holding a phone up to his ear as his gaze focused


    on something in the distance.


    She slowed to a stop when she spotted him. A bright smile spread across her lips.


    He was her happiness.


    She waited until he was done with his phone call before walking over. "Didn''t you say you wouldn''t be


    coming?" she softly asked.


    He turned to look at her with a raised eyebrow. "I was in the area. What a coincidence, am I right?"


    She stared at him, speechless.


    "Where is Jonathan?" she asked instead, looking around.


    "I let him clock off early," he said before proceeding to grab her key. "Get in the car. It''s time to go


    home."


    "Why don''t I drive?" she retorted. "It is considered drowsy driving if you do."


    "Do I look that tired?" he asked.


    "A little."


    He smiled and leaned in close to her. "I feel quite energized. Shall we test it out in the car?"


    She stared at him, shocked.


    The b*stard can just leave right now!


    On the way back, Aidan asked as he drove, "How did the talk go?"


    "I said everything I had to say, but I don''t know what will happen."


    "You will know tomorrow."


    She was surprised to hear him say that. "How did you know of the meeting I arranged for tomorrow?"


    He hummed with a smirk on his lips. "I know everything."


    "Do you have a spy in thepany?" she warily asked.


    "I do not have a spy, but merely a source of information."


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    There was a lull in the conversation. "Do you think they''lle?" she eventually asked.


    "That depends on them," he answered. "For people like your colleagues who are severely in need of


    more money and not happy about their jobs, the offer would be their best choice. For other people, that


    may not be it. Leroy might have been the culprit, but they had to shoulder the me for thepany. It


    would be hard for anyone to forgive thepany after suffering such great injustice."


    She, too, had the same thought.


    Letting out a sigh, she stretchedzily. "I am not going to force them toe back. I will be happy if just


    one or two of theme back. At least, they are all honest and serious workers. They will always be


    better than those who stayed behind."


    "The current employees all follow Jimmy''s lead. Everything will only get better after getting rid of him."


    "However, since he did not leave and specifically sought me out," she continued, "it means he cannot


    be easily kicked out of the Crossley Group."

 Chapter 499

    Chapter 499


    Aidan''s slender fingers tapped against the steering wheel as he calmly stated, "That is because no one


    thought of getting rid of Jimmy before."


    Leanna was stunned by his words but soon snapped out of her daze.


    When Leroy was still the head of the Crossley Group, he knew of Jimmy''s actions. Since Leroy was not


    a good man himself, it was likely Jimmy acted arrogant and brazen because Leroy had implicitly


    approved of Jimmy''s actions.


    When she thought about it that way, Jimmy certainly had no cause for fear.


    Especially since his backer was Leroy, no one would publicly challenge Jimmy.


    "I know what to do now," she finally said after a few minutes of silence.


    Aidan smiled and turned to look at Leanna. "Do you need my help?"


    "No," she replied. "I can handle this. You just need to focus on the Pearson Group."


    "Oh, right," she said suddenly. "Why did youe back sote that night? You said you would tell me."


    So many things had happened over the past two days that she nearly forgot about his promise.


    "It is nothing. Georgina was found."


    "Where did you find her?"


    It took him a while before he replied, "You just need to know she has been found. Her previous location


    is not important."


    She pouted and decided she was not in the mood to argue. "How is she now?"


    "In prison. She does not seem to be doing well."


    Pursing her lips, she said, "Well, Georgina has always been a proud woman. A fall from grace is


    certainly uneptable to her."


    "She deserves it," he said.


    "Well¡­ What about Leroy? Any news about him?"


    "None."


    "Are Jethro and Louis''s DNA tests done yet?" she asked after that.


    He licked his lips and did not say a word.


    Something about his hesitance told her bad news was iing.


    If her guess was right, he would have told her by now.


    Since he was reluctant to tell her the news, it was likely¡­


    A few secondster, Aidan spoke, "Jethro is dead. His name will never appear in this world ever again.


    It no longer matters if he is rted to Louis."


    Leanna could tell that he was trying tofort her.


    She leaned back in her seat and slowly said, "I just don''t get it. Louis is his son, so why would he still


    say those vile things? It seems like he would be happy as long as Louis''s life is ruined."


    "What can you expect out of a man addicted to gambling?"


    "Still, not even monsters would eat their children. Surely a man, no matter how cruel he is, would never


    be that horrible to his son?"


    She fell deep in thought after saying that. A few secondster, she abruptly said, "Well, it is not an


    impossible scenario anyway. Please forget I said that."


    Her statement confused Aidan.


    For the rest of the journey, she stared out of the window while deep in her thoughts, ignoring him in the


    process.


    A vein on his temple throbbed. However, he was the one in the wrong, so he kept quiet.


    As they stepped out of the elevator, she nced at the neighboring unit''s door and asked, "I think


    there''s a kid in that apartment. Have you met them yet?"


    "No," he replied ndly.


    After a hum of acknowledgment, she followed him into their home.


    She took a shower and settled cross-legged on the couch to message Zoe to ask about her date.


    ''How was the movie?'' she asked.


    ''It''s quite good.'' Zoe replied. ''Daphne was really good, as expected of an award-winning actress. I want


    her autograph now.''


    Leanna responded with a request for rification. ''I meant, how was your date?'' she continued.


    ''It''s okay. About the same as yesterday.'' Zoe answered.


    ''For some reason¡­ I think he''s just alright. My heart wasn''t pounding when we watched the movie, and


    I did not have the urge to take things one step further either.'' Zoe continued.


    ''Did he ask you for another date after the movie?'' Leanna asked.


    ''He''ll be going on a business trip tomorrow, so he said he''ll ask me out after that.'' Zoe replied.


    ''I''ll think about it then. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, after all. Maybe I''ll feel something for him


    once he''s back. It is not impossible.''


    ''What about you?'' Zoe continued. ''Did you find Maya? How was your talk with her?''


    ''I found her.'' answered Leanna. ''It was okay.''


    ''Does this mean you have to go to the Crossley Group office tomorrow?'' asked Zoe.


    ''Yes. Tomorrow morning.''


    ''Good luck! All the best!''


    Leanna chuckled when she read that. After a few more minutes of chatting with Zoe, Aidan stepped out


    of the bathroom.


    His hair was notpletely dry yet as he sat down beside her. "What are you talking about?" he asked,


    ncing at her phone.


    "Nothing much," she replied. "I''m asking about Zoe''s date."


    "Isn''t she dating Daniel already?" he asked.


    "Not yet. They are just," Leanna answered with a dry chuckle before drifting off. "Oh, it''s too


    complicated to summarize for you."


    She then paused in thought. "What do you think of Daniel?"


    Aidan stretched out his arm behind her on the couch and yed with a lock of her hair as he


    nonchntly replied, "So-so."


    "Be serious. Zoe''s future happiness depends on this."


    "Hm?" he replied softly.


    She smacked his hand away from her hair. "Do not deny that she helped you. In fact, she helped you


    quite a lot when you were trying to get me to date you."


    "Well, I am not as bad as you, am I?"


    She stared at him, speechless.


    Before she could reply, he continued, "How did she even help me? Did she help me by getting you to


    go out with Elijah?"


    "T-That happened a long time ago," Leanna stammered. "Why are you still holding onto that grudge?"


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    "Forget it," she continued in frustration. "I won''t ask you about it anymore. You don''t provide any


    concrete opinions anyway."


    Aidan bit back a chuckle. "So impatient."


    He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her into an embrace as he calmly continued, "I have


    looked into Daniel. He had a lot of girlfriends and he isn''t someone who will stay just because of love.


    However, all of those rtionships ended well. Thus, he is not that bad."


    "Except when ites to love."


    "When ites to love?" Aidan pondered for a moment before saying, "You should know that he is an


    orphan William took in. Ever since then, he has been working for William."


    "I heard he ns on leaving Highside," shemented.


    "That''s expected," he said with a hum. "He grew up overseas. He only came here to resolve the issue


    with the Crossleys. Now that he is done with his task, he will leave, as expected."


    "Will he be focusing on music after he heads back?"


    "Probably."


    Hearing that, Leanna exined, "While I think he''s quite taken with Zoe, I can''t be sure. I don''t dare


    interfere with the rtionship anymore."


    "They are both adults," he finally said. "They know their limits. There is no use worrying about them."

 Chapter 500

    Chapter 500


    Aidan raised his eyebrows. "Love needs to develop on its own. You cannot rush it."


    "Just who was impatient before?" Leanna shot him an unhappy look.


    He smiled. Unable to deny her pointed question, he gently bit her ear. "Well, I am also quite impatient


    now."


    She stared at him, speechless.


    His hands wandered into her clothes as henguidly said, "You don''t need to worry so much. Their


    rtionship might be progressing better than you imagined."


    "What do you mean by that?"


    "y along and I''ll sell you a piece of exclusive news."


    A moan escaped her lips. She tried to pull his hands away, but it was useless. "What exclusive news?"


    "Have you ever wondered why Zoe''s ex-boyfriend never showed his face again?"


    She had not wondered about that before. However, now that he mentioned it, she could not help but


    freeze. "Daniel did it, didn''t he?"


    He must have.


    When Zoe told Leanna of Anthony barging into her home, she said he only left after Daniel beat him


    up.


    Leanna had thought that it was the end of the incident.


    She did not expect to hear that there was more to the story.


    "Why else? Did anyone think he would''ve seen the light and amended his ways?"


    "In that case, Daniel really..."


    "Alright," he interrupted. "You have your piece of news. It is time for the payment."


    His response rendered her speechless once more.


    "I have to wake up early tomorrow," she whispered. Her mind was still reeling from the revtion.


    "Work with me, and we will end early," he murmured back.


    "H-How?"


    "Did you forget what you owe me?"


    In the end, she was forced to call out "honey" over and over again to end it early.


    After she fell asleep, he nced at the phone to see a call he had missed half an hour ago. He walked


    out to the balcony before dialing back.


    "President Pearson," greeted Jonathan.


    With a lit cigarette between his lips, Aidan calmly replied, "Speak."


    "The investigation is done. Celia''s boyfriend is an employee at Crossley Group. He is the man who has


    been approaching Madam over the past few days."


    Aidan''s eyes darkened as he coldly barked out, "When did he show up by Celia''s side?"


    "A long while ago," answered Jonathan. "As our men followed him, we found no abnormal behavior


    other than meeting up with Celia. He has two kids as well; an eight-year-old and a two-year-old."


    Aidan flicked his cigarette. "What a coincidence."


    "Are you saying he''s deliberately getting close to Celia, sir? He has no reason to! After all, only a few


    people know about the young master. No one else can know about him."


    "Keep an eye on him for now."


    "Should we tell Celia?"


    "No. Let us not alert him."


    "Yes, sir."


    Aidan hummed in acknowledgment before hanging up. Once his cigarette was finished, he scrolled to


    Freddie''s contact number on his phone and called him.


    ¡­


    The next day, Leanna woke up before her rm went off.


    She looked at the bright sky outside as she stretched.


    Just as she was about to get out of bed, an arm wrapped around her waist. "It''s still early," said Aidan.


    His voice was hoarse and tinged with exhaustion. "Sleep for a while longer."


    Hearing that, she turned to pick up her phone from the headboard. There were twenty minutes left


    before her rm was supposed to go off.


    "It is about time," she replied. "I have to get up. Go back to sleep."


    She then pulled up the nket to cover his head and patted his head through it.


    For a moment, he was silent and still, as if he had fallen asleep.


    However, before she could stand up, her wrist was grabbed.


    The next thing she knew, she was lying in bed.


    He loomed over her as his deep, dark eyes bore into her.


    She had never seen that look in his eyes before, so it took her a moment before she could speak.


    "What is it?"


    His finger gently rubbed across her wrist as he rasped, "Nothing much. I just remembered something."


    On that morning years ago, she did the same thing too.


    She covered his head with the nket so that his eyes were shielded from the blinding sunlight. Then,


    she gently patted him as if she were coaxing a child to go back to sleep.


    Her voice was so gentle, so soft, and so very cautious.


    In that instant, all of his anger vanished.


    Later on, he thought about how he could have made her disappear back when she came knocking on


    his door as a pregnant woman.


    He did not do that, though.


    Instead, he allowed the Pearsons to seize the chance to force them to marry.


    While he said he hated Leanna, he was not against the idea of marrying her.


    No one in the whole world could force him to do anything.


    At most, he would drag them all down to hell with him.


    She was likely reminded of that too as she watched the sun sy across his face. She blinked, then


    hooked her arms around his neck and leaned up to kiss him on the lips. "Aidan Pearson."


    "Hm?"


    "Did you fall in love with me a long time ago?"


    He smiled and slowly answered, "Yes."


    She had not expected him to be so honest. Stunned, she stared at him for a moment before smiling.


    "Am I your first love?"


    He unhappily frowned upon hearing that. "Are you sure you want to ask me that?"


    She cleared her throat and stopped fooling around. "It is gettingte. I have to get ready."


    She then hurriedly squirreled out of his embrace and ran into the bathroom.


    Although nothing had happened between her and Zayn, and that happened a long time ago, it did not


    stop Aidan from being jealous of that for the rest of his life.


    He watched her panicked figure escape from his sight before licking his lips and getting out of bed.


    Her rm only went off after she washed up. Then, she sat down before her dressing table and began


    to put on her makeup.


    Aidan leaned against the wall beside her with a hand in his pants pocket. "You didn''t put in this much


    effort when you went on a date with me."


    "How is that the same?"


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    "Am I not as important as them?"


    She stared at him, speechless.


    Was he a jealous incarnation? He was always so jealous.


    She reached out to give him a push. "Stop standing there. You are blocking the sunlight."


    Aidan pulled his hand out of his pocket and looked at the time. "How long do you have?"


    "A few more minutes. You..." At that, Leanna then turned to look at him. "You do not need to drive me. I


    can go by myself."


    "I have nothing to do in the morning," he replied. "Anyway, everyone knows you will be in the Crossley


    Group office today. They will be watching. No matter what promises they made, Jimmy will surely


    threaten you one more time before you step foot into the office. If I go with you, he will not dare do


    anything."


    Before she could reply, he continued, "It is called risk avoidance."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by his logic. It was evident she was not as eloquent as he was.


    Aidan ruffled her hair. "I''ll wait for you downstairs. Once you are done, we can leave."

 Chapter 501

    Chapter 501


    It happened to be 9.00AM when Leanna arrived at the first floor of the Crossley Group.


    There was still one hour left before the meeting started. She came earlier so that she could understand


    thepany''s internal situation better.


    However, before she even opened the car door, she noticed a group of employees asking to be paid


    their sries squatting at the entrance of thepany. They held banners and signs as they


    denounced the Crossley Group.


    Aidan had already predicted this.


    Turning her head, Leanna asked, "What should we do now?"


    "Let''s get out of the car," Aidan suggested.


    As soon as Leanna appeared at thepany''s entrance, someone yelled, "It''s her! She''s Lloyd


    Crossley''s daughter! We need to get our money from her!"


    The group was already rushing over to surround Leanna the moment they heard those words.


    Upon seeing this, Aidan''s bodyguards immediately stepped forward and stopped them from


    approaching.


    The ce became extremely rowdy following themotion.


    Aidan swiftly pulled Leanna into his arms. Despite having to face the angry crowd, he neither told them


    to stop nor restrained them. He only put up with them quietly.


    It was currently rush hour. Passersby huddled over to see what was happening when they heard the


    bigmotion.


    Jimmy, who was in the building of the Crossley Group, immediately frowned when he saw this. "What is


    he doing here?" he asked.


    "President Pearson has always thought highly of himself. It''s not surprising that he woulde,"


    Raymond answered as he stood beside Jimmy.


    Jimmy scoffed in response. "This is Crossley Group''s business and yet, someone from the Pearson


    Group is intervening. I doubt Leanna can gain a foothold within thepany."


    Jimmy was the one who arranged for the people currently outside thepany to be there. His initial


    n was to trap Leanna there so that she knew she couldn''t just waltz her way into the Crossley


    Group. It was also a warning for her to drop her attitude.


    He would then wait for the right time to appear and dissolve the crowd while he promised them on


    behalf of the Crossley Group to be responsible for everyone. It would be a nice boost to his reputation if


    he sessfully cracked the whip.


    However, judging from the current situation, he could neither stay in the building nor go out.


    At the same time, Aidan calmly asked when themotion had died down, "Are you done?"


    The people in the crowd looked at each other. They seemed to be pondering whether to continue with


    their protest.


    Aidan added, "Is the loudest person going to get the highest sry?"


    "Ha! How can you say that? We are here because we want justice. Are we not supposed to make a


    sound even though Lloyd Crossley ripped us off?"


    "But Lloyd Crossley died twenty years ago. Surely he didn''t appear in everyone''s dreams or


    something?"


    "But Lloyd Crossley died twenty years ago. Surely he didn''t appear in everyone''s dreams or


    something?"


    The person who refuted Aidan immediately flushed red.


    Someone quickly roared again, "Who cares if it''s Lloyd Crossley or Leroy Crossley? It doesn''t change


    the fact that the Crossley Group owes us money. We want to¡ª"


    "What? Drag the Crossley Group down with you?"


    "That''s an overstatement. We only want our money!"


    Aidan''s face remained emotionless when he questioned, "Is this how you should act when asking for


    due sry?"


    The crowd fell silent when they heard that.


    They were only here under Jimmy''s instructions to kick up a fuss at the entrance. They didn''t think they


    would need to answer questions like this.


    Furthermore, Aidan was so intimidating they could hardly breathe even though he was only standing


    there.


    They knew they were no match for him in terms of arguing.


    Just as they struggled to answer him, Leanna lightly informed them, "I''m aware that there have been


    many incidents regarding the Crossley Grouptely and that everyone has been affected or


    inconvenienced one way or another. I am here to solve these problems."


    She paused briefly before continuing, "I promise that the Crossley Group will adequately handle


    everything, but I hope that everyone who is involved can give me time to get things moving. I will need


    to approach the problems step by step. You will only make things worse by gathering and causing a


    disturbance here. It''s unfair for the victims who are quietly waiting for a solution."


    She could hear many sounds of approval from outside the crowd as soon as she said that.


    At some point, reporters appeared at the scene.


    Seeing this, the crowd who was protesting started to worry about getting themselves in trouble, and


    they hurried off without saying another word.


    Thepany''s entrance was empty in no time.


    It was only then that Aidan let Leanna go. "I''ve miscalcted," he murmured with a chuckle.


    Confused, she turned to look at him. "What?"


    "You would have handled that perfectly even if I wasn''t here."


    She raised her eyebrows. "You''replimenting me?"


    "Is it not obvious?"


    Leanna smiled in return. She would have to disagree with what Aidan said. In fact, she didn''t expect all


    this to happen. She would have been eaten alive by the unexpected crowd.


    If it weren''t for Aidan being beside her, she wouldn''t have beenposed enough to say what she


    said.


    He then looked at the entrance of the Crossley Group and said, "I won''t be able to go in with you."


    "I can handle this." She nodded.


    As soon as she said that, a voice rang out from beside them. "Am I¡­ invisible to you?"


    "But Lloyd Crosy diad twanty yaars ago. Suraly ha didn''t appaar in avaryona''s draams or


    somathing?"


    Tha parson who rafutad Aidan immadiataly flushad rad.


    Somaona quickly roarad again, "Who caras if it''s Lloyd Crosy or Laroy Crosy? It doasn''t changa


    tha fact that tha Crosy Group owas us monay. Wa want to¡ª"


    "What? Drag tha Crosy Group down with you?"


    "That''s an ovarstatamant. Wa only want our monay!"


    Aidan''s faca ramainad amotioss whan ha quastionad, "Is this how you should act whan asking for


    dua sry?"


    Tha crowd fall snt whan thay haard that.


    Thay wara only hara undar Jimmy''s instructions to kick up a fuss at tha antranca. Thay didn''t think thay


    would naad to answar quastions lika this.


    Furtharmora, Aidan was so intimidating thay could hardly braatha avan though ha was only standing


    thara.


    Thay knaw thay wara no match for him in tarms of arguing.


    Just as thay strugd to answar him, Laanna lightly informad tham, "I''m awara that thara hava baan


    many incidants ragarding tha Crosy Grouptaly and that avaryona has baan affactad or


    inconvaniancad ona way or anothar. I am hara to solva thasa proms."


    Sha pausad briafly bafora continuing, "I promisa that tha Crosy Group will adaquataly han


    avarything, but I hopa that avaryona who is involvad can giva ma tima to gat things moving. I will naad


    to approach tha proms stap by stap. You will only maka things worsa by gatharing and causing a


    disturbanca hara. It''s unfair for tha victims who ara quiatly waiting for a solution."


    Sha could haar many sounds of approval from outsida tha crowd as soon as sha said that.


    At soma point, raportars appaarad at tha scana.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Saaing this, tha crowd who was protasting startad to worry about gatting thamsalvas in trou, and


    thay hurriad off without saying anothar word.


    Thapany''s antranca was ampty in no tima.


    It was only than that Aidant Laanna go. "I''va miscalctad," ha murmurad with a chuc.


    Confusad, sha turnad to look at him. "What?"


    "You would hava hand that parfactly avan if I wasn''t hara."


    Sha raisad har ayabrows. "You''raplimanting ma?"


    "Is it not obvious?"


    Laanna smd in raturn. Sha would hava to disagraa with what Aidan said. In fact, sha didn''t axpact all


    this to happan. Sha would hava baan aatan aliva by tha unaxpactad crowd.


    If it waran''t for Aidan baing basida har, sha wouldn''t hava baanposad anough to say what sha


    said.


    Ha than lookad at tha antranca of tha Crosy Group and said, "I won''t ba a to go in with you."


    "I can han this." Sha noddad.


    As soon as sha said that, a voica rang out from basida tham. "Am I¡­ invisi to you?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words and when she looked in the direction the voice came from, she saw


    Freddie had appeared at some point.


    Before she could ask anything, Aidan told her, "Many of the contracts with the Crossley Group will


    involve legal issues. People can easily fool you if there''s something you''re unclear about. He can help


    you with that."


    Freddie sighed at that. "I''m an unremarkable tool for people to use, and you''re exactly the type of


    person whoes to me only when you need me."


    Aidan quietly nced over, immediately shutting Freddie up. Thetter then took a look at the time


    before he urged, "Alright, alright. We''ve wasted enough time here. Let''s go. We have to look at the


    problematic contracts first."


    Leanna turned to Aidan. "I''m off," she said.


    "Alright."


    She took a deep breath and looked away before she strode in the direction of the main entrance.


    She had just stepped into the building when Jimmy hurried over from the elevator with an apologetic


    smile on his face. "You''re here, Miss McKinney! I had something to attend to earlier, which was why I


    couldn''t personally wee you. I''m truly¡ª"


    However, Leanna cut in, "Mr. Onder, enough with the pleasantries. Take me to my office, please."


    The smile on Jimmy''s face quickly stiffened. He nced at Freddie for a second and the look on his


    face soon fell. "Right this way, Miss McKinney."


    After they got into the elevator, Jimmy began to cotton up to Freddie. "We''ve met, Mr. Sutton. Do you


    remember me? It was at your father''s birthday celebration."


    Freddie let out a gentle smile then. "Is that so?"


    "Yes, yes."


    "But it''s not a good thing to be remembered by me. If I remember you, it''s either because you''re a


    business elite I brought to prison because of corruption and bribery, or you''re apany leader who


    embezzled public funds and spent hundreds of millions you shouldn''t. Right, Mr. Onder?"


    Jimmy immediately went silent upon hearing that.


    As Leanna stared at the elevator disy which indicated that they were ascending, she stated, "Mr.


    Onder, I told you yesterday that I want all the senior executives of thepany gathered for a


    meeting at 10.00AM today. Have you notified them?"


    "I did, but¡­"


    "But what?"


    "Two of them can''t attend due to personal reasons. One of them is sick and the other one¡ª"


    "What a coincidence. Everything''s happening all at once."


    Jimmy sighed. "Right¡­"


    "Fine, then. They should rest since their ''personal reasons'' are keeping them busy. I''m free anyway. I''ll


    personally visit themter in the day to finalize the issue with the employees'' sries."


    Leanna was at a loss for words and when she looked in the direction the voice came from, she saw


    Freddie had appeared at some point.

 Chapter 502

    Chapter 502


    When the elevator doors opened, Jimmy led Leanna to the entrance of an office and introduced the


    ce. "Miss McKinney, this used to be Mr. Crossley''s office. All the files are already there."


    Leanna nced at it. "I don''t like theyout. Can you alter it by today?"


    He probably hadn''t expected her to say that, which was why he froze for a moment. "T-Today?"


    Freddie drawled, "If you think that it''s too soon, I can suggest a way."


    Jimmy said instinctively, "And that is?"


    "You can ask Mr. Pearson about that. He has always been effective in resolving those kinds of things."


    Jimmy was speechless. How can he threaten me like this?


    He wiped his damp forehead and fell silent for a while. He had initially nned to intimidate Leanna yet


    now, he had not only failed but was instead intimidated in return. The way she wants Mr. Crossley''s


    original office refurbished as soon as she arrives shows that she''s about to take his ce and gain an


    advantage. How ambitious of her! Jimmy now realized that getting Leanna toe over to the


    Crossley Group was probably not a good decision.


    As Leanna heard no reply from Jimmy, she nced sideways at him. "Do you have an issue with it?"


    Even Freddie had looked at him.


    Jimmy quickly straightened his back. "No! Of course not. I''ll send the order now. It will bepleted


    today even if we have to work overtime."


    Leanna made a noise of assent and turned around. "Then please ask someone to send those files to


    the meeting room."


    "Sure thing!" Jimmy answered before ncing at the two men behind him. They both understood


    instantly; one went to get the files while the other went to arrange the refurbishment of the office.


    Then, he added, "The meeting room is this way. After you, Miss McKinney."


    After both Leanna and Freddie headed forward, Jimmy summoned another assistant and murmured


    something to him before frowning. "Go quickly!"


    The assistant left hurriedly.


    The files had arrived by the time Leanna entered the meeting room. She looked around the space and


    nced at the time¡ªit was 9.40AM. It didn''t matter that Jimmy''s people arrived. She had already said


    her piece, which was that if they were absent orte, they would be fired. What she was worried about


    now were the directors who had left the Crossley Group. At that thought, she sighed, feeling extremely


    tense.


    Freddie dragged a chair to sit beside her and he started to go through the files. Jimmy, who had just


    entered, quickly said, "M-Mr. Sutton, these files regarding the internal financial situation and project


    data shouldn''t be read by an outsider."


    Freddie dragged a chair to sit beside her and he started to go through the files. Jimmy, who had just


    entered, quickly said, "M-Mr. Sutton, these files regarding the internal financial situation and project


    data shouldn''t be read by an outsider."


    Leanna answered lightly, "I employed him and he''s also thew advisor I got for the Crossley Group.


    His viewing of them may be considered as me doing so and besides, the Crossley Group''s current


    situation won''t warrant someone stealing any business secrets. Or do you not trust him?"


    Jimmy fumed but did not dare say anything. Freddie Sutton might only be awyer, but his family was


    famous in Highside, so Jimmy would never dare offend him. In the end, he could only silently take a


    seat on Leanna''s left.


    As soon as he sat down, she said, "Mr. Onder, please get another seat."


    Jimmy looked annoyed. "I sat here when Mr. Crossley was still working here, Miss McKinney¡­"


    She smiled. "Don''t misunderstand me. You''re merely blocking the sunlight. You can always sit back


    here when everyone is present."


    Jimmy gritted his teeth, expression stony as he moved one seat away from her. The sun shone into the


    room and the raysnded right in front of her.


    Soon, Raymond arrived as well and he greeted everyone before settling in his seat. Leanna leaned her


    cheek against her hand as she checked the time.


    Ten more minutes¡­


    The seconds ticked by with both Jimmy and Raymond remaining quiet. The room was only filled with


    the sound of Freddie flipping through the papers. Whenever he moved or made a slight sound, Jimmy


    stiffened, feeling extremely paranoid that thewyer would ask him something. Luckily, he had already


    gotten rid of all the ounts linked to him. While he had garnered huge losses and many ounts


    couldn''t be tallied, all that was not his problem. He only needed to me everything on Leroy.


    When there were only two minutes left, the rest of the board came in, apologizing for making Leanna


    wait even though they looked rxed. They had arrived before 10.00AM, so she could not say anything


    about cutting their sries.


    Jimmy was the one who spoke. "Miss McKinney, it''s 10.00AM and everyone has arrived. Shall the


    meetingmence?"


    "Not everyone is here," she enunciated slowly. "Let''s wait for a while longer."


    Fraddia draggad a chair to sit basida har and ha startad to go through tha fs. Jimmy, who had just


    antarad, quickly said, "M-Mr. Sutton, thasa fs ragarding tha intarnal financial situation and projact


    data shouldn''t ba raad by an outsidar."


    Laanna answarad lightly, "I amployad him and ha''s also thaw advisor I got for tha Crosy Group.


    His viawing of tham may ba considarad as ma doing so and basidas, tha Crosy Group''s currant


    situation won''t warrant somaona staaling any businass sacrats. Or do you not trust him?"


    Jimmy fumad but did not dara say anything. Fraddia Sutton might only ba awyar, but his family was


    famous in Highsida, so Jimmy would navar dara offand him. In tha and, ha could only sntly taka a


    saat on Laanna''sft.


    As soon as ha sat down, sha said, "Mr. Ondar, asa gat anothar saat."


    Jimmy lookad annoyad. "I sat hara whan Mr. Crosy was still working hara, Miss McKinnay¡­"


    Sha smd. "Don''t misundarstand ma. You''ra maraly blocking tha sunlight. You can always sit back


    hara whan avaryona is prasant."


    Jimmy grittad his taath, axprassion stony as ha movad ona saat away from har. Tha sun shona into tha


    room and tha raysndad right in front of har.


    Soon, Raymond arrivad as wall and ha graatad avaryona bafora sattling in his saat. Laannaanad har


    chaak against har hand as sha chackad tha tima.


    Tan mora minutas¡­


    Tha saconds tickad by with both Jimmy and Raymond ramaining quiat. Tha room was only fid with


    tha sound of Fraddia flipping through tha papars. Whanavar ha movad or mada a slight sound, Jimmy


    stiffanad, faaling axtramaly paranoid that thawyar would ask him somathing. Luckily, ha had alraady


    gottan rid of all tha ounts linkad to him. Wh ha had garnarad huga lossas and many ounts


    couldn''t ba talliad, all that was not his prom. Ha only naadad to ma avarything on Laroy.


    Whan thara wara only two minutasft, tha rast of tha board cama in, apologizing for making Laanna


    wait avan though thay lookad rxad. Thay had arrivad bafora 10.00AM, so sha could not say anything


    about cutting thair srias.


    Jimmy was tha ona who spoka. "Miss McKinnay, it''s 10.00AM and avaryona has arrivad. Shall tha


    maatingmanca?"


    "Not avaryona is hara," sha anunciatad slowly. "Lat''s wait for a wh longar."


    The board looked at each other, each of them grumbling internally. She wants us to arrive punctually at


    10.00AM but we have to wait for someone from her side. Is she joking?


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Just then, an assistant entered and muttered something in Jimmy''s ear. Jimmy''s expression changed


    instantly, and he became gloomy. "Why are they here? Kick them out! How disgusting!"


    The assistant had just answered when Leanna said, "I called them here. Let them up."


    Jimmy frowned. "What?"


    She repeated patiently, "Ask them toe up here."


    He quickly countered, "Miss McKinney, these are all people who have ndered us in the beginning.


    They all have bad reputations and yet, you called them here?"


    She looked at him and smiled. "I think that since they were employees of the Crossley Group and this


    is the defining moment of thepany''s survival, it''s good to have some extra help. What do you think,


    Mr. Onder?"


    "I object to that! They brought us so many losses and negative consequences. How can we just let it


    pass? I disagree strongly!"


    She only replied calmly, "Do you think they brought negative consequences on the Crossley Group or


    are you afraid that they will say something they shouldn''t?"


    Jimmy''s expression darkened but before he could say anything, Freddie got up and stretched. "My


    back hurts after sitting for so long. I''ll go down for a walk and bring them upter."


    "Y-You don''t have to go to all that trouble, Mr. Sutton." Jimmy gritted his teeth and turned to his


    assistant. "Let them up."


    Those people returning to the Crossley Group were already making Jimmy anxious, so how could he


    let Freddie be alone with them?


    After the assistant left, the other board members couldn''t help but discuss things quietly among


    themselves. All they could talk about was how irritated they were by Leanna''s decision to bring the ex-


    employees here. Only Raymond was silent, frowning while pondering something.


    Freddie ignored them and looked at Leanna. "I''ve read through all the contracts and they don''t have


    any issues. It''s just that with such a big corporation as the Crossley Group, why are there so few


    contracts when so many projects have been paused?"


    The entire meeting room became quiet all at once.


    The board looked at each other, each of them grumbling internally. She wants us to arrive punctually at


    10.00AM but we have to wait for someone from her side. Is she joking?

 Chapter 503

    Chapter 503


    Leanna''s expression didn''t change as she looked at Jimmy. "What do you think, Mr. Onder?"


    Jimmy did not dare show any weakness before awyer like Freddie, so he wiped off his sweat and


    muttered, "W-What do I think?"


    "What Mr. Sutton said just now. If you didn''t hear it, I can ask him to repeat it."


    "I heard it," Jimmy said reluctantly. "This is what happened¡ªall these contracts were under Mr.


    Crossley''s jurisdiction when he was still here. You all know what happened after that, and well¡­ I don''t


    really know the details and only these were found after we organized everything."


    Freddie said again, "Are you saying that all the other contracts have been destroyed by Mr. Crossley?"


    "Maybe?"


    Freddieughed at that. "That''s interesting. All these avable contracts have his signature on them,


    and all the issues mentioned can be linked to him. If he didn''t destroy these, I wonder what he already


    destroyed."


    Jimmy swallowed. "M-Maybe this isn''t muchpared to those he destroyed? Maybe those are far


    more mysterious or contained secrets he didn''t want anyone else to know. That could be it, right?"


    "Are you asking me?"


    "No, no. It was just a guess of mine."


    Freddie sighed. "Fine. Looks like I''ll have to get the proof myself by slowly uncovering the secrets


    contained in those contracts."


    The room was filled with a tense silence while the board members exchanged looks.


    Just then, the door opened, signaling that the others had arrived. Leanna checked the number of


    people present¡ªit was the same as that mentioned in the files. She sighed in relief upon noticing that


    no one was missing.


    Compared to Jimmy and the other board members, the group who had just arrived seemed awkward


    and only sat down after Leanna told them to do so. It was clear that they hadn''t been in such a situation


    for a long time and no longer had the same confidence as before after going through so much.


    The meeting soonmenced. The main topic discussed was the situation the Crossley Group was


    currently in, as well as all the projects which had been paused.


    Raymond said, "I''ve already contacted the banks we worked with and they are willing to lend us money.


    They''ve already begun the procedures, so I believe the funds will be avable very soon and we will be


    able to restart our projects."


    Leanna then asked, "Are the people in charge of those projects still here?"


    "We are now more focused onrge-scale projects. There are ten in total. Three people in charge have


    already left, leaving behind seven. The other smaller projects will have some breathing room when the


    "We are now more focused onrge-scale projects. There are ten in total. Three people in charge have


    already left, leaving behind seven. The other smaller projects will have some breathing room when the


    large projects rmence."


    Jimmy chose that moment to speak. "As I see it, these projects should be followed up on by the original


    people in charge since they are most familiar with the proceedings. As for the others¡­"


    He nced at the people seated opposite him, clearly implying that he wanted to drop those smaller


    projects on them.


    "I think that makes sense," Leanna stated. "Only those originally in charge would know about the


    projects, so they should be the ones to follow up."


    Just as the others were about to secretly rejoice upon the prospect of scraping off yet another great


    sum of money, she continued, "However, we should add in some new ideas so we can get through the


    current situation. As such, I have decided to have two people in charge of each project. That way, any


    problem can be resolved quickly instead of being allowed to develop into a bigger issue like now."


    She looked toward the group next to Maya''s husband. "You''ve already gone through all the project


    files. You can just say whichever suits you best or you can meet me after the meeting. The list of


    people in charge will be announced by this afternoon."


    Jimmy jumped up as he countered, "I disagree! Miss McKinney, how can you just hand them such big


    projects? Do you know what they have done? You will destroy the Crossley Group!"


    Leanna looked at him. "Since you are so opinionated, you cane here and say whatever you want."


    His face flushed red as he opened and shut his mouth, but he remained quiet in the end.


    Leanna got up. "If all of you do not have any other questions, then the meeting can end. Oh, and in


    case everyone isn''t clear, I''ll say this once again¡ªI became the ultimate decision-maker from the


    moment I entered the Crossley Group. Anything that does note from me, including unsigned


    documents, will not be valid. Anyone can make theirints, but I won''t necessarily hear you out."


    It was obvious she was shutting down Jimmy''s objections. Jimmy remained motionless and the rest of


    his group lowered their heads without speaking.


    Meanwhile, the other party felt vindicated and relieved. Freddie looked surprised as well; he hadn''t


    believed Oscar when the other man said that Aidan could never catch up to his wife, but now she


    seemed to be in a league of her own. Women could be terrifying, especially when they got down to


    business.


    "Wa ara now mora focusad onrga-sc projacts. Thara ara tan in total. Thraa pao in charga hava


    alraadyft,aving bahind savan. Tha othar smar projacts will hava soma braathing room whan tha


    larga projacts rmanca."


    Jimmy chosa that momant to spaak. "As I saa it, thasa projacts should ba followad up on by tha original


    pao in charga sinca thay ara most familiar with tha procaadings. As for tha othars¡­"


    Ha ncad at tha pao saatad opposita him, arly implying that ha wantad to drop thosa smar


    projacts on tham.


    "I think that makas sansa," Laanna statad. "Only thosa originally in charga would know about tha


    projacts, so thay should ba tha onas to follow up."


    Just as tha othars wara about to sacratly rajoica upon tha prospact of scraping off yat anothar graat


    sum of monay, sha continuad, "Howavar, wa should add in soma naw idaas so wa can gat through tha


    currant situation. As such, I hava dacidad to hava two pao in charga of aach projact. That way, any


    prom can ba rasolvad quickly instaad of baing allowad to davalop into a biggar issua lika now."


    Sha lookad toward tha group naxt to Maya''s husband. "You''va alraady gona through all tha projact


    fs. You can just say whichavar suits you bast or you can maat ma aftar tha maating. Tha list of


    pao in charga will ba announcad by this aftarnoon."


    Jimmy jumpad up as ha countarad, "I disagraa! Miss McKinnay, how can you just hand tham such big


    projacts? Do you know what thay hava dona? You will dastroy tha Crosy Group!"


    Laanna lookad at him. "Sinca you ara so opinionatad, you cana hara and say whatavar you want."


    His faca flushad rad as ha opanad and shut his mouth, but ha ramainad quiat in tha and.


    Laanna got up. "If all of you do not hava any othar quastions, than tha maating can and. Oh, and in


    casa avaryona isn''t ar, I''ll say this onca again¡ªI bacama tha ultimata dacision-makar from tha


    momant I antarad tha Crosy Group. Anything that doas nota from ma, including unsignad


    documants, will not ba valid. Anyona can maka thairints, but I won''t nacassarily haar you out."


    It was obvious sha was shutting down Jimmy''s objactions. Jimmy ramainad motioss and tha rast of


    his group lowarad thair haads without spaaking.


    Maanwh, tha othar party falt vindicatad and raliavad. Fraddia lookad surprisad as wall; ha hadn''t


    baliavad Oscar whan tha othar man said that Aidan could navar catch up to his wifa, but now sha


    saamad to ba in aagua of har own. Woman could ba tarrifying, aspacially whan thay got down to


    businass.


    When Leanna walked to the president''s office, the original items inside were being moved out. It seems


    they are working rather effectively.


    At that point, Raymond walked up to her. "Miss McKinney, please don''t take Jimmy''s words too


    seriously. He''s always behaved this way and may not be able to change his attitude so quickly."


    Leanna looked back at him and smiled. "It''s okay. I hope he doesn''t take my words to heart as well. I''m


    just being professional. It''s nothing personal."


    After a beat, she continued, "Help me find a clean office, will you? I still need to deal with some things."


    "Come with me, Miss McKinney," Raymond stated.


    The workspace he got her was small, yet clean and spacious; it looked very new and probably had


    never been used.


    Leanna asked, "Did you say that the bank has agreed to a loan?"


    "Yes. Someone took pictures of you and Mr. Pearson at the entrance of the Crossley Group this


    morning which caused quite the uproar, so I quickly contacted the bank and they agreed readily."


    She nodded. "I see."


    "Then I''ll take my leave. If you need anything, just call me."


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


    Soon after he left, someone else came knocking on the door. This time, it was the group led by Maya''s


    husband. They didn''t seem to know what Leanna had in mind and they looked uneasy.


    Maya''s husband was the one who spoke up first. "Miss McKinney, thank you for letting us return to the


    Crossley Group, but it doesn''t seem right for us to take up the big projects considering our


    circumstances. Besides, there will be gossip which will negatively affect the reputation of thepany."


    She smiled. "No one else is better suited than you all. The Crossley Group doesn''t have any reputation


    to speak of now, so let''s do what we can with what we have."


    She then continued, "Now that you are all here, I''ll not beat around the bush. I know what happened


    back then, so letting you take these projects is partly to help keep an eye on them. Only then will there


    be a chance for the Crossley Group to make aeback."


    When Leanna walked to the president''s office, the original items inside were being moved out. It seems


    they are working rather effectively.

 Chapter 504

    Chapter 504


    Meanwhile, Jimmy started throwing a tantrum after returning to his office. The other board members


    stood outside, afraid of getting caught in the crossfire.


    As soon as Raymond came in, a decoration came hurtling toward him as Jimmy shouted, "It was your


    f*cking idea! Have we found a scapegoat or troublemaker? I''ve never been this humiliated even when


    Leroy Crossley was still here!"


    Raymond closed the door and approached him. "Mr. Onder, you said it yourself¡ªtimes have


    changed. Back when Mr. Crossley was still here, you were his right-hand man. However, you know his


    rtionship with Miss McKinney. Plus, it''s normal for youngsters to only care about the present and not


    the consequences when dealing with things. Why should you take it so seriously?"


    Jimmy sat down in his chair when he was done raging and snorted. "It''s only because she has Aidan


    Pearson backing her. Otherwise, she wouldn''t dare speak to me that way even if she had ten times my


    courage."


    "We do have a favor to ask from her. Plus, think of this another way. The more responsibilities she


    takes up, the more burden she has to carry. When the Crossley Group eventually falls, you can make a


    clean retreat while she cannot."


    "Stop saying all that bullsh*t to me! I''m annoyed by the sight of her and won''te to the office


    anymore. Whoever wants to take charge can do that."


    Raymond smiled. "A new broom sweeps clean. She doesn''t have a clear measure of things, which is


    why she''s acting so pretentious. Let''s just do our work."


    "And how should we do that? She''s already involved her people in all the projects. It''s not like you don''t


    know how they were kicked out of the Crossley Group. Are you hoping that they will be on our side?"


    Jimmy''s original n had been to get Leanna to return and take over the Crossley Group. That way,


    the bank would give them a loan because of Aidan Pearson. Everyone in charge of the projects would


    be hisckeys, not to mention that the Crossley Group was on the verge of falling apart already. Some


    underhanded work coupled with excuses and that money would flow into his coffers. As for how the


    projects would end up, Leanna would be asked to exin while he could just exit without care.


    However, her current actions had put a spanner in the works.


    Raymond continued, "Mr. Onder, I think that this is advantageous rather than harmful for us."


    Raymond continued, "Mr. Onder, I think that this is advantageous rather than harmful for us."


    Jimmy didn''t understand. "What do you mean?"


    "The public knows why those people left in the first ce, and her bringing them back in the name of


    giving them a second chance isn''t an issue. But if the same problems arise in the projects they are


    responsible for, whom do you think the public will suspect most?"


    Jimmy instantly understood what Raymond meant. "Are you saying that we should ce all the me


    on them?"


    Raymond nodded. "They already have a history, so everyone will make assumptions and me them


    once the same mistakes happen. That way, Miss McKinney will also be infamous for utilizing the


    wrong people. No matter how the Crossley Group ends up, you will still be the most capable one as far


    as thepany and even Highside are concerned."


    Jimmy pondered this and he felt that what Raymond said made sense. He would get what he wanted


    and also gain a good reputation, so why not?


    After a while, Jimmy told Raymond to send the waiting board members in to discuss things before


    telling them to cooperate unconditionally with whomever Leanna sent to lower their guard. This would


    make things more convenient in the future.


    ¡­


    The news of Leanna''s appearance at the Crossley Group spread quickly. Even the employees of the


    company were discussing this anonymously on forums.


    ''My God! I just knew that the Crossley Group would never copse so easily. I''ve been waiting for this


    day!''


    ''We''re finally seeing some rays of hope. I think we can still salvage things!''


    ''I''ve been nning to leave, but I think I''ll stay on for a while.''


    ''Something''s not right. Didn''t Mr. Pearson of the Pearson Group show up as well? Leanna McKinney is


    now in charge of the Crossley Group and she is also his girlfriend, so does that mean the Crossley


    Group may be acquired by the Pearson Group?''


    ''Honestly, I wish that will happen considering the circumstances the Crossley Group is in. At least we


    can look forward to our wages, unlike now. We aren''t even sure when it wille.''


    ''Oh, I wish thepany will be bought out by the Pearson Group. Their benefits and treatment are


    great and Mr. Pearson is pretty capable too. As for the Crossley Group¡­ Well, what can I say? It was


    good when Mr. Crossley was still around. Who would have thought so many things would transpire in


    such a short time? The Pearson Group is much more reliable in that regard.''


    Raymond continuad, "Mr. Ondar, I think that this is advantagaous rathar than harmful for us."


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Jimmy didn''t undarstand. "What do you maan?"


    "Tha public knows why thosa paoft in tha first ca, and har bringing tham back in tha nama of


    giving tham a sacond chanca isn''t an issua. But if tha sama proms arisa in tha projacts thay ara


    rasponsi for, whom do you think tha public will suspact most?"


    Jimmy instantly undarstood what Raymond maant. "Ara you saying that wa should ca all tha ma


    on tham?"


    Raymond noddad. "Thay alraady hava a history, so avaryona will maka assumptions and ma tham


    onca tha sama mistakas happan. That way, Miss McKinnay will also ba infamous for utilizing tha


    wrong pao. No mattar how tha Crosy Group ands up, you will still ba tha most capa ona as far


    as thapany and avan Highsida ara concarnad."


    Jimmy pondarad this and ha falt that what Raymond said mada sansa. Ha would gat what ha wantad


    and also gain a good raputation, so why not?


    Aftar a wh, Jimmy told Raymond to sand tha waiting board mambars in to discuss things bafora


    talling tham to cooparata unconditionally with whomavar Laanna sant to lowar thair guard. This would


    maka things mora convaniant in tha futura.


    ¡­


    Tha naws of Laanna''s appaaranca at tha Crosy Group spraad quickly. Evan tha amployaas of tha


    company wara discussing this anonymously on forums.


    ''My God! I just knaw that tha Crosy Group would navar copsa so aasily. I''va baan waiting for this


    day!''


    ''Wa''ra finally saaing soma rays of hopa. I think wa can still salvaga things!''


    ''I''va baan nning toava, but I think I''ll stay on for a wh.''


    ''Somathing''s not right. Didn''t Mr. Paarson of tha Paarson Group show up as wall? Laanna McKinnay is


    now in charga of tha Crosy Group and sha is also his girlfriand, so doas that maan tha Crosy


    Group may ba acquirad by tha Paarson Group?''


    ''Honastly, I wish that will happan considaring tha circumstancas tha Crosy Group is in. Atast wa


    can look forward to our wagas, unlika now. Wa aran''t avan sura whan it wi.''


    ''Oh, I wish thapany will ba bought out by tha Paarson Group. Thair banafits and traatmant ara


    graat and Mr. Paarson is pratty capa too. As for tha Crosy Group¡­ Wall, what can I say? It was


    good whan Mr. Crosy was still around. Who would hava thought so many things would transpira in


    such a short tima? Tha Paarson Group is much mora ralia in that ragard.''


    ''I think a merger and acquisition is extremely possible. Leanna McKinney and Mr. Pearson are already


    partners, so why is there a need for two separatepanies? Just manage them together!''


    There were objections as well.


    ''All of you better get one thing straight. This is the Crossley Group, not the Pearson Group. If you like


    the Pearson Group that much, go work for them instead of daydreaming.''


    ''If the Pearson Group wants to help us, they would have already financed us earlier instead of waiting.''


    ''As I see it, Leanna McKinney doesn''t want to help thepany resolve its current problems. She just


    wants to experience what it''s like to go from rags to riches. She has transformed from a gambler''s


    daughter to an heiress of the Crossley Family, so she has to show off.''


    ''Exactly! She''s just doing what she wants because the Pearson Group is backing her. She probably just


    wants to experience being a savior. When she gets dissatisfied and backs out, we will still be in


    trouble.''


    ''I don''t care either way. She can do what she wants. I''m leaving as soon as I get the sry I''ve been


    owed. This stupid ce has treated me badly and I''m not going to stay here for a moment longer.''


    At that point, some who could no longer stand this began to argue. ''Rags to riches? You don''t have to


    be so harsh on her. It''s what she deserves. To put it another way, if Leroy Crossley didn''t cause her


    family harm, she could have been born rich as well.''


    ''I think that she could have distanced herself from this affair with the Crossley Group and lived a


    carefree life as Mrs. Pearson. Instead, here she is dirtying her hands. Isn''t it all for the Crossley Group?


    Why are you disparaging her?''


    While they were arguing on the forum, they all received a message notification on their phones, stating


    that their sries have been paid. Besides the sum owed, there was also an extra one thousand given.


    ''I think a merger and acquisition is extremely possible. Leanna McKinney and Mr. Pearson are already


    partners, so why is there a need for two separatepanies? Just manage them together!''

 Chapter 505

    Chapter 505


    Before they could react, an announcement from the president appeared on the forum. There were


    three announcements.


    The first was that the Crossley Group would not be bought out by the Pearson Group. Secondly, the


    Crossley Group would slowly recover and everyone should do their jobs as assigned to them. Thirdly,


    all owed sries had been paid out. The extra thousand was a symbol of thanks for not leaving and


    staying on with thepany. While it wasn''t much, it was still a heartfelt gesture.


    The people who had been criticizing Leanna immediately became silent. Everyone had waited far too


    long for their sry and many thought that she was merely here to keep up appearances. No one


    would have guessed that she would immediately resolve the most pressing issue on everyone''s minds


    on her very first day.


    However, some people felt that there was no chance of the Crossley Group recovering, and they chose


    to quit. Many had already left after the Leroy Crossley affair. Coupled with the fiasco from today, it had


    reduced the number of employees in thepany to nearly half. As a result, the entire office building


    seemed deserted and quiet.


    Leanna was deep in thought as she looked down at the street from the window of her office when


    Freddie''s voice came from behind her. "Do you regret it?"


    She shook her head. "All those who left already made their intentions clear. None of them are focused


    on their work anymore and it''s best to find somece more suitable rather than wasting their time here.


    However, those who chose to stay for any reason also put a lot of effort into their work."


    Everyone knew that now was the best time to leave since those who nned to waste their time here


    couldn''t do so any longer. That was why those left in thepany would be much more hardworking


    and focused. The survival of the Crossley Group would depend on them and they would have to try


    their best.


    Freddiemented, "I''ve already read the details of the projects and will soon discuss what needs to


    be taken care of with them individually. But do you trust them that much? Do you know what you will


    face if they betray you?"


    She looked away and turned to him. "I''ve got some idea of that."


    "Well, why did you assign such an important task to them?"


    "I don''t have any other candidates to choose from," she answered. "Besides, there''s no one else more


    suited to the job."


    Freddie frowned. He already knew that the whole mess that was the Crossley Group would be hard to


    clear up and this only proved it.


    She continued, "Besides, they aren''t helping me. They''re doing it for themselves."


    She continued, "Besides, they aren''t helping me. They''re doing it for themselves."


    "Why do you say that?"


    "They''ve already been the scapegoat for the Crossley Group before and ended up with crimes which


    they didn''tmit. This made them cklisted within the business circle and they couldn''t find any


    other rted jobs. Some have even be bankrupt and burdened their families, resulting in extreme


    humiliation. For them, money may not be that importantpared to clearing their names."


    Leanna went on, "When all this is over and the truthes out, they will be considered outstanding in


    their field and they will not be treated badly no matter if they choose to stay at the Crossley Group or go


    to anotherpany. They will do their best if only for their future careers."


    Freddie agreed with Leanna. The one who had eventually decided to let them take the me was


    Leroy, but Jimmy and the others weren''t exactly innocent in all this. The employees had already


    experienced how cruel society was and they were sure what was most advantageous and right for


    them. Besides, Freddie had already read their files. All of them were extremely capable but had some


    disagreements with Jimmy in the workce, so he would always hinder them. If Freddie''s guess was


    right, Jimmy had also suggested the idea of making those employees the scapegoat for Leroy to


    remove any dissenters. This was good since they would channel that dislike for Jimmy into the work


    they would be doing for Leanna.


    She stayed at the Crossley Group for days on end, going through so many files that she became dizzy.


    The moment she arrived home, she would lie on the bed without any desire to move while Aidan would


    hug her waist. ''Why are you busier than me?"


    Then, she closed her eyes. "Are you belittling me? I''m managing argepany, after all."


    "Fine. it''s the weekend tomorrow, so shall we go on a date?"


    "Nope."


    "Even if you don''t rest, won''t you let the employees take a break?"


    "I want to take a look at the studio. It''s been a while since Ist went."


    He licked his lips and murmured, "I''ll wait for you."


    She didn''t reply, answering only with steady breaths instead. Leanna had fallen asleep and Aidan didn''t


    know whether to be angry or amused by her. Eventually, he kissed her brow gently.


    Sha continuad, "Basidas, thay aran''t halping ma. Thay''ra doing it for thamsalvas."


    "Why do you say that?"


    "Thay''va alraady baan tha scapagoat for tha Crosy Group bafora and andad up with crimas which


    thay didn''tmit. This mada tham cklistad within tha businass cir and thay couldn''t find any


    othar rtad jobs. Soma hava avan ba bankrupt and burdanad thair familias, rasulting in axtrama


    humiliation. For tham, monay may not ba that importantparad to aring thair namas."


    Laanna want on, "Whan all this is ovar and tha truthas out, thay will ba considarad outstanding in


    thair fiald and thay will not ba traatad badly no mattar if thay choosa to stay at tha Crosy Group or go


    to anotharpany. Thay will do thair bast if only for thair futura caraars."


    Fraddia agraad with Laanna. Tha ona who had avantually dacidad tot tham taka tha ma was


    Laroy, but Jimmy and tha othars waran''t axactly innocant in all this. Tha amployaas had alraady


    axpariancad how crual sociaty was and thay wara sura what was most advantagaous and right for


    tham. Basidas, Fraddia had alraady raad thair fs. All of tham wara axtramaly capa but had soma


    disagraamants with Jimmy in tha workca, so ha would always hindar tham. If Fraddia''s guass was


    right, Jimmy had also suggastad tha idaa of making thosa amployaas tha scapagoat for Laroy to


    ramova any dissantars. This was good sinca thay would channal that dislika for Jimmy into tha work


    thay would ba doing for Laanna.


    Sha stayad at tha Crosy Group for days on and, going through so many fs that sha bacama dizzy.


    Tha momant sha arrivad homa, sha would lia on tha bad without any dasira to mova wh Aidan would


    hug har waist. ''Why ara you busiar than ma?"


    Than, sha closad har ayas. "Ara you balittling ma? I''m managing argapany, aftar all."


    "Fina. it''s tha waakand tomorrow, so shall wa go on a data?"


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    "Nopa."


    "Evan if you don''t rast, won''t yout tha amployaas taka a braak?"


    "I want to taka a look at tha studio. It''s baan a wh sinca Ist want."


    Ha lickad his lips and murmurad, "I''ll wait for you."


    Sha didn''t raply, answaring only with staady braaths instaad. Laanna had fan aap and Aidan didn''t


    know whathar to ba angry or amusad by har. Evantually, ha kissad har brow gantly.


    ¡­


    Since she didn''t have to go to the Crossley Group today, Leanna slept two hours longer than usual and


    only rose at 10.00AM. She sat up and stretchedfortably; sleeping in felt so good. She pulled open


    the curtains and walked blearily out of her bedroom. Just as the door opened, the smell of smoke


    rushed in. She coughed and waved away the smoke in front of her, now feeling much more awake.


    When she moved closer, Aidan emerged from the kitchen with a dark expression, his expensive white


    dress shirt now stained gray.


    Leanna was speechless upon seeing that. "Are you sting our kitchen apart?"


    He looked at her expressionlessly. "What do you want to eat? I''ll get Jonathan to send it over."


    "Well¡­ let''s not. Let him take a break for the weekend. I''ll see what''s in the fridge." She entered the


    kitchen to switch on the venttor and open the windows. Soon, things went back to normal.


    Leanna couldn''t help but look at the source of the smoke whichy in the sink. The bottom of the pan


    was burned through and there was a ck mass on a te. She could make out some broken


    eggshells within, though.


    Is that supposed to be egg custard? It''s much tooplicated for him.


    In the end, she retrieved a clean pan and started to make another egg custard. She put the pan on the


    stove to cook while she cleaned the kitchen. When she was done, Aidan had juste out of the


    bathroom, water dripping from his dark hair.


    As she made the sandwiches, she asked, "Why are you always so bad in the kitchen? Has it troubled


    you?"


    "I strictly followed the steps, so why did I fail?"


    "It didn''t tell you to put water in the pan when you cooked the eggs, right?"


    He looked at her nkly. "I did."


    She turned and smiled at him. "How much?"


    Aidan knew he had lost and fell silent. Leanna then added, "I''ve already told you that you don''t have to


    cook. I can do it."


    ''You''ve been tired for the past few days. I just wanted you to have breakfast as soon as you woke up."


    She thought she had misheard at first since it didn''t sound like something a man like him would say.


    He felt infuriated by her look of surprise. "Fine. It''s your loss for not getting to eat any of my cooking."


    She had nothing to say to that. Well, then.


    ¡­


    Since she didn''t have to go to the Crossley Group today, Leanna slept two hours longer than usual and


    only rose at 10.00AM. She sat up and stretchedfortably; sleeping in felt so good. She pulled open


    the curtains and walked blearily out of her bedroom. Just as the door opened, the smell of smoke


    rushed in. She coughed and waved away the smoke in front of her, now feeling much more awake.

 Chapter 506

    Chapter 506


    Before Leanna left for work, she told Aidan that he did not need to follow her since she would call him


    when everything was wrapped up at work and if nothing happened.


    Aidan walked her to the elevator, kissing her on the cheek when she let her guard down. "Do be careful


    on your way there. Send a message when you arrive."


    "Yes, yes. You can go back now."


    Closing the door of the elevator, Leanna also waved to him.


    After she left, Aidan turned around and knocked on his neighbor''s door.


    A short while passed before the door was opened.


    Naomi asked, "Did Leanna leave?"


    He nodded. "She went to work."


    Walking to the crib, he saw the baby inside ying with a toy while making gurgling sounds.


    Aidan looked at him for a while and suddenly asked, "Did he grow fatter?"


    This little rascal has only been born for a while, yet he''s much bigger now. I think his face has doubled


    in size.


    Tidying up the room, she said, "Babies grow the fastest. It''s just that this particr one was born


    premature and has been sick for this period, so his growth was a bit slower. Now that he''s cured, it''s


    normal to be fatter. Look at how soft and fair he is. His eyebrows look like Leanna''s."


    Frowning, hemented, "He''s much uglier than she is."


    This made Naomi retort, "Who talks about their own son like that? Although babies can''t understand


    you, they are quite petty and vengeful."


    "I don''t think he''ll be as petty as Leanna."


    Ignoring him, Naomi left the room.


    Standing by the crib, he reached out and poked the baby''s face.


    Grunting, the little tyke seemed to be unhappy, as he waved his little hands around, wanting to chase


    Aidan away.


    Indeed, he''s quite petty.


    A snort came from Aidan. "Hmph."


    After a while, Naomi walked up to him. "The baby''s condition is stabilized now. Are you still not


    nning on telling Leanna?"


    Aidan responded, "It''s not that I don''t want to."


    Rather, he had been deceiving Leanna for so long that he did not know how to break it to her. He was


    also well aware if she came to know the truth, she would be beyond livid.


    If worse came to worst, she might not forgive him for the rest of her life.


    ¡­


    After arriving at the office, Leanna saw that her employees were ted to see here back, as they


    bombarded her with questions.


    Chatting for a while, Leanna took a look around and asked, "Where''s Zoe?"


    "Zoe said that she was feeling unwell this morning, so she''s resting in your office right now."


    "I''ll go take a look."


    "I''ll go take a look."


    Leanna opened the office door only to see Zoe curled up on the couch with a pale face, looking like she


    was in great difort.


    Walking over, Leanna asked, "What''s wrong, Zoe?"


    Zoe replied weakly, "I''m not sure either. I have been wanting to puke since a few days ago. I don''t have


    any appetite either, as the mere smell of fried foods would make me want to throw up."


    At this, Leanna froze for a second.


    Sitting down beside Zoe, she touched her forehead before touching her own. "You don''t have a fever."


    Zoe nodded slowly. "I think I might have caught the flu. I took medicinest night. I''ll have some again


    later."


    After a brief silence, Leanna asked, "When was yourst menstrual period?"


    Zoe thought about it, but she could not remember. "I think it wasst month. The flu might have pushed


    back my period for this month."


    Tugging on her, Leanna stated, "Let''s go to the hospital and have a diagnosis."


    "There''s no need for that. I normally be like this when I catch the flu. I''ll be better in a few days."


    "It might not be the flu." Although Leanna was just guessing this and could not be sure either. "Let the


    doctor have a look. If you do have the flu, then you recover faster on the doctor''s medication."


    By this point, Zoe had had it with the nonstop suffering, and she had not been eating for two days, so


    she followed Leanna.


    As soon as they arrived at the hospital, Leanna had Zoe sit down and wait for her while she went to get


    Zoe registered.


    After the registration, Leanna came back to help Zoe up. "Let''s go."


    Yet, Zoe realized the entrance to the doctor''s office read ''gynecologist'', making her wide-eyed. "Did you


    bring me to the wrong room?"


    Leanna replied, "Just in case. Just go in and check."


    Laughing dryly, Zoe said, "Isn''t this going too far for a joke? I haven''t even had sex¡­."


    She stopped in the middle of the sentence. Sh*t, sh*t, sh*t! When I did it with Danielst time, we didn''t


    take any safety precautions, but I did take the birth control pill after. I don''t think I''m that ''lucky'', right?


    Leanna consoled her. "No matter what, I think you should check it out. If the result is negative, then it''ll


    be a relief. If it is¡­"


    After a pause, she breathed in and said, "We''ll see."


    Zoe walked in, feeling as if she was not in control of her body, for she had no idea what the doctor


    asked her, even though she answered all of them.


    "I''ll go taka a look."


    Laanna opanad tha offica door only to saa Zoa cud up on tha couch with a p faca, looking lika sha


    was in graat difort.


    Walking ovar, Laanna askad, "What''s wrong, Zoa?"


    Zoa rapliad waakly, "I''m not sura aithar. I hava baan wanting to puka sinca a faw days ago. I don''t hava


    any appatita aithar, as tha mara small of friad foods would maka ma want to throw up."


    At this, Laanna froza for a sacond.


    Sitting down basida Zoa, sha touchad har forahaad bafora touching har own. "You don''t hava a favar."


    Zoa noddad slowly. "I think I might hava caught tha flu. I took madicinast night. I''ll hava soma again


    latar."


    Aftar a briaf snca, Laanna askad, "Whan was yourst manstrual pariod?"


    Zoa thought about it, but sha could not ramambar. "I think it wasst month. Tha flu might hava pushad


    back my pariod for this month."


    Tugging on har, Laanna statad, "Lat''s go to tha hospital and hava a diagnosis."


    "Thara''s no naad for that. I normally ba lika this whan I catch tha flu. I''ll ba battar in a faw days."


    "It might not ba tha flu." Although Laanna was just guassing this and could not ba sura aithar. "Lat tha


    doctor hava a look. If you do hava tha flu, than you racovar fastar on tha doctor''s madication."


    By this point, Zoa had had it with tha nonstop suffaring, and sha had not baan aating for two days, so


    sha followad Laanna.


    As soon as thay arrivad at tha hospital, Laanna had Zoa sit down and wait for har wh sha want to gat


    Zoa ragistarad.


    Aftar tha ragistration, Laanna cama back to halp Zoa up. "Lat''s go."


    Yat, Zoa raalizad tha antranca to tha doctor''s offica raad ''gynacologist'', making har wida-ayad. "Did you


    bring ma to tha wrong room?"


    Laanna rapliad, "Just in casa. Just go in and chack."


    Laughing dryly, Zoa said, "Isn''t this going too far for a joka? I havan''t avan had sax¡­."


    Sha stoppad in tha mid of tha santanca. Sh*t, sh*t, sh*t! Whan I did it with Danialst tima, wa didn''t


    taka any safaty pracautions, but I did taka tha birth control pill aftar. I don''t think I''m that ''lucky'', right?


    Laanna consd har. "No mattar what, I think you should chack it out. If tha rasult is nagativa, than it''ll


    ba a raliaf. If it is¡­"


    Aftar a pausa, sha braathad in and said, "Wa''ll saa."


    Zoa walkad in, faaling as if sha was not in control of har body, for sha had no idaa what tha doctor


    askad har, avan though sha answarad all of tham.


    Leanna apanied her throughout the whole checkup while Zoe''s thoughts drifted away.


    In the end, when the result came out, it showed that she had been pregnant for thirty days then,


    causing her to nearly faint on the spot. Even lottery ticket buyers aren''t that lucky! Besides, it was only


    that one time! I had taken a birth control pill after too!


    Returning to the doctor''s office, Zoe almost stated without hesitation, "I don''t want the child."


    The doctor looked at her before checking the results. "Just think about it for now. It''s best if the


    operation takes ce between the forty-fifth and sixtieth day of pregnancy. You cane half a month


    later."


    Feeling as if her world was crumbling, Zoe asked, "Can''t it be¡­ now?"


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    This prompted the doctor to say, "If you do it at the opportune time, your womb won''t go through any


    complications or suffer from uterine perforations. Since you''re still so young, you''ll want to have


    offspring in the future, so I would advise that the health of your bodyes first."


    "But¡ª"


    Leanna put her hand on Zoe''s shoulder, stating gently, "Zoe, just listen to the doctor."


    Hanging her head low, Zoe stopped talking.


    Just as they exited the hospital, she felt as if she was going to puke again.


    Leanna bought water for her and asked, "Will you tell this to Daniel?"


    "I think I won''t." Zoe''s face had somehow be even paler. "It was an ident, after all. We did it


    under mutual consent. Who would''ve thought anything woulde of it? Besides, he''s not one to settle


    down. So what if I told him about my pregnancy? Will I force him to marry me? He might think that I


    nned everything."


    Leannaforted her. "Just be more open-minded. After all, not everybody is like Aidan."


    Zoe stayed silent. Sigh.


    On the way back to the office, Leanna suggested, "I think I''ll just send you back home. Rest up for


    now."


    In no mood whatsoever to work, Zoe nodded before looking out the car window.


    After sending Zoe back home, Leanna went to the supermarket to buy supplements for pregnant


    women, fruits, and vegetables. Passing by the pharmacy, she hesitated for a while, yet she still bought


    a bottle of folic acid in the end.


    She returned to Zoe''s home and put everything in the fridge. "I think I''ll be quite busy in this period, so I


    don''t think I''ll be able toe to visit you often. If you''ve finished eating all the food, just tell me. Don''t


    order delivery food either. I''ll tell Alice toeter to cook dinner for you."


    Leanna apanied her throughout the whole checkup while Zoe''s thoughts drifted away.

 Chapter 507

    Chapter 507


    Leanna ced the bottle of folic acid in front of Zoe. "Although I know you don''t want to keep the child,


    just take this for now. It won''t harm you, anyway. If you decide to go ahead with the operation, you can


    throw it away."


    With a depressed look, Zoe ran over and hugged her. "Sob. You''re the best, Leanna."


    She smiled and patted her back. "Alright, now. I know I''m in no position to persuade you, but there are


    still two weeks left. Mull over intently whether you want to break the news to Daniel. In my eyes, he''s


    not an irresponsible person."


    Nodding, Zoe replied, "I''ll give it some thought."


    After tidying up the contents of the fridge, Leanna thought about what Aidan had told her a few days


    ago. She licked her lips and asked, "Zoe, did Anthony meet up with you recently?"


    "Nope. I think karma has finally got him."


    Thinking about it, Leanna did not tell her that it was Daniel who took care of him. Zoe''s already in a


    mess right now. If I tell her this, it would only further trouble her and leave her in more of a distraught


    state.


    Soon, her phone rang from Aidan''s call. He stated upsettingly, "Even by foot, you would''ve arrived


    there by now."


    This made Leanna speechless since she had forgotten to send him a message. So, she replied, "I did


    arrive a while ago. It''s just that I have some business to take care of."


    He snorted subtly. "When will you be done?"


    "I think it''ll drag on for a while. I''ll send you a message when everything''s finished."


    She wanted to leave after preparing dinner for Zoe. Without waiting for Aidan to speak, she hung up on


    him.


    Zoe, who was sitting on the couch, suddenly had a burst of energy as her eyes glimmered upon the


    thought of gossip. "Is dear President Pearson inviting you on a date?"


    Pursing her lips, Leanna exined, "N-No¡­ He''s always like this. When he''s not busy, he''ll start to


    monitor me."


    Zoe replied with a sigh, "The Gods sure know how to joke with us. To think that the b*stard would act


    like this."


    Leanna rose to her feet. "I''ll cook. What do you want to eat?"


    Zoe answered with a pitiful look, "I''ll eat whatever you cook."


    "Okay."


    Since Zoe had not had a proper meal for thest two days, plus Leanna''s cooking suited her appetite


    very much¡ªnot oily or heavy¡ªshe finished two tes of food before she was satisfied.


    When she finished, Leanna was about to clean up the table when Zoemented, "Just leave the rest


    to me. Go have your date with your man. Quick! Otherwise, he''s going to have a temper tantrum


    again."


    Noticing that it waste, Leanna replied, "I''ll leave, then. Rest up properly. You hear me?"


    Noticing that it waste, Leanna replied, "I''ll leave, then. Rest up properly. You hear me?"


    "I know. Just go."


    Upon Leanna''s departure, Zoe washed the bowls before cleaning the kitchen and eventually slumped


    onto the couch lifelessly.


    After some time, she took her phone and found Daniel''s number. Yet, she merely looked at it without


    calling him.


    This persisted until the view outside slowly darkened.


    Tossing her phone aside, she nted her head face-first into the couch. God, tell me what I should do!


    ¡­


    During the meal and movie, Leanna''s thoughts were elsewhere throughout the whole process.


    Noticing this, Aidan asked, "Are you feeling alright?"


    It was only when she heard his voice did she snap back to reality. "Huh? I''m fine!"


    This made him frown instead. "You must not want to go on this date, then."


    Leanna did not know how to respond to this, so she retorted, "When did I ever say that?"


    "Your expression says it all."


    She tried to exin, "It''s not like that. I was just thinking about something."


    "Oh? Care to share? I might be able to help."


    She did not want to tell him initially, but upon recalling his experience in this sort of situation, she


    figured it would be nice to ask for his opinion.


    After finding a remote spot, she asked him earnestly, "If, and this is hypothetical, let''s say this concerns


    us. I like you, and you do feel something for me, but it''s not love. Then, for some reason, we did the


    thing¡­"


    Her words made Aidan''s eyebrow raise. "Did what thing?"


    Leanna stared at him. "What else could it be? Monopoly?"


    Snickering, he replied, "Continue."


    "Then, after some time, I found out I was pregnant. Would you want me to abort the child straightaway,


    or would you want me to tell you?"


    This bewildered Aidan. "How is this still hypothetical?"


    Leanna knew what he meant. "This is different from our situation."


    "How?" Hemented, "Didn''t you like me, and I felt something for you too?" He chose to not continue


    his sentence.


    With a smirk, she retorted, "I didn''t like you back then. It was¡ª"


    Yet, he interrupted her, obviously not wanting to hear the name that would slip out. "Alright. Is your


    question finished?"


    Noticing that it wasta, Laanna rapliad, "I''llava, than. Rast up proparly. You haar ma?"


    "I know. Just go."


    Upon Laanna''s dapartura, Zoa washad tha bowls bafora aning tha kitchan and avantually slumpad


    onto tha couch lifssly.


    Aftar soma tima, sha took har phona and found Danial''s numbar. Yat, sha maraly lookad at it without


    calling him.


    This parsistad until tha viaw outsida slowly darkanad.


    Tossing har phona asida, sha ntad har haad faca-first into tha couch. God, tall ma what I should do!


    ¡­


    During tha maal and movia, Laanna''s thoughts wara alsawhara throughout tha wh procass.


    Noticing this, Aidan askad, "Ara you faaling alright?"


    It was only whan sha haard his voica did sha snap back to raality. "Huh? I''m fina!"


    This mada him frown instaad. "You must not want to go on this data, than."


    Laanna did not know how to raspond to this, so sha ratortad, "Whan did I avar say that?"


    "Your axprassion says it all."


    Sha triad to axin, "It''s not lika that. I was just thinking about somathing."


    "Oh? Cara to shara? I might ba a to halp."


    Sha did not want to tall him initially, but upon racalling his axparianca in this sort of situation, sha


    figurad it would ba nica to ask for his opinion.


    Aftar finding a ramota spot, sha askad him aarnastly, "If, and this is hypothatical,t''s say this concarns


    us. I lika you, and you do faal somathing for ma, but it''s not lova. Than, for soma raason, wa did tha


    thing¡­"


    Har words mada Aidan''s ayabrow raisa. "Did what thing?"


    Laanna starad at him. "What alsa could it ba? Monopoly?"


    Snickaring, ha rapliad, "Continua."


    "Than, aftar soma tima, I found out I was pragnant. Would you want ma to abort tha child straightaway,


    or would you want ma to tall you?"


    This bawildarad Aidan. "How is this still hypothatical?"


    Laanna knaw what ha maant. "This is diffarant from our situation."


    "How?" Hamantad, "Didn''t you lika ma, and I falt somathing for you too?" Ha chosa to not continua


    his santanca.


    With a smirk, sha ratortad, "I didn''t lika you back than. It was¡ª"


    Yat, ha intarruptad har, obviously not wanting to haar tha nama that would slip out. "Alright. Is your


    quastion finishad?"


    "It is. You can start voicing your opinion."


    Aidan slowly formted his answer. "Hmm. A reason? If it''s you, I would never let you abort the child."


    His words stunned Leanna.


    He looked at her and continued, "Babe, the process isn''t important. What''s important is the oue."


    Leanna merely nodded in response. She understood what Aidan was trying to say. Even though he


    kept opposing her to keep the child from herst pregnancy, he did not force her or resort to drastic


    measures. At times, she could feel that he was also genuinely looking forward to the childing into


    this world.


    In the end, it never came to fruition.


    Seeing that she was silent, Aidan knew that this could not mean anything good, so he clicked his


    tongue andmented, "You also said that it''s different from what we went through. I just want to


    protect you."


    Leanna replied, "I find that you''re capable of saying just about anything nowadays."


    In the past, this b*stard would say whatever was on his mind. His mouth had no filter. I don''t know


    when it started, but he knows how to speak sweetly and can even entice me with just his words now.


    Heughed and exined, "It''s because I found this to be effective on you. Besides, everything I said


    was the truth."


    She kicked him yfully. "Okay. Let''s go back. I''m tired."


    "Aren''t you going to ask me more?"


    "It''s useless to do so."


    "How about you ask Daniel instead? After all, my opinions are just for reference."


    Confused, Leanna looked at him with a stunned gaze, prompting Aidan to add, "It wasn''t that hard to


    guess."


    "Still¡­" He hit it right on the mark.


    He continued, "You only have a few friends. The person that could make you worry so much would only


    be Zoe since it can''t be Daphne."


    This made her ask, "What do you think his answer would be?"


    "No matter what the oue is, you''ve said that he has some feelings for Zoe, plus the fact that they


    yed ''Monopoly'', means that the responsibility is for them to share. There''s no reason that one


    should shoulder it all."


    Leanna stayed silent. Monopoly. Really? Then, she whispered, "I think you''re the biggest monopolizer


    of them all!"


    Not only is he a heartlessndlord, but he''s also an evil capitalist! Stingy man!


    "It is. You can start voicing your opinion."


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Aidan slowly formted his answer. "Hmm. A reason? If it''s you, I would never let you abort the child."


    His words stunned Leanna.

 Chapter 508

    Chapter 508


    On the way back, Leanna asked Aidan, "Is the renovation at Castor Vi almost finished?"


    He smirked. "You wanna move back?"


    "No. I just wanted to know if Alice can take care of Zoe for the time being if she isn''t busy."


    "You can decide whatever. I have no opinion on it."


    After getting his answer, she immediately called Alice to tell her about the situation before hanging up


    and sending Zoe''s address over.


    Done with everything, she rolled the car window down as the cool night breeze blew into the car.


    After some time, Aidan suddenly called her, "Leanna."


    She turned around. "What?"


    He licked his lips and stated, "Your period has beente for three days."


    Stunned, she took her phone out and saw the red mark noted on the calendar. Indeed, it has been


    dyed for three days. This man remembers it clearer than I do!


    She gripped her phone tightly. "It''s only three days. It''s normal for menses to be dyed, no?"


    "You''re asking me?"


    Speechless, she questioned herself why she would ask him that.


    She did not believe that Zoe and she would coincidentally get pregnant. Since she was pregnant


    before, she knew the symptoms of pregnancy.


    A while passed before Aidan stated, "Let''s go run a check at the hospital tomorrow."


    "No need. What if my periodes in two days?"


    "What if it doesn''t?"


    Leanna parted her lips and found that she had no reply. The man tilted his head and looked at her. "I''m


    already at this age. Besides, didn''t we do it a few times without any protection?"


    Blushing, she turned around and steered the topic. "Just focus on driving."


    Due to Aidan''s words, her thoughts were not with her during the rest of the drive. She subconsciously


    ced her hands on her stomach, not knowing what she was thinking of.


    After arriving home, Leanna was about to get into the bathroom when Aidan followed her. "It''s not safe


    with you alone. I''ll apany you."


    Perplexed, she could not grasp the meaning behind his words.


    His expression was calm and collected with his gaze settling on her stomach. "The tiles in the


    bathroom are slippery. We should be responsible for all life forms."


    With twitching eyelids, she asked, "What if I''m not pregnant?"


    "That means I didn''t work hard enough."


    "That means I didn''t work hard enough."


    Not wanting to y along, Leanna went into the bathroom, yet she was careless when closing the door,


    and Aidan managed to slip in sideways.


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    As expected, the man started to get touchy in the middle of bathing.


    She reminded him calmly, "If I''m pregnant, we can''t do anything during the first three months."


    He froze for a second before asking, "Didn''t you just get pregnant when we divorced back then?"


    "I think I was already four months in."


    Losing for the first time, Aidan kept silent before he held Leanna''s hands.


    Feeling a migraineing on, she clenched her teeth. "You¡ª"


    Suddenly, he bit her earlobes as his thumb slid across her lips. "If you want me to continue, stay put."


    Facing his threats, Leanna could not help but scold, "B*stard!"


    Aidanughed, his chest trembled slightly.


    When everything was done, she had no strength to even lift her arms.


    The man carried her out of the bathroom and ced her on the bed before staring at her stomach.


    "How about I whip up something for you?"


    She responded, "Have some mercy for the kitchen."


    "I can get takeout if you want."


    "No, I''m not hungry."


    Pursing his lips, Aidan did not say anything. Hey down and turned the lights off and hugged her with


    his palm covering her stomach. "Just wake me up if you''re feeling hungry at night."


    He still remembers that I get hungry when I''m pregnant.


    Closing her eyes, she grunted softly.


    Perhaps Aidan''s beliefs had permeated her brain, causing her to dream that Zoe and she were


    wheeled into the delivery room at the same time with them cheering each other on.


    Yet, after they both gave birth, only one baby was crying.


    Leanna saw the baby curled up in front of her, lifeless, which made her wake up in fright.


    It was still dark outside.


    Flipping the nket over, she got up and went to the kitchen for water.


    Just as she put the mug down, Aidan hugged her from behind, resting his jaw on her shoulder while


    saying somewhat sheepishly, "Are you hungry? What do you want to eat? I can buy it for you."


    She chuckled and replied, "I''m not. I was just thirsty."


    "That maans I didn''t work hard anough."


    Not wanting to y along, Laanna want into tha bathroom, yat sha was carss whan closing tha door,


    and Aidan managad to slip in sidaways.


    As axpactad, tha man startad to gat touchy in tha mid of bathing.


    Sha ramindad him calmly, "If I''m pragnant, wa can''t do anything during tha first thraa months."


    Ha froza for a sacond bafora asking, "Didn''t you just gat pragnant whan wa divorcad back than?"


    "I think I was alraady four months in."


    Losing for tha first tima, Aidan kapt snt bafora ha hald Laanna''s hands.


    Faaling a migrainaing on, sha nchad har taath. "You¡ª"


    Suddanly, ha bit har aarlobas as his thumb slid across har lips. "If you want ma to continua, stay put."


    Facing his thraats, Laanna could not halp but scold, "B*stard!"


    Aidanughad, his chast tramd slightly.


    Whan avarything was dona, sha had no strangth to avan lift har arms.


    Tha man carriad har out of tha bathroom and cad har on tha bad bafora staring at har stomach.


    "How about I whip up somathing for you?"


    Sha raspondad, "Hava soma marcy for tha kitchan."


    "I can gat takaout if you want."


    "No, I''m not hungry."


    Pursing his lips, Aidan did not say anything. Hay down and turnad tha lights off and huggad har with


    his palm covaring har stomach. "Just waka ma up if you''ra faaling hungry at night."


    Ha still ramambars that I gat hungry whan I''m pragnant.


    Closing har ayas, sha gruntad softly.


    Parhaps Aidan''s baliafs had parmaatad har brain, causing har to draam that Zoa and sha wara


    whad into tha dalivary room at tha sama tima with tham chaaring aach othar on.


    Yat, aftar thay both gava birth, only ona baby was crying.


    Laanna saw tha baby cud up in front of har, lifss, which mada har waka up in fright.


    It was still dark outsida.


    Flipping tha nkat ovar, sha got up and want to tha kitchan for watar.


    Just as sha put tha mug down, Aidan huggad har from bahind, rasting his jaw on har shouldar wh


    saying somawhat shaapishly, "Ara you hungry? What do you want to aat? I can buy it for you."


    Sha chucd and rapliad, "I''m not. I was just thirsty."


    "Go back to sleep, then," he said.


    "Okay."


    Resting on the bed again, Leanna struggled to fall asleep as she looked at the sharp features of the


    man beside her, using a voice that was barely audible to call him, "Aidan."


    He heard it and grunted deeply.


    "Do you want a child?" she asked.


    "I don''t like children, but I like you."


    "You''ve said that already."


    In the darkness, Aidan smirked before slowly opening his eyes. "Hm?"


    After a few seconds, she continued, "I''m asking if you want a child or not. I seem to remember you


    saying that you don''t n on having one for these two years."


    "Had I ever said that?"


    This made Leanna pinch his waist.


    Grunting from the pain, he grabbed her hand. "Didn''t I tell you not to do that?"


    She gazed into his eyes. "Had you ever said that?"


    The man fell silent.


    Not wanting to argue with him, she said, "I''m not sure what the situation at the Pearsons are like. I''m


    afraid they''d use the child as leverage against you. If so, then I¡ª"


    "It''s different now."


    "What''s different?"


    He exined solemnly, "You have the entire Crossley Group under you now. Besides, you''re also a


    well-known designer. With that amount of attention on you, they won''t dare to do anything to you."


    Not to mention the number of people that were protecting her.


    Leanna came to that realization as well. "You''re right."


    Before she was forced to stay at the Pearsons, she knew that only by bing stronger could she


    escape the fate of being locked up. She never thought that day woulde without her noticing.


    Aidan wrapped her head into his embrace and continued, "Don''t think too much. Even without these, I


    won''t let them hurt you ever again. Leanna, do you know the Pearson Family won''tst for another


    year?"


    "Aren''t they¡ª"


    "My father''s influence has long since waned. The power that''s still propping the family up is the backer


    behind Sienna. I''ve already let Oscar handle this. At most, one year. Then, everything will finally end."


    She asked after a pause, "Then¡­ Have you ever thought of how to deal with your brother after


    everything settles?"


    "Go back to sleep, then," he said.


    "Okay."

 Chapter 509

    Chapter 509


    After the body check-up, the doctor nced at Leanna before looking at Aidan and coughed. "Why


    don''t the husband wait outside?"


    Displeased, Aidan frowned. "Why?"


    "Because we might need some detailed check-ups. You''ll be in the way," the doctor replied seriously.


    "I''m her husband. What''s inconvenient about that?"


    Leanna tugged his sleeve. "I think it''s better to listen to him. You can wait outside."


    After Aidan left reluctantly, her hands sped tightly on her knees. "I-Is there a problem with the check-


    up?"


    The doctor shook his head. "It''s not about that."


    She sighed in relief before he added, "I''ve gone through your previous medical records. You had a


    miscarriage four years ago, but you haven''t been taking care of your health since then. Am I right?"


    Leanna was stunned at that. Catching on to what he was about to say, she nodded reflexively.


    "We''ve found out that you were pregnant one year ago too. I bet your doctor must''ve told you that you


    struck it lucky to have that baby."


    Her throat suddenly felt dry. "Yes¡­ He did say that."


    He ced her reports before her. "Unfortunately, you''re not pregnant. Yourte periods happen


    because of endocrine disorders due to an unhealthy routine. "


    "Does that mean I won''t have a baby in the future?" she questioned.


    "There''s contingency. If you truly want a baby right now, you gotta take good care of yourself. It''s just


    that the chances are slim for you than most people."


    Noticing her pallid face, the doctorforted her, "Don''t give up on hope. Though it''s not easy to get


    pregnant, there''s still a chance. Besides, there are plenty of dink families out there. Don''t push yourself


    too hard. I asked your husband to wait outside because I respect your choice. You should think of how


    to ry the message to him."


    "Thanks." Her voice sounded hoarse.


    Leanna could not remember how she left the office, but she finally understood how helpless and


    flustered Zoe was yesterday. Sometimes, reality would not go as one wished.


    Zoe did not want kids and yet, she was pregnant. On the contrary, Leanna would most likely stay


    barren for the rest of her lifetime.


    "What''s the result?" The man''s gruff voice pulled her senses back, and his features gradually became


    clear in front of her. Aidan''s brows furrowed at her paleplexion. "What did he say?"


    "What''s the result?" The man''s gruff voice pulled her senses back, and his features gradually became


    clear in front of her. Aidan''s brows furrowed at her paleplexion. "What did he say?"


    Leanna shook her head. "It''s nothing."


    "Then, why the long face?"


    As he tried to enter the office, she quickly thwarted him and whispered, "It''s not a big deal. I swear!


    Just¡­ I''m having my period right now, and it hurts."


    "It came?" he reconfirmed.


    "Yeah. Let''s go home," she suggested in a feathery voice. Judging from the doctor''s statement, they


    need not have to request the test results anymore.


    She took barely two steps when an arm coiled around her waist to lift her. Before she could say


    something, Aidan cooed, "If it hurts, get some sleep."


    Instead of breaking free from him, she buried her face into his chest and closed her eyes quietly. On


    their way back, she piped up, "Aidan."


    "Yeah?"


    "Please take me to Zoe. I wanna see her."


    "Okay."


    Once they arrived at Zoe''s ce, he told her, "I''ll wait for you here."


    "No. You should get going. I''ll take the cabter." She unbuckled the seatbelt and was going to alight


    from the car, yet he grabbed her wrist. She looked back at him. "What''s the matter?"


    Staring deeply at her, he reached out to tuck the hair behind her ear. "It doesn''t matter if you''re not


    pregnant. It''s not a big deal. If you want one, I''ll try harder."


    Leanna went silent for a moment. "Even if the Pearsons don''t pose any threat to you, do you still not


    like children?"


    "I don''t like ''em because I think they''re a nuisance. The Pearsons don''t have much to do with this."


    "W-What if you''re dead? Who will inherit your fortune?"


    "You." It did not take him a second to answer that question.


    "What if I leave before you?"


    "No way that''s happening."


    Leanna could not help but pout her lips because he asserted certainty about the unknown future. After


    pondering for a second, she became serious. "Even if you don''t like kids now, we won''t know what will


    happen in the next few years. What if you want one in the future and we can''t afford to have one?"


    "What''s tha rasult?" Tha man''s gruff voica pud har sansas back, and his faaturas gradually bacama


    ar in front of har. Aidan''s brows furrowad at har pxion. "What did ha say?"


    Laanna shook har haad. "It''s nothing."


    "Than, why tha long faca?"


    As ha triad to antar tha offica, sha quickly thwartad him and whisparad, "It''s not a big daal. I swaar!


    Just¡­ I''m having my pariod right now, and it hurts."


    "It cama?" ha raconfirmad.


    "Yaah. Lat''s go homa," sha suggastad in a faathary voica. Judging from tha doctor''s statamant, thay


    naad not hava to raquast tha tast rasults anymora.


    Sha took baraly two staps whan an arm cod around har waist to lift har. Bafora sha could say


    somathing, Aidan cooad, "If it hurts, gat soma ap."


    Instaad of braaking fraa from him, sha buriad har faca into his chast and closad har ayas quiatly. On


    thair way back, sha pipad up, "Aidan."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Yaah?"


    "asa taka ma to Zoa. I wanna saa har."


    "Okay."


    Onca thay arrivad at Zoa''s ca, ha told har, "I''ll wait for you hara."


    "No. You should gat going. I''ll taka tha cabtar." Sha unbucd tha saatbalt and was going to alight


    from tha car, yat ha grabbad har wrist. Sha lookad back at him. "What''s tha mattar?"


    Staring daaply at har, ha raachad out to tuck tha hair bahind har aar. "It doasn''t mattar if you''ra not


    pragnant. It''s not a big daal. If you want ona, I''ll try hardar."


    Laanna want snt for a momant. "Evan if tha Paarsons don''t posa any thraat to you, do you still not


    lika childran?"


    "I don''t lika ''am bacausa I think thay''ra a nuisanca. Tha Paarsons don''t hava much to do with this."


    "W-What if you''ra daad? Who will inharit your fortuna?"


    "You." It did not taka him a sacond to answar that quastion.


    "What if Iava bafora you?"


    "No way that''s happaning."


    Laanna could not halp but pout har lips bacausa ha assartad cartainty about tha unknown futura. Aftar


    pondaring for a sacond, sha bacama sarious. "Evan if you don''t lika kids now, wa won''t know what will


    happan in tha naxt faw yaars. What if you want ona in tha futura and wa can''t afford to hava ona?"


    Aidan licked the bottom of his lips. "Are you questioning my manhood?"


    She paused while trying to understand where the conversation was led to. "No, I mean, what if¡­"


    She could not continue her reason further, and he stroke her head. "Alright, alright. What''s the use of


    worrying about this and that? If you wanna have kids, I''ll be by your side, and so will I if you don''t want


    to."


    Since she did not wish to continue that topic any further with him, she gave a perfunctory response and


    opened the car door. "Bye. Be careful on your way back home."


    "I''ll pick you up in the afternoon."


    "It''s okay. I wanna stay longer."


    "Shoot me a message when you start your journey back." Aidan showed concession because she was


    not in a good mood.


    "Alright," Leanna reassured.


    She entered Zoe''s house, in which the owner was reclining on the couch while staring at her phone


    intensely.


    "Where''s Alice?" asked Leanna.


    "I told her to get some rest. She just made a feast. I already had two meals," Zoe responded airily.


    Leanna sat next to her, ncing at that phone. "Are you going to tell Daniel?"


    "I don''t know. I was thinking about it in my dreamst night too. I feel like I''m going outta my mind."


    Leanna patted Zoe''s shoulder. "No rush. We still have two weeks."


    She then headed for the toilet, whereas a helpless Zoe flopped onto the couch. She identally


    dropped Leanna''s bag. When she picked it up from the floor, she saw the queue ticket number for a


    gynecologist.


    Zoe was all thrilled when Leanna returned. "Nana, are you expecting too?"


    Leanna was stunned momentarily before she smiled. "No."


    "Huh? But I saw the queue ticket to see a gynecologist."


    "My period iste for three days, so Aidan thought that was it. We went to the hospital, but the doctor


    said it was because of an endocrine disorder due to an unhealthy routine."


    The news left Zoe deted. "I thought we could¡ª"


    She stopped halfway immediately. What do you mean by ''we'', Zoe Hart? I''m going to abort the baby!


    What the hell were you thinking about?!


    Aidan licked the bottom of his lips. "Are you questioning my manhood?"

 Chapter 510

    Chapter 510


    Leanna hugged her knees on the couch listlessly. "Can you still recall what the doctor said when I was


    pregnant? That it might be difficult for me to have a baby because I didn''t look after myself after the


    miscarriage?"


    Zoe nodded. "Yeah. The doctor said that it won''t be easy for you to conceive one. Still, thinking about


    the situation back then, we couldn''t keep that b*stard''s baby."


    "The doctor said the same thing this time too. It''s difficult for me to have a baby."


    It took Zoe a while to respond, "Didn''t the doctor say it won''t be easy? Why¡­ did it be difficult?"


    "They both mean the same."


    Zoe parted her lips, not knowing what to say. A couple of momentster, she gingerly asked, "Have you


    told Aidan about this?"


    Leanna shook her head. "I''m still not sure what to tell him, but I did ask him on the way here. He


    doesn''t like kids. He thinks they''re annoying."


    Almost instantly, Zoe clucked her tongue and scolded, "Annoying? We barely see any fathers look after


    their children. He thinks that way because he doesn''t want a child yet. When the dayes and he


    wants a baby, all he has to do is to partake at the beginning of the reproduction process. After that, it''s


    the women that have to suffer for a whole ten months."


    Leanna pursed her lips in silence as Zoe prattled on, "Take that b*stard''s words with a pinch of salt. If


    he doesn''t want a kid, who will inherit his fortune in the future? Will he donate them all? Will he¡ª"


    Halfway through her speech, she suddenly disyed sincerity. "If nothing will do, he might as well


    donate everything to me."


    Leanna broke into a smile. "Sure. I''ll ry the message to him."


    "No! Don''t! I was just kidding! I''m not the chosen one to benefit from his massive wealth." Zoe became


    serious again. "Anyways, Nana, you must not believe his words. Men are the same. Plus, remember


    what the doctor said? It won''t be easy, but it''s not like there''s zero possibility. There''s still hope."


    Leanna hummed and gave it a thought. "Why don''t you keep your baby? I''ll bring the baby up in your


    stead."


    "Well, that is an option."


    "Well, that is an option."


    They giggled heartily, then reclined on the couch and sighed simultaneously.


    Zoe looked out of the window in a rage. "Had I not thrown away the package, I could''ve held the


    manufacturer responsible for those useless contraceptive pills!"


    Leanna ced her palm on Zoe''s belly. "This means that this fellow is tenacious, isn''t it?"


    Zoe tilted her head. "Say, can this tiny one understand what we''re saying?"


    "Probably not."


    She heaved a sigh. "That''s for the best. He wouldn''t be sad upon knowing my ns for abortion, then.


    Otherwise, I''ll die from guilt."


    Leanna understood what she meant by that. Regardless of the final decision, the baby in her belly was


    innocent.


    Silence filled the air for a moment before Zoe broke it. "Nana, I have a question."


    "Fire away."


    "When you got pregnant, what made you choose to keep the baby? Aside from the fact that it''s difficult


    for you to have another one."


    "There''s¡­ quite a few." Leanna tried to recall.


    Other than the low possibility of pregnancy, it was also because of the baby she lost after Anna pushed


    her down the stairs. She thought the heavens bestowed her another chance to make up for the regret,


    yet she failed to protect him.


    In addition to that, Louis was her only family member. So, she could never forget about the baby.


    Zoe inquired, "Hmm¡­ Then, were you missing Aidan¡ªeven a little¡ªthat led you to keep that baby?"


    Leanna mused on it and shook her head. "I wished him to be as far away as possible at that time. I


    couldn''t bear the sight of him."


    "Right. Mia and his scandal was the talk of the town too."


    "Zoe, our situations are poles apart. You can''t consider mine. Daniel is way better than that b*stard at


    the time." Leanna attempted to straighten things out.


    Zoe sighed. "I will conclude that everyone has their shoring. Daniel is not as trashy and forceful as


    President Pearson, but President Pearson doesn''t set others up with an angelic face."


    Leanna was at a loss for words as Zoe had a point. She spent the whole day at Zoe''s ce; it was not


    until sunset that she left. However, her feet felt heavy when she exited the neighborhood. She did not


    want to see Aidan, for she did not know how to bring it up to him.


    "Wall, that is an option."


    Thay gigd haartily, than raclinad on tha couch and sighad simultanaously.


    Zoa lookad out of tha window in a raga. "Had I not thrown away tha packaga, I could''va hald tha


    manufacturar rasponsi for thosa usss contracaptiva pills!"


    Laanna cad har palm on Zoa''s bally. "This maans that this fallow is tanacious, isn''t it?"


    Zoa tiltad har haad. "Say, can this tiny ona undarstand what wa''ra saying?"


    "Probably not."


    Sha haavad a sigh. "That''s for tha bast. Ha wouldn''t ba sad upon knowing my ns for abortion, than.


    Otharwisa, I''ll dia from guilt."


    Laanna undarstood what sha maant by that. Ragarss of tha final dacision, tha baby in har bally was


    innocant.


    Snca fid tha air for a momant bafora Zoa broka it. "Nana, I hava a quastion."


    "Fira away."


    "Whan you got pragnant, what mada you choosa to kaap tha baby? Asida from tha fact that it''s difficult


    for you to hava anothar ona."


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Thara''s¡­ quita a faw." Laanna triad to racall.


    Othar than tha low possibility of pragnancy, it was also bacausa of tha baby sha lost aftar Anna pushad


    har down tha stairs. Sha thought tha haavans bastowad har anothar chanca to maka up for tha ragrat,


    yat sha fad to protact him.


    In addition to that, Louis was har only family mambar. So, sha could navar forgat about tha baby.


    Zoa inquirad, "Hmm¡­ Than, wara you missing Aidan¡ªavan a lit¡ªthatd you to kaap that baby?"


    Laanna musad on it and shook har haad. "I wishad him to ba as far away as possi at that tima. I


    couldn''t baar tha sight of him."


    "Right. Mia and his scandal was tha talk of tha town too."


    "Zoa, our situations ara ps apart. You can''t considar mina. Danial is way battar than that b*stard at


    tha tima." Laanna attamptad to straightan things out.


    Zoa sighad. "I will concluda that avaryona has thair shoring. Danial is not as trashy and forcaful as


    Prasidant Paarson, but Prasidant Paarson doasn''t sat othars up with an angalic faca."


    Laanna was at a loss for words as Zoa had a point. Sha spant tha wh day at Zoa''s ca; it was not


    until sunsat that shaft. Howavar, har faat falt haavy whan sha axitad tha naighborhood. Sha did not


    want to saa Aidan, for sha did not know how to bring it up to him.


    As she strolled along her way, she suddenly heard someone calling her. She looked back and was


    surprised. "Zayn?"


    It was her first time seeing him after he returned from Swiysal.


    Smiling, he came up to her. "What are you doing here alone?"


    Leanna returned to her senses. "Just¡­ wandering around. What about you?"


    "I just happened to pass by when I saw someone resembling you, so I came to have a look."


    They then went to a cafe for a chat. She asked, "Right. How''s your father doing?"


    "We held the funeral yesterday." He lowered his head.


    Not expecting such an answer from him, Leanna gawked at him without a word. He took a sip of coffee


    and exined, "It''s been a long time since he was sick. It is for the best since it''s a release for him."


    She did not know how to respond, hence the short reply. "I''m sorry for your loss."


    "How have you beentely? I heard you''re in the Crossley Group. If you need help, I''m one call away.


    The Bat Family has fallen, but we still have our connections." Zayn steered the topic.


    "Nothing much at the moment. The projects that were put on hold are back in operation. As for the


    company¡­ There are a lot of problems, but it''ll take time to settle down."


    He nodded. "Leanna, I''ve been wanting to apologize to you."


    "What for?" She could not follow.


    "It''s about my sister. I knew she made you fall into the water, but I kept you in the dark."


    "It''s already in the past. I didn''t ask, so it''s understandable." Leanna smiled but paused for a moment.


    "Let the bygones be bygones."


    "Leanna, we, the Bats, will surely repay you for what we''ve done."


    "Don''t be like that. I am the one indebted to you from the start."


    Be it during her school days or after that, Zayn had helped her a lot.


    As she strolled along her way, she suddenly heard someone calling her. She looked back and was


    surprised. "Zayn?"

 Chapter 511

    Chapter 511


    When Leanna returned home, Aidan was nowhere to be found. She pulled out her phone and saw a


    text which Aidan sent an hour ago. Apparently, there was an urgent matter at thepany, so he might


    not be able to make it home tonight. After telling him that she came home in a brief reply, she put


    everything in her hands down and made herselffortable on the couch.


    A short whileter, Aidan gave her a call and softly asked, "Have you eaten yet?"


    "Yup, I ate at Zoe''s ce."


    He then replied, "Alright. Sleep early. Don''t wait for me."


    Leanna paused for a moment before asking, "The matter at thepany¡­ is it bad?"


    "Something about the project in Lachstein came up, but it''s nothing major."


    "Ah," she uttered. "You should get to it, then."


    After hanging up, Leannay down on the couch for a while before getting up and heading to the


    bathroom. One hourter, she eventually came out of the bathroom.


    With that, shey on the bed, yet she could only toss and turn as she was unable to fall asleep.


    Whenever she closed her eyes, it was as if she could hear the wailing of a child. As such, she couldn''t


    help but think that she was blessed with two children by the heavens, but she couldn''t protect either of


    them. Hence, her right to be a mother was rebuked.


    Honestly, before she got pregnant, she wasn''t really into having kids. Nheless, ever since a little


    life form emerged within her, she began to develop another perspective on it. She could even feel the


    baby rolling around and moving its tiny limbs in her tummy. The wonderful feeling of a bloodline pact


    opened up her mind without her knowing, and for some reason, it also made her look forward to his


    coming.


    Having daydreamed for the entire night, Leanna finally grew a little drowsy in the middle of the night.


    Right when she finally fell asleep, she heard a slight noise from the bathroom. Thereupon, she


    sluggishly opened her eyes, only to see Aidan walking toward the closet. Amid her daze, she even


    thought she was dreaming.


    As Aidan took out a luggage bag, he heard a woman''s tired voice sounding behind him. "Where are


    you going?"


    With that, he turned around, only to see a very sleepy Leanna in her pajamas. He then walked over


    and pulled her into his arms, gently saying, "The situation is ratherplicated. I''ll have to go there for


    a bit."


    "You mean Lachstein?"


    "Mm-hmm."


    Leanna then asked, "How long will you be staying there?"


    "Not sure. I suppose one week at least."


    ordingly, she pulled herself out of Aidan''s embrace. "I''ll help you with the packing."


    As she hardly took a step, Aidan tightened his grip around her wrist. "I''ll do it. You should go back to


    sleep."


    As she hardly took a step, Aidan tightened his grip around her wrist. "I''ll do it. You should go back to


    sleep."


    Letting out a yawn, Leanna continued walking forward. "You used to call me in the middle of the night


    to have me help you pack things, and now you''re all so courteous."


    Hearing that, Aidan revealed a grin and hugged her from behind as he rested his chin on her shoulder.


    "That was different."


    "Different how?"


    "That was an excuse to see you."


    She subconsciously clicked her tongue as she kept looking for clothes in the closet. "I sure couldn''t tell


    that was an excuse. If anything, that was obviously a businessman''s heartless, devious maniption."


    Copyright by N?v/elDrama.Org.


    Aidan furrowed his brows. "Would you havee back if I weren''t that ''maniptive''?"


    He kept on hugging her, hindering her from packing his belongings, after which she lifted her shoulders.


    "Let go of me."


    "No."


    "Huh?"


    Aidan tilted his head and nibbled her ear. "I''ll be there for at least a week. Are you sure you''re not


    gonna miss me?"


    "What is there to miss? You''re not even gone yet," Leanna questioned.


    He softly chuckled as his chest gently trembled. "Please be careful when I''m away. If there''s any


    trouble or problem you can''t solve, look for Oscar and Freddie."


    "Okay."


    He grew silent, but he was still hugging her without loosening his arms.


    "Is there anything else?" Leanna muttered.


    "Castor Vi''s renovation is done."


    "Wow¡­ That was fast."


    Aidan bit her neck with his thin lips.


    "What are you, a dog?" Leanna uncontrobly groaned and asked with a frown.


    "Didn''t you use to call me that?"


    She was rendered speechless. Quite a self-conscious one, huh?


    With that, he asked, "Wanna move there once I get back?"


    Leanna''s hands subtly shook. After a moment, she agreed, "Sure. Once youe back, I have


    something to tell you as well."


    "Can''t you tell me now?"


    "No."


    "Luckily, I''m not an overly curious man, or you''d have me tormented for an entire week," said Aidan.


    Leanna remained wordless for a while before withdrawing herself from Aidan''s embrace. "Okay, okay.


    There''s still stuff I gotta pack. Go take a nap, you. What time are you leaving by the way?"


    "The flight''s at five."


    "What time is it now?" Leanna asked.


    "Three."


    As sha hardly took a stap, Aidan tightanad his grip around har wrist. "I''ll do it. You should go back to


    ap."


    Latting out a yawn, Laanna continuad walking forward. "You usad to call ma in tha mid of tha night


    to hava ma halp you pack things, and now you''ra all so courtaous."


    Haaring that, Aidan ravad a grin and huggad har from bahind as ha rastad his chin on har shouldar.


    "That was diffarant."


    "Diffarant how?"


    "That was an axcusa to saa you."


    Sha subconsciously clickad har tongua as sha kapt looking for clothas in tha closat. "I sura couldn''t tall


    that was an axcusa. If anything, that was obviously a businassman''s haarss, davious maniption."


    Aidan furrowad his brows. "Would you havaa back if I waran''t that ''maniptiva''?"


    Ha kapt on hugging har, hindaring har from packing his balongings, aftar which sha liftad har shouldars.


    "Lat go of ma."


    "No."


    "Huh?"


    Aidan tiltad his haad and nibd har aar. "I''ll ba thara for atast a waak. Ara you sura you''ra not


    gonna miss ma?"


    "What is thara to miss? You''ra not avan gona yat," Laanna quastionad.


    Ha softly chucd as his chast gantly tramd. "asa ba caraful whan I''m away. If thara''s any


    trou or prom you can''t solva, look for Oscar and Fraddia."


    "Okay."


    Ha graw snt, but ha was still hugging har without loosaning his arms.


    "Is thara anything alsa?" Laanna muttarad.


    "Castor Vi''s ranovation is dona."


    "Wow¡­ That was fast."


    Aidan bit har nack with his thin lips.


    "What ara you, a dog?" Laanna uncontrobly groanad and askad with a frown.


    "Didn''t you usa to call ma that?"


    Sha was randarad spaacss. Quita a salf-conscious ona, huh?


    With that, ha askad, "Wanna mova thara onca I gat back?"


    Laanna''s hands subtly shook. Aftar a momant, sha agraad, "Sura. Onca youa back, I hava


    somathing to tall you as wall."


    "Can''t you tall ma now?"


    "No."


    "Luckily, I''m not an ovarly curious man, or you''d hava ma tormantad for an antira waak," said Aidan.


    Laanna ramainad worss for a wh bafora withdrawing harsalf from Aidan''s ambraca. "Okay, okay.


    Thara''s still stuff I gotta pack. Go taka a nap, you. What tima ara youaving by tha way?"


    "Tha flight''s at fiva."


    "What tima is it now?" Laanna askad.


    "Thraa."


    She then suggested, "Why don''t you take a thirty-minute nap? I''ll wake you upter."


    Aidan loosened his tie. "It''s alright. Jonathan''s waiting for me downstairs."


    "Ah, I''ll finish up quick, then."


    Ten minutester, Leanna zipped up the luggage bag and saw Aidan to the door before waving at him.


    "Have a safe trip. Give me a call when you''re there."


    "Mm-hmm," Aidan blurted as he wrapped his arms around her waist and dragged her into his arms


    before lowering his head and kissing her on the lips. It wasn''t until she was about to suffocate that he


    finally released her. "I''m off now. Good night."


    She nodded. "Goodbye."


    Once Aidan entered the elevator, she shut the door, returned to her room, andy back on her bed.


    However, she couldn''t fall asleep anymore. s, there was a massive load of work waiting for her to


    deal with. Thus, she could only force herself to close her eyes before eventually falling into a poor


    slumber.


    When her rm finally went off, she stretched her back and shoved her sheets away before getting up.


    As of now, every paused project of Crossley Group had resumed. The bank''s loan arrived pretty


    quickly. When Leanna received the loan, she immediately paid the employees their long-overdue


    sries.


    Although the higher-ups were dissatisfied with her decision, when they remembered how Jimmy''s idea


    to oppose her was denied, they could only suck it up as none of them dared to speak up.


    As for those who were assigned by Leanna to different projects, they had all tended to their respective


    positions and begun to familiarize themselves with their jobs. Judging by the current situation, if they


    were to continue developing in this direction, it wouldn''t take long for Crossley Group to ovee its


    crisis should no further trouble arise.


    s, the expectation was always far from reality.


    Right as Leanna arrived at thepany, Raymond swiftly came over to her and imed that shortly


    after construction had begun, a batch of materials was found to be problematic and totally unusable


    and that they had to be reced at once. And then came the bigger problem: nearly all of their projects


    were using the same faulty materials.


    In other words, if they didn''t look for new materials to rece the old ones right away, all of the projects


    would have to be halted once again. However, looking for new materials out of nowhere was not only a


    difficult task but also a costly one.


    "Miss McKinney, what should we do now?" Raymond asked.


    She then suggested, "Why don''t you take a thirty-minute nap? I''ll wake you upter."

 Chapter 512

    Chapter 512


    Looking at the information before her, Leanna tensed her delicate brows. "Are there any other


    appropriate material suppliers?"


    "Not at the moment. I wasn''t in charge of this previously, but Mr. Onder has fallen sick and was


    hospitalized recently, so¡­"


    Leanna replied, "Let me think about it."


    "Understood." Raymond nodded and left.


    Nheless, before Leanna coulde up with a solution, Raymond came to her again in the


    afternoon. "Miss McKinney, the problem earlier has been dealt with."


    "Already? How?" Leanna was stunned.


    "Miss McKinney, do you still remember Complex Group?"


    She was baffled. "Complex Group?"


    "Yes, it is a foreignpany that had worked with Pearson Group in the past. They were also the party


    who auctioned off Crossley Group''snd on Youth Street."


    Upon realization, Leanna pursed her lips.


    Raymond then added, "One of Complex Group''s people gave us a call one hour ago and imed that


    they can supply us with a new batch of materials. Richard went over to verify them and said that there


    was no issue with them."


    Richard Lewis was Maya''s husband.


    Upon Leanna''s wordlessness, Raymond assumed that she was concerned about the materials. "Miss


    McKinney, would you like to see to it yourself?"


    Leanna then shook her head. "No need. Have they named a price?"


    In response, Raymond answered, "I was about to tell you about it. They have expressed that they are


    not going to charge for the materials as our joint project with them is ongoing, so they decided to do us


    the favor and asked for a higher share in return."


    "The joint project still ongoing?" Leanna asked.


    "It was halted back when Crossley Group was in a pinch, but it was resumed recently. However, hear


    me out. The project will not proceed ording to the previous auctioned terms. Though, I''m not quite


    certain about the details either¡­"


    Given Crossley Group''s current situation, it could hardly sustain itself, so it had no means to interfere


    with the approach. After all, the ones with wealth were the ones with power. Regardless, fortunately, a


    contract was signed beforehand, so Complex Group could do whatever with the project as long as


    Crossley Group was getting paid. Furthermore, Complex Group supplied the materials at quite a timely


    moment.


    "Never mind. We''ll leave it be," Leanna replied.


    Thereupon, Raymond left her as she held her pen in deep contemtion.


    After a while, she gave Daniel a call. "Let''s meet."


    Half an hourter, in the cafe below Crossley Group, Leanna cut straight to the chase without beating


    around the bush. "I''m sorry for what I have done."


    Dazed for a moment, Daniel eventually realized what matter she was referring to. He then chuckled


    before answering, "Don''t worry about it. Besides, you''ve been doing well since you joined Crossley


    Group. I just hope that you don''t me me for having attempted to stop you."


    Holding a teaspoon, Leanna stirred the cup of coffee in front of her. "Please ry my apology to


    William as well."


    Hearing that, Daniel let out another chuckle and replied, "To be honest, I''m not really that close with


    William. The only reason we showed up in your office is that we bumped into each other at the


    entrance."


    "So, you''re not close with him."


    Daniel took a gulp. "Not exactly ''not close with him.'' We''re just not really that close."


    Chuckling, Leanna lifted her cup of coffee and took a sip. "You, Elijah, and William are very close to Mr.


    Jackson, so I assumed that you knew one other."


    "That''s quite a stretch. Elijah only knew Mr. Jackson because his parents were once Mr. Jackson''s


    students; William got to know Mr. Jackson overseas. As for me¡­"


    At once, Leanna put down her cup and paid full attention. "What about you?"


    Daniel remained silent as he had yet toe up with a story. Essentially, he couldn''t just disclose that


    he knew Mr. Jackson from a concert. He could have tricked Georgina with some random excuse, but


    not Leanna.


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    Luckily for him, Leanna did not pursue the matter. Instead, she asked, "Have you met with Zoetely?"


    Daniel furrowed his brows. "Isn''t she getting married soon? It doesn''t feel right for me to see her."


    Leanna grew silent, thinking that she shouldn''t have encouraged him so much back then.


    After pondering for a while, she then said, "Frankly, dating is simply dating here. It doesn''t mean you


    have tomit to it until marriage, as you should only consider it once you find the perfect match."


    "She seems happy with that guy." Daniel gave the matter a thorough thought. Since he couldn''t


    promise Zoe a marriage, and now that Zoe found a man to get married to, it was only right that he


    refrained from interfering in her life.


    "So, are you still merely infatuated with her, or are you actually in love?" Leanna asked.


    With a frown, Daniel answered, "I can''t tell." After all, he never really gave much thought to his prior


    rtionships, and every one of them ended as soon as they began.


    Feeling perturbed, Leanna didn''t know how to respond to that.


    Daniel then assured, "Don''t you worry. I''ll leave Highside before she gets married. I won''t cause her


    any trouble."


    "Well, I don''t mean it that way¡­"


    "Then what do you mean?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words. After a moment of silence, she finally continued, "Anyway, if you


    happen to be free these few days, you should go look for her once more. If you genuinely hope that


    she''s able to find happiness, you should tell her what you think. Consider it a loose end tied."


    "I know." Daniel nodded.


    With that, Leanna got up from her seat. "I shall get back to work, then." After a short pause, she added,


    "Right. About the materials, please ry my gratitude as well."


    Before Daniel could respond, Leanna was already steps away. As he peered at her fading figure, a


    thought subtly surged in his mind.


    She knew. Not only did she know about my rtionship with William, but also¡­


    Daniel took a deep breath, clueless about what they were thinking. Both of them knew what was going


    on, yet they were reluctant tomunicate and even avoided each other.


    After leaving the cafe, Daniel arrived at the studio entrance. He sat in his car for half the day, and it


    wasn''t until he saw Zoe did he finally push open his car door.


    Zoe just woke up from her afternoon nap, and as she was yawning while ordering takeout, an


    unexpected guest came into the studio. Perhaps something was weighing on her mind, but the moment


    she saw him, she was stupefied, and her phone slid out of her hand and fell to the ground.


    Daniel walked up to her and picked up the phone for her. "Can we talk?"


    "A-About what?"


    "Anything."


    After remaining quiet for a while, Zoe grabbed the phone from his hand and walked out of the studio.


    The piano room beside the studio had been rented to someone else. It was under renovation, so some


    noises were to be expected.


    Sitting in the boba shop across the street, Zoe asked, "What do you wanna talk about?"


    "I¡­" When the words were almost out of his mouth, he hesitated. He couldn''t bring himself to give her


    his blessing.


    Zoe was puzzled. "What''s wrong?"

 Chapter 513

    Chapter 513


    After pursing his lips for a while, Daniel inquired, "Are you going to marry the guy?"


    "Ah¡­" Not certain why he would bring up the matter, Zoe answered after a brief pause, "Probably not."


    Hearing that, Daniel raised his eyebrows. "Good."


    "What''s good about it?" Zoe stared at him suspiciously.


    Immediately, Daniel pulled a straight face. "Oh, what I mean is that you should get to know each other


    better beforehand. Marriage is a big deal, so it''s best to be careful."


    "Oh," Zoe blurted without saying more.


    Followingly, Daniel grabbed the ss of water before him and took a sip before hesitantly asking,


    "Wanna get dinner tonight?"


    Staring at him for a few seconds, Zoe straightforwardly asked, "Are you hitting on me?"


    Daniel was at a loss for words as he choked on the water he just sipped on.


    Without waiting for him to recover from it, Zoe continued, "Then why are you asking me out to dinner?"


    "I¡­" Daniel couldn''te up with a reason.


    "Don''t you know that asking a woman out for dinner alone indicates that you''re interested in her?" Zoe


    asked.


    Daniel didn''t know how to respond to that as he held his ss.


    Zoe then added, "Don''t you have anything else to say?"


    "No, I don''t think so."


    Thereupon, it was Zoe''s turn to nervously grasp her ss. "Then¡­ I have something to tell you."


    "Hmm?"


    Despite spending a long time constructing her sentence, Zoe couldn''t figure out how to phrase her


    words. At once, she grabbed the ss of water and chugged it down before determinedly asking, "Do


    you n to have kids?"


    Daniel was taken aback. He didn''t understand what she was implying.


    "If you don''t, I want you to apany me to the hospital in a few days." Zoe tensed her lips and spoke


    through gritted teeth. For the past two days, she had decided that that night was spent willingly. None


    of them owed each other anything. Therefore, she wanted toe clean and do whatever she had to


    do. Even so, he shouldn''t be allowed to enjoy his life while she shouldered all the agony. No matter


    how bad the situation could potentially be, he would still have to apany her to the hospital.


    "You''re pregnant?" It took Daniel a full minute toprehend what she was talking about.


    Zoe nodded and took a deep breath before iming, "I''ve taken birth control pills, but who knew I''d still


    be mmed with a matter of such an insignificant possibility? The doctor said that I shouldn''t abort it


    just yet, and I should revisit him in two weeks, so¡­"


    "You''re going to abort it?"


    "I¡­" Zoe muttered, "I don''t know. I don''t think it''s right for me to make the decision alone, so I figured I


    should consult you about it."


    Daniel was fazed. He slightly raised his hand. "Wait, wait. Please give me a minute."


    Seeing that, Zoe lowered her head and silence grew between the two of them.


    After a while, Zoe stated, "I''m not telling you this to force you into making a decision. I simply felt


    obliged to tell you about it."


    "I know, but it''s all too sudden. I¡­ I need some time to figure it out."


    "I understand. Look for me again once you''ve thought it through. The surgery is in half a month''s time


    anyway." Having said that, Zoe got to her feet. "I shall head back, then."


    Daniel wordlessly dropped his jaw as he peered at her figure. All he could do was watch her walk away.


    After daydreaming in the shop for half an hour, he eventually got up and left.


    In Constetion Tech, Elijah just got out of the conference room and was told by his assistant that


    Daniel had been waiting for quite a while. Upon entering his office, he saw Daniel sitting on the couch


    with a stern face. He couldn''t tell what he was thinking about. ordingly, he sat opposite Daniel and


    revealed a scowl. "Did something bad happen at Crossley Group?"


    Daniel slowly shook his head.


    Elijah then questioned, "Did something happen with Leanna, then?"


    Daniel shook his head again.


    "What is it, then?" Elijah asked.


    "I messed up."


    "With what?"


    Daniel pressed the tip of his tongue against his teeth and revealed, "Zoe is pregnant."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Elijah remained silent for a moment before asking, "Since when?"


    Rubbing the temples of his head, Daniel answered, "It''s been a while now. Back when her ex was


    harassing her."


    Glowering, Elijah eximed, "Didn''t I tell you not to mess with her if you don''t love her? Look what you


    got yourself into. What are you going to do now? What are you going to do with the child?"


    "I don''t know¡­"


    "Seriously¡­" Elijah was at a loss for words to rebuke him.


    A momentter, Daniel turned to Elijah. "What would you do if you were me?"


    "I would never have done what you did."


    Daniel was speechless. He then asked again, "Assuming you did?"


    Dully, Elijah replied, "If you truly love Zoe, you should marry her and have her deliver the kid. You''d be


    a damned beast if you did this to her despite bearing no feelings toward her. If William were to know


    about this¡­ Well, you know how it''ll go."


    Daniel''s veins were intensely pulsating as he was unable toe to a solution. Silently heaving a sigh,


    he then said, "I think Miss McKinney knows."


    Hearing that, Elijah was dazed. "Know about what?"


    "William."


    "Then¡­ Does William know?"


    "I haven''t told him yet." Daniel added, "We are all aware of why William didn''t look for Miss McKinney.


    Though, to be honest, if we were to really think about this, Miss McKinney would be the one most


    reluctant to speak about the matter."


    Elijah pursed his lips and noted, "Louis is very important to her."


    "Mm-hmm," Daniel blurted. "So, both of them, not wanting to ruin the situation, pretended to be


    clueless. But that''s good too. Leroy hasn''t made a move for some time now. As long as we keep our


    trump card safe, he wouldn''t dare to act rashly."


    He then added, "Aidan seems to have gone to Lachstein."


    "So I''ve heard. The situation sounded ratherplicated this time, so he won''t be returning so soon."


    "There must be more to this. I''ll tighten the security around Miss McKinney. William is watching over


    her in Crossley Group as well, so there shouldn''t be a problem."


    "There shouldn''t be a problem, indeed," Elijah stated. "But that''s not what you should be worrying about


    right now."


    Daniel grew wordless. A momentter, he got up from the couch. "I''m leaving."


    Swiftly, Elijah stopped him. "You better think straight and through. Minimize the damage you would


    cause Zoe."


    "I know."


    After leaving Constetion Tech, Daniel headed back to the studio. However, this time, he didn''t alight


    from his car. Instead, he sat in his car and waited until night, when Zoe walked to the doorway and


    waved the others goodbye. He watched how she got into her car and then stopped by the road to retch.


    Daniel''s heart skipped a beat. I''m such a b*stard.


    Marriage and giving birth were never on his bucket list, nor had he imagined remaining in one ce for


    the rest of his life. Yet, he couldn''t bring himself to utter words as immoral as asking Zoe to abort the


    baby.

 Chapter 514

    Chapter 514


    In the few days Aidan was gone, Leanna went home at 10.00PM almost every day. As soon as she


    arrived home, she plopped onto the couch, unwilling to do anything at all.


    She thought that it was tiring enough when she worked at the studio, but she never thought that it was


    nothingpared to managing apany.


    No wonder Aidan always told her that it wouldn''t make a difference whether she went to her little studio


    or not. She felt reluctant back then, but it turned out to be true.


    However, she was only managing theplicated yet trivial matters in thepany. For the actual


    work concerning business contracts and the like, Freddie was the one who helped her handle them all.


    She waspletely clueless.


    She even had to squeeze out some time to produce designs every day, and she wished she could just


    clone herself.


    In the end, she decided that she wouldn''tin about Aidan anymore. She was amazed that he


    could manage the humongous Pearson Group so well, even making time to bring her on dates.


    The next day, Leanna had just arrived at the office when Raymond rushed over to her. "Miss McKinney,


    there''s a problem."


    Leanna asked, "What is it?"


    "We just received news that Old Master Pearson got into an ident, and things aren''t looking up."


    When Leanna heard that, she frowned and fell silent.


    Seeing that she didn''t reply, Raymond added, "But we''re not sure of the actual situation yet. I''ve


    already sent someone to investigate, so we should have an update soon¡ª"


    "No need for an investigation."


    It was at that time that Freddie walked in. "From the information I received, the one who got into an


    ident was Justin. Perhaps the outsiders didn''t know that such a person existed, so as the news


    spread, the person in question turned into Old Master Pearson instead."


    Raymond was bewildered as if he had no idea who Justin was.


    Leanna looked at Freddie. "What exactly happened?"


    "I don''t know about that, but we should have an answer soon. It shouldn''t be too serious."


    "What do you mean?" Leanna asked.


    Freddie sat on the couch. "Old Master Pearson had just contacted all the prominent figures in the


    business field of Highside, inviting them all to a banquet at the Pearson Family Estate tonight."


    Leanna frowned deeper. "Justin was injured, but he''s holding a banquet at this time?"


    "Oh, no." Freddie exined, "This decision is way moreplicated than you imagined."


    Freddie was about to continue when he caught sight of Raymond still standing in the office. Thetter


    froze, then said, "Well, then, Miss McKinney, I''ll be leaving first."


    Leanna nodded. "All right."


    After Raymond left, Freddie asked, "Did hee in just now to tell you that something has happened


    to Old Master Pearson?"


    "That''s correct."


    "Since Justin was the one who got into an ident, but somehow it turned into Old Master Pearson,


    and now that the news had already spread and undergone correction, everyone must be wondering


    who Justin was and how he is rted to Old Master Pearson. However, the Pearsons decided to hold a


    banquet at this time. Can you guess what his true motive is?"


    Leanna took a seat opposite Freddie and thought for a bit before saying, "He wants to take this


    opportunity to introduce Justin to the world?"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Freddie snapped his fingers. "Bingo. Because of his body condition, Justin has always been reclusive.


    Hence, save for those who are close to the Pearsons, very few people know that there is another


    legitimate son in the Pearson Family aside from Aidan, and that son is the true heir of Pearson Group."


    Leanna said, "But I remember that Old Master Pearson wanted to wee Aidan back into the


    Pearson Family exactly because Justin¡ª"


    "That was more than 20 years ago. Also, back then, Old Master Pearson couldn''t have predicted that


    the pawn named Aidan would escape his control someday and turn into an existence he had to be


    wary of. He has run out of ideas, but he can only watch as Aidan grows stronger every day. Aidan is


    now controlling the entire Pearson Group and is thinking of removing the Pearson Family, so pushing


    Justin into the spotlight is the Pearsons'' final move."


    "I''ve been in contact with Justin on many asions, but he''s not that sort of person. Also, he has no


    interest in Pearson Group."


    Freddie smiled. "I also have met him a few times, but this is no longer something Justin can decide for


    himself. Old Master Pearson made the decision to introduce Justin so that he can be a logical ruse to


    rece Aidan. He would still raise someone he trusts to take over Pearson Group."


    Leanna was silent for a moment before saying, "But I still can''t understand this. Aidan is his son too,


    even though¡­ Sienna wasn''t the one who gave birth to him, but since Old Master Pearson had


    acknowledged Aidan back then, how can he do such a thing now? It''s as if¡­ he wanted to put Aidan to


    death."


    "That''s because a pawn has to bepletely under the yer''s control. If not, the entire game will shift


    drastically," exined Freddie. "When Aidan''s wings grew stronger, he would remove Old Master


    Pearson''s ws and render him powerless. In the end, Old Master Pearson will be trapped in the


    Pearson Family Estate under his mercy. When Old Master Pearson died, Aidan might even destroy his


    grave. Now tell me, will Old Master Pearson want to see this happening?"


    Leanna went into deep thought before saying, "That''s too much, isn''t it?"


    "With Aidan''s temper, no one can say for sure."


    Leanna said, "If they turnedpletely against each other like now, it''s only reasonable that Old


    Master Pearson has such worries. But it''s obvious that a long time ago, he already had the intention of


    recing Aidan. If not for his actions, Aidan wouldn''t have gone so far."


    Freddie paused for a bit. "You have a point. Why did he do it before this?"


    Leanna was stunned. "You''re asking me?"


    Freddie coughed. "Never mind, it''s not important. Things have turned out like this, anyway. Now let''s


    get to the topic at hand. You have to attend the banquet tonight as well."


    "Why?"


    "The Pearsons sent Crossley Group an invitation, and I know you''re on good terms with Justin. If you


    ask him anything, he should be able to answer you. I''m now suspecting that the Pearsons were behind


    the incident in Lachstein so that they could divert Aidan away. So now we have to figure out their next


    step."


    Before Leanna could speak, Freddie continued, "Don''t worry, Oscar and I will keep youpany, so


    you''ll bepletely safe. We swear we''ll bring you out in one piece."


    Leanna pursed her lips lightly. "All right."


    If things truly were as Freddie had said, that the Pearsons were behind the Lachstein incident, Leanna


    had no idea what dangers Aidan would face.


    Therefore, she had to make a trip over. At 6.00PM, Leanna and Freddie left together.


    When they arrived at the entrance of the Pearson Family Estate, Oscar was already waiting for them.


    Leanna looked at therge doors of the Pearson Family Estate, unconsciously clenching her fists


    ced on her knees. Her eyshes were quivering lightly.


    When she closed her eyes to ponder, she would remember those depressing and difficult days, which


    felt like she was being imprisoned. She never thought that she would return to that ce one day.


    Oscar got into the car and greeted her, then said, "When you go inter, take the opportunity to look for


    Justin. It''d be best if you could be alone with him and ask him about the details of the current situation.


    Leave the rest to us."

 Chapter 515

    Chapter 515


    There were many guests at the Pearson Family Estate this time around, and the crowd was on par with


    the one at Gordon''s birthday banquetst year. However, unlike the times before, when Justin would


    usually steer clear of the crowd and hide in a quiet ce, he was now staying by Gordon''s side and


    seldom excused himself.


    Meanwhile, although Gordon was using a cane, he looked sprightly as he diligently introduced Justin to


    the guests passing by.


    His speech was something along the lines of ''Justin was in ill health for the past few years and was


    recuperating at home. Now that he has recovered a lot, if you have a chance to meet him in the future,


    please be nice to him.''


    A distance away, Oscar had a wine ss in his hand as he whispered, "Looks like Old Master Pearson


    is determined to squeeze Justin into Pearson Group."


    Freddie clicked his tongue. "Do you think he has any other way? It''s already a mess in Lachstein."


    Leanna looked at Justin. He was sitting in a wheelchair, and despite him staying by Gordon''s side, he


    never spoke a word throughout the whole process. His expression was cold as if he were a puppet on


    strings.


    She frowned slightly. "Justin didn''t do it willingly."


    "Well, if he were interested in Pearson Group, he wouldn''t have waited until now," Oscarmented.


    Following that, Leanna said, "But if Old Master Pearson is keeping him nearby, we don''t have a way to


    ask him anything."


    Gracefully, Freddie took a sip of the champagne in his ss. "We can''t just keep waiting like this.


    Watch this."


    He had just finished speaking when he strode forward and went up to Gordon with a smile. "Mr.


    Pearson."


    Gordon was all smiles as he chatted with the people around him, but when he saw Freddie, his


    expression sank a little as he acimed indifferently, "Oh, it''s you. When did youe back?"


    "Quite some time ago." Freddie looked at Justin. "I heard that Justin got hurt. Was it serious?"


    Justin shook his head lightly and said the first words he had ever spoken that night, "It''s nothing


    serious."


    Freddie gave an ''oh'', then scooted closer to examine Justin. "I see that you have a scratch on your


    forehead. Be careful not to get infected."


    As he spoke, someone walked over to them from behind. He utilized the situation and stumbled


    forward, spilling all the champagne in his ss onto Justin''s clothes.


    A short distance away, Oscar was speechless, and so was Leanna. It truly was an impable


    performance. Meanwhile, Gordon shouted angrily, "What are you doing?!" Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Freddie hastily took out a handkerchief from his suit pocket. "Sorry, sorry. I got a little dizzy from the


    alcohol and slipped."


    "You¡ª"


    Justin epted the handkerchief and began wiping the champagne on his body, saying calmly, "It''s


    okay."


    Gordon was holding back his anger. Because of Freddie''s identity and also the fact that there were


    many people around them, it wasn''t a good time to throw a tantrum. He simply shouted at a servant


    waiting on him, "What are you waiting for?! Take the young master back to his room for a change of


    clothes!"


    The servant immediately came forward and replied, "Understood."


    Immediately after that, Justin was escorted away.


    Freddie took the opportunity to nce at Leanna, hinting at her to follow. Then, he stood in front of


    Gordon to block his view, saying in full sincerity, "Mr. Pearson, I''m truly sorry. Aspensation, I can


    help you with awsuit for free."


    Gordon thought Freddie had some loose screws in his head as he snapped, "Whatwsuit can I


    possibly have?! You''re getting delusional with all that time staying overseas."


    Gordon had tried to rope in the Sutton Family a few times, but Freddie had sided with Aidan before he


    knew it. Also, there wasn''t much going on with the Suttons, so he gave up on that. He never had a


    good opinion of Freddie, and now that Freddie was getting on his nerves again, of course, he was in a


    foul mood.


    Before Leanna left, Oscar said, "I haven''t seen Sienna so far tonight. Be careful not to run into her."


    Hearing that, Leanna was silent for a few seconds before replying, "All right."


    ¡­


    Once at the entrance of his room, Justin said calmly, "You can go back downstairs. I''ll go out when I''ve


    changed my clothes."


    "But the old master said that¡ª"


    "So, my words don''t hold any power now?"


    The servant dared not say more, proceeding to instantly nod and leave. After Justin went back to his


    room and changed his clothes, he didn''t return to the hall downstairs. Instead, he made his way to the


    garden at the back.


    There wasn''t a single soul in the garden, and it was quiet and secluded. After sitting there for a while,


    he suddenly spoke up. "Come out."


    Leanna walked over to him. "Mr. Pearson."


    "Leanna?" Justin turned his wheelchair around, seemingly a little surprised.


    "I heard you got hurt, so I''m wondering how you''re feeling right now." She nodded gently, making him


    smile. "I was careless when going down the stairs, so I tripped and fell. I got a few scratches, but


    they''re almost gone now." After a pause, he continued, "Didn''t Aidane with you?"


    "He went to Lachstein." Leanna slightly pursed her lips. "Don''t you¡­ know about him going to


    Lachstein?"


    Justin replied, "No, I haven''t heard. What happened at Lachstein?"


    "I don''t know either, but I heard the Pearson Family had something to do with it."


    Justin was slightly stunned, and then he frowned right after. "So that''s how it is."


    Leanna prodded, "What?"


    "Before this, I was wondering why he would hold this banquet, but I get it now." Justin gave a


    soundless sigh. "Looks like he hasn''t given up yet."


    Leanna pursed her lips as she stayed silent. Apparently, Justin knew nothing about this incident.


    Everything was carried out without his knowledge, including the incident with Aidan in Lachstein, and


    also the Pearsons'' next move.


    It made sense. If Justin had known about it beforehand, he definitely wouldn''t agree to it. After a while,


    Justin asked, "Leanna, is that why you came to see me?"


    Leanna didn''t deny it. "I thought you would know what they''re trying to do, and I''m also not sure about


    Aidan''s situation in Lachstein, so¡­"


    Hearing Leanna, Justin said, "Sorry, but I don''t know anything. Still, you don''t have to worry about


    Aidan; he''ll manage it well. The most he would need is a little time."


    "Got it. Thanks."


    Justin then asked, "How are you these days? All good?"


    Leanna slightly raised the corners of her lips. "Like always. Not too good, but not too bad either."


    "There''s nothing I can help you with, but I hope you can forget the painful memories and thrive in life."


    Leanna nodded slightly at him. "I''ll take my leave now."


    "Okay," he replied, after which Leanna turned around and walked back the way she came.


    Just as she was about to reach the hall, someone suddenly blocked her path. Sienna looked at her,


    saying casually, "Long time no see."


    Leanna smirked as coldness entered her eyes. When Sienna saw that, she smiled. "Looks like you''re


    quite hostile toward me. Is it because I got rid of that child in your belly?"

 Chapter 516

    Chapter 516


    When Sienna spoke those words, her face was filled with nonchnce, as if she had just stepped on


    an ant.


    Leanna stared at her, suppressing the hatred in her chest as she said, "Mrs. Pearson, you have a child


    as well. If you had been a little more humane, you wouldn''t have said something like this."


    Hearing that, Sienna didn''t seem angered. "Why else do you think I did all this?"


    "Would he be happy to see you doing this?"


    Sienna clicked her tongue. "You don''t know anything, and neither does Justin. The Pearsons treated an


    illegitimate child as one of their own, and everything that illegitimate child possesses right now should


    have belonged to Justin."


    Leanna announced emotionlessly, "The person you should really be taking revenge on is the one who


    created that ident back then. At least it''s better than getting mad at innocent people."


    "Hah, innocent people? If it weren''t for that ident, how could that illegitimate child be weed


    back into the Pearson Family? What right does he have to take everything that was meant for Justin?!"


    It had been so many years since then, but she still insisted on this thought that if it weren''t for Aidan, all


    this wouldn''t have happened.


    Leanna didn''t think that she could convince Sienna, and she wasn''t willing to waste her time here


    either.


    Every time she saw Sienna, she would remember that ident and the child who never had a chance


    to be born.


    Leanna didn''t say anything more as she stepped around Sienna, preparing to leave.


    Sienna looked at her and questioned leisurely, "Do you think you can still walk away aftering


    here?"


    Leanna paused in her steps and turned to look at Sienna, who continued, "I thought you''d gotten


    smarter, but I didn''t expect you to miss it. The trap tonight wasid for you."


    Fear seemed to rise from the bottom of Leanna''s feet as she felt a chill running down her back. She


    was about to run when a hand covered her mouth from behind. She hadn''t had time to struggle when


    something was injected into her arm.


    In an instant, she lost all her strength and closed her eyes.


    When Leanna had fainted, Sienna said calmly, "Take her upstairs and have them carry on with the


    n."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    "Understood."


    ¡­


    Oscar and Freddie had waited in the hall for 20 minutes, but Leanna was still nowhere in sight, so they


    instantly felt that something was off.


    Oscar frowned. "Let''s split up and look for her."


    However, after searching around the house, they couldn''t see any traces of Leanna. Freddie was at a


    loss. "What do we do now?"


    Oscar said in a low voice, "Ask them for her whereabouts."


    "If they were the ones who hid her, there''s no use asking them."


    "Don''t mind that. Just cause a ruckus for now. If we don''t do anything, we''ll truly be putting her in


    danger."


    As Oscar was speaking, he was already walking toward Gordon. "Old Mr. Pearson."


    Gordon turned around and looked at him, then at Freddie beside him, seemingly a little upset. "What is


    it this time?"


    Oscar smiled. "We couldn''t find Leanna, so we''re wondering if you could send someone with us to


    search for her, Old Mr. Pearson."


    Gordon''s expression remained unaffected. "I didn''t even know that she was here. How rude of her not


    toe over and greet us when she arrived."


    Freddie decided to turn that against him. "Please, don''t put it like that, Mr. Pearson. She didn''t have the


    chance to. She''s the chairwoman of Crossley Group, after all. If she disappeared at a banquet held by


    the Pearson Family, the rumors might get a little out of hand. When that happens, you might really


    need my help in awsuit, Mr. Pearson."


    Gordon uttered with a dark expression, "What nonsense are you saying?! What sort of chairwoman is


    she? She''s just an eyesore to me. Go search for her all you like. She knows the Pearson Family Estate


    better than you, so she can''t get lost even if she wanted to!"


    "Mr. Pearson, just humor me this once and help us look for her. At the very least, I am the legal advisor


    of Crossley Group. If I lost the chairwoman just by taking a trip outside, it''s going to sound bad for my


    business."


    Gordon leaned on his cane as he demanded in dissatisfaction, "Are you trying to say that I''m hiding


    her, and I have to be responsible for it?"


    At that moment, Oscar said, "You''re exaggerating things, Old Mr. Pearson. We''re simply not familiar


    with the Pearson Family Estate, so we hope you can help us."


    Just as they reached a standstill, a subordinate went over. "We just saw Miss McKinney leaving."


    Oscar tilted his head. "When was it?"


    "Just 5 minutes ago. She left in a car."


    Gordon looked very upset. "So, are you still using me of hiding her?"


    Freddie smiled. "You''re overreacting, Mr. Pearson. We''re just asking around. You know what Aidan is


    like; he would kill me if I lost Leanna."


    At the side, Oscar continued questioning, "What car was it? What''s the te number?"


    "About that¡ª"


    Justin went over to them in his wheelchair,menting calmly, "I was the one who sent Leanna away.


    She was in a car belonging to the Pearsons."


    At that, both Freddie and Oscar fell silent.


    Justin continued, "She received a call, and it seemed to be an urgent matter, so she asked me to


    inform you two."


    After some silence, Freddie gave a shortugh. "I see. That means there was no need to worry. All


    right, then. Everything''s fine as long as she gets home safely."


    As Freddie spoke, he nudged Oscar with his elbow, hinting for him to leave first.


    After leaving the hall, Oscar stopped walking and frowned. "Do you believe what they said?"


    Freddie replied, "I am awyer, and I operate on evidence. It''s not about believing or not, but since


    Justin had put it like that, what can I do? Start fighting right then and there?"


    "Leanna knew about the situation tonight. No matter how important the matter was, she wouldn''t let


    anyone from the Pearson Family send her away, so she must still be here," Oscar exined.


    "I know, but we both know the sort of person Justin is. Also, he is Aidan''s brother and the only humane


    person in the entire Pearson Family Estate. But now, he''s helping them cover it up. Don''t you feel like


    something''s off?"


    "I do." Oscar looked at him. "More importantly, if Aidan knew that you left Leanna alone in the Pearson


    Family Estate, he would do more than just kill you."


    Freddie chuckled uneasily, then said in earnest, "Not just me. Us."


    Oscar ignored him. Instead, he turned around and looked at the surveince around them. If Leanna


    had really left, the surveince would have caught that.


    Freddie exined, "How about this? In case of emergencies, you leave first and see if Leanna really


    went back. I''ll stay here and monitor the situation."


    As a sign of agreement, Oscar nodded. There was no other way. He then said, "Stay here until I give


    you a call. Don''t leave, no matter how hard they try to chase you out. If I can''t find Leanna outside, get


    them to show you the surveince videos. Then, if worsees to worst, call the police."


    "Call the police?"


    "I''ve said it before. The bigger the fuss we make, the less danger she faces." Oscar frowned. "They''ve


    performed such a grand facade to hide her, so they won''t hurt her for the time being. They must have


    an agenda."

 Chapter 517

    Chapter 517


    When Leanna woke up, she could barely see anything through her blurry vision. But she was aware


    enough to realize that she was in unfamiliar territory. She tried to sit up only to learn that she could not


    muster any strength in her body. That was not all. She couldn''t even make a sound, either.


    At this moment, the sound of movement came from outside the door. She quickly closed her eyes and


    feigned unconsciousness.


    The door opened, and several people walked into the room. The first thing she heard was Gordon''s


    voice. "When will she wake?"


    Sienna answered lightly, "The drug dosage given to her was low, so she should wake up soon."


    Gordon snorted. "I never imagined the day woulde where I had to use such a convoluted method


    just to bring her back."


    "Isn''t that all thanks to your son?"


    He immediately became displeased. "Why are you mentioning this topic again?"


    "Did I say anything wrong?"


    "You really... Forget it. I don''t want to argue with you. You never cease to bring up the past."


    She nced at Leanna, who was sleeping soundly on the bed. Then, she curled her lips into a


    malicious smile. "I''m looking forward to seeing what price Aidan will be willing to pay for her sake."


    Gordon answered gloomily, "Just act ording to the n. Don''t you dare cause any extra trouble. It


    will not be good for us if you push him into a corner."


    She folded her arms in front of her chest. "What you want is the Pearson Group. So, naturally, I have


    something I want too."


    "In any case, we can only take things one step at a time." There was a brief pause before he added,


    "Freddie is downstairs. I have to leave, lest he starts getting suspicious."


    Then, he left with the help of his walking cane.


    After Gordon departed, Sienna spoke up again. "It looks like it will take a while for her to regain


    consciousness. Let''s go."


    Leanna''s eyshes fluttered slightly. Who else is there?


    There was no response. Only Sienna''s voice continued to echo in the room. "You don''t need to feel


    guilty. They owe you a debt, after all. I am simply taking back everything that should have belonged to


    you in the first ce. As long as Aidan cooperates well, it won''t be long before she safely walks out of


    this ce."


    A long while passed before a man''s sad voice sounded, "Did you really need to take things this far?"


    Sienna snapped, "Wasn''t the recent situation clear enough for you? Do you think Aidan ns to forgive


    the Pearson Family or us, for that matter? Although he ims that you are his elder brother, does he


    actually hold any respect for you? Justin, I know the Pearson Group holds no importance to you.


    However, there are certain things in the world that you need to possess before you even have the right


    to speak."


    Justin remained silent, not saying a word.


    Several seconds passed before she continued, "I only wish you would never need to rely on anybody''s


    charity and pity to live after I die. I want them toe begging at your feet instead. Do you understand,


    Justin?"


    He said, "You don''t need to say such words. What''s the point of having such things when you''re gone?"


    "Why do you think Aidan has been using such forceful means to suppress the Pearson Family over the


    past month? Even your father has been backed to the point where he no longer has anybody at his


    beck and call. That is because he ns to take my life."


    "Aidan won''t do that."


    "Won''t?" She gave a mockingugh and shot a sideways nce at Leanna, who was lying on the bed.


    "I wanted both mother and son to die together to prevent any future trouble. She turned out to be


    unexpectedly lucky and survived. I know Aidan better than you. Do you think he will let you survive


    after I die? Why would he do that? So that you can wait for an opportunity to exact revenge? Even if


    you''ve never had that thought before, he will get rid of you for his safety''s sake."


    She continued, "Between the Pearson Family and him, only one can live."


    After she said that, she turned around and left without another word.


    There was the sound of footsteps; then, the room fell silent again. Another long stretch of silence


    passed. Then, Leanna heard an almost imperceptible sigh before Justin maneuvered his wheelchair


    out of the room.


    Leanna opened her eyes again when she heard the sound of the door closing. Her strength was slowly


    returning as time passed. Although she could not push herself up, she could at least move her fingers


    now.


    Had she not heard the conversation earlier, she would never have believed that Justin was involved in


    this incident.


    He clearly doesn''t care for the Pearson Group, so why is he helping them? She could not understand


    his thought process.


    Nevertheless, that was not the most important issue right now. She heard Gordon mention earlier that


    Freddie was waiting downstairs. So, they were definitely searching for her.


    So, she inhaled deeply as she forced her eyes to open. She focused all her attention on her fingers,


    willing them to move little by little. An unknown amount of time passed before she could finally sit up.


    However, her throat burned painfully. It was difficult for her to even articte a single word.


    She ignored the pain as she gritted her teeth and stood up against the wall. Then, she randomlyN?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    grabbed one of the ss ornaments in the room. Her movements were sluggish, but she still managed


    to inch her way toward the window. She wearily leaned against the window and threw the ss


    ornament out the window.


    At this point, she didn''t even have the strength to smash the ss herself. She had to use gravity to do


    her work.


    At the same time, Freddie sat on a couch downstairs. He looked around him and asionally made a


    comment, "Mr. Pearson, you have good taste. Unlike you, my father doesn''t have a good eye. He is


    always bringing home worthless stuff."


    Gordon held his cane and watched Freddie expressionlessly. "If you''ve taken a fancy to something, I


    can just give it to you."


    "That... isn''t right."


    "There''s nothing inappropriate about it. I''ll arrange for somebody to send the stuff home for you and


    drive you back as well."


    All the guests were gone by now, except for Freddie.


    Freddie used his tactless attitude to his most significant advantage. "There''s no need to rush. Speaking


    of which, it''s been a long time since I came to visit you, Mr. Pearson. Now that all the outsiders are


    gone, we can finally catch up on the old days."


    Gordon''s expression darkened upon hearing Freddie''s remarks. s, he could neither ask Freddie to


    leave nor chase thetter away. It was apparent that Freddie had no intention of leaving.


    Gordon stood up with the help of his walking cane. "Do as you please. If you want to look around, then


    go ahead and look around. I''m going to bed."


    Before Gordon could leave, a slight sound came from outside the house.


    Freddie reacted quickly and immediately rushed outside. Gordon''s expression turned grim, and he


    signaled his subordinate to follow. Thetter immediately understood and hurried after Freddie.


    Freddie arrived at the source of the sound. Unfortunately, he did not see anybody. There were only


    shattered pieces of ss on the ground. When he saw the subordinate who had followed him here, he


    quickly went back inside.


    Just as Freddie was about to go upstairs, Gordon slung his walking cane horizontally across Freddie''s


    chest with a frown. "Remember your ce!!"


    Freddie gave a sheepishugh. "Didn''t you permit me to look around the house as I pleased earlier, Mr.


    Pearson? I''ve gotten a look around downstairs, so I''ve decided to take a brief tour upstairs."


    "Don''t push your luck! Don''t think I don''t know what you''re thinking. You believe I''ve hidden Leanna


    somewhere. Since you insist on going upstairs to have a look, then let me ask you this. How are you


    going to make it up to me if you don''t find her anywhere?"


    Freddie slowly pushed the walking cane away from him. "Don''t get so agitated, Mr. Pearson. It''s not


    like I don''t trust you, but I have to look around for myself. Let me go upstairs and have a look so that I


    have an exnation for Aidan if he questions me about this incidentter. Unless you''re interested in


    watching him skin me alive?

 Chapter 518

    Chapter 518


    Freddie''sst statement not only sounded sweet and ttering but also indicated a level of respect for


    Gordon. As soon as those words fell from his lips, the Pearson Family would seem guilty of something


    if they continued to refuse him entry upstairs.


    So, Gordon unwillingly withdrew his walking cane and snapped irritably, "Get out as soon as you''ve


    gotten a look around."


    "Thank you, Mr. Pearson."


    After Freddie said that, he immediately bounded up the stairs like an excitable puppy. He scoured each


    room, going from the second floor to the tried floor. At the same time, he also had to ensure that


    nobody was secretly transferring Leanna to one of the rooms he had already searched.


    It didn''t take long before there was only one room left. He was about to enter the room when a servant


    stepped forward and intercepted him. "Mr. Sutton, this is Mrs. Pearson''s room. You are not allowed to


    enter."


    He smiled. "I don''t need to enter. I only need to take a peek inside. I''m searching for my friend."


    "I''m afraid that''s not possible either."


    He scratched at his eyebrows without saying a word. As a younger family member, it would certainly be


    disconcerting to hear news about how he had barged into the bedroom of his elder female rtive.


    It would be fine if Leanna turned out to be inside the room, but if she were not there... Then, the


    Pearson Family wouldn''t even need to lift a finger to punish him. His father would break his legs as


    soon as he went home.


    Be that as it may, he was confident that Leanna was currently being held in the Pearson Family Estate


    against her will. And this was thest room remaining. He gritted his teeth before finally deciding to


    disregard the consequences and take the risk.


    He was just about to enter when the door opened. Sienna stood there in a nightgown and stared at him


    coldly. "What are you trying to do?"


    "Mrs. Pearson..."


    "How rude can you be? Are you here to search my rooms?"


    He smiled bitterly. "I had no other choice."


    She barked, "Well, pardon me for failing to notice the impable upbringing of the Sutton Family all


    this while."


    "Why don''t you just reprimand me directly..."


    "I don''t have the time to reprimand you." She crossed her arms in front of her chest. "But, since you''re


    here, I''m sure you won''t give up unless I let you have a look inside."


    She even stepped to the side as she spoke, all the while giving him the stink eye.


    He was about to enter the room when her voice leisurely rang out once more. "Don''t tell me you


    actually want to enter my room for an inspection? If she were here, wouldn''t she hear you if you called


    out her name?"


    He parted his lips slightly. "You''re right. I''m being rude." Then, he raised his voice. "In that case, I won''t


    disturb you again. I''ll be taking my leave now, but I''lle back in two days to apologize for my rude


    behavior."


    After he said that, he deliberately dawdled outside the room for a few seconds and paid attention to any


    movementsing from inside the room. Meanwhile, she stared at him coldly without saying anything.


    She seemed to be waiting to see just how long he was nning to loiter. Finally, he withdrew his gaze


    and met her eyes squarely. Then, he smiled apologetically as he knew he could not dawdle any longer


    and took his leave.


    Sienna nced at the servant outside the instant Freddie disappeared around the corner. The servant


    immediately understood and went inside with her.


    Leanna sat on the couch inside the room, and Justin sat opposite her.


    Ten minutes ago, Justin reappeared inside the room as soon as she threw the ss ornament out of


    the window. Throughout the entire process, he had only said one sentence to her. "Leanna, please


    trust me just this once. I will never hurt you."


    That was why she had remained silent when Freddie came looking for her earlier.


    She was well aware that Freddie could not rescue her with his strength alone. Besides, she was


    curious to know the reason why they had gone to such lengths to bring her here. To that end, they even


    managed to convince Justin to y along with their entire farce.


    She had understood Freddie''s words just now. They were going toe back for her. But, for the time


    being, she was safe as long as she remained here.


    Sienna walked in and nced at Leanna with a derisive snort. "So, you do know your ce."


    Justin murmured, "It''s gettingte. Why don''t you get some rest? I will bring Leanna back to her room."


    "Just ask a servant to do it. Why are you tormenting yourself?"


    "I simply want to do whatever I can, lest I be a cripple who is incapable of doing anything."


    When Sienna heard the steel in his tone, she turned to the side without another word.


    Leanna had recovered most of her strength by now, so she staggered as she followed Justin out of the


    room.


    When they arrived at the second floor, he opened the door to a room and warmly told her. "This is


    Aidan''s room. You can stay here for the time being."


    Then, he maneuvered his wheelchair into the room and turned on the lights.


    "Although he has not returned in a long time, the room has been cleaned every single day."


    Leanna replied, "I''ve already done as you said. Can you tell me what you''re trying to achieve?"


    Justin turned around to look at her and sighed as a pained grimace appeared on his face. "Why don''t


    you take a seat first?"


    ¡­


    Freddie received a phone call from Oscar as soon as Freddie stepped out of the Pearson Family


    Estate.


    Oscar said, "Leanna hasn''t returned. She should still be inside the Pearson Family Estate."


    "I know."


    "You can''t have left, right?"


    "What else could I have done? I''ve already searched every single room in the Pearson Family Estate. If


    my father learns about what I''ve done today, he will probably disown me on the spot."


    Oscar didn''t know what to say to that response.


    Freddie asked, "What about Aidan? Have you gotten in touch with him?"


    "No. But the information I just received indicates that he will be renegotiating the terms with the other


    party tonight. I don''t know how the discussion has gone so far. Moreover, there''s a time difference


    which makes it difficult to contact him. Therefore, I''m afraid the news we receive will be far slower than


    real-time."


    Freddie frowned in frustration. "It looks like we''ve been tricked."


    "What?"


    "On the surface, the Pearson Family is using Justin''s injury to reveal his existence to the world.


    However, that is nothing more than a piece of bait." His ck eyes narrowed. "It''s bait they deliberately


    fed to us."


    Oscar went silent as he considered this fact. "This entire farce will never seed without the


    cooperation of one person."


    "Justin Pearson."


    "Yes."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Freddie tapped his fingers against the steering wheel. "Judging by the attitude of the entire Pearson


    Family, they no longer care about their pride and reputation. Instead, they simply want their deception


    to be epted as the truth."


    "But I don''t understand. Why would Justin help them?"


    He sighed. "Leanna probably had the same questions as you, so she chose to remain behind today."


    He had deliberately made a ruckus at the door earlier so Leanna could hear him. If she wanted to


    leave, she could have done anything to make some noise. Yet, she did not. Not to mention, he had not


    seen Justin anywhere, even though he had searched every single room in the house earlier. So, that


    could only mean that Justin was also in the room at the time.


    Oscar said, "Let''s talk again once we''ve managed to contact Aidan. Since they orchestrated the


    incident at Lachstein and even kidnapped Leanna, they definitely want something from him."


    "In any case, we will have results tonight."


    Oscar made a sound of agreement. "You should head back. I''ll send somebody to watch the Pearson


    Family Estate. We will have other ways to break her out of there as long as Leanna remains in the


    Pearson Family Estate."


    "But we can''t just sit around waiting without doing anything either."


    "What do you want to do?"


    Freddie suggested, "We should spread the news that Leanna went missing after attending the Pearson


    Family''s reception tonight. That way, other people aside from us will also be approaching the Pearson


    Family for an exnation. They will be enough to keep the Pearson Family busy for some time."

 Chapter 519

    Chapter 519


    Meanwhile, in Lachstein, Dellshore, the meeting was suspended for the third time. When the person in


    charge of the other party left, Jonathan whispered, "President Pearson."


    Aidan leaned back into the chair with one hand ced on the office table, his fingertips tapping against


    the table lightly. He murmured lightly, "They''re trying to buy time."


    "Buy time?" Jonathan looked puzzled. "But we''re already here. Why are they trying to buy time?"


    Aidan narrowed his eyes and nced at his phone, which was switched off. "Leave now and contact


    Highside to see if anything has happened."


    Jonathan nodded. "Okay."


    Due to the importance of this meeting, the mobile phones of both parties participating in the discussion


    had to be turned off. Besides, there was no signal in the vicinity.


    Not long after Jonathan''s departure, the person in charge of the other party returned. There was no


    sign of dignity and gravity from before. Instead, he was smiling like the spring breeze. "I''m very sorry


    for making you wait so long, President Pearson."


    Aidan looked at the other party indifferently without saying a word.


    John took a document from his assistant and ced the file in front of Aidan. "I''ve instructed for the


    contract to be reprinted. Please have a look, President Pearson. If there are no issues with the


    contract, you can go ahead and sign the document."


    Aidan nced at the document and snorted coldly. He closed the file with a snap and threw it at the


    other party. His tone was indifferent as he said, "Why don''t you just ask me to give you the Pearson


    Group directly?"


    "What are you saying, President Pearson? We are businessmen. It''s only natural for us to do business.


    Besides, I can''t afford to ept the gift even if you gave me the Pearson Group, President Pearson."


    "The conditions you''ve asked clearly show that you don''t think of yourself as a person."


    When John heard the statement, he did not lose his temper and simply smiled genially. "President


    Pearson, we not only need to look at the final profit but also the chips in our hands when discussing


    business."


    Aidan''s ck eyes narrowed slightly, and his voice became considerably colder. "How many chips do


    you have?"


    John replied calmly, "Well¡­"


    At this moment, the door to the conference room opened. Jonathan hurried into the room and


    whispered a few words to Aidan.


    Aidan''s expression sank in an instant. His stern and cial facial features seemed covered in ayer of


    frost. The aura he exuded also seemed to have made the private room considerably cooler.


    Jonathan stood behind him quietly.


    Only then did John finish the sentence he left trailing earlier. "President Pearson, do you think that the


    value of the chip in my hand is enough for you to sign the contract?"


    Aidan red at John coldly. "You are very brave to dare to threaten me."


    "You are ttering me, President Pearson. But isn''t this always the case for doing business? The


    greater the risk, the greater the rewards. If we don''t gamble, how will we know what results we might


    obtain?"


    John nced at the contract that Aidan had thrown back at him earlier and pushed the documents


    back toward Aidan. The smile he wore never once left his face. "But now that I''ve met you, President


    Pearson¡­ I have the feeling that you are very different from what I had imagined. I used to admire you


    in the past, thinking that you were the kind of person who could take action without being influenced by


    factors like family and feelings. How else could you have achieved your current status at such a young


    age? But I never imagined¡­ I never imagined that you would make such a huge sacrifice for the sake


    of a single woman."


    Aidan said nothing and picked up the pen in front of him.


    Jonathan was shocked by the sight and blurted out, "President Pearson¡­"


    Before he could finish his sentence, Aidan had already signed his name on the contract.


    John pped slowly. "You did not hesitate in the slightest, President Pearson. That''s truly admirable."


    Aidan finished signing his name and ced down the pen. His voice was t and unwavering yet


    carried a trace of frigidness that seemed to prate one''s bone. "You better pray that she is safe and


    sound. Otherwise, you and the Pearson Family will vanish from the world."


    Afterward, he left the conference room.


    The smile gradually vanished from the corners of John''s mouth. He snatched the document from the


    table.


    I did not expect Aidan to be so straightforward. Should I say he is foolish beyond hope? Or¡­ does he


    have another n? In any case, my duty has beenpleted.


    After Jonathan got into the car, he immediately asked, "President Pearson, what do we do now?"


    Aidan answered coldly, "We return."


    "Are we going to leave things here just like that? The contents of the contract are equivalent to giving


    away three-fifths of the Pearson Group''s shares. If the contract falls into the hands of the chairman, the


    Pearson Group¡­"


    Aidan said, "That is¡­ if he has the ability to get the contract."


    Once Jonathan saw the expression on Aidan''s face, he instantly knew that he had other ns at y.


    Thus, he quickly drove the car away without saying anything.


    ¡­


    In the Pearson Family Estate, Justin spoke slowly under Leanna''s gaze. "You''re right. The Pearson


    Family is indeed behind the incident in Lachstein."


    Leanna frowned. "Have you always known?"


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    He shook his head. "I only learned about this not too long ago. They finished making their


    arrangements before they informed me about everything."


    "What are they trying to do? Aidan is currently in Lachstein¡­"


    "Don''t worry. As long as you''re here, then Aidan will be safe."


    She did not understand. "What do you mean?"


    He nced at the scenery outside and fell silent for some time before he answered, "They have two


    ns in motion. Their first n was to lure you to the Pearson Family Estate and then use you to


    threaten Aidan into willingly handing over the shares of the Pearson Group."


    Her frown deepened when Justin''s words registered in her mind. Her presence here meant that their


    n had probably seeded.


    Leanna took a deep breath, restraining her temper as she tried to remain rational and calm. "What


    about the second n?"


    Justin replied, "They had been nning this Lachstein n for a long time. If that n failed, they


    would never allow Aidan to return."


    "Never allow him to return¡­ What do you mean?"


    "Aside from luring you here, they had another purpose when they nned the reception tonight. If


    something had really happened to Aidan abroad, then their next logical step was to make me the heir


    of the Pearson Group."


    She parted her mouth to speak, but it took a long time for her to finally make a sound. "The people you


    mentioned¡­ Do they include Old Master Pearson?"


    Justin retracted his gaze and turned to her. "Yes."


    Leanna eximed incredulously, "He wants to eliminate Aidan?"


    He nodded lightly. "So, I had no other choice. I can only ask that you stay here for two days."


    She was so shocked that she was at a loss for words.


    When she packed Aidan''s luggage the other night, she naively thought that he was only going on a


    regr business trip. She never imagined that this trip to Lachstein would nearly cost him his life.


    With that thought in mind, she quickly inquired, "Then, is he¡­"


    "Don''t worry. As long as they achieve their ns today, they will not make a move against Aidan. That


    n is nothing more than ast resort. Aidan is the president of the Pearson Group. If something


    happened to him in Lachstein, it would cause a huge disturbance worldwide."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Thank you."


    Since they were going to such lengths, then they were definitely forced into a desperate situation where


    they could no longer afford to care about the consequences.


    Therefore, if their n tonight had failed, they would have truly gotten rid of Aidan.


    Thank goodness¡­


    Justinughed bitterly, and there was no concealing the dejection on his face. "As long as you don''t


    hate me."

 Chapter 520

    Chapter 520


    After Justin left the room, Leanna plopped into bed with throbbing temples, feeling weak and lifeless.


    Something felt stuck in her chest, and it was hard for her to breathe.


    Although Justin said that they wouldn''t harm Aidan, Lachstein was so far away, and it was undoubtedly


    perilous over there since they were betting everything they had on this.


    For every second Aidan was there, the chances of him getting harmed would increase, but she didn''t


    even have anymunication tools right now and couldn''t contact anyone else.


    A few minutester, someone knocked on the door, and a servant''s muffled voice sounded from


    outside. "Miss McKinney, Mr. Justin asked me to bring you dinner."


    "No, thank you," she answered.


    The servant didn''t say anything and left, but she had just taken a few steps when the door behind her


    swung open, and Leanna stood at the entrance. "Give it to me."


    The staff nodded and passed the tray to her. Then, Leanna locked the door behind her and started


    eating the food, which tasted like wax to her.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Even though she had no appetite, she had to fill her stomach.


    She had no clue what drug they injected her with and its effects. Whatever it was, her head was


    spinning, and she needed to replenish her energy and recuperate.


    When she finished her meal, she took a deep breath and felt somewhat energized. Then, she returned


    to the bed and stared out the window in a daze, hoping that the night would be over soon.


    She didn''t know how long had passed until a beam of light cut through the night sky all of a sudden,


    followed by the sounds of a car approaching, which were especially striking in the silent night.


    But it''s not one car. It sounds like¡­ dozens of vehicles, Leanna thought, jumped out of bed and stood


    by the window.


    At the same time, Gordon blinked blearily as he was jolted out of his sleep by the sounds of engines


    roaring. So, he hurriedly hobbled out with his walking stick. "What''s going on?!"


    His subordinate rushed over. "Sir, several cars arrived outside, and they''re all parked at the front gate."


    "Who are these people?" Gordon bellowed. "How dare they!"


    "N-No idea, but looking at the cars, it seems like a few of them are journalists."


    "Journalists? What do they want at this hour of the day?"


    Right then, his aide''s cell phone started ringing, and someone reported something to him.


    Unfortunately, due to Gordon''s advanced age, it was inaudible to him. Nevertheless, after his


    subordinate ended the call, he hastily reported, "Sir, there is also some senior management from the


    Crossley Group."


    Gordon''s face fell when he heard that, yet he was only met with further bad news as his second


    spected, "They''re probably here because of Miss McKinney."


    Gordon hit the floor hard with his walking stick. "They have no idea whom they''re messing with!"


    "Sir, based on the situation now, they would never leave unless we give them an exnation."


    After Gordon considered his options, he gritted his teeth and grounded out, "Send Leanna away


    through the side door immediately. Don''t ever let them discover her!"


    "Got it."


    "No."


    As soon as the subordinate replied affirmatively, Sienna''s voice made them jerk their heads toward her.


    Then, she walked out and said with a stony face, "You can''t send Leanna away."


    "If we don''t send her off now, how am I going to exin this to the public if they seeded at barging


    in? What if they found her in our house?" Gordon snapped impatiently.


    "Where do they think this is? Can theye and go as they please?" Sienna calmly pointed out.


    But Gordon snorted coldly at her naivety. "They might not have the guts, but don''t forget who was the


    one who gave them the guts toe here. We''d been nning this for so long, and we''re so close! We


    can''t lose everything at this crucial time," he said. Then, he turned his attention back to his underling


    and urged, "Hurry!"


    "Oh no, you don''t!" Sienna barked. "You got what you wanted but not me. I can''t let her go just like


    that."


    "Don''t forget that this isn''t only what I want," Gordon warned. "It will belong to Justin after I''m gone, but


    if you insist on doing this, we''ll end up with nothing at the end of the day. Once everything that


    happened tonight is exposed, it will be the end of the Pearson Family! If Aidan doesn''t drag Justin into


    this for the sake of their brotherhood, do you think that he''ll let him off after what he did tonight?"


    Sienna didn''t say a thing, and blood gradually drained from her face as Gordon lifted his hand at his


    adjutant, signaling for him to go right away.


    He nodded and hurried to Leanna''s room.


    ¡­


    Leanna stared at the shing lights gathered outside the gates. She knew right then that her hope had


    arrived, and sure enough, a knock came at her door a few secondster.


    She opened the door and stared at the man outside, sayingposedly, "What''s the matter?"


    "Miss McKinney, Old Mr. Pearson wants me to take you away."


    "Where''s Aidan?"


    "He''s doing fine."


    She twisted her head and took a nce outside the window before quietly leaving with him.


    There was quite a distance from the front gate to the house, and it was filled with Gordon''s men,


    making it impossible for her to even attempt an escape.


    Furthermore, she had no idea about Aidan''s situation in Lachstein, and it wasn''t the time for her to


    have a confrontation with them. It would be better to leave now.


    She took a few steps and asked, "Where''s my cell phone?"


    "I''ll hand it to you once we''ve out of the Pearson Family Estate," the man answered.


    At the side door, there was already a car waiting for them. Leanna couldn''t help but find this d¨¦j¨¤ vu


    scene a little amusing even though she was in danger.


    Six months ago, they used the same method to send her away, but at that time, they wanted her life.


    This time, they merely wanted to send her away as quickly as possible. They needed her to remain


    undiscovered. They definitely didn''t want her to be discovered by someone else at the Pearson Family


    Estate. So, she should just flee as far away as possible.


    Leanna agreed to go with him because she was aware that the Pearsons went through such a big


    hassle just so that they could hide her without anyone noticing her disappearance. This was unlike that


    time before when the point was just to send her away.


    This proved that they didn''t dare toy a finger on her.


    In the past, she was nothing. Hence, from their perspective, eliminating her was as simple as crushing


    an ant to them.


    However, they couldn''t kill her now because once she was dead, what awaited the Pearsons would be


    endless trouble.


    Just like tonight.


    When they were in the car, the man asked, "Where would you like to go, Miss McKinney?"


    She leaned into the seat and replied nonchntly, "Anywhere where there are people."


    "Well¡­"


    "You just don''t want the public to know that I was hidden by the Pearsons. So, why do you care where


    I''m going?"


    He nodded and started driving, clearly having a destination in mind. Sometimeter, the car came to a


    stop in the city.


    This is quite far, alright, Leanna thought and said expressionlessly, "My phone."


    The man took out the cell phone from his pocket and passed it to her. She swiftly took it from him,


    opened the door, and climbed out without a single shred of hesitation.


    It was alreadyte at night, and there weren''t many people around; only some young people were


    strolling on the sidewalks.


    She paced to the side, turned on her phone, and called Aidan''s number. s, she was redirected to


    voicemail, saying that he had turned his phone off.


    She released a weary sigh and called Oscar''s number. The instant someone answered the phone, she


    said, "I''m out of the Pearson Family Estate. How''s Aidan doing?"

 Chapter 521

    Chapter 521


    At the front doors of the Pearson Family Estate, no matter what the servants said or threatened, the


    group of people refused to budge.


    In the end, Gordon was forced to appear before everyone with his walking stick, mad with fury. "What


    are you people trying to do?"


    A journalist didn''t hesitate to say, "Old Mr. Pearson, we heard that McK went missing after attending a


    cocktail party here. We would like to ask your opinion about this."


    "You said that she disappeared after the party. What should I think about it? Should I send someone to


    protect her round the clock?" he bellowed angrily.


    "Miss McK disappeared because she attended your party. Shouldn''t the Pearson Family be responsible


    for this?" an executive from the Crossley Group demanded hotly.


    "There were so many guests at the party. How am I supposed to be responsible for everyone?"


    Then, another journalist asked sharply, "Earlier, we received a tip-off that Miss McKinney never left the


    Pearson Family Estate at all. They even said that the Pearsons staged her disappearance. What do


    you have to say to that, Old Mr. Pearson?"


    Gordon huffed in derision, "What do I have to say? I say, get that person who said this here, and we''ll


    talk about this face-to-face!"


    After thest words left his lips, a few journalists started throwing questions at him. Soon, it became


    terribly noisy since they all spoke simultaneously.


    Gordon''s scowl deepened with every passing second as he berated them harshly, "Enough! If you want


    to look for her inside, I''ll allow you in. But don''t me me for being rude when you can''t find her!"


    These people didn''t answer to that, but they showed no signs of retreating either.


    Just when both sides were at a stalemate, all of them seemed to receive news that Leanna had


    reappeared. Hence, they hastily left after saying their apologies.


    Finally, peace returned to the ce, and Gordon drew in a deep breath as he watched in the direction


    they left and slowly tightened his grip around his cane.


    This matter was harder to deal with than he had imagined. He didn''t expect that Leanna was no longer


    a humble, young girl that he could control in just one year.


    Judging from the situation today, he reckoned that it would be almost impossible to use her to control


    Aidan in the future.


    Back in the house, Sienna was on the couch in the living room with a stoic expression. Nheless, he


    ignored her temper as he approached her, taking a seat opposite her.


    "I''m doing this for the big picture. This would tarnish our reputation if they actually barged in and found


    Leanna here."


    She taunted, "Do the Pearsons still have any reputation left to tarnish?"


    Gordon furrowed his brows as he became silent and said, after giving it a thought, "Haven''t you been


    looking for Naomi all this while? Do you have news of her yet?"


    "What? Are you looking for your old me to reignite the dead sparks of your old romance?" she


    sneered.


    "What nonsense are you talking about? Is there a point to saying something like this at our age?" he


    said in disgruntlement. When she ignored him, he added solemnly, "You''ve seen for yourself that


    Leanna is no longer the same person she was before, and we can''ty a finger on her. However, if we


    want to deal with Aidan, this is only the beginning. So, we have to find Naomi. With that bargaining chip


    in our hands, only then can we negotiate with him." After a short pause, he said, "It''s far easier to


    control Naomi than Leanna. The most important thing now is to find out where she is."


    "Do you think it''s that easy to find her?" Sienna said indifferently.


    "Didn''t you say that you already have a lead on her?"


    "Hmph, that''s the fake lead that Aidan tossed at me."


    Previously, her men found out that Naomi was in Weavside, but when they rushed over there, they


    found out that she was long gone. After that, they searched a few more ces but they were all bogus.


    It was evident that Aidan was toying with them, and she suspected that Naomi was actually in


    Highside.


    "Well, we have to find her as soon as possible because we can only ensure that everything is within our


    control once she''s in our hands," Gordon intoned gravely.


    Sienna rose to her feet and headed upstairs, clearly uninterested in continuing this discussion further.


    Meanwhile, unseen by anyone at the top of the staircase, Justin rolled his wheelchair and returned to


    his room.


    ¡­


    After Leanna called Oscar into the city, she sat and waited for him there. ording to him, Aidan was


    now on the flight back to the country. Leanna''s heart, which was on tenterhooks, could finally be at


    ease.


    Soon, a car came to a stop in front of her. When the car door opened, the person who stepped out was


    Daniel, and he paced toward her. "Miss McKinney, are you alright?"


    She nodded lightly. "I''m fine."


    He breathed a sigh of relief. "That''s good. What were they nning to do?"


    "They staged my disappearance because they wanted to ckmail Aidan with me. As for Aidan''s


    situation, I''m still unsure about that."


    "He''s fine. Don''t worry," Daniel said.


    She nodded slowly when she suddenly recalled something and said, "How did you know that I''m


    here?"


    "Oscar told me."


    "I see," Leanna muttered. It seems like Aidan has been in contact with them all along.


    Just then, Oscar arrived at the meeting point as well. "Let''s go. I''ll drop you home," he offered.


    She dusted herself as she rose to her feet and answered, "Okay."


    "Miss McKinney," Daniel suddenly called out her name.


    Leanna tilted her head around. "What''s the matter?"


    Daniel grinned. "Nothing. Have a good rest at home."


    "Thanks."


    Leanna ambled her way to Oscar''s car. Yet, she couldn''t help but sense that there was something off.


    So, she turned to look at Daniel''s car, which was parked nearby.


    The car windows were tinted, and nothing could be seen from the outside. After she stared for a few


    seconds, she looked away and climbed into Oscar''s vehicle.


    "Bye," Oscar bid Daniel farewell and hopped into his car.


    After the ck Bentley had rolled off for a while, Leanna said, "Please drop me off at the airport."


    "Are you going to meet Aidan?"


    "Yeah," she muttered softly.


    "The flight from Lachstein takes more than ten hours. So, he wouldn''t be there even after you return


    home and take a nap."


    "I won''t be able to sleep even if I do go home," she refuted.


    Oscar hesitated momentarily before silently switching their course to the airport.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    ¡­


    After Daniel sat in his car, he said, "She''s gone."


    William lifted his hand and massaged the spot between his brows. "Well, we should get going, too," he


    said, his voice rife with unnamed emotions.


    "Why don''t you meet her yourself when you''re so concerned about her?"


    "What can I say when I meet her?"


    "Actually, I think she already knows," Daniel carefully voiced his spection.


    A stunned William asked, "When did she find out?"


    "I don''t know. It''s just a guess that I''ve never verified."


    He frowned and didn''t say anything for a while.


    So, Daniel continued, "If you think that there''s a problem with Louis, I can have a little chat with him."


    After a few seconds, William finally answered, "I heard that after Jethro passed away, Aidan sent his


    DNA for tests."


    "That''s¡­ correct."


    "But the results are not out until now. Do you know why?"


    Daniel didn''t know what to say in response. Eventually, William exined, "This matter, whether for me,


    Leanna, or even Louis, is a taboo topic. It''s better to pretend that it doesn''t exist rather than uncovering


    this wound."

 Chapter 522

    Chapter 522


    As Aidan was returning by helicopter, Oscar dropped Leanna off directly at the private hangar.


    "You should return to whatever you''re doing. I can wait for him here myself," Leanna said.


    He gave her a nod in reply; he did have a lot on his te at the moment. "Call me if you need


    anything," he said.


    "Sure."


    After he left, she silently leaned against the car window and watched the scenery outside.


    After all themotion in the night, dawn had started to show in the sky, and it wouldn''t be long before


    the sun would rise.


    Leanna stared at the sky dazedly and didn''t know when she had fallen asleep. Still, she only realized


    she had fallen asleep when the vibration of her cell phone woke her up. She groggily rubbed her eyes


    before squinting at the screen, only to see that it was Louis calling her.


    She cleared her throat and picked up the call. "What''s up, Louis?"


    "Where are you now?" he asked solemnly.


    "I¡­"


    She quickly swallowed the words that were about to tumble out of her mouth as she thought, If Louis is


    calling me so early in the day with this tone, it shows that he probably already knew about what


    happenedst night.


    "I''m at the airport waiting for Aidan to return," she answered softly.


    "Send me the location. I''ming over," he said.


    "It''s okay," she replied. "I''m fine. You should just attend your sses."


    Louis frowned. "It''s such a big deal. How could you be fine?"


    After Leanna left the Pearson Family Estate, she didn''t check her phone besides giving Oscar a call.


    So, she had no clue that her disappearance had caused a considerable uproar.


    Nevertheless, she chuckled and answered, "I''m fine, really. Otherwise, how could I answer your call?


    The Pearsons are merely bluffing. They didn''t even dare toy a single finger on me."


    Louis pursed his lips without saying a word.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    "Alright, just attend your sses. I''ll look for you at your school in a few days."


    "No," he said. "I''m going to the apartment in the evening."


    "Oh, that''s okay, too. I''ll be back tonight as well."


    After they ended the call, she scrolled through her phone and saw that Zoe had called her twice and


    sent her a barrage of texts.


    Maybe she missed them because she slept too soundly.


    When she noticed that her phone battery was running low, she decided not to reply to Zoe''s calls but


    sent her a text to inform her that she was safe and sound.


    Then, she opened her browser using her remaining battery power and quickly scrolled through the


    relevant topics.


    There were a few headlines regarding her disappearance after she attended the party, but there was


    also rification after that, saying that it was just a careless misunderstanding.


    Obviously, the Pearsons had intervened.


    Since this matter wasn''t exposed with solid proof, nobody took it to heart; only the people close to her


    knew that this was not a misunderstanding.


    And that was the reason behind Louis and Zoe calling her.


    Before she could continue browsing, her phone died due to its t battery. She sighed at her phone as


    she set it aside and closed her eyes again.


    A whileter, someone knocked on the car window. She was jolted from her thoughts and quickly rolled


    the window down.


    The person outside passed her a bag. "Miss McKinney, there''s food and drinks inside."


    "Thanks." She took the bag from him and asked after a second, "What''s the time now?"


    "9.30 AM."


    "When will Aidan be arriving?"


    "He''s probablynding around 3.00 PM."


    She nodded in acknowledgment. "Please get me a power bank."


    "Okay. Please wait a moment, Miss McKinney."


    She ced the bag aside and got out of the car to stretch her body. When the man returned with a


    power bank, she thanked him and hopped into the driver''s seat.


    I might as well make a trip to the Crossley Group rather than waste my time waiting here, she decided,


    connecting her cell phone to the power bank, and drove off after she informed the man of her ns.


    At the Crossley Group, she had just entered the office when Raymond came in. "Are you okay, Miss


    McKinney?"


    She slumped against her chair as she smiled softly. "Yeah, I''m alright. What''s the matter?"


    "After news of your disappearance was releasedst night, Richard, me, and a few others went to the


    Pearson Family Estate, but Old Mr. Pearson imed that you were not there. After that, we got wind


    that you were already home, so we left."


    When she recalled the ruckusst night, she inquired, "Were there a lot of people therest night?"


    Raymond nodded in reply. "There were also a few journalists in attendance. Other than that¡­ I don''t


    know who they were."


    "I got it. Thanks, it''s been hard on you guys," she said apologetically.


    Those are probably the people Daniel hired, she reckoned.


    "No, this is nothing. I''m just d you''re okay. I''m getting back to work," he said.


    "Okay."


    Leanna rubbed her temples after he left. Just as she was about to open her design draft, Freddie


    entered her office. "Oh, thank God. You''re alive and well! I was almost sent to the crematorium." She


    stared at him in disbelief, mouth agape as he made himselffortable in the seat across from her.


    "How did it go? Did you find any clues at the tiger''s denst night?"


    Leanna snapped her lips shut before muttering in frustration, "They tricked me by using the fact that


    Justin was hurt. Of course, you guys probably already know about that, too, huh?"


    He chuckled awkwardly before saying, "Sorry for our negligence. You wouldn''t be in danger otherwise."


    Nheless, Leanna shook her head and dismissed his words. "Actually, I wasn''t in danger during my


    forced stay there. They merely wanted to use me so they could make Aidan agree to their terms, but if I


    weren''t there, the one who would be in real danger would be Aidan."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Justin told me that they had two ns. One was to use me to ckmail Aidan, and the other one, in


    case that failed, was¡­ They would do anything to make Aidan stay in Lachstein forever."


    A frown appeared on his face. "Whose n is this?"


    "Justin said ''they'', which probably means Old Mr. Pearson and Sienna," she mused.


    "When did Justin find out all these, then?"


    "Not long ago, I reckon. He said that they only informed him about it after they had made the


    arrangements," she replied. "The reason he helped them to keep me there was because of Aidan."


    A short moment of silence passed before Freddie finally said, "Yeah, if Justin knew their n


    beforehand, he would definitely put a stop to it."


    "They should have nned this for a very long time. That''s why I was very worried about Aidan the


    entire time," she said.


    "Aidan went to Lachstein because of an unexpected situation, and we were caught unawares. If they


    already made all the preparations beforehand, it will be very troublesome indeed. But don''t worry, even


    if they''ve made several contingency ns. It''s not easy for them to ensure that Aidan would stay in


    Lachstein for good."


    "I just want Aidan to be safe." Leanna paused momentarily and continued, "Then¡­ Is there any way to


    turn things around after Aidan has agreed to their terms?"


    Freddie smirked. "Patience, young padawan. You''ll know once he returns."

 Chapter 523

    Chapter 523


    Leanna left Crossley Group around the afternoon and headed straight to the airport after she saw that it


    was almost time.


    Unexpectedly, as soon as she got downstairs, she saw a man leaning on a Rolls-Royce not far away


    with a casual posture. His calm eyes were looking in her direction.


    She was momentarily stupefied at the sight of him right before him. She didn''t even know what she was


    doing. By the time she hade to, she had instinctively run to him, thrown herself into his arms, and


    wrapped her arms tightly around his waist.


    Even though everyone had been reassuring her that Aidan was safe sincest night, the feeling of


    uneasiness and fear within her lingered like a fog around the cemetery.


    She finally felt a connection to the real world as she held him in a tight embrace, feeling his warmth


    seeping through her skin.


    Aidan also wrapped his arms around her. "You missed me, huh?" he asked with a mirthful yet low


    voice.


    Leanna''s grip only got tighter upon hearing his lighthearted remark. "I almost lost you." Her voice was


    somewhat choked up as she couldn''t control her emotions.


    He soothed her as he gently patted her back, "I will always show up as long as you want to see me."


    "I¡­ I was going to pick you up¡­" Even though her voice was muffled as she pressed her face against


    his chest, he could still hear its nasal quality.


    "I arrived early. I knew you would be eager to see me, so I came looking for you the first thing after I left


    the airport."


    Leanna didn''t argue with him, for she indeed yearned to see him. It got to the point that she wanted to


    see him as soon as he got off the ne.


    Aidan ran his fingers through her hair and requested gently, "Seeing as how I''m only back after such a


    long time, can you do me a favor and get off work early this evening to spend some time with me?"


    She immediately nodded. "Okay."


    I have Freddie watching over the situation at Crossley Group for me, and I''m not in the mood to do


    anything right now, either. So, if I stay, I will only be wasting everyone''s time, including my own.


    He opened the car''s side door and tilted his head for her to hop in. "Get in."


    On their journey back, Leanna leaned on Aidan''s shoulder,pletely leaning against him as she


    gradually felt her frayed nerves receiving respite after such a harrowing time. It didn''t take long for her


    to fall soundly asleep against him.


    Aidan slightly tightened his hold around her and inaudibly breathed a sigh of relief. I would have gone


    insane if something had happened to her when I wasn''t around.


    Leanna slept very deeply. By the time she was blinking the rest of her sleep away from her eyes, she


    had discovered that she was already in the apartment''s bedroom, and the sky outside waspletely


    dark. Oh, there goes my sleeping schedule again, I suppose.


    Meanwhile, he was lying next to her, and she could hear his steady breathing in the silent bedroom.


    She carefully turned over and drank the sight of him quietly for a while before slowly closing the


    distance and kissing him. After that, she gently lifted the nket and maneuvered her way out of the


    bed.


    Once she made sure to close the bedroom door with a silent click, she decided to make a meal. s,


    to her dismay, when she entered the kitchen and opened the refrigerator, she saw that there was no


    food.


    Just then, she couldn''t help but recall that Aidan hadn''t been around these few days. So, she never


    bothered going to the supermarket to purchase any groceries. Instead, she would always make herself


    some simple meals that could be done within ten minutes tops.


    Leanna checked the time and suddenly remembered that Louis had told her this morning that he would


    come over in the evening. It''s almost time, so Louis should be here soon.


    Since she didn''t want to go out, she simply sat on the couch and ordered a takeaway.


    The doorbell rang about ten minutester.


    Louis was here.


    Leanna opened the door and saw that Louis'' clothes were soaked. Therefore, she gasped in worry, "Is


    it raining outside? Why are you drenched?"


    "It''s just a drizzle," replied Louis.


    "Come in. Quickly now."


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


    As she spoke, she turned around and went into the bathroom. Then, she grabbed a clean towel and


    handed it to him.


    Louis took it and started wiping off the rainwater from his person while looking around the house.


    "Aidan isn''t back yet?"


    "He''s sleeping," Leanna answered softly.


    Louis went silent for a while before he switched topics, "What happenedst night?"


    "I-It was nothing."


    She knew that Louis would be out of his mind with worry if she didn''t exin things. So, she tried her


    best to remember every detail as she recounted the tale to him.


    Once he understood what was going on, he furrowed his brows tightly.


    During his stony silence, she went to pour him a ss of water. "Okay. Everything is over now, and I''m


    fine. So, don''t worry."


    "How about Aidan, then?" Louis asked.


    Leanna paused for a moment before answering sheepishly, "I don''t know. I haven''t had time to ask him


    yet."


    As soon as she said that, Aidan came out of the bedroom. There was a somewhat displeased look in


    his still sleepy-looking eyes when heid his gaze at Louis.


    Aidan sat on the couch and drawled, "And what are you doing here?"


    "Nothing," Louis replied curtly.


    Then, he dismissed Aidan entirely and turned his attention back to Leanna. "I''m d that you''re fine.


    Well then, I shall take my leave first."


    "Louis, why don''t you join us for dinner? Isn''t it still raining outside?" Leanna suggested, feeling


    somewhat surprised at Louis'' oddly eager-to-leave attitude.


    "Nah, thanks for the offer. I''ll just take a cab back."


    Leanna chased after him and passed him an umbre she grabbed from the entrance. "Here, take this.


    You will catch a coldter if you get wet in the rain again."


    After he left, she closed the door, walked up to Aidan, andined to him under her breath, "What


    are you doing? It''s not like Louis is here every day."


    Aidan leaned on the couch with his fingers resting on his temples. When he heard herint, he


    merely raised his eyebrows slightly and stretched out his hand to pull her into his arms. "Won''t he be


    third wheeling if he stays right now? Not bad. Louis is pretty good at taking hints."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by his brazen and shameless attitude.


    As she made herselffortable on Aidan''sp, she couldn''t help but notice that his body temperature


    was rather high. Therefore, she reached out and touched his forehead before she went on to touch


    hers. "Did you catch a cold?"


    "Kind of," Aidan hummed in a low voice.


    "Have you taken any fever medication?"


    "No."


    Leanna wanted to get the flu medicine for him right then. Still, when she took into consideration that


    Aidan hadn''t eaten anything yet, she figured it would better for him to take his medicine after their


    dinner.


    "Did they make things difficult for youst night?" Aidan asked.


    She immediately shook her head and answered, "No. Justin¡­ He only did so for the sake of protecting


    you¡­"


    "I know. Freddie told me about it on the phone."


    So, Leanna asked, "Is there currently any way for us to fix this?"


    "They will hold the Pearson Group''s board of directors'' meeting in two days," Aidan said tly.


    "What are they trying to exploit from the board meeting this time?"


    "Since they have obtained the share of Pearson Group from me, they will undoubtedly let everyone


    know about this. Therefore, holding a board meeting at this time is the best time for them. I specte


    that Old Master Pearson is probably intending to give Justin those shares and officially bring him into


    Pearson Group by using those shares as a reason behind his appointment. This way, there won''t be


    objections from others as long as I don''t oppose the decision."


    Regardless of which aspect, Old Master Pearson proposing Justin take over my position now is


    undoubtedly the smartest move he has ever made over the years. I couldn''t care less about the tactics


    Gordon and others used to obtain my shares.


    However, if Justin truly were forced to take on that position, I would have shown my greatest respect for


    him and definitely wouldn''t treat him ruthlessly as I did Gordon. It was also precisely because of this


    that Gordon and others had an opportunity that they could exploit to their advantage.


    "Will you¡­ oppose, then?" Leanna asked, probing for Aidan''s opinion.


    Aidan curled the corners of his lips into a smirk and said, "It''s truly a stroke of genius. They know that I


    won''t do anything to Justin, so they ced their entire bet on him.."


    "But Justin is only their puppet. He''s not interested in running Pearson Group. So, if he joins the


    Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist, rested his chin on her shoulder as he slowly parted his lips,


    and said, "They won''t win."


    Leanna was confused and didn''t hesitate to voice her query. "What do you mean?"


    "They would have to deliver that contract to Old Master Pearson by any means necessary. That is the


    only way they can use the contract to its full potential. But, then again, Lachstein is so far away. So,


    how is it possible for them to guarantee that they can deliver the document unscathed?"

 Chapter 524

    Chapter 524


    Luckily, the food Leanna ordered was nd dishes. Once they were done eating, she took some


    medication and poured Aidan a cup of water before cing them before him. "Take some of this first. If


    your fever still doesn''t subside tonight, we''ll go to the hospital tomorrow."


    He ced the pills in his mouth before picking up the cup and took a drink as his Adam''s apple


    bobbed. Then, he assured her, "I''m fine. I''ll feel better after resting for a few days."


    She knew he did not have enough rest during the few days he was in Lachstein as he rode a helicopter


    back overnight. Even the healthiest person could not withstand such exhaustion.


    "Have some rest. I''m going to take a shower," she said.


    Grabbing her wrist, Aidan raised an eyebrow and asked, "How about together?"


    That left Leanna speechless. She pped his hand away and criticized, "You''re already not feeling


    well. Can''t you behave for once?" While saying that, she grabbed her clothes and went straight into the


    bathroom.


    Judging by his change of clothes, he must''ve already taken a bath aftering home. Since he''s such


    a neat freak, how could he have lied down in bed right after taking such a long helicopter ride?


    After taking a bath, Leanna felt a lot of the fatigue she had umted these two days had dissipated.


    When she came out, Aidan was taking a call on the balcony.


    Seeing that, she did not disturb him and went into the bedroom. The phone callsted for half an hour.


    When she saw his return, she asked, "Did something happen?"


    "It''s nothing. Just some unimportant, trivial things." He walked over to her andy beside her. Then, he


    turned off the lights and pulled her into his embrace before whispering, "Let''s sleep."


    She had taken a long nap that afternoon and was no longer tired. While shutting her eyes, she felt


    more awake the longer she tried to sleep.


    After tossing and turning a few times, Aidan asked, "Can''t sleep?"


    Leanna whispered, "Did I wake you up? Why don''t I head outside¡­"


    Just as she was about to get up, he wrapped his hand around her waist and stopped her. "No need for


    that. I can''t sleep either."


    Without waiting for him to continue, she urged, "Even if you can''t sleep, you should close your eyes


    and take a rest. Clear your dirty thoughts."


    He went silent for a moment before chuckling softly and whispering in her ear, "What dirty thoughts?"


    However, Leanna ignored him and stayed silent, so he moved his palm under her clothes and ced it


    on her waist before asking in a husky voice, "Tell me¡ªwhat was so dirty about my thoughts?"


    Pinning Aidan''s hand down, she exined, "Just¡­ don''t think about anything. You''ll fall asleep once


    you close your eyes."


    A few secondster, his voice sounded in the dark. "Leanna."


    "What do you want?"


    "When I was missing, were you afraid you might never see me again?"


    Recalling what she said at Crossley Group, she blushed and stammered, "Why are you bringing this


    up?"


    Aidan replied, "No reason. I just want some confirmation."


    "Didn''t I already say that this afternoon?"


    "I wanna hear it again."


    She was at a loss for words and whispered, "Why are you so sentimental while you''re sick?"


    He asked, "Sentimental?"


    "No, that''s not what I meant. It''s just that¡­" Leanna became serious. "Don''t ever get yourself into


    danger again. I''ll be worried sick."


    While hugging her, Aidan hummed a reply. Now that he had set the scene, he continued, "This counts


    as meing back from the dead, so shouldn''t I get a reward?"


    She was confused. What nonsense is he talking about?


    His voice echoed again. "For example, when I made you unhappy or angry, you would immediately


    forgive me."


    "That depends on the situation."


    "What are those situations?"


    "If you argued with me for no reason, I would''ve looked past it and forgiven you."


    Feeling unsatisfied, Aidan argued, "When have I ever been unreasonable?"


    Leanna replied honestly, "Always."


    While sticking his tongue against his teeth, Aidan was silent for a moment before saying, "What about


    the other situations?"


    Leanna rebuked, "What other situations do you have? Does cheating count? You''ve already fallen for


    another woman, yet you''re still worried I might be mad?"


    "What? There''s no such thing."


    "Then, what are you implying?"


    He closed his eyes. "Nothing. Let''s sleep. I''m suddenly tired."


    That left Leanna speechless. He has learned the essence of being perfunctory.


    Since she still could not sleep, she tried to get out of his embrace to head outside and continue her


    designs. Yet, when she moved, he held onto her tighter. "Didn''t you say you''d fall asleep after closing


    your eyes?"


    "I lied."


    He did not know how to respond.


    After a while, she called out to him. "Aidan, are you asleep?"


    "No."


    Lightly pursing her lips, she said, "William looked for mest night."


    "Did you see him?"


    "No. He stayed in his car," Leanna exined. "Also, he was the one who helped me during the


    Crossley Group''s crisis."


    "That''s what he should''ve done. You don''t need to feel like you owe him anything."


    She sighed. "Although you''re right, I¡ª"


    Knowing what she was thinking, Aidan reasoned, "That wasn''t your choice. It was his. In other words,


    that was the best solution at that moment."


    She understood that fact and could only let it be.


    If she wanted to protect Louis, she would have to act like she was clueless¡ªeven if that person was


    her biological father.


    Leanna did not know when she fell asleep, but Aidan was no longer lying beside her when she awoke.


    While rubbing her eyes, she made her way to the living room, where she saw him sitting before a


    computer working.


    Still drowsy, she went over to him and almost entirely relied on her instincts to feel his forehead before


    sighing in relief. "That''s good. You''re not running a fever anymore."


    Aidan smiled and grabbed her hand. "I told you I''d be fine."


    While Leanna stood there, she sobered up a little. "Aren''t you going to thepany today?"


    "No. I''m staying with you today."


    She went quiet for a while. "I''m very busy."


    Since there was not much to do at Crossley Group, she could take this chance to head back to her


    studio and check up on Zoe.


    Aidan asked, "I know you''re busy, but can''t you spare some time at night for me?"


    Smiling, she teased, "I''ll think about it."


    He replied, "Are you going to the studio?"


    She nodded in response. "What about you? Are you going to stay at home?"


    "I''m going to visit the Pearsons."


    Hearing that, Leanna was surprised. "What for?"


    He exined, "You disappeared at the Pearsons. How can I not go there and demand an exnation?"


    "But¡ª"


    "Don''t worry. It''s just a visit. I''ll pick you up tonight."


    However, Leanna knew it would not be as innocent as a visit. There had to be something else.


    She nodded. "Okay." Then, she added, "I''ll wash up now. Be careful when you head to the Pearsons,


    and you better not confront them head-on."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Now that Gordon had thoughts about killing him, Aidan would not be safe if he went to the Pearson


    Family Estate alone.

 Chapter 525

    Chapter 525


    When Leanna arrived at the studio, Zoe was standing at the entrance with an ashen face, seeming like


    she was about to puke.


    Leanna went over and gently patted her back. "Zoe, are you alright?"


    Turning to look at Leanna, Zoe replied breathlessly, "Nana, you came. I''m fine. I''m already used to it."


    "Let''s head inside."


    After entering the studio, Leanna poured Zoe a cup of water and asked, "Have you been throwing up a


    lot these days?"


    While Zoe was plopping onto the table, she nodded lightly. "I can''t seem to keep food down either. I


    would throw up after eating." After saying that, she heaved a long sigh. "I finally know how you felt


    when you were pregnant. This is torturing. I don''t want to have any children after this."


    Chuckling, Leanna sat opposite her. "It''s only difficult during the beginning of your pregnancy. Once


    your belly starts to grow, your experience will be more astonishing."


    Zoe picked up the cup and drank a few sips. "Forget it. I''ll never feel anything astonishing about this.


    My only wish is to get past these six months as quickly as possible. The sooner this ends, the better."


    Leanna hesitated for a while before asking, "Have you¡­ told Daniel?"


    "Of course, but he says he needs to think about it. Maybe he''s too shaken up by this." Zoe continued,


    "You know. Men don''t like to be straightforward. We''re all adults, so I know what he means by that.


    Once the six months are up, this matter wille to an end."


    Hearing that, Leanna lightly pursed her lips and did not make anyments. It was a matter between


    Daniel and Zoe, and she did not know the whole story. It would be better to wait until thest moment


    before finding out what would happen next.


    "Let''s not talk about this anymore." Zoe asked, "Did youe to the studio cos there''s nothing to do at


    Crossley Group?"


    Nodding, Leanna replied, "The project has been officiallyunched, and things are currently going


    smoothly, but I don''t understand much about business matters, so Freddie is helping me."


    When Zoe heard Freddie''s name, she recalled her memory of him. "Is he the unreliable-looking dandy


    we met at the barst time?"


    Leannaughed. "Yes, that''s him."


    Zoe sighed. "So, it''s true. Those who look unreliable are excellent people. But I''m different from them


    because not only do I look unreliable, but I am also unreliable."


    Knowing that pregnant women were more sentimental, Leanna patted Zoe''s head. "What would you


    like to eat for lunch? It''s on me."


    "Aren''t you going to have lunch with President Pearson?"


    "He''s onlying tonight."


    While rubbing her hands together, Zoe joked. "I won''t go lightly on you. Since I haven''t had much of an


    appetite these days, I must stimte it by eating a good meal today."


    "Sure."


    Meanwhile, in the Pearson Family Estate, Gordon grimly waved his hand when he received news about


    Aidan''s return, indicating for the servant to leave. Then, he sat in his study for a few minutes before


    heading out with his cane.


    In the living room, Aidan was sitting on the couch with an emotionless face.


    Gordon walked over and sat opposite him before asking, "Don''t you hate this family? Why did you


    come back?"


    Without any changes in his expression, Aidan uttered slowly, "You went through so much effort to invite


    Leanna over. I thought you must miss me, so I came over uninvited."


    Hearing that, Gordon frowned as his expression turned gloomy. "Does that mean without Leanna, you


    will nevere back to this house?"


    "That''s not entirely true. If you suddenly pass someday, I''lle back to pay my respects."


    Gordon was instantly infuriated and bashed his cane on the ground. "How dare you speak such


    nonsense!"


    Aidan retorted, "You''re already so old¡ªalmost halfway inside your coffin. How can you still not


    understand that nature has its course? It''s time you ept it."


    "I think you''re hoping that I die early!"


    "Aren''t you wishing I were dead too?"


    Just like that, Aidan easily peeled off the thinyer of disguise between his and the Pearsons''


    rtionship.


    Gordon''s face was as dark as coal, and he could not find the words to retort.


    Meanwhile, Aidan''s voice wasced with ice when he said, "I don''t have any objections to what you''re


    plotting against me. If you want to kill me, I am always ready to ept the challenge, but if you guys


    tried to harm Leanna, I don''t mind dying together with all of you."


    Once he said those words, the living room descended into dead silence.


    A whileter, Gordon softened his tone and rebuked, "How could you say that? Talking about death in


    every sentence. Things haven''t gotten to that point yet. What''s more, isn''t she doing just fine?"


    Aidan responded, "Yes, she''s doing fine now, but if this happens again, I can''t promise I wouldn''t do


    anything."


    Gordon reprimanded, "Aidan, when I let you take over Pearson Group, I told you to make it your


    priority, but now, you''re saying such things because of a woman. Don''t you think that''s outrageous?"


    "Because of a woman?" Aidan uttered tly, "Isn''t it because you all know how much she means to me


    that you nned such a huge scheme to trick her over?"


    Frowning, Gordon tried to avert the point. "What do you mean by tricking her over? The Pearson


    Family Estate''s entrance is right there. She walked in herself. Do you expect me to chase her out the


    door?"


    Aidan scoffed before getting up. "I''ve said what I came to say. It''s up to you whether you take it."


    After Aidan left, Gordon sat on the couch and could not help but scold, "He''s a lunatic. A madman!"


    At that moment, Sienna came down the stairs. "It''s not the first time he went berserk. Have you only


    realized this now?"


    Gordon indeed did not expect Aidan toe over and bring that matter to light for Leanna.


    The turn of events was beyond his expectations, which meant Leanna was more valuable than he


    thought. However, if he plotted any ideas against Leanna again, Aidan might truly go insane. Perhaps


    he might even fight to the death. If that happened, Gordon would not be able to get anything.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    After a moment''s silence, he spoke up, "How is it going with Naomi? No clues still?"


    Crossing her arms, Sienna answered, "No."


    He furrowed his eyebrows. "You have to pay more attention to this matter. It would be best if you can


    find her before the board of directors meeting. That way, we will have a token in our hands to deal with


    any unexpected situations."


    "What unexpected situations are there? Didn''t you say you have it all arranged?"


    "Yes, I did, but¡­"


    Something happened in Lachstein. They sent some people over, but they had yet to return. Even with


    the faxes and a copy, Gordon remained insecure without having the original documents in his hand.


    He narrowed his eyes as he pondered whether the people he sent were his in the beginning. On top of


    that, Aidan had foiled several of his ns, so he was fearful something might happen.

 Chapter 526

    Chapter 526


    When Aidan arrived at the garden, he heard a voice in the back. "Aidan."


    Turning around, he saw a calm Justin in his wheelchair, quietly sitting not far from him. Aidan


    approached him and asked, "Did you hear everything?"


    Justin nodded lightly. "Yes. You did nothing wrong. If it were me, I would''ve done the same as well."


    Aidan replied, "You could''ve stayed out of this."


    With a resigned smile, Justin replied, "I can only say this isn''t something I can control."


    He was a member of the Pearson Family, and his mom had also yed a part in hurting Leanna, so


    how could he stay out of it? Even if he knew there was no going back, he wanted to drag this secret for


    as long as possible.


    Aidan sat on a long bench and watched the sun slowly rise in the distance. "If you''re willing to leave, I


    can send you somewherefortable after thises to an end."


    "What about my mom?"


    In a deep voice, Aidan stated, "She had her hand in it, so she has to pay the price."


    Justin sighed silently. "Aidan, I know she had previously done a lot of things she can''t make up for, and


    I feel sorry for Leanna, but what can I do? She''s my mother, and she did all that for me. During these


    twenty-plus years, I could feel her despair and sorrow, but with my condition, I can''t even perform the


    most basic filial piety."


    After withdrawing his gaze, Aidan promised, "I won''t do anything to her. I just want her to get punished


    for what she did."


    "If possible, I hope I can take on the punishment in her ce, no matter what it is."


    Aidan did not respond while Justin was gazing somewhere, pondering about something. It took him a


    while before saying, "Aidan, you can go ahead and do what you''ve nned. There''s no need to care


    for my feelings because if they fall, I''ll also finally be free." He sounded relieved in thosest words.


    It was as if he had been waiting for this moment for the longest time.


    Aidan nced at Justin and frowned.


    On the day he was brought back to the Pearsons twenty years ago, Gordon and Sienna got into a huge


    fight, and she went mad, screaming degrading words like b*stard, filthy, douchebag, and others.


    Helplessness was evident in Gordon''s tone. Had that ident not happened and the Pearson Group


    needed an heir, he would not have cared about his illegitimate son, even if he died.


    Back then, Aidan stood at the door and watched them argue.


    Justin came over in his wheelchair and held Aidan''s hand before greeting him, "You must be Aidan,


    right? I''m Justin, your older brother."


    Aidan turned to look at Justin, his young face filled with disdain and hatred.


    Back then, it seemed like Justin had just been discharged from the hospital and was not familiar with


    how a wheelchair worked, so he would frequently fall from his wheelchair and get bruises all over his


    body.


    He smiled at Aidan with his bruise-filled face. "Don''t just stand there. I''ll bring you to your room."


    Since then, every time Sienna came to make things hard for Aidan, Justin would shield before him. He


    would also send Aidan food in the middle of the night whenever Sienna forbade the servants from


    providing Aidan food. When Aidan went to school, Justin would secretly hide a bank card inside Aidan''s


    bag as he was worried Gordon might not have given Aidan enough pocket money.


    It was not until Aidan took over Pearson Group and gradually showed his talents that Sienna stopped


    her actions.


    Among the entire Pearson Family, only Justin thought of Aidan as a person, family, and younger


    brother.


    Unfortunately, his mother was Sienna Zielinski.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Justin could not find a bnce between the two sides, so he wanted to be free. Simrly, Aidan was


    missing that bnce as well.


    After who knew how long, Justin piped up, "How''s Leanna? She must''ve been scared the other night."


    "She''s fine. She''s not that timid."


    Justin smiled. "When I saw her, I thought she seemed better than before. It seems like you''ve taken


    very good care of her, which is what you should''ve done earlier."


    Aidan raised his eyebrows. "You said a long time ago that I like her."


    "When ites to things like that, the bystanders see the picture better than the ones involved."


    While looking at Justin, Aidan concurred, "That''s how it is. Those stuck in the problem find it hard to


    find a solution, but there are plenty of solutions to crack a problem, so it''s still not the time for that."


    The smile on Justin''s face froze. "Aidan¡­"


    "Death is never a solution. It''s just an escape."


    Justin lowered his head and did notment on that.


    Then, Aidan got up. "I''m leaving."


    Nodding, Justin bade him goodbye. "Drive safely."


    He watched Aidan leave with both hands on his senseless knees for a long time before gazing away.


    He''s right. Death is never a solution but an excuse for the weak and useless.


    ¡­


    Leanna apanied Zoe out for lunch and dealt with some trivial matters at the studio. Once she was


    done, it was only about 4.00 PM.


    There was still plenty of time before dinner.


    Hence, Leanna decided to phone Aidan, who did not pick up. This can''t be. If Aidan had gone to the


    Pearson Family Estate in the morning like he said he would, he would''ve been back long ago because


    there''s no way he would''ve stayed for lunch.


    Then, she called again but to no avail.


    A bad feeling arose inside Leanna as she quickly packed her things and left her studio. Yet, when she


    saw the Rolls Royce parked beside the road, her anxious heart instantly calmed down. I was almost


    scared to death. I thought something might''ve happened to him while he was at the Pearsons.


    Following that, she approached the Rolls Royce and stood before Aidan.


    There was a cigarette between his lips, and his eyes were staring aimlessly in front. He seemed to be


    thinking about something so intently that he did not even notice Leanna.


    She had never seen him dazing off like this before. Waving her hand before his eyes, she asked


    tentatively, "Hey, handsome. Got your heart broken?"


    Aidan did not know how to respond and turned to look at the person speaking to him. When he saw it


    was Leanna, he removed his cigarette and asked in a husky voice, "Are you done?"


    She hummed in response. "I finished a while ago and called you, but you didn''t pick up."


    Instinctively reaching for his phone, he apologized. "I''m sorry. I had it on silent, so I didn''t hear you


    call."


    While leaning against the car''s window, Leanna stared into his jet-ck eyes. "What''s the matter? Are


    you feeling down?"


    Aidan tugged his lips into a smile. "No, I''m fine."


    "It''s written all over your face, yet you say you''re fine." Her gaze lowered onto the ashtray inside the


    car, and she frowned. "How many have you smoked?"


    "Not many," he replied.


    "Be truthful. I''m not blind, you know." She pulled the door open and ordered, "Get out. We''ll take my


    car. Yours reek with smoke."


    As such, Aidan descended the car and pulled her into his embrace after closing the door.


    Before Leanna could speak, he hushed. "Don''t move. Let''s just stay like this for a while."


    cing her hands on his waist, she could specte why he was acting this way. "Did you meet


    Justin?"

 Chapter 527

    Chapter 527


    Aidan grunted, "Yeah, I did."


    Leanna didn''t say anything further. Seeing the gloomy look on his face, she figured something bad


    must have happened. She patted his back,forting him silently. A long whileter, she whispered,


    "Let''s go. I''ll make something for you. What would you like to eat?"


    He cheekily asked, "You''d make anything?"


    I knew I shouldn''t haveforted him. She pulled her hand back. "Time to go."


    They got into the car, and Aidan looked at her. "I don''t feel like going home."


    Leanna started the engine and drove the car. "So, where would you like to go?"


    "Where would you like to go?"


    "Home. I want to sleep," she answered seriously.


    "Well, that can be arranged."


    I don''t like where this is going. She didn''t bother to entertain him further.


    A few momentster, he entered an address into the GPS. "I''d like to go to this ce."


    She nced at the screen and said, "Sure."


    The ce they were heading was in the old area. Highside was a big ce. Even though Leanna had


    been around for a long time, she couldn''t recall ever setting foot in this area. It took her an hour just to


    get to the ce Aidan had told her.


    Eventually, she stopped the car and got out. Everywhere she looked, only dpidated houses and


    broken walls stood. This was a deste ce abandoned by its people a long time ago. As if sealed by


    time, the city had forgotten of this ce.


    She wondered why Aidan led her here. He stopped beside her and stared ahead. "This was where I


    lived before I was taken back into the family."


    Leanna stared ahead in shock. "Really?"


    "Yes."


    "So, why¡­" Did it be like this? She wasn''t sure if she should ask this.


    "A developer bought this ce a few years ago, and everyone moved."


    "Was it you?"


    Aidan looked at her and smiled. "No."


    "Huh?"


    "The developer bought this ce because he caught wind of the government''s decision to develop this


    wing. But after the change of mayors, the project had been called off, and this became a no man''s


    land."


    A while of silenceter, Leanna whispered, "I can never understand the rich. How could he spend so


    much money on this ce only to abandon it in the end?"


    Aidan patted her shoulder. "If the investment can''t make any money, cutting your loss is always a good


    idea."


    She thought he had a point. This was the old area, and the location of this ce had been the worst in


    this area. If the government didn''t help it out, these slums would have no future to speak of. Any


    investment would fail.


    The sun was setting in the distance, and Leanna rested her head on Aidan''s shoulder, staring at the


    houses before them.


    The ce held some resemnce with Underwood Lane. Houses were built near one another, and


    alleyways riddled the streets. It was a quiet ce. Nobody would think this was part of Highside if they


    didn''t know better. A whileter, Leanna thought she should ask some questions, and she looked up at


    Aidan. "So, you and Ms. Fletcher lived here for a while?"


    "Yes."


    "Nobody else was with you?"


    "No."


    Ever since she saw Naomi, Leanna had a feeling she was different from most people. Naomi might


    look simple, but her air spoke of a sense of regality that not even Sienna couldpare. A moment of


    silenceter, Leanna asked, "Do you know about her family, then?"


    "Never asked. Ever since I was born, this was where I lived," Aidan answered, not showing any trace of


    emotions.


    Leanna still thought Naomi would never wreck anyone''s home, and she had a feeling that these slums


    weren''t Naomi''s real home either. There must be something more to that story.


    The sun had fully set, and dusk descended. Aidan said, "Let''s go."


    "Alright." Aidan took the wheels on the way back. It was a long journey, and traffic wasn''t the best, so


    Leanna leaned on the seat and fell asleep. When she woke up, she realized Aidan wasn''t driving them


    home. She moved her arms and neck around. Groggily, she asked, "So, where are we going?"


    Softly, he said, "Home."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Is that so? I don''t recall this road, though."


    A smile curled his lips. "This is the road that will lead us to our home."


    Aidan took a right turn, and Leanna realized they were heading to Castor Vi. Oh, right. He did say


    we''d move to Castor Vi once he''s back from Lachstein. I totally forgot about it. A few minutester,


    they stopped before the vi, and Leanna got out of the car. She saw lights hanging around the garden.


    There were swings, vines, and a whole garden of flowers in the yard.


    The ce was designed ording to her vision, and something else was included as well. It felt like


    home now. Castor Vi used to be a cold ce, but now it wasn''t anymore. She turned around and met


    Aidan''s gaze.


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "Let''s go in, shall we?" He held her hand and took her inside.


    She could imagine what it looked like inside, but when she saw the real deal, she couldn''t help but feel


    amazed for a moment. It''s exactly what I had in mind, butfier, warmer, and brighter. House nts


    decorated the inside, lending a sense of life to the house.


    Smiling, Aidan led her upstairs and opened the door to the bedroom. Once the lights were turned on,


    Leanna smiled. Even this ce looks like a home now. However, when she saw the nursery, all delight


    was snuffed out.


    Noticing the look on her face, he asked, "What''s the matter?"


    A whileter, she looked at him. "I have something to tell you."


    "What is it?"


    She pursed her lips, her eyshes fluttering. There was a lump in her throat, and she couldn''t bring


    herself to speak even after several attempts.


    Aidan stood before her, stroking her head. "What''s wrong, Honey?"


    She hung her head low. Hoarsely, she said, "When I went for a checkupst time, the doctor told me I


    might never have a baby."


    "Is that all?"


    She nodded. Leanna had gotten over the fact, but when she saw the nursery, she realized that Zoe


    was right. Aidan does want a child.


    Right then, he pulled her into his arms. "I have something to say as well."

 Chapter 528

    Chapter 528


    Leanna looked up at him, her eyes glistening, and tears hung from her eyshes. She sniffled a little


    and whispered, "What is it?"


    Aidan''s heart melted at the sight of her. After staring at her for a short while, he snapped out of his


    reverie. He licked his lips and wiped her tears away. At first, he was going to tell her that the child was


    alive, but then he said, "If you want a baby, we can always adopt one."


    Not the right time to tell her. She just forgave me. And now, we''re finally moving in. If I tell her that the


    child is still alive and that I''d been lying to her, she''d probably leave with the kid and hide from me


    forever. Then, she''ll never forgive me again.


    Leanna stayed silent.


    Aidan pinched her ear softly. "Don''t cry. It''s nothing. Besides, it''s just a probability. I''ll try even harder.


    What do you think?"


    She muttered, "It''s not something that can be resolved by one''s effort alone."


    "Well, why don''t you work with me, then?"


    She didn''t know what kind of response she should give.


    He chuckled and pulled her back into his embrace. "Don''t think too much about it. Let''s just go with the


    flow. If we can have a baby, we''ll take it. It''s fine if we can''t."


    She rested her head on his shoulder for a while before calling out to him, "Aidan."


    "What?"


    "Never mind. It''s nothing."


    Huh? Aidan was slightly confused at her response.


    Leanna pushed him away. "It''s gettingte. We should go back now. We''ll move our stuff here when we


    have time." With that, she went downstairs.


    He followed her and asked, "Were you going to ask me something?"


    "It''s nothing."


    "You''re not telling?"


    "You wouldn''t want to hear it."


    "And how would you know that?"


    She stopped in her tracks and looked at him calmly. "You''ve been acting weirdtely."


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow at that. "How?"


    "You said something weirdst night. You told me that I should forgive you no matter what you did. And


    the tone you used just now when you told me you had something to say was different than usual¡ªit


    sounded serious. I didn''t want to think that you were going to say the very thing I was thinking, or I


    might go insane. I''ve made it clear, and I''ve given you a lot of chances toe clean. If everything was


    my paranoid acting up, then fine, I''m sorry. But if my suspicion had been right, I''d feel like a fool. A fool


    you''ve been ying with."


    Aidan knew what she was thinking, but he was unfazed. He gently held her hand and led her


    downstairs. "If you want to know what real y looks like, I''ll teach you. Once we get home, that is."


    Speechless, Leanna gritted her teeth. "Not the time to joke around." He must be thinking about


    something pervy again. Before they left, she looked back at the house, seemingly reluctant to leave.


    Aidan plopped into the driver''s seat. "I''ll get my men to move our stuff here tomorrow. You cane


    here whenever you like."


    She looked away for a moment. "Maybe sometimeter. The condo''s closer to Crossley Group and just


    about everywhere else. It''s easier to go around."


    A moment of silenceter, he said, "Sure." As long as she''s willing to move back here.


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


    Once they were home, Leanna entered the kitchen and made two bowls of ramen with whatever she


    had in the fridge.


    Aidan was leaning on the wall outside the kitchen, staring at her in silence. Now, I really can''t tell her


    that the child is alive.


    When Leanna came out of the kitchen with the ramen, he was nowhere to be found. Where is he? A


    momentter, she heard soundsing from the bathroom. He could''ve taken the shower when we


    came back. Why now?


    She sat down and scrolled through the photos of designs on her phone. Some of them she had already


    sent to Lewis, and he said they were good to go for the fashion show. However, she needed more


    items to make the show presentable. I need more time. Fortunately, I have a few more months. I just


    wish nothing else happens during then, but it''s impossible.


    Crossley Group alone would be hard to handle. Aside from a few of the top management she rehired,


    Jimmy''s men had been trying to trip her up as hard as they could. Fortunately, she had Richard and his


    men on her side. She kept an eye on them, and they performed excellently, not to mention they were


    decent men. I can delegate some of the more important work to them.


    However, there was something else she had to worry about¡ªRaymond.


    When Maya first introduced Raymond to her, she didn''t like how he was staring at her. However, aside


    from that, he didn''t overstep his boundaries. Back when she ran into him at the mall, he was nice to


    her, too.


    Though, she had no idea whose side he was on. At first, he and Jimmy met her at her workshop. She


    thought he was working for Jimmy, but after she returned to Crossley Group, he had been helping her


    with many problems. Some of the hurdles Jimmy had set for her were settled, thanks to Raymond. He


    even managed to stay away from the disaster that befell the top management back then. He''s smart


    and rted to Jimmy somehow. I can use him, but I can''t trust him.


    Just then, Aidan broke her train of thought. "What''s on your mind?"


    Leanna tucked her phone away. "Nothing. You should eat. It''s getting soggy."


    He took the seat beside her. "So, will you head to Crossley Group tomorrow?"


    She nodded in affirmative. "Yeah."


    "Tell me if Freddie''s cking off."


    She smiled. "He''s not. He''s been helping out thepany. All I have to do is sign the papers. A lot of


    the documents go over my head. If it weren''t for him, I couldn''t have gotten this far. I should thank him."


    "No need. It''s his job."


    "I know you guys are friends, but¡ª"


    Aidan gently interrupted, "I paid for his services."


    Freddie charged a high price even for ten minutes worth of consultation. And now, he''s working at


    Crossley Group all day. He must be charging a crazy price. "Send the bill to me. I''ll pay you. He is


    Crossley''s legal consultant. The bill should be on me."


    Aidan quoted the bill, and Leanna immediately changed her mind. Quickly, she said, "I think you might


    need a bit more food to go with the ramen. Care for an extra egg?"

 Chapter 529

    Chapter 529


    Two dayster, it was the Pearson Group''s board of directors meeting.


    Jonathan entered the president''s office. "President Pearson, Mr. Justin and Old Mr. Pearson have


    arrived."


    Aidan was seated behind his desk. He grunted and tapped the surface of his desk lightly, seemingly


    deep in thought.


    Jonathan continued, "And I''ve told those at the airport what to do. Everything is done."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    A few minutester, Aidan stood up. "Let''s go."


    Gordon took up the main seat in the conference hall. Sitting beside him was the calm, wheelchair-


    bound Justin. On his right was an empty seat belonging to Aidan. Everyone else was present and


    ounted for.


    The moment Aidan came in, Gordon said, "Everyone''s here. Let''s move on to our main agenda." Aidan


    took his seat, and the old man continued, "As you all know, Aidan is not my only son. Justin had to take


    a break due to his health, but now that he''s almost fully healed, he shoulde out for a bit."


    "I know Aidan has handled thepany well, but it''s a big corporation, and he can''t handle everything.


    As his brother, Justin is also the legal heir to thispany. He, too, should help out." Gordon paused


    for a moment after that to let his words sink in among the board of directors. Then, he carried on, "And


    so, Justin shall be working with thepany from now on. As a general manager."


    The board of directors broke into a discussion. Gordon was just a chairman by name. He couldn''t


    decide most of thepany''s matters, and he barely had any shares at all.


    Nobody wouldin if he gave Justin a minor position, but the general manager was a powerful


    spot. It was second to Aidan''s position, in fact. In other words, thepany would undergo a lot of


    change. Gordon would take back control. Will President Pearson agree to it? Everyone was discussing


    the matter, but Aidan remained silent.


    Gordon raised his hand. "Silence, everyone."


    Everyone fell silent, and the old man continued, "I know it''s hard to ept this sudden change, but


    Justin now owns forty percent of thepany''s shares. He is capable enough to be the general


    manager."


    The board of directors shot Aidan a look of surprise.


    They couldn''t believe Justin had forty percent of thepany''s shares. Before this, Aidan held eighty-


    five percent of the total shares and had total control of thepany. What happened?


    Knowing that the board of directors wouldn''t believe him easily, Gordon raised his hand, and his


    assistant turned the projector on. The screen should have shown the contract John had sent him two


    days ago, but all they saw was a blurry image. Sternly, the old man asked, "What''s going on?"


    "But it was fine before this. I made sure of it," the assistant said.


    Slowly, Aidan interjected, "Sorry, but the machine started malfunctioning yesterday. Didn''t have time to


    fix it yet."


    Gordon shot him a look.


    The assistant said, "I''ll call someone to fix it, sir."


    Gordon stopped his assistant. With a frown on his face, he asked, "Is he still not here?" Without the


    document, the fax is useless. If Aidan insists that it''s fake, I can''t do anything about it.


    The assistant whispered, "He''s already disembarked, but something happened¡­"


    "What?!"


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, John was detained by the customs officer the moment he disembarked on charges of


    possessing contraband. They wanted him to go with them.


    "Can I make a call, then?"


    The officer shot him a look that said, Isn''t it obvious?


    John handed his phone and worked with the officer, holding the document. I can''t believe this. Ever


    since I got on Aidan''s bad side, it''s been bad luck after bad luck. I made the mafia angry back in


    Lachstein for some reason. And just when I finally thought I could escape them, this happened.


    He knew Aidan was behind this whole thing, but he couldn''t understand how he could make the


    arrangements so quickly. As far as he was concerned, Aidan had no allies in Lachstein. He could


    barely keep an eye on the city, which was why they met up in Lachstein back then. However, that


    almost cost John his life.


    Oscar was outside the airport, texting Jonathan, ''Mission''s aplished.''


    ¡­


    Once Jonathan got the message, he whispered something to Aidan.


    "I see," said Aidan.


    Gordon looked at Aidan, his face ck as thunder. It''s him. He thought Aidan would at least hold back


    if Justin came with him, but things were getting out of hand. If he couldn''t get the document, then


    everything he did would have been for naught.


    However, he had a backup n. If worse came to worst, he could still use the fax to convince everyone


    he had control of thepany. He was just worried Aidan might deny it.


    Though, before the old man could say anything, Aidan announced, "I signed the papers. The contract


    is legally binding." With that, he left the conference room.


    Everyone was shocked, including the old man. He didn''t expect Aidan to admit the truth so suddenly. At


    the very least, he thought Aidan would put up a fight.


    Justin, who had been quiet all this time, frowned and followed Aidan out.


    Aidan had just entered his office when someone called out to him, "Aidan."


    Jonathan quietly backed out of the office and closed the door.


    A moment of silenceter, Justin said, "You shouldn''t have done that."


    Aidan took a seat on the couch. "Thepany''s yours to begin with. If you want it, I can give it to you."


    "You know I''m not the one who wants thispany."


    "Doesn''t matter. You''d still feel conflicted, anyway. So, let''s just get everything out of the way."


    "But Aidan¡ª"


    Aidan interjected, "I won''t regret the choice I made. Even if I were to give him half of my shares, I could


    still take it back someday."


    Justin didn''t know what to say, and all he could do was sigh.

 Chapter 530

    Chapter 530


    Leanna was at Crossley Group. When Raymond told her of the thing that happened in Pearson Group,


    she stayed silent for a moment. Then, she told Raymond to leave her. In all honesty, she wasn''t


    surprised about the results.


    Freddie clicked his tongue and leaned on the couch. "Guess he''s not as cold-blooded as everyone


    ims him to be."


    So, they expected this as well. Leanna stayed silent for a moment before she asked, "Is he going to be


    in trouble? I mean, work is going to be a lot more hostile from now on."


    "Nah. Back when he was handed thepany, the old git had eyes and ears all over the ce. He


    was kept under tight surveince, but the guy still got rid of those pesky insects. If he could build up his


    empire from zero and take control of thepany, he could do anything. Besides, he''s in a better


    situation than he used to."


    She heaved a sigh when she heard that. I don''t know what to say.


    A whileter, Freddie added, "But¡­"


    "But what?" She looked at him.


    He cocked his eyebrow as he continued, "It''s nothing. Anyway, I''ve done my work for the day. I''ve got


    to go to the firm now. Call me if you need anything."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    Freddie made his way to Pearson Group. He made a beeline for Aidan''s office, and Oscar was there as


    well. "So, what are you guys talking about? Toote for regrets, don''t you think?"


    Oscar said, "Found out who John is. He''s just a Dellshore local. No criminal records or anything.


    Nothing special. He hasn''t been back home for ten years. I can''t figure out how Old Mr. Pearson


    contacted him."


    "Probably through Sienna," Aidan guessed.


    Freddie piped in, "Who is Sienna''s helper, anyway? Still have no idea?"


    Oscar answered, "They''ve been hiding well. Sienna probably doesn''t know who they are, either.


    Probably only helps them because they''re in a partnership."


    "What should we do now?"


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


    They looked at Aidan, and he looked back at them. "Don''t look at me. The n remains unchanged."


    Oscar said, "You won''t go after Sienna, will you? He is Justin''s mother, after all."


    Aidan leaned on his couch and said in a nonchnt tone, "They''re two different people."


    "I wonder if Justin thinks that way."


    A long silence ensued, and Aidan said, "It''s different."


    "How so?" asked Freddie.


    "Thepany belongs to him. I don''t mind giving him everything I have." Aidan then added coldly, "But


    Sienna''s different. She almost killed Leanna."


    Freddie said, "If Justin thinks that way, then all will be well. But if he doesn''t, then we have a problem."


    Oscar sighed. "Justin has had a harder life than all of us. He''s a reasonable man, but no matter how


    reasonable he is, Sienna is still his mother. You can''t expect him to give you a free pass just like that."


    Justin was a kind soul, but he could be fearsome if provoked.


    ¡­


    Since she promised to go shopping with Zoe, Leanna texted Aidan about it after she got off work. She


    then headed for the workshop. The BOD meeting just ended. He probably has something to do. Maybe


    he''d still be at work even after I''m done shopping. Halfway through, Daphne called. She just finished


    her roadshow and was back in town.


    "Cool. Zoe and I are going shopping. Want toe along?"


    "Sure. Where are you at?"


    Leanna hung up and sent her the address. However, when thedies met, they kept sighing since each


    of them had something on their minds.


    They were in a coffee shop. Zoe bit her straw,ining, "I can''t believe it. It''s a gathering, girls.


    Lighten up, alright? Besides, I bet none of your problems are worse than mine."


    Daphne had no idea what had happened to Zoe. She looked at her friend, asking, "What happened?"


    Zoe said calmly, "Nothing much. Had a one-night stand and got knocked up."


    What in the world?! The shock on Daphne''s face was unmistakable. "Who''s the father?"


    The corners of Zoe''s lips twitched slightly. She was reluctant to answer.


    I think I know who it is now. "It''s Daniel, isn''t it?" Daphne took a guess.


    Zoe choked on her juice. She coughed a bit and stayed silent, but that was an answer in and of itself.


    "So, what now?" asked Daphne.


    "The doctor said it''s not the time for the surgery yet. I was told to wait, but it won''t be long now. A few


    more days, and it should be A-OK."


    "Does Daniel know?"


    "I told him. He said he''d consider the matter. I know what he was trying to say, though."


    Daphne had nothing to say to that. She stayed silent for a few moments before she looked at Leanna,


    who was spacing out. "What about her?" She nudged Zoe with her elbow. "What happened?"


    "Oh, you just came back. You haven''t gone to yourpany yet, huh?" whispered Zoe.


    "I rarely go to thepany unless it involves important contract matters."


    "I expected as much. Things have changed a lot."


    Zoe told her the gist of the matter, but what surprised Daphne the most was the existence of Justin.


    "President Pearson has a brother?"


    Zoe nodded. "I''ve seen him twice. It''s a pity he''s wheelchair-bound."


    A long whileter, Leanna finally snapped out of her reverie. "So, what were you two talking about?"


    She wasn''t listening at all. Daphne wanted to roll her eyes.


    She missed all that even though we were holding the conversation right in front of her. Zoe let out a


    silent sigh.


    Leanna didn''t think it was too much of a problem that Justin was working at Pearson Group, nor was


    his ownership of forty percent of thepany shares. However, after this event, she could see that the


    feud between Aidan and the Pearsons was finally surfacing.


    And now, the center of that feud was thepany. She used to think Justin could stay out of the


    matter, but now, he was in the eye of the storm.


    Sienna was her nemesis, but she owed Justin a lot, and Aidan shared a bond with him. Even though


    Justin was only dragged into this mess by force, he would still be affected, no matter what Aidan would


    do. And to make things worse, Sienna was his mother. Leanna could never let go of her hatred, no


    matter what. Yet, the time for her to make a choice was inching closer. And when the moment came,


    none of them woulde out unscathed.

 Chapter 531

    Chapter 531


    Once they were done shopping, Leanna made her way to Pearson Group. When she got to the


    president''s office, Jonathan wasing out.


    He closed his document and greeted, "Hello, Miss McKinney."


    "Is Aidan busy?"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Not¡­ exactly. The managers for our subsidiaries are reporting their work progress inside. They''re


    probably going to take an hour or so."


    Leanna nodded. "I''ll wait for him, then."


    "I''ll take you to the waiting room."


    "It''s alright. I know where to go. You do your job."


    Jonathan had something to do anyway, so he left.


    Leanna came to the waiting room, and an assistant there poured her a ss of water. Dusk had settled


    in, and the streemps shone upon the lonely road like stars twinkling in the night sky. For two hours


    Leanna waited, but nobody came. He''s still working. She looked at the time and approached the


    assistant''s room. Then she asked, "Are the subsidiaries'' managers gone?"


    "They left just a few minutes ago."


    Leanna smiled. "Thank you." She then approached the president''s office and knocked on the door


    before entering the room. Aidan was standing before the French window, calling someone. He turned


    around and gave her a look that told her to wait, so she sat on the couch and scrolled through her


    phone.


    A whileter, Aidan sat beside her and pulled her into his embrace. "I thought you were shopping."


    "I was. And I came back." Leanna said, "Is this going to take a while?"


    "I can end it right now." Before she could say anything, he rested his head on her shoulders. "I''m tired."


    "Do you want a massage?"


    "No. Just let me hold you."


    A moment of silenceter, Leanna said, "I''ve heard the news. Aidan¡­"


    "Yes?"


    "You don''t have to deal with Sienna."


    Aidan tilted his head to the side. "What do you mean?"


    Seriously, Leanna said, "This is between Sienna and me. Just let me handle it. You don''t have to break


    Justin''s heart."


    "What are you thinking?" he said sternly. "This is not just between you and her. She went after you to


    get to me. In other words, I was the reason this mess happened."


    "But¡­"


    "No buts," Aidan interjected. "Just focus on running your studio and leave this to me."


    "Okay¡­"


    Aidan patted her head and gently said, "Alright. Let''s go home."


    ¡­


    John had just taken a seat in the lounge of the Pearson Residence. Before he could say anything,


    Gordon snapped, "I can''t believe it. You almost ruined my n."


    John wasn''t angry that he was snapped at. In fact, he smiled. "You didn''t tell me he had friends in


    Lachstein. I almost died."


    The old man mmed his walking stick against the ground and scoffed. "Impossible. I know him. He


    has no allies in Lachstein. You were duped."


    John arched his eyebrow, but he said nothing.


    Gideon was not interested in talking to John anymore. "I''ll pay you what I promised. Just go home


    now." Then he got up from the couch, ready to retire for the night.


    "A minute, Mr. Pearson. I have some news that you might be interested in."


    The old man turned around, looking at him calmly. "Don''t beat around the bush. Just tell me the


    information and name your price, but you''d better consider your price very carefully. Don''t do anything


    stupid."


    An impressed John pped. "Admirable, Mr. Pearson. Very well. I just got hold of this information on


    my way here. The one you seek is right here in Highside. Under your very nose, even."


    The old man sat back down. Grasping his walking stick, he said after a moment of silence, "Then, tell


    me, who is it I''m searching for?"


    "Hmm¡­" John looked at Sienna, who wasing downstairs, before he smiled. "Someone very useful


    to you."


    The old man snickered. "Name your price."


    John gesticted.


    The old manughed mirthlessly. "You think your information is worth that much,d? You''d better


    reconsider, or you might leave with nothing."


    "Ah, that piece of information alone isn''t worth the price I quoted, but what if I told you that I also have


    news of someone besides the one you''re searching for?"


    "You''re making it sound like a big deal. So, tell me, who is this person?"


    "The one and only heir of Pearson Group, of course."


    A frown furrowed the old man''s forehead. "What are you talking about? What use do I have for news of


    Justin or Aidan?"


    "Of course, I''m not talking about them, Mr. Pearson. I''m talking about the little one. The one you can


    control. A pawn that can neither talk back nor fight."


    A grim looked crept onto the old man''s face. "Carry on."


    "I''ve just received news of that person before I came. Aidan went through a lot to keep this a secret


    from you. It''s unbelievable that the boy who should have died in that car crash is actually still alive and


    right here in Highside."


    "How did you know about that?" The old man shot John an icy look.


    John smiled. "Well, we businesspeople have our own source. So, is this piece of information worth my


    price?"


    The old man said nothing, though he narrowed his eyes. He didn''t see the body of that child when


    Leanna got into the car crash. He too suspected that the child was still alive, but there was no proof of


    it. His men kept a close eye on Leanna, but they saw no child around her.


    He could believe John, but that would be risky. The Pearsons held great power in Highside, almost like


    they were the rulers of this ce, and yet not even they could locate the child. However, a Dellshore


    local found the child right after he reached Highside, and without much effort too. The old man


    wondered who John really was. And why is he doing this?

 Chapter 532

    Chapter 532


    Leanna was sleeping soundly when her phone rang.


    With her eyes closed, she tried to rummage around for it, but Aidan held her hand and tucked it back


    into the nket. Groggily, he said, "Ignore it. Just sleep."


    "Stop that. What if it''s an emergency?" She got out of his embrace and picked her phone up. Zoe? She


    turned around to look at the sleeping Aidan, then she left the room to take the call. "What is it, Zoe?"


    whispered Leanna.


    With a trembling voice, Zoe said, "I-I''m bleeding, Leanna. Maybe the results were wrong. Maybe my


    period is justte."


    Leanna woke uppletely and quickly said, "That might be a sign of a miscarriage. Hold on. I''ll be


    right there."


    "O-Okay, I''ll be waiting."


    "Calm down. It''ll be fine." Leanna hung up and returned to her room. There wasn''t even time to change.


    All she did was wear a bra and grab her coat, then she was ready to go.


    Just as she turned around, Aidan asked, "Where are you going dressed like that? It''s midnight."


    "It''s Zoe. She''s in trouble, and I''m taking her to the hospital. You go back to sleep."


    Aidan got up before she could even finish. "Get changed. I''m taking you there."


    "But¡­"


    "Get changed. Don''t waste any more time talking."


    He has a point. She stopped talking and grabbed some clothes from the closet room.


    Just when she was about to change, Aidan said, "I''ll start the car. Come down when you''re done."


    "Okay." After Leanna got changed, she hurried downstairs. When she came to the neighborhood''s


    entrance, Aidan''s car was already waiting for her. There weren''t a lot of cars on the road at this hour.


    Twenty minutester, they were already at Zoe''s ce. Leanna unbuckled her seatbelt while saying,


    "I''m picking her up. Wait here."


    "Yeah," said Aidannguidly.


    Leanna went into her friend''s house only to be greeted by a pale and worried Zoe. Concerned, Leanna


    asked, "Can you walk, Zoe?"


    Zoe nodded. "Yeah."


    Leanna held her up. "Let''s go. Aidan''s waiting for us."


    Zoe didn''t move.


    Leanna asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "Um, this probably isn''t that serious. Just feels like a regr period. I just used some pads."


    Leanna snapped, "What are you thinking?"


    Zoe smiled weakly. "I just don''t want to trouble him. It''s midnight. And he scares me."


    "Let''s go."


    While they were on the way to the hospital, Zoe rested her head on Leanna''s shoulder, looking listless.


    She was tired both physically and mentally.


    Leanna took her to the emergency department right after they reached the hospital. Once she was sent


    into the consultation room, Leanna finally heaved a sigh of relief, but her frown remained.


    Aidan patted her head. "Don''t worry. She''ll be fine."


    Leanna nodded and held his hand. "I''ll stay. You go home and catch some sleep. There''s work to be


    done tomorrow."


    It was a busy period for Aidan, so sleep was a luxury for him. At this rate, he wouldn''t be sleeping


    much.


    Just then, someone ran down the corridor. It was Daniel. He approached the couple, huffing and


    puffing. "How''s she looking?"


    Leanna was surprised that he showed up, and she looked at Aidan. "I called him," answered Aidan.


    Leanna turned her attention to Daniel. "She''s getting checked. This might take a while."


    "Thanks for helping her," said Daniel.


    Leanna asked, "Why? She''s my friend. I should be helping her."


    Daniel opened his mouth, but he couldn''t say anything.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Aidan held Leanna''s hand and sat down. Time went by, but Daniel kept pacing back and forth, his


    brows folded into a frown.


    A few minutester, Aidan said, "Toote for worries. You should have cared about her sooner."


    I don''t want to hear that from you!


    The consultation room''s door creaked open at this moment, and the doctor said, "Is the patient''s family


    here?"


    Leanna was about to stand up, but Daniel was faster. "Yes. How is she looking?"


    "Threatened miscarriage, but it''s not too serious. I''ve prescribed some pills for her. Make sure she


    takes them on time, and don''t let her move around too much. She needs to rest. Always be careful


    during early pregnancy. You''re her husband. Don''t ck off."


    Daniel pursed his lips, but he didn''t argue.


    The doctor handed him the prescription. "Here. Pay the bill before collecting her medication."


    "Thanks." Daniel took the prescription.


    Leanna looked at him and heaved a sigh of relief. She then entered the consultation room and helped


    her friend up. "Feeling better?"


    Zoe nodded. "I''m alright. Just had a scare, that''s all."


    The doctor said, "Threatened miscarriage can be serious. Don''t take it lightly. Just don''t move around


    too much, alright? Stay in bed. If you need anything, tell your husband to do it."


    A shocked Zoe said, "Husband? But I don''t have a husband."


    The doctor looked at Leanna in confusion. "That guy who paid for the bill wasn''t her husband?"


    Leanna chuckled dryly. "He is. Just not married yet."


    "Ah, so he''s her boyfriend." He sighed. "You should leave pregnancy until you''re married, young


    woman. It''s a risky thing to do, getting knocked up before you''re married. If the guy you''re dating is a


    nice one, then it''s fine. But if¡ª"


    Leanna quickly said, "Thanks, doctor. We''ll be going now." And she took Zoe away.


    Once they left the room, Zoe whispered, "He was talking about Daniel, wasn''t he?"


    Leanna nodded. "He came."


    Zoe stayed silent. She had no idea what to say.


    Daniel came back from the pharmacy and approached Zoe. "I got your medication." He then said,


    "Thank you, Miss McKinney, Mr. Pearson. Leave everything else to me." He reached out to take Zoe


    from Leanna.


    Zoe tried to stop him. "Hey."


    But Daniel held her arm. "Don''t move. Doctor''s orders."


    Leanna wanted to say something, but Aidan held her shoulder. "We''ll be going now."


    They walked away, but a worried Leanna turned around. She saw Zoe waving at her, and Leanna said,


    "I''ll see you tomorrow, Zoe."


    Aidan said, "Nope. You''re not the one she needs right now."


    Oh, shut it.

 Chapter 533

    Chapter 533


    Once the couple was gone, Zoe looked away only to meet Daniel''s gaze. She cleared her throat and


    pulled her hand away. "It''s not that serious. I can walk by myself. You don''t have to¡ª"


    "I can hold you in my arms if you''d like."


    Zoe whispered, "Please don''t."


    Daniel propped her up and helped her walk, and they left the hospital.


    Zoe stared outside the window on the way back. She had nothing to say to Daniel. Once she was


    home, shey on the bed and took the pills and ss of water from Daniel. After she took her pills, she


    said, "Thanks. There''s nothing for you to do here anymore, so you can go back now."


    Daniel tucked her in. "I''m not leaving."


    Zoe sat up. "What?"


    Daniel held her shoulders and pushed her back down gently. "You need to rest for a bit. Doctor''s


    orders. I''ll be taking care of you. I''ll sleep on the couch outside. I won''t get in your way."


    Zoe quickly waved her hands. "It''s alright. Nana sent one of her servants here to take care of me. She''s


    a good cook. I appreciate the thought, but I don''t need it, Daniel."


    "She can make breakfast and lunch for you. But what about dinner? Or supper."


    "I can¡ª"


    Daniel continued, "And you don''t have to trouble anyone if you have me."


    Zoe frowned. She was about to say something, but Daniel interjected, "And this is my responsibility


    too."


    Zoey back down. "True." We both had fun. I can''t be the only one to take the pain. What''s more, I


    don''t want to trouble Alice. I''m not the one paying her after all.


    Daniel smiled and took the ss. "I''m going now. Call me if you need anything."


    "Sure."


    Daniel turned the lights off, and Zoe heard him closing the door. She turned to her side and stared


    outside the window where the streemp shone.


    Daniel ced the ss on the dining table and turned off the rest of the lights in the house. He theny


    on the couch. It was a small couch, so he felt cramped sleeping on it. He turned around and curled his


    legs up, then he hugged his shoulders and closed his eyes.


    ¡­


    When Leanna got to thepany the next morning, a worried Raymond hurried over to her. "We have


    trouble, Miss McKinney."


    "What is it?"


    Raymond was hesitant to talk, but a few momentster, he said, "Mr. Onder went for a negotiation


    last night. He had too much to drink, and¡­"


    He had too much to drink? I have a bad feeling about this, and Raymond is looking worried. Leanna


    tensed up. "And then what?"


    Raymond lowered his voice, "And he sexually assaulted one of the waitresses. The girl just got out of


    college, and she''s threatening to call the cops."


    Leanna mmed the table and shot up from her seat, shaking with rage. "You knew the b*stard would


    do this. Why didn''t you stop him?"


    Raymond fidgeted. "I left early because I had something to do. I-I didn''t expect this to happen. A-And it


    isn''t the first time he has done this. I-I thought he would have known better."


    Rage flowed through Leanna likeva. She clenched her teeth so hard that she could crush them. "It


    wasn''t his first time?"


    "Things like this would happen back in Mr. Crossley''s time, but usually the partneringpany would


    arrange everything before Mr. Onder made his way there. Maybe they didn''t coordinate things


    properly this time."


    "Didn''t coordinate things properly?" Leannaughed mirthlessly. "Do you really think that''s an excuse?


    That girl just graduated college. She''s young enough to be your daughter!"


    Raymond heaved a sigh. "I know it''s uneptable to you, Miss McKinney, but this is unavoidable in


    our line of work. As long as consent is given and the terms are agreed to, nothing would happen."


    Coldly, Leanna said, "Unavoidable? I never heard scandals like these happening in Pearson."


    "Um¡­" Raymond hesitated for a moment, then he answered, "It used to happen a lot, but Mr. Pearson


    saw it once, and he got rid of almost everyone who was involved. Since then, nobody has tried to do


    things like this anymore."


    "So, you''re saying this happens because the management is weak." Leanna calmed down a lot. "So,


    Leroy allowed something like this to happen."


    Raymond nodded. A momentter, he said, "Mr. Onder has been working for Mr. Crossley a long


    time now, so Mr. Crossley is biased toward him. As long as he didn''t cause any big problems, Mr.


    Crossley would turn a blind eye to what was happening."


    Leanna closed her eyes and leaned on her chair. "So, what''s the situation now?"


    "The news is still under wraps. Miss McKinney, we worked hard to get thepany back on track. If


    this scandal breaks out, it would hurt our image a lot, so¡­"


    Leanna finished his sentence for him, "So you want to buy our way out."


    Raymond said nothing, but his silence was an answer.


    "Where''s Jimmy?"


    "He went hometest night. I haven''t been able to reach him."


    Leanna sneered. "So, he''s dumping his problem on me?" If this scandal were to break out, the


    company''s reputation¡ªwhich everyone spent a lot of effort rebuilding¡ªwould plummet again. So, he''s


    hiding because he thinks I will settle this. "Go to his ce and tell him either he shows up by afternoon,


    or I''m calling the cops."


    "But Miss McKinney¡ª"


    "Thepany is already in jeopardy, and yet he still pulled a stunt that would push us further over the


    edge. I''m not the one at fault. He is. Why should I clean his mess up? And besides, he wasn''t afraid


    when he sexually assaulted a woman. At least have some guts to face the consequences, don''t you


    think?" If Leanna could kill Jimmy right now, she would have.


    Raymond nodded. "I''m going right now, Miss McKinney."


    After he left, Leanna massaged her temples and rested for five minutes before she summoned Richard.


    Holding her fury back, she asked, "I assume you''ve heard of Jimmy''s case?"


    "Just a few minutes ago, yes."


    "So, what do you think? Should we buy our way out?"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Richard mused over his answer. "From thepany''s point of view, that''s the best way out given our


    situation."


    "What about your personal point of view?"

 Chapter 534

    Chapter 534


    Richard stayed silent for a while. Then he answered, "His punishment is long overdue."


    Leanna smiled. "Good. Call the victim and see how she''s doing."


    "Right away." Richard nodded.


    "Hold on."


    Richard turned around. "Anything else, Miss McKinney?"


    She pursed her lips. "Don''t tell Raymond about this. Once you have news,e to me directly."


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


    Ah. She''s wary of Raymond. He''s working for Jimmy after all. "Of course, Miss McKinney. I know what


    to do."


    "Alright. Go now."


    Richard walked away, but he stopped in his tracks at the door. A few momentster, he turned back


    around. "Thank you, Miss McKinney."


    Curious, Leanna asked, "For what?"


    "Maya told me everything. If it weren''t for you, that b*stard would''ve¡­"


    "Ah, it''s in the past now. Besides, anyone would help her."


    "I''ll never forget what you did for her. Just tell me if you need anything, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna said, "Sure. I will." She thought Richard would leave, but the man didn''t move. He looked like


    he still had something to say. "Anything else?" Leanna asked.


    "Um, Maya did a lot of¡­ stupid things in the past. I''m sorry for that. And I''m really sorry she introduced


    Raymond as a potential boyfriend to you."


    "Ah, she can be careless at times. I don''t mind."


    Richard heaved a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Miss McKinney. I shall be going now."


    Once the door was closed, Leanna heaved a long sigh andy on her table listlessly. She had thought


    that her efforts were finally paying off. She thought thepany was getting better, but now she


    realized that thepany was corrupt from the core.


    It was then she understood why William wanted to bring thepany down. Destroying something


    that''s rotten to the core isn''t a bad thing, but it''d be unfair to those who gave their all to thepany.


    She turned to the side and rested her head on the table. A short whileter, her phone rang. Oh. It''s


    Aidan. She picked it up and said weakly, "Hey."


    "I assume you know."


    "About what Jimmy did? Yeah."


    "So how are you gonna deal with it?"


    Leanna massaged her temples and sat back up. "Raymond told me this isn''t his first rodeo. Jimmy''s


    hiding right now. I ordered him to show up in the afternoon at thetest and I''ve sent Richard to check


    up on the victim. I''ll decide what to do when I have all the information I need."


    Aidan chuckled. "I thought you would have called the police."


    Leanna sighed. "I would have, but Jimmy''s rich and powerful. He can just buy his way out if he wants. I


    need a n. A n that can make sure he gets sentenced to jail."


    "Your employees must have told you this, but he is thepany''s top brass. If his scandal breaks out,


    it will hurt yourpany, and if you look into the case, you''re going to hurt a lot of people''s profit."


    Leanna hung her head low. "I know. Half of the top brass works for Jimmy. Raymond told me this


    happens a lot. I bet they used to do things like this as well."


    Aidan said, "Crossley Group has long been corrupted from inside to out."


    "I thought he was some big shot when I first met him. Not only is he wicked, but he also allows these


    crimes to go on," said Leanna.


    "Need some help?"


    "No. I can handle this."


    Just then, Jonathan came to tell Aidan it was time for a meeting. "I should go now. Meeting calls. Call


    Jonathan if you need anything. He''ll send your message to me."


    "Yeah. Go."


    Leann hung up and plopped back into her chair. A momentter, she called Daniel.


    The call went through easily, but she could hear noise in the background. Daniel asked, "What is it?"


    After a short pause, Leanna asked, "Where are you anyway?"


    "The wet market buying some food. Zoe said online grocery stores don''t have fresh food, so I was sent


    to the market."


    Leanna said timidly, "Um, what are you¡­"


    "The doctor told her to stay in bed, so I''m taking care of her." Daniel found a quiet spot to talk. "So,


    what is it?"


    Best get to business now. "You''ve been looking into Crossley Group. You must know a lot about Jimmy,


    right?"


    "That b*stard? Yeah. What did he do this time?"


    Leanna told him about the news she had received. "If it''s possible, can I have a copy of his file? I want


    all the details."


    "Sure, but I can''te over right now. I''ll tell Elijah to give it to you. He''ll be there by afternoon."


    "Thanks."


    "No problem." Daniel said, "I''ll resume my grocery shopping, then."


    Leanna smiled. "Sure." After she hung up, she called Zoe.


    Zoe said weakly, "Hey, Nana. What''s up?"


    "You sent Daniel to the wet market?"


    "Yep. No, I don''t really think online grocery stores don''t have fresh food. I just want him to leave me


    alone. He''s annoying. I want some peace and quiet."


    Leanna smiled. "It''s early, though. So, he went to the market before the sun was even up?"


    "No. He stayed for the night. Slept on the couch and insisted that he would take care of me. Honestly, I


    don''t care. I''m going to abort the baby anyway. I just don''t know why he would help me out."


    "Hey, he is doing your chores for you. Not like you''re losing anything, so enjoy while itsts."


    Realization struck Zoe. "Hey, you have a point. I''ve never been treated like a princess before, so why


    shouldn''t I take advantage of this? Hold on. I have to tell him to get some imported food from the


    supermarket. I need to have the best food if I want to stay healthy. Talk to youter, Nana."

 Chapter 535

    Chapter 535


    Elijah showed up in Leanna''s office a whileter.


    Leanna told the assistant who led him here to make a cup of coffee.


    The assistant was going to do it, but Elijah said, "It''s alright. I''m leaving soon."


    The assistant looked at Leanna, and she closed the door after Leanna nodded.


    Elijah took the seat before Leanna''s desk and ced the document folder on the desk. "It''s right here,


    Leanna."


    "Thanks." Leanna massaged her temples. "I should''ve taken this myself, but I didn''t have time."


    "It''s alright." Elijah smiled. "It just so happens that I have work to do nearby, so I thought I woulde


    over. I''ve heard about the case. I asked around on my way here, and it seems like the guys Jimmy


    talked withst night work for apany that was established about two months ago. They say the


    boss of thepany is a foreigner, but nobody has seen him before."


    Leanna frowned. "So, you''re saying thepany is shady."


    Elijah nodded. "Jimmy''s a b*stard, but this isn''t his first rodeo. He''s careful, especially after the


    company got in trouble. This isn''t a mistake he would make."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "But I saw him and another member of the top brass forcing Maya to drink.


    And they tried to take her away."


    "That happened back when Maya''s husband was in trouble. Who knows what would have happened to


    Maya if you weren''t there the other day? She asked for Jimmy''s help, so even if she called the cops on


    him, he could still say she did it with consent. Or if he did help her, Maya might just cave for her


    husband."


    Leanna balled her hands that were resting on the table into fists, her brows furrowing into a frown.


    Elijah continued, "But this time, not only did the victim not cave, but she''s also trying to break the news


    to the whole nation. Either they did a sloppy job with her, or this is all a trap."


    After a short pause, Elijah asked, "So what do you think, Leanna?"


    Leanna was still frowning. "I would like to think the girl was forced, but¡­" But Elijah''s right. The b*stard


    knows what he''s doing. He wouldn''t make this kind of mistake.


    Someone knocked on the door, and an assistant said, "Miss McKinney? Mr. Onder is here."


    Elijah stood up. "I''ll be going now, Leanna. Call me if you need anything."


    Leanna nodded. "Thank you."


    "Ah, what''s a favor between friends?"


    After Elijah left, Leanna opened up the document folder and took out Jimmy''s records.


    Ten minutester, a disgruntled Jimmy entered her office and plopped into the chair before her desk.


    He snapped, "What do you need, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna smiled. "You seem irritated, Mr. Onder. Did I disturb you?"


    Well, she''s smiling. Jimmy calmed down a little. "No. It''s just I have nothing to do here."


    "What?"


    "I mean, you''re handling everything here, not me."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Leanna said, "Is that why I have to clean up your messes, Mr. Onder? Because I have total control of


    thepany?"


    Jimmy didn''t like her tone, but he was in the wrong, so he said, "It wasn''t a big deal. She''s after money.


    We just have to give her some."


    "How much, exactly?"


    Impatiently, Jimmy said, "She''s going to demand a lot. Let''s make her wait a few days. She''ll lower her


    price then." Then he scoffed. "I can''t believe her. Of everything she could do, she went for a scam.


    Seriously, young people these days."


    "Mr. Onder, she''s about your daughter''s age, and yet you slept with her anyway," snapped Leanna.


    "Hey, she came to me. Not like I forced her to."


    "If it was consensual, then none of this would have happened."


    Jimmy froze. He had drunk a bit the night before. The girl was fidgety, but it was all arranged ording


    to the guys he talked to, so he took the offer, thinking it was just harmless fun. However, it turned out to


    be a disaster. Those people were obviously trying to take him for all he had. He wouldn''t let that


    happen, so he tossed the problem to Leanna. He knew that she wouldn''t ignore this issue as it was


    rted to thepany''s reputation.


    "How do you n to settle this, Mr. Onder?"


    "I told you. Throw some money at her."


    "Give me the exact amount. I need to tell the finance department. And please settle this before the


    evening, Mr. Onder."


    Jimmy froze. "What do you mean?"


    Calmly, Leanna said, "What I mean is you''re giving the money to thepany. You want me to settle


    matters for you? Sorry, but I''m just the owner of a small studio. I have no money to settle matters, so


    it''s on you."


    Jimmy chortled. "Yeah, right. Aidan must have given you¡ª"


    "Oh, I see. So, you''re going to take a loan from Pearson Group. Good. I''ll call a press conferenceter


    and tell everyone about the loan. Proof that we''ll pay the money back, so to speak."


    Jimmy shot up. "What? Why are you calling a press conference?"


    Leanna leaned on her chair. Calmly, she said, "To clear things up, of course. We need to give them a


    reason to lend us the money. But don''t you worry. I''m sure they''ll lend us the money once they know


    about your situation."


    Infuriated, Jimmy tried to argue, but he couldn''t even form a coherent sentence.


    Leanna pressed down on thendline. "Send Raymond to my office."


    "Of course."


    A minuteter, Raymond entered Leanna''s office. "What do you need, Miss McKinney?"


    "Call a press conference for me."


    Curious, Raymond asked, "What will the agenda be?"


    "Mr. Onder ns to borrow some money from Pearson Group. To reassure them that we''re going to


    pay back our debts, I''m going to issue a public IOU."


    Raymond looked at Jimmy. "Sir¡­"


    Jimmy mmed his hand on the table, furious. "Fine, tell your finance people to take a hundred and


    fifty grand from my ount! Happy?"


    Leanna smiled and slowly answered, "Three million."


    "No! That''s just¡ª"


    Leanna told Raymond, "We''ll call the press conference at two."

 Chapter 536

    Chapter 536


    Jimmy was trembling with fury. "You¡­ You''re too much!"


    "You''re overreacting, Mr. Onder. I''m the representative of the Crossleys, so it makes sense for me to


    prioritize their needs. Furthermore, I''m not forcing you to hand me 3 million. I''m helping you borrow


    money for Pearson Group! You''re the one who came up with this whole idea, anyway; how am I too


    much?" Leanna replied.


    Raymond, on the other hand, simply stood by the side without saying much. He was afraid of getting


    himself involved in this argument. Jimmy raised his hand and pointed at Leanna while speaking


    through gritted teeth. "I finally know what a scoundrel looks like! You learned all of this from that dad of


    yours who''s addicted to gambling, didn''t you?" Jimmy was getting harsher with his words, but


    regardless of whatever he said, Leanna still kept a faint smile on her face. She didn''t lose her temper at


    all.


    After Jimmy finished throwing his tantrum at her, he turned to Raymond. "I''ll get my men to transfer 3


    million to her right now. I don''t want to hold that nonsense of a press conference!" he growled. "Excuse


    me, Jimmy, but you can just transfer all the money to the Crossleys'' ount. There''s no need to


    transfer anything to me¡ªpeople might think you''re bribing me otherwise," Leanna added.


    After that, Jimmy simply let out a scoff before leaving, mming the door with a loud bang as he did so.


    Raymond wiped the sweat off his head after that. "I hope you don''t take Mr. Onder''s words to your


    heart, Miss McKinney. He''s a straightforward person, but he doesn''t have ill intentions."


    Leanna smiled. "There''s no reason for me to be offended. The Crossleys need money now, so if he can


    give us 3 million, I wouldn''t mind even if he wanted to sit me down and curse at me the whole day.


    There are tons of people who have said worse things than he has¡ªI wouldn''t be happy if I cared about


    everything people said." Raymond found some respect for the woman after hearing her words. Any


    other woman from a wealthy family would''ve probably lost their cool, and they wouldn''t have managed


    to stay so calm in the face of someone else''s anger.


    Yet, Leanna managed to take all of Jimmy''s offenses in a calm manner while discussing terms and


    conditions with Jimmy. "Are you nning to use the 3 million as thepany''s operating cash flow,


    Miss McKinney?" Raymond asked.


    "What else would I do with the money?" Leanna''s tone turned colder as she spoke. "He only did such a


    shameless thing because he''s rich. Not all problems can be solved using money. Sometimes, one


    would have to pay the price in a different way," she replied.


    Raymond didn''t say much. "I want you to keep an eye on him. Make sure our finance department


    receives the payment before you leave," she uttered. "But Mr. Onder¡ª" Raymond started.


    Leanna interjected, "If he tries to dy or avoid the transfer, I want you to tell him that I can reschedule


    for the press conference to be held at night."


    "I got it. I''ll handle it now," Raymond said.


    Leanna simply nodded before she rested in her office chair. After Raymond left, Leanna heaved a sigh


    of relief. She nced at her slightly trembling fingers before she picked up a ss of water and


    downed it. Jimmy was too high and mighty¡ªhe rarely showed care for anyone else. Leanna couldn''t


    afford to show a hint of fear if she wanted to overpower him.


    Leanna was just about to pour herself more water when she received a call from Richard. "I found


    something, Miss McKinney." The partneringpany had initially arranged for a suitable candidate to


    meet Jimmy after learning about Jimmy''s background. However, they hadn''t expected the person they


    sent to fall ill right before the meeting. So, they ended up sending one of thepany''s interns to meet


    Jimmy.


    The intern was clueless about the man''s hical practices and habits, and she thought that it would


    just be a regr meeting. To her surprise, Jimmy started showing his true colors and began to get


    physical with her after he finished a few sses of alcohol. When Jimmy saw how resistant the intern


    was, he spiked her drink, and they ended up in bed. Leanna let out a sigh when she heard about the


    whole situation. She mmed her fist on the table. "Where''s the victim now?"


    "She''s in the ce she rented for herself. Do you want toe over, Miss McKinney?" Richard asked.


    "Send me her address. I''ll go over now," Leanna replied.


    "Sure." Moments after ending the call, Leanna received an address from Richard. She packed her stuff


    before rushing downstairs. She had just stepped out of the elevator when she bumped into Freddie,


    who just came back to the office after he hadpleted his work outside.


    "Where are you headed?" Freddie asked.


    "Have you heard about the situation with Jimmy?" Leanna asked in return.


    "I heard a few things about it," Freddie replied.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "I''m going to meet the victim now," she said.


    Freddie turned around and trailed along. "I''ll go with you."


    "Sure." Even though Richard had asked for details about what happened the night before, the victim


    was still the one who knew exactly what transpired. Considering that Freddie was awyer, it would be


    helpful for him to learn the details just in case they had to go to court.


    "How did you handle Jimmy?" Freddie asked after they got in the car. Leanna wore her seatbelt as she


    spoke. "I got him to pay 3 million."


    Freddie was shocked to hear this. "3 million? How did you get a man like him to pay such a huge


    sum?" Jimmy was a corrupted man who had pocketed a lot of money throughout his years in the


    Crossley Group. He kept all the money in his savings, and it was virtually impossible to get him to


    share any of that money. Freddie couldn''t believe that Leanna managed to get Jimmy to pay 3 million.


    "He knew that he made a mistake, and he''s probably afraid of being exposed. I just scared him for a


    bit, and he agreed to pay after that," Leanna exined.


    "You and Aidan sure are a perfect match," Freddiemented. Leanna was speechless for a while.


    What does that have anything to do with Aidan? They arrived at the victim''s ce about 30 minutes


    later. Leanna headed upstairs to find two men standing by the entrance of the elevator. When they saw


    her, they both shifted their gazes away from her at the same time.


    "Miss McKinney." Richard walked over to greet her when he heard the sound of footsteps. Only then


    did Leanna look away from the two men to greet Richard. Richard led her into the house while


    speaking in a hushed tone. "Those two are men that Mr. Onder sent over. If the victim tries to make a


    police report, they will¡­"


    Leanna pressed her lips together as her expression hardened. "He''s really trying to y God, huh,"


    Freddiemented.


    Once they got to the rented unit, Leanna saw a man standing by the front door. "What''s done is done,


    Jessamine. Now, we have to find a way to resolve this issue, right? We can''t do anything if you


    continue to stay in your room. Why don''t youe out for a meal?" the man said in a patient and


    concerned voice. There was no answer from inside the unit.


    "I''ve spoken to thepany. You''ll get to switch your job role, and you''ll get an increment. You can


    request whatever sum you want. We all want good money to support our family, don''t we?


    Furthermore, Mr. Onder also agreed topensate you. I''m sure you know that Mr. Onder is from


    a bigpany¡ªwe can''t afford to mess with him. We need to know our limits. Otherwise¡­ Why don''t


    you tell me your terms? I can help you have a discussion with them." The man sounded like he was


    doing it all for her own good, and he seemed to indirectly imply that the girl was stupid if she didn''t


    acknowledge his efforts.


    Leanna walked over, and Richard introduced her to the man. "This is the partneringpany''s


    representative, Mr. Burlow," Richard announced.


    Kevin Burlow turned to look at Leanna before scanning her from head to toe. "Who are you?"

 Chapter 537

    Chapter 537


    Richard nced at Kevin. "Mr. Burlow, this is the person in charge of ourpany. Her name is Miss


    McKinney," Richard said.


    Kevin pushed his sses up his nose. "That''s odd. Why is it that the person in charge of Crossley


    Group is someone who has the surname McKinney? You look like you''re in your twenties. Are you sure


    you''re able to handle thepany?" he asked.


    Richard was about to protest when Leanna stopped him and responded to Kevin, "There''s no clear


    rtionship between one''s age and capabilities, is there? You seem pretty old, yet you don''t seem to


    be able to fit much in that brain of yours."


    Kevin took a while to make sense of the other woman''s words. "You¡ª" His face turned grim. Freddie


    couldn''t help but chuckle at this conversation. He took a step toward Kevin before throwing his arm


    over Kevin''s shoulder. "Calm down. She''s a young girl; that''s why she''s so impulsive."


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Who are you?" Kevin shot Freddie a displeased re. "I¡­ I''m awyer, I guess," Freddie replied.


    Kevin had his guard up after that. "Who sent you guys here? What do you guys want?" Then, Kevin


    turned to Richard. "I want to see Mr. Onder. Where is he?" Kevin asked.


    "I just told you, Mr. Burlow. Miss McKinney is the person in charge of Crossley Group, so she''s the one


    handling things rted to Mr. Onder."


    Kevin scoffed at this. "I''ve always been in direct contact with Mr. Onder. I never knew Miss McKinney


    or any other person in charge. Furthermore, this is Mr. Onder''s¡­ Well, anyway, I only wish to work


    with him. There''s no use in sending any other of your guys over," he uttered.


    "You only want to work with him, huh?" Leanna uttered all of a sudden.


    "Didn''t I make myself clear¡ª" Kevin started.


    "Are you the victim? What''s there to work through with him? Are you guys going to discuss how to


    lessen the damage that has been done to thepany to the maximum, how you guys can use the


    money to hide the truth, or how you guys can continue hurting others?"


    Kevin''s face turned pale after he heard her words. Soon enough, a rather grim look formed on his face.


    His lips were trembling, and he was about to speak when he felt Freddie tapping on his shoulder.


    "Calm down. You shouldn''t take it to heart." Kevin slumped into the couch before he started protesting.


    "I knew you guys weren''t here to resolve the issue. Well, if that''s the case, you can go ahead and make


    a big deal out of this! We''re just a smallpany, so it wouldn''t harm our reputation much even if we


    end up going down with Crossley Group."


    Leannaughed to herself. "I agree that this wouldn''t have much of an impact on you guys, but the one


    who should go down with you guys isn''t us¡ªit''s Jimmy!"


    Kevin shot Leanna a re before he scoffed. "I knew this would happen. Crossley Group used a few of


    their higher-ups as scapegoats thest time some issue came up. You''re doing the same thing again,


    aren''t you? You''re just trying to shun your responsibilities! There''s no way I''m going to let you do that!


    Why don''t we argue in front of the media? We''ll see who the loser is, then."


    Richard whispered into Leanna''s ear. "He''s a scoundrel, Miss McKinney. Just ignore him."


    However, Leanna nced at the tightly shut door behind her before she sat on the couch. "Sure. You


    want to contact the media, right? I''ll wait around here." Then, she took a look at the clock. "But please,


    hurry up. I need to work in two hours."


    Kevin took a nce at Leanna to see that she was being serious. Half the rage Kevin had felt earlier


    disappeared as he cleared his throat while straightening his back and fixing his outfit. "I didn''t mean


    that we have to do it now¡­ I just said I wanted to meet Mr. Onder," he uttered.


    "Give Jimmy a call," Leanna told Richard. Richard nodded and dialed the man''s phone number. Once


    the call got through, Richard handed the phone to Kevin. There was a 180-degree change in Kevin''s


    attitude as he became a lot more polite and civil. "Hey, Mr. Onder, it''s me! I''m Kevin from Fessler


    Advertisements. I had a meal with you yesterday. Do you remember me?"


    The man on the other end of the line immediately started snapping at Kevin. "Are you crazy? Since


    when did I have a meal with you? Do I know you? Don''t act like you''re all close to me! I''ll sue you for


    defamation!" Jimmy ended the call after that.


    Kevin was too dumbfounded to do anything for a moment¡ªhe simply clutched onto the phone.


    Leanna kept a smile on her face as she nced at Kevin. "What should we do now? Do you want me


    to send you over to his ce so you can chat with him?" Richard stepped forward to take the phone


    back from Kevin, while Kevin stared at the both of them puzzledly. "Are you guys really from Crossley


    Group?"


    Leanna didn''t respond to his question, but her face turned rather stern. Kevin nced in the direction of


    the bedroom. "Well, then¡­ Tell me¡­ How are you guys going to handle this? You guys heard me. I


    tried talking to her, but she won''t listen. She insists on filing a police report. That''s Mr. Onder we''re


    talking about¡ªwould it do us any good to file a report? But¡­ She''s not listening to me. Why don''t you


    guys talk to her?"


    "What was your discussion with Jimmy like?" Leanna asked.


    "He disappeared after the incident. I only got to speak with him through the phone after you called


    him¡­" Kevin muttered.


    "How did you guyse to this partnership at the start?" Leanna asked again.


    Kevin cleared his throat, but he was reluctant to talk. Freddie spoke up in azy tone. "My guess is that


    Jimmy probably wanted a lot in return for your partnership with him, right?"


    Kevin smacked his own thigh to express his agreement. "Exactly! Do you know how much he wanted?


    He wanted 70% of the profit! I wouldn''t have agreed to this losing trade if I hadn''t been offered the


    opportunity to work with Crossley Group!"


    "Based on my knowledge, yourpany was established just a while ago, right?" Leanna asked.


    "Yeah. We wanted to work with Crossley Group to increase our visibility in the market," Kevin replied.


    "For a newpany like yours to agree to a losing trade like this¡­ You guys must have a pretty huge


    capital," Leannamented.


    Kevin let out an awkwardugh. "Our boss is a foreigner, and he ran a few businesses abroad that


    gave him some profit. Now, he''s looking to start a business locally. He doesn''t mind having some


    losses at the start if it means that we get to develop our business in this market," he replied.


    "Where''s your boss? Isn''t he going to show up after such a huge incident?" Leanna asked.


    "Our boss is still abroad now. Furthermore, this is a small matter, so I can handle it. There''s no need to


    bother him," Kevin replied.


    "A small matter?" Leanna''s gaze turned cold.


    Kevin hesitated for a while. "Well¡­ It''s not a big deal."


    Leanna exasperatedly shut her eyes as if she was tired of chatting with him.

 Chapter 538

    Chapter 538


    After Kevin departed, Leanna turned to Richard and Freddie. "You guys should go."


    Richard was about to protest. "Miss McKinney¡­"


    Freddie interrupted him, saying, "That''s enough. We shouldn''t cause further trouble here. Let''s leave


    matters here to her."


    "Okay, then. Miss McKinney, I will be waiting for you downstairs. Just call me if you need anything."


    She smiled. "Sure."


    When they arrived downstairs, Freddie told Richard, "Why don''t you wait for her here? I''m going back


    to check on things at the Crossley Group."


    Richard nodded. "Okay."


    Freddie was just about to leave when his gaze inadvertently fell on the ck car parked by the side of


    the road.


    There was no saying whether the people inside the car noticed his gaze, but they drove forward the


    instant he set his sights on them.


    He raised his eyebrows slightly and nced at the license te number.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Meanwhile, inside the ck car, Kevin observed, "Mr. Watson, everything has been dealt with


    ording to your instructions. But¡­ I don''t know if it''s just my imagination. It feels like she is


    suspicious of us."


    John leaned into the back seat and closed his eyes to rest. "It''s probably not your imagination. How


    stupid can Aidan''s lover be? Besides, she can suppress Jimmy and take over the position of head of


    the Crossley Group. Did you think she relied only on the support of Aidan?"


    Kevin added, "Then, what should we do now?"


    "We wait. I want to see how she ns to deal with this mess."


    "But, didn''t that person specify that we should not cause trouble? We will be in hot water if we arouse


    Aidan''s suspicions."


    John opened his eyes and answered leisurely, "Don''t worry. Aidan will soon be too overwhelmed to


    even fend for himself. He won''t have the strength or time to bother with us. Besides, this is our first shot


    at Highside. How can we be all bark and no bite? We definitely have to make our name known. I''m sure


    that person has also made simr arrangements."


    "Understood."


    ¡­


    At the rental house, Leanna knocked on the door and whispered, "Can I talk to you?"


    No sound came from within.


    She continued, "We are currently the only ones at this house. If you have something to say, you can tell


    me anything. I can also help you file a police report. Now that Jimmy''s men are standing guard


    everywhere, it''s impossible for you to do anything with your own strength."


    After a period of silence, the door in front of her finally opened.


    Jessamine Barnes'' eyes were red-rimmed. "Can you really help me file a police report?"


    Leanna nodded resolutely. "Yes."


    "I don''t believe you. I heard your conversation earlier. You and that b*stard, Jimmy, are working


    together."


    "He is an employee of the Crossley Group, and I am the head of the Crossley Group. He and I are not


    working together. On the contrary, you could say that he works under me."


    Jessamine''s voice was cold. "What''s the difference? You''re all the same. In order to prevent any


    damage to yourpany''s reputation, you will attempt to settle the matter with money. I''m telling you: I


    will never be bought, and I will never give in to your demands! You will never be able to kill me, and I


    will definitely drag you all down with me!"


    Leanna poured a ss of water for Jessamine and slowly enunciated, "I understand what you are


    feeling right now. I won''t try to persuade you. Even if I im to empathize with your situation, those are


    nothing but empty words. Nobody can truly understand your pain without experiencing the same


    ordeal."


    "Then, why are you here?"


    She continued, "I just wanted to let you know that I can help you if you want to file a police report. But


    did you really believe that Jimmy would get the punishment he deserved just by filing a report with the


    police? Did you think that things would end just like that?"


    Jessamine scowled. "What do you mean?"


    "I''m sure you''ve seen the truth. Jimmy is extremely wealthy. He has worked at the Crossley Group for


    many years and even serves as thepany''s vice president. From that alone, you should know that


    he has an extensivework of interpersonal resources. Under such circumstances, even if you do file


    a police report against him¡­ Do you think they will trivialize this matter and eventually gloss over the


    entire matter altogether? Or do you think they will work hard to seek justice on your behalf?"


    "In that case, I will cause a huge fuss. I will contact the media and the reporters! I don''t believe he can


    hide the truth from the masses forever!"


    Leanna agreed. "He certainly does not have the ability to hide the truth from the masses forever. But he


    has more than enough resources to deal with you."


    Jessamine protested. "Didn''t you say you will help me?"


    When Leanna saw that Jessamine had no intention of taking the ss of water, she decided to pick up


    the ss and drink a couple of sips before she responded, "That''s right. I said that I could help you. But


    I will never do something foolish like file a report with the police when I already know that such methods


    will never work. Filing a police report against him is useless. He won''t even feel the least bit annoyed


    by your actions. On the contrary, you will be throwing yourself headfirst into trouble."


    Jessamine sank into the couch. "Then, what should I do?"


    Leanna proposed, "If you trust me, then you should settle the matter with them for now. ept all the


    conditions and dispel Jimmy''s vignce. I promise; I will definitely send him to prison. He will never


    walk free again."


    Jessamine did not respond. It was hard to say whether she was deep in thought or she simply did not


    trust Leanna.


    Leanna ced down the ss of water and slid a name card across the coffee table. "You can give me


    an answer after you''ve considered my words carefully. I will ask all the people outside to leave. If you


    wish to head to the police station, I will not stop you." She paused for a moment before she added,


    "But, you have to understand¡­ Is the final result of filing a police report really what you want?"


    Then, she packed up her things and left the room without a backward nce.


    When she reached the door, she looked at the two men whose gazes were clearly flickering with a


    guilty conscience and said calmly, "I''ll give you thirty seconds. Get lost."


    The two men were taken aback. Then, they nced at her with a grimace and protested in a troubled


    voice. "Miss McKinney, Mr. Onder ordered us to¡­"


    "I don''t care. Get lost."


    "But¡ª"


    "I do not wish to repeat myself for the third time."


    The other man elbowed hispanion, signaling for them to retreat.


    Leanna entered the elevator with them. When they arrived downstairs, Richard immediately came


    forward to greet her. He nced at the two men behind her. "Miss McKinney."


    She turned back and directed her words at the two men behind her. "Go back to where you came from.


    If I see you here again, I will call the police."


    "Miss McKinney, please calm down. We will leave immediately."


    "Right. Right. We''ll leave right now."


    After they said that, the two men hastily climbed into a car nearby without the slightest hesitation.


    Leanna retracted her gaze and turned back to Richard. "Let''s return to thepany."


    As soon as the two men entered the car, they immediately called Jimmy to report everything that had


    happened today.


    He snorted coldly. "You may return for now. I want to see what kind of tricks she has up her sleeves. If


    she wants to betray me, then I will never forgive her. In the worst case, I can drag both her and the


    Crossley Group down with me. Who knows? I might even be able to create a connection with the


    Pearson Group. I won''t suffer any losses."


    "Mr. Onder, are we just going to ignore Jessamine?"


    "That woman is a fool. If she wants to file a report with the police, then let her go. Who will believe her?


    I can easily crush a woman like her. I don''t believe that she can do anything to me." He continued, "You


    shouldn''t remain idle either. Never let Leanna out of your sight. That woman is getting way too


    arrogant. She doesn''t take me seriously anymore. I need to teach her a lesson!"

 Chapter 539

    Chapter 539


    When Leanna returned to thepany, Freddie was leisurely resting on the couch while humming a


    song. He had a euphoric expression on his face.


    She ced down her things and sat at her desk. "What''s with that expression of yours?"


    "Congrattions! You effortlessly received 20 million from Jimmy!"


    She paused for a moment upon hearing the glee in his voice. "Have we received the funds?"


    "Yes. We received the funds half an hour ago."


    "I did not expect him to be so efficient."


    He straightened his posture. "You sent your men to watch him closely at every step of the way. How


    can he not be efficient? If he had continued to refuse, I would have gone to confront him." Instead, he


    added, "What about it? Don''t you think you should treat me to a meal after receiving such a pretty


    penny?"


    She pouted. "Don''t you eat here often enough?"


    "How can you say that? Can you call the meals here food? The food here can only be considered


    sustenance to fill my stomach," he said. "I break my back every single day for the Crossley Group, for


    your sake. So, a meal is the least you could do!"


    She stretched out her hand and mimed for him to zip it. "Stop right there. You talk as though you don''t


    have money."


    He coughed. "Money is not important. It hurts my feelings when all you talk about is money. With our


    rtionship, I have to help you even if I don''t have any money."


    She replied seriously, "In that case, please return my money to me."


    He nced around him. "Wow! We have such great weather today!"


    She withdrew her gaze and couldn''t be bothered to continue giving him a shred of attention.


    A long while passed before Freddie finally spoke again, "Now that things havee to this, how do


    you n to deal with Jimmy?"


    "We will first collect evidence of his crimes. He has done many simr things in the past. Although they


    were an exchange of benefits where both parties had been willing, that did not mean he could wantonly


    and recklessly carry out such acts."


    "However, those incidents were carried out when Leroy was still around. The evidence has probably


    been destroyed by now. We might not find anything useful."


    She shrugged. "We have to search even though it''ll most likely be akin to finding a needle in a


    haystack. You don''t expect us to let him walk away scot-free, do you?"


    He tapped his fingers against the armrest of the couch. "I support you 100% if you wish to bring down


    scum like Jimmy. However, I need to remind you that he is a veteran employee of the Crossley Group.


    For him to climb to his current position, he requires not only the necessary ability but also the countless


    means and connections." He paused momentarily before he continued his speech, "What''s more, it has


    not been long since you entered the Crossley Group, and you''ve already begun eliminating the people


    left behind by Leroy. So, while there are no issues from our point of view, in the eyes of others, it is


    inevitable..."


    She calmly reassured him, "I understand what you are trying to say. But, have you ever wondered


    about the reason why the Crossley Group became what it is today? It''s because the corruption began


    from the very roots. Leroy was the source of the corruption. If we wish to save the Crossley Group, it is


    necessary to remove all the rotten parts. Otherwise, the Crossley Group will continue to rot away, little


    by little, until it perishespletely."


    He probably did not expect her to speak such grand words. Thus, he raised his eyebrows in surprise.


    She added, "But you''re right. It''s only right to celebrate after receiving such arge sum of money.


    You''ve worked hard throughout this period. Please help me organize a gathering of the executives. You


    can also decide the location."


    "A gathering of the executives? Do you n to invite Jimmy?"


    "Of course. The money came from him. So, isn''t it only appropriate to invite him?"


    Heughed. "Are you trying to make him explode from rage?"


    The corners of her mouth lifted into a smirk. "It''s decided then. I''m going to visit my friend tonight, so


    please inform the others for me."


    He rose to his feet and stretched. "Fine. It''s my fault for epting the sry. Unfortunately, I have to


    work since I''ve already taken your money."


    Half an hourter, news of tonight''s gathering involving all of Crossley Group''s executives spread


    throughout thepany.


    Jimmy had just arrived home when he heard the news. He was so furious that he nearly kicked a hole


    in the door. He finally suppressed his rage and issued amand after hurling abuse after abuse at


    Leanna. "Convey the message! Nobody is allowed to attend the gathering! If anybody dares to attend,


    then they can walk themselves out of the Crossley Group tomorrow morning!"


    His assistant beside him stammered, "M-Mr. Onder, we can control those on our side. But... Those


    whom Miss McKinney recruited do not listen to us!"


    Jimmy grabbed his assistant by the cor and kicked him harshly. "You f*cking useless good-for-


    nothing! Is there nothing you can do if they won''t listen to you? If anybody tries to attend, intercept


    them on the road and break their legs! Let''s see how they attend in that condition!"


    "Yes... Yes..."


    However, Jimmy did not expect one thing¡ªhe was not the only one who had ns. Freddie had also


    prepared countermeasures in advance. While his subordinates were waiting beside the cars of these


    executives, he had already arranged for a bus to transport everybody away.


    After Leanna flounced out from the Crossley Group, she entered the car and called Aidan without any


    dy. When he answered the phone, she immediately asked, "When will you get home tonight?"


    Aidan''s voice was very low. "Hmm?"


    "I need to visit Zoe, but I don''t know when my visit will end. So, if you have nothing particrly urgent


    on your end, you should head home directly."


    "Okay."


    When she heard the silence on his end, she suddenly had a bad feeling and probed tentatively in a


    small voice, "Are you in a meeting?"


    There was a pause for several seconds. Then, she heard his amused voice on the phone. "Yeah."


    She immediately went silent at his answer. The instant she ended the call, she yelled at no one in


    particr, "Next time, don''t answer my call if you''re in a meeting!"


    She huffily tossed her phone to the side, took a deep breath before securing her safety belt, and drove


    toward Zoe''s residence.


    When she arrived downstairs, she thought about buying some fresh fruits and vegetables. However,


    she recalled that Daniel had gone to the market this morning. So, she became worried that they might


    not finish all the food they bought in time. Eventually, she decided to head upstairs without making a


    stopover.


    She stood outside the door and pressed the doorbell.


    It didn''t take long for the door to open. Daniel''s figure appeared at the door. "Miss McKinney, why are


    you here?"


    Leanna replied, "I came to visit Zoe."


    Daniel turned sideways and made way for her to pass. "She is in her room. You can go ahead and


    enter."


    "Okay."


    After she entered the house, she found that the whole living room was far brighter than before.


    Everything was neat and tidy, and there was no mess in sight. Moreover, a strong aroma lingered in the


    air because Daniel was making soup in the kitchen.


    Inside the bedroom, Zoe was sitting on the bed and looking out the window with nk eyes.


    Leanna closed the door behind her and walked over. "What are you looking at?"


    Zoe immediately came back to her senses upon hearing Leanna''s voice. "You''re finally here, Nana!


    Please help me!"


    Leanna was puzzled, so she tilted her head in confusion.


    Zoeined weakly, "I''ve been lying on the bed for the whole day! Daniel won''t let me go anywhere


    except for the bathroom! I''m so ufortable! It feels like my limbs are going to atrophy! At this


    moment, I''d be willing even if you asked me to run tenps around the garden downstairs!"


    Leanna sat by the bed and mercilessly rejected her plea, "In your current condition, you should be on


    bed rest and recuperating."


    "It''s only been less than a day, and it''s already so torturous! When will this torture end?"


    She smiled and promised, "We''ll definitely go out and have fun once you''ve fully recovered." Content bel0ngs to N?vel(D)r/a/ma.Org.

 Chapter 540

    Chapter 540


    Leanna chatted with Zoe for quite a while. Then, all of a sudden, several knocks came from the door


    outside, cutting their conversation short.


    Daniel asked, "Can Ie in?"


    Zoe gave a long sigh.


    Leanna chuckled and turned toward the door. "Come on in."


    It didn''t take long before the bedroom door opened. Daniel walked over to the other side of the bed with


    a tray in his hands and ced the tray on the bedside table. The aroma of food instantly permeated the


    entire room.


    He nced toward Leanna. "Miss McKinney, please stay here for dinner. I''ve already prepared a


    portion for you."


    Leanna turned down his offer. "There''s no need for that. I''m going to meet Aidanter." Then, she stood


    up and turned toward Zoe. "Have a good rest. Call me if there''s anything you need. I''ll be leaving now."


    Zoe nodded and reached out her hands toward Leanna with a reluctant expression.


    Leanna leaned down and hugged Zoe. "I''lle and visit you again tomorrow."


    "Forget it. President Pearson might get annoyed at me again. I''ll visit you when I''m better."


    She smiled. "He''s not that bad."


    Zoe released her grip on Leanna. "I won''t see you off. Be careful on the way home."


    "Okay."


    Just as Leanna turned around to leave, Daniel called out to her, "Miss McKinney."


    Leanna swiveled her head, facing him. "Is something the matter?"


    Daniel didn''t answer immediately. Instead, he directed his words at Zoe, "Zoe, you can go ahead and


    start eating. I''ll see Miss McKinney off."


    Zoe hurriedly waved him away. "Go on."


    When Daniel and Leanna entered the elevator, he said, "How is the situation with Jimmy progressing?


    What do you need me to do? Miss McKinney, please just let me know."


    Leanna thanked him. "Thank you, but I''ve almost dealt with everything. You should stay here and keep


    Zoepany."


    He nodded but spoke again after a while, "But she doesn''t seem to want to meet me. I know I didn''t


    give you a good impression in the past, but I really want to take care of her."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    There was a pause before she finally asked, "Do you want to take care of her for a few days? Or do


    you n to take care of her for the rest of the future?"


    He frowned slightly at her words and said nothing for a while.


    At that moment, the door to the elevator opened, and they walked out together.


    Leanna continued, "Zoe once told me that you were thinking about it. This matter is rted to your


    entire life, so you should consider your options carefully. No matter the result of your decision, Zoe will


    ept it. Nevertheless, my opinion does not change. If you don''t like her, you should keep a distance.


    Don''t lead her on."


    After a long time, he finally admitted, "I don''t want to hurt her."


    "I know. It''s just that¡­ When certain things are left unclear for too long¡­ For her, that would be the


    biggest harm."


    "Does she still¡­ Like me?"


    She halted in her tracks and told him earnestly, "That''s something you have to settle between


    yourselves. It''s not appropriate for me to be involved."


    He raised his hand and touched his eyebrows as though he was in deep thought. Yet, there was no


    knowing what he was thinking.


    She took out her keys and unlocked the car doors. "Well, I''m leaving. Call me if something happens to


    Zoe."


    "Okay."


    Daniel hesitated for a moment. The words were at the tip of his tongue, but he remained silent.


    Leanna noticed his hesitation and decided to probe, "What''s wrong?"


    He murmured, "Miss McKinney, do you¡­ Already know?"


    "Know what?"


    After she said that, she immediately realized what he was talking about. The corners of her mouth lifted


    into a smile, but she said nothing.


    He answered, "I understand what you''re worried about. It''s like what you mentioned before¡­ When


    certain things are left unclear for too long, that will harm the other party the most. If Louis knows about


    this, he will definitely be happy for you. So, you don''t need to¡­"


    She interrupted him lightly, "To be honest, I''m not just doing this for Louis."


    "What?"


    "Twenty years have passed since the incident. I don''t even remember what happened in the past, let


    alone what he looks like. So, he is a stranger to me. I don''t even know how tomunicate with him.


    You might think that I should be happy, but I''ve never felt any form of joy from the beginning. I don''t


    know why I have such a mentality. So, instead of putting both parties in an embarrassed and awkward


    situation, it might be better to pretend that I never knew from the beginning."


    Although Daniel understood the meaning behind her words, he had never had a family in his life. He


    waster adopted by William. Therefore, a family was not just an unfamiliar concept but also something


    he had no memory of.


    It was only because he grew up with William that he knew how important William''s deceased wife and


    daughter had been to William. He knew that their estranged situation was not a permanent solution and


    wanted to ask Leanna for her opinion.


    After some time, he finally said, "He might be returning to Dellshore in a few days."


    She was probably a little surprised by his statement. Therefore, she went silent for a while before she


    finally replied, "Is Leroy¡­ Isn''t he still missing?"


    "We''ve been searching for Leroy for so long, but there has been no news about him. He is either dead


    or hidden by somebody. Regardless, he will not be found soon. There are many backlogged affairs in


    thepany, so I can''t spend all my time and concentration on this matter."


    She nodded lightly. "I see."


    He added, "Not to mention, Elijah, Mr. Jackson, and I are here. If Leroy appears here, he will never


    escape again."


    "Won''t you leave with him?"


    He shook his head. "No."


    After a period of silence, she said, "I''m leaving. I''lle and visit Zoe again in two days."


    "Okay."


    On the way to the Pearson Group, Leanna remained slightly absent-minded. She was utterly oblivious


    to the car following behind her for a long time.


    After she drove for a certain distance, she discovered a roadblock in the middle of the road. She


    mmed her foot on the brakes. s, before she could turn the steering wheel, the car behind her


    crashed into her vehicle.


    The momentum forced her car forward dozens of meters. She endured the wave of severe dizziness


    washing over her and mmed on the brakes. When the car came to aplete stop, she leaned


    back into the driver''s seat. The scene before her felt blurry and unclear.


    At this moment, somebody knocked on the car window. A man pressed his face against the ss.


    "Miss, are you alright? I''m sorry. I didn''t notice when you mmed on the brakes so suddenly. Please


    open the door. I''ll send you to the hospital¡­"


    Her hand fumbled with the button to open the doors. Then, she abruptly remembered what Aidan had


    told her in the past. If anything happened to her, she should stay inside the car and call him without


    opening the door.


    She struggled to pick up the phone beside her. Before she had the time to dial Aidan''s number, she felt


    her consciousness slipping from her fingers.


    The knocking sounds on the window became increasingly urgent. The rapid knocks echoed loudly in


    her head, making her very ufortable.


    Before she closed her eyes, she still managed to lock all the doors and windows.


    The man outside asked urgently, "What should we do? She didn''t open the doors. Do we break the


    ss of her windows?"


    The man''spanion looked around their surroundings. "Are you stupid? Do you want everybody to


    know that we deliberately crashed into her? There''s a caring from behind. Hurry up and call the


    police!"

 Chapter 541

    Chapter 541


    The instant Aidan left the Pearson Group''s meeting room, Jonathan came over in a hurry and said,


    "Something has happened, President Pearson."


    "What''s the matter?"


    "Mrs. Pearson was involved in a car ident ten minutes ago¡­" Seeing how the man''s expression


    changed instantly, Jonathan hurriedly continued, "It wasn''t very serious, though. Her car only got rear-


    ended. We''ve sent her to the hospital, so don''t worry about it, President Pearson. She isn''t at risk of


    losing her life."


    Aidan turned around and strode toward the elevator before questioning coldly, "Have you looked into


    the matter?"


    "Yes. It seems to be an ident. Those involved in the ident were cooperative, and they''ve gone to


    the hospital as well."


    Aidan pressed his lips together and entered the elevator without saying a word. While standing behind


    him, Jonathan added, "I''ll follow up on the investigation."


    Aidan ordered, "Don''t let anyone find out about the car ident."


    "Yes."


    "Whoever makes a move at this point is the culprit."


    Jonathan nodded. "I got it."


    Aidan arrived at the hospital 30 minutester. His subordinate came over and reported, "ording to


    the doctor, Mrs. Pearson only suffered a mild concussion and passed out, President Pearson. She''ll be


    fine after being hospitalized for two days."


    "Where is she?"


    "She''s in the ward now."


    Aidan stopped in his tracks and asked coldly, "Where are the people who rear-ended her car?"


    The subordinate replied, "The police are asking them questions outside Mrs. Pearson''s ward."


    "Show me the way."


    "Yes."


    In front of the ward, a man exined, "We didn''t do it intentionally, sir. We didn''t notice the roadblock in


    front of us, and she stopped her car abruptly. We couldn''t step on the brakes in time!"


    Another person yed along by saying, "Yes, that''s right. Our car has been badly damaged as well.


    We''ll just ask for an insurance im, so she won''t need topensate for anything. We''ll just consider


    it a stroke of bad luck."


    The police shot them a look. "Are you saying that you''re not in the wrong? You should''ve focused on


    the road. Don''t you keep your eyes on the road while driving?"


    The man said, "I''m not trying to me her or anything, but if I were in her position today, I wouldn''t


    have stepped on the brakes so abruptly, and all of this wouldn''t have happened. As you know, female


    drivers can be clumsy sometimes. I guess she was just anxious¡ª"


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    "Stop, stop, stop. I don''t want to hear such nonsense and don''t me it all on her just because she''s a


    woman. You should''ve kept a safe distance from her car. Based on what we''ve seen from the


    surveince footage and the traces on the road, you''re fully responsible for this ident."


    "I suppose both parties are in the wrong. You can punish us as you see fit, and we won''t refute it. Can


    we leave now?"


    The police said, "No, you can''t leave before she regains consciousness."


    The men exchanged nces and fell silent.


    Just then, a series of footsteps were hearding from the corridor as Aidan came into sight. When


    both men saw him, they quickly hung their heads low. Watching as Aidan approached, the police


    asked, "Are you the patient''s rtive?"


    Aidan stopped and replied, "I''m her husband."


    "Alright, then. I just have a few questions for her. When she wakes up, I''ll talk to her. You may take a


    look at her."


    Aidan grunted, but before he entered the ward, he swept a nce over the flinching men. Then, he


    took a look at Jonathan and shuffled into the room. Following that, Jonathan stepped forward and said,


    "Hello, I''d like to know the details of the car ident."


    The police pointed at one of the men. "You''ll tell him everything in detail, and don''t spout any nonsense


    again."


    ¡­


    Presently, Leanna was lying inside the ward. Her forehead was wrapped in ayer of bandages, and


    her breathing was stable. Aidan sat down beside her and took her warm hand. He gently let out a


    breath, feeling relieved.


    Over 20 minutester, Leanna''s eyshes started fluttering as she slowly opened her eyes. Aidan


    touched her hair and whispered, "Do you feel any difort?"


    Leanna looked at him and frowned. As she parted her lips, she replied in a hoarse voice, "I''m just a


    little dizzy."


    "The doctor said you''re suffering from a mild concussion. It''s only natural that you feel dizzy. They''ll


    check on you soon."


    Leanna nodded and curled up her fingers to grab the man''s hand. "I''m fine. Don''t worry about me."


    Aidan''s lips curved into a smile. "Okay."


    Several minutester, a few doctors came in and examined Leanna. One of them then said, "So far, we


    don''t see any problems other than a mild concussion. We''ll observe her for several days, and she''ll be


    discharged if everything''s okay."


    After the doctors left, the police came in and spoke to Leanna. As such, Aidan stepped out of the ward.


    Jonathan approached him and said, "I''ve talked to them, President Pearson."


    Aidan stared at both men with a piercing gaze.


    One of them hurriedly said, "Mister, we didn''t want the ident to happen either. idents are


    inevitable when driving on the road. Moreover, we''re injured as well, and the front of our car is


    damaged¡­" The man faltered when he noticed how Aidan''s expression darkened.


    A few minutester, Aidan said, "Since it''s just an ident, you may leave now."


    Both men were startled as they couldn''t believe what they just heard. It never crossed their minds that


    Aidan would let them off so easily.


    Aidan questioned, "What''s wrong? Do you want me to send you home?"


    "No, no, no. There''s no need for that. We''ll leave on our own."


    "Yes, yes. We''ll take our leave now."


    They then left the ce in a hurry. Aidan ordered impassively, "Follow them."


    "Yes."


    When both men left the hospital, they hailed a cab and returned to their own homes. Upon receiving


    the news, Jonathan said to Aidan, "They''re very cautious, President Pearson. They didn''t expose


    anything."


    Aidan ordered, "Keep following them and verify their identities."


    After a grunt, Jonathan left the ce.


    Meanwhile, upon returning home, one of the men fished out his phone and dialed a number. "We''ve


    completed the task, Mr. Onder."


    "How was it? Did Aidan suspect anything?"


    "I suppose he didn''t."


    Jimmy snapped, "What do you mean by that? You idiot!"


    The man exined, "Perhaps Aidan thought it was an ident, so he let us go. However, we headed


    home straight because we were worried he''d send some people to tail us. I''m sure he can''t find any


    traces."


    Jimmy snorted. "At least you didn''t ruin my n. This serves as a warning to that woman. If she dares


    to be so arrogant in front of me again, a car ident won''t be the next thing that awaits her."


    "Mr. Onder, we were going to teach her a lesson, but she didn''t open the door, and several people


    came over in a hurry. As such, we could only give up."


    "Never mind. That''s more than enough. If you had done more, it would''ve aroused their suspicions."


    After a pause, Jimmy continued, "Just carry on with your stuff over the next few days, and don''te


    looking for me. When the dust settles, I''ll send you both somewhere else. Don''te back again, for


    I''m worried Aidan will discover something."

 Chapter 542

    Chapter 542


    Aidan entered the ward after the police left and saw Leanna sitting there, looking dejected. He went


    over and asked, "Are you still dizzy?"


    Leanna looked longingly at him and replied, "I''m hungry."


    Aidan was speechless for a moment before saying, "I''ll ask the doctor what you''re allowed to eat."


    Leanna nodded, but just as Aidan was about to leave, she took his hand. "By the way, are you done


    with work? I''m fine now. If you''re busy¡­"


    Aidan lifted his hand to flick her forehead, but seeing as her head was bandaged, he didn''t have the


    heart to do so. As such, he flicked her nose instead and questioned, "What on earth is on your mind?"


    Leanna stroked her nose but didn''t argue with him. She exined, "In the past, I didn''t think it was hard


    to manage apany, but it wasn''t until I started working at the Crossley Group that I realized it takes


    a lot of time and effort to run a business, not to mention that the Pearson Group is a significantlyrger


    company. If you still have some work to do, you don''t have to keep mepany."


    "Stop worrying so much and get some sleep."


    "I can''t sleep. I''m hungry."


    Aidan said, "I''ll look for the doctor now. Stay still."


    Leanna replied, "Okay."


    After Aidan was gone, Leanna leaned against the headboard and found her phone on the bedside


    table. Around 30 minutes ago, Zoe sent her a message to ask if she had reached home. Leanna


    replied that she was home, but since she felt dizzy again, she put down her phone and closed her


    eyes.


    Soon, Aidan returned to the ward with a takeout bag. Catching a whiff of the food''s aroma, Leanna felt


    more energetic at once. Aidan put down the bag and moved the overbed table closer to her. Just as


    Leanna was about to reach for the cutlery, the man said, "Stay put."


    As such, she leaned against the headboard once more. Aidan took a seat beside the bed and fished


    out a spoon. Then, he scooped up a spoonful of rice, cooled it down, then held it out for her. Leanna''s


    lips curved into a smile when she saw that. Aidan arched his brow. "Are you a fool or something?"


    Leanna didn''t quite understand his words. "Huh?"


    "You''re smiling like a fool on the bed."


    Leanna exined, "It''s my first time seeing you take care of anyone. It just feels¡­"


    "Go on."


    "It just feels strange."


    Aidan was speechless at that.


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Just then, Leanna started beaming as though she hadn''t been so pleased for a long time. After she


    finished the bowl of beef rice, she felt much better. Then, she called out, "Aidan."


    The man responded huskily, "Yeah?"


    "When will I be discharged from the hospital?"


    Aidan asked, "Do you no longer feel dizzy?"


    Leanna felt silent for a moment, for she was still somewhat light-headed. Then, Aidan moved the


    overbed table away. "Don''t think about getting discharged for now. Just stay here for a couple of days


    without worrying about anything else."


    "But¡­"


    Aidan nced at her with a slightly stern gaze, and Leanna immediately kept her mouth shut. Only


    then did Aidan go on to say, "Freddie will take care of the Crossley Group while a few of our men will


    keep an eye on Jimmy. There''s nothing you have to worry about."


    Just as Leanna wanted to say something, Aidan interrupted her by uttering, "I''ve asked Jonathan to


    look into the corruption cases involving Jimmy over the years. When he gets the evidence, he''ll pass it


    to your people."


    Hearing that, Leanna knew there was nothing else she had to worry about. Just then, Aidan''s phone


    started ringing. He took a look and said, "I need to answer this call. Get some rest first."


    "Alright."


    After Aidan left, Leanna started yawning. She felt sleepy because she was stuffed. Then, she ced


    the pillow on the bed andy down before closing her eyes. When Aidan returned, Leanna was already


    sound asleep. He took off his coat andy down beside her. After pulling her into his embrace, he


    landed a kiss on her bandaged forehead.


    ¡­


    After staying in the hospital for two days, Leanna felt that she had mostly recovered. She reckoned that


    she could leave the hospital the next day. Just as she was spacing out, she heard someone knocking


    on the door outside the ward. She looked up and saw Daphne entering the ward with a bunch of


    flowers. After closing the door, Daphne took off her face mask and asked, "I hope I didn''t disturb you."


    Leanna was startled for a moment before asking, "Why are you here?"


    She had never told anyone that she was involved in a car ident, including Zoe and Louis, for she


    was worried they would get too anxious.


    Daphne put the flowers down on the windowsill. "President Pearson told me toe over and talk to


    you. He was worried you''d feel lonely."


    Leanna let out a dryugh, thinking that the man could be quite over-the-top sometimes. She then said,


    "Ignore him. If you''re busy with work, you can leave anytime. I suppose I''ll be able to leave the hospital


    tomorrow."


    Daphne sat down on the chair beside the bed. "I just concluded my roadshow, so I don''t have any work


    for the time being. If President Pearson never told me about it, I wouldn''t have known you were


    involved in a car ident. Didn''t you tell Zoe and¡­ Louis?"


    Leanna shook her head. "It''s no big deal. It was just an ident, and I''ll only make them worried if I tell


    them about it."


    At the mention of Zoe, Daphne asked curiously, "How is it going between Daniel and Zoe?"


    "Daniel has been taking care of her at her home for the past few days. I think there''s something


    romantic going on between them."


    "I share the same sentiment. Zoe is beautiful, so I''m sure Daniel is attracted to her. Moreover, they''ve


    already made love, so there''s no way they don''t have feelings for each other. It''ll be embarrassing if


    they don''t end up together."


    Leanna found the other woman sensible. After a moment of silence, she asked, "Have you contacted


    Louis recently?"


    Daphne was peeling an orange. "No, we stopped contacting each other after I went on my roadshow."


    "Perhaps he''s just busy with university."


    Daphne nodded and passed her the peeled orange. Leanna took it, and after giving it some thought,


    she asked, "How''s his venture into showbiz?"


    Daphne replied, "Didn''t he tell you about it?"


    "No, we haven''t met each other for quite a while, and I know nothing about showbiz."


    Daphne said, "I heard that hispany is going to produce a talent show, and he''ll be the main star.


    Don''t worry. Given how handsome your brother looks, he''ll attract millions of young girls even if he just


    stands there and does nothing."


    She said, "By the way, I talked to him before, and he told me that he''s in love with someone. Do you


    know who that might be?"


    Hearing that, Leanna choked on the orange and started coughing. Daphne promptly patted her back


    and asked doubtfully, "You have no idea, do you?"


    "No¡­ I just stuffed too many orange slices into my mouth earlier. Did he really tell you that?"


    "Yeah, but he didn''t tell me who she was, and he ignored me when I kept asking."


    Leanna pursed her lips for a moment before replying, "Perhaps he thinks that the person he''s fond of


    doesn''t love him back, so he felt too embarrassed to tell you about it."


    Daphne waved her hand. "That''s impossible. You''re underestimating your brother''s charm. I can assure


    you that young women these days love men like him."

 Chapter 543

    Chapter 543


    After a pause, Leanna uttered, "Just like what you said, those are young women. Perhaps the one he''s


    in love with is¡ª"


    "A man?"


    Leanna was speechless for a moment before saying, "No, he''s straight."


    Daphne replied with a smile, "I know. I''m just pulling your leg. Anyway, your brother is truly handsome


    and intelligent, not to mention he''s studying at a top university. Any woman would fall in love with him,


    so you don''t have to worry about it."


    Since it was Louis'' personal affair, Leanna didn''t think she had the right to break it to Daphne. As such,


    she only nodded gently. A momentter, she said, "Do you have any work arrangements?"


    Daphne replied, "There''s nothing much to do. I''ll probably appear in some variety shows, and I''ll be


    shooting a movie in two months."


    With Daphne around, Leanna wasn''t bored. The entire afternoon went by quickly as thedies had a


    joyful conversation. Upon Aidan''s arrival, Daphne tactfully left the ce. Aidan entered the ward and


    asked, "What did you two talk about?"


    "Nothing much. It was just casual talk," Leanna replied. "When will I be leaving the hospital tomorrow?"


    "I''ll pick you up in the afternoon; I have a meeting to attend in the morning."


    Leanna said, "It''s fine. I can leave the hospital on my own."


    Naturally, Aidan wouldn''t agree to it. "You''re not going anywhere until I arrive."


    Leanna couldn''t help but murmur, "Will you stop being domineering for once?"


    With a milder expression, Aidan said, "I''ll ask your brother toe over and help get you discharged,


    then."


    Leanna picked up a pillow and hurled it at him. "Stop being ridiculous!"


    The man took it with ease as a smile yed on his lips. "I have a piece of good news and a piece of


    bad news. Which one would you like to hear first?"


    "Neither."


    "Forget it, then."


    Leanna was silent for a moment before turning to him. "Hey, tell me."


    "Didn''t you say you didn''t want to know?"


    Hearing that, Leanna hurled another pillow at him. Aidan looked smilingly at her as he decided to stop


    teasing her. "We found out that Jimmy has been transferring a lot of his assets to several overseas


    ounts."


    "Is that good news or bad news?"


    "Bad news," Aidan exined. "It means that Jimmy is ready to run away. Once he leaves Highside, the


    Crossley Group will have to take responsibility for the problems he''s created."


    Leanna frowned and asked, "What about the good news?"


    "The good news is that Jimmy is involved in a murder case, so he''s been barred from leaving the


    country."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Leanna was startled upon hearing that. "A murder case?"


    Aidan asked calmly, "Do you remember Elliot?"


    "Yes, but he¡­"


    "We haven''t found the murderer in that case, so it has been aptly used to keep Jimmy grounded in the


    country."


    A smile appeared on Leanna''s face. "Did you do it?"


    Aidan arched his brow. "Although I love how you look at me with admiration, I''m sorry to tell you that it


    has nothing to do with me."


    Leanna ignored him. A momentter, Aidan went on to say, "He''ll be leaving tomorrow afternoon. Do


    you want to see him off?"


    Leanna pressed her lips together. "Probably not. I don''t have a reason to be there."


    "It''s easy to find a reason," Aidan said slowly. "As a business partner, it''s only natural that I''ll be seeing


    him off. Meanwhile, as my wife, you have every reason toe with me."


    "Thank you very much," Leanna said scornfully.


    "You''re wee. As your husband, that''s the least I can do."


    Leanna snuck under the quilt. "I don''t know. Let me think about it and don''t say anything else!"


    The instant she finished speaking, she realized it was indeed quiet outside the quilt. Feeling stuffy a


    momentter, she stuck out her head, only to see Aidan going through some documents on the couch.


    She said, "Give one of the pillows back to me."


    Aidan looked up without saying a word. Then, he lifted his chin and motioned for her to take it herself.


    Left with no choice, Leanna got out of bed and walked over. The moment she picked up a pillow, she


    felt a grab on her wrist. The next second, she fell into the man''s warm embrace. Before she could say


    anything, darkness descended on her as the man clenched the back of her head and locked lips with


    hers.


    After the kiss ended, Leanna found it hard to breathe while feeling light-headed. She pressed her


    hands against the man''s chest and snapped, "How¡­ How could you do such a thing to me all of a


    sudden?"


    Aidan then wrapped his arm around the woman''s waist. "You told me not to say anything."


    "Was that how you interpreted it?"


    "How should I have done it, then?"


    Leanna patted his hand. "Release me. I need to get some sleep."


    "Can you even fall asleep at this hour?"


    An unfazed Leanna said, "I''ll doze off as soon as I close my eyes."


    Aidan snorted. "Don''t get any sleep yet. There''s something you have to do."


    "Don''t forget that we''re in the hospital! You¡­"


    Aidan found it amusing. "So what if we''re in the hospital?"


    "A hospital is a sacred ce, so you shouldn''t do anything indecent here. You''ll be arrested."


    Aidan was speechless for a moment before saying, "I''m starting to doubt the nature of your work now."


    Leanna didn''t understand him. Then, Aidan fished out a piece of nk paper from a document and


    passed it to her. "Don''t you remember what you owe me?"


    "Just like what you said, I owe you a lot of things. How am I supposed to know which one you''re talking


    about?"


    "I''m d you know you owe me many things."


    When Leanna saw him holding out a pen, she knew what he was up to. She turned him down by


    saying, "I don''t think it''s a good idea. Moreover, I''m a patient now. Such mentally taxing work will have


    to wait until¡­"


    Just as Leanna tried running toward the bed, Aidan pulled her back. He said, "I''m right in front of you.


    Why would it be mentally taxing?"


    Leanna cried, "Wait a minute. I''m starting to feel dizzy as we speak. Please call for a doctor."


    Nheless, Aidan only nced at her expressionlessly. Leanna was speechless. After struggling


    internally for several moments, she conceded and took the pen from his hand.


    When she sketched Aidan secretly back then, it was usually because she wanted to do so. Now that he


    was seated right in front of the woman and staring at her, she felt so pressured that she couldn''t draw


    anything. She said, "Let go of me first. I''ll go over there. I can''t draw like this."


    Only then did Aidan release her. Leanna stood up straight and sat down on the bed with the piece of


    paper and the pen. While sitting across from him, she found it hard to even start drawing. Then, she


    started biting the tip of the pen.


    Seeing that, Aidan furrowed his brows. "That''s dirty."


    Leanna coughed and adjusted her posture. "Don''t move. I''ll start drawing now. Don''t say anything


    either, or else it''ll disrupt me. Once disrupted, inspiration will be gone for good."


    "Alright."


    After the man agreed to it, Leanna subconsciously curled up her lips. Then, she began sketching on


    the piece of paper. Barely five minutester, she put down the pen. "I''m done."


    Aidan didn''t believe her. "That was quick. Are you being perfunctory?"


    "I''m sleepy. Goodnight." As Leanna spoke, she ced the drawing under her pillow and closed her


    eyes.

 Chapter 544

    Chapter 544


    Aidan looked at the woman on the bed and licked his lips. Several momentster, he lowered his head


    and continued with his work. As time passed, Leanna was soon heard breathing stably. Aidan got to his


    feet and turned off the lights, leaving only the bedsidemp on.


    While standing beside the bed, he gazed at Leanna for a moment before he gently lifted one side of the


    pillow and pulled out the drawing. When he saw a tortoise drawn on the piece of paper, he was


    speechless.


    Annoyed, he bent his back and pinched Leanna''s nose, and it wasn''t until she found it hard to breathe


    that he released her. He whispered, "You''re such a heartless woman."


    Leanna rubbed her nose. Perhaps feeling a sense of difort, she turned over and continued


    sleeping. Aidan stuffed the piece of paper back under the pillow and entered the bathroom.


    When Leanna woke up the next morning, the sky was still pretty dark. As she looked at the man while


    he got changed, she rubbed her eyes and sat up. "Are you going to work so early?"


    Aidan replied, "I''ll only be able to pick you up in the afternoon when I finish my work early."


    "I told you I can¡ª"


    Aidan stuffed a tie into her hands. "Since you''re awake, do something for me."


    Leanna pursed her lips and moved a little. Refusing to leave the bed, she kneeled on it and wrapped


    the tie around the man''s neck. Then, she pulled him closer to herself and muttered, "I''m only staying in


    the hospital for several days, but you''ve moved so many of your things here."


    Aidan smiled and draped his arms around the woman''s waist. "I''m d you''re aware of it. If I fall ill in


    the future, I want you to stay by my side all the time as well."


    "What nonsense are you spouting? I''ve never seen anyone hoping they''d fall ill." When Leanna was


    done tying the tie for him, she sat back down on the bed. "If you''re busy with work in the afternoon, I¡­"


    After pondering for a moment, she decided to make a concession. "You can ask Jonathan to pick me


    up."


    Aidan lowered his figure andnded a kiss between her brows. "Don''t worry. I''ll being. Just wait for


    me here."


    "Alright."


    After Aidan was gone, Leanna stretched her back and entered the bathroom to wash up. Since she had


    fallen asleep early the day before, she was energetic at this moment.


    When she left the bathroom, she realized that the sky was a shade brighter, and she could see a beam


    of sunlight prating the clouds in the distance. It seems that the weather will be lovely today.


    When Leanna made the bed and saw the drawing under the pillow, she couldn''t help smiling joyfully.


    She wondered how Aidan would react if he saw this drawing.


    Since she still had a few hours left before she could leave the hospital and was bored out of her mind,


    she fished out a piece of paper and pen from the drawer, rested her elbows on the table, and started


    sketching.


    In the afternoon, she managed toplete three drawings. Okay, these sketches should be sufficient


    to please him.


    When she got to her feet and unwound her neck tension, her phone on the bedside table started


    ringing. She went over and picked up the phone, only to realize it was Daniel. She knew why he was


    looking for her. After a pause, she picked up the call and said, "Hello?"


    Daniel uttered, "Do you have some free time, Miss McKinney?"


    "I''m not busy. Go ahead."


    "William''s flight will be taking off at 3.00PM. He''s leaving Highside."


    Leanna pressed her lips together for a moment. "I know."


    Daniel asked, "Did Aidan tell you about it?"


    "Yes."


    "Well, what do you think?"


    Leanna took a deep breath and looked out the window. "I don''t know. We''ll see." After a moment of


    silence, she asked, "How has Zoe been doing over the past two days?"


    "She feels much better now. We went to the hospital for a checkup yesterday, and the doctor said that


    she could move around freely. We just have to be careful and make sure she doesn''t get agitated."


    Leanna parted her lips but didn''t say anything. This matter was between them, after all. As such, it was


    pointless for her to say anything and interfere. A momentter, she said, "Alright. I''ve been busy


    recently, so I''ll visit her in two days."


    "Sure, I''ll pass on your message."


    After the call ended, Leanna sat down on the edge of the bed and fell into her thoughts. Soon, a nurse


    came in and served her lunch. Leanna came to her senses and thanked the nurse.


    After lunch, she packed everything up and stuffed them into a suitcase. She had been staying in the


    hospital for several days, but most of the things belonged to Aidan. She didn''t have much stuff in the


    ward. As she said, Aidan had moved too many things to the hospital. Seriously, what''s on his mind?


    When Leanna was done packing up, Aidan arrived at the ward. Leanna asked, "Why are you so early?"


    "It''s not exactly early. It''s 1.30PM now, you know."


    Only then did Leanna take a look at the clock and realize it was indeed not early. She said, "I''ve packed


    everything up. Let''s go."


    Aidan took the suitcase from her hand. "Let''s wait for a while. Jonathan is dealing with the procedures


    to get you discharged."


    Leanna uttered, "I''ll get changed, then."


    "Alright."


    Leanna picked up her clothes from the bed and entered the bathroom. A momentter, Jonathan came


    into the ward. "Everything''s done, President Pearson."


    Aidan grunted and took the bill from him.


    "I''ll be waiting for you outside."


    Not long after Jonathan left, Leanna was done getting changed and stepped out of the bathroom. She


    folded the hospital gown and ced it on the bed. Then, she took a look at the bill in Aidan''s hand and


    asked, "Is it done?"


    "Yes, let''s go."


    When Leanna left the hospital, she felt that the air was much fresher outside. Sunlight engulfed the


    entire city, making everyone feel warm. Summer is just around the corner.


    After Leanna entered the car, she rolled down the window and enjoyed the breeze. It wasn''t until a


    momentter that she realized they were not heading home. She turned to Aidan. "Where are we


    going?"


    "We''re going to the airport."


    Leanna was speechless as she rolled up the window and leaned against the seat without uttering a


    word.


    William''s flight would be taking off at 3.00PM, so it was no wonder that Aidan picked her up at 1.30PM.


    William would be ready to go by the time they arrived at the airport.


    Aidan said, "I know you''re not ready yet, so you don''t have to get out of the carter. I''ll see him off on


    my own."


    After a moment of silence, Leanna asked, "Are you going to see him off on your own? Wouldn''t it be


    awkward?"


    "What do you mean?"


    Leanna replied, "I mean, won''t he feel awkward that you''ll be the one seeing him off?"


    Aidan smiled. "Well, I have to leave a good impression in front of him. He''s your father, after all. No one


    knows what will happen in the future."


    Leanna was speechless. What''s wrong with him? What''s the point of him leaving a good impression in


    front of William?


    Therefore, Leanna decided to ignore him for the rest of the journey. When they arrived at the airport,


    William''s car happened to pull up at the entrance.


    Aidan took a look outside the window and retracted his gaze before saying to Leanna, "I''ll be going


    now. Just stay right here."


    Leanna pressed her lips into a line and nodded. "Alright."


    Only then did Aidan open the door and leave the vehicle. N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.

 Chapter 545

    Chapter 545


    When William got out of the car and saw Aidan standing there, he was surprised. He approached him


    and asked, "Why are you here, President Pearson?"


    "I heard you''re going back to Dellshore today, so I decided to see you off," Aidan exined. "I haven''t


    thanked you for what you''ve done for me before."


    William replied calmly, "It was the least I could do. However, he still managed to escape in the end.


    When I find out more about his background, I''ll tell you about it."


    Aidan nodded. "Thanks."


    William was startled, for it was the first time he saw Aidan being so polite to anyone. Aidan and his


    father were both outrageously arrogant men. As such, William couldn''t quite understand the sudden


    change in Aidan''s attitude. A momentter, he said, "You''re wee, President Pearson."


    Just then, the car window was rolled down as Cameron stuck out his head and asked, "Can we go


    now, Uncle William?"


    William turned to his subordinate. "Take him inside first."


    "Yes."


    Aidan frowned. "Are you bringing him to Dellshore as well?"


    William exined, "His parents are dead, so it''ll do him no good if he stays here."


    Aidan''s expression turned colder, and his voice was no longer as polite as before. "You''re being pretty


    considerate to someone else''s child, Mr. Morris."


    William knew what the other man was trying to say. After pondering for a moment, he said, "I''m just


    doing what I can to help."


    "Are you noting back to Highside again after you return to Dellshore?"


    William fell silent for a moment.


    Aidan went on to say, "You confided in the wrong person and caused a tragedy 20 years ago. Now,


    you''re supposed to make things right instead of running away."


    "I''m not running away. I just¡­" William paused for a moment. "I just don''t want her to get hurt."


    "Where there''s a will, there''s a way. Don''t you get it?"


    William looked at him and said slowly, "Thanks foring and telling me all of this, President Pearson.


    However, I''m sure you''re aware of one thing. If I had a daughter, I would never let her marry you. I


    guess you know the reason."


    Aidan was speechless for a moment before taking a look at his wristwatch. "Your flight will be taking off


    soon, so I won''t go in with you. See you, Mr. Morris."


    Just then, William''s subordinate came over and urged him to get going. William said, "Please take care


    of the business in Highside when I''m not around. Thanks."


    "Don''t mention it. That''s what I''m supposed to do."


    After William entered the airport, Aidan clicked his tongue silently. Leanna pushed the door open and


    asked, "You guys had a pretty long chat. What was it about?"


    Aidan pocketed his gaze. "It was just some small talk."


    Leanna let out a breath. "Let''s go home."


    "Sure."


    Meanwhile, John was seated in a ck sedan car as he watched everything from a distance, and a


    smile formed on his lips. Then, he picked up his phone and dialed a number. "He''s gone. We can take


    action now."


    ¡­


    When they arrived home, Leanna took a shower and felt much better. The smell of disinfectant no


    longer lingered on her body. As she dried her hair with a towel, she opened the refrigerator and asked,


    "What would you like for dinner? I''ll go and buy some ingredients."


    Aidan approached her and replied, "Just tell Jonathan to buy them for you. Since you''ve just recovered,


    you''re supposed to get more rest."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Stop giving Jonathan so much pressure, will you? He''s already inundated with


    work every day. If he bes bald one day, I''m worried it''ll be hard for him to find a partner."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Aidan arched his brow. "Are you saying that I''m pressuring him too much? Do you know that his annual


    sry is much higher than your studio''s yearly profit?"


    Leanna was stunned, and she realized she should stop sympathizing with people who earned more


    than her. A momentter, she said, "Anyway, I''d like to go out and walk around. If you don''t want to go,


    I''ll¡­"


    "Who told you that? I''ll get changed."


    As Leanna walked along the aisles in the supermarket and thought about the empty refrigerator back


    home, she decided to grab many things. When they paid the bill, she realized that she had bought two


    big bags of groceries. The instant they arrived at the supermarket''s basement, Aidan''s phone started


    ringing. After he took a look at the caller ID, he said to Leanna, "Give me a second."


    Then, he went somewhere else. Leanna grunted and fished out her phone to scroll through social


    media.


    When Aidan arrived at a quiet corner, he asked, "What''s the matter?"


    An anxious Keaton replied, "Something''s happened, President Pearson. The young master and old


    madam are missing."


    Aidan''s expression turned cold in an instant. "What did you just say?"


    Keaton hurriedly reported, "Around ten minutes ago, the apartment was aze, and our floor was


    affected. As such, I brought the young master and old madam downstairs. I was following them when a


    woman came up to me suddenly and said her child was still upstairs, so she took me away to help look


    for her child. That was when the old madam and young master were out of my sight."


    "Where were the others?"


    "Since it was an emergency, we were unprepared. At that time, many people were gathered together


    outside the building. There were too many people, so the others didn''t see the old madam and young


    master."


    Aidan pressed his lips into a line. "Go and look for them. I''ll be there soon."


    "Yes."


    After the call ended, Aidan strode toward his car. Leanna looked up at him upon hearing the man''s


    footsteps, but he seemed cold and distant. "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing. Let''s go back now."


    Leanna kept her phone and nodded. While on the road, Leanna realized they were not going back to


    the apartment. She asked, "Where are we going?"


    While grabbing the steering wheel, Aidan clenched his jaw. "The apartment is aze. I''m sending you


    to Castor Vi."


    It wasn''t until a momentter that Leanna realized what the man meant. She asked, "How about you?"


    Aidan replied, "There''s something I have to attend to."


    "Did something happen to thepany?"


    Aidan turned to her with a milder expression and hummed. "I won''t be going home tonight. Be sure to


    rest early."


    "I got it. Mind your own things and don''t worry about me." When Leanna saw his expression, she knew


    that something must have happened to the Pearson Group. The least she could do was not burden him


    any further.


    Soon, the car pulled up in front of Castor Vi. Leanna left the car with two bags of groceries and said,


    "Get going now. I can handle this."


    Aidan parted his lips but didn''t utter a word in the end. He then grunted and drove the car away.


    Since they didn''t inform Alice that they were going back to Castor Vi, she had gotten off work.


    Leanna had to go back and forth twice to get the groceries into the house. She panted and turned on


    the lights. When she saw this cozy house, she couldn''t help smiling.


    After getting some rest, she put all the groceries into the refrigerator. Once she was done, she turned


    on her phone, and the first piece of news she saw was the fire incident at the apartment. As she


    scrolled through the pictures, she realized the severity of the situation.

 Chapter 546

    Chapter 546


    About 20 minutester, a ck Rolls-Royce pulled up in front of the residential area. Seeing the


    vehicle, Keaton went over and said, "President Pearson¡­"


    At this moment, Aidan appeared cold and distant; he was like a demon who had just crawled out from


    hell. He demanded coldly, "Have you found them?"


    Keaton shook his head. "We''ve searched the entire residential area thoroughly, including the


    basement. We''ve also looked around nearby, but we still can''t find them."


    Aidan turned around abruptly and clenched Keaton''s cor. He questioned coldly, "What did I tell you?"


    Keaton hung his head low. "I''m sorry for failing to protect them."


    "You''re sorry?" Aidan sneered and pushed him away. "Can you find them by apologizing?" He closed


    his eyes and went on to say, "Have you found out the cause of the fire?"


    "We''re looking into it. The ce was set aze all of a sudden, so it didn''t seem to be an ident."


    Aidan snapped, "Anyone who isn''t a fool can tell that it''s not an ident." He turned to look at Keaton.


    "Do you remember what the woman looks like? The one who pulled you away."


    "I can roughly remember her face."


    "Roughly?"


    Keaton promptly corrected himself and said, "I remember her face clearly."


    Aidan ordered, "Get to the woman in the shortest time possible."


    "Yes," Keaton replied and left the ce.


    Aidan then said to a subordinate beside him, "Get in touch with the manager of this apartment. I have


    to know what started the fire at once. Also, contact the police and get all surveince footage around


    this area. As soon as you find anyone who looks suspicious, arrest them regardless of their intention."


    "I got it, President Pearson. I''ll deal with it at once."


    "Wait a minute," Aidan said. "Has Celia disappeared as well?"


    The subordinate nodded. "Yes."


    "Give Oscar a call and tell him to find her boyfriend''s whereabouts."


    After the subordinate left, Aidan remained in the same spot and looked at the uproarious crowd in the


    distance. His thin lips pressed into a line as he balled up his fists. Soon, the apartment''s manager


    came over in a hurry. "I didn''t know you were here, President Pearson. I¡ª"


    "Cut to the chase."


    The manager wiped the sweat off his forehead. "I''ll show you the way."


    Presently, the fire had been put out as water dripped from the rooftop. Meanwhile, the apartment''s


    residents were terrified as they expressed their displeasure.


    When they arrived at the floor where the fire started, the manager said, "Be careful, President Pearson.


    The floor is covered with water."


    Standing in front of a charred house, the manager said, "This was where the fire started. I asked the


    firefighters, and they told me that there were a lot ofbustible items in this house that would be set


    aze with a little spark."


    "Who lives here?"


    The manager''s assistant stepped forward and replied, "A news anchor rented this ce and stored her


    items here, but she ended her lease two days ago. The homeowner hadn''t managed to check on the


    house as he was somewhere else. Moreover, the news anchor left the ce without getting the deposit


    back, so¡­"


    Aidan headed to the balcony and looked up. He was on the 15th floor, and their house was on the 20th


    floor. Both houses were only five floors apart. Once the fire started, there wasn''t time for Keaton and


    the others to ponder. As such, they had to leave the building through the emergency exit immediately. It


    seems that those people are well-prepared.


    The manager said, "President Pearson¡­"


    Aidan ordered, "Contact the news anchor and see if she was the one who put those items here."


    After the assistant left, the manager said, "President Pearson, if I remember correctly, your house is on


    the 20th floor. Your ce hasn''t been badly damaged. Would you like to take a look?"


    Aidan hummed and stepped forward. Realizing that the manager was following behind him, he said, "I''ll


    go there on my own. Just carry on with your stuff."


    "Yes."


    Upon reaching the 20th floor, Aidan headed to the house at the end of the corridor, entered the


    password, and got in. The smell of smoke still lingered around the house as his curtains and the couch


    had been damaged.


    Aidan shuffled toward the crib and discovered some toys and a milk bottle inside. He hung his head low


    and fell into his thoughts. Several momentster, he turned around and headed to the bedroom. Then,


    he took out a suitcase from a wardrobe and ced Leanna''s clothes and some other stuff into the


    suitcase.


    The moment he left the building, he received a call from Oscar. "What''s going on?"


    "I have a premonition."


    Oscar said, "If Celia''s boyfriend did it, he''ll most likely demand some money. What else can he do?


    Don''t worry, I''m on the way to your ce. I''m sure we''ll receive some information soon."


    Aidan grunted and hung up the call before passing the suitcase to a subordinate. "Send it to Castor


    Vi."


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Celia was carrying the little one as thetter cried. She took a look at the backseat and


    asked anxiously, "Where are we going? For some reason, Ms. Fletcher has been unconscious for quite


    some time¡­"


    While driving the car, Raymond replied softly, "She has passed out after inhaling too much smoke.


    She''ll be fine."


    "Where are you taking us? Please tell me."


    "Don''t worry, I''m taking you all to a very safe ce where no one will discover us."


    Celia was apprehensive. "What are you trying to do? Why don''t you give me your phone? I''ll call them


    and tell them what''s going on. I''m sure they must be anxious."


    She had lost her phone the moment she left the building earlier. Before she could contact Aidan, she


    was taken away by Raymond, who offered to bring them somewhere else as there were too many


    people in that ce.


    At that time, Celia had the child with her, and she trusted Raymond. As such, she didn''t think twice


    before agreeing to it. However, Naomi passed out suddenly not long after they started following


    Raymond, who promptly supported Naomi''s weight and brought them to his car. Before Celia could say


    anything, Raymond had driven the car away.


    Raymond looked at her. "There''s something I''ve been hiding from you for a long time, Celia."


    "What is it?" N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Raymond exined, "I''ve been working for Miss McKinney the entire time. As you can see, she''s now


    in charge of the Crossley Group, and I''m her subordinate."


    Celia couldn''t help feeling nervous. "What are you trying to say?"


    "Miss McKinney has found out what you all have been doing behind her back." As Raymond spoke, he


    nced at the little one in Celia''s arms and squinted his eyes. "She''s also aware that this child is hers."


    Celia was bbergasted as her pupils dted. "No way! President Pearson has been hiding this secret


    well. There''s no way Miss McKinney would find out about it."


    Raymond let out a sigh. "It''s precisely because President Pearson has been hiding it from Miss


    McKinney for so long that she''s pissed off upon finding out the truth. She told me to bring the child to a


    ce where President Pearson can''t find them. She''ll be waiting for us there."


    Before Celia could say anything, Raymond continued, "As such, you must not inform President


    Pearson about it. You''ll know if I''m lying when we arrive at our destination."

 Chapter 547

    Chapter 547


    Celia was hesitant, but the child''s crying interrupted her suspicions. "Hurry up, then. I left the apartment


    in a rush just now, so I didn''t bring his milk bottle and diapers with me. I suppose he''s hungry now."


    Raymond replied with a smile, "Sure."


    Around 30 minutester, the ck sedan car drove past a door carved with floral patterns. As Celia


    looked around the unfamiliar ce, she couldn''t help but grab Raymond''s sleeve. "Is Miss McKinney


    really waiting for us here? I don''t think¡ª"


    "Don''t worry. We''ll arrive shortly."


    Soon, the car moved past a garden and pulled up in front of a building. When Celia looked out of the


    window and saw those unfamiliar and stern faces, the uneasiness in her heart expanded.


    Before she could say anything, the car door was opened from outside. A man stepped forward in an


    attempt to take the child from Celia. Naturally, she wouldn''t let the child go. "Who are you? What are


    you trying to do?"


    Just then, Raymond was heard speaking from the driver''s seat, but unlike his usually gentle demeanor,


    he sounded cold at this moment. "You''d better give him the child, Celia. Otherwise, you''ll get hurt."


    bbergasted and infuriated, Celia turned to him. "Are you part of them? You¡­"


    Knowing that it was useless to say such things, she turned to the man who was trying to snatch the


    child. "Do you know whose child it is? If he finds out what you''ve done, he won''t let you off! If you''re


    after money, I''ll contact him. I''m sure he''ll give you the money. You mustn''t hurt the child."


    Just then, a walking stick was heard clicking on the ground in the darkness. Before Celia could react,


    Gordon''s figure came into her sight as he sneered. "Although Aidan is powerful, he can''t do whatever


    he wants."


    Celia was startled the moment she saw the older man. "Old Mr. Pearson?"


    "I''m d you know who I am. Then, I don''t have to waste my time introducing myself to you."


    Then, Gordon signaled for his subordinate to snatch the child away while Celia was in a dazed state.


    She regained her senses at once and tried to get the child back, but she was soon held down.


    Without sparing her a nce, Gordon looked at the child and ordered, "Lock them up together."


    The subordinate nodded and knocked Celia out before dragging her into the building. Another person


    opened the car door and lugged Naomi out of the backseat.


    Seeing that the child never stopped crying, Gordon beckoned to the two nannies. "Bring him inside and


    find out why he''s crying. It''s the middle of the night now. Get him to stop, or other people might discover


    him."


    Both of them replied simultaneously, "Yes."


    One of the nannies took the child and walked past the building where Celia and Naomi were confined


    before moving further away.


    While clutching his walking stick, Gordon pocketed his gaze and turned to Raymond, who had gotten


    out of the car. "Alright, you may go back now. Don''t let Aidan discover anything. I''ll transfer the money


    to you soon."


    Raymond replied with a smile, "Thanks, Old Mr. Pearson."


    Not willing to speak to him any further, Gordon waved his hand and motioned for him to leave.


    Raymond looked in the direction where the nanny had taken the child and squinted before leaving.


    After he was gone, a subordinate went over and said, "Old Mr, Pearson, if we ce them here, Young


    Master Justin might discover them. Why don''t we lock them up in a different ce?"


    Gordon replied grimly, "Justin hasn''t been to this ce for years. He doesn''t usually go beyond the


    garden, so there''s nothing to worry about. Sienna is my only concern now."


    "She¡­"


    "She has been looking for Naomi for a long time, and she''s a little disturbed now. If she finds out that


    Naomi is here, she might do some irrational things and derail my n." After a pause, Gordon


    continued, "Keep guard at this ce for several days. No one can go in without my permission."


    "Yes."


    When Gordan was done speaking, he shuffled toward the main building with the walking stick''s help.


    The Pearson Family Estate was huge, so it wasn''t hard for him to hide a person or two.


    Inside the building, Celia and Naomi were locked up together. When Celia awakened, she felt soreness


    in her neck. The moment she saw Naomi lying on the bed, she pushed her repeatedly. "Please wake


    up, Ms. Fletcher!"


    Naomi had passed out because Raymond used a drug on her. As Celia called out repeatedly, Naomi


    slowly opened her eyes. While enduring a headache, she asked, "Where are we?"


    "We¡­ We¡­" Celia replied chokingly, unable to finish her sentence.


    Naomi looked around and came to her senses abruptly. "Where''s the child?"


    Celia fell on her bottom and bawled her eyes out. "They took the child away. I''m so sorry, Ms. Fletcher.


    It''s my fault. If not for me, all of this wouldn''t have happened."


    Naomi frowned. "What''s going on? Calm down and tell me about it."


    Celia then rted the story to her and said sorrowfully, "It''s all my fault. I shouldn''t have trusted him. If I


    never followed him, we wouldn''t have¡­"


    Naomi closed her eyes. "Alright, there''s no use crying now. Moreover, ording to what you''ve told


    me, your so-called boyfriend and the Pearsons are well-prepared. You''ve been used."


    "I¡­ I¡­ What about the child, Ms. Fletcher? Will they hurt him?"


    Naomi''s expression turned gloomy in an instant. "Since it''s the Pearsons'' doing, I know what their


    intention is. The child is safe for now."


    Celia wiped her tears with her hands. "Don''t worry, Ms. Fletcher. I''ll try to break free from this ce and


    ask President Pearson to save you."


    Naomi let out a sigh without uttering a word.


    ¡­


    It was 3.00AM when Leanna woke up. As she sat up in bed, she realized that her throat was sore and


    her back was soaked in sweat. She then recalled that she had a nightmare earlier.


    The fire 20 years ago seemed to have been mixed up with the fire incident at the apartment in her


    dream. She could see that the sky had been dyed red. Moreover, she could vaguely hear a baby crying


    amidst the fire.


    She lifted the quilt and went downstairs to pour herself a cup of water. Then, she headed upstairs and


    returned to her room. While lying on the bed, she realized she couldn''t fall back asleep. This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    At this moment, she felt hollow and apprehensive. Perhaps it had something to do with the nightmare.


    She picked up her phone from the bedside table and wanted to send Aidan a message to ask him how


    he was doing, but she decided to delete the message in the end. I''d better not disturb him.


    She put down the phone and closed her eyes, forcing herself to fall asleep. She had been staying in


    the hospital for the past few days. Although Freddie would take care of the Crossley Group, there were


    still some matters she had to handle herself. Moreover, they still hadn''t managed to deal with the


    problems Jimmy left behind. We have to settle those issues as quickly as possible.

 Chapter 548

    Chapter 548


    As soon as Leanna went downstairs the next morning, she heard the doorbell ringing. She thought that


    Aidan was back, so she scurried over to open the door. However, she only found Aidan''s subordinate


    standing outside. The subordinate pushed the suitcase toward her. "President Pearson told me to send


    this to you, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna took the suitcase and thanked him.


    "You''re wee."


    After the subordinate left, Leanna brought the suitcase upstairs and realized that it contained all the


    household items and clothes she used regrly. She couldn''t help but smile. That man is quite


    thoughtful sometimes. Then, she took the items out of the suitcase, washed up, got changed, and left


    the house.


    Not long after she arrived at the Crossley Group, Raymond entered the office and asked, "Are you


    feeling better, Miss McKinney? Do you need to take two more days off?"


    Leanna hadn''t gone to thepany for the past few days, and Freddie only told them that she was ill.


    She replied with a faint smile, "Thanks for your concern. I''m fine."


    Raymond then put down a document on her table. "You''vee at the right time, Miss McKinney.


    Here''s the financial report for this month."


    Leanna flipped through several pages and decided that she would take a proper lookter. She then


    asked, "Did anything happen in thepany over the past few days?"


    "Mr. Onder¡­"


    Seeing how hesitant Raymond was, Leanna said, "Just tell me right away. What''s wrong with him


    again?"


    Raymond exined, "Mr. Onder is thought to have been involved in a murder case that happened in


    the past. He''s been making a scene for the past few days. Don''t worry, Miss McKinney. The police are


    looking into the matter, and it''s said to be a personal grudge, so it won''t affect the Crossley Group in


    any way."


    Leanna replied, "I got it. Tell Richard toe in."


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Raymond asked hesitantly, "Richard?"


    Leanna looked up at him. "What''s wrong?"


    Raymond shook his head and smiled. "Nothing. I''ll inform him now."


    "Okay."


    Upon reaching the door, Raymond turned to look at Leanna and squinted his eyes. She had been


    assigning the most important tasks to Richard recently, so it was apparent that she had been avoiding


    Raymond.


    All the same, Raymond knew that the tasks given to Richard were mostly about dealing with Jimmy. It


    would be best that he didn''t take part in any of those so that he wouldn''t invite trouble for himself. After


    all, he had been making use of them to deal with Jimmy. Once Jimmy was destroyed, no one else


    could threaten Raymond, and he''d be able to leave this ce as soon as possible.


    Not long after Raymond left, Richard arrived at Leanna''s office. With Jonathan''s help, they acquired


    some evidence regarding Jimmy''s corruption cases. However, it wasn''t enough to make sure Jimmy


    could never get back on his feet.


    Richard spoke up. "Miss McKinney, due to the murder case, Mr. Onder has been scrambling to


    transfer his assets somewhere else. As such, he has exposed many of his wrongdoings. We just have


    to keep looking into the matter. I''m sure we''ll acquire even more evidence."


    Leanna nodded. "Just do as you say. Get a few people to keep an eye on Jessamine and make sure


    Jimmy won''t be able to approach her."


    "Yes, I got it."


    Leanna was drafting a designter that afternoon when the door was kicked open suddenly. Jimmy


    barged in and barked, "You''re finally back at work. I''ll settle the score with you today!"


    An unperturbed Leanna looked up at him. At the same time, Raymond and the other managers were


    trying to stop Jimmy from approaching Leanna. "Calm down, Mr. Onder! We can talk things out!"


    It was obvious that Jimmy was incensed. "Are you telling me to calm down when I''ve been used of


    killing someone? If I do nothing to protect myself, I''ll go to jail in no time!"


    Jimmy pushed them away and adjusted his sleeves. Standing in front of Leanna, hended his palm on


    the table forcefully and pointed at her. "Are you the one who used me of the murder? It must be


    you!"


    Leanna leaned against the chair and refuted, "That''s interesting, Mr. Onder. I wasn''t at work for a few


    days. How was I supposed to use you of anything?"


    "Stop using it as an excuse! Just because you didn''te to work, it doesn''t mean you couldn''t do


    that. You only suffered a concussion from the car ident. It''s not like your brain was damaged or


    something."


    A surprised Leanna stared fixedly at him. "How did you know I was involved in a car ident, Mr.


    Onder?"


    The moment she finished speaking, everyone in the office fell silent. The managers appeared doubtful


    as one of them whispered, "Wasn''t Miss McKinney absent because she was ill? How did it be a


    car ident?"


    Jimmy realized he had blurted out a secret, so he coughed and adjusted his tie. He was no longer as


    arrogant as earlier. He said, "Well, someone told me that."


    "Who was it?"


    Jimmy barked, "How am I supposed to remember? I''m a busy man, and I only heard someone else


    mention it the other day."


    Leanna said with a smile, "I know who told you that."


    A vignt Jimmy questioned, "Who?"


    Instead of replying to his question, Leanna uttered impassively, "What are you trying to achieve, Mr.


    Onder? If there''s nothing else, you may leave now. I still have work to do."


    Jimmy''s expression changed as fury rose within him. "I haven''t settled the score with you for ndering


    me!"


    "Don''t worry, Mr. Onder. We have a fair legal system in the country. You won''t be charged for the


    things you''ve never done," Leanna said slowly. "As for the things you have done, we''ll get to the bottom


    of them sooner orter."


    Since Leanna had found out his secret, Jimmy didn''t dare to continue making a scene. After a snort, he


    turned around and strode out of the office. After the other managers left with Jimmy, the office fell silent


    again.


    Leanna held a pen and tapped it on the table. In the past, she believed that the collision was just an


    ident, but now, it seemed that it was Jimmy''s doing.


    She flipped through the document and realized that other than corruption, Jimmy, who was the


    Crossley Group''s vice president for many years, had been involved in many wrongdoings as well.


    However, ording to Jonathan, there was a huge difference between the money Jimmy embezzled


    and the assets he had been transferring overseas.


    Furthermore, it took Jimmy a lot of money to sustain the connections he had. If he didn''t have those


    connections, it would''ve been easy to destroy him. As such, he must have a bigger source of ie


    from somewhere.


    Leanna ced the document in the lowest drawer and locked it. Then, she picked up the design drafts


    she had been working on and stood up, ready to head to the studio. The moment she left the office,


    Raymond came over and asked, "Are you going out, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna hummed. "I''m going to the studio."


    "Why don''t I send you there?"


    "There''s no need for that."


    "We heard that you were involved in a car ident. To prevent the same thing from happening again,


    you have to be careful."


    Leanna replied, "I will."


    Hearing that, Raymond stopped insisting as he walked Leanna downstairs. After Leanna was gone, he


    looked around and headed upstairs.

 Chapter 549

    Chapter 549


    In a car across from the Crossley Group, Oscar watched as Raymond disappeared and asked, "Have


    you found out where he wasst night?"


    The subordinate beside him replied, "He sent his daughter to a dance ssst night. I asked the


    teachers about it, and they told me that he had been waiting until the ss ended."


    "Is there any surveince footage to prove that?"


    The subordinate shook his head. "They told me that the surveince cameras are currently broken.


    Since they''ve been busy, they haven''t managed to get the cameras repaired."


    After a moment of silence, Oscar ordered, "Get some people to follow him. Make sure he doesn''t


    discover anything."


    "Yes."


    "Where''s Aidan?"


    "He¡­"


    Oscar rubbed the center of his brows. "Forget it. We''ll head to the Pearson Group straight away."


    Meanwhile, a woman was kneeling in a Pearson Group''s room with fear and anxiety written all over her


    face. "Please believe me. I know nothing. It was a serious fire incident, and I couldn''t find my child. I


    just needed someone''s help. I¡ª"


    Aidan dropped a document in front of her with a gloomy expression. Despite his silence, there seemed


    to be an invisibleyer of pressure around him.


    The woman opened the document with trembling hands, only to realize the file contained all of her


    personal information, including her address. In an instant, all the color drained from her face.


    Aidan demanded, "You only have one chance. I do not want to hear any nonsense."


    The woman was deluged with fear as she looked at him. Not daring to hide anything from him any


    longer, she stammered, "I-I''m a background actress. A few days ago, a man approached me and told


    me to put on an act. He gave me 2,000 in exchange for my help. I only earn several hundred for taking


    part in a movie, so the money he offered was a considerable amount¡­"


    Then, she turned to look at Keaton. "That guy passed me his photo and told me that when I saw him


    during the fire incident, I had to grab him immediately. That was why I¡­"


    Aidan questioned, "Where''s the photo?"


    The woman hurriedly fished out the photo from her bag and held it out cautiously. Aidan took a look


    and passed it to Keaton. "Do you remember when this was taken?"


    The photo had been taken from a distance without Keaton''s knowledge. Keaton pondered for a


    moment before replying, "President Pearson, I believe the photo was taken in ckburn two months


    ago before we moved to the apartment."


    Aidan took the photo and asked the kneeling woman, "Do you remember what the man looks like? The


    one who gave you the photo."


    The woman replied, "I don''t. However, I''m sure I''ll recognize him if you have a photo of him."


    Aidan said, "Show her Raymond''s photo."


    Keaton turned on his phone and looked for Raymond''s photo before showing it to the woman, who took


    a look and shook her head. "That''s not him."


    Keaton provided an analysis, saying, "President Pearson, if this is indeed Raymond''s doing, he must


    have approached Celia with an ulterior motive. It''s been several months since they started dating, but


    he never exposed anything, which goes to show how cautious he is. Moreover, he managed to take


    them away without us noticing, and there''s been no news on them since. It''s obvious that he has other


    aplices."


    Aidan fell silent for a moment before saying, "Are you sure you''ll recognize that man if you see him


    again?"


    The woman was startled for a moment before realizing Aidan was talking to her. She promptly dipped


    her head. "I have a good memory. I can definitely recognize him."


    Aidan ordered, "Take her away."


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    Keaton grunted and brought the woman out of the office. After they were gone, Oscar arrived and said,


    "Some people could prove that Raymond had been waiting in the dance studio until his daughter''s


    ss ended."


    An unfazed Aidan replied, "Only a fool would believe an alibi. Keep looking into the matter."


    Jonathan said, "President Pearson, I''ll try to find out who gave the woman the photo, then."


    Aidan said, "The photo was taken two months ago. Why do you think they only made a move now?"


    Unable to answer the question, Jonathan appeared doubtful. Aidan continued, "Raymond has been


    trying to approach Celia since several months ago, and he managed to gain her trust. Although I have


    no idea what Celia told him, it seems that he''s very clear about their whereabouts."


    Upon hearing the analysis, Oscar said, "Thus, Raymond is likely aware of Keaton''s presence, so he


    took a photo of him secretly. In that case, it would''ve been easier for him to make a move in ckburn.


    Why did he choose to take them away during the fire incident at the apartment?"


    Since Raymond had found out about Celia''s identity and who the child''s father was, he must also be


    aware that Aidan also lived in the apartment. Given how cautious he was, there was no reason for him


    to make a move at the apartment.


    Furthermore, it took a lot of people and money to kick up such a big fuss. Raymond didn''t seem able to


    do so on his own.


    Aidan replied impassively, "My guess is that he didn''t make a move sooner because he had been


    waiting."


    A puzzled Oscar asked, "What do you mean?"


    "He had been waiting for a chance," Aidan continued. "He could sell this piece of information to anyone


    and gain massive benefits out of it. If he had made a move on his own, he couldn''t have achieved


    anything else other than ckmailing me. He didn''t dare do it, so he had been waiting."


    Jonathan asked, "President Pearson, are you saying there are people who are aware of the young


    master''s existence, and that Raymond has chosen to work with them¡ª"


    He caught himself all of a sudden. Other than the Pearsons, he couldn''t think of anyone else who had


    the money and manpower to take the young master away. More importantly, they were not afraid of


    their wrongdoings getting exposed.


    Oscar said, "I''ve been keeping an eye on the Pearsons, but I don''t think they''re capable of finding out


    about it."


    Aidan snorted. "Who knows? They might have found out about it already."


    Jonathan asked, "What should we do, then? Do we save them from the Pearson Family Estate?"


    Oscar plopped onto the couch. "It''s only his spection. How is he supposed to save them?"


    "I''ll look for the evidence now."


    Aidan said, "What do you think Gordon is trying to achieve? Even if you have any solid evidence, he


    won''t release them."


    Oscar analyzed the situation. "Moreover, if they were not the ones who took them away, we''d be telling


    them directly that Aidan has a son by barging into the Pearson Family Estate."


    The office fell silent for a moment before Aidan asked, "Is Anna still alive?"


    Jonathan nodded. "Yes, she is." She''s be disturbed, though.


    Aidan ordered impassively, "Bring her back. I''ll be heading to the Pearson Family Estate tonight."


    I''ll go there and find out if it''s just spection.


    Oscar asked, "Are you going to provoke them?"


    Aidan rose from the chair. Despite his monotonous tone, his voice was tinged with coldness.


    "Provocation? I''m just going to send them a gift."

 Chapter 550

    Chapter 550


    When Leanna arrived at the studio and saw Zoe there, she asked, "Why don''t you get more rest at


    home?"


    Presently, Zoe rested her head on the table and said lethargically, "I was bored to death at home. If I


    stayed there any longer, I would''ve developed depression."


    Leanna smiled and sat down across from her. "Where''s Daniel?"


    "I don''t know where he is. He said he''d pick me upter, but I hope he won''t show up."


    "Has he been staying at your ce for the past few days?"


    Zoe was furious at the mention of this as she replied, "I honestly have no idea what''s on his mind. I''ve


    made it clear to him, but he still refuses to leave. It''s quite annoying to see him at home every day."


    Leanna arched her brow without uttering a word.


    Zoe sighed. "It''s been half a month, Nana. I''ll probably get the operation done in a few days. Can you


    come with me? I think it''d be the best decision for both of us."


    Leanna asked, "Does Daniel share the same sentiment?"


    "He hasn''t said anything, but I believe that''s his intention since he''s been hesitating for such a long


    time. I don''t want this to drag on any longer. I think he''s only forced to take care of me because of the


    child. By getting the operation done, both of us can be relieved sooner."


    Leanna had no idea what to say. A momentter, she managed, "Okay."


    Zoe went on to say, "By the way, why are you here in the studio today?"


    Leanna fished out the design drafts from her bag. "These need to be sent to the factory."


    The drafts included the designs used to participate in the fashion week and the new products they


    wouldunch pretty soon.


    Zoe replied, "Alright, I''ll ask someone to send the drafts to the factoryter. By the way, it''s been a long


    time since we started running this studio, and I''ve had nothing to do at home recently. Why don''t we


    open an online shop? That will help promote our brand and grow our business."


    Leanna nodded. "Sure."


    "I''ll put up a notice to hire some people who will be responsible for handling the online business."


    After giving it some thought, Leanna said, "If we want to run an online shop, the current studio is too


    small."


    Zoe realized the problem as well. Besides the shop lot, their studio also included the lounge, office, and


    pantry. There wasn''t enough space to store more products.


    Since they wanted to run an online shop, they had to ensure they would have enough stocks


    irrespective of their sales figure.


    The remaining items could be sold through other means, but if they only asked the factory to produce


    the items upon receiving orders, they couldn''t possibly fulfill the customers'' needs. That would only


    tarnish their reputation.


    Suddenly thinking of something, Zoe turned to Leanna, only to realize the other woman was also


    staring at her. They said simultaneously, "Why don''t we rent the shop beside ours as well?"


    Since they both shared the same sentiment, they contacted the person in charge of the shop beside


    theirs at once. Leanna spent the entire afternoon dealing with this matter. It was already evening when


    she finally signed the contract.


    Zoe stretched her back. "Why don''t we go and eat something spicy, Nana?"


    Leanna asked, "Can you have spicy food?"


    "I asked the doctor about it, and he said that it''s fine as long as I do so moderately. I''ve been having


    nd food for a few days, and I can''t put up with it any longer. Pleasee with me."


    Leanna smiled. "Alright."


    She fished out her phone and realized there were still no messages from Aidan. Zoe touched the other


    woman with her elbow. "Is it Aidan? Why don''t you ask him toe along? As long as I can have spicy


    food, I don''t mind letting your man tag along."


    "It''s not him," Leanna exined. "Something happened to hispany yesterday, and he went over to


    deal with it immediately. He hasn''t contacted me since then, so I have no idea what''s going on with


    him."


    Zoe was surprised. "Do you want to go over and have a look, then?"


    Leanna shook her head. "There''s no need for that. I asked Jonathan about it, and he said it wasn''t a


    big deal. I suppose he''s been busy attending meetings, which is why he hasn''t contacted me. I''ll drop


    him a messageter."


    "Alright. Let''s go, then."


    ¡­


    In the Pearson Family Estate''s living room, not long after the servants cleaned up the dinner''s leftovers,


    a subordinate came over in a hurry and said, "Something has happened, Sir."


    Gordon got to his feet with the walking stick''s help. "What''s wrong? Why do you look anxious?"


    "Young Master Aidan is back¡­"


    An unperturbed Gordon retorted, "Isn''t it normal that he''s back? Has he brought bombs or something?"


    Beside him, Sienna was expressionless. The subordinate whispered, "He''s brought Miss Anna with


    him¡­"


    Gordon was bbergasted. "What did you just say?" Anna is supposed to be dead. How is it possible


    that she''s back?


    Sienna questioned, "Are you mistaken? Is she really Anna?"


    "Yes, I have no doubt she is Miss Anna, but¡­"


    Gordon urged him by saying, "Go on."


    Before the subordinate could reply, a voice was hearding from outside the house. "Since you''re


    curious, why don''t you see it for yourself?"


    The next moment, Aidan appeared in the living room.


    When Gordon looked up and saw Aidan, he tried to suppress his fury. However, the moment he saw


    Anna getting pushed into the ce, his pupils dted involuntarily. Sienna''s expression changed


    drastically. "What have you done to her?!"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Presently, Anna was no longer as haughty as before. Her hair was a mess, and there wasn''t a part of


    her face that was intact as it was covered with wounds. One of her arms was limp as though it had


    been fractured. What was more horrifying was that she was wheelchair-bound. Even though there was


    a quilt over her lower body, it looked hollow.


    Aidan sat down on the couch and said slowly, "Calm down. I never did anything to her."


    Then, Aidan lifted his hand, after which Jonathan stepped forward and exined, "Anna was found


    guilty of a murder case and sentenced to 20 years in jail. She was then sent to Weavside Women''s


    Prison. While in jail, she repeatedly cursed at and attacked the prison guards and cellmates. She also


    attempted to flee from prison. During the process, she jumped from the third floor to evade pursuit. As


    a result, she broke her legs and one arm. Due to the severity of her injury, the doctors decided to


    amputate her legs."


    Sienna felt a chill running down her spine as she stared at Aidan. "It was your arrangement, wasn''t it?"


    Aidan sneered. "If it had been up to me, she would''ve ended up way worse."


    Gordon clenched his walking stick and roared, "That''s ridiculous! You''ve crossed the line!"


    "Have I crossed any lines? Shouldn''t you ponder on why she never repented in jail and still provoked


    others? Had she realized she was in the wrong, she wouldn''t have ended up in such a state."


    Gordon cried, "She''s your cousin! You¡­"


    "My cousin?" Aidan said slowly, but his voice tinged with a coldness. "When she pushed Leanna down


    the stairs back then, she should have realized what the consequences would be. In fact, she should''ve


    been killed, but I was magnanimous enough to spare her life. Isn''t that enough?"

 Chapter 551

    Chapter 551


    Gordon said angrily, "If she''s like this, then you might as well kill her!"


    Aidan said unhurriedly, "I don''t do illegal things. If you want to help her free herself from this, you can


    do it yourself."


    "What the hell are you talking about?"


    "Everyone should pay the price for what they did, shouldn''t they?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Sienna held onto the couch, and after calming down, she said coldly, "Do you think you''re better?"


    Aidan smiled deeply. "I was never a good person. If anyone wants to avenge her, I''ll be ready anytime."


    Gordon took two steps back angrily before covering his chest. "Okay¡­ I underestimated you before.


    You are so arrogant now. You will face retribution sooner orter, Aidan. The thing I regret most in my


    life is bringing you, an illegitimate child, back to the Pearson Family. Sure enough, your bad nature


    can''t be changed at all!"


    "Am I really arrogant? Then what I''m going to do next will be absolutely traitorous."


    "You¡­ " Before Gordon finished speaking, the people brought by Aidan had already rushed in, darting


    straight to the study.


    Gordon eximed, "What do you want to do?"


    Aidan said lightly, "Don''t worry, I won''t do anything to you. I''m just borrowing your seal for use."


    "Don''t even think about it!" At this moment, all of Gordon''s subordinates rushed in when they heard the


    commotion, and the two parties were at an impasse in the living room.


    This was the first time Aidan and the Pearson Family had such a big fight since Aidan parted with them.


    Gordon became even angrier and demanded everyone toe over. As long as Aidan dared to take a


    step forward, they would engage in a fight right here. This was the Pearson Family Estate, which was


    Gordon''s territory! How could the rebellious Aidan do this to him here?!


    Aidan sat on the couch, tapping his fingers on his knees in deep thought.


    After a while, Jonathan said, "President Pearson, all the people who can be used are already here."


    Aidan nced around and said, "Let''s begin."


    Gordon was startled when he heard the words as if he didn''t expect Aidan to really do it. Just as he


    was about to leave, he found that Aidan''s subordinates took out their phones and taken several photos


    of him and his men one after another.


    When Gordon''s people finally reacted and stretched out their hands to cover their faces, a lot of photos


    had already been taken. Gordon was taken aback, wondering what Aidan was doing.


    Aidan got up and said, "Okay, since it looks like I can''t borrow the seal, I''ll go first."


    "Stop! What are you trying to do?"


    Aidan turned his head and nced at Gordon. "You''re right, I''m too arrogant now, and sooner orter, I


    will face retribution. So, I''ll keep that a secret first since I don''t know how I''ll die in the future."


    After speaking, Aidan left the living room. Jonathan and his subordinates also left with him.


    Seeing them leave, the person next to Gordon said, "Old Master Pearson, we are now¡­"


    Gordon said impatiently, "Leave."


    Then, he ordered in a low voice, "Keep an eye on the back part of the house."


    He felt that Aidan''s trip this time was not that simple. Soon, the men left as ordered.


    Anna sat paralyzed in a wheelchair, and her eyes were out of focus; she had probably gone crazy long


    ago. Seeing this, Gordon waved his hand and said, "Take her away too. It''s maddening to look at her."


    The subordinate asked, "Sure¡­ but where should we take her?"


    "Send her to a prison, a mental hospital, or anywhere else you can think of. Just don''t let me see her


    again."


    Anna was spoiled rotten by Sienna, so she had been conceited and domineering. She had caused a lot


    of trouble, so she deserved what happened to her.


    After Anna was taken away, Gordon looked at Sienna, whose face was pale and bloodless, and said in


    a deep voice, "All right now. Didn''t Aidan already say that it''s an ident that she became like this? It''s


    her fault after all. Since she knew that she had caused trouble, why couldn''t she just stay in prison and


    turn over a new leaf? Why did she have to cause all this to happen?"


    Sienna sarcastically said, "Then do you think Aidan ns to put me in prison or turn me into Anna


    too?"


    Gordon frowned. "I told you a long time ago not to confront him head-on. You''re the one who gave


    Anna the guts to push Leanna down the stairs and cause her to have a miscarriage. You should''ve


    stopped at the appropriate time, but you had to do this¡­ If Leanna''s first child was born, things would


    not have turned out like this!"


    "Do you think you can control him if you hold his child in your hands?"


    Gordon said loudly, "Of course! The Pearson Family values blood ties the most. If it weren''t for this, I


    wouldn''t have taken him back in the first ce!"


    "You only care about your blood ties. Let me tell you, from the moment the Pearson Group was handed


    over to Aidan, you no longer had any control over it. Do you think you can use children to control


    Aidan? That''s absolutely impossible. Now, we''re on our own. Either he''s done for or I am!"


    As Sienna spoke, a hint of madness appeared in her usual calm expression. "Even if I die, I won''t let


    him live well!"


    Gordon sighed. "You¡­"


    Sienna ignored him and went upstairs. Gordon thereafter stood in the living room for a while but was


    still worried about the situation in the back part of the estate, so he walked over with a cane.


    On the second floor, Justin was sitting in a wheelchair, leaning his head against the wall quietly for God


    knew how long¡­


    In the back part of the estate, as soon as Gordon entered the side residence, he heard a baby crying.


    He asked in displeasure, "Why is he crying again?"


    The two nannies were also at a loss. "This child seems afraid of strangers and won''t let us hold him.


    And¡­"


    "And what?"


    "And he won''t eat anything; he seems to have a fever."


    Gordon frowned. "Did you call a doctor?"


    The two nannies hesitated for a moment and did not speak. Gordon turned his head and said to his


    subordinates, "Hurry up and find a doctor to see what''s going on with the baby."


    As the men left to do so, Gordon put down his cane and said, "Let me hold him."


    The nanny handed the little baby over. However, the baby cried even harder in Gordon''s arms, and his


    voice became hoarser. With a sullen face, Gordon handed him over to the nanny again, asking, "Has


    he eaten anything sincest night?"


    "He was probably starving in the morning as he ate a little, but he vomited it up again not long after."


    "How could you take care of the child like this? You couldn''t even do this thing well!"


    The two nannies dared not respond. After a while, the doctor came, examined the little baby, put a


    fever-reducing patch on his forehead, and said to Gordon, "The baby is still young, and it is difficult for


    him to adapt to a sudden change of caretaker. It''s better to find the person who took care of him before.


    Only when he is willing to eat can his condition improve."


    Gordon pondered for a moment, then ordered, "Bring that young woman over."

 Chapter 552

    Chapter 552


    In the room, Celia was lying beside the bed, looking haggard, with tears that had dried up on her face.


    Compared to her, Naomi seemed much calmer. Sitting on the couch, her expression remained


    composed. Fromst night until now, they had been locked up here. Not only did those people not give


    them food, but they also didn''t even send them a drop of water. After an unknown amount of time, the


    door of the room was opened.


    Celia stood up abruptly, looking vignt. "What are you guys trying to do?"


    The man who came in didn''t say anything. He just grabbed her arm and walked out. Celia struggled


    desperately, crying, "Let me go! Let me go!"


    Naomi stood up, then said coldly, "Are you guys bandits? Is that what Gordon usually tells you to do?"


    The man was somewhat afraid, so he hesitated for a while and let Celia go. Celia trembled with fear,


    then immediately hid behind Naomi, holding onto the corner of her clothes tightly. Following that, the


    man said, "The baby is sick and can''t stop crying, so Old Master Pearson asked us to take her there."


    Hearing this, Celia was startled, and just as she was about to go forward and tell them to take her


    there, Naomi grabbed her hand. Naomi said, "I was the one taking care of the child, so it''s useless for


    her to go."


    The man hesitated, not knowing what to do for a moment. Naomi continued, "Let her stay here, and I''ll


    go over."


    "But the master ordered that¡ª"


    "If he disagrees, you tell him toe to me¡ªif he dares to."


    N?velDrama.Org: owner of this content.


    Seeing her acting like this, the man didn''t dare to deny her. "Then I''ll ask him."


    "Stop." Naomi continued, "Bring some food and water here. Three meals a day must be delivered on


    time as we are not your prisoners."


    The man nodded and left quickly. After he left, Naomi closed the door and whispered to Celia, "After I


    go there, you have to be careful by yourself. Their targets are me and the child, so they won''t do


    anything to harm you."


    Celia took her hand and cried anxiously, "Ms. Fletcher, I can''t let you go to such a dangerous ce! I


    ¡ª"


    Naomi said, "Don''t worry, I know what to do. The little baby is still there, and I am his grandma, so I


    have to go even if it''s dangerous."


    "It''s all my fault! If it weren''t for me, you wouldn''t have been brought here¡­"


    "Now is not the time to me yourself. Let''s talk about it after leaving here."


    On the other side, Gordon listened to his subordinates'' report, frowning. He thought for a while before


    saying, "Do as she says."


    The man left in response. Then, Gordon looked at the crying little baby who had already fallen asleep


    before walking out of the house with the cane.


    When the man returned, he brought food and water. Naomi drank some water, but she didn''t feel like


    eating, so she asked the man to take her to the little baby. Celia looked at her back and gritted her


    teeth secretly. Ms. Fletcher was right. No matter what the situation is like, we have to leave here first. I


    still have to tell President Pearson that Ms. Fletcher and the child are here.


    Celia wiped the tears from her face and started to eat. Only when she regained her strength could she


    find a way to leave¡­


    The moment Naomi saw the child, her heart which had been full of worries finally felt better. She went


    up to check on the little baby''s condition. Then, she proceeded to ask the nanny next to him questions.


    After confirming that he just had a fever, she breathed a sigh of relief.


    It didn''t take long for the little baby to wake up. When he opened his eyes and saw Naomi beside him,


    he just pursed his mouth. He looked aggrieved, but he didn''t cry. Naomi picked him up and put the tip


    of the bottle handed over by the nanny into his mouth. The little baby was very hungry, so he held the


    bottle and drank in big gulps. Soon, half a bottle of milk was gone.


    Naomi held him and walked around the room for a while. Soon, the little baby fell asleep again while


    clutching her clothes tightly. The nanny stepped forward, wanting to take the child back. "Give him to


    me."


    Naomi dodged sideways, frowned, and said coldly, "Don''t touch him."


    The nanny could only retreat back in embarrassment. After the little baby fell into a deep sleep, Naomi


    put him into the crib, stayed by his side, and didn''t leave. Except for the doctor, she didn''t let anyone


    from the Pearson Family get close.


    ¡­


    In a ck Rolls Royce, Jonathan looked at all the photos uploaded on the phone. "President Pearson,


    everything has been sorted out."


    Aidan closed his eyes, and said, "Give it to her for confirmation. After confirmation, find a way to


    contact the person and ask for the exact location."


    "Yes."


    Jonathan stayed silent for a while before adding, "President Pearson, Mrs. Pearson asked about you


    this afternoon. I said you were in a meeting to deal with some small matters in thepany."


    Aidan slowly opened his eyes. "What else did she say?"


    "Nothing much. She probably doesn''t want to disturb you, so she didn''t ask any more questions."


    "Where is she now?"


    "She went back to the studio in the afternoon, and now she''s having dinner with her friends."


    Aidan pursed his thin lips slightly, and said after a few seconds, "You ride their car back to the


    company."


    "Okay."


    Jonathan slowed down and pulled over. After he got out of the car, another man came over


    immediately and sat in the driver''s seat. Subsequently, Aidan took out his phone and dialed Leanna''s


    number. The call almost went to voicemail when she finally answered.


    Leanna said, "Hello?"


    Her side was a little noisy and lively.


    Aidan said slowly, "What are you eating?"


    "I''m eating hot pot with Zoe and Daniel. Are you done yet?"


    Aidan pressed his temples hard. "I just finished the meeting."


    Leanna said, "Then when will you go home? If you still have things to do, I''lle and find youter."


    She seemed to be eating food that was so spicy that she panted a little when she spoke. Aidan could


    imagine her expression through the phone. The corner of his lips hooked up as he said, "No need."


    "Are you leaving now?"


    "Yeah, I''ming to find you." Aidan looked out the window and added, "I want to eat hot pot."


    Leanna replied very straightforwardly, "Okay, then I''ll send you the address. You cane here."


    "Okay."


    After hanging up the phone, he received a message from Leanna within two seconds. Aidan closed his


    eyes and there was no expression or warmth on his stern facial features.


    Half an hourter, the ck Rolls Royce stopped at the entrance of the hot pot restaurant. The


    subordinate announced, "President Pearson, we are here."


    Aidan looked out the window, and when he was about to get out of the car, he happened to see Leanna


    and the others sitting by the window. She was saying something to Zoe, and her little face was flushed


    red from the spicy food. Her smile was bright and warm, and she was full of happiness. It seemed like


    he hadn''t seen her smile like this for a long time.


    Aidan fell into a daze when he saw that. A few minutester, the voice of his subordinate came again.


    "President Pearson?"


    Aidan leaned back into his seat and said lightly, "Go back."


    "Back¡­ where?"


    After a moment of silence, Aidan replied, "Thepany."

 Chapter 553

    Chapter 553


    Aidan had yet to arrive at the restaurant even after they finished their meal.


    Leanna gave him a call, but his phone was switched off.


    Zoe quickly inquired, "What''s wrong, Nana?"


    Leanna shoved her phone back into her pocket and shook her head. "Nothing. Aidan said he was


    coming, but¡ª"


    "Did something happen to Pearson Group in the past two days?" Daniel suddenly asked.


    "I believe so, but when I asked Jonathan about it, he imed that there were some minor internal


    issues but they are all resolved."


    "Minor internal issues?"


    Hearing his tone of voice, Leanna couldn''t help pursing her lips. She assumed Jonathan must have


    deliberately hidden the truth from her, but since they were reluctant to exin, she decided against


    badgering them.


    Seeing Daniel''s expression, however, she figured that the issues might be moreplicated than she


    imagined.


    After contemting for a moment, Leanna asked, "Do you¡­ know what''s going on?"


    "This afternoon, I heard Aidan direct all his subordinates to conduct investigations all over Highside. I


    have never seen him act in such an exaggerated way, but I have no idea what is exactly going on. I just


    don''t think it is an internal issue."


    "Could they be looking for Lloyd Crossley?"


    "That''s unlikely. Lloyd has always been our main target, but he didn''t make such a grand gesture even


    when he was looking for Georgina back then."


    While listening to their conversation, Zoe asked Leanna in a subdued voice, "Do you think he is seeing


    another woman?"


    Daniel''s lips twitched when he heard that. "That''s even more unlikely, but¡­"


    Halfway through his sentence, Daniel frowned upon recalling something. Following that, his expression


    turned solemn.


    "Any idea?" Leanna inquired.


    After a while, Daniel''s expression returned to normal as he smiled. "Nothing. They''re just insignificant


    thoughts."


    ncing at the time, Leanna suggested, "Let''s go, then."


    After leaving the restaurant, Leanna bid goodbye to Zoe and hopped into the car she parked at the side


    of the road.


    Zoe withdrew her gaze and turned to Daniel. "Do you know what Aidan is up to?"


    Daniel forced a smile. "How would I know about his affairs?"


    "Your reaction seemed off earlier. You must know something."


    He was speechless for a few seconds before he uttered, "You''re overthinking. I really have no idea."


    He had received the news before that Leanna''s child might still be alive, but even after running


    investigations, he found no clues.


    When he asked Aidan tentatively about it, Aidan''s lips were sealed.


    Someone worthy of Aidan mobilizing all his subordinates to search for in Highside was none other than


    that child, if not Leanna.


    However, that was just his assumption.


    Moreover, Leanna didn''t seem like she knew a thing about it. Hence, he couldn''t bber nonsense


    under such circumstances.


    Initially, Zoe merely wanted to throw bait at him so he could spill the beans, but when she didn''t get


    anything out of him, she pouted. "Fine."


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Leanna dialed Jonathan''s number after getting into the car.


    Much to her surprise, it was Aidan who picked up the call.


    Hearing his voice, Leanna paused for a second before questioning him, "Didn''t you say you were


    coming? Where are you?"


    Aidan''s voice was faint as he replied, "Something came up at work, so I returned to the office."


    After a moment of silence, Leanna questioned, "Then, why did you switch off your phone?"


    "Battery ran out. I was just about to call you."


    "Are you going home tonight?"


    "No. I have some matters to settle. Don''t stay up for me."


    Following a hum, Leanna added, "Go ahead and settle your work then. Bye."


    "Okay. Drive safely," he reminded her.


    After the call was disconnected, she stared at her phone for a while before driving off.


    Leanna went to the restaurant that Aidan used to frequent, packed a few dishes, and then went to


    Pearson Group.


    The moment she left the elevator, she bumped into Jonathan.


    Jonathan probably didn''t expect to see her and froze, not daring to look her in the eye. "Hello, Miss


    McKinney."


    Seeing how his eyes flickered around, she asked, "Are you not feeling well?"


    He offered her a dry chuckle. "Erm¡­ Maybe. I''ve been working overtimetely."


    After recalling his sry, Leanna felt pity for him. "Where''s Aidan?"


    "President Pearson is¡ª"


    "In a meeting?"


    "N-No."


    Leanna assumed he had just left the president''s office, so she uttered, "I get it. Take care."


    However, Jonathan stopped her. "Miss McKinney."


    "Yeah?" she asked after turning around.


    "President Pearson is currently resting. Why don''t youe tom¡ª"


    "It''s fine. I''m just going to drop these in his room. I won''t disturb him."


    Watching Leanna''s back, Jonathon heaved a breath of relief. Whenever he faced her, he couldn''t help


    feeling a little guilty, not to mention Aidan.


    When Leanna pushed open the door to the office, she peeked her head into the room.


    As expected, Aidan was catching a nap on the couch.


    If she was right, he must have been working non-stop sincest night. Without a doubt, he must have


    skipped his meals too.


    He was always like that whenever he was swarmed with work.


    Walking over slowly, she ced the paper bag on the coffee table and picked up his coat that was left


    aside.


    After bending over to drape the coat over his body, she remained in the same spot as she stared at him


    for a while.


    Dark circles are starting to form under his eyes. He looks exhausted. I should go home and cook some


    chicken broth for him and bring it tomorrow.


    When she stood up straight and was about to leave, someone grabbed hold of her wrist.


    With his eyes closed, the man uttered softly, "What brings you here?"


    "I happened to pass by. Have you eaten?" she asked.


    "Nope."


    "Did you skip lunch or dinner?" Leanna paused and added, "Or did you even skip breakfast?"


    Hearing that, Aidan smirked and opened his eyes to look at her. "Are you concerned about me?"


    Leanna didn''t bother paying attention to him as she pulled her hand out of his grasp and took out the


    food boxes one by one from the paper bag on the coffee table. "You better eat some, or you might


    starve to death before you even die of exhaustion."


    Aidan reached out to hug her waist before pulling her into his embrace. "Feed me."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She was speechless at that.


    "I''m exhausted. I don''t want to move anymore," he added.


    "Are you sure? You seemedpletely fine when you pulled me into your chest, though."


    Despite saying that, Leanna still grabbed the cutlery and started feeding him.


    However, Aidan merely took a few bites before dering that he was full.


    Seeing so much leftover food, she mused, Well, at least he ate some.


    "It''s gettingte now. Let me send you back home," Aidan suggested.


    "Don''t worry about it." Leanna packed the rest of the food and said, "I''ll go home on my own. You can


    get back to work."


    Staring at her back, Aidan went silent for a moment before asking, "Can''t you just stay in Castor Vi? I


    just saw the news. Your apartment was heavily burned, and Castor Vi has been renovated. You


    should just stay there."

 Chapter 554

    Chapter 554


    Aidan added, "I mean, you shouldn''t move to other ces anymore."


    Leanna slowly turned her head to look at him.


    Only then did she realize his tone seemed off today.


    It no longer sounded authoritative or unreasonable, nor did it sound like an order.


    She wasn''t sure if it was her hallucination, but his tone seemed to carry a hint of a plea.


    Aidan met her gaze and presented a look of confusion.


    She then reached out all of a sudden and touched his forehead. "Are you sick?"


    Aidan was rendered speechless.


    He pulled her hand down and clutched it in his hands. "No."


    "Then why are you bbering nonsense?"


    Aidan raised his brows. "Is it weird that I tell you not to move?"


    Leanna nodded at him. "Of course, it is! By right, you would''ve said ''you cannot'', ''you are not allowed'',


    or ''no way'', instead of ''can''t you''."


    "What''s the difference?"


    "There is a huge difference. The way you asked ''can''t you'' sounded weaker than the rest."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Aidan found her amusing. "You''re just dwelling on something insignificant."


    Leanna pouted at that. "Are you guilty of something? Are you seeing another woman besides me?"


    "Head home and get some rest. You''re starting to hallucinate."


    Leanna was at a loss for words.


    He was still that same old b*stard.


    Pulling her hand out of his palm, she uttered, "Fine. I''ll get going. You should get back to work."


    Aidan got up and wore his suit.


    Leanna turned around and insisted, "I can head down myself. You¡ª"


    "I wasn''t going to send you home. I''m going home too."


    Leanna was confused.


    "You suspected I was seeing someone else. How could I still let you go home alone?"


    Leanna didn''t know what to say. She shouldn''t have messed with him earlier!


    On the way back, Aidan held her hand, leaned against the back seat, and closed his eyes. Leanna


    wondered if he was asleep, but she didn''t disturb him. It was only right that she let him rest.


    When they arrived at Castor Vi, Leanna entered the bedroom first and asked him, "Do you want to


    wash up first, or shall I go first?"


    Aidan pulled his tie with one hand and replied in a toneced with weariness, "Go ahead."


    "Okay, but I''m going to wash my hair tonight, so it might take some time. If you want to go to bed soon,


    you can wash up in the guest bathroom."


    "Okay."


    Grabbing her pajamas, Leanna entered the bathroom.


    Aidan stood on the balcony, pulled out a cigarette, slipped it between his lips, and lit it up.


    After a while, Jonathan called. "President Pearson, she recognized him. That person who passed


    Keaton Wheeler''s photo works under Old Mr. Pearson."


    It was an expected answer.


    Aidan dusted off the cigarette ash and uttered indifferently, "Be careful when you do it. Don''t let Old


    Master Pearson find out."


    "Sure."


    Jonathan then asked, "What should we do about that woman?"


    "Keep her. Who knows? We might need her one day."


    After a pause, Aidan added, "Have you found that anchor?"


    "Two days before the incident, she went to Jamesdon, but her previous identity seems to be a fake


    one. We''re still searching for her."


    As he spoke, Jonathan hesitated for a moment. "President Pearson, news came half an hour ago that


    some of William''s subordinates in Highside are inquiring about our affairs over the past two days. I''m


    afraid¡­ Miss McKinney will find out about our mission sooner orter. Why don''t you tell her


    beforehand?"


    Without much emotion, Aidan replied, "Tell Oscar to spread some rumors about Lloyd Crossley''s


    whereabouts. Don''t let them disrupt our n."


    "Sure. I''ll get that arranged right away."


    After hanging up the call, Aidan crushed the cigarette butt in his hand and lit another cigarette.


    If he told Leanna about the situation right now, she would only resent him.


    He would only stand a chance to obtain her forgiveness if he brought the little guy to her.


    Half an hourter, Leanna came out of the bathroom and looked at the man standing on the balcony.


    "Haven''t you showered yet?"


    Aidan crushed the half-lit cigarette and responded, "I''m going now."


    Once he entered the bathroom, Leanna walked over to the balcony and frowned upon seeing the


    cigarette butts in the ashtray.


    How many cigarettes did he smoke?


    She then cleared the ashtray and went downstairs to heat a ss of milk.


    When Aidan came out of the bathroom, Leanna happened to enter the room with a ss of milk.


    She passed the ss to him and said, "Finish it."


    "I don''t have an appetite," Aidan responded.


    "You must drink it even if you have no appetite. You didn''t even eat that much for dinner, and¡­ Forget


    it. Just drink this!" Leanna huffed.


    Seeing how fierce she was, Aidan smirked and drank the milk in one go.


    Leanna took the empty ss and dragged him to the couch. "I''ll give you a massage. If you feel sleepy,


    just go to sleep. I''ve already set the rm clock to wake you up tomorrow morning."


    "That''s so sweet of you."


    "Shut up."


    Leanna then grabbed a bolster and ced it on herp before pulling his head over.


    When Aidany down, he pulled the bolster away andid his head directly on herp instead.


    Leanna ignored his actions and started massaging his temples.


    Closing his eyes, Aidan spoke after a while. "How was your visit to Crossley Group?"


    "All good. There was no major problem."


    She omitted the fact that Jimmy came to make a fuss with her. To be frank, it wasn''t a big deal, and it


    only made her head ache at the thought of it.


    "I might not be able to spare time for you these two days. If somethinges up, go directly to


    Freddie. If he can''t resolve your problems, you can look for Oscar."


    "Okay."


    "Jimmy isn''t as simple as you think he is. He is very cunning and scheming. Stop your investigations


    now that you''ve obtained all the information you need. I''ll make Oscar follow up with the rest and inform


    you once we have news."


    Hearing that, Leanna hesitated. "But if I want to convict him, these alone are not enough."


    "It''s not easy to convict him, and there is no rush for us to do it within these few days. As long as the


    person who killed Elliot Watts is not found, he won''t be able to leave Highside for a day. We have all the


    time to conduct the investigation."


    At the mention of that, Leanna pursed her lips. "Honestly, I''ve always suspected that Queenie was the


    one who killed Elliot, but without Ron Sedley''s help, I can''t figure out how she did it. Besides, the police


    have interrogated her but found nothing."


    Whether it was her figure or her strength, she was no match for Elliot. Moreover, his body was dumped.


    There was no way Queenie could''ve done that alone.


    "Don''t think about it if you can''t figure it out. Queenie has disappeared, but when she shows up again,


    the truth wille to light."


    Leanna wasn''t aware that Queenie had gone missing.


    However,bined with the fact that Elliot was killed, it was almost certain that Queenie''s


    disappearance was proof that she had an aplice who helped her murder him.

 Chapter 555

    Chapter 555


    Ever since Naomi was taken away, Celia had been very calm and cooperative.


    She was brought along the way from the get-go, and she was of no use, so the guards didn''t pay much


    attention to her. There were even several times when they forgot to lock the door after delivering her


    meals.


    After quietly observing for two days, Celia was certain that the deliveryman would leave the building


    immediately after sending her meals. There were also no guards around the building after that.


    As long as she didn''t bump into them when she left, there shouldn''t be a major problem.


    Moreover, around 3.00PM to 5.00PM, fewer people would lurk around as if afraid of being discovered.


    At noon on the third day, Celia received her meal as usual. Just as the man was about to lock the door


    and leave, Celia suddenly asked, "Has the child healed?"


    The man nced at her and spat, "Don''t ask questions you shouldn''t."


    "I-I''m just worried about him. He has always been weak since young and requires a long time to


    recover whenever he falls sick. I know he is very important to you, so you will take good care of him,


    won''t you?"


    "He has healed."


    Celia smiled at that. "I can rest assured then. Thanks."


    Without a response, the man closed the door and left.


    Due to her interruption, he really forgot to lock the door.


    Seeing that, Celia heaved a breath of relief. She felt as if her entire back had been drenched in sweat.


    All she had to do now was wait. By 3.00PM, she would be able to escape.


    At half past two, the sky began to darken slowly. Not longter, rain began to fall.


    What perfect weather to escape.


    Celia clenched her fists and thought the heavens must be helping her right now.


    At 3.20PM, she sneakily opened the room''s door and made sure that the coast was clear.


    She then cautiously moved forward in the direction of the light until she found the exit.


    After leaving the building, Celia immediately hid among the bushes outside and looked around.


    This ce was even bigger than she had imagined, and the ce she stayed in seemed to be a


    backyard. From a distance, she could spot taller buildings in front.


    Celia recalled that it didn''t take Raymond long to bring them to the entrance by car, so they definitely


    didn''te in through the front main entrance. Hence, she deduced that the back door must be


    somewhere nearby.


    Fortunately, there were many bushes and trees around. There was even a long stretch of wallflowers


    which was ideal for hiding.


    Celia was drenched in the rain as she hunched over and moved carefully along the stretch of


    wallflowers.


    She was lucky that she picked such an excellent time to escape. Moreover, it was raining right now, so


    the whole backyard was pretty empty.


    But even so, the ce was too huge. It took Celia at least half an hour to find the back door.


    Upon seeing the back door, she was secretly delighted. However, there was a security booth at the


    door where two men were chatting with each other.


    After observing the surroundings for a while, Celia found that the walls were covered with vines, and


    most importantly, there was a blind spot that was not captured by surveince.


    She went over to that spot and started climbing up while pulling the vines.


    Soon, her palms were streaked with blood, yet she didn''t let go. With gritted teeth, she climbed over the


    wall. To her dismay, the other side of the wall was bare, and there were no vines for her to use as a


    buffer. Moreover, the wall was at least six feet high.


    After looking around, Celia felt intimidated. However, the thought of Naomi, the little guy who was sick,


    and Raymond, who made use of her, she hesitated. After that, she closed her eyes and jumped over


    the wall.


    The moment shended on the ground, she clearly heard the sound of her bones breaking and couldn''t


    help but scream.


    Enduring the severe pain in her body, Celia quickly covered her mouth.


    It was raining heavily at the moment, and her voice was quickly covered by the sound of the rain.


    When she got up, she saw blood pooling on the ground, but she didn''t know where her wound was.


    She didn''t have time to be afraid or worried. Dragging her injured leg and arm, she started running on


    the road.


    Even after running for at least ten minutes, there was not a single car to be spotted.


    Her vision became more blurred by the rain, and just as she was about to pass out, she suddenly


    spotted headlights in the shower.


    Celia saw hope in an instant as she stood in the middle of the road and waved fervently at the car.


    Soon, the ck car stopped in front of her.


    Celia patted the car window and shouted in the rain. "Please give me a ride! I¡ª"


    Just then, the car window slowly lowered, and Raymond''s face was revealed.


    He turned over to look at her with a smile. "Where are you going, Celia?"


    Celia stared at him with wide eyes. Horror painted across her face as she subconsciously backed


    away.


    She was initially feeling lucky and hopeful, but now, she felt like she had fallen into a cold abyss.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Celia started running, but her leg was injured. Under the rain, she could barely run.


    Raymond took a few steps forward, grabbed her by the wrist, and sighed, "It''s raining so heavily out


    here. Why are you trying to torture yourself?"


    Celia struggled desperately as she punched him. "Let me go!"


    "Let you go? So that you can report to Aidan Pearson?"


    "You punk! President Pearson will find out the truth and will never let you go!"


    "I''m not the mastermind of this whole mission. At most, I''m just an aplice. If he wants to settle the


    score, I''ll be thest in line. I will no longer be in Highside when he recalls my existence," Raymond


    uttered nonchntly.


    "Please, I beg you to let me go. I have already escaped, so just pretend you didn''t see me. They will


    never find out!" Celia bitterly begged for mercy.


    "You said Aidan won''t let me go earlier. If I let you go now, wouldn''t I be bringing trouble to myself?"


    Celia felt despair all of a sudden as she asked him helplessly, "Y-You approached me on purpose from


    the beginning, didn''t you?"


    Raymond chuckled at that. "Well, I wouldn''t call it a coincidence. I happened to notice the child with


    Aidan and Leanna in the yground of a shopping mall, but I wasn''t sure about anything yet back then,


    so I decided to stalk you, who took the child away, and seek opportunities to approach you. I totally


    didn''t expect that child to belong to Aidan, so my whole act with you from before wasn''t in vain."


    "You beast!" Celia cursed.


    "If I am a beast, what are you? You keep iming that Aidan is your savior and that you can''t betray


    him, but in reality, I managed to trick you into telling me everything by treating you nicely."


    "I¡­ I did not¡­"


    "You didn''t tell me directly that the child was Aidan''s, but do you really think of me as a fool? As long as


    I conduct an investigation, I will be able to find out what I want."


    Celia suddenly felt deprived of strength as she plopped to the ground.


    It was her fault! It was all her fault¡­


    If it were not for her, the situation wouldn''t have turned worse.


    Raymond then crouched in front of her. "You said that Aidan will not let me go, didn''t you? Do you think


    he will let you go, then?"


    Celia raised her head abruptly at him and felt a chill traveling down her spine.

 Chapter 556

    Chapter 556


    As Gordon listened to his subordinate''s report, he scowled, "Where are they?"


    "We have brought them here. They are in the back room," answered the subordinate.


    Gordon paused in silence for a moment before walking to the back room with his cane.


    Meanwhile, Celia was soaked to the bone in the back room and shivered as she huddled in the corner.


    A mixture of rainwater and blood from her wound was visible on the floor in front of her.


    Raymond was sitting in a chair nearby, and while he was wet, he looked much better off than she did.


    As soon as he heard footstepsing from beyond the door, he jumped to his feet.


    Soon, Gordon appeared at the door. He entered the room and cast a nce at Celia. His hand was


    tightly gripping his cane in displeasure as he asked, "What happened?"


    "Sir, due to our carelessness, she had a chance to escape," one of his subordinates immediately


    answered.


    "You were so careless that you didn''t even realize she had run out of the building?" Gordon loudly


    eximed as he mmed his cane down on the ground. "Is this the way that you handle things?"


    There was a stunned silence as everyone in the room lowered their heads.


    Gordon let out a cold snort and walked over to Celia. "Look at me."


    She slowly raised her head to look at him while trembling but quickly ducked her head. Then, her arms


    were wrapped tightly around her legs as she bit down firmly on her lower lip.


    "You risked your life to escape so you could secretly report to Aidan, didn''t you?" he asked. "Do you


    wish for him to kill me?"


    "I... That''s not it," she replied. "I only wanted President Pearson to save Ms. Fletcher and¡ª"


    "Save?" Then, as if he had heard the greatest joke in the world, he continued, "What kind of family do


    you think the Pearsons are? That child is a Pearson. This is his home! Why did Aidan let someone as


    stupid as you take care of the boy? You have no sense of priority."


    Celia trembled even more, too terrified to say anything after hearing that.


    Gordon spun around and nced at his men. "You''re all useless. How can you botch up something so


    trivial?"


    Afterward, he walked towards the door. Then, in an annoyed tone as if he did not want to be bothered


    again over such a trifling matter, he barked, "In any case, keeping her around is pointless. Since she


    wants to run away, you will deal with her."


    "Yes, sir."


    Suddenly, Gordon paused and turned around to look at Raymond before walking out. He pointed at


    Raymond and said, "You,e here."


    "What is your order, Mr. Pearson?" Raymond asked, walking over to Gordon.


    "You handled this matter well," Gordon said in a deep voice. "I have nothing to reward you with, so why


    don''t you handle this? Keep it clean."


    Raymond was shocked to hear that. "Me?"


    "What? Scared?"


    "Mr. Pearson, I¡ª"


    "Enough," Gordon interrupted. "Since you''re working for me, you are mine. However, I might not be


    your only employer. You could also be paid off by other people. I don''t trust you. Either you kill her


    yourself, or neither of you will leave this room alive."


    Raymond had not expected Gordon to be so cold and callous.


    Nevertheless, it was clear that Gordon was not negotiating with him. Following that, Gordon ordered his


    subordinates to keep an eye on them before he left the room.


    Soon, Raymond furrowed his brow as he turned to look at Celia, and a malicious gleam began to form


    in his eyes as he slowly approached her.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Leanna was spacing out and deep in thought as she stared out the window at the rain.


    "Where''s the airship?" Freddie asked, waving his hand in front of her face.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She was speechless as she turned her head to stare at him. After a brief moment, she averted her


    gaze. "What is it?"


    "Did you forget what day it is?" Freddie inquired as he leaned back on the couch.


    "What?" Leanna asked, confused.


    "It''s Aidan''s birthday."


    She was stunned and replied, "Oh, right." The previous few days had been extremely eventful, and


    Aidan had been equally upied, so she hadpletely forgotten it.


    "Should we throw him a party?" he asked.


    After consideration, Leanna concluded that Freddie''s suggestion was quite good. Aidan appears to be


    under excessive pressure recently, as he is perpetually grumpy. Perhaps, a party might help him feel


    better. Then, she checked the time and asked, "It''s already 5.00PM. Can we make it in time?"


    "Anything is possible with money," he replied, smirking. "Leave it to me. You''ll have to send out the


    invitations."


    She responded, "Aren''t you and Oscar Aidan''s only friends? I''m not familiar with his other friends."


    "The others are not important. I was referring to your friends. Invite more people over, specifically the


    singles."


    Leanna stared at Freddie, confused. Is he nning a birthday party for Aidan or a matchmaking event?


    Suddenly, he cleared his throat, sensing that he had been too forthright in his intentions. "The more, the


    merrier. This is to ensure that we have a wonderful party."


    She pursed her lips when she heard that. Still, Aidan had never had anyone throw a party for his


    birthday before, and since they were doing so, it should not be a snooze fest.


    Then, she extended invitations to Daphne, Louis, and Zoe. While preparing the invitation, she had a


    hunch that Daniel would being with Zoe. As a result, she did not feel the need to extend an


    invitation to him. Once the invitations were sent out, Leanna stood up. "Have you booked a ce yet? I


    will help with the decoration."


    "Don''t," Freddie said. "Your mission is to lead Aidan over. I''ll take care of the rest."


    "Okay. I''ll be heading to Pearson Group now."


    As she descended the stairs, she came across Raymond, who was drenched to the skin.


    "Aren''t you driving?" When she saw how wet his clothes were, Leanna inquired.


    "The car broke down," he exined. "I had to dash back in the pouring rain. Miss McKinney, are you


    going out? It''s pouring outside."


    "Yes. I have something to do."


    Then, Leanna noticed a red stain on the cuff of his right sleeve. "Are you okay?"


    Raymond followed her gaze to his hand, then quickly hid it behind his back. "This is nothing. I slipped


    and fell earlier. It''s only a scrape."


    "Remember to clean and dress the wound." Following that, she turned and walked out.


    Afterward, he swiftly shoved his hand into his pocket before dashing up the stairs.


    Before entering the office, he dashed to the restroom and frantically washed the blood from the back of


    his hand. Then, he reached for the tissue near him, covered his wound with a thick sheet of paper, and


    pressed firmly on it to staunch the bleeding. A few minutester, he returned to the office and took out


    the first-aid kit. Next, he cleaned the wound, bandaged it, and went to the locked drawer to look for


    something.


    In light of what had transpired, Raymond could no longer remain there and had to depart immediately.


    However, he knew that after he left, Jimmy would no longer have any leverage to ckmail him.


    Therefore, he had to take Jimmy out first.


    When he found what he was looking for, he flipped through the document to verify it. Then, with a sigh


    of relief, he entered Richard''s office with the file in hand.


    Moreover, he knew Leanna had asked Richard to find evidence that could incriminate Jimmy. Still, no


    matter how diligently Richard searched, he could never find anything significant.


    Raymond also knew that Richard had left the office early in the morning. There were no surveince


    cameras around here, so as long as he could sneak the document into Richard''s office, no one would


    know he did it. Soon, Jimmy would be through.

 Chapter 557

    Chapter 557


    When Leanna arrived at the Pearson Group, Aidan was in the middle of a meeting, and Jonathan was


    nowhere to be found. Thus, she waited in Aidan''s office.


    She received a message from Zoe and Daphne at 7:00PM informing her that they had arrived while


    Louis was still stuck in traffic and would be there soon.


    After reading the message, she was about to walk out to inquire when Aidan''s meeting would be over


    when the office door was suddenly pushed open.


    "Have you been waiting a long time?" Aidan inquired as he entered the room on his long, slender leg.


    "Not at all," Leanna replied with a grin as she put away her phone. "Is there anything else you need to


    do today?"


    "Nope."


    "Well, how about I bring you somewhere?"


    Aidan raised his eyebrows and asked, "Did youe for a date?"


    "You can think of it that way," she said, grabbing his hand and leading him out. "Hurry up. Stop


    dawdling."


    The elevator doors opened, and she was about to step inside when a man said, "President Pearson,


    the culprit has been brought back. We¡ª"


    When Keaton caught sight of Leanna, he abruptly paused mid-sentence, stepped aside, and


    straightened up.


    However, Aidan acknowledged him with a quiet hum but said nothing.


    They entered the elevator, and when the doors closed, Leanna asked softly, "What happened?"


    As he held her hand, he casually replied, "Nothing much. Thepany lost a document. He was in


    charge of finding the employee who did it."


    "Is it serious? Maybe we shouldn''t go."


    "It''s not that serious. They''ll handle it."


    "Okay."


    When they exited the building, it was still raining. Once Leanna had directed the driver to their


    destination, she pulled out her phone and started browsing for something special for Aidan. However,


    after a lengthy search, she found nothing of interest. Given that he is a picky man, what will make him


    happy?


    She was engrossed in her search when he gently rapped her head with his knuckles. "What are you


    looking at? You''ve been at it for quite a while."


    She looked up and turned off her screen. "Nothing much. Since we moved into Castor Vi, I have


    been considering buying something. Do you have any suggestions? Is there anything you want?"


    "There will be a charity auction next month," Aidan replied. "I''ll bring you along. You can buy anything


    you like there."


    Leanna stared at him, speechless. I don''t think it is necessary. Then, she rified, "I meant trinkets to


    decorate the house with."


    In response, he raised an eyebrow at her. "The charity auction has everything you could possibly need.


    Would paintings and vases not be perfect for our home?"


    Her mouth hung open, and she seemed ready to speak, but she bit her tongue and said nothing.


    Unfortunately, he does not propose a single idea worth exploring. I should think about it on my own.


    "I have a present for you. It''ll be ready in a few days," Aidan said while stroking her head.


    Then, Leanna turned to look at him. "What is it?"


    "You''ll know when the timees."


    "Can''t you tell me now?"


    "No," he drawled.


    She stared at him in silent exasperation. Where does this b*stard even learn this?


    Despite the heavy traffic, they could arrive at their destination before 8.00PM. After exiting the vehicle,


    Aidan began to survey his surroundings. "Are we having a date here?"


    "That''s right," Leanna replied, taking his hand and guiding him forward. "Let''s go."


    At that moment, Zoe had texted her to inform her that everyone had arrived.


    When she opened the door and entered the private room, she was surrounded by darkness. As she


    was about to speak, he wrapped an arm around her and seductively whispered, "I did not expect you to


    select somewhere like this. What are you up to?"


    "That''s not it. I¡ª"


    Before she could finish speaking, he kissed her on the lips.


    Nheless, as soon as Aidan''s lips touched Leanna''s, the room became bright, and confetti and


    streamers showered down on his head.


    "Happy birthday!"


    He stared down at her in shock.


    She returned the silent stare. When she realized what was going on, she immediately drew away from


    his embrace, and her cheeks flushed bright red.


    Soon, the couple was surrounded by their friends, who had party poppers in their heads. However, the


    group''s gaze was abruptly directed away from them.


    Aidan looked bewildered as he removed a streamer from his head and looked around the room.


    Suddenly, there was a moment of ufortable silence before everyone quickly dispersed. Someone


    said, "The wine is getting warm. Let''s drink it while it''s still cold."


    "Let''s eat?" Zoe tentatively suggested. "I''m starving."


    Following that, Daniel handed her a slice of pizza.


    "Thanks, but no thanks," she said after a pause. "I want some of that instead."


    She reached out for the spicy meatballs when he stopped her. "That''s too spicy. You can''t have that."


    She pouted. "I can have a small bite. It''s not like I can''t have anything spicy at all."


    "If you insist on eating it, I''ll get you a ss of hot water. You can eat them after you''ve rinsed them."


    While grabbing some fruit, Daphne overheard them with a confused expression. "What are you doing?


    Why are you rinsing the meatballs?"


    At that moment, Louis ced a fruit pudding on Daphne''s te.


    "What are you two doing?" Zoe questioned with her eyes widened.


    Then, Daphne gave Zoe the fruit pudding andughed awkwardly. "I''m on a diet. How about you have


    this?"


    On the other hand, Louis said nothing and instead handed Daphne some fruit sd.


    Zoe stared at them, confused. When she turned to look at Daniel, he merely responded with raised


    eyebrows.


    Freddie sat on the couch with a ss of wine while brooding over how boring the event was. "I made a


    mistake," hemented.


    "How so?" Oscar asked.


    "I expected Leanna to invite more people. In the end, there aren''t many people here, and I don''t even


    have the opportunity to brag."


    "Stop scheming," Oscar responded with pursed lips.


    Aidan watched the group interact before turning to ask Leanna, "What are they doing here?"


    She held up an empty party popper. "We''re here to celebrate your birthday," she replied.


    He stared down at her in shock.


    She then pulled him over to the crowd. "What do you feel like eating? I''ll grab some for you."


    Seeing them approach, Zoe seized her chance to speak up. "Happy birthday, President Pearson."


    He crossed his legs and ndly replied, "I''m not happy."


    Leanna quickly kicked him under the table, reprimanding him for his behavior.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Then, Aidan replied, "Thank you, but I don''t feel happy."


    Leanna turned to nkly stare at him, speechless.


    Nevertheless, everyone was used to his moody temperament. Hence, no one took his words to heart


    and focused on having fun instead.


    A few minutester, a server walked into the room with cake. Soon, it was time to blow out the candles.


    Meanwhile, Leanna grabbed a party hat and crept up to put it on Aidan''s head, but he snatched it away


    and put it on her head instead.


    "Why are you putting it on me?" she asked. "It''s not my birthday."


    "You''re wearing it on my behalf." He smirked and leaned down to whisper, "This is too silly. It suits you


    better."


    Then, her hands immediately clenched into fists.


    "It''s time to blow out the candles," Daphne called out. "Congrattions, President Pearson, for growing


    a year older."


    As the room was filled with cheers and well-wishes, Aidan quickly blew out the candles.

 Chapter 558

    Chapter 558


    Although Aidan did not look happy and resembled an icy mountain instead, that did not negatively


    affect the cheerful atmosphere in the room.


    Leanna handed him a piece of cake, and as he was about to take it, she smeared cream on the corner


    of his mouth. "What is with the sad face? Come on. Smile."


    Suddenly, he grabbed her wrist and drew her closer so he could whisper in her ear, "Didn''t you say we


    were going on a date?"


    She smiled and winked at him. "Does this not count as a date?"


    "It is a date if there are only two of us."


    "All right. That''s enough from you." She shoved him away. "They are here to celebrate your birthday,


    not to pick a fight with you."


    He raised his eyebrows at her. "So, what present do you have for me?" His voice was deep and


    flirtatious.


    She was speechless as she stared at him nkly. Instinctively, her cheeks reddened as she whispered,


    "I haven''t found a present yet. L-Let''s talk about it when we get home."


    As soon as the others in the room saw what the couple was doing, they silently distanced themselves


    from them.


    After Daphne, Leanna, and Zoe had gone to the washroom, Louis walked over to Aidan with a much


    more hostile expression. "I have a question for you."


    "I know what you want to ask about," Aidan calmly responded as he tapped his knee with a slender


    finger. "There''s no use telling you about it. The situation will resolve itself in a week at most."


    "Then, it really¡ª"


    Midway through his sentence, Louis realized that other people besides himself. Then, he noticed


    Daniel was standing inconspicuously nearby, leaning towards them with half his body, but pretended he


    was doing nothing.


    Louis read about the apartment being set on fire a few days ago and visited the scene after the fire had


    been put out. He noticed that everything was still inside, but no one was there. So, he called Keaton,


    but the other man''s exnation was too vague. However, his intuition told him that something terrible


    had happened. It was the reason he was at the party and wanted to personally question Aidan about it.


    Then, he frowned and pursed his lips in concentration.


    Seeing that, Freddie nudged Oscar with his elbow, gesturing for him to say something to break this


    awkward tension. Oscar took a sip of his wine, gesturing for Freddie to do it himself.


    After a moment of silence, Louis asked, "Will they be okay?"


    "They will be."


    However, Louis did not say anything else and turned and walked out. When Daniel saw him walk out,


    he dashed after him.


    After the two men had left, Freddie broke the silence by saying, "What is going on?"


    "We found the man who gave Keaton''s picture to that group of actors," Oscar answered. "He''s one of


    Old Master Pearson''s trusted men. We are unlikely to get any answers from him anytime soon."


    "What do we do?"


    Aidan tilted his head back and downed his ss of wine. His face was nk as though it was frozen


    over. "No matter how tight his lips are, we will find a way to pry them open."


    Freddie could not help but shiver upon hearing that.


    Aidan grew up on the Pearson Family Estate, known for its ruthlessness. If Aidan had not been so


    vicious when he took over Pearson Group, the man in the president''s seat would have been Gordon''s


    puppet and not him.


    Nheless, Freddie had not seen that icy expression on Aidan''s face in a long time since they''d


    eliminated the many enemies and rival factions within the Pearson Family.


    "Are you going to keep it a secret from Leanna?" Oscar asked.


    Aidan pursed his lips and thought about the question for a few seconds. "Do you think this birthday


    party would happen if I had told her?"


    After a brief pause, Freddie broke the silence. "Well, you can''t say that because I came up with this


    idea."


    "Oh?" Aidan turned to look at him.


    Meanwhile, in the washrooms.


    Zoe''s face was filled with gossip as she turned to face Daphne. "What''s going on between you and


    Louis?"


    "What could there be?" Daphne replied as she washed her hands.


    "I saw everything. He kept passing you food. Something is off about you two."


    "Daniel kept getting you food as well," Daphne retorted.


    "Well¡ª" Zoe was caught off guard in response.


    Then, Daphne smiled and exined, "He was only doing it to be nice. There is nothing else about it.


    Moreover, he''s still a student and six years younger than me. How could there be anything weird


    between us?"


    Zoe frowned upon hearing the reasoning. "Well, that''s true."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Leanna cleared her throat and reached for a paper towel to dry her hands as she stood next to them.


    "I''ve been watching a showtely where the female lead is a few years older than the male lead. I find it


    quite nice."


    Daphne looked at her, perplexed by what she had heard.


    Then, Zoe looked at Leanna and was puzzled as well.


    Since Leanna had already made that statement, she was obligated to continue, "I¡ª"


    Suddenly, Zoe grabbed her arm. "Is it nice? I have been craving shows with an older woman and a


    younger man pairing. What''s the show called? I want to watch it too!"


    "I''ll message you with the nameter," Leanna calmly replied.


    "Okay! I''ve been frustrated over finding a good show to binge."


    The corners of Daphne''s mouth twitched. "You two¡ª"


    Zoe chuckled. "To be honest, Louis is handsome and a great student. Isn''t that the ssic stereotype of


    a male lead? Why don''t you try it out? Let''s keep the good stuff to ourselves. If not for the fact that we


    are too familiar with each other, I would have tried dating him. However, I have been a sister figure to


    him since he was a kid, and I am quite afraid of Nana beating me up."


    Leanna was taken aback and couldn''t believe what she had heard.


    However, Daphne knew Zoe was joking, so sheughed and said, "Okay. I''ll give it a go."


    When they returned to the room, Leanna noticed that her brother was nowhere to be seen. "Where did


    Louis go?" she asked Aidan.


    "He went out," he replied.


    "Is Daniel with him?" Zoe asked.


    Then, Aidan gave an affirmative grunt in response.


    Leanna thought it was strange and pondered, What could the men possibly be talking about?


    A whileter, Daniel and Louis returned to the private room.


    As Zoe had yet to fully recover and was still under orders from her doctor to rest more often, she did


    not stay for long. Therefore, despite her reluctance, Daniel forced her to leave.


    In addition, Daphne had something scheduled the following day, so she had to leave.


    "I''m going back to my dorm," Louismented, standing up as well.


    Seeing that, Leanna smirked. I don''t need to prod him to act this time, and he appears to have


    improved slightly.


    Soon, Oscar dragged Freddie away as well.


    Presently, the only ones left in the room were Aidan and Leanna.


    Her eyelids had felt rather heavy for a while. When she checked the time, she saw that it was five


    minutes to midnight. "We should go too," she said, yawning.


    Suddenly, Aidan grabbed her hands and pulled her into his embrace. "Now is our time," he said,


    wrapping his arms around her waist.


    "Tsk! Why are you so clingy today?" Leanna said.


    However, he raised an eyebrow. "Am I not always like this?"


    "Are you admitting that you''re needy and a creep?"


    He stared at her in shock. "Flirting is acting like a creep to you?" he asked.


    Leanna grinned and wrapped her arms around his neck. Then, she gently pecked him on the lips.


    "Happy birthday."


    Aidan''s ck eyes bore down at her as henguidly said, "My birthday wish is for you to always be by


    my side on this day."

 Chapter 559

    Chapter 559


    Aidan''s ck eyes bore down at Leanna as henguidly said, "My birthday wish is for you to always be


    by my side on this day."


    Her first reaction was to tell him that birthday wishes wouldn''t work if spoken aloud, but she restrained


    herself because she didn''t want to ruin the mood.


    When she got up to get ready to leave, he gave her another passionate kiss. His kiss was intense, but


    she was unprepared for it and could hardly breathe. A few secondster, he let go of her lips and gave


    her a chance to catch her breath, but the lust building in his dark eyes was undeniable.


    However, when Aidan made another attempt to kiss her, Leanna quickly covered his mouth. Then, with


    cheeks ame, she demanded loudly, "Go home!" I''m unsure if there are cameras in the room, which


    is... utterly humiliating.


    He smirked and leaned down to whisper to her, "Can I do anything I want to you when we get home?"


    She ignored his question and swiftly got away from him. After straightening her clothes, she grabbed


    her bag and stomped out of the room. With one hand in his pocket, he calmly strolled behind her.


    It was nearly 1.00AM by the time they returned to Castor Vi.


    As she reeked of alcohol, Leanna immediately grabbed a change of clothes and headed into the


    bathroom. She was already undressed when the bathroom door opened.


    Aidan leaned against the door frame with a cloth hooked onto his fingers'' end. "You forgot something."


    She turned to nkly stare at him, speechless. This b*stard! So, she grabbed a towel and flung it at


    him, but he easily dodged it.


    Then, he strode into the bathroom and said, "No need to be so polite with me."


    The room was soon filled with steamy fog as heavy, needy panting echoed within. Trapped in a corner,


    Leanna was his to do with as Aidan pleased. When they left the bathroom, she still felt as if she was


    covered in sweat as she sprawled out on the bed, too tired to move.


    He leaned in and bit her ear. "Where''s my birthday present?"


    Finding his nibbling itchy, she tried to duck away from him but failed. "I haven''t found the right present


    yet. What do you want?"


    "What do I want? Well, there''s a lot I can name."


    Those words gave her a bad feeling, so she turned around to shove at his chest. "D-Don''t say


    anything. Let me think."


    Suddenly, Aidan pinned Leanna on the bed, trapping her between his arms as he peered down at her


    with his eyes partially closed. "Do you want a child?"


    She froze in shock, unable toprehend why he was bringing up that topic again.


    After a few moments of silence, she replied, "The doctor said it isn''t likely for us."


    "Opportunities are given to those who prepare."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    That rendered her speechless. Moreover, she was even ready to curse him out now. I''d have much to


    say about him if today wasn''t his birthday.


    A smile hung in the corners of his dark eyes as Aidan gently kissed Leanna on the forehead. "Didn''t I


    say I''ll work hard? As long as you want one, we can always have a child."


    "Do you want one?" she asked with pursed lips. "If you do, I''ll head to the hospital tomorrow and ask


    about appropriate treatments. Be it medication or injections, I will do it. If we can''t have one, you should


    find someone else."


    He was shocked upon hearing that. "What are you thinking about?" he huffed. "That''s not what I


    meant."


    "What did you mean by that, then?"


    "Children wille naturally. The more you look forward to it, the less likely it will happen. Conversely,


    happy idents will always happen if you do not expect too much. Perhaps, you might get pregnant


    one day."


    "That''s quite a badparison," Leanna said, sighing.


    "Am I wrong?" Aidan asked with a raised eyebrow.


    "No, no. You''repletely right." She wiggled, trying to get out of his embrace. "I''m exhausted. I want


    to sleep."


    Suddenly, he grabbed her wrists. "Since I''m right, shouldn''t you do something?"


    By now, she could no longer bother to expose his plots. He said all that for that particr reason.


    "We''ve already done it twice tonight. I¡ª"


    Before she could finish speaking, she was cut off by a kiss.


    By the time they were done, it was already three in the morning. Tired out, Leanna immediately shut


    her eyes and fell into a deep sleep.


    After tucking her in, Aidan grabbed his phone and exited the bedroom. He lit up a cigarette and called


    Keaton. "Well?"


    "He''s still not talking."


    Aidan scoffed. "Ignore him. Keep a close eye on the Pearson Family Estate. Since he has vanished,


    the old man will surely notice it. Perhaps, they might move somewhere else. As soon as they make a


    move, tell me."


    "Yes." Keaton paused. "Oh, President Pearson, we have news of that streamer. Her friend said she


    frequently met up with a guy before leaving Highside. I''ve looked into the surveince footage of a cafe


    they visited. The man is Nate Davis, a man from Jamesdon. He arrived at Highside three months ago


    and works in the alcohol and tobo industry. However¡ª"


    "What?"


    "However, everything we can find out about him is fake. I''ve tracked his movements, and he vanished


    after arriving at Jamesdon. That means that detail is likely true."


    Aidan narrowed his eyes before slowlymenting, "Everything now points to Jamesdon. How


    interesting!"


    "As for Jamesdon, since Old Mr. Woodley passed away from illness, the heir, L, has been in


    charge. They have no cause or motivation to go through all that effort to mess around in Highside."


    "I don''t care if they are connected to this. Since someone wants me to go to Jamesdon, we''ll seize the


    chance to find the truth."


    "President Pearson, I''ve heard that L is a vicious man who has never been seen before. If you


    go there unprepared, would¡ª"


    "No rush," Aidan said, flicking the ash off his cigarette. "I''ll go after we finish the issue over here."


    Keaton instantly understood what he meant. "I''ll have someone handle it now."


    Aidan let out a hum. "Don''t let anyone notice."


    After hanging up, he stared out into the night sky. His cold face was stuck in an emotionless look that


    did not betray his thoughts.


    All these years, except when he was eliminating the spies the Pearsons had nted around him, he


    had focused solely on hispany''s international expansion.


    However, Jamesdon was far from Highside, and the Woodleys were the rulers. He had also never once


    stepped foot in that entire region. Hence, when it came to L Woodley, he had only ever heard of


    him.


    Then, Aidan snuffed out his cigarette. While he was about to head back to the bedroom, he


    remembered Leanna disliked the scent of smoke. Thus, he went to the bathroom and took a shower.


    He had only gone to bed when Leanna squirmed into his arms out of habit, even though she was still


    fast asleep. He smiled upon seeing that and wrapped his arms around her. Sometimes, these habits


    are good! At least, this proves that she could not live without me.

 Chapter 560

    Chapter 560


    The following day, when Leanna awoke, the room was filled with sunlight. Her entire body was aching.


    Afterzily stretching, she checked her phone to realize it was nearly noon. The realization shocked her


    out of her sleepy haze. Why doesn''t my rm sound?


    When she was about to scramble out of bed, she received a phone call from Aidan.


    "Are you still sleeping?" he softly asked.


    "I just woke up," she replied, dashing into the bathroom as she spoke. "Did you turn off my rm?"


    Aidan gave an affirmative hum. "You have Freddie at the Crossley Group. You can go in the afternoon."


    Leanna then pouted and tilted her head to continue speaking on the phone while squeezing out some


    toothpaste, saying, "I see. I have to brush my teeth now. Talk to youter."


    "Alice made lunch. Eat before you go."


    She instinctively nced out the doorway. "How do you know that?"


    He smirked. "There is nothing I don''t know. I''ll pick you up tonight."


    After hanging up, she freshened up as quickly as possible before changing. As soon as she reached


    the bottom of the steps, she was greeted by the scent of food.


    Hearing her footsteps, Alice looked up at Leanna. "You''re awake, Madam. Come eat."


    Before Leanna moved back into Castor Vi, she somewhat disliked that ce. After all, there were a


    lot of unhappy memories here. Still, perhaps it was because the whole home had been renovated, but


    that uneasy feeling had vanished. Presently, she only felt a sense of life and aforting warmth.


    Moreover, she had lived in many ces, but only this ce felt like home.


    After lunch, she drove to the Crossley Group. The assistant told her Freddie was out on business and


    would only be back an hourter. She nodded and sat down to wait.


    Not long after Leanna arrived, Raymond walked over to her. "Miss McKinney, I haven''t seen Richard


    anywhere today. Do you know where he''s gone?"


    "What is it?" she asked.


    "Nothing much," he replied with a smile. "I merely have some information I''d like him to confirm."


    "I don''t know where he went. If it''s urgent, you can call him."


    Richard was in charge of many things and would frequently be away from the office. Hence, she never


    kept track of where he was unless she needed to talk to him.


    "Well, it''s not that urgent. I''ll wait for him to return."


    Raymond then ced the documents in his arms on her desk. "These documents all need your


    signature."


    Leanna looked down and spotted a glimpse of a bite mark hiding under his right sleeve.


    Sensing her gaze on his hand, he quickly pulled it back to hide behind him. "My daughter had a temper


    tantrumst night and bit me. My apologies," he said with a smile.


    "It''s fine," she calmly said.


    Leanna then nced at the documents on her desk. Every one of them was about trivial internal


    matters in thepany. Still, she did say that every tiny thing that happened in thepany required


    her signature before being implemented. After she had signed the documents, she handed the files


    back to Raymond. "Is Jimmy still kicking up a fuss?"


    "Mr. Onder has been to the police station once, but nothing much happened. The police said to wait


    for the investigation results." He paused. "Miss McKinney, I think he''s in quite a rush. However, he''s not


    in a rush because he doesn''t want to be considered a murderer. Instead, he wants to leave Highside."


    Her face remained as calm as ever. "If he has not killed anyone, he is free to go wherever he pleases


    once the results are out. If he did do the deed, then being in a rush does not mean he can leave."


    Raymond opened his mouth to continue speaking but soon saw that she had already ducked her head


    down to look at her work. It seemed like she was not all that interested in this matter. Seeing that, he


    kept quiet and left.


    There was no way Aidan did not know what was going on with Jimmy. Raymond had already ced


    the documents in Richard''s office. The rest had nothing to do with him. If he tried to rush things, the


    results would be the opposite of what he wanted.


    Leanna waited for him to leave before looking back up. She stared at the door, deep in thought. She


    recalled Raymond''s right-hand bleeding when she bumped into him the day before, and he said he had


    tripped back then. However, today he said it was because his daughter bit him.


    Even if everything he said was true, he had both tripped and been bitten. The only wound on his right


    hand was a bite mark; there were no signs that he had tripped. Furthermore, that bite mark was quite


    severe. The blood on his sleeve had likely originated from that wound. In that case, Raymond lied. At


    that thought, she frowned. Why would he lie about something like that? Was there some secret hidden


    behind that bite?


    In the afternoon, she received a call from Zoe.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "Nana, are you free right now?" Zoe asked in a very soft voice.


    "I am. What is it?" Leanna replied.


    There was a moment of silence before Zoe answered. "Can you... go with me to the hospital?"


    Leanna knew what was going on when she heard that. "Are you sure?"


    "Yeah. I decided long ago."


    "What did Daniel say?" Leanna asked.


    "I tried asking him this morning," Zoe replied. "He did not give me a proper answer. Well, that''s how


    things are. There''s no point pushing him too much. He''s also out this afternoon. I want to get this thing


    done fast. I don''t want to drag this out any longer."


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Okay. I''ll drive you."


    "It''s fine. I''ve already booked a cab. Let''s meet at the hospital."


    After hanging up, Leanna heaved a heavy sigh before grabbing her things and standing up.


    She had just reached the door when Freddie returned. "Where are you going?" he asked.


    "I have to attend to something." She stopped walking and continued to speak in a lower voice, "I think


    something''s wrong with Raymond. Can you see what he has been up to these past two days?"


    He stared at her for a moment. "Got it."


    Raymond was quite a big problem, and he was sly. The other day, Oscar said their men had been


    following him the entire time, yet they still lost him for more than an hour. Perhaps, it was due to the


    heavy rain.


    Meanwhile, when Leanna arrived at the hospital, Zoe was waiting for her.


    When Leanna appeared, Zoe nervously grabbed her hand. "I''m honestly scared, Nana. Will it hurt?"


    Leanna hugged her and softly replied, "It will. It will hurt a lot."


    It was not the body that would be in pain, but the pain Zoe would feel in her heart would be worse.


    Then, Zoe took a deep breath. Even though she had mentally prepared herself for this moment, she


    was still trembling. No matter what happened, the child in her womb existed. She could not bear to kill


    it. Still, she had no choice. She was not capable or brave like Leanna. She could not give birth to a


    child and take care of them all by herself. Rather than letting that happen, perhaps she should be less


    selfish and be kinder to everyone.

 Chapter 561

    Chapter 561


    At Pearson Group, Oscar pushed the office door open and walked in, saying, "Jonathan said that


    you''re looking for me."


    Aidan was seated behind his desk, looking through some files. He didn''t even lift his head as he said,


    "Give me a minute."


    So, Oscar plopped himself on the couch, closed his eyes, and decided to take a quick break.


    Unfortunately, Aidan wasn''t the only one unable to catch any proper sleep recently.


    About fifteen minutester, Aidan took a seat across from him. "I remember you''re from Jamesdon."


    Oscar opened one eye and stared at him before sayingzily, "Yeah, I am. What''s up?"


    "What do you know about the Woodley Family?" Aidan inquired.


    As Oscar wasn''t expecting him to ask this, he blinked his eyes open before he hesitantly responded,


    "Why are you suddenly¡ª"


    "There''s a high chance that this matter has something to do with Jamesdon."


    "You mean why the child was brought back to the Pearson Family?" Oscar frowned. "That''s unlikely.


    What would the Woodley Family even gain by doing this?"


    "It doesn''t matter whether they''re the mastermind behind that incident. But, judging from the current


    situation, there''s something fishy going around in Jamesdon."


    A few seconds passed by silently before he finally answered, "What would you like to know?"


    "Everything. Tell me everything."


    "The Woodley Family has been living in Jamesdon for generations," he began slowly. "Over the years,


    their descendants ventured into business, politics, and the military until they gradually took over the


    entire Jamesdon and became unbeatable in terms of financial worth and influence. However, there''s an


    unwritten rule within the family: they could never leave Jamesdon their whole lives. If they do, that''s as


    good as cutting off all ties with the Woodley Family, and they''re not allowed to return to Jamesdon ever


    again. Also, their life and death are unrted to the Woodley Family once they do so. But the Woodley


    Family simply grew too big and developed far too many branch families over the years, watering down


    their bloodline. Eventually, nobody really bothered with that unwritten rule, and it was slowly forgotten


    with time. However, I heard that the direct descendants of the Woodley Family in Jamesdon are still


    strictly following this code."


    Aidan merely stared at him steadily.


    A confused Oscar questioned, "Hey, what are you looking at me like that for? I''m not even from that


    Woodley Family. My parents moved to Highside long ago, and I have no friends or rtives in


    Jamesdon. So, why would I even go there?"


    Aidan tapped his fingers on his knees softly and said, "Go on."


    "Where was I? Oh, that''s right. The old master of the family has already passed away, and the one in


    charge now is his grandson, L Woodley. I''ve never met this person, but I''ve heard a few rumors


    about him over the years. Whatever it is, it''s better not to be involved with him if you can avoid it."


    "That''s it?"


    Oscar shrugged in resignation as he said, "That''s it. Honestly, although I''ve never met L, I''m


    pretty sure that this has nothing to do with the Woodley Family. Jamesdon and Highside are hundreds


    of miles apart. So, there''s no reason for him to intentionally provoke you and cause himself


    unnecessary trouble."


    Just then, Keaton strode in, reporting, "President Pearson, he confessed. Mrs. Pearson and the young


    master are in the backyard of Pearson Estate."


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, at the hospital, Zoe was tense all over as she sat in the chair. She even shut her eyes due


    to fear as she held onto Leanna''s hand tightly.


    Next to them, the TV was broadcasting the news. "Today at midnight, a citizen discovered a body.


    ording to investigations, the deceased, named Green, was estimated to have died between 3.00PM


    to 7.00PM yesterday. Further investigations are ongoing as we await more updates on the case. Next


    up, let''s take a look at¡­"


    Soon, a nurse called out, "Zoe Hart."


    Zoe reflexively jerked to her feet as the nurse nodded toward her and beckoned, "Come on, let''s do a


    checkup."


    She inhaled sharply before she started walking forward, but Leanna held onto her hand. "Zoe¡­"


    Zoe shed her a grin andforted her, saying, "It''s going to be okay. It will be over in a blink of an


    eye. I''m sure I won''t even feel the pain!"


    Although Zoe looked so confident right then, Leanna still couldn''t bring herself to return the smile. After


    her worried gaze couldn''t catch a glimpse of Zoe''s back, she immediately whisked out her phone to


    check the time.


    Before they arrived, she sent a text informing Daniel that Zoe was in the hospital and asked him to


    consider it carefully. If he wanted to keep the baby, he shoulde over, but he could save the trip if


    he didn''t want the baby.


    From the looks of it now, it seemed like Zoe''s instincts were right¡ªhe probably wouldn''t being.


    Leanna sighed wearily and was just about to put her phone aside when a news headline popped out.


    It was that news regarding the murder, and she rubbed her temples, wondering why there were so


    many deranged people in this world.


    Just a few minutester, Zoe strolled out after her checkup. All her vitals were normal, and she was


    good to go.


    Leanna apanied her all the way to the operating room, but she didn''t know what she should say to


    her.


    On the other hand, it was Zoe who became rxed when they were near the doors. "They said that


    this procedure would be quick. Wait here for me, Leanna. I''ll be out soon, and we can go for a feast


    tonight."


    Tears started to well up in Leanna''s eyes as she snapped with her toneced with amusement, "Don''t


    be silly. You shouldn''t overeat after surgery."


    "Oh, well. What a shame. I''m feeling hungry already."


    "We should go in now," the nurse urged.


    "Okay," Zoe answered and waved to Leanna. "Take a seat over there, and I''ll see youter!"


    Leanna could only stare at the doors anxiously as she paced around. Finally, after a while, she hung


    her head and sighed. Eventually, she had just decided to buy herself a drink when she noticed a man


    running around like a headless chicken in the lobby.


    She hastily approached him. "Hey, Daniel!"


    Daniel swiveled his head toward her and demanded breathlessly, "Where''s Zoe?"


    Leanna pointed out to him. "Over there."


    He didn''t even waste a second as he dashed toward the direction she had gestured. By now, all her


    ns about purchasing a drink had been tossed out of her mind as she closely followed after the man.


    s, when he reached the operating room, he saw the doors tightly shut. So, he bashed against the


    door with all his might.


    "Zoe, what are you doing in there? Get out of there!"


    The ruckus he made attracted the loitering passersby as they gradually surrounded him in curiosity.


    Even the nurse was alerted by themotion as she reprimanded sternly, "What on Earth are you


    doing?! Don''t you know that this is a hospital?"


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Daniel was currently experiencing such severe tunnel vision that he didn''t have the mind to bother with


    others around him. Nevertheless, it was clear that he was in a terrible mood with his gloomy face and


    tightly pursed lips. Hence, Leanna took the initiative to be the mediator as she said, "Don''t panic. She


    just went in, and I don''t think the operation had started yet." Then, she turned to the nurse and said


    apologetically, "My friend has just gone inside. Is it possible for you to let her know that someone wants


    to see her?"


    The nurse nced at the determined look painted on Daniel''s face and reckoned with a trace of


    annoyance that he wouldn''t give up that easily. Nheless, there was a high chance that he would


    make a bigger scene than he already did, so she nodded firmly. "I''ll see what I can do."


    "Thank you."


    Two minutester, she returned and said sinctly, "I''m afraid the operation is already over."


    "But she just went in less than five minutes ago¡­" Leanna muttered in surprise.


    "Well, I''m only telling you what I was told. The operation is done."


    "It''s my fault. I shouldn''t have hesitated. Then, things wouldn''t have turned out this way," Daniel


    mumbled dejectedly.


    There was an audible gasp from the crowd; from their point of view, it was a bonus to be able to


    witness a dramatic and ssic scene of a maning to his senses.

 Chapter 562

    Chapter 562


    Meanwhile, Zoe had just walked out of the bathroom, where she saw a group of people gathering


    outside the operating room and having whispered discussions amongst themselves. The weariness


    she felt earlier was instantly dethroned by excitement, and she eagerly forced her way through to get a


    first glimpse at the hot gossip.


    To her surprise, she found Daniel when she made it to the first row and froze on the spot.


    It was Leanna who spotted her first, and she breathed a sigh of relief before rushing to her. "Zoe,


    where were you?"


    "Huh?" she blurted as she blinked in confusion, taking her eyes off Daniel. "I went to the bathroom


    because I was too nervous earlier, and the nurse wants me to go inter¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Daniel dashed toward her and held her by her shoulders. His lips


    parted as he said in a hoarse voice, "Don''t go in."


    She instinctively raised her head to look at him and was a little shocked by the look in his eyes. So, she


    turned to Leanna for help because she didn''t know what to say as she muttered absent-mindedly,


    "But¡­ I''ve already paid for the procedure."


    Just when Daniel wanted to say something, the voices from the crowd grew louder as their discussions


    intensified with the appearance of the story''s main female character. The only thing they were missing


    now was a bucket of popcorn in their hands. Daniel was instantly snapped out of his reverie and


    noticed that this wasn''t a good ce for a private discussion, so he grabbed Zoe''s hand and dragged


    her away.


    Frankly, thest thing that she would imagine happening to herself was bing the main female


    character of a melodramatic telenov.


    Meanwhile, Leanna watched as they left and chuckled silently at Zoe''s surgical receipt before ripping it


    into pieces and tossing it into the bin. By the time she was out of the hospital, Zoe and Daniel were


    already long gone, and she checked the time. It''s still not toote to make a trip back to Crossley


    Group.


    But the building of Crossley Group was surrounded by people when she arrived, and there was even a


    police car nearby. After she parked her car, she entered the building from the side door and saw a lot of


    staff gathered in the lobby, whispering about something.


    She stood behind them and inquired, "What''s going on?"


    One of them spun her head around and wanted to answer her question, but when she saw that it was


    Leanna, she hesitated and stopped herself. "Hello, Miss McKinney."


    When the other employees heard that Leanna was here, they silenced themselves almost


    instantaneously.


    Leanna acknowledged the greeting with a gentle hum of her own and repeated her question, "What


    happened?"


    "Well, do you recall the news about the murder of a woman earlier today? The police are here due to


    that case. Apparently, the culprit is one of our colleagues," someone answered.


    Leanna furrowed her brows in confusion, wondering, Is it Jimmy again?


    Suddenly, someone called out, "Look! They''re here."


    The elevator doors slid open slowly, and Leanna saw two policemening out with a man


    sandwiched between them.


    It was Raymond.


    He looked utterly wretched as a crestfallen look was painted across his face. Although the police didn''t


    have any concrete proof yet, it was still a big blow to his dignity when he was taken away as a person


    of interest in front of his colleagues.


    When he passed by Leanna, he paused for a second as though he wanted to say something, but


    nothing came from his lips.


    After the detectives escorted him into the police car, the crowd slowly dispersed. However, now that the


    authorities were gone, the discussions became louder than before.


    "I have never imagined that it would be Mr. Ford. He doesn''t look like a murderer at all."


    "My thoughts exactly. He''s usually such a nice and friendly guy, and I''ve run into him quite a few times


    when I worked overtime alone, asking me if I needed a lift from him. Just the thought of this now makes


    my skin crawl."


    "But, why did he kill that girl? There has to be a motive, right?"


    "I saw on the Inte that the girl was his girlfriend or something. So, maybe they got into a fight, and


    he did it out of anger."


    "Isn''t Mr. Ford a divorcee with two kids? When did he get a girlfriend?"


    "How am I supposed to know? I feel so sorry for the girl. She''s only in her early twenties, and I heard


    that she was previously an employee in Pearson Group."


    "Goodness! Pearson Group? Then, Miss McKinney¡ª"


    Somebody noticed that Leanna was still around and frantically nudged the person to stop talking. Then,


    they booked it as they hightailed out of the lobby.


    Leanna stood rooted on the spot as her frown deepened. A Pearson Group employee? Raymond''s


    girlfriend?


    An inexplicable feeling abruptly surged within her, and with it came an all-consuming sense of unease.


    The difort within her even made her feel suffocated as her mind whirled with terrible after terrible


    possibilities.


    "Miss McKinney," Richard suddenly rang out, snapping her out of her terror. Still, sheposed herself


    before she spun around. "Have you heard about what happened to Raymond?"


    Leanna nodded. "Let''s go to the police station."


    "Okay."


    On the way there, Richard passed a document to her. "Miss McKinney, I found this on the desk when I


    went back to the office in the afternoon."


    She took the file from him, opened the kraft paper bag, and saw that it was all the information on the


    wicked deeds Jimmy had done over the years. Besides corruption and bribery, there was even drug


    trafficking, and every piece of information was detailed and precise.


    As she reached thest pages of the document, the look on her face turned even more solemn with


    every turn of the page. "Who gave this to you?"


    "I don''t know," he admitted. "It was already on the desk when I returned."


    Leanna returned the document to the paper bag and finally understood why Aidan''s reluctant behavior


    when she insisted on continuing her investigations on Jimmy. He even went so far as to tell her that it


    was better to stop while she still could. That was because he was the lowest of the low, so far down the


    morality scale he might as well just dip it in ink.


    He would do whatever illegal business as long as he could make a killing out of it.


    Not only that, he even used several unknown ounts to transfer money through Crossley Group


    before he finally moved the funds into his own ount via proper channels. With that, the Crossley


    Group had turned into his aplice as his moneyunderer.


    As the chairman of thepany, Leroy was definitely in the know, Leanna thought as her lips curled


    into a cold smirk. No wonder he was willing to leave behind the entire Crossley Group and flee abroad.


    He''s far more devious than I thought, utterly wicked to the core. What a scoundrel.


    After that, she gave Aidan a call. Unfortunately, there was no answer. So, she called Jonathan, but he


    didn''t pick up her call, either.


    Something''s off, she thought and contemted her options before dialing Oscar''s number without any


    response.


    She lowered the car window and had a gut feeling that something sinister was going on behind the


    scenes.


    Soon, they reached the police station, where Raymond was in the interrogation room, cooperating with


    the investigations.


    After Richard asked around, he returned to her side and said, "Miss McKinney, ording to the police,


    the identity of the deceased is a littleplicated, and they can''t reveal anything before they are clear


    of what''s happening."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    "Complicated?"


    "Yes."


    Leanna decided not to pursue it further. "Let''s go, then,"


    However, after she had stepped foot outside of the police station, she suddenly recalled the news she


    saw today and froze in her tracks.


    The deceased was named Green but had aplicated identity. Furthermore, she was an employee of


    Pearson Group and was in her early twenties.


    She instantly pieced everything together, spun on her heels, darted into the police station, and stopped


    before the police officer who was tidying away the documents on her desk.


    "Was the dead girl''s name Celia?" she asked somewhat impatiently.


    "Were you a friend of hers?" the police officer asked, looking at her.


    Leanna''s lips parted to answer, but she couldn''t find the words. All of a sudden, her throat felt dry, and


    the tightly wrung nerves in her mind seemed to have unwound themselves.


    "If you were her friend, I could bring you to see her, and I hope that you can provide us with useful


    leads for the case," the police officer added, rising to her feet.


    The moment Leanna heard that, she understood what it meant¡ªCelia was dead.


    She staggered backward and identally bumped into a desk. She immediately grasped the edges


    tightly to steady herself as the blood drained from her face.

 Chapter 563

    Chapter 563


    When Richard saw the odd look on her face, he asked, "What''s wrong, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna closed her eyes wearily as she shook her head. Then, she bit the tip of her tongue and


    recovered a shard of herposure and rationale before instructing, "Please go to the Pearson Group


    in my stead and find out what Aidan is doing. If you see him, inform him that Celia is dead and tell him


    toe here. If you don''t¡­" she drifted off and took a deep breath before continuing, "If you can''t find


    him, you can go home after that."


    Richard nodded. "Got it. I''m going right now.''''


    After he left, she tried her best to stop herself from trembling as she said to the police officer, "Please


    take me to see her¡­ Body."


    "Come with me."


    In the mortuary, the police officer lifted the white linen, revealing the familiar face to Leanna. Her lips


    trembled as she tried her best to stop herself from crying.


    "We''re trying to contact her family members," the police said. "Do you know how we can get in touch


    with them?"


    "I have no idea," Leanna croaked.


    "Have you met her boyfriend before? What do you think of their rtionship? Had they been in an


    argument before?"


    A few seconds passed by silently, and Leanna shook her head in reply. Everything she knew about


    Celia was only surface information.


    No, even that superficial information is not true.


    All she knew was the name Celia Green, everything else about her¡ªher stories and family¡ªwas a lie


    they fabricated just to fool her.


    Leanna suddenly found this entire farce utterly ridiculous. Thest thing she would expect was all her


    doubts from the past would one day reveal their true self to her in this way.


    When she left the mortuary, she felt that the sunlight outside was especially ring today.


    At the same time, Raymond''s interrogation had ended. Although he had denied everything the best he


    could, iming that he hadn''t been able to get in touch with Celia for several days because she was


    missing, the police had received an anonymous tipoff that thest person Celia met before she went


    missing was him.


    In addition, during the post-mortem, the coroner discovered pieces of human fibers between Celia''s


    teeth, matching the bite marks on Raymond''s right arm.


    Once theb test results were out, he would be officially charged with manughter.


    Leanna sat outside the police station and waited until the sky was dark before she finally received the


    call from Richard, informing her that Aidan was not at Pearson Group and the staff didn''t know where


    he was, either.


    After she hung up, Raymond just happened to be escorted out of the interrogation room, ready to be


    transferred to the lockup. However, the moment heid his eyes on her, he suddenly shed her a


    twisted smirk. "Hello, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna turned to him, expressionless, and he said to the police officer next to him, "I would like to


    speak to her for a few minutes. Is that okay?"


    The police officer looked at him and then at Leanna. The officer only walked to the side, giving them a


    semnce of privacy when she gave him the green light.


    "You know Celia, don''t you?" Raymond began. "After all, she''s been taking care of your child for so


    long."


    She didn''t even flinch as she questioned, "What are you trying to say?"


    "Hmph, despite all my meticulous nning, I never imagined that I would end up in this state. But,


    since they betrayed me after making use of me and framed me on purpose, I''ll do a kind deed and tell


    you this. Miss McKinney, I''m afraid something untoward has befallen your child."


    Leanna''s hands curled into fists. "What did you do to him??


    He chuckled before answering, "You''ve got it wrong, Miss McKinney. I''m not so powerful that I can do


    anything to the future heir of the Pearson Family. Only powerful people can do something like that."


    Her eyes sharpened into icicles when she heard hisments, and her face turned stone cold.


    "You better hurry, Miss McKinney. Otherwise, you may not even have the chance to see him onest


    time."


    Leanna didn''t bother thinking twice as she twirled and left in a hurry. As her mind started panicking, she


    had already mmed her foot roughly on her elerator all the way to the Pearson Estate.


    Every inch of her was trembling, but she wasn''t sure if she was shaking due to pure, unadulterated fury


    or terror.


    Sure enough, Aidan had lied to her.


    She was wrapped around his little finger like an idiot for such a long time. She even bought into his


    words and nonsense again and again.


    He had assured her countless times that she could ce her trust in him, but what happened in the


    end?


    That''s right. No wonder he keeps calling me dumb. That''s because I am dumb, she thought


    sardonically.


    When she arrived at the Pearson Estate, the front gates were wide open, and there wasn''t anyone


    around, so she drove her car directly to the main house and stopped in front of the doors.


    In the living room, Sienna was the only one sitting there with her arms folded across her chest. When


    sheid her gaze on Leanna, she chuckled and mused, "This is rare. I thought that you''ll never set foot


    into this ce in your life ever again."


    Leanna ignored her entirely as she went upstairs and searched the rooms one by one.


    "Stop looking," Sienna said calmly. "The person you''re looking for is not here."


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Actually, Leanna had noticed that it was extraordinarily quiet in the house, and besides Sienna, there


    wasn''t even a servant around.


    Just when she had turned around and wanted to leave, Sienna blocked her path and stopped her.


    "Aren''t you going to ask what happened here today?"


    "Get lost," Leanna growled, glowering at her.


    Sienna was startled by her demeanor as her face slowly twisted into a scowl because she wasn''t


    expecting that from her. s, Leanna had already strode away from her before she could even react.


    "Hang on," she barked. "Is this how you speak to an elder?"


    An amused Leanna turned to face her. "In the past, I regarded you as an elder because you''re Aidan''s


    mother, but you''re not his mother, and you can''t even be considered a human based on your actions.


    So, why should I regard you as an elder?"


    "You¡ª"


    "You were right. I''m uncouth, and there is no way I could get rid of my peasant ways. Yet, of all times,


    you decided to provoke me now. You should be d that I didn''t curse your entire family and merely


    told you to get lost. Also, I may be weak, timid, and afraid of offending the Pearson Family in the past,


    but if anything happens to my child this time, I''ll drag you into the grave with me, even if it costs me my


    life. As a mother yourself, I''m sure you can understand what I''m going through."


    Never before had Sienna heard her speaking in such a strong and aggressive manner, and she was so


    stunned that she was at a loss for words.


    On the other hand, Leanna didn''t waste another second on her and left the house. When she was


    about to climb into her car next to the garden, she heard muffled sounds from afar, and it sounded like


    quite amotion.


    She soon realized that the sounds wereing from the backyard, a spot she had never been to


    despite living in the Pearson Estate for some time.


    Nevertheless, there seemed to be an intense, unknown force that seemed to pull her in that direction,


    and her instincts told her that whether it was Aidan or her child, it was very likely both were there.


    She didn''t even hesitate as she hastened over while the sky suddenly started to drizzle. Summer was


    fast approaching, but the raindrops that hit her face were bone-chilling cold


    She finally got closer to the source of the ruckus after several minutes of sprinting. Then, just as she


    suspected, Aidan was here, and the one facing him was none other than the furious Gordon.


    Both sides had quite a few men with them, and the air around them was thick with hostility as though it


    would explode at a moment''s notice.


    Leanna decided not to show herself after sweeping her gaze across the scene. Instead, she found a


    spot to hide and ensured that her breathing was muffled. She was aware that showing herself now


    wouldn''t benefit her in any way and only make the situation worse. So, she had to observe the situation


    clearly before acting.

 Chapter 564

    Chapter 564


    Gordan pressed his entire weight against the cane in his hands as he demanded grimly, "You''ve been


    making a ruckus here the entire afternoon. What exactly do you want?"


    "Don''t you know what I want?" Aidan retorted dispassionately.


    "I don''t know! All I know is that you''re getting increasingly out of hand! You didn''t even inform me, the


    owner of the house, before barging in with so many people. Don''t you know that the public already


    thinks that our entire family is a joke?"


    "A joke?" A snort escaped Aidan''s lips. "Everything you do is a joke."


    At this point, Gordon couldn''t deny it anymore and said hotly, "Everything I do is for your own good as


    well as for the sake of the entire Pearson Family!"


    "Don''t worry. Once you''re dead, I''ll definitely ce a picture of you in the family house so that you can


    bear witness to how the Pearson Family reached its doom step by step under your meticulous


    nning," Aidan said.


    Gordon was so furious that he could barely stammer, "You¡­ You''re¡­ a wicked son!"


    "It''s not the first time I''ve acted out. Aren''t you used to it yet?"


    Once Gordon''s fury subsided, he sneered, "I knew that such a day would arrive. You''ve always been


    rebellious, and the biggest regret in my life is bringing you back to the Pearson Family!"


    "I''m sure it doesn''t feel as satisfying as burying myself into the grave with my own hands."


    Gordan restrained his fury as he snarled, "If this is how you''re going to do it, then I''ll make things clear


    with you. You know what I want. That baby is the bloodline of the Pearson Family, so I won''t hurt him.


    On the contrary, I''ll give him everything I have and make him the heir of the family."


    Aidan had nothing to say to that and merely watched him expressionlessly.


    "Trust me, you definitely won''t lose out in this deal," Gordon continued. "That''s your son, and you''re


    going to give the Pearson Group to him in the future as well, aren''t you? So, what''s wrong with what I''m


    doing? Furthermore, I don''t have many more years to live. Once I''m dead, he''ll only be a few years old.


    Then, you can take him back to your side at that time. Not only will you be able to secure your position


    in thepany, but you can even inherit the family without breaking a sweat. Isn''t that perfect?"


    "After all the evil deeds you''ve done, you still think that you have a few more years to live?" Aidan


    drawled sardonically.


    However, Gordon wasn''t angered by those words as he replied, "You''re still too young. I won''t be


    standing here today if I ever bothered worrying about retribution."


    "Are you done with your bullsh*t yet?"


    Gordon paused momentarily before growling, "You should give it up. I won''t let you take him away


    unless you do it over my dead body."


    Aidan''s lips curled into an icy smirk. "Are you threatening me or giving me an opportunity?"


    Gordon merely tapped on his cane lightly and didn''t respond. Right then, someone brought the


    unconscious Naomi out of the house.


    He didn''t even turn his head at her as he said, "As long as you''re willing, we''ll each take a step back


    andpromise. I''ll let you take her away. Or else, you can forget about meeting her after this."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Back then, he wanted to look for Naomi precisely to deal with the situation today, and from the looks of


    it now, the decision he made was correct.


    The look on Aidan turned a few notches colder, but he didn''t answer.


    "Get your priorities straight," Gordon urged. "You should know that I''ll provide the best for your child


    when he is here with me. However, if you insist on doing this, nobody will benefit from this situation.


    Back then, your mother allowed me to take you back to the Pearson Family because she considered


    your future and didn''t want you to stay in that ce with her. She is far wiser than you."


    Aidan refuted. "Is this how you threatened her back then?"


    "This is not a threat. A smart person will know what the correct choice is."


    "Really? Then, I may have to disappoint you."


    Aidan raised his hand, and the men standing behind him immediately made their move. A shocked


    expression shed over Gordon''s face as he didn''t expect Aidan to be so stubborn.


    "Do you have any idea where you are now?" he bellowed. "Are you going to take me down here?"


    "Aren''t you the one who has backed me into a corner?"


    When Gordon wanted to say something, he was interrupted by the sounds of a baby crying behind him.


    He jerked his head back anxiously and saw the nannying out of the house with the baby.


    "He won''t stop crying, and we can''t do anything to make him stop¡­"


    "Just let him cry his eyes out! Why the hell did youe out? Get back inside!" Gordon roared.


    Right after he said the words, Aidan''s men surrounded them and blocked the nanny''s entrance into the


    house. Nheless, she retreated a couple of steps backward as she held the baby tightly in her arms.


    Gordon turned his attention back to Aidan as he threatened, "You better think before you act unless


    you think nothing of their lives!"


    "If anything happens to them, the Pearson Family will disappear from the face of the earth tonight,"


    Aidan answered cially.


    Gordon tried his best to suppress his anger, and it took a few seconds to calm himself before he began,


    "Think over my offer. You''ve said it yourself that I don''t have many years left to live. So, why can''t you


    just wait a little longer?"


    "You''re right. I have nothing to consider. Since you don''t have many years left anyway, why don''t we


    just end it tonight?"


    Gordon gritted his teeth tightly together in anger and almost snapped his cane to pieces out of sheer


    rage. This unruly, wicked son of mine!


    Meanwhile, Leanna couldn''t be bothered to continue watching the scene unfold a few feet away from


    them. All her attention was on the baby now because she thought that his cries seemed to be getting


    weaker.


    So, she sneakily shifted closer and got a better look under the streetlight in the backyard. Then, her


    eyes widened in shock. That nanny had her back turned to everyone, but she was secretly covering the


    baby''s nose and mouth, and all that was left of his cries was just a weak blubber.


    Her jaw tightened at the sight, and without thinking of the consequences, she lunged forward, snatched


    the baby from the nanny, and into her arms before anyone else realized what was happening.


    The nanny had utterly let her guard down, so she only noticed that the baby had been taken away from


    her when she saw her empty hands. During this crucial second, someone from Gordon''s side made a


    move, and the sound of a gunshot pierced through the silent night.


    Leanna held the baby tightly as she squeezed her eyes shut, but the pain she was awaiting didn''t


    happen. Instead, she was in someone else''s embrace and heard a muffled grunt.


    Amotion started to brew around her, and even Gordon struck the ground fiercely with his cane.


    "Stop! Who gave you permission to shoot?!"


    Even though he wanted to deal with Aidan, he wouldn''t choose to do it at such a time with so many


    witnesses. Besides, the baby was here, and he wouldn''t let everything be a lost cause when he


    had already expended all that effort to kidnap the baby. The instant someone started the fight,


    whatever happened afterward would be irreversible.


    Leanna panted heavily as she clutched the baby in her arms tightly. All she could hear was the sound


    of wind whistling past her ears. While she was still in shock, she heard Aidan''s voice asking worriedly,


    "Are you hurt anywhere?"


    She instinctively shook her head and checked the baby in her arms. Although his face was ruddy, he


    had started to wail loudly once more, immediately setting her tense heart at ease.

 Chapter 565

    Chapter 565


    The situation made Gordon furrow his brows deeply, and he turned to the nanny, who was panic-


    stricken and had fallen to the ground with a loud thud. "It''s not my fault! It''s Mrs. Pearson who told me


    to do it!"


    Gordon was taken aback as he demanded, "What are you talking about?"


    She answered tremulously, "It''s Mrs. Pearson who told me to suffocate that child in front of you. I-I''m


    merely following her orders¡­"


    Even if it was Gordon, his heart shuddered at her confession. Suffocate the child in secret in front of us.


    How heartless is she that she could bring herself to do something like this?


    Aidan released Leanna as he intoned icily, "I almost forgot about her."


    Gordon was in the wrong in this current situation. So, he didn''t have the cheeks to say anything, merely


    donning a grim face as he walked toward the front yard with his cane.


    His men followed behind him and left the spot, but Leanna stood there and pursed her lips with an


    unreadable look on her face.


    Right then, Oscar rushed over with two doctors; one to examine Naomi, and another wanted to check


    the baby in Leanna''s arms.


    However, she tilted to the side and held the baby protectively in her embrace.


    The helpless doctor turned to Aidan, who said to Leanna, "He''s been crying non-stop. Let the doctor


    examine him."


    Leanna raised her head, and their eyes met; all that was left in her eyes were wariness and distrust.


    His body tensed at her gaze, and he parted his lips to speak, but he couldn''t bring himself to say


    anything.


    Eventually, she sidestepped him, went to the doctor, and asked, "Is it alright if I hold the baby?"


    The doctor nodded and started examining the baby. Jonathan and Oscar watched this scene and


    shared a look with each other, where they saw pity in each other''s eyes.


    This time, it waspletely over for Aidan.


    Oscar cleared his throat as he stepped forward and said to Aidan, "I just received news that Celia is¡­


    Dead and the murderer is Raymond."


    Aidan froze for a moment, and a dazed look appeared on his face before he said softly, "I got it. Take


    care of the situation here. I''m going over there."


    "Hey," Oscar said, grabbing his arm. "Don''t be rash and see how Old Master Pearson is going to


    handle it."


    "Okay."


    After Aidan left, Oscar withdrew his hand. He scrunched his eyebrows in confusion, thinking his palm


    felt rather wet. So, he checked his opened palm and saw that it was stained with blood.


    He became stunned and wanted to stop Aidan, but it was toote, as he was already long gone.


    As for Naomi, the doctor examined her and said that she was only injected with a small dose ofN?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    tranquilizer and would regain consciousness soon.


    In the meantime, the baby in Leanna''s arms gradually stopped crying, only sobbing softly and fidgeting


    asionally.


    The doctor kept away his stethoscope. "He''s probably just in shock. Fortunately, you showed up on


    time, so he didn''t suffocate. If you were a secondter, his condition might not look so good."


    Leanna''s arms tightened around the baby at his words, and a thinyer of cold sweat formed on her


    back as her heart trembled with fear.


    "Miss McKinney," Jonathan began, approaching her, but she didn''t say a thing to him when she saw


    him and went to the other side with the baby.


    Her defensive reaction rendered him speechless, and he thought, That''s it. It''s over this time.


    Not long afterward, there were movements from the back door, and Louis ran over together with Elijah.


    After he saw the blood stains on the ground, he turned to Leanna and asked, "Are you hurt?"


    Leanna shook her head. "I''m alright."


    Elijah swept his gaze across the surroundings with a frown. He could only imagine what had happened


    here earlier.


    When Oscar saw that the cavalry had arrived, he told Jonathan, "It should be fine now. Take care of


    Aidan''s mother while I check what''s happening in the front yard. I can stop him in case anything


    happens."


    Jonathan nodded. "Okay."


    As Oscar left, the people around started to disperse as well, and Leanna shut her eyes before saying


    suddenly, "Louis, hold me steady."


    Immediately, Louis raised his hands and held her arms. Only then did he realize that she was shaking


    like a leaf. Coupled with her request, he reckoned that she could no longer stand up without support.


    Elijah approached them and offered, "Leanna, I''ll take you and the baby away from here first."


    Yet, she shook her head and said softly, "No, thanks."


    A few minutester, she passed the baby to Louis when she had recovered enough strength. "Hold him


    and never let go of him or pass him to anyone before I return."


    Jonathan sensed the enmity in her tone as he lowered his head in guilt next to them.


    A frown appeared on Elijah''s face. "Where are you going?"


    "I''m going to make a clean break," she said.


    Elijah said, "Leanna¡ª"


    "I can go by myself."


    ¡­


    Sienna sat on the couch as she smirked at the sound of a gunshot in the distance, appearing rxed


    andfortable. She didn''t know how long had passed until she heard someone approaching the door.


    Then, Gordon roared, "Have you lost your mind?"


    She nced at him and said casually, "What about me? Since it''s destined that you can never get


    Aidan under your control, I''m just doing you a favor and putting an end to future trouble. What''s wrong


    with that?"


    Gordon shook with fury as he hissed, "I think you''ve really lost your mind. Why did you choose to


    provoke Aidan? Do you have any idea that he was even nning to kill me tonight? Do you think he''s


    going to let you off after that?"


    Sienna pulled the shawl tighter around herself without even flinching. "I thought he already wanted to


    kill me a long time ago."


    "Yes! But why do you think he didn''t kill you yet? If it isn''t because of Justin, do you think you can live


    this long? You should now¡ª"


    "To tell you the truth, I already lost the will to live a long time ago. My son is in this state, and nobody


    knows how miserable he is other than me. But of all things you do, you decided to torture him further by


    bringing Aidan back. That''s just another way of telling him that he''s useless! You let Aidan grow up in


    front of him¡ªrunning, jumping, and moving in ways that he can''t¡ªand even slowly handed the


    Pearson Group to him. Do you know how painful this is to Justin?"


    "You''re too paranoid," Gordon said. "Justin never felt this way."


    Sienna sneered. "That''s because he''s silly. He''s so foolish that he actually takes that illegitimate son as


    his real younger brother. So, what can I do? I can only pave the way for him and do the things that he


    should be doing."


    An exasperated Gordon waved his hand. "Leave now. My men can still hold them back for a while, but


    don''t return after you leave. I''ll send Justin abroad with you after a while, and you can also¡ª"


    "Why should I leave? Aidan wants to kill me, eh? Then, let him do it. He won''t be living his life


    peacefully even if I''m dead."


    The trap I set up can only be triggered once I''m dead, she thought.


    Gordon couldn''t help but shake his head in annoyance, and he didn''t know what to say. Just then,


    someone ran in anxiously from outside. "Old Master, Young Master Aidan has made his way here."


    A knot formed between Gordon''s brows. "Hurry, bring Justin back immediately."


    This afternoon, Justin had gone to the hospital for a checkup and had yet to return, and now, the only


    one that could stop Aidan was him.

 Chapter 566

    Chapter 566


    However, just as Gordon finished speaking, Aidan appeared in the doorway.


    "Since you want to die so badly, why don''t you just dig your grave right now and throw yourself in it?


    Living definitely sounds like utter torture to you," Aidan said in a voice as cold as icy waters.


    When Sienna saw him, there was an undisguised scornful expression on her face. "If I have to die, I''ll


    die a worthy death. I can''t just let you take control of the Pearson Family without doing anything at the


    very least."


    "There is no value in your life anyway. So, how can your death be worth anything?"


    Her eyes went cold as her face twisted into something manic. "Stop wasting your breath, Aidan. Kill me


    if that''s what you want. I am not afraid of you."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He merely curled his lips into a cold smirk as any trace of warmth vanished from his eyes. "Killing you


    will only dirty my hands," he drawled nonchntly.


    Her face twisted in anger. "What do you mean by that?"


    "What you have done is enough to sentence you to decades in jail," henguidly continued. "It is


    already a question if you can even leave prison alive. Why do I need to kill you myself? You spoiled


    Anna rotten from the moment she was born. Something she couldn''t handle would likely be hard for


    you to get used to as well."


    Her breathing stuttered, likely at the memory of Anna''s terrible situation. After a few seconds, she


    suddenly burst outughing. "Aidan, oh, Aidan, I thought you were a powerful man for years. In the


    end, you''re just a spineless coward. Do you not even have the courage to kill me?"


    "After all, I once nned on killing Leanna and that brat," she continued. "What a pity they were so


    lucky as to avoid death. Nevertheless, I swear that I will never forgive them as long as I am still alive. It


    does not matter where I am. Unless I die, this will never end. Just you wait for their deaths!"


    Aidan''s smirk slowly disappeared as murderous rage swirled in his eyes.


    "Mrs. Pearson is overwhelmed by stress," Gordon said to a servant. "Send her back to her room to


    rest."


    Before the servant could get close to her, she had already stood up and pushed them away. "You think


    I''ve gone mad?" she jeered with augh. "Yes, I''ve gone mad! I have been mad since the day of


    Justin''s ident, the day you brought this illegitimate son home! It''s just death. Do you think I''m afraid


    of that?"


    She then turned to Aidan. "You were never a kind or generous man. What are you afraid of? Kill me if


    you''re a man! I killed your wife and son, yet you don''t even have the balls to avenge them. What a joke!


    You probably only care about yourself!"


    Aidan merely stared at her dispassionately before he grabbed the gun from Keaton and loaded it.


    Gordon''s eyes went wide. "Are you crazy, Aidan?"


    "She''s right. She should have died a long time ago," Aidan replied calmly as he held the gun up and


    aimed the weapon at Sienna.


    Gordon took a few steps back in shock, almost dropping his cane. "Stop him!" he shouted.


    Before Gordon''s men could do a thing, Aidan had readied the gun. Then, as the locking mechanism


    clicked, a woman''s soft voice called out from behind him, "Aidan."


    There was a loud bang, after which the vase on the wall shattered into pieces.


    In the end, he had missed.


    Sienna stared at him in shock for a few moments before turning to stare at the shards on the ground.


    "You said all that just because you wanted me to kill you, right? I''m sorry to disappoint," Aidan stated.


    Finally, he tossed the gun to Keaton. However, he did not turn to look behind him.


    After all that time she spent scheming, she had not expected Aidan to refuse to kill her because she


    assumed that he thoroughly detested her.


    Unfortunately, he did not fall for the bait.


    She chuckled. No one knew if she wasughing at herself or at him.


    Suddenly, in a move that caught everyone off-guard, she grabbed the knife from the table.


    Leanna did not have time to see what was going on before she sensed someone stepping in front of


    her.


    She opened her mouth to speak, but not a word came out.


    "What are you doing now?" Gordon asked, panicked. "Don''t you think you''ve caused enough trouble


    tonight? How do you expect Justin to live with what you''re going to do?"


    "Do you think he would be embarrassed to have me as his mother instead of feeling regret over raising


    such an ungrateful brat?" Sienna jeered.


    She turned to Aidan and roared with great hostility, "Remember well; Justin is my son! He has never,


    ever been your brother! From now on, you can only be enemies. After all, you forced me tomit


    suicide!"


    Before she finished speaking, she turned the de to stab herself right in the chest.


    Gordon fainted just as the blood sttered across the table.


    When Leanna heard what Sienna said, she tried to move forward to help, but her eyes were soon


    covered by a hand.


    "Don''t look," Aidan''s deep voice whispered.


    She stood there as she tried to recall what Sienna had said. Sienna was far from subtle, so coupled


    with themotion going around her, it was not hard for her to guess what had happened.


    It was then that a man''s gentle voice called out from behind them. "Aidan, why are there so many


    people here? What''s going on?"


    Leanna sensed the hand covering her eyes go stiff.


    Thunder echoed from the distance as heavy rain fell from the skies.


    Justin rolled himself into the room. Before Aidan could respond, he spotted Sienna lying on the ground


    in a pool of blood with her eyes wide open even in death, while Gordon was sprawled out on the floor,


    unconscious.


    His smile went stiff as his eyes went nk.


    Aidan closed his eyes and turned around. "Call an ambnce."


    "Aidan," Justin called out.


    Aidan gave Leanna a gentle push and said to Keaton, "Take her away."


    Keaton nced at Aidan''s right hand, which was drenched in blood. "Mr. Pearson!" he gasped.


    "Go."


    Leanna turned around and looked at him with red-rimmed eyes.


    Aidan shot her a faint smile and only looked away after Keaton led her away.


    Meanwhile, Justin had moved to sit on the floor beside Sienna, leaving his wheelchair behind him. He


    held her hand and choked out, "Just what... happened? Why did this happen?"


    Sienna''s body only responded to his question with wide, unseeing eyes.


    She was dead. Her body did not even have a single puff of oxygen left in it.


    Justin sat there with her cooling hand in his, feeling as if his strength was being sapped away.


    Aidan walked over to him and muttered emotionlessly, "She said I forced her to do this and that you


    were to take your revenge on me. I do not see anything wrong with that. I exacted revenge on her, so


    you could do the same to me."


    Justin stared down at Sienna''s corpse and mumbled, "What can I do in my state? Aidan, she owed you


    one. So, you''re finally even."


    "She owed me nothing, and you owe me nothing either," Aidan stated resolutely. "She chose this death


    herself. Therefore, you do not need to feel guilty at all. Simrly, I do not feel as if I had wronged you


    because she is dead."


    There was a faint and miserable smile on Justin''s face as he murmured, "Of course. That is for the


    best."

 Chapter 567

    Chapter 567


    By the time Leanna returned to the backyard, Naomi had already woken up.


    Meanwhile, Louis was holding the little guy, who was fast asleep, while staring at Jonathan.


    Leanna walked over and greeted, "Ms. Fletcher."


    Naomi was stunned for a moment when she saw Leanna and blinked her eyes blearily. She was


    probably not expecting to see Leanna here.


    "Leanna..."


    "How are you feeling?" Leanna inquired.


    Naomi nodded. "Just a little dizzy. Nothing else. You..."


    "Aidan is in the front yard, and Sienna is dead. Shemitted suicide."


    When Naomi was faced with that information the moment she woke up, she blinked dazedly. The news


    eventually registered in her mind, and she didn''t know what to say to that.


    Louis frowned in displeasure. "Shemitted suicide? Tsk. For a vile woman, she really got off lucky."


    Leanna was rather tired, so when she noticed that the rain was getting heavier, she didn''t want to stay


    there any longer. "Ms. Fletcher, I''m leaving now. They will send you backter."


    Naomi stood up and asked, "Where are you going, Leanna?"


    "I''m¡­ Going to find a ce to stay for now," Leanna said as she looked at the baby beside her. "Thank


    you for taking care of him all this while, Ms. Fletcher."


    Naomi instantly understood what was happening as that day had finally arrived.


    She and Aidan had been hiding the truth from Leanna for so long, so she didn''t have the right to ask


    Leanna and her child to stay any longer.


    Leanna took a step forward, but Jonathan quickly caught up to her. "Miss McKinney, let me send you


    off."


    She looked at him expressionlessly and spoke tly, "No, thanks."


    "Miss McKinney¡ª"


    "I hope you won''t try to find out where I''m staying or whom I''m seeing. We should at least try and treat


    each other with some basic respect. Moreover, I don''t want to see any of you now."


    Jonathan didn''t know what to say in response.


    Frankly, it sounded more like she was talking to Aidan than him. She took the child from Louis and held


    him in her arms.


    Elijah was waiting nearby and opened the car door for her.


    Louis nodded slightly at Naomi and left soon enough.


    As they watched the ck car disappear into the rain, Jonathan asked, "Madam Fletcher, what should


    we do now?"


    Naomi sighed. "Let''s give her some time."


    After a pause, she asked, "What about Celia? Did she make it?"


    Jonathan replied, "She''s dead."


    She stiffened in shock. "Dead?"


    He nodded. "She tried to escape from the Pearsons to inform us about this but was caught and


    dragged back..."


    He didn''t finish his sentence, but she understood what he wanted to say. She closed her eyes as she


    felt a wave of exhaustion and resignation overwhelming her.


    At that moment, Keaton hurried over. "Madam Fletcher, let me send you home."


    "What about Aidan?"


    "President Pearson has passed out in the front yard, and President Woodley has taken him to the


    hospital now."


    Naomi was shocked. "He passed out?"


    Keaton said, "President Pearson was shot in the arm earlier, and he has lost a lot of blood."


    "Take me to the hospital."


    This night was destined to be chaotic.


    Meanwhile, Leanna watched the baby in her arms, chewing on his fingers as a smile slowly formed on


    her lips.


    Fortunately, she made it just in time.


    She almost watched the baby die in front of her. She had finally fulfilled her duty as a mother.


    Just then, Louis handed her a tissue.


    "What''s wrong?" Leanna asked in confusion.


    "Wipe your tears," he murmured.


    She touched her face and realized that her face was soaked in tears while deep in thought.


    "If you''re worried about Aidan, go and visit him," Louis suggested.


    Leanna wiped away her tears, but the tears continued to roll down her cheeks.


    "I''m not a doctor. What''s the use of seeing him?" she replied calmly.


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    When Aidan hugged her, she heard him grunt in pain. She knew he was injured, but she didn''t know


    where he was injured.


    "Do you hate him?" asked Louis.


    Leanna didn''t answer. Instead, she said to Elijah, who was behind the wheel, "Just find a hotel and


    drop us off there."


    Elijah pursed his lips and softly agreed.


    After that, no one spoke in the car as the silence stretched on.


    Half an hourter, the ck sedan slowly pulled into a high-end residential basement.


    He led them upstairs and opened the room. "It''s raining now, so it''s inconvenient to go to a hotel. This


    is where William stayed before. You will be safe here. If you don''t want to stay here, I will find another


    ce for you tomorrow."


    Leanna didn''t say anything else and merely thanked him.


    Elijah continued, "I have arranged for baby items to be delivered here. They should arrive soon."


    "Okay." She nodded.


    Then, he looked at Louis and said, "I''ll leave you here to keep Leannapany."


    "I''ll walk you downstairs," Louis replied.


    After they left, Leanna held the baby and found a bedroom to gently put him to bed.


    The baby had grabbed onto the buttons on her shirt at some point and refused to let go as he


    whimpered.


    She gently patted him until he fell asleep. Then, she only left the bedroom once she was certain he


    wouldn''t be waking up any time soon.


    Louis was sitting on the couch, and the items Elijah had arranged for had already been stacked up in


    the living room during her absence.


    "It''ste. You should go to bed," said Leanna.


    Louis furrowed her brows as he muttered hesitantly, "There''s something I haven''t told you yet."


    She froze mid-stride as she remembered something. After a few seconds, she inquired, "You knew?"


    "I thought he was having an affair, so I followed him," Louis exined.


    She remainedposed and sat across from him. "And then?"


    "He didn''t intend to keep it from you. When the baby was born, he was very frail. The hospital would


    notify him that the baby was in critical condition almost all the time. It didn''t help that he would


    constantly fall ill. So, Aidan didn''t want you to have hope and then face disappointment," Louis


    answered.


    "Did he tell you this?" Leanna asked.


    Louis paused for a moment before nodding.


    "Does the child still get sick often?" she asked.


    "It seems like he hasn''t been sick in the past few months. He only gets a cold or fever asionally, but


    the doctor says it''s normal," he replied.


    "Why didn''t he tell me, then?" she asked calmly.


    Louis wanted to respond but couldn''t find the right words.


    Finally, Leanna said, "I know what you mean, and you don''t have to exin on his behalf. I have


    questioned him countless times regarding this matter. Yet, he would use various ways to deceive me


    every single time. I could never get an answer or the truth from him."


    "But¡ª"


    "I have given him several opportunities toe clean." Finally, she inhaled deeply, trying to control her


    emotions. "Do you know that if I hadn''t gone there today or been a stepte, that nanny would have


    suffocated this child, my child, to death! You said he didn''t want me to have hope and face


    disappointment again, but what about now? If this child had died there today, was he nning to hide it


    from me forever and pretend that the child died in the car ident?"

 Chapter 568

    Chapter 568


    The little guy woke up once in the middle of the night. So, Leanna fed him, changed his diaper, and


    then coaxed him back to sleep.


    The heavy rain outside was still pouring and showed no signs of stopping.


    She sat cross-legged on the edge of the bed as she stared nkly at the rainwater pitter-pattering


    outside while she was utterly lost in thought.


    After a while, she stood up and quietly left the bedroom.


    As she reached the doorway, Louis came out from another room and asked, "Where are you going?"


    Leanna paused for a moment before saying, "I''m going downstairs to buy something. You can go back


    to sleep."


    He nodded and looked outside at the pouring rain, but he didn''t reveal her true intentions.


    Leanna wore her shoes and added, "Can you watch the baby for me? He usually only wakes up once


    at night and shouldn''t wake up again, but... I''ll be back soon."


    "I understand. You go ahead. Bring an umbre with you."


    She pursed her lips but didn''t say anything more as she quickly opened the door and left.


    When she arrived at the lobby, she walked for quite a distance before she could finally hail a cab at the


    intersection and went to the hospital.


    Just as she approached the nurse''s station to inquire about the situation, she heard Jonathan''s voice


    behind her, "Miss McKinney."


    Leanna took the elevator and inquired, "How is he doing?"


    "President Pearson only came out of the operating room a short while ago. The anesthesia hasn''t worn


    off yet, but you can rest assured that there is no danger to his life," said Jonathan.


    She nodded faintly and stared at the rising floor numbers disyed on the screen.


    He hesitated for a moment but decided to make onest ditch effort. "Miss McKinney, President


    Pearson didn''t tell you about this because he didn''t want you to worry¡ª"


    Leanna turned her head to look at him with an unchanged expression. "Do you know what your


    behavior is called right now?"


    Jonathan was puzzled.


    "You''re in a difficult situation yourself, so stop meddling in other people''s business," she replied.


    He was rendered speechless by her harsh rebuttal and decided to keep his mouth shut.


    When they arrived at the entrance to the ward, she did not go in but instead looked through the ss.


    In her mind, she remembered the words that Aidan had said to her when she was hospitalized, as well


    as his birthday wish.


    She chuckled to herself as she realized that he had probably known that he couldn''t keep it a secret, so


    he tried to create ways for her to give himself a way out.


    When Jonathan noticed that, he didn''t stay, lest he disturbs her. So, he made himself scarce.


    Leanna finally entered the ward after leaning against the wall for a while.


    It was the first time she had seen Aidan in this state in so many years. He was pale as hey on the


    hospital bed, lookingpletely different from his usual self.


    Leanna''s gaze fell on his right arm, which was wrapped in bandages, and she fluttered her eyes shut.


    After a while, she turned around and left the room.


    As she walked toward the elevator, a figure called out to her from behind, "Leanna."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She turned around to see that it was none other than Naomi. "Ms. Fletcher."


    "It''s still raining outside. Let Jonathan send you home," Naomi suggested.


    After Naomi finished speaking, Jonathan immediately stepped forward.


    Leanna hesitated for a moment before nodding.


    She remained silent during the ride back as she stared out at the passing scenery through the car


    window.


    After the earlier incident, Jonathan knew better than to speak, so he didn''t strike up a conversation


    throughout the journey.


    When they arrived at the apartment, she got out of the car, and he quickly assured her, "Don''t worry,


    Miss McKinney. I won''t tell President Pearson that you''re staying here."


    Leanna looked at him seriously before she responded apathetically, "Thank you."


    "It''s nothing. Don''t mention it, Miss McKinney," he replied.


    "I''m leaving. You can return."


    In reality, she knew very well that it was unlikely that Aidan wouldn''t investigate her whereabouts just


    because she told him not to.


    It was already past 5.00AM when she returned.


    She pushed open the bedroom door and saw Louis sitting by the bed, looking at the baby with gentle


    eyes.


    "Why aren''t you sleeping?" she asked.


    "I can''t sleep," he replied honestly.


    "Okay, it''s almost daylight, and you have to go to school. Get some rest," Leanna urged.


    Louis stood up and walked over to her. "I asked for leave."


    "Why did you ask for leave?" Leanna asked as she walked out of the bedroom and closed the door.


    "It''s not convenient for you to take care of the child alone. I''ll help you find a new ce," he replied.


    Even though he didn''t ask, he knew that she wouldn''t be living with Aidan again in the short term.


    Leanna paused for a moment before nodding lightly. "Okay."


    This ce was only a temporary residence for tonight, and they would have to find a new ce to live


    in.


    After a while, Leanna asked, "Why did youe with Elijah today?"


    Before she entered the Pearson Family Estate, she had called Louis and told him to call the police if


    she hadn''te out after an hour.


    He replied, "After you called me, I contacted Daniel, but he was too busy, so I asked Elijah to


    apany me."


    "Okay, get some rest. I''m heading in."


    Back in the bedroom, she closed the door and slumped to the ground right next to the bed. Her eyes


    were fixed on the baby as she was reluctant to look away.


    All the memories and details of the past few months came together, and she felt like she was getting


    closer and closer to the truth every time. She was almost sure about it every single time. But it always


    seemed to be just that one missing piece that kept her from getting it right.


    From now on, no matter what happened, she would never let go.


    No one could take her baby away from her again.


    Outside the window, it rained throughout the night.


    Meanwhile, Leanna sat there, unmoving, but she didn''t even sleep a wink that night.


    At around 8.00AM, the baby woke up and started cooing while waving his little hands in the air.


    She carried him and went to the kitchen to heat the water and make some milk for him.


    After a while, there was a knock on the door.


    She opened the door and saw Zoe rushing in, bombarding her with a series of questions in a worried


    tone, "Nana, are you okay? I heard from Daniel that you went to Pearson Family Estate yesterday. Did


    they do anything to you? What about Aidan? Why are you living alone here? What is this ce?"


    Leanna didn''t know how to answer all these questions and just said, "Don''t worry, I''m fine. Everything is


    good."


    Zoe finally noticed that Leanna was holding a baby in her arms.


    The baby was looking at her curiously with his big round eyes.


    She was shocked and asked, "This is..."


    Leanna smiled and said, "Your godson."


    Zoe came back to her senses and asked in amazement, "He''s so big now. Didn''t you..."


    Leanna nodded and said, "Yes."


    "Oh, my goodness!"


    Zoe eagerly reached out her hands and asked, "Can I hold him?"


    The baby was rather light, so Leanna ced him directly into Zoe''s arms.


    Zoe held him tightly and froze as she was too nervous to move.


    Leanna chuckled and said, "Rx. He''s not a bomb. There''s no need to be so nervous."


    "But he''s so tiny. I''m afraid I''ll hurt him if I''m not careful," Zoe naturally dropped her volume to a


    murmur.


    Just then, Daniel came in and wrapped his arm around her waist. "Let''s go in and sit. We can talk


    inside."


    "I was just about to go out and buy breakfast. What do you guys want to eat?" Leanna asked.


    At that moment, Louis came out of the room. "I''ll go. The rain hasn''t stopped yet."

 Chapter 569

    Chapter 569


    At the same time, Aidan woke up at 7.30PM in the hospital and looked around. He saw Naomi and


    Jonathan but not Leanna.


    Jonathan stepped forward and asked in concern, "President Pearson, how are you feeling?"


    Aidan replied lightly with a slightly hoarse voice, "I''m fine."


    Then, after Jonathan elevated the bed, he uttered, "I''ll get the doctor."


    Naomi walked over and sat on the couch beside him after Jonathan left. "Leanna left with the child."


    Aidan was not surprised, and he sighed in response.


    She gave a soft sigh and inquired, "Well, what are you going to do next?"


    "I''ll see how it goes." I''m still at the hospital, so I can''t do anything. After a pause, he continued, "Are¡­


    Are they hurt?"


    "The baby is scared but fine. However, Leanna¡­ I think her trauma is probably greater. Jonathan told


    me that the baby would have been suffocated to death by that nanny if she wasn''t there."


    Aidan closed his eyes wearily as he mumbled, "It''s my fault." I know why Dad left the kid alone, so I


    never expected anyone would do anything to the kid. They did it before me, no less. Sienna might have


    decided to kill herself then, so she was fearless.


    Naomi interrupted him and stated, "Of course, the baby should be fine. As for the rest¡­ Since you''re


    being hospitalized, you might as well use this period to give Leanna some time."


    He muttered dejectedly, "She probably won''t forgive me." I remember what she said very well, and I''m


    clear about her temper. I thought of taking the kid away from Pearson Family Estate before I finally


    came clean. Then, I can at least gain a chance to defend myself from facing the gallows. However,


    everything spiraled out of control.


    She replied, "I can''t help you either. You''ve got to resolve it on your own."


    Jonathan soon returned with the doctor.


    After a check-up, the doctor couldn''t help himself as he reprimanded, "I have to say, you''re far too


    daring for your own good. You were shot, but you waited for such a long time before receiving


    treatment. If you were rushed here just a minuteter, you might lose this hand of yours."


    Aidan uttered, "So, I was lucky."


    "Well, that''s true."


    Naomi chimed in, "I''ll get you breakfast."


    After the doctor and Naomi left, Aidan asked, "How''s it going out there?"


    Jonathan replied, "Old Mr. Pearson is awake, but he isn''t very well and can only move his eyes. The


    doctor imed that his agitation caused a cerebral ischemic stroke. As a result, he can only spend the


    rest of his life in bed."


    However, Aidan didn''t even bat an eye and changed the topic, "How about the Pearsons?"


    "It rained the whole night yesterday. Mrs. Pearson''s corpse is only being carried away this morning."


    Jonathan continued, "We suppressedst night''s incident, and not even a whisper was spoken about


    it."


    "Get some people to keep an eye on them. Sienna''s death isn''t ast-ditch effort but well thought out,"


    he said icily. "There''s a greater conspiracy behind this since she went to such lengths. Be vignt


    toward all the servants, drivers, and bodyguards in Pearson Family Estate. Look into it right away if any


    stranger gets in touch with them."


    "Okay." However, Jonathan piped up once more, "Well¡­ How about Young Master Justin?"


    Aidan pursed his thin lips before finally responding, "Get someone to stalk him too. He can''t go


    anywhere with ease. If he faces trouble, give him a hand, but don''t let him know that it''s us."


    "All right." Before he left, he suddenly recalled something, so he stated, "By the way, President


    Pearson, Leanna was here before."


    Aidan was slightly stupefied. "When?"


    "Around 2.00PM to 3.00PM, but she left without staying for long."


    Aidan slowly clenched his fists on his nket. "What did she say?"


    "She mocked me," Jonathan said. "Miss McKinney imed that I can''t even save myself, so I''d better


    not meddle in your affairs."


    Aidan was struck speechless.


    Jonathan whispered, "President Pearson, she holds a grudge against me now. I''m afraid you¡­"


    Aidan immediately shot him a cold re before Jonathan ran for the hills.


    Oscar came soon after Jonathan had left. He looked at Aidan and clicked his tongue. "What a hero.


    You nearly lost your arm."


    Aidan closed his eyes and decided to ignore him.


    Oscar didn''t mind it at all as he soldiered on, "We''ve got it all figured out. Celia ran away from Pearson


    Family Estate that day but bumped into Raymond halfway. Old Mr. Pearson didn''t trust Raymond, so he


    asked Raymond to do the deed. Unexpectedly, Celia''s corpse was found under the bridge at dawn the


    next day after she died. The police officers soon found that Raymond had something to do with it. If my


    guess is right, it was Raymond who told Leanna that her kid was at Pearson Family Estate."


    After a while, Aidan opened his eyes. "Where''s Raymond?"


    "Celia bit him before she died, and his skin tissues remained in her teeth. The evidence is conclusive,


    so it won''t be long before the trialmences."


    Aidan raised a query. "Don''t you find it weird?"


    Oscar nodded. "Yes, it''s pretty odd. If Old Mr. Pearson asked Raymond to kill Celia out of distrust in


    him, Raymond did go through with that in the end. So, he revealed his stand for the time being. At least


    he''ll nevere to you and tell on others. Even if Old Mr. Pearson wants to break his promises, he


    won''t do it at this crucial time because Raymond was caught. Raymond will surely implicate Old Mr.


    Pearson to protect himself, so he won''t bother with such things."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Aidan interrupted him and exined, "It wasn''t because of him that the corpse was found."


    Oscar furrowed his brows. "So, you''re saying that there''s another person adding fuel to the fire


    secretly?"


    "I can''t help but be vignt toward Sienna because of her death. Although we eliminated everyone on


    her side, we still don''t know who is secretly helping her."


    "Umm¡­ Could she do this kind of thing without Old Mr. Pearson''s knowledge, even if someone helped


    her? It wouldn''t do her any good if someone exposed Celia''s murder to Old Mr. Pearson before we


    went to Pearson Family Estate."


    "This is what''s amazing about this scheme since every part of it is linked and timed just right." Aidan


    continued, "What''s more, Sienna was ready to diest night. She tried to infuriate me to kill her, but she


    didn''t expect that I wouldn''t y into her hand, so she chose to kill herself."


    Oscar felt his blood run cold at that piece of information. "What the hell did she want?"


    Aidan snorted. "She wanted Justin and I to hate each other. As long as she died, both of us would hold


    a grudge against each other forever."


    "She even plotted against Justin, but wasn''t she afraid that you might get rid of Justin to spare any


    further trouble if she did that?"


    "Well, she knew me more than you do in this aspect."


    Oscar came to an epiphany after being struck dumb for a moment. Sienna made the right choice.


    Aidan won''t kill Justin no matter what happens, so she fearlessly sets up such a scheme.

 Chapter 570

    Chapter 570


    Two dayster, Justin held a low-key funeral for Sienna without announcing it to the public. Besides, he


    even picked Old Mr. Pearson up and got him home even though his eyes were the only thing Old Mr.


    Pearson could move. After that, the door of the Pearson Family Estate remained tightly shut. No one


    was allowed to leave or enter the house.


    On the other hand, the media received the news from somewhere and started to publicize it. They


    imed that Aidan unscrupulously murdered his parents to secure his position in Pearson Group


    steadily and to be the master of the Pearson Family. Consequently, one of his parents was dead while


    the other was paralyzed.


    At the same time, the news of Justin holding a funeral for Sienna spread like wildfire. They even


    brought up the fact of Aidan being an illegitimate son once more, which gave him an excellent motive to


    kill Sienna. For a moment, there were various types of rumors and conjectures.


    Rumors imed that Sienna was killed by the illegitimate son, who was termed a dog in the manger,


    and it was said that Aidan had nned it long ago. Not only did he want to murder Sienna, but he also


    yearned to get rid of Old Mr. Pearson and Justin to avoid them from threatening his status.


    Moreover, they imed that Aidan nned the car ident twenty years ago to be a part of the


    Pearson Family. After that incident, Justin, the original heir of the Pearson Family, was paralyzed from


    the waist down. Hence, the Pearson Family had no choice but to take Aidan, the illegitimate son, home.


    However, Pearson Group made no statement regarding those rumors. Hence, the Inte was filled


    with posts that fervently discussed these matters.


    ''It''s been such a long time, but Pearson Group has yet to make a deration. Don''t you think they''re


    guilty?''


    ''Yes, that''s probably it. When something happened to that designer previously, Pearson Group spoke


    up for her immediately. I''m afraid they don''t have the confidence this time around.''


    ''If that''s the case, he''s too scary. I thought that he was a perfect man who adored his wife given how he


    dissed the keyboard warriors previously.''


    ''Even stars can set up a good image, let alone the capitalists who invest in those celebrities. So, they''re


    excellent at that. If he were truly a good man who adored his wife, he wouldn''t be involved in so many


    scandals until he got a divorce.''


    ''Why didn''t they settle the affair before it blew up so spectacrly?''


    ''Take it easy. This is the world of the wealthy. We''re just the onlookers who gossip about these dramatic


    disputes and grudges between the rich and powerful families. Do you expect to see how it ends?''


    Two dayster, Justin held a low-key funeral for Sienna without announcing it to the public. Besides, he


    even picked Old Mr. Pearson up and got him home even though his eyes were the only thing Old Mr.


    Pearson could move. After that, the door of the Pearson Family Estate remained tightly shut. No one


    was allowed to leave or enter the house.


    ''I think it''s best if we don''te to a conclusion so soon because Pearson Group has yet to make a


    statement. It''ll be interesting if there''s a reversal. Will you apologize for how you scolded them, then?''


    ''I think it''s best if we don''te to a conclusion so soon because Pearson Group has yet to make a


    statement. It''ll be interesting if there''s a reversal. Will you apologize for how you scolded them, then?''


    ''She''s dead, and there''s even a funeral. I don''t think there''s any reversal from this fact. Will she even


    come back alive?''


    ''Wow, this is theckey of the wealthy people. I finally got to see what ackey is.''


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    A small part of the people insisted on waiting for the truth, but their remarks were soon buried by


    others'' criticisms. Rumors and discussions on the Inte continued to develop wildly. The reporters


    could not locate Aidan, so they went to Crossley Group to wait for Leanna, but she never appeared all


    that while.


    When Jimmy heard that piece of good news, he quickly ran over to exin that he was willing to have


    an interview. As a great shareholder of Crossley Group with a high status, he certainly knew a lot of


    inside stories. Hence, the reporters soonpeted for a chance to interview him.


    A reporter asked, "Mr. Onder, do you think the recent Inte rumors are true?"


    Jimmy wore a solemn expression as he put his hands behind his back. "I shouldn''t gossip about others''


    family affairs, but since it''s now a piece of social news, I''ll say something about it. I heard that Mrs.


    Pearson has passed away, and it''s said that she died terribly."


    "There''s a rumor iming that the president of Pearson Group killed her. What''s your thought about


    this?"


    "Well, I can''t judge rashly without seeing it, but I''ve met Mr. Pearson several times. He doesn''t have a


    very good temper, and people get scared of him easily. Also, I heard that his rtionship with his family


    is quite bad. So, it''s rather believable if he truly did such a thing." Although he did not say it directly, his


    meaning was pretty straightforward, as he imed that Aidan was the murderer.


    Another reporter questioned, "Miss McKinney is the current leader of Crossley Group and Mr.


    Pearson''s ex-wife. He even publicly defended her when she was still his girlfriend. So, what are the


    Crossley Group''s stand and its countermeasures regarding this affair?"


    He replied righteously and heroically, "Crossley Group is argepany with great fame, so we won''t


    associate ourselves with this kind of people. I believe that all members of the Crossley Group share my


    opinion. However, Miss McKinney is just a woman. If she''s blinded by her feelings and unable to see


    the truth, we won''t me her either." After that, he continued, "Since all the mass media are here, I


    would like to rify some recent incidents. I¡­"


    Halfway through his rification, someone shouted among the crowd, "Pearson Group is having a


    news conference. Let''s go!" All the reporters in front of him soon left in a flurry.


    Halfway through his rification, someone shouted among the crowd, "Pearson Group is having a


    news conference. Let''s go!" All the reporters in front of him soon left in a flurry.


    As he stood there alone, his face turned extremely sullen. Besides, the police officers and some


    unknown entities have been watching him attentively recently. He could not leave Highside, and many


    of his business deals were affected due to this inconvenience. At first, he wanted to manipte this


    chance to rify some issues and hit Aidan when he was down. s, he failed to say anything he


    wanted to say in the first ce.


    His assistant stepped forward and reported, "Mr. Onder, it''s proven that Mr. Ford was the murderer."


    Jimmy narrowed his eyes slightly. "Did he mention anything else?"


    "I inquired about it. He mentioned nothing about our affairs, but he wishes to be bailed out and wait for


    his trial. Mr. Onder, do you think¡­"


    Jimmy snorted, "He''s too naive to think of getting bail and waiting for a trial when he''smitted


    murder. Can my case be shifted to him? It''s f*cking annoying! I can''t leave this ce at all, and it''s


    meddlesome to stay here for a day longer."


    "I''m afraid¡­ It won''t be that easy unless there''s solid evidence. If not, the police officers will keep


    watching you."


    Jimmy cussed briefly before he sneered and uttered, "They deserve it. They wanted to deal with me


    but got implicated in the end. Aidan can''t be such an anarch anymore after this incident. I think it''s a


    piece of cake if I want to deal with Leanna after she loses his support."


    "Should we act now?"


    "There''s no hurry. If we do it now, it''s like telling others we''re behind it." He continued, "Let''s see how


    he denies all those usations at the press conference."


    After they got into the car, his assistant said, "Mr. Onder, the police called and told me that Raymond


    wishes to see you."


    However, Jimmy''s frown deepened. "Why does he want to see me?"


    "They didn''t tell me the details. Should we go there now?"


    Raymond worked for Jimmy for many years, so he definitely held some useful ckmail against Jimmy.


    So, Jimmy was terrified that Raymond would behave desperately once he was backed into a corner


    and would implicate him in order to save himself. If that ever happened, the cops would definitely drag


    him into a holding cell within the hour.


    Jimmy answered, "Fine. I''ll grant him his wish and hear hisst words."

 Chapter 571

    Chapter 571


    At the press conference, Jonathan appeared after all the reporters had arrived.


    He smiled and said, "Sorry for keeping you all waiting. The reason why we''re having the press


    conference today is to announce three things."


    The previous noisy scene fell silent immediately.


    Jonathan said, "The rumors on the inte these past two days are all false. Mrs. Pearson has indeed


    passed away, but she wasn''t murdered; she hadmitted suicide. The reason Old Mr. Pearson


    became paralyzed was that he witnessed Mrs. Pearson''s suicide with his own eyes, which caused him


    to be traumatized and immediately triggered a cerebral infarction."


    As soon as he said this, there was a lot of discussion below the stage.


    Most of them asked, "Why did shemit suicide?"


    Jonathan replied, "The reason for the suicide will not be disclosed to the public for the time being.


    There were many people present when Mrs. Pearsonmitted suicide, and I also have a forensic


    report, so the authenticity of Mrs. Pearson''s suicide can be confirmed."


    Before the reporters could ask any further, he continued, "The second thing is that I have seen many


    ridiculousments iming that President Pearson nned the car ident that caused the


    paralysis of Young Master Pearson twenty years ago. Ladies and gentlemen, President Pearson was


    not even ten years old at that time, and anyone who ims that he nned the car ident is either


    maliciously ndering him or has serious mental issues."


    Regarding this rumor, if it had been circted in the past, most people would not believe it. However,


    this time, with Sienna''s death and Gordon Pearson''s paralysis happening together, the rumor did not


    seem as imusible, and it appeared to be something Aidan might''ve done.


    However, it was only after Jonathan''s reminder that everyone realized Aidan was just a child twenty


    years ago and could not have nned the car ident. Needless to say, it was ridiculous.


    At this moment, someone in the crowd asked, "Why isn''t President Pearson here at today''s press


    conference?"


    Someone else chimed in immediately, "Yeah. If he''s not guilty, then why is he hiding?"


    Jonathan remained calm and replied, "This brings me to the third thing I want to address. President


    Pearson was attacked at the Pearson Family Estate a few days ago. He is now severely injured and


    unable to move in the hospital. I know that everyone is curious about what''s going on in the Pearson


    Family, but it is not something I can exin in just a few words. The deceased has passed on, and out


    of respect for the living, President Pearson has decided not to pursue the matter further. However, this


    is not a reason for anyone to attack him."


    At the press conference, Jonathan appeared after all the reporters had arrived.


    He was clearly beating around the bush, and all the reporters knew it.


    He was clearly beating around the bush, and all the reporters knew it.


    After the press conference, everyone left.


    Only a few people who had caused the most trouble earlier were stopped and asked, "What do you


    want to do?"


    Jonathan approached them and smiled slightly. "We have already found out that you guys wrote those


    rumors online."


    They looked at each other and tried to run away, but they were caught by the bodyguards on standby.


    Jonathan returned to the hospital and exined, "President Pearson, we''ve handled everything. We


    didn''t get any other information, though. They were probably just paid to do it, and the people have


    been sent to the police station."


    Aidan nodded lightly and responded, "This is just the beginning. The trap that Sienna set before her


    death is far from over. Keep watching."


    "Okay," Jonathan replied.


    Just then, Keaton walked in and said, "President Pearson, the discharge procedures have been


    completed."


    Aidan stood up and said, "Let''s go."


    As they were on their way back to the Pearson Group, a group of reporters and curious onlookers were


    discussing the insider information about this wealthy family''s grievances. At that moment, an


    anonymous ount posted an online article that detailed the events of the incident.


    The most important thing mentioned in the article was that Sienna had deliberately caused the car


    ident that Leanna was in during her pregnancy. She wanted to kill both Leanna and the child, and


    even after that, she remained unrepentant and continued to mock and attack them.


    The article also mentioned the incident that happened a few days ago at the Pearson Family Estate,


    where the Pearson Family took the child away, and Sienna tried to suffocate the child in front of


    everyone with Polyn. After her n was exposed, she chose tomit suicide.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Together with this explosive revtion, the whistleblower attached some information about Leanna''s


    car ident and the investigation results from the police, proving that the brakes had been tampered


    with, and the car belonged to Pearson Family.


    In addition, there was also Polyn''s testimony and transcript.


    ''What a plot twist. I am speechless.''


    ''To be honest, if this expos¨¦ is true, I wouldn''t be surprised if President Pearson killed Sienna with his


    own hands. It''s hard for me not to support him.''


    ''To intentionally cause a car ident when the mother is pregnant in hopes to kill her and the child is


    cruel enough. They even made someone suffocate the child in front of President Pearson. My


    goodness, it gives me the chills.''


    ''This feud between such a wealthy family is terrifying. They''re family, yet they act like they have deep-


    seated hatred toward each other.''


    ''Come on, they''re not really family. I heard that President Pearson is their illegitimate child, which


    Sienna leaked to the media. There are also rumors that President Pearson caused the car ident


    that paralyzed her son. I think this is where her hatredes from. I feel like she''s mentally unstable.''


    ''Come on, they''re not really family. I heard that President Pearson is their illegitimate child, which


    Sienna leaked to the media. There are also rumors that President Pearson caused the car ident


    that paralyzed her son. I think this is where her hatredes from. I feel like she''s mentally unstable.''


    ''But an illegitimate child is still a child. You can''t change that.''


    ''I think a person can''t choose their own background. President Pearson''s abilities are evident to


    everyone. Even if he wasn''t taken back to the Pearson Family, he would still be outstanding.''


    ''I agree. After this incident, I realized that we shouldn''t jump to conclusions too soon. Who knows?


    There might be another twist regarding the illegitimate child in the future.''


    After scanning through thements online, Aidan put down his phone and looked at Jonathan. "Did


    you do it?"


    Jonathan shook his head. Aidan gave Justin ast shred of dignity by not exposing Sienna''s crimes to


    the public, so he wouldn''t do something sneaky like that.


    Aidan''s thin lips curved into a slight smile.


    As Jonathan had said before that Aidan couldn''t leave the hospital until his wound was healed, he


    asked, "What''s so funny?"


    "What is Leanna doing these days?"


    "Madam just found a house and moved in today."


    "Where does she live?"


    "Next door to Zoe since it''s more convenient to have someone look after her."


    "What about the child?"


    "The Young Master is doing well." Jonathan hesitated before asking, "President Pearson, should we go


    back to thepany?"


    Aidan replied, "If we don''t go back to thepany, where do you want to go?"


    Jonathan coughed and pretended nothing was ever said.


    After a while, Aidan spoke again. "Check if the house next to Leanna is still avable and buy it."


    Remembering what Leanna had said, Jonathan reminded him in a low voice, "President Pearson,


    Madam will be angry if you do this."


    "If I don''t do this, will she not be angry?"


    Jonathan was silent, knowing that Aidan was right.


    At that moment, Oscar called. He had personally sent Naomi to a safe ce and had just settled things


    there. Now, he was getting ready to return.


    Aidan said, "Just go to Jamesdon."


    Oscar asked in surprise, "Jamesdon?"


    Aidan responded calmly, "Check what''s going on over there and let me know if there''s any news."


    Jonathan asked, "President Pearson, didn''t you already send people to Jamesdon a while ago? Why


    ¡ª"


    Aidan replied calmly, "Perhaps we''d get two different answers."

 Chapter 572

    Chapter 572


    On the other side, Leanna had finished tidying up and ced the baby, who had been ying in the


    crib, onto the crawling mat.


    The little one started crawling everywhere and pushed any toys that were blocking his path to the side.


    Leanna sat nearby, watching him with a slight smile on her lips.


    Louis returned after taking out the trash. "It''s almost dinner time, so should we go out to eat?"


    She looked away and replied, "Can you watch him for me? I''ll make something."


    "I''ll go," he offered. "I''ll pick up some groceries and fruit while I''m out as well."


    "Hey." Leanna called after him, "When are you going back to school?"


    "Today''s Saturday," he answered.


    She was speechless for a moment.


    Shortly after Louis left, the doorbell rang. Leanna opened the door and saw Zoe leaning against the


    door frame. She blinked in surprise before saying, "Hey, can I join you for dinner?"


    Leanna smiled and weed her inside and mentioned, "Come in. Louis just went out to buy


    groceries."


    Zoe''s eyes lit up at the news. "Well, I''m in luck then!"


    Daniel arrived shortly after with a freshly brewed pot of soup. He ced the pot on the table and said,


    "Leanna, I''ve taken care of everything you asked me to."


    Leanna hesitated for a moment before replying, "Thank you."


    "Not at all. After Pearson Family''s press conference, public opinion did change. However, some people


    still have doubts. However, ever since I posted the evidence you gave me, those voices have


    disappearedpletely," he exined.


    Zoe was snacking on some treats andmented, "I never thought I''d see the day when Aidan, who


    can be pretty ruthless, would show mercy on this matter."


    Leanna replied calmly, "He didn''t want to embarrass Justin."


    If it was in the past, she might have taken Justin and Aidan''s feelings into ount, but ever since


    Sienna and Polyn suffocated their child in front of everyone, she didn''t have the patience for it. It didn''t


    matter what they did; as long as someone hurt her child, she would retaliate.


    Daniel poured Zoe a ss of hot water and added, "It seems like Sienna had nned this in advance.


    She probably knew she was going to die."


    Zoe snorted. "Even in death, she won''t leave us alone. Wait a minute... Do you think she''ll pull a fake


    death like that b*stard, Jethro?"


    On the other side, Leanna had finished tidying up and ced the baby, who had been ying in the


    crib, onto the crawling mat.


    Leanna shook her head and said, "Many people saw her die."


    Leanna shook her head and said, "Many people saw her die."


    Zoe patted her chest and said, "That''s good. I have some after-effects from that time."


    After a while, Leanna looked at Daniel and asked, "When did you find out?"


    He chuckled dryly and said, "I only found out recently. I had suspected it before, but I didn''t have any


    evidence."


    She asked, "Was it when you and Louis left the private room together?"


    Daniel didn''t deny it and nodded lightly.


    It was Louis who had proposed it and made a deal with him.


    Zoe spoke up again. "Nana, what about you and President Pearson..."


    Before she could finish her sentence, Daniel coughed.


    Leanna was busy preparing milk powder for the little one and said, "Let''s talk about itter."


    Zoe thought it couldn''t be left hanging like this. Aidan had not appeared for several days, and they


    didn''t know what he was thinking. He might just end up falling deeper into the darkness, Zoe thought.


    Soon, Louis bought some groceries and came back.


    Leanna went into the kitchen and said, "Let me do it. You can wash the fruit."


    He replied, "Okay."


    Zoe, who was outside, shouted, "Nana, Daphne just told me that she''s filming nearby. Should we invite


    her to dinner tonight?"


    Leanna nced at Louis and smiled. "Sure, let''s invite her."


    Louis washed the fruit in silence.


    She noticed and asked, "How are things on your side?"


    "What''s up?"


    "Studying? Working? Love life?"


    Louis was speechless.


    He hesitated before saying, "Nothing much has happenedtely. I''ve been mostly at school, and I''ll


    probably participate in a program during the summer."


    Leanna asked, "Is it a talent show?"


    She added, "I heard from Daphne that yourpany is going to do a talent show, and it''s mainly going


    to feature you."


    He replied, "It''s not that one."


    "Why not?"


    "I don''t like it, so I turned it down."


    Leanna thought for a moment and realized Louis was not the type to jump around on stage.


    She asked again, "So, what program are you going to participate in?"


    Louis paused for a few seconds before saying, "An escape room program."


    She was confused. "What''s the main focus of the program?"


    "Just solving puzzles."


    Leanna was speechless again.


    Leanna was speechless again.


    How typical of him, she thought to herself.


    Daphne finished workte, but dinner was ready when she arrived.


    She assumed that it was Zoe''s house and looked around. Seeing that everyone was present, she


    asked, "Is President Pearson not here?"


    Zoe cleared her throat and said, "Um..."


    "Oh, by the way." Daphne looked at Leanna. "I saw the news today that President Pearson was injured


    and cannot get out of bed. Is that true?"


    Leanna replied, "It''s fake."


    Daphne breathed a sigh of relief. "I knew it. That evil capitalist can''t be seriously injured. It''s usually


    someone else who gets hurt in front of him."


    Hearing this, Leanna was thinking about something and paused for a moment.


    Beside her, Zoe had been tugging on Daphne''s sleeve the whole time.


    Daphne asked in confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    "Haha, it''s nothing... Do you want to eat an orange? Louis just bought some this afternoon, and they''re


    pretty fresh."


    Daphne replied, "No, thanks. I ate a lot of oranges while filming this afternoon."


    Then, she saw the little guy waving his toy in the air and immediately looked at Zoe''s tummy. She


    asked in shock, "Is it true?"


    Realizing what she was thinking, Zoe patted her shoulder and whispered, "That''s Nana and President


    Pearson''s child. Also, they''re having some conflict, so please don''t mention him again."


    Daphne immediately shut her mouth. Oops, did I say something I shouldn''t have earlier?


    At this point, Louis ced a box of yogurt in front of her.


    Zoe looked over and protested, "Why didn''t I get one?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He remained unfazed and said, "Yogurt helps with digestion, and I think your appetite is pretty good, so


    you probably don''t need it."


    She was stunned upon hearing his words.


    Daphne was also surprised. She had eaten a lot of oranges in the afternoon, but she hadn''t reached


    the point where she couldn''t digest them.


    Before she could speak, Louis had already moved on to something else.


    She looked at the yogurt in front of her, which was her favorite vor of yellow peach. She grabbed a


    spoonful before suddenly meeting Zoe''s curious gaze.


    After locking eyes for a few seconds, Zoe suddenly leaned in and asked, "Have you started taking


    action?"

 Chapter 573

    Chapter 573


    Daphne was stunned. "What actions?"


    Zoe gestured with her eyes. "The thing we talked aboutst time¡ªyou know, during President


    Pearson''s birthday."


    Daphne was speechless as she recalled everything.


    Wasn''t that just a joke? Why is she taking it seriously? Louis is six years younger than me. How dare I


    even consider it?


    Before Zoe could ask more questions, Leanna and Louis came out of the kitchen.


    The meal was quite pleasant.


    Zoe asked Daphne, "I watched yourst movie, and your acting is amazing. What genre is your next


    movie?"


    Daphne replied, "It''s about a sportspetition, but I won''t start shooting until the second half of the


    year. I have other jobs to do in between."


    "What kind of jobs? You seem very busy this year."


    She twitched her mouth and replied, "It''s about the evil capital... capitalism. This is life. I have to shoot


    twomercials next as well as two variety shows¡ªone about flying, and one as a regr cast


    member."


    "Ah, I want to visit a filming location to see what it''s like. Unfortunately, I don''t think I have the chance


    anymore."


    "You cane to the studio when I film the variety show. It''s about a real-life escape room, which will


    be thrilling and exciting," answered Daphne.


    Leanna choked on her food and couldn''t help coughing. She was dumbfounded.


    Daphne handed her a ss of water. "What''s up?"


    She waved her hand. "When are you recording that variety show?"


    "In two months during the summer. I heard the quizzes are insane this time, and it''s only a matter of


    time before they bring out advanced mathematics questions. I''ve already nned to just sleep in there.


    Whoever wants to solve the problems can go ahead since I don''t have that kind of intelligence."


    Leanna raised her eyebrows and looked at Louis. He avoided her gaze by picking up his ss to take


    a sip.


    Zoe asked again, "Sounds interesting. Who is invited to the show?"


    Daphne shook her head. "I don''t know yet. I heard the list hasn''t been finalized yet. I''ll get the full list


    before we start recording."


    "Then, I''lle to visit you on set. Perhaps I''ll even meet some handsome guys and ask for their


    autographs."


    Daniel spoke slowly. "By then, your belly should be quite big. They might even give you a seat, let


    alone autographs."


    Zoe was speechless. How can he say something like that? she thought.


    Daphne was stunned. "What actions?"


    Zoe gestured with her eyes. "The thing we talked aboutst time¡ªyou know, during President


    Pearson''s birthday."


    Meanwhile, Leanna hadn''t thought too much about Louis'' participation in the show and never


    considered that aspect at all. She couldn''t tell that he was that crafty.


    Meanwhile, Leanna hadn''t thought too much about Louis'' participation in the show and never


    considered that aspect at all. She couldn''t tell that he was that crafty.


    At this moment, she suddenly felt something soft on her leg.


    She lowered her head and saw that the little guy had crawled over at some point, holding onto her leg.


    His eyes were curved as he revealed two small milk teeth. He was making a muffled sound. "Ma. Ma."


    She was stunned for a moment. Then, she heard the little guy continue, "Pa. Pa."


    Leanna smiled gently and carried him up.


    Zoe and Daphne''s hearts werepletely melted by this scene. Daphne couldn''t help but whisper,


    "Are you sure this is President Pearson''s son? How could he have such a cute baby?"


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Zoe whispered in response, "In theory, he provided the sperm, so he is the biological father."


    Louis and Daniel didn''t know what to say.


    The little guy seemed to be interested and kept calling out ''Mama'' and ''Papa'' all night, his eyes


    gleaming with happiness.


    When everyone left after dinner, Leanna took the little one to the bathroom and bathed him. She then


    put him to bed beforeing out of the room.


    In the living room, Louis had already washed the dishes and was disinfecting the toys on the carpet.


    "Let me do it. Why don''t you rest?"


    He replied, "I''ll finish in a moment."


    She then asked, "Why didn''t you send Daphne off?"


    "Her driver is downstairs."


    Leanna''s lips curled up. "Okay. You should go rest."


    Louis put down what he was holding and said, "I''ve decided to take half a month off."


    She was puzzled. "Why?"


    "I''ll watch the child. You can do your things."


    These past few days, Louis had not left the little guy''s side for even a moment. He had not even gone


    to the studio and Crossley Group.


    He knew that she was too afraid to leave the child alone. She never dared to let her guard down or hire


    a nanny to take care of the child, never allowing the kid out of her sight.


    She remained silent for a few seconds before saying, "I will think of another way. You have to study."


    "What other ways can you think of?"


    Zoe was pregnant and couldn''t even take care of herself, plus Daniel had never taken care of a child.


    She couldn''t find anyone whom she could trust right now.


    Leanna then said, "There''s always a solution. Let''s go to sleep and talk about it tomorrow."


    Back in her room, shey on the bed looking at the little guy next to her and gently touched his nose.


    She pictured him hugging her leg and calling her ''Mama''. It would melt one''s heart.


    Back in her room, shey on the bed looking at the little guy next to her and gently touched his nose.


    She pictured him hugging her leg and calling her ''Mama''. It would melt one''s heart.


    After a while, she turned on her phone and sent a message to Maya, asking her to meet up tomorrow


    afternoon.


    When Maya received her message, she trembled in fear. She looked at her husband and said, "I knew


    it! She''sing to get even with me!"


    Ever since Maya saw the news about Raymond being arrested for homicide, she had been haunted by


    guilt for introducing him to Leanna. On one hand, she regretted it deeply, and on the other hand, she


    was afraid that Leanna would seek revenge.


    Richardforted her, "I don''t think Mrs. Pearson is that kind of person. You don''t have to worry. There


    must be some other reason."


    "What other reason? I''m getting goosebumps just thinking about it. Should we flee overnight?"


    "If she wanted to hold you ountable for what you did before, she would have done it already. You


    don''t need to worry now."


    Although he had a point, Maya still muttered under her breath, "I''ll see what she wants tomorrow. If it''s


    no good, we''ll run away."


    When Maya arrived at the coffee shop the next afternoon, Leanna was already there waiting for her.


    Maya took off her sunsses, cleared her throat, and sat across from Leanna. "What do you want from


    me?"


    Leanna sipped her coffee and queried, "Don''t you think you owe me an exnation?"


    Maya instantly felt like she was facing a great enemy. "You can''t me it on me! I didn''t know he was


    that terrible back then. And I did it alone, so don''t drag my husband into this!"


    Leanna smiled. "You two have a great rtionship. Although Richard is always busy, he still treats you


    well."


    "Well, of course. He is my husband."


    Leanna continued, "Last time, you mentioned that you were looking for a job, right?"


    Maya immediately sat up straight with elegance. "Don''t you already have enough people in your


    studio? Are you nning to open a new branch and hire me as a manager?"


    "Help me take care of my child. You cane over in the morning before I leave and get off work when


    Ie back in the evening," Leanna replied.


    Maya''s face turned pale in an instant. "Who do you think I am, a nanny? How dare you look down on


    me like that?!"

 Chapter 574

    Chapter 574


    Leanna leaned back against the chair and smiled faintly. "You''re not a nanny because I''m not going to


    pay you."


    Maya was speechless and she said unwillingly, "Is this something a human would do?"


    Leanna continued speaking slowly. "To be honest, when you first wanted to introduce Raymond to me,


    we both knew what you were after. I''ve never been a generous person, and people always describe me


    as cunning and vengeful."


    Maya hesitated. "Well¡­ It''s been so long since that happened. If it''s not okay, I can apologize to you


    again, but please don''t take it out on my husband. I will take responsibility for what I''ve done."


    "Alright, but you have to agree to my condition."


    "What condition?"


    "As I said earlier, help me take care of the child. But I''ll be upfront with you; if you agree to this, the


    safety of that child will be directly linked to the safety of your daughter," Leanna said.


    Maya''s expression changed. "What do you mean by that?"


    Leanna''s lips curled slightly. "What I mean is that I will use your daughter as leverage. So, you should


    think carefully before giving me an answer."


    Maya frowned. "You''re confusing me. What child? Where did the childe from?"


    "Mine. I gave birth to it."


    "With whom?"


    Leanna just looked at her and didn''t say anything.


    Maya cleared her throat and took a sip of coffee. "How old is the child?"


    "Around seven to eight months."


    "I''ve had experience taking care of children, but I''ve never done it alone. There was always a nanny


    with me, so I can''t guarantee that I can handle it by myself. If something goes wrong, and you me


    me for it, who am I going to reason with?"


    "Don''t worry, there will be others. The child is well-behaved; you just need to take care of stuff like


    feeding and changing diapers. I''ll be back at night."


    Maya asked again, "Are you really not going to pay me?"


    "Okay, how much do you want?" Leanna replied.


    She stated a number. "This much?"


    "Okay, we''ll deduct it from your husband''s sry."


    Maya didn''t know what to say. She berated, "You''re so stingy. Who taught you to be like this?"


    Leanna was about to speak when a face suddenly shed through her mind. She paused for a moment


    before a faint smile appeared on her lips.


    Maya continued, "Okay, I''ll take care of your child, but we need to set some ground rules. First, we''ll


    forget about all the past grudges, and I admit that my jealousy was the reason. Second, you can''t


    dislike me and take it out on my husband just because of your personal feelings. Third..." She paused.


    "How long do you want me to take care of your child?"


    Leanna leaned back against the chair and smiled faintly. "You''re not a nanny because I''m not going to


    pay you."


    Leanna thought for a moment and said, "Not too long."


    Leanna thought for a moment and said, "Not too long."


    "That''s fine. I can manage for a month or two, maybe even three or four, but I can''t promise anything


    beyond that."


    "What do you mean by that?"


    Maya then said, "Raising a child is like raising a pet. After spending time together, you develop a bond.


    You don''t even pay me a sry, and if you want me to leave, I''ll have to leave. Won''t I be wronged?"


    Leanna curled her lips again. "Okay, I understand."


    When they left the coffee shop together, Maya couldn''t help but ask, "You''re not really threatening me


    with my daughter, are you? She''s just a child."


    "I''m not joking," Leanna replied softly. "I don''t have anyone suitable around me who can take care of


    my child. Besides, I don''t trust you, so I have to have some leverage."


    Maya clicked her tongue. "I don''t know what you''re doing. Aidan is your husband, whereas Zayn and


    Elijah have both pursued you. Are you saying there''s no one around you suitable and trustworthy?"


    Leanna turned to look at her. "Can they take care of a child?"


    Maya was dumbfounded. After a while, she muttered again, "Don''t worry, as long as I''m alive, your son


    will be alive too. Don''t bring my daughter into this matter."


    "Let''s go." Leanna raised her eyebrows.


    Maya was not a bad person by nature. She had been jealous of Leanna since they were in school and


    enjoyed her failures. After graduating, she married Richard and became a housewife with a cute and


    obedient daughter. She had a happy and fulfilling family without having to worry about basic necessities


    and could get whatever she wanted, which gave her a sense of superiority.


    However, after the events that had urred, she was beaten down by society and put aside those


    selfish thoughts.


    Most importantly, Leanna knew that she loved her daughter and Richard very much. He was now one


    of the few people she could trust and use, so that was why she sought after Maya.


    Daniel had also lent her a hand.


    Even if Maya took her child out, there shouldn''t be any problem.


    On the way back, Leanna saw that the weather was starting to heat up, so she went to the mall and


    bought some lightweight clothes and baby powder for the little guy.


    On the way back, Leanna saw that the weather was starting to heat up, so she went to the mall and


    bought some lightweight clothes and baby powder for the little guy.


    After getting into her car once she was done with shopping, she saw the towering Pearson Building in


    the distance.


    She sighed at the coincidence of hering here.


    She heard that Aidan was discharged from the hospital yesterday, but she didn''t know how that b*stard


    was doing or whether his injuries had improved or not.


    Leanna thought for a moment, then went to a nearby restaurant to pick up some food and soup that


    would aid with wound healing. After that, she wore a mask and went into the Pearson Building.


    She ced the items at the front desk and said, "Hello, please pass this on to Jonathan."


    The front desk didn''t recognize her. "Who are you?"


    "I''m no one special. I''m just bringing him some food."


    "But Mr. Stoll and President Pearson went out this afternoon. I don''t know if they''lle back tonight.


    Do you want to give him a call?"


    Hearing this, Leanna was stunned for a moment. "Where did they go?"


    The front desk receptionist responded, "I don''t know."


    Leanna took the items back. "Forget it, then. Thanks."


    That b*stard can really run. He¡¯s not even afraid of prolonging his recovery. Back in her car, she ced


    the food on the passenger seat. Perfect, there''s no need to cook tonight. I just need to reheat it, she


    thought.


    She parked the car downstairs, took out all the items she bought, and walked to the elevator with the


    items.


    Just as she was about to free up one hand to press the elevator button, a hand reached over her and


    pressed the button.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    She turned around and met a man''s dark and quiet eyes.


    After a few seconds, he turned his head expressionlessly.


    Aidan didn''t say anything and merely followed her into the elevator.


    It was just the two of them in the elevator.


    He asked in a low and maic voice, "Which floor?"


    "Don''t you know?"


    "It was just a polite question."


    After speaking, he selected the 17th floor.


    Leanna was speechless. Polite, my *ss, she thought.


    The bags in Leanna''s hand were heavy. As she moved her arms, her hands were suddenly empty.


    Aidan had taken all the items from her.

 Chapter 575

    Chapter 575


    Leanna stared at his injured arm. In less than two seconds, she took the bag of stuff back. "Never


    mind, thanks."


    Aidan pursed his thin lips as he asked quietly, "Are you still mad?"


    She said expressionlessly, "It''s in my nature to stay mad for as long as I can."


    He was speechless.


    At least she was still willing to talk to him.


    Just then, the elevator doors opened. Leanna walked out with everything in her hand. She ced the


    bag of stuff at the door so that she could free her hands to key in the password.


    When the door opened, she took the bag of stuff inside.


    She didn''t close the door.


    When Aidan saw that, he discreetly licked his lips.


    Was she leaving it open for him? Wasn''t this too good to be true?


    After Leanna went in, she ced the bag of stuff on the table, then asked Louis, "How was he? Did he


    cry?"


    Louis replied, "No, he''s behaving quite well."


    She raised the corners of her lips. She walked up to the little guy who was ying with his toys, then


    sat down in front of him. "Go and get some rest. I bought some food, so you can reheat them if you''re


    hungry."


    Louis said, "I''m going to wash some fruits."


    He had just gotten up when he noticed the person pushing the door open and walking in. He said,


    "Now that I think of it, we seem to be running out of fruits. I''ll buy more downstairs."


    With that, he left in a hurry.


    Aidan closed the door and walked up to Leanna, then sat leisurely on the couch.


    When the little guy saw Aidan, he revealed two tiny teeth as he giggled.


    Aidan curved his thin lips, then beckoned toward the child. The little guy immediately put down his toys


    and crawled over to Aidan.


    Leanna was speechless. Weren''t the two at odds with each other before? It seemed like they had


    bonded quite well recently.


    She took a deep breath, then got up and boiled some water to make milk for the little guy.


    When the water was at an appropriate temperature, Leanna poured it into the milk bottle and shook it.


    She was about to turn around and walk back when a figure leaned into her.


    Aidan supported himself with both hands on the table, trapping her in his arms as he asked, "Are you


    still mad?"


    Leanna raised her head and met his gaze. "Enough to power an entire building."


    Aidan fell silent.


    He chuckled in a deep voice, then leaned in closer to her, the tip of his nose touching hers as he said,


    "I''m sorry. Please stop being mad at me, okay? Forgive me."


    Leanna stared at his injured arm. In less than two seconds, she took the bag of stuff back. "Never


    mind, thanks."


    She was unaffected, her expression calm as she responded, "I''ve given you so many chances before,


    but you don''t seem to care about what I think at all. Do you know that when I look back on how I


    behaved, I feel like I''m a fool being toyed with by you? Some time ago, I even suspected that I was sick


    and wanted to see the doctor. Even under those circumstances, you didn''t tell me the truth. Tell me,


    what am I forgiving you for? For treating me like a fool and deceiving me?"


    She was unaffected, her expression calm as she responded, "I''ve given you so many chances before,


    but you don''t seem to care about what I think at all. Do you know that when I look back on how I


    behaved, I feel like I''m a fool being toyed with by you? Some time ago, I even suspected that I was sick


    and wanted to see the doctor. Even under those circumstances, you didn''t tell me the truth. Tell me,


    what am I forgiving you for? For treating me like a fool and deceiving me?"


    Aidan said, "I didn''t stop you from seeing the doctor, did I?"


    "Yes, but after talking to the doctor, I was even more convinced that I was crazy."


    She smoothed out her hair by her ear. "Even if you''re crazy, you''re still beautiful."


    Leanna looked at him expressionlessly, thinking that she should get some dish soap.


    Aidan''s tone was low as he said, "I was originally thinking that I''d tell you everything when I brought


    him out of the Pearson Family, but I didn''t expect something to go wrong. I didn''t intend to hide it from


    you for so long, but I didn''t know how to approach the subject. I''m scared that you''d ignore me if you


    knew¡ªjust like what you''re doing right now."


    His voice was a little low with hints of destion mixed in.


    Leanna sneered. "Must be hard for you."


    He said, "As a man, carrying responsibilities like this shouldn''t be a big deal."


    She couldn''t be bothered with him as she reached out and pushed him. "Get off."


    Aidan was unmoving as he gazed intently at her with his dark eyes. "Honey, give me one more chance,


    alright?"


    "So, you''re not moving, are you?"


    Leanna stepped on his foot, and before he could react, she bent down and tunneled out of his


    embrace.


    She sat next to the little guy, then poured some milk on the back of her hand. The temperature was just


    right. So, she carried the little guy in her arms and began feeding him.


    The little guy sat in her embrace, holding the milk bottle with both hands. He quickly finished the milk,


    then looked up at Leanna as he waved the milk bottle in his little hands, saying happily, "Mama¡­"


    Leanna curved her lips into a smile, then ced him next to the pile of toys. "Go and y."


    Aidan walked over to them, then kneeled on one knee in front of the little guy. He scratched the child''s


    chin as he said, "Come on, say ''Daddy''."


    The little guy nced at Aidan. There was no reaction from him as he mumbled continuously,


    "Mama¡­"


    Aidan felt his veins pop. Since when had the child learned to call ''Mama'' and nothing else?


    When Aidan saw that the little guy was focusing all his attention on his toys and had no intention of


    responding, he grabbed the toy from the child''s hands as he repeated patiently, "Say ''Daddy''."


    When Aidan saw that the little guy was focusing all his attention on his toys and had no intention of


    responding, he grabbed the toy from the child''s hands as he repeated patiently, "Say ''Daddy''."


    Noticing that his favorite toy was gone, the little guy pursed his lips, then turned around to hug


    Leanna''s leg. Tears welled in his eyes as he sobbed, "Mama¡­"


    Leanna looked at Aidan. "What''s wrong with you? Why are you bothering him?"


    "He''s not calling me ''Daddy''."


    "Isn''t that normal?"


    Aidan frowned, upset. "How is that normal?"


    She carried the pitiful child in her arms. "Children can tell if you''re good or not. If he''s not calling you


    ''Daddy'', it can only mean that you''re not a good person in his eyes."


    "Didn''t you see how happy he was when I came in just now?"


    "He was just being polite."


    Aidan fell silent.


    She was quick to pick up the skill of making things up on the spot.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Leanna gave the little guy another toy, and he instantly forgot about what just happened as he grinned.


    Aidan looked at her, then said in a low voice, "I want to hold him too."


    Leanna was speechless because he sounded like a spoiled brat.


    Unwilling to witness that again, she was about to pass him the little guy when he pulled her into his


    embrace. A familiar smell invaded her senses.


    Before Leanna could say anything, Aidan''s voice sounded. "You promised that you wouldn''t ever leave


    me while I was in the hospital, but after I woke up, I never saw you."


    Leanna was quiet for a while. "Can you stop talking to me in that tone?"


    She was getting goosebumps already.


    "Can''t you see that I''m trying to appease you?"


    "I think you''re trying to kill me."


    Aidan harrumphed. "Where did your conscience go?"


    Leanna replied, "I have none for you."


    The little guy seemed ufortable getting squeezed between them, so he started making noises and


    trying to get out.


    Leanna pushed Aidan away, then held the little guy as she moved aside, putting more distance


    between herself and Aidan.


    Aidan took off his jacket and got up, then rolled his sleeves as he walked toward the kitchen.


    She asked, "What are you doing?"


    He said, "Just testing out how much longer you can be mad at me."


    "Don''t touch my¡ª"


    Crash!


    It was the sound of tes breaking.


    After all this while, Leanna had learned to stay calm as she listened to him breaking her tableware.

 Chapter 576

    Chapter 576


    Aidan didn''t get to spend even two minutes in the kitchen before Leanna chased him out.


    As he listened to the movements in the kitchen, he had a small smile on his lips as he sat in front of the


    couch, saying to the child in an extremely patient voice, "Say ''Daddy''."


    But the child acted like he hadn''t heard anything as he yed on his own and ignored Aidan.


    When Louis came back with the fruits, Leanna had also ted the food she heated up, then ced it


    on the table.


    Leanna said, "Louis, get Zoe toe over and eat."


    Louis put down the fruits. "Okay."


    Leanna turned to look at Aidan at the side. "Why are you still here?"


    Aidan looked at her in bewilderment.


    Leanna said calmly, "You cane whenever you want to see the child. This is your right as his father,


    but don''t even dream about doing anything else."


    Aidan''s eyebrow twitched a little. "In that case, when can I exercise my rights as a boyfriend?"


    Leanna gave him a perfunctory smile, then turned around and entered the kitchen.


    Aidan looked at her receding figure, then licked his lips discreetly.


    Never mind, we have all the time in the world, he thought.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    When Aidan was about to leave, Zoe walked in at the same time. When she saw him, she was both


    shocked and surprised.


    After watching Aidan leave, Zoe briskly walked up to Leanna. "Why is he here? And why is he leaving


    again?"


    Leanna said, "He came to see his son, and he left once he was done."


    "Huh?"


    Was she entirely sure that he came to see the child and not her?


    Zoe said, "It''s almost time to eat, but you chased him out just like that. Isn''t that too pitiful?"


    Leanna didn''t reply to that as she said, "The food''s ready. Let''s eat."


    Zoe looked at the food on the table, her attention instantly drawn to the spread. "Nana, why did you get


    takeaway when you went out in the afternoon?" she asked.


    Leanna fell silent.


    It took a long while for her to say, "I just felt like it."


    Downstairs, as soon as Aidan''s figure appeared, Jonathan quickly rushed over to him. "President


    Pearson, there''s something you should know."


    "Speak."


    "Just now, the receptionist called and told me that someone went to thepany to deliver food for us.


    From their description, I think it must be Madam. However, the receptionist told Madam that we were


    not at thepany, so she took the things with her and left."


    Aidan paused for a moment as he remembered the takeaway boxes in Leanna''s hand while they were


    in the elevator.


    His eyebrows were slightly raised as he said slowly, "It''s her."


    Aidan didn''t get to spend even two minutes in the kitchen before Leanna chased him out.


    Jonathan sighed in relief. There was still hope.


    Jonathan sighed in relief. There was still hope.


    Aidan asked, "Is everything packed?"


    "More or less. They can be moved in tonight."


    Aidan opened the car door. "Let''s go to the apartment first."


    In the afternoon, the person in charge of the apartment called him and said that those floors required


    another renovation.


    Some of Leanna''s belongings were still there, so he could go over and retrieve them right now.


    In the car, Jonathan received a call. "President Pearson, I just received news that Jimmy has bailed


    Raymond out."


    Aidan''s expression remained the same as if he weren''t surprised by this.


    He said, "Raymond knows quite a lot of Jimmy''s weaknesses, so it''s not a surprise that Jimmy would


    bail him out."


    Jonathan frowned. "But this time, when we investigated the Pearson Family, the person who helped


    Raymond forge an alibi and threw off our tracking wasn''t one of Old Master Pearson''s men. There must


    be someone else behind him."


    Aidan said, "The men under Old Master Pearson aren''t capable enough. He''s also unable to find out


    any information about the child being alive, including their whereabouts."


    "President Pearson, do you mean that it was the force behind Mrs. Pearson who got that information?


    Did they work with Raymond to set this up?"


    "Both Old Master Pearson and Sienna are within control. As soon as they do anything, I will receive


    news about it right away."


    Jonathan asked tentatively, "Is it a new party from outside, then?"


    Aidan narrowed his dark eyes. "Where''s the person who delivered the share transfer agreement to Old


    Master Pearson?"


    "After arriving at Highside, he only went to the Pearson Family Estate once. There haven''t been any


    abnormal activities from him."


    "Don''t you think it was too much of a coincidence? Not long after he arrived at Highside, the Pearsons


    set up a trap and seized the child."


    "But he came back to Chiojan only recently. How would he know¡ª"


    Aidan tapped lightly on his knee. "Even until now, his history abroad is a mystery and no one knows


    where he came from. A man like him could actually escape the treacherous Lachstein ande back,


    then go into hiding in Highside. Do you think he''s an innocent bystander who was just on an errand to


    deliver documents?"


    Jonathan was stunned. If John had told the Pearsons about Madam Fletcher and the young master''s


    whereabouts, where had he gotten the information from? More importantly, what role did he y in all


    this?


    "President Pearson, we should¡ª"


    "Just wait. He will make another appearance."


    "Just wait. He will make another appearance."


    Jonathan nodded. "Understood."


    When they arrived at the apartment, the servant was packing the things in the closet.


    Aidan stood in front of the French windows, gazing outside. No one knew what he was pondering.


    Half an hourter, Jonathan went up to him and said, "President Pearson, everything is packed. Shall


    we move them right now?"


    Aidan nodded calmly. "Ask them to make it as discreet as possible."


    "Understood."


    Aidan turned around and noticed the suitcase still in the living room.


    It was the one Leanna brought back when she got discharged from the hospital.


    Aidan said, "Take this too."


    In an instant, the apartment turned cold and lifeless again. There wasn''t even the slightest hint that


    anyone had lived here before.


    Aidan went next door and looked at the house filled with things for children.


    Jonathan asked, "President Pearson, shall we move these too?"


    Aidan''s expression didn''t change. "What else should we do? Throw them away?"


    Jonathan immediately understood what he meant. He got some people to disinfect and pack up all the


    things, then sent the box of things right up to Leanna''s doorstep.


    Looking at the huge box in front of her, Leanna didn''t even have the chance to speak when the delivery


    people ran away swiftly.


    Zoe came out upon hearing the noise. "Nana, what''s going on¡­ Goodness, what''s with this huge box?


    Don''t tell me someone hid a corpse in there!"


    Leanna raised her brows. She didn''t even have to think to figure out who was behind this.


    Louis came over and moved the box inside. Then, he opened it with a small knife and took out a small


    toy.


    When the little guy saw that, he immediately crawled over and reached out his tiny hand to grab it,


    mumbling something as if he were trying to speak.


    Louis bent down and ced the toy in the little guy''s hand. At the same time, he said, "They''ve been


    disinfected."


    Leanna fell silent.


    Zoe closed the door and walked in, clicking her tongue as she said, "Looks like that b*stard came


    prepared. He''s even targeting this little kid."


    Leanna let out a sigh. "I''m going out to buy something."


    There were too many toys. She couldn''t leave them in the cardboard box, nor could she just empty


    everything out onto the floor. She had to buy a few storage boxes.


    Zoe said, "I''ll go with you. It''s about time I get in some exercise; I''m getting tired of just lying down for


    the past few days."


    Leanna nodded. "Let''s go."

 Chapter 577

    Chapter 577


    In a grocery market of a shopping mall, Zoe couldn''t resist putting children''s items into the shopping


    cart whenever she saw one.


    Meanwhile, Leanna took them out one by one and said with a smile, "These are all for two to three-


    year-old children. He isn''t old enough yet."


    "He''s already so big, but as his godmother, I haven''t bought him anything decent. It''s such a shame.


    Well, he will be two in the blink of an eye." Zoe sighed.


    "Yeah."


    Then, she continued, "By the way, Louis told me that you took the little guy to the hospital for a checkup


    this morning. What did the doctor say?"


    "The doctor said everything is good. Although he was born prematurely, we took great care of him after


    that, so he''s only slightly slower in development than other children his age now. Other than that,


    everything else is normal," replied Leanna.


    "I have to say, that b*stard really takes good care of the baby."


    Leanna corrected her softly, saying, "It was Ms. Fletcher who took care of him." Other than when he


    was in the Pearson Group, Aidan spent most of his time with Leanna. Also, with his temperament, if


    she let him take care of the child, not making the little guy cry was already hisst shred of kindness.


    "Where is she now? In my opinion, since the child has already gotten used to Ms. Fletcher taking care


    of him, why don''t you¡ª"


    Suddenly, Leanna shook her head. "She''s no longer in Highside."


    Surprised, Zoe asked, "Why isn''t she here anymore? Why did she leave all of a sudden?"


    "Louis told me that Aidan had already sent someone to send her away a few days ago."


    "Why?"


    "Although Sienna has died, the Pearson Family''s issue hasn''t ended. The target of Aidan''s father is the


    child, but Sienna''s target is¡­"


    Ms. Fletcher.


    In this situation, if Naomi stayed in Highside, she would face even more danger. With her and the little


    guy together, they would be too big of a target. If anything happened, they could be controlled at the


    same time, just like what happenedst time. Thus, Aidan probably sent Naomi away to avoid this


    happening again.


    At that, Zoe sighed. "How is the Pearson Family now?"


    "Sienna is dead, and Aidan''s father is paralyzed. He has been brought back to the Pearson Family


    Estate." Leanna paused for a moment, then continued, "Now, the only one who can make decisions in


    the Pearson Family is Justin."


    "Will he hold a grudge against Aidan for this? After all, the one who died was his biological mother."


    In a grocery market of a shopping mall, Zoe couldn''t resist putting children''s items into the shopping


    cart whenever she saw one.


    At her words, Leanna recalled the malicious curses that Sienna had uttered before her death, and she


    couldn''t help but space out for a moment.


    At her words, Leanna recalled the malicious curses that Sienna had uttered before her death, and she


    couldn''t help but space out for a moment.


    Seeing her silence, Zoe waved her hand in front of her. "Nana?"


    Only then did Leanna snap back to reality and smile faintly. "Yes. We''ve bought everything we need.


    Let''s go."


    When they reached downstairs, Zoe noticed severalrge trucks parked there and asked curiously,


    "Who''s moving in?"


    Likewise, Leanna nced over. "With that much stuff, will it fit into the unit?"


    The units in this area were all small; they were mostly one or two rooms, so they were not very


    spacious. By looking at the number of items on the trucks, it looked like they wouldn''t even fit in two


    double-room units.


    Just then, Zoe sighed. "There are so many rich people in this world. Why can''t I be one of them?"


    When they reached their floor, the elevator door next to them also opened at the same time. Boxes of


    items were carried out and moved into their neighboring units.


    There were four units on this floor. Zoe and Leanna each rented one unit. Meanwhile, the other two


    were also for rent. Now, it seemed that they had both been bought by the same person.


    When Zoe saw the scene, she said meaningfully, "Looks like that rich person is someone I know."


    Meanwhile, Leanna was speechless.


    After a yawn, Zoe said, "I''m not going over, Nana. I''m a bit tired."


    Leanna replied with a nod, "Daniel is not here today. If something happens in the middle of the night,


    just give me a call."


    "Okay, good night."


    "Good night."


    Only after Zoe entered her unit did Leanna turn around to press the password for her door. The


    moment she opened the door, an unexpected visitor came into her sight.


    "Why are you here again?" she asked.


    Aidan was sitting on the couch, looking calm as he replied, "Didn''t you say I could drop by anytime?"


    After saying that, he slowly added, "I''m exercising my rights as a father."


    Ignoring him, she took the storage boxes she bought and went to the bathroom to clean and disinfect


    them before organizing the little guy''s toys into the boxes.


    By the time she finished cleaning, it was already 11.00PM. Usually, the little guy would have been


    sound asleep at this time, but he kept whining and wouldn''t drink his milk tonight.


    She took a deep breath and looked at Aidan with an indifferent gaze.


    She took a deep breath and looked at Aidan with an indifferent gaze.


    When he met her eyes, he raised his eyebrows as if waiting for her to say something.


    Then, she asked, "Are you leaving or not?"


    "If I have the choice, I''d certainly not."


    At once, she didn''t know what to say. This man''s audacity is beyond belief.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Seeing the situation, Louis cleared his throat and found an excuse to go into his bedroom, wanting to


    stay out of their argument.


    At the same time, Aidan ced the little guy on hisp and looked at Leanna with ease. "I am


    exercising my rights as a father."


    She clenched her teeth and thought, I have never seen such an overbearing person before.


    At this moment, he seemed to sense that she was on the verge of exploding. After two seconds of


    silence, he stood up and put the little guy in her arms. "I''lle back tomorrow. If you miss me, I can


    alwayse earlier."


    A few minutes after he left, the little guy started to get sleepy, rubbing his eyes and yawning.


    As such, Leanna made him another bottle of milk, but he only had a few sips before falling asleep with


    the bottle in his arms. Looks like he''s very tired. How was he so energetic just now?


    She gently took the bottle away and put the little guy back in bed. After she covered him with a nket,


    she went to clean up the living room.


    At the same time, Louis came out of his bedroom as well.


    "I have found someone to take care of the baby. She will be here tomorrow. You should go back to


    school," she said.


    Aidan hummed in acknowledgment and replied, "I''ll go back tomorrow morning."


    After finishing cleaning, he asked, "Did Aidan move here?"


    At his question, Leanna remained silent for a few seconds before replying, "Who knows?"


    With a smirk, he said, "I''lle over again next weekend. Be careful, though. I don''t think things will


    end that easily."


    "I know." After a pause, she continued, "Louis, I''ve been wanting to ask you something. Did Daniel tell


    you¡­" Previously, Daniel said it was Louis who told him about the child being alive, but she felt it


    wasn''t that simple and that they must have talked about more than just that.


    Louis didn''t react much and simply asked, "What is it?"


    When she looked at him, the words were on the tip of her tongue, but she didn''t say them in the end.


    "Never mind, it''s nothing. Rest early."

 Chapter 578

    Chapter 578


    At 8.00AM the next day, Maya appeared on time at Leanna''s doorstep. She crossed her arms and


    looked around, saying, "Why did youe to live in this small ce? Did Aidan dump you?"


    As soon as she finished speaking, a tall and slender figure appeared in the house. Immediately, she


    quieted down and found an inconspicuous corner to stand in, lowering her presence.


    Aidan looked at Leanna and asked, "Did you ask for me?"


    At this moment, she was speechless. Has he been waiting at the door for this opportunity?


    Expressionless, she answered, "Go find the person who asked for you."


    As he raised his eyebrows, he looked at the breakfast on the table. "Is there breakfast for me?"


    "No."


    As soon as she replied, he turned to Louis and said, "The driver is waiting for you downstairs. Hurry


    up."


    Louis was speechless for a moment before handing the bottle of milk to Leanna. "I''ll leave now."


    With the little guy in her arms, she took the milk bottle from him. "Have your breakfast before you


    leave."


    However, he cleared his throat and quickly picked up his things to leave. "I have ss in the morning.


    I''m in a rush right now."


    After he left, Aidan sat down at the dining table. "You''ve made so much food. It''s a waste if we can''t


    finish it. I happen to have some free time, so I can help you out."


    Hearing that, Leanna scoffed and was about to say something when the little guy in her arms nudged


    her, his face turning red. It seemed like he had just pooped. Immediately, she looked at Aidan and


    smirked. Okay. You want to eat, right?


    She put the little guy on the couch and changed his diaper. Then, she took a few steps to throw it in the


    trash can next to the dining table.


    This left Aidan, who had just picked up his utensils, speechless.


    When she met his eyes, she put on an extremely gentle smile. "Why aren''t you eating? Is it not to your


    taste?"


    He suddenly felt that women were really scary, especially when they were angry. Yet, he remained


    calm and stood up. "I suddenly remembered there''s still some work at thepany. Enjoy your


    breakfast."


    "Didn''t you just say it''d be a waste if we can''t finish it?" she asked slowly.


    "You can save it and eat it for lunch." After finishing his sentence, Aidan turned around and left in big


    strides.


    As she watched him from his back, Leanna''s mood improved significantly, and her lips curled into a


    smile.


    At 8.00AM the next day, Maya appeared on time at Leanna''s doorstep. She crossed her arms and


    looked around, saying, "Why did youe to live in this small ce? Did Aidan dump you?"


    On the other hand, Maya had already changed the little guy''s diaper. Seeing Aidan leave, she moved


    over to Leanna and looked a bit serious. "Did he go bankrupt?"


    On the other hand, Maya had already changed the little guy''s diaper. Seeing Aidan leave, she moved


    over to Leanna and looked a bit serious. "Did he go bankrupt?"


    At once, her good mood came to an abrupt end. She turned around and looked at Maya


    expressionlessly.


    Maya quickly made a quiet gesture. "Don''t worry. I will definitely keep this secret for you. We are


    already on the same boat, right?"


    However, Leanna was toozy to deal with her. After she told her about the little guy''s daily habits, she


    said, "I usuallye back around 6.30PM or 7.00PM, if there''s a dy. If something happens in


    between, you can call me directly. If you want to go out, there will be people following. They will be


    downstairs. You may not see them, but they will know your every movement."


    At that, Maya muttered, "Why does it sound like a spy movie? Is it dangerous?"


    "Didn''t you say that the child will be alive as long as you''re alive?"


    "That''s just¡­ a metaphor."


    "I''ll tell you the same thing. No matter what danger you face, as long as the child is safe, you will be


    fine," Leanna said.


    "Okay, I got it. How dangerous can it be during the day? It''s not like people are wielding knives and


    guns in the streets."


    As Leanna looked at the little guy ying on the cushion, she walked over to pinch his little face,


    saying gently, "Mommy is going out. Be a good boy at home, okay?"


    She was not sure if the little guy understood that, but he waved his toy a few times at her and muttered


    something.


    Then, she smiled before standing up and saying to Maya, "I''ll be leaving now." However, her gaze was


    fixed on the little guy, and she couldn''t bear to move her legs.


    At this moment, Maya said softly beside her, "You''ll get used to it. When my daughter was in


    kindergarten, I was just like you. Children change every day. If you don''t look at them for a day, it feels


    like they''ve changed in some way."


    Hearing that, Leanna pressed her lips together and didn''t say anything. Not only have I not looked at


    him for a day, but I''ve only seen him a few times as he grew up. In my memory, he seems to have


    always been that little.


    When she was in Underwood Lane, if she had observed more carefully, she might have noticed that


    the little guy was actually sickly, but she just assumed it was because he was a newborn baby.


    Compared to back then, he waspletely different now. His whole body radiated health and vitality.


    Compared to back then, he waspletely different now. His whole body radiated health and vitality.


    These past few days, she had been thinking a lot while watching the little guy. She could understand


    why Aidan had initially kept the fact that her child was still alive from her.


    During that time, she was emotionally unstable. Not only did she not have the ability to seek revenge,


    but she couldn''t even protect herself. Even if she knew her child was still alive, what could she have


    done? Give them another chance to hurt him?


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    Aidan hid the little guy, keeping it a secret from her, the Pearson Family, and everyone else. To a


    certain extent, it provided the little guy with enough protection to grow up healthy and safe, but¡­ she


    just couldn''t ept it. Every time she was about to find out the truth, Aidan would always casually


    dismiss her guesses with various excuses. She had even asked him more than once, allowing him to


    tell her the truth.


    After putting her thoughts aside, she took a deep breath and left.


    Just as she reached the elevator, Zoe came out of her unit and whispered, "Nana, are you really going


    to leave the child with her?"


    "Don''t worry. Everything will be fine." Leanna nodded.


    However, Zoe shook her head. "I''m not so sure about that. Since there''s not much going on at the


    studio these days, I''ll keep an eye on her. You go ahead and do your thing. I''ll take care of things here."


    "Okay. Thanks," Leanna replied with a smile.


    After she got into the elevator, Zoe entered the adjacent unit. Inside, Maya was using toys to cheer up


    the little guy, who was pouting and feeling sad because Leanna had left.


    As soon as she saw Zoe, she put down the toys and cleared her throat. "What brings you here?"


    "I don''t think you''re reliable," Zoe answered.


    Just as Maya snorted and was about to retort, the little guy started crying again. So, she quickly started


    tofort him. After struggling for a while, she finally managed to divert his attention.


    Seeing that, Zoe arched an eyebrow. "Not bad. You do know how to take care of a child."


    "I''m just afraid some people might say I can''t even handle such a small matter. Don''t tell me that you''re


    here to see me fail. Don''t underestimate me."


    Following that, Zoe and Maya spent their time ring at each other.

 Chapter 579

    Chapter 579


    Chapter 579 He Is Quite the Sneaker


    At the Crossley Group, Freddie had been helping Leanna to look through the documents. However,


    there were still many documents left waiting for her signature.


    N?velDrama.Org ? content.


    The moment Leanna sat down, Richard rushed into the room and said, "I just got the news that


    someone bailed Raymond out of jail, Miss McKinney."


    When Leanna heard his words, she stopped what she was doing. "Out of jail? I thought he was proven


    guilty of murder. Why is he still able to get out on bail?"


    "The evidence has been verified, and he is indeed proven guilty. However, things changed after Mr.


    Onder visited him. After Mr. Onder came back, the police suddenly said that there wasn''t enough


    evidence and needed to investigate the case again. "


    "When did Jimmy visit him?" asked Leanna while frowning.


    "It was the day when the Pearson Group had a press conference."


    After hearing his words, she pursed her lips and said nothing. The evidence for Raymond''s case is


    clear, yet Jimmy still withstands the pressure and finds a way to bail him out. Judging by their


    rtionship, Jimmy is in a sticky situation himself, so there is no way he will risk saving Raymond. That


    is, Raymond must have promised Jimmy something that thetter couldn''t resist, she thought.


    "Raymond was bailed outst night. Up until now, he is still under the watch of the police. After he left


    the police station, he stayed in his house all day and did nothing, not even meeting up with Mr.


    Onder. It seems that nothing is going on," Richard said.


    Leanna thought momentarily and said, "Jimmy is in a hurry to leave this ce. That''s why he''s trying to


    create a stir to get himself out of trouble. Still, he is different from Raymond. He has not killed anyone


    and is just in the process of being investigated. Hence, there is no way he will risk getting arrested by


    escaping. Raymond, though¡­"


    "Are you saying that Raymond might secretly leave, Miss McKinney?"


    "Definitely." After all, it was true that Raymond had blood on his hands. Although Jimmy had bailed him


    out, Raymond knew the police would soon arrest him again. Hence, he would leave this ce as soon


    as possible.


    Suddenly, Leanna thought of something. "Have you seen Raymond''s children before?" she asked.


    "Yes." Richard nodded.


    "I need you to go to his house on behalf of thepany and ask him to exin this matter. Also, tell


    him how thepany will deal with this and see if his children are there or not. After that, call me


    immediately."


    At the Crossley Group, Freddie had been helping Leanna to look through the documents. However,


    there were still many documents left waiting for her signature.


    "Okay."


    After he had left, she was still frowning. She wondered how Raymond would escape if he was


    constantly being watched.


    "Okay."


    After he had left, she was still frowning. She wondered how Raymond would escape if he was


    constantly being watched.


    Just as she was deep in thought, Freddie entered the room. "What''s with the look?" he asked while


    waving his hand in front of her.


    Leanna returned to her senses and said, "Jimmy has bailed Raymond out of jail."


    When Freddie heard that, he was not surprised. He clicked his tongue andmented, "That man is


    quite the sneaker."


    "They must have been on to something, but I can''t figure it out. I don''t understand what temptation


    Raymond gave to Jimmy for him to risk himself getting caught."


    "Oh, yeah. There is something you might not know about Raymond. Except for getting in touch with the


    Pearson Family, someone else is also helping him."


    "Someone else?" Leanna was startled.


    He nodded and exined, "When it happened, Raymond took them away. Moreover, before this, he


    had been trying to get close to Celia. These days, he is acting normal, and there is no proof that he has


    directlye in contact with the Pearsons. Plus, he used to escape from the guards and went to the


    Pearson Family twice."


    As Leanna heard his words, she furrowed her eyebrows deeply. "I have investigated him, but there is


    nothing suspicious about him."


    "That''s the problem." Freddie snapped his fingers. "There is nothing wrong with his lifestyle. However,


    before that, a group of people had contacted him. They even told the Pearsons about this, which


    means there is a high possibility that they are Raymond''sst resort."


    "Who are they?"


    "I''m not sure. However, they aren''t as simple as they look since they know about this. Plus, they came


    prepared. Thus, it''s best to leave it as it is for your safety."


    Leanna was silent. After some time, she asked, "Aidan asked you to tell me about this, didn''t he?"


    Although Freddie didn''t mention anything about him and was subtle with his words, Leanna managed


    to figure it out.


    Damn it. How did she know? Freddie was in utter shock.


    "Give me your ount," said Leanna.


    "Why do you want it?" Freddie was confused.


    "Why do you want it?" Freddie was confused.


    "You are working for the Crossley Group. Don''t you want your payment?"


    At that, Freddie chuckled dryly and said, "Come on¡­ It''s not a big deal. You guys are only fighting,


    that''s all." Aidan is always the one paying me. Judging by Leanna''s words, is she trying to cut ties with


    him?


    "Give it to meter," said Leanna.


    Looking at her, he was suddenly interested in her business. "Do you want to go through a divorce? I


    can help you for free."


    When she heard his words, she raised her head and looked at him stoically. "Thanks, but no. I''m not


    married."


    "What about the custody of your child? I can do that too, and I''ll make sure you win the rights."


    Leanna was speechless.


    Just as she raised her hand, Freddie backed away quickly and said, "I''m just joking."


    Leanna ignored him and went back to dealing with the documents. After some time, Richard called her


    and told her that Raymond''s mother had taken his children away before Raymond was out of jail.


    "I have sent someone to check on Raymond''s hometown. Besides, everything in his house looked neat


    as though he hadn''t touched them. Although he tried to look calm, I could tell he wanted me to leave as


    soon as possible. I guess you are right, Miss McKinney. He''ll be leaving Highside soon."


    "He will leave tonight at thetest," replied Leanna.


    After she hung up the phone, Freddie asked her, "What do you have in mind?"


    "What are you talking about?" As she spoke, she stared at her phone thoughtfully.


    "I have a feeling that you will do what Aidan doesn''t want you to. That''s why I want to know what you


    are nning to do about this matter," replied Freddie as he cocked an eyebrow.


    "Are you trying to sell me out?" Leanna looked at him.


    "No way!" Freddie said exaggeratedly. "I''m not a kid. Why would I still snitch on you? I''m just curious.


    Come on, tell me."


    Leanna lowered her head and said, "Nothing. I''m not nning anything."


    Freddie didn''t believe her, though. However, he knew that she would not tell him anything. It looks like I


    have to put on some effort and keep an eye on her. Once this matter is done, I''m going to ask Aidan for


    a raise, he thought.

 Chapter 580

    Chapter 580


    Chapter 580 No One Can Save You Now


    At 6.00PM, Raymond opened the window and frowned when he saw a few cars parked by his house.


    He knew that besides the police, Aidan''s men were keeping their eyes on him. Moreover, he also knew


    that Leanna had told Richard toe and visit him, even though Richard didn''t say anything. Luckily,


    he had a n prepared for this.


    After some time, his takeout delivery arrived. After Raymond took the takeout, he closed the door and


    curtains. Then, he took out all the food and picked up the new ID card and the boat ticket to Zumbae at


    11.00PM from underneath.


    When Jimmy visited him at the prison, Raymond told him he would give thetter the contact number of


    those guys in exchange for Jimmy''s help. Jimmy couldn''t leave because of Aidan, and those people


    could help him. Thus, Jimmy epted his proposal and bailed him out of jail.


    The route to leave Highside that Jimmy gave him was the smuggling chain he had. Hence, it was easy


    to get him out of there.


    When the sky turned dark, Raymond changed his clothes and went downstairs to buy a packet of


    cigarettes. Then, he went to a restaurant to dine in. During the process, he could sense that more than


    a person was following him. Thus, he went to a crowded supermarket and headed toward the children''s


    yground. At that moment, he took the opportunity to get into the emergency exit. Immediately, he


    took off his jacket and wore a hat as he quickly rushed into the basement and left from another exit.


    After that, he escaped from those people.


    Then, he took a cab and told the driver to head to the outskirts. After he exited the car, he followed the


    crowd into the train station. He took the train to the dock by Cestryia. In this case, when they


    discovered that Raymond had gotten in a cab, it would be toote for them to catch him.


    When Raymond arrived at the dock, it was 10.30PM.


    He pressed his hat down and looked around. There was nothing wrong.


    Jimmy had always cared about this smuggling chain. If anything were to happen, even the slightest,


    this ce would immediately be on high alert.


    Raymond took the ticket and got on the ship sessfully. However, when he opened the door of his


    room and saw a person inside, he couldn''t help but stare at her in horror.


    "If you were to arrive anyter, the ship would leave without you." Leanna sat in the room with a smile


    on her face.


    Looking at her, Raymond took a step back. At that moment, the empty corridor was suddenly filled with


    people. All of them surrounded him.


    At 6.00PM, Raymond opened the window and frowned when he saw a few cars parked by his house.


    Raymond frowned and asked, "How did you¡­"


    "Why am I here? Is that what you are asking?" Leanna''s tone was calm. "Technically speaking, it''s all


    thanks to you. If it weren''t for you, I wouldn''t have known that Jimmy has been using the Crossley


    Group''s cargo ship to do illegal dealings."


    Raymond frowned and asked, "How did you¡­"


    "Why am I here? Is that what you are asking?" Leanna''s tone was calm. "Technically speaking, it''s all


    thanks to you. If it weren''t for you, I wouldn''t have known that Jimmy has been using the Crossley


    Group''s cargo ship to do illegal dealings."


    When Raymond heard her words, he recalled the documents he had put on Richard''s desk. In that split


    second, his face turned grim, and he clenched his fists.


    "I have been thinking the whole day as to how you will escape. However, since you have asked for


    Jimmy''s help, it wouldn''t be that simple as to bail you out. So, I tried my luck, and it worked. You are


    here," exined Leanna.


    After a few seconds, Raymond smirked coldly and said, "Although this is the Crossley Group''s ship,


    Jimmy isn''t the only one benefiting from it. Nothing wille good if you cause a stir. Moreover, the


    Crossley Group might be used of smuggling drugs."


    "You''re right. That''s why I immediately reported this to the police and cooperated with them."


    Raymond''s expression changed drastically when he saw the police.


    "Oh yeah," Leanna continued, "I have given the police all the information that you had. Everyone that is


    connected to this will be taken away, including Jimmy. This time, he is in a sticky situation himself, and


    no one can save you anymore."


    Raymond was devastated when he was taken away by the police. Never would he have expected that


    he would dig his own grave.


    As Leanna watched him leave, she suddenly thought about Celia, whom she had met just a few times.


    Now that Raymond was guilty of murder and deliberately helped Jimmy to smuggle drugs, he would be


    charged with a death sentence. However, Celia would nevere back to life.


    At this moment, Richard said, "Miss McKinney, Mr. Onder has been arrested."


    Leanna nodded and said, "Let''s go."


    At noon, she looked through the documents someone had put on Richard''s desk. At that moment, she


    suddenly realized that only a few people would know so much about Jimmy''s dirt and could put the


    documents on Richard''s desk while avoiding the surveince camera. Hence, she had suspicions


    about Raymond, who wanted to escape from Jimmy''s control.


    Immediately, she took the documents and went to the police station. Then, she discussed the n for


    that night''s actions with them.


    As Leanna stood by the dock, she turned around and looked at the cargo ship. On their way here,


    Richard had told her that this ship had existed for twenty years. This was the first boat of the Crossley


    Group after Lloyd was in charge of thepany. However, Leroy had used this ship as a means of


    trading illegally.


    As Leanna stood by the dock, she turned around and looked at the cargo ship. On their way here,


    Richard had told her that this ship had existed for twenty years. This was the first boat of the Crossley


    Group after Lloyd was in charge of thepany. However, Leroy had used this ship as a means of


    trading illegally.


    Thinking about it, Leanna turned to Richard. "Get rid of the things inside and demolish the ship." She


    felt that it was time for the ship to say goodbye to the world.


    "Yes."


    Just as Leanna took a few steps forward, she saw a Rolls-Royce parked not far away. Because of


    Freddie, Aidan knew she had been to the police station.


    At this moment, Aidan got out of the car. When Richard saw him, he stepped back and went to deal


    with the ship.


    "I''ll give you a ride home," said Aidan as he stood before Leanna.


    "No thanks. I have my own car," replied Leanna faintly.


    Hearing her words, Aidan looked at her car and said slowly, "If I guessed correctly, your car has a


    breakdown."


    Leanna was confused.


    As soon as his words fell, the driver approached Leanna and said, "There is something wrong with the


    car, Miss McKinney. I can''t start it." Then, he mumbled to himself. "That''s strange. It was perfectly fine


    just a moment ago."


    Listening to his words, Leanna looked at Aidan, and thetter cocked an eyebrow.


    You are f*cking right, then. I bet you are the one behind this. Thinking about it, she took a deep breath


    and said to the driver, "Call a tow truck."


    The driver hummed in response and left.


    On the other hand, Aidan smiled and opened his car door as he tilted his head, signaling her to get on.


    However, Leanna ignored him and turned around. Just as she was about to call a cab, a police car


    stopped before them, and a police officer put his head out of the window. "I heard something wrong


    with your car, Miss McKinney. How about I give you a ride home?"


    "That''ll be great. Thank you." Leanna shoved her phone in her pocket and smiled.


    Looking at the oue, Aidan was utterly speechless.


    After Leanna got into the car, Aidan followed suit. When Leanna looked at him, he looked back with a


    stoic expression. "What? Can''t I sit here? I haven''t experienced sitting in a police car before."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Leanna was speechless and thought, This is getting unbearable.

 Chapter 581

    Chapter 581


    Chapter 581 I Don¡¯t Trust You


    When Leanna returned home, it was almost 12.00AM, and the little guy was already asleep.


    "I didn''t expect you to be home sote on the first day," said Maya as she yawned tiredly.


    "I have something urgent today. It won''t happen again," replied Leanna.


    "I know. Richard called me and told me that you guys had to deal with something. I''m just saying.''''


    Then, she took her stuff. I''ll be leaving then. See you tomorrow."


    After Maya left, Leanna entered the room. As she looked at the child, who was sleeping peacefully, she


    could feel her bad mood lighten up.


    At this moment, Zoe came out of her room. "You''re back, Leanna."


    Leanna nodded in response. "I thought you were asleep."


    "I just got home and took a bath." As Zoe spoke, she sat on the couch. "You know, Maya sure has a


    way of dealing with children. After you had left this morning, he kept crying. Maya cooed at him for


    hours and wasn''t even the slightest annoyed."


    Leanna was startled. She subconsciously looked at the child. "He cried?"


    In that split second, Zoe realized she had said the wrong words. Then, she chuckled dryly and said, "I


    don''t think that counts as crying. Maybe he''s just not used to you leaving. After a while, he stopped."


    Leanna didn''t say anything. After some time, she asked, "Is Daniel not back yet?"


    "He called me half an hour ago and said he would return by tomorrow morning. It''s better if he doesn''t


    come, though. That way, I can be at peace," replied Zoe as she leaned against the couch.


    "Are you sure?" Leanna chuckled.


    "Of course. He has been watching me closely, and I feel under pressure. I feel like a prisoner when he


    is around."


    "What''s going on between you guys now?" asked Leanna as she sat beside Zoe. Since things had


    been chaotic for the past few days, she didn''t have time to understand the rtionship between Zoe


    and Daniel.


    Zoe sighed and said, "He told me to keep the baby and would take care of me. That¡­ That''s just it.


    Let''s see what will happen in the future. Maybe I will be like you, you know? Raising the kid myself and


    not needing his help." When she was at the hospital, she thought it through and knew she couldn''t bear


    to get rid of the baby. Now that she saw the little guy crawling around the house, she was excited to


    meet her unborn baby. She knew Daniel was a celibatarian, so she had never expected him to do


    anything. However, it was he who let her make up her mind.


    When Leanna returned home, it was almost 12.00AM, and the little guy was already asleep.


    "Have you made up your mind?" asked Leanna.


    "Yeah." Zoe nodded. "It''smon nowadays to raise a child as a single parent. It''s better to live on


    your own rather than be bound by someone you don''t love just because of a child. If my child wants to


    see Daniel, they can stay with him for some time. I don''t mind." After Zoe finished her words, she stood


    up. "Alright, now. It''s gettingte. I''m going to sleep. Get some rest soon, Leanna."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    "Have you made up your mind?" asked Leanna.


    "Yeah." Zoe nodded. "It''smon nowadays to raise a child as a single parent. It''s better to live on


    your own rather than be bound by someone you don''t love just because of a child. If my child wants to


    see Daniel, they can stay with him for some time. I don''t mind." After Zoe finished her words, she stood


    up. "Alright, now. It''s gettingte. I''m going to sleep. Get some rest soon, Leanna."


    "Okay. Goodnight, Zoe."


    After Zoe had left, Leanna sat on the couch for some time before standing up and heading to the


    bathroom. At that moment, the doorbell rang. Initially, she thought that Zoe had forgotten something.


    However, when she opened the door, she saw it was Aidan. In that split second, she blocked the door


    and stopped him from entering. "The child is asleep. If you want to see him, you cane by


    tomorrow."


    Aidan had one hand in his pocket as he spoke. "I know. I''m not here for him. I''m here for¡­" Before he


    could finish his words, Leanna was about to close the door. However, Aidan put his hand on the door


    and frowned. "I wasn''t done talking yet," he said.


    Then, Leanna stood by the door. She knew that he wasn''t going to say anything appropriate.


    Looking at her, Aidan ran his hand through his wet hair and said slowly, "Can you lend me a hairdryer?"


    "I don''t have one."


    "I don''t believe you unless I search for it for myself," demanded Aidan.


    However, Leanna didn''t budge. "You have two houses yet don''t have a single hairdryer?"


    "Too bad. They are broken." Aidan shrugged.


    "Well then. You are an unlucky man."


    Aidan didn''t know how to respond. "Shouldn''t neighbors help each other out? Why won''t you lend me


    such a small thing?" he asked.


    "Because I am a selfish person. I''m afraid you won''t return it to me, and I am shy to ask for it back.


    Thus, it''s better if I don''t lend it to you in the first ce."


    "I''ll return it to you." Aidan was irritated.


    "I don''t know about it, though. I don''t trust you." Leanna was calm.


    "How will I be able to sleep then?" Aidan sighed.


    "It''s windy outside. Your hair will dry if you stay outside long enough." Then, she mmed the door


    shut.


    Aidan pursed his lips into a thin line when she shut him outside. Then, he went back to his house and


    took out a hairdryer. As soon as he turned it on, an idea shed across his mind. Then, he took a


    screwdriver to loosen the screw and damaged the electrical circuit. After that, he took another cold


    shower.


    ¡­


    The next afternoon, Leanna got a call from Jonathan. "Miss McKinney, do you know where President


    Pearson is? He still hasn''t arrived at thepany, and I can''t get in touch with him."


    ¡­


    The next afternoon, Leanna got a call from Jonathan. "Miss McKinney, do you know where President


    Pearson is? He still hasn''t arrived at thepany, and I can''t get in touch with him."


    "How should I know about that?" replied Leanna.


    "President Pearson had never gone missing without saying anything. I-I''m afraid that something might


    have happened to him."


    "If you are so worried about him, you can go to his house and take a look," Leanna said faintly.


    "I have a meeting in ten minutes. Since he isn''t here, I have to take his ce. Thus, I can''t leave now."


    Leanna hummed in response.


    Jonathan cleared his throat and said sadly, "President Pearson had to leave the hospital before he fully


    recovered. Plus, many things have happened these days. I wonder if he will be able to withstand the


    high intensity. Who knows, maybe he fainted somewhere¡ª"


    "Don''t you have to prepare for your meeting that is due in ten minutes?" Leanna cut him off.


    "Yes. Goodbye, Miss McKinney."


    After Leanna hung up the phone, she put it aside and looked at the design in front of her. However, she


    didn''t draw a single thing on it. After some time, she sighed and grabbed her things.


    At this moment, her assistant came in to give her some documents. "Are you leaving, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna nodded in response. "I''ll look at these after I''m back. Call me if anything happens."


    "Okay."


    After she had left thepany, she went straight to Aidan''s house. Standing before the door, she


    pressed the doorbell, but no one answered. Then, she looked at thebination lock. After hesitating


    momentarily, she tried the password from the old apartment. Two secondster, the door was


    unlocked.


    The passcode was the day of their wedding anniversary.


    Leanna entered the house and saw that the curtains were closed. It was dead quiet. "Aidan?" she


    called out softly.


    However, the only thing that responded was silence.


    She opened the window and knocked on his bedroom door. When she heard soundsing from


    inside, she opened the door and saw Aidan lying on the bed. Cold sweats covered his forehead as he


    furrowed his eyebrows with his eyes closed.

 Chapter 582

    Chapter 582


    Chapter 582 Don¡¯t You Have to Change My Pants?


    Leanna walked over and touched his forehead. She realized it was burning hot and frowned when she


    saw his hair and pillow wet. Did he sleep without drying his hair? she thought. Then, she opened the


    window to let the fresh air in. "Aidan? Wake up. I''m sending you to the hospital." She attempted to


    wake the man up.


    However, Aidan didn''t respond and only grabbed her hand. Leanna tried to get her hand out but to no


    avail. How does he have such a firm grip when he is sick? Speaking of which, I don''t think I can get him


    to the hospital.


    Thinking about it, she used her other hand to take her phone and dialed Jonathan''s number. "Aidan


    has a fever. If you are done with the meeting, I need you toe over and send him to the hospital. I


    can''t do this alone."


    "The meeting might extend tillte at night," Jonathan said in a low voice. "I''ll call President Pearson''s


    private doctor over. Please take care of him, Miss McKinney." Before Leanna could refuse, Jonathan


    immediately hung up the phone.


    When did I promise that I would take care of him? Leanna was lost for words.


    She sighed and looked at Aidan, who ran a temperature, while pursing her lips. Then, she put away her


    phone, grabbed a tissue packet from her purse, and wiped his sweat. "Serves you right for getting a


    cold. After all, who sleeps without drying their hair?" she muttered.


    After that, she reached under the nkets and was not surprised that the bed sheets and his clothes


    were soaked. "Can you get up, Aidan? Go and sleep on the couch while I change the sheets for you,"


    she said.


    At that moment, Aidan''s eyshes fluttered. After some time, he opened his eyes.


    "Did you hear me?" Leanna waved her hand in front of him.


    Looking at her, Aidan opened his mouth and said hoarsely, "Why are you here?"


    "I was just passing by," Leanna said calmly, using his usual excuse. Then, she paused momentarily


    before saying, "The doctor will be here any minute. Go and lie on the couch¡­"


    Before she could finish her words, Aidan closed his eyes. "I don''t have the strength to do it."


    "That''s why I''m helping you. Hurry up. Stop lying here." As Leanna spoke, she pulled him with both her


    arms. Is he usually this heavy? she thought as she struggled.


    Just as she was about to pull him up with all her might, Aidan suddenly retrieved his hand. At that


    moment, Leanna was unprepared. Her body went forward due to the momentum, and shey on top of


    him. Before she could get up, Aidan wrapped his arm around her waist tightly.


    Leanna walked over and touched his forehead. She realized it was burning hot and frowned when she


    saw his hair and pillow wet. Did he sleep without drying his hair? she thought. Then, she opened the


    window to let the fresh air in. "Aidan? Wake up. I''m sending you to the hospital." She attempted to


    wake the man up.


    "I thought you didn''t have the strength to do anything." Leanna gritted her teeth.


    "I thought you didn''t have the strength to do anything." Leanna gritted her teeth.


    "I don''t need any strength to do this. You fell on your own."


    "Let go of me," said Leanna.


    "You''re ruthless. How can you do this when I''m this miserable?"


    "You know it too, right? So, stop fooling around."


    Aidan slowly opened his eyes and locked eyes with her. "I''m scared you will leave as soon as I let you


    go."


    Well¡­ You don''t have to put it that way¡­ Leanna sighed. "I promise I won''t go. I''m just going to


    change the sheets. If you want to lie there, so be it. I''ll let Jonathan¡­" Before she finished her words,


    she felt Aidan removing his hand from her waist.


    Then, she got up. After such an event, she was hot and tired.


    Slowly, Aidan sat up and curled his legs. "My head is spinning," he said in a low voice.


    "Let it spin, then," replied Leanna.


    Just as she headed to the closet to look for clean sheets, Aidan grabbed her. "I thought you said you


    weren''t leaving."


    "I¡­" Forget it. I''m sure he will forget it again. Thinking about it, Leanna looked at him and asked, "Can


    you walk?"


    "No."


    Hearing his words, she reached out and pulled him up. "I''ll help you to the couch."


    Aidan grabbed her hand and stood up. Just as Leanna breathed a sigh of relief, Aidan grabbed her


    shoulder and fully leaned against her. Before she could say anything, Aidan spoke up. "Sorry. I can''t


    stop my head from spinning."


    Leanna didn''t know what to say.


    After some time, she finally took Aidan to the couch. After that, she returned to the room and took off


    the sheets. She turned around and looked at him, who was lying on the couch while covering his eyes


    with an arm. "Take some rest and change your clothes," she said while giving him a set of clean


    clothes.


    Aidan hummed in response but didn''t budge.


    When Leanna saw no extra sheets in his closet, she went to her house to take the sheets. She entered


    the room and saw Aidan sitting on the couch shirtless. He was zoning out as he stared into the void.


    "What are you doing?" Leanna could feel herself losing patience.


    When Aidan heard her voice, he looked at her and said hoarsely, "I thought you left me."


    When Aidan heard her voice, he looked at her and said hoarsely, "I thought you left me."


    Leanna took a deep breath and calmed herself. "I was just getting the bedsheets. Hurry up and change


    your clothes."


    "I''m dirty." Aidan frowned.


    Hearing his words, Leanna recalled that he was a clean freak. If he got changed without showering,


    Leanna felt he might choose to die.


    Before she could say something, she saw spots of blood on the bandage wrapped around his right


    arm. Then, she said nothing and left. When she came back, she was holding a bucket of water. She put


    it on the table, wrung the cloth, and gave it to him.


    Aidan nced at it but didn''t take it. Instead, he closed his eyes.


    "I thought you said you were dirty. Wipe yourself and wear your clothes. Are you trying to make yourself


    even more miserable?" she said.


    "I can''t raise my hand. I don''t have any strength in me," he replied. "It''s fine. Just go back to work and


    leave me alone. If I''m lucky enough, someone might send me to the hospital. If not, I might as well die.


    After all, I''m an unlucky man. My wife and son don''t care about me."


    When Leanna heard his words, she felt the urge to throw the towel at him. He didn''t do anything right,


    yet he thinks he is being mistreated.


    "Don''t move, and shut up," Leanna warned as she walked over and helped him.


    During the process, Aidan said nothing and sat still. Leanna avoided his injuries and briefly wiped him.


    After tiring herself out, she put down the towel. "Done. Now, wear your clothes."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "It''s done already?" Aidan opened his eyes.


    "What else do you want?"


    "Don''t you have to change my pants?"


    Hearing his words, Leanna turned and looked him dead in the eye. She felt that he was pushing his


    luck.


    Looking at her reaction, Aidan knew he had to stop. "I can do the rest on my own."


    Leanna ignored him and went to change the bed sheets. After she was done, Aidan also changed into


    a new set of clothes.


    At this moment, the doorbell rang. Leanna put the sheets in the washing machine and said, "It must be


    the doctor. Lie down while I open the door."


    As Aidan watched her get to the door, he raised his eyebrow and smiled.

 Chapter 583

    Chapter 583


    Chapter 583 You Can Sleep Here Too


    "Your cold is quite serious. When your wound is especially infected and inmed, you must rest well


    and replenish your nutrients. Don''t neglect your health like before," the doctor said after examining


    Aidan.


    The doctor then turned to Leanna and said, "Mrs. Pearson, I will change Mr. Pearson''s dressingter.


    Please do this for him in the future to avoid the wound from worsening. It needs to be changed twice a


    day."


    Hearing that, Leanna was slightly surprised. Why does it involve me again?


    Before she could refuse, the doctor had already removed the gauze that was covering Aidan''s wound.


    The wound was a gruesome sight for anyone to behold.


    Aidan looked at her and turned away to avoid her gaze before saying, "You should excuse yourself. I''ll


    apply the medication myself."


    "Oh, then I''ll leave," Leanna replied.


    "Mm."


    After Leanna left, the doctor said, "Mr. Pearson, your injury is on your right arm, so it might be a bit


    tricky to apply the medication by yourself."


    "I''ll live," Aidan responded.


    The doctor was speechless upon hearing that.


    ¡­


    When she returned home, she found Maya staring at her.


    "What''s up?" Leanna poured herself a ss of water and asked.


    "Aren''t you back a little early today? You just took the bed sheet out. Was it for Aidan?" Maya asked.


    "He caught a cold, and I couldn''t find clean sheets, so I just..." Leanna replied.


    At that, Maya clicked her tongue unconsciously. "I don''t understand you two. Sometimes you live


    together, and other times you live separately. It''s soplicated. What''s exactly going on?"


    Leanna sighed but didn''t answer her. Instead, she went into the kitchen to make mushroom soup.


    Meanwhile, her child was taking a nap in the living room. When he rolled over, his little belly was


    exposed. Seeing that, Leanna took a nket and covered him with it.


    "Hey, are you cooking mushroom soup for Aidan? Not bad, are you guys reconciling?" Maya asked.


    Hearing that, Leanna turned around to look at Maya and ask impassively, "Do you know how the viin


    usually dies?"


    "What?" Maya didn''t understand what she was saying.


    "They die from talking too much," Leanna said with a smile.


    Maya was puzzled by the answer and paused for a few seconds before snapping, "Whom are you


    calling a viin?"


    "No one." Leanna smirked smugly.


    "You sure are ungrateful," Maya sneered.


    At that moment, the soup in the pot began to boil. With that, Leanna got up and opened the fridge


    before taking out some Romaine lettuce to make Caesar sd. Once it was ready, she scooped it into


    a bowl and brought it next door.


    "Your cold is quite serious. When your wound is especially infected and inmed, you must rest well


    and replenish your nutrients. Don''t neglect your health like before," the doctor said after examining


    Aidan.


    Meanwhile, Aidan was lying in bed in the bedroom and his normally aloof features looked a bit sickly.


    She wasn''t sure if he was asleep or not, but the doctor had already left.


    Meanwhile, Aidan was lying in bed in the bedroom and his normally aloof features looked a bit sickly.


    She wasn''t sure if he was asleep or not, but the doctor had already left.


    Leanna ced the bowl of soup on the bedside table and said, "I''ve left it out to cool it down, so it''s not


    hot anymore. You can eat it now, and you can take your medicine in half an hour."


    "Did you make this for me?" Aidan opened his eyes after hearing her words.


    "I made it for the dog." Leanna looked at him with a straight face.


    Aidan was speechless upon hearing that. "You should eat now. I shall take my leave," she continued.


    "The doctor said that I shouldn''t move this hand." Aidan grabbed onto her wrist tightly and looked over


    at his right hand.


    Hearing that, she nced at his hand, which was grabbing onto her hand. "I see this hand is fine."


    "As you can see, I can barely move it. It''s difficult to eat by myself." Aidan immediately let go of her


    hand.


    Leanna''s eyelid twitched after she heard his ridiculous argument. This b*stard sure is good at ying


    tricks. She then sat by the bed with the bowl of soup in her hand and scooped up a spoonful before


    feeding it to him. There was a glint of joy in Aidan''s eyes as he lowered his head to drink the soup.


    Soon, Aidan had finished drinking the soup, and Leanna asked, "Where are your pills?"


    He raised his chin and looked toward the tea table upon hearing that.


    "I''ll pour some water so you can continue sleeping. I''ll call you when it''s time to take your medicine,"


    she said.


    When Aidan heard that, he gazed at her and asked in a gentle voice, "Are you still angry?" However,


    Leanna didn''t answer, and she just ced the bowl on the tray as she stood up to leave.


    "I didn''t lie to you. The hair dryer really broke. You can go check it if you don''t believe me." Aidan''s


    voice was hoarse. "I haven''t lied to you about anything."


    "I don''t have the time for that. Whether the hair dryer is really broken or not has nothing to do with me."


    With that, Leanna carried the tray and walked away.


    A few minutester, she came back with a ss of water and took out the blister pack from the box.


    After referring to the information on thebel for the dosage, she handed the medicine to Aidan.


    "I''ve read the instructions, and it says that this medicine will make you sleepy. Just take it and go to


    sleep."


    Aidan looked up at her and asked, "Are you leaving?"


    "What else would I be doing? Sit here and watch you sleep?" Leanna replied.


    "You can sleep here too." He patted the spot next to him.


    She was speechless and didn''t even look at him as she left. He could only look at her back as she


    walked out, after which he rubbed his temples and picked up his phone from the bedside table. When


    he noticed that there were countless missed calls and unread messages, he clicked on them and


    answered each and every message and call.


    She was speechless and didn''t even look at him as she left. He could only look at her back as she


    walked out, after which he rubbed his temples and picked up his phone from the bedside table. When


    he noticed that there were countless missed calls and unread messages, he clicked on them and


    answered each and every message and call.


    Later on, when Leanna returned, she couldn''t help but frown when she saw him massaging his temple


    with one hand and holding his phone with the other.


    "Why aren''t you asleep yet?"


    "I thought you left."


    They spoke almost simultaneously.


    Hearing that, Leanna looked at the bag on the couch. "I''ve left my stuff here."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    She walked over, picked up the bag, and shut the curtains before turning to look at Aidan. As both of


    their eyes met, Aidan put down his phone after a moment of silence.


    "I''m leaving," she said.


    Aidan, who was looking at her back, suddenly asked, "What''s for dinner tonight?"


    Hearing that, Leanna turned back to ask, "What do you want to eat?"


    His lips curled up as he answered, "Anything is fine. I''m not a picky eater."


    She snorted upon hearing his reply. He''s not a picky eater? As if!


    After she had left the bedroom and reached the hallway, she suddenly realized that something was


    wrong. Why did I agree to cook for him tonight as well? The thought of it gave her a headache. As soon


    as she had just closed the door and was about to return to her unit, the door next door suddenly


    opened. Zoe poked her head out and looked at her face curiously. "What are you doing?"


    "I..." Leanna didn''t know how to exin herself. Finally, after a moment, she said, "Aidan is sick, so I''m


    bringing him food."


    Hearing that, Zoe nodded and teased, "Don''t you find it a hassle going back and forth? Why don''t you


    just let him stay here?"


    "No, he has an awful cold. He might infect the little one." Leanna rejected the idea without hesitation.


    "Then, why don''t you move over there?"


    "Do you think that I''m crazy?"


    Zoe sighed helplessly. "Woman, you never say what you mean."


    Leanna was lost for words and paused before saying, "I have to go to thepany. Can you keep an


    eye on him? If anything happens to him, please check on him. I''ll be back in two hours at most."


    "Okay, go ahead. But I think President Pearson has a strong will, so it''s very unlikely that anything will


    happen. Ipletely understand your worries and anxiety, so don''t worry. I''ll monitor him at all times."


    Zoe nodded.


    Hearing that, Leanna thought of exining herself, but she eventually gave up.

 Chapter 584

    Chapter 584


    Chapter 584 Will You Come Tomorrow?


    After returning to the Crossley Group, Leanna went through the documents that her assistant had sent


    over. When she checked the time after that, she realized it was almost 6.00PM.


    Soon, Richard came in and said, "Miss McKinney, the police station just sent word that the trial for


    Raymond''s case has been expedited, and the verdict will be handed down soon. He''s basically going


    to get the death penalty. The case has implicated Mr. Onder extensively, and they''re still investigating


    it. I heard he''s been trying to use his connections to get himself out and even tried to pin all the me


    on Raymond. However..."


    "However, what?"


    "Pearson Group has managed to suppress it all, so no one dares to help him now. But the problem now


    is that he denies any involvement in the smuggling ring and ims he knew nothing. He imed that


    he only did everything under the orders of Mr. Crossley before this. If they can''t find solid evidence after


    the detention period, there''s a chance that Mr. Onder might be released."


    Leanna pursed her lips upon hearing that. It seemed like he not only wanted to shift the me onto


    Raymond, but he also wanted to dump all these dirty dealings onto Leroy. If he seeded, he could


    turn from a perpetrator into a victim who didn''t know anything. Raymond was already a murderer, so no


    matter how many cases he was charged with, it all seemed like a natural progression. And they


    wouldn''t be able to find anyone on Leroy''s side, leaving them without any evidence. What a well-yed


    scheme.


    "Send all the evidence we''ve collected to the police station and contact Jessamine. If she''s willing to,


    she cane forward to sue Jimmy. As for the other victims, try to find them. We can''t let him leave


    the police station no matter the charges that will be brought against him," Leanna said.


    "Okay." Richard nodded.


    With that, Leanna got up. "If there''s nothing else, I''ll take my leave now."


    She had only taken two steps when Richard''s voice rang from behind. "Miss McKinney." Hearing that,


    Leanna turned around. "What is it?"


    Richard hesitated for a bit, seemingly unsure. Even so, Leanna didn''t rush him and waited to listen to


    what he had to say. "I-I haven''t had a chance to apologize to you with all that''s been happening these


    past few days¡­"


    "Apologize?"


    "Maya did a lot of things to wrong you in the past, especially after what happened with Raymond. She


    has been feeling guilty about it all this time. She''s not a bad person at heart, but sometimes she isn''t


    bright and would do things that don''t make sense. Now she knows that she is at fault."


    After returning to the Crossley Group, Leanna went through the documents that her assistant had sent


    over. When she checked the time after that, she realized it was almost 6.00PM.


    "I know. If I honestly held a grudge against her, I wouldn''t have let her take care of my child." Leanna


    smiled gently.


    "I know. If I honestly held a grudge against her, I wouldn''t have let her take care of my child." Leanna


    smiled gently.


    Upon hearing that, Richard instantly made sense of the situation. If Leanna really wanted to get back at


    Maya, why would she trust her to take care of her child?


    "Thank you, Miss McKinney." Richard heaved a sigh of relief.


    "You''re wee."


    After leaving the Crossley Group, Leanna went to the supermarket and bought a lot of food and fruits


    that were good for wound recovery. After putting them all in Aidan''s empty refrigerator, she ced the


    soup on the stove before entering Aidan''s bedroom to check on him. He was still sleeping, so she


    closed the door, and as she was about to go back to put things away, she stopped outside the


    bathroom. She tilted her head as she walked in and picked up the hair dryer from the washstand. She


    plugged it in, and after fiddling with it for a while, there was no response.


    Is it really broken? Leanna changed to a different outlet, but it still didn''t work. Alright. It seemed that


    the b*stard wasn''t lying this time. When she went back next door, Zoe and Maya were there, and she


    asked Maya to leave first. As soon as Leanna sat down, Zoe leaned in before asking, "How is


    President Pearson?"


    "He''s fine. At least he''s not dead yet," Leanna said.


    As soon as she finished speaking, she suddenly remembered something and quickly stood up while


    saying, "Zoe, could you please watch the baby for me for a while? I am boiling soup on the stove."


    Hearing that, Zoe nodded and subconsciously looked toward the kitchen. However, she noticed that the


    stove wasn''t even turned on. She looked at how hurriedly Leanna had left and suddenly realized that it


    must be the kitchen next door. Leanna wasn''t sure if Aidan had an appetite for anything, so she didn''t


    cook too much. She boiled fish soup and made a light side dish.


    As soon as she turned off the stove and was about to call Aidan, someone suddenly hugged her from


    behind. Aidan rested his chin on her shoulder and uttered with his husky voice, "Good morning."


    Leanna, who was still holding thedle in her hand, replied irritably, "Good morning, my *ss. It''s already


    dark outside."


    "Is it? I thought it wasn''t dawn yet," Aidan repliedzily.


    Leanna didn''t want to pay him any attention and reached out to pull his hands away from around her


    waist while saying, "Let go."


    "Let me hold you a little longer." He rubbed against her neck as if he was being yful.


    Leanna was silent for a moment and wondered if he had gone crazy. She raised her hand and touched


    his forehead. It felt warm to the touch. Aidan then closed his eyes and tightened his embrace around


    her.


    Leanna was silent for a moment and wondered if he had gone crazy. She raised her hand and touched


    his forehead. It felt warm to the touch. Aidan then closed his eyes and tightened his embrace around


    her.


    Leanna brought her thoughts back and warned, "If you don''t let go, you''ll have to go to the hospital by


    yourself."


    Hearing that, Aidan instantly released his grip and took a step back before rubbing his temples. "Am I


    dreaming?"


    Leanna was speechless after hearing that. Could he be any more shameless?


    After that, she turned around and poured the soup into the bowl. "You''re indeed dreaming. After all, you


    won''t find another angel like me who has descended to earth to save you in the mortal world." Aidan


    lifted his eyebrows slightly, and a smirk appeared on his face.


    Leanna went to fetch bowls and utensils and pushed him away. "Shoo, don''t stand in the way." With


    that, Aidan went to the dining room and sat down.


    Soon, Leanna ced all the food on the table, and as Aidan looked at the dishes in front of him, he


    asked, "Aren''t you eating?"


    "I''ll eat when I go back," she replied. She then turned around and went into the bedroom. When she


    came out, she had the medicine with her and ced it in front of him. "Remember to take your pills


    after you eat. Your fever should subside tomorrow."


    Hearing that, Aidan frowned. "Tomorrow?"


    Leanna thought he felt it was too slow and recalled the doctor''s advice. "If you don''t rest well, you might


    not recover until next year," she said. Aidan''s brow twitched, but he didn''t say anything.


    "Alright, I''m leaving," Leanna said.


    "Will youe tomorrow?"


    "I''m not your nanny," she replied, implying that she had already done enough. With that, Leanna left


    straight away.


    Aidan looked at the food in front of him and licked his teeth. At least her attitude had improved


    compared to before. This trick of making myself sick to win her over is worth it.


    After dinner, Leanna and Zoe took the little guy to the mall. Daniel, who was walking behind them,


    dutifully pushed the shopping cart. Zoe spent half an hour in the snack area. It was possibly because of


    her pregnancy that she had been craving snackstely and couldn''t stop eating. Compared to before,


    her face had be a little rounder.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Leanna looked around and said, "Zoe, I''ll buy something in front. Let''s meet at the checkoutter."


    "Go ahead. I''ll get some yogurt." Zoe nodded.

 Chapter 585

    Chapter 585


    Chapter 585 You Two Virions Should Stay Together


    Leanna pushed the stroller and arrived at the household goods section with the little guy. She only


    managed to locate the aisle selling hair dryers after passing through two aisles. Then, she carefully


    went through the selections. In the end, she picked the one with the highest performance and was


    pretty durable.


    Once she finished choosing the hair dryer, she went straight to the cashier and waited for Zoe and


    Daniel. When the two came over, they checked out and headed home.


    After they returned home, Leanna bathed the little guy. It didn''t take him long to fall fast asleep.


    When she noticed his eyes had closed, she carefully ced him in the crib and tidied away all the toys


    in the living room.


    It was already 10.00PM by the time Leanna finished doing all these chores.


    Finally, she slumped against the couch as her eyes strayed to the unopened hair dryer not far away.


    She breathed out a sigh, got up, and went next door.


    As she couldn''t find the person whom she was looking for in the living room, she made her way toward


    the bedroom. She noticed that the door was ajar, so she asked quietly, "Aidan, are you asleep?"


    "No."


    "I picked up a blow dryer downstairs. It seems to be still working. I will put it in the bathroom for you."


    There was silence¡­


    Just as Leanna was about to leave, the bedroom door in front of her creaked open. Aidan stood before


    her as he said in a leisurely tone, "You are quite decisive."


    Leanna didn''t bat an eye and avoided answering when she heard that. Instead, she merely furrowed


    her brows and judged Aidan. "Why are you without clothes again?"


    "I''m changing my dressing. It''s cumbersome with my clothes on," he replied.


    She instinctively shifted her gaze to his injured arm. The gauze was only half removed, revealing a


    vague sight of the mutted injury. "Are you sure you can do it by yourself?" she wondered doubtfully.


    With that, Aidan replied confidently, "Of course."


    Leanna raised her head and looked at him in somewhat disbelief. Hold up! This b*stard is actually not


    sadfishing and giving me puppy eyes at a moment like this?!


    Nheless, since he had already reassured her that he didn''t need help, she didn''t press the matter.


    "I''ll be taking my leave then. Be careful not to get your wound wet if you want to take a bath."


    Aidan hummed lightly and went on to say good night to her.


    "I''m leaving."


    Leanna returned to her ce and looked at the familiar little guy in the crib. She hesitated for a while


    before she doubled back.


    In the meantime, he was cleaning his wound in the bedroom. The area around the wound started


    bing red and swollen due to inmmation, making the injured area look even more gruesome.


    Leanna has always been quite timid. She might have insomnia the entire night if she saw this. Or


    worse, it might even scar her.


    Aidan hastily disinfected the wound, grabbed the gauze, bit one end with his teeth, and wrapped it


    around his arm a few times.


    Just then, someone pushed open the bedroom door, causing him to look over. He was confused when


    he saw that it was Leanna. "Why are you back?"


    However, she uttered nothing and simply sat next to him. Then, she stared at the gauze that he had


    just wrapped around his arm and questioned sharply, "What is this? Is that how you bandage a


    wound?"


    As she spoke, she reached out to remove it.


    He swiftly held her wrist, stopping her from continuing. "Just leave it this way."


    Leanna reprimanded him slightly, "Leave it this way?! What if the infection gets worse? You might need


    to amputate your arm when that happens. Do you want that?"


    As he couldn''t find any reasons to rebuke her, he went silent. This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    In the end, she removed the gauze, disinfected his wound again, and reapplied the ointment.


    She could feel as though her arm was somewhat aching the moment the cotton swab came into


    contact with Aidan''s wound. It looked so painful, and she didn''t even want to imagine how it actually


    felt.


    Aidan kept staring at her all the while. Finally, he slowly lowered his head, and just when his lips were


    about to touch her forehead, her voice sounded once more, "I will end you if you pass on your cold to


    me."


    He froze before he slowly backed away.


    Leanna carefully wrapped the gauze around his arm after applying the ointment and inquired, "Have


    you taken your medicine?"


    "Yeah."


    Once she was done, she threw all the trash into the bin. "Alright. You can sleep now."


    "I can''t sleep. I already slept all day," Aidan mumbled.


    She wasn''t the least bit bothered as she rose to her feet. "Suit yourself then. I am going home to my


    bed."


    So, Aidan grabbed her hand and begged, "Can''t you stay here tonight?"


    Leanna swiveled her head to look at him. "Do you think that''s even possible?"


    "Yes."


    When she heard his firm answer, she felt a pulsating sensation between her eyebrows. Then, she took


    a deep breath and tried to tug her hand away, yet Aidan held on.


    Thus, she snapped, "I''m only taking care of you today merely because you are sick. Can you be a little


    conscientious?"


    "Then, why can''t you sleep with me out of consideration that I am sick?"


    Leanna looked at him with a poker face. However, it was evident that she was on the verge of getting


    angry.


    Aidan naturally sensed this as he reluctantly withdrew his hand and released her. "Good night."


    Once she was back in her apartment, she headed straight to shower. Afterward, shey on her bed


    and stared at the ceiling in a daze. Why am I so tired even though I haven''t done anything exhausting


    today?


    Nheless, she refused to allow herself to be troubled by such thoughts as she rolled over, closed


    her eyes, and fell asleep.


    Leanna''s sleep was unfortunately interrupted when she woke up in a daze in the middle of the night.


    She sniffled and noticed with dismay that her nose was a little stuffy. To make matters worse, she was


    even feeling dizzy, so she panicked. Don''t tell me that b*stard actually passed on his cold to me!


    She leaped off the bed at that thought and quickly took some medicine. Unfortunately, she was still


    quite under the weather when she woke up the following day.


    Hence, she took her temperature. Strange. I do not have a fever, yet I''m showing signs and symptoms


    of flu, such as nasal congestion, dizziness, and sneezing.


    Later that day, when Maya entered with a jingle of her keys, she saw the little guy whimpering and


    rolling in the crib, trying to get up.


    On the other hand, Leanna was sitting far away and looking at the little guy with a sleepy expression.


    Maya couldn''t help but exim, "My goodness! What''s going on with you?"


    "I caught a cold, and I fear I will pass it on to him," Leanna exined.


    "You were still fine yesterday. How did you¡ª"


    Something suddenly crossed Maya''s mind halfway through her sentence. She shrugged her shoulders


    and went over to pick up the little guy.


    After she fed him, she suggested, "Why don''t you go to the next door? It''s really easy to pass it on to


    him if you stay here."


    Leanna slowly pushed herself off the couch and countered with a suggestion of her own, "I''ll just go to


    the office."


    "Isn''t it Saturday? Why are you going to the office?"


    It took her a few seconds for her brain to realize that it was Saturday. Then, she sat back down and


    mumbled, "Right¡­" Oh, no¡­ My brain is turning into mush¡­


    So, she grabbed some of her stuff and got up from the couch again. "I''ll just go to the hospital. After


    that, I will find another ce to stay for a while. I will only return once I''m feeling a little better."


    Nheless, Maya thought she was being a bit extra. Thus, she asked while she ced the little guy


    on the carpet, "Why aren''t you going next door?"


    "I fear I will pass my cold on to Zoe."


    "I''m referring to Aidan''s ce. It just so happened that he''s caught a cold too. So, in my opinion, you


    two virions should stay together. Don''t go out there and infect others with your sickness."


    Leanna closed her eyes in exasperation. Suddenly, she felt the urge to sneeze. Hence, she swiftly


    pinched her nose as she answered nasally, "I''m leaving."


    She didn''t take Maya''s suggestion and instead went to the hospital. ording to the doctor, she was


    currently suffering from influenza and would recover after two to three days. But, of course, that was


    only if she took her medication as prescribed.


    Given her current situation, the doctor also warned her that it was best for her not to have close contact


    with children, for children had weak immune systems and would get infected easily.


    Leanna sneezed several times in a row after she stumbled out of the hospital. She was so sick that she


    could feel that her body was failing her.


    Yet, the sky chose to rain now out of all times. At this moment, one could say that she was in an utterly


    miserable and wretched state.


    Just when Leanna nned to stay in a hotel until the rain stopped, she received a call from Zoe.


    "Nana, did President Pearson pass out from a fever? I knocked on his door for a long time, but he


    didn''t respond. Why don''t you check things out?"


    Leanna inhaled deeply before she answered in resignation, "Okay. I''ming back now."


    When she returned, she immediately pushed Aidan''s bedroom door open and saw him sleeping on the


    bed. She walked over and touched his forehead. He''s actually still burning? But didn''t he take his


    medicinest night?


    With that, Leanna took out her phone and gave Jonathan a call, asking him to pass her the number of


    Aidan''s personal physician.

 Chapter 586

    Chapter 586


    Chapter 586 Go Ahead and Sleep Away


    When the doctor listened to Leanna''s description, he said, "Mrs. Pearson, Mr. Pearson''s cold s


    worsened mainly due to the infection and inmmation of his wound. Don''t worry. He will be fine once


    the inmmation subsides."


    Leanna furrowed her brows in worry and asked doubtfully, "Are you sure he doesn''t need to go to the


    hospital?"


    "Yes, there''s no need for that. He has to, however, take his medicine and change his wound dressing


    on time."


    "He did. Both at noon and night yesterday."


    The doctor hummed as he replied, "Tsk, this is strange indeed. Logically speaking, he should be getting


    better."


    He paused for a moment before he continued, "Mrs. Pearson, have you changed his wound dressing


    this morning?"


    "No, not yet."


    "In that case, you may need to change Mr. Pearson''s wound dressing again and give him his medicine


    afterward. I will make a house call if he still doesn''t get better after two hours."


    Leanna breathed out a sigh. "Okay. I understand."


    Leanna hung up the phone after jotting down some of the doctor''s instructions. When she noticed


    Aidan sleeping fitfully, she went out of the room and into the kitchen to make some mushroom soup.


    Once she had prepped all the ingredients and thrown them into the pot after filling it with water, she left


    the pot of soup simmering on the stove. Then, she proceeded to wash the sheets that she had thrown


    into the washing machine yesterday and cleaned the living room. The moment she took out the trash,


    she caught a glimpse of a few pills in the trash can.


    Therefore, Leanna put down the towel in her hand and squatted in front of the trash can. She narrowed


    her eyes as she picked out the pills carefully. Then, shepared them with the medicine prescribed


    by the doctor for Aidan yesterday.


    As expected, they were exactly the same.


    When she made this discovery, she felt her vein throbbing with anger as she slowly clenched her fists.


    ¡­


    In truth, Aidan had woken up long before Leanna called the doctor. He opened his eyes and made


    himselffortable on the bed. When he heard the bedroom door being pushed open again, he


    immediately snapped his eyes shut.


    Leanna had entered with a first-aid kit. She sat by the bed, took out a pair of small scissors, and slowly


    cut the gauze that was wrapped around his arm. Finally, she cautiously changed his wound dressing.


    Aidan groaned quietly at the sudden burst of severe pain.


    Leanna slowly parted her lips and drawled, "Oh, you''re awake?"


    Aidan opened his eyes and looked at her. "What are you doing?"


    "I''m changing your wound dressing." She unhurriedly loosened the gauze that she had tightened


    earlier. "I was thinking of taking the approach of fighting fire with fire when I saw how seriously inmed


    your wound was. Who knows, it might do the trick."


    He bit the bottom of his lip before he intoned deeply, "How is that going to help?"


    "Well, you''re awake now, aren''t you? Besides, you don''t need this arm anyway. In that case, we might


    as well discard it."


    He didn''t say anything in response to her outrageous remarks.


    Leanna checked on his wound, and she continued wrapping the gauze around his arm when she saw


    there was no bleeding. Then, she tied it securely, rose to her feet, and left.


    Aidan slowly sat up and leaned against the headrest of the bed. Then, he reached up and massaged


    his temples.


    After a while, she walked in with a bowl of mushroom soup. She said nothing and ced it on the


    bedside table before promptly leaving.


    Aidan waited for a few seconds. However, when he didn''t hear the sound of the door closing, he


    ambled out with the tray of food in his hand.


    Once he arrived at the dining room, he saw that she was in the midst of her meal.


    Aidan gingerly ced the tray on the dining table and slumped into the seat across from her. "Why


    didn''t you return to your ce?"


    Leanna didn''t even bother looking up as she replied curtly, "Thanks to you, I, too, caught a cold."


    Aidan raised his eyebrows slightly, and his lips faintly curved into a smirk.


    He held the spoon with his left hand, scooped up a spoonful of the soup, and looked at her. "Have you


    gone to the hospital?"


    "Yeah."


    "What did the doctor say?"


    "ording to the doctor, I might as well get ready for my funeral if I keep stubbornly refusing to take


    my medicine."


    Aidan was initially confused as to why Leanna would make such a remark. Nheless, when he


    instinctively looked at the trash can not far away, he reached up and ruffled his hair agitatedly. Damn!


    She caught me!


    She didn''t even bother paying any mind to him as she continued enjoying her meal.


    Since he knew he was in the wrong in this situation, he dared not to speak another word throughout


    their breakfast.


    The silence stretched on as the two ill individuals drank their soup.


    After the meal, Leanna washed her own dishes, grabbed a ss of water, and sat on the couch to take


    her medicine.


    As soon as she took out the medicine, Aidan also brought a ss of water over, sat next to her, and


    took out his pill from the coffee table in front of her.


    Leanna turned her head and shot him a re when she saw him mimicking him.


    Aidan calmly tossed the medicine into his mouth and gulped down the ss of water under her


    watchful re.


    Once he was done taking his medicine, he tilted his head at her, inquiring, "Why are you looking at


    me?"


    She snorted, deliberately looked away from him, and took her own medicine.


    It was raining cats and dogs outside. The sky was dark, and it looked utterly dreary.


    Still, it was undoubtedly fine weather to curl in bed at home.


    As the medicine could cause some drowsiness, she yawned and fell asleep on the couch not long after


    she took it.


    When Aidan came out of the bathroom and saw this scene, his eyes turned tender yet mirthful.


    He walked to her side, knelt down, and softly called out her name, "Leanna."


    s, Aidan received no response.


    Therefore, he reached out and pinched her nose.


    Although she furrowed her brows and tried to swat his hand away, she still didn''t wake up.


    It seems that she has truly fallen asleep. So, Aidan got to his feet, carried her into the bedroom, and


    attentively ced her on the bed.


    Leanna slept soundly throughout the journey due to the effect of the cold medicine. She didn''t even


    grumble in protest.


    Then, he tucked her in, made himselffortable next to her, and gently pulled her into his arms.


    Meanwhile, Leanna habitually wrapped her arms around his waist. Finally, she snuggled against his


    chest as she found a morefortable sleeping position.


    Aidan kissed her forehead and closed his eyes, feeling content.


    ¡­


    The room was pitch ck by the time Leanna blinked the sleepiness away from her eyes. She was


    feeling reallyzy, so she didn''t intend to get up.


    Still, she stretched out her limbs and her arm, wanting to grab her phone to check the time. s, her


    hand came into contact with a man''s straight nose bridge and thin lips instead of her phone.


    She instantly withdrew her hand. After a few seconds of silence, she reached out again and touched


    the man''s forehead. Thank goodness! His fever has subsided!


    Then, Leanna looked toward the window, and through the curtains, she could see that it was already


    dark outside, as well as the shining lights of the skyline. It''s already sote!?


    When she came to that realization, she abruptly sat up. I wonder how things are going on next door.


    Yet, someone pressed her back on the bed as soon as she made a move.


    "Let''s sleep a little longer," Aidan mumbled huskily.


    "Sleep? How can you still think about sleeping when it''s already that dark outside? Go ahead and sleep


    away if that''s what you want."


    As she spoke, she had already pushed his hand off and dashed out.


    She and Maya opened the door almost at the same time.


    When Maya saw her, she informed, "Oh, hey. Your brother is here, so I''ll be leaving now."


    Leanna nodded. "It''s still raining outside. Be careful on your way home."


    Maya smiled and tilted her chin proudly, saying, "Oh, that''s fine. My husband is here to pick me up."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Before Leanna could say anything, the elevator happened to arrive at this moment.


    Maya bid her goodbye, "See you."


    After she took a few steps, she turned her head and reminded Leanna, "By the way, you have yet to


    recover from your cold, so it''s best that you don''t return home tonight. But don''t run around either, lest


    no one will be able to coax your son when he starts searching for you. Just stay at Aidan''s ce."


    Leanna felt her temples throbbing. "Okay, I get it. Just go."


    After Maya left, Leanna returned to her apartment. However, she didn''t enter and just stood by the


    entrance. "Louis."


    Louis turned around and inquired, "Has your cold recovered?"


    "A¡­ Little bit."


    In the meantime, the little guy also spotted Leanna and started crawling toward her. He was babbling


    as he made his way over, "Ma¡­ Ma¡­"


    However, Louis carried him back just when he crawled a few steps.


    Then, he said to Leanna, "I will be here this weekend. You cane home right after you recover from


    your cold."


    Leanna ran her fingers through her hair and sighed in resignation, "Carry him. I''ll get a change of


    clothes from my room."

 Chapter 587

    Chapter 587


    Chapter 587 For Your Sake


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Aidan leaned against the door. The smile on the corner of his mouth gradually deepened when he saw


    Leannaing out of her ce with her luggage.


    When he met Leanna''s gaze, he merely raised his eyebrows slightly, took a step back, and made way


    for her to enter his ce.


    Leanna took two steps but paused in her tracks. She stopped in front of another house instead of


    entering Aidan''s house.


    She tried inserting the code, but it buzzed out an error.


    A few failed attemptster, Leanna swiveled her head and looked at Aidan. "What''s the password?"


    Aidan made his way into his house while he replied distantly, "Can''t remember."


    Leanna silently waved a fist at his back silhouette.


    Someone opened the door of the adjoining unit at this moment, and Zoe poked her head out. When


    she saw Leanna''s luggage, she asked, "Nana, why don''t youe over and stay with me for two


    days?"


    Leanna shook her head and refused, "Better not. I''m afraid I might pass my cold on to you."


    Just as she finished her sentence, Daniel also came out. "Or how about this¡­ Zoe will stay with me,


    and Miss McKinney, you can stay at her ce. This way, you can check on your son whenever you


    want."


    Zoe figured it was a fantastic idea as she went along with it. "Yeah, Nana. I think¡ª"


    However, she bit her tongue halfway through her sentence and instantly forced the rest of her sentence


    down her throat after seeing the man''s stony face right across her.


    Leanna didn''t notice that minor interaction as her brain was somewhat fuzzy. So, she massaged her


    temples and said, "Forget it. It''s raining so heavily outside, so it will be inconvenient for the two of you


    to go out."


    Zoe took the opportunity to echo, "Fair enough. In that case, we won''t leave. We¡­ Uh¡­ We''ll be


    heading to bed now. Good night!"


    Daniel still wanted to say something. s, Zoe promptly dragged him into the house and swiftly shut


    the door.


    Leanna turned around and saw Aidan passing his living room with a cup in his hand as if nothing had


    happened.


    She released a cold snort as she moved her feet and stepped into the house.


    Then, after she shut the door behind her, she ced her stuff down, went to the closet in the bedroom,


    took a nket, and covered the couch with it.


    Just then, Aidan came over andmented leisurely, "I don''t mind sharing half of my bed with you,


    though. There''s no reason for you to sleep on the couch."


    Yet, Leanna simply ignored him, smoothened the nket, picked up her luggage, and went straight into


    the bedroom.


    Aidan followed behind her. "Lea¡ª"


    Before he could say anything further, the bedroom door abruptly shut with a bang.


    As he stared at the door, a somewhat perplexed Aidan thought, So, what she means to tell me is that I


    will be sleeping on the couch tonight?


    Nevertheless, he tried to wriggle out of his circumstances as he knocked on the door. "Are you


    seriously making a sick person sleep on the couch?"


    "Thanks to you, I am also sick," Leanna retorted snappishly.


    "Well, we can sleep together."


    She immediately locked the door when she heard his suggestion.


    Aidan stood outside the door with one hand on his hip as he clicked his tongue. Finally, after he waited


    for a couple of minutes and saw that she was resolute in her decision, he begrudgingly made his way


    toward the couch.


    There was another knock on the bedroom door half an hourter.


    Aidan''s muffled voice rang out, "It''s time to eat."


    Leanna rubbed her stomach at his words, figuring that she could eat. Besides, it was free food. Why


    shouldn''t she eat? So, she ced the draft in her hand down and opened the bedroom door.


    Once she came to the dining room, she saw there was mushroom soup and a few dishes on the dining


    table.


    It was evident that Aidan asked someone to send these dishes over.


    So, she didn''t bother standing on ceremony and helped herself.


    He sat opposite her as he asked carefully, "Is your cold getting better?"


    Leanna filled an empty bowl with the mushroom soup and hummed, "I feel betterpared to this


    morning."


    With that, Aidan reached up, crossed the dining table, and ced his palm on her forehead.


    She was taken aback by his abrupt actions. Immediately afterward, his voice rang in her ears. "Luckily,


    your body temperature is normal."


    "Of course, it''s normal. I didn''t even have a fever in the first ce."


    Aidan slowly withdrew his hand and mused, "Oh, really?"


    After the meal, she raised her head to look at the time and saw it was already 9.00PM.


    Then, she decided to boil some water in the kettle forter. Afterward, she returned to the bedroom and


    continued working on her draft.


    Since work had been piling up recently, things had been rather hectic, and she didn''t have the time to


    really focus on creating something new. Thus, although the studio hadunched its online shop, there


    was a dy in the release of the new designs.


    Therefore, Leanna seized the rare opportunity of the current peace and quiet and fully ced her entire


    focus on the design drawings. She was so immersed in her work that shepletely forgot about


    taking her medicine. She also didn''t hear the knocking on the door at all.


    When Aidan pushed the door open after knocking several times, he saw her sitting and swiftly


    sketching lines on the draft paper with a pencil on her desk. He leaned against the door and watched


    her for a while before he retracted his gaze, turned around, and went to the kitchen to pour her a ss


    of water.


    Leanna only instinctively raised her head when he ced the ss of water on the table.


    "It''s time to take your medicine," Aidan reminded her.


    "Okay." Leanna took the medicine he handed over and touched the ss of water again. The water


    temperature is just right.


    After she finished taking the medicine, he took the ss, turned around, and strode out of her room.


    The moment she noticed hisck of¡­ Everything, she couldn''t help but quirk her eyebrow in intrigue.


    She was somewhat surprised as she probably never thought that he was capable of being non-


    combatant for more than five minutes.


    Nheless, she soon turned her attention back to the draft that had taken shape in front of her. She


    figured that she was done for the day as she slowly rose to her feet and stretched. After that, she


    gently opened the door.


    Aidan was currently taking his medicine outside. Oh, so he does know how to take his medication on


    time. Here I thought he would actually forsake that arm of his.


    Then, she closed the door, sat back down in front of the desk, and continued on with her work.


    Leanna wasn''t sure if it was because she had slept all afternoon or some other factors. Regardless,


    she did realize that she actually wasn''t feeling sleepy at all that night after she took her medicine.


    The clock kept ticking, and it was already midnight by the time Leanna finally massaged her tired neck


    and checked the time once more.


    When she saw the time, she walked out of the bedroom and saw Aidan sitting on the couch, using his


    laptop.


    Leanna made her way over with a first-aid kit.


    Aidan kept hisptop away the instant she took a seat next to him.


    Leanna''s gaze lingered on Aidan''s injury while she changed the wound dressing.


    Although she changed his dressing twice, the lighting was dim since it took ce in a bedroom. So,


    she wasn''t able to take a good look at how severe the wound actually was. Therefore, the injury turned


    out to be even more gruesome than she expected now that she was changing the dressing under the


    bright lights of the living room.


    Aidan naturally sensed her gaze and promptly covered her eyes with his palm. "Don''t look."


    "How am I able to change your dressing if I can''t look at it?"


    "I will give you directions, and you follow. Okay?"


    Leanna was rendered speechless by his answer. Why is heplicating such an easy task?


    Nevertheless, he took a cotton swab and ced it in her hand. Then, he held her hand and moved it


    next to the wound.


    Eventually, she listened to his instructions the entire time as he never once removed his hand away


    from covering her eyes. Hence, it took longer than she expected to change the dressing for his wound


    this time around.


    She couldn''t help butment while she tossed the trash away, "Why are you so shy? It''s not like this


    is the first time I''m changing the wound dressing for you."


    "You never showed such an expression before."


    Leanna parted her lips but said nothing as she couldn''t think of any reasons to refute him.


    Then, Aidan went on to say, "It''s my duty to protect you, so you don''t have to me yourself."


    Leanna raised her voice and retorted hotly, "I don''t me myself!"


    Aidan curled his lips into a smile before he answered, "Easy. You don''t have to shout. I can hear you."


    Leanna gritted her teeth. Eventually, she couldn''t restrain herself and kicked him. Damn! He really is a


    b*stard! I have indeed been ming myself because of this matter. Yet, why does he have to remind


    me and magnify this guilt in my heart when I have been suppressing it very well and not showing it?!


    The longer Leanna thought about it, the angrier she got. Hence, she pushed herself off the couch in a


    huff and intended to storm back into the fortress that is the bedroom. s, Aidan grabbed her wrist as


    soon as she disyed any signs of leaving.


    Aidan tugged on her wrist, causing her to fall into his arms.


    She immediately struggled to break free, yelling, "Let go of me!"


    Aidan groaned quietly as he furrowed his brows slightly. "Stop hitting me. It hurts."


    "Go ahead and keep pretending."


    "You will still be the one changing my dressing again if the wound''s condition worsens. I''m just saying


    that for your sake."


    As he spoke, he wrapped his arms tightly around her waist. "Are you still mad at me?"


    "Why do you keep asking me that every single day? Are you sure you''re not a broken record? Of


    course, I am mad at you. In fact, I''m so furious that I think I''m about to go ballistic¡ª"


    Before Leanna finished her sentence, Aidan shut her up with a kiss.


    He also slyly took advantage of the fact that she had yet toe back to her senses as he cradled the


    back of her head and deepened the kiss.

 Chapter 588

    Chapter 588


    Chapter 588 I Thought You Invited Me


    Leanna mercilessly locked Aidan out after the kiss was over.


    He curled his fingers as he knocked on the door with his knuckles. "Be reasonable. Can''t you let me


    in?"


    Leanna''s muffled yell rang out, "Is this the first time you''ve seen me acting so unreasonably?"


    Aidan gently touched his lips that were bitten by Leanna; the smile on the corner of his mouth


    deepened. Then, he didn''t persist as he returned to the couch andy down while pillowing his head on


    his arm.


    Meanwhile, in the bedroom, Leanna was in no mood to take a shower after that altercation. Thus, she


    threw herself into the bed.


    At this moment, perhaps due to the effect of the medicine gradually kicking in, she started to feel her


    eyelids drooping down. She even started yawning after a while.


    So, she rolled herself into the covers, closed her eyes, and fell asleep.


    The sound of thunder outside the window caused her to jerk awake in the middle of the night.


    Still, she was somewhat groggy as she slowly sat up. As she listened to the sound of rumbling thunder


    and pattering rain outside, as well as the cold gust pping through the curtains and into the room from


    time to time, she remembered the nket she gave Aidan. That nket was pretty thin. What if his


    cold gets worse¡­ In the end, it will still be me who suffers.


    When Leanna thought of the possibility of him getting yet another fever, she looked for another nket


    from the closet and yanked it out.


    Then, she gently opened the door and was surprised to see that Aidan was still working when she


    stumbled out.


    She ced the thicker nket by his side and teased, "Did you finally discover your conscience after


    just resting at home for two days?"


    Aidan closed theptop with a quiet snap. "I''m just wisely utilizing my time. After all, I will be wasting


    my time if I keep tossing around, forcing myself to shut my eyes when I clearly have trouble sleeping."


    Leanna turned around, took a thermometer, and checked his body temperature. His body temperature


    is normal, so that means his fever has subsided.


    "Okay. You should get some rest. Your condition should be fine tomorrow," she urged.


    s, Aidan begged to differ, "I don''t think so."


    Leanna kept the thermometer aside and questioned, "What''s the matter? Are you nning to sleep


    before your hair dries again?"


    "That''s because you refused to lend me a hair dryer when I wanted to borrow one from you."


    "Are you implying that it was me who caused you to be sick?"


    "I never said that." Aidan looked out the window and changed the topic. "It''s pretty cold."


    "I brought you a nket."


    "But I want toy down on my bed and sleep in my bedroom," he whined.


    She merely gave him a smile in response. "Sweet dreams." In the end, she still decided to make him


    sleep on the couch.


    After she returned to the bedroom, shey down on the bed again. This time, she slept soundly until


    morning came.


    The moment she was awake, she was delighted to find that any residue of her sickness was long gone.


    So, she stretched out her limbs happily. Yet, just when she was about to turn over, she discovered a


    hand was on her waist.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    Leanna neither spoke nor moved.


    Aidan, who was behind her, probably had woken up due to her actions. For at this moment, he greeted


    huskily, "Morning."


    Yet, she didn''t greet him as she instead began her interrogation. "As far as I remember, I locked the


    doorst night."


    "You probably mixed things up, then."


    "How did you get in here?"


    "Well, didn''t you wish me sweet dreamsst night? So, I thought you invited me to join you in bed."


    Right¡­ What''s the point of interrogating him anyway? This b*stard is just going to keep giving me


    irrelevant answers. When she arrived at that train of thought, she felt a pulsating sensation between


    her brows. She wanted to get up, but Aidan pressed her back onto the bed.


    His eyes were closed, but his voice had be hoarse as he murmured, "Stop moving."


    Leanna took a deep breath after vividly feeling the noticeable change pressing against her. Still, she


    stopped moving.


    After a while, she quickly got out of Aidan''s arms while he wasn''t paying attention.


    She went next door to check on the little guy. Once she was certain that he was doing fine, she


    returned to Aidan''s ce and spent the whole day in the bedroom working on the design draft.


    Meanwhile, outside the bedroom, Jonathan had made several trips over. However, as he feared that


    Leanna would find out, he acted like a thief each time he delivered a document to Aidan. He came and


    left like the wind.


    Aidan came to knock on the doorter that evening. "Hey, do you want to go for a walk?"


    "No, you go ahead. I''m just going to stay at home."


    "But you haven''t gone out for days. Do you not feel cooped up after loafing around at home like this?"


    "It''s you who haven''t gone out for a few days. On the other hand, I haven''t gone out in one day, which


    is today."


    "Exercise is good for our health, so we should go out for a walk every day."


    When Leanna heard his cheeky answer, she put down her pen, turned her head, and looked at him


    expressionlessly.


    Aidan went on to say, "Now that the rain has stopped, we should go out and get some fresh air."


    Perhaps it was better if he didn''t make that statement, for Leanna indeed felt a little lightheaded right


    after he said that. Maybe he''s right. I have been working on my design drawings the whole day, so I


    think it''s time for me to go out, take a break, and rx my eyes.


    As the rain had just stopped not long ago, there were several puddles everywhere.


    The air was indeed fresh and cool, though.


    Leanna slowly stretched her limbs as she massaged her neck.


    She had just taken a few steps when Aidan suddenly grabbed her arm and pulled her to the side of the


    road.


    It was also at this moment that a sedan drove by the side of the road, sshing a few drops of muddy


    water on Aidan''s pants.


    Leanna couldn''t help but frown when she saw this. Yet, Aidan showed no sign of annoyance at all.


    "You¡ª"


    Before she could say anything, he immediately interjected, "There''s a park in front."


    She couldn''t react to the sudden change of topic as she blurted, "What?"


    Nheless, he didn''t answer as he simply held her hand and pulled her along.


    Leanna tried to yank her hand away. s, her effort was in vain.


    There were a lot of people strolling in the park at this moment. Among these folks, only some were


    elderly, while the rest were mainly lovey-dovey young couples.


    Someone was also busking with a guitar not far away.


    Leanna figured that since she was already here in the park, she might as well join in the fun.


    With that, she took Aidan''s hand that was holding her, shifted their direction, and walked toward the


    ce where the sound of the guitar came from.


    Aidan simply let her be.


    A young man in his early 20s wearing a rather trendy outfit was ying the guitar not far away.


    He had just finished ying a song when Leanna dragged Aidan into the crowd. Everyone in the crowd


    kept requesting songs.


    After he swept his gaze across the crowd, the young man fixed his gaze on Leanna. Then, he asked


    with a smile, "Hello there, beautiful. What song would you like to hear me y?"


    Leanna was stunned for a moment. She looked around before she pointed at herself. "Me?"


    "Yes, it''s you. Beautiful, you instantly caught my eye among the crowd. Perhaps this is dest¡ª"


    Before the young man finished his sentence, he saw that Leanna''s hand was being held by a man


    staring at him with a cial demeanor. Hence, he instantly stabbed his desire to strike up a


    conversation to death.


    "I am fine with any song. Just y whatever you want," Leanna replied.


    The young man ruffled his hair and remarked, "Well, then. I shall y you a song called ''Forget You''.


    Enjoy."


    Aidan remained silent throughout the interaction.


    On the other hand, Leanna couldn''t hold herself and burst intoughter.


    As the music sounded, the initially cheerful atmosphere was instantly immersed in mncholy.


    The entire sky seemed to be stained with a faint touch of sorrow.


    After the song ended, the young man voiced again, "What do you think, beautiful? Do you have the


    urge to break up after listening to this song?"


    Before Leanna could answer him, Aidan responded indifferently, "Do you not feel ashamed for ruining


    the vibe of the song with your beginner-level guitar-ying skill?"


    Just as expected, the young man felt annoyed by thatment. So, he immediately challenged Aidan,


    "How about you y a song then?"


    Aidan snorted. Just when he was about to step forward, someone grabbed his hand, stopping him in


    his tracks.


    "What are you trying to do?" whispered Leanna.


    "Teach him a lesson."


    "Did you even take note of the age gap between the two of you? So, why do you want topete with


    him?"


    Aidan curled the corner of his lips into a smirk as he leaned over and whispered in her ear, "I don''t


    intend topete with him. Just watch."


    As soon as he stopped, he released Leanna''s hand, walked to the young man''s side, and took the


    guitar from him. He casually plucked the strings and tuned the guitar.


    Just this action was enough to cause a group of female onlookers to squeal repeatedly.


    "So charming!"


    Leanna couldn''t help but facepalm at those words. What is he going to show me? Is he asking me to


    watch him trying to look cool?


    The young man snorted derisively as he looked at the scene. He even folded his arms across his chest


    as he waited for Aidan to make a fool out of himself.

 Chapter 589

    Chapter 589


    Chapter 589 I Want His Information


    Aidan''s fingers swept across the strings gracefully as a slow romantic tune rang out under the gazes of


    the enraptured audience.


    The mouths of the men who were waiting to see him fail all dropped. They thought he was just bluffing


    and didn''t expect him to really know how to y the guitar.


    Aidan looked at Leanna standing amid the crowd and curled his lips into a smile.


    Then, his deep attractive voice came through, serenading her in Dellshorean.


    But when we first met


    I got so nervous I couldn''t speak


    At that very moment


    I found the one and


    ¡­


    What we have is timeless.


    My love is endless


    ¡­


    You''re my every reason


    You''re all that I believe in


    Leanna was captivated by his singing as a gentle breeze swept past her.


    She didn''t know that he knew how to y the guitar and even knew how to sing.


    Now that he was sitting there, a crowd had gathered around them, almost doubling the number of


    people from just now.


    Many young girls were excited and took out their phones to take pictures and record the scene.


    After the song ended, the crowd was silent for a few seconds before bursting out in cheers.


    Then, he raised a brow at Leanna and returned the guitar to the guy before walking to her. "So, how


    was it?"


    Leanna came back to her senses and nodded. "Impressive. I didn''t know you had so many talents.


    With so many girls falling under your spell, you''re one step closer to a debut. You just need to clean up


    a little."


    "Clean up what?"


    Clean up that sharp tongue and terrible personality of yours.


    More people were gathering, and some even recognized Leanna as they gossiped.


    "Hey. Look at that girl. Is that McK?"


    "McK? You mean that pretty designerdy?"


    "Yes! That''s her!"


    "If that''s McK, the guy beside her¡­"


    However, before she finished her sentence, Aidan had already led Leanna through the crowd and left.


    People recorded and posted videos of Aidan ying and how he walked toward Leanna online.


    In just half an hour, that incident became a trending topic.


    When the video of Aidan ying the guitar leaked, there were severalments all talking about him.


    ''Oh, Sh*t. Is he from any singing shows?''


    ''Don''t fight me. I''ve imed him as my husband.''


    ''I demand to know everything about him in the next five minutes.''


    ''He''s just too perfect! He''s even better looking than all those popr celebrities.''


    ''It''s been 10 minutes. Has no one found anything about him yet?''


    Right at this moment, someone mentioned, ''Isn''t this¡­ The guy from the Pearson Group?''


    Once thatment appeared, everyone became confused by the sudden mention of the Pearson


    Group.


    Immediately after that, someone also posted the video with Leanna.


    The hashtags went from ''Drop dead gorgeous guy ying guitar'' to ''President Pearson confessing to


    his ex-wife.''


    ''I''m so jealous. This is straight out of a fairy tale.''


    ''Oh, My God. President Pearson is so handsome. McK is so gorgeous!''


    Ament said, ''Wow. I didn''t expect President Pearson to know how to y the guitar besides typing


    on the keyboard.''


    ''Hahaha. You got me rolling on the floor!''


    ''What do you mean by typing on the keyboard? What happened?''


    So, thatizen replied, ''Some time ago, a bunch of keyboard warriors was saying that President


    Pearson''s ex-wife is crazy and a gold-digger and that she was trying to leverage the Pearson Group''s


    fame. President Pearson immediately retorted through thepany''s official ount and deleted all


    theirments.''


    The othermenter said in support, ''Preach! He''s the best!''


    ¡­


    After they exited the lift, Leanna was about to see the little guy when her neighbor''s door flung open.


    Zoe''s head popped out as excitement, and the look of gossip filled her face. "Nana, you''re back!"


    Leanna nodded. "Yep. The rain stopped, and the air is super fresh right now."


    Zoe looked at her before ncing at Aidan, who was standing behind Leanna, as a knowing smile


    crept up her face. "I know. The air''s filled with pink bubbles now."


    Leanna tilted her head in confusion and shot her a look.


    However, Zoe let out a cough and said her farewells, "Alright. I won''t disturb you, then. Night, Nana.


    Rest well."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    "Goodnight."


    Zoe then cheered Aidan on, "Keep it up, President Pearson! You rock!"


    Then, she shut the door with a bang.


    That confused Leanna, and she turned around to look at Aidan. He had a hand in his pocket with his


    head slightly tilted and said calmly, "What can I say? She''s my fan."


    Leanna decided not to talk to him and walked away.


    When she opened the door, she saw the little guy ying with toys sitting on the carpet.


    She quietly backed away and gently closed the door since he was ying so seriously. She was afraid


    he might cry if he saw her.


    Aidan asked, "Why don''t you go in?"


    "Why go in? It''ll make him cry."


    "Even if you don''t go in, he''ll still cry."


    Then, Leanna recalled Aidan''s sh*tty attitude thest time he brought her to see the little guy.


    So, she snickered, "Seems like you always make him cry."


    Aidan didn''t reply and merely raised a brow, not denying her words.


    Then, he strode to the next door and opened it.


    Just as they entered, Jonathan gave Aidan a call.


    Aidan answered as he walked in further. "What is it?"


    He hesitated, "President Pearson¡­ You and Madam¡­ Are trending."


    "Huh?"


    While he was on the phone, Leanna walked to the kitchen table and poured a ss of water as she


    wanted to take her medication.


    Her cold was almost gone, and she was only experiencing some mild symptoms. So, she figured if she


    continued taking the pills, she would recover by tomorrow.


    As she finished pouring the water, her phone pinged a few times.


    She picked it up to see dozens of messages from Zoe.


    When she clicked into the chat, she realized all of Zoe''s messages were videos. So, she opened one to


    watch and almost spat the water in her mouth.


    Zoe texted, ''I wouldn''t believe that President Pearson would have such a charming side to him if I didn''t


    see this.''


    She continued, ''Do you know? Someone said he''s some new star that just debuted.''


    ''Tsk. He doesn''t look like a 30-year-old at all.''


    ''Now all the little girls are calling him their husband. Be careful of him turning as proud as a peacock


    one day. You gotta be on your toes, girl!''

 Chapter 590

    Chapter 590


    Chapter 590 I Didn¡¯t Know You yed


    After Aidan hung up the phone, he turned around to see Leanna choking on the water and coughing


    incessantly.


    So, he walked over and lightly patted her back as she immediately locked her phone.


    He averted his gaze and asked slowly, "What are you chatting about?"


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Leanna stuttered, "N-Nothing."


    Then, she picked up the ss again and chugged the water in one go.


    When she was done, he picked up the stuff on the counter. "You forgot your meds."


    Leanna was dumbfounded. "Oh."


    So, she poured another ss of water before turning around to look at Aidan. "The video of you ying


    the guitar was posted online."


    He pulled away the aluminum and took two pills out before answering, "I know."


    Leanna recalled the phone call he had just now and figured it was probably about the same thing. So,


    she asked, "Are you going to take it down?''


    Aidan ced the pills in her hand. "Why? It''s expensive to take it down."


    She pursed her lips in dissatisfaction. "I didn''t know that you like being the talk of the town."


    He replied, "I don''t. But¡ª"


    He suddenly leaned forward and ced his arms beside her on the table, circling her in before


    continuing, "This is to keep you on your toes."


    Leanna couldn''t help but eye him strangely.


    How did he see her chat?


    He curled his lips into a yful smirk and passed her the ss of water before drawling in Dellshorean,


    "My love is endless."


    My love is endless.


    Leanna took the ss of water and avoided his confession. "Sorry, I don''t know Dellshorean. I don''t


    know what you''re saying."


    He continued, not affected. "Well then, you will need a trantor like me when you attend fashion week


    later."


    "Louis will suffice."


    "He''s busy."


    "How do you know?"


    Aidan insisted, saying, "I usually have a strong intuition about things in the future."


    Leanna didn''t want to entertain him further, so she merely turned around and swallowed her


    medication.


    ¡­


    A weekend had passed, and Leanna had fully recovered.


    So, on Monday morning, she unpacked her stuff in her room and yed with the little guy for a while


    before going downstairs with Louis.


    When they neared the exit of the gate, the door to the Rolls-Royce parked by the roadside flung open,


    and Aidan came out of the car. "Get in. I''ll take you there."


    Leanna ignored him but told Louis, "I''m leaving. Send me a text when you arrive at school."


    He nodded. "Okay."


    After she left, he asked, "Didn''t you stay together during the weekend? Why isn''t there any progress?"


    Aidan harrumphed coldly, "Don''t you know your sister changes her mind faster than she changes her


    clothes?"


    With that, he didn''t wait for a response and got into his car.


    Louis merely quirked a brow at that before walking in the direction of the subway.


    ¡­


    When Leanna arrived at herpany, all she could hear was the employees talking about the video of


    Aidan ying the guitarst night.


    She rubbed her temples as she felt a headacheing.


    Jonathan entered her office soon after, saying, "Miss McKinney, I got in contact with Jessamine. She


    said she''d make the police report this afternoon. I''ve sent some men to apany her just in case Mr.


    Onder tried to do something."


    "Did you contact the other victims?"


    "I did. But¡­ They did it for personal gains; some got a huge reward while others became part of the


    higher management. If we asked them to testify against him, it would expose their dirty deed as well.


    So..."


    So, no one was willing to stand out.


    However, Leanna didn''t let that get her down as she replied, "It''s all right. Leave them be. He won''t be


    able to leave after the police receive Jessamine''s statement. As for the rest, we''ll let the detectives


    handle it."


    "Okay. I''ll be taking my leave now."


    "Wait," Leanna called him before letting out an awkward cough. "Is¡­ That still trending?"


    Richard was momentarily confused before finally realizing what she was asking about and answered


    honestly, "As far as I''ve checked, it''s gone down for now.''''


    She let out a sigh of relief. She was actually thinking that if it was still trending, she was willing to spend


    some money to remove that post.


    Aidan was the president of the Pearson Group. It would be weird if he kept topping the trend for such


    things. It would also create unnecessary gossip for the Crossley Group as well.


    However, Richard added, "But¡­"


    "But what?"


    "The Pearson Group''s official Twitter ount posted something half an hour ago."


    So, Leanna whipped out her phone as she frantically searched for the post.


    The Pearson Group''s official Twitter said, ''We didn''t expect President Pearson to appear before the


    public in this way. Thank you, everyone, for your love for him. Regardingst night''s events, we have


    two things to say. One, please don''t address the president as ''husband'' as he will only have one wife in


    this life. Two, she isn''t an ex-wife but a girlfriend and would be his partner for life in the near future. We


    would appreciate it a lot if everyone used the right terms.''


    Leanna read the tweet and scoffed as Richard silently left the room. She ced the phone down and


    took a deep breath. What did I do in my past life to deserve such a pest?


    At the same time, in the Pearson Group''s president''s office, Aidan was scrolling the replies under that


    official tweet with a smile on his face.


    Jonathan saw the smile and asked tentatively, "President Pearson, I didn''t know you yed the guitar."


    Aidan stopped reading and looked up at him with a deadpan expression.


    Jonathan immediately avoided his gaze, acting as if nothing had happened.


    Then, Aidan questioned, "What''s the situation with Jimmy?"


    "The investigation is still ongoing. It''s just like we predicted. He refused to admit it and insisted that he


    was falsely used. He said that Leroy used him. However, regarding the previous sexual harassment


    case¡­ Madam contacted the victim, and the victim said that she''ll make the police report in the


    afternoon."


    Aidan''s long fingers tapped against the table as he mumbled, deep in thought, "It seems that no one is


    willing to stick their necks out for him now. He''s going to lose his ground soon enough."


    Just then, Jonathan''s ringtone chimed, and he walked to the side to answer his phone.


    After a minute, he came back and reported to Aidan with a solemn face, "The Pearson Family called.


    They said Mr. Justin wants to see you."


    Aidan''s fingers froze. After a long pause, he answered. "Tell them I''ll go over in the afternoon."


    Jonathan asked for confirmation, "Are you really going to go, President Pearson?"


    "Why not?"


    "Even though Mrs. Pearsonmitted suicide, she caused an undeniable rift between you and Mr.


    Justin with her actions. Please reconsider your decision."


    Aidan merely answered dispassionately, "Well, he can''t possibly set traps all over the house to kill me."


    Jonathan didn''t answer immediately, but he turned to inform the other person on the line about Aidan''s


    answer.


    The ploy that Sienna left behind before her death seemed only to have one end. However, it was like a


    game of chess where one move could lead to many possibilities. If one were not careful, it would be


    checkmate.

 Chapter 591

    Chapter 591


    Chapter 591 Don¡¯t Want to Be Trapped Here Forever


    The Pearson Family Estate had never looked so empty. Due to two whole days of rain, fallen yellow


    leaves filled the entire garden. The ground was wet and muddy, but no one was there to clean it up.


    The Pearson Family Estate was utterly deste, and there wasn''t even a servant in sight.


    Aidan swept his gaze across the area after getting out of the car before finally walking into the


    mansion.


    In the backyard, Justin was seated in a wheelchair as he nkly gazed at the sky in the distance, his


    thoughts unfathomable.


    When he heard the footsteps, he turned his head slightly. "Aidan, you''re here."


    Aidan stood next to him. "Where did the servants go?"


    Justin replied, "Dad is now lying immobile on the bed, and I''m the only one left anyway, so I dismissed


    all of them."


    Aidan pursed his thin lips lightly, remaining silent.


    Justin said, "Oh, right. Things were too hectic back then, so I keep forgetting to ask. Is your wound all


    right now?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    "Yeah."


    "Leanna and¡­ That child. Are they okay too?"


    "Yes, very."


    Justin looked toward the distance once more. "I''m d to hear that."


    After a while, Aidan spoke up. "They told me you''re looking for me."


    Justin nodded slightly as he said softly, "You''ve seen Dad''s condition. I heard that there''s an expert on


    treating such conditions in Vind, so¡­"


    "You want to take him there?"


    "I have to try, at least. It''s better than sitting around like this and doing nothing."


    "I could send someone there to request for the doctor to make a house call."


    Justin fell silent for a moment before saying, "Aidan, I want to go out and see the world. I don''t want to


    be trapped here forever."


    Actually, Aidan understood what he meant. His remarks about taking Gordon to Vind to see a doctor


    was just an excuse. The one who actually wanted to leave was none other than Justin himself.


    Justin continued, "It has been more than 20 years since the ident. Ever since then, I spent most of


    my time here, and the furthest I''ve ever been was the hospital. Yet, when I look up, it''s always the


    same sky that greeted me."


    Aidan asked, "Are you telling me all this because you thought I won''t let you leave?"


    Justin chuckled. "Perhaps. I know that those people outside the Pearson Family Estate are your men,


    and I cannot leave without your permission."


    "They''re not keeping an eye on you, and they won''t stop you from going anywhere either."


    "Aidan, even though we''re not at fault for everything that happened, I have responsibilities to fulfill as a


    child."


    Aidan asked, "When are you nning to leave?"


    "Maybe in two days."


    "I won''t be seeing you off, then. Have a safe journey."


    Justin looked at him, a smile blooming on his face. "I believe we''ll meet again very soon."


    ¡­


    After Aidan left the Pearson Family Estate, Jonathan anxiously asked, "President Pearson, what did


    Young Master Justin say?"


    Aidan massaged his temples as he looked out the window, saying calmly, "He''s thinking of leaving this


    ce."


    "Leaving? Is it because of¡­ Mrs. Pearson?"


    Aidan fell silent.


    No matter what excuses Justin came up with, that was the only reason he was leaving.


    Sienna''s death was just like what she said. After her death, Justin was reduced to being just her son


    instead of Aidan''s brother.


    Justin''s reason for this request might purely be a desire to leave this ce and see the world, or he


    might be looking for an excuse to put more distance between himself and Aidan. Perhaps, under


    Sienna''s influence, he might even think that Aidan might attack him.


    No matter which reason it was, he would be leaving. He could only leave after an incident like that.


    Aidan said, "Dismiss all the men surrounding the Pearson Family Estate."


    Jonathan replied, "Understood."


    Aidan leaned against the back seat, closing his eyes. "Any news from Jamesdon?


    "Not yet. The people we sent there said that L''s movements are difficult to track, and it''s virtually


    impossible to find any credible information."


    "What about Oscar?"


    "Same situation." Jonathan paused briefly before saying, "President Pearson, Jamesdon has always


    been the Woodleys'' territory, and the circumstances are tooplicated. So, it''s probably not that easy


    to carry out an investigation on their home ground."


    Aidan hummed lightly in response before finally parting his lips and saying, "Tell me as soon as you


    receive any news."


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, Leanna was drafting designs in her office when Richard hurried in with a tense expression.


    "Bad news, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna looked up. "What happened?"


    Half an hour earlier, Jessamine went to the police station.


    Reporters were waiting at the entrance of the police station after getting their information from an


    unknown source. As soon as they spotted Jessamine, they crowded around her and started


    interviewing her.


    At first, Jessamine looked around her with a troubled expression. Then, after some persistent


    questioning from the reporters, she let something slip.


    "Crossley Group asked me toe¡­ I don''t know either, I did have a meal with Mr. Onder before,


    but I went home right after the meal¡­ Stop asking. I don''t know what''s going on either."


    Leanna watched Jessamine''s intermittent replies through the video. Her lips were slightly pursed as


    she pondered something.


    Not even in his dreams did Richard expect that Jessamine would push the me on the Crossley


    Group in front of all the reporters at the police station, suddenly turning everything upside down.


    Within two minutes after the interview was released, a business ount posted that everything that


    had happened with Jimmy recently was caused by Leanna, who was manipting things behind the


    scenes. She was supposedly doing all this to oust Jimmy from thepany so that she could have


    complete control over Crossley Group.


    All sorts of controversies followed suit.


    In an instant, Jimmy had turned from a perpetrator into a victim.


    It was as if Jessamine wasn''t the person who suffered such terrible injustice before this. It was as


    though she wasn''t the one wailing and making a fuss about reporting it to the police.


    Richard asked, "Miss McKinney, what should we do now? Shall we respond?"


    Jessamine definitely nned ahead before she went to the police station. Jimmy''s detainment would


    end today, and with such a ruckus, it made Jimmy look like he had been falsely used and was


    forced to bear the me.


    The entire inte was now in an uproar. Due to the pressure of public opinion, if the authorities found


    no other evidence, Jimmy would be released tonight.


    Leanna said, "Don''t worry. Come with me."


    40 minutester, she stood at the entrance of Fessler Advertisements, looking at the locked ss door


    as she asked, "Is this the right ce?"


    Richard nodded. "This is the address filled out in the contract. However, by the looks of it, they


    probably guessed that we woulde, so they have already fled."


    Leanna said, "No, it''s not that they guessed that we''de knocking. Rather, this entire incident is a


    vicious plot to destroy the Crossley Group."


    It was all an act, including Jessamine getting harassed by Jimmy and also Kevin''s persuasive advice at


    Jessamine''s rented ce.


    If she wasn''t mistaken, these people were most probably the ones who told the Pearson Family about


    the little guy''s and Naomi''s whereabouts. They might even be the ones who helped Raymond shake off


    Aidan''s subordinates in the first ce.


    Also, she had previously suspected that Jimmy bailed Raymond out because he had benefited from


    doing so.


    Jimmy found those people and suggested a deal, and those people agreed to help him.


    So, everything that happened today was just as they had nned.


    Those people were targeting Aidan and Leanna from the very beginning.

 Chapter 592

    Chapter 592


    Chapter 592 I¡¯m Used to Such Disadvantages


    Meanwhile, at the police station, Jessamine, the original witness against Jimmy, had changed her


    testimonials and pushed all the me on Crossley Group.


    It was a major case, so the police also contacted Leanna toe over and aid in the investigation.


    When Leanna arrived, Jessamine was sitting on the couch. She held a paper cup with both hands, a


    look of nervousness and fear evident in her eyes.


    Anyone who saw that would think that Leanna had threatened her.


    When Leanna noticed that, she simply smiled. "We meet again, Miss Barnes."


    Jessamine said uneasily, "Miss McKinney, I¡­ I failed toplete what you told me to do¡­ I''m so


    sorry. The me is fully on me. Don''t involve my family in this¡­"


    The reporters hadn''t left since that interview, so they didn''t hesitate to record their entire conversation.


    Leanna said, "Why don''t you rify what it was that I told you to do?"


    "I¡­" Jessamine bit her lip. "I know that I''m in the wrong regarding this incident, but a girl''s innocence


    and reputation are at stake. I didn''t know that you would get so many media outlets and reporters just


    to strengthen the public''s opinion, Miss McKinney. If I really did as you told me to, my life would be


    ruined."


    When Jessamine put it like that, she had spun the entire incident as such:


    She had initially followed Leanna''s instructions by going to the police station to use Jimmy. Still,


    unexpectedly, without informing her, Leanna got the reporters here and tried to make it a big deal so


    that Jimmy would have nowhere to run. Leanna didn''t care how this incident would affect Jessamine,


    so in order to salvage her reputation and protect her rights, Jessamine chose to speak the truth at the


    most crucial moment.


    Leanna sat on the couch opposite Jessamine and drawled, "I truly didn''t realize that you would be so


    good at acting."


    "Yes, I know that I am at fault for everything. Miss McKinney, I won''t deny anything you hurl at me."


    Leanna said, "Miss Barnes, we''re at the police station. You have to take responsibility for your words."


    Jessamine started, "I¡ª"


    Leanna took out her phone and said to the police, "I have a recording here. It''s also my response to


    this entire incident."


    When Jessamine heard that, her expression shifted for a moment.


    The audio file was aplete recording of the conversation between Leanna and Jessamine in the


    rented area.


    It started with Jessamine making a fuss about reporting her being sexually harassed by Jimmy to the


    police. She even said she would contact the reporters to make a huge fuss. Before she could do


    anything, Leanna interjected and said she would help Jessamine by sending Jimmy to jail so that he


    would never make it out this lifetime.


    After the yback ended, even the reporters at the side looked at Jessamine with doubt in their eyes.


    Jessamine was stunned for a moment before stammering, "You purposefully wanted me to say those


    things that night so that you could make use of it now¡­"


    As she spoke, she looked toward the police. "No, it wasn''t like that! She¡­ She was the one who gave


    me the script and insisted on me reading it. She edited this recording!"


    Leanna kept away her phone and continued, "When I went to see her, Mr. Sutton was present as well.


    So, he can testify for me that this recording wasn''t edited at all."


    A female reporter asked tentatively, "Are you referring to Mr. Freddie Sutton, thewyer?"


    Even though Freddie didn''t look very capable, he was a bona fide acewyer and very famous in the


    legal world.


    Jessamine suddenly stood up and shrieked, "Freddie is Crossley Group''s legal advisor. You''re all in


    cahoots! But, of course, he would be on your side!"


    The female reporter retorted, "Mr. Sutton definitely isn''t that sort of person."


    Soon, Freddie was requested to cooperate with the investigation as well.


    When he looked at the situation, he clicked his tongue and produced a recording of his own.


    It recorded their conversation with Kevin in the rented ce, including the phone call Kevin made to


    Jimmy.


    When the yback ended, Jessamine was about to say something when the female reporter spoke up,


    unable to bear it anymore. "I mean, look, we have the evidence right here, so just stop trying to twist


    the truth. Do you think we''re all fools here?"


    Jessamine''s face turned pale as she parted her mouth, but she didn''t bother trying to wriggle her way


    out of this slippery situation.


    The conclusion to this incident was clear.


    After everyone left the police station, the female reporter said to Leanna, "I''m so sorry for


    misunderstanding you before. Don''t worry. I''ll write another article to clear things up. Can I have a copy


    of the recording just now?"


    "Of course."


    After the female reporter copied the recording, she returned the phone to Leanna. Then, she passed


    thetter a name card as well. "My name is Chloe Lambert, and I''m a reporter from Highside Daily. You


    can call me if something happens."


    Leanna reached out and took the name card before replying courteously, "Thank you."


    "It''s nothing. I''m just doing my job." Chloe carried her bag on her shoulders, then waved at Freddie.


    "Bye, Mr. Sutton!"


    Freddie watched her leave, raising an eyebrow as he asked, "Does she know me?"


    Leanna recalled when Chloe spoke up for him just now and smiled. "Who knows? Maybe she''s your


    fan."


    Freddie ran his fingers through his hair and remarked arrogantly, "The truth has been spoken. Guitar


    yers are not the only ones to get fans; handsome people can get fans too."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by his response.


    As they walked away from the police station, Freddie asked, "I recorded the whole thing out of habit


    due to the nature of my job, but how did you think of recording it?"


    "Perhaps because I''m used to such disadvantages."


    In truth, she had sensed that something was amiss about this incident from the very start, including


    Kevin and thatpany.


    That was why she didn''t let her guard down and secretly recorded all her conversations with


    Jessamine. She never thought that it would actuallye in handy one day.


    Freddie said, "Not bad. Before I went to the police station, I regretted not having reminded you to do


    so. I didn''t expect that you would have quite the foresight."


    "When life gives you lemons¡­." Leanna paused in her tracks. "Right, you mentioned the group of


    people who helped Raymond before. Have you found out anything about them?"


    Freddie shook his head. "They''re good at keeping a low profile, so I haven''t found anything as of yet.


    However¡­"


    "What is it?"


    "Aidan has been investigating Jamesdon recently and even sent Oscar there. So, I''m guessing that


    those people might hail from Jamesdon."


    Leanna furrowed her brows in confusion. "Jamesdon?"


    "Everything that happened recently is pointing toward Jamesdon. The chances are quite high."


    Leanna said, "I feel that this incident might also be the work of those people. If they really are from


    Jamesdon, then what are they after?"


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Freddie shrugged. "I wouldn''t know. I only heard from Jonathan that Aidan would go to Jamesdon


    soon. We''ll know when the timees."


    Just then, Richard walked briskly over to them. "Miss McKinney, Maya just called. The child started


    vomiting out of the blue, and he''s already en route to the hospital."


    Leanna was struck dumb for a few seconds before she finally reacted and hastily got into the car.


    When Freddie saw that, he followed suit.


    Once they arrived at the hospital, Leanna found Maya pacing around at the entrance of the emergency


    room. She tried her best to remain calm, but there was no hiding the tremble in her voice, "H-How is


    he?"


    Maya shook her head. "I don''t know¡­ I didn''t feed him anything. There wasn''t anything out of the


    ordinary, but as soon as he woke up from his nap, he started throwing up¡­"

 Chapter 593

    Chapter 593


    Chapter 593 He¡¯ll Be Sicker


    When Aidan reached the hospital, Leanna was squatting next to the wall outside the emergency room.


    She wrapped her arms around her knees and ced her head on her knee as she tried her best to


    hide from reality. He pursed his lips at the sight, so he walked up to her and crouched down on one


    knee, saying, "He''ll be alright."


    When she heard his voice, she raised her head to look up at him with red and swollen eyes.


    He ruffled her hair before pulling her into his arms and gently patting her on the back, trying to soothe


    her.


    Just then, the indicator light above the emergency room turned dim, and the emergency room door


    opened.


    Leanna hurriedly stood up and wiped the tears off her face.


    The doctor came out, saying, "The child''s condition has stabilized now. It was fortunate that he was


    sent here in time."


    Leanna was relieved at those words. However, before she could let out a sigh of relief, the doctor


    continued, "That being said, his condition is a bitplicated. He''s fine for the time being, but¡ª"


    Her smile froze on her face upon hearing that as she parted her lips to say something. In the end, she


    only snapped back to her senses after she felt her eyes brim with tears as she choked out, "But what?"


    Aidan stood next to her with his jaw slightly set.


    The little guy looked so close to lifeless as hey on the bed. His breathing was shallow, and his body


    was covered in rashes. Although he was deeply asleep, they could tell, based on his clenched fists,


    that he couldn''t rest fitfully as the rashes prevented him from doing so.


    The doctor exined, "This is the first time we''ve ever seen something like this. Unfortunately, we don''t


    know the source of his illness, so we could only give him a rather general treatment for now."


    Leanna''s gaze never left her child''s figure as she mumbled, "You mean to say that what happened


    today might happen again?"


    The doctor nodded. "Yes, that''s right. Moreover, he''ll be sicker if the cause of his illness isn''t


    found in time."


    Leanna staggered backward at that terrible news and could feel her knees turning to jelly.


    Aidan instantly wrapped his arm around her shoulders to support her while looking at the doctor. "What


    might''ve caused such an illness?"


    "Well¡­ We need to discuss this with some specialists, but we''ll give you an answer by tomorrow


    morning."


    "Okay."


    "I''ll let you know the instant we''ve arrived at a conclusion. Please keep an eye on the patient tonight


    and let us know immediately if his condition worsens or if he has another attack."


    After the doctor had left, Aidan attentively guided Leanna to the couch slowly. Then, he said, "You stay


    here. I''ll be back in a minute."


    Leanna took the man''s hand and asked in a hoarse voice, "This isn''t an ident, right?" When she


    took the little guy to the hospital for a checkup several days ago, the doctor imed that he was very


    healthy. However, since her boy was born prematurely, he was slower in hitting his growth milestones


    than other healthy children his age. Furthermore, he was prone to some minor ailments. Even so, the


    incident right now shouldn''t have happened, especially not in such a severe case where even the


    doctor didn''t know the source of his illness.


    Aidan murmured softly, "Don''t worry. I''ll do everything in my power to ensure he''ll be alright."


    Leanna closed her eyes as her tears silently rolled down her cheeks.


    He raised his hand and tenderly wiped the tears off her face. "Be good and wait for me here."


    Soon after that, Leanna heard the sound of the door sliding to a close.


    She pushed herself off the couch and sat down next to the little guy''s sickbed. His rashes seemed to be


    itchy as he kept trying to scratch them, even in his sleep.


    Leanna held his little hands and gently rubbed his rashes with her fingertips. The furrow between his


    brows gradually disappeared, and he fell soundly asleep again.


    Just then, the door to the ward was quietly pushed open. Maya asked in a whisper, "May Ie in?"


    Leanna tucked the little guy in before wiping the tears away from her face. "Yeah. Juste in."


    Maya closed the door and walked up to the sickbed. When her eyesid on the rashes all over the little


    guy''s body, she fell silent for a moment before saying, "You may scold me as you please if doing so


    would make you feel better. I promise I won''t even defend myself."


    "Why would I scold you?"


    "I promised you that I''d take good care of him. So, I have to bear responsibility for him bing like


    this."


    Leanna shook her head. "It''s not your fault." She knew full well that based on Maya''s intelligence and


    her firm principles, she would never be the person behind her boy''s illness. Nevertheless, Leanna had


    to admit that she couldn''t figure out how the little guy had picked up such a sickness.


    ¡­


    Jonathan came up to Aidan as soon as he left the ward. "President Pearson."


    Aidan''s face was frosty as he instructed sternly, "Interrogate everyone who''s been to the backyard at


    the Pearson Family Estate back then."


    "Roger that," Jonathan replied before leaving immediately. These people had always been under their


    surveince since Sienna''s death, so it was very easy to look into them.


    Once Freddie saw that, he approached Aidan, asking, "You suspect it was the Pearsons'' doing?" N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Aidan replied coldly, "They wouldn''t have any opportunity to do it except during that period."


    Freddie inhaled deeply before sighing. For a moment, even awyer of his caliber found it hard to find


    the correct words to say. Sienna was already dead, and Gordon was practically close to a vegetable,


    whereas Justin had to spend 20 years confined to a wheelchair. It was as clear as day that the Pearson


    Family was on the verge of crumbling as if a slight touch would cause them to actually fall apart in


    ruins. If this incident really were their doing, the Pearsons would probably vanish in Highside forever.


    After a while, Aidan spoke up, "Do me a favor and check if there are any simr medical cases in the


    country. Let me know the instant you have any solid leads."


    Freddie replied, "Of course."


    Aidan returned to the ward right after that. Just as he ced his hand on the doorknob, he saw Leanna


    leaning against the headboard and gently caressing the little guy''s itching skin with her fingertips. He


    pursed his lips tightly before slowly retracting his hand. Then, he turned around and walked away,


    leaving the mother and son alone for the time being.


    Leanna spent the entire night watching over the little guy until dawn without getting a wink of sleep.


    Aidan made his appearance just after dawn and whispered, "You should sleep for a bit. I''ll keep an eye


    on him."


    Leanna shook her head. How could she fall asleep at this very moment?


    Aidan took her hand in his and coaxed, "The results wille out in a few hours. If you don''t go to


    sleep now, how will you have the strength to deal with things that need your attentionter?"


    "Aren''t you awake like me?"


    "How can youpare with me?" Aidan replied. "Just go to sleep. Whom am I going to take care of if


    you copse? You or him?"


    Only then did Leanna reluctantly stumble to the couch and slump into it without saying a word.


    Although she kept her eyes shut, she didn''t feel the least bit sleepy at all.


    After some time, she could hear the rain pitter-pattering against the window. The sun continued to hide


    behind the clouds while a dense fog loomed over the entire city.


    Leanna didn''t know when she had fallen asleep. But she could remember how vivid her nightmares


    were, as well as the intense emotions that came with them. All of them ran along the lines of her poor


    baby, wailing at the top of his lungs while he was being rushed into the emergency room. She could


    only stand there utterly powerless and unable to do anything. The gut-wrenching feeling was so strong


    that she could hardly breathe.


    "Nana! Nana¡­" Someone kept calling out to her.


    Leanna suddenly awakened with a jolt.


    Zoe was standing in front of her. When she noticed that Leanna was finally awake, she sighed with


    relief, "You''re up atst! Were you having nightmares earlier? I saw you crying the whole time."


    Leanna instinctively touched her face, only to realize that her hand was wet with tears. Nheless,


    she simply wiped her tears with the back of her hand as she turned her gaze toward the sickbed. Yet,


    she didn''t see her child. Instead, she immediately stood up and demanded, "Where''s my baby?"


    "I saw the doctor take him out when I came to visit. Aidan didn''t wake you up, saying that you should


    sleep a while longer."


    Leanna rubbed her throbbing temples while slipping into her shoes. "How long have they been out?"


    Zoe replied, "Just about ten minutes."

 Chapter 594

    Chapter 594


    Chapter 594 Did They Give Him Any Medicine?


    A dozen doctors took turns examining the child in the ward and gathered together to discuss his


    condition fervently. Meanwhile, the child was resting his head on Aidan''s shoulder quietly as he blinked


    his eyes weakly while looking at the doctors.


    A few minutester, the chief physician came over and reported, "Mr. Pearson, we had a meetingst


    night about your son''s case and did some research on the suspected disease ording to the


    symptoms he is exhibiting. As a result, we can confirm that this child''s illness is definitely not congenital


    or caused by any viruses. Instead, there is a high possibility that it was caused by medication


    administered to him. Moreover, this medication has probably been in his body for a long time, which is


    why it is so severe when it finally erupts."


    The doctor continued after seeing Aidan remained silent, "However, the child is exhibiting multiple


    symptoms concurrently, and there are many medications that could have caused any one of these


    symptoms. Not to mention that the number of possible drugs causing the symptoms is countless


    because the child disys numerous symptoms. After our discussion, we need to know exactly what


    medication he has taken that has caused him to be in this state in order to develop a suitable treatment


    n."


    Aidan thought that the most pressing issue was not about ascertaining the medication. So, he asked,


    "Is there a way to alleviate his current symptoms?"


    The doctor replied, "We are still conducting further tests regarding the rash on his body. Until then, we


    advise against using any medications to avoid aggravating the situation. Someone needs to watch him


    at all times to prevent him from scratching himself."


    Aidan nodded. "I understand."


    The doctor continued, "We will keep looking for a solution on this matter. I promise we wille up with


    an effective treatment n to ensure that the child can receive immediate care the next time he has an


    episode."


    "Thank you."


    Aidan opened the door after the doctors all left, only to see Leanna standing at the door as still as a


    statue with a pale face. Although he was not surprised to see her there, he paused momentarily before


    asking, "Did you hear everything?"


    She nodded lightly and stretched out her arms, saying, "Give him to me." He handed the child to her,


    and the child made a few ufortable grunts in protest during the transfer. Still, once he was in his


    mom''s arms, he closed his bleary eyes.


    Leanna looked at her child and asked without looking up, "Can he drink milk?"


    "He can, but there''s a chance he''ll throw up."


    "I''ll try," she murmured and returned to the ward.


    Aidan watched them enter the ward and stood there for a few seconds before leaving the hospital.


    Zoe was already waiting in the ward when Leanna and Aidan were talking outside. She brought some


    stuff for Leanna and her child. She was at the hospital for her prenatal examination when the child fell


    illst night. So, she only heard about the incident from Maya after returning home. She tried calling


    Leanna several times but to no avail. Finally, Daniel said that Leanna might be too busy to answer calls


    at that moment and advised Zoe to visit them this morning.


    So, when she saw Leanna carrying her child in her arms, she rose to her feet immediately. "Nana, how


    is he?"


    Leanna shook her head in despair. "Zoe, can you help me boil some water? He hasn''t eaten anything


    sincest night."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Zoe nodded. "Of course! Wait a minute. I''ll set things up."


    Zoe poured the boiling water into a feeding bottle before immersing the bottle in a basin of cold water to


    cool the temperature down quickly. When the water temperature was just about right, she brought over


    the bottle to Leanna and asked in a low voice, "How much milk powder should I put, Nana?"


    "Let''s start with one scoop. I don''t know if he''ll be able to drink it. We can make more if he does,"


    Leanna answered quietly.


    "Okay."


    Zoe mixed the milk powder into the bottle and shook it vigorously before handing it to Leanna. She


    watched the child start to drink from the bottle and whispered, "What happened yesterday? Maya said


    he was throwing up a lot. Did she feed him the wrong thing?"


    "No, it was not her fault."


    "Then, whose fault is it?"


    Leanna nced at her child and slowly enunciated, "I don''t know either. The doctors said his symptoms


    are caused by medication."


    "But he''s a healthy child and doesn''t take any medication!" As Zoe eximed, she suddenly realized


    that she had missed out on the most obvious thing. "Is it something to do with the Pearsons?"


    Leanna lowered her head. "Probably."


    Zoe suddenly had the urge to curse at someone; she knew the Pearsons were behind this!


    Meanwhile, the child had only drunk half of the milk before pushing the bottle away and burying his


    head in Leanna''s arms, and falling asleep. So, she ced the bottle aside but was nheless


    relieved that he finally ate something and didn''t have a bad reaction to it.


    Not long after, Maya also arrived and felt terrible that the child had to endure such a thing. So, she told


    Leanna, "I''ll stay here and take care of him. Go do your own thing. Don''t worry, this time I''ll take good


    care of him. I''ll call the doctor immediately if he feels ufortable."


    However, Leanna did not want to leave his side and refused Maya''s kindness. "It''s alright. You can go


    home. I want to stay here with him for the next few days."


    Maya, being someone who did not know when to back down when she should have, sat down next to


    Leanna. She would not take ''no'' for an answer. "I''m the kind of person who keeps the end of my


    bargain. I will see through it no matter what it takes. I said I would help you take care of the child, and I


    will do it."


    Zoe could not stand Maya digging her own grave as she interjected, "Stop it. Don''t you realize that


    Leanna is doing just fine on her own?"


    "I''m just¡ª" s, before Maya could finish her sentence, Zoe had already dragged her out of the room.


    Finally, the ward became silent once more. Leanna gently ced her child on the bed, leaned against


    the bedside as she closed her eyes, and let out a weary sigh.


    ¡­


    At the same time, Jonathan was reporting to Aidan outside the hospital, "Mr. Pearson, we have


    thoroughly investigated anyone who made contact with the young master while he was with the


    Pearsons. The two nannies stayed by the young master''s side the entire time, and I believe no one


    else had the opportunity to harm him. As for the nannies, I also looked into their backgrounds and


    families, and I can confirm that they told the truth. So, could it be that the Pearsons had nothing to do


    with this?"


    Meanwhile, Aidan already had a thought in mind as he was certain that the Pearsons were far from


    innocent. Hence, he ordered, "Never mind that for now. Go and check all the medications and medical


    supplies that the Pearsons had their hands on. Make a detailed list for me."


    Jonathan nodded. "Got it. I''ll do it right away."


    Aidan was just about to leave when he suddenly remembered something important. "Wait, have you


    arranged everything for Justin''s departure?"


    "Yes, he will be leaving tomorrow afternoon."


    "I believe Sienna will not give up that easily. She''ll leave some people to keep an eye on Justin, and


    these people will appear once hends, whether the aim is to protect him or to do something else.


    Have someone secretly follow them and find out their identities."


    "Got it."


    Aidan called Naomi after Jonathan left to ask her about her experience when she was with the


    Pearsons.


    Naomi tried her best to recall what had happened as she replied, "Well, they took the child away the


    moment I arrived. I didn''t see him until the next day, and I didn''t leave his side until the night you


    came."


    He continued asking, "Did they give him any medicine?"


    She replied, "The child had a slight cold at the time, but I checked the medicine, and there was no


    problem." She sensed something was off and asked, "Is something wrong? Has something happened


    to the child?"


    "There is indeed an issue, but we haven''t figured out the cause yet."


    She gave it a long hard thought about the entire ordeal, and she finally struck gold after a while. So,


    she spoke hesitantly, "I remember I checked the medicine multiple times. So, it should not be a


    problem¡­ Oh wait, the doctor gave the child a shot of nutrient solution."


    "A nutrient solution?"

 Chapter 595

    Chapter 595


    Chapter 595 Everything Was So Absurd


    Since the little guy was not born with a healthy body, he had to receive nutrient injections every now


    and then. Therefore, Naomi didn''t suspect anything when the doctor from the Pearsons gave him a


    nutrient injection when the little guy fell ill.


    Even after the child recovered from the cold, there were no abnormal symptoms.


    Moreover, it was obvious that the Pearsons intended to take the child back, and given that the doctor


    was affiliated with Gordon, Naomi never thought that the doctor would harm the child.


    After hanging up the phone, Aidan appeared slightly gloomy as he looked at the subordinate next to


    him and ordered in a cold voice, "Bring the doctor to me."


    His subordinate responded with an acknowledgment and left.


    Half an hourter, the doctor was brought to Aidan.


    However, he had no idea about the child''s illnesses and the nutrient injection.


    "The child was gravely ill at that time, and his body was too weak. After asking Old Master Pearson for


    permission to give him the nutrient injection, only then did I¡ª"


    "Name of the medicine?"


    The doctor mentioned the names of several types of medicine. These were all themon medicines


    that would be used for the boy''s nutrient injections in the past.


    Aidan pursed his lips and did not speak. Is the cause of the problem not the nutrient injection?


    The doctor thought for a moment and continued again, "Oh, by the way, a servant came to me when I


    entered Pearson Family Estate that day, asking me to go and take a look at Mrs. Pearson because she


    wasn''t feeling well."


    Aidan''s eyes suddenly turned cold. "Do you mean Sienna?"


    "Yes. Mrs. Pearson only had a slight cold; there was nothing serious about it. I went right to the


    backyard once I left her ce."


    At that, Aidan lifted his gaze and looked at the doctor, who paused and instinctively lowered his head to


    avoid making eye contact.


    Withdrawing his gaze, Aidan walked forward with long strides and announced, "Pearson Family Estate,


    now."


    After Aidan got into the car, the doctor breathed a sigh of relief as he watched the ck sedan drive


    away. He didn''t know anything. Before he came here, someone had instructed him to say as told by


    threatening him with his family''s safety.


    Just as the doctor walked to the intersection and was about to cross the street, a car rushed toward


    him and hit him before mming into the guardrail.


    The doctor and the driver both died on the spot.


    ¡­


    After getting out of the car, Aidan headed straight to Sienna''s room at Pearson Family Estate.


    Justin rushed over upon hearing the news, but he was stopped outside and had no idea what was


    happening.


    Everything in Sienna''s room had not been touched by anyone for a long time. Hence, it was covered


    with a thinyer of dust.


    Aidan searched every possible ce and threw everything he found onto the ground.


    In an instant, the room was in a mess.


    Then, he found Sienna''s jewelry box in the drawer. Under a pile of jewelry, there was a small ss


    bottle with abel that read ''Jamesdon Pharmaceutical.''


    Aidan''s face grew cold as he clenched his fist slowly and squeezed the ss bottle in his hand.


    Hearing the rustling noiseing from inside, Justin frowned. After Aidan came out, Justin asked,


    "What happened?"


    "Just looking for something."


    Justin looked inside the room behind Aidan and hesitated for a few seconds before asking, "Are you¡ª"


    However, Aidan cut him off and added, "I have something else to do."


    Then, he strode off.


    The people who had blocked Aidan outside the door also followed him downstairs.


    Once again, the big house became quiet.


    Justin operated his wheelchair and entered Sienna''s bedroom.


    Sienna''s belongings were scattered on the ground.


    Bending down, he picked up a photo frame from the ground and swiped his hand to remove the broken


    ss on top. His gaze was downcast, and it was unclear what he was thinking.


    After a while, he ced the photo frame on hisp and left the room before going to Gordon''s room.


    The room was dimly lit, and the surroundings were gloomy without a ray of sunshineing in.


    Justin pressed the switch on the wall and approached the bed, looking at the person who could only


    move his two eyes. "Aidan just came by."


    Gordon stared as intently as he could and looked like he wanted to say something, but his eyelids only


    twitched a few times.


    Justin pulled up the nket for him and nonchntly said, "Don''t worry. Since you''re already in this


    state, he won''t do anything to you anymore. The day you''re worried about will nevere."


    There was no response.


    He continued, "In fact, I''ve always wondered why you insisted on bringing Aidan back after my car


    ident. Did you really think that I would copse because of the ident? During that time, I kept


    adjusting my mindset and telling myself that losing two legs was nothing as long as I''m still alive.


    Everything won''t be a big deal at all. Later on, I realized that what you cared about was only the


    reputation of the Pearsons. I brought you shame. A wheelchair-bound person has no right to be


    the heir of the Pearsons. I know that I can''t me you for anything. You only made the most correct


    and advantageous choice from your position. I never hated Aidan either. I know that he didn''t willingly


    come back. Not just me, but probably a lot of people are unaware of the reason behind your actions,


    your control over and fear of him."


    At these words, Gordon''s eyes trembled as his pupils dted.


    Justin''s lips weakly curved into a faint smile. "It wasn''t until I found out the reason that I realized how


    absurd and ridiculous everything was."


    ¡­


    After returning to the hospital, Aidan handed the medicine bottle to a doctor. Several experts studied it


    together for a while and searched for a lot of information, after which they discovered a problem.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    "Mr. Pearson, this nutritional supplement from the pharmaceuticalpany has never been sold on the


    market. It means that it has not been approved by the medical bureau and may have potential risks."


    Aidan questioned, "Could my child''s current condition be caused by the injection of this nutritional


    supplement?"


    The attending doctor nodded and replied, "If it is confirmed that the nutritional supplement was injected,


    it is highly possible. I will send the medicine bottle forb testing, and we should be able to determine


    the ingredients used. However, it may take some time."


    "Okay. I''ll go to Jamesdon and see what''s going on there," Aidan said.


    "That would be best. If we can contact them, it will definitely be much faster than making progress


    without any direction, but only if they acknowledge the presence of such a serious hidden drug hazard


    in the supplement. They''re most likely not going toply¡­"


    Aidan sneered. "We''ll find out."


    After leaving the doctor''s office, Aidan went to the ward.


    The little guy was awake now, but he was not as energetic as usual. Even his favorite toy was merely


    held in his hand without any strength or interest.


    Leanna sat beside him with a forced smile, and her eyes were still red. In just one night, she had


    already lost so much weight.


    Aidan stood outside for a few minutes before pushing the door open and entering.

 Chapter 596

    Chapter 596


    Chapter 596 Wait for Me to Come Back


    When she heard the sounding from the door, Leanna looked over.


    Aidan walked to her side and asked, "Has he eaten anything?"


    "A little bit," she replied. "I consulted the doctor just now and was told that if he doesn''t eat much at


    noon, he will need an IV."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    After a few seconds, Aidan spoke up. "I''m going to Jamesdon this afternoon. I don''t know when I''ll be


    back."


    As soon as she heard the word ''Jamesdon,'' Leanna was taken aback and recalled what Freddie told


    her yesterday. All these recent events might have been caused by the people in Jamesdon.


    Aidan chose to go there at this time. Does it mean¡­


    "Is the child''s illness rted to the people in Jamesdon?" she asked.


    Aidan nodded. He had been investigating the forces behind Sienna, and now it seemed highly likely


    that it was the Woodleys.


    "I''ll have Keaton protect you while I''m away. As for the Crossleys, Jimmy and Raymond are already in


    prison. The biggest threat is gone. I''ll send Xavier to temporarily handle everything for you, and Freddie


    will be around too. You should stay in the hospital and don''t go anywhere," he exined.


    Leanna looked at the little guy tucked in bed and softly replied, "Got it." Her voice had no discernible


    emotion.


    Seeing Leanna''s expression, Aidan pulled her into his arms and whispered, "It''s going to be alright.


    Wait for me toe back."


    "Please be careful."


    Aidan smiled and let her go. While no one was looking, he quickly kissed her on the lips before turning


    and striding away.


    Leanna was renderedpletely dumbfounded.


    Turning her head, she saw the little guy sitting on the bed and looking at her with curiosity. He seemed


    to be energized and was waving his toy around while giggling.


    She couldn''t help but smile as she reached out to pinch his tiny nose.


    After a while, Zoe came back and asked, "Nana, I saw Mr. Pearson leaving with a murderous look on


    his face. Where is he heading to?"


    "Jamesdon," Leanna replied.


    Zoe was puzzled. "For?"


    "The situation is a bitplicated. I don''t know how to exin it. Umm¡­ The child''s illness probably


    has something to do with the people in Jamesdon."


    "What? Jamesdon is so far away from Highside. Who the hell would do something like this to a little


    child?" Zoe eximed in shock.


    Leanna pursed her lips, and her voice carried a hint of coldness. "It''s likely rted to Sienna."


    She should have known that things wouldn''t end with Sienna''s death. Otherwise, Sienna wouldn''t have


    killed herself so easily back then.


    Zoe cursed passionately for a while before asking again, "What should we do now? When will Aidan


    come back? Will his return guarantee a cure for the little guy''s illness?"


    However, Leanna only shook her head and replied, "I have no idea. Let''s just wait for now."


    At the moment, there was nothing else they could do but wait.


    Looking at the cute boy, Zoe sighed. "Speaking of which, I probably understand why Aidan acted that


    way after seeing you today."


    "What do you mean?" Leanna was taken aback.


    "He hid the truth from you when the little guy was just born," Zoe said. "Haven''t you looked in the


    mirror? Your eyes have been red and swollen all day. When I came in just now and saw you


    experiencing a nightmare, I was almost scared to death."


    Upon hearing that, Leanna hung her head and remained silent.


    When her son was born, the situation was probably worse than it was now.


    She had heard from Louis that her son was often rushed to the emergency room for treatment.


    And he was so tiny back then.


    Closing her eyes, Leanna felt her nose tingling.


    Seeing her friend''s reaction, Zoe immediately changed the topic. "By the way, I haven''t heard you


    mention the little guy''s name yet. What is his name?"


    Leanna opened her eyes. After a moment of silence, she answered, "Noah."


    This name was given to the little guy when she was in Highside.


    With the name given, she hoped that he could grow up to be healthy and safe.


    Unfortunately, things went contrary to her wishes.


    Zoe repeated the name andplimented, "Noah. Noah Pearson. It''s a nice name."


    Leanna remained silent. Whatever it is.


    After a few minutes, the door of the room was pushed open.


    It was Daniel who hade.


    "Miss McKinney, I''ve heard about everything that''s happened these past few days. Is there anything I


    can help with?" Daniel asked.


    Leanna pursed her lips. "Can you find any information rted to Jamesdon?"


    "Who? Do you mean L Woodley of Jamesdon?" Daniel asked.


    Having no clue who the person was, Leanna inquired further, "Who is he?"


    Daniel sat down next to Zoe. "L Woodley is the current head of the Woodleys in Jamesdon.


    Everyone is respectful toward him. I haven''t met him before, but I heard that he''s quite ruthless. He


    eats human flesh, drinks human blood, and gnaws on human bones."


    At once, Leanna and Zoe''s eyes widened.


    Both of them instantly pictured a monstrous creature with a green face and sharp teeth sitting at a


    gloomy dining table while tearing a bloody bone.


    Shuddered, Zoe forced a dryugh and asked, "Is¡­ he really that terrifying?"


    "It''s just a rumor. Anyway, he is not someone you wanna mess with." Daniel paused and asked again,


    "By the way, why are you suddenly asking about this?"


    "The Pearsons¡­ or more precisely, Sienna, most probably has some connection with Jamesdon.


    People from Jamesdon are likely responsible for all the recent events, including the little guy''s illness,"


    Leanna exined.


    At that, Daniel frowned. "Are you sure?"


    Leanna nodded lightly. "Aidan is heading to Jamesdon. No matter to what extent they have done


    things, there is no doubt that they''re involved."


    "But from what I know, the people from the Woodleys never step out of Jamesdon or show any interest


    in anything unrted to Jamesdon. If what you said is true, then why did theye all the way to


    Highside and cause so much trouble?" Daniel asked.


    "Didn''t Nana mention that they have some connection with Sienna? They most likely engaged in illicit


    activities together. Sienna has never liked Aidan. She even¡­ Anyway, I don''t think anyone who deals


    with Siena is a good person. They must have some ulterior motives," Zoe stated.


    Leanna thought for a moment before asking, "Could it be that the Woodleys want to expand their


    influence and have set their target on the Pearsons to rece them?"


    "That''s the only reasonable exnation. Unless they want to eliminate the Pearsons and expand their


    power to Highside, L wouldn''t want to offend Aidan, particrly not at this time," Daniel added.


    "What do you mean?" Leanna was puzzled.


    "The former head of the Woodleys passed away not long ago, and L is having trouble keeping


    his position," Daniel exined further.


    Zoe asked curiously, "Why?"

 Chapter 597

    Chapter 597


    Chapter 597 The Show Finally Begins


    In the car, Aidan sent a photo of a medicine bottle with "Jamesdon Pharmaceutical" printed on it to


    Oscar.


    Before long, Oscar called him and asked, "What is this?"


    "I found it in Sienna''s room," Aidan exined.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "It can''t be. Why would Sienna have this?" Oscar inquired.


    Aidan leaned in the back seat and tly replied, "How am I supposed to know?"


    Oscar took a second before he rified, "What I mean is, it doesn''t make any sense that this would


    appear in Sienna''s possession."


    "Where do you expect it to appear?" Aidan questioned.


    Oscar was at a loss for words for a moment. He stuttered for a while before saying, "What was


    originally in this bottle? I''ll head to the pharmaceutical factory and see for myself."


    Aidan replied, "It''s nothing. It is just an empty bottle that was found."


    Oscar was left perplexed. Why is he making such a big deal out of an empty bottle? He needs to calm


    down.


    "Alright then¡­ I have to go," Aidan said as he ended the call.


    After that, he closed his eyes and calmly gave out an order, "Send the photo to our people in


    Jamesdon and have them investigate the pharmaceutical factory."


    Jonathan hesitated before saying, "President Pearson, what about President Woodley?"


    "He has close connections in Jamesdon. We won''t find any useful information if we have him


    investigate it." Aidan cleared Jonathan''s doubt.


    Jonathan fell silent. It seems that President Pearson no longer trusts Oscar since the incident in


    Jamesdon.


    If the young master''s illness is really rted to Jamesdon¡­ Then, things could turn out really ugly.


    Half an hourter, Aidan boarded a private ne and headed to Jamesdon.


    John watched the ne slowly taking off in a ck sedan in the distance. He tapped on his knee with


    his fingers and had a smile on his face.


    Kevin closed the car window. "He''s gone, Mr. Watson."


    "Finally... The show has finally begun after all the efforts." John smirked.


    "But I have a feeling this may not go as smoothly as we imagine. After all, L is not an easy


    person to deal with. Surely he won''t take the loss just like that."


    "Of course, he won''t. We never expected that Aidan wouldpete with him and end up being injured


    either. Leading him to Jamesdon is just to make sure that he knows the truth of what happened back


    then."


    "Surely it''s toote even if he knows the truth now? He won''t give up on Pearson Group, or will he?"


    John only raised his eyebrows. "Who knows? Aidan is a wildcard who does things that are hard to


    fathom. You can never figure out what he''s thinking."


    "I''m curious to see what he''ll do once he knows the truth," Kevinmented.


    John stretchedzily and added, "Enough of that. Aidan''s guy has been watching us closely recently.


    Let''s leave the country and lie low for now."


    ...


    In the hospital, the little guy had a bad fever at night. Fortunately, it wasn''t bad enough to make him


    vomit, and the treatment was timely. He fell asleep in Leanna''s arms after a short while.


    Zoe couldn''t help but feel sorry for Leanna when she saw her in such a state. "You''ve been taking care


    of him all day, Nana. Why don''t I take over so you can rest for a while?"


    Leanna shook her head. "It''s okay. I can''t sleep anyway. It''s gettingte, so you should go home."


    "I''m too worried to leave him like this. I''ll stay here with you."


    "Okay, you can sleep on the couch if you get tired," Leanna suggested.


    Daniel went away to help her investigate Sienna and her contact in Jamesdon, but he still had yet to


    return.


    Zoe yawned before agreeing, "Okay, I''ll take a quick nap. Call me when you want to sleep."


    "Alright." Leanna paused for a moment, and added, "You haven''t told Louis about this, have you?"


    "Not yet."


    "He''s about to take his final exams, so don''t tell him for now. It will distract him. Just leave this to me."


    Zoe nodded. "Don''t worry, I understand."


    The ward became quiet after Zoe fell asleep on the couch.


    Leanna gently patted the red rashes on the little guy''s body as she swiped on her phone.


    It had been twelve hours since Aidan left.


    He should have arrived in Jamesdon by now. She wondered how things were going over there.


    Then, she sighed before putting down her phone and looking out the window.


    It had been raining for several days as it was the rainy season recently. However, the silver lining was


    that the weather remained cool. The little guy would have probably found it even harder to bear if it was


    the hot summer season.


    Leanna got up, took a nket, and covered Zoe with it before sitting down again next to the little guy.


    She was wide awake throughout the night.


    The next morning, the rain caused a dy in the arrival of dawn.


    Leanna went to the bathroom and washed her face with cold water to freshen herself up when the


    nurse came to measure the little guy''s temperature.


    She saw Freddie with red eyes walking towards her as soon as she came out of the bathroom.


    What happened? She instinctively took a couple of steps back.


    He demanded with a hoarse voice as he was unable to conceal his excitement, "Where is Aidan?"


    "He went to Jamesdon," Leanna answered.


    Freddie was surprised. "Jamesdon? When?"


    "Sometime during the afternoon yesterday." Then, Leanna looked him up and down. Messy hair. Red-


    rimmed eyes with noticeable dark circles. Stubble. "What''s going on with you?"


    He realized that his appearance was less than presentable from Leanna''s unusual expression. He


    rubbed his eyes and yawned. "I haven''t slept in two days. I just discovered something and I


    immediately rushed over to tell you guys."


    "What do you have for us?" she asked.


    Freddie quickly pulled out a piece of newspaper from his pocket. "This is Jamesdon news from two


    years ago. It says that a five-month-old baby had the same symptoms as your son. Vomiting for an


    unknown cause, bad fever, and red rashes all over the body..."


    Leanna quickly grabbed the newspaper upon hearing this.


    Freddie continued, "Although there isn''t much detail on it, this is the best lead I could find. I believe


    since what happened recently in Jamesdon and Highside are closely rted, it''s possible that this has


    something to do with them."


    She quickly asked after reading the newspaper, "Do you know what happened to the child in the end?"


    "I inquired and contacted the editor-in-chief of this newspaper through a friend. ording to him, the


    child was treated in a medical institution somewhere in Jamesdon. He didn''t know the specifics, but he


    was certain that the child is still alive."


    Leanna slowly tightened her grip on the newspaper and murmured, "Jamesdon."


    Freddie rubbed his eyes as he continued, "Now that Aidan has already gone to Jamesdon. I''m sure as


    long as we tell him about this and have him find out which medical institution it is, the rest should be


    easy."


    Leanna turned around and looked at the little guy sleeping on the hospital bed. Her lips were slightly


    pursed.

 Chapter 598

    Chapter 598


    Chapter 598 Taking A Risk That He¡¯s Right


    At noon, the doctor came to examine the little guy. The fever had subsided, but there was still no way


    to treat the rash.


    "How are the test results?" Leanna asked.


    The doctor only shook his head, saying, "It''s being handled urgently, but it may take some time


    because the situation isplicated."


    Leanna looked at the little guy on the bed who had lost a lot of weight, and she said with a soft tone,


    "He won''t be able to take much more if it keeps going like this."


    "I just gave him a nutrition injection. Hopefully, he can hold on for a while longer," the doctor replied.


    She opened her mouth for a second as she was trying to say something, but she was at a loss for


    words.


    Even the doctor had used the word "hopefully" at such a juncture...


    Then, the doctor added, "Observe him a little longer and keep me informed of any developments."


    "Thank you," Leanna replied.


    She sat by the bed and looked at the little guy after the doctor left. If she had to be honest, she didn''t


    even know what to think in that situation.


    Then, Zoe came over and patted her on the shoulder. "Don''t worry, Nana. He will get better."


    In the evening, Leanna asked Zoe to go home and she stayed with the little guy all by herself.


    Freddie came again not long after Zoe had left. He had taken a shower, shaved, and changed his


    clothes.


    "Has Aidan contacted you?" he asked.


    "No. I called him, but his phone was switched off."


    Freddie frowned. "I can''t get in touch with him either. Could something have happened to him?"


    It wasn''t just Aidan, but they had lost contact with Oscar as well.


    No one knew the situation over in Jamesdon at that point.


    At that moment, they heard there was amotion downstairs in the hospital.


    "I''ll go and take a look." Freddie volunteered.


    Meanwhile, Leanna listened to the noise outside as she hugged the little guy closely in her arms.


    Two minutester, another doctor wearing a mask came in to measure the baby''s body temperature.


    However, Leanna took a step back as soon as he took out the thermometer. She looked at him warily.


    "I haven''t seen you before."


    It was always the same doctor who came and examined the little guy. Besides, even the two nurses


    who measured his body temperature were always the same these past days.


    Then, the doctor took off his mask and revealed his handsome face. "It''s an honor to finally meet you in


    person," he greeted.


    Leanna frowned and asked, "Who are you?"


    The doctor smiled as he put the mask in the pocket of his white coat. "It doesn''t matter who I am, but I


    would like to invite you to a certain ce with me."


    She pursed her lips and asked, "Are you from Sienna''s side?"


    "No, I don''t know any Sienna."


    "What do you want?"


    He stepped forward. "Sorry."


    Outside the hospital room, Freddie could feel his blood boiling as he said to the person on the other


    end of the phone, "Are you freaking serious? You will atone for your sins with death if Aidan finds out


    that I helped you kidnap them right under his nose."


    Yet, Oscar replied in a rush, "I don''t have time to exin everything to you now. Didn''t you find out


    about the information? There''s a cure in Jamesdon. We have to try it."


    "Okay, tell them to hurry up. I can''t stall this much longer, or Keaton is gonna show up and beat me up."


    Leanna and the little guy were brought out from inside the ward as soon as Freddie finished speaking.


    The doctor smiled at Freddie when their gazes met, but Freddie remained silent.


    He only looked away silently.


    The doctor warned as soon as he heard the sound in the hallway, "They are here. Let''s go."


    Freddie watched their backs as perspirations popped out on him profusely. He wouldn''t do this if it


    weren''t for his years of friendship with Oscar and knowing that Oscar would never harm Aidan. He


    would close his eyes and cooperate even if he was forced to do so with a knife to his neck today.


    He didn''t know if this was the right choice.


    Everything would be over if Oscar betrayed Aidan. There was a chance that Oscar had been


    approaching Aidan from Jamesdon with a purpose all along.


    So, the only n now was to take a gamble on him.


    Freddie could only hope that he didn''t misjudge Oscar.


    ...


    Leanna had no idea how long she had fallen asleep after she woke up. Her vision was blurry, but she


    sat up as soon as she came to her senses, and she started looking for her child.


    She realized that the little guy was sleeping peacefully by her side after she sat upright.


    Furthermore, the rashes on his body had considerably faded.


    It seemed the worst had passed now that the little guy was able to sleep so soundly.


    Leanna tried to get up, but she felt weak and her temples were throbbing as soon as she recalled the


    doctor whom she had seen in the hospital room earlier.


    Just then, the door was opened, and the said person came in. "You''re awake. How did you sleep?" he


    asked.


    Leanna quickly shielded the little guy behind her and asked, "Where are you taking us?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    The doctor removed the nearby partition and leisurely replied, "Jamesdon."


    She looked at him with her eyebrows furrowed tightly.


    He turned around and reassured her, "Don''t worry. I won''t harm either of you. It''s just that the medical


    team and all the equipment and medication are over there. I have no choice but to take you there."


    Leanna remembered the piece of newspaper that Freddie gave her, and she asked, "Do you know how


    he got sick?"


    "I do," the doctor replied.


    She suddenly had a glimmer of hope upon hearing that and she asked, "Can¡­ Can you cure him?"


    The doctor sat on the couch and poured a ss of water for himself as he answered, "I don''t want to


    break your heart, nor do I want to make false promises."


    Leanna was silent.


    Can''t he speak without sounding like a yboy?


    The doctor continued, "His illness was caused by the nutrient injection, which resulted in adverse


    reactions. We have only encountered one such case so far, and the child can be considered lucky to


    have not suffered more. He has recovered well in the past two years after the treatment.


    However, adverse reactions caused by nutrient injection vary from person to person. Therefore, the


    method of treatment should only be made based on the individual''s situation. How smoothly one


    recovers also depend on his physical condition."


    Leanna was still confused. "But the rashes on his body have disappeared..."


    "That''s because I gave him a shot to temporarily relieve the symptoms. It''s not a permanent solution,


    but it should at least make him sleep morefortably."


    "Are you a doctor?"


    "Why? Do I look too young, too handsome, and too capable to be a doctor?"


    Leanna faked a smile. "So, what''s wrong with the nutrient injection? If something is wrong with it, why


    was it still being..."


    "Well, that''s a bitplicated. The nutrient injections were destroyed two years ago when


    complications were found. I don''t know how they have made their way to Highside, and¡ª"


    "Do you really not know Sienna?" Leanna interrupted.


    "To be honest, I have never been to Highside throughout my life."


    "Have you had any contact with the Pearson Family?"


    "Why would I? I''m quite fond of preserving my own life."


    Leanna didn''t speak again, after which she turned to look at the sleeping boy.


    At least there is still a glimmer of hope.


    Then, the doctor stood up. "We still have two hours before we arrive in Jamesdon. You can rest for a


    while."

 Chapter 599

    Chapter 599


    Chapter 599 I Won¡¯t Marry Him


    Meanwhile, in Jamesdon, Aidan stood emotionless by the window and gazed at the distant river scene.


    He had been here for two days, yet L never showed up.


    Jonathan came in and said, "President Pearson, I''ve received word that L will attend a banquet


    tonight. Your invitation will be delivered shortly."


    Aidan made a nod of acknowledgment. "Still no word from Oscar?"


    Jonathan shook his head. Since their arrival in Jamesdon, they had lost contact with Oscar.


    He answered, "I''ve sent someone to search for him. There should be some news soon."


    Aidan''s tone was faint. "There''s no need to search anymore."


    Everything that had happened up to this point had indicated that something was amiss.


    Jonathan nodded. "I''ll get your clothes ready for tonight''s banquet."


    Aidan averted his gaze and took out his phone, only to discover that the battery had gone out some


    time ago. He turned around and went to charge his phone. Once he turned on the phone, he


    discovered Leanna had called him several times.


    He returned the call, but her phone was off, which caused him to frown.


    At this moment, Jonathan pushed open the door in a hurry. "President Pearson, Keaton called just now


    and informed me that Madam and the young master had been abducted."


    Aidan''s expression became serious as his long fingers clenched his phone. "Who did it?"


    "It shouldn''t be Mrs. Pearson''s people." Jonathan hesitated before continuing, "Besides, Keaton stated


    that Freddie was the one who sent her people away. Moreover, President Woodley''s men temporarily


    held them up."


    Keaton didn''t suspect Oscar''s people at all, and it wasn''t until Leanna went missing that he realized


    there was a problem.


    Aidan pursued his thin lips slightly while his frigid features were shrouded in ayer of chill.


    After a while, his thin lips raised slightly to spit out the name coldly. "Oscar."


    Jonathan tentatively asked, "Are we still going to the banquet or back to Highside?"


    "We''re attending the banquet." Aidan ced his phone down and replied with a cold tone. "How else


    will we know what they''re up to if we don''t show up?"


    8.00PM.


    As thete Old Mr. Kian Woodley''s favorite junior, Charlotte Woodley''s twentieth birthday celebration


    was unprecedented and magnificent. Not only were celebrities from all areas of life invited to the


    banquet, but media reporters were also invited to assemble at the entrance.


    The birthday banquet''s entrance wasparable to a celebrity red carpet.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    The area outside the event hall was morous as camera lights shed non-stop.


    Just as the reporters were busy snapping photos, they suddenly noticed an unfamiliar figure emerge


    from a ck Maybach.


    The crowd started murmuring, "Who is this guy? Why haven''t I seen him before?"


    "I''m not sure. From the looks of it, he doesn''t appear to be from Jamesdon, does he?"


    "Hey, wait a minute. Is he from the Pearson Group?"


    "The Pearson Group? You mean the Pearson Group from Highside? Why is he here?"


    "That''s unbelievable! Miss Woodley must be really influential. The Pearson Group''s president came


    from Highside to personally attend her birthday banquet."


    "You don''t understand. Miss Woodley is the princess of Jamesdon. Apart from Mr. Pearson, the other


    guests at her birthday party are also quite influential. Besides, what''s the big deal with the Pearson


    Group? The Woodleys might not even take the Pearson Group seriously."


    "Come on, man, that''s a bit much. Since he took over the Pearson Group, he has been known for his


    swift and decisive actions. He is not only prominent nationally but also in all of the continent."


    "Hmph, that''s because the Woodley Family keeps a low profile. Don''t you remember the rumors? The


    Woodleys can''t leave Jamesdon. Otherwise, no one else will be able topete with them if they ever


    expand."


    "Sorry to interrupt, but are you talking about President Pearson, who went viral a while ago by publicly


    ying guitar and confessing his love?"


    The crowd went silent.


    Now that someone mentioned it, they found it hard to link Aidan, someone with such an aloof


    demeanor, with the man doing those lovey-dovey things in the video.


    After Aidan entered the birthday banquet, the journalists went quiet.


    Aidan turned his head to look at Jonathan, who took half a step back.


    Jonathan felt a chill run down his spine. He was in a hurry and only managed to find out that L


    would attend a banquet tonight, but he had no idea it was actually a birthday banquet.


    Not only was it a birthday banquet, but it was also a birthday banquet for a young woman.


    If this news reached Highside and those media outlets started making up stories, who knew what kind


    of scandalous news it would turn into?


    In a leisurely manner, Aidan said, "If I meet L here, we''ll consider this matter settled, but if I


    don''t..."


    He didn''t finish the rest of his sentence, but Jonathan could already guess it¡ªThen, you''re done for.


    Jonathan stepped back again to keep a safe distance.


    Aidan retracted his attention and walked inside.


    The venue was decorated in a girlish style as the theme was pink. It looked like a gigantic castle with


    lots of balloons and bubbles everywhere.


    After walking a few steps, Aidan was approached by a girl in a white princess dress. Standing in front


    of him, the girl blinked. "I heard someone from Highside came. Is it you?"


    Aidan turned sideways and looked at Jonathan while raising his chin slightly. "It''s him."


    Jonathan was speechless at how Aidan framed him.


    Charlotte pouted. "Come on. He''s not as good-looking as you."


    "I agree with you, but I''m actually here to find someone. Would you mind letting me through?"


    She said, "Whom are you looking for? I know everyone here. I can help you find them."


    Looking at her, Aidan said the name slowly after a few seconds, "L Woodley."


    A little surprised, she looked at him for a moment. "Why are you looking for him? He''s not a good


    person."


    "I have business with him."


    Pondering for a moment, Charlotte extended her hand to him.


    Aidan asked, "What?"


    "My birthday gift. You came to my birthday party and didn''t even prepare a gift for me?"


    With a nonchnt tone, he replied, "I''m just here as hispanion. You should ask him for the gift."


    Jonathan was left speechless again. Me again?


    Patting through his pockets, Jonathan found that he had only a cell phone and some tissues.


    Charlotte pouted. She reached and took off Aidan''s brooch. Waving it at him, she smiled and said,


    "Well, you can give me this."


    Aidan''s brow scrunched up a little, but he didn''t say anything.


    She held the brooch in her palm. "You still want to look for him? Come with me."


    He nced at Jonathan, who immediately understood and turned to go elsewhere.


    Along the way, quite a few people greeted Charlotte, "Happy birthday, Charlotte."


    Charlotte was all smiles. "Thank you."


    Following behind her, Aidan asked, "Who is L to you?"


    "Him? ording to our family hierarchy, I should address him as an elder." As Charlotte said, she


    sneered. "But he''s disrespectful to his elders and even wants to marry me."


    Such information about L left him speechless.


    Then, she continued, "Don''t worry, I won''t marry him. I will firmly resist his evil influence."


    Aidan was puzzled by her promise. "Why should I be worried?"


    Charlotte turned to him. "You came all the way from Highside to attend my birthday banquet. Isn''t it


    because you like me?"

 Chapter 600

    Chapter 600


    Chapter 600 Who Are You?


    Aidan looked at her expressionlessly. "I am married."


    Charlotte clearly didn''t believe him. "Then, why didn''t your wifee with you?"


    "She''s taking care of the child."


    "The more you say, the more unbelievable it is. You don''t look like a married man at all. Anyway, I don''t


    believe you." She pulled his arm and walked forward. "Hurry up. Aren''t you looking for L? He''s


    right ahead."


    Aidan pulled out his arm from her grip. His tone was cold and indifferent. "Just keep going."


    Charlotte pouted but didn''t say anything as she led him into a small courtyard ahead.


    At the small courtyard, two ck-suited bodyguards stood by the entrance.


    When they saw Charlotte, they nodded and greeted, "Miss Woodley."


    She had her hands behind her back. "Where is L? I need to speak with him."


    "Mr. Woodley is inside. You can go in, Miss Woodley," one of the men replied. Then, he looked at


    Aidan, who stood behind her. "He can only wait here."


    Charlotte protested, "He is my friend. Why can''t hee in with me?"


    The man stated, "Miss Woodley, you know Mr. Woodley''s rules. Please don''t make things difficult for


    us."


    Her expression darkened. "Then, do you know my rules?"


    The two still stuck to their initial stance. "Only you can go in, Miss Woodley."


    She stomped her foot in frustration. "You guys¡­"


    Aidan looked at the time. As he was losing his patience, he walked straight in with long strides.


    The two men exchanged a nce and immediately blocked Aidan''s path.


    Aidan paused his steps and ordered coldly, "Move aside."


    "You can''t go in."


    He ignored them and continued forward.


    The two men followed closely behind. "President Pearson¡­ President Pearson¡­"


    Aidan nced at them. "Since you know who I am, you should know why I''m here."


    Seeing this, Charlotte tilted her head and followed behind with a small run.


    Aidan walked to the door and pushed it open but found no one inside.


    Charlotte was puzzled. "Huh, didn''t you guys say he was here?"


    "He was here¡­ not long ago."


    "Then, where did he go?"


    The two bodyguards remained silent; they were either unclear about L''s whereabouts or


    unwilling to say.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Aidan sneered. "Is he trying to y hide-and-seek with me here?"


    At that moment, his phone rang¡ªit was Jonathan calling.


    Jonathan whispered, "I''ve found L''s whereabouts, President Pearson."


    Aidan responded with a sound of agreement and hung up the phone before walking out.


    Charlotte searched around the room but indeed didn''t find L. Turning around, she saw that Aidan


    had already disappeared in the distance. So, she ran while saying to the two subordinates, "Inform


    L that I''ve been kidnapped, and tell him toe and save me!"


    The two were rendered speechless.


    This was the first time they had seen someone chasing after ''the alleged kidnapper.''


    Jonathan was waiting outside, and when he saw Aidan approaching, he immediately went up to Aidan.


    "President Pearson, someone saw L leave through the back door 20 minutes ago to head to a


    private clubhouse on Beacon Street."


    "Let''s go."


    Walking down the steps, Jonathan opened the car door, only to see a girl inside greeting them with a


    smile.


    He took a step back. "President Pearson."


    Looking at the scene inside, Aidan frowned and said, "Get off."


    Charlotte shifted inside the car instead. "No, I want to go with you."


    "I''ll say it again: get out of the car."


    The girl responded, "Don''t you want to find L? Take me along with you. I can be your hostage.


    You can use me to threaten him. It''s guaranteed to work."


    Jonathan whispered to Aidan, "I''ve checked. Her great-grandfather and thete Old Mr. Woodley were


    cousins. After Old Mr. Woodley''s death, her great-grandfather became one of the most influential


    people in the Woodley Family. Now, there are rumors that L will marry her to consolidate his


    position in the Woodley Family."


    Charlotte''s bright smile seemed to say, Told you so.


    Jonathan''s voice became even lower. "Now, it''s highly likely that Madam and the young master were


    taken away by L''s people. At the very least, if we have her in our hands, they won''t act rashly."


    Aidan looked at Charlotte for a moment before saying, "Take the front seat."


    She reluctantly agreed and sat in the shotgun seat instead.


    During the ride, she asked, "What''s the matter with you guys looking for L? Can you tell me


    about it?"


    Sitting in the back seat, Aidan closed his eyes and replied, "No."


    ¡­


    At a private clubhouse on Beacon Street, it had been 10 hours since Leanna was brought here.


    Besides her and the little guy, there was only one servant.


    She tried to ask the servant something, but the servant seemed unable to speak and didn''t answer a


    word.


    That young man visited twice. Each time he came with different people to check on the little guy''s


    condition and left shortly after.


    Leanna didn''t have her phone, so she could only rely on the clock on the wall to tell the time.


    After a while, she heard the sound of the door opening downstairs and went out to check the situation.


    As soon as she went downstairs, she saw a man in a white shirt and ck pants standing in the foyer.


    Holding a phone in one hand, the man spoke in a cold and maic voice, "Got it. Don''t worry about


    her."


    Leanna looked at the man''s upright figure, feeling slightly stunned.


    If she hadn''t known she was in Jamesdon and had been kidnapped by unidentified individuals, she


    would have assumed the man standing there was Aidan.


    The man hung up the phone. Turning around, he walked to the liquor cab and took out a bottle of


    red wine.


    She noticed him taking out two wine sses.


    Throughout the entire process, he didn''t even raise his eyes.


    She wondered if he had already noticed her.


    As Leanna approached, the man poured wine and pushed a ss to her.


    She looked at him. "Did you order them to kidnap me?"


    Sitting on the chair, the man took a sip of wine and slowly responded, "I only asked them to bring the


    child over, but it appears that things didn''t proceed as nned."


    Leanna frowned slightly. "What do you want?"


    He put down his ss and looked at her. "I''m probably just bored."


    She remembered what the young man had said to her on the ne. It seemed like they didn''t have any


    hostility toward her.


    Moreover, they intended to save the little guy.


    She continued, "So, who are you?"


    The man grinned as his gaze fell on the wine ss in front of him. After a few seconds, he said, "Me?"


    At this moment, the door was pushed open. One of his subordinates walked in quickly. "Mr. Woodley,


    Aidan Pearson ising this way."


    "He sure acts fast." The man stood up and continued to Leanna, "I''m leaving. Are you going to wait for


    him here ore with me?"


    Before she could answer, the servant had already taken the child downstairs.


    Leanna pursed her lips slightly. It seemed that she had no choice.


    She approached the servant. "Give me the child."


    The servant looked at the man. Only when she saw him nodded that she handed over the child.

 Chapter 601

    Chapter 601


    Chapter 601 Apparently nting Evidence


    In the car, Leanna was carrying the child, who was sound asleep, while wondering where they would


    be taken to at this time.


    Half an hourter, the car stopped in front of a white building.


    The driver unlocked the car door from the outside.


    Leanna got out of the car. She looked at the man walking in front of her, then at the little guy in her


    arms. She stepped forward to follow in his footsteps.


    After entering the white building, she realized it seemed like an experimental base with high-technology


    instruments.


    Just as she was looking around, a man wearing gold-rimmed sses, a mask, and a whiteboratory


    coat walked up to them and asked, "Why are you all here?"


    She could recognize the voice¡ªit belonged to the person who had brought her here.


    The man leered at him and responded with a tone that sounded not pleasant, "I want to ask you, why


    did you bring them to me?"


    The first man grinned and answered, "They are guests; you can''t just let them stay in a hotel. That


    would be rude."


    Standing next to him, Leanna added, "The way you brought me here wasn''t very polite, either."


    He didn''t look embarrassed and offered his hand to her. "Since this is the case, let''s just pretend that


    none of the previous things happened. Nice to meet you. My name is Waylen Woodley."


    It was at this time that the little guy woke up and stretched himself in Leanna''s arms while groaning.


    Waylen said, "Give me the child, and I''ll take him for a detailed examination. It was supposed to be


    done tomorrow, but let''s do it now since you all are already here."


    Leanna hesitated for a few seconds, still sping the little guy in her arms. "I''ll go with you."


    Waylen pointed to the man next to her. "He is here; if I run away with the child, you can find him to


    settle the score."


    The man seemed to turn his back on him as he walked to the window.


    Waylen whispered again, "The main reason for this is that outsiders are not allowed to enter our


    laboratory, and the checkups are tedious, too. It''s not that we don''t want to let you join us, but it is


    inconvenient."


    Leanna said, "Then, return the phone to me."


    Waylen searched himself and replied, "It is spoiled. I left it in the car; I''ll have someone bring it to you


    later."


    She looked toward the window and asked, "What is your rtionship with him?"


    "He is my cousin."


    Leanna withdrew her gaze and gave the child to him.


    After Waylen left with the little guy in his arms, she walked to the window and prompted slowly,


    "L Woodley?"


    The man turned his head back and raised his eyebrow in mild surprise. He leaned against the window


    and said, "I thought you didn''t know who I was."


    Leanna was simply taking a guess when she asked this question. She never linked Daniel''s description


    of the frenzied and lunatic devil with the man in front of her now.


    However, she figured out his identity the moment his men called him Mr. Woodley back in the


    clubhouse.


    What Waylen said just now merely proved her suspicions to be urate.


    Leanna said, "I don''t know what exactly you want to do."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Everything."


    Lughed and replied calmly, "If you are referring to the matter of bringing you to Jamesdon, I


    am d to answer you. If it''s something else, I''m sorry; there is nothing I can do."


    She frowned and asked, "Why?"


    "How do you expect me to answer for something I have never done before?"


    "''Never done before?''" She paused. "You mean you are not responsible for what happened before


    these and the Pearson Family?"


    L''s expression remained calm. "I''m not that silly."


    Leanna argued, "Why are you hiding from Aidan since you didn''t do it?"


    "So, you believe me?"


    She answered frankly, "No, I don''t."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    The man continued steadily, "Do you think he will believe me when you don''t even trust me? I''m not


    avoiding him; I just don''t want to invite unnecessary trouble before things are resolved."


    Leanna was silent for a moment. "Are you referring to me?"


    "Who knows?"


    She was rather speechless.


    After a few seconds, she confronted L again, "If it''s like what you said, why did all the evidence


    point to Jamesdon and you when you did none of those things?"


    "Someone is obviously nting evidence on me."


    Leanna''s brows furrowed even deeper with these words. Shifting the me on him? Would there be


    such a possibility? If this is the case, then who''s manipting the situation from behind the scenes?


    She pursed her lips and continued, "Can you tell me why you brought us to Jamesdon?"


    L exined, "Firstly, all the fingers are pointing at me now. I have no reason to sit back and


    await my doom. Secondly, the faulty nutrient injection was developed by Jamesdon Pharmaceutical, so


    I have the responsibility to deal with the aftermath."


    "The nutrient injection was developed in Jamesdon, but you are saying you did not give it to Sienna


    Zielinski. Is that what you mean?"


    "Yes."


    "Can we find out who gave it to her now?"


    "That particr batch of nutrient injection was destroyed two years ago. All those who had been


    involved in the research and development have been investigated; there are no clues yet."


    Just then, the most crucial question came to Leanna''s mind. "How did you bring us here?"


    As Aidan''s people had been patrolling the hospital ward and keeping an eye on it, they would never


    allow strangers to easily enter the ce.


    Leanna suddenly realized something. "In Highside¡­ No, are your men working under Aidan?"


    L replied, "This is beyond what I should furnish you with."


    Even though he didn''t answer, she could guess what actually happened.


    Otherwise, they couldn''t have taken her and the child away so smoothly.


    She was a bit confused at the moment. All those things that happened in Highside before these were


    more or less rted to Jamesdon, including the sudden illness of the little guy. Obviously, they made


    some kind of deal with Sienna Zielinski.


    Yet, L said that others had framed him.


    Leanna never trusted them by instinct, but L did not seem hostile.


    Not to mention, the little guy''s condition had improved in thest two days.


    For a while, she was unable to make any judgments at all.


    An hourter, Waylen carried the child out and put it in Leanna''s arms, but his expression was not as


    calm as before.


    L asked, "How is iting along?"


    "The situation is less optimistic; it is more serious than Nico''s."


    "Does the newly developed medicine work for him?"


    "The effect is minimal; it can keep his symptoms under control, but there is no way to cure him."


    Leanna felt her throat bing dry and asked hoarsely, "Is there any other way?"


    Waylen looked at her and smiled. "Don''t be so nervous; there must be a solution. Besides, our whole


    research and development team is working overtime on this matter, and they haven''t slept for a few


    days. This little guy will be fine."


    She was stunned as she did not expect everyone in thisboratory to be busy with this. As a result, it


    did not look like they were involved in administering the nutrient injection.

 Chapter 602

    Chapter 602


    Chapter 602 Find Out the Truth of the Past


    As Aidan stood inside the private clubhouse, his facial features were getting grimmer while every inch


    of him radiated coldness.


    He was still a step toote.


    Jonathan said, "President Pearson, it looks like L is deliberately avoiding us."


    Aidan''s face was cold and impassive, and he didn''t say anything.


    At this time, Jonathan''s eyes caught something glinting on the rectangr dining table.


    He walked over to pick it up, then turned his head to refer to Aidan. "Look at this, President Pearson.


    Does it belong to the young master?"


    Aidan took a big stride forward as he heard Jonathan''s words.


    Jonathan held a longevity lock in his hand, which Aidan''s mother had put on for the little guy.


    Aidan took it and clutched it tightly in his fist.


    They were indeed taken away by L.


    Jonathan tried to sound Aidan out. "President Pearson¡­"


    Aidan cast an eye on the ck car parked outside the door and said in his icy voice, "Tell the Woodleys


    that if I don''t see Leanna and the child before 8.00AM, I''ll throw the girl into the river."


    "Okay, I''ll take care of it now."


    Not far away, Charlotte was leaning on the car window and struggling to hear what they were saying.


    She couldn''t hear anything, however, due to the great distance between them.


    She asked when she saw theming along, "Have you found L?"


    Aidan fixed his gaze on her face, which was neither cold nor warm.


    She was perplexed by his gaze, and she couldn''t help but flinch away from danger.


    Half an hourter, Charlotte''s father received the news that Charlotte was in Aidan''s hands. He told the


    Woodley Family to hand over Leanna and the little guy before 8.00AM.


    Charles Woodley frowned. "What''s wrong with Aidan? When did Charlotte disappear from the birthday


    party?"


    His subordinate replied, "I just looked into it. Aidan has been in Jamesdon for two days and seems to


    be looking for Mr. Woodley. He probably heard that Mr. Woodley would attend Miss Woodley''s birthday


    party, so he went there today. As for how she was taken away by him¡­"


    Charles became agitated when his subordinate hesitated for a moment and didn''t continue his report.


    Thus, Charles demanded sternly, "What the hell happened? There were so many of you, yet you


    watched him take her away?!"


    "No, sir. Miss Woodley left with him of her own ord. We didn''t receive the information in advance


    and didn''t know what was going on. So, no one stopped Miss Woodley as she walked away."


    Charles sat down on the couch and took a deep breath. "What about L?"


    "As you know, we have never been able to find out Mr. Woodley''s whereabouts, so¡­ we don''t know


    the exact situation, either."


    "Pass the news to L; if Charlotte has any mishaps, I''ll make things arduous for him!"


    "Yes."


    Soon, the news reached L.


    Several members of the Woodley Family, led by Charles, came forward to press L to solve the


    matter at once and bring Charlotte back to the Woodley Family.


    Outside theboratory, Waylenmented, "What shall we do now? Judging from Aidan''s temper, he


    probably meant what he said. He really meant it."


    L put away his phone. "Send Leanna over tomorrow morning."


    "Do you think it would work? He wants both of them."


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "If it doesn''t work, let him push Charlotte into the river. No one would die since the weather is still


    warm."


    Waylen rolled his eyes at L after hearing his words. Then, he added, "But Leanna would


    definitely be unwilling to leave. How are you going to persuade her?"


    L tucked one hand into the pocket of his pants. "She will go."


    "Why?"


    "Let her take the child away, and we will provide no further assistance. Either that, or she leaves the


    child here so that he can continue to receive treatment. Which do you think she will choose?"


    Waylen clicked his tongue and argued, "I think you underestimate the importance of a child to a


    mother."


    L smiled slightly. "It is because of its importance that she would choose the best path for him."


    Something came to Waylen''s mind, so he did not utter a word.


    L added, "Tell her what I said, let her think about it, and leave. No matter what choice she


    makes, no one will stop her."


    Waylen grumbled, "Always leave the drudgery to me, huh."


    He still turned around and walked toward theboratory after the conversation.


    L instructed his men beside him, "Bring Oscar here."


    Oscar was just nearby, so he appeared in front of L a brief momentter. Then, he asked, "How


    is the child now?"


    "So-so. The newly developed medicine can suppress his symptoms but cannot cure him. It is


    impossible for him to get well at the moment."


    Oscar frowned and cursed, "F*ck!" After that, he added, "Whom the hell did this?"


    L paused for a few seconds before saying, "You said earlier that the medicine bottle was found


    in Sienna''s room, right?"


    Oscar nodded. "Aidan said so."


    "That''s interesting." Lughed at himself. "I became Sienna''s aplice; dead men tell no


    tales, so there''s nothing I can do now to remove the stigma from my name."


    "It''s not just this. When the Pearson Family took the child away, the people rted to this were also


    from Jamesdon. The child went missing aftering here, so you bear the deepest suspicions."


    L snorted. "It seems that they have been plotting for a long time."


    Oscar was silent for a moment before saying, "I think someone deliberately pointed the finger at


    Jamesdon, and they led Aidan here only for one reason."


    L''s ck eyes narrowed slightly.


    Oscar continued, "Let him find out the truth of the past."


    L looked at the river scenery in the distance and said nothing. He gently tapped his knee with his


    long fingers and said after a while, "How long have you been with Aidan?"


    Oscar replied, "Eighteen years."


    Less than two years after Aidan was taken back to the Pearson Family, Oscar was sent to his side in


    the name of transferring to another school and remained there until now.


    L said, "Head back to Highside secretly to find out how the nutrient injection got into Sienna''s


    hands and who is manipting all of this."


    "Okay, got it."


    Oscar was about to leave when L called out to him, "There''s one more thing."


    ¡­


    In theboratory''s lounge, Leanna sat on the couch, leaning against the crib beside her and staring at


    the little guy who slept soundly in a daze.


    When she left, she put the longevity lock the little guy had been wearing in the private clubhouse. She


    didn''t know if Aidan had seen it.


    Now, she could only contact Aidan this way.


    When Leanna was lost in thought, the door of the lounge was opened to reveal Waylen walking in.


    "Hello, are you still awake?"


    Leanna looked up expressionlessly at him.


    Waylen mentioned, "It looks like we probably can''t keep you here anymore."


    "Am I the one who wanted to stay here?"


    He knew that they were in the wrong. He cleared his throat and repeated what L had asked him


    to say, as it had been told to him. Only then did he say, "He''s okay with either choice that you make;


    even if you want to take the child and leave, we will not stop you."


    Leanna replied calmly, "I don''t trust you guys, so I won''t choose either way."


    Waylen did not expect such a reply from her and scratched his head miserably.

 Chapter 603

    Chapter 603


    Chapter 603 I Have a Condition Too


    After some thought, Waylen said earnestly, "You have no other choice now other than to believe me


    since I''m the only one who can cure him."


    At that, Leanna pursed her lips lightly and her grip on the baby''s cot tightened.


    "I know that you find it difficult to ept everything that has happened recently. However, you should


    be clear by now that there is someone behind the scenes pulling the strings, and this includes the


    incident involving the nutrient injections¡ªit was all their doing. If we wanted to harm your child, why


    would we even bother to bring him to Jamesdon and not just let him be in Highside?" he continued


    again.


    "Didn''t you all bring him here so that you can use him as a bargaining chip to threaten Aidan?" she


    asked.


    Waylen pondered for a second before eximing, "Yes, you''re right!"


    At once, Leanna was rendered speechless.


    Seeing her expression, he chuckled and lifted his hand. "I was simply kidding. That was a joke, but you


    should give what I said some serious thought."


    "I can trust you, but I have a question here," she said.


    "Go ahead."


    "What do you all have to do with Aidan?"


    Waylen was taken aback, looking a little surprised that she would ask such a question.


    Leanna slowly spoke up as she continued, "As L said, someone did frame and me everything


    on all of you. So, why you? Why is it Jamesdon, a ce thousands of miles away from Highside?"


    "Well¡­"


    "I can trust you and leave the child here, provided that you can answer my question."


    After clearing his throat, he responded sincerely, "I''ve been wondering about this too. Perhaps it''s


    because I''m so outstanding that some people are jealous of me."


    Leanna averted her gaze upon hearing his reply. "I''m tired now. You can just leave."


    Seeing that she wanted to drive him away, Waylen hastily responded, "Come on¡­ The situation is


    really getting out of hand. If you don''t agree, I''ll be medter. If I get med, I''ll be in a bad mood


    and won''t have the motivation to treat the child."


    However, she remained unmoved.


    Just when he was at a loss, the door of the lounge was pushed open again. Following that, L


    walked in.


    Waylen immediately stood up.


    Casting a nce at Waylen, Lined, "How ipetent you are."


    "I''m not good at dealing with women, but you insisted on sending me here anyway," Waylen replied.


    After speaking, he immediately slipped out of the area.


    "I can answer the question you asked just now, but I have a condition too," L countered her


    words.


    Looking at L, Leanna hesitated for a moment as though she was thinking about it.


    However, he didn''t give her a chance to consider and continued, "Let''s make an oath on this child. You


    are not going to utter a single word about what I tell you tonight. Otherwise, his illness will never be


    cured."


    When she heard that, she frowned. "How dare¡ª"


    "This is just the consequence if you break the promise. If you keep this secret, nothing will ever


    happen," he interjected.


    "Why should I make such a silly promise to you? No matter what the secret is, I will not use my child as


    a bet or a bargaining chip," she answered coldly.


    L raised his eyebrows nonchntly as he did not expect Leanna to say that.


    After a while, he borated, "It''s about something that happened twenty years ago. I don''t care how


    much information Aidan has obtained. It''s none of my business."


    Leanna was stunned. "Twenty years ago? How¡ª"


    "I''ve said everything I need to say. It''s your call now."


    After he finished speaking, L didn''t stay any longer as he turned around and left.


    Looking at the closed door, she let out a long sigh.


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    She had never anticipated that there would be a connection to the events that urred twenty years


    ago in Jamesdon.


    ording to Aidan, other people were helping Leroy behind the scenes twenty years ago.


    Perhaps these people had something to do with Justin''s car ident as well.


    However, L was only about ten years old back then, and he couldn''t n all of this.


    Could it be the Woodleys?


    Leanna initially came to Jamesdon to figure out the little guy''s illness and the connection between


    Jamesdon, the Pearsons, and Sienna. However, before she could even make sense of these things,


    the topic suddenly shifted to events from twenty years ago.


    If the explosion and the car ident twenty years ago were caused by the Woodleys, then they would


    be enemies with the Pearsons, including Sienna. So why would the Woodleys help Sienna?


    However, if everything was not their doing, what was their role in these incidents? Why did those


    people pin all the evidence on the Woodleys?


    At once, Leanna felt that her head was going to explode.


    She couldn''t reason clearly orprehend anything at all.


    As she rubbed her temples, she felt her thoughtsing to a halt.


    However, what Waylen said made sense to her. If they really intended to harm the child, why would


    they bother to bring him from Highside to Jamesdon?


    Jamesdon was the territory of the Woodleys. Even if Aidan wanted toe over, there was a limit to


    what he could do here. At most, he could just stay here for a while. What was more, he couldn''t just


    neglect the affairs of Highside.


    He would probably leave after a short while.


    Therefore, the idea of using the child to threaten him was invalid.


    More importantly, L seemed unwilling to engage in a direct conflict with him.


    Otherwise, L wouldn''t keep avoiding Aidan.


    Furthermore, if they really wanted to separate her from the child, it would be effortless to do so.


    However, Waylen came to talk to her and reason with her instead.


    Afterward, L came over as well. Although he didn''t have anything good to say, it was obvious


    that he had no intention of hurting her or the little guy.


    Leanna rested her head on the baby''s cot and stared nkly.


    After a while, she closed her eyes and got up while looking at the peacefully sleeping baby.


    The rashes on his body hadpletely subsided, and he even had his usual amount of milk without


    throwing up tonight.


    He was doing much better now aspared to when they were in Highside.


    After a moment, she leaned down, lowered her head, and lightly kissed the little guy''s forehead. "Baby,


    I wille and pick you up soon."


    The sleeping baby''s mouth puckered as though he could sense her kiss.


    Seeing that, she felt her nose tingle as her eyes began to well up with tears. She had never been a


    qualified mother, neither in the past nor in the present.


    However, her wish was rather simple as she hoped that the little guy would survive and grow up


    healthy and safe.


    She was prepared to do whatever it took, even if it meant giving everything she had.


    ¡­


    As Leanna left the lounge, Waylen was waiting for her outside. At the sight of Leanna, Waylen was


    surprised as he eximed, "Hey, did you just cry?"


    She turned her head away from him and sniffled. "No."


    "No? I can tell that your eyes are red¡­ Hey, don''t worry. He will get better with me around," he


    assured.


    For a moment, she remained silent before asking, "When can I see him again?"


    "Well, I can''t say for sure, and you should ask L. However, I will let you know once there is


    progress in his treatment," he replied.


    "Do you mean by writing me a letter?" she asked numbly.


    Waylen patted his head upon realizing it as he said, "Oh, yeah. Let''s get your phone now. It''s in my


    car."

 Chapter 604

    Chapter 604


    Chapter 604 Awake, But Not Completely


    After giving back her phone, Waylen saved his number and dialed it right away. After that, he lifted his


    phone and held out the shing screen for Leanna to confirm the authenticity of the number.


    As she received the phone, Leanna pursed her lips before saying, "He will cry if he wakes up and finds


    that I''m not by his side¡­ He likes small toys. If you could patiently distract him with some toys for a


    while to shift his attention, it will be fine. Don''t be harsh on him, or he will cry even louder¡­ H-he is


    very well-behaved. As long as he feels that you are nice to him, he will slowlye closer to you¡­"


    With that, she continued to give more instructions. Waylen listened carefully, and he even used the


    phone''s memo to take notes.


    After Leanna finished speaking, he put away the phone and said, "I got it. There''s a shopping mall


    nearby. I''ll get all the necessary items once it''s dawn."


    She nodded. Then, she turned around to look at the white building behind her, unwilling to leave.


    ncing at the time, he said again, "I''ve got to return now."


    After speaking, he looked at the ck car not far away and continued, "L is waiting for you in the


    car. You should go now."


    Leanna stopped him in his tracks. Her voice was slightly choked up as she said, "Please, you must


    cure him."


    "Don''t worry. I will do my best. Well, I have to go now. See you," Waylen assured.


    Watching Waylen enter theboratory finally convinced Leanna to look away. She lowered her head for


    a few moments before walking to the ck car and opening the door.


    The early morning in Jamesdon was somewhat chilly. As the streetlights stood next to each other, their


    shimmering light reflected on the river''s surface.


    Leaning against the car window, Leanna gazed outside without focus. Her hair was slightly disheveled


    by the wind.


    L nced at her with a sidelong gaze and lightly tapped his knee with his slender fingers as he


    remained silent.


    After an unknown period of time, the car stopped before crossing the river bridge.


    At this moment, dawn had already broken as a ray of sunlight silently appeared through the clouds.


    Leanna finally snapped out of her thoughts. As she turned her head, she asked, "When can I pick him


    up?"


    "Anytime you want. However, I will remind you again that we won''t provide any further assistance once


    you take him away. You can ry the same message to Aidan," L replied calmly.


    She looked out the window again, realizing that uncovering the truth from twenty years ago was the


    only way for everything to have a new turning point.


    Then, she opened the car door and walked for a few minutes before seeing a figure leaning against a


    car in the distance.


    After giving bock her phone, Woylen soved his number ond dioled it right owoy. After thot, he lifted his


    phone ond held out the floshing screen for Leonno to confirm the outhenticity of the number.


    As she received the phone, Leonno pursed her lips before soying, "He will cry if he wokes up ond finds


    thot I''m not by his side¡­ He likes smoll toys. If you could potiently distroct him with some toys for o


    while to shift his ottention, it will be fine. Don''t be horsh on him, or he will cry even louder¡­ H-he is


    very well-behoved. As long os he feels thot you ore nice to him, he will slowlye closer to you¡­"


    With thot, she continued to give more instructions. Woylen listened corefully, ond he even used the


    phone''s memo to toke notes.


    After Leonno finished speoking, he put owoy the phone ond soid, "I got it. There''s o shopping moll


    neorby. I''ll get oll the necessory items once it''s down."


    She nodded. Then, she turned oround to look ot the white building behind her, unwilling to leove.


    Gloncing ot the time, he soid ogoin, "I''ve got to return now."


    After speoking, he looked ot the block cor not for owoy ond continued, "Lochlon is woiting for you in the


    cor. You should go now."


    Leonno stopped him in his trocks. Her voice wos slightly choked up os she soid, "Pleose, you must


    cure him."


    "Don''t worry. I will do my best. Well, I hove to go now. See you," Woylen ossured.


    Wotching Woylen enter the loborotory finolly convinced Leonno to look owoy. She lowered her heod for


    o few moments before wolking to the block cor ond opening the door.


    The eorly morning in Jomesdon wos somewhot chilly. As the streetlights stood next to eoch other, their


    shimmering light reflected on the river''s surfoce.


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Leoning ogoinst the cor window, Leonno gozed outside without focus. Her hoir wos slightly disheveled


    by the wind.


    Lochlon glonced ot her with o sidelong goze ond lightly topped his knee with his slender fingers os he


    remoined silent.


    After on unknown period of time, the cor stopped before crossing the river bridge.


    At this moment, down hod olreody broken os o roy of sunlight silently oppeored through the clouds.


    Leonno finolly snopped out of her thoughts. As she turned her heod, she osked, "When con I pick him


    up?"


    "Anytime you wont. However, I will remind you ogoin thot we won''t provide ony further ossistonce once


    you toke him owoy. You con reloy the some messoge to Aidon," Lochlon replied colmly.


    She looked out the window ogoin, reolizing thot uncovering the truth from twenty yeors ogo wos the


    only woy for everything to hove o new turning point.


    Then, she opened the cor door ond wolked for o few minutes before seeing o figure leoning ogoinst o


    cor in the distonce.


    After giving back her phone, Waylen saved his number and dialed it right away. After that, he lifted his


    phone and held out the shing screen for Leanna to confirm the authenticity of the number.


    Atst, she saw him again.


    At the same time, Aidan also saw Leanna and immediately walked over. The next second, he pulled


    her into his arms and held her tightly as he asked in a tense tone, "Did they do anything to you?"


    Shaking her head gently, she ced her hand on his waist and struggled to speak. "C-Can you let go a


    little¡­ I-I''m running out of breath..."


    Aidan closed his eyes and held her even tighter. "I should be the one running out of breath."


    "I''m fine, don''t worry," she replied slowly.


    After releasing her, Aidan carefully checked if she was injured anywhere. Seeing that she was fine, he


    kissed her on the forehead, and his tense expression finally eased. "What about the child? Isn''t he with


    you?"


    "He is receiving treatment, and I¡ª"


    Leanna''s words were interrupted by a sudden dizziness. She felt weak all over before losing


    consciousness.


    Aidan immediately caught her and held her in his arms as he strode quickly toward the car.


    Seeing that, Jonathan hurriedly opened the car door.


    Looking at her pale face, Aidan sternly ordered, "Take her to the hospital."


    ¡­


    In the other car by the bridge, Charlotte was sound asleep as she leaned against the car seat. As the


    sunlight gradually became too bright, she scratched her face and turned in another direction. Then, she


    buried her head in her shoulder to continue sleeping.


    After some time, she faintly heard a knocking sound.


    With her eyes still closed, she grumbled, "Can''t you hear someone knocking? Go and open the door."


    However, there was no response from her servant except for the continuous knocking sound every


    once in a while.


    Her irritation grew instantly as she got up. "Stop knocking! Can''t you just let me sleep in peace in the


    morning?"


    The knocking sound persisted.


    Charlotte abruptly opened her eyes, only to find herself in a car but not in her room. Separated by the


    car window, L was standing next to her.


    It took her a few seconds to react and gradually wake up. Moving her stiff neck and opening the car


    door, she looked at the man, who had been knocking incessantly, now sitting in front of the car.


    Charlotte couldn''t help but gulp. Based on their seniority, she should address him as her elder, but she


    had barely spoken to him in reality. It was not because she didn''t want to, but because she was too


    afraid.


    This man seemed to have a natural aura of dignity, coldness, and aloofness.


    She even heard rumors that the wine bottles in his house were filled with human blood.


    When she heard someone mentioning that L was going to marry her, she immediately refused


    the idea without a second thought. She didn''t want to end up living the rest of her life alone as a widow


    for such a terrifying person!


    Charlotte hesitated as she wasn''t sure how to address him.


    None of the addresses she had in mind seemed appropriate.


    Turning his head to look at her, L asked indifferently, "Are you awake?"


    Charlotte lowered her head as she replied, "Yes, but notpletely."


    "I can see that. If you were fully awake, you wouldn''t have just gone with someone you just met," he


    said sarcastically.


    At that, she retorted, "What''s wrong with that? I''ve heard what others talked about him. Hees from


    Highside, and he is not a bad person. Besides, he is good-looking. I like him, so why can''t I go with


    him?"


    L gave her a fleeting nce.


    She felt her scalp tingle under his gaze. However, she still insisted and tried to act tough. "Anyway¡­


    Anyway, I like him! I won''t marry you, so just forget about it!"


    With that, Charlotte snorted and left without looking back.


    After she left, one of his subordinates approached and greeted, "Mr. Woodley."


    "Send two people to follow her and make sure she gets home safely," L ordered.


    "Yes, Mr. Woodley."


    "Wait," he said slowly. "Who said that I''m going to marry her?"


    At once, his subordinate froze. Then, he hesitantly responded, "I¡­ I''m not sure who spread the rumor,


    but it has already circted throughout the entire Woodley Family."


    Looking toward the distant river scenery, L was lost in his thoughts for a few seconds before


    saying, "I see."


    Soon after, his phone rang.


    L nced at the caller ID and answered the call.


    The voice on the phone asked, "I heard that Charlotte was kidnappedst night. What was going on?"


    "It was just a misunderstanding," L replied indifferently.


    "What do you mean by misunderstanding? Charlotte is your fianc¨¦e, and it''s your responsibility to


    protect her. How could you be so negligent?"


    "I''ve already mentioned that I won''t marry her," L emphasized.


    "It has been set. I''ve talked to her father about it, and now, we just have to pick a date for the wedding,


    so be prepared for it."


    "Let''s talk about thister. We still haven''t figured out what''s going on in Highside," L responded.


    "Can''t you see it yet? It''s because of what happened in Highside that someone deliberately used this


    incident to get back at you."

 Chapter 605

    Chapter 605


    Chapter 605 Did He Bully You?


    When Leanna woke up, the room was shrouded in darkness as it was draped with heavy curtains.


    As she tried to get up, a hand wrapped around her waist and pulled her back.


    The next moment, she fell into a man''s warm embrace.


    Aidan''s deep and hoarse voice sounded as he asked, "Are you not going to sleep for a little while?"


    "I have a headache from sleeping too much," she replied.


    "The doctor said you''re suffering from fatigue. Rest a little more. Do you want to eat anything? I''ll have


    Jonathan bring it over," he asked.


    "I don''t feel like eating," she said.


    "You must still eat something no matter what. Do you want to pass out again?" he questioned.


    At that, Leanna remained silent for a moment.


    Not long after, she felt the person behind her move slightly. The wallmp was turned on before it was


    followed by the warm glow of the light.


    When Aidan got up from the bed, Leanna followed suit and asked, "What time is it now?"


    Lowering his head, he looked at his watch. "1.30PM."


    After hearing the time, she rubbed her head and asked again, "Have I slept for that long?"


    "Not really. You should go back to sleep now. I''ll wake you up when it''s time for food," he answered.


    After that, he left the room with long strides.


    However, Leanna really couldn''t fall asleep anymore. She got out of bed and realized that she was


    wearing a men''s shirt.


    At once, she was at a loss for words.


    In the living room, Aidan was making a phone call to Jonathan.


    Leanna walked past him as she went to the dining table and poured herself a ss of water to drink.


    He turned around and unconsciously raised his eyebrows as his gaze fell on her.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    When he brought her back from the hospital, there was a strong smell of disinfectant on her body.


    Therefore, he changed her into his clothes at first instance.


    On the phone, Jonathan replied, "Mr. Pearson, I have prepared Mrs. Pearson''s clothes. I can send


    them over now."


    "No need," Aidan responded.


    When Jonathan heard that, he was puzzled.


    "Send the food first. We''re hungry," Aidan exined slowly.


    "I can send the clothes together with the¡­" Jonathan rified, but halfway through his sentence, he


    keenly sensed the problem and immediately changed the topic, saying, "Alright, I''ll prepare lunch now."


    With satisfaction, Aidan put away his phone and walked over to Leanna. He reached out to gently wipe


    away the water droplets from her lips after she finished drinking, but his slender fingers lingered at the


    corner of her lips for a few seconds.


    Leanna looked up at him as if he were a pervert. "What are you doing?"


    Raising his eyebrows, he took the empty ss from her hand and poured water into it. "Nothing. Do


    you want some more?"


    When Leonno woke up, the room wos shrouded in dorkness os it wos droped with heovy curtoins.


    As she tried to get up, o hond wropped oround her woist ond pulled her bock.


    The next moment, she fell into o mon''s worm embroce.


    Aidon''s deep ond hoorse voice sounded os he osked, "Are you not going to sleep for o little while?"


    "I hove o heodoche from sleeping too much," she replied.


    "The doctor soid you''re suffering from fotigue. Rest o little more. Do you wont to eot onything? I''ll hove


    Jonothon bring it over," he osked.


    "I don''t feel like eoting," she soid.


    "You must still eot something no motter whot. Do you wont to poss out ogoin?" he questioned.


    At thot, Leonno remoined silent for o moment.


    Not long ofter, she felt the person behind her move slightly. The woll lomp wos turned on before it wos


    followed by the worm glow of the light.


    When Aidon got up from the bed, Leonno followed suit ond osked, "Whot time is it now?"


    Lowering his heod, he looked ot his wotch. "1.30PM."


    After heoring the time, she rubbed her heod ond osked ogoin, "Hove I slept for thot long?"


    "Not reolly. You should go bock to sleep now. I''ll woke you up when it''s time for food," he onswered.


    After thot, he left the room with long strides.


    However, Leonno reolly couldn''t foll osleep onymore. She got out of bed ond reolized thot she wos


    weoring o men''s shirt.


    At once, she wos ot o loss for words.


    In the living room, Aidon wos moking o phone coll to Jonothon.


    Leonno wolked post him os she went to the dining toble ond poured herself o gloss of woter to drink.


    He turned oround ond unconsciously roised his eyebrows os his goze fell on her.


    When he brought her bock from the hospitol, there wos o strong smell of disinfectont on her body.


    Therefore, he chonged her into his clothes ot first instonce.


    On the phone, Jonothon replied, "Mr. Peorson, I hove prepored Mrs. Peorson''s clothes. I con send


    them over now."


    "No need," Aidon responded.


    When Jonothon heord thot, he wos puzzled.


    "Send the food first. We''re hungry," Aidon exploined slowly.


    "I con send the clothes together with the¡­" Jonothon clorified, but holfwoy through his sentence, he


    keenly sensed the problem ond immediotely chonged the topic, soying, "Alright, I''ll prepore lunch now."


    With sotisfoction, Aidon put owoy his phone ond wolked over to Leonno. He reoched out to gently wipe


    owoy the woter droplets from her lips ofter she finished drinking, but his slender fingers lingered ot the


    corner of her lips for o few seconds.


    Leonno looked up ot him os if he were o pervert. "Whot ore you doing?"


    Roising his eyebrows, he took the empty gloss from her hond ond poured woter into it. "Nothing. Do


    you wont some more?"


    When Leanna woke up, the room was shrouded in darkness as it was draped with heavy curtains.


    "No, I''m full now," she said.


    With that, Aidan put down the ss water jug and finished the remaining water.


    She ignored him and went to look for her clothes.


    Aidan followed behind her. "Your clothes are washed, and they aren''t dry yet. I''ve asked Jonathan to


    prepare them. He will bring them over shortly."


    Turning around, she then found her phone on the couch. She plugged it in and waited for it to turn on.


    After a moment of contemtion, she looked at him and said, "Aidan, I have something to tell you."


    He sat down next to her. "Hmm?"


    However, she didn''t know how to begin when the words were about toe out of her mouth.


    The situation was tooplicated, and she still couldn''t sort it out.


    After a while, Leanna finally spoke up. "About the child¡­ I left him with L. They may have a way


    to cure him. L told me that it wasn''t him who was behind all that happened in Highside and that


    someone was framing him. I¡­ I don''t know whether I should believe him or not, but the little guy did


    show some improvement under their treatment."


    As she spoke, she lowered her head. Her voice became muffled as she continued again, "I have no


    other choice, so I can only¡­"


    Seeing that, Aidan hugged her and gently rubbed her head as he said in a low voice, "I already know


    everything. It''s not your fault, so you don''t have to me yourself."


    "When did you find out?" she asked.


    "Last night."


    After leaving L''s private clubhouse, he received a call from Freddie Sutton.


    He had also sent someone to investigate and found that there were simr cases in Jamesdon two


    years ago, and the medical team responsible for the treatment was also under L''s control.


    When he sent Leanna to the hospital, he received the report and data on the nutrient injections found in


    Sienna''s room that were meant to be destroyed two years ago.


    All of these indicated that someone intentionally brought him to Jamesdon and incidentally stirred up


    his conflict with L.


    "Did he say anything else?" Aidan asked.


    Leanna fell silent for a moment before continuing, "He said that all of these are rted to the events


    from twenty years ago, but you have to investigate it yourself."


    "Did he bully you?"


    "No¡­ but can you please stop touching me?"


    Aidan was rendered speechless, not knowing what to reply.


    After that, he slowly withdrew his hand that was ced on her thigh.


    Getting out of his embrace, Leanna immediately took a pillow and covered herp.


    At this moment, the doorbell rang. It was Jonathan who had arrived.


    As Aidan approached the door, he only left a small gap when he opened the door. After taking the


    items from Jonathan, he asked, "Where are the clothes?"


    "Clothes?" Jonathan looked confused. However, he quickly reacted upon seeing Aidan''s emotionless


    gaze. "Ah, right¡­ The clothes. I''ve been upied. They''re not ready yet, but I''ll get them for you now."


    "Hurry up," Aidan urged. Then, he closed the door, brought the food box over, and ced it in front of


    Leanna. "You have to wait for a while for the clothes. Let''s eat first."


    At first, Leanna didn''t have much appetite to eat. However, after the food box was opened, the aroma


    of the food wafted over. At once, she felt her stomach start to growl in hunger.


    After taking the cutlery handed over by Aidan, she bent over to take the food box.


    Aidan, who was sitting opposite, paused slightly as he caught a glimpse of the charming scenery


    beneath her shirt cor.


    Seeing that he stopped there without moving, Leanna looked up in confusion. When she realized


    where he was looking, she quickly sat up, grabbed a pillow, and threw it at him.


    Aidan effortlessly caught the pillow and said innocently, "Be reasonable, okay? It''s not like I intended to


    look anyway. And you''re ming me?"


    "Pervert." She was irritated.


    With a slight curve of his lips, he set the pillow aside and invited, "Let''s eat."


    When they had finished their lunch, it was already 2.30PM.


    Looking at Aidan, Leanna asked, "What are your ns now?"


    "Gain five pounds," he murmured as he met her gaze.


    "Huh?" she replied with confusion.


    "You''ve lost some weight recently, so let''s feed you until you gain five pounds first," he exined


    further.


    At that, Leanna waspletely speechless. What''s wrong with him?


    He continued again, "Seven or eight pounds are fine too. You have to eat more."


    After hearing that, she couldn''t take it anymore and shouted, "Shut up!"


    A smile appeared in Aidan''s eyes. "The Woodleys'' semi-annual family gathering will be held in a few


    days. You''reing with me."


    When she heard that, she frowned and asked, "It''s their family gathering. Can we be there?"


    "We won''t know until we give it a shot," he replied calmly. "Since we are going to investigate what


    happened twenty years ago, we must get into the Woodley Family. Otherwise, how can we find out?"


    "Are you not going back to Highside?" she asked again.


    "Why would I go back when all of you are here?" he retorted.


    Since those people went through so much trouble to lure me here... Let''s find out the truth.

 Chapter 606

    Chapter 606


    Chapter 606 You¡¯ve Cursed and Bitten Me


    Not knowing whether it was because she slept too long, Leanna yawned shortly after finishing her


    meal. She felt like she had no energy at all, so she decided to curl up on the couch, held her knees,


    and stared nkly out the window without any focus.


    Aidan looked away from theputer and looked at her face. He whispered, "Sleepy?"


    She rubbed her sore eyes and replied, "Not really."


    "If you''re sleepy, just go to sleep. I''ll wake you up when it''s time for dinner."


    Leanna felt funny, after which she murmured, "I''m not a pig who eats and sleeps all day."


    Aidan smiled and draped a thin nket over her legs. "Even if you were a pig, you''d be the cutest and


    most beautiful one."


    She couldn''t resist, so she kicked him. "Can you not say such cheesy things?"


    He then raised his hand and easily grabbed her ankle. "Why can''t Ipliment you?"


    "Thanks, but no, thanks."


    "You''re wee. It''s my pleasure."


    Leanna was annoyed and wanted to pull her foot back, but he held onto it tightly.


    Aidan looked at her fair little legs and couldn''t help but raise his eyebrows.


    The next second, he moved closer, pressing down on her legs and pinning her hands on the sides of


    the couch. His eyes were deep and his voice was hoarse as he asked, "Not going to sleep?"


    Realizing his intention, Leanna cursed him immediately. "B*stard!"


    Aidan replied, "You like it."


    "Who likes it? I¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, he ced his hand on her left chest.


    Leanna was stunned for a moment, then gave him a p without hesitation.


    That took Aidan aback.


    He held onto her hand again as his tongue licked his hot lips before his voice deepened. "Leanna!"


    Leanna also realized that she had hit him a bit too hard. But he deserved it! Who asked him to


    suddenly act like a pervert? She was merely protecting herself.


    Therefore, her momentum weakened a bit as she said, "I told you not to touch me. You brought this


    upon yourself."


    "You were the one who said you didn''t like me."


    "So, just because I said so, you can act like a hooligan?"


    Aidan restrained his anger. "I just wanted you to listen to your heart."


    Leanna suddenly realized that his hand had been ced on the position of her heart and remained


    quiet afterward.


    He continued, "Have you never done the same thing to me?"


    She was incensed and replied, "That''s not okay either! Men and women are different. You are being a


    pervert!"


    "Everyone is equel."


    Leenne wented to curse him but held her tongue.


    In the end, she moved ewey end seid, "Get off me, I went to sleep."


    "I see thet you''re still energetic. Don''t sleep just yet," Aiden seid.


    She turned her heed end looked et his erm, which wes only e few inches ewey. Suddenly, she felt e


    surge of energy end opened her mouth to bite him.


    He didn''t sey e word end let her bite him.


    It wesn''t until the teste of blood spreed between her lips end teeth thet Leenne ceme beck to her


    senses end slowly becked ewey.


    She thought Aiden would be engry end storm out of the room, but he just stered et her end esked, "Are


    you still engry?"


    Leenne lowered her eyeleshes end didn''t sey e word.


    Aiden stood up end hugged her, rubbing her heir. "Okey, you''ve cursed end bitten me. Your enger


    should be gone by now."


    He knew thet she hed been suppressing her emotions since their child hed been hospitelized.


    During her recent checkup, the doctor hed told him thet she hed not only suffered from fetigue but elso


    from blood stesis. If she didn''t vent her emotions, it could leed to illness.


    Leenne''s nose felt sour, end teers swirled in her eyes. She pounded on his chest, elmost crying out.


    "*sshole! You b*sterd! Why did you keep lying to me for so long... No metter how I esked, you never


    told me..."


    Teers fell from Leenne''s eyes like beeds off e broken string. She continuedpleining, "I only brought


    him beck for e few deys, end now we heve to be sepereted egein... I couldn''t teke good cere of him,


    protect him... I''m not e quelified mother... I don''t deserve him..."


    Aiden kissed her foreheed end seid, "It''s my feult, end I don''t went you to feel responsible for whet


    heppened."


    She cried even herder. "It wes your feult from the beginning!"


    He gently petted her beck. "Give me enother chence. You cen''t just sentence me to deeth right ewey."


    "Not executing you immedietely is considered lenient," Leenne retorted.


    Aiden chuckled softly. "Okey, so I guess I''m still on deeth row. Cen I get e sentence reduction to life


    imprisonment now?"


    "When heve you ever heerd of e deeth row inmete being eble to bergein for their sentence?"


    He fell silent for e moment end then seid, "Actuelly, I think thet enelogy wes not very eppropriete."


    "It''s ell your feult enywey." Leenne sobbed.


    "Yes, my misteke. Let''s not telk ebout thet enymore."


    After his words treiled off, she kicked him off the couch end covered her heed with e thin blenket, reedy


    to go to sleep.


    "Everyone is equal."


    Leanna wanted to curse him but held her tongue.


    In the end, she moved away and said, "Get off me, I want to sleep."


    "I see that you''re still energetic. Don''t sleep just yet," Aidan said.


    She turned her head and looked at his arm, which was only a few inches away. Suddenly, she felt a


    surge of energy and opened her mouth to bite him.


    He didn''t say a word and let her bite him.


    It wasn''t until the taste of blood spread between her lips and teeth that Leanna came back to her


    senses and slowly backed away.


    She thought Aidan would be angry and storm out of the room, but he just stared at her and asked, "Are


    you still angry?"


    Leanna lowered her eyshes and didn''t say a word.


    Aidan stood up and hugged her, rubbing her hair. "Okay, you''ve cursed and bitten me. Your anger


    should be gone by now."


    He knew that she had been suppressing her emotions since their child had been hospitalized.


    During her recent checkup, the doctor had told him that she had not only suffered from fatigue but also


    from blood stasis. If she didn''t vent her emotions, it could lead to illness.


    Leanna''s nose felt sour, and tears swirled in her eyes. She pounded on his chest, almost crying out.


    "*sshole! You b*stard! Why did you keep lying to me for so long... No matter how I asked, you never


    told me..."


    Tears fell from Leanna''s eyes like beads off a broken string. She continuedining, "I only brought


    him back for a few days, and now we have to be separated again... I couldn''t take good care of him,


    protect him... I''m not a qualified mother... I don''t deserve him..."


    Aidan kissed her forehead and said, "It''s my fault, and I don''t want you to feel responsible for what


    happened."


    She cried even harder. "It was your fault from the beginning!"


    He gently patted her back. "Give me another chance. You can''t just sentence me to death right away."


    "Not executing you immediately is considered lenient," Leanna retorted.


    Aidan chuckled softly. "Okay, so I guess I''m still on death row. Can I get a sentence reduction to life


    imprisonment now?"


    "When have you ever heard of a death row inmate being able to bargain for their sentence?"


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    He fell silent for a moment and then said, "Actually, I think that analogy was not very appropriate."


    "It''s all your fault anyway." Leanna sobbed.


    "Yes, my mistake. Let''s not talk about that anymore."


    After his words trailed off, she kicked him off the couch and covered her head with a thin nket, ready


    to go to sleep.


    Aidan watched her figure and smirked slightly. He sat on the carpet, picked up hisptop, and resumed


    working.


    Half an hourter, Jonathan called him.


    Aidan looked at Leanna, who was already asleep; he pulled the nket down to uncover her mouth


    and nose and walked to the bedroom to answer the phone.


    "President Pearson, we have found out their exact location. Do you want to go in and get the young


    master out?" Jonathan asked.


    "Not yet," Aidan replied. "Do you have the list of medical team members?"


    "I have it. I''ll send it to you now," Jonathan replied.


    Aidan took out his phone, turned on the speaker, and opened the information that Jonathan had just


    sent.


    Jonathan continued. "This medical team was cultivated by the Woodleys and includes authoritative


    doctors who are well-known internationally. Their main task is to research and develop new medical


    drugs. However, two years ago, a nutrient injection they developed had some problems during testing."


    "During the testing phase, an employee''s child was born prematurely and was on the brink of death.


    The employee stole a dose of the nutrient injection and injected it into the child. The child''s condition


    improved at the time, but after half a month, the same symptoms as the young master''s appeared. The


    employee had no choice but to ask theb doctors about it, and the matter became a big deal as a


    result."


    "After L found out about it, he ordered the immediate destruction of the nutrient injection and


    instructed the medical team to do everything possible to save the child. After two years of treatment,


    the child is now healthy and only needs to go back to theb for checkups every month and has not


    had a rpse since."


    "Among the members of the medical team, there is one named Waylen. He is said to be the disciple of


    a legendary doctor named Ryan Barkley, and his medical skills are superb, especially in treating


    symptoms caused by a nutrient injection. His mother and L''s mother are cousins, so he is kind of


    L''s cousin."


    As Jonathan finished speaking, Aidan had just found the page with Waylen''s information.


    "Send a few people to guard theb and find an opportunity to bring him over. I want to meet him,"


    Aidan ordered.


    "Okay, I''ll take care of it now," Jonathan said.


    "Take the doctor to the child''s house to confirm his condition, and then let me know," Aidan instructed.

 Chapter 607

    Chapter 607


    Chapter 607 Envy Me for Holding Such a Beautiful Woman


    After another round of sleep, Leanna felt like her body had softened. She stretched with her eyes


    closed, not knowing that her face had rubbed against something. It''s the touch of suit fabric.


    She moved her neck a bit but felt something with a strong sense of presence next to her head.


    Then, she opened her eyes and was about to yawn, but what she saw was a man''s cold and sharp


    jawline.


    She was stunned for several seconds and was confused as to why she saw such a scene. It was only


    after that she remembered that she was sleeping on the couch.


    As Leanna''s drowsiness gradually wore off, she noticed the man''s Adam''s apple and finally realized


    what position she was lying in at the moment.


    She sat up abruptly in shock.


    Aidan was sorting through documents with his long legs crossed. "Hi."


    Leanna asked, "How did I end up sleeping on your leg?"


    "That''s something you should ask yourself. I was sitting here just fine. How did you end up on my leg?"


    Aidan replied.


    Leanna had seen enough of this man''s ability to turn things around. Pfft. You must have ced my


    head on your leg while I was asleep for all I know.


    Not only that, but he also...


    Such a pervert!


    Aidan leaned back with his arm resting on the couch as he looked at her. "How was your sleep?"


    "I¡ª"


    "I feel like you slept pretty well. Did you dream of anything?"


    Without thinking, she replied, "No, nothing at all!"


    He cornered his lips and leaned closer to her before asking her in a low and maic voice, "Really?


    But why were you drooling?"


    Leanna quickly wiped her mouth, realizing he was lying and making fun of her. She picked up a pillow


    and hit him several times.


    After she finished, Aidan took the pillow and pulled her onto hisp. "Alright, you don''t know how much


    you moved around in your sleep. It''s ufortable for me."


    "Who asked you to¡ª"


    Before Leanna could finish her sentence, she was pinned down and kissed by him.


    Next second, his thin lips pressed onto hers.


    She tried to hit his chest, but he sped her hand. He hugged her by the waist and deepened the kiss.


    After a long kiss, Leanna was out of breath and her eyes were moist.


    Aidan rested his chin on her shoulder and whispered in a voice only they could hear, "Honey, can I


    have somepensation?"


    Leenne suddenly ceme to her senses. "You..."


    Uncertein things ere heppening, yet he is thinking ebout sexuel stuff! Is he still humen?


    Aiden remeined celm endposed. "It''s been e month since you let me touch you."


    She wes furious. "So, it''s my feult now?"


    "It''s not entirely your feult. Otherwise, things wouldn''t be this simple right now."


    Leenne wes speechless. So, I should be thenking you, you meen?


    Aiden bit her eer end held her hend in his pelm. He urged with e hoerse voice, "Hurry up, or we do it


    somewhere else?"


    No metter how herd she tried, Leenne couldn''t pull her hend out of his gresp. He truly lives up to his


    title es e b*sterd. Well-eerned title! she thought.


    When it wes ell over, she felt like she couldn''t even lift her erm, so she went streight to the bethroom to


    shower.


    Helfwey through her shower, there wes e knock on the bethroom door. Aiden''s voice ceme through.


    "Your clothes ere outside the door."


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Leenne ignored him.


    He continued, "Actuelly, on second thought, you probebly don''t need them. I''m going to teke them


    ewey."


    There wes silence et her end before she yelled, "You better leeve them right there!"


    Aiden''s smirk grew wider. "Okey, okey, I''ll leeve them here."


    Leenne grumpily finished her shower end opened the door to reveel e creck. She groped eround for e


    while, end finelly, she found e peper beg end pulled it into the bethroom.


    By the time she finished chenging, Aiden hed elso finished chenging into e new set of clothes end wes


    now weiting for her et the door.


    "Let''s go," he seid.


    "I''m not going." She set on the couch.


    With his long legs, Aiden reeched her in e metter of seconds. "Let''s go out to eet. Heve e stroll. Didn''t


    you sey you couldn''t sleep well?"


    "You cen go eheed. I''ll heed out by myself leter. Let''s just do our own things."


    Aiden wes dumbfounded.


    He then bent over end cerried her by the weist before he left for outside.


    Leenne struggled. "Let me go!"


    He ignored her end opened the door, telling Jhen, who wes weiting outside, "Bring the shoes et the


    entrence."


    At the sight of this scene, Jhen wes shocked et first, but he quickly regeined hisposure es e


    quelified essistent. He nodded, picked up the peper beg with the unopened shoebox next to the door,


    end followed them out.


    Leanna suddenly came to her senses. "You..."


    Uncertain things are happening, yet he is thinking about sexual stuff! Is he still human?


    Aidan remained calm andposed. "It''s been a month since you let me touch you."


    She was furious. "So, it''s my fault now?"


    "It''s not entirely your fault. Otherwise, things wouldn''t be this simple right now."


    Leanna was speechless. So, I should be thanking you, you mean?


    Aidan bit her ear and held her hand in his palm. He urged with a hoarse voice, "Hurry up, or we do it


    somewhere else?"


    No matter how hard she tried, Leanna couldn''t pull her hand out of his grasp. He truly lives up to his


    title as a b*stard. Well-earned title! she thought.


    When it was all over, she felt like she couldn''t even lift her arm, so she went straight to the bathroom to


    shower.


    Halfway through her shower, there was a knock on the bathroom door. Aidan''s voice came through.


    "Your clothes are outside the door."


    Leanna ignored him.


    He continued, "Actually, on second thought, you probably don''t need them. I''m going to take them


    away."


    There was silence at her end before she yelled, "You better leave them right there!"


    Aidan''s smirk grew wider. "Okay, okay, I''ll leave them here."


    Leanna grumpily finished her shower and opened the door to reveal a crack. She groped around for a


    while, and finally, she found a paper bag and pulled it into the bathroom.


    By the time she finished changing, Aidan had also finished changing into a new set of clothes and was


    now waiting for her at the door.


    "Let''s go," he said.


    "I''m not going." She sat on the couch.


    With his long legs, Aidan reached her in a matter of seconds. "Let''s go out to eat. Have a stroll. Didn''t


    you say you couldn''t sleep well?"


    "You can go ahead. I''ll head out by myselfter. Let''s just do our own things."


    Aidan was dumbfounded.


    He then bent over and carried her by the waist before he left for outside.


    Leanna struggled. "Let me go!"


    He ignored her and opened the door, telling Jonathan, who was waiting outside, "Bring the shoes at the


    entrance."


    At the sight of this scene, Jonathan was shocked at first, but he quickly regained hisposure as a


    qualified assistant. He nodded, picked up the paper bag with the unopened shoebox next to the door,


    and followed them out.


    It was dinner time at the hotel. Along the corridor, there were several staff members delivering food and


    guestsing downstairs to eat.


    Everyone shot them curious gazes upon watching this scene.


    To avoid drawing too much attention, Leanna gave up struggling and gritted her teeth. "Can''t you see


    everyone is staring at us? Put me down now!"


    Aidan said, "That? Yeah. They''re just envious."


    "Envious my¡ª"


    "Envious of me holding such a beautiful woman."


    The swear word "*ss" was retracted, and the knife she was about to wield was put away.


    She was about to burst intoughter from his shamelessness. Not only was he vain, but he was also


    taking it to the extreme.


    When they arrived at the elevator, Leannapromised, saying, "I''ll walk by myself. Put me down."


    Aidan turned his head, and Jonathan came up with the shoes in his hand.


    Leanna wore her shoes, tidied up her messy hair, and stared at the elevator, not wanting to speak.


    Soon, the elevator stopped.


    There were already two people inside the elevator.


    Thank God he has put me down. This man is damn annoying at times.


    Aidan followed her into the elevator.


    The twodies in the elevator huddled together and whispered excitedly, "He''s so handsome!"


    "Go on. Get his phone number!"


    After some pushing and shoving, one of the young women approached Aidan and asked, "Hello, may I


    have your contact number?"


    He turned his head and looked at her, then took her phone and quickly entered a series of numbers.


    Anotherdy behind her covered her mouth, trying to contain her excitement.


    Leanna leaned against the elevator with her arms crossed, expressionless.


    After entering his number, Aidan returned the phone to the woman, who said shyly, "Thank you. Can I


    invite you to a dr¡ª"


    "That''s my wife''s number. You two should get along well."


    Leanna and the girl were both dumbfounded.


    Jonathan looked up and sighed in his heart. Poor girls. They are too superficial. Little did they know


    President Pearson always has a sharp tongue when ites to rejecting people.


    At this point, the elevator stopped.


    Aidan grabbed Leanna''s wrist and walked out in big strides.

 Chapter 608

    Chapter 608


    Chapter 608 Could It Be That He¡¯s Handsome?


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    The night view in Jamesdon was beautiful, especially near the river, where the entire city''s night view


    reflected on the river surface could be seen.


    The evening breeze was also pleasant.


    The restaurant where they had dinner was located by the river. At a nce, there were ripples on the


    river surface that were caused by the wind and created a shimmering effect.


    After taking a nap in the afternoon, Leanna wasn''t very hungry and didn''t eat much.


    Aidan noticed this and ordered a dessert for her, to which she mentioned, "I can''t eat anymore."


    "If you eat that little, you''ll be hungry at night." He pushed the te of dessert toward her. "Hurry up


    and eat, or you won''t be able to gain even a pound, let alone five pounds."


    "You were the one who said it, not me!"


    Aidan''s lips curved. "Mm-hmm, I said it."


    Leanna was a bit full and couldn''t eat anymore, so she had the dessert packed for takeout and took it


    back to the hotel where she nned to eat it when she was hungryter.


    He didn''t say anything about it, either.


    After dinner, they walked by the river for a while. Leannazily leaned against the railing to enjoy the


    breeze.


    Aidan asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "My legs are weak; I have no strength."


    She slept the whole afternoon and didn''t do anything, but she still felt tired for some reason.


    The man turned around and squatted while facing away from her. "Come up."


    She looked around and saw many people around her. Then, she whispered, "What are you doing?"


    "Since your legs are weak, I''ll carry you."


    "I¡­ just want to rest for a while. It''s not like I can''t walk."


    Aidan turned his head back and pulled her arm, which caused her to be off guard and fall directly on his


    back.


    He carried her and said, "You should have listened to me earlier."


    Leanna was speechless.


    Although there were many people around, most of them were just walking around, and no one was


    carrying anyone on their backs like they were doing. As a result, many people cast ambiguous nces


    at them.


    She buried her head in his shoulder and urged him in a soft voice, "Let''s go back to the hotel."


    "Don''t you want to walk for a little more?"


    "Am I even walking right now?"


    As they walked toward the hotel, Aidan''s lips curled into a wider smile.


    It would take them about 10 minutes to arrive at the hotel, and as they got closer, there were fewer


    people around.


    Looking at their long shadows under the streetlights, Leanna suddenly spoke up, "Aidan."


    "Hmm?"


    "What do you think the truth from 20 years ago will be?"


    When she found her mother''s body, he told her that the people who helped Leroy with the n 20


    years ago and caused Justin''s car ident were likely the same group of people.


    Beforeing to Jamesdon, she had always thought that everything was done by the Woodleys.


    However, for some reason, that feeling was less intense now that she interacted with Waylen and


    L and heard what they said.


    Leanna''s intuition told her they probably wouldn''t stoop so low as to do such things. Be it 20 years ago


    or now.


    The Woodleys were not as heinous as others imagined them to be.


    Aidan replied calmly, "Whatever it is, it won''t be a happy revtion."


    "What do you think the Woodleys'' role was in the events from 20 years ago?"


    "Definitely not any positive roles."


    "Why is that?"


    "The Woodleys couldn''t leave Jamesdon for their entire lives. Yet, they were involved in those events


    20 years ago. The Crossleys'' fire, Leroy''s subterfuge, taking advantage of that situation, and Justin''s


    paralysis after the car ident. Besides these, what good things happened?"


    Leanna opened her mouth but was unable to answer for a moment.


    Aidan continued, "Perhaps the Woodleys aren''t the mastermind behind the scenes, but there must be a


    link to these events somehow. Though, there''s still one thing I can''t figure out."


    He added, "But I''m sure there should be an answer soon."


    If the Woodleys could not leave Jamesdon, why did they participate in these events in Highside at any


    cost?


    Back at the hotel, Leanna only briefly washed up because she had just showered before leaving. Then,


    shey down on the bed and turned on her fully charged phone to check in with her friends at Highside.


    Zoe answered her call while she was still out of breath. "I''ve been so scared for the past two days while


    you were missing, but fortunately, President Pearson called this morning."


    Leanna paused for a moment and looked outside the bedroom. "He called you?"


    "He didn''t intend to call me. Daniel sent someone to look for you, but President Pearson simply said


    that we don''t have to search for you anymore," Zoe exined. "Nana, what happened? How did you


    suddenly disappear from the hospital?"


    Leanna gently pursed her lips. "L''s people took me away."


    "L? Do you mean L the monster, who eats people and doesn''t leave a trace of bones? Is


    he as terrifying and creepy as the rumors say? He didn''t do anything to you, did he?"


    She smiled. "No. I met him, and he''spletely different from what the rumors say. His appearance¡ª"


    Thinking of the figure she saw at the door that day, she remembered something shing through her


    mind, but she couldn''t grasp it.


    Zoe asked curiously, "Could it be that he''s handsome?"


    "Yes, he''s quite handsome," Leanna acknowledged.


    "How handsome is he? Is he as handsome as President Pearson?" Zoe asked excitedly.


    Leanna''s hand that was holding the phone paused, and the scene of seeing L for the first time


    shed in her mind once again.


    She finally knew what it was that shed through her mind.


    After a few seconds of silence, she said, "Yes."


    Zoe did not believe Leanna as she replied, "No way."


    "Yes, he''s almost as handsome as Aidan."


    Zoe eximed, "Oh my goodness! There''s actually someone in this world who''s as handsome as


    President Pearson! Ah, I want to see him, too! Can you secretly take a picture of him for me?"


    "I don''t think I can," Leanna admitted.


    At that moment, Daniel''s voice came through the phone. "I''m still here. Aren''t you being a bit too


    much?"


    Zoe retorted, "Well, although President Pearson''s tongue is a bit sharp, his face is very attractive.


    When he''s not speaking, his looks are off the charts!"


    Leanna smiled at Zoe''s words, but when she raised her head, she saw a man leaning against the


    doorframe, and she didn''t know how long he had been there.


    She was speechless, but she coughed twice after a moment. "Zoe, I think¡ª"


    Zoe sighed. "President Pearson is a good person. It''s just a shame that he has a sharp tongue."


    Aidan walked toward Leanna with long strides.


    Leanna quickly hung up the phone and stuffed the device under the covers while calmly looking outside


    the window, trying to act as if nothing had happened.


    As he approached step by step, she felt the temperature in the room had dropped a few degrees, and


    she was almost out of breath from the pressure of his aura.


    She decided to speak up first, "Zoe was just joking. She wasplimenting you."


    He stood in front of her. "I could tell. But¡­"


    As he spoke, he grabbed her wrist and pressed her onto the bed. His dark eyes narrowed dangerously.


    "What do you mean by ''almost?''"

 Chapter 609

    Chapter 609


    Chapter 609 Share Some Simrities


    Leanna looked away, avoiding Aidan''s eyes. "W-Well, I mean it literally. What else could there be?"


    Holding her chin, Aidan forcibly turned her gaze toward him and said slowly, "It seems you don''t know


    me well enough."


    Just as the man''s thin lips were about to touch hers, she pushed him away. "Get up. I need to tell you


    something."


    "Is it necessary to get up to talk about it?" he asked. Though, Leanna didn''t answer his question.


    She pinched Aidan''s waist, causing him to let out a muffled groan.


    Seizing the opportunity, she crawled out from under him and slid off the bed.


    She searched around the room but couldn''t find any paper or pen.


    Aidan sat on the edge of the bed with his hands propped behind him. His gaze followed her


    movements. "What are you looking for?"


    "Paper and pen. Do you have any?"


    "No. Call the front desk and ask them to bring some."


    Right, Leanna thought.


    Reaching the bedside table, she called the front desk.


    Ten minutester, the hotel staff brought paper and pencils.


    Sitting on the couch, she settled down and quickly sketched lines on the paper.


    After a while, Aidan sat beside her, hugging her waist and resting his chin on her shoulder. "What are


    you drawing? Didn''t you say you had something to tell me?"


    Leanna said, "I''m almost done."


    As she spoke, she pped the hand on her waist seriously. "Hands off."


    The man could only retract his hand and lean back against the couch while watching her draw.


    After about 20 minutes, a man''s face appeared on the white paper. Carefully, Leanna added more


    details.


    Aidan''s gaze fell on the drawing, and his ck eyes narrowed.


    Suddenly, he spoke, "I don''t think you were this serious when you drew me."


    Leanna remained silent.


    Looking at the almostplete drawing in front of her, she ced it in front of him. "This is L


    Woodley."


    "I guessed as much. That''s why I find it hard to understand why you would say he resembles me,"


    Aidan said.


    Leanna''s eyelids twitched as she looked at him expressionlessly.


    The man said, "Please continue."


    "Maybe I didn''t capture his expression, but I feel like¡­" She paused for a moment before continuing,


    "From a certain perspective, he and you share some simrities."


    "Are you trying to say that he is another illegitimate child left behind by Gordon?"


    "That would make him more simr to Justin. What does it have to do with you?!"


    Aidan raised an eyebrow. "Really?"


    N?velDrama.Org owns this.


    Leanna didn''t bother with him and continued, "I heard you say before that you haven''t seen any other


    rtives besides Ms. Fletcher, so I was wondering if¡­"


    He caressed her hair. "Honey, you''re overthinking. The reason why I haven''t seen any other rtives is


    that they''re all dead."


    She was stunned for a few seconds. "But didn''t you say you never asked Ms. Fletcher about it?"


    "I didn''t ask, but I investigated it," he replied.


    After a while, she uttered an "oh" sound. "Maybe I''m overthinking it."


    She had only met L a few times and thought he looked like Aidan, but it was probably just an


    illusion she had when she first saw him.


    "It''s gettingte. You should go to bed."


    Aidan looked at the drawing on the coffee table. His eyes darkened as he slightly pursed his thin lips.


    Leanna drew well; she captured L''s expression perfectly.


    Aidan still needed to deal with work from Highside, so he went straight to the living room.


    The womany in bed, unable to fall asleep at all. Turning over several times, she took out her phone


    to dial Waylen''s number.


    After the call connected, she held her breath and asked, "It''s me. How is the child doing now?"


    Waylen replied, "We did another checkup today. His condition has stabilized for now. We are also


    working on a treatment n, so¡­ I suppose you could say it''s good news?"


    "It is. Thank you."


    "You''re wee. I have something else to do, so I''ll hang up now."


    "Okay."


    After putting away her phone, Leanna looked out the window. Finally, her extremely anxious heart


    gradually calmed down.


    At least everything was heading in the right direction now.


    A few minutester, her phone rang a few times. When she opened it, it was a message from Waylen.


    There were two pictures of Noah.


    One picture showed him sitting in his crib while pulling the ear of a small toy and the other was of him


    sleeping with his little fists clenched.


    After saving these two pictures, Leanna reluctantly looked at them for most of the night before


    sleepiness finally crept in on her.


    When the breathing in the bedroom became even, Aidan set aside his paperwork and walked to the


    balcony. He dialed Naomi''s number, but the other end had already powered off.


    His face became serious as he dialed Jonathan''s number. "Any news from Ulburn?"


    "No, President Pearson. Did something happen to Madam Fletcher?"


    "Send someone over to check tomorrow morning."


    "Okay."


    Aidan was silent for a moment before saying, "Have the people in Highside investigate my mother''s


    background and her connection with Jamesdon."


    On the other end of the phone, Jonathan was stunned for a moment before immediately responding, "I


    will give the order now."


    Making an affirmative sound, Aidan put away his phone and looked into the distance.


    At this time, there was no one by the river except for a distant ferry emitting a faint light.


    ¡­


    As Leanna slept until after midnight, she felt someone beside her. So, she drowsily opened her eyes.


    For a moment, she was unclear about whether she had forgiven him.


    However, before she could do anything, Aidan had already pulled her into his arms and said in a sleepy


    voice, "Close your eyes and go back to sleep."


    Confused, she closed her eyes and went back to sleep. Then, the man took advantage of the situation


    and put his hand inside her nightwear to hug her slender waist.


    Perhaps due to having slept excessively over the past two days, she found herself awake at the first


    glimpse of dawn. Unlike yesterday, she felt refreshed and energized.


    Looking at the man sleeping next to her, she gently caressed his furrowed brow.


    In all honesty, Leanna couldn''t me Aidan for anything.


    She was fully aware of those truths herself.


    Ultimately, it was because she resented him in the past for how easily he had deceived her so many


    times when she was on the verge of discovering the truth. She had also been on the brink of an


    emotional breakdown, but even if she could bring the child back, she couldn''t allocate the protection


    Aidan could provide for Noah.


    In the past, she often thought the child''s existence was meaningless to Aidan. For him, it was a burden,


    a shackle, and even more so, a burden he was eager to abandon.


    It was only when the child''s illnesspelled Aidan and Leanna to travel to Jamesdon that she


    realized how much Aidan cared for the child, which was far beyond her understanding.


    It was just that he expressed it differently.


    Aidan had been like this since he was a child¡ªtough on the outside but tender on the inside.


    Despite hisints, he had always given more than anyone else.


    From the child''s birth until now, he had been shouldering everything alone.

 Chapter 610

    Chapter 610


    Chapter 610 When Did You Treat Me Like a Person?


    As Leanna was lost in thought, the man before her moved his eyshes.


    She attempted to retract her hand upon seeing this, only to have her wrist seized.


    Aidan opened his eyes and fixed them on her with his pitch-ck pupils. His voice was hoarse. "What


    are you doing?"


    She awkwardly averted her gaze. "Nothing. I''m getting up. You can keep talking."


    As she spoke, she was pressed down by the man before she could even move.


    "Aidan¡ª"


    Just as Leanna began to speak, Aidan lowered his head and bit her neck.


    He didn''t bite her hard, but he wasn''t gentle, either.


    A slight stinging sensation spread from her neck; it was somewhat itchy and numb.


    Leanna''s slender eyebrows furrowed, and she pounded his waist with her hand. "Are you a dog?"


    Aidan''s voice was hoarse. "You just found out today?"


    His response rendered her speechless.


    Taking advantage of her silence for a few seconds, the man had already slipped his hand into her


    sleepwear, and his palm roamed upward.


    Her body trembled wherever he touched her.


    Leanna''s breathing was uneven, and she was a little breathless. She pressed her hand against his


    chest. "Stop¡­"


    Honestly, given the current situation with Noah, she wasn''t in the mood for this kind of thing with him.


    Aidan knew what she was thinking, and he nibbled on her ear. "Do you think I can control myself in this


    situation?"


    "Then, endure it," she answered.


    He pressed down and inched toward her. "You think I can endure it?"


    Leanna''s eyes were moist, and she grabbed his roaming hand. "Just stop touching!"


    "I''m not the kind of man who can resist temptation," Aidan stated.


    However, he didn''t pursue the matter further and instead asked, "Honey, like yesterday?"


    Leanna was stunned.


    The man grabbed her hand and moved it downward, bit by bit, to take advantage of her.


    Of course, Aidan was obviously just lying.


    What he was doing now was far worse than yesterday, as it constantly tested the boundaries of danger.


    By the time it was over, the sky had brightened; the sun had broken through the clouds.


    Leanna felt some pain as she put on her underwear in the bathroom. Looking down at the bite marks


    on her body, she was frustrated.


    Looking unusually serious andposed, Aidan spoke before her, "You bit me yesterday, so it''s even."


    As she was about to say something, she was flustered, turning red and hot. "Are you even human?"


    How can he say something so shameless with such a straight face? she thought.


    "Since when did you treat me like a person?"


    At that, Leanna had a headache.


    This was a fact she couldn''t refute.


    After Aidan fastened the buttons of her underwear from behind, he rubbed her head. "I''ll wait for you


    outside."


    "Get out!"


    Just as Aidan stepped out of the bathroom, he received a call from Jonathan.


    Jonathan spoke fearfully over the phone, "President Pearson, our people went to the vi to check.


    Madam Fletcher¡­ She''s gone missing."


    Aidan''s face turned slightly cold as he held his phone, seemingly unsurprised.


    Jonathan continued, "People stationed nearby said they saw no strangersing in or out."


    Obviously, it wasn''t a stranger. It was the ce where Oscar had sent Naomi before, and no one knew


    the surrounding geography better than him.


    "President Pearson, should we send people to look for her?" Jonathan inquired.


    Aidan replied, "No need."


    He wanted to see what they were nning to do.


    Jonathan said, "By the way, President Pearson, I took the doctor to the child''s house yesterday and


    confirmed the information we received earlier."


    Aidan responded with a faint grunt. "What about theboratory?"


    "Outsiders are not permitted in theboratory due to strict ess control. We can only wait outside. We


    haven''t found an opportunity because Waylen didn''t leave theboratory all day yesterday."


    "I see."


    After hanging up the phone, Aidan looked at the distant scenery. His facial features were stern; it was


    unclear what he was thinking.


    ¡­


    Two dayster, Leanna sat on the balcony in a lounge chair, drawing a design n.


    Meanwhile, Aidan was sitting on the couch behind her, dealing with the documents sent from Highside.


    Fortunately, the Pearsons could no longer afford to stir up trouble now, and Justin had taken Gordon to


    Vind for treatment.


    Otherwise, Highside would probably be in turmoil by now.


    Leanna looked at the distant sunset and stopped her hand movements as she felt slightly absent-


    minded.


    She had been calling Waylen these past two days to ask about Noah''s condition.


    However, Waylen had been too busy to talk, so she only exchanged a few brief words before hanging


    up.


    Despite her desire to see the little guy, Waylen forbade her.


    She wondered when this kind of day woulde to an end.


    Leanna sighed silently and lowered her head listlessly.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Aidan''s voice came from behind.


    She regained her thoughts. "Nothing."


    He sat next to her. "Do you want to go back to Highside?"


    Leanna shook her head. "I''m just thinking about when Noah will get better."


    "He''ll be better today than yesterday."


    Stunned, Leanna turned to look at him.


    Aidan continued, "He''ll be better tomorrow than he is today. And each day will be better than thest."


    The woman looked at him without saying a word.


    Holding her chin, he raised his eyebrows. "Why are you looking at me like that?"


    "I just didn''t expect to hear those words from you. It''s quite surprising."


    He was rendered speechless upon hearing her answer.


    Smiling, Leanna lowered her head to continue drawing her design n.


    After a while, Aidan''s phone rang.


    Jonathan reported, "President Pearson, we''ve caught up with Waylen."


    Aidan said, "I''ming over now."


    After hanging up, he told Leanna, "I''m going out. The hotel will deliver the dinner to you. So, don''t go


    out."


    She nodded lightly. "Okay."


    As Aidan left, the sunset outside also gradually disappeared.


    The sky soon darkened.


    Rubbing her sore eyes, Leanna put down her sketchbook and sat on the couch.


    When she opened her phone, she discovered a missed call from Zoe.


    Leanna called back. "Is there something wrong, Zoe?"


    Zoe said, "Isn''t it Saturday today? Louis came over, and I told him you and Aidan took the kid out to


    y. But I think he doesn''t believe it. Maybe you should give him a call."


    "Okay, I got it."


    Zoe added, "Nana, when are you guysing back?"


    Leanna sighed. "I don''t know."


    "It''s okay, no rush. Anyway, Daniel is helping out at the studio these days. So, there isn''t much going


    on. You can take your time with things over there."


    Leanna responded, "Zoe, I drew some new designs these past two days. I''ll send them to youter."


    "Okay. With the ones from before, there are already several styles. I''ll arrange them for the new


    collection tomorrow, and we''ve also found the models we need."


    "Great. Thank you for your hard work."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Zoe was eating an orange and eximed, "There is no need to be courteous. I''m getting paid for this.


    It''s what I should do."


    Leanna chuckled. "Okay. Rest well. I''ll give Louis a call."

 Chapter 611

    Chapter 611


    Chapter 611 You Might as Well Kill Me


    On the other hand, Waylen had been in theboratory for several days and felt like he was starting to


    smell. So, he organized his work and returned home to shower and change his clothes.


    Halfway through the drive, he was aware of someone following him from behind.


    Waylen nced through the rearview mirror and kept the car at a steady speed.


    After driving for a while, he took advantage of the other person''s inattention and quickly found an exit to


    get off the highway.


    When he got under the bridge, Waylen parked his car on the side of the road. Seeing that the car


    following him had disappeared, he whistled proudly. Then, he traveled half a city and arrived home.


    After parking the car in the underground garage, he alighted from the vehicle leisurely with the key, but


    he couldn''t move his legs after barely two steps.


    Jonathan, who was standing not far away, smiled at him.


    Waylen was stunned.


    Quickly, he turned around in eagerness to return to the car, only to discover that someone had also


    been standing behind him at some point.


    Waylen flicked his hair and clicked his tongue. "I never thought I''d have such a day. Whom do you work


    for? Have you investigated who I am beforeing here to ambush me?"


    Jonathan stated, "We just want to ask you something, Mr. Woodley."


    "Why do you need to bring in so many people to talk? You could have just waited for me at home


    instead of making me take a huge turn to get home."


    Jonathan maintained his smile. "Well, our people were just following you to ensure your safety. We


    didn''t expect you to run so suddenly."


    Waylen leaned against the car, feeling no nervousness despite the situation. "Just tell me what you


    want to ask. I need to hear it before deciding whether or not to answer."


    Jonathan didn''t say anything and took a step to the side.


    In the next second, a tall figure appeared in Waylen''s sight and stared at him with unemotional ck


    eyes.


    Waylen was surprised by Aidan''s appearance.


    At this point, he really wanted to run away.


    Aidan''s voice was cold. "Are you nning to talk here?"


    Waylen immediately straightened up. "Please follow me."


    In the elevator, he stood by the door, feeling restrained. Jonathan was standing next to Waylen while


    Aidan leaned against the carriage at the back.


    The elevator was brimming with a frigid atmosphere.


    Waylen started to regret, wondering why he even bothered to head home to shower and change


    clothes because he felt a little dirty and smelly as a man.


    Great. Now I''m being caught red-handed, he thought.


    He couldn''t express his grievances aloud.


    A deathly silence spread throughout the elevator, and as the air grew thinner and thinner¡­


    Ding! The elevator door opened.


    Waylen didn''t move for a moment.


    With long strides, Aidan stepped out.


    Waylen couldn''t help but wonder, Please don''t tell me that man knows where I live.


    A few secondster, Aidan stopped in front of the door.


    As expected, he knew where Waylen lived.


    Waylen coughed and walked over to press his fingerprint to open the door.


    After the door opened, he walked straight inside. "Feel free to sit. No need to be courteous."


    Just as he was about to press the button to contact L through the hidden cab, Jonathan


    appeared in front of him with a smile. "Mr. Woodley, please have a seat, too."


    Waylen gave up struggling.


    He sat opposite Aidan, visibly uneasy.


    Aidan crossed his long legs. There was an overwhelming sense of pressure, with him raising his eyes


    to look at Waylen.


    Waylen changed his posture. "You guys want to ask me something, right? What is it? I will tell you


    everything I know."


    At that, Jonathan was speechless.


    That wasn''t what he said back at the garage, right? Jonathan wondered.


    Aidan slowly spoke, "The child''s condition." His tone was neither cold nor warm.


    "This¡­ I have already told Miss McKinney about this in detail. Didn''t she tell you?" Waylen asked.


    "I want to hear it from you personally."


    Since Waylen couldn''t win Aidan in a fight, he could only yield and repeat what he told Leanna two


    days ago.


    Aidan leaned back on the couch with the same expression as earlier.


    After Waylen finished exining, he continued, "We are currently developing a treatment n. The


    situation isplicated, and you can''t visit the child because theboratory does not allow outsiders in.


    But I send Miss McKinney pictures of the child every day. She¡­ should have told you, right?"


    Aidan didn''t answer but asked, "How long will the treatment take?"


    Waylen replied, "Well¡­ it''s not confirmed, as the treatment n hasn''t been decided."


    "Is two years enough time?"


    Waylen shook his head. "His symptoms are more severe than the previous child. That''s why we didn''t


    follow the same treatment n as before. I can''t promise anything else, but two years is simply


    impossible. It could take five years, ten years, or even longer."


    Aidan pursed his thin lips, and his face became colder than before.


    Waylen hurriedly added, "There is also a probability issue with this thing. We have not found a


    breakthrough point yet, but if we do, a miracle might happen."


    Aidan looked at him. "What do you mean by more severe symptoms?"


    After hearing this, Waylen''s expression darkened with slightly furrowed eyebrows. "Someone modified


    the nutrient injection''s basis, which led to¡­ the worsening of symptoms after injection."


    "Only people from yourb could have ess to this data."


    "Well¡­ Although that''s what it seems like, all the data and rted information were destroyed two


    years ago. There are so many people in theboratory, and everyone has a certain reputation in the


    medical field. Without evidence, it''s not good to suspect others."


    Aidan did not speak and merely looked at him expressionlessly.


    Under Aidan''s gaze, Waylen felt a bit guilty and averted his eyes.


    After a moment, Aidan spoke again, "The second thing I''d like to know is the specific time of the


    Woodleys'' family gathering."


    "I''m unsure if it''s appropriate to tell you this."


    Aidan replied, "I doubt you have the guts to answer some of my questions."


    Waylen said, "Even if I tell you the specific time, you can''t get in."


    "But you can get in," Aidan said.


    Waylen was puzzled by Aidan''s response.


    Aidan exined, "The third thing is to take us inside."


    Waylen stood up and firmly refused, "This is going a little too far. You might as well kill me to get it over


    with."


    "Is that so?"


    Aidan looked at Jonathan, who nodded and waved his hand. Immediately, several bodyguards


    approached.


    Sitting back down quickly, Waylen said seriously, "After careful consideration, I believe this matter can


    be discussed. So, let''s talk about the specific n."


    Aidan smiled and looked at Waylen as if he was looking at a fool.


    Waylen closed his eyes and took a deep breath before continuing, "Next weekend, at the Woodley


    Family Estate."


    "Who will be attending?" Aidan asked.


    This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.


    "All of the Woodleys. But it''s not a very interesting gathering; the older ones will be putting on airs while


    the younger ones will just be on pins and needles."


    Aidan tapped his fingers lightly on the couch armrest and asked calmly, "Will L be there?"


    Waylen nodded. "He''s the current head of the Woodley Family. Even if he doesn''t want to go, the


    elders will drag him there by the nose."


    Aidan asked, "What''s the main purpose of the gathering?"


    "Ancestor worship."


    Waylen hurriedly added, "There is also a probability issue with this thing. We have not found a


    breakthrough point yet, but if we do, a miracle might happen."

 Chapter 612

    Chapter 612


    Chapter 612 Messed With Other Women


    The Woodley Family''s biannual gathering was to bring the Woodleys together so they could go through


    the process at once.


    Ancestor worship was one of the most important agendas.


    Nowadays, the younger generation of the Woodley Family held no interest in these red tapes, but the


    older generation still honored the ancestral tradition. Every detail must be handled carefully with no


    negligence.


    Therefore, the Woodley Family''s gatherings never provided entertainment, nor were outsiders allowed


    to attend.


    After Aidan left, Waylen wiped off his sweat and called L in a hurry.


    He said, "Aidan hade to see me."


    L''s tone was t. "What did he ask you?"


    Waylen cleared his throat. "Well¡­ He asked about the child''s condition and some trivial matters."


    "Anything else?"


    "He asked me to bring him to the Woodleys'' family gathering next Sunday."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    L did not speak. Waylen could only hear him breathing steadily on the other end of the phone.


    Waylen tentatively said, "Maybe I should lie low for a while. There''s nothing he can do if I am not in


    Jamesdon."


    L said, "Don''t bother. He would find a way to get into the Woodley Family Estate even if you are


    not around."


    "Guess you have a point. If I leave, who will take care of this mess?"


    "I will pass the message. You can just bring him over to the estate directly when the timees."


    Waylen remained silent for a while. "Are you¡­ nning to tell him now?"


    L replied, "I just follow the rules. As for the rest, it has nothing to do with me."


    Waylen didn''t have much to say.


    L was the expert of buck-passing.


    Kian would apud it if he were still alive.


    Soon, L''s voice came again. "The news that you left Jamesdon has already reached some


    people. Don''t cause any trouble in the next few days. Stay in theboratory and don''te out. We will


    talk about it on the day of ancestor worship."


    "Got it. I''ll go back now."


    After hanging up the phone, Waylen hurriedly showered and returned to theboratory.


    ¡­


    In the hotel, Leanna called Louis and told him that the little guy was sick, and she and Aidan took him


    to see the doctor. She did not hide anything from him, nor did she go into more details. She only


    mentioned that she was not sure of her return date.


    Louis knew she didn''t want to talk too much, so he didn''t ask further.


    Leanna put down her phone, looked out the window, and breathed.


    The doorbell rang at this time.


    She thought it was the hotel staff who wanted to send the dinner.


    Leanna got up and opened the door, but she saw several strangers standing outside instead.


    The one in the lead said, "Please follow us."


    She stepped back and held the door handle. "Who are you?"


    The man responded, "You don''t need to know."


    Just as they were about to step forward, Leanna took out her phone. "Come over again, and I''ll call the


    police."


    "It won''t do you any good to call the police."


    "It doesn''t seem to be a pleasant thing for you, either."


    Just when the other party wanted to force her toe, the hotel manager came over after receiving the


    news. "Hey, guys, what''s going on here? If you have any problems, you can tell me directly."


    The man said, "Our master wants to invite thisdy to his ce as a guest."


    Leanna''s face was expressionless. "I don''t know you guys, and I don''t know your master, so why


    should I go?"


    The manager probably recognized the man''s identity and hurriedly went forward to smooth things over.


    "It''s just a misunderstanding¡ª"


    "A few days ago, Mr. Pearson took away our youngdy, causing her to stay out all night. Is this also a


    misunderstanding?" the man interrupted the manager and looked at Leanna.


    Leanna was taken aback when she heard his words. A few days ago? When?


    The man continued, "You don''t have to worry. Our master just wants to ask you a few questions, and


    he will send you back afterward."


    She regained herposure. "I will note with you because I don''t know your master. Besides,


    Aidan was the one who took your youngdy away, so you should speak to him instead of me. Do you


    think I am a pushover that you can put the me on me?"


    The man probably did not expect her to answer this way and frowned.


    The hotel manager also said, "Ah¡­ Yes, why don''t we wait for Mr. Pearson toe back? Maybe


    there is a misunderstanding."


    The man nced at him, and he immediately fell silent.


    Charles was considered a prestigious figure in the Woodley Family. Unlike L, Charles often


    appeared in the media. It can be seen from Charlotte inviting so many media to attend her birthday


    party.


    Therefore, anyone who did business in Jamesdon would have seen Charles'' confidants.


    When the two sides were at a standstill, Aidan returned.


    He walked up to Leanna and stopped. He said in a cold voice, "What''s wrong?"


    The hotel manager took the initiative and exined, "It probably has something to do with Miss


    Woodley."


    Aidan looked at the man in charge and said, "Tell the person who sent you here I wille over


    personally in a few days. Whether he wants to know the purpose of my visit to Jamesdon or wants to


    settle a score with me, I am all for it."


    The man hesitated and did not move for a while.


    Aidan asked, "Are you waiting for me to see you off?"


    Those men left quickly after hearing his words.


    Seeing this, the hotel manager also breathed a sigh of relief. He nodded slightly toward them before


    leaving.


    Leanna removed her hand from the door handle and returned to the living room.


    Aidan took off his jacket and threw it on the couch, unbuttoned the cor of his shirt with one hand, and


    whispered, "Have you eaten yet?"


    "I already ate."


    "What did you eat?"


    "Fury."


    Aidan was lost for words.


    He sat on the coffee table and rested his long legs casually, after which he looked at the person in front


    of him. "Don''t bother about the Woodleys."


    Leanna said tly, "I didn''t."


    Aidan raised his eyebrows. "Then, why are you unhappy?"


    She was silent before taking another deep breath. "There''s something I can''t figure out."


    "Hmm?"


    "Why is it that I''m always in trouble whenever you mess with other women outside? Does it even make


    sense?"


    The man could only keep to himself.


    Leanna ignored him and picked up her phone to order a barbecue.


    Aidan took her phone and exined, "That Miss Woodley they were talking about has nothing to do


    with me. I just happened to run into her when I was looking for L. She insisted on following me,


    and at that time, you were at L''s ce, so I took her with me."


    Leanna responded, "Oh. She insisted on following you, huh? I guess President Pearson is just as


    charming as ever. You can knock out dozens of girls wherever you are."


    The man chuckled. "You just know?"


    She didn''t want to talk to him anymore.


    Go away, you b*stard.


    She snatched the phone back and continued to order the barbecue.


    Aidan then asked, "Don''t you want to order anything else?"


    Leanna ignored him.


    He continued, "Don''t you like Italian bread? Order one without vinegar."


    After a pause, he added, "Because you''re already having it."

 Chapter 613

    Chapter 613


    Chapter 613 I Am More or Less Responsible


    On the other side.


    After Charles received the report from his men, he snorted coldly. "This is in Jamesdon, not Highside;


    he''s too arrogant."


    His subordinates were silent.


    A few momentster, Charles said, "Have you found out why he came to Jamesdon?"


    "Not yet, but he has been investigating Mr. Woodley, so it is probably rted to Mr. Woodley."


    "L has never put people''s minds at ease."


    Since the death of Kian, L had assumed the position of the family head. On the surface, the


    Woodley Family seemed peaceful, but in reality, it was in turmoil.


    Many people in the Woodley Family felt that L was still too young to bear the heavy burden, and


    they secretly did many things to obstruct him.


    Although it was impossible to take down L ultimately, the existence of these people was always


    a hidden danger. So, L''s mother proposed that Charlotte marry L to consolidate the


    rtionship between the two families and keep the rest of the world quiet.


    Charles belonged to Kian''s n, to begin with. Moreover, the child born from Charlotte and L''s


    marriage would be the next head of the Woodley Family.


    After contemting it, Charles consented to this request.


    Yet, he did not expect Aidan to appear suddenly at Jamesdon.


    Now, Charles was concerned that something would happen.


    He mumbled, "Send someone to Highside to find out if anything has happened to the Pearson Group


    or the Pearsons recently."


    His subordinates nodded and immediately rushed to check.


    Within half an hour, Charles received the news regarding the Pearson Family. Sienna hadmitted


    suicide, and Gordon was paralyzed in bed, unable to move or speak.


    The eldest son, Justin, had taken Gordon to Vind a few days ago to seek medical assistance.


    There was no one to influence Aidan in Highside now.


    Charles frowned. "Why did you only find out such major news now?"


    His subordinate replied, "Someone deliberately blocked the news before this. It was a bitx in the


    Highside now that Aidan had arrived in Jamesdon, so¡­"


    Charles thought about it and suddenly got up. "No! The Pearson Family met with mishaps, and Aidan


    visited Jamesdon. It''s not that simple. I will go out for a little while. You keep an eye on Charlotte; do


    not allow her to run around."


    His subordinates answered, "Yes."


    Charles hurriedly left.


    ¡­


    In the next few days, Leanna didn''t bother about Aidan, but the b*stard always came to mess with her


    and often made her mad.


    However, this also diverted the suffocating feeling in her chest, which stemmed from the little guy''s


    illness.


    Zoe sent Leanna''s design drawings to the factory promptly. She contacted the models for publicity


    photo shoots as soon as the product waspleted.


    At first, Daniel wanted to look for another photographer, but Zoe insisted she could do it herself.


    She became almost a good-for-nothing person once she discovered she was pregnant. She did


    nothing and rarely came to the studio.


    If she was not allowed to do it on her own, she really couldn''t stand it anymore.


    The studio officially onboarded all the major emerce tforms once they finished the publicity


    pictures.


    The brand name was ''Starry Night.''


    Zoe had finally confirmed the name. She thought Leanna put a lot of effort into establishing the brand,


    whereas she herself merely assisted with odds and ends. Hence, a brand name associated with the


    designer would be better.


    Furthermore, she liked the name ''Starry Night'' very much.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    However, Leanna felt it was not to her credit to open the studio and establish this brand. She tried to


    change the name but was convinced by Zoe to remain as it was.


    The brand was in the emerce channel, so aside from that sole tweet from the official Twitter


    ount, there was little to no publicity for the brand.


    However, despite this, it was still discovered by many users.


    These newlyunched models were selling well.


    Leanna was lying on the couch, looking at the pictures of models wearing her jewelry. She felt so


    differently.


    Designing was just a hobby during her college years; she never envisioned bing a designer one


    day.


    If it weren''t for the help and encouragement from Zayn, she would have been unable to hold on to her


    design passion.


    Leanna might have given up long ago.


    Seeing her drift off at the tablet, Aidan flicked her forehead with his fingers and asked, "What are you


    thinking about?"


    Leanna rubbed her forehead and said tly, "Zayn."


    Aidan was lost for words.


    Since it was gettingte, she put down the tablet and prepared to take a shower before going to bed.


    However, Aidan followed her in just as she entered the bathroom.


    She turned her head to look at him. "What are you doing?"


    "I feel that I am more or less responsible for you being able to think of Zayn at this time."


    Leanna was somewhat speechless.


    This b*stard is quite capable of finding reasons for himself, she thought.


    Aidan closed the bathroom door and came forward. He held her wrist, pinned her against the smooth


    wall, pinched her chin, and gently rubbed her lips. "I''ll suffer for a while to help you get out of that


    apathetic crush."


    She looked into his burning eyes and knew without thinking what he wanted to do.


    The b*stard had been handsy with her during thest couple of days in the hotel. He asionally


    ventured too far but never reached the final step.


    Leanna also knew deep in her heart that he was taking care of her feelings. As parents, their actions


    were indeed inappropriate since their child was still lying in theboratory.


    However, Aidan''s gaze now appeared to indicate that he intended to take action tonight.


    She moved her wrist held by the man. "No. Looking at our child''s condition, I¡ª"


    "Please be reasonable. His situation has improved, and a group of doctors is watching him. What do


    you have to worry about?"


    "But¡ª"


    Aidan said gently, "Leanna, no matter what happens, we must move on with life. There is always a way


    to handle a situation, no matter how difficult it may be. You shouldn''t run away and confine yourself to a


    small space; neither be willing toe out nor let others in. You would find that you can''t change what


    has already happened, but we are heading in the right direction."


    Leanna was still in a daze after hearing these seemingly philosophical words.


    Of course, if he had said these words on another asion, she would have believed him.


    Leanna said seriously, "I think you are right."


    The corner of Aidan''s lips curled up slightly. When he was about to kiss her, he heard her add, "But my


    period is here."


    He did not want to speak anymore.


    He then remembered something. She is indeed about to go through her period these few days, so


    she''s probably telling the truth.


    Leanna broke free from his grip, escorted him out of the bathroom, and locked the door again before


    taking a bath in peace.


    Aidan stood by the door and put one hand on his hip. The tip of his tongue was against his teeth; he


    seemed annoyed.


    At this time, his phone on the couch rang.


    He walked over and picked it up.


    Jonathan said, "President Pearson, everything is ready."

 Chapter 614

    Chapter 614


    Chapter 614 Stay With Me


    When Sunday arrived, the entire sky was dark with dry, muggy air, as if it would rain at any moment.


    Waylen waited for half a day in front of theboratory before he saw a ck Maybaching toward


    him.


    Leanna looked at theboratory not far away after the car had stopped.


    Soon, Aidan said, "Let''s take his car and go there."


    She snapped out of her thoughts. "Alright," she replied casually and opened the car door.


    When Waylen saw them, he reached out to greet them. He didn''t look like he was forced to do it.


    Noticing that Leanna had been looking at theb, Waylen said, "Don''t worry; I made all the


    arrangements before I left."


    Leanna nodded gently and didn''t say anything. She knew very well that she couldn''t enter even when


    she arrived.


    On the road, Waylen drove his car. Through the rearview mirror, he took a moment to look at Leanna


    and then at Aidan. He seemed to want to say something but hesitated.


    Aidan said indifferently, "If you have something to say, say it."


    Waylen cleared his throat and looked straight ahead. "Actually, it''s nothing significant. It''s just that the


    Woodley Family is strict. After you get in, don''t run around; just stay by my side. And do not talk


    nonsense during ancestor worship, or you are doomed if the old men hear you."


    "Please be more specific."


    "Probably had to kneel in the ancestral hall for at least two weeks. Furthermore, you would only have


    vegetarian meals. And to put it mildly, they let you learn the lesson."


    Tsk, what an awful experience! Waylen thought.


    Aidan said, "I got it."


    Waylen turned his head surprisingly. It was probably because he did not expect Aidan to be so


    agreeable this time.


    Aidan spoke unhurriedly when he met his puzzled gaze. "It looks like you have extensive experience


    and getting into trouble was not an option."


    Waylen bit his lip.


    He knew he should have said nothing at all.


    A momentter, he added, "Ah, if you have any questions you wish to ask, please wait until after the


    ancestor worship. L is not as cunning as you think. If there are things you want to talk about, do


    it in private. Just don''t do it in front of so many Woodleys."


    Aidan gave him an expressionless look, and Waylen immediately silenced himself and concentrated on


    driving.


    Then again, if L hadn''t avoided Aidan, Aidan wouldn''t havee over.


    Keeping Aidan aware of the problem was just a kind gesture to avoid them both getting punished by


    kneeling together in the ancestral hall.


    On the way, Leanna kept looking out the window and didn''t listen to them much.


    She didn''t know how long it had been going on when someone gently held her hand. She turned her


    head and looked at Aidan with uncertainty. "What''s wrong?"


    He whispered, "I am clueless about what will happenter. Don''t go anywhere; just stay by my side."


    Leanna''s lips were slightly pursed as she nodded.


    Just then, Waylen looked out the window. "Here we are."


    A vague shadow of the Woodley Family Estate could be seen outside.


    The car drove past two curved gates, and after a few more minutes, the ancient courtyard came into


    view.


    Two words were written on the door que¡ªWoodley Family.


    At this time, there were already many cars parked outside the door.


    It looked like Waylen had arrivedte.


    As he got down from his car, someone asked, "Look at the time now. What took you so long?"


    Waylen turned his head and smiled. "Uncle, there is still time. Besides, you just got here, didn''t you?"


    The middle-aged man looked offended and gave himself airs. "I came here at this time because I have


    serious matters to attend to. How about you?"


    "Of course, I can''tpare myself to you."


    The middle-aged man frowned when he saw Aidan, and the frown deepened when he saw Leanna


    behind Aidan.


    He put his hands behind his back and asked in a postured voice, "Waylen, who are these two?"


    "Oh, I forgot to introduce them. These two are my friends."


    The man lowered his voice. "Friends? Since when are you allowed to bring your friends into the


    Woodley Family Estate? Do you know what day it is today? You¡ª"


    Waylen said, "I have asked L, and he agreed."


    The implication was that the man should speak to L if he were unhappy about this.


    The middle-aged man grunted coldly with discontent written all over his face. He ignored Waylen and


    walked directly into the house.


    Only after he disappeared did Waylen walk up to Aidan and Leanna and say, "Sorry that both of you


    have to see that. That man¡­ is just one of the rotten apples that spoil the barrel in the Woodley


    Family."


    After a pause, Waylen added, "Let''s go in too."


    From the brief chat with L before, Leanna could easily guess that although the Woodley Family


    wasrge and wealthy, there were moreplex and intertwined rtionships than the Pearson


    Family had.


    The good and bad were intermingled in the Woodley Family.


    Judging from L''s words, what happened at Highside was not his responsibility. However, it was


    obvious that people from Jamesdon had yed along, but so far, no clues had been found.


    It was most likely rted to these Woodleys.


    Thinking about this, Leanna could not help but clench her hands, which were hanging at her side.


    There was an extremely huge and spacious courtyard after the main entrance.


    It went beyond what had been done by the Pearson Family.


    In the ancestral hall, there were already a lot of people there.


    The older ones were sitting inside, and those of the middle generation was standing beside them.


    Due to the overwhelming number of people, the younger generation like Waylen could only stand by


    the wall in the ancestral hall.


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Waylen whispered, "The ancestor worship hasn''t started yet, so we can just stay here while waiting for


    others toe. They will have to chant for a few hours. We won''t get caught if we doze off here."


    Both Aidan and Leanna were speechless.


    Waylen met their eyes and scratched his head. "W-What?"


    This was what he had experienced in the past. It was indeed sleep-inducing to listen to those older


    people chant during ancestral worship.


    Aidan withdrew his gaze with little expression and looked inside the ancestral hall.


    The man sitting at the top with full white hair was wearing a formal suit and was most likely to be


    Charlotte''s grandfather.


    Even L highly respected him as the oldest member of the Woodley Family.


    Not long after, the rest of the guests arrived, one after another.


    As he had nothing to do, Waylen began introducing his rtives to the couple.


    Looking at the middle-aged man who walked in, Waylen yawned. "That''s Charles, the grandson of the


    elder. He''s a very powerful man. The one following him is his daughter, Charlotte. She''s also¡ª"


    Halfway through the sentence, Waylen suddenly remembered a gossip he had heard in the past few


    days. Turning his head, he gloated over Aidan.


    This is now interesting.


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged, and there was no expression on his face. "Stop ying


    dumb."


    "Oh, I''ll continue, then. Charlotte, who just turned 20, could be L''s future wife, but it''s not


    confirmed yet."

 Chapter 615

    Chapter 615


    Chapter 615 A Lot of Stuff


    Leanna turned around, looking confused. "Why isn''t it confirmed yet?"


    "Because she went after a man a few days ago. Right in front of everyone. They''re going tombast


    her after the ceremony today."


    The Woodleys had a way with lectures. A little critique could take them hours. No matter how


    mischievous the younger Woodleys were, they would not step out of line during the gathering for fear


    that their elders would critique them. And they had no right to stop it midway, too. All they could do was


    suffer. One wrong word or expression would earn them a few days of lecturing.


    "I see." Leanna looked away.


    Waylen was feeling delighted, but when he met Aidan''s gaze, he quicklyposed himself and stood


    up straighter.


    Charlotte turned around, having heard him. When she saw Aidan, her eyes lit up. Just when she was


    about to approach Aidan, Charles held her back.


    Charles hissed, "Did you forget where you are?"


    Charlotte turned back reluctantly. Charles looked at Aidan and Leanna, and a frown formed on his face.


    This wasn''t the first time Leanna was met with a look of disapproval, but she could understand. No


    father would be happy to see the man his daughter was attracted to.


    Waylen whispered, "Everyone''s here. Five minutes until the ancestor worship starts."


    "What about L? He''s not here yet," said Leanna.


    Just then, a prominent figure came in. It was none other than L. Then, the hall went silent.


    A momentter, someone said, "You were very nearlyte. And this is an important ceremony. Don''t


    you think that''s a bit disrespectful?"


    Leanna looked at the one who spoke. It was the man who lectured Waylen a while ago.


    And a few hushed whispers arose, agreeing with what the man said. Yet, L ignored them. He


    came into the hall and bowed at the elders.


    Philip, Charlotte''s grandfather, clutched his cane and stood up. "Everyone''s present and ounted for.


    Let us begin. We have a lot of things to do this year. Let us not tarry."


    "A second, please. There is one more who shall join us," said L.


    Philip adjusted his spectacles. "Is that so? Did they, in their frivolous fun, perhaps forget about the


    ceremony?"


    Everyone hastened to exin themselves.


    "Not my son."


    "Not my daughter, either."


    "Not my child."


    Charles looked around and asked, "Everyone''s here. Whom are you talking about?"


    L''s mother was standing by L''s side, looking solemn. L then turned around to look


    at the entrance. Calmly, he said, "She''s here."


    Everyone looked at the entrance, wondering who it was. A figure slowly showed up, and Leanna froze


    when she saw who it was. Noticing Aidan tensing up as well, she pursed her lips and held his hand.


    Before everyone''s startled and confused gaze, Naomi slowly entered the hall. She knelt before Philip


    and the tablets of the Woodley ancestors behind him.


    Slowly, she said, "Naomi Woodley, here to pay her respects."


    Philip held on to his cane. He stared at Naomi for a long, long while. Eventually, he started to wobble,


    and Charles helped him sit back down.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Naomi? Is that you?" Philip narrowed his eyes.


    Naomi was wearing in, clean clothes, and she held herself up. "Yes, uncle."


    The crowd burst into a discussion. Perhaps the younger ones did not know who Naomi was, but their


    parents did. Ever since she left Jamesdon, the family forbade them from bringing Naomi up ever again.


    Their ancestors had stated that the Woodleys were forbidden from leaving Jamesdon. Anyone who


    broke this rule would be exiled forever.


    Naomi fell in love with a man from Highside back then. In just a few months, their rtionship became


    the talk of the town. Eventually, the man had to leave, and she wanted to go with him. Even if she was


    to be taken out of the family tree.


    And then, she left. Naomi was no longer part of the family. Some of the chattier members tried to find


    out how she was doing in Highside, yet their investigation yielded no result. Thirty years had gone by


    since then, and now, Naomi came back.


    The questions wereing like waves, and Philip''s face fell.


    L said, "I invited her. She''s part of the family. This is her home."


    A moment of silenceter, Philip said, "Have you perhaps forgotten the family rule?"


    "No," L said. "But before he died, Grandpa told me he wanted to see Aunt Naomi. He''s gone


    now. I''m just fulfilling his dying wish."


    And the crowd went silent. Back when Kian was alive, he told no one about Naomi. Everyone thought


    he didn''t care anymore. Even if he was alive, he couldn''t let Naomi back anyway.


    Yet, now that he was dead, not even Philip could go against his wishes. So, L used it against


    him.


    A momentter, Philip said, "Very well. We shall set this conversation aside for now. Let us begin the


    ceremony."


    Naomi knelt on the ground for the whole ceremony. Even when L''s mother tried to pull her up,


    she refused to get up.


    Someone among the crowd whispered, "Wonder why he took her back."


    "Aidan, perhaps."


    "That''s one reason. His position is still shaky. Taking back Naomi, while it is Old Mr. Woodley''s dying


    wish, still is flouting the rule."


    "What? So, we''re just going to watch?"


    "Ever since L took the position of the family head, he''s been trying to abolish the family rules.


    That''s why the elders hate him. They think he''s got a big head. Even if he does manage to take Naomi


    back, it''ll only make the elders angrier."


    "Which makes things easier for us."

 Chapter 616

    Chapter 616


    Chapter 616 I Disagree


    After the ceremony was over, most people took their leave. The only ones who stayed were there for


    the drama. Since most of the Woodleys were gone, Leanna and Aidan stood out. Nobody had seen


    them before. If Naomi weren''t here, they wouldn''t think much about these two. However, now that she


    was here, the fact that another man about the age of L stood around posed many questions.


    And the fact that he resembled L a little piled more questions on.


    Noticing the whispers, Philip looked at Aidan through his spectacles, though he probably didn''t see him


    clearly. A few coughs escaped his lips. "The ceremony hase to an end. The Elders, Charles,


    L, and Naomi, stay here. Everyone else, proceed to the lobby, please."


    The crowd made their way to the lobby. Nobody would go against Philip''s orders, after all.


    Charlotte tried to sneak away as well, but Philip said, "Ah, Charlotte, you will have to stay as well."


    She pulled her foot back and stood beside her father.


    Once everyone was gone, Philip picked up his teacup and blew on the tea. "One agenda at a time." He


    looked at Charlotte. "And we''re starting with you."


    Charlotte tried to put on a coy act to get out of the matter. "Grandpa Philip¡­"


    Philip took a sip of his tea. Charlotte''s act would not work this time. He then raised his head. "You three


    maye in now."


    Aidan pursed his lips and entered with Leanna. Waylen looked around. Should I go in? He scratched


    his head. F*ck it. I''ll do it.


    The moment Aidan came in, Charlotte tried to hold his arm, but he dodged it. She was a little


    intimidated by the look Aidan was giving her, but he was her only ticket out of the marriage with


    L.


    Charles coughed loudly, telling her to stop.


    Charlotte pulled her hand back, but she didn''t feel ashamed at all. "I have someone I like, Grandpa


    Philip. And I''m not marrying my uncle."


    A frown creased Charles'' forehead. "Shut it. He''s not your uncle."


    "He is. You told me to call him that when I was a kid. I''m not going to change that now," rebutted


    Charlotte.


    "Charlotte, L''s grandfather and I are cousins. There''s barely any connection between you and


    him now. It''s alright. He''s just your uncle by name. Not your real uncle."


    Charlotte was about to say something, but the elders started coughing, and Charles shot her a


    withering re.


    Just then, L said, "I object to this arrangement as well."


    L''s mother wanted to say something but stopped herself.


    L continued, "I have no ns to raise a family just yet, and Charlotte''s too young to be married."


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    One of the elders said, "Well, you can get engaged to her. The wedding can wait."


    Unable to take it anymore, Charlotte snapped, "I said I have someone I like. You guys, it''s the modern-


    day now. Arranged marriage is a thing of the past, and I refuse to be a product of that tradition. I want


    to pursue my own happiness. I will not be held hostage to the thoughts of a stubborn¡ª" She stopped


    mid-sentence, a searing paining from her cheek. Then, she looked at her father dumbly.


    Charles screeched, "On your knees! Now!"


    Tears welled in her eyes. She sobbed and tried to say something, but she had the feeling that the


    moment she opened her mouth, only cries woulde out. She bit her lip tightly and knelt behind


    Naomi.


    Seeing that, Waylen took a step back. Some sort of phantom pain came from his knees.


    L frowned and looked at Charlotte, yet he said nothing.


    Charles pulled his hand back and inhaled sharply. "She''s still young. I''ll be sure to whip her into shape."


    The elders looked better after that. Philip let it slide, seeing that Charlotte was his great-granddaughter.


    "Then, let us move on to the second agenda. I have recently caught wind of disturbing news. News that


    one of us has gone to Highside. And news of some¡­ unsettling matters. What say you, L?"


    L answered coolly, "Nothing but rumors, I''m afraid. I shall deal with them ordingly."


    "If a Woodley has left Jamesdon, then this is indeed grave news." Philip was still disgruntled about the


    fact that Naomi hade back. He was using this as a precursor to what he would say next.


    L responded, "I know. I sent Waylen, after all."


    Did he just say that?! Waylen was stunned.


    Philip and the elders shot Waylen a look. He felt a chill run down his spine and was reminded of the


    p Charlotte got. For some reason, his cheek was searing, too. He knelt without a second thought.


    "Grandpa Philip, elders, I¡ª"


    "Something''s going on in Highside. Someone''sing after the Woodleys. If I do not act, they will


    destroy us," L interjected.


    Philip held his cane silently. He remained in his seat with his eyelids closed. Leanna wondered if he


    was deep in thought or just simply asleep. She turned to look at Aidan, who was silent, and she pursed


    her lips.


    One of the elders said, "Be that as it may, you should have consulted us before going through with that


    decision. The rule must be upheld."


    Unfazed, L said, "From the moment I took the helm, my grandfather told me I have absolute


    power."


    The elder flew into a rage. "Why you¡ª"


    L continued, "If you think that there is a better alternative, then I can always give my spot to


    those who can do better."


    With that, silence took the hall. Even though the elders had their own candidates, they couldn''t and


    wouldn''t impeach L at the moment. The discussion that would follow was not something they


    could bear.


    "Very well," Philip said. "L is right. He is the family head. He has the right to call the shots without


    informing any of us. That is final. But the fact that Waylen has gone to Highside cannot be overlooked.


    He must kneel for now."


    What? Waylen wanted to cry.

 Chapter 617

    Chapter 617


    Chapter 617 Age Is Just a Number


    Despite all the discussions, not even a single agenda was resolved. Everyone''s attention was on the


    last item on the list. These elders, thinking that they had taken a step back for the first two agendas for


    the sake of L, refused to bow for thest one.


    Philip said, "Naomi''s return is¡­ no small matter. It''s not something that can be decided in a single


    session of a conference. We have much to think about."


    One of the elders said, "He''s right. This is a rule set in stone by our ancestors, and we shall not budge


    for a single person."


    Another said, "Besides, Waylen''s journey to Highside is a vastly different matter from her departure.


    She insisted on leaving with the man even if it meant her exclusion from the family tree. Not even we


    could stop her, but now she expects to return without any repercussions? Preposterous."


    Philip let the elders go on arguing. Eventually, he held up his hand and looked at Naomi, who was still


    kneeling with her head hung low this whole time. "Do you remember what you said before you


    departed this family?"


    "I shall be cut off from the family tree and never step foot in Jamesdon ever again."


    "Good," said Philip. "So, what brings you back here?"


    "I failed as a daughter. Now that my father has departed this world, I wish to stay with him for three


    years." Before anyone could say anything, she continued, "I do not dream of being reintroduced to the


    family tree. All I wish is to stay with my father in the halls of our ancestors."


    L said, "That is Grandpa''s dying wish and Aunt Naomi wants to fulfill it. I trust there is no


    objection?"


    Everyone gulped down their words and turned to Philip. They knew Philip wouldn''t go against L,


    not if he still wanted to marry Charlotte to him.


    Philip said, "Very well. Three years. Not a day less. Come here every day and kneel before the


    ancestors. At the same time, you should repent and reflect upon your wrongdoings."


    Aidan frowned. He took a step forward, but Leanna held his hand tightly. She had no idea what was


    going on, but Naomi wasn''t even looking at Aidan. L and Philip weren''t bringing him up either.


    They obviously didn''t want the other elders to know who Aidan was.


    "I understand," said Naomi.


    Philip slowly got up. "That brings this meeting to a close. The punished person will stay. Everyone else,


    leave."


    Charles went ahead and helped Philip leave. The other elders made their way out of the hall as well.


    L turned to look at Aidan and Leanna. "Come with me."


    Waylen shot L a look of displeasure, but L ignored it and went ahead.


    Leanna nced at Naomi and tried to say something, but in the end, she swallowed her words. I''ll findContentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    my answers soon. She looked away and saw Aidan looking at Naomi as well. Leanna tugged on his


    sleeve, and Aidan too shifted his gaze, but he looked tense. Then, they left.


    Once they were out of earshot, Waylen heaved a sigh of relief. Man, that was intense. He plopped


    down on the ground and muttered, "They''re so mean."


    He looked at Charlotte and poked her shoulder. "Alright, you can stop kneeling now. Everyone''s gone."


    Still disgruntled, Charlotte shrugged and ignored Waylen.


    Waylen massaged his knees. "Honestly, you were brazen. I can''t believe you''d argue with the old g¡ª"


    He stopped mid-sentence, for Naomi was shooting him a look.


    "Watch what you say," said Naomi calmly.


    Waylen covered his mouth and nodded in gratitude. Naomi turned her attention back to the tablets in


    front of her and closed her eyes. A momentter, beset by boredom, Waylen chatted Charlotte up


    again. "What''s wrong with L? Marrying him won''t kill you."


    The mention of that filled Charlotte with anger. "He''s ten years older than me. Ten. Years! And he''s


    scary. If I marry him, he might cook me up and eat me like stew if I anger him."


    He''s not a cannibal.


    Charlotte calmed down a little. "Oh, wait. He''s feral. He eats things raw. Ugh, imagining himthering


    me with barbecue sauce is so gross."


    What the hell is this idiot talking about? "What the hell are you talking about?"


    "I won''t marry him no matter what. I have someone I like."


    Waylen straightened up. "Who is also ten years older than you are."


    "Age is just a number," said Charlotte.


    "Morality isn''t. He''s married."


    "Divorced. I can verify that."


    "Got back together again. Are you blind?"


    Charlotte took a deep breath. "I can wait. They''ll break up one of these days."


    "Yeah. On February 31st, probably," drawled Waylen.


    "If they could get a divorce, then there''s always a possibility of a breakup."


    "If your father heard that, he would p you."


    Still annoyed by that p, Charlotte craned her neck. "Go ahead, then. I don''t care. I''d rather die than


    marry L."


    Amused, Waylen said, "Honestly, where did you get the idea that L is a cannibal?"


    "I¡­ I have my sources. And you''re hisckey, aren''t you? That makes you cannibal number two. Do


    not talk to me anymore."


    I am not a¡­ Fine, whatever she says. Silence swooped down on the hall once more.


    Charles was right outside, face as ck as thunder. He heard everything Charlotte said. This


    punishment will be good for her. She''s getting way out of control. One of his men came over, and


    Charles looked away from Charlotte. He moved slightly farther out and asked, "So?"


    "Mr. Woodley took them to the back room and had guards standing outside. I couldn''t hear anything."


    Charles said, "I thought Aidan came for the Highside matter. I didn''t expect L to bring Naomi


    back. What on earth is L trying to do?"


    "Sir, when Old Mr. Woodley was alive, I heard rumors of his idea of reforming this family, but the elders


    wouldn''t agree to it, so he shelved the idea. L probably took Naomi in because of him. This is his


    first step to reform."


    Charles said, "This family is starting to show cracks even though we''re getting bigger. We have many


    branches. Branches we do not care for, yet we include them in the family tree because their progenitor


    is part of the trunk. Thanks to that, they abuse the family name andmit a lot of¡­ unsavory actions.


    If L wishes to revamp this family, he must uproot the elders as well. That''s why they refuse to


    change."

 Chapter 618

    Chapter 618


    Chapter 618 Said Nothing


    Only Aidan, Leanna, and L were in the back room. Aidan was on the couch looking tense. The


    gaze he afforded L was devoid of any emotion. The air around him seemed to shiver with a chill.


    L was unfazed, staring back at Aidan with an undaunted spirit. The air itself was feeling tense.


    Leanna was sitting beside Aidan with her hands on her knees, and she took a deep breath.


    A long whileter, L slowly said, "You should have gotten the answers you wanted. What else


    would you like to know?"


    "What are you up to?"


    "What happened in Highside wasn''t my fault. If you''re referring to Naomi''s return, then what can I say?


    That was the choice she made."


    "Perhaps I wasn''t clear. What I mean is, what did you say to her?"


    Naomi was a proud woman. Even though she had to be excluded from the family tree, she still left


    Jamesdon and lived on her own in Highside for many years. Despite all the obstacles she faced, she


    never returned to Jamesdon and wouldn''t ask the Woodleys for help. Hence, she would never choose


    toe back to Jamesdon for no reason.


    Easily, L answered, "You heard Aunt Naomi. She wants to stay with her father."


    Aidan looked at him coolly. "You told Oscar to bring her back."


    "No. All I offered was an option. She could have chosen not to return."


    "What are you up to?" Aidan asked again.


    L leaned back into his chair, crossed his legs, and tapped on the armrest lightly. He didn''t say a


    word.


    God, this is suffocating. Must they talk in riddles? I hate riddles. A moment of silenceter, Leanna


    said, "Naomi wouldn''t have returned. Not when she made the decision to leave." She looked at


    L. "So, either you ckmailed her, or she has a reason that prompts her toe back."


    "Perhaps. Perhaps both are real."


    "So, what happened in Highside twenty years ago was¡­"


    "You are free to look into the case. What you find isn''t up to me."


    Leanna pursed her lips. Well, this just gotplicated, but one thing''s for sure: what happened in


    Highside recently wasn''t his doing. However, I can''t say the same for his whole family. I can''t be sure


    who''s the culprit. There are a ton of them.


    Leanna was still confused, but Aidan got up, took her hand, and left. He was walking so fast, Leanna


    had to trot just to keep up. Before they left, she turned around and tried to ask something, but she said


    nothing in the end. No one came to stop them, and eventually, they reached the garden. Leanna


    stopped in her tracks and asked softly, "Thought you had something to ask him."


    "I''ve asked all I can. He wouldn''t answer much else."


    Leanna noticed that. L hadn''t been giving them straight answers today. The only thing she found


    out was that Naomi was part of the Woodleys. Everything else was still shrouded in mystery.


    "Um¡­"


    "I''ll send you off now."


    Leanna walked with him, and then she realized something. Wait. Send me off? What about him?


    She looked at him. "What about you?"


    Aidan looked calm. "I have something to settle here."


    Oh yeah. Naomi is still in the hall. Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    Aidan drove her to the entrance of the Woodley Family Estate, where Jonathan was waiting. Before


    Leanna got out of the car, she said, "Now stay calm, you hear? Don''t yell at her."


    A smile curled Aidan''s lips, and he pushed her hair back. "I''m not a child. I know."


    "And the Woodleys aren''t as united as they seem. I don''t think L can keep them in check. Be


    careful."


    Aidan peered at her for a few moments, then he pushed her head forward and pressed his lips against


    hers, prying her teeth open rather harshly.


    Noticing him venting his suppressed emotions, Leanna closed her eyes and responded to the kiss,


    trying to calm him down.


    Oh, she''s being receptive for the first time in a while. Aidan held the back of her head and deepened


    the kiss. Eventually, they parted lips, and Aidan said hoarsely, "I''ll be going now."


    "Go." Leanna got out of the car and saw Aidan off. She waited until his ck car had disappeared from


    her sight, then she looked away.


    Back in the ancestral hall, Waylen was indulging himself with some snacks and fruits. Just when he


    was about to finish, he heard sounds of footstepsing in. Quickly, he wiped his lips and resumed


    kneeling, but when he saw that it was L, Waylen slumped once more. "Oh, it''s just you."


    L shot him a look. "Had your fill?"


    "Ye¡ª" Noticing the crumbs of snacks beside him, Waylen sighed. "Decent. Would''ve been great if I had


    meat."


    "Clean this ce up and get out."


    If you say so. Waylen stood up and happily went looking for a broom. L looked at Naomi, then at


    the silent, brooding Charlotte. "Charlotte."


    Charlotte tensed up, yet she refused to say anything. I''d rather die than marry him.


    Coldly, L said, "You''re already twenty. How much longer are you going to throw a tantrum? Your


    whole life?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Finally, Charlotte raised her head. There were tear stains on her cheeks. She sobbed and said, "If it


    means never having to marry you."


    "I never said I''d marry you."


    "But¡­"


    "They cannot call the shots for me."


    Charlotte sobbed a few more times. "W-What if you suddenly want to marry me? T-That''d be bad."


    The veins on L''s temples popped, but he held his fury back. "Nothing of that sort would happen."


    "Good." Charlotte stood up and wiped her tears away. "I''ll hold you to that." Then, she looked at Naomi.


    "She heard that too. I have a witness with me. You can''t take your words back now."

 Chapter 619

    Chapter 619


    Chapter 619 Cast Aside There¡¯s No Coming Home


    L didn''t bother arguing. He said, "Enough? Now leave."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Charlotte ran away faster than a rabbit could hop. The ancestral hall fell silent once more.


    L turned his attention to Naomi. He muttered, "Aunt Naomi."


    Naomi slowly opened her eyes. With a trembling voice, she asked, "Is what Oscar told me real?"


    "Every word of it."


    A long silenceter, Naomi said, "I have but one condition: spare Aidan the truth."


    "He will find out eventually. There''s a reason they lured him here. So, he can find the truth."


    "Buy as much time as you can."


    "Oscar''s already looking into this in Highside. We will have results in a few days at thetest," said


    L.


    Naomi sighed. "So what? We can''t change the past, not even if we know the mastermind."


    "I''ll keep an eye on him, Aunt Naomi. I won''t let him do anything stupid."


    "Everything that''s happened in Highside and Jamesdon is all my fault. The Woodleys, and¡­ This is all


    my fault."


    "Do not me yourself, Aunt Naomi. None of this would''ve happened if he hadn''t lied to you. None of


    this would''ve happened if he hadn''t been trying to take over the family."


    Thirty years ago, Gordon came to Jamesdon to make a business deal. He eventually got to know


    Naomi and started courting her madly. Naomi was part of the Woodleys back then. She was born and


    bred in Jamesdon. Because of the family rule, she had never left Jamesdon, and this Highside man


    piqued her interest.


    As time passed, many Woodleys thought the ''never leave Jamesdon'' rule was preposterous. They


    wished to see the world. Because of their fetters, Gordon''s promise of a beautiful world out there lit the


    me of wanderlust in Naomi''s heart.


    To make her fall for him, Gordon did a lot of things. She eventually fell for him, and that steeled her


    resolve to leave for Highside. Freedom was one reason, and love was the other.


    However, she never thought Gordon already had a family. When she followed him back to Highside


    feeling all giddy, Gordon asked her to convince her father to expand their family business to Highside.


    He said that it would help build his connection.


    Naomi then told him that she had cut all ties with the Woodleys the moment she left Jamesdon. They


    would never take back in or expand their business. Only then did Gordon find out about that particr


    rule. His face fell, and for days he didn''t visit Naomi.


    For some reason, when Naomi found out about her pregnancy, she wanted to share the good news


    with Gordon. Right after she left the hospital, she went to Pearson Group. It was there she met Sienna


    and the young Justin. She stood petrified, holding the report in her hand. That was when she knew why


    Gordon hadn''t been keeping in touch with her.


    Gordon was no longer satisfied with just the business in Highside. The Zielinski Family was fine, but


    the Woodley Family was far, far superior. From the moment he approached Naomi, he had already


    nned everything out. First, he would lure Naomi out and take her back to Highside. She was the only


    girl of her generation, and her father loved her. He would never let her suffer alone.


    If the Woodleys were to expand their business, Gordon would have it under his control. All he had to do


    was slowly take over, and then he would also have Jamesdon in the palm of his hand. If that n


    worked, he could cut ties with the Zielinski Family. Yet the Woodleys'' rule came as a shock. Thanks to


    that, his months of hard work were for nothing. He also hated Naomi for not telling him that rule earlier.


    Naomi didn''t demand an exnation, however. She went back to her house, packed her things, and


    left. Even though she knew this was a scam, she had no way back. After that, she hesitated for a long


    time and eventually gave birth to the baby.


    With no ce to call home, the baby was her only reason to live. She changed her name and moved to


    a ce where no one knew her. In a short time, Naomi fell from avish life to one fending for herself


    and her child. It was a tough life, but she took it one day at a time.


    Fortunately, her child grew up without a hitch. Yearster, Gordon showed up in their rickety shack. He


    showed no remorse despite having ruined Naomi''s life, but he had aged. There were strands of gray


    hair on his head.


    He told Naomi that his other son suffered a car crash and became a cripple. He was wheelchair-bound


    for the rest of his life and could no longer take up the mantle of a sessor. He coerced Naomi to hand


    Aidan over. He promised her to raise him as a sessor. If she refused, the other Pearsons might try


    to use him, and Gordon would be forced to kill the child.


    For a few nights, Naomi lost sleep. She looked around her house and, overwhelmed by sorrow, cried


    her heart out. How did this happen? My son should''ve been raised with love, and yet he''s suffering with


    me. She agreed to the condition and gave Aidan to the Pearsons. She then left Highside the same way


    she departed Jamesdon. There was noing back for her.


    As promised, Gordon raised Aidan as sessor, but he was wary of the Woodleys. He was worried


    that they might im Aidan someday. It was why he kept trying to control Aidan. He was wary of him,


    yet he still wanted to take over the Woodleys. However, his n didn''t work and he ended up


    paralyzed.


    Naomi snapped out of her thoughts and stared at the tablets ahead of her.


    Sounds of footsteps approached them.


    L said, "I shall be leaving now." He backed out of the ancestral hall and saw Aidan outside. He


    left without saying anything.


    Aidan stood outside, staring at Naomi for a while. He then went inside and knelt behind her.


    Hearing the rustle, Naomi turned around and said softly, "You don''t have to kneel."


    Calmly, Aidan said, "I''m not kneeling for them, but I can''t possibly stay standing up when you''re on your


    knees."

 Chapter 620

    Chapter 620


    Chapter 620 Would You Do That Too?


    Naomi sighed. "I''m doing this willingly. Go back. Leanna''s with you, isn''t she?"


    "Jonathan took her home. I have some questions for you."


    "I know what you want to ask, and I''ve heard a few things on my way here. I do not know what ns


    Sienna had when she was alive, but the Woodleys aren''t behind it. And they aren''t the reason the child


    fell sick."


    "What about you?" asked Aidan.


    Naomi fell silent for a while. "I am no longer a part of this family. It has been that way since I left. That''s


    why I kept everything a secret."


    "Then, why did youe back?"


    "Regret. I regretted leaving on impulse, so I came back. To do the things I still can do. So, I won''t live


    my whole life riddled with nothing but regrets."


    "I had a lot of questions before I came. Your ties to the Woodleys, the real reason Oscar stayed with


    me over the years, what happened twenty years ago, and the part the Woodleys yed in it."


    "Aidan¡­"


    Aidan said coolly, "But all my questions were answered when you showed up."


    A frown furrowed Naomi''s brow as she wanted to say something.


    Aidan continued calmly, "You''re L''s aunt and the only daughter of the Woodleys'' previous family


    head. Even though he was furious that you left your home for a man, he couldn''t just let you go even


    after he had cut all ties with you. When he found out that the man who took you away had a family and


    left you for dead, he was livid. In order to take revenge and make things easier for your son, he bribed


    the Pearsons'' driver and caused a car crash. That¡ª"


    "Aidan," Naomi interrupted. "It''s not what you think. Your grandfather did no such thing. He¡ª"


    He continued coolly, "I am not finished yet."


    She felt a little powerless.


    Aidan continued, "After that man''s son became a cripple, he remembered something. He had another


    son somewhere. Despite his family''s protests, he took this illegitimate son back home. That''s what your


    father''s n was. But he knew that man was a snake, so he sent someone from his family to aid the


    man''s son. At the same time, he was to keep an eye on the Pearsons so the Woodleys could be in


    control. Bit by bit, the man''s other son took over Pearson Group. No longer was that man in charge." A


    pauseter, Aidan said, "That''s what happened, wasn''t it?"


    Naomi shook her head. "It''s not what you think¡ª"


    Naomi shook her head. "It''s not what you think¡ª"


    "You''re implying the existence of another version of this story. Do tell." Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    She opened her mouth, but no exnation came to her. Even though her father wasn''t the mastermind


    behind Justin''s ident, he was the reason it happened.


    He said, "Ever since I knew of the Woodleys'' existence, I''ve been suspecting Oscar''s true motives, yet


    I couldn''t ept the fact that he''s a spy. I''ve known him for nearly twenty years. There''s no reason for


    him to hurt me, but then I found out he came to me on purpose. He''s the reason I managed to quickly


    uproot all of the old man''s spies."


    "Aidan, they mean you no harm. Your grandfather, Oscar¡­ All they want is for you to have a better


    life."


    "I know." Aidan stared at the tablets. "And I do have a better life. From an abandoned son scraping


    through life in the slums to the president of Pearson Group. I took what was rightfully Justin''s."


    Naomi closed her eyes. This is why I didn''t want L to tell you anything.


    He said, "Sienna told me multiple times that I took what was rightfully Justin''s. I sulked for a while. I told


    myself the car crash was an ident and that it wasn''t my fault. It was someone else''s. I told myself


    there was no need to pin the me on myself, but Sienna was right. Justin''s life was ruined because of


    me. Without me, that car crash wouldn''t have happened. He would''ve still been the only son of the


    Pearsons, poised to take over the family."


    Naomi choked up. "It''s not your fault, Aidan. It''s mine."


    "No. My sin is that I''ve taken everything for granted for years. I should''ve realized the truth sooner,"


    Aidan said. "You made your choice when you came back to this family. I have no right to stop you. With


    L here, you''ll be safe and protected. This is it, then, Mother." Aidan got up and left.


    Naomi turned around. "Aidan? Aidan!"


    Aidan left the hall without pausing.


    She was a little depressed. I hope he won''t do anything stupid.


    A pair of men were hiding in their car outside the Woodley Residence. When Aidan came out, they


    smiled. "He must''ve known the truth by now."


    "Naomi and L tried their best to hide it from him, but we''ve been helping him along the way. He''d


    have to be an idiot to not realize what the true story is."


    "Tell John we''ve done our part. It''s time for them to begin the next part of their n."


    ¡­


    Aidan drove all the way to the riverside. He got out of the car and stood on the bridge, staring into the


    distance. Two hours went by just like that.


    A ck car stopped nearby, and Waylen watched from within. He gulped. "Wonder if he''s going to


    jump."


    L closed his eyes. Calmly, he said, "He would''ve jumped a long time ago if he wanted to."


    "True, but you know he got the story all wrong. Why didn''t you exin?"


    Slowly, L opened his eyes. "Grandpa was furious back then. He did try to get revenge, but Justin


    was just a child. Even if he wanted to attack the Pearsons, he couldn''t bring himself to hurt a literal


    child."


    "So, he calmed down and ditched the idea?"


    L grunted. A moment of silenceter, he said, "But the Woodleys did cause that ident. Aidan


    doesn''t care even if Grandpa wasn''t involved."


    Waylen sighed. "Oscar told me Justin''s a good man. I can understand why Aidan is angry."


    A chortle rang out in the air. "Justin''s a kind, gentle soul. It''s¡­ unlucky that he was born to the


    Pearsons."

 Chapter 621

    Chapter 621


    Chapter 621 Just Feeling a Bit Tired


    After arriving at the hotel, Leanna couldn''t shake off the unease in her heart.


    Seeing her like this, Jonathan said, "Miss McKinney, don''t worry. We have our people outside of the


    Woodley Residence. President Pearson won''t run into trouble."


    "I''m not worried about that," Leanna whispered.


    Her intuition told her that Aidan had heard the news, and the truth was not easy to ept.


    Recently, Jonathan also learned about Naomi''s rtionship with the Woodley Family. Although he had


    been uncertain before, it seemed that Aidan had already found the answer today at the Woodley


    Family Estate.


    Outside, the sky gradually darkened. It had started to rain at some point.


    Aidan had not returned yet.


    Leanna took a deep breath and couldn''t wait any longer.


    As soon as she left the hotel room, she ran into Jonathan.


    ¡­


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Half an hourter by the river¡­


    By now, the rain had started to drizzle, and there was a hint of cold in the wind.


    Leanna watched Aidan''s back and suddenly felt a lump in her throat. "Has he been standing here since


    he left the Woodley Residence?"


    Jonathan nodded. "It''s been several hours and yet, no one dares to go up and talk to him."


    The reason why he had gone to find Leanna was to ask her toe over.


    Leanna pursed her lips and opened her umbre as she alighted from the car.


    She walked up to Aidan and held the umbre over his head.


    It was only after a while that Aidan seemed to react slowly and turned to look at her. His voice was


    hoarse when he asked, "Why did youe?"


    The rain had already soaked through Aidan, and water droplets were falling from his hair.


    Leanna''s voice was very light when she murmured, "It''s raining. Aren''t you going back?"


    Aidan looked up and realized that it was already dark.


    He withdrew his gaze and some emotion could be seen in his pitch-ck eyes. "Let''s go."


    On the way back, Aidan''s eyes were half-closed and he didn''t say a word the entire time.


    After they went inside the car, he was dead silent too.


    Leanna tried to speak several times but held back her words every time they reached her lips.


    When they returned to the hotel, Aidan went straight into the bathroom.


    Leanna went to the bedroom to get him some sleepwear before quietly approaching the bathroom door.


    "I''ve put your clothes outside the door."


    From the bathroom, Aidan responded with a low hum.


    Leanna went to the kitchen and opened the refrigerator. Fortunately, the ingredients she bought a few


    days ago were still there.


    Aidan had been in the rain for so long that he was at risk of catching a cold. Hence, she made some


    ginger soup and started to cook some spaghetti.


    When the soup was almost done, he emerged from the bathroom.


    As Leanna poured the soup, she stated, "You came out at the right time. Drink this."


    Aidan walked over and sat at the dining table.


    After Leanna cooled the soup slightly, she put it in front of Aidan and said, "Drink this first. Dinner will


    be ready soon."


    After saying that, she went to the kitchen to scoop the spaghetti out of the pot and prepare the sauce.


    When she finished everything and turned around, she saw Aidan still sitting at the table in the same


    posture. Truth was, she did not have an inkling of what he was thinking.


    Leanna paused for a few seconds before walking over and waving a hand in front of him. "Are you


    feeling ufortable somewhere? Let me go get some cold medicine for you."


    Aidan''s eyes moved slightly and he said tly, "There''s no need."


    When he picked up the ginger soup before him and was about to drink it, Leanna grabbed his hand.


    "This bowl has cooled down," she murmured. "Let me reheat it for you¡ª"


    Before she could finish that sentence, Aidan had already gulped it down.


    Leanna looked at her empty hand, a chill lingering in her palm.


    She frowned. "Why are your hands still so cold?"


    Aidan put down the bowl and countered in an indifferent tone, "Do they?"


    Her frown deepened as she grabbed his hand again, feeling the icy coldness.


    Suddenly, an idea came to her mind.


    She couldn''t help but raise her voice as she asked, "Did you take a shower with cold water?"


    Aidan replied tly, "I don''t remember."


    Although Leanna was worried about him, his behavior also made her angry. "You got caught in the rain


    and took a cold shower, huh? Are you tired of living? Didn''t you say thatmunication is vital for


    problem-solving? Your current behavior is making me¡­"


    Leanna choked up as she spoke up and her eyes instantly turned red.


    Aidan held her hand back andforted her in a low voice, "I''m fine; just a bit tired."


    Leanna had never seen him like this before, and she suppressed her urge to cry. "Then, have


    something and go to sleep. I''ll go and buy some cold medicine for you."


    "It''s not that easy to get sick. Let''s eat first."


    Aidan tugged on Leanna''s hand and had her sit next to him.


    After a while, he put down his fork and said, "I''m full. I''m going to sleep."


    He gently kissed Leanna''s forehead before murmuring, "Goodnight."


    Leanna sat in her seat and watched him walk away. After a few seconds, she withdrew her gaze and


    stared nkly at the te before her.


    He hardly ate anything. She closed her eyes and she lost her appetite.


    She initially nned to go get some cold medicine after clearing the dishes. However, as soon as she


    walked to the elevator door, she met the hotel manager, who said that their hotel had the required


    medicine and would deliver it to her soon.


    Leanna thanked him and went back to the hotel.


    She entered the bedroom and it was pitch ck inside. She didn''t know if Aidan was asleep.


    Ten minutester, the hotel staff delivered the cold medicine. Leanna knew that Aidan couldn''t take the


    medicine right now since he hadn''t eaten anything. Hence, she went to make a te of Caesar sd.


    Once she was done, she sat on the couch and looked at her phone, only to see a message from


    Waylen that had been sent half an hour ago.


    Waylen asked, ''Has Aidan gone back?''


    Seeing that, Leanna replied, ''Yes, he has.''


    ''How is he?'' he texted.


    ''You should know better than me.''


    Waylen did not reply to that.


    Leanna put down her phone and sighed, staring nkly outside the window. After a while, her phone


    rang¡ªit was a call from Waylen.


    She walked to the balcony and answered the phone.


    On the other end of the line, Waylen cleared his throat, seemingly unsure of where to begin. In the end,


    he asked, "What¡­ do you want to know?"


    Leanna''s mind was a mess right now. She massaged her temples and muttered, "Just tell me the


    important parts."


    Waylen hesitated for a moment before briefly telling her why Naomi had left the Woodley Family back


    then and why she had now returned.


    After listening to his exnation, Leanna couldn''t help but grip her phone tightly. "You mean that Justin


    Pearson''s car ident was rted to the Woodley Family?"


    "Well, although it wasn''t something Grandpa ordered someone to do, it was because he interfered with


    the affairs of Highside that someone took advantage of the situation¡­"


    Leanna gasped for breath, suddenly realizing how Aidan must have felt standing by the riverbank


    tonight.


    He thought that he had caused Justin''s car ident.


    Waylen continued, "I''m going to theb now. That''s all for now. If there''s anything, give me a call. I''ll


    give you L''s number. If anything happens, you can also contact him."

 Chapter 622

    Chapter 622


    Chapter 622 What Qualifies Him


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna stood on the balcony for a long time.


    The rain outside was heavy, and no pedestrians were on the street in the distance. Only the


    streemps stood alone in the shower.


    After a while, she exhaled and walked to the kitchen. She took the te of sd and ced it on a


    tray, thereafter entering the bedroom.


    The bedroom was dark and the only sound was the rain hitting the windows.


    Leanna ced the tray on the coffee table and turned on a small wallmp. She walked to Aidan and


    saw that he had closed his eyes and was breathing evenly, seeming to be asleep.


    She reached out and touched his forehead, sensing that he didn''t have a fever.


    She couldn''t help but frown at that.


    Aidan has been sleeping here for so long. Why is he still so cold?


    Leanna reached into the nket to see if his hands were cold too.


    However, as soon as she touched his hand, her wrist was held by him.


    In an instant, Leanna was lying on the bed.


    Aidan was above her, holding her wrist with his big hand. His dark eyes were fixed on her and he


    murmured in a low voice, "Where are you touching?"


    Leanna was so shocked that she fell into silence.


    She turned her head and could feel his cold hand holding hers.


    She looked up at him andmented, "I made some sd. Have some."


    Aidan''s fingers lightly stroked the veins on her wrist as he muttered, "I have no appetite."


    "Even if you don''t have an appetite, you still need to eat. After eating, take some cold medicine and


    sleep. Otherwise, you will get sick¡­ No, you''re already a little sick. Hurry up and take medicine."


    "What''s wrong with being sick?" Leanna was about to speak, but then Aidan continued, "If you''re sick,


    no one will bother you and you can do whatever you like."


    As he spoke, he let go of her wrist and sat on the edge of the bed.


    He exuded a great sense of indifference and estrangement.


    Leanna got off the bed and said, "It''s alright if you don''t want to see me. I''ll leave now. You didn''t want


    to marry me from the beginning and even when we were, you wouldn''te home. Even if you came


    home, you would still treat me coldly. I should have known how much you dislike me."


    As she spoke, she took a deep breath and there was a slight tremble in her voice. "Don''t worry. I


    promise that the further I go, the better it will be for you. You can''t see me and you''ll be happy to be


    with those girls who like you. I know you''ve been waiting for this day for a long time."


    Aidan fell silent.


    He then turned around and stopped her. "What are you talking about? This is not what I meant."


    Leanna stood up for herself and muttered, "Isn''t it? You ask me to leave and won''t take the medicine


    when you''re sick. Isn''t that what you wanted?"


    Aidan fell silent for a while, knowing he was wrong. He stood up and sat on the couch, picking up the


    sd before him. "Forget what I said."


    When Leanna saw that, her tears, which were about to flow, suddenly stopped.


    This trick worked pretty well.


    She was just an ordinary anti-pretentious person, after all.


    I will cure pretentiousness with pretentiousness.


    When Aidan finished most of the sd, Leanna poured him a ss of water and brought in the cold


    medicine.


    Aidan leaned back on the couch and massaged his temples with his hand.


    Leanna put the water and medicine on the coffee table. "Headache?"


    Aidan nodded. "A little."


    "You got wet in the rain and took a cold shower. It''s not surprising that you have a headache."


    Although she said that, she still walked behind Aidan and gently massaged his temples.


    No one spoke again and the room became quiet once more.


    After a while, Leanna whispered, "I know everything now."


    Aidan''s body stiffened slightly and his half-closed eyes opened.


    Leanna continued, "I know you''re not feeling good right now, but¡­ it''s not your fault, and you don''t


    have to bear any consequences."


    Aidan didn''t say anything.


    Leanna continued, "Waylen told me that Old Mr. Woodley''s people didn''t cause Justin''s car ident. It


    was¡­"


    "If they hadn''t reached Highside, the Crossley Family wouldn''t have been implicated and Leroy


    wouldn''t have had a chance to n that explosion."


    Leanna paused and her movements stopped.


    Aidan said indifferently, "In addition to Justin''s car ident, your mother taking you on the run, being


    forced to marry Jethro McKinney, and even Jethro selling you to Patheon Club were all caused by me."


    He paused and continued, "Now, do you still think it''s not my fault?"


    Leanna opened her mouth but didn''t know what to say. She didn''t answer for a while.


    Aidan closed his eyes, got up, and left.


    Someone like me doesn''t deserve anything, not family, friendship, or love. It''s all asking for too much. If


    Leanna had known this earlier and seen things clearly, she would have had the chance to make a


    different choice. There are many choices, like Zayn, Elijah, or Harry, who wants to help raise my son.


    Anyone but me. I do not deserve it. I am just a b*stard child who was manipted.


    "Stop right there!"


    As soon as Aidan walked to the doorway, Leanna''s voice rang out. "What nonsense are you spouting?


    Why is it so difficult for you to take your medicine? Youe up with all kinds of excuses. Are you a


    child? Do I have to coax you into taking it?"


    Aidan remained silent.


    He turned his head to look at her, his jaw slightly clenched and his thin lips pursed.


    Leanna sat on the couch and opened the pack of medicine. "Hurry up! The water is getting cold."


    Aidan stood still for a few seconds before walking over with his long legs.


    Leanna ced the open capsule on his palm and squeezed his hand.


    Probably due to the bowl of sd he just had, his hands were not as cold as before.


    Leanna went to get some water and handed it to him. "What are you staring at? Just take it."


    Aidan averted his gaze and tossed the medicine into his mouth, tilting his head back to drink the water.


    Leanna cleared the table and stood with the tray. "Okay, you can go to bed now."


    Aidan held her back but remained silent.


    Leanna chuckled at that. "Do you want me to leave or not? I''ll go wash the dishes."


    "Did you understand what I just said?"


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    "I understood. I''m not stupid," Leanna muttered. "But I think your thinking is wed. Okay¡­ Who''s to


    me for Justin''s car ident? I''m not involved and won''t make any judgments. But when ites to


    the Crossley Family, why is it that you were the one who made a mistake?"


    "No¡ª"


    Leanna interrupted him, "Would Leroy have given up his desire for the Crossley Group if it wasn''t for


    you? Even without that explosion, with his ambition and everyone''s trust in him, he would eventually


    have taken over the group. What does this have to do with you? Without you, Leroy would still do


    everything he did but without him, nothing would have happened. I don''t understand why you insist on


    taking the me for him."

 Chapter 623

    Chapter 623


    Chapter 623 Hearing You Say You Can¡¯t Leave Me


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    After hearing her words, Aidan remained silent for a long while. His gaze was lowered and it was


    unclear what he was thinking.


    Leanna then stated, "You said you were tired. Go to sleep quickly so you don''t overthink and say


    something weird."


    After a moment, Aidan answered with a deep and low voice, "These are your words."


    Leanna was stunned for a few seconds and she couldn''t help but wonder if she had said something


    she shouldn''t have.


    I don''t remember going that far. He didn''t like it when I scolded him, did he?


    Aidan looked up at her and repeated, "These are your words. From now on, don''t look for excuses to


    leave my side."


    Leanna finally reacted and said, "Actually, I think these are two different things."


    "I think it''s the same thing."


    "Alright, alright. You can think whatever you want. Go to sleep."


    Aidan got up and took the tray from her hand, "I''ll do it. You go take a shower."


    "No¡ª"


    Before Leanna could refuse, Aidan had left the bedroom and headed toward the kitchen.


    She sighed as she watched his retreating figure.


    Well, as long as he is happy.


    Sure enough, within two minutes, the sound of dishes and tes breaking came from the kitchen.


    I''ll just think of it as his way of venting.


    ¡­


    Leanna came out of the shower and saw Aidan lying on the bed, working on his tablet with a focused


    expression and his handsome eyebrows slightly furrowed.


    "Aren''t you tired?" she asked.


    "I heard you say you can''t leave me, and suddenly I feel like I can hold on a bit longer."


    Leanna was speechless.


    Truth was, she almost cursed at him.


    He is really good at imagining things.


    She sat on the edge of the bed and clicked on her phone to check the time. "Do you have to workte


    tonight?"


    "It''s not work," Aidan mumbled.


    This piqued Leanna''s curiosity and she pressed, "If you''re not working, why are you looking at your


    tablet so seriously?"


    She thought he had encountered someplex problem earlier from his expression.


    Aidan didn''t answer. He just tilted the tablet in his hand toward her.


    Leanna put down her phone and looked at it.


    What she saw were pictures of wedding dresses, rendering herpletely stunned.


    Aidan scrolled through the designs andmented lightly, "These are all famous international wedding


    dress designers and they each have a unique style. I picked a few that look good. You can take a look


    and choose your favorite. I will have Jonathan contact the designer and you can tell the designer the


    specific details you want."


    It took a while for Leanna to regain her voice. "Can you tell me how you went from saying nonsense to


    trying to get me to stop bothering you emotionally to suddenly switching to this?"


    Aidan corrected her, "I didn''t ask you to stop bothering me. It''s just that no one will bother you if I''m


    sick."


    "Is there a difference?"


    "To avoid you badmouthing me behind my back, there is a difference."


    Leanna suddenly felt dizzy and couldn''t keep up with his thoughts.


    Aidan continued, "Since you have already made it clear that it must be me, I can''t just sit back and do


    nothing."


    Leanna reached out and ced her hand on his forehead. It was indeed a bit hot. Before she could say


    anything, Aidan took her hand and enunciated clearly, "Let''s get married."


    "No, I¡­"


    He then said slowly, "I know what you''re worried about, but haven''t you realized that the problems


    you''re worried about have already been solved?"


    Leanna opened her mouth and was a little absentminded for a moment.


    She had agreed to reunite with Aidan, but not to remarry. It was because she knew that marriage was a


    matter between two families, and there was still an enmity between her and Sienna. Even the little guy


    was a hurdle in her heart.


    But now, Sienna was dead, the Pearson Family was gone, and the little guy was still alive.


    Aidan continued, "I once said I would make up for the gifts I haven''t given you during those three years


    of marriage. The little¡­"


    He paused before changing his wording. "The child is thest gift I gave you."


    Leanna frowned. "But¡­"


    She was not ready. Moreover, given the current situation of the little guy, how could she be happy to


    get married?


    Aidan pulled her into his arms and whispered, "Don''t worry. I''m not asking you to marry me


    immediately. I just want to hold a wedding. There are many things to prepare, including the wedding


    dress, which will take several months from design topletion. Take your time to consider, okay?"


    After a long time, Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    He let her go. "Let''s look at the wedding dresses first."


    Leanna looked at the tablet before her, feeling that something was off. However, she couldn''t put her


    finger on it.


    In the middle of the night, when she was half asleep, she finally realized what it was.


    Aidan was setting a trap for her. They were already looking at wedding dresses, so how could she have


    the chance to think things through?


    B*stard! He could have put that much effort into something else.


    Leanna became angrier and couldn''t help but kick him. Aidan moved slightly, thinking she was having a


    nightmare, so he pulled her into his arms and patted her back.


    Leanna couldn''t help the corner of her lips from lifting.


    Forget it. I can''t be bothered to argue with him.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Charlotte had just returned home and saw her father sitting on the couch, looking


    unhappy.


    She remembered the p from earlier and couldn''t help but shrink back. "Dad¡­"


    Charles looked at her and said, "Weren''t you kneeling in the ancestral hall? Who told you to get up?"


    Charlotte lowered her head and stuttered for a long time, but in the end, she didn''t reveal L''s


    name.


    Charles sighed. "Charlotte, what have I taught you? How could you openly defy the elders in public?


    Can''t you give your great-grandfather some respect?"


    Charlotte frowned at that. "But marriage is my own business. What does it have to do with them? Why


    should I listen to their opinions?"


    "L is the head of the Woodley Family. What''s wrong with marrying him? Besides, would he dare


    to bully you with us as your backing?"


    "But I also want to find someone I like. Besides, ording to our seniority, he is my uncle. I would feel


    strange!"


    Charlesughed. "The person you like? Are you talking about Aidan? You''ve only met him a few times


    and already like him?"


    Charlotte retorted, "It was love at first sight!"


    "In that case, I have a few questions for you. Do you know whom that person kneeling in the ancestral


    hall today was?"


    Charlotte was stunned and she mumbled, "I heard L address her as ''Aunt Naomi''. From what


    they said, she seems to have voluntarily removed herself from the genealogy. She should also be a


    member of the Woodley Family, right?"


    "She is indeed a member of the Woodley Family, and at the same time, she is Aidan''s mother.


    ording to seniority, you have to call her ''Grandma''. Do you understand now? You also have to call


    Aidan ''Uncle''!"


    Charlotte was puzzled to hear that.

 Chapter 624

    Chapter 624


    Chapter 624 It¡¯s Because I Like You


    Half a monthter, Aidan received a call from Highside.


    Although the Pearson Family couldn''t cause him any trouble anymore, he couldn''t rest with the


    Pearson Group still in existence. Despite Jonathan sending over important work daily, the rest still piled


    like a mountain.


    If Aidan didn''t return soon, the president''s office would probably overflow with paperwork.


    Moreover, staying in Jamesdon for too long could lead to unexpected changes in Highside.


    After taking the call, Aidan stood by the balcony for a long time, his back ramrod straight.


    Leanna finished her design and walked up to him. "Are you leaving?" she whispered.


    Aidan had one hand in his pocket when he replied, "I need to go back and handle some things. It will


    not take more than a month."


    At that, Leanna said, "I''ll go with you."


    During this time, she and Aidan had visited the little guy at theboratory twice, and he had be


    much healthier and had not fallen ill again.


    Waylen said they were currently undergoing preliminary treatment, which seemed to be effective, but at


    least another three or four months of observation were required.


    Afterward, they could n for longer-term treatment based on the little guy''s physical recovery.


    Leanna did not need to be a rocket scientist to know that this was a prolonged and indefinite treatment.


    They could only asionally enter theboratory, and there was no point in staying here.


    Moreover, it was better to do what needed to be done than to waste time waiting.


    Aidan looked at her. "Are you willing to leave?"


    "I don''t want to, but what can I do? I don''t have the final say in this matter." Leanna looked at the


    distant river and said lightly, "Even if I stay, I won''t be able to do anything."


    If it were before, Leanna would never have left the little guy alone here, no matter the circumstances.


    But Naomi was still here, and Waylen and L would not harm him.


    Compared to being by her side, the little guy was much safer in theboratory in Jamesdon, which was


    closed off to outsiders.


    "Let''s leave tomorrow afternoon, then," Aidan suggested. "Do you want to go to theboratory before


    we go?"


    Leanna shook her head gently. "There''s no need."


    Every time they went, the little guy would cry. Waylen said that the emotional fluctuations were not


    conducive to his recovery.


    After a pause, Leanna asked, "Are you going to see Ms. Fletcher?"


    Aidan walked into the room with long strides. "No."


    Leanna said nothing and stared nkly at the scenery in the distance.


    It had been almost a month since they came to Jamesdon.


    It seemed like everything had happened in this short time, yet nothing had changed.


    The person colluding with Sienna was someone from the Woodley Family. L was still


    investigating and they would inform them when they found something.


    However, they didn''t know when that would be.


    ¡­


    The next day at 10.30PM, the private nended in Highside.


    When Leanna got off the ne, she felt a wave of hot air hit her.


    Compared with the cool and humid climate in Jamesdon, Highside was indeed dry and stuffy.


    Even though it was alreadyte at night, there wasn''t even a breeze.


    As they walked outside and were about to get in the car, Jonathan hurriedly walked over with a solemn


    expression. "President Pearson¡­"


    Aidan stated, "Speak."


    Jonathan hesitated and nced at Leanna, seemingly hesitant to speak in front of her.


    Leanna said, "I''ll get into the car first."


    However, Aidan held onto her. "There''s nothing you can''t hear."


    Then, he looked at Jonathan and repeated in a slightly colder tone, "Speak."


    Jonathan''s face revealed a hint of sympathy as if to say, "I already gave you a chance, but this is what


    you wanted."


    In the end, he cleared his throat and stated, "When we got off the ne, we found that Miss Woodley


    was¡­ hiding behind the cabin."


    Aidan remained silent.


    Leanna raised her eyebrows and asked, "Is she called Charlotte Woodley?"


    Jonathan nodded at that. "Yes."


    Leanna dragged out her tone and said, "Oh."


    Aidan looked at Jonathan expressionlessly. "Where is she now?"


    "In the back..."


    "Bring her over."


    Two minutester, Charlotte dragged a pink suitcase and waved happily at Aidan from ten meters


    away.


    Aidan withdrew his gaze and whispered, "As you can see, she''s not quite right in the head."


    Leanna said, "I heard you volunteered to attend her birthday party."


    At that, Aidan quickly passed the buck. "Jonathan arranged it."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Jonathan was not amused.


    Poor guy.


    At this moment, Charlotte had already rushed over with a smile. "What a coincidence! We meet again!"


    "How did you get on the ne?" Aidan asked.


    Meanwhile, Charlotte didn''t n on telling the truth. "I just did this¡­ and that¡­ and then I got on."


    Aidan didn''t want to waste his time on her, so he said to Jonathan, "Take her back."


    However, Charlotte loudly protested, "No! I''m not going back! If you return me to Jamesdon, I''ll jump


    into the river!"


    On the other hand, Aidan responded, "Fine. If you jump, we''ll notify L to fish you out."


    Charlotte was at a loss for words. She looked at Leanna, her eyes filled with tears, and begged,


    "Please, miss! I don''t want to go back!"


    Leanna stayed quiet as she wondered why she was getting involved in this. Meanwhile, Charlotte


    continued, "Waylen told me you''re a good person. Pretty please! I finally managed to escape and don''t


    want to go back!"


    Leanna remembered that when she was in the ancestral hall, she heard Charlotte didn''t want to marry


    L, so her father had beaten her and made her kneel.


    But it was a family matter for the Woodley Family and Leanna didn''t want to interfere.


    At that thought, she looked at Aidan.


    His lips tightened and he fixed his cold gaze on Charlotte. She froze and stuttered, "Although L


    said he wouldn''t marry me, my father, grandfather, and uncles want me to marry him. If I stay in


    Jamesdon, I might be forced to marry him. This morning, I overheard my father and grandfather say


    you guys are leaving tonight, so I secretly got on the ne."


    Aidan asked, "So you came with us to Highside because you don''t want to marry L?"


    "It''s not just that. It''s also because I like you."


    Aidan sneered upon hearing that. "Take her back to Jamesdon."


    Charlotte quickly covered her mouth and said, "I won''t say it anymore! I won''t say anything, okay?"


    Leanna chuckled, thinking that Charlotte was rather amusing. She opened the car door. "Let''s go."


    Charlotte tried to get in the car, but Aidan grabbed her by the neck and said, "Get in the car behind."


    Charlotte understood that he wouldn''t return her to Jamesdon and happily nodded.


    On the way back, Aidan asked, "Do you want to keep her?"


    "Didn''t you already n to keep her?" Leanna countered.


    At that, Aidan muttered, "With her abilities, she couldn''t have snuck onto the ne without being


    detected by my people."

 Chapter 625

    Chapter 625


    Chapter 625 Lost Any Utility Value


    Leanna paused. "Are you saying that someone intentionally sent her to Highside?"


    Aidan nodded and slowly said, "The Woodley Family was eager to make Charlotte marry L.


    Moreover... That''s why it wasn''t easy for her to leave Jamesdon. However, we happened to be


    returning to Highside."


    After hearing that, she knew what he had left out.


    There was an unwritten rule in the Woodleys that stated family members could never leave Jamesdon.


    Charlotte, the granddaughter of Philip Woodley, was restrained from leaving Jamesdon by various


    means, no matter what methods she used.


    After thinking momentarily, Leanna asked, "Are those who assisted her the same people who conspired


    with Sienna?"


    Aidan shook his head and exined, "No. Setting aside the various internal struggles within the


    Woodley Family, the two most obvious forces now are L and those who oppose him. Those who


    oppose him will inevitably need the help of the Woodley Family''s elders if they want to get his position."


    Then, she interjected, "Charlotte''s grandfather is currently the most prestigious elder in the Woodley


    Family. If they want his help, they certainly won''ty a hand on Charlotte, right?"


    "Exactly. Moreover, everyone knows Charlotte''s identity. Even if L wants to sit firmly in the


    position of the head of the Woodley Family, he must marry her, let alone other people. As long as he


    marries her, he will get the full support of her family."


    "Since she had already left Jamesdon and arrived in Highside, even if she returns, she will lose any


    utility value as long as word of her leaving Jamesdon spreads," Leanna said.


    Aidan''s lips curved slightly. "Smart."


    After a while, she started to get a handle on things and remarked, "So, the person who helped her


    come to Highside was L."


    "L has been refusing this marriage, but the Woodleys'' elders are unwilling topromise.


    Although he can stabilize his position by marrying Charlotte, he is also restrained by those people,"


    Aidan exined. "Initially, the elders agreed to bring my mother back to the Woodley Family. However,


    they were subtly displeased because they felt L vited the family''s rules. Although Philip didn''t


    say anything, it was clear that he was also unhappy. Nevertheless, his primary concern is the position


    of the head of the Woodley Family. As long as Charlotte and L get married, he can turn a blind


    eye. However, he didn''t expect his granddaughter to break the family''s rules."


    "So, that''s why L sent Charlotte to Highside?" Leanna asked.


    "Yes."


    L wishes to abolish the Woodley Family''s old family rules but faces significant opposition. If


    bringing Naomi back to the Woodley Family is the first step, then sending Charlotte to Highside is the


    second step. Now, Charlotte''s family must have been outraged. Leanna felt that the situation in


    Jamesdon was far from over. She wondered how he would resolve the problem. Then, she rolled down


    the car window and yawned.


    Seeing that, Aidan asked, "Tired?"


    She replied, "A little bit."


    "We still have half an hour left. Do you want to take a nap?"


    After hearing that, she shook her head. "Are you going back to the office?"


    He paused before saying, "No, why?"


    "Nothing. There''s so much work piling up at the office. I assumed you''d go straight there."


    "With so much work piled up, one more night won''t make a difference."


    Leanna was speechless after hearing that. It makes sense.


    Half an hourter, the car stopped in front of the building where she rented her apartment. Then, she


    exited the car and looked at the familiar yet unfamiliar ce, suddenly feeling like it had been ages


    since she wasst there. She went up the stairs and entered the password to open the door. As she


    entered, the house was bright and clean. It looks like Zoe came over to clean regrly. Leanna


    checked the time and saw it was alreadyte, so she didn''t tell Zoe they had arrived and decided to


    wait until the following day.


    When she closed the door, Aidan''s phone rang, and Jonathan was calling.


    She knew that Aidan had to deal with Charlotte''s affairs and yawned. "I''ll take a shower first."


    When he heard that, he replied, "Okay." Afterward, he walked to the balcony with his phone.


    She went to the bedroom to get her clothes and headed to the bathroom. She had been sketching out


    design ideas while they were in flight, and she had not slept, so she was utterly worn out. So, she tied


    her hair up and quickly showered beforeing out.


    When Leanna passed the living room, she saw Aidan still on the phone. So, she didn''t say anything


    and drowsily returned to the bedroom. She immediately fell asleep with her head on the pillow.


    After a while, she felt the bed sink slightly, and someone hugged her. She also smelled the fragrance of


    the shower gel she used. Suddenly, she woke up and asked, "Why are you here?"


    He was taken aback by that question and replied softly, "Where else would I be if not here?"


    "Your home is next door. Shouldn''t you go back¡ª"


    Aidan patted her back and said, "You''re still half asleep. Go back to sleep."


    Leanna stayed silent and ignored him.


    Perhaps it was because she had returned to the Highside, but she slept soundly and awoke to a


    brilliantly shining sun.


    She reached out to grab her phone, and a man beside her said, "It''s eleven. You should get up now."


    Leanna sat up slowly and looked at the man on the couch. "Didn''t you go to thepany?"


    Aidan closed hisptop and replied calmly, "I''ll go this afternoon. What do you want to eat? I''ll have


    Jonathan bring it over."


    She rubbed her eyes and got out of bed. "I''ll cook for myself."


    After washing up, she bought some fresh fruits and vegetables on an app, intending to go to Zoe''s


    house to eat something. After knocking for a while, there was no response from inside.


    Then, Leanna called Zoe. "Zoe, are you not at home?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "I''ve been at the studio for a while." After a pause, Zoe continued, "Have you returned?"


    Leanna finally realized her mistakes. "Yes, I returnedst night."


    "How about the little guy? Did hee back with you?"


    "No, he has to stay there for treatment."


    Zoe sighed. "Okay. Hey, are youing to the studio this afternoon?"


    "Yes," Leanna said as she returned to her room to change her shoes to go to the grocery store. "I''m


    hanging up now. The elevator is here."


    "Okay. See you this afternoon!"


    Leanna put away her phone and was about to leave when Aidan came over and asked, "Where are


    you going?"


    "I''m going to the grocery store to buy some things."


    Then, he said, "I''ll go with you."


    "Okay." She closed the door and took a few steps toward the elevator when the opposite door opened.


    Charlotte poked her head out and asked, "Can I go with you guys?"

 Chapter 626

    Chapter 626


    Chapter 626 I¡¯m Here to Join You


    Charlotte was in a hurry to get to Highside and had only brought a few clothes with her. Moreover,


    Aidan had asked Jonathan to throw her into the room where they piled up their belongings, leaving her


    with no daily necessities.


    As soon as she entered the supermarket, she eagerly grabbed a shopping cart and picked up whatever


    she saw.


    Aidan walked behind her andined, "Why did you bring her out?"


    Leanna ced a few milk cartons in the shopping cart and replied, "Can''t you see how hungry she


    looks?"


    "Studies show that people can go up to seven days without eating before starving to death."


    She was speechless by his statement.


    Although the supermarket was not a huge shopping mall, one that could satisfy everyday needs. They


    walked for a while and soon reached the end.


    On the other hand, Charlotte had already stuffed a shopping cart to the brim. She stood at the cashier


    and waved at them. When they came over, she proudly took out her phone and said, "I''ll pay."


    Leanna was about to say something, but Aidan interjected, "Let her pay. She''s stupid but has too much


    money."


    Charlotte pouted, feeling aggrieved when she heard that.


    After the cashier scanned all the items, she told Charlotte, "You can scan here for payment."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, Charlotte scanned with her phone, but the payment failed. So, she tried switching to another


    payment app, but it didn''t work. The cashier across from her stood there with a polite smile, watching


    Charlotte.


    However, Charlotte felt her scalp numb and wanted to find a hiding ce. She stiffly turned her neck


    and looked at Leanna for help.


    Seeing that, Leanna smiled. "Let me do it."


    After paying the bill, the items in Charlotte''s shopping cart filled threerge bags. When she stood there


    not knowing what to do, a salesperson in the supermarket said, "Ma''am, if you''re not in a hurry, we can


    deliver it to your apartmentter."


    Charlotte was about to nod when Aidan''s voice sounded from behind. "There''s a cart at the entrance of


    the neighborhood. Go get it and push it back yourself."


    "I¡ª" Before she could finish speaking, she met his cold eyes, and her words were swallowed up. She


    grunted and left the supermarket to look for the cart.


    Then, Aidan took the bags from Leanna and said, "Let''s go."


    On the way back, she asked, "The supermarket can deliver for her. Why did you make her carry it back


    herself?"


    "She''s used to having someone follow her and take care of things in Jamesdon, so she never thinks


    about the consequences of her actions. This is only a small lesson. The supermarket can deliver this


    time, but she''ll have to figure out how to solve other problems independently in the future."


    After hearing that, her lips curved. "I didn''t expect you to be¡ª"


    "What do you mean?"


    Leanna said thoughtfully, "Nothing. Will she be staying here in the future?"


    Aidan grunted. "To prevent her from causing trouble, we will keep an eye on her. She''ll be a bargaining


    chip no matter what happens to the Woodley Family in the future." He paused before continuing, "If you


    don''t want to see her, I can find a ce to lock her up and keep her out of sight."


    His statement took her aback, and she said, "No need for that. Let''s leave it at that."


    Soon after arriving home, Leanna''s fresh fruits and vegetables that she bought online came. As she put


    the spaghetti on to boil, the doorbell rang.


    Outside the door, Charlotte was holding a few bags of snacks. "Can I use this to exchange for lunch?"


    Leannaughed lightly and made way for her. "Come in."


    Charlotte immediately smiled and ced the snacks in Leanna''s arms. "Thank you, Leanna!"


    Then, Leanna ced the snacks on the coffee table. "Sit on the couch for a while. I''ll go cook."


    Charlotte nodded. "Okay." Then, she sat on the couch after Leanna entered the kitchen, looking around


    the room filled with baby items and toys, full of curiosity. She saw a few adorable dolls in the baby crib


    next to her, so she walked over and picked them up.


    At that moment, Aidan came out of the bedroom and looked at her. "Who let youe here?"


    When she heard that, she argued, "Leanna let me in!"


    Suddenly, he mercilessly took the doll from her and threw them into the crib. "Although I let you stay


    here, there are things you need to restrain yourself from."


    Charlotte thought he was referring to her embarrassment and pity while paying at the supermarket. "My


    dad suspended all my cards¡ª"


    "Did you not consider the consequences beforeing here?"


    "I¡ª" She instinctively wanted to retort but didn''t know what to say. With the opportunity to escape


    Jamesdon, she would seize the chance and run away quickly. Otherwise, she would be caught and


    forced to marry L. She didn''t have time to think about the consequences. Then, she whispered,


    "Don''t be so harsh on me. I''m not here to ruin your family but to join you."


    Aidan said nothing when he heard that. There''s indeed something wrong in her head. He eventually


    couldn''t deal with her and remarked, "Since you refuse to return to Jamesdon, there are conditions to


    stay here."


    Charlotte knew it wouldn''t be so easy and nodded eagerly. "Tell me. I''ll promise anything as long as I


    don''t return to Jamesdon."


    "Deal with your affairs, don''t expect others to do it for you."


    After hearing that, she tentatively asked, "W-What does that include?"


    Aidan looked at her expressionlessly, "This is Highside, not Jamesdon. It includes everything without


    your servants and bodyguards."


    Charlotte counted on her fingers, and the more she counted, the more worried she became. After a


    while, she stammered, "Oh¡­ I see."


    Then, he added, "You said earlier your card was suspended."


    "T-That''s right. Can you lend me some money? I''ll¡ª"


    "I don''t have money to lend you. Go out and find a job!"


    Her face was already filled with gloom and worry upon hearing that.


    Seeing her reaction, Aidan said, "If you want toe for a meal, that''s fine. After you finish eating,


    wash the dishes."


    This is much simpler than the previous two conditions. With that thought, Charlotte immediately agreed.


    A grin finally formed on her face, and she asked nervously, "I-Is there anything else?"


    "If I think of anything else, I''ll let you know."


    To avoid Aidan thinking of something else, Charlotte immediately entered the kitchen.


    Afterward, he sat on the couch, looked at the toys next to him, picked one up, held it in his hand, and


    gazed at the baby crib while lost in thought.


    On the other hand, Leanna was almost finished cooking the meal and was unaware of what had


    happened outside. She thought Charlotte was hungry and said, "Wait a moment. Lunch will be ready


    soon."


    In the kitchen, Charlotte couldn''t help but whisper, "Leanna, you''re so kind."


    Leanna was puzzled by her reaction.

 Chapter 627

    Chapter 627


    Chapter 627 I¡¯m Used To It


    Charlotte peeked out and lowered her voice further. "I''ve be increasingly aware that he''s


    incredibly annoying. He''s so cruel and talks disparagingly. How did you stand it when you were with


    him?"


    Leanna raised her eyebrows, not expecting her toment on Aidan like that. She smiled as she took


    out the tes. "Don''t you fancy him?"


    Charlotte came back to herself, realizing that only after that reminder. "Oh, yes. I did say I fancy him."


    Leanna replied, "Alright, let''s go out and sit. It''s nearly time to eat." Despite the short amount of time


    she spent with Charlotte, Leanna found her amusing and cute.


    Nevertheless, Charlotte probably didn''t even realize that she didn''t like Aidan at all. She didn''t want to


    marry L, and Aidan had shown up when all her protests came to no avail. Aidan rivaled L


    in terms of family background, status, and appearance, and he was widely feared in Jamesdon.


    Moreover, Aidan had seemed like a bright ray of hope for her, so she had imed to fancy him and


    tried to use him to escape the marriage. L saw that, too, so he sent her to Highside. Her


    presence in Highside and beside Aidan had made the Woodley Family anxious, fearful, and angry.


    Charlotte sat beside Leanna during the meal and ate diligently, clearly hungry.


    At that moment, Aidan asked, "What time are you going to the studio?"


    Leanna answered, "After eating. When are you going to thepany?"


    "Around the same time. I''ll bring you there."


    Charlotte looked up at their conversation, her cheeks bulging as she asked softly, "Where are you two


    going? Can you take me along?"


    He looked at her, sounding neutral. "No."


    Seeing his gaze, she became anxious. "Didn''t you tell me to go find a job? I am unfamiliar with the city


    and everyone here, so I don''t know what to do."


    "Didn''t you see they were short of cashiers at the grocery market?"


    Charlotte was speechless upon hearing that.


    While Leanna suppressed a chuckle, she stated, "I''ll take her to the studio. I do have vacancies."


    Charlotte stuck her tongue out at Aidan before smiling widely at Leanna. "Thank you, Leanna. You are


    beautiful and kind, unlike some people who only look physically attractive."


    Charlotte peeked out and lowered her voice further. "I''ve be increasingly aware that he''s


    incredibly annoying. He''s so cruel and talks disparagingly. How did you stand it when you were with


    him?"


    After hearing that, he didn''t know what to say to that.


    Leanna got up to clear the table following the meal when Charlotte noticed his re and put her cutlery


    down. "I''ll do it. You are tired from preparing the meal, so I will be in charge of washing up."


    As Charlotte spoke, she quickly took the tes and cutlery into the kitchen.


    Leanna noticed her eagerness and recalled what Aidan had said before, so she allowed Charlotte to do


    it. The moment when Leanna sat on the couch, she heard the sound of tes breaking.


    She was speechless and turned stiffly to look at him, who looked up slightly after sensing her gaze and


    uttered, "Let herpensate for it."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Then, she demurred, "No, I''m thinking about something else."


    Aidan''s voice was low. "Yes?"


    "Do you think being useless in the kitchen is a matter of probability or genes?"


    Aidan was at a loss for words upon hearing that.


    Leanna pondered the matter carefully before concluding that it was unrted to gics, as Ms.


    Fletcher had never broken tes. However, she suddenly felt that it wasn''t that simple; after all, she


    didn''t know what Ms. Fletcher had been like in her youth. She sighed and got up, walking into the


    kitchen.


    ¡­


    After clearing the ruined kitchen, she changed her clothes and prepared to leave. "You don''t have to


    take me there. I''ll walk with her there and familiarize myself with the environment here."


    Aidan''s lips moved briefly, but he didn''t say anything. "Fine."


    Meanwhile, Charlotte stood beside them, head lowered like she had done something wrong.


    Seeing that, Leanna picked up her things and said to her, "Let''s go."


    After getting into the elevator, Charlotte finally informed her hesitatingly, "Sorry about the broken tes,


    Leanna. I''ll buy a new set for you when I earn money."


    Leanna replied, "It''s okay. I''m used to it."


    "Huh?"


    Leanna smiled and stated, "Nothing. Next time be careful."


    Charlotte clenched her fists to encourage herself. "It was an ident this time. I can do this!"


    It took around half an hour to reach the studio. The afternoon sun was blinding, and the day was


    slightly hot. Charlotte followed closely behind Leanna as she gazed in amazement at everything she


    had never seen before.


    Leanna noticed that and enquired, "Have you lived in Jamesdon since childhood?"


    Charlotte nodded at once. "Our family is strange and refused to let us leave Jamesdon. I''d wanted to


    go on a vacation, but my dad wouldn''t let me and even chastised me. I have no idea what they are


    thinking because the outside world is fine."


    "Aren''t you scared they would get angry because you secretly left Jamesdon?"


    "Of course, but I am more scared of getting married to L."


    Leanna asked instinctively, "Why?"


    Charlotte frowned in response. "I haven''t met him often, but I''ve been calling him ''uncle'' since


    childhood. Making me marry him makes me extremely ufortable, and¡ª" Her expression suddenly


    became mysterious. "He''s terrifying. I heard them say that the wine in his cer is all human blood. He


    usually eats human meat, and he eats it raw! If I marry him, what if I anger him and get eaten by him


    then?"


    Leanna was dumbfounded. She had heard simr descriptions of L Woodley before going to


    Jamesdon. Nheless, she did not expect a member of the Woodley Family to believe the lies more


    than she did. It wasn''t surprising that Charlotte reacted so strongly at the ancestral hall, refusing to


    marry L despite being pped in public and punished by her father for kneeling in the hall.


    Then, Charlotte added, "I''ve feared him since I was a child, and whenever I see him, my legs tremble.


    Making me marry him is like giving him a bound juicymb ready for ughter. Moreover, I don''t like


    him either. I''m not going to marry him for whatever strange reasons they say, such as being the head of


    the Woodley Family."


    Leanna smiled upon hearing that. "You''re right."


    Charlotte asked again, "Leanna, do you like Aidan?"


    Leanna paused before murmuring, "I do."


    "Then, I''m not going topete with you. I''ll find someone else to fancy." Charlotte looked around as


    she walked, muttering to herself, "Anyone but L Woodley."

 Chapter 628

    Chapter 628


    Chapter 628 A Lot to Take In


    When Leanna and Charlotte arrived at the studio, Zoe was snapping new promotional images of the


    products on the models. Due to online advertising, the traffic within the shop had doubled. Zoe had


    already been hiring people, but they were all in charge of the online tform, so the workers in the


    studio were already strained.


    The busy girls saw Leanna and their eyes brightened.


    Leanna walked to one side of the counter and told the queueing customers, "Come here."


    With Leanna''s help, the payment process became much quicker. Many people recognized her and


    quietly talked about her,menting that she looked prettier in real life than in her photos. After the


    wave of customers had left, the shop became emptier and was no longer as busy as before.


    One girl eximed, "Miss McKinney, you''re finally back!"


    Leanna smiled. "It must have been tiring for you all."


    "Of course not. Miss Zoe gave us all a pay raise."


    As they talked, Zoe returned from next door and hugged Leanna after seeing her. "Nana, I''ve missed


    you."


    Leanna smiled as she patted Zoe''s back. "I''ve only been gone for a month. Why are you acting like you


    haven''t seen me in years?"


    Zoe let go of Leanna, sighing while rubbing at her back. "It feels like a long time."


    Leanna saw this and asked, "Are you not feeling well?"


    "No. It''s just that my waist hurts after standing for so long." Zoe looked at Charlotte, who was looking


    around curiously behind Leanna, and asked in a low voice, "Who''s that?"


    Leanna answered, "It''s¡ªit''s a younger friend of mine. She will be helping out in the studio for now."


    Leanna then called Charlotte over and asked another girl to take her around before entering the office


    inside the studio with Zoe. After the door had closed, Zoe asked in confusion, "How did you meet this


    friend of yours?"


    Leanna rubbed her eyebrows. "It''s¡­a long story."


    Zoe looked intrigued at once. "Do borate."


    "She''s one of the Woodleys."


    Zoe was stunned, clearly not expecting the answer. "Then how¡­oh! I know. The girl is in Jamesdon.


    Did Mr. Pearson bring her here just to be a hostage?"


    "Not really." Leanna briefly described everything that had happened recently at Jamesdon as well as


    the connection between Aidan and the Woodley Family. After hearing that, Zoe was dumbfounded.


    When Leanna and Charlotte arrived at the studio, Zoe was snapping new promotional images of the


    products on the models. Due to online advertising, the traffic within the shop had doubled. Zoe had


    already been hiring people, but they were all in charge of the online tform, so the workers in the


    studio were already strained.


    It took a while before Zoe eventually spoke. "It''s a lot to take in at once and I need some time to digest


    it."


    Pausing momentarily, she asked, "So, Mr. Pearson''s mother had been tricked intoing here to


    Jamesdon by his father and unknowingly became his mistress?"


    Leanna nodded. "That''s what happened."


    Zoe began toin. "F*ck. I thought Sienna Pearson was despicable enough. I didn''t think¡­ They


    truly are birds of a feather. Why are they all so disgusting? Aidan had to bear the shame of being an


    illegitimate child."


    Leanna bowed her head, not knowing what to say for now.


    Zoe went on, "Oh. Did you say that Justin Pearson''s car ident was rted to the Woodleys?"


    "Yes."


    "Then what does Aidan think about that? I remember him having a good rtionship with Justin."


    Leanna took a deep breath and looked out of the window. "I-I don''t know."


    Aidan behaved somewhat unusually on the night he returned from the Woodley residence but then he


    returned to normal after that, so she didn''t know what he was thinking. She did not mention it anymore


    in case he became unhappy.


    Zoe sighed and reassured her, "However, I think Aidan''s thinking process is different from everyone''s


    sometimes. He may not have taken it to heart, so you don''t have to worry about it. It might get better


    with time."


    The corners of Leanna''s mouth twitched. "I hope so."


    Zoe then tested the waters. "That girl really is L Woodley''s fianc¨¦e?"


    Leanna answered, "Yes."


    Zoe snorted. "You mentioned that he''s very simr to Aidan, so he must be very handsome. Why is she


    so fearful and trying to avoid this any way she can?"


    ¡­


    In the president''s office of Pearson Group, the heads of each department were reporting their monthly


    work progress to Aidan. However, they noticed that he didn''t seem to be listening; he was merely


    staring lightly out of the window without any emotion.


    The heads of the departments panicked, assuming that he wasn''t satisfied with their reports, and


    directed a pleading look at Jonathan.


    Jonathan was burdened with the responsibility and felt pressured. He eventually spoke up, "Mr.


    Pearson."


    Aidan came back to his senses. "Are you all done?"


    The head currently giving his report answered, "N-no, Mr. Pearson, I¡ª"


    "Put down your things and leave. I''ll call you in if I need anything."


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    The heads immediately put down their files and left like fleeing refugees.


    After they were gone, Jonathan asked, "Mr. Pearson, is there anything wrong?"


    Aidan randomly picked up a file and looked through it. "Have you found Oscar?"


    It was Jonathan''s turn to panic. "N-no."


    Oscar might''ve known Aidan would look for him and so hid before then. Besides, no one was more


    familiar with them than Oscar, so he would know their every move in advance. This made things much


    more difficult.


    Aidan closed the file and looked up, his gaze nonchnt. Jonathan said quickly, "I''ll request more


    reinforcements."


    "There''s no need," Aidan continued. "Is there any news from the people shadowing Justin?"


    Jonathan exhaled in relief. "Mr. Justin has really been taking old Mr. Pearson to see doctors


    everywhere afternding in Vind. We have already dealt with several groups which were put in ce


    by Mrs. Pearson, but they are all from the Zielinski Family and not connected to Jamesdon."


    Aidan muttered lightly, "It''s just a distraction. Sienna died in such a shy way and would never leave


    behind useless trash for him."


    "If that''s the case, we will continue shadowing him. They may show up soon."


    "Ask them to fall back."


    Jonathan froze, thinking he had misheard. "Fall¡­ back?"


    Aidan made a noise of assent. "There''s no longer any need to shadow him."


    Jonathan did not ask any questions and swiftly agreed. "Okay."


    "Leroy Crossley hasn''t been found yet?"


    "¡­ No."


    Aidan pursed his lips slightly, tapped his fingers on the surface of the desk, and pondered. After some


    time, he finally ordered, "Get someone to help them find him. Does this have to be dyed until New


    Year''s?"


    "I''ll arrange it now."


    "Wait," Aidan said again. "Some people may be sent over from Jamesdon soon. Don''t let them make


    any noise and deal with them in advance."


    "Yes, sir."

 Chapter 629

    Chapter 629


    Chapter 629 A Habit of Chatting With the Designer


    In the studio, Charlotte listened attentively as the girl Leanna had assigned to her introduced the


    structure of the ce, product arrangements, and batch numbering as well as how to run the cashier,


    print invoices, and enter the ounts. It was all things she had never known. Soon, Charlotte''s focus


    drifted to the cafe opposite even though her gaze was still fixed on Leanna.


    A hand waving before her eyes made here abruptly back to attention and the shopgirl asked her,


    "Have you remembered everything I told you?"


    Charlotte replied uncertainly, "Maybe?"


    The shopgirl could see that she didn''t and sighed, about to repeat her words when a customer came in.


    The shop assistant thereafter informed her, "Go take a seat. I''ll tell you about itter."


    "Alright, thank you." Charlotte settled obediently on the couch and soon, a gorgeous woman wearing


    sunsses came in.


    The shopgirl quickly approached the woman. "Hello, how can I help you?"


    The woman removed her sunsses. "I want to custom-make a ring."


    "Alright, please follow me to the lounge and I''ll make a detailed record."


    "It''s too troublesome. I want to see your boss directly."


    The girl apologized. "Sorry, Miss. This is part of our store''s procedure."


    The woman crossed her arms, looking reluctant. "What procedure? Can''t you change it? Plus, you are


    here to run a business, right? Your purpose is to serve your customers. You don''t need me to tell you


    that."


    The shopgirl paused, sounding hesitant. "Then please wait a moment. I''ll ask my superior."


    The woman made an idle noise of assent and sat on a nearby couch, right opposite Charlotte who was


    already drowsy. The woman crossed her pale legs and ced one hand on the armrest as she looked


    at Charlotte. "Are you here to custom-make something too?"


    Charlotte stopped mid-yawn and shook her head. "I work here."


    The woman''s expression shifted minutely as she studied Charlotte''s outfit, probably thinking there was


    something wrong with the girl since she was working here despite being d head-to-toe in luxury


    items.


    The shopgirl came out soon after. "Hello, my boss is already waiting in the lounge. I''ll take you there."


    The woman replied distractedly in assent and got up while holding her purse. After the woman was


    gone, Charlotte stretched herself and finally finished yawning.


    After the shopgirl had taken the woman to the lounge, she closed the door and went off to make coffee.


    The woman sat opposite Leanna. "So, you are McK?"


    Leanna smiled. "Hello, how may I address you?"


    "Call me Freya."


    "Okay. What kind of ring do you want?"


    Freya leaned back against the couch and smiled. "I have a habit of chatting with the designer first


    before picking her. If her character and behavior suit my taste, I will ask her to help me design


    something."


    Leanna raised her eyebrows but did not say anything. "What do you want to talk about?"


    "I heard that you were the winner of the Emerging Designer Competition, yet you voluntarily let go of


    the chance to study in Aeras, right?"


    "Yes."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    "Why?"


    Leanna maintained a polite smile. "It''s personal and I can''t tell you about it."


    Freya considered it. "It''s okay if you don''t want to disclose it. You beat so many capable designers with


    more experience than you in the designerpetition several months ago to get the top spot. Do you


    have anything to say about that?"


    "If I was humbler, I would say I got lucky or that all my seniors weren''t at their best. However, you


    clearly don''t want such an answer since you asked about it in that way. I could only say that it was my


    ability."


    Freya probably did not expect her to answer in such a fashion and she was stunned before smiling. "I


    saw your designs before and they look captivating, but not to the point where you beat them based on


    your ability."


    "Everyone has their own opinions and interpretations about different designs. I didn''t get the approval


    of all the judges when I participated."


    "I agree with what you''ve said."


    Leanna continued, "Do you have anything else you want to talk about?"


    Freya raised her eyebrows. "Of course. To be honest, I am very curious about you. So, I want to talk


    more with you."


    The shopgirl brought in their coffees at that very moment and was frightened by the atmosphere in the


    room. She quickly put down their cups and left.


    Leanna replied, "Only about work-rted issues. If you want to ask about personal issues, we may


    regretfully have to stop here."


    Freya picked up her coffee and took a sip. "Don''t worry. I will only be discussing the designs with you."


    After a moment, she went on, "What do you think of Queenie Wojzicki''s designs?"


    Leanna paused and remained silent.


    Freya put down her cup. "Why do you look that way? Queenie is somewhat famous in the jewelry


    designermunity. Is it strange that I mentioned her?"


    "No, it''s nothing to do with the designermunity."


    "Then¡­"


    "Let''s just talk about designs," Leanna interrupted Freya. "Since you asked the question, I''ll answer


    based on her work. Queenie has always worked hard and it''s clear that she learned a lot in Aeras, but


    her work is mostly done just for the sake of designing and has no soul."


    "Oh?"


    Leanna borated, "I don''t know what her style was like in Aeras and won''tment on it, but she has


    been targeting me after her return in hope of exceeding and crushing me in every area. That''s why all


    her designs are always improvements based on my work and sock her own style."


    Freya tilted her head, seemingly pondering this.


    Leanna enquired, "Do you have any other questions? Is my answer ptable to you?"


    Freyaughed. "That''s about it. I''ll be frank with you. I loved Queenie''s designs in Aeras and she was


    my personal designer. I thought that she should be the champion of the designerpetition, and I


    was curious about who exactly could snatch that from her."


    Leanna smiled without saying anything.


    Freya said, "I did hear that she cheated in the designerpetition by getting someone to help her.


    However, I believe that if she had performed ording to her standards, she might be able to rival


    you."


    "Maybe."


    Freya continued, "Okay, I''ll stop beating around the bush. I came to see you so you can help me design


    a set of wedding rings. I can''t decide on my requirements, but they will be fulfilled as long as I like the


    design you did."

 Chapter 630

    Chapter 630


    Chapter 630 Teasing Her Is So Entertaining


    After Freya left, Leanna left the lounge. Zoe looked at Freya''s retreating figure and couldn''t help asking,


    "Who''s that?"


    "Queenie''s former client."


    Zoe''s eyes widened. "Then why is she here? Is she here to trouble you?"


    Leanna shook her head with a smile. "No. She wants me to design a set of wedding rings."


    "What are her requirements?"


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    "As long as she is satisfied with it and likes it."


    Zoe snorted. "That''s a ssic example of a customer''s mindset. She might be unhappy about the


    details when you are done."


    Leanna sighed. "I have no choice. She''s paying a lot of money after all."


    Zoe pped her shoulder in sympathy. "You''ll have to bear it for the studio."


    Zoe suddenly recalled something. "There''s very little time left until Fashion Week and you still have to


    design the wedding rings for her. Do you have the time? Will anything be dyed?"


    "No. I didn''t have much to do in Jamesdon recently, so I drew plenty of drafts for my designs. I just


    have to change some details then."


    "Alright. You can concentrate on drawing your designs and hand over the rest of the work in the studio


    to me."


    Leanna reminded Zoe, "Don''t tire yourself out. Rest more."


    Zoeughed. "I''m fine. The little darling inside my womb has been well-behaved and didn''t torture me.


    The doctor told me at myst pregnancy check-up that I can work as usual, so it''s okay."


    Leanna asked, "What about Daniel?"


    "Him? Somepany wants to open a branch in Highside and he''s probably busy with that. It''s


    somewhatplex."


    Leanna knew what she was talking about and fell quiet, not saying anything else. "Go have some rest.


    I''ll go have a look next door."


    Zoe yawned. "Okay."


    Leanna had just entered when she caught two pleading nces¡ªone belonging to the shopgirl and the


    other to Charlotte. They looked like they had made each other suffer immensely.


    Leanna smiled and called Charlotte over. "Come with me."


    The two girls looked like they had been rescued.


    Charlotte instantly ran to Leanna''s side and went outside with her. The ce next door had changed


    drastically, with the ground floor storing their items while the first floor had been turned into a


    photography studio.


    Leanna observed it as she asked, "How is it? Do you think it''s difficult?"


    Charlotte scratched her head dejectedly. "The things she told me are far tooplicated. I tried to


    memorize it but could not do so. Am I dumb?


    "It''s not what you''re good at, plus you''ve never been acquainted with this before," Leanna assured.


    "You don''t have to remember all that. Just help carry things around when there''s plenty of customers in


    the shop."


    Charlotte nodded. "I will learn bit by bit!"


    ¡­


    After Zoe had taken her afternoon nap, she suggested, "Nana, let''s go have pizza. It has been just me


    and Daniel and he doesn''t allow it."


    Leanna put down her pencil and stretched. "Sounds good. I''ll send a message to Louis so he can join


    us and doesn''t have to worry unnecessarily."


    Zoe asked experimentally, "Then I''ll invite Daphne too, is that alright with you?"


    Leanna raised her eyebrows. "Invite her then."


    After sending a message to Louis, Leanna intended to call Aidan but was worried he might be in a


    meeting, so she sent a message instead.


    Less than a minuteter, he called. "What is it?"


    Leanna informed him, "I invited Zoe and Louis for dinner. Can youe?"


    He answered, "You can all go without me."


    "Is it busy in the office?"


    "Yes. You don''t have to wait for me tonight. Sleep early."


    She answered in assent. "Remember to eat something."


    His mouth curved slightly. "Okay."


    After she had hung up, Zoe moved close to her. "Is Mr. Pearson noting?"


    Leanna ced her phone back. "He has gone to Highside for a month, so there''s far too much work


    that has piled up in the office. He may have to work hard for some time."


    Zoe sighed. "I wish Mr. Pearson could give me some of his woes, even if it''s just ten percent."


    Leanna smiled. "Has Daphne responded?"


    "Yup. She said that she has attended an overseas event a few days before and is now at the airport.


    She wille over after she has disembarked and told us to eat first without waiting for her." Zoe


    couldn''t help but be nosy. "Hey, have you asked Louis if anything may happen between them both? I


    don''t know if it''s my mistake, but I keep sensing that he treats her slightly differently."


    "How?"


    "It''s just female intuition." Zoe could be pretty observant in that aspect.


    Leanna replied, "He likes her, but you know what he is like. I''m not too clear about the rest."


    Zoe agreed. "You''re right. There''s a big age difference between them, and the key here is whether or


    not Daphne''s cruel boss allows her to date people."


    Leanna was speechless.


    After closing down the studio in the evening, Leanna took Charlotte and Zoe straight to the pizzeria


    where they had booked a table. Charlotte kept dozing during the journey; while she hadn''t learned


    anything during the afternoon, she had followed everyone by running around to provide help. However,


    she hadn''t helped much and tired herself out instead.


    The pizzeria wasn''t far and Leanna found a parking space. Charlotte yawned and got out of the car.


    She hadn''t even gotten her bearings yet when her gaze focused on something.


    Leanna walked to her side. "What is it?"


    Charlotte rubbed her eyes, feeling more awake than ever. "L-look! He''s so handsome!"


    Leanna and Zoe all looked at what she was staring at, where Louis was standing at the entrance of the


    pizzeria.


    Zoe suppressed augh. "Do you want me to get his number for you?"


    Charlotte looked embarrassed yet expectant. "That¡ªthat doesn''t seem polite."


    "That''s nothing. Wait here. I guarantee that I will get it for you."


    Zoe was about to move forward when Leanna pulled her back whileughing. "Okay. Stop teasing her."


    Leanna then turned to Charlotte. "That''s my younger brother."


    Charlotte was dumbfounded.


    Zoeughed until she was out of breath. "She''s so cute. Teasing her is so entertaining."


    Leanna truly didn''t expect a girl who decisively imed to fancy Aidan to blush at the sight of Louis


    either.


    Zoe pulled Charlotte along. "Okay, let''s go. I''ll introduce the handsome boy to you too."


    Louis had been waiting for just a while at the entrance of the pizzeria, but many girls had gone up to


    him to ask for his number. After declining them all, he looked up to see Zoe and Leanna walking toward


    him. He apologized to the girls and approached Zoe and Leanna, leaving the girls disappointed.

 Chapter 631

    Chapter 631


    Chapter 631 A Schr Doesn¡¯t Need to Study


    "Wow, Louis, you look more hendsome recently. More end more girls ere interested in you, huh?" Zoe


    teesed while weving her hend et Louis.


    Thet rendered Louis speechless.


    He wented to sey something, but his ettention wes drewn to Cherlotte, who wes stending next to Zoe


    end hed e flushed fece.


    Seeing this, Leenne eppeered from behind end begen introducing, "She is Cherlotte, end she is elmost


    your ege."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Then, she turned to Cherlotte end seid, "This is my brother, Louis."


    "H-Hello¡­" Cherlotte stuttered.


    Louis nodded slightly in response.


    Someone heppened to welk by et this point. Zoe tried to meke room for the person but tripped herself


    end elmost fell to the ground.


    Leenne quickly held her. Let''s go into the privete room first. It''s getting crowded here."


    "Let''s go," Louis replied.


    Leenne end Zoe then took the leed end welked eheed. However, es they welked, Zoe couldn''t help but


    turn her heed beck repeetedly, whispering to Leenne, "Don''t tell me Cherlotte is reelly interested in


    Louis?"


    Heering thet, Leenne turned her heed end took e look.


    Cherlotte wes welking elongside Louis, her pelms clesped together. It wes evident thet she wes


    nervous, end this did seem e little weird.


    Zoe then seid, "I hope not. I wes simply joking eround eerlier. But then egein, young girls her ege would


    indeed fell in love eesily with good-looking guys end would be drewn to the seme type of guys over end


    over egein. Louis is both¡­"


    "I don''t think so," Leenne retrected her geze end responded. "This is her first time meeting him. Meybe


    she just hes sociel enxiety."


    "I wes with her for the entire dey, end believe me, she is not in the leest bit socielly enxious."


    Leenne wes stumped for words.


    "Love et first sight is merely enother wey of seying being interested in the eppeerence of the other. Just


    like President Peerson, it wes ell beceuse of your beeutiful fece thet he¡­"


    Heering thet, Leenne hurriedly covered Zoe''s mouth. "Okey. Thet''s enough."


    Zoe giggled es she yenked Leenne''s hend ewey. "All right, ell right. I''m only kidding. Ledies from


    weelthy femily beckgrounds, like Cherlotte, heve seen ell sorts of hendsome guys enywey, end Lechlen


    is no worse then Louis either. Let''s not worry for nothing end just see how things go."


    As they spoke, they mede their wey to the privete room.


    Right efter they set down, e weiter quickly ceme over to teke their orders.


    Cherlotte hed e lower tolerence for enything spicy, end Zoe wented to reduce her consumption of spicy


    food too. Hence, they ordered two pizzes, one spicy end one not.


    After plecing the orders, Louis esked, "Isn''t Aidening?"


    "Wow, Louis, you look mora handsoma racantly. Mora and mora girls ara intarastad in you, huh?" Zoa


    taasad wh waving har hand at Louis.


    That randarad Louis spaacss.


    Ha wantad to say somathing, but his attantion was drawn to Charlotta, who was standing naxt to Zoa


    and had a flushad faca.


    Saaing this, Laanna appaarad from bahind and bagan introducing, "Sha is Charlotta, and sha is almost


    your aga."


    Than, sha turnad to Charlotta and said, "This is my brothar, Louis."


    "H-Hallo¡­" Charlotta stuttarad.


    Louis noddad slightly in rasponsa.


    Somaona happanad to walk by at this point. Zoa triad to maka room for tha parson but trippad harsalf


    and almost fall to tha ground.


    Laanna quickly hald har. Lat''s go into tha privata room first. It''s gatting crowdad hara."


    "Lat''s go," Louis rapliad.


    Laanna and Zoa than took thaad and walkad ahaad. Howavar, as thay walkad, Zoa couldn''t halp but


    turn har haad back rapaatadly, whisparing to Laanna, "Don''t tall ma Charlotta is raally intarastad in


    Louis?"


    Haaring that, Laanna turnad har haad and took a look.


    Charlotta was walking alongsida Louis, har palms spad togathar. It was avidant that sha was


    narvous, and this did saam a lit waird.


    Zoa than said, "I hopa not. I was simply joking around aarliar. But than again, young girls har aga would


    indaad fall in lova aasily with good-looking guys and would ba drawn to tha sama typa of guys ovar and


    ovar again. Louis is both¡­"


    "I don''t think so," Laanna ratractad har gaza and raspondad. "This is har first tima maating him. Mayba


    sha just has social anxiaty."


    "I was with har for tha antira day, and baliava ma, sha is not in thaast bit socially anxious."


    Laanna was stumpad for words.


    "Lova at first sight is maraly anothar way of saying baing intarastad in tha appaaranca of tha othar. Just


    lika Prasidant Paarson, it was all bacausa of your baautiful faca that ha¡­"


    Haaring that, Laanna hurriadly covarad Zoa''s mouth. "Okay. That''s anough."


    Zoa gigd as sha yankad Laanna''s hand away. "All right, all right. I''m only kidding. Ladias from


    waalthy family backgrounds, lika Charlotta, hava saan all sorts of handsoma guys anyway, and L


    is no worsa than Louis aithar. Lat''s not worry for nothing and just saa how things go."


    As thay spoka, thay mada thair way to tha privata room.


    Right aftar thay sat down, a waitar quickly cama ovar to taka thair ordars.


    Charlotta had a lowar tranca for anything spicy, and Zoa wantad to raduca har consumption of spicy


    food too. Hanca, thay ordarad two pizzas, ona spicy and ona not.


    Aftar cing tha ordars, Louis askad, "Isn''t Aidaning?"


    "He''s not. He has work to do," Leanna answered.


    "He''s not. He hes work to do," Leenne enswered.


    Louis let out e light hum in response end seid nothing else.


    He wes here todey beceuse he wented to esk Leenne ebout the child, but since Cherlotte wes elso


    present, he didn''t pursue thet end decided to leeve the metter until leter.


    Leenne wes flipping through the choices of drinks. After esking the others to choose their drinks, she


    esked Zoe, "Is Denieling?"


    "I''ve no idee. He didn''t pick up my cell. Let''s just proceed without considering him. It¡¯s even better thet


    he doesn''t show up; I cen eet more!"


    Leenne smiled when she heerd thet. At this point, her phone reng.


    It wes Dephne''s cell, seying thet she wes ebout to reech the plece end esking Leenne which privete


    room they were in.


    "The inside is quite confusing. I''ll esk Louis to bring you here," Leenne seid.


    After henging up the phone, she looked et Louis end seid, "Dephne is reeching the entrence soon. Go


    end bring her in."


    Louis nodded in response end stood up.


    After he left, Zoe looked et Cherlotte, who hed her geze set on the door, end esked, "Cherlotte, whet


    ere you looking et?"


    Thet stertled Cherlotte e little, end she hestily everted her geze end shook her heed. "Nothing. I wes


    just wondering when the food would be served. I''m hungry."


    "I''ve ordered some snecks. They''ll be served soon," Leenne responded.


    Cherlotte immedietely put on e bright smile et thet. "Okey!"


    Her demeenor indeed showed thet she wes hungry end eegerly enticipeting the food to be served.


    ¡­


    Meenwhile, Dephne donned e bleck het end e mesk es her cer stopped outside the pizzerie.


    She then got out of the cer. Looking eround, she noticed meny people, but Louis wes nowhere to be


    found.


    Just es she took her phone out end wes ebout to text Louis, someone grebbed her wrist.


    "There ere too meny people here. Let''s use the beck door," Louis seid.


    Dephne subconsciously hummed quietly in egreement end followed him. It wes only efter they both


    welked e few steps thet she reelized he wes still holding her hend.


    She opened her mouth while trying to pull her hend beck et the seme time. However, e few men end


    women welked towerd them from the opposite direction et this moment.


    Seeing thet, Louis gripped Dephne''s hend even tighter end drew her slightly to the side to evoid them.


    Dephne''s mind immedietely went into e swirl. She did nothing else but let Louis leed her into the


    pizzerie through the beck door, his hend still holding hers.


    Perheps it wes the silence of the corridor, devoid of people, thet mede Louis reelize whet he wes doing.


    Then, he moved his slender fingers slightly, slowly retrecting his hend.


    "He''s not. He has work to do," Leanna answered.


    Louis let out a light hum in response and said nothing else.


    To ease the awkwardness, Daphne quickly asked, "When did your sister return from Jamesdon?"


    To eese the ewkwerdness, Dephne quickly esked, "When did your sister return from Jemesdon?"


    "Yesterdey, I think," Louis enswered.


    "Is President Peerson here tonight then?"


    "He isn''t." After e brief peuse, Louis esked, "Do you not went to eet with him?"


    Thet mede Dephne giggle ewkwerdly. "Well, I don''t meen thet. But for this type of cesuel get-together


    with close friends in my spere time, I prefer him not being present."


    "Don''t worry. He''s not here," Louis replied.


    She petted her chest relievedly. "Thet''s greet. I heve some veriety showsing up in e few deys, end


    if he''s here, he''ll definitely question me ebout them."


    He went silent for e few seconds. "When ere you leeving?"


    "Whet?" Dephne couldn''t get whet he meent.


    "Didn''t you sey you hed e couple of veriety showsing up in e few deys? When ere you going to


    leeve for thet?"


    "Oh. I don''t heve en exect time yet. The schedule is uncertein for now es I heve e few other jobs in the


    next two deys."


    Louis pursed his lips slightly end did not sey enything further.


    Dephne then inquired, "How ebout you? Summer breek is eround the corner, right?"


    "Yeeh. My lest peper is tomorrow."


    Thet took Dephne ebeck. "Don''t you need to study tonight then?"


    "I don¡¯t need to," he replied.


    She couldn''t help but sneer in her heert when she heerd thet. A scholer doesn''t need to study, huh?


    After e few steps, she esked egein, "Will your egency be errenging jobs for you during your summer


    breek?"


    She hed heerd ebout Louis'' refusel to perticipete in eny eudition previously. He hed informed his


    egency thet he would prioritize his studies end hed esked thet jobs be scheduled solely during his


    vecetion.


    It wes, in fect, e wise choice. He wes still young, end it wes good for him to view the enterteinment


    industry es only e meens of geining eerly precticel sociel experience.


    For scholers with high intelligence like him, it wespletely e weste of telent for him to enter the


    enterteinment industry.


    Louis went silent for e moment before responding, "Jobs heve elreedy been errenged."


    "All right," Dephne replied. "You cen look for me if you heve eny problems et work. After ell, I''ve worked


    in the enterteinment sector for meny yeers. I''m not only your elder sister but elso your senior who


    knows the industry better then you."


    Louis simply pursed his lips end hummed quietly in response, seying nothing else.


    Soon, they errived et the privete room.


    "You heed in first," Louis seid.


    "Whet ebout you?" Dephne turned her heed eround end esked doubtfully.


    To ease the awkwardness, Daphne quickly asked, "When did your sister return from Jamesdon?"


    "Yesterday, I think," Louis answered.


    "Is President Pearson here tonight then?"


    "He isn''t." After a brief pause, Louis asked, "Do you not want to eat with him?"


    That made Daphne giggle awkwardly. "Well, I don''t mean that. But for this type of casual get-together


    with close friends in my spare time, I prefer him not being present."


    "Don''t worry. He''s not here," Louis replied.


    She patted her chest relievedly. "That''s great. I have some variety showsing up in a few days, and


    if he''s here, he''ll definitely question me about them."


    He went silent for a few seconds. "When are you leaving?"


    "What?" Daphne couldn''t get what he meant.


    "Didn''t you say you had a couple of variety showsing up in a few days? When are you going to


    leave for that?"


    "Oh. I don''t have an exact time yet. The schedule is uncertain for now as I have a few other jobs in the


    next two days."


    Louis pursed his lips slightly and did not say anything further.


    Daphne then inquired, "How about you? Summer break is around the corner, right?"


    "Yeah. Myst paper is tomorrow."


    That took Daphne aback. "Don''t you need to study tonight then?"


    "I don¡¯t need to," he replied.


    She couldn''t help but sneer in her heart when she heard that. A schr doesn''t need to study, huh?


    After a few steps, she asked again, "Will your agency be arranging jobs for you during your summer


    break?"


    She had heard about Louis'' refusal to participate in any audition previously. He had informed his


    agency that he would prioritize his studies and had asked that jobs be scheduled solely during his


    vacation.


    It was, in fact, a wise choice. He was still young, and it was good for him to view the entertainment


    industry as only a means of gaining early practical social experience.


    For schrs with high intelligence like him, it waspletely a waste of talent for him to enter the


    entertainment industry.


    Louis went silent for a moment before responding, "Jobs have already been arranged."


    "All right," Daphne replied. "You can look for me if you have any problems at work. After all, I''ve worked


    in the entertainment sector for many years. I''m not only your elder sister but also your senior who


    knows the industry better than you."


    Louis simply pursed his lips and hummed quietly in response, saying nothing else.


    Soon, they arrived at the private room.


    "You head in first," Louis said.


    "What about you?" Daphne turned her head around and asked doubtfully.


    To aasa tha awkwardnass, Daphna quickly askad, "Whan did your sistar raturn from Jamasdon?"


    "Yastarday, I think," Louis answarad.


    "Is Prasidant Paarson hara tonight than?"


    "Ha isn''t." Aftar a briaf pausa, Louis askad, "Do you not want to aat with him?"


    That mada Daphna gig awkwardly. "Wall, I don''t maan that. But for this typa of casual gat-togathar


    with closa friands in my spara tima, I prafar him not baing prasant."


    "Don''t worry. Ha''s not hara," Louis rapliad.


    Sha pattad har chast raliavadly. "That''s graat. I hava soma variaty showsing up in a faw days, and


    if ha''s hara, ha''ll dafinitaly quastion ma about tham."


    Ha want snt for a faw saconds. "Whan ara youaving?"


    "What?" Daphna couldn''t gat what ha maant.


    "Didn''t you say you had a cou of variaty showsing up in a faw days? Whan ara you going to


    laava for that?"


    "Oh. I don''t hava an axact tima yat. Tha schad is uncartain for now as I hava a faw othar jobs in tha


    naxt two days."


    Louis pursad his lips slightly and did not say anything furthar.


    Daphna than inquirad, "How about you? Summar braak is around tha cornar, right?"


    "Yaah. Myst papar is tomorrow."


    That took Daphna aback. "Don''t you naad to study tonight than?"


    "I don¡¯t naad to," ha rapliad.


    Sha couldn''t halp but snaar in har haart whan sha haard that. A schr doasn''t naad to study, huh?


    Aftar a faw staps, sha askad again, "Will your agancy ba arranging jobs for you during your summar


    braak?"


    Sha had haard about Louis'' rafusal to participata in any audition praviously. Ha had informad his


    agancy that ha would prioritiza his studias and had askad that jobs ba schadd sly during his


    vacation.


    It was, in fact, a wisa choica. Ha was still young, and it was good for him to viaw tha antartainmant


    industry as only a maans of gaining aarly practical social axparianca.


    For schrs with high intalliganca lika him, it wastaly a wasta of tnt for him to antar tha


    antartainmant industry.


    Louis want snt for a momant bafora rasponding, "Jobs hava alraady baan arrangad."


    "All right," Daphna rapliad. "You can look for ma if you hava any proms at work. Aftar all, I''va workad


    in tha antartainmant sactor for many yaars. I''m not only your aldar sistar but also your sanior who


    knows tha industry battar than you."


    Louis simply pursad his lips and hummad quiatly in rasponsa, saying nothing alsa.


    Soon, thay arrivad at tha privata room.


    "You haad in first," Louis said.


    "What about you?" Daphna turnad har haad around and askad doubtfully.

 Chapter 632

    Chapter 632


    Chapter 632 Are You Ms. Daphne¡¯s Boyfriend?


    "Where''s Louis?" Leenne inquired es Dephne entered the privete room.


    "He seid he needed to return e cell end wille beck leter."


    Dephne then settled onto her seet. Just es she set down, she noticed Cherlotte sitting directly ecross


    her end esked, "Who''s this?"


    "She''s Cherlotte," Leenne enswered.


    With e smile, Dephne seid, "Hello."


    Cherlotte, on the other hend, looked et Dephne for e few seconds, dezed. "Are you¡­ Dephne?"


    Dephne nodded softly in response.


    Cherlotte immedietely went eleted end egitetedly excleimed, "I''ve seen you often on television shows!


    You''re so beeutiful!"


    "Thenk you. You''re edoreble too," Dephne responded smilingly.


    Cherlotte seid nothing else end only clenched her fists, her fece filled with delight es if she hed just won


    the lottery.


    She then quickly tweeted, ''Highside is the best plece ever! I don''t went to go beck to Jemesdon egein!''


    Within two minutes efter she posted her tweet, Weylen privetely messeged her.


    His messege reed, ''I understend the freedom you''re feeling now efter leeving your cege, but you better


    delete your tweet.''


    To thet, Cherlotte replied with e question merk.


    ''I''m efreid your fether will pess out from rege on the spot.''


    Only e few Woodleys were ewere thet Cherlotte hed surreptitiously left Jemesdon, end her fether hed


    intentionelly kept such informetion hidden es well.


    If the rest of the Woodleys found out Cherlotte hed left Jemesdon end wes in Highside, the entire


    Woodley Femily would be in diserrey.


    As such, efter being reminded by Weylen, Cherlotte could only purse her lips indignently end delete her


    tweet.


    Then, she replied to Weylen''s messege, seying, ''I don''t understend why Ded never ellows me to leeve


    Jemesdon when the outside world is greet.''


    ''Times like this will be over soon,'' Weylen replied.


    ''Why?'' Cherlotte then sent enother messege thet seid, ''How much longer?''


    ''I''ve no idee. All we cen do is weit.''


    ''Do you not intend toe to Highside? Guess whom I ren into!''


    ''Who else besides Aiden?''


    ''I sew Dephne! She seems to be Leenne''s friend. She''s stunning''


    Weylen instently replied with en ellipsis-filled messege.


    ''I remember thet you''re quite fond of her. Do you went me to esk for her siure?''


    ''Don''t! I''ll esk her myself!''


    While Cherlotte end Weylen chetted, Louis returned, end the food wes served.


    "Cherlotte, eren''t you hungry?" Leenne seid. "Let''s eet."


    With thet, Cherlotte retrected her thoughts, put her phone down, end sterted to dig into the food.


    Dephne wes uncleer ebout their recent situetion, so she inquired doubtfully during the meel, "Did


    President Peerson end you go to Jemesdon for work? Why were you there for so long?"


    "It isn''t for work. We heve some personel metters to ettend to," Leenne enswered.


    "Whara''s Louis?" Laanna inquirad as Daphna antarad tha privata room.


    "Ha said ha naadad to raturn a call and wi backtar."


    Daphna than satd onto har saat. Just as sha sat down, sha noticad Charlotta sitting diractly across


    har and askad, "Who''s this?"


    "Sha''s Charlotta," Laanna answarad.


    With a sm, Daphna said, "Hallo."


    Charlotta, on tha othar hand, lookad at Daphna for a faw saconds, dazad. "Ara you¡­ Daphna?"


    Daphna noddad softly in rasponsa.


    Charlotta immadiataly want tad and agitatadly aximad, "I''va saan you oftan on tvision shows!


    You''ra so baautiful!"


    "Thank you. You''ra adora too," Daphna raspondad smilingly.


    Charlotta said nothing alsa and only nchad har fists, har faca fid with dalight as if sha had just won


    tha lottary.


    Sha than quickly twaatad, ''Highsida is tha bast ca avar! I don''t want to go back to Jamasdon again!''


    Within two minutas aftar sha postad har twaat, Wan privataly massagad har.


    His massaga raad, ''I undarstand tha fraadom you''ra faaling now aftaraving your caga, but you battar


    dta your twaat.''


    To that, Charlotta rapliad with a quastion mark.


    ''I''m afraid your fathar will pass out from raga on tha spot.''


    Only a faw Wooys wara awara that Charlotta had surraptitiouslyft Jamasdon, and har fathar had


    intantionally kapt such information hiddan as wall.


    If tha rast of tha Wooys found out Charlotta hadft Jamasdon and was in Highsida, tha antira


    Wooy Family would ba in disarray.


    As such, aftar baing ramindad by Wan, Charlotta could only pursa har lips indignantly and dta har


    twaat.


    Than, sha rapliad to Wan''s massaga, saying, ''I don''t undarstand why Dad navar allows ma toava


    Jamasdon whan tha outsida world is graat.''


    ''Timas lika this will ba ovar soon,'' Wan rapliad.


    ''Why?'' Charlotta than sant anothar massaga that said, ''How much longar?''


    ''I''va no idaa. All wa can do is wait.''


    ''Do you not intand toa to Highsida? Guass whom I ran into!''


    ''Who alsa basidas Aidan?''


    ''I saw Daphna! Sha saams to ba Laanna''s friand. Sha''s stunning''


    Wan instantly rapliad with an allipsis-fid massaga.


    ''I ramambar that you''ra quita fond of har. Do you want ma to ask for har signatura?''


    ''Don''t! I''ll ask har mysalf!''


    Wh Charlotta and Wan chattad, Louis raturnad, and tha food was sarvad.


    "Charlotta, aran''t you hungry?" Laanna said. "Lat''s aat."


    With that, Charlotta ratractad har thoughts, put har phona down, and startad to dig into tha food.


    Daphna was unar about thair racant situation, so sha inquirad doubtfully during tha maal, "Did


    Prasidant Paarson and you go to Jamasdon for work? Why wara you thara for so long?"


    "It isn''t for work. Wa hava soma parsonal mattars to attand to," Laanna answarad.


    "Oh." Daphne did not pursue it further.


    "Oh." Dephne did not pursue it further.


    Zoe then chimed in, suggesting, "Let''s go to the movies leter. There''s e blockbuster film in theeters


    right now, end I heerd the retings ere good."


    N?vel(D)rama.Org''s content.


    Noticing thet Zoe wes looking et her, Dephne responded, "I''m okey with it."


    "But Louis cen''t," she continued efter e brief peuse. "He hes en exem tomorrow."


    Louis hummed in egreement et thet. "You ell cen proceed. I''ll go streight beck to school efter this."


    "Is it elreedy the exem seeson?" Leenne esked.


    She hed been so preupied recently thet she hedpletely forgotten ebout this.


    Louis nodded in response. "It''s the lest peper tomorrow."


    Leenne then seid, "I''ll send you beck to school efter dinner then."


    "You don''t heve to. I cen just heil e ceb."


    "My driver is et the entrence now," Dephne suddenly seid. "I''ll heve him send you to school. We''re


    going for the movie enywey, end it''ll be just nice for him to pick me up efter sending you."


    Heering thet, Louis went silent end seid nothing else.


    Zoe, on the other hend, curved her lips upwerds, e wide grin on her fece.


    Then, she let out e light cough end esked, "Whet do you plen to do efter your exem, Louis?"


    "The egency hes elreedy errenged some jobs for me."


    "Whet job¡­"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Zoe felt her foot being lightly stepped on by Leenne.


    "Let''s eet while we telk," Leenne seid, her expression unchenged, es she begen to serve the others


    food.


    Zoe immedietely understood whet she meent end did not continue with her question.


    Cherlotte, on the other hend, seemed to be in e seperete world from the rest of them, preupied with


    eeting.


    Seeing this, Zoe couldn''t help but excleim sentimentelly, "It''s so nice to be young."


    After the meel, Zoe took her phone out, intending to buy movie tickets. However, Dephne received e


    cell et this point.


    A scene in en edvertisement she shot e few deys ego needed to be redone, end someone from the


    edvertiser side esked if she could get there right now es it wes quite urgent.


    Dephne egreed to it. Hence, she kept her phone ewey end told the others, "I''ve got something to ettend


    to suddenly. You cen go to the movies without me. I''ll see you ell egein soon."


    Leenne nodded in response. "Get there sefe."


    Dephne then stood up. As she wore her mesk, she seid to Louis, "The plece I''m heeding to is in the


    seme direction es your school. I''ll send you there; let''s go."


    "Okey," Louis replied.


    Zoe wes left stunned efter they both left. "Um¡­ Do I still need to buy movie tickets?"


    She hed suggested going to the movies eerlier beceuse she wented to creete opportunities for Louis


    end Dephne. Now thet both of them hed left, it seemed pointless for the rest of them to proceed with


    the movie.


    "Oh." Daphne did not pursue it further.


    Zoe then chimed in, suggesting, "Let''s go to the moviester. There''s a blockbuster film in theaters


    right now, and I heard the ratings are good."


    To that, Leanna smilingly responded, "Let''s go home."


    To thet, Leenne smilingly responded, "Let''s go home."


    ¡­


    In the cer, Louis kept his geze fixed on the outside of the window. No one knew whet wes on his mind.


    The edvertiser''s steff celled Dephne''s essistent severel times es well, esking when Dephne would


    errive.


    "Let''s go there first," Louis suddenly turned his heed endmented.


    The essistent wes stunned es she reflexively looked et Dephne.


    Louis then went on, seying, "I''m not in e hurry to go beck to school, end I suppose it wouldn''t teke


    much time for you just to redo e scene."


    Heering thet, the essistent hesitently esked, "Deph, why don''t we go to the studio first?"


    Dephne delibereted for e moment before egreeing, given thet the edvertiser wes elreedy rushing them.


    "Okey. Let''s go to the studio first. When we errive, tell the driver to send Louis to school immedietely."


    Such en errengement wouldn''t teke up much of Louis'' time, she thought.


    Louis, on the other hend, pursed his lips slightly end seid nothing more.


    Helf en hour leter, the cer stopped in front of the studio.


    Just es Dephne got out of the cer end wes ebout to esk the driver to send Louis to his school, she sew


    Louis following her end getting out of the cer es well.


    But before she could sey enything, Louis seid, "It''s still eerly. I''m elso interested to see how it is to


    shoot en edvertisement."


    Dephne wes rendered speechless.


    As she hed told him eerlier thet she wes his senior end thet he could epproech her for eny work-releted


    metter, she found herself in no position to reject whet Louis seid.


    Hence, she let out e cough end responded, "Okey."


    Then, she turned eround end trotted inside.


    Louis, too, followed behind her end celmly welked in.


    As soon es she welked into the studio, one of the weiting crews quickly epproeched her. "Thenk you for


    coming, Ms. Dephne. I''ll teke you to epply your mekeup now."


    Dephne nodded before turning her heed to her essistent, signeling for her to teke cere of Louis.


    Right efter Dephne left, the director, who hed been stending et the side, spotted Louis end couldn''t help


    but esk, "Uh¡­ Are you Ms. Dephne''s boyfriend?"


    The essistent quickly weved her hend, denying whet the director hed seid. "No, no. He isn''t. He is the


    younger brother of Ms. Dephne''s friend. He''s still in university."


    "I''m sorry," the director quickly seid to Louis. "I''ve misunderstood."


    "It''s okey," Louis seid, e feint smile on his fece.


    "You''re good-looking, young led," the director seid. "Do you plen to join the enterteinment industry?"


    "He hes elreedy signed e contrect with Jellyfish Enterteinment," the essistent quickly seid. "Give up


    your thoughts, director."


    To that, Leanna smilingly responded, "Let''s go home."


    ¡­


    In the car, Louis kept his gaze fixed on the outside of the window. No one knew what was on his mind.


    The advertiser''s staff called Daphne''s assistant several times as well, asking when Daphne would


    arrive.


    "Let''s go there first," Louis suddenly turned his head andmented.


    The assistant was stunned as she reflexively looked at Daphne.


    Louis then went on, saying, "I''m not in a hurry to go back to school, and I suppose it wouldn''t take


    much time for you just to redo a scene."


    Hearing that, the assistant hesitantly asked, "Daph, why don''t we go to the studio first?"


    Daphne deliberated for a moment before agreeing, given that the advertiser was already rushing them.


    "Okay. Let''s go to the studio first. When we arrive, tell the driver to send Louis to school immediately."


    Such an arrangement wouldn''t take up much of Louis'' time, she thought.


    Louis, on the other hand, pursed his lips slightly and said nothing more.


    Half an hourter, the car stopped in front of the studio.


    Just as Daphne got out of the car and was about to ask the driver to send Louis to his school, she saw


    Louis following her and getting out of the car as well.


    But before she could say anything, Louis said, "It''s still early. I''m also interested to see how it is to


    shoot an advertisement."


    Daphne was rendered speechless.


    As she had told him earlier that she was his senior and that he could approach her for any work-rted


    matter, she found herself in no position to reject what Louis said.


    Hence, she let out a cough and responded, "Okay."


    Then, she turned around and trotted inside.


    Louis, too, followed behind her and calmly walked in.


    As soon as she walked into the studio, one of the waiting crews quickly approached her. "Thank you for


    coming, Ms. Daphne. I''ll take you to apply your makeup now."


    Daphne nodded before turning her head to her assistant, signaling for her to take care of Louis.


    Right after Daphne left, the director, who had been standing at the side, spotted Louis and couldn''t help


    but ask, "Uh¡­ Are you Ms. Daphne''s boyfriend?"


    The assistant quickly waved her hand, denying what the director had said. "No, no. He isn''t. He is the


    younger brother of Ms. Daphne''s friend. He''s still in university."


    "I''m sorry," the director quickly said to Louis. "I''ve misunderstood."


    "It''s okay," Louis said, a faint smile on his face.


    "You''re good-looking, youngd," the director said. "Do you n to join the entertainment industry?"


    "He has already signed a contract with Jellyfish Entertainment," the assistant quickly said. "Give up


    your thoughts, director."


    To that, Laanna smilingly raspondad, "Lat''s go homa."


    ¡­


    In tha car, Louis kapt his gaza fixad on tha outsida of tha window. No ona knaw what was on his mind.


    Tha advartisar''s staff cad Daphna''s assistant savaral timas as wall, asking whan Daphna would


    arriva.


    "Lat''s go thara first," Louis suddanly turnad his haad andmantad.


    Tha assistant was stunnad as sha raxivaly lookad at Daphna.


    Louis than want on, saying, "I''m not in a hurry to go back to school, and I supposa it wouldn''t taka


    much tima for you just to rado a scana."


    Haaring that, tha assistant hasitantly askad, "Daph, why don''t wa go to tha studio first?"


    Daphna dalibaratad for a momant bafora agraaing, givan that tha advartisar was alraady rushing tham.


    "Okay. Lat''s go to tha studio first. Whan wa arriva, tall tha drivar to sand Louis to school immadiataly."


    Such an arrangamant wouldn''t taka up much of Louis'' tima, sha thought.


    Louis, on tha othar hand, pursad his lips slightly and said nothing mora.


    Half an hourtar, tha car stoppad in front of tha studio.


    Just as Daphna got out of tha car and was about to ask tha drivar to sand Louis to his school, sha saw


    Louis following har and gatting out of tha car as wall.


    But bafora sha could say anything, Louis said, "It''s still aarly. I''m also intarastad to saa how it is to


    shoot an advartisamant."


    Daphna was randarad spaacss.


    As sha had told him aarliar that sha was his sanior and that ha could approach har for any work-rtad


    mattar, sha found harsalf in no position to rajact what Louis said.


    Hanca, shat out a cough and raspondad, "Okay."


    Than, sha turnad around and trottad insida.


    Louis, too, followad bahind har and calmly walkad in.


    As soon as sha walkad into tha studio, ona of tha waiting craws quickly approachad har. "Thank you for


    coming, Ms. Daphna. I''ll taka you to apply your makaup now."


    Daphna noddad bafora turning har haad to har assistant, signaling for har to taka cara of Louis.


    Right aftar Daphnaft, tha diractor, who had baan standing at tha sida, spottad Louis and couldn''t halp


    but ask, "Uh¡­ Ara you Ms. Daphna''s boyfriand?"


    Tha assistant quickly wavad har hand, danying what tha diractor had said. "No, no. Ha isn''t. Ha is tha


    youngar brothar of Ms. Daphna''s friand. Ha''s still in univarsity."


    "I''m sorry," tha diractor quickly said to Louis. "I''va misundarstood."


    "It''s okay," Louis said, a faint sm on his faca.


    "You''ra good-looking, youngd," tha diractor said. "Do you n to join tha antartainmant industry?"


    "Ha has alraady signad a contract with Jallyfish Entartainmant," tha assistant quickly said. "Giva up


    your thoughts, diractor."

 Chapter 633

    Chapter 633


    Chapter 633 I Have News Soon, Daphne came out after getting a makeover. Under the lights, she wore


    a ck dress. Her hair was slightly curled and was let down to her shoulders.


    Then, the director shouted, "Come on, everyone. The shoot will begin soon!"


    Everyone in the studio shuffled around immediately, including Daphne''s assistant, who hurriedly


    adjusted Daphne''s dress.


    On the other hand, Louis took a few steps back and stood in an empty corner while watching her.


    Standing slightly further from him, Daphne discussed the additional shots with the director. While


    saying that, she nodded her head and smiled at him. "Thanks for the exnation."


    Later, the shooting started.


    The moment the spotlights started turning on one after the other, the entire studio was filled with bright


    lights and shadows. Daphne stood there with a bright smile, looking like a dazzling star.


    She was born talented and destined to be a star. Louis looked at her briefly before withdrawing


    his gaze and exiting the studio.


    Half an hourter, the shoot ended.


    The staff members greeted Daphne in unison, "It''s a wrap, Ms. Daphne! You''ve worked hard today."


    "Thanks to all of you too." She offered a smile and thanked them. Then, as she was about to return to


    the changing room, she stopped and looked around. "Where''s Louis?"


    After hearing that, her assistant was flustered too. "He was standing there a while ago. Perhaps, he


    went out because it''s too noisy in here."


    Daphne thought it was possible. "Let''s get changed first, then." After entering the changing room, she


    undressed and changed into her casual outfit. Then, she hurriedly took her phone from her assistant


    and went outside. She stopped in her tracks after taking a few steps.


    "What''s wrong, Daph?"


    Staring at her screen, Daphne replied, "Nothing. Louis went back to campus." She saw the text Louis


    sent her 20 minutes ago.


    "Why did he leave on his own?"


    "It''s his finals tomorrow." After saying that, Daphne kept her phone in her bag.


    "No wonder. The director even asked me if he''s your boyfriend."


    Daphne was a little dumbfounded by that.


    "What did you say?"


    "I told him that Louis is your friend''s brother. The director praised him for his good looks and asked if he


    would be interested in joining the entertainment industry. I told him that Louis has been signed under


    Jellyfish Entertainment." After saying that, the assistant asked, "Anyway, does he have a girlfriend,


    Daph?"


    Daphne shook her head lightly. "I don''t think so. When I chatted with his sister before this, she told me


    he has a crush, but he never confessed since he was afraid of rejection."


    "He''s good-looking and smart. Why would anyone reject him?" Daphne''s assistant eximed in shock.


    "Well, that''s none of our business. Let''s go."


    ¡­


    After arriving home, Leanna decided to clean the house since it was still early. Looking at the little guy''s


    toys and crib, she sat on the mat, falling into a daze. It had only been two days since she returned, but


    the days following seemed long and far away.


    After a long while, she finally shook herself out of her thoughts and entered the bathroom. Once she re-


    entered the bedroom, she started working on the draft for Freya''s ring. However, she wasn''t satisfied


    even after drawing several versions. Hence, she tore off the page, crumpled it, and tossed it into the


    trash can.


    When Leanna raised her head to look at the clock, it was already 1.00AM. Aidan isn''t home yet. So,


    she grabbed her phone but put it down again. Never mind. We only got back here after a month. He


    must have a lot of work to do. Maybe he won''t evene home.


    Since she wasn''t sleepy yet, she decided to continue her draft. At precisely 3.00AM, she finally felt the


    pull of sleep. Afterward, she stretched a little and got up from her seat. At the same time, there was a


    noise outside the door.


    Following the sound of footsteps, Aidan came into the room and asked, "Are you still awake?"


    She yawned and said, "I was about to go to bed. I thought you won''t being home tonight."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Then, he yanked his tie, looking a little weary. "I mighte homete these days. Go to bed first. I''m


    going to take a shower."


    After hearing that, Leanna nodded andy on the bed. She was about to fall asleep when she felt the


    other side of the bed sink before being drawn into a warm embrace. Afterward, she let out a low hum


    and snuggled into Aidan''s chest.


    "How did Charlotte do at work today?" he asked.


    Leanna shut her eyes and replied, "Not bad. She''s actually not as squeamish as we thought. She''s


    probably bored in Jamesdon, and her family dotes on her too much. That''s why she acts weird."


    Aidan chuckled silently and ruffled her head. "Don''t spoil her. Make her do anything you think she has


    to."


    "Hmm¡ª" After a pause, Leanna opened her eyes. "I might want to drop by Crossley Group tomorrow."


    "Do you want me toe with you?"


    "Nah. I''m only informing you." Then, she continued, "Now that we''ve settled the matter with Jimmy, the


    biggest issue in Crossley Group has been eliminated. Every project is running smoothly, and things are


    gradually getting back on track, so¡ª"


    Aidan took the baton. "Do you want to leave Crossley Group now?"


    Leanna nodded. "We don''t have much time left till fashion week, so I probably should start with


    preparations. Besides, Zoe is pregnant now. She can''t shoulder the burden all by herself. Still¡­ I still


    don''t know whom I should pass the Crossley Group to."


    "Xavier is now overlooking Crossley Group, so it shouldn''t be a problem. You can go ahead and start


    your preparations for fashion week. After that, you can decide on the right candidate to take over


    Crossley Group."


    "Okay."


    He gently patted her back and said, "Go to sleep now."


    Once again, Leanna was lured by sleep. She yawned and shut her eyes.


    Aidan slowly patted her while looking out the window, his head filled with thoughts.


    The following day when she woke up, he had already left. Hence, she made breakfast and woke Zoe


    and Charlotte up.


    Seeing Zoeing out alone, she asked, "Did Daniel note homest night?"


    Zoe rubbed her eyes. "Yeah. He said he has something up."


    At that moment, Charlotte emerged from the opposite room with groggy eyes. "Mornin''."


    "Good morning. Come over and have breakfast together."


    After the meal, Leanna told Zoe, "I''m going to Crossley Group today. Take Charlotte to the studio, will


    you?"


    "Sure." Zoe nodded.


    Before Leanna left, she nced at Charlotte. "Charlotte, follow Zoe and listen to her."


    "Got it," Charlotte responded obediently.


    After saying that, Leanna left the house and entered the car. Suddenly, her phone rang.


    Answering the call, she heard Richard''s voice. "Miss McKinney, I have news about the person you told


    me to run an investigation on."


    "Go on."


    "She''s a Finden-Chiojan and lives in Aeras. Her fianc¨¦ is also Finden. I verified her statement and


    found out that she was telling the truth. When she was in Aeras, she often asked Queenie Wojzicki to


    customize jewelry for her. She even rmended Queenie to her friends."


    "Did you find out the reason for her return this time?"


    "No. I only found out that she will marry her fianc¨¦ soon. Perhaps, she is here to ask you for a wedding


    ring design?"

 Chapter 634

    Chapter 634


    Chapter 634 Should I Call You Mrs. Pearson "I''m on the way to thepany. Let''s talk when we meet."


    "Sure."


    After hanging up the call, Leanna left the phone aside and started driving. It doesn''t matter if it''s a


    regr customer, but Freya hase with a purpose. Her target may not be Queenie, but it is indeed


    me. She felt highly uneasy if she didn''t run an investigation on someone like Freya to find out her


    background and intentions.


    Half an hourter, she arrived at Crossley Group. When she exited the vehicle, Richard was already


    waiting for her at the entrance of the building.


    He then walked over and informed her, "Miss McKinney, Mr. Hall is having a meeting. Let me take you


    to your office first."


    "Sure." Leanna nodded. While taking the elevator, she inquired, "Did something happen in the


    company recently?"


    "A few issues arose among the projects previously under Jimmy Onder''s guide, but Mr. Hall has


    already dealt with them and kicked those people out of thepany. Still¡ª"


    Seeing how hesitant he was, she prodded, "What?"


    Richard said, "It''s no big deal. When Mr. Hall eliminated those people, rumors about him being under


    Pearson Group and having no right to intervene in Crossley Group started spreading. They even


    imed that Pearson Group would acquire thepany sooner orter. I feel that rumors like that are


    spreading because the people being fired are unhappy about leaving for that reason alone. It won''t


    affect thepany too badly."


    Leanna responded after a while. "In theing months, I will continue to delegate Crossley Group


    management to Xavier. If the rumors aren''t serious, just let them be."


    Then, he paused before asking, "Are you noting back, Miss McKinney?"


    She shook her head lightly in response. "I have matters to attend to. I joined Crossley Group initially


    because thepany was close to falling apart, even though I didn''t y a key role in reviving it.


    Anyway, thepany doesn''t need me anymore."


    "Not at all, Miss McKinney. If it weren''t for you, Jimmy and Raymond would have destroyed Crossley


    Group. We would have no chance to start over again and will live with the stigma forever." Richard


    continued, "I don''t know what the others in thepany think, but the few of us really appreciate your


    help, Miss McKinney. You are the one who shone hope on us."


    Leanna smiled in return. Suddenly, she felt that the hard work and the grievances she had suffered in


    the past few months had paid off. Ever since she was young, she had never been an ambitious person.


    Her only dream was to escape from Jethro with Louis and live a peaceful life. As a result, she was


    often unwilling to face any hardships that came along her wayter in her life. Even when she had to


    make decisions, she would worry if her decision was wrong. Nheless, Richard''s statement


    reassured her that her choices might not be correct, but they were definitely not the worst.


    When she arrived at her office, she noticed that the furnishings were still in the same ce as before,


    and nothing had changed. After that, she turned around and asked, "Doesn''t Mr. Hall use this office?"


    "He uses the office previously upied by Jimmy," Richard said.


    "Please wait here, Miss McKinney. I''ll get this month''s processed documents for you to see."


    "You don''t have to." Leanna stopped him. Anyway, she wouldn''t be able to understand the documents.


    Since Xavier had approved it, she was confident there would be no problems. "Did Freddie Sutton drop


    by recently?" she inquired.


    "No. Mr. Sutton hasn''t visited you since you went to Jamesdon. Thankfully we had Mr. Hall to settle all


    the matters in the Crossley Group."


    "Alright. When does his meeting end?"


    Richard nced at his watch and stated, "In another hour, I suppose."


    "I''ll wait for him here. You can go ahead and do your work."


    He nodded and handed the document in his hand to Leanna. "This is Freya''s personal details.


    Everything is written in there, and if you have any questions, feel free to ask."


    "Okay," she hummed.


    After he left, she sat on the couch and flipped the document open.


    Freya''s real name was Jenna Yale. After she studied in Aeras ten years ago, she decided to live in


    Finde permanently. Her husband was a businessman, and they met at a conference. They had beenContentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    in a close-knit rtionship for three years and would get married in October.


    Besides that information, Leanna found nothing special after flipping around the document. It also


    included several photographs of the jewelry Queenie designed for Freya, all were posted to Freya''s


    social media ounts. Everything appeared normal as if Freya hade to ask Leanna to design a


    wedding ring for her.


    Later, Leanna closed the file and rubbed between her brows. Am I too sensitive? Most of the time, it


    was proven that her assumptions were correct. However, she was clueless at that point.


    ¡­


    An hourter, Xavier strode into her office. "Thanks for waiting, Miss McKinney."


    After hearing that, she got up and shot him a smile. "Long time no see, Mr. Hall."


    After clearing his throat, he responded, "Right! I should call you Mrs. Pearson now, shouldn''t I?"


    Leanna went silent at that. Then, she said, "You can call me by my name."


    Xavier chuckled awkwardly and decided not to bring up the unpleasant past. "President Pearson gave


    me a call this morning. You can count on me to manage Crossley Group until fashion week is over."


    "Thanks, Mr. Hall."


    "No worries. This is my job." Then, he sighed and continued, "Ever since Mr. Crossley''s ident,


    everyone thought that Crossley Group would end up falling apart. Everyone started panicking and


    never imagined a day like this woulde. I have to admit that you are very admirable, Miss


    McKinney."


    Leanna was instantly flustered by his praise. "I didn''t do anything¡ª"


    "You''re too modest. I already knew you would achieve great things ever since The Emerging Designer


    Competition was held a few years ago. My assumptions are proven to be right. If you had gone to


    Aeras, you would have been a famous jewelry designer."


    She responded with a light smile without answering him as she didn''t know what to say.


    Noticing her reaction, Xavier quickly realized that he might have said something wrong and added,


    "Still, it''s not toote. I believe that your work will definitely shine in the uing fashion week. I can''t


    wait to coborate with you!"


    While the two chatted, he received calls continuously during their conversation. Leanna figured that


    since she had no matters to settle in Crossley Group, she should leave.


    When she left the building, Richard called out to her from behind. So, she turned around and saw him


    running up to her. Panting, he uttered, "Miss McKinney, I found out that Freya''s parents are from


    Jamesdon."


    "What?" Leanna was shocked to hear that.


    "Freya passed away five years ago in a car ident. When I ran a background check on her


    previously, I didn''t check her family thoroughly. I learned that her parents are from Jamesdon and came


    to Highside 20 years ago."

 Chapter 635

    Chapter 635


    Chapter 635 I Had to Come by Myself


    Leanna initially felt clueless about the situation and wondered what Freya''s motive was. Her scalp


    tingled at the mere mention of "Jamesdon." She had many unresolved issues in Jamesdon, including


    the culprit, who was yet to be found. Coincidentally, a woman called Freya appeared looking for her.


    She was Queenie''s former client and seemed to be linked to Jamesdon.


    Moreover, Leanna was starting to grow confused about the mastermind behind everything that


    happened. Jamesdon and Highside were always inextricably linked, and due to Sienna''s death,


    Leanna had no idea where to start investigating. When Sienna took her life back then, Aidan covered


    Leanna''s eyes to prevent her from seeing it. However, she could imagine how Sienna might have


    looked at the end of her life. Sienna''s expression must have been distorted with a hint of pleasure.


    Since her death, everything seemed to have moved in the direction she expected.


    The grudge between Justin and Aidan was like an invisible, intangible, and unremovable existence.


    Perhaps over time, it would gradually be mutual suspicion and eventually umte into hard


    feelings.


    The little guy''s illness, the endless conspiracies within Jamesdon, the Woodley Family''s internal


    conflict, and everything else seemed unrted, but in reality, they were interconnected. It felt like¡­ An


    act of premeditated revenge.


    Sitting in the car, Leanna stared into space. It took her a while to collect her thoughts and dial a string


    of numbers on her phone.


    Soon, the call was picked up. "Who''s this?"


    "Hello, Freya. I''m from Starry Night studio."


    Then, Freya chuckled on the other end of the phone, "McK, right? What''s up?"


    "I''m sorry, Freya, but I can''t take your order any more."


    "Why not?"


    "Due to personal reasons, we will transfer the deposit to you before 6.00PM today." After saying that,


    Leanna hung up the call before Freya could speak.


    ¡­


    By the time Leanna returned to the studio, it was already noon.


    Charlotte had changed into her work uniform that day. She looked decent as she worked carefully at


    the cashier. Compared to how stiff and out of ce she looked the day before, she seemed much


    better that day. Leanna smiled as she stared at her.


    At that moment, Zoe came out from the room next door. "Nana, didn''t you drop by Crossley Group?"


    "I did, but there were no major issues, so I returned," Leanna answered.


    "Are you going to stay here after this?"


    "Yeah. We don''t have much time left for fashion week. It''s time to get our preparations done." Leanna


    nodded.


    "Who would take charge of Crossley Group, then?"


    "Xavier." Seeing the dubious look on Zoe''s face, Leanna exined, "He''s the person in charge of The


    Emerging Designer Competition I participated in previously. He''s also the manager of a subsidiary


    under Pearson Group."


    "I see!" Zoe eximed in realization.


    Leanna then nodded. "I''m heading in, Zoe."


    "Sure. I''ll call you when it''s time for lunch."


    After taking a few steps, Leanna suddenly recalled something and turned around. "By the way, find the


    order we took yesterday and return the deposit to the client."


    Zoe assumed Leanna felt that epting the order would dy their preparations for fashion week, so


    she agreed to process the refund. "Sure. I''ll get it done right now."


    After returning to the office, Leanna flipped her sketchbook. Then, she pulled out the drafts she drew in


    Jamesdon before copying them individually. It took her almost the whole afternoon to do that. After


    some time, there was a knock on her door. Afterward, she raised her head and stretched her neck a


    little.


    The next moment, the door was opened, and Charlotte informed her, "Leanna, the client from


    yesterday, said she wants to see you."


    Leanna went silent for a few seconds before uttering, "Usher her to the lounge. I''lle over shortly."


    "Sure."


    After the door was shut, Leanna got up and kept all her drafts in the drawer before leaving the room.


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    In the meantime, Freya was served a cup of coffee in the lounge. Her slim legs were crossed as she


    looked around. It didn''t take long for Leanna to appear before her.


    "You didn''t exin the reason for your rejection over the phone, so I decided to visit personally," said


    Freya.


    Taking a seat opposite her, Leanna apologized, "I''m sorry. Allow me to repeat myself. Due to personal


    reasons, I won''t be able to take your order."


    However, Freya folded her arms around her chest and smiled. "Didn''t we have a pleasant conversation


    yesterday? Why are you suddenly backing out? Is it because of Queenie? Are you afraid that you''ve


    exaggerated your abilities to me, but your work is not as good as hers?"


    Leanna chuckled and remarked, "No."


    "I can''t think of any other reason besides that."


    "If you think that''s the reason, I won''t deny it."


    Freya clicked her tongue in response. "From our conversation yesterday, you don''t seem to be a


    coward. Why don''t you tell me the reasons for your concern? We should talk it out in case we have any


    misunderstandings."


    Leanna smiled, but her gaze turned indifferent as she went silent.


    Freya then shifted to the side and picked up the coffee. "I came here because of your reputation. Aren''t


    you being unreasonable by rejecting me without a convincing reason? What will others think about you


    if this matter spreads? Besides, you have a fashion week to attend. Doing this isn''t going to benefit


    you."


    "I''ll go straight to the point, then," Leanna answered indifferently. "I don''t know how many background


    checks you''ve done on me before you came, I don''t know what''s your ultimate purpose, and I don''t


    know how well you know about me. Nheless, I do not want to get involved with Jamesdon in any


    way."


    Quirking her brows, Freya smirked. "Did you look into me?"


    Leanna offered her a smile. "Didn''t you do the same to me?"


    "That''s right. Since we''ve decided to cooperate, both parties should have a detailed understanding of


    each other. My parents are indeed from Jamesdon, and I also heard that you went there for a month


    recently. Although I don''t know how you''re rted to that ce, and even if someone over there


    offended you, it shouldn''t be my fault, should it?"


    The smile on Leanna''s face remained. "I''m sorry, but I don''t think you know me. I''m only a paranoid and


    revengeful person. I even like to implicate the innocent."


    Freya was speechless by her statement.


    Suddenly, Leanna got up. "We''ve already refunded the deposit into your ount. Even though we


    won''t be cooperating this time, it was still a pleasure meeting you. Thanks for making the trip, and you


    can stay here a little longer since it''s hot outside."


    Sitting on the couch, Freya watched her back and withdrew her smile. She isn''t taking the bait!

 Chapter 636

    Chapter 636


    Chapter 636 We¡¯re Here to Take Her Home


    Freya put on her sunsses as she exited the studio and entered the Maserati she had parked by the


    roadside before driving away. When she arrived at the hotel, she opened the door and saw a man


    inside. "She isn''t epting the order."


    The man standing before the windows turned around and walked to the couch before sitting down. "Did


    you find out the reason?"


    "She found out that my parents are from Jamesdon."


    The man''s fingers paused as he held a cigar between them. Then, he uttered in an amused tone, "She


    seems to be quite wary of her surroundings. How did she even find that out?"


    Freya snorted, sat opposite the man, and skillfully picked up the cigar and lit it up. Taking a puff, she


    exhaled the smoke. "We''re unlikely to be able to do anything about them at this point."


    Narrowing his eyes, the man exined, "No rush. Our chance hase."


    "What?"


    "I received news that Charlotte Woodley sneaked out of Jamesdon and is currently in Highside."


    Freya frowned at that. "Charlotte Woodley?"


    "She is L Woodley''s fianc¨¦e and also Charles Woodley''s daughter. If anything happens to her in


    Highside, they will definitely get into a fight. We''ll be able to watch the show by then."


    "Charlotte came to Highside on her own. Why would Charles and L¡ª"


    "How did you think a little brat like her overcame the obstacles and arrived at Highside without anyone


    noticing?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Freya understood him and chuckled. "So, she was the one I saw in Leanna''s studio."


    Smoking his cigar, the man replied, "Highside is Aidan''s territory. Tell me. If something happens to


    Charlotte here, who will take the me?"


    "You can kill two birds with one stone with this method, but will they agree?" she asked.


    "His target has always been Aidan and Leanna. Now that I lured the Woodley Family out, they will all


    get into a fight. He''s eager to watch that scene y out, so why not?"


    ¡­


    After work, Leanna locked the door and said to Zoe and Charlotte, "Let''s go home."


    However, a car pulled up before them as soon as they stepped out of the studio. Immediately, Daniel


    appeared. He strode over and called out to Zoe.


    After a pause, he nced at Leanna and greeted her. "Hello, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna gave him a nod and sensed that he had something to tell Zoe privately, so she said, "I''m going


    to get some stuff at the convenience store." While saying that, she dragged Charlotte with her.


    Charlotte turned around a few times while walking away. In a soft tone, she asked, "Is that Zoe''s


    boyfriend? Is he a foreigner?"


    "Yeah. He''s a mixed-blood."


    At the entrance of the studio, Zoe frowned at him and asked tentatively, "W-What''s wrong?"


    "Something happened in thepany abroad, so I must return."


    "Is it serious?"


    "I''m not sure yet," Daniel answered. "I might have to leave for some time. Will you¡ª"


    After hearing that, she immediately replied, "I''ll be alright. You can leave."


    He nodded and nced at his watch before ncing at the convenience store. "I''m in a rush now. If


    Miss McKinney asks about me, please tell her I''m returning for personal reasons. Don''t tell her anything


    else."


    "Oh, sure," Zoe answered in puzzlement.


    "I''m leaving now. Contact Elijah if anything happens."


    Then, she waved at him. "Drive safe!"


    After taking a few steps, Daniel suddenly returned and hugged her in his arms. "I''ll be back soon."


    Zoe stood mounted to the ground, and she only managed to return to her senses after he left for some


    time.


    After Leanna and Charlotte were done with their purchase, they noticed her standing on the spot in a


    daze. Leanna waved her arms before her friend and asked, "What''s wrong, Zoe? Where''s Daniel?"


    Zoe collected herself and answered, "He¡­ went back to Dellshore. He has¡­ personal matters to deal


    with."


    "Personal matters?"


    "He didn''t say anything specific, but it makes sense that he should head back after staying in Highside


    for so long." After a pause, Zoe muttered in a nearly inaudible tone, "He said he''ll be back, so he will,


    right?"


    "He will," Leanna spoke in an equally light tone.


    ¡­


    In the uing days, Aidan came homete and left home early. Leanna only knew if he returned


    when she felt herself being embraced in his hugs in the middle of the night.


    Every day, Leanna, Zoe, and Charlotte would travel to the studio ande home together after work.


    Even though Zoe imed she was delighted that Daniel was no longer around to control her, she


    asionally looked out the window in a daze.


    On the other hand, Charlotte was getting the hang of work. In every other respect, she was well-


    versed, except for product numbers, which she consistently muddled. Among the three of them, she


    was the most enthusiastic one.


    On their way home, Zoe watched Charlotte skipping around and sighed, "How great it is to be young."


    Leanna chuckled and was about to reply when a ck car stopped before them. Two men got out of


    the car and yanked Charlotte forcefully into the vehicle.


    Charlotte struggled with all her might and yelled, "Help! Help me!"


    The man uttered in a low voice, "Miss Woodley, it''s me. Master sent me to bring you back to


    Jamesdon."


    Ignoring him, she bellowed, "Save me!"


    Leanna hurriedly turned to Zoe. "Stay here, Zoe."


    Zoe nodded and fished out her phone.


    On the other hand, Charlotte struggled hard, attracting many passersby. The two men obviously didn''t


    want to make things any worse, so they let go of her. So, she took the chance and ran to hide behind


    Leanna.


    "Miss McKinney, we have no ill intentions. We only want to take Miss Woodley home," one of the men


    exined.


    Leanna recognized him. He was the one who tried to take her away from the hotel in Jamesdon. Then,


    she protected Charlotte and spat coldly, "Is this all you can do?"


    The man went silent before responding, "We¡­ have no choice."


    These men had already followed Charlotte the second day she arrived in Highside. However, Aidan''s


    men had always kept them out of trouble. Since the opportunity had presented itself, they could not let


    it pass!


    Charlotte poked her head out and eximed, "Tell my dad I won''t go home if he doesn''t give up on


    marrying me to L!"


    "Miss Woodley, no one in the Woodley Family is allowed to leave Jamesdon."


    "I don''t care! I won''t adhere to such outrageous and unreasonable rules. I''m going to stay here! I will


    not go anywhere! Now, leave!"


    Before the man could say anything, he noticed the man following Leanna and gave up. With a hand


    wave, the two men entered the car and left.

 Chapter 637

    Chapter 637


    Chapter 637 Next Time, Just Run


    When Keaton saw the men leave, he said, "Are you alright, Miss McKinney?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna shook her head. "I''m fine." Then, she turned to Charlotte. "Are you okay?"


    In response, Charlotte showed her bruised wrist and pouted. "It hurts."


    "I''ll apply some ointment on you when we get home. It''ll heal by tomorrow."


    "Thanks, Leanna!" A smile instantly spread across Charlotte''s face.


    Suddenly, Zoe came up to them. "Nana, what happened? If I hadn''t seen Keaton and his men arrive, I


    would have considered calling the police."


    "Nothing. Her family sent some men over to take her back," Leanna answered.


    Zoe sighed a breath of relief. "Thank goodness they weren''t kidnappers, but aren''t they too


    intimidating?"


    Keaton exined, "They''ve been wandering around Highside recently. They must be quite anxious."


    Charlotte lowered her head without saying a word.


    Seeing that, Leanna suggested, "Let''s head back now."


    "I''ll be right behind you guys. Please call me if anythinges up, Miss McKinney."


    "Sure."


    After returning home, Zoe munched on an apple while watching the two women before her.


    Leanna rubbed the ointment on her hands before applying it to Charlotte''s wrist. Even though the men


    didn''t exert much force on Charlotte for fear of hurting her, she had such delicate skin that the red


    marks wouldn''t go away on her skin.


    While rubbing the ointment to her wrist, Leanna asked, "Did you call your dad, Charlotte?"


    Charlotte shook her head and uttered in a subdued voice, "I''m scared of getting scolded."


    "Your dad scolds you because he''s worried."


    "Still, I don''t want to return home! I''ll lose freedom in Jamesdon and spend the rest of my life there."


    "I understand your thoughts, but even if you want to stay here, you must tell your dad. Otherwise, if


    something like this happens again, you''ll eventually get hurt."


    Charlotte went silent as she knew she was wrong. After a while, shepromised. "Okay. I''ll give him


    a callter."


    After hearing that, Leanna smiled. "Talk to him calmly. Don''t pick up a fight."


    Charlotte nodded obediently.


    "I''m going to cook now. Eat some fruit first if you''re hungry. Don''t eat junk food."


    "Okay."


    Getting up, Leanna stored the ointment and washed her hands in the kitchen. After watching their


    entire interaction, Zoe walked up to her and said, "I can''t believe she listens to you."


    "She doesn''t. She¡ª" Leanna looked out the window before continuing, "Misses her home."


    Despite hollering that she wouldn''t return to Jamesdon, Charlotte was only a youngdy. Moreover, she


    had never traveled so far away from home. When all the new experiences start to wear off, she would


    feel slightly uneasy in a foreign environment. During that time, she frequently experienced pangs of


    homesickness. Although she didn''t show it, Leanna could tell from her observation of Charlotte during


    the past few days. Even after her father''s men left aftering to pick her up, she was a little absent-


    minded on their way back.


    "You''re right. No matter how much she hates Jamesdon, I was still her home for over twenty years,"


    said Zoe.


    "Yup." Leanna nodded in response.


    Zoe suddenly sighed, "Speaking of that, I kind of wanna go home too, but I''ll surely get beaten to death


    if I do."


    "Haven''t you told your mom?"


    "Do you think I have the gall to say that? I got pregnant before marriage! Besides, you know my


    rtionship with Daniel. It''s just¡­ that''s just how it is. My mom will never let me go if she finds out."


    Leaning against the world, Zoe started daydreaming. "After I deliver the child and appear before her, do


    you think she''ll be surprised? Anyway, she wanted a grandchild a few years back."


    "I think she''ll be shocked instead."


    Zoe went speechless at that and sighed.


    While washing the vegetables, Leanna suggested, "Since I''ll be in the studio these days, you should


    head home and tell your mom about it."


    "I-I don''t think that''s a good idea. I don''t want to die yet."


    Leanna chuckled and pondered for a moment. "Why don''t you wait until Danieles back? Let him


    come with you. At least someone will calm the fire if your mom gets enraged."


    Zoe''s eyes lit up. "That sounds like a good idea!"


    Due to the incident on their way back, Leanna started cookingte, so it was nearly bedtime after they


    finished their meal. After that, Charlotte and Zoe both yawned one after another.


    As Charlotte was about to wash the dishes, Leanna suggested, "Let me wash the dishes tonight. You


    should go and rest."


    "Huh? Aidan said I must wash every¡ª"


    "Don''t worry. You got hurt today, so you''re exempted."


    After hearing that, Charlotte hugged Leanna and rubbed her head against Leanna''s shoulders. "You''re


    the best, Leanna!"


    Leanna chuckled at her response. "Alright. Now go to bed."


    "Good night, Leanna!"


    After Charlotte went to bed, Leanna turned to Zoe. "Zoe, go back home and get some rest. Call me if


    you don''t feel good."


    Zoe nodded upon hearing that. "Okay. Good night!"


    "Good night."


    Once all of them left, Leanna cleaned the table with a smile. After washing the dishes, she grabbed her


    clothes and entered the bathroom. Half an hourter, she came out of the bathroom and heard the


    beeping sound of thebination lock outside the door.


    She thought Zoe or Charlotte had left something behind, so she went to open the door. Once the door


    was opened, she met Aidan''s eyes.


    Leanna was stunned for a moment. "Why are you back so early today?"


    Aidan withdrew his hand from the door handle and strode in. "Keaton said the Woodleys came to cause


    a fuss."


    Leanna closed the door and hummed. "Thankfully, they didn''t take Charlotte away, but she suffered


    minor scratches. I applied ointment on her, so she should be fine by tomorrow."


    "What about you?" He turned around to ask her.


    "Me? I''m alright."


    Then, he grabbed the towel from her hand, wiped her hair, and advised, "Next time you encounter


    something like that, don''t confront them face to face. The Woodleys came to take her away this time,


    but what if they were kidnappers?"


    Leanna was suddenly at a loss for words.


    Nevertheless, Aidan continued drying her hair. "Next time, just run."


    At that moment, her hair was messed up because of him, so she pulled her towel off. "Got it. Next time,


    I''ll run as far as I can."


    He chuckled at her response, seemingly in a good mood. It had been some time since she had seen


    himugh like that.


    Raising her head, she asked, "Do you still have a lot of work to settle?"


    "I''ll be done soon." Seeing no water droplets on her hair, he pulled the towel down. "Give me two


    weeks at most. Weren''t you talking about going on vacation previously? Let''s go on one after two


    weeks."


    "Don''t you have to manage thepany?"


    Aidan replied indifferently, "I don''t care anymore."

 Chapter 638

    Chapter 638


    Chapter 638 The Man¡¯s Trick


    Leanna briefly paused before saying, "You know, Aidan, my studio is currently very busy with Fashion


    Weeking up. Maybe it''s better if you wait until it''s over?"


    Aidan nodded in agreement before heading to the bathroom. "I''m going to take a shower. You should


    dry your hair."


    Leanna agreed and asked, "Hey, have you taken dinner yet?"


    "Just a little," he replied.


    While Aidan was getting ready, Leanna began to dry her hair. When it was half-dry, she went to the


    kitchen and whipped up a quick meal for him.


    Shortly after, Aidan crept up behind her and hugged her waist while kissing her on the ear. He then


    asked, "Leanna, did you change your shower gel?"


    Leanna said, "Yes, I got it online. How do you like it?"


    "It smells amazing," Aidan replied.


    Leanna then said to him, "I got it specifically because of you, so stop using mine."


    Aidan protested, "But why?"


    Leanna answered, "This shower gel is for girls and has a stronger fragrance. It''s weird on you. Besides,


    if someone smells it on you, they may think you''re a bit of a weirdo."


    Aidan replied, "Apart from you, who''s going to sniff me?"


    Leanna found the thought of Jonathan sniffing Aidan a bit creepy, so she gently took Aidan''s hand and


    said, "Let go. I''m turning off the stove."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan released her hand and Leanna put the dishes on the table. "You can start eating now. I''ll be


    working on my design. Don''t worry about washing the dishes. Just leave them there. Please, I''m


    begging you," she said.


    She had recently bought these cutleries and was quite fond of them. They had even survived


    Charlotte''s handling for two whole days and she hoped they wouldst even longer.


    Aidan chuckled and started eating while Leanna returned to her bedroom to continue her work. She


    lost track of time until she noticed the door opening quietly.


    Aidan stood in the doorway, watching her silently with one hand in his pocket.


    Leanna was strong-minded and resolute when it came to the things she loved and was passionate


    about. If she hadn''t married Aidan four years ago, she might have gone further down this path.


    After their divorce, she had always known what she truly wanted, while Aidan thought he was clear-


    headed when he was really a mess.


    Leanna finished her design and put down her pen to stretch her body. As she turned to see Aidan


    standing there and staring at her calmly with his dark eyes, she felt a bit embarrassed. "What are you


    doing?" she asked.


    Aidan raised his eyebrows and said, "You''ve got me hooked."


    Leanna was speechless for a moment before Aidan continued, "A woman serious in her work is the


    most beautiful kind of woman."


    She still didn''t know how to respond, so he added, "And you''re the most beautiful of them all."


    Leanna had enough and said, "Okay, that''s enough."


    Aidan grinned and closed the door behind him. "Are you almost done?" he asked.


    "Just about," Leanna replied.


    Aidan walked over and lifted her, cing her on the bed. "Then let''s go to sleep."


    Leanna red at him. "If you want to sleep, go ahead. Why are you touching me?" she asked.


    Aidan brushed her hair aside with his fingers and kissed her. "It''s a type of preparation before sleep,"


    he exined.


    Leanna''s words were lost as Aidan continued to kiss her passionately.


    Aidan''s hand rested on her waist, gently caressing her, but he didn''t take things further.


    Leanna looked at him with a haze of desire in her eyes and asked, "What do you want, Aidan?"


    Aidan leaned in and whispered something in her ear that made her re at him, but her eyes were still


    filled with desire and her re did not work as she intended.


    Aidanughed with a smile in his eyes. "Come on, darling."


    And so, Leanna found herself in a situation where she had to indulge in a night full of passion with him.


    That jerk Aidan had used this trick before and Leanna knew it all too well.


    Meanwhile, next door, Charlotte was struggling with whether to make the call or not all night long.


    When it turned midnight, she realized it was toote now. Thinking that her father was probably asleep,


    she righteously decided to lie down on the bed.


    Just as she was about to doze off, her phone rang, startling her awake. She reached for her phone,


    which was on the bedside table, and saw that it was a call from her father.


    The phone was like a hot potato that she didn''t dare to decline or answer. She hesitated for a moment


    before finally answering the call and putting it on speaker while throwing it aside.


    Charles'' voice was angry on the other end of the line. "So, you finally decided to answer the phone?"


    he demanded.


    Charlottey on the bed and muttered softly, "You didn''t call me before."


    Charles was incredulous. "I didn''t call you? Do you not have a conscience saying that?" he scolded


    her.


    Charlotte realized that she must have blocked her father''s number when she had left the Woodley


    Residence and was afraid of him spamming her with calls. Tonight, while she was hesitant about calling


    him earlier, she had probably unconsciously unblocked him.


    She felt guilty and remained silent.


    Charles continued, "I sent someone to pick you up. Why didn''t youe back?"


    "I''m fine here. I don''t want to go back," Charlotte replied defiantly.


    "Just treat it as a vacation to rx. It has already been a week, soe back quickly," Charles urged


    her.


    "I won''t!" Charlotte replied stubbornly.


    "Do you even know how serious it is for you to secretly leave the Woodley Residence? If it weren''t for


    your great-grandfather and me, you would have been removed from the Woodley family genealogy!"


    Charles eximed.


    Charlotte retorted, "So what? Who cares about being on that genealogy? Whoever wants to stay there


    can stay."


    "You..." Charles began, but his voice trailed off, unable to find the right words to respond to his


    daughter''s defiance.


    Charlotte abruptly changed the topic, saying, "Dad, Highside is amazing! The outside world is vast, so I


    don''t understand why we have to be locked up in the Woodley Residence. As humans, we have our


    own autonomy. We''re not like little cats and dogs that can only be kept in cages and can''t resist."


    Charles was silent, unsure of how to respond.


    Charlotte continued, "Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I''m doing well in Highside, so you don''t


    have to worry about me. Bye."


    Charles listened to the busy tone and took a deep breath. He was the one who called her, but now it


    felt like she was the one reporting her safety to him.


    Philip, who had been meditating with his eyes closed behind Charles, asked, "Is Charlotte still not


    coming back?"


    "I spoiled her too much when she was young, and now she has be reckless," Charles sighed.


    "It''s not just her who doesn''t listen," Philip pointed out.


    Charles fell silent for a moment before saying, "What about her engagement to L?"


    "Forget about the engagement for now. Our priority is to convince the elders to agree to L''s


    request and abolish those outdated rules of the Woodley Family," Philip said.


    "They won''t agree," Charles replied despondently.


    "We have to try," Philip said firmly. "L sent Charlotte to Highside to force us to stand on his side."

 Chapter 639

    Chapter 639


    Chapter 639 Did They Hit You?


    Leanna had a rough start to her day after staying up all night and sleeping through her rm. Feeling


    groggy and disoriented, she reached for her phone and was surprised to see that it was already


    11.00AM. She let out a deep sigh and headed to the bathroom, giving her waist a quick rub before


    dialing up Zoe.


    "Hey, Nana, you''re finally up!" Zoe eximed.


    Leanna struggled to get the words out, "I-I..."


    Zoe reassured her, "President Pearson told me this morning that you were working on some design


    sketches until 4.00AM and told me not to disturb you. Charlotte is already at the studio, so take your


    time ande in whenever you''re ready."


    Feeling relieved that Aidan had found her a proper excuse, Leanna replied, "Thank you, Zoe. I''ll be


    there soon."


    Looks like that jerk still wants to keep a good reputation!


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna sshed some water on her face, trying to shake off the


    sleepiness. She then walked over to the kitchen to get some water and stood there for a few minutes,


    gathering her thoughts. Finally, she went back to her room to change clothes before heading to the


    studio.


    When Leanna arrived, the aroma of the delicious lunch that Zoe had ordered filled the room. Leanna


    sat down on the couch, closed her eyes, and stretched her body. Zoe noticed her exhaustion and


    Zoe had developed the habit of going to bed early before midnight since bing pregnant and found


    it to be very beneficial. Now that her sleeping schedule was back to normal, she felt refreshed every


    day.


    Leanna tugged on her lips and responded with a half-hearted excuse, "I felt inspired yesterday. I won''t


    do it again next time."


    It was true that one had to find another lie to cover up a previous lie.


    Zoe smiled and said, "Okay, let''s eat. I''ll call Charlotte in."


    Leanna agreed, "Sounds good."


    After spending the entire afternoon drawing, Leanna was feeling some difort in her back and


    decided to take a break by helping out in the studio. However, upon stepping out, she noticed that


    Charlotte was nowhere to be found. Thinking that she might have gone with Zoe to the neighboring


    photo studio, Leanna headed over there.


    As Zoe returned from the photo studio, sheined, "The lighting is pretty bad today. I wonder


    what''s going on."


    "I guess it''s broken. Just change it."


    "I''ll try it again tomorrow. If it''s still the same, I''ll change it."


    Leanna paused and asked, "Is Charlotte still there?"


    Zoe was a bit confused, "No, isn''t she over here?"


    "No, I didn''t see her when I came out just now. I thought she went with you."


    "When I went over, she was still in the studio."


    Leanna hurriedly went into the studio and asked the several shop assistants where Charlotte had gone.


    One of the girls came out of the warehouse and heard her asking, so she said, "Leanna, we were very


    busy just now, but a customer was in a hurry and asked us to deliver some things to her. We couldn''t


    leave, so Charlotte volunteered to go..."


    "How long ago did she leave?"


    "It has been over an hour. Almost two hours. She should havee back by now."


    At this point, Zoe walked up to Leanna and took out her phone, saying, "Nana, maybe she just got lost


    because she''s not familiar with the area. I''ll give her a call."


    But the phone on the other end was turned off.


    Leanna frowned and prepared to go outside to ask Aidan''s men.


    They must have sent someone to protect Charlotte.


    As Leanna walked up to the studio entrance, she saw Charlotte hobbling back, her work clothes dirty


    as if she had rolled around in a trash heap.


    Charlotte saw her and grinned at her, but her expression was clearly one of distress.


    Leanna asked softly, "Charlotte, what happened?"


    Charlotte sniffled and replied, "When I was on my way back after delivering the goods, I ran into a few


    guys at the corner of the alley. They insisted on getting my phone number, but I didn''t want to give it to


    them, so they..."


    Leanna asked coldly, "Did they hit you?"


    Charlotte hadn''t had a chance to speak when a male voice sounded next to her. "No, Charlotte just got


    scared and fell down the stairs."


    Leanna then noticed that there was a man following Charlotte.


    The man looked to be in his 30s or 40s, and although his appearance was not tremendously


    outstanding, he was still handsome among ordinary people. He wore a pair of gold-rimmed sses and


    had a gentle and courteous smile when he looked at Leanna.


    Leanna asked, "Who are you?"


    Charlotte came to her senses and introduced, "Oh, Leanna, this is Uncle Joseph. He just saved me!"


    The man extended his hand to Leanna and said, "Nice to meet you. I''m Joseph Woodley."


    Leanna''s gaze toward him became warier, but she calmly pulled Charlotte behind her.


    Joseph withdrew his hand and smiled. "I suppose you must be Miss Leanna McKinney. Charlotte has


    told me all about you on our way here. Don''t be nervous. I''m not here to take her away."


    Leanna asked, "Then what do you want?"


    "I heard there was trouble in the Woodley Residencetely that is rted to Highside, so I came to take


    a look. It was a coincidence that I ran into Charlotte," Joseph exined.


    Leanna asked, "You heard about it?"


    Charlotte spoke from behind her. "Uncle Joseph is not from Woodley Residence, and he doesn''t like


    those old fossils either."


    Josephughed, "Yes, Charlotte is right. I left Woodley Residence a long time ago. I came to Highside


    this time because I heard some rumors and was curious. Miss McKinney, rest assured, I am not your


    enemy, nor do I have any ill intentions toward you."


    With that, he continued, "Now that I''ve brought Charlotte to you, I''ll take my leave."


    Charlotte called out to him, "Uncle Joseph!" She felt a bit reluctant to see him go.


    Joseph said, "Charlotte, you are in someone else''s ce now. Be obedient and don''t be stubborn. If


    there''s a chance, I''lle to see you again."


    And with that, he left.


    Charlotte waved goodbye to Joseph, calling out to him, "Uncle Joseph, goodbye!"


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    Joseph nodded and gave a slight nod to Leanna before turning and leaving. Once he was out of sight,


    Leanna turned her attention back to Charlotte.


    Charlotte was already eager to share her story with Leanna. "Leanna, let me tell you! I always thought


    Uncle Joseph was dead because my dad and great-grandfather always said so! But I didn''t expect him


    to be alive, and on the way back, he told me that he left Woodley Residence because he didn''t agree


    with the Woodley Family''s rules! Uncle Joseph has always been good to me since I was a child, and I


    never thought I''d see him again!"


    Listening to Charlotte''s excitement, Leanna could feel her happiness and asked, "How long has your


    Uncle Joseph been away from Woodley Residence?"


    "It has been a really long time. I can''t remember the exact time, but I think it was before I turned 10,"


    replied Charlotte.


    "It has been 10 years. But all this time, you haven''t heard any news about him?" Leanna asked.


    "No, I haven''t. I remember asking my dad once when I was little, and he said that Uncle Joseph had


    passed away. They never talked about him at home, and I thought it was probably because it was too


    sad for them."

 Chapter 640

    Chapter 640


    Chapter 640 What¡¯s Going On?


    Leanna noticed the injuries on Charlotte''s face and suggested, "You should go to the rest area and


    change your clothes. I''ll take you to the hospital to get checked out."


    Charlotte shook her head. "It''s okay. Uncle Joseph already took me to see a doctor on the way back.


    It''s just a few scratches. Nothing serious."


    "Okay, change your clothes then."


    After Charlotte went into the rest area, Leanna left the studio to go to the pharmacy to buy some


    disinfectant.


    Zoe followed her and noticed that Leanna seemed distracted. She asked in a quiet voice, "What''s


    wrong, Nana?"


    Leanna paused for a moment and shook her head. "Nothing."


    "Are you thinking about Charlotte''s Uncle Joseph? I also find him suspicious. He suddenly appeared


    out of nowhere. What do you think he wants?" asked Zoe.


    Leanna sighed, "He said he came to Highside because he heard something happened in Woodley


    Residence recently. In other words, he came for Aidan."


    "Oh, I didn''t think of that."


    "The situation in Woodley Residence is very chaotic right now. In my opinion, all the Woodley family


    members have problems. But he left Woodley Residence ten years ago, so I''m not sure about him."


    As they were walking, Leanna stopped and said, "Zoe, wait for me. I need to make a phone call."


    Zoe nodded. "Okay."


    Leanna took out her phone, walked to the side of the road, and called Waylen.


    When the ringtone was about to end, Waylen finally answered.


    Leanna asked, "Are you busy right now?"


    "Not really. Do you want me to show you your son via video call?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "No, I''m not calling about him."


    "Then..."


    "I want to ask if you know Charlotte''s uncle, Joseph Woodley?"


    Waylen hesitated for a while as he probably was not expecting to hear that name from her.


    Then, Waylen said, "I know him; what happened?"


    "Charlotte told me that he died 10 years ago. But he showed up in Highside today."


    After that, Leanna briefly recounted what happened today.


    Waylen was a little confused on the phone. "Wait, are you saying that Joseph didn''t die? He came to


    Highside and coincidentally met Charlotte?"


    Leanna said, "Yes. So, I wanted to ask you about what''s up with him."


    "I don''t know much about him, but I heard he was dead. After that, whenever anyone in the Woodley


    Family mentioned him, it was always a taboo subject. I guess it''s probably rted to his departure from


    the Woodley Family."


    "Does L know about him?"


    "He should know about him more than I do. I''ll ask him about it and get back to you."


    "Okay."


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna stood there for a while before going back to find Zoe and entering


    the pharmacy together. When they returned to the studio, Charlotte had already changed her clothes


    and was wiping her face with water. Leanna called her into the office and took out some iodine and


    cotton swabs to clean the wounds on her face.


    Charlotte winced in pain, but Leannaforted, "Just endure a little longer. It will soon be over."


    So, Charlotte obediently stayed put.


    Leanna continued, "Be careful when you go outter. If you encounter any bad people, shout for help.


    Aidan has bodyguards watching over you, and they will know immediately if you''re in danger."


    However, given today''s situation, Leanna still needed to ask Keaton about the matter. In theory, with


    bodyguards following Charlotte, nothing should have happened.


    "I understand," Charlotte replied.


    After tending to Charlotte''s wounds, Leanna threw away the cotton swab and said, "Okay, let me take


    you home."


    "But it''s not yet time to get off work."


    "It''s fine. You can have the day off today and go home to rest early."


    Charlotte looked dejectedly at Leanna and asked, "Leanna, do you think I''m useless and only causing


    trouble for you guys, especially when nothing good ever happens around me?"


    Leanna smiled and ruffled her hair. "You''re so cute. How could you think that you''re useless? What


    happened today was just a one-off incident. You''ve been doing a great job in the studio for the past few


    days."


    Charlotte remained silent and lowered her head, but she was indeed satisfied with her own


    performance in the studio these days, except for today.


    After a while, she said, "I can go home by myself. I know the way."


    Leanna thought for a moment and nodded gently. "Okay, but send me a message when you get home."


    "Okay."


    Leanna escorted Charlotte to the entrance of the studio and watched her walk away. Then she went to


    the roadside and found Keaton''s car.


    Keaton quickly stepped out of the car and greeted Leanna with a polite "Miss McKinney."


    Leanna asked, "Do you guys know about what just happened?"


    Keaton nodded, "Our men were following Miss Woodley all along. They happened to miss her at a red


    light, but when they caught up, someone had already saved her. They saw that she seemed to know


    the person well, so they didn''t intervene."


    Leanna nodded and added, "The person''s name is Joseph Woodley. He''s Charlotte''s uncle. ording


    to him, he recently arrived in Highside. I think his target might be Aidan, so please investigate."


    Keaton was surprised for a moment but quickly responded, "Understood."


    "Charlotte has gone back, so please ask the men following her to be careful and avoid any more


    incidents like today."


    "Miss McKinney, don''t worry. I''ve already instructed them."


    Back at the office, Leanna had just sat down when Zoe came over and asked, "Has Charlotte left?"


    "Yes, she has left," Leanna replied.


    "She was probably really shaken today. She needs to go home and rest," Zoe added. "Anyway, I won''t


    disturb you anymore. I''ll go and see if there''s anything I can help with."


    After Zoe left, Leanna leaned back in her chair, rubbed her temples, and took out her phone. She


    scrolled through the recent photos Waylen had sent of the little guy.


    In the photos, her son looked visibly healthier and had gained quite a bit of weight since thest time


    she saw him. He had also grown quite a bit.


    As she flipped through each photo, her mood gradually improved.


    Before long, Leanna felt her motivation return. She picked up her pencil and continued sketching.


    About half an hourter, Charlotte messaged her to say she had arrived home.


    After replying to Charlotte''s message, Leanna put her phone aside.


    When she looked up again, it was already dark outside and it was raining lightly.


    Leanna packed up her things and left the office. She saw Zoe lounging on the couch, flipping through


    magazines, and when she heard Leanna''s footsteps, she turned around and said, "Nana, have you


    finished? They''ve all gone home. I saw how focused you were on drawing, so I didn''t want to interrupt."


    Leanna said, "Let''s go."


    As soon as they left the studio, Leanna''s phone rang. It was Waylen calling.


    Leanna motioned for Zoe to wait as she stood under the eaves to answer the call.


    Waylen said, "I think I have a handle on what''s going on, but the situation isplicated. Are you free


    to talk now?"

 Chapter 641

    Chapter 641


    Chapter 641 How Did You Recognize Him?


    Leanna sat in the car as her ears were filled with the sounds of rain falling outside.


    Waylen continued to speak over the phone.


    There was a woman Joseph had been dating for years. They should have gotten married ages ago, but


    the Woodley Family was unhappy about her family background. Thus, they kept trying to break the


    couple up.


    Joseph had always been insistent that he would marry no one but her.


    For some odd reason, just as the Woodleys were about to give in, he broke up with that woman.


    Soon, they heard that the woman died in a car crash.


    After that, Joseph vanished from the family.


    Charles kept telling everyone that Joseph had died in the same ident his ex-girlfriend died in.


    Not long after that happened, Charles and Joseph''s father, Charlotte''s grandfather, fell gravely ill. He


    clung to life for about half a year before passing away.


    There was a rumor among the Woodley Family that the woman had only dated Joseph because she


    was after the power and fame that came with being part of the Woodleys. When she did not get what


    she wanted from him, she dumped him and moved on to her next target.


    Joseph had been so furious that he arranged for the car ident to kill her. After that, he felt too


    ashamed to stay in the family, so he secretly left Jamesdon.


    The Woodley Family only imed he was dead to avoid being criticized by outsiders.


    "While that''s what they say, I don''t think the information is reliable," Waylen concluded.


    "Why?" Leanna asked.


    In the family, Grandpa Philip is someone whose authority is second only to the family head, he


    exined. "Even though Kian was the family head back then, Charles and Joseph''s positions were


    also quite high in the hierarchy. If that woman had only dated Joseph because of power, she would not


    have found a better candidate than him."


    "Didn''t you say that the family had always disapproved of their rtionship for years?" she asked.


    "Yes. Joseph''s father was about to give in and give his approval though, so why would they break up


    then? That doesn''t make any sense."


    Leanna silently sat there with her phone held up to her ear. Deep down, she agreed with him.


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    Something about the entire situation seemed off.


    "I''ve asked L about this," he continued. "This is probably one of the secrets of the family. With


    Grandpa Philip suppressing the issue and Kian helping to keep this a secret, no one said a word about


    the matter. Only the people involved would likely know exactly what happened."


    "L doesn''t know either?" she asked.


    "That''s right. The older generation has been keeping this a secret. It also happened a long time ago,


    which makes it harder to investigate. Don''t worry though. I''ll let you know as soon as I find out anything


    new."


    She nodded. "Okay."


    After hanging up, she put down her phone.


    Zoe, who was sitting next to her, could not resist tutting. "Big families are just not the same. Anything


    messy,plicated, and dramatic could happen with them."


    There was nothing Leanna could say to refute that, so she started the car and drove off.


    It was raining harder when she pulled into the parking lot of the apartment.


    After exiting the elevator, Leanna said to Zoe, "Go rest up. I''ll check in on Charlotte."


    "Sure. Call me if anything happens."


    Leanna rang the doorbell to the apartment across the corridor. After a few minutes, Charlotte answered


    the door while still rubbing her eyes.


    She had been sleeping ever since returning home.


    If Leanna had not rung the bell, she could have slept until the next day.


    "Hi, Leanna," Charlotte greeted while yawning.


    "Have you had dinner yet?" Leanna asked.


    "No," Charlotte replied, leaning against the door.


    "Come over. What would you like?"


    Charlotte immediately snapped to life and eagerly followed Leanna back to her apartment.


    Leanna opened the fridge and decided to make grilled ribs, Charlotte''s favorite.


    The moment the kitchen was filled with the scent of ribs cooking, Charlotte moved to stand at the


    kitchen doorway.


    During dinner, Charlotte tentatively asked between tiny bites of ribs, "Leanna, can I ask you


    something?"


    "Go on," Leanna answered with a nod.


    "D-Do you dislike Uncle Joseph?"


    Charlotte might be oblivious and airheaded at times, and she would never have thought about this in


    the past, but she was still a rather sensitive individual. After returning home, she spent the entire time


    in bed pondering Leanna''s reaction and how Leanna usually treated other people. From that difference,


    she could tell that Leanna did not like Joseph.


    "I don''t dislike him. I just don''t know him," Leanna replied. "I only met him today. However, you''re not


    wrong. I don''t have a lot of fondness for the Woodleys."


    Charlotte''s face fell. "Huh?"


    Leanna chuckled. "I don''t mean you. If I don''t like you, I wouldn''t have cooked for you."


    Realizing Leanna''s words made sense, Charlotte returned to her food.


    When she was nearly done, Leanna spoke up, "Charlotte."


    "What is it?" Charlotte asked, looking up.


    "Do you know a lot about Uncle Joseph?"


    "Well... I have almost forgotten what he looked like. We don''t have any photos of him at home, so I only


    vaguely remember him."


    "How did you recognize him today?"


    "Uncle Joseph recognized who I was first," Charlotte answered. "If he had not mentioned the situation


    at home, my father, and Grandpa Philip, I would have thought he was a liar."


    She then eximed, "I haven''t even told Dad about this yet. He would be ecstatic to know about it!"


    Leanna stood up and cleared the table. "I''ll check on your injuriester. You should sleep well tonight."


    Charlotte hurriedly stood up and snatched the tes and cutleries from Leanna''s hands. "Let me do it. I


    can''t just sit by and do nothing after eating your food."


    Seeing that, Leanna allowed Charlotte to do as she pleased while Leanna headed to the living room to


    grab the first aid kit from the coffee table.


    Loud ngs and crashes could be hearding from within the kitchen, but Leanna remained calm as


    she was used to it.


    Later that evening, Leanna was in bed and listening to the rain. She nced at the time on her phone.


    It was almost 1.00AM. Would Aidan being home tonight?


    After thinking about it, she decided to call him.


    Her call was only answered when the phone was about to stop ringing.


    The person who answered was Jonathan.


    "Mr. Pearson is currently in a meeting with a few of the executives of the branch offices, Mrs. Pearson,"


    he said.


    When she heard that, she paused for a moment before asking in confusion, "Why is he in a meeting


    with them? It''s not the end of the year."


    While the branch office executives would asionally report to the head office, they would essentially


    only gather for a meeting at the end of the year for the yearly recap.


    It was July, so why were they there so early?


    There was a moment of silence before Jonathan eventually said, "Mrs. Pearson, Mr. Pearson..."


    She held her breath. "What about him?"


    Before he could answer, there was a series of noises on the other end before a few seconds of silence.


    Then, she heard Aidan''s calm voice say over the phone, "I''m fine. Are you still awake?"


    "Yes... It''s raining hard outside. I wanted to ask if you''ll being back."


    "I''m still in a meeting, and I don''t know when it''ll end. It''s likely I won''t be going home tonight. Go to


    bed." He then continued in a soft voice, "Good night."

 Chapter 642

    Chapter 642


    Chapter 642 As if It Never Ends


    After hanging up, Leanna stared at the rain outside the window. She did not feel like sleeping at all.


    Recently, she realized Aidan would be acting weird at times. He would be in a bad mood. She thought


    he was just exhausted from overworking himself.


    However, from the way Jonathan spoke just now, things might be worse than she thought.


    She heaved a silent sigh andy back in bed.


    At 7.00AM the next morning, she woke up, made breakfast, and ced the food inside a thermal food


    container before heading out the door.


    It was still drizzling, so the sky was gray and gloomy. The ground was also covered in puddles of water.


    Thankfully, there were not a lot of people on the roads due to the rain and how early it was. The entire


    city seemed like it was still sleeping.


    She arrived at the Pearson Group office before 8.00AM.


    As it was not working hours, only two security guards were standing by the doors with the lobby being


    nearly empty.


    When she exited the lift, she spotted a few people sitting in the personal assistant office.


    Recalling what Jonathan saidst night, she walked over to them.


    "Mrs. Pearson," the assistants greeted in unison when they saw her.


    She nodded back in greeting and looked around. "Where''s Jonathan?"


    "Mr. Stoll went out about 30 minutes ago. What do you need, Mrs. Pearson? We could help you."


    She smiled. "It''s fine. Aidan is here, right?"


    "Mr. Pearson is in his office."


    "Great. Thanks."


    After leaving the personal assistant office, she headed toward Aidan''s office.


    She knocked on the door before gently pushing the door open.


    Inside the room, Aidan was going through his paperwork. There was a solemn look on his face that


    showed no visible signs of emotions.


    He must have stayed up all night.


    She walked into the room and asked, "Have you had breakfast yet?"


    Upon hearing her voice, he looked up and raised an eyebrow. "You''re up early."


    "Well, you know that I don''t sleep well without you by my side."


    His lips twitched upward in a smile as he stood up to walk over to her. "That is true."


    She opened the thermal food container and poured out some soup for him. "Eat up."


    He sat down on the couch and seized the chance to grab her by the hand and pull her into his


    embrace. "I''ll eatter. It''s too hot."


    "Its temperature was just nice when I poured the soup into the thermal container."


    He did not say a word in response and kept holding onto her.


    After a long while, she asked, "Did Keaton tell you about what happened yesterday?"


    "What?" he eximed. "I was in meetings for the whole day, so I had everyone handle all non-urgent


    matters."


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s nothing much. It''s just... Charlotte was in a little ident when she went out on a delivery, and


    Uncle Joseph sent her back to the studio."


    "Uncle Joseph?"


    She nodded. "I''ve asked Waylen about the man. He said Charlotte''s uncle had been dating a woman


    for years whom the family never approved of. Just as the family was about to cave in, they suddenly


    broke up."


    He rested his chin on her shoulder and calmly asked, "What happened next?"


    "Not long after that, the ex-girlfriend died in a car ident. The Woodleys had been telling everyone


    Joseph died in the ident too, while in reality, Joseph left Jamesdon on his own ord."


    "Waylen said there are rumors within the family about what happened," she continued, "but he said


    they were unreliable. Only the people involved in the incident would know what the truth is. I think that


    since Philip and thete Kian did everything to suppress the truth, the incident has a big impact on the


    family."


    In her mind, the incident might be as bad as when Naomi willingly left the family and Jamesdon.


    One might even say that this incident was worse.


    "Have you met him?" Aidan asked.


    "Yes. I met him yesterday when he brought Charlotte to the studio." She paused to recall what


    happened. "How do I say this? He might not be very handsome, but he has a refined aura around him.


    If he were ced among a crowd of men, he would still be recognized as an outstanding man. He was


    definitely not someone who would be overlooked."


    "Also, you are likely his target," she added.


    "Hm?"


    "He told me that he came to Highside because he was curious about what he heard was happening in


    Jamesdon."


    "What else did he say?"


    "Nothing much," she replied. "He must have sensed that I did not like him. He left after we exchanged a


    few words."


    He hummed in thought. "I''ll have Jonathan look into itter."


    She was about to say something when Jonathan''s name was mentioned, but she swallowed back her


    words just as they reached the tip of her tongue.


    Whatever. Aidan must not want her to know.


    Hence, he would not say anything even if she asked.


    Her silence made him ask, "What is it?"


    She snapped out of her thoughts. "Nothing. I just feel like everything keeps popping up one after


    another. It''s as if it never ends. Also..."


    She constantly felt like there was an invisible string tugging them along. It seemed like there would


    never be an end to their troubles.


    He stroked her head. "Don''t overthink it. We''ll be fine after this. It will all end one day."


    She pursed her lips and did not say a word.


    After a moment of silence, she said, "Well, it''s gettingte. I should head to the studio. Drink up the


    soup."


    "I''ll have someone drive you over," he said.


    "It''s fine. I drove here." She moved away from his arms and packed up her stuff before reminding him


    once more, "Drink the soup."


    He silently chuckled. "Okay."


    Soon after she left, a personal assistant walked into the office with a stack of documents.


    "Is Jonathan back yet?" Aidan asked.


    "Not yet. Is there something you need, Mr. Pearson?" the assistant replied.


    He paused in thought for a few seconds before calmly ordering, "Bring someone to me."


    ¡­


    On Leanna''s way back to the studio, the traffic was rather bad as it was the morning peak hour.


    As her car slowly inched along the road, she felt as if she was using up all her patience.


    Just then, her phone rang.


    She pressed a button on her steering wheel to answer the call. The person who called was a woman.


    "Hello, I''m calling from a children''s French learning center. Does your child need..."


    "No, thanks."


    Leanna immediately hung up.


    Due to that distraction, she did not realize the traffic light had turned red. As the roads were slippery


    from the rain, her car skidded forward and bumped into the car ahead of her even though she had


    floored the brake pedal.


    She put the car in park before hurriedly unbuckling her seatbelt to get out of the car.


    The driver of the car in front of her got out as well. He was in a terrible mood. "What kind of driving is


    that? Why did you move forward when you know the light is red? Why are you wasting my time?"


    I''m so sorry, she said. "It''s my fault. I''ll take full responsibility. How would you like to handle this? Do


    you want to im it against my insurance, or would you like me to pay you directly?"


    "Look at how expensive this car''s repairs would be. Do you think you can afford topensate me


    directly?"


    The driver had just finished speaking when the rear door of his car was opened and out walked a man


    with an umbre. The neer nced at the bumper and said, "The damage is not that bad. It''s just


    a little bit of paint."


    He then looked up and gasped in surprise. "Miss McKinney?"

 Chapter 643

    Chapter 643


    Chapter 643 A Fun Outdoor Activity


    Leanna was surprised to see Joseph. She hesitated before saying, "Mr. Woodley."


    At that moment, the rain started to pour harder.


    Joseph held the umbre over Leanna''s head and said, "Your car has no major problem, Miss


    McKinney. You should go back quickly."


    "What about your car?" asked Leanna.


    "It''s just a small scratch; there''s nothing serious. It''s your car that has been damaged," replied Joseph


    as he gestured toward the broken headlight on the left.


    He suggested, "Well then, let the insurancepany handle it. I''ll take you home first as it''s going to


    rain heavily soon."


    Seeing the long line of cars behind them, Leanna nodded and said, "Okay, let me park my car on the


    side of the road first."


    Joseph held the umbre and walked Leanna to her car. He then turned to the driver and said


    indifferently, "Park the car on the side of the road."


    The driver wiped his sweat and nodded before getting into the car.


    After parking the car, Leanna called the insurancepany and exined the situation before getting


    out of the car with her belongings.


    Joseph was waiting outside and immediately stepped forward when he saw her.


    Looking at the umbre above her head, Leanna said, "Thank you."


    Joseph smiled slightly and replied, "You''re wee, Miss McKinney. Please get in the car."


    "No need, I''ll take a cab," Leanna declined.


    She took out a business card from her bag and handed it to Joseph. "Here''s my contact information. If


    you need anypensation in the future, please feel free to contact me."


    Joseph took the card and said, "I see."


    Leanna nodded and said, "I''m sorry for the trouble today and for taking up your time."


    "No problem, Miss McKinney. It''s not a big deal and didn''t really affect me," Joseph reassured her.


    As he finished speaking, he handed the umbre to Leanna and said, "Since you don''t want me to


    drive you, please keep this umbre. You''re a beautiful youngdy and it would be troublesome if you


    caught a cold in the rain."


    Before Leanna could say anything, Joseph smiled at her and turned to walk toward the ck car


    parked in front of them.


    As Joseph had predicted, there was a torrent of rain shortly after.


    It was already summer, and the rain was especially heavy.


    Leanna waited for half an hour at the site until the insurancepany arrived before she left.


    Back at the studio, due to the rainy weather, there were only a few people there, so it was much quieter


    than usual.


    Charlotte ran over and asked, "Leanna, where did you go in this heavy rain?"


    "I went to Pearson Group. Didn''t I tell you to rest at home for a few days? Why did youe back?"


    Leanna asked.


    "It''s boring at home. I''d rather be here," replied Charlotte.


    "Okay, if you feel tired, go to the lounge. I''m going to the office now," said Leanna.


    "Okay."


    The rain continued for two to three days until the morning of the weekend when the sun finally broke


    through the clouds.


    Leanna sat on the couch and drew while Charlotte and Zoey down next to her in the same position.


    After a while, Zoe suddenly sat up and said, "No, we can''t just lie here at home on such a beautiful day.


    It''s the weekend, so we should go out and do something."


    Leanna replied, "Where do you want to go?"


    Zoe took out her phone and said, "Let me check."


    After browsing around, Zoe wasn''t particrly satisfied.


    Shey on the couch and sighed. "Isn''t there any outdoor activity that''s both rxing, and fun, and can


    put us in a good mood?"


    Suddenly, she thought of something and quickly took out her phone.


    After a few minutes, she sat up again and said, "Nana, let''s go watch Daphne''s variety show."


    "The escape room?" Leanna asked.


    "Yes, they just started filming today, and the schedule isn''t too tight yet. I asked Daphne, and she said


    we can go."


    Charlotte also became excited. "Can we go? Please?"


    Leanna looked at their eyes shining with excitement and nodded. "Let''s go."


    Charlotte had been in Highside for a long time and had basically only been running between the studio


    and the apartment. Leanna hadn''t taken her to any interesting ces yet. Since Charlotte was


    interested in these things, Leanna thought that they might as well go.


    After hearing Leanna''s answer, the two immediately went to change their clothes.


    Leanna also put away the sketches in front of her.


    ¡­


    In the studio, Daphne was sitting in the dressing room when two or three celebrities came over to say


    hello.


    They were all guests who were recording the show with her, including two male stars who had grown


    popr over the past two years, an actress who had just be popr through a web drama earlier


    this year, and a celebrity who was constantly appearing on various variety shows.


    After greeting them one by one, they left. Subsequently, Daphne asked her assistant, "Aren''t there


    supposed to be six celebrities participating in the show? Who are the other two?"


    The assistant whispered, "I haven''t had a chance to tell you yet. One of the scheduled celebrities


    couldn''t make it, so the organizers of the show asked Tina Anderson to fill in. I just received the


    notification an hour ago¡­"


    Daphne paused and frowned.


    Tina was a celebrity who debuted around the same time as Daphne. She had been doing very well in


    the drama circle these past two years and had taken on many big production dramas. Her poprity


    was not inferior to Daphne''s at all, but her resources were slightly weaker.


    Tina often insinuated that Daphne had the backing of the Pearson Group, which was why Daphne had


    such good resources. She felt that she was not inferior to Daphne; it was just that her luck was a little


    worse. Thus, she made all kinds of sarcastic remarks toward Daphne both in public and in private.


    When Daphne was once used of being a mistress, Tina''s team also attacked her a lot. It was


    already well-known in the industry that the two of them were at odds with each other.


    If the two of them were to record a show together, there would be nothing more exciting.


    Daphne was silent for a moment before asking, "What about the other one?"


    The assistant was stunned for a moment before realizing what she was asking and answered, "The


    organizers said it''s a new celebrity who just debuted. She doesn''t have much fame, but seems to be


    quite smart¡­ I don''t know who it is yet. Let me go ask."


    "Forget it." Daphne stood up. "I''ll go outside for some fresh air."


    Just the thought of seeing Tinater made Daphne feel suffocated.


    She went out into the corridor where a few staff members greeted her. After smiling and responding,


    she walked over to a corner to find a ce with no one around.


    When she got to the staircase, she took a deep breath.


    As she was about to sit down, she heard a faint sound from inside the room.


    She paused and instinctively looked toward the source of the noise.


    Simultaneously, the person inside also looked toward her.


    Their eyes met.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    After a few seconds, Daphne spoke up. "You¡­"


    Louis held a cigarette in one hand and a lighter in the other, seemingly about to light it.


    After a few seconds, he realized the situation and put both the cigarette and lighter in his pocket.


    Daphne blinked and didn''t know what to say for a moment.

 Chapter 644

    Chapter 644


    Chapter 644 When Did You Be His Fan?


    After a moment of silence, Louis asked, "Weren''t you in the dressing room?"


    "I finished my makeup, so I came out for a walk," Daphne said. "What are you¡­"


    As she spoke, she suddenly remembered that her assistant had just said a little-known artist was


    participating in the show, but that the person was very clever.


    Could it be¡­


    Daphne was surprised. "Is this the job that yourpany arranged for you? The one you told me


    about?"


    Louis nodded. "I forgot to tell you."


    Daphne was taken aback for a moment before saying, "Oh¡­ It''s fine. I just didn''t expect to see you


    here."


    Louis remembered the scene when they met just now and pursed his lips, but he didn''t say anything.


    Daphne was tactful enough to avoid asking about their previous encounter. "Anyway, have you told


    Leanna and the others about this? They''ll be here soon. Will you¡­"


    "I already told them."


    "Okay, the show is about to start recording soon. I''ll go back first."


    "Alright."


    Daphne smiled at him, took two steps back, and quickly turned and left.


    After a few pattering sounds of footsteps, the hallway became quiet again.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Louis leaned against the wall, then took out a lighter and a crumpled cigarette. His eyes drooped as he


    thought about something.


    Back in the dressing room, Daphne sat in her seat and took a deep breath.


    Her assistant asked, "What''s wrong, Daphne?"


    Daphne said, "I just saw Louis."


    The assistant''s eyes lit up, and then she asked in disbelief, "He''s here too? Is he working part-time


    or¡­"


    "He''s the sixth artist participating in the show."


    The assistant was shocked. "Him?! He didn''t mention it before though."


    Daphne sighed, took a pillow, and held it in her arms. Thinking back to the scene just now, she couldn''t


    help but be lost in thought.


    She didn''t expect the kid to secretly smoke. She never noticed it before.


    Nevertheless, Daphne thought it was normal. She had heard about the unhappy things in Leanna''s


    family. Furthermore, with a father like that, it was already good enough for Louis to just smoke to


    relieve stress without his character bing twisted.


    Moreover, he was so outstanding in every way. He was good-looking, high-achieving, polite, modest,


    quiet, and reserved.


    Daphne made a hissing sound, feeling that his life was really not easy.


    The assistant, who was next to her, watched her frown before rxing. Daphne also looked regretful


    from time to time.


    Ten minutester, all the artists arrived at the recording site one after another.


    Tina stood there with her arms crossed, looking a little impatient, while her assistant was fanning her


    with a small fan and handing her coffee.


    When Tina saw Daphne, she snorted and said to the assistant, "I guess we''re not good enough, so we


    have toe here early and wait. We''re unlike some big shots who want to be thest ones toe


    out and treat this ce like a red-carpet event."


    In fact, there was still some time before the recording started. Due to Daphne and Tina''s presence, the


    other celebrities didn''t want toe after them, so they came early and waited.


    As a result, thest one to arrive would appear like they were a big shot.


    Several celebrities and all the staff held their breath and dared not make a sound, afraid that the two


    would start fighting.


    Although their sh was a big selling point of their show, if they started fighting before the recording


    even began, how could things continue smoothly?


    When Tina didn''t hear Daphne''s reply, she became even ruder. Looking at her assistant, she


    continued, "I guess it''s still better to have a backer to lean on. Some people can afford to bete, unlike


    us who are just working-ss people. How envious I am¡ª"


    Tina was interrupted as a tall figure walked in from outside.


    Louis said to the assistant director, "Sorry, I''mte. Has the recording started?"


    The assistant director quickly said, "No, not yet. There are still five minutes left."


    Louis casually said, "Oh, I thought my watch was broken."


    Due to Louis'' interruption, the previously quiet atmosphere became a little strange.


    The assistant director coughed and started to call out to the staff, "Come on, don''t just stand there.


    Check the props again and be careful not to mess upter!"


    The staff quickly dispersed and got busy. Finally, the atmosphere in the studio finally returned to


    normal.


    Meanwhile, Tina snorted dissatisfiedly, turned around, and sat on the couch to rest.


    Her assistant quickly followed.


    Tina looked at Louis not far away and lifted her chin, asking, "Who''s that?"


    "I haven''t seen him before. He seems to be a new celebrity signed by some randompany who is


    participating in the show''s recording," her assistant replied.


    Tina sneered, "Now, even a new celebrity acts so arrogantly. Does he really think he''s a hero saving a


    damsel in distress?"


    The assistant didn''t say anything and kept her head down, but her eyes couldn''t help but nce at


    Louis several times.


    The employees weremunicating with Louis about the recording details. He slightly lowered his


    head, listened carefully, and asionally nodded in agreement.


    Although Louis was young and rtively unknown, he unintentionally attracted the attention of all the


    girls in the studio.


    Daphne''s assistant whispered, "I think if this show airs, Louis won''t be able to hide anymore."


    Daphne looked back and didn''t understand at first. "Hide what?"


    "He''s not popr now and only a few of us are his fans, but once this show airs, he''s definitely going to


    be popr. There will be tons of fans swarming around him. My beloved idol is finally going to be seen


    by everyone."


    Daphne asked, "When did you be his fan?"


    Her assistant giggled. "When he had a cameo in the previous drama you were in, remember? There


    were a lot of girls on our set who like him, and they even formed their own fan club and support group


    for him."


    Daphne was speechless.


    Her assistant asked again, "Hey, Daphne, what kind of girls do you think he likes? Cute and gentle or


    bold and sexy?"


    Daphne raised her eyebrows, indicating that she didn''t know.


    Meanwhile, the staff finishedmunicating with Louis, and he went to the side to get something.


    Daphne looked around and noticed that Louis came alone without an assistant.


    After a while, the show began recording.


    All the celebrities were locked in arge room and had to find clues left by the organizers within a


    certain time frame, then solve them and move to the next room.


    If they exceeded the time limit and hadn''t left the room, the room would trigger a punishment


    mechanism, but no one knew what the punishment would be.


    After they entered the room, Tina sat on the couch with her eyes closed, looking like she was above


    everyone else and didn''t want to talk to them.


    Apart from Daphne and Louis, the other three people automatically formed a group and started


    searching the room for clues while Daphne walked over to Louis and asked, "Did Jellyfish


    Entertainment not provide you with an assistant?"


    Louis looked around and replied, "They did, but I''m not used to having someone follow me around."

 Chapter 645

    Chapter 645


    Chapter 645 They Look Nice Together


    When Leanna and Zoe arrived, the recording had already been going on for half an hour and there


    were only ten minutes left before the time was up to leave the room, but the celebrities inside were still


    clueless and had not found any clues.


    In fact, they had only decoded some irrelevant stuff.


    Since Daphne had told the production team in advance and had the assistant wait for Leanna and Zoe


    at the door, the director allowed them to sit on the couch and watch the monitor screen.


    There were no photographers and only cameras that could highlight the tension.


    Charlotte was obviously seeing this recording scene for the first time and was scared by the realistic


    setup. She held onto Leanna''s arm tightly as if watching a horror movie.


    Zoe stared at the screen and eximed softly, "Ah, isn''t that the recently popr hot male actor? He''s


    also here! Can I get his autographter?"


    The director smiled and said, "You are Ms. Daphne''s friends. So of course, you can."


    Zoe nodded, feeling proud for the first time.


    At that moment, the camera suddenly moved over to Daphne.


    Louis was standing beside her, and they were both taking books from the bookshelf.


    Zoe suddenly grabbed Leanna''s hand, her face full of excitement.


    Leanna asked, "What''s up?"


    Zoe said, "Don''t you think this looks like a plot from a school idol drama? The male and female leads


    meet in the library, and the female lead takes the book the male lead wanted to borrow. As they turn


    around, their eyes meet, and sparks fly!"


    Leanna and the director were speechless.


    The director coughed. "Um, our show is an escape room game with elements of horror, so it''s not really


    rted to school idol dramas¡­"


    Besides, the horror setup here was quite realistic, so how could she even see sparks flying?


    But to be honest, Daphne and Louis looked really good together.


    Recently, there were a lot of dramas about older woman-younger man rtionships. If they could get


    cast in a drama like that together, it was bound to be a hit.


    Leanna held onto Zoe to calm her down.


    As the time ticked down and the three-person teams grew more and more anxious, Tina finally got up


    slowly after sitting for half an hour. She walked around the room as if she were a queen and casually


    flipped through the things on the desk to indicate that she had looked through them, providing potential


    footage forter editing.


    When Leonno ond Zoe orrived, the recording hod olreody been going on for holf on hour ond there


    were only ten minutes left before the time wos up to leove the room, but the celebrities inside were still


    clueless ond hod not found ony clues.


    In foct, they hod only decoded some irrelevont stuff.


    Since Dophne hod told the production teom in odvonce ond hod the ossistont woit for Leonno ond Zoe


    ot the door, the director ollowed them to sit on the couch ond wotch the monitor screen.


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    There were no photogrophers ond onlyeros thot could highlight the tension.


    Chorlotte wos obviously seeing this recording scene for the first time ond wos scored by the reolistic


    setup. She held onto Leonno''s orm tightly os if wotching o horror movie.


    Zoe stored ot the screen ond excloimed softly, "Ah, isn''t thot the recently populor hot mole octor? He''s


    olso here! Con I get his outogroph loter?"


    The director smiled ond soid, "You ore Ms. Dophne''s friends. So of course, you con."


    Zoe nodded, feeling proud for the first time.


    At thot moment, theero suddenly moved over to Dophne.


    Louis wos stonding beside her, ond they were both toking books from the bookshelf.


    Zoe suddenly grobbed Leonno''s hond, her foce full of excitement.


    Leonno osked, "Whot''s up?"


    Zoe soid, "Don''t you think this looks like o plot from o school idol dromo? The mole ond femole leods


    meet in the librory, ond the femole leod tokes the book the mole leod wonted to borrow. As they turn


    oround, their eyes meet, ond sporks fly!"


    Leonno ond the director were speechless.


    The director coughed. "Um, our show is on escope room gome with elements of horror, so it''s not reolly


    reloted to school idol dromos¡­"


    Besides, the horror setup here wos quite reolistic, so how could she even see sporks flying?


    But to be honest, Dophne ond Louis looked reolly good together.


    Recently, there were o lot of dromos obout older womon-younger mon relotionships. If they could get


    cost in o dromo like thot together, it wos bound to be o hit.


    Leonno held onto Zoe to colm her down.


    As the time ticked down ond the three-person teoms grew more ond more onxious, Tino finolly got up


    slowly ofter sitting for holf on hour. She wolked oround the room os if she were o queen ond cosuolly


    flipped through the things on the desk to indicote thot she hod looked through them, providing potentiol


    footoge for loter editing.


    With only three minutes left, the rm suddenly went off, causing the actress from the web drama to


    cry out in fear. She held onto the male actor''s arm subconsciously, choking out, "What do we do now?


    Are we trapped here?"


    The male actor was also panicking. After all, the director said that this recording was to be realistic and


    the punishment would be more severe than in previous seasons before they entered the room.


    He tried tofort her, "We still have three minutes, so don''t give up."


    The actress said, "But this first room is already so difficult; what should we do about the rest?"


    Tina said impatiently, "What''s the point of crying? I can''t stand these new actors who are too weak and


    think they''re big shots without having done anything. They think they''re already popr and the entire


    industry is all messed up because of them."


    The actress was already scared. Now, she felt wronged too. Hence, she couldn''t cry out loud and could


    only silently sob.


    Tina wasn''t worried about the punishment at all; she didn''t believe that the production team would trap


    them all here and leave them to die.


    After all, variety shows all had scripts.


    If they still couldn''t crack it when the time was up, the production team would just enter and crack it for


    them.


    With only one minute left, a sound suddenly came from beside the bookshelf, and a hidden door slowly


    appeared in everyone''s sight. The rm then stopped.


    Daphne walked over to the actress and handed her a packet of tissues. "It''s okay; we can leave now."


    The male actor praised from the bottom of his heart, "Ms. Daphne, you''re amazing!"


    In the next moment, everyone''s eyes were on Louis.


    Louis didn''t react much and just said calmly, "Let''s go."


    He turned around and was the first to walk through the hidden door.


    Daphne followed him.


    The female actress, still sobbing, ran to Daphne''s side and went in third.


    The male actor and the male celebrity followed suit.


    Tina, with a sour expression, stood in the empty room for a few minutes before reluctantly walking


    forward.


    When they came out of the door, the production crew was waiting for them. They would then take a


    short break, touch up their makeup, and continue with the next recording.


    After the editing, the production team would cut the scene to make it look like they went straight into the


    next room aftering out of the previous one.


    The female actress couldn''t hold back her emotions anymore and burst into tears.


    At this moment, her assistant and some production staff went up tofort her.


    They had seen what happened inside, but they couldn''t say anything to Tina, who had a powerful


    status.


    Tina pretended to scold the actress, but in reality, she was mocking Louis in order to vent her anger


    about what happened before.


    The male celebrity patted Louis'' shoulder and said, "Louis, you''re great."


    Louis nodded slightly in response.


    Later, Daphne walked over to Leanna and Zoe and picked up a ss of water, drinking as she asked,


    "When did you two arrive?"


    Leanna replied, "Not too long ago. How was the recording?"


    Daphne said, "Don''t even mention it. Mere 40 minutes killed billions of my brain cells. If it weren''t for


    your brother, we wouldn''t have made it out today."


    As they were talking, Louis walked over.


    Just as he stood still and before he even spoke, a girl from the production team rushed over and


    handed him a bottle of water. "I-I noticed that you didn''t bring an assistant, so please have this water to


    drink," she said.


    "Thank you, but I''m good," Louis replied.


    Upon hearing this, the girl didn''t insist and left disappointed.


    Louis sat next to Leanna, picked up the untouched bottle of water in front of him, opened it, and took a


    few sips.


    Leanna asked, "How are you doing with the recording?"


    "What do you mean?" Louis responded.


    "I mean, is it going well?"


    "It''s not that difficult," Louis replied with a nod.


    The production team had probably done some research on Louis beforehand, which was why they had


    upgraded the difficulty with the aim to confuse him and not make it too easy for them to solve it.


    If they were to follow the usual standards, the group should have figured it out by now.


    Daphne sighed. "I was worried that myck of intelligence would be exposed in this program, but


    luckily I found someone to rely on. Louis, we''re counting on you. I will always believe in you!"


    Suddenly, Louis choked on the water in his throat and coughed lightly.


    Leanna''s lips curved up, and she changed the topic at the right time. "I brought some fruits and cakes


    for you guys. Have some."

 Chapter 646

    Chapter 646


    Chapter 645 They Look Nice Together


    When Leanna and Zoe arrived, the recording had already been going on for half an hour and there


    were only ten minutes left before the time was up to leave the room, but the celebrities inside were still


    clueless and had not found any clues.


    In fact, they had only decoded some irrelevant stuff.


    Since Daphne had told the production team in advance and had the assistant wait for Leanna and Zoe


    at the door, the director allowed them to sit on the couch and watch the monitor screen.


    There were no photographers and only cameras that could highlight the tension.


    Charlotte was obviously seeing this recording scene for the first time and was scared by the realistic


    setup. She held onto Leanna''s arm tightly as if watching a horror movie.


    Zoe stared at the screen and eximed softly, "Ah, isn''t that the recently popr hot male actor? He''s


    also here! Can I get his autographter?"


    The director smiled and said, "You are Ms. Daphne''s friends. So of course, you can."


    Zoe nodded, feeling proud for the first time.


    At that moment, the camera suddenly moved over to Daphne.


    Louis was standing beside her, and they were both taking books from the bookshelf.


    Zoe suddenly grabbed Leanna''s hand, her face full of excitement.


    Leanna asked, "What''s up?"


    Zoe said, "Don''t you think this looks like a plot from a school idol drama? The male and female leads


    meet in the library, and the female lead takes the book the male lead wanted to borrow. As they turn


    around, their eyes meet, and sparks fly!"


    Leanna and the director were speechless.


    The director coughed. "Um, our show is an escape room game with elements of horror, so it''s not really


    rted to school idol dramas¡­"


    Besides, the horror setup here was quite realistic, so how could she even see sparks flying?


    But to be honest, Daphne and Louis looked really good together.


    Recently, there were a lot of dramas about older woman-younger man rtionships. If they could get


    cast in a drama like that together, it was bound to be a hit.


    Leanna held onto Zoe to calm her down.


    As the time ticked down and the three-person teams grew more and more anxious, Tina finally got up


    slowly after sitting for half an hour. She walked around the room as if she were a queen and casually


    flipped through the things on the desk to indicate that she had looked through them, providing potential


    footage forter editing.


    When Leonno ond Zoe orrived, the recording hod olreody been going on for holf on hour ond there


    were only ten minutes left before the time wos up to leove the room, but the celebrities inside were still


    clueless ond hod not found ony clues.


    In foct, they hod only decoded some irrelevont stuff.


    Since Dophne hod told the production teom in odvonce ond hod the ossistont woit for Leonno ond Zoe


    ot the door, the director ollowed them to sit on the couch ond wotch the monitor screen.


    There were no photogrophers ond onlyeros thot could highlight the tension.


    Chorlotte wos obviously seeing this recording scene for the first time ond wos scored by the reolistic


    setup. She held onto Leonno''s orm tightly os if wotching o horror movie.


    Zoe stored ot the screen ond excloimed softly, "Ah, isn''t thot the recently populor hot mole octor? He''s


    olso here! Con I get his outogroph loter?"


    The director smiled ond soid, "You ore Ms. Dophne''s friends. So of course, you con."


    Zoe nodded, feeling proud for the first time.


    At thot moment, theero suddenly moved over to Dophne.


    Louis wos stonding beside her, ond they were both toking books from the bookshelf.


    Zoe suddenly grobbed Leonno''s hond, her foce full of excitement.


    Leonno osked, "Whot''s up?"


    Zoe soid, "Don''t you think this looks like o plot from o school idol dromo? The mole ond femole leods


    meet in the librory, ond the femole leod tokes the book the mole leod wonted to borrow. As they turn


    oround, their eyes meet, ond sporks fly!"


    Leonno ond the director were speechless.


    The director coughed. "Um, our show is on escope room gome with elements of horror, so it''s not reolly


    reloted to school idol dromos¡­"


    Besides, the horror setup here wos quite reolistic, so how could she even see sporks flying?


    But to be honest, Dophne ond Louis looked reolly good together.


    Recently, there were o lot of dromos obout older womon-younger mon relotionships. If they could get


    cost in o dromo like thot together, it wos bound to be o hit.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Leonno held onto Zoe to colm her down.


    As the time ticked down ond the three-person teoms grew more ond more onxious, Tino finolly got up


    slowly ofter sitting for holf on hour. She wolked oround the room os if she were o queen ond cosuolly


    flipped through the things on the desk to indicote thot she hod looked through them, providing potentiol


    footoge for loter editing.


    With only three minutes left, the rm suddenly went off, causing the actress from the web drama to


    cry out in fear. She held onto the male actor''s arm subconsciously, choking out, "What do we do now?


    Are we trapped here?"


    The male actor was also panicking. After all, the director said that this recording was to be realistic and


    the punishment would be more severe than in previous seasons before they entered the room.


    He tried tofort her, "We still have three minutes, so don''t give up."


    The actress said, "But this first room is already so difficult; what should we do about the rest?"


    Tina said impatiently, "What''s the point of crying? I can''t stand these new actors who are too weak and


    think they''re big shots without having done anything. They think they''re already popr and the entire


    industry is all messed up because of them."


    The actress was already scared. Now, she felt wronged too. Hence, she couldn''t cry out loud and could


    only silently sob.


    Tina wasn''t worried about the punishment at all; she didn''t believe that the production team would trap


    them all here and leave them to die.


    After all, variety shows all had scripts.


    If they still couldn''t crack it when the time was up, the production team would just enter and crack it for


    them.


    With only one minute left, a sound suddenly came from beside the bookshelf, and a hidden door slowly


    appeared in everyone''s sight. The rm then stopped.


    Daphne walked over to the actress and handed her a packet of tissues. "It''s okay; we can leave now."


    The male actor praised from the bottom of his heart, "Ms. Daphne, you''re amazing!"


    In the next moment, everyone''s eyes were on Louis.


    Louis didn''t react much and just said calmly, "Let''s go."


    He turned around and was the first to walk through the hidden door.


    Daphne followed him.


    The female actress, still sobbing, ran to Daphne''s side and went in third.


    The male actor and the male celebrity followed suit.


    Tina, with a sour expression, stood in the empty room for a few minutes before reluctantly walking


    forward.


    When they came out of the door, the production crew was waiting for them. They would then take a


    short break, touch up their makeup, and continue with the next recording.


    After the editing, the production team would cut the scene to make it look like they went straight into the


    next room aftering out of the previous one.


    The female actress couldn''t hold back her emotions anymore and burst into tears.


    At this moment, her assistant and some production staff went up tofort her.


    They had seen what happened inside, but they couldn''t say anything to Tina, who had a powerful


    status.


    Tina pretended to scold the actress, but in reality, she was mocking Louis in order to vent her anger


    about what happened before.


    The male celebrity patted Louis'' shoulder and said, "Louis, you''re great."


    Louis nodded slightly in response.


    Later, Daphne walked over to Leanna and Zoe and picked up a ss of water, drinking as she asked,


    "When did you two arrive?"


    Leanna replied, "Not too long ago. How was the recording?"


    Daphne said, "Don''t even mention it. Mere 40 minutes killed billions of my brain cells. If it weren''t for


    your brother, we wouldn''t have made it out today."


    As they were talking, Louis walked over.


    Just as he stood still and before he even spoke, a girl from the production team rushed over and


    handed him a bottle of water. "I-I noticed that you didn''t bring an assistant, so please have this water to


    drink," she said.


    "Thank you, but I''m good," Louis replied.


    Upon hearing this, the girl didn''t insist and left disappointed.


    Louis sat next to Leanna, picked up the untouched bottle of water in front of him, opened it, and took a


    few sips.


    Leanna asked, "How are you doing with the recording?"


    "What do you mean?" Louis responded.


    "I mean, is it going well?"


    "It''s not that difficult," Louis replied with a nod.


    The production team had probably done some research on Louis beforehand, which was why they had


    upgraded the difficulty with the aim to confuse him and not make it too easy for them to solve it.


    If they were to follow the usual standards, the group should have figured it out by now.


    Daphne sighed. "I was worried that myck of intelligence would be exposed in this program, but


    luckily I found someone to rely on. Louis, we''re counting on you. I will always believe in you!"


    Suddenly, Louis choked on the water in his throat and coughed lightly.


    Leanna''s lips curved up, and she changed the topic at the right time. "I brought some fruits and cakes


    for you guys. Have some."

 Chapter 647

    Chapter 647


    Chapter 647 President Pearson and His Wife


    Since most restaurants were already closed at this time, they chose to eat at a cafe by the street. It


    was clean, hygienic, and delicious. Zoe had alreadye here for a meal with the girls from the studio


    before, so she was familiar with the owner.


    After they ordered, Leanna''s phone rang. It was Aidan.


    Leanna walked to the side and answered, "Hello?"


    Along with her voice came the sound of cars zooming by on the street.


    On the other end of the phone, Aidan paused before asking, "You''re not at home?"


    "Louis and Daphne were recording a show today. We waited for them to finish so we could eat


    together."


    "Have they finished yet?"


    "Yes, we''re already eating together."


    Aidan said, "Send me the address."


    Leanna asked, "Have you finished work?"


    Aidan replied with a grunt, "Yeah, I''lle and pick you up."


    Leanna smiled. "Okay."


    After hanging up, she sent Aidan the address and turned around before sitting down at the table.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna looked at Charlotte, who was yawning, and asked Zoe, "How much longer will Daphne and


    Louis take to get here?"


    "I just called them. They said in about ten minutes. When the food arrives, they should be here."


    Leanna nodded and turned to Charlotte. "If you''re really tired, you can go sleep in the car. I''ll bring you


    foodter."


    Charlotte rubbed her eyes, "No need. I''ll be fine when we start eating."


    Zoeughed and said, "I envy how easily you fall asleep. Once upon a time, I was like you; I could fall


    asleep as soon as I closed my eyes."


    Charlotte didn''t understand. "Don''t you sleep when you close your eyes? Why can''t you sleep?"


    "When you get a few years older, you''ll understand what insomnia is."


    Charlotte''s young age and regr sleep patterns made it impossible for her to fully experience


    insomnia.


    Zoe looked at Leanna and asked, "Who called you just now? President Pearson?"


    "Yes, he''sing over in a bit."


    "He''s so busy. When will he ever have time?"


    Leanna paused for a few seconds before smiling. "Soon."


    After ten minutes, Daphne and Louis arrived and their grilled food was served.


    Zoe looked at Daphne and sighed. "Why did Tina record the show with you?"


    Daphne raised her eyebrows. "Maybe because I''ve done a lot of bad things and have bad karma."


    "That''s outrageous. What were the organizers thinking? She didn''t even participate much during the


    entire recording process. When it airs, won''t she get criticized?"


    "I heard they brought her in to save the day. The organizers will edit more footage of her. Also, she''s


    smart; she knows when to show herself in front of the camera and get away with not working too hard."


    "No wonder I heard she received a lot of hate online, but her fans are trying to clear her name


    everywhere. She didn''t cause you any trouble, did she?" said Zoe.


    Thinking back to the few minutes before the recording, Daphne subconsciously looked at Louis. He


    opened a can of drink with one hand and ced it in front of her, just as she looked at him.


    Daphne quickly averted her gaze and said seriously, "Not really. Her tricks don''t work on me."


    While Daphne and Zoe were still chatting, Louis opened more drinks and ced them in front of


    Leanna, Zoe, and Charlotte.


    When Charlotte took her drink, her face turned slightly red as she said, "Thank you."


    Leanna asked Louis, "When will you finish recording this show?"


    "Around the end of this month."


    "After this show, does thepany have other arrangements for you?"


    Louis nodded. "Yes."


    Leanna was about to say something else when a ck limousine pulled up on the street beside them.


    A few secondster, Tina got out of the car.


    She looked at Daphne with her arms crossed and a smirk on her face. "Your friends waited for you all


    night and you treated them to this? If it were me, I wouldn''t do something like this. However, I have a


    solution. My friend opened a restaurant nearby, and if you use this card and say I sent you, the meal is


    on me. After all, we''ve been in this industry for so many years and we''re considered old friends, right?"


    Daphne remained unfazed and said calmly, "I don''t remember when we became friends."


    Tina wasn''t angry either; she just chuckled and covered her mouth. "Are you still hung up on that thing


    from so many years ago? You know me. I don''t tolerate bad people, especially homewreckers who


    break up families, so I got a little emotional at the time. I understand why you made that choice though.


    We work so hard to make money, and shortcuts are always weed. But you also need to have the


    luck to enjoy the benefits."


    Tina''s words were meant to embarrass Daphne in front of her friends and Louis, but to her surprise,


    they all remained silent and continued to eat their barbecue.


    Her smile faded a bit as she looked at Daphne and continued, "I''m only telling you this out of good


    intentions. The reason why you''re so arrogant and feel invincible is that President Pearson has been


    supporting you. He''s on good terms with his wife now, so he doesn''t have time for you. I suggest you


    give up and stop trying to break up other people''s families."


    Louis furrowed his brows and was about to stand up, but Daphne grabbed his arm.


    Leanna looked up at Tina and said, "Don''t you know that you can be held legally responsible for what


    you say?"


    Tina snorted. "I didn''t make this up. Everyone in the industry knows that she only got to where she is


    today because of the support from Pearson Group. They didn''t support others, but they supported her


    because she''s cunning and knows how to y the game. There are so many other stars and models


    under Pearson Group, but she''s the only one who has seeded because she''s the one who''s won


    President Pearson''s heart."


    Zoe added, "So, even if you''re right, it''s fine for President Pearson to do so because he spends money


    to promote someone who''s not only pretty but also talented and hardworking. Why would he support


    someone like you who''s ugly, speaks harshly, and has a bad attitude? Sour grapes!"


    Tina''s face instantly turned ugly as she yelled, "What did you say?"


    "I said what I said. I''m sure you understand that. But, if you want to hear it again, I can repeat it! Sour


    grapes! Sour grapes! Sour grapes!" Zoe said.


    Charlotte saw how Zoe was so passionate about defending their friend, and she didn''t want to lose to


    Zoe, so she stuttered, "S-Sour g-grapes!"


    Tina was livid and screamed angrily, "You''re all crazy! A bunch of lunatics! Like attracts like! You better


    watch out. I heard President Pearson''s wife isn''t a nice person. If she finds out about what''s going on


    between you and President Pearson, you''ll be done for!"

 Chapter 648

    Chapter 648


    Chapter 648 What Are You Looking At?


    "Who did you say I was cheating with?"


    As soon as Tina blurted her statement, an indifferent male voice sounded from behind her.


    Immediately, she froze and only turned around after standing still for a few seconds. She withdrew her


    proud expression, stared at the man in front of her, and stuttered, "P-President Pearson¡­"


    Standing on the spot, Aidan gazed at her calmly. "Tell me. Whom am I cheating with?"


    Tina was merely able to make such a bold statement in front of Daphne, and despite having the guts


    to, she wouldn''t dare say that in front of Aidan.


    Immediately, her face turned pale and she subconsciously clenched her fists tightly. Forcing a smile,


    she exined, "I-I was just joking with Daphne. There are rumors about it¡­"


    In a calm manner, Aidan countered, "Really? Are there rumors about it?"


    Tina felt uneasy all of a sudden as a chill ran down her spine. Hence, she tried to clear herself of


    suspicion. "I don''t know where it started, but asionally, rumors like that would spread¡­ But I


    definitely believe in you and Daphne."


    "So, you''re saying that you picked up rumors and talked nonsense in front of my wife?"


    Tina''s lips turned purple after she heard Aidan''s tone gradually turn cold. Immediately, she tried to save


    herself, "President Pearson, I don''t mean it that way. It was just a joke¡­ No, I shouldn''t have picked up


    rumors¡­ I swear I did it unintentionally."


    Turning sideways to nce at her, he remarked, "Your boss recently came to initiate a coboration


    with me. I guess it is unnecessary now."


    Her face turned ashen. It was true that her fame had risen sharply in the past two years and the


    company was willing to invest money and resources in her. However, if she became the main reason


    for thepany to lose potential cooperation with Pearson Group, her boss would never let her go


    easily.


    "President Pearson¡ª"


    Aidan''s patience had been exhausted. Coldly, he spat, "Get out."


    Not daring to stay any longer for fear of offending him, Tina hurriedly entered the car that was parked


    beside her. "Go, now!" she instructed the driver.


    After the car drove away, Tina was finally able to calm down. Btedly, she realized what Aidan had


    just said. Talk nonsense in front of my wife.


    Her expression distorted a little as she quickly fished out her phone and searched for information on


    Aidan''s wife online.


    Among the few photos she found, there was one that went viral before. It was a photo where they


    kissed in the rain, and only Leanna''s side profile was visible.


    After erging the photo to the maximum, she slumped into the seat.


    The woman in the photo was one of thedies looking for Daphne this afternoon.


    Tina, on the other hand, blurted those words unknowingly. Daphne must be mocking her statement in


    her heart.


    Exiting the page, Tina clenched her teeth.


    She then grabbed her phone again a few minutester and called her boss.


    I can''t just sit around like this.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Daphne, Zoe, and Charlotte stared at Aidan after Tina''s departure. All of them were


    shocked by his coldness and oppressiveness earlier.


    After scanning them, Aidan questioned, "What are you looking at?"


    All of them withdrew their gaze and continued eating with their heads lowered.


    Since he didn''t enjoy eating what they ate, Leanna suggested, "Why don''t you wait for me in the car? It


    might take some time for us to finish our food."


    Striding over and taking a seat beside her, Aidanmented, "I haven''t eaten yet."


    "Erm¡­ Should I order a sticky toffee pudding for you?"


    "Sure."


    Looking at the rest, Leanna asked, "Do you guys want one too?"


    Charlotte raised her hand. "Sure! I haven''t tried it before."


    "Okay," Leanna hummed.


    Walking over to the stall, she ordered two servings of sticky toffee pudding.


    The stickiness of the toffee pudding and the sweetness of the ice cream were a greatbination. It


    was her favorite dessert back in university.


    Leanna turned around and was about to return after paying for the food. It was then that she noticed


    people chatting under the yellow streetlights, creating a hustling and bustling scene. Aidan, who was in


    a suit, sat in front of the table with his sleeves rolled up. Despite looking out of ce, he somehow


    added a hint of chilly aura to the scene. He was the jarring element that made the dessert stall distinct.


    Everything else around him also seemed to integrate due to his presence.


    Watching the scene, Leanna smiled.


    Who would''ve thought that Aidan woulde to a dessert stall with her one day?


    Soon, the sticky toffee puddings were served to Aidan and Charlotte.


    Leanna passed them each a spoon. Charlotte couldn''t wait to have a taste of it. Due to the coolness of


    the ice cream, she couldn''t form a coherent sentence but stillplimented, "This is so good!"


    "Slow down and enjoy it." Leanna chuckled.


    "How does it taste?" She then turned to Aidan.


    Aidan ced the spoon down with a poker face. "Tastes alright. It''s too sweet for my liking, and the


    caramel isn''t creamy enough."


    Leanna was speechless at that. I shouldn''t have expected anything from a picky eater!


    "It''s still edible, though. It can at least fill my stomach," he added.


    She sighed inaudibly. "Why don''t you just leave it? I''ll make it for you again at home."


    "I''m not that picky."


    "Are you sure?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan nced at her with a nk expression.


    Leanna smiled and continued eating to avoid the topic.


    Due to the shoot tomorrow, everyone didn''t stay at the stall for too long. They left right after finishing


    their food.


    "Where are you staying now?" Leanna asked Louis.


    "I rented a ce."


    She nodded and suggested, "Why don''t you take my car and send Daphne back?"


    Daphne hurriedly waved her hand. "Nah. Save the trouble. I''ll call a cab."


    Zoe chimed in, "No way. It''ste now, and your driver isn''t here. Let Louis send you home."


    "We have a shoot tomorrow. Sending me home will be a waste of his time."


    Louis immediately took the hint. "The ce I rented is in the direction of your house. It''s on the way for


    me."


    Daphne was stunned for a moment, not knowing what to say until Zoe nudged her, "Did you hear that?


    It''s on the way, so you won''t be troubling him. Go on."


    Under such circumstances, Daphne figured that it wouldn''t be nice to reject them since they were her


    friends. Waving at Leanna and the rest, she made a move. "I''ll get going first then. Bye!"


    After watching them leave, Leanna uttered, "Let''s head back too."


    On the way home, Zoe and Charlotte sat in the backseat, enjoying the privilege of having Aidan as their


    driver for the first time. In fact, they were slightly thrilled about the experience.


    They could even brag about it for the next ten years or so!


    Since there was no traffic at night, it took them only about 10 minutes to reach their ce.


    Zoe dragged Charlotte away as soon as they got out of the car as she intended to give the couple


    privacy.

 Chapter 649

    Chapter 649


    Chapter 649 That Doesn¡¯t Apply to Him


    Leanna looked in the direction of the 24-hour convenience store andmented, "I''m going to get a


    bottle of water. Do you want anything?"


    "Nope. I''ll wait for you outside."


    "Okay. I''ll be back quickly!"


    After that, she jogged to the convenience store.


    When she came out of the store after making her purchase, Aidan was standing beside the road while


    staring into space. From the back, he looked cold and aloof.


    Leanna watched him for a little longer before walking up to him.


    Sensing her drawing near, Aidan withdrew his thoughts. "Let''s go."


    "Are you tired?" Leanna inquired.


    Then, she continued before he could reply, "If you don''t mind, can we stroll around the area? I wanna


    take a walk after the meal."


    Aidan hummed and strode forward in a leisurely manner.


    Leanna walked up to him. "You mentioned previously that you''re free to go on a vacation after two


    weeks, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "I thought about it and I think I''d be able to find time to do that. Where do you want to go?"


    Aidan''s lips curled upward. "Anywhere is fine. I''ll go along with your ns."


    "I''ll pick anywhere then? Don''tin when the timees."


    "When have I everined about you?"


    Somehow, that statement felt a little weird to Leanna.


    A hint of joy was present in Aidan''s dark orbs. Holding her hand, he exined, "I''ll go wherever you


    want to go."


    "Hmm¡­ When will your work be settled?"


    "In a week, probably."


    "Okay." Leanna nodded lightly.


    Only a few cars were seen on the road as it was midnight, so the two held hands and walked under the


    streetlights, their shadows gradually elongated.


    After a while, Leanna suddenly stopped in her tracks. "Aidan."


    "Hmm?"


    "Let''s register our marriage tomorrow."


    Aidan paused slightly and stayed mounted to the ground, suddenly unable to respond.


    "It won''t take too long for the marriage registration. Juste when you have time."


    Aidan turned to look at her with obsidian orbs. "What makes you want to register our marriage now?"


    Leanna looked sideways and pulled her hand out from his grasp before moving forward. "Well, I heard


    someone calling me your wife today, but we''re not legally married yet, so I figured that I can''t be taken


    advantage of like that. If you don''t want to, then forget it."


    Aidan hurriedly caught up to her and exined, "It''s not that I don''t want to, but it''s not the right time


    yet. Can we do itter?"


    "Later? When? A monthter? Three monthster? Or a yearter?" Leanna turned sideways to look at


    him. "Tell me. Why can''t we do it now?"


    Aidan went silent.


    "Be honest. Are you hiding something from me?" Leanna questioned in a serious tone.


    After a few seconds, Aidan replied, "I''m not trying to hide anything from you. I just want to tell you about


    it after everything is settled."


    It was Leanna''s turn to go silent this time. Without prodding him any further, she decided, "Okay, then.


    But remember, you were the one who rejected me this time. We''ll register our marriage only when I''m


    in the mood to next time."


    Aidan was evidently confused.


    "A month? Three months? Or a yearter?" he asked.


    Leanna quirked her brow. "I can''t tell for sure yet. Another three to five years could be possible."


    Aidan was speechless.


    "Alright. I''m tired. Let''s head home."


    Even after arriving home, Aidan didn''t give up. "Is there no room for discussion?"


    "Nope."


    "Okay. Let''s go tomorrow."


    Leanna grabbed the clothes and entered the bathroom. "Nope."


    "Didn''t you say¡ª"


    "Don''t you know that women are fickle?"


    Aidan went silent.


    Leanna waved her hand and shut the bathroom door, leaving Aidan standing on the spot with his arms


    attached to his hips as he snorted.


    ¡­


    At night, Leannay in bed and looked out at the bright moon outside, not at all sleepy. Instead, she felt


    even more awake.


    Her assumptions were right. Aidan was indeed hiding something from her. Moreover, it wasn''t an


    insignificant one.


    It could be rted to the entire Pearson Group, and he was worried about implicating her. That could


    be why he declined her request to register their marriage tomorrow.


    What on earth is he up to?


    Just as Leanna was lost in thought, Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist and whispered in her


    ear, "What are you thinking, honey?"


    "Nothing. I just can''t sleep."


    "Can''t sleep?" Aidan raised a brow.


    Leanna said nothing.


    All of a sudden, he seemed to be energetic.


    Leanna shut her eyes. "Don''t talk to me. I''ll fall asleep soon."


    "I wasn''t even talking just now. Weren''t you awake too?"


    Leanna stopped his hands from roaming around her waist and opened her eyes. "I have a question to


    ask."


    Aidan nted a soft kiss behind her ear. "Hmm?"


    Leanna hissed at him to express her disdain, making him stop his actions and turn serious. "What is


    it?"


    "You said you''ve noticed how Louis already fell for Daphne a long time ago, didn''t you?"


    "Yes."


    "Don''t young men in their twenties want to confess their feelings when they meet a girl they like? Don''t


    they have¡­ thoughts about being with her?"


    "How did youe to this conclusion?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "I think Louis likes Daphne, but his behavior sometimes seems so unpredictable. It''s like¡­ he likes her,


    but he''s only hovering on the edge all the time and doesn''t seem to have thoughts about taking the


    rtionship a step further."


    "What kind of progress are you trying to say?"


    His statement made Leanna go speechless.


    Angrily, she huffed, "Can you be serious with me?!"


    Aidan''s palm stopped moving, indicating that he was listening to her.


    Leanna continued, "I''m just trying to ask if boys in their twenties behave the same way. Do they stop


    pursuing a girl they like after meeting them?"


    "That doesn''t apply to him."


    "But¡­"


    "Are you trying to say that Zayn didn''t confess to you either at 20?"


    Unable to hold back, Leanna kicked him. "Get out."


    Aidan exined, "I''m trying to analyze this matter with you objectively and rationally. The reason Zayn


    didn''t confess to you is that he knows that you reciprocated his feelings, and he wanted to have a


    bright future with you. On the contrary, Louis didn''t confess because he knows that there''s no future


    with Daphne."


    Leanna was initially upset, but upon hearing his exnation, she fell into a brief daze. "But why?"


    "Do you think you''re the only one who hates Jethro?"


    Leanna was dumbfounded upon hearing the mention of that name.


    Instantly, she was enlightened.


    Louis didn''t just hate Jethro, he even felt embarrassed for having thetter as his father.


    Even though Jethro was dead now after doing all those nasty things, his spiteful acts were like a curse


    that intertwined with Louis'' life, making it hard for him to get rid of them.

 Chapter 650

    Chapter 650


    Chapter 650 What Are You Up To?


    When Aidan saw Leanna standing in a daze, he leaned over and kissed her forehead. "Alright. You


    don''t have to worry about him. He''s an adult now. He must push through the mental barriers that stand


    in his way."


    After hearing that, she shook her head in response. "It''s not a mental barrier. Jethro is Jethro, and


    Louis is himself. What Jethro did has no bearing on how Louis acted. Simply put, my brother cannot


    ept that fact. As a result, he is constantly filled with guilt and believes that his existence was a


    mistake. He thinks of himself as detestable simply because he is Jethro''s son. This is the stumbling


    block my brother must ovee." Then, she looked into his eyes and spoke after a brief silence.


    "What if he can''t?"


    "If he can''t, he will be tied down to these things for life and will never be able to move forward."


    "Does that mean he is now ming himself for everything that happened in the past that had nothing to


    do with him and trying to give up on himself to make amends?"


    Meeting Leanna''s eyes, Aidan softly hummed after a long while.


    "Do you think Louis will be able to free himself from all these once he has done what he thinks he has


    to do?"


    "Maybe."


    After another long pause, she uttered, "Okay. I''ll try to talk to him."


    "Those thoughts have already taken root in his heart. You might be unable to persuade him even if you


    talk to him."


    "I should still try."


    After hearing that, Aidan pulled Leanna into his embrace. "That''s enough. Your time is up. Now go to


    sleep."


    Then, she snuggled into his chest without another word.


    People were naturally good at seeing the big picture when they were on the sidelines, and that was


    how it has always been. However, it was difficult to persuade oneself of anything when staring down


    the barrel of one''s problem. Who would have guessed her brother was also a character in his own


    world?


    ¡­


    After Louis sent Daphne home, she exited the car and said, "You should go home now. It''ste."


    Then, he looked at her while gripping the steering wheel. "Is your driver going toe tomorrow?"


    She did notprehend his meaning, but she nodded nheless. "Yeah."


    "See you tomorrow then," he responded.


    After hearing that, Daphne waved at him. "See you tomorrow. Drive safe!" After saying that, she


    entered her house.


    Then, Louis watched her figure enter the building before driving away.


    After getting off the elevator, she saw a man at the entrance of her house and frowned. "Why are you


    here?"


    The man crumpled his cigarette and responded, "I asked around and heard that your shooting had


    already ended. Why are you back sote?"All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    "It''s none of your business." While saying that, Daphne was about to use her fingerprint to unlock the


    door.


    Seeing that, the man tried to grab her arm. "Can you please give me another chance, Daphne? I have


    already divorced my wife. What happened back then was totally out of my control. I didn''t know she


    would be so insane¡ª"


    With a nk expression, she uttered, "I have no interest in your family affairs, so please leave. I''m


    going to call the police if you don''t."


    Then, the man snickered in response. "I don''t mind if you wish to see news about us going to the police


    station together in the middle of the night."


    After hearing that, she furrowed her brows and questioned, "Are you out of your mind?"


    "Yes, I am. Do you know how I survived for the past few years? I''ve missed you so much that I think


    I''ve fallen sick."


    "Please seek a doctor in that case. Don''t make a fuss at my ce."


    "I know that Pearson Group has provided you with numerous resources over thest two years, but I


    still have the authority to speak with Aidan Pearson. Do you think you are more important than his


    interests? Besides, rookies are everywhere down the street. What makes you think Pearson Group will


    not prefer to make other rookies famous?"


    In a calm tone, Daphne rebuked, "I don''t care whom Pearson Group ns to make a star, so go ahead


    and tell President Pearson to keep me under the basement. I don''t care. I want you to leave right now."


    Narrowing his eyes, the man snorted, "Don''t assume you can challenge me solely based on your


    growing fame. Believe it or not, I can ruin your entire career with the snap of my fingers!"


    "Then, what are you waiting for?"


    Seeing how stubborn she was, he exploded into anger. Then, he yanked her arm violently. "ying


    push and pull with me, huh? Even if I took advantage of you right here, no one could do a thing to me,


    but you, on the other hand, will have to back out like what you did a few years back!"


    After hearing those words, Daphne pped his face hard and sneered, "Sure. Let''s go to hell together!"


    Nevertheless, he was probably unprepared for the sudden p and was stunned for a few seconds.


    At that moment, the elevator door opened. A figure showed up in front of them.


    While the man was dumbfounded, Daphne quickly withdrew her hand and turned around to fix her


    cardigan, which had fallen off her shoulder during the dispute. Suddenly, his face turned as dark as


    coal. He intended to vent his anger, but someone was looking at them. The man wanted to settle


    ounts with her after the boy had left. Much to his dismay, the boy walked up to them.


    Standing before her, Louis fished out something from his pocket. "You left your lipstick in my car."


    Then, she took it and smiled at him lightly. "Thanks. You can go home now." Her response clearly


    showed that she did not want him to get involved.


    However, the man scanned them up and down and questioned meaningfully, "What rtionship are


    you guys in?"


    "It''s none of your business. Now leave!" Daphne snapped.


    When the man heard that, he smiled strangely, smoothed his cor, and entered the elevator.


    Once he left, she stuffed her lipstick into her bag while turning to Louis. "It''s gettingte. Drive safe."


    Hearing that, he nodded in response.


    After saying that, she scanned her fingerprint again, unlocked the door, and shut the door immediately


    after entering her house.


    Then, Louis withdrew his gaze and strode away.


    In the meantime, the man was leaning against his vehicle and puffing on a cigarette down in the


    parking lot. Watching Louising out, he teased, "Are you the new artist under Daphne''spany?


    Why did youe to her house in the middle of the night to pass her her lipstick? What are you up to?"


    Without answering him, Louis walked up to him.


    Seeing that, the man clicked his tongue. "Well, what can I say about Daphne¡­ She''s pretty, has a


    great figure, and is fun to y with in bed. No wonder you''ve fallen head over heels for¡ª" Before he


    could finish his sentence, he was struck in the face.


    On the other hand, the man couldn''t even defend himself before being tackled to the ground and


    repeatedly punched in the face and body. Faced with such vicious assaults, he was utterly powerless to


    resist and could only howl in agony. Eventually, a few security guards noticed the scene and pulled


    them away from each other. After that, the man covered his face and called someone.


    On the contrary, Louis stood on the spot with a darkened expression. ring at the man with obsidian


    eyes, he threatened, "I dare you to approach her again."


    "Who do you think you are? How dare you speak to me like that?!"


    "I''m a worthless nobody, but I reckon you''re not ready to die yet."

 Chapter 651

    Chapter 651


    Chapter 651 I Just Beat Him Up


    Perhaps, Louis'' gaze was so intimidating that Theodore Frost shuddered. Louis looked as if he was a


    man of his word.


    Previously, Theodore had no qualms about going to the police station with Daphne because it would


    only harm her reputation, which had nothing to do with him. However, if he were to end up at the police


    station with a brat, he would lose his pride. The spark in their romance would be the icing on the cake,


    but it would do him no good if word got out about his fight with a young man. Moreover, he had to work


    on an important uing project soon.


    After straightening his cor, Theodore spat a mouthful of blood before sneering, "Come against me if


    you have the guts to. I''ll be waiting for you!" Leaving Louis with those words, he turned around and


    entered the car beside him.


    When the guards heard that the victim didn''t intend to pursue the matter, they let go of Louis. One of


    the senior guards even advised him, "Hey, brat. Talk it out if a conflict arises. Don''t do anything out of


    impulse. You look pretty young, though. You must be a student. What if you end up in the police


    station?"


    Louis went silent for a few seconds before replying, "He showed up in front of my girlfriend''s house in


    the middle of the night, trying to harass her."


    "What?!" The security guards widened their eyes upon hearing his statement.


    One of the security guards said, "If I had known, I wouldn''t have stopped you! You should''ve beaten


    him up!"


    "It''s hard to believe a beast was hiding behind that respectable facade!"


    "What a jerk!"


    "A b*stard!"


    "Scumbag!"


    "If you see him around next time, please let me know," Louis uttered while looking at them.


    The security guards agreed righteously. "Don''t worry, young man. We work by shifts here, but we can


    still recall his appearance. We will notify all staff tomorrow to keep an eye on him and prevent him from


    entering our housing area!"


    "Thank you."


    "No worries. This is our job, but should we call the police instead?"


    "Calling the police will affect my girlfriend''s career. He will probably control himself from tonight


    onwards. Please let me know when you see him next time," Louis said.


    One of the guards patted his shoulders and sighed. "I get it. We''re all just trying to make ends meet.


    Your girlfriend must have it hard to meet such a jerk boss. Tell her to get a new job instead. Anyway,


    you seem like a responsible boyfriend. If I were you, I probably wouldn''t have the courage to do the


    same thing."


    Another guard chimed in, "No problem, young man. We''ll make sure your girlfriend stays safe."


    Before Louis left, he left them his phone number. Then, he went to the convenience store nearby to get


    a few packs of cigarettes for the security guards before he left.


    Sitting in the car, he looked around at the housing area before his eyes darkened. He couldn''t imagine


    what might have happened if Daphne hadn''t left her lipstick in the car. At that moment, he gradually


    tightened his grip on the steering wheel. After a while, he withdrew his gaze and called Keaton.


    After that, he filled Keaton in on what had happened and inquired whether he knew the man in


    question.


    After hearing that, Keaton questioned tentatively, "Could you be talking about Theodore Frost?"


    "Who''s that?"


    "He is Daphne''s ex-boyfriend. Hence, when she became famous in the first few years after her debut,


    she attracted many pursuers. Theodore was one of the men who tried the hardest, and none of the


    women could resist his pursuits."


    After he heard that, Louis pursed his lips. "What happened after that?"


    "After Theodore and Daphne got together for a few months, his wife exposed them and used


    Daphne of ruining her family. He and his wife were childhood sweethearts and had been married for a


    long time, but since they lived separately, no one from Highside knew about his marriage. After it was


    exposed, Daphne immediately broke up with him and held a press conference to apologize publicly.


    Unfortunately, his wife didn''t buy it. She cooperated with many media outlets to ruin Daphne''s


    reputation. At that time, nearly the whole Inte was bashing her. Due to that, she went on a hiatus for


    quite some time. She only managed to make aeback after swiping major awards for a movie three


    years ago."


    "So, that man I bumped into today was that same jerk," Louis muttered.


    "Theodore and his wifee from influential families, or they wouldn''t have been able to ruin her


    reputation. You didn''t do anything to him, did you?"


    "Nope. I just beat him up."


    Keaton was stunned by his response and remarked, "It''s not a big deal. I''ll try to find out why he went


    to look for Daphne and update you."


    "Sure."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, Daphne sat beside the couch, wrapped her arms around her knees, and fell into a


    daze. It took her some time to gather her thoughts. Then, she picked up her phone and checked the


    time. It had been more than an hour since Louis left. She scrolled for his name on her phone, but her


    fingers hovered above the screen as she hesitated. Eventually, she quit the contact directory, opened


    the chatbox, and sent him a message asking if he had reached home. Since he didn''t reply


    immediately, she ced her phone down and entered the bathroom. Afterward, she turned on her


    phone aftering out of the shower.


    Louis sent a reply to her ten minutes ago that he had arrived home.


    In the meantime, Daphne sat on the couch, editing her sentences repeatedly. After typing a long


    paragraph, she deleted them all. She repeated the same action several times before lying down on the


    couch.


    The post about my rtionship with Theodore is still avable online, and anti-fans would asionally


    attack me with it. Fortunately, Louis has no interest in entertainment news, so he is unaware of this. I


    can''t keep that secret from him forever, so there''s no point in trying. Despite this, I don''t want him to


    learn anything about my trashy past. With that thought, she sighed and picked up her phone again as


    shey on the couch.


    Then, Daphne texted Louis. ''We have a shoot to do tomorrow. You should get some rest. Goodnight.''


    After sending the message, she returned to the bedroom and plopped onto the bed.


    ¡­


    The following day, in the afternoon, Freya entered Theodore''s office. She smirked after observing him


    for a while. "What''s that on your face, Mr. Frost? Did you bump into gangsters on your way homest


    night?"


    With a glum expression, he retorted, "It''s none of your business."


    His reaction earned a chuckle from her. "Sorry for crossing the line. Let''s move on to discuss our


    coboration."


    After Freya brought up the topic, Theodore uttered, "I heard about the new project in New Coast by


    Pearson Group. I don''t think it''ll be hard for me to get the coboration. In other words, I can take it


    down alone, so I have no reason to work with you."


    Then, she sat across from him, crossed her legs, and lighted a cigarette. "I do not doubt that, but I''ve


    also heard you''re not an honest businessman, Mr. Frost. Aidan Pearson hates people like you the


    most. Do you think he''ll let you go once he learns about the nefarious things you do behind the


    scenes?"


    "No businessman is honest. Did you think Aidan Pearson is innocent after securing the president


    position in Pearson Group within a few years and even ruining the entire Pearson Family?"

 Chapter 652

    Chapter 652


    Chapter 652 How Do You Remember More


    Freya raised an eyebrow and flicked the ashes off the end of her cigarette. "You''re not wrong, Mr.


    Frost. You and Aidan are simply two sides of the same coin. However¡ª"


    "However, what?" Theodore asked.


    "You, on the other hand, are the worthless one while he is covered in gold." Before he could burst out


    in rage, she continued, "Oh, don''t be angry, Mr. Frost. I''m not putting you down. I merely think you


    vastly underestimate Aidan. Since you want the Pearson Group''s project, you should be prepared,


    right? I promise our coboration will greatly benefit you."


    He briefly narrowed his eyes at her before stating, "I am amenable to the coboration, but I have two


    conditions."


    "Speak."


    "I want 70% of all profits."


    Freya smiled in response. "That will not be a problem. What''s your second condition?"


    "I want to meet your boss," Theodore dered.


    After hearing that, her smile froze before slowly slipping off her face.


    Then, he lightly tapped the desk with his pen. "Well? We''re going to be working together. Does your


    superior still not n on meeting me in person?"


    "It''s nothing like that; his identity is simply quite distinct. Meeting you in person would only cause you


    unnecessary trouble."


    "I''m not a coward who has never been through challenges." Theodore then put his pen down and


    leaned back in his chair. "If you can''t even show a smidgeon of sincerity, we have no reason to work


    together. I''m sure I could round up some more honest and reliable coborators to work with."


    Hearing that, Freya snuffed out her cigarette. "Okay. I understand. I''ll convey your message."


    "I''ll be waiting to hear from you."


    After that, she left the office and returned to the hotel.


    "What did he say?" Joseph asked.


    "He wants to meet with you, or he won''t agree to work with us," Freya replied.


    He smirked and stated, "He is very good at ensuring he has a way out of the deal."


    "Would you meet with him?"


    Then, he sat down on the couch. "I remember he has a private jewelry gallery, right?"


    After hearing that, she lit a cigar. "I think so. His mother loved jewelry and had quite a huge collection


    before her death. That collection was ced in his private jewelry gallery after she died."


    "Tell him to open the gallery to the public and invite people worldwide to visit it, including the jewelry


    designers."


    "You''re¡ª"


    "Both Aidan and Leanna are too cautious. Charlotte is with them, so the average way of approaching


    her would only make them suspicious. In that case, we have to create our own opportunities. If we


    keep waiting for news from their side, we might be waiting forever."


    "Very well. I understand. I''ll pass the reply to Theodore now."


    Theodore was in a bad mood for a long time when he heard their request to open up his personal


    collection to the public and invite all the jewelry designers. After weighing the pros and cons of the


    partnership, he reluctantly agreed to the request. After that, he ordered his subordinates to handle the


    matter.


    Three dayster, Leanna received an invitation.


    Zoe leaned in close and asked, "What is it?"


    Then, Leanna read the invitation. "A private collector is opening his collection to the public. From how


    the invitation is worded, he must have also invited many designers."


    "How can that be? Is it for charity?" Zoe asked.


    On the other hand, Charlotte, who was sipping her cup of bubble tea nearby,mented, "Some


    wealthy people are exactly like that. They like to show off some of their possessions and brag about


    them when bored. This helps them feel better about themselves and satisfies their ego."


    "Why do you know so much?"


    "My dad did it before. He frequently invited all the men he knew to view his private collection of


    antiques and famous artworks. Our basement was filled with his collection."


    After hearing that, Leanna was rendered speechless.


    Zoe was speechless as well. How wonderful it is to be wealthy; having wealth ensures one can enjoy


    life to the fullest. Then, she asked, "Will you be going, Nana?"Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "I haven''t made up my mind." Leanna had recently run out of inspiration for her designs. She was


    starting to realize she did not know what she was drawing. Suddenly, there was a chance to view a


    private collection of jewelry that contained a few of the existing legendary jewelry pieces. As a jewelry


    designer, she was inevitably enticed by the opportunity to see the collection up close.


    Nheless, Zoe could tell what she was thinking. "Just go. You must be bored of sitting around all


    day here. It will be nice for you to go out for some fresh air. A change in mindset would be good."


    Leanna took a quick nce at the time written on the invitation. She saw that the event was scheduled


    for Saturday, the day after tomorrow. Afterward, she nodded. "Very well."


    Charlotte''s eyes went wide with yearning. "Can you bring me with you?"


    Leanna chuckled. "Okay. Let''s go together."


    "I won''t be going with you," Zoe dered. "This little brat in me has been rather fussytely. He''s


    ufortable with crowded ces."


    "Okay," Leanna said. "Have a good rest this weekend."


    Later that evening, as she was getting in bed, Leanna told Aidan about the invitation.


    He softly hummed in response. "Buy anything that catches your eye. I''ll pay."


    She smiled. "They are a private collector. Nothing will be for sale."


    "That''s because the price is not right. There''s nothing in the world that money cannot do."


    Leanna was rendered speechless by that. Yes, he''s right. With money, you can make friends with


    anyone in the world. Later, she closed her eyes. "I''m going to sleep now."


    "Have you thought about where to go?" Aidan asked.


    "Nope, but I still have time. Why the rush?"


    However, her response left him bewildered. Then, Aidan silently thought about whether he had


    offended her. It was a while before he eventually said, "It seems like you''ll be on your period soon."


    Leanna''s eyes snapped open upon hearing that. "Why do you remember that more clearly than I do?


    "That''s because you get angry with me every time."


    She silently stared at him.


    Later, he slipped a hand into her clothes and softly said, "Let''s cherish this time, honey."


    Before Leanna could say a word, Aidan''s lips covered hers. It waste at night when they were done.


    After taking a shower, she sat at the desk but could not fall asleep.


    So, he walked over to her. "The designer sent us images of two new designs based on your chosen


    dress. Which one do you like more? If you don''t like either of them, we can have her change her


    designs."


    She shot him a look. "I now understand why so many people curse at you behind your back."


    He silently stared at her upon hearing her statements.


    "With a client like you, I would rather quit the industry," she continued.


    Aidan leaned down and gripped her jaw as his dark eyes narrowed. "What are you saying?"


    Leanna smiled in response. "It''s apliment." She then picked up the tablet. "Where are the


    designs? Show me. To tell you the truth, after working for clients for so many years, it is a wee


    change to finally be one of them."

 Chapter 653

    Chapter 653


    Chapter 653 Even the Gods Were Jealous


    2.00PM, Saturday.


    Charlotte and Leanna arrived at the jewelry gallery listed on the invitation. As Leanna expected, many


    designers had received the same invitation. She was greeted by many familiar faces the moment she


    stepped out of the car. There were also quite a few celebrities invited, including Tina.


    A group of bodyguards escorted Tina into the building as soon as she stepped out of the car. She did


    not spare a nce at the people surrounding her, so she overlooked Leanna and Charlotte.


    Seeing that, Charlotte curiously asked, "Is she someone to keep hidden from society and the sun? Why


    do they keep her surrounded?"


    Leanna chuckled upon hearing her remarks. "That is likely."


    "Poor unfortunate soul," Charlotte said with sympathy.


    "Let''s head inside," Leanna said.


    It could not be consideredrge or small because it was a private gallery and was onlyrge enough to


    fit a few dozen people in the building. The interior lighting was dim and of a cool white hue. The jewelry


    was disyed in ss cases that were subtly illuminated from below. In addition, an employee stood


    by each ss showcase to field inquiries from the invited designers.


    Leanna knew most of the history behind the jewelry pieces being showcased, but there were some she


    had never seen before.


    Suddenly, Charlotte stopped before the ss cases and said to her, "This piece is so beautiful,


    Leanna."


    When she heard that, Leanna walked over to find a ring within the ss showcase. In contrast to the


    borate jewelry pieces in the gallery, the ring appeared rather in, except for the pink gemstone set


    in the center. The ring''s beauty consisted entirely of its minute, intricate details. It was regarded as one


    of the rings that captivated amateurs, while experts were subconsciously drawn to it.


    Seeing their interest, the employee standing beside the showcase introduced the ring. "You have great


    tastes. This is thete Madame''s favorite ring before she passed away. She loved it so much that she


    could not bear to wear it."


    Leanna''s eyes were trained on the ring. "Can you tell us about its history?"


    "Certainly," replied the employee. "What we know about its pastes from thete Madame. It might


    not contain every detail, but the story isrgely urate."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Very well."


    "Thete Madame said that about thirty years ago, a rich young man made a lot of effort tomission


    someone to make this ring for his proposal to his girlfriend. The stone is an extremely rare gemstone


    that means, ''I wish to give you a lifetime of romance.'' They were the target of everyone''s envy. Later


    on, during a charity auction, the event was at risk of being canceled because no one wanted to donate


    anything important. After discussing it with her husband, the woman who was proposed to at the time


    decided to donate her engagement ring. She said that she and her husband were thrilled with their life,


    so the ring should go on to help those who needed more help than she did. Everyone was shocked that


    she would actually auction off this priceless ring. Those in high society who had been shirking from


    contributing anything to charity events became too embarrassed to continue staying silent. Hence, the


    auction was a sess. As for the ring, our Madame eventually bought it. She frequently stated that it is


    more than a ring but a symbol of love. No one may ever get to see such love in their lifetime."


    Charlotte hung onto every word the employee said. When the story ended, she eximed enviously,


    "They must now live a life of great happiness. Thirty years... Their children must be married by now."


    "Perhaps, even the Gods were jealous of their love," the employee said with a sigh. "Over 20 years


    ago, the entire family died in an explosion in their home."


    Leanna froze in ce when she heard that.


    Charlotte was visibly shocked and asked, "Why did it happen?"


    The employee shook their head. "I don''t know the details. All I know is what I heard from thete


    Madame."


    Charlotte was about to ask another question when she was interrupted by a man calling from behind


    her. "Charlotte? Miss McKinney?"


    Charlotte turned around to face the speaker. "Uncle Joseph¡ª"


    "Why are you crying?" Joseph asked.


    When she heard that, she reached up to rub her eyes and discovered they were wet. "I was moved by


    how touching the ring''s history was," she whispered in reply.


    After that, he chuckled. "You really are still a little girl."


    Meanwhile, Leanna closed her eyes and took a deep breath before turning around to look at him. "Mr.


    Woodley."


    When Joseph noticed her red-rimmed eyes, he asked, "Were you also touched by this story?"


    However, she faintly smiled at him but did not respond verbally.


    Then, the employee slightly bowed at them before moving to the side.


    "Why are you here, Uncle Joseph?" Charlotte asked.


    "I heard there was a jewelry exhibition today, so I came to have a look. I didn''t expect to bump into


    you," he replied. He then added, "I just arrived. Shall we look around together?"


    "Okay," Charlotte answered with a nod.


    Joseph then gestured for them to walk ahead of him.


    Throughout their time at the gallery, Leanna remained somewhat distracted and utterly uninterested in


    the jewelry on disy. Suddenly, an employee who was walking past them inadvertently ran into her.


    Out of habit, she fell to the side. However, someone caught her. "Are you okay, Miss McKinney?"


    She snapped back to her senses and quickly regained her bnce. "Thank you. I''m fine."


    At that moment, Joseph withdrew his hand and asked, "You seem unwell. Is it because of how stuffy


    the air is?"


    She nodded in response and said, "I''ll head outside for now. Please look after Charlotte."


    "You''re being too polite. In any case, I am responsible for looking after her," he responded.


    So, she hurriedly nodded and told Charlotte before striding out of the gallery.


    The moment Leanna stepped outside, she was met with the sun''s blinding re. She stood there for a


    while, looking for a store where she could buy a bottle of water. However, after looking around, she


    realized no convenience stores or supermarkets nearby. In addition, she would have to drive to a store.


    After looking at the time, she decided to wait for Charlotte first.


    When she had found a ce to rest, Joseph emerged from the building and approached her. Following


    behind him was an employee of the gallery.


    "Do you feel better, Miss McKinney?" Joseph asked.


    "Much better," she answered.


    "I''ve asked for a ss of warm water from the employees," he said.


    As he said that, the employee following him stepped forward and held a tray out to her.


    Leanna hesitated for a moment before epting the offered ss of water. "Thank you."


    As the employee walked away, she sipped water before asking, "Charlotte¡ª"


    "She''s not a kid anymore," Joseph interrupted. "There is no need to worry."

 Chapter 654

    Chapter 654


    Chapter 654 Just in Time


    After that response, Leanna kept quiet and held onto her ss of water.


    Then, Joseph nced at the bench and asked her, "Do you mind if I sit here?"


    "Please, sit," she replied. "It is meant for public use, after all."


    Before sitting down, he straightened his outfit. "You are a jewelry designer. I trust you are very familiar


    with all the pieces exhibited today?"


    "You tter me. There are plenty I have never seen before." Then, she asked, "Has your car been


    repaired?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    "The repairs arepleted," he answered. "It is only a bit of paint. It''s nothing much. Please do not be


    so worried about it."


    After a brief pause, Leanna abruptly asked, "I remember you once mentioned you returned to Highside


    because you heard something had happened in Jamesdon. Have you found the information you were


    looking for?"


    Joseph had likely not expected her to be so frank as he froze briefly before chuckling. "Your words


    seem to hint at a specific question."


    "I don''t think there''s a need to beat around the bush," she stated. "You and I both know who is involved


    in the Jamesdon incident. Since you are here specifically for that reason, I believe I need to be clear


    with my questions."


    "Yes, you''re right. I came to Highside because I wanted to know what was happening. Now, I have a


    pretty good idea of what happened and the answers to my questions. Don''t worry, though. I didn''te


    to Highside to target the Pearson Group or do anything to Aidan. I had been keeping an eye on the


    development in this city, so I seized the chance to get a few business deals done. The few projects I''m


    working on are wrapping up soon, so I''ll leave the city when the time is right."


    After hearing that, Leanna pursed her lips. "I''m sorry. I didn''t mean to sound like I''m chasing you off."


    Nheless, Joseph shot her a warm smile. "I understand and know that it''s inevitable for you to be


    wary of strangers after what you''ve been through. That''s normal. My only concern about leaving the


    city is Charlotte. She''s unwilling to return to Jamesdon, so I''ll have to trouble you to look after her for a


    while longer."


    The two of them sat outside for a while. Suddenly, the chattering from the people inside the gallery


    rose in volume as if something had happened.


    Charlotte is still inside the gallery. Leanna hurriedly stood up to see what was happening. The moment


    she walked near the gallery entrance, she heard the whispers.


    "That girl must be a fan of Daphne. Tina did that on purpose, but that girl still fell for it. After all, Tina is


    so high in the social hierarchy that even Daphne has to be cautious of her."


    "What can I say? That girl is too naive. Still, she must be a true fan of Daphne. She''s so bold. No one


    else would have the guts to publicly criticize Tina in such a crowded ce."


    "Yes. Now that I think of it, I do admire Daphne. I wish I had a fan who would defend me so fervently."


    Leanna nced at the two gossiping women. They were celebrities who might not be very popr but


    would be frequently seen in the major film productions of the year. Charlotte must be the girl they''re


    referring to. So, she picked up the pace and entered the gallery.


    She only took a few steps when she heard Tina''s voice soaring above the crowd''s chatter. "People are


    still debating about this online. There''s no use saying anything to me. I didn''t ask her to be a


    homewrecker."


    It was apparent that Charlottecked experience when it came to debating someone who was so two-


    faced. Her face was flushed with rage, as evidenced by how she spoke. "You''re lying! She''s not that


    kind of person. You''re... You''re just¡ª" She racked her brain for a long while, yet she could not recall a


    single word Zoe used to insult Tina. Hence, Charlotte resorted to the most basic and elegant retort,


    "You''re just jealous!"


    Tina sighed in response. "Girl, I understand how you feel, but I really am not jealous of her over this.


    Even as a fan, you should know what''s right and wrong. You need to have some morals. You cannot


    abandon all sense of morality just for one person."


    By the end of Tina''s speech, Leanna finally made her way to the center of themotion. She pulled


    Charlotte aside and coldly said to Tina, "Is insulting and making life hard for a young woman in front of


    a crowd within the limits of your morality?"


    Tina''s haughty sneer faded slightly when she spotted Leanna. Still, she shot back, "You can''t say that. I


    was just talking to my friend. She barged into our conversation and insisted on arguing with me. Also, I


    feel quite embarrassed to be doing this in public. How can you say I''m giving her a hard time?"


    "You have work today, don''t you? Did you take a day off just toe here and gossip with your friend


    about some rumors?" Leanna asked.


    "I am here to view the exhibition. Why would I have the time to talk about such inane gossip?" Tina


    rebuked.


    "Oh!" Leanna said with an expressionless face. "So, you took a day off filming just toe here to view


    the jewelry exhibition, yet you ignore all the jewelry around you after entering the gallery. Instead, you


    came here to discuss a controversial topic before her."


    "I¡ª" Suddenly, Tina found herself at a loss for words. She was at the gallery because she heard that it


    belonged to Theodore.


    It would be inappropriate for her to bring up the past without the male protagonist making another


    appearance. Thus, she came here for a chance to do so. While walking around, she noticed one of the


    friends Daphne had dined with the other day. Charlotte looked rtively young and simple-minded, so


    she should be easy to manipte. That was why Tina chose to target Charlotte.


    On the other hand, the celebrities who attended the exhibition knew about the scandal between


    Daphne and Tina. They could tell that Tina was picking a fight as well. However, the conflict had


    nothing to do with them, so they stood aside and watched. To their surprise, Leanna would expose


    Tina''s underlying motives and put her in a tough spot.


    When Tina only had one target, she would strike back, yet she now had to suppress her rage.


    At that moment, Theodore walked through the crowd to stand before them. "What happened?"


    When she saw him, Tina could not resist smiling. He shows up just in time. So, she crossed her arms


    before her chest andnguidly dered, "Nothing much. That girl seems to be Daphne''s fan. She has


    opinions about me. Why don''t you tell her if I was spreading nder about Daphne, Mr. Frost?"


    He nced at her before he turned his attention to Charlotte. He was audibly reluctant as he said,


    "While I did date Daphne once, that is all in the past. We can''t say it''s her fault, either. I am partially


    responsible for what happened. Please direct all your anger at me. Do not attack her."

 Chapter 655

    Chapter 655


    Chapter 655 What Do We Do Now?


    The gallery had been tensely silent until Theodore''s statement, at which point the atmosphere abruptly


    became awkward. He seemed to be standing up for Daphne, but he admitted that she had been his


    mistress.


    In an instant, the celebrities watching grew excited. Thetest turn of events would likely spark a brutal


    war among online fans.


    Leanna stared at him and calmly responded, "Yes. Of course, you are responsible. Shouldn''t you be on


    your knees to express your sorrow because you know you''re at fault? Why are you putting on a show


    here?"


    After hearing that, his face went pale. He was about to speak when Joseph marched through the crowd


    and said, "Miss McKinney, Charlotte, you should leave. Let me handle this."


    Charlotte was going to say something but ended up being dragged out of the gallery by Leanna before


    she could say a word. Then, Leana mused, The way they''ve been acting today suggests that Tina did


    her homework while Theodore intentionally made things awkward. Staying in this tense hall any longer


    will only make things worse, and Daphne will be the one to pay the price in the end. Therefore, it''s best


    to leave when the time is right.


    Suddenly, Theodore nced at Joseph and quickly stifled the words that were about to escape his lips.


    It was clear from Theodore''s face that he was suppressing his rage. Then, he turned to bark at his


    subordinate, "That is all for today. Make sure everyone gets out safely."


    After taking the orders, his subordinates grunted in acknowledgment.


    Soon, the guests quickly left the gallery without being asked.


    On the other hand, Tina had never really met Theodore before. If it hadn''t been for what happened to


    Daphne, she would never have paid attention to a man who tried to please his wife while allowing his


    lower half to take control and run wild when he wasn''t with her. Ultimately, she crossed her arms before


    her chest and coldly snorted before leaving with the rest of the crowd.


    After all the guests had left, the employees bid Theodore farewell and departed. Soon, the only ones


    left in the gallery were Joseph and Theodore.


    "What is the meaning of this, Mr. Woodley?" Theodore asked with an upset huff.


    In the meantime, Joseph shoved his hands in his pockets. His face darkened in simr dissatisfaction


    as his eyes, hidden behind gold-rimmed sses, gleamed with an icy glint. "That is my question to you,


    Mr. Frost. What is the meaning of this show today?"


    Theodore frowned upon hearing that. "You told me to host a jewelry exhibition. I only act on your


    orders, so I do not understand what you are asking." He had seized the chance to meet up with Joseph


    at the start of the exhibition to confirm their partnership. Hence, he had not expected Joseph to


    interrogate him.


    Tha gary had baan tansaly snt until Thaodora''s statamant, at which point tha atmosphara abruptly


    bacama awkward. Ha saamad to ba standing up for Daphna, but ha admittad that sha had baan his


    mistrass.


    In an instant, tha cbritias watching graw axcitad. Thatast turn of avants would likaly spark a brutal


    war among onlina fans.


    Laanna starad at him and calmly raspondad, "Yas. Of coursa, you ara rasponsi. Shouldn''t you ba on


    your knaas to axprass your sorrow bacausa you know you''ra at fault? Why ara you putting on a show


    hara?"


    Aftar haaring that, his faca want p. Ha was about to spaak whan Josaph marchad through tha crowd


    and said, "Miss McKinnay, Charlotta, you shouldava. Lat ma han this."


    Charlotta was going to say somathing but andad up baing draggad out of tha gary by Laanna bafora


    sha could say a word. Than, Laana musad, Tha way thay''va baan acting today suggasts that Tina did


    har homawork wh Thaodora intantionally mada things awkward. Staying in this tansa hall any longar


    will only maka things worsa, and Daphna will ba tha ona to pay tha prica in tha and. Tharafora, it''s bast


    toava whan tha tima is right.


    Suddanly, Thaodora ncad at Josaph and quickly stid tha words that wara about to ascapa his lips.


    It was ar from Thaodora''s faca that ha was supprassing his raga. Than, ha turnad to bark at his


    subordinata, "That is all for today. Maka sura avaryona gats out safaly."


    Aftar taking tha ordars, his subordinatas gruntad in acknodgmant.


    Soon, tha guasts quicklyft tha gary without baing askad.


    On tha othar hand, Tina had navar raally mat Thaodora bafora. If it hadn''t baan for what happanad to


    Daphna, sha would navar hava paid attantion to a man who triad to asa his wifa wh allowing his


    lowar half to taka control and run wild whan ha wasn''t with har. Ultimataly, sha crossad har arms bafora


    har chast and coldly snortad baforaaving with tha rast of tha crowd.


    Aftar all tha guasts hadft, tha amployaas bid Thaodora farawall and dapartad. Soon, tha only onas


    laft in tha gary wara Josaph and Thaodora.


    "What is tha maaning of this, Mr. Wooy?" Thaodora askad with an upsat huff.


    In tha maantima, Josaph shovad his hands in his pockats. His faca darkanad in simr dissatisfaction


    as his ayas, hiddan bahind gold-rimmad ssas, amad with an icy glint. "That is my quastion to you,


    Mr. Frost. What is tha maaning of this show today?"


    Thaodora frownad upon haaring that. "You told ma to host a jawalry axhibition. I only act on your


    ordars, so I do not undarstand what you ara asking." Ha had saizad tha chanca to maat up with Josaph


    at tha start of tha axhibition to confirm thair partnarship. Hanca, ha had not axpactad Josaph to


    intarrogata him.


    "I asked you to do this because I had a n in mind," Joseph stated bluntly. "I didn''t ask you to start a


    show. I''m not interested in your personal matters, but do you realize how much this small act has


    harmed your chances ofnding a partnership with the Pearson Group?"


    Theodore eventually calmed down slightly when he heard that. "Do not worry, Mr. Woodley. Daphne


    may be associated with the Pearson Group but is merely an actress. Aidan would never turn against


    me for her sake."


    Joseph let out a harsh bark ofughter while pushing up his spectacles with one hand. "It''s admirable


    that you''re self-assured, but if you know anything about Aidan''s character, you wouldn''t say that. It did


    not matter to him who his adversaries were before he turned his back on them. He was able to get rid


    of the entire Pearson Family overnight. What do you think of your chances?"


    It''s hard to argue with the validity of his arguments, no matter how harsh or merciless his words may


    be. Theodore went silent momentarily before saying, "Well, Tina started this. At most, it will be


    construed as a conflict between her and Daphne. The news will die down in a few days. Aidan should


    not hold me responsible for this."


    Joseph sighed in response. "Mr. Frost, I have to reconsider our partnership now. Do you still not


    understand where you went wrong?"


    Theodore did not want to beat around the bush any longer, saying, "Please be straightforward."


    "Do you not look into apany''s history and rted individuals before deciding to seek a partnership


    with them?"


    "I¡ª"


    "If you had done your investigation, you would have known that the woman standing before you earlier


    was Aidan''s beloved." Joseph''s voice gradually turned icy. "Did you think I was only talking about your


    trivial affairs and scandals?"


    Theodore was shocked upon hearing those words. He quickly recalled the scene that had happened.


    "You said you''ve looked into Aidan before, but what did you find out? Did you only find out what he ate


    and drank every day?" Joseph slowly asked.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Suddenly, Theodore''s expression turned extremely ugly as he could not say anything. I''ve often heard


    about Aidan reuniting with his ex-wife, but I''ve paid little attention to the news. Today, I overheard


    someone arguing with Tina about Daphne. Since I was already upset about what happened with


    Daphne a few days ago, I added fuel to the fire by participating in the argument. I do not anticipate that


    woman to be Aidan''s wife. "If she says something to Aidan, then I¡ª"


    "Please think before you act in the future, Mr. Frost, "Joseph stated coldly. "Otherwise, I''ll be left


    wondering how you got to where you are today."


    Meanwhile, Theodore had no choice but to suppress his anger after realizing he was in the wrong.


    "What do we do now?" he asked.


    Then, Joseph narrowed his eyes and stared at a spot behind Theodore.


    ¡­


    Leanna left the gallery, and when she saw Charlotte still fuming, she pulled her aside. "It''s fine,"


    Leanna said softly. "They only said that because they saw that you were angry."


    Hearing those words, Charlotte turned to stare at her with bloodshot eyes. "B-But Daphne is really not


    that kind of person¡ª"


    Leanna chuckled and ruffled Charlotte''s hair. "I know. Didn''t you say that Tina was jealous of Daphne?


    Since you know Tina was jealous, you do not need to continue talking to her, right?"


    Charlotte pouted hard and reluctantly nodded upon hearing that.


    At that moment, people streamed out of the gallery with Tina among the crowd. She shot a proud look


    in their direction before quickly looking away and getting into her car.


    Seeing that, Leanna pursed her lips and called Jonathan to inform him about what had happened that


    day. "Tina intentionally brought up the incident in front of Charlotte, so I don''t think she was joking. I''m


    sure she''ll post about it online soon," she exined.


    "Very well, Miss McKinney. I''ll deal with it right away. Are you okay?"


    "I''m fine. We''re out of the gallery now."


    "Good."


    After Leanna hung up, Joseph exited the gallery and approached them. "The matter has been settled,


    Miss McKinney, Charlotte," he said.


    Afterward, Leanna put away her phone. "Do you know that man, Mr. Woodley?"


    "I can''t say that I do, but I did bump into him at a business party a few days ago," he replied.


    Charlotte''s cheeks puffed up in anger. "Uncle Joseph, that man is despicable! Don''t interact with him


    ever again!"


    When he heard that, he chuckled. "Okay. I''ll do as you say."

 Chapter 656

    Chapter 656


    Chapter 656 Nothing Good Will Come Out of It


    It was proven that Leanna''s guess was right. Tina dide prepared. She had already arranged for an


    assistant to make a video recording from within the crowd when she started targeting Charlotte.


    So, before they left the exhibition hall, the conversation between Tina and Charlotte, as well as the


    audio recording of Theodore''s response to the incident, had already been posted on the Inte.


    To make matters worse, Tina''s paying Inte ghostwriters and promoters to post online content in


    advance to hype the matter had immediately blown things out of proportion.


    There were already several trending topics about this by the time Jonathan answered Leanna''s call to


    deal with it.


    "Breaking Down the Timeline¡ªDaphne''s Days as a Mistress"


    "A Response From the Male Protagonist About Daphne the Mistress After Three Years"


    "Views on Daphne Being a Mistress"


    With Tina''s help, each of these topics became the top trending topics one by one.


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Discussion amongizens under these articles was fervent as well, as there were both the


    commenters Tina paid to stir up trouble and Daphne''s fans trying to clear things up.


    In that instant, it felt like the entire Inte was talking about this.


    However, Daphne''s position in the entertainment circle was different from Leanna''s. She couldn''t


    retreat right after raising such controversial and topical trending topics, or people would assume that


    her inability to refute was equivalent to her acquiescing.


    It would be futile for her to make a rification in the future if she missed her chance now.


    As Jonathan had other work to attend to, he didn''t hesitate to let the PR team handle this.


    Daphne, on the other hand, was recording for a show when the filming was suddenly put on hold as her


    assistant asked her to step out.


    On the way to the lounge, her assistant briefly told her what happened today. Daphne was also


    informed that Pearson Group''s PR had sent someone over.


    She raised her eyebrows when she heard the update. "Why is President Pearson acting so kind all of a


    sudden?"


    "I-I don''t know. He has changed, maybe? But now isn''t the time for this¡­ Daph, what should we do?"


    When Daphne saw the distressed look on her assistant''s face, she replied in a surprisingly nonchnt


    tone. "Cheer up. This isn''t the first time anyway. There is no need to be afraid when I haven''t done


    anything wrong."


    The assistant thought for a moment before eventually agreeing to it.


    What was happening now wasn''t that big a deal after they managed to get through the predicament


    three years ago.


    It was provan that Laanna''s guass was right. Tina dida praparad. Sha had alraady arrangad for an


    assistant to maka a vidao racording from within tha crowd whan sha startad targating Charlotta.


    So, bafora thayft tha axhibition hall, tha convarsation batwaan Tina and Charlotta, as wall as tha


    audio racording of Thaodora''s rasponsa to tha incidant, had alraady baan postad on tha Intarnat.


    To maka mattars worsa, Tina''s paying Intarnat ghostwritars and promotars to post onlina contant in


    advanca to hypa tha mattar had immadiataly blown things out of proportion.


    Thara wara alraady savaral tranding topics about this by tha tima Jonathan answarad Laanna''s call to


    daal with it.


    "Braaking Down tha Timalina¡ªDaphna''s Days as a Mistrass"


    "A Rasponsa From tha M Protagonist About Daphna tha Mistrass Aftar Thraa Yaars"


    "Viaws on Daphna Baing a Mistrass"


    With Tina''s halp, aach of thasa topics bacama tha top tranding topics ona by ona.


    Discussion among natizans undar thasa artis was farvant as wall, as thara wara both tha


    commantars Tina paid to stir up trou and Daphna''s fans trying to ar things up.


    In that instant, it falt lika tha antira Intarnat was talking about this.


    Howavar, Daphna''s position in tha antartainmant cir was diffarant from Laanna''s. Sha couldn''t


    ratraat right aftar raising such controvarsial and topical tranding topics, or pao would assuma that


    har inability to rafuta was aquivnt to har acquiascing.


    It would ba fut for har to maka a rification in tha futura if sha missad har chanca now.


    As Jonathan had othar work to attand to, ha didn''t hasitata tot tha PR taam han this.


    Daphna, on tha othar hand, was racording for a show whan tha filming was suddanly put on hold as har


    assistant askad har to stap out.


    On tha way to tha lounga, har assistant briafly told har what happanad today. Daphna was also


    informad that Paarson Group''s PR had sant somaona ovar.


    Sha raisad har ayabrows whan sha haard tha updata. "Why is Prasidant Paarson acting so kind all of a


    suddan?"


    "I-I don''t know. Ha has changad, mayba? But now isn''t tha tima for this¡­ Daph, what should wa do?"


    Whan Daphna saw tha distrassad look on har assistant''s faca, sha rapliad in a surprisingly nonchnt


    tona. "Chaar up. This isn''t tha first tima anyway. Thara is no naad to ba afraid whan I havan''t dona


    anything wrong."


    Tha assistant thought for a momant bafora avantually agraaing to it.


    What was happaning now wasn''t that big a daal aftar thay managad to gat through tha pradicamant


    thraa yaars ago.


    Daphne''s phone began to ring when she was almost at the lounge. Seeing that it was a call from


    Leanna, she told her assistant to head in first while she took the call.


    "Sure, Daph," the assistant replied while Daphne stepped aside to answer her phone.


    Leanna asked after the call got through, "Have you seen the trending topics?"


    "I did. The PR team got someone to talk to me about them."


    Leanna pressed her lips together before apologizing. "I''m sorry. This happened because of me."


    Leanna proceeded to tell Daphne the details of what happened in the exhibition hall.


    However, Daphne couldn''t helpughing after that. "You''re apologizing because of something like that?


    It''s nothing, geez. Tina has long since had a bone to pick with me. Even if you guys were out of the


    picture, she would still find the chance to dig this out. It''s only a matter of time.


    "As for Theodore¡­ He has never nned to let me go. Nothing good wille out of adding Tina and


    Theodore together."


    "So, what''s your next n?"


    "I''ll see what the PR team thinks. But really, stop ming yourself. I''m actually quite grateful for that


    littledy for being brave enough to argue with Tina. The whole of Highside now knows what a


    hardcore fan I have. This is definitely worth bragging about."


    "Alright then." Leanna quietly chuckled. "Have a discussion with the PR department. Let me know if


    there are any updates or if you need my help."


    "Sure! I''m heading in now."


    After hanging up the phone and arriving at the lounge, Daphne greeted the person in charge of the PR


    department. Since they were all old acquaintances, she wasted no time on pleasantries and sat down.


    The person in charge began. "I heard about the details when I was on my way here. Someone''s


    deliberately provoking this incident. Even the audio has been edited to alter the sound. Do you suspect


    anyone?"


    "Tina Anderson," Daphne calmly uttered.


    The person in charge was not surprised at all upon hearing the answer. After all, they had had to deal


    with all of Tina''s people''s attempts to smear Daphne''s name throughout these two years.


    As the person in charge nodded, Daphne asked, "Do we have to do a press conference to give a


    response to this matter?"


    "No, you already did three years ago. It''s useless to say more. Our priority now is to prove that the


    other person in the audio recording is Tina. Public opinion will reverse then. Most importantly, you won''t


    be on the trending topics."


    Daphne paused and let out a small frown. "You mean we''re going to steer the topic to the fact that she


    deliberately provoked this incident so that both our fans will quarrel and slowly push the previous topics


    down?"


    The person in charge nudged his sses. "That''s the rough idea."


    Daphne didn''t say anything, but she clearly didn''t agree with this method.


    She didn''t want her fans to get into fights because of something so pointless.


    Seeing this, the person in charge continued, "I''m going to say something that''s going to be unpleasant


    to hear. If you want to solve the root cause of the problem, you must prove your rtionship with


    Theodore. However, you have indeed been together. Although you said that you didn''t know that he


    had a wife then, you were once lovers. It''s an ambiguous line we''re talking about here. I can trust you,


    and so can President Pearson and your fans.


    "Despite that, you still don''t have concrete evidence to back up your ims."


    Daphne couldn''t help feeling powerless after hearing that. It wasn''t like she could refute as well when


    what the person in charge said was true.


    She would have gotten the evidence three years ago to prove her innocence if she had any.


    The person in charge added, "This is the most effective and fastest solution we have now. Tina has a


    considerable number of fans and fame in the country. If we tell everyone that she is the one


    manipting everything, they won''t be focusing on whether you were a mistress or not. The topic will


    die down somehow."


    Daphne gave herself a moment before she answered, "Let me think about it."


    The talk might die down, but¡­ the problem would still be there.


    The person in charge of the HR team took a nce at the time. "It''s 6.00PM now. You have to give me


    the answer before 11.30PM tonight. During this period, I will prepare a statement ording to what we


    are talking about now and gather the evidence that Tina nned this all along."


    "Got it." Daphne nodded.


    The person in charge then got up and opened the door to get out, leaving Daphne to sit in the lounge


    by herself for about 20 minutes before she trudged her way out.


    She saw a tall figure leaving at the end of the corridor right when she reached the door.


    Before she could take a good look at who it was, her assistant came over and told her, "Daph, I''ve


    requested time off from the production team. Let''s go home now."


    Hearing that, Daphne looked away and started walking. She hadn''t gone far when she suddenly


    brought up. "Where''s Louis?"


    "I don''t know," the assistant replied with a nk face. "I didn''t see him after they paused the filming."

 Chapter 657

    Chapter 657


    Chapter 657 Does He Even Have This Kind of Awareness


    Daphne went straight home after leaving the recording site.


    Her assistant tentatively asked, "Daph, should I stay and keep youpany?"


    Hearing that, Daphne shook her head with a smile on her face. "I really am okay. I''ll be fine after I take


    a shower and sleep. Lucky me, I even had a legit reason to skip work today!


    "So¡­"


    "Think of today as your vacation and go have fun."


    There was no way the assistant could possibly be in the mood to y around given the current


    situation, but it wasn''t like she could say much when she saw how Daphne was. As she turned to look


    back repeatedly at every step, she reminded Daphne, "I''m off then, Daph. Please call me if you need


    anything."


    Daphne nodded and sent her to the door. "Be careful on the road."


    The assistant then turned around and waved at Daphne before she left.


    Daphne only looked away after the assistant went into the elevator. After she closed the door and


    dragged herself to the living room, she weakly plopped on her couch and zoned out looking at the


    ceiling.


    After a while, she took out her phone and read thements online.


    Although her fans were still trying their best to defend her and clear things up, it was as the person in


    charge said in the afternoon. She and Theodore were together, and the timeline and lines drawn were


    ambiguous.


    She might have a clear conscience, but she couldn''t persuade the outside world to believe her,


    Now that Tina and Theodore had put on a show together and involved many innocent people, Daphne


    couldn''t just stay at "having a clear conscience."


    She couldn''t ignore all thosements about her from the outside world.


    As she thought about this, she put down her phone and sat up. I can''t just not do anything about it.


    She went and got changed into a different outfit. After she put on a hat and mask, she took the car key


    and went to the underground garage.


    But when she arrived at Theodore''spany, the receptionist told her that Theodore had left ten


    minutes ago.


    "Did he say where he''s going?"


    "I''m not sure about this."


    Daphne pursed her lips upon hearing that. She then gave her thanks and left thepany.


    The sun was setting at this exact moment, casting silhouette after silhouette with its afterglow that hit


    the ground at an incline.


    She loitered along the road until the sky turned dark and the streetlights were lit.


    All the pedestrians were in a hurry as if they were rushing to get home.


    Without knowing where she was going, she went from one street to another.


    Some time must have passed when she noticed how there were fewer people on the street.


    It was already 11.00PM by the time she sat down on a bench she found and took out her phone.


    She still couldn''t think of a way to solve the problem.


    What solution could I possibly have, anyway?


    Sighing, she typed out a Twitter post that she nned to post after the PR department had issued a


    statement. She could minimize the impact this way.


    She then grabbed her phone and waited for time to pass.


    At 11.30PM, Pearson Group''s PR department used her studio to post on Twitter.


    However, the content of the post was not an usation against Tina; it was a rification of the online


    rumors about her being a mistress. Tina wasn''t mentioned even once in the post.


    After Daphne refreshed the page, she noticed on the homepage that an audio recording had been


    posted on Highside Daily''s official Twitter ount five minutes ago. Instead of an audio recording, it


    was more like an interview.


    The interviewee was Theodore''s ex-wife. She was the one who used Daphne of ruining her family


    andter gathered the media to keep Daphne under their control.


    During the interview, Theodore''s ex-wifeined, "Theodore has always loved to screw around


    even before he married me, but I turned a blind eye and didn''t bother about him much. And yet, he


    actually hooked up with a celebrity when I wasn''t paying attention! Of course, it irked me to see him so


    generous with her on top of him putting on that affectionate act."


    The reporter asked, "In other words, he kept his marriage a secret from the world? And that was why


    he could get involved with other women without much care?"


    "Have you ever met a cheater who would tell you how shameless they have been?" Theodore''s ex-wife


    continued, "I warned him so many times, but he ignored my words. I only exposed him and his mistress


    because I lost my temper."


    "Did you get in touch with Daphne Shirley and talk to her about the situation first?"


    "Why should I? Also, it''s because of her influence that Theodore started getting wary back then. He


    woulde home as he should. He wouldn''t have stayed put for so many years otherwise," the ex-wife


    huffed.


    "So, you knew that Daphne Shirley was innocent? That she was also a victim?"


    "What''s that got anything to do with me? I only care about getting what I want."


    Even though Theodore''s ex-wife did not directly admit it, this interview fully exined the entire matter.


    The audio recording of this interview instantly became the number one trending topic.


    After seeing this, Daphne exited the page and dialed the number of the person in charge.


    She blurted out as soon as the call got through. "The interview that Highside Daily posted! Did you¡ª"


    "It wasn''t us. I have no idea what''s going on as well. However, I received a notice from the assistant''s


    office half an hour ago, asking me to issue this statement straight away."


    "Was it Jonathan?"


    "That''s right." The person in charge added, "You can retweet Highside Daily''s post now."


    "Alright, I understand. Thank you."


    After she hung up, she started to call Jonathan, only to notice something else on the list of trending


    topics.


    It was a letter of apology from Theodore.


    In his letter, he admitted that he intentionally hid the fact that he was married and pursued Daphne.


    Even though he gave her a lot of gifts, she took none of them and returned them all to him.


    By the end of his letter, he did not forget to express his sincerity by saying that the reason he made


    such a mistake back then was because he loved Daphne too much. He wanted to apologize to


    everyone who was hurt during the entire ordeal.


    Daphne was slightly bbergasted when she saw the genuine apology. Is this the power of money?


    she wondered.


    But even if President Presgrave did get involved, he wouldn''t have taken it this far¡­


    With a suspicious heart, she gave Jonathan a call.


    Jonathan knew why she called him, and he began to exin, "I did it under Madam''s instruction.


    Madam was also the one who contacted the reporter from Highside Daily."


    "You mean Leanna?"


    "Yes. Madam was pretty hung up on it. She spent the entire afternoon thinking of a solution."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    As Jonathan spoke, he let out a sigh. "Madam''s the only one who would do something like this. She


    must have caught Theodore Frost by surprise and rendered him speechless when she went to his ex-


    wife. I bet he is so pissed he could explode now."


    "But he apologized¡­"


    Jonathan, who didn''t get what she said right off the bat, asked, "Sorry?"


    She repeated herself. "Theodore apologized just a few minutes ago."


    "Does he even have this kind of awareness?"


    Daphne also found the apology letter baffling, but judging from Jonathan''s tone of voice, it didn''t sound


    like he knew anything about this.


    As for Leanna, she didn''t need to go to Theodore when she had already gotten to his ex-wife.


    Daphne knew just what kind of man Theodore was. He definitely was not someone who would so


    readily write a letter of apology.

 Chapter 658

    Chapter 658


    Chapter 658 You Can Pay Up and Unveil the Mystery Ahead of Time


    On the other side, Leanna called Chloe to thank her after seeing Highside Daily post the rification


    audio recording.


    Her call with Chloe had just ended when Daphne called Leanna.


    "Thank you for what you did today," Daphne said.


    Leanna chuckled upon hearing that. "You''re very wee. It''s not like I did much. I only pulled some


    strings."


    Speaking of this, Daphne, as impressed as she was, couldn''t help but ask, "How did you get in contact


    with Theodore''s ex-wife anyway? You even got her to clear things up for me. My team contacted her as


    well three years ago, but she didn''t say much then."


    "I asked someone to look into Theodore this afternoon, and I found out that Crossley Group has a


    recent coborative project with his ex-wife''spany. And so, I gave her a call. She and Theodore


    are divorced now. She knows her priority."


    "Damn, that''s amazing. Were you the one who contacted Highside Daily as well?"


    "I made acquaintance with a reporter who works for them. She''s a nice person, and she has a sense of


    justice. Instead of posting rifications, I thought it would be more persuasive for a reporter who has


    authority to report this."


    That put a smile on Daphne''s face. "I owe you one. I''ll buy everyone a meal when I''m done filming."


    Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDra/ma.O(r)g!


    "Sure!"


    Daphne was quiet for a few seconds before she hesitantly asked, "You didn''t look for Theodore, did


    you?"


    "Nope. I knew he was up to no good when I saw him in the exhibition hall today. It would''ve been a


    waste of time if I talked to him. Why do you ask?"


    "Nothing much. It''s just that he posted an apology letter just now."


    "Did Aidan get someone to do it?"


    "I asked Jonathan, but he wasn''t sure either¡­ Forget it, it''s no big deal. But it''ste now. I won''t disturb


    your rest any longer."


    Leanna hummed in reply. "Alright. Bye-bye!"


    After hanging up, Leanna didn''t put down her phone. Sure enough, she saw Theodore''s apology letter


    on the trending topics page.


    Leanna would have thought that Theodore was genuinely repenting after she read his apology letter


    and that he wanted to turn over a new leaf after he acknowledged his mistake¡­ That was, if Leanna


    hadn''t seen him this afternoon.


    However, Theodore''s attitude earlier today waspletely different from the tone in his letter.


    Leanna couldn''t make sense of the letter no matter how long she spent thinking about it. Something felt


    amiss.


    A few minutester, she took her phone again and called Louis.


    His voice only rang out from the other end of the call when the call almost got cut off automatically.


    "Hey."


    "Where are you?"


    "I just got out of my shower," he replied. "What is it?"


    Judging from how quiet his end was, she guessed that he was at home.


    She then sounded him out. "What did you do today?"


    "I filmed. And I came home after I was done."


    "That''s all?"


    "Well, I went to the mall and got some stuff."


    "Okay, then." Leanna didn''t think anything was off when she heard the words. "It''s nothing important,


    but I called to ask if you want toe over for dinner tomorrow. Since it''s Sunday and all."


    Instead of answering immediately, Louis stayed silent for a few seconds on the other end of the call.


    Leanna added, "Forget it if you got something going on tomorrow. We can do it next week."


    "It''s fine. I''ll be there for dinner."


    "Let Daphne know when youe over. Tell her to tag along. I won''t be calling her to tell her, then?"


    "Mhm, sure."


    After putting down the phone, Louis picked up the cotton swab next to him again and dipped it in


    iodophor, which he then applied to the wound on the bridge of his nose.


    ¡­


    Leanna hung up the phone and went to take a shower when she heard movement outside the door.


    Aidan hade home.


    Leanna stood up and walked to the living room. "I bought spaghetti. Want some? I can cook for you."


    Aidan only took off his coat which he tossed to the couch aside and stomped in her direction while he


    tugged on his tie.


    Leanna couldn''t help but step backward when she saw this. Her back was soon pressed up against the


    wall as she stammered, "W-What are you doing?"


    He stared at her with deep ck eyes and demanded in a low, hoarse voice, "What did you do today?"


    "I went to see the jewelry exhibition, and... and I did a lot of other things. What exactly are you asking?"


    He gently pinched her chin and drawled, "I heard someone talk about Mrs. Pearson having a glib


    tongue that she left Theodore Frost and Tina Anderson speechless and that it''s no wonder President


    Pearson is a henpecked husband."


    Leanna didn''t reply at first, but she eventually let out a cough before calmly replying, "Mrs. Pearson


    was only acting as she normally does, no?"


    Aidan swiftly lowered his head and bit her lip. He only backed away when he heard her groan in pain.


    "Didn''t I tell you to run as far as you can if you ever encounter something like this? Why the hell would


    you get yourself involved?"


    "There were too many people around for them to do anything to me anyway."


    "They can''t do anything to you in front of so many people, but how do you know what they could be


    nning in private? It''s better to offend a forgiving person than someone who would hold a grudge."


    Leanna knew that Aidan didn''t want her to fall into any trap and be the target of public criticism


    again.


    Without refuting, she nodded and uttered, "I got it."


    Hearing that, he flicked her on the forehead with a finger. "You''re just saying that for the sake of it. I bet


    you''ll do the exact same thing next time."


    How did he guess that? she thought to herself.


    It wasn''t that she wanted to get involved. She couldn''t possibly just turn a blind eye to Charlotte getting


    bullied and Daphne being targeted like what happened today.


    Aidan seemed to know what was on her mind. He muttered under his breath, "I''m not telling you to stay


    on the sidelines. You have to read the situation. Worry about others only after you are sure you are


    safe."


    Leanna nodded in agreement. "Mmkay."


    "Forget it¡­" Aidan sounded somewhat hesitant after hearing her reply. "You can do anything you want


    as long as you have me."


    I knew he would buy it. The corners of Leanna''s lips raised ever so slightly. She then pushed him on


    the shoulders. "Alright, you should wash up. I''ll make you some spaghetti."


    "Please bring me my clothes," he said as he strode into the bathroom.


    "Got it. You go in."


    After she turned around to fetch the water and turn on the heater, she went to the bedroom to get Aidan


    his pajamas which she ced outside the bathroom door. When she was done, she went to the kitchen


    to take the spaghetti to start cooking.


    Aidan came out of the bathroom right when Leanna was done cooking. Droplets of water were still


    dripping from his damp, dark hair.


    "That reminds me," Leanna brought up, "I asked Louis and Daphne to dinner here tomorrow. Will you


    be home?"


    Aidan only spoke after a few seconds. "Louis said yes?"


    "Uh-huh." She turned to look at him. "Why do you ask?"


    Eyebrows raised, he pulled a chair out and sat down. "Nothing much."


    "Are you hiding something from me?" Her eyes were still on him.


    He raised his hands to show that he was innocent. "It has got nothing to do with me. Louis ising


    over tomorrow, isn''t he? You can ask him then."


    Leanna pouted. "Take your time eating. I''m going to bed."


    She had just taken a step when he grabbed her by the wrist and suggested meaningfully, "Actually, you


    can pay up and unveil the mystery ahead of time."


    "Ah¡­ Thanks, but that''s not necessary."

 Chapter 659

    Chapter 659


    Chapter 659 As Dreamy as Always


    Although Leanna refused Aidan''s offer to "unveil the mystery in advance" if she "paid" him, she had a


    vague idea of what was going on as shey in bed.


    Just like what Daphne said, Theodore wouldn''t havee up with an apology letter out of nowhere.


    But Aidan did not order Jonathan to do anything about an apology letter. Not only that, Aidan seemed


    to be hinting at something by mentioning Louis right at this moment.


    If I''m right, Louis probably went to confront Theodore.


    However, she had to wait until tomorrow to ask how Louis managed to make Theodore so willingly


    write an apology letter.


    Just as Leanna was deep in her thoughts, she was suddenly pulled against someone''s chest from


    behind.


    "You''re still awake?" Aidan asked.


    "I''m about to¡ª"


    She hadn''t even finished her words when the man sealed her lips. After the kiss, he growled in a raspy


    voice, "Let''s not sleep if you can''t fall asleep, hmm?"


    And who told you I can''t fall asleep? she quietly fumed.


    The temperature in the bedroom slowly began to increase.


    Leanna, who suddenly thought of something, gasped for air as she asked, "Will you be back for dinner


    tomorrow?"


    "Not tomorrow. The three of you should go ahead without me."


    "But you said¡­ it''s going to end soon."


    "Mhm." He kissed her fingers. "The board meeting¡­ is in three days."


    Instead of asking more questions, she proceeded to encircle her arms around his neck.


    There was a sudden shower in the middle of the night thatsted until the next morning. Because of


    that, the sky was foggy as sparse raindrops fell.


    Tina was already waiting at the recording site when Daphne arrived. Compared to before, she was


    surprisingly quiet today. She even immediately looked away and looked down at her phone after


    sneaking a nce at Daphne.


    Daphne''s assistant told Daphne in a hushed voice, "Tina must be scared out of her wits now. That


    scumbag and his ex-wife have bothe out to rify and apologize. Tina the sh*t-stirrer, on the other


    hand, only ended up stinking all over without getting any benefits."


    "At least this will keep her quiet for some time," Daphne echoed as she looked around, only to not find


    Louis anywhere.


    As she looked away and took out her phone, her assistant asked, "Daph, are you looking for Louis?"


    "I¡­" Daphne froze.


    Her words felt like they were stuck in her throat.


    "When I came in, I heard some staff members talking about how the director brought him to the


    makeup artists to see if they could conceal the injuries on his face."


    Daphne unknowingly frowned upon hearing that. "How did he get hurt?"


    "No clue, he¡ª"


    As soon as the assistant began to speak, Louis and the director walked over.


    The makeup could hide the bruise on his face, but the injuries on the corner of his lips and nose bridge


    were visible as could be.


    The director and a few camera operators had a quick discussion about how they should film.


    Louis had be the kingpin of the whole team after filming all the seasons.


    He came here today to tell the director about his situation and request a one-week leave.


    It wasn''t like he must be here for the filming, but the director thought that Louis'' wounds weren''t so


    severe that he needed one week off.


    After the director and a few members of the crew had a discussion, they decided to take some photos


    and post themter when the time was right. They woulde up with a n to handle it if the public


    reacted fervidly to the photos.


    Filming started soon enough.


    Daphne, for a few times now, began to zone out when she looked at Louis.


    The film crew thought that she was still affected by what happened yesterday, and they chose not to


    say anything. They only took a short break for a few minutes so that the celebrities could take a rest.


    Daphne stepped aside and exhaled as she took a cup of water.


    Seeing this, her assistant asked softly, "Daph, do you feel unwell?"


    Daphne massaged the bridge of her nose. "I''m alright."


    The assistant took the cup from her when she finished her water. "I''ll get you some warm water," the


    assistant offered.


    Louis came over right when the assistant left. Standing in front of Daphne, he had his thin lips pursed


    as if he had something to say.


    "What''s the matter?" Daphne asked when she met his eyes.


    He only answered her after a long minute. "Leanna wanted me to tell you to have dinner at her ce


    tonight."


    "Sure." She nodded. "Got it."


    Louis didn''t say anything else, but when he turned to leave, Daphne suddenly called out to him.


    "What''s with¡­ the injuries on your face? Did you get in a fight?"


    He turned to her. "It''s nothing. I came across two thugs when I was on my way home yesterday."


    "That sounds so dangerous! Remember to call the cops first thing if you ever encounter something like


    that again."


    "Okay."


    The crew resumed filming after a few minutes.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡­


    Leanna, Zoe, and Charlotte went to the supermarket to buy some cooking ingredients in the afternoon.


    Charlotte walked in front as she pushed a shopping cart. The other women could tell she was oozing


    with happiness from her back.


    However, Leanna noticed that Zoe was distracted. "What''s wrong?" she asked.


    Hearing her voice, Zoe let out a deep sigh and shook her head. "Nothing much."


    "Did something happen to Daniel again?"


    "It''s not that. It''s just¡­ I think it''s my problem. My mind is everywhere. It has been a few days since I


    last got in contact with him."


    "Did you talk to Elijah about this?"


    Zoe exined, "I didn''t. What if something is keeping Daniel busy? And it doesn''t feel right to bother


    Elijah with something so trivial."


    "Give it some time, then. I''m sure nothing bad happened."


    Zoe let out another sigh. "Let''s not talk about this. Aren''t you and President Presgrave going on a trip?


    Have you chosen a ce?"


    "Yup, it''s an islet near Siebenna."


    "Sounds nice. You get to watch the ocean and enjoy the sea breeze. And it''s not as crowded there


    compared to here. It must be peaceful. So, when are you leaving?"


    "Probably next weekend."


    Aidan said that there was a board meeting in three days. They could leave after he was done with work


    and they packed up a little.


    "Have the time of your life, then. Just leave everything here to me."


    Leanna chuckled upon hearing that. "There''s tons of work left to do. We''ll be back after a few days of


    fun."


    After they were done shopping, they started leaving for Leanna''s ce. That was when Leanna


    received a photo from Waylen.


    Noah, who was in the photo, had grown up a lot. He was smilingly crawling around on the climbing mat


    with a pile of toys sitting in front of him.


    That put a smile on Leanna''s face. After replying to Waylen''s message, she proceeded to lower the car


    window and watch the passing scenery.


    The setting sun had dyed half the sky far away.


    Her days recently had all felt like this. It was as though her days ahead were filled with hope and light.


    At 8.00PM, Daphne and Louis came into the house with one person ahead of the other.


    Zoe''s eyes stayed on Louis'' face for a few seconds when she suddenly jumped out of her seat and


    demanded, "What happened? Did you get into a fight? Who did this to you?!"


    Louis turned his head in another direction. "I''m alright. The injuries aren''t that serious."


    "You call that ''not serious''? You''re disfigured! Yourdy fans are going to have their hearts broken if


    they see you. Gosh¡­"


    Leanna came out of the kitchen then. "It''s okay. He''s not badly hurt."


    Charlotte nodded in agreement. As she hugged a pillow, she solemnlymented, "He is as dreamy


    as always."


    Everyone in the house immediately whipped their heads in her direction the moment she uttered those


    words.


    Charlotte''s face had gone red in an instant. She stammered, "I-I mean, he looks even hotter with those


    injuries¡ª N-No! What I''m trying to say is that, those wounds don''t affect his looks¡­"

 Chapter 660

    Chapter 660


    Chapter 660 What Kind of Woman Do You Like?


    Leanna smiled when she saw how hard Charlotte tried to exin herself. "Alright, now. Dinner will be


    ready soon. Louis,e to the kitchen and help me."


    "Kay." Louis nodded.


    Watching them walk toward the kitchen, Charlotte, who felt alive again, finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    Zoe was beside Charlotte when she thought she should lighten the mood so that Charlotte wouldn''t


    feel too awkward. Quickly, she started to talk to Daphne about what happened on the inte these


    days.


    At the same time in the kitchen, Leanna passed Louis a potato for him to peel.


    When Louis went to get a knife, Leanna abruptly asked, "Did you meet Theodore?"


    Louis jolted to a pause before promptly answering her. "I didn''t."


    "How did your face get injured, then?"


    "It''s got nothing to do with him."


    Leanna nced at the living room as she slowly mentioned, "Daphne asked me about this. We may


    have to discuss it over dinner. Are you sure you don''t want to tell me the truth?"


    He stood there without a word for a few seconds before turning around to peel the potatoes. In a way,


    he was admitting to it despite not saying anything.


    Leanna wanted to ask him if he hit Theodore, but the answer to her question was clearly on Louis'' face.


    Instead, she asked, "Where is Theodore now?"


    "The hospital."


    "Not bad. He wrote a letter of apology even though he is in the hospital. That means he''s still alive."


    Louis only quietly lowered his head.


    Leanna asked again, "But how did you know where to find him?"


    "I met him once before. He went to the underground parking lot after I gave him a call."


    "He didn''t bring any bodyguards with him or call the police?"


    "Keaton was there as well."


    Leanna stayed quiet for a moment. "So, you guys ganged up on him?"


    Except for Louis, Keaton and those other subordinates were all in their 20s and 30s. It was hard for her


    to imagine men of their age doing something like a group fight.


    Even though Theodore deserved a beating, Leanna wasn''t an advocate of such a method.


    "No, I was the only one who threw hands."


    When Theodore went to the underground garage yesterday, he was punched before he could see


    where Louis was.


    His pride as a man must have fueled him when he called about how insulting it was when he was in


    that one-sided fight a few days ago.


    Theodore''s bodyguards immediately stepped forward to stop Louis, but Theodore raised a hand to


    signal them to leave it to him.


    He then took off his coat and swung his fists as he approached Louis. Clearly, he wanted to put up a


    good fight to get back the dignity that he lost.


    He could somewhat fight back at first, but by the end of it, he was pathetically shielding his head with


    both arms.


    Louis threw mean and urate punches. Almost every strike was aimed at where Theodore had the


    weakest defenses.


    His voice was icy when he reminded Theodore, "I warned you. Don''t get ideas about her."


    Theodore couldn''t even utter oneplete sentence as he continuously groaned.


    His bodyguards wanted to step forward when they saw this, but a few people appeared out of nowhere


    and stopped them.


    Keaton quickly pulled the enraged Louis away from Theodore. "Hey, hey. That''s enough. You''re going


    to kill him if you keep at it."


    That was how Theodore managed to stay alive.


    Seeing the gloomy and ruthless look in the young man''s eyes, Theodore really thought for a few


    seconds there that he was so close to knocking on hell''s door. It would be a lie to say that he wasn''t


    afraid.


    As his bodyguards helped him up, he coughed and threatened Louis that he would call the police.


    Keaton stepped forward with a phone in his hand right then. "Mr. Frost, President Presgrave would like


    a word with you."


    Leanna had an idea of what exactly happened when Louis got to this part of the story. It was no wonder


    Jonathan didn''t know anything when Daphne asked him.


    Keaton must have known something was going to happen when Louis decided to confront Theodore.


    That''s why he followed Louis and told Aidan about it.


    It''s no wonder Aidan wanted me to "pay up" before he told me anything. It''s quite¡­ interesting.


    She turned to look at Louis. "Have you ever thought about what you would do if Keaton hadn''t followed


    you and Theodore had called the cops? If there is a case against you, you could risk getting expelled


    from school."


    "It''s not a case that I will be sentenced for. the most my school would do was give me a stern warning.


    And if I do something that brings honor to my school in the future, my punishment can be revoked. I


    can participate in a few morepetitions to offset it."


    I almost forgot how much more knowledgeable about this Louis is than me. Leanna thought to herself


    before asking, "You went after considering all this?"


    Louis didn''t answer again.


    Leanna didn''t know how she should feel about her brother for already having a way out nned.


    She pondered for a moment before she reminded him, "Louis, I''m not saying that you''re wrong. It''s just


    that you shouldn''t have acted on impulse when you didn''t even know what Theodore was capable of.


    Sure, he can''t do anything to you now since he has been hospitalized. But what about after heAll content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    recuperates? What makes you think he won''t attempt to take his revenge on you? You should try to


    think of another way if something like this ever happens again."


    "There is only one way to deal with someone like him."


    He would only worry about the consequences when he felt fear.


    "And I''m not scared of him taking revenge. As long as he doesn''t end up killing me, I¡ª"


    His words were cut short when Leanna whacked him on the head. "Peel your potatoes."


    "Oh."


    Leanna then turned around to continue chopping the vegetables.


    The reason she didn''t want to continue the conversation was that she had the sudden realization that


    what she was saying now was the same thing Aidan told herst night.


    She couldn''t help feeling amused even though she was sighing.


    It was no wonder Zoe always said that Leanna and Louis were undoubtedly siblings, seeing as to how


    they both had the same temperament and personality.


    And since that was the case, Leanna didn''t feel like she wasn''t in the position to advise Louis.


    Louis was well aware of what he was doing when he did it. Not only did he consider all the possible


    oues of his actions, but he also thought about how he should clean everything up.


    ¡­


    Louis and Daphne left together after dinner.


    When they got downstairs, Daphne offered Louis a ride home.


    "It''s alright." He rejected her. "We''re not going the same way."


    Daphne was quiet for a while before she retorted, "But you said we were when you dropped me offst


    time."


    Louis seemed to pause for a moment there. Still, he calmly answered her. "Myst ce wasn''t a


    comfortable ce to stay. I moved yesterday."


    Baffled, Daphne took a look at the time and insisted. "I don''t have anything nned after I go home. I


    don''t mind driving the long way round to send you home."


    "It''s fine." Louis'' lips were slightly pursed. "I live far from here."


    "How far can it be? Is it out of the city?"


    "I''m not going home now. I have something to handle."


    Daphne walked out of the elevator after it came to a stop. "I can send you back as long as it''s in


    Highside. Come on, get in."


    Louis only followed her after he stood there hesitating for a moment.


    After they got in the car, Daphne''s driver asked, "Where to?"


    Daphne turned to Louis, who then simply replied, "To Pearson Group, please."


    Other than the stereo that yed a few songs Daphne usually listened to, it was quiet in the car


    throughout the journey.


    Some time must have passed before Daphne suddenly asked, "What kind of woman do you like?"


    Louis must have been taken aback by her unexpected question. He only uttered after he froze for a


    second. "What?"


    "I heard from Leanna that there is someone you have a crush on! What is she like? Is she from your


    school?"


    "She''s not."


    "From the school next to your school?"


    "Nope."


    "Well, is she¡ª"


    He interrupted her. "She''s not someone you know."


    Daphne chuckled at that. "I''m just curious about why you like her."

 Chapter 661

    Chapter 661


    Chapter 661 Forget I Said Anything


    A long whileter, Louis said, "She''s beautiful."


    Daphne was waiting for him to say more, but he said nothing, so she asked, "That''s it?"


    "That''s it." Louis looked at her and seriously said, "You should see that I''m a shallow person."


    That''s not just shallow. That''s just perfunctory. Daphne tried to say something, but their ride had


    stopped. They were at thepany.


    Louis got up and opened the door. "I''ll be going now. Goodbye."


    She waved him goodbye. "Bye." Louis closed the door and made his way to thepany, while


    Daphne leaned on the car window, seeing him off. Eventually, she looked away. "Let''s go."


    At the same time, Jonathan went into the president''s office holding a stack of files. "It''s all here, sir."


    Aidan grunted. "Have you told the BOD?"


    "Yes, but thepany''s been going through some turbulencetely, so they probably know."


    "Good." Aidan asked, "Have you contacted Justin?"


    "Yes, but he said he found a doctor for the chairman, and the treatment''s going well, so he''s noting


    back for a while."


    Aidan put his pen down and went to the window wall, his hand in his pocket, and he looked into the


    distance. "Go to Vind and deal with this before the BOD meeting."


    Jonathan said, "But he won''t listen to me, si¡ª"


    "He wille back."


    Jonathan nodded. "Yes, sir." And then he left.


    Not long after that, Louis came in.


    Aidan turned around. "What brings you here?"


    "Just taking a stroll."


    Aidan went ahead and took a seat on the couch. "You told your sister?"


    Louis knew what he was talking about, and he nodded.


    Aidan said, "Keaton is keeping an eye on Theodore. It''ll be fine, so you should stay out of it."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    A moment of silenceter, Louis said, "Thanks."


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "So, are you ready to see me as your brother-inw?"


    Louis was silent for a moment, then he said, "I need to go."


    Aidan stood up. "You can stay for as long as you want. I''m going."


    Louis remained seated. Aidan took his coat and left. Louis stayed for about half an hour, then he left


    after he was sure Daphne had returned home.


    ¡­


    Monday came. After she and Zoe went through a photoshoot session, Leanna came back to her office


    to change her design draft. Not long after she sat down, she noticed amotion happening outside.


    Leanna put her pen down and was about to check what the hubbub was, but someone knocked on the


    door. In came Charlotte, and she handed a bag over. "Here, it''s yours."


    Zoe had a habit of treating everyone to snacks sometimes, but snacks from this particr shop were


    way beyond her spending power.


    Charlotte said, "My uncle''s here to see me, and he bought a ton of food for us. Would you like more? I


    can get some for you."


    Leanna paused for a moment. "Your uncle is here?"


    "Yep," said Charlotte. "But I told him you''re busy, so he won''t disturb you."


    Lenna looked at her design, then at the paper bag on her table. "I''m done. Let''s go."


    A group of girls surrounded Joseph, asking him a lot of questions. They were curious about Charlotte''s


    rich and gentlemanly uncle. Joseph smiled at them, answering their questions politely. When Leanna


    came out, he nodded at her. "Hello, Miss McKinney."


    "Mr. Woodley."


    Another client came into the workshop, and thedies scarpered. Charlotte went back to her


    workce, getting ready to work.


    "Come with me, Mr. Woodley." They went into the waiting room, and Leanna asked, "What would you


    like, Mr. Woodley?"


    "Tea, please."


    Leanna rummaged through her stock. "Sorry, but this is all we have. Is oolong fine with you?"


    "I''m okay."


    Leanna poured some hot water into the cup and ced it before Joseph.


    "Thank you."


    "I should be the one saying thank you. You came all the way here, and you brought snacks," said


    Leanna.


    "It''s alright, Miss McKinney. I''m just here to see Charlotte. She''s young and brash, so she might get on


    her colleagues'' bad side. It''s just right to get something for them so they won''t trip Charlotte up."


    "Worry not, Mr. Woodley. Charlotte is getting along with them just fine."


    Joseph smiled and adjusted his sses. "Is that so? That''s good to hear." He whipped out a box and


    ced it on the coffee table, then he pushed it over to Leanna. "I thought you might like this, so I


    bought it."


    Leanna paused for a moment before she picked the box up. Inside it was the ring she saw at the


    jewelry exhibition. Surprised, she asked, "I thought they didn''t sell these to the public."


    "They didn''t, but I liaised with the person in charge, and he sold it to me. Your favor is worth more than


    this ring, after all."


    Theodore''s bedridden, so he''s not the one wanting my favor, which leaves¡­ Joseph. Leanna put the


    box down. "I''m afraid I don''t quite understand."


    "Ah, I was talking to Mr. Frost about a certain project, but he fell ill, and the project''s dyed


    indefinitely. But since I came all the way to Highside, I thought I should nab something before I leave. I


    heard the Pearson Group is developing something down at New Coast. May I have the honor of joining


    it?"


    Leanna smiled. "Mr. Woodley, you''re barking up the wrong tree. I''m just the owner of a jewelry


    workshop. I have no idea about the Pearson Group''s project. It''s out of my depth."


    Joseph adjusted his sses and smiled. "I see. Sorry for bringing it up so suddenly."


    "It''s alright, Mr. Woodley."


    He got up. "I should be going now. Keep the ring. It''s a gift since we are family, technically speaking."


    If he''s referring to my ties back in Jamesdon, then yeah. Leanna got up. "Thank you for the visit, but I


    can do without the gift. How much did this cost? I''ll pay you?"


    Joseph said, "Well, if you say so, then this ring is a gift for Charlotte. Keep it for her until her wedding,


    will you?"

 Chapter 662

    Chapter 662


    Chapter 662 Running Late


    Well, if he puts it like that, I can''t refuse. Leanna looked at the ring silently.


    Joseph said, "If Charlotte knows of this, she''ll want you to keep it for her as well." His phone rang, and


    he looked at it. "I must be going now, Miss McKinney."


    When Joseph came out, Charlotte approached him. "You''re leaving, Uncle Joseph?"


    Joseph nodded. "Be good, alright? I might not be able toe here again."


    Curious, Charlotte asked, "Why?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "My business here is done. It''s time to leave."


    "Is that so?" Charlotte was reluctant to say goodbye. "There''s a lot of fun ces here. Sure you don''t


    want to stay?"


    Joseph smiled. "I''m not here to y, and so are you. Come back soon. Your father''s worried."


    Charlotte puffed her cheeks. "Yeah, yeah."


    Joseph patted her head and left.


    One of herdy colleagues asked, "So, how old is your uncle? He looks so young."


    Charlotte thought about it for a moment. "Almost forty. He''s ten years younger than my dad."


    "Really? He doesn''t look that old. My god, what''s his skincare routine?"


    Leanna emerged from the waiting room and trotted out. Right before Joseph got into his car, she said,


    "Mr. Woodley."


    Joseph turned back. "What is it, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna put the ring box in his hand. "I don''t think you should leave this with me. If you want Charlotte


    to have this, you should give it to her yourself."


    Joseph was a little surprised. He paused for a moment and said, "You''re worried you might owe me a


    favor?"


    Leanna smiled. "Oh no, your favor isn''t something ady like me is worthy of owing. I just don''t want to


    take something that''s not mine." She pushed the box into his hand, nodded, and went back into the


    workshop.


    Joseph saw her off, rubbing the ring box and narrowing his eyes.


    Freya was in the hotel, lounging on the couch wearing nothing but a bathrobe. Her hair tumbled down


    her shoulders with a cigar between her fingers. When Joseph came back, she puffed some smoke.


    "Failed, did you? Told you she''s a smart one."


    Joseph sat down before her and took his sses off, then he wiped the sses. "I think she''s just


    genuine."


    Joseph had heard of the story of Aidan''s ex-wife. She did everything she could just to marry him. Back


    at the exhibition, he could see that she liked this ring, so when Theodore ruined their n, he bought


    the ring. He thought Leanna would take it, but instead, she gave it back, much to his surprise.


    Freya smiled. "That''s Aidan''s woman. You shouldn''t get any ideas."


    Joseph snapped out of it and wore his sses, then he lit a cigar. "So, did you find anything?"


    "Yes. This ring belonged to Lloyd''s wife. Leanna probably knew of it, so it grabbed her attention."


    Joseph opened the ring box and took the ring out for a closer look. "I see."


    "Don''t try to get to Aidan through her. I just got news of Aidan sending his men to Vind to take Justin


    back. Judging from theirpany''stest activities, he''s going to give thepany to Justin."


    Joseph looked at her. "Are you sure?"


    "Theirpany''s calling a BOD meeting in two days, and he sent someone to take Justin back. I can


    think of no other reason why he did that."


    Joseph put the ring down and inhaled the cigar, then he chuckled. "He never disappoints."


    ¡­


    Two days went by. On the day of the meeting, Aidan woke up early and took a shower. When he came


    out of the bathroom, Leanna was already sitting on the bed, staring at him, but she looked groggy. He


    went over and patted her head. "You''re early."


    Leanna yawned and held Aidan''s arm, then she slowly stood up and fell into his embrace. It wasn''t


    every day she would do something like that, so Aidan wrapped his arms around her and patted her


    back. "What happened?" he whispered.


    Leanna buried her head in his shoulders. "Have you changed? I''ll tie your tie."


    "You woke up just for that?"


    Leanna grunted.


    Aidan afforded her a gentle look. A few momentster, he took her into the closet room. "Pick one for


    me."


    Leanna didn''t want to. She leaned on him, her eyes closed. "Your clothes are all the same color."


    "Well, what kind of color would you like me to wear?"


    "Pink."


    Um¡­ Aidan wrapped an arm around her and took a set of clothes. He then sat on the couch. "Help me


    change."


    Leanna opened her eyes. "I said I would only tie your tie. I didn''t¡ª"


    "Well, you''re already up, so might as well."


    Um¡­


    Aidan looked at the time and whispered, "Come on, or I''ll bete." He took his pajamas off and ced


    his clothes in her hands.


    If he''ste for today''s meeting, it will be disastrous. Leanna woke up and relented. She helped him


    change, and once she buttoned thest button, Leanna turned around, pulled the ss drawer open,


    and took a tie out to tie it for him. Half an hour went by just like that, and Leanna got up. "It''s getting


    late. You can go¡ª" Aidan pulled her back.


    He held the back of her head and pried her mouth open with his tongue. Already groggy to begin with,


    the kiss took all the strength Leanna had. She put her hands on his shoulders to keep herself from


    falling down.


    Fortunately, the kiss didn''t go on for too long. Aidan let her go quickly and put her back on the bed,


    then he kissed her forehead. "Get back to sleep. I need to go now."

 Chapter 663

    Chapter 663


    Chapter 663 Status Doesn¡¯t Equal Ability


    Aidan was going to leave, but Leanna held his hand. He turned around and noticed her staring at him,


    her eyes open. He held her hand. "After today, it''s done."


    "What would you like to have for dinner?"


    Aidan smiled. "I like everything you make."


    Leanna smiled, and she covered her face with her nket, muttering, "You''re lying again."


    "When have I ever lied to you?"


    Leanna let his hand go. "Yeah, yeah. Go."


    Aidan took a few steps ahead and went back for a quick kiss. "Wait for me."


    "I will¡­" Aidan left, and Leannay on her bed, trying to sleep, but she couldn''t. She sat up and


    scratched her head, then she checked her phone to see what time it was. Seven thirty? A yawn


    escaped her lips, and she got out of bed.


    Zoe and Charlotte came at 9.00AM. When they saw the feast of breakfast on the table, their jaws


    dropped. Zoe asked, "Is it a happy day today?"


    Leanna came out of the kitchen. "Just thought I had a lot of food in the fridge, so I made these before


    they could go bad."


    "But we can''t finish all of these," said Charlotte.


    "Just pick and choose what you want. I''ll pack everything else and take them to the workshop." She put


    her stuff down and went back into the kitchen. "Oh, you girls might have to eat out tonight. Or just get


    delivery."


    "Wh¡ª"


    Zoe elbowed Charlotte. "Sure. I''ll take Charlotte to our college. There''s a ton of food around it.


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    Once Leanna had gone into the kitchen, Zoe said, "Man, you''re stupid. They''re obviously trying to get


    some time alone. Give them some time, will you?"


    Oh, oh, is that right? Charlotte quickly covered her mouth.


    Zoe patted her arm. "We''ll just stay out for a bit and make sure we don''t bother them when wee


    home."


    ¡­


    It wasn''t even working hours yet, but everyone in Pearson Group was already present and ounted


    for, and the air was fraught with tension. Every pantry was filled with groups of employees talking about


    thepany''s future.


    "Wonder what the BOD is trying to do this time. I did hear some rumors, and they''re scaring me."


    "About Mr. Pearson going to step down as president? I heard that too, but it''s not possible, right?"


    "Never say never. You know what''s been happeningtely. Mr. Pearson called all the branch managers


    back, and you''ve seen the changes to those bigger projects. I heard the share prices are¡ª"


    "Alright, that''s about enough."


    "But say Mr. Pearson really is stepping down, then who''s taking over?"


    "He has a brother. Maybe it''s him?"


    "But he''s wheelchair-bound, and he''s never worked on anypany affairs either. I don''t think he''s the


    best guy for us."


    "Not like we can call the shots."


    "True. We can discuss all we want, but things might change after the meeting is done."


    "Honestly, if Mr. Pearson does step down, thepany''s future might be uncertain."


    "I don''t want him to leave."


    "Me neither."


    At the same time, Aidan''s assistant knocked on his door. "Sir, the board is all here."


    Aidan grunted and looked at the time. "How much longer does Jonathan need?"


    "Mr. Stoll has just disembarked. It will take him half an hour to arrive."


    "I see. Prepare the files and take them to the conference hall. I''ll be there in ten."


    "Yes, sir."


    The board of directors was engaged in discussion as well. Ever since Aidan kicked out all of Gordon''s


    spies, the board was made up of people on his side. They too hadtely caught wind of Aidan''s


    possible resignation, and most objected to it.


    These people were either the employees whom Aidan raised after he started working at Pearson


    Group, or they were the veterans who picked Aidan''s side. After so many years, they knew the


    company could never have grown this much without Aidan. If he were to leave, thepany''s share


    prices would dip, and all of them would be plunged into trouble.


    They could not afford Aidan''s leaving, for that would be a great loss. When Aidan showed up, everyone


    protested his leaving.


    Aidan took his seat and listened to everyone''s opinion. The board of directors went on and on for five


    minutes before they took a break to get some water, and then Aidan slowly said, "Is that all?"


    One elderly director said, "Mr. Pearson, I hope you will consider our opinion."


    Aidan said, "I have made up my mind, and I do not intend to change it."


    "You¡­"


    Aidan continued, "I''ve made all the necessary arrangements for thepany to keep running after my


    departure. Your profit will not be affected."


    Some directors coughed. "Look, profit isn''t what we''re trying to say here."


    "Everyone does something in anticipation of a reward in return. I know why you took my side." Aidan


    put his hand on the table. Calmly, he said, "I know some of you dislike me because I''m an illegitimate


    son. You think thepany''s name would be tarnished if I were to run this whole show."


    Some of the older directors did think so. They didn''t like that Aidan was an illegitimate son, but they


    only talked about it in private. If they brought it up anywhere else, it might affect their profit. Aidan did


    give them more in dividends than when Gordon ran thepany.


    One of the directors, who had been quiet, said, "The fact that you managed to stay as president for so


    long is enough to prove that the circumstances of your birth have nothing to do with your capabilities."


    The other directors said, "Yeah, it doesn''t matter whom you''re born to. Besides, you''re the only heir to


    the family. If you leave, then we''d be left without a leader."


    Aidan coolly answered, "You know I have a brother."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Everyone stopped talking, and they exchanged a look.


    "He''s the only legal heir to the family, and as such, thispany belongs to him."

 Chapter 664

    Chapter 664


    Chapter 664 Stop Right Here


    As soon as these words were spoken, the directors in the conference room were hesitant to talk.


    Leaving aside the fact that Justin was only recently known to the outside world, just based on his


    physical condition alone, it was unsuitable for him to be the president of the Pearson Group.


    It wasn''t that they questioned Justin''s abilities. It was just that no one was willing to gamble the


    massive Pearson Group with him.


    After a while, a director finally said, "President Pearson, Young Master Justin has never been involved


    in thepany''s business. It may not be appropriate to let him take over the Pearson Group now."


    "Jonathan and the assistant team will fully assist him."


    "But¡­"


    Before they could raise any objections, the conference room door was pushed open.


    Justin was slowly pushed into the room in a wheelchair.


    Jonathan approached Aidan and said, "President Pearson."


    Aidan nodded and looked ahead.


    Justin smiled warmly. "Aidan, it''s been a while."


    Aidan stood up and took Justin''s wheelchair, pushing him to the seat next to his own.


    The group of directors silently sat in their seats.


    "Can I talk to you alone, Aidan?" Justin asked, to which Aidan replied, "Let''s wait until the end of the


    board meeting."


    "You¡ª"


    "Jonathan should have told you everything already."


    "Yes, but I still think it''s not suitable for me to take on this position." Justin sighed.


    "When I took over in this position, many people thought it wasn''t suitable either."


    Aidan picked up the documents and arranged them on the table one by one.


    "This is the equity transfer agreement. These are Pearson Group''s financial statements and cash flow


    for the past ten years. This is the group''s development n for the second half of the year. These are


    all the projects the Pearson Group is currently working on. As for the rest, Jonathan will give you a


    detailed report after the board meeting."


    With each sentence Aidan spoke, the atmosphere in the conference room grew even more subdued,


    leaving only his calm voice.


    After putting down thest document in his hand, he looked up and scanned the room. "Alright,


    everyone. From now on, I am no longer the president of the Pearson Group, and I will never step into


    thepany again. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors."


    With that, he turned and left without any hesitation.


    As Aidan was about to leave the conference room, Justin called out to him. "Aidan."


    Meanwhile, Aidan did not turn back. Instead, he merely stated, "I''ll be waiting for you in your office."


    Soon, his figure disappeared from everyone''s sight.


    Then, Justin looked away and slowly said, "I ampletely ignorant about managing thepany. I


    will have to rely on all of you. Please give me your guidance."


    "Don''t say that, Young Master Justin. It''s our job to assist you."


    "That''s right. We will certainly help you."


    After some formalities, the board meeting gradually came to an end.


    In the office, there was nothing Aidan wanted to take with him except a picture frame. He stood before


    the French windows, looking out at the view. His expression did not change and it was unclear what he


    was thinking.


    After a while, Justin''s voice broke the silence. "Aidan."


    Aidan turned around, walked over to the couch, and sat down. "Have you adjusted to life in Vind?"


    "I''m doing okay, but my father isn''t adapting well to the weather there. He got a rash on his body, but it''s


    much better now."


    "You''ve been in Highside for decades," Aidanmented. "It''s difficult to adjust to other ces."


    "Returning home is better. The doctor said it''s easier to recover in a familiar environment. It seems like


    my decision was wrong."


    Aidan chuckled silently. "You don''t know if a choice is wrong until you''ve made it."


    "What are your ns for the future?"


    "I''ll take Leanna out and about to rx. If everything goes well, I''ll propose to her and have the


    wedding by the end of the year."


    Justin smiled with ease. "After so many years and misunderstandings, you''ve finally reunited. Let me


    know when you set the wedding date. I''ll definitely be there to witness it."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Aidan looked at his brother, but his eyes were cold and unfeeling when he muttered, "There''s no need."


    Justin''s smile froze. "Aidan, you¡ª"


    "I already told you when Sienna died that we were even. Now I''m giving the Pearson Group back to


    you, and all the grievances end here."


    "I don''t understand what you mean."


    "It doesn''t matter if you understand or not. From now on, I won''t pursue what has happened, nor will I


    investigate any conspiracies. I only hope that there will be no more trouble in my life. My wife can stay


    with me peacefully and my son can be healthy."


    Justin remained silent for a moment beforeughing. "Do you think I did something behind your back?"


    "I''ve never thought that, but you and I should know what Sienna meant when she spoke before she


    died."


    "Aidan, she''s already dead. You¡ª"


    "She may be dead, but these things will never end," Aidan said coolly. "Which is why I hope that we


    can have an understanding today."


    Justin frowned but said nothing.


    Aidan continued, "What Sienna did, she did it for you."


    "I understand what you mean. Don''t worry. I should be able to find those people. If she had any ns,


    I''d handle it."


    Aidan stood up and picked up the picture frame. "I''ll leave the Pearson Group to you," he announced.


    "Aidan, do you still consider me your older brother?"


    Aidan stopped in his tracks, but he didn''t turn around. "As long as you still think of me as your younger


    brother, you will always be my older brother."


    With that, Aidan left straight away.


    Justin slowlyposed himself and maneuvered his wheelchair to the side of the French windows.


    This was indeed a good ce where he could overlook the entire city.


    Shortly after, Jonathan knocked on the door and entered with some documents. "Young Master Justin,


    these are the papers that need your signature this afternoon."


    Justin turned his wheelchair to look at him and smiled gently. "You''ve been with Aidan for many years.


    I''ll have to trouble you often in the future."


    "Young Master Justin, you''re being too polite. This is what I should do." Jonathan paused before


    continuing, "Is there anything else you need me to do? If not, I''ll take my leave¡­"


    "Bring me the financial reports of the Pearson Group and the recent progress of a few projects."


    "Okay."


    Justin then added, "What is the current situation with the subsidiaries of the Pearson Group?"


    At that, Jonathan replied, "Previously, President Pearson called them back for a specific report and


    statistics. I''ll bring the information to you now."


    "There''s no need," Justin said. "At 3.00PM, all the heads of the subsidiaries will be meeting at the


    Pearson Group."

 Chapter 665

    Chapter 665


    Chapter 665 ns Can¡¯t Keep Up With Changes


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    In the studio, Leanna sat at her desk, propping her chin up with one hand and gazing absentmindedly


    at the bright sunlight outside.


    She didn''t know how Aidan was doing or if the board meeting was going smoothly. As time passed, the


    sun rose higher in the sky and the heat enveloped the entire city.


    Just as Leanna stood up to make herself a cup of coffee, she heard amotion outside the studio.


    People were gathering and engaged in a heated discussion.


    The young women in the studio were also drawn to themotion and craned their necks to see what


    was happening.


    Leanna absentmindedly put down her water ss and, for some reason, walked out slowly.


    As she passed through the bustling crowd, she saw a man in a white dress shirt and ck trousers


    leaning against a ck sedan, holding a bouquet of fiery red roses in one hand. The sun''s rays


    highlighted hiszy and carefree expression.


    Leanna was stunned at the sight.


    Aidan met her gaze, his eyebrows slightly raised. He walked towards her and handed her the flowers,


    saying, "May I have the honor of inviting this beautifuldy to lunch?"


    There was an instant uproar around them as people spected who this domineering bigshot was and


    why he was chasing after his woman.


    Leanna''s face turned visibly red. It was hard to tell whether it was from the sun or embarrassment. She


    quickly took the flowers and pulled Aidan toward the studio.


    Aidan smiled, holding her hand and leading her forward. The young women in the studio lowered their


    heads, pretending they hadn''t seen anything.


    Outside, the onlookers dispersed when they saw the duo leave.


    Once inside the office, Leanna put the flowers down and turned to close the door. Before she could say


    anything, Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist and pressed her against the door, lightly caressing


    her chin. "My dear, you haven''t answered my question yet."


    Leanna blushed and pushed him away. "Stop fooling around."


    At that, Aidan purred, "Then I''ll take it as you''ve epted."


    Leanna couldn''t help but smile and she looked up at him. "Didn''t you say you wouldn''t be back until


    tonight?"


    "I need to correct you. You asked what I wanted to eat tonight," Aidan murmured.


    Leanna was speechless upon hearing that.


    The b*stard knows how to y with words.


    After a few seconds of silence, she asked, "So, the board meeting is over?"


    Aidan brushed a few strands of hair behind her ear and murmured, "Everything is over."


    Leanna said nothing. She only put her arms around his waist, thereafter cing her face on his chest.


    Aidan lowered his gaze and silently chuckled. "What are you doing? Although I like it when you take


    the initiative like this¡­"


    Leanna interrupted him, "Nothing. Don''t spout nonsense."


    Aidan''s gaze gradually softened and he lifted his arms to embrace her.


    After a while, he repeated, "Everything is over."


    Leanna closed her eyes. "I know."


    With everything now over, all they had to do was wait for their child''s recovery, and then they could be


    together forever without all the trouble.


    At 12.00PM, they went out to eat and came back. Leanna was designing on her desk while Aidan read


    a book beside her.


    The atmosphere was pleasant and quiet.


    At 3.00PM, someone knocked on the office door.


    A young girl from the studio poked her head in and whispered, "Miss McKinney, someone is looking for


    President Pearson."


    Leanna raised her head and looked at Aidan.


    Meanwhile, Aidan continued to flip through his book, not responding. In the end, he lightly answered,


    "I''m not seeing anyone."


    At that, Leanna chimed in, "Just say he''s busy and doesn''t have time."


    The young girl nodded and left.


    Leanna lowered her head and continued to sketch.


    If her guess was correct, it was someone from the Pearson Group.


    After a while, the young girl knocked on the door again, "Miss McKinney, someone else is looking for


    ¡ª"


    Aidan said the same thing. "Not seeing anyone."


    Throughout the afternoon, people came in waves, but all left empty-handed.


    Later, the news that Aidan had left the Pearson Group became a trending topic on the Inte.


    Someone had mentioned that Aidan was in Leanna''s studio, which was why more and more people


    came.


    In addition to people from the Pearson Group, many journalists from business newspapers wanted to


    interview Aidan and get first-hand information about him stepping down as president of the Pearson


    Group.


    However, no one managed to actually see Aidan.


    Seeing the situation, Leanna knew that work couldn''t continue today, so she ended the workday early


    and gave everyone the rest of the day off.


    The people who cameter didn''t even enter the studio, let alone see Aidan.


    On the way back, Aidan muttered, "I''m sorry. It''s all because of me."


    Leanna, who was driving, only replied, "It''s okay. Everyone has been busytely. I''ve wanted to give


    them a break, but I haven''t found a suitable opportunity."


    Aidan suddenly leaned closer and lowered his voice when he asked, "So that means it didn''t dy your


    work?"


    Leanna didn''t expect him to have such awareness, so she reassured him, "No, I can sketch my designs


    anywhere. I''ll take the rest back¡ª"


    "Well, since that''s the case, let''s go now."


    Leanna was momentarily confused. "Go where?"


    "Didn''t you pick out a ce already? We''re going to Siebenna."


    They reached a red light. Leanna stopped the car and turned to him out of habit. "Didn''t we say we


    would go this weekend?"


    At that, Aidan answered, "ns can''t keep up with changes."


    "I haven''t prepared anything yet¡ª"


    "Go back and pack our things. I''ll take care of the rest."


    "But¡ª"


    "Once we leave, those people won''te to the studio and disturb your business."


    Leanna thought about it and agreed with him. "Okay."


    After returning home, Leanna started packing her things. While sorting out her wardrobe, she suddenly


    saw the blue and white striped shirt she had bought for Aidan when he was on a business trip to


    Mxy.


    After their divorce, she thought Aidan had thrown away that shirt. Presently, she smiled and packed the


    shirt into her suitcase.


    A momentter, Aidan asked, "Are you done?"


    "Almost," she replied. "We don''t have much time left, right?"


    "It''s okay. Take your time. We have all the time in the world." Aidan walked over to her and took the


    clothes from her hand. "Is there anything else you need to bring?"


    Leanna remembered a few more things and ran into the bedroom.


    After packing up and just as they were about to leave the house, Leanna called Zoe and Charlotte to


    tell them that she was going away and would be back in about a week.

 Chapter 666

    Chapter 666


    Chapter 666 A Pretentious Man


    When the pair arrived at the airport, Leanna finally understood the meaning of Aidan''s words. The


    reason he was unhurried earlier now made sense to her.


    Aidan approached the counter and asked the staff, "When is the next flight abroad?"


    The staff replied, "It''s the one heading to Ietha. It''s now open for passenger check-in."


    "All right. Ietha it is."


    The staff nodded before showing them the way to the VIP entrance.


    Walking beside Aidan, Leanna whispered, "What about Siebenna?"


    Aidan''s lips curled into a smile. Instead of answering, he held her hand tighter.


    A few tourists who trailed behind them recognized Aidan and Leanna. The group immediately took out


    their phones and snapped photos of them.


    Within half an hour, an eye-catching news headline showed up on the news sites.


    ''Former President of the Pearson Group and fianc¨¦e visiting Ietha for vacation. The sweet couple


    dazzles in public.''


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, in the hotel, John put his phone aside and snorted. "I can''t believe it! Aidan really is giving


    the Pearson Group away."


    Freya sipped on the wine from her ss before slowly answering, "I have to admit, I wasn''t expecting


    him to give up on thepany that easily. It seems like our preparations are a waste."


    "We have been implementing the ns based on our sole goal. Who would''ve thought he''d give up on


    the Pearson Group? It''s quite a surprising moveing from him."


    As the two made a light talk, Joseph stood next to the bed. He narrowed his eyes as he took a drag of


    his cigar and exhaled a cloud of smoke, lost in his own world.


    Momentster, he turned around and walked over. "Nobody could''ve foreseen Aidan would make such


    a decision. He has always been a rather tough opponent in your mind. Only the person who truly


    knows Aidan could set this n. Unlike any of you, our partner expects every of Aidan''s moves."


    Freya and John fell into silence at Joseph''s remark. Their rxed expressions turned grim in the blink


    of an eye.


    It seems like our partner is more capable than he looks.


    To make the ns in Highside and Jamesdon work, the involvement of all parties was essential.


    It was obvious that their partner was the key to making the n work all along.


    He had been quietly setting up ns since long before the group established a partnership. He was


    calm, patient, and cautious to the degree that it intimidated his allies as well.


    Even though there were surprise elements throughout the implementation of the n, he was capable


    of turning the tide and letting things flow ording to n.


    He even anticipated the oue and Aidan''s choice.


    The thought of working with such a partner gave Freya and John goosebumps, sending shivers down


    their spines as realization dawned on them.


    John had long lost the mood to celebrate, so he excused himself and left.


    Freya looked at Joseph and asked, "Shouldn''t we do something?"


    He took a seat opposite her. Taking a ss of wine, he began, "There''s no need. The odds are in our


    favor. Besides, he hasn''t gotten what he really wants, meaning the partnership is not over yet."


    He then firmly added, "We share the same goal."


    "B-But what if he decides toe after you when everything''s done?"


    It didn''t seem like Joseph cared when he shot her a smile. "L is tougher than you think. I n to


    step in and take advantage after the two have tired each other out."


    Freya lit a cigar and squinted as smoke clouded her vision. "We are lucky enough to witness the two of


    them fight, all thanks to you telling him the truth seven years ago."


    Joseph cast her a knowing smile before finishing his ss of wine silently.


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­


    It was 8.00PM in Ietha when Aidan and Leanna''s flightnded at Drestan Airport. Bright lights lit up the


    city at night.


    A man approached the pair right after they left the airport. "President Pearson, it''s ready."


    Aidan nodded at the man before turning to Leanna. "Are you hungry? Do you want to get something to


    eat?"


    "I''m not very hungry," she answered. "Where are we going right now?"


    "Navary." He then added, "In that case, we''ll have dinner on the ne."


    "Did you forget about Siebenna?"


    "I didn''t. However, there''s a ce I want to show you."


    "All right."


    Half an hourter, the pair hopped on a private jet to Navary.


    After the flight attendant served them their food, he nodded and took his leave.


    There was a lot of food that offered a range of international cuisine, making Leanna''s stomach grumble


    just by looking at them.


    Several hours of travel on board and a full stomach made her sleepy.


    Fortunately, the private jet ensured its passengers afortable environment. It featured a bed for the


    passenger to sleep in.


    As soon as her head hit the pillow, she felt Aidan''s arms wrapping around her. His low voice carried an


    apologetic tone. "I''m sorry for taking a detour. We''ll be there when you wake up."


    Humming a response, Leanna wrapped her arms around his waist. "I understand."


    No matter whether their destination was Ietha or somewhere else, it only served the purpose of


    misleading their enemies.


    The ce they were heading right now was their final destination.


    To her, she couldn''t care less about Siebenna. It was just that Aidan asked her to choose a destination.


    After doing a little research online, she found a beautiful and serene ind located in Siebenna, which


    was a perfect spot to rx.


    Aidan pressed a kiss on her forehead. "Sleep, my love."


    She snuggled against him. "Good night."


    "Good night."


    She woke up from a dreamless sleep the next day. The realization of several hours had passed came


    to her when she checked the time on her phone.


    Meanwhile, Aidan was nowhere to be found.


    Yawning, Leannabed her hair with her fingers. Then, she walked into the bathroom to brush her


    teeth and washed her face with cold water. After that, she returned to the room and opened the window


    shades to let the light in. Taking a seat next to the window, she began to work on her draft.


    A whileter, the door was opened and Aidan walked into the room. "How long have you been awake?"


    Leanna looked in his direction and stretched her neck. "About half an hour."


    He walked over and poured a ss of water. "What do you want for breakfast?"


    "Anything will do."


    "Wait for me."


    He left the room after handing the ss over to her. A few minutester, he returned with breakfast.


    "We should arrive in approximately three hours."


    She nodded. "All right."


    The breakfast helped Leanna to refresh her mind and regain her strength. Shifting her gaze to Aidan,


    who was reading a book on hisptop, she tilted her head and studied him in silence.


    Since she wasn''t hiding her intention to watch, Aidan noticed her gaze right away. Raising his head, he


    locked eyes with her. "What''s wrong?"


    She shook her head. "It''s nothing. It''s just that I think sses might suit you."


    Exiting the reading app, Aidan drawled, "Might suit, you say?"


    Now that I think about it, Aidan has the temperament of those pretentious gentlemen. His natural cold


    face and sharp features are quite something. Wearing a pair of gold frame sses would only set off


    the vibe. However, he has to keep quiet to make the concept work.


    Leanna blushed at an idea that shed across her mind. Turning to the side, she muttered, "Forget


    what I said."


    A smile graced Aidan''s lip. Walking over to her, he slightly bent over and whispered into her ear in a


    low voice, "What a surprise. It seems like you have a thing for men with sses, huh?"

 Chapter 667

    Chapter 667


    Chapter 667 Important to Catch Up on Sleep


    Three hourster, the flightnded in Colde of Navary.


    Countless messages flooded Leanna''s phone once she had a phone signal, including one from Zoe


    with screenshots of the news regarding their trip to Ietha a day ago.


    Other than that, Zoe sent her a series of continuous messages, asking whether she had fun in Ietha.


    Leanna exined to Zoe that she and Aidan were only catching a connecting flight at Ietha instead of


    staying for a vacation there.


    After replying to Zoe, Leanna read the other messages. Some were greetings from her friends, while


    others were digging up gossip about Aidan.


    None of them were worth her attention.


    After replying to the messages out of politeness. she exited the app. Just when she was putting her


    phone aside, she noticed a missed call from Elijah, which came in about half a day ago.


    She was on a flight traveling to Ietha when he called her. Then, shended at Ietha, but she didn''t


    bother to turn on her phone.


    It''s been a while since we talked to each other. I wonder why he''s calling at this time.


    Leanna wondered if she needed to call back, but Aidan''s words snapped her out of her hesitation.


    "We''ll stay here for a night and head to Taevaia tomorrow."


    She hummed a response and locked her phone''s screen.


    Aidan quietly gritted his teeth when he nced over the name on her screen. He pretended as if the


    sight didn''t bother him and asked, "Many messages?"


    "Kind of, but none of them are important. I have dealt with them."


    However, Aidan pressed the matter. "People who reach out to you around this time are up to no good.


    You should just block them."


    At that, Leanna retorted, "You''re reading too much into it. They are just concerned about you."


    "About me?"


    "Of course."


    "Then why didn''t they call me?"


    Leanna found it difficult to answer his question.


    Momentster, realization dawned on her that Aidan was referring to Elijah instead of her other friends


    who sent her messages on WhatsApp.


    She suppressed herughter before answering with a straight face, "Perhaps you should reflect on


    your actions."


    Aidan only sneered without responding to her teasing.


    Her smile grew wider at his reaction. Withdrawing her gaze, she turned to look at the scenery outside.


    Coldenia, the thirdrgest city in Navary, was only smaller than Arcburg and Wheile. It was known


    as Colde among the local Chiojanmunity. It owned the unique title of ''Garden City of Navary'',


    and also being thergest city in south Navary.


    The city had a strong Dellshorian vibe, which was practically a replica of Dellshore in another country.


    People who walked down the streets were surrounded by Dellshorian-style buildings.


    The man, whom Aidan and Leanna met once in Ietha, delivered their luggage to the hotel before taking


    his leave again.


    Standing on the balcony, Leanna looked down at the streets. A few momentster, she closed her eyes


    and enjoyed the breeze.


    Having a vacation indeed helps lighten the mood.


    Aidan put his arms around her waist from behind and rested his palms on the railings. His hot breath


    tickled her ear as he murmured, "Do you like it here?"


    Her eyes fluttered open. "You should''ve told me that we are visiting Navary. What''s the point of asking


    me to choose a ce?"


    He arched his brows in amusement. "Yes, I asked you to choose a ce, but it doesn''t contradict my


    wish to show you this ce."


    "I¡ª"


    "You once told me that women like to dredge stuff up from the past. I bet you''ll roast me over and over


    again for the rest of my life if I brought you to visit a ce you aren''t interested in."


    His overconfidence left her speechless.


    I can''t win this debate, can I?


    Aidan then said, "It was a long trip. You should go shower."


    "Let me go, then."


    "I''ll join you."


    ¡­


    The pair were greeted by the sight of the setting sun when they finally came out of the bathroom. The


    distantke reflected the entire city, and the view seemed to be stretched into a blur on the shimmering


    lake.


    Aidan suggested, "Do you want to rest? Or are you interested in going out for a walk?"


    Leanna wasn''t tired yet. B*stard dare ask me after giving me a hard time in the bathroom.


    On second thought, it''s a waste to not visit the surroundings when I''m already here.


    In the end, she stated, "Wait a minute. I''ll go get changed."


    The night was drawing in when the duo walked out of the hotel. The night breeze brushed at them,


    making a stark contrast to the warmer daytime.


    To Leanna, even the moon in the sky seemed strange as she walked down the streets in a foreign


    country.


    Unlike the bustling nightlife in Highside, there were very few people on Navary''s streets, which gave it a


    tranquil vibe.


    Even just strolling the streets was refreshing and rxing.


    The pair would asionally walk past street performers ying the violins under the streetlights.


    The soothing melody drifted down the endless street.


    Leanna held Aidan''s hand tighter and asked in a small voice, "Have you been here before?"


    "I have."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "When?"


    "Three years ago."


    It had been four years since their marriage. He came here about one year after our marriage.


    Aidan exined, "I had a business trip to Arcburg at that time, and I learned about a very special ce


    after that. Thus, I came here right away."


    Leanna tilted her head in interest. "What kind of special ce is it?"


    "You''ll find out tomorrow."


    "So, it''s the same ce you have been waiting to show me."


    Aidan smiled at her and hummed.


    His words piqued her curiosity.


    What''s so special about that ce? What kind of magic does it possess that the ruthless and annoying


    Aidan three years ago was willing to make a trip just to witness its specialty?


    An idea urred to Leanna right after they returned to the hotel. Taking out her sketch pad, she sat on


    the rug and began her design.


    Her behavior drew out questions from Aidan.


    He took a seat next to her. "We are on vacation, you know? Aren''t we supposed to enjoy this trip to its


    fullest?"


    Leanna fixed her gaze on the sketch pad as she answered, "It''s also important to catch up on your


    sleep. So, go ahead."


    Aidan was speechless.


    Leanna stopped giving attention to him after she answered him. She put her full attention on her draft


    and was not distracted by her surroundings.


    A whileter, Aidan received a call. "President Pearson, they''re here."


    Aidan hummed a response before turning to Leanna, who was still engrossed in her own world. "Meet


    me in the conference room."


    Walking over to the door, he wrote down a few reminders on the sticky note before pressing it onto the


    cup next to Leanna. Atst, he left the room.


    After she added thest touch to her draft, Leanna rose to her feet and stretched her body. She


    grabbed her cup to drink the water and finally saw the sticky note stating, ''I have to go out for a while,


    but I''ll be back soon. Call for room service if you need dinner.''


    The notes reminded her that she was indeed hungry. Setting the note aside, she called for room


    service. After that, she lounged on the couch and unlocked her phone.


    The incident of Aidan leaving the Pearson Group continued to spread over thest two days online.


    Netizens were still clinging to this matter. Some even shared their theories regarding thepany''s


    future trends. They concluded that the Pearson Group was likely to go down without Aidan''s lead.


    As expected, others had different theories than this. They began by exining that the Pearson Group


    became what it was today based on generations of hard work. Thus, Aidan was only taking advantage


    of his high starting point. Therefore, he couldn''t count as someone essential to the Pearson Group.


    Among those whocked faith in Aidan, many agreed that the man''s identity as an illegitimate child


    somehow affected thepany''s image. Therefore, removing him from his position would do the


    company well.

 Chapter 668

    Chapter 668


    Chapter 668 Willing to Be Sacrificed


    Leanna did not read further and closed them off. Looking at the beaming little guy on the screen, she


    couldn''t help but smile as her mood lifted.


    She intended to visit Jamesdon when they returned this time.


    Even if she couldn''t meet the little guy, just looking at him from afar would be enough.


    Soon after, Leanna began to feel sleepy. She checked the time and realized it was alreadyte. Hence,


    she went to bed without waiting for Aidan.


    Later that night, she dazedly felt herself in someone''s arms after she had already fallen asleep.


    Perhaps because she had slept so much the previous two days, Leanna awoke early the next morning


    when the sun had just risen.


    She slowly sat up. From afar, the sun''s rays shone through the window and fell on Aidan''s face, making


    him frown slightly.


    Leanna noticed this and stretched her hand to block out the sun''s rays.


    She looked at the man sleeping beside her. Lowering her head, she kissed him lightly on the lips.


    After a while, she got out of bed and went to close the gap in the curtains, thereafter entering the


    bathroom.


    While she was brushing her teeth, the door behind her opened.


    She rinsed her mouth and looked at the tired man. "Why are you awake now?" she asked. "It''s still


    early. Go get some more sleep."


    Though she had fallen asleepst night and hadn''t noticed the time, she knew Aidan hade back


    latest night.


    "I dreamed of someone kissing me, so I can''t sleep now," Aidan said in his mesmerizing voice.


    That rendered Leanna speechless.


    She immediately averted her gaze and returned her attention to brushing her teeth.


    Seeing that, Aidan hugged her from behind. "Why didn''t you ask me who kissed me in my dream?"


    "It''s your dream," Leanna responded faintly, brushing her teeth. "How could I possibly know?"


    "She was a very beautifuldy."


    "Oh."


    "Aren''t you jealous?"


    "Why should I?" she countered lightly. "Dreams are usually the opposite of reality. You had a dream


    about someone kissing you, which implies that no one intends to kiss you in real life."


    "Is it?" Aidan smiled as he nuzzled her neck.


    That made Leanna a little embarrassed. "Hey, I''m brushing my teeth. Give me some space," she said


    as she pushed him away with her elbow.


    Aidan let go of her but right after that, he quickly kissed her on the side of her face while she wasn''t


    looking. "I hope I can wake up to this dream every day."


    Leanna was at a loss for words. Just as she was about to hit him, he quickly left the bathroom.


    After breakfast, the both of them headed downstairs. The man who had picked them up when they first


    arrived at Ietha was already waiting for them in the hotel lobby.


    "Good morning, President and Mrs. Pearson," he murmured with a nod.


    As they got into the car, Aidan said to Leanna, "The journey takes about three to four hours. Take a nap


    if you''re sleepy."


    Leanna, however, wasn''t sleepy at all. Instead, she felt energetic and kept the window open the entire


    drive.


    The scenery outside was lovely and the air was fresh.


    Herds of cows and sheep and other wildlife could be seen alongside the road.


    This was new to her, and it was both interesting and exciting.


    She suddenly had a feeling that the ce Aidan was taking her would be paradise.


    It was already 12.00PM when they reached the small town of Taevaia. The weather was blistering hot


    and few people were out on the streets.


    It was even quieter than Colde.


    The surrounding architecture was designed in a warm and romantic style, reminiscent of a fairy tale.


    Soon after, the car came to a halt in front of a small cottage.


    Leanna opened the door immediately, eager to explore more of this town.


    Meanwhile, Aidan walked to her and asked, "Do you like this ce?"


    She nodded in response. "I love it."


    If she had known about this ce earlier, it would definitely be her top pick for vacations.


    This ce was breathtaking. The sky was azure, a color she had never seen before in the sky, and the


    air was fresh and clean.


    Aidan smiled at that. "You''d prefer the nighttime much more. Let''s go in and have our meal first."


    After speaking, he walked into the cottage with his long legs.


    Leanna quickly retracted her gaze and followed after him.


    Two middle-aged women were already waiting for them in the cottage. In the background, there was a


    dining table filled with food.


    Both of them bowed slightly when Aidan and Leanna walked in. They muttered something in their


    native tongue that Leanna couldn''t understand.


    After they finished speaking, Aidan''s low voice echoed as he said, "Thank you."


    The two middle-aged women then left smilingly.


    "Do you understand what they said?" Leanna asked softly.


    Aidan simply walked to the dining table and sat down. "I don''t, but it never hurts to be polite. Just in


    case they beat me up."


    Leanna found herself at a loss for words. He truly deserves to be beaten up!


    "Come and taste the food," Aidan said at this point. "If you don''t like it, I''ll have them cook something


    else for you."


    At that, Leanna walked over and sat right across from him. "Aren''t you afraid of being beaten up now?"


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    "I''m willing to be sacrificed once for you," Aidan replied, his brows raised.


    "Shut up."


    Leanna then took the utensils in front of her. She took a scoop of the food in front of her and tasted it.


    It tasted a little strange, but it was eptable.


    In fact, the more she ate it, the more she liked it.


    Seeing that she was enjoying the food, Aidan couldn''t help but smile too.


    After lunch, he stated, "It is too hot outside. Let''s take a nap and go out in the evening."


    Leanna didn''t feel tired at first, but after Aidan said so, she felt slightly sleepy and yawned.


    It seemed that all she did for these few days was eat and sleep.


    Their room was on the upper floor. While they were eating, their luggage was hauled up.


    As theyy on the bed, Leanna asked, "How long will we be staying here?"


    "Two days, but if you like here, we can stay for a few more days."


    Leanna paused for a while when she heard that. Then, she asked, "Are we still going to Siebenna


    then?"


    "Of course. Why are we not going?" Aidan returned the question.


    Leanna didn''t answer that right away. She felt that Aidan was already up to his neck at work.


    Hence, she turned around and closed her eyes. "Nothing. I''m just concerned that we won''t be able to


    return in time," she muttered.


    "You have Zoe in your studio, no?"


    "Yes, but¡ª"


    "What do you normally do in the studio?"


    "Sketch designs."


    "Then, why are you worried about the time?" Aidan responded casually.


    Leanna was at a loss for words. After a short while, she finally realized what he meant.


    Although she wasn''t too involved in the studio''s daily operations, she would still help out every now and


    then. It wasn''t that she did nothing all this while.


    With this in mind, Leanna took a long breath and closed her eyes even tighter, deciding not to be so


    concerned.


    After a few seconds, Aidan said, "If you''re worried, I can ask Jonathan to oversee the studio."


    "Isn''t Jonathan supposed to work?" Leanna asked.


    "Jonathan is taking instructions from me, not the Pearson Group." Aidan then went on indifferently, "He


    is going to leave this week after he hands over everything."


    Leanna was taken aback. "He¡­"


    "He is unemployed now. Thus, he desperately needs a job at your studio. Consider him, will you?"

 Chapter 669

    Chapter 669


    Chapter 669 What Exactly Do You Not Know?


    When Leanna woke up, the sun wasn''t as hot and dazzling as earlier.


    More residents of the small town were out on the streets.


    For unknown reasons, Leanna felt excited and quickly got up. After applying light makeup and lipstick,


    she turned around and looked at Aidan, who was leaning against the door and staring at her. "I''m


    done," she said. "Let''s go."


    Aidan looked at her, his gaze filled with joy. "You''re beautiful."


    Leanna had grown ustomed to, and even slightly defensive of, his sweet nothings. Thus, she tidied


    her hair and replied, "I know. Thank you."


    That made Aidan smile. "Let''s go."


    The sky was beautiful outside and it wasn''t too hot. As they walked, the residents of the town greeted


    them warmly.


    Leanna responded to them with a smile.


    It was a small town and before long, both of them had almost finished exploring it.


    Not far from the town was Lake Taevaia. It was tranquil and serene, far away from the noise and bustle


    of the busy area. The water was so clear that it reflected all of the neighboring Alps.


    A few groups of locals and tourists were fishing by the emerald-greenke.


    The entire view was breathtaking, just like a painting.


    Seeing this, Leanna couldn''t help but take her phone out to capture some photos. Then, she turned


    around and looked at Aidan.


    The man immediately understood what she meant. He took her phone, raised his chin slightly at her,


    and said, "Stand over there. I''ll snap some photos for you."


    Leanna quickly ran to the side of theke and posed for the camera.


    After a few snaps, she felt something amiss.


    Can I even trust Aidan''s photography skills?


    She quickly approached him and took the phone back. Then, she activated the grid feature in the


    camera settings and said, "If you''re taking half-body shots, the figure has to be in the four grids."


    Then, she pointed to the screen and said, "These four, or these four. Both are good."


    Aidan, however, gave her a strange look. He twitched his lips slightly, seemingly wanting to say


    something.


    After a while, he finally said, "Do you want half-body shots or full-body shots?"


    Leanna felt that Aidanpletely did not understand what she meant.


    Forget it.


    "I''m fine with either," she said pleasantly.


    Aidan then grabbed the phone from her. "Go over there."


    With that, Leanna returned to her spot by theke, reasoning that it wouldn''t be a bad idea for Aidan to


    take more shots, as there would definitely be some that she would be happy with.


    After taking photos for a while, a tourist walked by.


    Aidan quickly stopped him and asked if he could assist in taking some photos of them.


    "Of course," the bearded tourist smilingly replied.


    Aidan gave the tourist the phone and walked to Leanna.


    Just as Leanna was about to say something, Aidan wrapped his arm around her waist and whispered,


    "Look at the camera, honey."


    Zoe loved bringing Leanna around to take photos during their university days. Hence, Leanna knew


    how to pose well.


    She was very familiar with being alone in photos. However, it was her first time being snapped with


    another person, and she couldn''t help but stiffen.


    Aidan seemed to realize what she was thinking too. "Be yourself. We''re not taking wedding shoots


    anyway. You don''t have to be so nervous," he whispered to her.


    Leanna was at a loss for words and couldn''t help but raise her hand, which she had originally ced


    behind her, and pinched Aidan''s waist.


    Aidan hummed softly in agony. Hearing that, Leanna smiled even happier.


    Such a smile made all the awkwardness vanish.


    Leanna raised her head, caught Aidan''s gaze, and proudly raised her chin.


    He, too, smiled at her, his dark eyes overflowing with tenderness.


    As they were doing so, the tourist took dozens of shots of them.


    Aidan then walked over to the tourist and took the phone from him, saying, "Thank you."


    The tourist shrugged his shoulders in response andplimented, "Your girlfriend is so beautiful. Is


    she a star?"


    Hearing that, Aidan turned around and cast a nce at Leanna. "She''s my wife, a jewelry designer," he


    answered softly.


    "Oh. That''s great."


    Leanna heard their conversation as well. She smiled at the tourist and thanked him.


    The tourist waved his hand at them in response and left.


    Leanna then checked the photos that had been taken earlier. The tourist was carrying a camera with


    professional lenses, indicating that he was a skilled photographer. As such, all of the images he shot


    were stunning.


    But what astonished Leanna was that the images Aidan took were also good, which was unexpected of


    him.


    He even snapped different photos in both portrait andndscape modes.


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    She absolutely loved every photo he took.


    "The photos you took are nice," she praised.


    With his hand in his pocket, Aidan walked forward and replied casually, "I''ve learned photography for


    some time."


    Leanna had noeback to that.


    It was no wonder that he gave me such a strange look just now. He must have felt insulted.


    She trotted to his side and said, "You''re good at guitar, photography, golf, and even rock climbing¡­


    What exactly do you not know?"


    "I''ll take this as your expression of admiration for me."


    "It isn''t," Leanna muttered. "I''m just curious. Golf and rock climbing are activities that are frequently


    seen in business negotiations or social circles, so it''s normal for you to be good at them. ying guitar


    or taking photos, on the other hand, are something else entirely. They are things that rich young guys


    with nothing to do would learn. Why would you have the time to learn them?"


    "A capable man knows everything."


    Leanna was rendered speechless yet again.


    "My father instructed me to learn some of them. As for the rest, I simply picked them up as a means of


    rxation," Aidan exined.


    Leanna couldn''t help but scoff deep down when she heard that. Though she didn''t want to admit it,


    Aidan was indeed smart and capable.


    This was why many people disliked him, yet they could never defeat him.


    After they walked for a while, they saw the reflection of the sunset appear on the surface of theke.


    "Shall we go back now?" Leanna asked.


    Aidan, on the other hand, looked at a church not far away and said, "There''s a church over there. Let''s


    check it out."


    Leanna also looked in the direction he was gazing at and indeed saw the silhouette of a beautiful


    church.


    "Let''s go," she agreed.


    The sun had just set, and there was still time until the sky wentpletely dark.


    They then walked alongside theke, heading directly toward the church.


    Just as they were about to reach the church, Leanna noticed that the road she was walking on had


    turned into a carpet made from flower petals.


    The surrounding appeared to be intentionally decorated, and with the sunset, it looked really beautiful.


    "Let''s not go over," Leanna suggested. "I think somebody is getting married here."


    However, Aidan turned around and looked at her. "Have you ever seen a church wedding being held at


    night?" he asked.


    "But this¡­"


    As soon as she opened her mouth, someone took her hand and led her forward.

 Chapter 670

    Chapter 670


    Chapter 670 I Only Enjoy Gazing at Bright Stars


    The church was decorated with bouquets of flowers. The sun was setting, and the veryst rays of


    sunshine painted the white building gold. The scenery was so beautiful that Leanna wouldn''t have


    doubted it if she had been told that she had stumbled straight into a fairytale.


    Aidan slowly released her hand before speaking cautiously, "Your words about getting married to me¡­


    Does it still count?"


    She raised her head and stared into his eyes. When she saw his careful yet hopeful stare, she


    btedly realized what he had nned.


    If truth be told, she did think of the possibility that Aidan would propose to her. However, she never


    thought that he would arrange for such a romantic proposal.


    Her eyes glistened as she choked out softly, "You were the one who rejected mest time."


    "That''s why I''m making it up to you now," Aidan said as he got down on one knee and took out a ring


    from his pocket. "Can you please give me another chance?"


    Leanna''s eyes brimmed with tears as she nodded her head lightly. "Okay."


    Unbeknownst to this silly man, I had already gotten over all things that happened in the past when I


    returned to Jamesdon. Our meeting was nothing but a cruel trick Fate yed on us. At one point, I


    used all my strength and courage to correct this mistake. Initially, I thought that our rtionship would


    end on the day of our divorce. Yet, it never crossed my mind that our divorce was the actual beginning


    of something beautiful.


    In the past, I always felt that there was a vast canyon between us. I could never see through his masks,


    and his demeanor frightened me. Nheless, I learned that he wasn''t all thatplicated after truly


    spending time with him over the year. Instead, he is simply someone that possesses a particr set of


    principles and beliefs.


    It''s also precisely because of this reason that outsiders and the Pearsons would make assumptions


    about Aidan through their own lenses. That''s why they find him daunting and challenging to deal with.


    Still, although Aidan was forced to live in such aplicated environment, he still possesses a pure


    and gentle spot in his heart all this time. It is a sacred ce that has been inessible to anyone until


    now.


    Aidan slowly slid the ring on her before he rose to his feet, held her in his arms, and said mirthfully, "So,


    does it mean I can finally call you Mrs. Pearson now?"


    Leanna sniffled as she retorted, "No, you can''t. I will only be Mrs. Pearson after we apply for our


    marriage license."


    "Sure. You''re the boss."


    Leanna leaned into his embrace and whispered, "Is this why you brought me here?"


    Aidan loosened his hold on her slightly. "Not entirely."


    Suddenly, he turned sideways, presenting Leanna with the view that he had been hiding with his broad


    back.


    Her eyes widened as his charmingly low and husky voice sounded next to her ear, "This is what I


    wanted to give you."


    The entire sky was filled with twinkling stars. The shimmering sea looked even more glorious under the


    night sky''s dark canvas. The stars seemed as though they were within a mere hands'' reach.


    As Leanna raised her head and admired the wondrous view before her, the starlight reflected in her


    beautiful eyes.


    Just as she was mesmerized by the starry sky, Aidan''s voice continued ringing in her ear, "This ce is


    known as the world''s first ''Starry Sky Nature Reserve'' as well as the only star reserve to date."


    Leanna instinctively stretched out her hand, seemingly intending to catch a star, while she listened to


    Aidan''s boration. She had never seen such scenery where the indigo sky seemed so close, and


    every star appeared as though it had been hung right before her eyes.


    Naturally, Aidan caught sight of her actions as he teasingly waved his hand, saying, "Let me show you


    a magic trick."


    Since Leanna''s mind was still whirling over Aidan''s proposal earlier, she struggled inwardly for a long


    time before she shifted her gaze to him with incredible difficulty. She felt shocked and surprised as she


    asked, "Since when do you know any magic tricks?"


    Aidan merely quirked a brow at her and asked, "Which star do you like? I will pick it for you."


    Leanna pointed to the brightest star shining in the sky. "That one."


    Aidan slowly curled his hand into a fist and shook it slightly. The next second, a ne with a star


    pendant dropped from his fingertips and was revealed before her eyes.


    Leanna was once again amazed, for she clearly remembered that there was nothing in his hand earlier.


    Aidan lowered his hand, turned around, and put the ne on for her. "I grant you the permission to


    keep staring at me with such adoring eyes."


    She was rendered momentarily speechless when she heard the words that escaped his lips.


    Still, she lowered her head and looked at the sparkling ne on her chest. "When did you buy this?"


    "The moment I decided to bring you here."


    "How would you know that I will ept your marriage proposal?" teased Leanna.


    Aidan sat on the ground and tugged her next to him. "I wasn''t sure if you would ept my proposal,


    but I knew that you would certainly like this ce." That way, even if she rejects the proposal ring, she


    will at least ept the ne, and I will still gain something from this trip.


    Leanna nodded and turned her attention back to the starry sky. "You are quite right."


    After a while, she seemed to have recalled something when she asked, "Is this the ce that you


    mentioned to me? The one you heard about when you were on a business trip in Arcburg?"


    "Yeah. I came over right after I was done with the project discussion."


    She tilted her head in intrigue and asked, "Why? You don''t seem to be someone who is particrly into


    stars."


    Aidan simply looked at her and saidnguidly, "I never said that. In fact, I am very fond of bright stars."


    Leanna met Aidan''s eyes, and her face flushed crimson the moment she understood thepliment in


    Aidan''s words. Since my name carries the meaning of light or bright, is Aidan referring to me as these


    bright stars in the sky? If so, is he meaning to tell me that he is madly into me? When she arrived at


    that thought, she avoided staring into Aidan''s eyes for a moment and looked frantically elsewhere


    before letting out a cough. "I mean¡­ I never expected that you would be an astronomy enthusiast."


    He immediately denied such ims, "There''s no such thing. I''m not an astronomy enthusiast."


    After a pause, he continued, "I only enjoy gazing at bright stars, especially this particr bright star in


    front of me."


    Although Leanna was used to his asional honeyed words, she still found it somewhat hard to resist


    sweet words such as these. Her face was as red as a tomato as she stammered, "You¡ª"


    Before she could say anything, he cupped her cheek and kissed her, silencing her replies.


    Leanna groaned in protest before returning his kiss with the same intensity and slowly fluttering her


    eyes shut.


    The starry sky behind them seemed to have turned into a mere backdrop.


    After the kiss was over, Leanna leaned against his chest and inquired, "Did you visit this ce three


    years ago?"


    Aidan held her hand, lowered his head, and gazed at the ring on her finger. A sense of satisfaction


    filled his heart the longer he gazed at it, and he answered Leanna''s question with a soft hum.


    s, Leanna spoke up once more, "Didn''t you hate me at that time? So, why did you visit this ce?"


    Aidan went silent momentarily before he parted his lips and said, "Why are you bringing up our past at


    such a romantic time?"


    With that, Leanna corrected him by saying, "I''m not bringing up receipts. I''m simply curious about the


    reason that drove you to make a trip to this ce when you clearly hated me back then."


    Aidan once again fell into silence. Then, after a brief moment, he started, "I didn''t really hate you that


    badly."


    Leanna didn''t say anything to that, for she knew that he was telling the truth. Otherwise, he wouldn''t


    have brought me gifts every time he was away on a business trip during our turbulent rtionship all


    those years ago.


    At that time, Aidan simply didn''t know how to express himself. In addition, he thought that I was a


    woman who would force him into marriage with a fake pregnancy and go to any lengths to achieve my


    goal. I reflected on this matter and realized that I was also to me for our terrible rtionship in the


    past.


    Things would have turned out fine if I had actually stood up for myself and told him the truth. s, there


    were only so many ifs in this world¡­


    Then again¡­ I wasn''t aware of howplicated the family situation among the Pearsons was, and in


    turn, I didn''t realize that no one cared whether I was pregnant. Old Master Pearson merely needed a


    pawn he could use to control Aidan. Likewise, I didn''t know that Aidan assumed that I wasn''t with child


    because Sienna had removed all those who knew the truth.


    As a result, the umtion of all these factors eventually led to an unhappy marriage thatsted for


    three years.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Just when Leanna was immersed in her thoughts, Aidan continued, "The first time I came across this


    ce, I thought I had to bring you here once in my life."

 Chapter 671

    Chapter 671


    Chapter 671 Daniel Has Been Missing for a Week


    They stayed in the small town of Taevaia for a week. They would wake up to the blue sky and fluffy


    clouds at dawn and go to bed with the starry sky gleaming throughout the night throughout their


    vacation.


    Next to the small town was the clear and beautiful Lake Taevaia.


    Furthermore, the residents in this small town were weing and down-to-earth. They would greet


    Leanna and Aidan whenever they saw the couple walking about.


    Thanks to them, Leanna learned a few simple greetings after a week.


    Also, their one-week stay in Taevaia made Leannae to the conclusion that this ce was indeed a


    paradise.


    It was as though staying here allowed her to iste herself from all the disturbances of the outside


    world.


    For that reason, Leanna felt somewhat reluctant to leave as the day they had to depart approached


    their doorstep. Instead, she leaned against the car window and kept sneaking looks at the town


    residents, who were waving them goodbye not far away.


    Aidan suggested, "We can make this an annual trip if you''d like."


    She immediately retracted her gaze and turned to look at him with hopeful eyes. "Really?"


    Aidan chuckled lightly and tugged her into his arms. "I have no reason to lie to you."


    Only then did Leanna believe that Aidan wasn''t pulling her leg. Hence, she added, "Let''s bring the little


    guy along next time."


    "Sure."


    Their car soon left the small town of Taevaia and headed toward Colde, a city located approximately


    230 kilometers from Taevaia.


    They finally arrived at the hotel''s lobby by the time night fell.


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    Initially, they nned to stay here for a night and take a private jet to Siebenna tomorrow morning.


    Unfortunately, something disrupted their n. Leanna was jostled awake as she felt Aidan getting up to


    answer a phone call in the middle of the night.


    She had just returned to sleep when, not long after, Aidan gently roused her up.


    Aidan looked down at her apologetically and whispered, "Honey, we may not be able to go to


    Siebenna."


    Since Leanna was still somewhat groggy, she was slightly confused. "Huh?"


    Aidan exined patiently, "We have to make a trip to Lachstein."


    Leanna gradually sobered up when she heard Aidan mention Lachstein.


    Aidan nted a kiss on her forehead. "Get up. I have packed our things."


    Since they left Colde under cover of darkness, the atmosphere of the whole city was dested and


    silent.


    When they boarded the ne, Leanna suddenly grabbed Aidan''s cuff. She tried to hide the tremor in


    her voice, asking, "Did something happen?"


    Aidan held her hand as he replied softly, "I''m not entirely sure of the situation yet, so I can''t give you an


    exact answer."


    Even though Aidan gave her a vague answer, she could feel the uneasiness in her heart magnifying


    little by little. Aidan would never change our itinerary and forsake our trip to Siebenna if it wasn''t


    something serious. Moreover, we departed in the middle of the night. I suppose¡­ something has


    happened to that person.


    Leanna snuggled into Aidan''s embrace throughout the flight heading toward Lachstein. She neither


    talked nor slept during their journey.


    A ray of sunshine spilled into the cabin through the window after an unknown period of time. Then, it


    vanished sometimeter, leaving the cabin to be once again permeated by the silent darkness.


    After a long while, the ne finallynded.


    Someone was already waiting for them outside the tarmac.


    Aidan took Leanna with him, and they got into the car without another moment''s dy.


    The closer they got to their destination, the faster Leanna''s heartbeat became.


    Her mind was a mess, and she couldn''t find it in herself to calm down.


    The ck car stopped at the entrance of a private hospital an hourter. Apart from the police vehicles,


    several bodyguards stood guard outside.


    Leanna involuntarily tightened her hands when they got out of the car.


    Aidan covered her hand with his and headed into the hospital with her.


    When the bodyguards saw them, they let the duo pass without bothering to ask for any identification.


    Once they entered the hospital, they realized that constant patrols were conducted at every corner of


    the hospital, including the hallway.


    Outside the ward, there were even quite a number of police officers standing there and taking notes.


    The whole atmosphere looked tense and serious.


    At this moment, a man appeared before them. "President Pearson. Miss McKinney. Come with me,


    please."


    Leanna''s mind provided her with an identity; this man was William''s assistant.


    The assistant led them to the ward on the top floor. While they strode to their destination, he intoned


    gravely, "The ward downstairs is merely a cover-up. In truth, Mr. Morris is here in this ward."


    All of a sudden, Leanna''s uneasiness was verified as she watched the man lying on the bed with a


    breathing tube in his throat through ayer of ss.


    She could feel a bitter tang on her tongue and asked, "What exactly happened?"


    William''s assistant enlightened her, saying, "Mr. Morris was attacked yesterday afternoon. Since the


    other party came prepared, we suffered heavy losses. Mr. Morris is severely injured, and he is currently


    in aa. In fact, he is still in critical condition as we speak."


    "How¡ª"


    "This group of people had been targeting and observing us for a while. They came at us guns zing.


    Not only did they rob us of our goods a few times, but they even threatened our suppliers with guns as


    well, which caused thepany to suffer heavy losses recently," added the assistant.


    When Aidan heard this information, he pressed, "Have you found out their background?"


    The assistant replied with a shake of his hand, "They are all a bunch of ouws. They value money


    over their lives."


    "Still, it won''t work if someone doesn''t pay them to do the job."


    "We have done a thorough investigation on anyone that has a conflict with thepany. We''ve also


    ruled out each suspect. Suffice it to say, we have no idea who is behind this."


    Leanna pursed her lips tightly. "Did Daniel return because of this incident?"


    The assistant nodded. "Yes."


    "Then, he''s currently¡ª"


    "Daniel has been missing for a week."


    Leanna couldn''t help but widen her eyes in shock as she gasped, "What?!"


    The poor assistant hurriedly borated, "Daniel discovered traces of this group of people a week ago,


    and he sent us an address before he went missing. Unfortunately, they, along with Daniel, were already


    long gone by the time we rushed over to the address."


    "William was attacked yesterday because he hurried out after receiving Daniel''s tip-off. Unexpectedly, it


    turned out to be nothing but a trap."


    Leanna felt her legs go weak, and she staggered backward upon hearing the news. William is currently


    in aa after being shot, and he is still in critical condition. Meanwhile, Daniel has been missing for a


    week, and there''s no telling what has be of him¡­ To make matters worse, Zoe is pregnant and


    still waiting for Daniel to return to her side in Highside.


    Aidan supported her and gingerly led her to the couch nearby.


    William''s assistant immediately took the opportunity to pipe up, "President Pearson. Miss McKinney.


    You should be tired. Please make yourselvesfortable. I still have things to attend to, so I shall be


    taking my leave."


    As soon as he said that, the assistant scurried off.


    Once the assistant left the ward, Leanna grabbed Aidan''s hand and choked out, "I¡ª" She parted her


    lips, wanting to say something, but the words seemed stuck in her throat.


    Aidan patted her back gently and kissed her hair, silently consoling her.


    Leanna closed her eyes, and there was undeniable wetness in the corner of her eyes. I never thought


    that William would be in such a state when I saw him again.


    If I had known¡­ If I had known, I would have actually taken the time to talk to him instead of doing my


    best to feign ignorance.


    It didn''t matter that I had removed the existence of my biological father from my memory.


    Judging from the pocket watch, the ring, and the way he underwent a makeover just for the sake of


    revenge, including how he eventually went as far as to choose not to tell me the truth about his real


    identity¡­ I know that he only did it to prevent me from being dragged into this mess. Due to all of this, I


    can tell that William is undoubtedly a good husband and father.


    Yet, I chose to flee from anyplications because of my selfish pettiness instead of facing the music.


    Leanna clutched Aidan''s shirt as tears streamed down her cheeks. Soon, she could no longer hide her


    quiet sobs as she burst into tears, which grew increasingly louder.


    I haven''t even had a chance to ask William how his life was after all these years. Did he live well? What


    happened in the past? Could he tell me more about my lost childhood memories? What''s more, I


    haven''t even had a chance to call him Dad.

 Chapter 672

    Chapter 672


    Chapter 672 I Won¡¯t Put Myself in Danger


    Leanna''s crying gradually died down into a sniffle after what felt like an eternity.


    After a good sob, she understood that crying over spilled milk was no use.


    The only thing she could do now was to pray that William would get through this critical period.


    When Aidan was certain that her emotions were stable, she said, "Stay here. I''ll be heading out for a


    quick look."


    Leanna nodded with her red-rimmed eyes. "Okay."


    After he left, she looked through the ss wall and bit her lip.


    After a while, she took out her phone.


    Her conversation history with Zoe stopped the day before. Zoe had told her that Charlotte apanied


    her to the pregnancy check, and the doctor dered the baby healthy.


    As Leanna scrolled through the texts, she couldn''t find it in her to tell Zoe the news. So, she slowly


    ced the phone down and leaned against the wall.


    After a few seconds, she suddenly recalled the call she had received from Elijah a week ago.


    Hence, she wiped the tears off her cheeks, rose to her feet, walked to the hallway, and dialed a


    number.


    Elijah''s voice finally came through after a long while, "Leanna."


    Leanna cut straight to the chase, "Were you trying to tell me Daniel went missing when you called me a


    week ago?"


    He paused for a moment before answering her, "You''ve found out about it? I wanted to discuss this


    matter with you, asking about your opinion regarding Zoe. But I decided against it after some thought."


    Leanna merely hummed in agreement and then replied, "I''m in Lachstein now."


    "Then¡­ you saw William? How is he?"


    "Still in critical condition."


    Elijah murmured, "I can''te over right now. Let me know if anything happens."


    She nodded lightly. "Okay."


    After she hung up the phone, she slowly crouched down and rested her back against the wall.


    Aidan finally returned, kneeled before her, and lightly ruffled her hair. "Why are you out here?"


    Leanna looked up at him. "Nothing. Found anything?"


    He helped her up and replied, "Let''s head to the hotel. I''ll tell you everythingter."


    However, she turned to look at the ward. "But¡­"


    "There are plenty of doctors here. They''ll contact us if anything happens. We wouldn''t be of any help


    even if we stayed here."


    So, Leanna lowered her head and left the hospital with Aidan.


    When they arrived at the hotel, Aidan''s phone rang. The number showed that it was a call from


    Highside.


    Leanna caught sight of it. Hence, she took her clothes from her luggage and went into the bathroom,


    intending to take the chance to freshen up.


    When she was done, Aidan was nowhere to be found.


    She poured herself a ss of water and sat on the couch.


    A few momentster, Zoe called her and asked chirpily, "Nana, how''s everything? Is Siebenna fun?"


    Leanna pursed her lips lightly and answered, "We didn''t go to Siebenna."


    "Didn''t you say you were going the day before? Did you miss the flight?"


    "No."


    Zoe then asked, "Oh, right. I forgot you guys have a private jet. Where are you guys now?"


    Leanna looked outside the window and replied after a few seconds of silence, "We''re still in Colde.


    Aidan needed to handle some stuff."


    "Seriously? President Pearson promised to spend time with you, and now he''s working? But then


    again, what''s his n now that he has decided to pass the Pearson Group to Justin?"


    "I don''t know. I didn''t ask. He probably has something in mind."


    "That''s true. He''s a capable man. He''ll seed in anything he puts his mind to."


    Leanna then asked, "How''s Louis and Daphne doing?"


    "Ah. Daphne dropped by the studio a couple of days ago. I tried to weasel things out of her, but there


    seemed to be no progress. Also, Daphne was acting a little weird when I mentioned Louis. Do you think


    she knows?"


    Leanna promptly answered, "Probably not. Louis wouldn''t tell her."


    Zoe nodded in agreement. "I thought so as well."


    They chatted for a while more until Zoe felt it was time to go. "Well, I shall not disturb you lovebirds.


    Enjoy yourself! Remember to send me pictures when you get to Siebenna!"


    Before she hung up, Leanna suddenly called her, "Zoe."


    Zoe asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "Is your morning sickness still awful?"


    "It''s alright. It''s not as bad as before."


    Leanna offered, "I''ll get Alice to apany you and cook for you. It wouldn''t do for you to order


    takeout every day."


    "It''s fine. Daniel taught me a few simple dishes, and I''ve been trying them out. They''re pretty good."


    Then, Zoe added, "I''ll have to take care of my child soon. I can''t rely on people forever. It''s about time I


    start learning how to cook anyway."


    Regardless, Leannamented lightly, "You can rely on me."


    "Of course. Didn''t we say that we''ll care for our children together?"


    Leanna chuckled, "Yes. Indeed."


    Suddenly, a sound came from Zoe''s side.


    It wasn''t difficult to guess that Charlotte had broken yet another bowl.


    Both Zoe and Leanna couldn''t even find it in themselves to say anything about it.


    So, Zoe decided to ignore it as she bid Leanna goodbye, "I''ll hang up now, Nana. Bye!"


    "Bye."


    Leanna let out a long sigh after ending the call.


    The sky gradually got darker as Leanna did nothing but curl into herself on the couch. It wasn''t until


    dawn that she felt drowsy. Thus, she groggily made herselffortable on the lumpy couch.


    When Aidan returned, she had just fallen asleep not too long ago. Her brows were furrowed as if she


    had a bad dream.


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    He knew she had a difficult day, so he merely bent over and carried her to the bedroom.


    Just as he was about to ce her on the bed, she jerked awake.


    Leanna''s voice was a little rough, "You''re back."


    He answered with a hum, "Go to sleep."


    She said, "No. I want to go to the hospital."


    "Rest. We''ll go once you''re awake."


    She looked up at him. "Are you going to go out again?"


    "No. I''ll be here."


    He ced her on the bed andy down beside her.


    Her eyes were wide open as she stared at the ceiling. "Any news about Daniel?"


    "No. But we confirmed the identities of those who fired the guns."


    "Didn''t you say they were just doing it for the money?"


    Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist. "Well, we have to find them to know who paid them."


    Leanna couldn''t help but frown at his words. "You wouldn''t¡­"


    He knew very well what she was thinking andforted her, "Don''t worry. I won''t put myself in danger.


    Besides, these people are unworthy of my attention."


    "Then¡­ what should we do now?"


    "They hijacked a cargo shipst night and wanted to escape. Unfortunately for them, that ship belongs


    to the Woodleys."


    Leanna was taken aback. "The Woodleys?"


    Aidan answered, "Yes. I''ve contacted L. He''ll deal with them."


    "But those people have guns. L¡­"


    He replied, "There''s a reason why people address him as Mr. Woodley."


    Leanna thought about it for a moment and found it to be true since L had left a scary impression


    on her before she had evenid her eyes on him.

 Chapter 673

    Chapter 673


    Chapter 673 These Are All the Things You Deserve


    Leanna woke up after barely two hours of sleep.


    It was evident that Aidan had not slept a wink either. He opened his eyes as soon as she stirred in his


    arms.


    She turned back to look at him and whispered, "Did I wake you up? Go back to sleep. I was just¡­"


    Halfway through her sentence, she felt a hand on her wrist.


    He pulled her back into his arms and murmured in a hoarse voice, "Are you hungry?"


    "No."


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    "Then, sleep for a little longer."


    She said nothing more and simply leaned against his chest quietly.


    His heartbeat was strong and steady. She couldn''t help but feel filled with a sense of security as she


    listened to his heartbeat.


    She couldn''t help wondering, I can rely on Aidan when I''m at a loss for what to do. But what about


    Aidan? Who does he turn to or rely on?


    It all started when Noah fell ill. Afterward, they were lured to Jamesdon, where they learned the truth


    before they returned to Highside again. Aidan then spent more than half a month settling the affairs of


    the Pearson Group and convening a meeting between the board of directors. Finally, he brought Justin


    back and gave up his position as the president of the Pearson Group.


    So many things had happened within the past two or three months.


    Aside from the night that they learned the truth, Leanna had never seen Aidan expressing his emotions


    outwardly before. Instead, he had to endure everything quietly and made all the decisions by himself.


    s, before the dust even had the time to settle, he was dragged into the turmoil of grievances once


    more because of her.


    After a while, Leanna''s voice rang out softly, "Aidan."


    Aidan''s voice was low, "Hmm?"


    "Thank you."


    He was slightly taken aback, so he paused for a moment. "What?"


    She replied, "If it weren''t for me, you wouldn''t have needed to concern yourself with these matters."


    He tightened his arm around her waist and hugged her a little harder. "Are you still asleep? Why are


    you mentioning that now?"


    His response left her feeling speechless for a moment.


    Then, she reached out and shoved at him in annoyance. "I was being serious. You could have gotten a


    good rest after settling the affairs of the Pearson Group, instead¡­"


    He interrupted, "You are right in saying that, but you should change the words ''Thank you'' to ''Honey''


    instead. That would make me far happier."


    The audacity of his words left her at a loss for words.


    As usual, this guy has nothing in his mind but nonsense.


    Hence, she wriggled out of his arms and escaped his embrace. "Alright. I''m getting out of bed since I


    can''t sleep anyway."


    After she said that, she rolled out of bed.


    Aidan stared at her back as he slowly sat up on the bed with a slight smile turning the corners of his


    lips upward.


    When they arrived at the hospital, the security around the ce remained very strict.


    The elevator had just stopped at the top floor when William''s assistant rushed over and spoke to them,


    "President Pearson, Leanna! Mr. Morris is no longer in critical condition. I was just about to inform you


    about the good news."


    Leanna dashed toward the hospital ward upon hearing the fantastic news.


    William was no longer lying in the intensive care unit like yesterday, and there was no ss wall


    separating him from the outside either.


    As she stood beside the hospital bed, she could clearly see just how badly he had been injured. His


    entire person seemed almost devoid of life at this point.


    She felt her eyes redden with tears once more while she looked at the scene before her.


    The assistant and Aidan joined her soon enough.


    Leanna took a deep breath and forced her tears back. "Did the doctor mention when he would


    awaken?"


    The assistant shook her head. "Not yet. But, there''s no need to worry, Miss McKinney. I''m sure Mr.


    Morris will be fine. His condition from twenty years ago was far worse than this, but he survived and got


    back to his feet anyway."


    That was part of William''s past that Leanna had deliberately been avoiding asking about so far.


    Leroy''s main target in that explosion had been William, so he would have gone to great lengths to


    ensure William''s death. But, be that as it may, William survived under those conditions.


    How much pain and agony had he suffered back then? Just thinking about his pain made Leanna''s


    chest tighten in distress.


    She could almost imagine the pain that prated deep into her bones as it circted throughout her


    blood.


    Aidan wrapped his arm around Leanna''s shoulders. "Since he has gotten past the critical period, it will


    only be a matter of time until he wakes up. Don''t worry."


    She nodded lightly. Suddenly, she seemed to recall something and nced back at the assistant.


    "What about Cameron? Where is he right now?"


    The assistant replied, "Mr. Morris immediately sent him away when Daniel went missing. He is currently


    in a safe ce."


    Leanna breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing those words.


    The person in the greatest danger at the moment was Daniel.


    ¡­


    At the same time, in Highside, Jonathan delivered thest stack of documents to the president''s office.


    "Young Master Justin, everything has been delivered."


    Justin sat behind the desk and gave Jonathan a small smile. "Thank you."


    "It''s what I should do," Jonathan replied. "Young Master Justin, if there is nothing else, then I¡­"


    Justin steered his wheelchair to the side of the couch and picked up the teapot. "Don''t be in such a


    rush to leave. The documents are giving me a terrible headache. Why don''t you spend a little time


    chatting with me instead?"


    Jonathan hesitantly asked, "Young Master Justin, was there a problem somewhere?"


    "No. The documents you prepared were excellent. I just wanted to have a chat with you."


    Jonathan silently came to stand by the side at Justin''s request.


    Justin picked up a teacup and gestured to the couch. "Have a seat."


    Jonathan nodded and took the seat facing Justin.


    Justin poured another cup of tea and pushed the cup toward Jonathan. "Have a taste. It''s quite


    delicious."


    "Thank you, Young Master Justin."


    Justin finally spoke after waiting for Jonathan to finish his tea. "I am very grateful for your help during


    this period. If it weren''t for you, I would not have gotten so skillful in such a short amount of time.


    Therefore, I will grant you half a month''s leave from work, so you should get a good rest."


    Jonathan seemed flustered. "You''re being too polite, Young Master Justin. I was simply fulfilling the


    orders given to me by President Pearson. Now that you have gotten ustomed to the work in the


    Pearson Group, I¡­"


    Justin added more tea to Jonathan''s empty cup and smiled. "You''ve been working at the Pearson


    Group for so many years, and you''ve also helped Aidan resolve many issues during this period. Based


    on your abilities, you deserve far better working conditions indeed. Unfortunately, it is just as you have


    seen. I am very new to the Pearson Group, so I am unfamiliar with many things. I''m afraid I will need to


    trouble you for a while longer."


    Jonathan probably did not expect such words toe from Justin. Thus, he froze in shock for a


    moment. "Young Master Justin, I¡­"


    Justin continued as though he had not been interrupted, "The Pearson Group''s vice president position


    remains vacant. I believe you have the right qualifications to take over the position. Aside from that, I


    will also give you a five percent share of the dividends. In the future, you won''t have to deal with such


    menial chores as delivering documents anymore. It''s enough if you do your share of the work properly.


    What do you think?"


    Jonathan stood up abruptly. Before Jonathan could speak, Justinughed and said, "Don''t be so


    nervous. You have been working in the Pearson Group for so many years. These are merely what you


    deserve."


    "Thank you for your kind offer, Young Master Justin. It''s just that I''ve been working for so many years,


    so I was nning to take a break for some time. As for the position of the vice president¡­ that spot


    should be reserved for a more talented person, Young Master Justin."


    Justin spoke slowly, cing great emphasis on his words, "In my heart, nobody is more suitable for this


    position than you. I know how hard you have worked. What do you think about extending your vacation


    time to an entire month instead?"


    "Young Master Justin¡­"


    "Don''t be in such a rush to reject my offer. Why don''t you take some time to consider my offer? I will


    always reserve the position of vice president for you," Justin added. "Of course, if you wish to leave


    because you don''t want to work with me, I will not stop you either."

 Chapter 674

    Chapter 674


    Chapter 674 Two Men Vying for Him


    When Jonathan left the president''s office, the back of his shirt waspletely drenched in ayer of


    cold sweat.


    He quickly packed up his things and left the Pearson Group without another moment''s dy.


    To his surprise, he received a phone call while he was on the road. Then, he immediately dialed


    Aidan''s number as soon as he ended the previous call.


    Aidan''s voiceing from the other side of the phone was indifferent, "Speak."


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    "President Pearson, I just received news that the funds used to hire those mercenaries came from an


    overseas ount under Georgina''s name. Someone opened the ount in renbourg twenty years


    ago. What''s more, a significant amount of money is transferred into this ount every year. My guess


    is that the funds came from Jimmy''s various illegal activities. The existence of this ount is extremely


    secretive. Over the years, there have only been remittances into the ount but no withdrawals from


    the ount. Even Georgina does not seem to know about the existence of this ount."


    Aidan questioned, "Did you manage to find out when Leroy left Highside?"


    Jonathan replied, "Our men and William''s men were watching all the entry and exit points leading in


    and out of Highside. So, even if he were smuggled out of Highside, it would have been impossible for


    him to escape from under our noses without a trace. So, there is only one possibility¡­"


    Either Leroy had dug an underground tunnel and escaped through the underground tunnel, or


    somebody had taken him away. More importantly, this was a person they would never even think to


    investigate or suspect.


    Several seconds passed before Aidan responded, "I will remain in Lachstein for some time. If


    something happens in Highside, work with Keaton to address the issue. Also, don''t forget to check in


    on Leanna''s studio. If they are having trouble keeping up with work, send two personnel to help them."


    Jonathan made a sound of acknowledgment. Then, after a brief pause, he hesitantly stammered,


    "President Pearson¡­"


    "Speak."


    He stuttered and hesitated to speak for a long time.


    Aidan asked, "Are you getting married?"


    Jonathan eximed indignantly, "Of course not!"


    He was so busy that he didn''t even have the time to look for a girlfriend. Whom would he marry?


    "Well then, what is troubling you so terribly? Is it something you can''t tell me? Or am I supposed to


    guess the answer myself?"


    Jonathan said nothing, but he was starting to regret his decision. It would have been better if he had


    just blurted out everything without hesitation earlier.


    With Aidan''s statement in the forefront, his following words would seem like he was expressing his


    dissatisfaction with Aidan instead. Not to mention, his exnation would seem threatening and boastful


    at the same time.


    He paused briefly before blurting out the answer, "Young Master Justin asked to meet me today."


    "What benefits did he offer to you?"


    "He offered me the vice president position and a five percent share of the dividends."


    Aidan mused, "That''s not a bad offer. In that case, you can easily afford a luxurious gift for my


    wedding."


    Jonathan was bbergasted by the response; then, he suddenly realized something.


    Wait a moment¡­ What did he say? Does that mean his marriage proposal was a sess?


    He gave a dryugh. "If so, can I skip the gift-giving during your wedding if I reject the offer?"


    "Stop dreaming." Then, Aidan continued after a brief pause, "It''s up to you whether or not you ept


    the offer. Think about it carefully yourself. There''s no need to worry about me."


    "I won''t ept the offer."


    He smirked. "That''s your decision. Don''t me me for your choiceter."


    Jonathan intoned seriously, "President Pearson, do you know why it took you so long to court Miss


    McKinney? It''s because you have such a harsh manner of speaking."


    "So? I''ve already gotten her."


    He smiled slightly at Aidan''s boastful tone. This was the employer he had chosen. He had toplete


    his duties even if he had to cry while finishing his job.


    Aidan said, "Okay. You can change your mind at any time. There''s no need to inform me about your


    decision."


    After he said that, he hung up without another word.


    Jonathan held his phone and sighed quietly to himself. When did I be so desirable? I can''t believe


    two men are fighting over me¡­ One is gentle and kind; the other is cold, ruthless, bad-tempered, and


    mean. In fact, there is never a good word thates out of his mouth. It''s so difficult to choose


    between them.


    On the other side, Leanna heard a voiceing from the corridor. She approached the figure quietly,


    where she saw Aidan standing by the window and pondering over something.


    So, she walked over and questioned, "What''s wrong? Who was on the phone with you just now?"


    Aidan turned to look at her and expressed his regret, "You may just lose the onlypetitor for the


    position that nobody ispeting for."


    She was confused by his cryptic answer.


    What nonsense is he spewing again?


    He retracted his gaze and stared forward. A long while passed before he said, "Jonathan might choose


    to remain in the Pearson Group."


    It took her several seconds to understand what he was saying. Then, she abruptly understood the


    meaning behind his previous statement.


    She desperately tried to restrain herughter as she stood next to him and probed, "So¡­ you don''t


    want him to remain in the Pearson Group?"


    "It''s none of my business. Besides, it''s not like I can make those decisions on his behalf. What if he


    mes me because he thinks it''s better to have remained in the Pearson Group than to follow me?"


    "That''s true. After all, he might lose all his hair from stress before turning thirty if he decides to follow


    you."


    He corrected her. "He is thirty-one years old this year."


    His shameless response left her at a loss for words.


    What attention to detail¡­ Does that mean it''s alright for Jonathan to start losing his hair just because


    he is thirty-one?


    It began to drizzle outside the window.


    Some time passed before he quietly asked, "In your opinion, do I usually put a lot of pressure on him at


    work?"


    "A little. Think about it¡­ You even make him do the dishes for you. Not to mention, he shows up


    immediately as long as you need his help. It''s very stressful to be on-call 24 hours a day."


    He nced sideways at her. "Do you know his annual sry?"


    She wisely decided not to answer and smartly chose to keep her mouth shut upon hearing that


    dangerous question.


    Although he didn''t get a response, he continued speaking, "But Justin promised to give him a 5% share


    of the dividends. Based on the Pearson Group''s general ie, that would be at least ten times more


    than his current annual sry. It''s only normal for him to be swayed by such numbers. But, of course,


    that figure is based on the Pearson Group''s average profit while I was working there. The Pearson


    Group will maintain normal operating levels for two more years after my departure, but the profits will


    surely decline after two years. At that time, his earnings might notpare to the annual sry that I


    currently offer him."


    She added in a voice that was barely above a whisper, "Even if that''s the case, it''ll be enough if he


    simply took the dividends during those two years."


    He gave her a death stare.


    She stifled herughter. "Can''t you just tell Jonathan that you want him to continue working for you?"


    He rebuffed her, "I can''t. That''s hical."


    She felt that his words made sense after giving them a moment''s thought.


    At this time, the medical staff hade to perform their routine check and measure William''s


    temperature.


    Leanna said, "I''m heading inside."


    Aidan hummed softly in response.


    After she returned to the hospital ward, he stared at his phone in silence. A long time passed before he


    finally sent a message to Jonathan. ''I will increase your sry and hire you an assistant.''


    After he sent the message, he stuffed his phone into his pocket and entered the hospital ward.


    Inside the hospital ward, the doctor was changing William''s bandages.


    Leanna stared at the shocking wound and felt her scalp going numb.


    Aidan walked over and stood beside her. Then, he used one hand to cover her eyes. "Don''t look."


    Her breathing became a little unsteady, and she involuntarily clutched at his sleeves tightly.


    The pain seemed to prate her limbs through her vision.


    Twenty minutester, Jonathan came out of the bathroom after his shower. When he saw the message


    from Aidan, he was so startled that he nearly dropped his phone in fright.


    Has President Pearson been possessed by the Devil or something?

 Chapter 675

    Chapter 675


    Chapter 675 He Called You a Moron


    Leanna stayed in the hospital ward for three whole days, but William showed no signs of waking up


    whatsoever.


    On the fourth day, she happened to see the slightest twitches in the hands of the man lying on the


    hospital bed when she looked up from her manuscripts.


    She quickly jumped to her feet and called for the doctor.


    The doctor spoke to her in Dellshorean after examining William, "I''m afraid it''s just a reflexive action.


    His consciousness has not fully recovered, so it might take a while for him to regain consciousness."


    "He won''t be in danger anymore, right?"


    "As long as his wounds do not be inmed and cause a high fever, there should be no problem."


    He continued after a brief pause, "But, the patient might asionally have some measure of


    consciousness. You should speak to him more often. He might hear you, and your voice might


    stimte him to wake up."


    She nodded lightly. "Thank you."


    After the doctor left the hospital ward, Leanna sat down once more and nced at the manuscripts on


    the coffee table but did not pick them up. Instead, she walked over to the hospital bed and sat down.


    She seemed to catch a glimpse of familiarity in his unfamiliar eyes as she stared at the man on the


    bed.


    Leanna did not know what to say to him, so a long time passed before she slowly began rambling,


    "Two weeks ago, I participated in a jewelry exhibition where I saw the ring that you used to propose to


    my mother. I also heard about the origin of the ring and the story of thest time the ring was used.


    "To be honest, I was very curious about your past. I wanted to know about the stories between you and


    my mother, as well as the things that happened in my childhood. Mr. Jackson told me some stories


    when I was at the Crossley Residence previously. But¡­ those stories are too vague. I can''t remember


    anything about those times.


    "I''ve always had the same recurring dream throughout the years. There was a raging fire before me,


    and I kept trying to run into the fire. However, there was a hand constantly pulling me away and


    dragging me away from that ce. I''m sure that you and I are the same. We both want to know the


    truth behind what happened after the explosion. Why did my mother take me away¡­ Aside from that, I


    also want to know how you survived that explosion.


    "If¡­ If my mother had known that you were alive, she would have been thrilled. We probably would not


    have met after so many years of separation. I might already have called you ''Dad'' a long time ago. Our


    little family might have lived together forever¡­"


    At the end of Leanna''s long monologue, her voice had gotten rough and choked up. Her eyes were


    also reddened and brimming with tears.


    On the other hand, the patient lying on the bed showed no reaction except for a single tear that slipped


    out from the corner of his eye.


    All of a sudden, a wave of emotions surged up inside her. Unable to control the wave of emotions that


    overwhelmed her, she hurriedly ran out of the hospital room. She stared up at the sky and took several


    deep breaths. In the end, she managed to force back her tears.


    Although she did not know when he would regain consciousness, she could be certain that he had


    heard everything she said just now.


    She walked over to the bench along the corridor and sat down. Then, she held her phone with her head


    lowered and seemed to be in deep thought about something.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    ¡­


    There had been significant turmoil within the Complex Group ever since William was shot and


    hospitalized. Then, just as thepany was about to sink into crisis, William''s assistant walked into the


    meeting room with Aidan in tow.


    Many of the Complex Group''s senior executives opposed Aidan''s involvement. They believed that


    Aidan was an outsider who had no qualifications to handle thepany''s affairs.


    To their utter surprise, it only took him two days to locate the coborative partnership that had


    previously been threatened at gunpoint by those people.


    With the supply chains restored, thepany instantly began to operate as usual.


    Even so, thepany was greatly affected by the incident. Unfortunately, it would take some time


    before things would return to how they were before.


    Half a month passed in the blink of an eye.


    The group who attacked William had initially nned to head toward Warkin after seizing the cargo


    ship. s, they were intercepted in the Adtic Sea.


    When these people saw the enormous cruise ship blocking their way and the gleaming ''Woodley'' name


    decorating the side of the cruise ship, they quickly exchanged a nce with each other and took out


    their weapons. Then, they made preparations to defend themselves, but, strangely enough, there was


    no movement from the cruise ship.


    These people had been hiding on the sea for some time now, so their food and water supply had been


    exhausted.


    It did not take long for them to realize that the cruise ship would have everything that they needed.


    Therefore, they stopped hesitating and boarded the cruise ship with their weapons.


    There was not a single person to be found on the spacious deck. Moreover, there was a dining table


    overflowing with fresh food and champagne.


    In the beginning, they patrolled the ship vigntly with their guns at the reason. Once they confirmed


    that nobody was on the deck, they finally began to stuff themselves with the food and chugged the


    champagne like water.


    After they satisfied their hunger and thirst, they began to look at the luxurious cruise ship with a greedy


    light in their eyes. They immediately kicked open the door behind the deck and moved forward with


    their guns at the ready.


    Their journey was very quiet and peaceful.


    The atmosphere did not make them less vignt. On the contrary, they became increasingly anxious


    about the situation.


    One of them spoke in Vendalian, "Something isn''t right. Let''s retreat."


    Another person cursed in Dellshorean, "Get lost if you''re scared of dying. Don''t waste our time with


    your nonsense."


    Another person jumped into the conversation, "The name ''Woodley'' is written on the ship. We shouldn''t


    head any further in. It''s best not to offend Mr. Woodley."


    The person who spoke Dellshorean earlier spat in disdain, "What''s there to fear? Regardless of Mr.


    Woodley''s influence, he can only remain cooped up in Jamesdon. We''re going to leave as soon as we


    grab what we need. How will he know our identities?"


    They quarreled among themselves briefly but gradually crept forward anyway.


    When they arrived before a door and saw the light shining from within, their expressions immediately


    revealed their excitement and eagerness for bloodshed.


    They kicked open the door and stepped inside. Just as they prepared themselves for a massacre, they


    found themselves held at gunpoint. Icy cold gun barrels were pressing directly against their foreheads.


    Likewise, they also pointed the guns in their hands at the people in front of them.


    For a time, the atmosphere in the room was filled with a thickyer of chilling murderous intent.


    L sat at the poker table located in the depths of the room with azy expression on his face.


    Finally, he said calmly, "Why are you so angry? Was my hospitalitycking?"


    The person who spoke Dellshorean earlier threw out a question, "Who are you?"


    L nced over and answered without the slightest change in his expression, "You don''t deserve


    to know."


    The person who spoke Dellshorean turned to hispanion who could speak Chiojan and asked,


    "What did he say?"


    Hispanion replied, "He called you a moron."


    When he heard those words, his expression changed drastically, and his rage surged to unprecedented


    heights. He was just about to pull the trigger when his opponent forcefully twisted his wrist with great


    strength. His gun ttered noisily to the ground. Then, before he even had time to react to the


    situation, he felt somebody kick him in the knee. Then, he lost his bnce and fell to his knees with an


    audible thud.


    The entire process took ce so quickly that nobody managed to catch a clear glimpse of the other


    party''s movements.


    They were shocked by the sudden turn of events. They stared at the man, who suddenly appeared


    beside them without any warning, with their jaws agape as they clutched tightly at the guns in their


    hands.


    At this moment, the man carried the person who spoke Dellshorean earlier over to the poker table.


    The man looked utterly terrified, "W-Who are you?"


    L nced at the man and responded calmly, "Since you want to know so badly, I don''t mind


    making a bet with you. If you win, I will tell you who I am."


    "A-And¡­ if I lose?"

 Chapter 676

    Chapter 676


    Chapter 676 Something Happened In Jamesdon


    L''s cold voice rang in the air. "If you lose, I''ll make sure it''s an eye for an eye."


    The man looked terrified as he struggled to get up. However, before he could even raise his head, he


    was forced back down.


    He turned his head and realized that the man holding him down was none other than the person who


    had easily disarmed him earlier.


    "Come on, now. Let''s not waste time. There''s a line behind you," L continued.


    With that, the terrified man was pulled up by the cor.


    He was about 1.9 meters tall and had never lost a fight until today. The man that fought him prior to this


    was at least half a head shorter than him, yet he still lost in such a one-sided fight no less.


    Who were these people?


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    He couldn''t help but shake in his boot as he stammered, "What are we ying?"


    L drummed his fingers lightly on the table and said, "Well, that''s up to you."


    "We''ll draw three cards, and whoever has the highest score wins."


    L''s thin lips twitched in amusement, and he pushed the deck of cards forward, signaling for the


    other party to draw first.


    The man checked the card carefully, and after seeing that there were no special marks on them, he


    quickly drew three from the deck.


    This was one of the games he had often yed at the casino.


    If his opponent lost, he would chop off their fingers.


    He did not expect that the tables would turn and he would be the victim instead of the victor of this


    game.


    Once he had drawn his card, L casually took three from the pile as well and raised his hand to


    signal for the other to show his hand first.


    The man took a deep breath as sweat beaded against his forehead. Still, he knew that he couldn''t run


    from his fate any longer as he shakily wiped the sweat off his brow and licked his dried lips nervously


    before slowly flipping the card over.


    Ten.


    In this game, ten is the highest card. Therefore, J, Q, and K would be regarded as nk cards with


    zero points.


    His eyes brightened at the card, and his breathing slowly evened. Then, he carelessly rubbed his


    sweaty palms against his pants and looked at L, gesturing that it was his turn.


    L''s long fingers moved slightly and flipped open one card lightly.


    It was an A, the smallest card in the pile.


    The man was overjoyed, and thecent expression on his face made it known that he was


    definitely going to win.


    Hispanions, who were watching from a distance, began to whistle and p.


    As confidence began to build in his heart, the man shook off the sweat on his hand and flipped his next


    card.


    This time, it was a K.


    He immediately froze, and his heart began to race as his blood turned to ice in his veins. Before


    L could even open his second card, the man had already revealed his third one.


    It was another K.


    That meant he was in possession of empty cards.


    His highest score right now was the first ten that he had flipped over earlier.


    The man held his breath and looked at L, still holding onto a glimmer of hope.


    L''s three cards might not even add up to ten.


    L slowly opened his second card under the man''s intense yet desperate gaze.


    It was a two.


    The man''s heart rate slowed almost instantly, and a wanton smile appeared on his face.


    s, his smile immediately became stiff in the very next second as L turned over his third card.


    It was an eight. In conclusion, L scored a total of 11.


    He had won this bout by a single point.


    "No! There''s no way! You cheated!"


    L threw the cards on the table and tly said, "Keep your end of the bet."


    Just as the man was about to refute, he was unceremoniously shot in the knee.


    His men took this as an opportunity to open fire.


    Unfortunately, L''s men were one step ahead.


    L''s men specifically aimed each shot they took at the wrists.


    Guns began to fall, one after the other, apanied by painful wailing.


    "I wanted to give all of you a chance to gamble with me, but it seems like that''s unnecessary," L


    said leisurely.


    Amid the groans, one person spoke up in broken English, "You¡­ Are you L Woodley?"


    "The game is over. There''s no reward in guessing my identity right."


    "We¡­ We did not have any problems with you. Why do you¡ª"


    L sneered contemptuously as he interrupted, "No problems? You robbed my cargo ship. Now,


    I''m just here to take back what''s mine with due interest. What is so wrong about that?"


    "We didn''t know that it was your ship. It was our boss'' order. We¡ª"


    "Who is your boss?" L got up and asked coldly.


    "I¡­ I don''t know. You know the nature of our business. We carry out our orders without any questions


    as long as we''re paid."


    Another man, who was lying on the ground, grunted, "We''re just here for the money. It''s¡­ We didn''t do


    it on pur¡ª"


    However, before he could finish his sentence, he had already fainted from the pain.


    At this time, a few subordinates of L rushed toward him with solemn faces. "Mr. Woodley,


    something has gone down in Jamesdon."


    ¡­


    Two dayster, just as Leanna was about to submit hertest design to Zoe, a notification popped up


    on her phone.


    The instant she saw the name ''Jamesdon'' in the title, she clicked on it without hesitation.


    Leanna shot to her feet as she read through the article''s content.


    Several elders of the Woodley Family were found dead at home two days ago. It was a tragic death,


    and the scene was practically doused in blood.


    These elders rarely left their homes. The only ce they would go would be the Woodleys'' ancestral


    hall. The only person that held any grudges against them was L, who wanted to abolish the rules


    of the Woodley Family.


    It just so happened that L was out of town on the day they died, and no one knew of his


    whereabouts.


    ording to the Woodley Family, they were not allowed to leave Jamesdon. Yet, he did the exact


    opposite.


    As a result, he was the top suspect.


    After the death of the few elders, the family gathered at the Woodley Family Estate and refused to bury


    the dead. Because of that, the corpses were left in the mourning hall. They insisted on hearing an


    exnation from L and refused to leave until they got what they wanted.


    Even Philip''s presence couldn''t appease their anger.


    Several of the elders were renowned and prestigious throughout Jamesdon. So, the fact that they were


    killed on the very same day naturally sparked several discussions.


    Yet, L never showed up, nor did he say anything in his defense.


    Gradually, everyone came to assume that the elders were truly eliminated on his orders.


    Leanna stared at the news and unconsciously tightened her grip on her phone. Then, she suddenly


    recalled that half a month ago, Aidan told her that the group who attacked William had robbed the


    Woodleys'' cargo ship.


    Therefore, L probably left Jamesdon in order to deal with this matter discretely.


    s, the elders were murdered when he left. It didn''t help that no one could justify his absence in


    Jamesdon, and people began to point their fingers at him.


    First, William was attacked. Then, once they arrived in Lachstein, Aidan found some clues and


    contacted L. With that, L immediately left Jamesdon to deal with these thugs. Then, things


    began to unfold in Jamesdon, one after the other.


    All of these¡­


    There was no way that it was all a big coincidence.


    Leanna suddenly felt her scalp go numb at the thought. Were the people that attacked Jamesdon the


    same ones that colluded with Sienna and drugged her son?


    What were they trying to do? Who was their target?


    When she arrived at that thought, she hastily unlocked her phone and dialed Waylen''s number.


    It was turned off.


    Leanna''s face turned pale in an instant, and her knees began to buckle under her.


    She tried to calm herself and called Naomi instead.


    Yet, she was also met with the dial tone.


    Leanna closed her eyes and gritted her teeth, identally biting her cheeks in her panic. Soon, the iron


    tang of blood burst on her tongue.


    So, it was with frayed nerves that she frantically swiped through her contacts and called Louis.


    Fortunately, the call connected this time.


    Before Louis could speak, Leanna was already rambling, "Look for Keaton immediately before picking


    up Zoe and Charlotte. Then, stay together and don''t go anywhere until I call you again."

 Chapter 677

    Chapter 677


    Chapter 677 What Are You Afraid Of? I¡¯m Here


    Leanna felt her temples throbbing as she hastily ended the call. Her heart was beating so fast that it


    would have probably leaped out of her chest if it were physically possible.


    A few secondster, she called Zoe again.


    Zoe, who had been taking pictures of the model, saw Leanna''s name shing across her phone''s


    screen and immediately picked it up. "Nana, what''s the matter?"


    "Are you in the studio?" Laeanna asked hurriedly.


    "Yes, I''m a bit upied right now. I''ll call you back in a bit."


    "Zoe, listen carefully. Something has happened in Jamesdon. I''m not sure if they''re going to set their


    sights on Highside. I''ve gotten Louis to pick you up. Please be careful these few days."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe was taken aback to hear such a thing, and her worried tone caught her off guard. So, he


    instinctively nodded dazedly. "Oh, okay. I''ll look for Charlotte as soon as I''m done with this shoot."


    "Okay. Call me if you need anything."


    Leanna ced her phone down with trembling hands as she took a deep breath.


    Although she might have gone overboard with her worries, several elders did die in Jamesdon. This


    just showed how ruthless and desperate the masterminds were behind such a terrible tragedy.


    Therefore, she would do anything to make sure they were safe.


    Leanna tried to call Waylen and Naomi again but to no avail.


    Just as she was about to leave, a feeble gasp came from the hospital bed. "Leanna¡­"


    Initially, Leanna thought that she was hearing things.


    Then, William''s voice sounded once more in the ward, firmer this time, "Leanna."


    Leanna rushed to the hospital bed and saw that William''s eyes were open. Although there was no


    doubt that his vision hadn''t fully returned, judging from his erged pupils, he still had his hands raised


    in the air as if he was desperately trying to grab something, something precious to his heart.


    She immediately leaned over and grasped his hand, her voice choking up unconsciously as she tried to


    murmur, "I''m here."


    William stared at the ceiling for half a minute before gradually turning his head to look at her with a


    weak smile. "Dad''s here. Don''t be scared."


    Leanna could no longer restrain the emotions that had been building up over time upon hearing those


    reassuring words. Terror and fear of the unknown clouded her head, and tears began to roll down her


    cheeks. Soon, she lowered her head, pressed her cheek against her father''s weathered hand, and


    began to sob.


    William slowly raised his other hand with difficulty and patted her head tofort her. "It''s okay.


    Everything will be fine."


    Leanna cried and cried before eventually calming down. Then, she wiped the tears from her face and


    said, "I''ll get the doctor."


    Shortly after, the doctor came and gave William a full body examination.


    Based on the results, the doctor deemed that although he was still weak from the surgery, his body was


    recovering well.


    Leonno felt her temples throbbing os she hostily ended the coll. Her heort wos beoting so fost thot it


    would hove probobly leoped out of her chest if it were physicolly possible.


    A few seconds loter, she colled Zoe ogoin.


    Zoe, who hod been toking pictures of the model, sow Leonno''s nome floshing ocross her phone''s


    screen ond immediotely picked it up. "Nono, whot''s the motter?"


    "Are you in the studio?" Leonno osked hurriedly.


    "Yes, I''m o bit upied right now. I''ll coll you bock in o bit."


    "Zoe, listen corefully. Something hos hoppened in Jomesdon. I''m not sure if they''re going to set their


    sights on Highside. I''ve gotten Louis to pick you up. Pleose be coreful these few doys."


    Zoe wos token obock to heor such o thing, ond her worried tone cought her off guord. So, he


    instinctively nodded dozedly. "Oh, okoy. I''ll look for Chorlotte os soon os I''m done with this shoot."


    "Okoy. Coll me if you need onything."


    Leonno ploced her phone down with trembling honds os she took o deep breoth.


    Although she might hove gone overboord with her worries, severol elders did die in Jomesdon. This


    just showed how ruthless ond desperote the mosterminds were behind such o terrible trogedy.


    Therefore, she would do onything to moke sure they were sofe.


    Leonno tried to coll Woylen ond Noomi ogoin but to no ovoil.


    Just os she wos obout to leove, o feeble gospe from the hospitol bed. "Leonno¡­"


    Initiolly, Leonno thought thot she wos heoring things.


    Then, Williom''s voice sounded once more in the word, firmer this time, "Leonno."


    Leonno rushed to the hospitol bed ond sow thot Williom''s eyes were open. Although there wos no


    doubt thot his vision hodn''t fully returned, judging from his enlorged pupils, he still hod his honds roised


    in the oir os if he wos desperotely trying to grob something, something precious to his heort.


    She immediotely leoned over ond grosped his hond, her voice choking up unconsciously os she tried to


    murmur, "I''m here."


    Williom stored ot the ceiling for holf o minute before groduolly turning his heod to look ot her with o


    weok smile. "Dod''s here. Don''t be scored."


    Leonno could no longer restroin the emotions thot hod been building up over time upon heoring those


    reossuring words. Terror ond feor of the unknown clouded her heod, ond teors begon to roll down her


    cheeks. Soon, she lowered her heod, pressed her cheek ogoinst her fother''s weothered hond, ond


    begon to sob.


    Williom slowly roised his other hond with difficulty ond potted her heod tofort her. "It''s okoy.


    Everything will be fine."


    Leonno cried ond cried before eventuolly colming down. Then, she wiped the teors from her foce ond


    soid, "I''ll get the doctor."


    Shortly ofter, the doctore ond gove Williom o full body exominotion.


    Bosed on the results, the doctor deemed thot olthough he wos still weok from the surgery, his body wos


    recovering well.


    Laanna falt har tams throbbing as sha hastily andad tha call. Har haart was baating so fast that it


    would hava probablyapad out of har chast if it wara physically possi.


    A faw sacondstar, sha cad Zoa again.


    Zoa, who had baan taking picturas of tha modal, saw Laanna''s nama shing across har phona''s


    scraan and immadiataly pickad it up. "Nana, what''s tha mattar?"


    "Ara you in tha studio?" Laanna askad hurriadly.


    "Yas, I''m a bit upiad right now. I''ll call you back in a bit."


    "Zoa, listan carafully. Somathing has happanad in Jamasdon. I''m not sura if thay''ra going to sat thair


    sights on Highsida. I''va gottan Louis to pick you up. asa ba caraful thasa faw days."


    Zoa was takan aback to haar such a thing, and har worriad tona caught har off guard. So, ha


    instinctivaly noddad dazadly. "Oh, okay. I''ll look for Charlotta as soon as I''m dona with this shoot."


    "Okay. Call ma if you naad anything."


    Laanna cad har phona down with trambling hands as sha took a daap braath.


    Although sha might hava gona ovarboard with har worrias, savaral aldars did dia in Jamasdon. This


    just showad how rutss and dasparata tha mastarminds wara bahind such a tarri tragady.


    Tharafora, sha would do anything to maka sura thay wara safa.


    Laanna triad to call Wan and Naomi again but to no avail.


    Just as sha was about toava, a faa gasp cama from tha hospital bad. "Laanna¡­"


    Initially, Laanna thought that sha was haaring things.


    Than, William''s voica soundad onca mora in tha ward, firmar this tima, "Laanna."


    Laanna rushad to tha hospital bad and saw that William''s ayas wara opan. Although thara was no


    doubt that his vision hadn''t fully raturnad, judging from his argad pupils, ha still had his hands raisad


    in tha air as if ha was dasparataly trying to grab somathing, somathing pracious to his haart.


    Sha immadiatalyanad ovar and graspad his hand, har voica choking up unconsciously as sha triad to


    murmur, "I''m hara."


    William starad at tha cailing for half a minuta bafora gradually turning his haad to look at har with a


    waak sm. "Dad''s hara. Don''t ba scarad."


    Laanna could no longar rastrain tha amotions that had baan building up ovar tima upon haaring thosa


    raassuring words. Tarror and faar of tha unknown cloudad har haad, and taars bagan to roll down har


    chaaks. Soon, sha lowarad har haad, prassad har chaak against har fathar''s waatharad hand, and


    bagan to sob.


    William slowly raisad his othar hand with difficulty and pattad har haad tofort har. "It''s okay.


    Evarything will ba fina."


    Laanna criad and criad bafora avantually calming down. Than, sha wipad tha taars from har faca and


    said, "I''ll gat tha doctor."


    Shortly aftar, tha doctor cama and gava William a full body axamination.


    Basad on tha rasults, tha doctor daamad that although ha was still waak from tha surgary, his body was


    racovaring wall.


    The doctor also advised that William should continue to rest and that it was best if his friends and


    family didn''t abuse their visitation rights.


    After the doctor left, William clicked on the control, which steadily raised the bed into a sitting position,


    and said, "I overheard you saying that something happened in Jamesdon."


    Leanna poured him a ss of water. "Oh. So, you know everything, then?"


    "No, I just heard some vague words and pieced that together myself. I couldn''t really hear everything


    clearly. What happened?"


    "The doctor said you need to rest. So, you shouldn''t be worrying about such things now." She tried to


    dodge the topic.


    He took the ss of water out of her hands, took a few careful sips, and coughed before saying, "What


    about Daniel? Did you find out anything about him?"


    Leanna frowned slightly and shook her head.


    After a pause, she said, "Aidan is helping out with thepany, so you don''t have to worry about


    business."


    William went silent for a while upon hearing that.


    Leanna knew that Aidan probably did not leave a good impression on William.


    Therefore, she did not continue this topic any further. Instead, she got up and said, "I''ll ask the doctor


    about your dietary needs."


    With that, she left the ward.


    As soon as she went to the corridor, Louis called her to say he had arrived at the studio. He reassured


    her that he would take care of the rest, so she could set her mind at ease.


    Leanna nodded. "Keep a close lookout these few days. I don''t think anything should happen, but just in


    case. You understand?"


    She didn''t want any of them to get hurt since the little guy''s whereabouts were already unknown.


    On top of that, there was the incident in Jamesdon. She didn''t know if Charlotte would be their next


    target.


    After Leanna hung up the phone, she inhaled deeply before entering the doctor''s office.


    The doctor told her that William should only be on a liquid diet for the next two days. Then, and only


    then, would he be allowed to partake in any solids. Even so, he should stick to light foods.


    Then, she headed to the convenience store to get some necessities after leaving the doctor''s office,


    keeping his advice in mind. When she returned to the ward, Aidan and William''s assistant were already


    there.


    She heard that they were discussing matters regarding thepany, so she quietly closed the door


    and sat on the chair outside the ward.


    She turned on her phone and stared at the picture of the little guy. After a while, her eyes turned red-


    rimmed as she stared longingly at the image.


    Tears began to roll down her cheek as they sttered against the screen.


    Still, she was aware that she was currently in public. Thus, she raised her head and closed her eyes in


    an attempt to force her tears back.


    At this time, someone reached out to grab her hand and said lowly, "Did you see the news?"


    Leanna snapped her eyes open and saw Aidan squatting in front of her.


    She lowered her head and mumbled, "I can''t get in touch with Waylen and Ms. Fletcher. I''m afraid¡ª"


    He pinched her red nose and interrupted her, "What are you afraid of? I''m here."


    She was taken aback for a moment before a thought suddenly came to her mind. "You¡­"


    "After what happened to the Woodleys¡­ Well, I''ve made arrangements for them to be taken to a


    secure safe house."


    "But isn''t the little guy being treated in theboratory? What would happen to theboratory if


    something happened to L?


    "They''re all safe now, but we couldn''t just ship our loved ones off to Jamesdon. There are too many of


    them. So, we''ll have to wait. Don''t worry."


    Leanna felt her eyes winding up for another round of sobs as she whimpered, "But I couldn''t get


    through to Waylen and Ms. Fletcher."


    "That''s because too many people are calling them all at once. I''ll contact him in the evening, okay?"


    Aidanforted her.


    "Okay," she replied, wiping the tears from her face.


    Aidan''s heart softened when he saw her saddened face and leaned over to kiss her lips. "You look so


    cute even when you''re crying."


    Leanna didn''t know how to react.


    Just as she was about to push him away, he quickly held her hands in his firm grip.


    Aidan''s lips curled into a smile before he slowly backed away. "Where were you earlier?"


    Her voice was still quivering as she whispered, "I went downstairs to buy something."


    "Have you eaten?"


    "No¡­"


    "Let''s go. I''ll take you to dinner," he intoned seriously.


    Leanna''s head turned toward the ward to protest, "But the doctor said he should rest more."


    "Don''t worry. His assistant is just making a simple report. It''ll be over in a jiffy."


    A thought suddenly came to her mind, but she decided not to voice it. Instead, she followed him.


    "What do you want to eat?" Aidan asked.


    "Anything."


    "Since William is awake, you should be able to rest easy now. So, let''s have a meal, hm?"


    "Sure." She nodded.


    Aidan was a little surprised that she was so cooperative. He even showed his dubiosity by turning his


    head to look at her with his eyebrows raised.


    Leanna sensed his gaze as she tidied up her hair and solemnly said, "I just thought you were rather


    pitiful since you''ve been kicked out. So, I''ve decided to go along with your wishes just this once."


    Aidan went mute for a few seconds before finally saying, "Who told you that I was kicked out?"


    "Is this such a surprise?" she retorted.

 Chapter 678

    Chapter 678


    Chapter 678 Everything Is Fine


    Meanwhile, at Highside, Louis had just arrived at the studio, and Charlotte was still unaware of the


    turmoil in Jamesdon.


    She was holding back her excitement as she happily waved to Louis. Still, when a customer headed to


    the counter, she immediately switched back to her professional mask, which truly brought out her job


    etiquette.


    By the time Zoe came over, the studio had already seen off thest batch of guests.


    The sky outside was darkening as well.


    "Let''s go. I''ll send all of you home," Louis said.


    Charlotte looked at him and Zoe curiously. "Is Leanna back? Does she want to have dinner together?"


    Zoe shook her head. "Nana just called me and said that something terrible has transpired in Jamesdon.


    Do you want to call home and check on them?"


    Charlotte was stunned for a moment. "Jamesdon? What happened?"


    Louis took out his phone, clicked on the news, and handed it to her.


    Her eyes immediatelynded on the headline, and the blood quickly drained from her face. The hand


    that held the phone began to tremble. Although she opened her mouth, no words escaped her lips.


    Even though she did not like the elders and thought their ideas were too old-fashioned and rigid, they


    had been by her side as she grew up. They were there for almost every single milestone in her life.


    Therefore, it was no surprise that she couldn''t ept the fact that they were killed overnight, all at the


    same time.


    And the killer was still¡­still¡­


    Zoe looked at her pale face and whispered in concern, "Do you have any rtives there?"


    After a long while, Charlotte finally came to her senses and stammered, "N-N-No¡­ I''ll have to call my


    dad."


    As she spoke, she fumbled around her bag for her own phone.


    The phone rang for a long time before it was connected, and she quickly said, "Dad, you¡ª"


    s, Charles interrupted her with a warning, "Stay in Highside for now. Don''te to Jamesdon,


    regardless of who is offering to bring you here. Do you understand?"


    She agreed in a daze and stammered, "I-I know. Are you and Grandpa okay?"


    "We''re fine." It sounded very noisy on his end. Then, he reminded her again, "Don''t trust anyone from


    the Woodley Family. No one at all."


    With that, he hung up the phone in a hurry.


    Charlotte was dumbfounded.


    She had always been well-protected and sheltered all these 20 years of life. She did not have to worry


    about anything. So, this was a big change for her.


    Zoe didn''t press on the matter as she patted Charlotte on the shoulder. "Let''s head back."


    Meonwhile, ot Highside, Louis hod just orrived ot the studio, ond Chorlotte wos still unowore of the


    turmoil in Jomesdon.


    She wos holding bock her excitement os she hoppily woved to Louis. Still, when o customer heoded to


    the counter, she immediotely switched bock to her professionol mosk, which truly brought out her job


    etiquette.


    By the time Zoee over, the studio hod olreody seen off the lost botch of guests.


    The sky outside wos dorkening os well.


    "Let''s go. I''ll send oll of you home," Louis soid.


    Chorlotte looked ot him ond Zoe curiously. "Is Leonno bock? Does she wont to hove dinner together?"


    Zoe shook her heod. "Nono just colled me ond soid thot something terrible hos tronspired in Jomesdon.


    Do you wont to coll home ond check on them?"


    Chorlotte wos stunned for o moment. "Jomesdon? Whot hoppened?"


    Louis took out his phone, clicked on the news, ond honded it to her.


    Her eyes immediotely londed on the heodline, ond the blood quickly droined from her foce. The hond


    thot held the phone begon to tremble. Although she opened her mouth, no words escoped her lips.


    Even though she did not like the elders ond thought their ideos were too old-foshioned ond rigid, they


    hod been by her side os she grew up. They were there for olmost every single milestone in her life.


    Therefore, it wos no surprise thot she couldn''t ept the foct thot they were killed overnight, oll ot the


    some time.


    And the killer wos still¡­still¡­


    Zoe looked ot her pole foce ond whispered in concern, "Do you hove ony relotives there?"


    After o long while, Chorlotte finollye to her senses ond stommered, "N-N-No¡­ I''ll hove to coll my


    dod."


    As she spoke, she fumbled oround her bog for her own phone.


    The phone rong for o long time before it wos connected, ond she quickly soid, "Dod, you¡ª"


    Alos, Chorles interrupted her with o worning, "Stoy in Highside for now. Don''te to Jomesdon,


    regordless of who is offering to bring you here. Do you understond?"


    She ogreed in o doze ond stommered, "I-I know. Are you ond Grondpo okoy?"


    "We''re fine." It sounded very noisy on his end. Then, he reminded her ogoin, "Don''t trust onyone from


    the Woodley Fomily. No one ot oll."


    With thot, he hung up the phone in o hurry.


    Chorlotte wos dumbfounded.


    She hod olwoys been well-protected ond sheltered oll these 20 yeors of life. She did not hove to worry


    obout onything. So, this wos o big chonge for her.


    Zoe didn''t press on the motter os she potted Chorlotte on the shoulder. "Let''s heod bock."


    Maanwh, at Highsida, Louis had just arrivad at tha studio, and Charlotta was still unawara of tha


    turmoil in Jamasdon.


    Sha was holding back har axcitamant as sha happily wavad to Louis. Still, whan a customar haadad to


    tha countar, sha immadiataly switchad back to har profassional mask, which truly brought out har job


    atiquatta.


    By tha tima Zoa cama ovar, tha studio had alraady saan off thast batch of guasts.


    Tha sky outsida was darkaning as wall.


    "Lat''s go. I''ll sand all of you homa," Louis said.


    Charlotta lookad at him and Zoa curiously. "Is Laanna back? Doas sha want to hava dinnar togathar?"


    Zoa shook har haad. "Nana just cad ma and said that somathing tarri has transpirad in Jamasdon.


    Do you want to call homa and chack on tham?"


    Charlotta was stunnad for a momant. "Jamasdon? What happanad?"


    Louis took out his phona, clickad on tha naws, and handad it to har.


    Har ayas immadiatalyndad on tha haadlina, and tha blood quickly drainad from har faca. Tha hand


    that hald tha phona bagan to tram. Although sha opanad har mouth, no words ascapad har lips.


    Evan though sha did not lika tha aldars and thought thair idaas wara too old-fashionad and rigid, thay


    had baan by har sida as sha graw up. Thay wara thara for almost avary sin mstona in har lifa.


    Tharafora, it was no surprisa that sha couldn''t apt tha fact that thay wara kid ovarnight, all at tha


    sama tima.


    And tha kir was still¡­still¡­


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoa lookad at har p faca and whisparad in concarn, "Do you hava any rtivas thara?"


    Aftar a long wh, Charlotta finally cama to har sansas and stammarad, "N-N-No¡­ I''ll hava to call my


    dad."


    As sha spoka, sha fumd around har bag for har own phona.


    Tha phona rang for a long tima bafora it was connactad, and sha quickly said, "Dad, you¡ª"


    s, Chas intarruptad har with a warning, "Stay in Highsida for now. Don''ta to Jamasdon,


    ragarss of who is offaring to bring you hara. Do you undarstand?"


    Sha agraad in a daza and stammarad, "I-I know. Ara you and Grandpa okay?"


    "Wa''ra fina." It soundad vary noisy on his and. Than, ha ramindad har again, "Don''t trust anyona from


    tha Wooy Family. No ona at all."


    With that, ha hung up tha phona in a hurry.


    Charlotta was dumbfoundad.


    Sha had always baan wall-protactad and shaltarad all thasa 20 yaars of lifa. Sha did not hava to worry


    about anything. So, this was a big changa for har.


    Zoa didn''t prass on tha mattar as sha pattad Charlotta on tha shouldar. "Lat''s haad back."


    Thus, they left the studio with Keaton following behind them.


    Once they reached the apartment, Louis did not leave. Instead, he stayed in Leanna''s guest room.


    On the other hand, Keaton, who was still downstairs, called Aidan, "Mr. Pearson, everything is fine in


    Highside."


    Aidan hummed and said, "Get more people to guard them. Don''t let your guard down for even a


    second."


    "Yes, sir."


    ¡­


    When Aidan and Leanna returned to the hospital after dinner, William''s assistant had already left.


    Whereas William was sitting on the hospital bed, looking through the documents.


    Aidan had already read these documents. Nheless, the employees would only implement


    everything once William signed the papers.


    Therefore, it was actually not a heavy task to do. All he needed to do was sign.


    Leanna did not say anything and just walked over to pour him a ss of water.


    William raised his head when he heard movement in the ward. He blinked his weary eyes and pinched


    the bridge of his nose. "You''re back."


    "If you''re tired, you should rest," she responded.


    "I''ve been lying in bed for almost a month, and now, I''m struggling toplete such a simple task."


    "You have just woken up not long ago and haven''t fully recovered. The doctor said you need to rest


    more."


    "There are just a few documents left. I''ll be done after signing them."


    At this time, Aidan walked over and said, "Thepany''s businesses are well and ounted for. Aside


    from the fact that the Complex Group couldn''t be brought into the country on such short notice."


    William stayed silent for a while before saying, "We''ll talk about thister."


    "L found the people behind it, but not Daniel. ording to them, Daniel was most likely taken


    away by Leroy Crossley."


    William''s brows furrowed slightly as his hands gradually clenched into fists upon hearing those words.


    Leanna turned her head to look at Aidan in surprise. "Leroy Crossley?"


    Aidan nodded solemnly. "Leroy should be the one behind the Complex Group''s problems, including the


    shooting incident."


    "Isn''t he in Highside? How could he¡ª"


    "I think he has already left Highside."


    "There are so many people looking for him. How did he manage to escape?"


    Aidan pursed his lips slightly and did not answer.


    William stepped in and said, "He should have some contingency ns in ce. Otherwise, we would


    probably have a lead now after searching for him for so long."


    In the beginning, William did not suspect Leroy when something happened to the Complex Group.


    It wasn''t until Daniel''s disappearance and things spiraled out of control that William realized that the


    other party clearly came prepared.


    Other than Leroy, who had been in hiding for several months, there was no one else.


    "His current whereabouts are unknown. However, it is very likely that he will strike again," Aidan said.


    "Now that I know who''s behind it, I have a way to deal with him."


    "If that''s the case, we''ll return to Highside in two days'' time."


    As soon as that sentence left his lips, there was a moment of silence in the ward.


    Although the atmosphere wasn''t bleak, it wasn''t good either.


    William turned to look at Leanna. "Leanna, ask the doctor when I should change my dressing."


    Just as she opened her mouth to speak, she met with Aidan''s gaze. He tilted his head slightly,


    motioning for her to leave.


    In the end, she pursed her lips and nodded before walking out with her head down.


    She knew that it was an excuse to send her out, so she did not seek the doctor. Instead, she headed to


    the garden downstairs.


    It was already noon, and the sun hung brightly in the sky. Nevertheless, it wasn''t hot, and there would


    even be an asional cool breeze delicately brushing against her skin.


    Leanna strolled around for some time before finding a bench under a tree to sit down.


    Twenty minutester, Aidan''s figure appeared in the distance, approaching her.


    He strode over and sat down next to her. Then, he ced his arm at the back of the bench, and his


    fingers ran through her hair. "Are you tired of waiting?"


    Leanna shook her head and couldn''t help but ask, "What did you two talk about?"


    Aidan raised his eyebrows. "It''s men talk."


    "Fine. Forget it." She pouted.


    He smiled. "We''re going back to Highside tomorrow, okay?"


    "William, he¡­"


    "Isn''t he awake now? His body is fine. We''ve done everything we can. Besides, I know you''re worried


    about our friends and family in Highside," Aidan said.


    Leanna nodded lightly. But with William in this state and no one around to care for him, her mind would


    worry incessantly if she left just like that.


    Yet, before she could even convey her thoughts, Aidan had already read the conflicting emotions


    ying across her face like a book, saying, "Once he has settled the matter at hand, he''ll return to


    Highside as well."

 Chapter 679

    Chapter 679


    Chapter 679 You¡¯re Still Engaged


    Back at the hotel, Aidan contacted someone from Jamesdon.


    It was alreadyte at night in Jamesdon, even though it was justte afternoon in Lachstein.


    Through the video, Leanna saw the little guy lying on the crib, sound asleep andpletely


    undisturbed by the chaos reigning outside.


    Naomi and Waylen were also nearby.


    They were at Naomi''s mother''s old house. It had been 50 to 60 years since her mother married Kian,


    and the house was practically deserted.


    With Kian''s death, no one else in the Woodley Family knew about this ce.


    Aidan discovered this house when he was investigating Naomi''s past in Jamesdon. Therefore, he


    decided to send them all there.


    Ever since the incident with the Woodleys, all fingers were pointed toward L as the prime


    suspect.


    Waylen sensed the crisis immediately. Just as he was about to evacuate the entireboratory, he met


    Aidan''s men, and they were brought here immediately.


    Naomi was picked up from the Woodley Family Estate and arrived almost at the same time as the rest


    of the entourage.


    When the news of the deaths of several Woodley elders started spreading, and things started to take a


    turn for the worse, theboratory and Naomi''s ce were immediately cleared out.


    Once Leanna saw that they were all safe and sound, she felt a wave of relief crashing into her like a


    tidal wave. It was alreadyte at night, so she hung up without taking more of their time.


    "Do you feel better now?" Aidan asked.


    Leanna turned to look at him. "Did you expect that something like this might happen? If we had been a


    momentter¡­"


    "Jamesdon is not a peaceful ce at all. Anything will happen at a moment''s notice. It doesn''t matter


    whether L is there. A simr thing has happened once, so I''m making sure that it will never


    happen again," he answered tly.


    She lowered her head, and a small smile crept onto her face.


    Aidan was indeed more far-sighted and thoughtful than she thought he was.


    After a while, she said, "What about L? How is he doing now? I''m sure the Woodleys wouldn''t


    take things lightly, especially when such a big thing has happened."


    "Don''t worry. He''s fine."


    Leanna was silent for a while before saying, "Are we going back to Highside tomorrow night?"


    Aidan hummed in agreement.


    "Then, what about Daniel? If Leroy really has Daniel in his clutches, it means that he¡­"


    It bodes ill for that poor man.


    However, Aidan grabbed her hand andforted her. "Don''t worry. If Leroy chooses to take Daniel


    away, it means he has a use for Daniel. Daniel will be his bargaining chip. So, until Leroy gets what he


    wants, he will not kill Daniel."


    She pursed her lips slightly. "Even so, Daniel is still in a perilous situation. I¡­ don''t know how to inform


    Zoe about this."


    "No one expected or wanted this, so you shouldn''t be ming yourself. If she asks you, just tell her the


    truth. If she doesn''t, you don''t have to tell her."


    Leanna lowered her head and did not answer.


    Aidan ruffled her hair softly, saying, "Don''t overthink things. You''ve been in Lachstein for over half a


    month and spent almost every day at the hospital. Why not go for a walk around town these two days?"


    ¡­


    The next day, Zoe and Charlotte arrived at the studio as per usual.


    Louis was about to leave after he dropped them off when Zoe stopped him. "Louis, where are you


    going?"


    "I need to film a shoot. Today''s thest episode, and we still need to take some promotional photos."


    Zoe nodded. "All right. Make sure to keep us in the loop. Be careful when you''re alone."


    "I will. Keaton will be outside. You can call him if you need anything."


    After Louis left, Charlotte changed into her work attire and clocked in for the day.


    On the other hand, Zoe went to Leanna''s office and stared out the window in a daze.


    It had been more than a month since she had heard from Daniel.


    Initially, she wasn''t too bothered about it. She assumed that he was busy, so she didn''t want to disturb


    him.


    But after the nerves and fright she experiencedst night, the uneasiness bloomed into a bouquet of


    poison flowers in her heart. Suffice it to say, she was starting to lose her cool.


    Eventually, she took out her phone and dialed Elijah''s number after staring into space for a long time.


    Once the call was connected, she tentatively asked, "Elijah, are you busy?"


    She was met with silence before Elijah spoke, "No. What''s up?"


    "Oh, no. It''s nothing important. I just want to ask if Daniel has contacted you recently. I¡­I have


    something to tell him, but I couldn''t get to him."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    She was met with silence again.


    This caused her grip on the phone to tighten, and her breathing became shallow. "D-Did something


    happen to him?"


    Elijah only spoke up after being questioned, "No. Thepany in Lachstein has been a little busy


    lately, so he couldn''t get away. I barely had the chance to talk to him recently."


    Zoe breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing his words. She was d that nothing had happened to


    Daniel.


    "Zoe, Daniel may be away for business for a while. If you need anything, don''t be afraid to call me."


    Zoe smiled when she heard this. "Thank you, Elijah. All I do is go back and forth between the studio


    and my house. There''s nothing that I''d need your help with. However, I won''t shy away if therees a


    day when I do."


    Finally, she hung up the phone and released a long sigh after chatting for a while longer.


    Although Elijah had told her that Daniel was just upied with work, she still felt uneasy for some


    reason.


    She couldn''t help but ce her hand on her lower abdomen; the little guy inside her was already three


    to four months old. As the day passed, she could clearly feel her child growing inside her belly.


    Zoe was starting to feel a little depressed after loitering about the studio doing absolutely nothing.


    Fortunately, new pictures from the shootst night were uploaded so she could filter them before


    handing them over to the post-production staff.


    Just as she was pacing around in the studio, a figure appeared at the door.


    Joseph hurriedly walked over to Charlotte. "Charlotte, are you okay?"


    Charlotte was taken aback by this and instinctively answered, "I''m fine¡­ What''s wrong, Uncle


    Joseph?"


    Joseph took off his sses and rubbed between his eyebrows. "I heard that something happened to


    the Woodley Family and that someone is scheming against you. I was worried you¡­whatever it is, I''m


    d that you''re safe."


    Now, she was even more confused. "Why would someone plot against me?"


    When he heard her question, he looked around and noted that there were a lot of people in the studio.


    Thus, he pulled her into the lounge nearby and whispered, "Did you forget that you and L are


    engaged?"


    As soon as these words came out, Charlotte was floored.


    That was right. How could she forget that?


    "Now that the Woodleys can''t find L, they''ll naturally assume that he had a hand in killing the


    elders in the family. And since you are his fianc¨¦e, they will inevitably try to take their anger out on


    you," he continued solemnly.


    When she heard this, her whole face flushed crimson. "B-But¡­


    "I know that you''ve never wanted this engagement toe to pass. But ever since a few Woodley


    elders have been murdered, it has caused the whole family to be in a state of turmoil. Unfortunately,


    some people might want to further muddy these troubled waters. You are their biggest target right now."

 Chapter 680

    Chapter 680


    Chapter 680 Bringing Trouble


    Charlotte was stunned for a moment before nervously asking, "Then, does this mean that my father


    and great-grandfather are also in danger? They¡ª"


    Joseph held her shoulders and interrupted her before she could finish, "Don''t worry, Charlotte. For now,


    I don''t think anyone in the Woodley family would dare to attack them. They don''t have any ckmail on


    them. But you, you''re their only way in."


    Before she could part her lips to ask further questions, he continued, "Think about it. If you''re safe and


    sound, won''t your father and great-grandfather be able to deal with those people in Jamesdon with


    peace of mind?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Charlotte instinctively nodded.


    "But, if you fall into the hands of those people who mean you harm, your father and great-grandfather


    would be worried about your safety and be forced to cooperate with them."


    "Then¡­ what should I do now?"


    "Listen, Charlotte. Don''t be scared. I''ll protect you. I''ll take you out of Highside tonight."


    "But Leanna told us to wait for her to return. My father also told me to stay put in Highside and not go


    anywhere," she replied with a frown.


    Joseph let out a silent sigh. "They''re right, Charlotte, but things are changing. Those people already


    know that you''re in Highside. So, they''ll definitely find a way to track you down. Besides, have you ever


    thought about the consequences of your decision? If you''re their target, staying in Highside would also


    bring trouble to Miss McKinney."


    When Charlotte heard this, her pupils dted instantly. He is right.


    He gently patted her on the head and continued to persuade her, "I''ll escort you out of Highside to a


    ce where no one can find you. Once this matter is over, I''ll send you back to Jamesdon


    immediately."


    "Won''t this implicate you?"


    Joseph smiled. "I''ve been away from Jamesdon for more than ten years. Everyone thinks I''m dead.


    How can they find the whereabouts of a dead man? Charlotte, your safest bet now is toe with me."


    When he noticed that she was caving in, he pressed further, "How about this? I''ll pick you up at eight


    tonight. But don''t tell anyone that you''re leaving. Loose lips sink ships."


    "Not even my friends?" Charlotte whispered.


    "Miss McKinney will definitely want to keep you in Highside, but do you want to put her in danger as


    well?" He asked.


    Charlotte shook her head. "No."


    "Charlotte, you have to trust me. I won''t hurt you."


    She inhaled deeply and answered, "I''ll go with you, Uncle Joseph."


    This gratified Joseph greatly as he said, "Then, I''ll make some arrangements to pick you up at 8.00PM.


    Don''t bete."


    Charlotte waved as she called out, "See you, Uncle Joseph."


    Once he left, she immediately walked out of the lounge.


    Zoe quickly approached her and asked worriedly, "What were you and your uncle talking about? You


    guys have been away for so long."


    Charlotte, who didn''t do well under scrutiny, immediately blushed and stammered, "N-Nothing. Uncle


    Joseph was just checking on me after what happened to the Woodleys. Nothing else!"


    After she finished speaking, she hurried to the cashier and took several deep breaths to calm herself


    down.


    Zoe clicked her tongue inwardly. This child can''t lie to save herself. She might as well write the words


    ''I''m lying'' on her forehead.


    Still, since it was someone else''s family business, she knew she had no right to inquire further.


    Therefore, she decided to ignore Charlotte''s oddities and move on.


    At 7.30PM, Zoe locked the studio door and proudly dered, "What do you want to eat tonight? It''s on


    me!"


    "Zoe, you should go home without me. I want to take a stroll," Charlotte murmured.


    "Huh?"


    Zoe looked around and asked, "Is there something to do here? Do you want to buy anything? I''ll take


    you to the mall."


    At this point, Charlotte was already faltering as she spluttered, "No, I-I just¡­I just want to take a stroll


    around here¡­"


    Zoe was starting to get suspicious. "Tell me honestly, what did your uncle say to you when he came


    today?"


    "Nothing, I¡ª"


    "I can tell that you''re lying. Don''t lie to me. Otherwise, I''ll tell Nana, and she''ll give you a dressing


    down."


    Charlotte quickly grabbed Zoe''s arm and pleaded, "Zoe, don''t! I''m¡­I just¡­"


    She lowered her head and mumbled, "Something happened to the Woodley Family. People are asking


    me to go back and threatening my father and great-grandfather over my absence. If I stay in Highside, I


    will only bring trouble to you guys."


    "So, what did your uncle say?" Zoe prodded.


    "He said he would take me to a very safe ce, and once this matter was over, he would bring me


    back to Jamesdon."


    Zoe pondered over this as she replied, "Your uncle is right."


    When Charlotte heard that Zoe agreed with her decision, her eyes immediately lit up. "Yes, I think so


    too! That''s why¡ª"


    "Right, my *ss! Even if what he said made sense, have you forgotten what your father said?"


    Charlotte was stunned for a second as she mumbled, "He said I should stay in Highside¡­"


    "He also told you not to trust anyone from the Woodley Family, didn''t he? Have you forgotten that?"


    When Charles called, Zoe was beside Charlotte, so she heard everything clearly.


    "But Uncle Joseph left Jamesdon ten years ago. He''s not part of the Woodley Family any longer. Even


    my father doesn''t know that he''s still alive. When I was younger, Uncle Joseph was always very kind to


    me. I don''t think he will lie to me or hold me hostage to threaten my dad and great-grandpa."


    "I don''t know your uncle, but I think your father is right. Considering the current situation, you shouldn''t


    go anywhere unless your fatheres and bring you back to Jamesdon himself."


    "But I don''t want to drag you guys in my mess."


    Zoe stared at the bewildered and helpless look on Charlotte''s face and advised, "Why don''t we call


    your father and tell him about this? I won''t stop you if he agrees to let you go with your dearest Uncle


    Joseph. However, if he disagrees with your, frankly, foolish decision, you are going to follow me home


    obediently."


    Charlotte thought this was the most viable option and quickly took out her phone.


    s, no one answered the call.


    She turned to look at Zoe with wide eyes. "No one is answering¡­"


    Zoe immediately took her hand and said, "Okay, then you shoulde home with me. Highside is still


    rtively safe now. It won''t be toote for you to leave with your uncle once your father gives you the


    green light. You''re not in a hurry to leave, right?"


    What Zoe said made a lot of sense to Charlotte.


    "Uncle Joseph said he''ll pick me up at eight. I''ll wait for him here and inform him."


    Zoe nced at the time. She saw that it was only ten minutes before that appointment, so she


    suggested, "Okay, I''ll apany you while we wait. What do you want to eatter? Should we get


    barbeque or street food?"


    "Barbeque! I want to have a barbeque!"


    "Okay! We''ll have that, then."

 Chapter 681

    Chapter 681


    Chapter 681 I¡¯ll Leave With You


    Once they finished speaking, a ck car stopped before the studio, followed by Joseph''s appearance.


    Charlotte hopped while waving to him. "Uncle Joseph."


    With a smile, he approached her and looked at Zoe, asking, "Charlotte, who''s this?"


    "This is Zoe Hart, Leanna''s friend," she replied.


    After nodding as a greeting, he did not ask anything else and turned to Charlotte. "Come on. Let''s go."


    Yet, she took a step back and shook her head. "I have to ask for my dad''s permission, but he''s not


    answering my calls. Can we leave tomorrow morning?"


    When Joseph heard that, he stopped for a moment. "What''s the matter? Didn''t we agree this


    afternoon? You think I''d harm you?"


    "No, that''s not it. I think leaving without saying anything is inappropriate, lest my dad gets worried."


    He gently reasoned, "I''ll contact your father immediately after we arrive. How about that?"


    Owned by N?velDrama.Org.


    Then, Zoe pulled Charlotte to her side. "Mr. Woodley, how about waiting another night? That way, both


    Charlotte and her father would feel more assured."


    Joseph nced at Zoe and adjusted his sses, exining, "The situation is ever-changing. Who


    knows what might happen tomorrow if we wait another night?"


    Charlotte suggested, "How about I call Dad again? Maybe he''ll pick up this time."


    Right after she took out her phone, several cars sped over and surrounded the workshop. At almost the


    same time, Keaton and the others immediately went forward and stopped those guys.


    Seeing the situation, Joseph held her hand and urged, "Charlotte, let''s leave now."


    She was pulled away before she could say anything, and her phone fell to the ground. Zoe looked at


    both sides and decided she could not let Joseph bring Charlotte away, so she quickly got into his car.


    The scene was in chaos. Rather than saying Keaton and the others were blocking the other party, it


    was more like the other group was thwarting them from Charlotte. As they could not head forward, they


    could only watch as she entered the car. Keaton yelled, "Follow that car!"


    However, the other party came prepared, so Joseph''s car was nowhere to be seen when they finally


    broke through the besiege.


    ¡­


    The ck car sped on the road with Charlotte and Zoe in the back seat, both in fear while holding each


    other''s hands. Joseph looked into the rearview mirror at them and stated, "We''ve lost them for now.


    We''re safe."


    At that moment, Charlotte felt her scalp tingling. When in danger, one would subconsciously try to find


    a sense of security, especially when a close rtive was nearby. She gulped and felt her breath hitch.


    "Uncle Joseph, what should we do now?"


    "Don''t worry. I''ll bring you away from Highside. They won''t be able to catch up with us once we''re out of


    town."


    She was still somewhat dazed. "Are we¡­ leaving Highside now?"


    Gripping the steering wheel, he confirmed, "Yes."


    Then, Zoe''s voice came into their ears. "I can contact someone. He can protect us." As she spoke, she


    opened her bag to get her phone and call Elijah. Before she could do so, Joseph suddenly stepped on


    the brakes.


    Since Zoe did not see iting, she plunged forward from inertia, and her phone fell below her seat.


    Meanwhile, Charlotte held onto her armrests. "Uncle Joseph, what happened?"


    He nced at them from the rearview mirror again. "It''s nothing. I just saw a stray cat run out on the


    road. It''s gone now." Afterward, the car was back on the road.


    When Zoe reached down to find her phone, she felt a wet spot below her dress. Shocked, she raised


    her hand and saw her palm stained with blood! At that sight, the startled Charlotte immediately urged,


    "Uncle Joseph! We need to go to the hospital!"


    However, he clutched onto the steering wheel and rejected the request somewhat coldly. "No, we


    can''t."


    "But Zoe is bleeding, and she''s pregnant¡ª"


    Before Charlotte could finish her words, she heard an ear-piercing screech. Seven to eight cars


    appeared and forced them to stop. Again, Zoe was mmed into the back of the seat.


    Charlotte hurriedly held her. "Zoe, h-how are you feeling?"


    Clutching her belly with a pale face, Zoe grabbed Charlotte''s hand and replied, "I''m¡­ I''m fine. Let''s


    go!"


    Charlotte supported the helpless woman out of the car and saw people charging from all sides,


    surrounding them. Trying to keep her voice from trembling, she questioned, "W-Who are you?"


    The man in the lead replied, "Miss Woodley, we''re here to bring you back to Jamesdon."


    "Y-You''re lying!"


    The man expressionlessly said, "We don''t want to hurt you, Miss Woodley, but if you try to resist us, it''s


    evitable that you might get hurt. Please cooperate with us so that you won''t suffer."


    Just as Charlotte was about to speak, Zoe spoke with difficulty, "Don''t be afraid. Things will be fine


    once Keaton gets here."


    At that moment, Charlotte could not help but look at Zoe''s dress and found it was drenched in red. We


    must get to the hospital, or it will be toote! Tears filled her eyes as she sniffled. "I''ll leave with you, but


    your target is me, so don''t hurt Uncle Joseph and Zoe!"


    The man in the lead listened and looked at Joseph behind her. He smiled and promised, "Of course."


    Then, she added, "Then¡­ You have to bring Zoe to the hospital now. I''ll leave with you once we get to


    the hospital."


    Zoe grabbed her. "Charlotte, you can''t leave with them. It''s dangerous¡­"


    Charlotte whispered, "Zoe, don''t worry. I''ll find a chance to run away. Also, they want me to threaten my


    dad and grandpa. I''m sure they won''t do anything to me." Once she finished, she turned to the group of


    men and shouted, "Send Zoe to the hospital. Now!"


    The man in the lead barely reacted and ordered his subordinates, "Bring Miss Woodley to the car."


    Immediately, two men strode ahead to grab Charlotte, who struggled with all her might. "I said I agree


    to your terms, but send Zoe to the hospital first!"


    "We will send her to the hospital once you leave with us."


    While pulling at each other, Zoe wanted to help Charlotte but was pushed to the ground. With reddened


    eyes, Charlotte screamed, "Zoe!" She then kicked and bit the two men holding her but could not


    escape their grasp.


    During the apprehension, she turned her head and saw Joseph standing on the side. Her eyes lit up as


    though she suddenly saw hope. Then, she yelled, "Uncle Joseph! Bring Zoe to the hospital!"


    However, he stood there without moving an inch.

 Chapter 682

    Chapter 682


    Chapter 682 You Still Look Cute


    Once Charlotte was forcefully dragged into the car, everything finally calmed down, and the group of


    men left quickly. Joseph gazed at the unconscious woman by the road and was about to leave when


    several car lights suddenly appeared.


    Squinting his eyes, he approached Zoe and picked her up before heading onto the middle of the road.


    A ck car stopped before them the next moment when Keaton quickly exited the vehicle.


    Joseph urged, "Bring her to the hospital, quick. Otherwise, it''ll be toote."


    When Keaton saw Zoe''s condition, he carried her from Joseph and asked, "Where''s Miss Woodley?"


    He frowned. "I couldn''t protect Charlotte. They brought her away."


    Then, Keaton turned to look at the car beside him and ordered, "Catch up to that car. We cannot let


    them leave Highside." Once he gave the orders, he quickly brought Zoe into the car and sped toward


    the nearest hospital.


    In the meantime, Joseph looked at the departing car and pondered before driving his car to follow


    Keaton.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, in Lachstein, Leanna began packing up after lunch. They had to go to the hospital before


    returning to Highside that night. For some reason, her things had doubled from when she came, with


    five pieces of luggage in total. Besides her clothes, she had bought everyone presents, including Zoe,


    Louis, Daphne, Charlotte, and even Jonathan.


    It was 3.00PM when she finished packing her things. Then, she pushed her luggage to the door and


    pped. "That''s it. Let''s go."


    Aidanmented, "Others would think you''re in procurement services."


    She was speechless and snorted softly. "People with no friends, like you, will never understand."


    Hearing that, he hesitated but did not utter a word.


    At that moment, she thought of Oscar, who had not appeared before her since he fell ill. Wanting to


    change the topic, she said, "Alright. We''ve got to go."


    When they arrived at the hospital, William''s condition improved as he seemed more energetic than the


    day before. Manypany higher-ups gathered outside his room, wanting to see him, but they were all


    blocked by William''s assistant.


    When the group saw Leanna and Aidan entering, they beganining softly in Dellshorean. All of


    them were questioning why he could settlepany matters on William''s behalf during the two weeks.


    Although Complex and Pearson Groups were in partnership, no coborating partners would


    ''coborate'' to this extent.


    The assistant smiled. "That''s Mr. Morris'' daughter, and President Pearson is his future son-inw."


    Everyone was shocked. "When did Mr. Morris have a daughter?"


    "It''s a long story."


    While the group was outside discussing, Leanna entered the room and saw William flipping through


    something. She approached him and asked, "What are you looking at?"


    He looked up and shed her a smile before handing her the item in his hand. It was a thick photo


    album.


    When she opened the album, the first page was a photo of William and her mother, but his face


    remained as Lloyd''s.


    A few pagester, they had a young girl between them.


    While Leanna flipped through the pictures, William exined, "Nothing was left of the Crossley Family


    after that explosion, and these photos were printed out from Mr. Jackson''s film."


    She asked, "Were you close to him?"


    "Your mother used to be his student, and the Crossleys were good friends with the Jacksons, so Mr.


    Jackson is like a half-uncle to me. When my parents were involved in an aircraft ident, I gave him a


    copy of all the films at home because he missed them. I didn''t expect that act would benefit me in the


    end."


    "My mom¡­ She''s beautiful."


    He slowly added, "You and your mother look alike, and so do your tempers."


    Closing the album, Leanna spoke up after a while, "I''m sorry."


    When William heard that, he gazed at her, probably confused.


    Her head was down. "I knew the truth and that you''re my father, but I chose to avoid it back then and


    pretended as if nothing happened."


    He responded, "You don''t have to me yourself. I understand what you were thinking. I''ve never been


    a father to you, yet I made you deal with Crossley Group''s matters, leaving you in harm''s way. So, I


    should be the one saying sorry."


    "That''s not it¡­ I decided to take on Crossley Group''s matters. It''s just that I couldn''t keep living the life I


    wanted and do nothing."


    "You did well. Crossley Group wouldn''t have gotten to where it is without you."


    After thatpliment, Leanna felt slightly embarrassed and touched her nose. "So¡­ When are you


    nning to return to Highside?"


    William answered, "Once I find Daniel and settle the matters here. It will take at least six months or two


    to three years at most."


    She asked, "Daniel, is he¡­"


    "He''ll be fine. I heard about what happened between him and your friend. I''ll do my best to help her if


    she needs anything while Daniel is away."


    The two chatted for a while, and before she left, she held the photo album and asked, "Can I bring this


    with me?"


    He nodded. "Sure. I have another copy with me."


    She clutched the album in her arms and smiled. "I''ll get going. Rest well¡­ Dad."


    The sound of that froze William, and he could barely register what had happened. That was thest of


    her as she turned around and sprinted away, eliciting a smile from him.


    When Leanna came out from the ward, the group ofpany executives had left, leaving only Aidan.


    She asked, "When did youe out?"


    He put his phone into his pocket and replied, "While you two were talking. I couldn''t join your


    conversation, so I excused myself."


    A smile appeared on her face as she patted the album in her arms. "I''ll let you have a look on the


    ne. I looked adorable when I was young."


    Curling his lips, Aidan caressed her head. "You still do."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Embarrassed, Leanna blushed and looked around, heaving a breath of relief after seeing no one


    around them. Then, she urged, "It''ste. Let''s go."


    He looked at the time and offered, "Why don''t we grab something to eat?"


    "No. Let''s eat on the ne."


    They had been away for one month, and the thought of going home pumped her up. Just as she took a


    few steps forward, she felt someone pulling her hand, prompting her to turn around and ask, "What''s


    the matter?"


    Aidan was staring at her with his ck eyes and pursed lips. It took him a few seconds before he


    announced, "I have something to tell you."


    Seeing his slightly contorted expression, Leanna lowered her voice as the smile on her face slowly


    faded. "What happened?"

 Chapter 683

    Chapter 683


    Chapter 683 What Happened Yesterday


    At 10.30AM the next day, a private nended at Highside.


    Leanna and Aidan immediately rushed to the hospital, where they saw Keaton, Louis, and Joseph


    waiting outside the ward.


    After quickly approaching them, Leanna asked, "How is she?"


    Keaton replied, "She came out of surgery, but¡­ she''s still asleep."


    "What did the doctor say?"


    "The doctor¡­ said¡­ Miss Hart was bleeding heavily when she was sent here¡­ If we were anyter,


    she might not make it too."


    Closing her eyes, Leanna felt her body shivering. Even her hands were shaking uncontrobly.


    Without saying anything, she gently pushed the door open and headed inside.


    Aidan withdrew his gaze and looked at Keaton. "Have you found Charlotte?"


    While shaking his head, Keaton replied, "We''ve already blocked off every road leaving Highside, so


    they can''t leave. Also, they don''t seem to be nning on leaving, so the direction of our n is wrong."


    At that moment, a voice came from beside them. "It was my fault. This wouldn''t have happened if I had


    brought Charlotte away sooner."


    Hearing that, Aidan looked at Joseph.


    Since he had previously carried Zoe in his arms, his shirt had been stained with blood, so he looked


    less refined than normal and even looked slightly flustered.


    When facing Aidan''s unfriendly gaze, he openly epted it without cowering.


    ¡­


    Inside the ward, Leanna looked at Zoe, who was on the bed and choked up a few times. Tears were


    streaming from her eyes, and she had to bite the back of her hand to keep herself quiet.


    She had called Zoe yesterday, and she seemed fine.


    Moreover, Zoe had gotten her pregnancy checkup the day before yesterday, and the doctor said the


    baby was fine.


    Everything changed in one night¡­


    The sunlight gradually shone through the window, illuminating the room.


    Following that, the woman on the bed moved slightly.


    Leanna quickly wiped away her tears and approached Zoe, whispering, "Zoe, Zoe."


    Zoe weakly opened her eyes and looked around her before looking at Leanna. Then, she put on a


    smile. "Nana, you''re back."


    Nodding, Leanna assured her, "Yes, I''m back. How are you? Do you feel ufortable anywhere?


    Why don''t I get a doctor toe check on you?"


    "It hurts¡­"


    "Where?"


    Zoe muttered, "I don''t know. My whole body is aching."


    Leanna softly said, "I''ll get the doctor."


    Once she said that, she pressed the call button.


    At that moment, Zoe grabbed Leanna''s hand, and her dry lips trembled slightly. "Nana¡­ Did I¡­ Did


    I¡­"


    She repeated her words several times but still couldn''t voice thest few words.


    On the other hand, Leanna sat beside the bed and held Zoe''s hand. Before she could speak, a drop of


    tear fell from her eyes.


    Looking up, Zoe seemed calm as she muttered, "Actually, I could feel it. I could feel everything from


    when I was in the car to the hospital and inside the operating room. I knew my child was slowly losing


    his life, and I couldn''t pull him back."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    While helping Zoe tidy up her hair, Leanna choked up. "Don''t think about it anymore. Let''s focus on


    getting better."


    Slowly closing her eyes, Zoe let out silent tears while digging her face into her pillow.


    Soon, the doctor came and did a checkup on Zoe.


    Her condition was a normal post-surgery reaction, and though she had a miscarriage, she still needed


    to recuperate. She needed to avoid getting her wounds wet and watch what she ate.


    Since the doctor had gone through such situations before, she tried persuading Zoe, "You''re still young


    and can still get pregnant after you recuperate."


    Zoe replied after a long silence. "No, I won''t."


    She and Daniel were bound together because of the idental pregnancy. Now that the child was


    gone, they didn''t have something binding them together anymore.


    When the doctor heard that, she let out an inaudible sigh before exhorting Leanna to a few more things


    before leaving.


    Once the doctor was gone, Leanna asked, "Zoe, what would you like to eat? I''ll buy some for you."


    Zoe looked at her and said, "I want to eat something you make."


    Nodding, Leanna promised, "Sure. I''ll head back to make some and bring it back. Aidan is outside, so


    call him if you need anything."


    Zoe stayed silent. "I think it''ll be more peaceful to be alone here."


    Chuckling softly, Leanna informed her, "Louis is also outside. Can I get him to stay here?"


    Zoe shook her head. "Ask all of them to leave. I''m fine, and having them waiting outside seems scary."


    After considering it, Leanna agreed, "Then I''ll get them to leave. Press on the call button if you need


    anything."


    "Okay."


    Before leaving, Leanna tucked Zoe in and left. Outside the room, she let out a long breath.


    Louis came forward, asking, "How is she?"


    Not knowing how to exin, Leanna said, "Let her have some quiet time alone."


    A short pauseter, she asked, "Where''s Aidan and the others?"


    "They went outside."


    Leanna informed him, "I need to head home for a bit. Find a female nurse and have her wait outside.


    Tell her to only go inside if Zoe needs her."


    "I understand."


    "You leave too once you find the nurse."


    Louis nodded.


    As Leanna walked toward the exit, she called Aidan, telling him she was heading home to cook some


    food.


    Aidan said, "Keaton''s outside. Ask him to send you there."


    Hearing that, Leanna didn''t reject it. "Okay."


    Once Leanna came out of the hospital, Keaton approached her. "Miss McKinney."


    On their way back, Leanna asked, "Were you with Zoe and the others when it happened?"


    Keaton replied, "Yes."


    "Can you tell me what happened yesterday?"


    "Yesterday afternoon, Joseph went to look for Miss Woodley. I don''t know what they discussed, but


    Miss Woodley didn''t leave the studio after closing. Miss Hart saw that, and she asked Miss Woodley,


    but Miss Woodley said she didn''t want to implicate you guys, so she decided to leave Highside with


    Joseph."


    Keaton briefly described the conversation between Zoe and Charlotte and continued, "Not long after


    Joseph appeared, a group of men suddenly appeared and stopped them. But they didn''t expect that


    during the chaos, Joseph brought Miss Woodley and Miss Hart away, and when we caught up to them,


    I saw Joseph with Miss Hart in his arms. He was about to send her to the hospital."


    Leanna asked, "How is Charlotte? Do you have any news about her?"


    "Nothing yet, but we are sure that the group that took her has yet to leave Highside."


    With pursed lips, Leanna asked, "About what happened yesterday, what did Joseph say?"


    "He told us he brought Miss Woodley and Miss Hart away because of the dangerous situation but didn''t


    expect he would get cut off halfway. Miss Hart tried to protect Miss Woodley. That''s why she¡­"

 Chapter 684

    Chapter 684


    Chapter 684 Another New Beginning


    Anyone could tell that the story had lots of loopholes.


    Keaton assured her, "Miss McKinney, I assure you that Mr. Pearson is already on it. Also, we have


    Joseph under surveince."


    After nodding, Leanna leaned against the window and looked at the scenery outside.


    She had Keaton send her to a fresh food market nearby the apartment to buy fresh ingredients before


    sending her home.


    It was already 1.00PM by the time she finished cooking.


    She made fish stew and cooked two light vegetable dishes before storing them inside insted food


    containers. Then, she headed back to the hospital.


    When she arrived outside the ward, she met the caretaker Louis hired there.


    Softly, Leanna asked the caretaker, "How are things inside?"


    While shaking her head, the caretaker replied, "I didn''t enter the room. But I heard her crying."


    With pursed lips, Leanna told the caretaker, "Thank you for your hard work. You may head to rest now,


    and I''ll call you if I need anything."


    "Sure, no problem."


    Since the caretaker had already received her payment, she could work on other things when she had


    nothing to do.


    Once the caretaker left, Leanna stood outside the room for a few minutes before taking a deep breath


    and knocking. "Zoe, I''ming in."


    After that, she specifically waited for one minute before heading inside.


    Inside the ward, Zoe was doneposing herself. She looked fine besides her red puffy eyes.


    When she saw Leanna opening the food containers, she sniffed and asked, "What did you make?


    Smells amazing."


    Leanna raised the small table on the bed and served the food from the food container. "They are all


    your favorites."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Picking up her utensils, Zoemented, "Wow, they look delicious."


    After sitting down, Leanna asked, "What would you like for dinner?"


    Zoe replied while eating, "I can eat whatever''s avable at the hospital. You should return home after


    this and don''te here again today. It''s such a hassle."


    "How is this a hassle? Weren''t you with me all the time while I was hospitalized?" Leanna urged, "Eat


    up."


    Zoe said nothing and continued enjoying her stew.


    Even though she had no appetite, she still ate more than half of the food.


    Once done, Zoe rubbed her belly and leaned against her bed, satisfied. "That was delicious. Nana,


    your cooking has gotten even better."


    "Well, I can cook you dinner tonight."


    "Sure. Then, I''ll have to find a menu and order what I want. This is not a treatment I can get on usual


    days."


    Leanna was in the middle of packing up the food containers when she said, "Go ahead. I''ll wash


    these."


    Five minutester, Leanna came out and saw Zoe sitting on the bed, dazing.


    Leanna went over and asked, "What''s the matter?"


    After withdrawing her thoughts, Zoe replied, "My phone¡­ I think I left it inside Charlotte''s uncle''s car."


    Once she mentioned that, she asked, "How is she? Have they found her?"


    Leanna answered, "No, they haven''t, but they haven''t left Highside."


    She poured Zoe a cup of water. "Zoe, do you remember what happened after you left the studiost


    night?"


    Nodding, Zoe exined, "I was about to call Elijah, but Charlotte''s Uncle Joseph suddenly stomped on


    the brakes, and my phone fell. He said there was a stray cat, and then¡­"


    "And then what?"


    "And then Charlotte noticed I was bleeding and asked her uncle to send me to the hospital."


    After that, Zoe frowned and recalled the scene in more detail. "Since it was an urgent situation,


    Charlotte''s uncle didn''t take that situation seriously, and at that moment, that group of men arrived, and


    the car was forced to stop. I told Charlotte to run¡­ They said they came to bring Charlotte back to


    Jamesdon. Then, Charlotte told them she would leave with them if they released her Uncle Joseph and


    me. Soon after that, someone came forward to grab Charlotte and pushed me to the ground. I lost


    consciousness then, so I don''t remember anything."


    Leanna frowned. "What was Joseph doing when Charlotte was being brought away?"


    Zoe thought about it but couldn''t recall anything, so she rubbed her temples while answering, "The


    scene was so chaotic that I had all my attention focused on Charlotte. I didn''t notice her uncle, but


    when I was about to fall unconscious, I heard her scream for her uncle to send me to the hospital. Did


    he?"


    Leanna replied, "Keaton said that he saw Joseph carrying you and was about to rush you to the


    hospital when he arrived at the scene."


    Zoe exined, "If that''s so, there might not be a problem with him. I previously thought her uncle


    seemed strange and was worried about her leaving with him. Now, it seems like he''s quite normal."


    Leanna gave Zoe her water. "How about you take a rest first?"


    After drinking her water, Zoe asked, "Nana, did you bring me any presents?"


    "It''s inside the car. I''ll get itter."


    While hugging Leanna''s arm, Zoe spoke peevishly. "You''re the best. You have to stay with me these


    few days. I''m going to borrow you from Mr. Pearson."


    Laughing, Leanna agreed, "Sure. I''ll keep youpany."


    Zoe urged, "You go get my presents while I nap. I hope to see a surprise when I wake up."


    Nodding slightly, Leanna assured her, "I''ll be back soon."


    "Go ahead. I''m sleepy after that meal. I''m gonna rest."


    Once the door was closed, the smile on Zoe''s face gradually disappeared. Then, shey on her pillow


    and fell into a daze while looking out the window.


    She knew that Leanna med herself and felt guilty because of this miscarriage incident.


    If she continued to reject Leanna''spany, it would only make Leanna feel even sadder.


    During these times, Leanna would feel less guilty if asked to help because it would make her feel like


    she was needed.


    Zoe closed her eyes, getting ready to sleep.


    Since nothing can be done about the past, let''s¡­ just let it go. It will be another new beginning once I


    wake up.


    ¡­


    When Leanna arrived at the hospital''s entrance, she realized she didn''t know which car their luggage


    was in.


    Since finding out about Zoe''s ident, she had been in a daze on the way here. If Aidan hadn''t been


    with her, she might not even have found the hospital''s entrance.


    It was the afternoon. The sun was so bright that Leanna couldn''t open her eyes, and the heat made her


    feel dizzy.


    She lost her bnce and fell backward.


    Aidan held her shoulders and asked, "What are you looking for?"


    Leanna answered, "Our luggage¡­ Zoe''s gifts are inside my luggage."


    "Let''s grab something to eat. I''ll get Keaton to get the luggage."


    "I can''t. Zoe''s alone in her room, and I¡ª"


    But Aidan interrupted her. "You hadn''t eaten anything sincest night. Do you expect me to take care of


    her if you faint?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words. Alright. Getting food is more important.


    As they sat in the dining room, Aidan served Leanna a bowl of soup. "Get some shut-eye after this. I


    have someone watching over her at the hospital."


    Leanna was silent for a moment before whispering, "I think something''s not right with Joseph.

 Chapter 685

    Chapter 685


    Chapter 685 You¡¯re Indeed A Spoiled Child


    Aidan ced the bowl before her and slowly said, "Do borate."


    Leanna exined, "He went to the studio yesterday afternoon and told Charlotte he would bring her


    away from Highside. Also, he told her not to tell us about it under the pretense of not implicating us in


    this matter. Since he''s the uncle Charlotte trusted the most, and along with the fact that she didn''t want


    to implicate us, of course, she would believe in his words. Also, Joseph and Charlotte initially agreed to


    meet at 8.00PM, and Joseph would bring her to a safe ce. As Charlotte''s uncle, his actions seemed


    reasonable, and even if I were at the studio back then, I might not find a reason to stop him from taking


    Charlotte away either."


    Then, she continued, "But the problem is, for some reason, Joseph specifically went there during the


    afternoon to inform Charlotte. He knew she was in danger but didn''t immediately bring her away.


    Instead, he had to wait until 8.00PM to fetch her, and let''s not mention Zoe getting involved in this


    matter and managing to persuade Charlotte to stay. In addition, when Joseph arrived, at approximately


    8.00PM, that group of men arrived, which means that even if Zoe didn''t manage to persuade Charlotte


    to stay, and she left with Joseph, they would also encounter that group of men. What''s more


    coincidental was that ording to what Keaton said, Joseph wouldn''t be able to take Charlotte away if


    those men hadn''t appeared out of the blue."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    "I guess that Joseph knew you had sent people to guard Charlotte, so he couldn''t continue with his


    n under that situation. So, he went to the studio and coaxed Charlotte to leave with him. Once she


    agreed, he would arrange for the act that night, but for the act to happen, Charlotte must agree to leave


    with him. Otherwise, it would be difficult for him to implement his n. Zoe told me that when those


    men came after them, the scene was so chaotic that she focused all her attention on Charlotte and


    didn''t notice what Joseph was doing. In that situation, Charlotte was being brought away, and as her


    uncle, Joseph kept his presence low, which could only mean one thing¡ªhe never said a word since the


    start and didn''t try to stop it."


    Leanna said all that in one go and suddenly felt chills run down her spine.


    She remembered Zoe mentioning that Charlotte yelled for Joseph to send Zoe to the hospital before


    she was brought away.


    If that was true, it meant Charlotte might still not know that the person who nned all this was her


    most-trusted uncle.


    Aidan smiled. "How did you analyze so much in such a short time?"


    Leanna replied, "I had a bad feeling about this since listening to Keaton''s description of what happened


    last night. Along with what Zoe told me, I thought this whole thing seemed off."


    When she got to that point, she stopped and frowned. "But there''s still something I can''t figure out."


    "What''s that?"


    "Since Joseph''s men had sessfully brought Charlotte away, why would he send Zoe to the hospital


    and wait with the others? That makes me doubt all the guesses I told you just now."


    Aidan calmly replied, "You''re right. He sent Zoe to the hospital because he didn''t have the time to


    escape."


    Stunned, Leanna repeated, "He didn''t have the time to escape?"


    "Keaton should have told you that he chased after them almost immediately, so Joseph didn''t have


    much time. In his whole arrangement, Zoe was an ident, but he must bring Charlotte away. Since


    he had gone through so much to get Charlotte, it means that he still doesn''t want her to know the truth."


    After listening to that, Leanna instantly understood the situation and felt numbness in her scalp. She


    subconsciously replied, "So he didn''t leave with those people but waited until they left¡­ but by that


    time, Keaton arrived, so he made do with the situation and pretended he was about to send Zoe to the


    hospital?"


    Aidan hummed slightly in response. "Since things had escted to that point, he clearly couldn''t


    escape, so he decided toe with us. That''s because he can use this incident as his alibi."


    "So¡­ Where is he now?"


    "I told him to go home." Aidan exined, "Since we want to know where Charlotte is, he is the best


    option to start with."


    Drawing a breath, Leanna stayed silent for a while before saying, "Since Charlotte has been kept in the


    dark about this, I''m worried she might get hurt."


    Aidan assured her, "Don''t worry. He most probably took Charlotte away because he wanted to do


    something in Jamesdon. As long as they are still in Highside, she will be safe."


    Leanna parted her lips, wanting to say something, but Aidan cut her off. "Let''s eat. The food''s getting


    cold."


    That caused Leanna to withdraw whatever she was about to say and half-heartedly drink her soup.


    She was worried about Charlotte''s condition.


    ¡­


    On the other hand, since Charlotte refused toply and was causing a ruckus after she was brought


    away, the man in the lead knocked her unconscious.


    When she came to, she found herself in an unfamiliar room.


    She slowly sat up and felt like her world was spinning.


    After shaking her head, she felt less dizzy and got off the bed. But her hands were tied, so she could


    only kick the door and yell, "Open the door! Open the door!"


    Two minutester, the door was finally opened, and the man in the lead fromst night appeared before


    her.


    He looked at Charlotte emotionlessly. "Miss Woodley, I''d suggest you behave yourself. This is not the


    Woodley Residence."


    Feeling her heart sink, Charlotte retreated in fear but mustered her courage to threaten him, "E-Even if


    we''re not inside the Woodley Residence, you still have to feed me. I''m hungry. I hadn''t eaten sincest


    night, and if you starve me to death, my dad and grandfather will never forgive you!"


    The man stared at her for a long time. "Oh, what would you like to eat?"


    Charlotte purposefully ordered a few Jamesdon specialty dishes and arrogantly demanded, "I want all


    of that, and buy me a smoothie. I want it at room temperature and with no ice."


    The man snorted. "Miss Woodley, you are indeed a spoiled child. None of that is avable."


    "W-What do you have?"


    "You''ll eat whatever we bring you."


    Afterward, the man mmed the door shut with a bang.


    Then, Charlotte walked with difficulty toward the couch with sweat-drenched hands.


    A whileter, the door was opened again.


    Charlotte nced at the food and was instantly sure they were still in Highside.


    Without mentioning other things, she was a foodie and could instantly distinguish Jamesdon cuisine


    and Highside cuisine with one nce.

 Chapter 686

    Chapter 686


    Chapter 686 You¡¯re Pretty Cute When You¡¯re Stupid


    Charlotte averted her gaze and looked at the man in front of her, lifting her chin slightly. "Untie me. How


    am I supposed to eat with my hands bound?"


    When the man heard that, he pulled out a dagger and moved closer to her.


    She quickly gulped and shut her eyes tight. A momentter, the rope around her wrist came loose.


    She could feel her nose tingle as she looked at her reddened wrists and gently massaged them.


    The man warned, "Miss Woodley, it would be best for you not to y tricks, or you won''t even have


    food to eat in the future."


    At that, Charlotte muttered, "Aren''t you afraid that I¡ª"


    "You''re just a pawn. The only thing that matters is that you are alive. Don''t have too many demands,


    Miss Woodley. You''d better understand your situation."


    After saying those words, the man turned around and left, locking the door behind him again.


    Charlotte looked at the food in front of her. Sniffling, she picked up her fork and started gobbling up her


    food.


    As she ate, her tears pattered when they fell into the food.


    She didn''t even know how Zoe and Joseph were doing now. Those people probably didn''t do anything


    overboard with them, but Zoe was bleeding so much¡­


    At the thought, Charlotte couldn''t help but sob. The more she thought about it, the sadder she was as


    she med herself more.


    If only she hadn''t so stubbornly insisted on leaving Jamesdon toe to Highside, Zoe wouldn''t have


    gotten hurt trying to protect her.


    And the baby in her womb¡­ I''m sure they''re safe.


    After finishing her meal, Charlotte tried to open the door, only to realize that it was locked. She then


    walked to the window where she saw several men in cking in and out downstairs.


    It was almost impossible for her to escape by jumping out of the window.


    Feeling dejected, she sat on the bed and gazed sadly out the window.


    After a while, a woman appeared downstairs.


    Freya took off her sunsses and asked, "How is she?"


    "She just finished eating. She stopped making a fuss for now," the man replied.


    Freya raised an eyebrow at that. "She is cooperating?"


    "Miss Woodley has lived a pampered and sheltered life. She''s never experienced something like this


    before, and she has never starved. We can just give her some food and scare her a bit. That should do


    it."


    She sat on the couch as she stated, "Thedy is timid. Don''t scare her too much."


    The man nodded slightly in response.


    Then, she asked again, "Have you contacted the men at Jamesdon? What did they say?"


    "Mr. Woodley wants us to take it slow. With her in our hands, we not only have leverage against


    Charles Woodley and the others but also a way to deal with L Woodley."


    Freya lit a cigar and spoke slowly. "L Woodley still hasn''t shown up even though something so


    big has happened in Jamesdon."


    As she said that, she squinted and blew out a puff of smoke, seemingly lost in thought.


    "Given the current situation, L may not be able to return to Jamesdon."


    Freya only looked at him and scoffed without agreeing or disagreeing with his words because L


    was definitely not someone they could underestimate.


    After a while, she continued, "Tell the people in Jamesdon to keep a close watch. We need to find


    Aidan Pearson''s son and his mother. The situation will only be favorable to us then. Right now, we only


    have Charlotte in our hands. The most having her will do is restrain Charles and the others. It''s far from


    what we want."


    The man nodded. "I will give the instructions right away."


    After he left, Freya finished her cigar and went upstairs.


    Charlotte, who heard the footsteps, immediately sat up on the bed and cautiously looked at the door.


    Her entire body was on high alert.


    The door was soon opened, but this time, the person that came into sight was a morous and


    mboyant woman.


    Charlotte couldn''t help thinking that she looked familiar.


    Freya then walked in with a smile. "What''s wrong? Don''t recognize me anymore?"


    "It''s you!" Charlotte''s eyes widened as she eximed. It''s the woman who has been to Leanna''s studio


    before!


    Seeing her reaction, Freya purred, "I''m honored that you still remember me, Miss Woodley."


    Charlotte couldn''t help but step back, stuttering, "W-Who are you¡­ You¡ª"


    "No need to be nervous, littledy. I won''t do anything to you. I just want to remind you to behave and


    listen well if you want to return home safely. This ce is not like the Woodley Family Estate. The


    people here don''t care if you are a woman. If you get hurt, you''ll have to bear it on your own."


    Charlotte took a deep breath before carefully asking, "Are you¡­ from the Woodley Family?"


    "Not at all."


    "Uncle Joseph said that the people from the Woodley Family want to use me to threaten my father, and


    you¡­"


    Freya smiled. "Your uncle isn''t entirely wrong, but¡­"


    She stopped halfway through her sentence, leaving Charlotte eagerly asking, "But what?"


    "It''s nothing. It''s better for you to remain clueless. As I thought, pretty girls can be cute when they are


    stupid."


    "You¡ª"


    Before Charlotte could say anything else, Freya turned around and left Charlotte alone in the room.


    The bedroom once again fell into silence.


    ¡­


    By the time Zoe woke up, Leanna had already returned with suitcases full of gifts.


    It was hard not to feel good about it.


    As Zoe unwrapped the gifts, she asked, "By the way, Leanna, you didn''t go to Siebenna this past half a


    month. Where did you go instead?"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Leanna paused before answering, "Lachstein."


    "Lachstein?" Zoe looked up and repeated.


    Leanna nodded lightly. "My father¡­ He got sick. We went there and stayed for a while."


    "Your father? William?"


    "Mhm."


    Zoe couldn''t help but get excited. "Did you finally meet each other? Come on, tell me what happened?"


    Leanna sat next to her and slowly began, "When I saw him lying in the hospital bed, I wondered if my


    persistence all these years had been wrong. I will regret never calling him my father if he never wakes


    up again."


    "Is he¡­ doing better now?"


    "He is. There''s no major issue now. He will be discharged in a while."


    Zoe mumbled, "So, that''s what happened."


    No wonder Daniel had been so busytely. It turned out it was because William was hospitalized.


    Leanna knew what she was thinking, but she hesitated to say anything.


    In Zoe''s current condition, the woman would only get more upset if Leanna told her that Daniel had


    gone missing.


    I''ll tell her after she is discharged.


    Both of the women, who were deep in their thoughts, didn''t notice that the door to the ward had been


    opened, only to be closed gently after a pause thatsted for a few seconds.


    Leanna realized it was gettingte and she stood up, offering, "What do you want to eat? I''ll go whip


    something up."


    Zoe mentioned some food, but Leanna refused them all. "The doctor said you can''t eat spicy food right


    now."


    Zoe thenid back on the bed and huffed, seemingly disinterested. "The joy of life lies in eating."


    Hearing that put a smile on Leanna''s face. After she took a few things, she asked again, "Do you need


    anything else? I''ll bring it for you."


    "A few books, please. I''m so bored. I might as well enrich my inner world while I have the chance."

 Chapter 687

    Chapter 687


    Chapter 687 Young Men These Days Are Really Something Else


    Recalling that Zoe''s phone was still in Joseph''s car, Leanna nodded and said, "Okay, I got it."


    Zoe waved at her. "Be careful on the way, Nana."


    "I''m leaving now. As for you, don''t move around. There is a nurse at the entrance. Just call her if you


    need anything."


    "Don''t worry." Zoe blew a kiss at Leanna. "I can lie down all day."


    After leaving the ward, Leanna took out her phone and dialed Joseph''s number.


    The phone rang for a long time before someone picked up.


    Leanna went straight to the point. "Mr. Woodley, my friend''s phone is in your car. Is now a good time for


    me to go and get it?"


    Joseph paused for a moment before replying, "I have already sent the car for repairs. I''ll have someone


    look for it and if they find it, I''ll have it delivered to her. How is your friend doing now?"


    "Thank you for your concern, Mr. Woodley. She''s not doing well."


    Joseph sighed at that. "I''m sorry. I should take responsibility for this."


    "There''s no need," Leanna uttered calmly. "I should thank you for bringing my friend to the hospital.


    She could have been in much worse condition if it weren''t for you."


    "Don''t mention it, Miss McKinney. It''s the least I can do."


    Leanna didn''t want to waste more time exchanging pleasantries with him. Hence, she told him straight


    out, "Mr. Woodley, you can just deliver the phone to the entrance on the first floor. I have other matters


    to attend to, so I won''t disturb you further."


    With that, she ended the call.


    Leanna put away her phone and as soon as she got into the car, she saw Aidan waiting for her inside.


    When the man looked at Leanna''s cold expression, he asked in a calm tone, "Whom were you talking


    to? You seem quite upset."


    "Joseph Woodley. Zoe''s phone is still with him."


    "I''ll have Keaton pick it up."


    "It''s alright. I asked him to have it delivered. You can have someone pick it upter."


    "Sure," Aidan replied.


    ¡­


    Daphne was recognized by two fans as soon as she entered the hospital.


    To avoid trouble, she chose not to take the elevator and instead used the adjacent emergency


    staircase.


    Zoe''s ward was on the eighth floor. By the time Daphne reached the sixth floor, she was already feeling


    a little out of breath.


    After resting for a few seconds, she continued her ascent.


    Just as she stepped onto the stairs leading to the eighth floor, she instinctively looked up and met a


    pair of calm eyes.


    We are bumping into each other again, she thought as her eyes fell upon a crushed cigarette butt.


    Feeling rather speechless, she quickly averted her gaze and nonchntly asked while continuing to


    walk up the stairs, "How is Zoe doing?"


    Louis withdrew his hands and slipped them into the pockets of his pants. "She''s resting in the ward."


    When Daphne finally arrived on the eighth floor, she took a short minute to catch her breath before


    asking, "Aren''t you going in?"


    "I''ll go inter."


    "I''ll wait too, then." Daphne fanned herself with her hand and leaned against the wall to rest.


    "Feeling warm?" Louis looked at her, to which Daphne responded with a nod. "A little."


    As he looked at her, he noticed that her sweat had already dampened the stray strands of hair on her


    forehead.


    His hand hanging beside his torso moved, and he was gently removing the mask from her face the next


    moment.


    Daphne clearly didn''t expect this action, as her eyes widened when she stared at him in astonishment.


    After a few seconds of locking eyes, Louis shifted his gaze to the side and handed her the mask he


    took off. "Wearing a mask during exercise can lead to oxygen deprivation."


    Daphne also came back to her senses and she hurriedly reached out to take the mask. "Oh. Thank


    you."


    "Do you still feel hot?"


    "A-A little bit."


    "I''ll go buy you some water."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    With that, he turned around and left.


    "Hey, there''s no¡ª"


    Before Daphne could finish her sentence, Louis had already disappeared into the corridor.


    She stood there holding the mask, and her gaze once again fell on the nearby cigarette butt.


    She only let out a breath after a long time.


    When Louis returned with the water, Daphne was sitting outside Zoe''s ward.


    He then handed her the bottle after he twisted the cap open for her.


    "Thanks." She reached over and took it before she stood up, pointing at the ward. "Are youing in?"


    "You can go ahead. I won''t be joining you."


    Puzzled, she asked again. "Why not?"


    "It''s inappropriate for me to do that. I''m just d to see her fine. I''m off."


    Daphne nodded. "Goodbye."


    After Louis left, she looked away and pushed open the door to the ward.


    Inside the room, Zoe was sitting on the hospital bed, staring nkly out of the window.


    She quicklyposed herself when she heard the sound of the door opening, as she thought Leanna


    had returned to the room. But when she turned her head and saw Daphne, she paused momentarily


    before asking, "Why are you here?"


    "I went to your studio this morning and heard that something happened to you. And since I couldn''t get


    in touch with Leanna, I contacted Jonathan instead. He was the one who told me. So, what happened


    to you?"


    Hearing that, Zoe smiled and lowered her head. "I''m alright. I''m doing well."


    However, Daphne could tell from the woman''s condition that things weren''t quite okay. But seeing how


    Zoe didn''t want to talk about it, Daphne didn''t ask further. Instead, she said, "By the way, Louis also


    came. He was standing outside the door, but he didn''te in. He said it''s enough for him to see you


    alright."


    "Has he left now?" Zoe asked.


    Daphne nodded at that. "He left when I came in."


    After chatting for a while, Zoe questioned, "Has that sc*mbag harassed you again?"


    "No."


    "Good. He has probably learned his lesson."


    Daphne continued to stay in the ward with Zoe until Leanna brought food.


    After leaving the room, Daphne took out her mask and put it on, but not before staring at it for a few


    seconds.


    Young men these days are really something else. Not only are they good-looking, but they also know


    just what to do, she mused.


    On the way back, Daphne''s assistant sent her the uing schedule. The filming of a new movie


    would start in a month. Before that, there was a new productunch event and two advertisement


    shoots.


    It was neither a rxed nor busy schedule.


    After checking it, Daphne leaned back in her seat and slowly closed her eyes.


    When the car arrived at the underground parking lot, she asked the driver and her assistant to go


    home, and she went ahead and took the elevator herself.


    As the elevator went up slowly, she remembered that she identally broke her water cup this


    morning, and there weren''t many toiletries left. Since it was still early, she pressed the elevator button


    for the first floor to head to the mall for a bit.


    The sun had just set, leaving behind a few traces of the evening glow.


    Daphne had just walked out of the residentialplex and was about to head toward the mall when


    someone suddenly stopped her.


    It was Theodore, who sported a gloomy expression with a hint of exhaustion. He seemed to have just


    recovered from a serious illness. His voice was cold when he stated, "You have finally shown up now.


    I''ve been waiting here for days."


    Daphne took a step back, her face devoid of any emotion as she peered at him.


    "I''m warning you¡ªstop trying to do something if you don''t want everything to fall apart. Do you have


    any idea how much I have lost because of you?"


    "You brought it upon yourself. What does it have to do with me?"


    As soon as he said that, he grabbed her wrist and tried to drag her to a nearby car.


    However, a security guard walked over before Daphne could say anything. "Hey, you! What are you


    doing? Let her go!"


    Theodore only ignored him and exerted more force as he attempted to drag Daphne away.

 Chapter 688

    Chapter 688


    Chapter 688 Could Make a Woman Cry and Leave a Man Speechless


    At this moment, several more security guards who each held an electric baton approached. They


    shouted, "Don''t you hear us telling you to let her go?! If you don''t release her, don''t me us for not


    holding back!"


    Theodore''s eyebrows were pulled together into a tight frown when he saw the guardsing toward


    him. Taking advantage of the moment he was distracted, Daphne swiftly broke free from his grasp and


    ran to the side.


    He attempted to reach her again, but the guards stopped him. "It''s you! You are the one who has been


    lurking around here suspiciously for days. We can tell you''re up to no good just by looking at you. Go


    now. Get lost!"


    Theodore''s face fell further when he heard that. "Do you have any idea who you are talking to?" he


    growled.


    "I don''t care who you are. Don''t think you have the right to do whatever you want just because you


    have money. I despise people like you who look civilized and all even though you are a hypocritical


    beast inside."


    "You¡ª"


    "Don''t ''you'' me! Get lost now, or I''ll call the cops!"


    Outnumbered and unwilling to involve the police because of his identity, Theodore adjusted his cor


    and snorted coldly before threatening Daphne, "This isn''t over. Just you wait!"


    One of the guards picked up an electric baton and warned, "Try threatening her again."


    Theodore only nced at them, and he quickly got into his car and drove away.


    After he left, the guards spat on the ground and turned to Daphne. "Are you alright?"


    Daphne nodded. "I''m fine. Thank you."


    "No need to thank us." One of the older security guards put away his baton and informed her, "Your


    boyfriend has already talked to us in advance. We even feel a little embarrassed by how he


    asionally brings us food and drinks."


    "Right! With us here, you can rest assured. He won''t set foot inside themunity gates."


    Daphne was still trying to process what the older guard had just said. "My boyfriend?" she asked in


    confusion.


    Another guard nodded and replied, "Yeah! Your boyfriend was here about a month ago. He gave that


    b*stard a beating and chased him away."


    "That''s right! He asked us to keep an eye on you so that guy wouldn''t harass you anymore. He often


    buys us cigarettes, alcohol, and delicious food too. Didn''t he tell you?"


    Daphne only replied after a slight pause. "He¡­ didn''t."


    The older guard couldn''t help but give a thumbs-up as he praised, "Your boyfriend is truly something.


    It''s hard to find such a good boyfriend nowadays. Cherish him, youngdy. If I were you, I''d quit that job


    and get another one."


    "Exactly! Just the sight of bosses like yours is enough to make me lose my appetite. They only know


    how to bully young girls like you who have just entered the real world. Karma will get them sooner or


    later."


    Daphne smiled upon hearing that.


    After giving her thanks, she no longer had the mood to go shopping. Instead, she turned around to walk


    back to the building.


    The guards also returned to their posts. However, they decided to give Louis a call after a short


    discussion.


    Although they had already driven away that human scum, they were sure that Daphne must have been


    quite frightened. Hence, they figured it would be good for her to have her boyfriende and


    apany her.


    After returning home, Daphne took off her mask and walked to the refrigerator. She then grabbed a


    bottle of cold water and took several sips, allowing the frustration that had been swirling in her chest to


    subside.


    She was setting down the water bottle when she noticed a pile of clothes on the couch. And so, she


    walked into the walk-in closet and began another round of decluttering.


    Amid tidying up, she suddenly heard the doorbell ring. When she walked out and saw Louis through the


    monitor, she didn''t hesitate to open the door.


    The man stared at her intently. He only spoke in a voice slightly colder than usual when he had made


    sure she wasn''t injured. "He came looking for you again?"


    She nodded at that. "But he left. I''m fine."


    Louis pursed his lips and was about to turn around and leave when Daphne grabbed his arm.


    "You came at the right time," she began. "I''m sorting out my clothes, but the suitcase is too heavy for


    me to lift. Can you help me?"


    He kept standing there quietly.


    Daphne continued, "You didn''t go out of your waying here just to say those few words, right?


    Regardless, I have to treat you to a meal. Chop-chop! We can eat after we are done tidying the things


    up."


    Seeing that he still hadn''t moved, Daphne pulled him inside, saying as they walked into the walk-in


    closet, "People of your age should do something useful with their strength instead of wasting it on


    meaningless things."


    There were already a fewrge boxes inside the walk-in closet.


    "Now help me move those few boxes into the living room. There''s not enough space here."


    Louis looked at the room full of clothes and he couldn''t help raising his eyebrows.


    Daphne continued to maneuver through the obstacles before she resumed tidying up. "I actually have


    fewer clothespared to others. After all, I''m a celebrity. You haven''t seen your sister''s walk-in closet.


    It could make a woman cry and leave a man speechless."


    Louis was quiet for a few beats before he muttered, "The ce she rented doesn''t have a walk-in


    closet. There is only one wardrobe."


    Daphne shed a smile at him. "That is because President Pearson bought the unit beside hers and


    made that ce her walk-in closet.


    After a two-second silence, he no longer said anything as he started to move the boxes out.


    Daphne took out a few more items and ced them in an empty box nearby, dusting her palms off


    when she caught her breath.


    It was stress relieving to see the once-packed walk-in closet suddenly appear half-empty.


    Louis looked at thest box. "Are there any more?"


    "Nope! What do you feel like eating? I''ll order takeout."


    "Anything is fine."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    "Gotcha." Daphne took out her phone and stated, "I''ll just order whatever, then."


    Since she didn''t know what Louis liked to eat, she decided to order a variety of food.


    When she was done, she opened the fridge and handed a bottle of water to him. "Tired?"


    Louis shook his head and replied calmly, "No."


    Daphne sat on the couch and stretched. She was quite tired herself. After all, her physical strength


    couldn''t keep up now that she was getting older.


    Louis nced at the severalrge boxes near the entrance. "What will you do with those?"


    "My staff will take care of them when theye tomorrow."


    Louis didn''t say anything else and he looked away upon hearing that.


    In that instant, the entire living room fell into a strange and awkward silence.


    The atmosphere was somewhat peculiar.


    Noticing this, Daphne cleared her throat and found a topic. "Zoe is doing well. She should be


    discharged from the hospital in a few days."


    Louis merely nodded. "I know."


    After a few seconds, Daphne added, "You are starting school soon, right?"


    "In another half month."


    "Do you have any other work arrangements for the next half month?"


    "I have some work to do. It will continue until school starts."


    Daphne pondered for a moment before asking, "Can I ask you a question?"


    Louis softly responded with a hum.


    "Why didn''t you go inside Zoe''s ward today? I know all the reasons before were excuses. If you really


    felt it wasn''t appropriate, you wouldn''t have stayed in that area."


    Louis'' expression remained calm when he asked in return, "Would you get mad if I don''t want to


    answer that question?"


    Daphne froze for a moment. "Not really, no¡­"


    "Ask another question, then."


    Daphne''s hand on the couch clenched involuntarily. "Will you answer it regardless of what my next


    question is?"

 Chapter 689

    Chapter 689


    Chapter 689 Are You Checking Up on Me?


    Instead of answering her, Louis simply turned his head and met her gaze. After a few seconds, he


    uttered, "Sure."


    Daphne asked, "Did you¡­ meet Theodore?"


    Louis made a sound of affirmation at that. "I did."


    "You went to him¡ª"


    "That¡ª" Louis interrupted, "¡ªis the second question."


    As Daphne quietly looked at him in confusion, he stood up and walked away. "I''m borrowing your


    kitchen."


    She finally came back to her senses after feeling dazed for a moment. Did he just brush me off? As


    expected of a top student. How quick-witted.


    She watched his figure and raised her hand to scratch her eyebrow. Even though she had many things


    to say, she didn''t know how she could approach the topic.


    The takeout she ordered arrived not long after.


    After Daphne took it, she walked to the dining room while asking Louis, "What are you doing?"


    He emerged from the kitchen. "I was nning to whip up a dish or two, but your fridge is empty. There


    were also some expired frozen foods. I threw those away."


    Why does that feel insulting, Daphne thought to herself while forcing a cough.


    "Let''s¡­ start eating."


    Louis looked at the food on the table. "There''s too much for the two of us. Put some in the fridge. You


    should pick what you feel like eating now."


    Daphne nced down and selected some food.


    The rest were all ced by Louis in the kitchen to cool down before being put in the fridge.


    As Daphne needed to watch her weight and she didn''t have a big appetite, it didn''t take much food to


    fill her up.


    "Is there anything you want to eat?" she asked Louis.


    "No. This is enough."


    The portion was just enough for them to finish.


    After Louis gathered the trash, he told her to rest early and that he would be leaving.


    Daphne was standing by the side when she hesitated for a moment before asking, "Are you going


    straight home?"


    Louis paused and quietly responded, "Yes."


    She asked again, "You are going to take a cab?"


    "The subway is still running."


    "Okay." She nced at the time. "There''s a subway station five minutes away from here. Let''s assume


    it takes you half an hour to get home, plus a ten-minute walk from the subway station. You should


    arrive at your home noter than forty-five minutes from now. If you need to stop by the supermarket to


    buy some water or anything else, I''ll give you an extra five minutes. So, share your location with me


    fifty minutes from now."


    After a moment of quiet contemtion, Louis finally spoke. "My home is quite far from here."


    "How far? Is it in the neighboring city?" Daphne repeated, "Fifty minutes from now, share your location


    with me, or else I''ll contact your sister."


    Louis paused for a few seconds before asking, "Are you checking up on me?"


    Daphne was taken aback. "Check¡ª"


    She only realized that the words didn''t sound quite right when they were about to leave her mouth.


    With an unchanged expression, she insisted, "I''m responsible for your safety. How am I supposed to


    exin to your sister if you don''t arrive home on time and end up getting into a fight or something?"


    A barely noticeable smile tugged at the corner of Louis'' lips. "Got it. I''m leaving."


    Daphne walked him to the door. "Fifty minutes, okay?"


    He took out his phone. "Let''s start sharing locations now."


    "Ah, there is no need for that¡ª"


    "You''re concerned about my safety, right? If something happens to me on the way, you''ll be the first to


    know."


    Daphne was surprised by how reasonable his words were.


    She then took out her phone and epted Louis'' location-sharing request.


    He soon put his phone back into his pocket. "I''m off, then."


    "Bye!" Daphne waved at him.


    After he left, Daphne returned to the living room and copsed onto the couch. She zoned out for a


    while and she took out her phone to check on Louis, who had already arrived at the subway station.


    That''s fast. Oh, the benefits of having long legs!


    Not even two minutes passed and his location started changing rapidly. He must have boarded the


    subway.


    The location kept changing incessantly. Daphne didn''t know why, but she couldn''t take her eyes off the


    screen.


    The farther he got from her, the stranger she felt inside.


    Twenty minutester, Louis got off the subway.


    Another ten minutes passed, and he entered a residentialplex and sent Daphne a message. ''I''m


    home.''


    He was fifteen minutes faster than she estimated.


    Louis'' home was indeed not on her way, but it wasn''t too far either.


    She looked at the message that popped up on WhatsApp and btedly snapped out of her thoughts.


    She quickly returned to the chat.


    ''Good. You have work tomorrow, so rest early.''


    ''Alright,'' he replied.


    Daphne looked at her phone, paused for a moment, then exited the location sharing and went to take a


    shower.


    On the other end, Louis put away his phone and left the house after he saw that the location sharing


    had ended.


    ¡­


    In the evening, Joseph sent someone to deliver Zoe''s phone.


    When Zoe received it, she breathed a sigh of relief. "I thought I''d never get it back! I have so many


    photos here."


    She then turned to Leanna. "Nana, you can take the books back. There is nothing about me that can


    be refined even if I tried. I shouldn''t waste any more time. My phone is my spiritual sustenance."


    Leanna chuckled at that. "Alright."


    Seeing that it was gettingte, Leanna said, "Okay, you should feed your spirit with food tomorrow. For


    now, get some rest."


    Zoe plugged her phone in to charge and obedientlyy down on the bed. "I''m going to sleep now. You


    can go back and sleep, Nana."


    "It''s fine. I''ll sleep on the couch."


    Seeing how firmly Leanna insisted, Zoe didn''t say anything more. She whispered, "Goodnight."


    "Goodnight."


    Leanna turned off the lights, walked to the couch, and slowly closed her eyes.


    Both of them slept soundly through the night.


    ¡­


    Three dayster, Zoe was discharged from the hospital.


    After returning home, she nestled on the couch and sighed. "Home is the best. It was so boring at the


    hospital."


    "Rest for a while I cook," Leanna urged.


    When Zoe heard that, she grabbed onto her friend. "Hey, I''m already back home. You don''t need to


    take care of me anymore. You should rest too."


    "I''ve been resting with you in the hospital for the past few days, haven''t I?"


    Except for breakfast, which they had at the hospital, Leanna came back to cook lunch and dinner for


    Zoe. The back-and-forth trips were tiring.


    Zoe thought for a moment before she came up with another idea. "You should go to work. We haven''t


    been there for the past few days. Who knows what the studio has turned into?"


    Leanna raised an eyebrow. "Guess what Aidan is doing."


    Puzzled, Zoe met Leanna''s eyes before a look of disbelief appeared on her face. "President Pearson¡­


    isn''t at the studio, is he?"


    "He is. He doesn''t have much to do at home, anyway."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe was speechless to hear that. I can''t imagine President Pearson sitting in the office and dealing with


    that trivial stuff.


    She also felt a bit sorry for the few youngdies in the studio. They were earning a few hundred while


    bearing the pressure of tens of billions worth of work.


    Leanna smiled. "Alright, then. I''ll go cook now."


    With that, Zoe was left to sit on the couch, idly scrolling through her phone.


    After a while, she walked into the kitchen and asked in a soft voice, "Nana, is there still no news about


    Charlotte?"


    Leanna''s hands paused briefly before she gently shook her head. "Not yet."


    Over the past few days, Aidan''s men had searched almost every corner of the city for Charlotte, but to


    no avail.


    As for Joseph, he hadn''t left the hotel at all

 Chapter 690

    Chapter 690


    Chapter 690 I¡¯m Your Brother


    Once Zoe went to sleep, Leanna went back to her home. Aidan was reading on the couch, and he


    didn''t say anything to her as she came in.


    Leanna was getting sleepy, and she went to the bedroom. "Have you showered?"


    Aidan said coolly, "Yes."


    She took her pajamas out of the closet. "It''ste. Aren''t you going to sleep?"


    "Yeah," said Aidan coolly.


    Then, Leanna paused and went to sit with him. "What''s wrong?"


    He flipped a page of his book. "It''s alright. Go ahead and shower. Just leave me be."


    Oh, what is it this time? Leanna huddled closer and noticed he was reading, but she had no idea what


    the book was about. "What are you reading?"


    "Sutra."


    Huh?


    Before Leanna could say anything, Aidan said calmly, "I''ve been sleeping alone for three days. It''s time


    I read some sutras to temper my mind."


    She was amused and miffed, then she took the book away and put it aside. "You''re not a kid anymore.


    Do you even need me to sleep with you?"


    He looked at her. "Yes, or I can''t sleep."


    Leanna stood up and patted his head. Like soothing a child, she said, "Yeah, yeah. I''ll get showered


    and sleep with you tonight." She was about to leave, but her wrist was grabbed and she fell into his


    embrace.


    Aidan put his hand on her waist and slowly said, "How are you going to sleep with me?"


    "Like how we used to."


    "I don''t think we''re on the same page here."


    Leanna gritted her teeth. "Can you stop with the sexual innuendos?"


    Aidan smiled and leaned in closer for a kiss, then he picked her up.


    "What are you doing? I need to get showered."


    "We''ll do it together."


    "I thought you already showered."


    "You''re going to sleep with me, so I don''t mind showering again."


    Huh.


    Two hourster, the coupley in bed. Leanna''s eyelids were weighing a ton and she yawned. "So how


    does working in the studio feel?"


    "Feels nice leeching off you," said Aidan. "Expand it. I''ll be in charge of finances."


    Leanna couldn''t even muster up enough strength to chide him. A whileter, she said, "Still no news


    about Charlotte?"


    "No news is good news." Aidan grunted.


    "That''s true."


    He pulled her into his embrace. "You''re sleepy, aren''t you? Go to sleep."


    She couldn''t stay awake anymore, and she drifted to sleep.


    ¡­


    Charlotte had been locked up for three days. Every day, they would give her her meals, then they


    would lock the door right after that. The whole building was crawling with their people, so she couldn''t


    run away. The more time passed, the more she missed her home. She missed her father and great-


    grandfather.


    If she had stayed in Jamesdon, she might have married L, but even that was better than being


    kidnapped. At least she would live her days happily. Even if she got on L''s bad side, she could at


    least ask him to give her a feast before he killed her. I wouldn''t have dragged my uncle and Miss Zoe


    into this¡­ Shey on her bed and stared at the ceiling, seemingly uninterested in anything.


    A long timeter, night descended, and the moon hung high up in the air. Just then, the room next door


    lit up, and everything got rowdy.


    Hearing the noise, Charlotte approached the window, then she noticed the fireing from next door.


    Even the heat wave was making its way over to her. She noticed the people downstairs running around


    amidst the chaos. Nobody cared about her.


    This is my chance. She quickly pulled her sheets off and turned them up into a knot. Just when she


    thought she could escape through the window, someone opened the door. The moment the man saw


    what she was doing, he knew she wanted to escape. "I told you no funny business, Miss Woodley."


    He yanked her by the arm and dragged her downstairs, but Charlotte wouldn''t work with him, so she


    bumped herself into a lot of stuff along the way, bruising her face and legs. She then got stuffed into a


    car. The men were going to take her somewhere else.


    Charlotte kept banging on the car window, shouting, "Help! Help!" However, the fire was burning too


    brightly, and the noise outside drowned out her shouts for help.


    The car left in a hurry, so Charlotte was flung around the backseat and she bumped her head. A while


    later, the car ran into a roadblock. The driver got out of the car to check it out, but he fell to the ground


    right away. The man who took Charlotte away frowned and held his gun, then he stepped out of the


    car. He crouched beside the driver and tried to see what was wrong, but the car suddenly roared.


    He turned around, but it was already toote, for the car had left. He cursed, "Damn it! This is a trap!"


    He tried to go after the car, but he was faced with a few more guns.


    Charlotte was flung around again, but she felt excited, thinking she was saved. "Did my father send


    you?"


    "No."


    "Oh, so you must be working for my uncle."


    "Also no."


    "So, you''re¡­ working for Aidan, then?"


    The man turned around and looked at her. "I''m your brother."


    Charlotte froze. "But I have no brother."


    "Yeah, I was just kidding."


    Huh? Charlotte got a bit cautious, and she retreated a little. For some reason, she had a feeling she


    just jumped into another dangerous situation. A whileter, she whispered, "W-Where are you taking


    me?"


    "Jamesdon."


    "I''m not going with you! You''re the bad guy!"


    "And how do you know that?"


    "My father said to never trust any Woodleys, and he told me to never go back to Jamesdon with them!"


    "You went with your uncle, though."


    "That''s because he''s my uncle, and he wasn''t taking me back to Jamesdon. He was taking me


    somewhere safe."


    The driver chuckled. "You''d trust your uncle over your own father, so why won''t you trust me? I''m your


    brother."


    "I have an uncle, but I don''t have a brother. You''re lying."


    "I am not. You were just a wee baby when I left Jamesdon, but yeah, we''re not real siblings. Your father


    found you on his travels and took you in, but he kept it a secret from you so that you wouldn''t worry."


    Charlotte''s eyes went wide. "T-That''s nonsense."


    "It''s true. I''ll take you back to Jamesdon, and you can ask your father about it."Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.

 Chapter 691

    Chapter 691


    Chapter 691 Scared of Me


    Charlotte felt down throughout the journey. She couldn''t even perk up and she wanted to cry. She


    couldn''t believe she was adopted, and she cursed herself for acting so childishly all this time. I was


    adopted, and Dad still treated me like his own. I can''t believe I was this ungrateful. She promised she''d


    be nice to her father and stop acting like a child.


    Half an hourter, the car stopped at a private estate. Charlotte got out of the car and looked around. "I


    thought we were going back to Jamesdon. What is this ce?"


    "It''s gettingte. We''ll continue tomorrow."


    "Okay." Charlotte followed the man, her head hanging low. L was already waiting in the living


    room, and he was talking to his men. The moment Charlotte and her brother came in, L''s


    underling nodded and went away.


    Charlotte looked at L for a moment before staring at the ground, still looking listless. "I want to


    sleep."


    "There are rooms on the third floor. Take your pick."


    After she went upstairs, L said, "What''s wrong with her?"


    Oscar plopped down beside L and tried his best to hold hisughter in. "I told her she was


    adopted."


    "That''s just childish. No adult would fall for that."


    "I know it''s childish, but she did fall for that." Oscar said, "No wonder she doesn''t suspect Joseph."


    L massaged his forehead. He was at a loss for words.


    "But at least she will stay put. At least she won''t try to run away when she sees you now."


    L stood up. "We should get some sleep." He went to the second floor and paused for a moment,


    then he went to the third floor.


    Charlotte wasying on her bed and staring ahead vacantly when someone knocked on the door. She


    said weakly, "Come in."


    L came in, and said, "There''s a medical kit downstairs. You should tend to your wounds."


    Charlotte turned around. "Just leave me be. I don''t want to live anymore."


    "And I am not repeating myself."


    Damn it. Charlotte relented and walked toward L, but angrily. "I know I''m going to marry you, but


    you can''t order me around like this. I''m human too, and I won''t¡­" She was met with his icy gaze, and a


    chill ran down her spine. She then said, "I mean, there''s space to talk."


    Fine, so be it. She closed her eyes and huddled closer.


    L raised a finger and held it against her forehead. "Don''t try to be a martyr. I''m not marrying you."


    "But Dad wants me to marry you."


    "You''re trying to sacrifice yourself to repay the debt of your father adopting you, aren''t you?"


    Charlotte nodded. That''s right.


    A few moments of silenceter, Lughed. "So, you''re not an ingrate after all."


    "Obviously."


    "Obviously you didn''t think so when you snuck out of Jamesdom."


    Charlotte blushed. "I-I''m trying to make up for it."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    No wonder Oscar wanted to tease her. It''s fun. He slowly said, "I thought you were scared of me.


    Haven''t you heard? The Woodleys are in trouble."


    "I¡­ I¡­" She was reminded of the elders'' murders, and fear made her take a few steps back. When she


    first saw the news, she didn''t think L was behind it. If he really wanted to get rid of them, he


    didn''t have to resort to murder, but now that he was bringing it up, she thought he was indeed behind


    those deaths. Charlotte felt her heart beating furiously.


    L continued, "Even so, you''ll still marry me?"


    Charlotte closed her eyes fearfully, and she mustered up her courage. Loudly, she said, "Yes! If that''s


    what Dad wants, I¡­" And she heard the door closing.


    When she opened her eyes, L was nowhere to be found. He''s gone? Just like that? Charlotte


    couldn''t believe it, but she felt relieved. Half an hourter, someone knocked on the door again.


    The servant came in. "Miss Charlotte, this is the clothes Mr. Woodley had prepared for you. And here''s


    some salve for your wounds. Do you need my help with them?"


    Charlotte shook her head and took the items from the servant. "Thank you, but I''ll do it myself." She


    almost cried out in pain when she tended to her wounds, but she held it back. Then, shey back on


    the bed and stared at the moon outside. For some reason, it felt like she was back home, and she


    finally had a good night''s sleep.


    ¡­


    Leanna woke up early the next morning. While she was making breakfast, Aidan came out of the


    bedroom. "Going to the studio today?"


    "Maybe," said Leanna.


    Just then, Aidan''s phone rang. He picked up the call and said, "They found Charlotte."


    "Where?" Leanna turned around.


    "Oscar took her."


    Leanna paused for a moment. "Is she¡­"


    Aidan sat in front of the dining table. "She''s fine. L already arrived at Highside yesterday, and


    he''s with her now."


    Leanna heaved a sigh of relief after hearing the news, then she asked, "How did he find her?"


    Aidan said, "If I''m right, Oscar''s men had been following her ever since she was taken away, but they


    couldn''t find any opening to bust her out, or they didn''t want to alert the enemy, so they waited for


    L to show up."


    "What about the Woodleys?"


    "Settled."


    "That''s fast."


    "L went back home before the news could break out. That''s why he''s been staying silent. He


    wanted to see who''s the enemy."


    Leanna clicked her tongue. I expected nothing less from the terrifying L. A momentter, she


    said, "If he''s here, that means¡­"


    Calmly, Aidan said, "The others are in this city."


    Leanna pursed her lips. Now that Charlotte was saved, Joseph had no bargaining chip left, but she


    knew he had another exit strategy

 Chapter 692

    Chapter 692


    Chapter 692 Can¡¯t Eat


    Zoe nned to take a stroll in the park that morning, but it was sweltering hot the moment she stepped


    out, so she went to the mall instead. It had been a while since she shopped so she bought a ton of


    stuff. Once she was home, she said, "I bought most of what I might need, so let''s go to the studio in the


    afternoon. I want to see how it works with Mr. Pearson around."


    Leanna nodded, but she said nothing. Noticing that Leanna was hesitating, Zoe asked, "What''s wrong,


    Nana?"


    Leanna looked at her. "There''s something I need to tell you."


    The solemn look on Leanna''s face scared Zoe, and she said, "Um, is the report for the first six months


    out? Are we actually in the red?"


    "That''s not it."


    Zoe patted her chest. "Good, good. As long as we''re not in the red, it''s no big deal. So, what was it you


    wanted to talk about?"


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Daniel''s been missing for a month."


    Zoe froze for a moment, then she said, "By that you mean¡­"


    "We didn''t go to Lachstein because my dad was ill; he was ambushed and got taken to a hospital.


    Daniel went missing before the ambush happened. Once Daniel tried to track those ambushers down,


    he went off the radar. Before we came back, L found those ambushers and interrogated them.


    ording to them, Leroy took Daniel away."


    Zoe looked surprised. "Leroy?"


    Leanna nodded. "It''s been a while since Leroy left Highside. He was the one behind my father''s attack


    and Daniel''s disappearance."


    "So, Daniel is¡­"


    "The fact that Leroy took him away means Daniel still has some use for him. He''s safe¡­ for now."


    Zoe plopped down on the couch, looking pale. A whileter, she said, "H-He was already missing when


    I couldn''t establish contact, wasn''t he? It wasn''t because of thepany or anything?"


    "Yes."


    Zoe was a little lost. "I had no idea¡­ I¡­"


    Leanna hugged her and muttered, "Don''t worry. William has been searching for him, and Aidan''s men


    are doing the same thing too. Leroy can''t run away. We''ll find Daniel soon."


    Zoe buried her head in Leanna''s shoulder and sobbed. "He''ll be fine. He''s a smart guy. He''ll be fine."


    "Yes, he will be fine."


    A long whileter, Zoe let go of Leanna and wiped her tears off. "I have to perk up and stop crying. I''ve


    been crying for thest few days nonstop." She hugged Leanna again. "If a b*stard like Anthony can


    live, Daniel can too. He never did anything wrong aside from lying to me. I can let it slide. If hees


    back, I''ll never diss him for eating canned food again."


    Leanna teared up a little and patted Zoe''s back. "He''ll be fine."


    Zoe cried for the whole afternoon causing her eyes to be puffy, so she didn''t go to the studio in


    the end. Instead, she stayed at home and told Leanna to check out the studio. She would be fine alone,


    or so she said.


    Before Leanna left, she said, "Call me if you need anything, including dinner."


    "I want barbecue."


    "In a month."


    Zoe waved her goodbye. "Drive safe."


    Leanna smiled and closed the door. When she arrived at the studio, she saw the girls working away at


    their stations, but they quickly huddled around Leanna. She was their ray of hope, after all. "Leanna,


    you''re here."


    "How''s Zoe doing? When is sheing back?"


    "Can you stay for the day, please?"


    The girls were staring at her with anticipation, and Leanna smiled. "I''ll stay until you girls clock out for


    the day." Guess Aidan''s been scaring them a lot. They used to love him. Every time they saw him, they


    got excited for days on end.


    Leanna went into the office and saw Jonathan, who greeted her. "Miss McKinney."


    Leanna said hi. "I''d have brought you your present if I knew you were here."


    "You mean this?" Jonathan took out something from behind him.


    Huh.


    Aidan said calmly, "I saw it before I came, so I took it with me."


    Jonathan said, "Thank you, Miss McKinney."


    "N-No problem." She said, "You guys go ahead. I''ll be back in a moment."


    Aidan said, "Nah. It''s time for him to leave."


    Jonathan said, "That''s right. The reports are done. See you, Miss McKinney."


    "See you."


    Once Jonathan left, Leanna looked at Aidan. "He''s gone back to Pearson Group or¡­"


    "Justin let him take a month off."


    A momentter, Leanna said, "So you lost."


    Huh?


    Leanna said, "I mean, Justin let him take a month of PTO, while you made him work on his day off. I


    should''ve given him a better present. That wasn''t enough."


    Aidan said, "He''s not someone money can buy."


    "But he can live better if he has a good boss."


    Aidan shot Leanna with an upset look.


    Leanna sat beside him. "Don''t you see? You''re scaring the girls."


    "What? How?"


    "Not scaring them, but¡­ Forget it. I don''t know how to put it." Aidan had an intense air around him.


    Most of the time he was just aloof, and he might throw in a little teasingment or two, but when he


    was working, he seldom tolerated mistakes. She had seen the top brass of Pearson Group scared out


    of their wits when he showed up. A momentter, Leanna said, "You might be a bit too professional.


    Leeching off someone else isn''t what you''re good at. You''re the more independent type."


    "I know, but sucking off you is fun, babe."


    Huh? What the hell is he talking about?


    A whileter, Aidan asked, "So what should I do?"


    Leanna wondered what he was talking about.


    Aidan slowly said, "How should I be a boss that''s not scary?

 Chapter 693

    Chapter 693


    Chapter 693 Better Than Nothing


    Leanna ran her fingers through her hair. "That takes talent. That''s not something you can learn."


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow and pulled her into his embrace. "Guess I''m better off doing the finances."


    Leanna pushed him away. "Alright, enough fooling around. I need to get to work."


    "And you were very nearlyte for work."


    "I''m the owner. I can show up whenever I damn please."


    "So, when are you paying me, boss?" Aidan whispered, staring into her eyes.


    Leanna might call him a lowlife at times, but he was seductively handsome. Her heart beat a bit faster,


    and she looked away. "It hasn''t been long since you started here, and we only pay after a month,


    you¡­"


    "I charge by the minute."


    Yeah, and no one can afford that. She said seriously, "You passed your probation. You are a brilliant


    man, but you''re not what we''re looking for. Perhaps there''s something out there that matches your


    skills better." She tried to get up, but he pinned her down.


    "And where did you learnpany lingo?"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Leanna paused for a moment and chuckled, then she pulled his hand. "I really need to work now."


    Aidan finally let her go, then he leaned back and looked around. "Ever considered getting a bigger


    office space?"


    Leanna sat across from him and flipped through her draft book. "No. This is perfect for me. I''m working


    alone, you see."


    "Not now you''re not."


    Leanna held her pen and mused over it. "I can convert the room next door into an office for you. It''s


    rather big."


    A moment of silenceter, Aidan said, "Forget it. I''ll just squeeze in with you."


    Leanna held back herughter and went back to work. She would stop talking to him for a while. There


    were only two months left before the fashion show. She didn''t have much time and there were a ton of


    designs she needed to hand in. If she didn''t work hard, she wouldn''t make it in time.


    The two of them worked in silence the whole afternoon. When Leanna was done with her draft, it was


    already dusk. Aidan was going through the emails, looking cool. Leanna leaned on the table and stared


    at him, a smile curling her lips.


    Only after a while did Aidan notice her stare, and he looked up from theputer. Their eyes met for a


    moment, then Leanna sat up and coughed. She snapped out of it and looked away in embarrassment.


    Well, I got caught. She said, "It''ste. We should leave."


    "Let''s go," said Aidan.


    Leanna put her draft book in her bag and packed her things up, then she left her office. The studio was


    quiet as the girls had already clocked out for the day. Leanna checked the time. It''s already nine. She


    quickly called Zoe. "Zoe, have you had dinner? I''ming home if you hav¡ª"


    "Eh, it''s alright. I got myself some delivery. Just go on your date with him, or he might kill me."


    Leanna smiled. "Okay." She hung up and tucked her phone away, then she handed Aidan her bag


    while she locked the studio up. On the way back, Leanna stared at the scenery outside and blurted, "I''d


    like to go to Jamesdon."


    A moment of silenceter, Aidan said, "Maybe after a bit. Most of the crisis is settled, but things are still


    uncertain."


    So, the enemy is still out there. Leanna pursed her lips and grunted.


    Noticing her downcast mood, Aidan stopped the car at the roadside and patted her head. "It''s alright.


    He''s healing well. He might be all healed up when you see him again."


    Leanna''s eyes lit up. "Really?"


    Aidan arched his eyebrow. "When have I ever lied to you?"


    "All the time." Yeah, and now you look like you''re lying to me.


    Aidan poked his inner cheek with his tongue and held the steering wheel. "Forget I said anything."


    Leanna smiled and looked out the window again. The moon was shining bright in the sky.


    ¡­


    Joseph stood before the French window of the hotel room, staring into the night. A frown furrowed his


    forehead, and his eyes glinted with cold fury.


    Freya said, "I got news of L''s return to Jamesdon in the afternoon. The Woodleys have


    contained the situation for now. Even if we still have Charlotte, it would mean nothing."


    Joseph said coldly, "There''s always merit in having a bargaining chip." A whileter, he turned around


    and sat down. "Did you find out who saved her?"


    "Not yet, but I''m sure it wasn''t Aidan. Perhaps it was the Woodleys."


    Joseph narrowed his eyes. "If it were them, Charlotte should be in Jamesdon by now, but our spies


    aren''t giving us any news just yet."


    "So that means she''s still in Highside."


    Joseph said nothing. "It''s the Pearson Group''s anniversary in a couple of days. Time for them to meet."


    Ever since the Woodley Family''s crisis, L had gotten more mysterious. No one could find out


    where he was at all times. First, he brought Naomi back, then Charlotte snuck to Highside, then the


    elders who were L''s dissenters were killed. The Woodleys'' one rule was already null and void.


    Now that Charlotte was saved, Joseph was sure L was in Highside.


    Freya said, "Aidan might not show up for thepany anniversary though."


    Joseph chuckled. "That''d make things so boring." I have my way of luring him out.


    Freya said, "But they''re suspecting you of being the mastermind now."


    "And do you know why they still haven''t made a move against me yet?"


    "Why?"


    "Because they want to fish for the one backing me up." Joseph said, "This is the first time Justin''s


    hosting thepany anniversary as its president. There''s going to be a lot of people joining, and who


    knows what might happen in an event like that? They won''t let this chance slip by." Before Freya could


    say anything, Joseph said, "I''m looking forward to seeing what''s going to happen when we meet.

 Chapter 694

    Chapter 694


    Chapter 694 Damn the Wealthy


    The moment Leanna arrived at the studio the next morning, one of the girls presented her with an


    invitation. "Someone from Pearson Group gave us this."


    "Pearson Group?" Leanna opened the invitation. It was for thepany''s anniversary event, and she


    turned around. "Do you know of this?"


    Aidan grunted and made his way to the office. "Yeah."


    Leanna followed him, then she closed the door. "Are you going, then?"


    Aidan looked at her and said, "That invitation is for you, not me, honey."


    Someone''s throwing all the stress at me. The news of Aidan''s resignation made its rounds at first, but a


    monthter, people had already forgotten about the matter and returned to their normal lives. Everyone


    in thepany had epted the fact that Justin was now their president. The changes in the top brass


    meant nothing for them as long as they weren''t fired or getting any pay reductions.


    Over thest month, nothing big happened in thepany. Everything was running as usual. Justin


    had gone from being an abandoned child to the talk of the town in upper society. However, the


    comments that were made about him were vastly different from those about Aidan. Aidan was arrogant,


    ruthless, and reckless, while Justin was warm, soft-spoken, and gentlemanly. They could see why


    Justin was the eldest while the other was just an illegitimate child.


    The celebration was just an event for these people to gather and chat a bit more. Justin knew Aidan


    wouldn''t attend the event, so he sent the invitation to Leanna instead. If Leanna were to go, then Aidan


    would show up as well.


    Leanna put the invitation aside. When Sienna died, she did dere that she would have no ties to the


    Pearsons anymore, so she wouldn''t ept the invitation just because Justin asked her to.


    Jonathan came over a few times over the next few days to report about the work in Arcburg to Aidan.


    Every time he left, he would somehow end up taking the desserts Aidan bought for Leanna. Leanna


    would say she couldn''t finish them.


    Leanna did buy them some food back when she visited Pearson Group, but this time, Jonathan thought


    something felt off, though he couldn''t put a finger on it. For some reason, Aidan wasn''t giving him the


    stink-eye when he took the desserts. In fact, there was a warm glow in his eyes, which was frightening.


    After he left, Leanna asked, "I thought you handed thepany over to Justin, so why do you even


    have to handle work in Arcburg?"


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "Do you want to know?"


    Knowing what he would say next, Leanna looked away. "No."


    "But someone told me no means yes when ites to women."


    You just had to remember that one quote of all things.


    She stopped asking, so he said, "When I worked in Arcburg three years ago, I invested in something,


    though it was not under thepany''s name."


    Curious, Leanna asked, "And?"


    "And thepany got listed, the share prices skyrocketed, and I became its biggest shareholder."


    Damn you rich people. Leanna looked down and refused to talk.


    Two dayster, Jonathan went back to Pearson Group and handed his resignation letter to Justin.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Justin sighed. "Is this what you really want?"


    "Thank you for trusting me, Young Master Justin, but I don''t think I''m experienced enough to be the


    company''s VP."


    "I see you''ve chosen him."


    Jonathan said nothing, but he nodded.


    Justin ced the resignation letter on the table. "Very well. I won''t force you to stay, but the celebration


    is in a few days. You know more about it than I do, and you''re the only one who can settle most of the


    work. Can you stay until the celebration is over?"


    Well, I don''t see why not. "Of course."


    Justin handed him a few files. "These are the details of our potential partners. Make sure we have the


    right information. And I''m not very sure about the flow of the celebration, so go through the draft of the


    proposed agenda. Change anything you find unnecessary. You don''t have to report to me for that."


    Jonathan took the files. "Of course, sir." He took the files back to his office and flipped open the first


    one. It was information on Frost Corporation. Jonathan flipped through a few pages and opened the


    next file. It was about apany under Joseph''s name. It''s them. They''ve already been eyeing our


    projects back when Mr. Aidan was here. Now that he''s gone, they found their opening.


    Then, Jonathan went through the celebration''s agenda. It was mostly the same asst year''s, though


    there was an inclusion of a charity dinner. Jonathan read through the list of auction items and took


    notice of one particr item.


    At night, Jonathan called Aidan.


    Aidan picked up the phone and said in a warmer tone than usual, "What is it?"


    "Sir, the celebration will include a charity dinner, and one of the items that are going to be auctioned off


    during the dinner is a ring¡ªthe engagement ring of the Crossleys more than twenty years ago.


    Joseph''s the one selling it."


    Aidan stopped flipping through the pages of his book. "Are you sure?"


    "Yes. The ring was kept by Theodore Frost, and it showed up in a jewelry exhibit before. If I''m right,


    Miss McKinney must''ve seen it as well."


    Aidan slowly said, "I guess we''ll have to attend this celebration."


    "This must be a trap."


    "No. He has no bargaining chip, so there''s no point setting up a trap."


    Jonathan said, "I see. I''ll make the arrangements."


    Aidan said, "Send me a picture of the ring."


    "Yes, sir." The call ended, and Jonathan sent Aidan the picture.


    Aidan clicked on it and erged the photo.


    Leanna came out of the bathroom, wiping her hair. "What are you staring at?"


    Aidan put his phone down. "Nothing."


    "Didn''t Jonathan call you?"


    A pauseter, Aidan said, "Why?"


    "He handed his resignation letter in. Did Justin agree?"


    "It''s his right to resign. Justin can''t force him to stay."


    Leanna pouted. So, it was a sess. She went into the bathroom. "I''m going to blow dry my hair.

 Chapter 695

    Chapter 695


    Chapter 695 No Real Feelings


    The moment Leanna got into bed, Aidan pulled her into his embrace. She looked at him. "What is it?"


    "I did tell you that you can buy any jewelry you want, didn''t I?"


    "W¡­" Oh, I see. A moment of silenceter, she said, "So you know."


    Aidan grunted. "There''s going to be an auction at the charity dinner for the celebration, and the ring''s


    on the list."


    Leanna froze. "But I thought the ring was in Joseph''s hands."


    "He''s trying to strike a deal with Pearson Group."


    Leanna frowned. "He did ask me to put in a good word with you, but I refused. I can''t believe he still got


    what he wanted."


    "He came to you because he knew I wouldn''t agree to work with him."


    "But Justin agreed."


    They stayed silent after that. Joseph''s goal was obvious. He didn''te to Highside for business. His


    goal was Aidan, or to be precise, Pearson Group, and Aidan''s departure from thepany gave him


    the chance he needed. One''s a Woodley, and the other is a victim of that fiasco. Leanna said, "Should


    you tell Justin about Joseph''s¡­"


    Aidan closed his eyes and wrapped his arm around Leanna. "He knows what he''s doing." A momentary


    pauseter, he said, "I''ll tell Jonathan to at least leak the Woodley scandal to Justin during his


    investigations. He can decide what to do with that information."


    Leanna had no idea what to say to that. A momentter, Aidan said, "We should get prepared for the


    celebration."


    Leanna nodded. "Sure." No matter what was waiting for them, and no matter what happened, they had


    to make the trip. The ring was just a catalyst for them to show up.


    ¡­


    Zoe had been cooped up at home for a few days and she couldn''t take it anymore, so she went back to


    the studio and started working. Before she came back, Leanna told the people in the studio not to bring


    up anything about Zoe''s hospitalization and the baby. Work went on like usual, and everyone chatted


    happily.


    Zoe felt better the moment she went to work, and her bad mood was turned around. Still, there was no


    news about Daniel.


    In no time, the day of Pearson Group''s celebration arrived.


    The event would start at seven-thirty, but the hotel''s entrance was already filled with tons of reporters at


    six. They were trying their best to take tons of photos as the celebration this time was the grandest of


    them all. Aside from the mainpany''s employees, everyone from the subsidiaries was invited as


    well. The guests here were either bigwigs of Highside''s business and political world or celebrities


    attached to Pearson Group. There was no roster of guests grander than this.


    Not even the other year-end gs could gather people like this. Thanks to that, the reporters had been


    staking out the hotel a day before so they could get the best spot to take pictures. At six-thirty, the


    guests were starting to show up, and it was an even grander scene than any red-carpet event.


    Leanna and Aidan arrived at seven, but they entered the hotel through a side door. The moment they


    walked into the lobby, they heard discussions all around.


    "Not even thepany''s nieth-anniversary celebration was as grand as this. This is crazy."


    "Duh. Don''t you know? The president just got switched out. Of course, he wants everyone to know he''s


    the legitimate heir."


    "Yeah, but I heard that Justin and Aidan used to be on good terms, so¡­"


    "And I heard Aidan was the one behind Sienna''s death. Do you really think they can still be on good


    terms after that?"


    "True. Neither can live while the other survives."


    "Maybe Justin''s been hiding his lust for power under a facade of serenity. Now that he''s taken over, he


    wants everyone to know he''s the boss. He doesn''t care about his brother. Family means nothing in the


    world of aristocrats while power means everything."


    "Honestly, I wonder why Aidan let someone else take over. He beat the Pearsons up so badly, they


    went into a decline."


    "I wonder if he''ll show up today."


    "Yeah, right. He''s just a Pearson in name only. There''s no way¡­"


    Someone appeared beside the person who was gossiping and pressed the button for the elevator. The


    two of them stopped discussing and turned around, but when they saw who it was, they froze.


    Aidan pulled his hand back and looked at them. "I know chatting''s fun, but remember that you have an


    event to attend, so don''t get lost."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The two men stopped talking, then the elevator doors swung open. Aidan led Leanna into the elevator


    and didn''t spare another nce at the men. When the doors swung shut, the men heaved a sigh of


    relief, but then the doors slowly opened again.


    Aidan looked at them coolly. "Aren''t youing in?"


    The men stared at each other, wondering what they should do. A few momentster, Aidan lost his


    patience. "Come. In."


    The men quickly went inside and stammered, "T-Thank you, sir." The doors closed again, and the men


    felt like they had stepped into hell. Cold sweat poured forth on their foreheads as silence hung in the


    air.


    Just when they thought Aidan wouldn''t say anything, he did. "And don''t call me sir. I''m not this


    company''s president anymore."


    The men felt their throats getting crushed, and fear kept them from talking. Even though Aidan had


    stepped down as president, he still inspired fear. He was a fearsome man himself in the first ce.


    Even without thepany, he still inspired fear, but without him, Pearson Group could never stay on


    top.


    Justin was a gentleman loved by everyone, but that was the sign of thepany''s downfall. A


    company on Pearson Group''s scale needed a president that inspired fear and respect, not someone


    who was well-loved and gentle.

 Chapter 696

    Chapter 696


    Chapter 696 No Saving the Brain Rot


    The elevator finally came to a stop, and Aidan led Leanna out. Only then did the men heave a sigh of


    relief. Their backs were already drenched with sweat. Guess the celebration is going to be one heck of


    an event.


    Leanna walked into the wall chuckling while holding Aidan''s arm. He''s always such a prankster. I bet


    those men are going to have nightmares just thinking about Pearson.


    Since there were too many guests this time, not even the hotel''s biggest ballroom could house


    everyone, so thepany reserved two ballrooms. Each one was on a different floor. One floor was for


    the employees, while the other was reserved for the bigwigs in the entertainment, business, and


    political world. Almost all of the guests had arrived, and they were chatting around as they drank.


    When everyone saw Leanna and Aidan, they stopped talking and stared at them. This was the first


    time Aidan appeared in public ever since he left thepany. Aidan looked around, causing everyone


    to look away and pretend that they weren''t just staring.


    Leanna looked around as well, and she saw Theodore among the crowd. She cocked her eyebrow in


    surprise.


    Aidan looked in the direction she was looking. "What is it?"


    "When was he discharged?"


    "A few days ago."


    "It''s been more than a month. His wounds should be healed, but why are there scabs on his face?"


    "Maybe someone beat him up again?"


    Huh? Leanna met Aidan''s gaze and tilted her head to the side, asking a silent question.


    Aidan said, "Yep. It was your brother."


    "Oh my God, he tried to touch Daphne again?"


    "Hey, the only good man is a dead man." After a short pause, Aidan said, "Except for me, of course. I''m


    a good man all the time."


    "No, I think that quote suits you perfectly."


    Noticing their gaze, Theodore turned around. His smile froze and his face fell, and hatred appeared in


    his eyes. He then turned back and resumed chatting with the other guests.


    Leanna asked, "So when''s the event starting?"


    "Nine."


    "Guess we''ll have to wait, then."


    Just when they were about to find some seats, Joseph approached them. "Mr. Pearson, Miss


    McKinney."


    Aidan said nothing. It wasn''t time to dere an all-out war yet, so Leanna nodded. Joseph wasn''t


    surprised that Aidan was giving him the cold shoulder, but he told Leanna, "Sorry for what I had to do,


    Miss McKinney."


    Leanna said coolly, "Don''t be, Mr. Woodley."


    Joseph said, "I bought the ring from Mr. Frost to give it to you, but you didn''t want it. My sources told


    me that there''s going to be a charity dinner during this celebration, and I had no use for the ring, so I


    thought I could use it to help those who might need it. It would be what the ring''s original owner


    wanted."


    "That''s a respectable intention indeed," said Leanna.


    "Ah, just trying to reach the noble heights the people before us reached."


    After some small talk, Leanna turned to leave, but then amotion happened at the hall''s entrance.


    Leanna turned her attention to the entrance and saw someone familiaring in. She then heard


    sounds of discussioning from the crowd.


    "Oh my gosh, he is handsome."


    "Yeah. I thought Aidan was the most handsome man I''ve ever met, but this guy is on par with him."


    "So, who do you think is the more handsome one?"


    "I¡­ I can''t really say."


    "Don''t you think he looks a bit like Aidan?"


    "Oh, yeah! Could this be another masterpiece from God?"


    "All good-looking people look simr."


    Ah, it''s L.


    L slowly walked toward Leanna and Aidan, but something beside him charged straight at


    Leanna. Caught by surprise, Leanna staggered backward, and she almost fell because she was


    wearing heels.


    Aidan wrapped his arm around Leanna.


    Charlotte was holding Leanna while gushing, "I''ve missed you!"


    Leanna smiled and patted her back. "Good to see you in one piece."


    Charlotte had been holding her frustration in and she was just about to vent it all out, but then someone


    said coldly, "Let go."


    Charlotte reluctantly let Leanna go and took a step back with a pout. "I just missed her, that''s all."


    Leanna was about to say something, but Joseph said, "You almost made her fall, Charlotte."


    Charlotte turned around, and she looked even more delighted. "Uncle? What brings you here? Wait,


    are you alright? They didn''t hurt you, did they?"


    Joseph shook his head, smiling. "I''m fine. I''m sorry I couldn''t stop them from taking you away."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s alright, uncle. That was all my fault. If I didn''t¡­ So, what happened to Miss Zoe? Did you take her


    to the hospital?"


    Before she could finish, someone yanked her away. Annoyed, she red at L, but she moved


    away anyway. L stood still and stared at Joseph calmly.


    Joseph smiled. "It''s been a while."


    "It has."


    Joseph said, "Charlotte''s still young. She might make some mistakes, but please don''t get angry at


    her."


    L nced at Charlotte who was quietly huddling closer to Leanna and said, "You don''t seem


    surprised to see her with me."


    Joseph said, "I''ve been trying to search for her, and my men told me someone saved her. I thought it


    might be you."


    "Is that so?"


    Joseph smiled.


    L said, "Since your hunch was right on the money, why don''t you predict what might happen


    during the celebration?"


    Joseph said, "Easy. Some celebration, and then the charity dinner."


    The men said nothing more, but the air around them seemed to have frozen over.


    Charlotte took the pressure head-on and tugged on L''s sleeve. She muttered, "What are you


    doing? If you want to take it out on someone, take it out on me, not him."


    L looked at her and said in an unusually warm tone, "Yeah, there''s no saving that stupid brain of


    yours."

 Chapter 697

    Chapter 697


    Chapter 697 The Grudge Between Us


    That was the first time someone ever called Charlotte stupid, and she snapped angrily, "Hey, you can''t


    call your own niece an idiot, you¡­ you old git!"


    "I don''t seem to recall you ever respecting me as your uncle."


    "You¡­"


    Leanna couldn''t stand by anymore, and she pulled Charlotte away. "Okay, things are getting stuffy


    here, so why don''t youe with me?" Charlotte was dragged away from the battlefield.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Once they were gone, Joseph said, "Never thought we''d meet under these circumstances. Fate is an


    odd mistress indeed."


    Aidan said coolly, "This is what you wanted to see, isn''t it?"


    Joseph smiled, staring ahead silently. Justin had arrived, and his assistant pushed him over to them.


    Justin said, "Hello, Aidan. Hello, Mr. Woodley." He then turned to L. "And who might this be?"


    Joseph didn''t tell him it was L. "He''s my brother."


    Justin smiled. "The Woodleys sure are filled with talented people." He turned to Aidan. "Is Leanna not


    here?"


    "She just left."


    Justin said, "Mr. Woodley told me that the ring we''ll be auctioning off belonged to Leanna''s mother. I''ll


    take the ring off the list so you can give it to her."


    Aidan smiled. "It''s alright. I''ll win the bid anyway."


    Justin smiled. "Very well. If you insist." He said, "There''s an hour left before the ball starts. It''s a rowdy


    ce here, so why don''t we talk in the waiting room?"


    Joseph nodded. "Of course."


    The assistant pushed Justin ahead, and Joseph walked beside him. Aidan and L followed them.


    Aidan asked, "Did you notice it?"


    "Depends on what you''re asking," said L. "Ever since he left Jamesdon, Joseph''s been staying


    in another city and never contacted the family."


    "Why did he leave the family anyway?"


    ¡­


    Once they left the hall, Charlotte asked, "So, what happened to Miss Zoe?"


    Leanna fell silent. She stared into Charlotte''s beautiful eyes, and she had no idea what to say.


    Charlotte''s smile faded, and a bad feeling started to grasp her heart. She asked, "D-Did something


    happen to her?"


    Someone walked by, and Leanna said, "I''ll tell you once we get back."


    The light in Charlotte''s eyes dimmed. Something must''ve happened.


    Leanna heaved a sigh. She had no idea what to say. Just when she was about to say something, she


    saw Theodore leaving the hall as well, and he was skulking toward the corridor on the other side,


    looking around like he was up to no good.


    Oh, right. Daphne''s working for Pearson Group. She might show up too. Theodore isn''t learning even


    after all he''d gone through? Aidan''s right. Some men are better dead. Leanna told the downcast


    Charlotte, "Charlotte, get Aidan here."


    Charlotte asked dumbly, "Why?"


    Leanna looked at Theodore and whispered something to Charlotte, then she followed Theodore.


    Charlotte quickly went back into the ballroom to find Aidan.


    Pearson Group gave all their artistes a dressing room of their own, and that included Daphne. She


    strolled around the ballroom when she came, but since the celebration hadn''t begun, and things were a


    bit rowdy, she took a break in the dressing room.


    Her assistant got a call from a Pearson Group employee. They said the flow of the celebration had


    changed, and she needed to be there to get the news as fast as she could. Daphne noticed that a lot of


    the artistes'' assistants were summoned as well, so she didn''t think much about it. And then she was


    alone in the dressing room.


    She sat on the couch, going through her new script, and then the light was turned off. Daphne looked


    up and put the script down, then she rummaged around for her phone. She turned on her shlight and


    was about to check things out when she heard someone opening the door. She held her phone and


    asked, "Fish? Is that you?"


    The answer she got was the sound of the door getting locked. Daphne quickly turned her shlight off


    and tossed her heels somewhere to make a sound while she hid in the other corner. After getting


    followed by haters, stalkers, and Theodore, Daphne had to be on guard. She heard sounds of footsteps


    searching around, and when that person found her heels, he sneered. "You think you can run?"


    Daphne hid behind the cloth hanger, trying to keep her breathing shallow.


    Theodore said, "I''ve given you a chance. Get back together with me, and I''ll give you whatever you


    want, but no. You just had to test my patience. You think that brat can help you every time? I''m waiting


    for him right here. If he shows up, I''ll make sure he doesn''t see tomorrow''s sun."


    Daphne gritted her teeth. Theodore straightened out his cor. "I''m not forcing you to do anything.


    Work with me here. All you have to do is sleep with me and make me happy, then I''ll let him live, or


    else."


    The lights were turned on again, and Theodore saw Daphne, who was looking at him coldly.


    "This is our feud. Why do you have to drag him into this?"


    Theodore sneered and pointed at his face. "This is no longer just us. The fact he beat me up means I


    get to kill him."


    Daphne clenched her fists. "You touch him and you''ll get it."


    "Oh, I''m going to touch him alright. He thinks he''s a big shot because his brother-inw is Aidan, but


    Aidan''s in trouble himself now, and I can destroy his life easily. You don''t know this, but he sold his


    eptance letter for a hundred and fifty grand. If I tell his school and the media about it, he''ll be


    expelled."


    Daphne chuckled. "Sure, you do that. I''ll wait."


    Theodore looked at him, and he narrowed his eyes, and his face fell.


    Daphne stepped ahead. "If that could work, you would''ve done it instead of threatening me with it."

 Chapter 698

    Chapter 698


    Chapter 698 No Catching Up?


    Daphne was right. Theodore wouldn''t tell the school about it, let alone the media. There was a market


    for the buying and selling of eptance letters, and it had been there for a long time. Louis was not the


    first to do this, and he would not be thest. If Theodore made it public, the people involved in this


    trade would destroy him. The threat would only remain a threat.


    Theodore sneered. "You''re only challenging me because you think yourpany can back you up, but


    Aidan''s no longer its president, and I''m going to be its partner soon. Do you really think Justin would


    pick you over me? And without Pearson Group''s protection, your little boyfriend is nothing. I can kill him


    easily."


    Daphne said calmly, "Then do it. But before anything happens to him, I will drag your reputation


    through the mud and destroy you."


    Theodore''s face fell. He wanted to take a step ahead, but then someone banged on the door. Theodore


    stopped, looking irritated. A whileter, someone opened the door. Leanna showed up and hurried to


    Daphne''s side, ring at Theodore. "Are you alright?"


    Daphne nodded her head. "I''m fine."


    Sh*t. This is not what I had in mind. Theodore was about to leave, but two silhouettes blocked the


    entrance, staring at him coldly. For a moment, Theodore thought he was seeing doubles.


    Aidan asked coolly, "And what brings you here, Mr. Frost?"


    Theodore heaved a sigh and answered slowly, "Just here to catch up with Daphne. If you need to talk


    to her, I think I should leave."


    "Oh, not so fast." Aidan said, "It''s been a while since I saw you, Mr. Frost. Why don''t we sit down and


    chat?" He stepped into the dressing room and plopped down on the couch. Charlotte could finally get


    in, but someone pulled her back.


    She turned around angrily but shut up when she was met with L''s gaze. He shot her a look and


    she left with him reluctantly.


    Theodore looked absolutely upset. He wanted to leave, but he couldn''t.


    Aidan looked at him calmly. "Why? I thought you''d want to catch up with me."


    Aidan had always been an obstacle Theodore wanted to ovee. Every time he tried to partner up


    with Pearson Group, he would say no, and what happened now annoyed him even more. Why does he


    get to be the superior? Does he really think he can still control everything? He''s no longer the president


    of thepany. Theodore said, "I''m here to talk business with the currentpany president. I have


    nothing to say to you."


    Aidan said, "Aw, what a shame. You seem to have a lot to catch up with Daphne, so why not me?


    Sexism?"


    "But I don''t have anything to say to you."


    "I see." Aidan said, "So you do understand that consent is required in contact, huh? Consent from both


    sides, I mean."


    Theodore froze, and someone outside said, "What''s going on, Aidan?"


    Justin was pushed into the dressing room by his assistant, and he was surprised to see Theodore here.


    "Mr. Frost?"


    Theodore eased up a beat. "Hello, Mr. Pearson."


    Justin looked around. "Leanna? You look grim. What happened?"


    Daphne said, "Theodore harassed me."


    Theodore protested, "Don''t listen to her, Mr. Pearson! I was just passing by, and I did nothing!"


    Leanna said, "Then why was the door locked?"


    "I had no idea who locked the door. I was¡­"


    "The door was locked from the inside. You''re telling me that Daphne was the one who locked it? I find


    that suspicious."


    "It''s possible, you know." Theodore mocked, "She seduced me three years ago, and now that I''m


    divorced, she was trying to pull the same trick to make me marry her, and now she''s using me of


    harassment. Mr. Pearson, I don''t think you should keep a morally corrupted artiste around."


    Leannaughed mirthlessly. "Oh my, the liar using the victim of lying. ssic."


    Theodore looked at them. "You''re her friend. You might not be working with her, but you might have


    been duped too. You have no idea of the truth, and you have no right to question my integrity."


    Justin frowned. "Watch what you say, Mr. Frost."


    Theodore straightened out his cor. "Sorry, Mr. Pearson. I was beside myself, but please forgive me."


    Aidan leaned on the couch and tapped his knees. "Ah, you sure can twist a story, Mr. Frost. No wonder


    you managed to escape the events that happened three years ago unscathed."


    "Because what I said was the truth. I have nothing to be afraid of."


    Daphne said, "You want the truth? I can get my assistant back, and she can tell us the truth."


    Theodore stood calmly. Justin looked at his assistant, and his assistant left. Justin then pushed himself


    ahead in the wheelchair. "We can''t reach a conclusion just yet, so everyone, sit."


    Leanna and Daphne sat beside Aidan, while Justin sat beside them. Theodore, on the other hand, sat


    across from the four of them.


    Aidan said, "Finally decided to catch up with me, Mr. Frost?"


    Since Justin was around, Theodore held back his arrogance and asked, "What do you want to talk


    about?"


    Aidan said, "As I recall, yourpany invested in the construction of a resort in Newfoundtown four


    years ago, but halfway through the project, the site caved in and killed a lot of people. In the end, the


    Theodore had a dark look on his face. "And why are you bringing this up?"


    "Nothing. Just want to do some catching up. So is the resort built?"


    "Yes. A few months ago."


    Aidan continued, "Want to talk about the reason for your divorce/"


    "That''s private, so no."


    "I see." Aidan slowly said, "But I heard some rumors a couple of months ago. The reason for your


    divorce was because of that ident at the resort construction site four years ago. Someone had dirt


    on you, and your ex-wife knew you might be dragged into¡­ an unsavory circumstance, so she cut all


    ties with you to get out of any trouble."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Theodore shot up. "That''s nonsense!"

 Chapter 699

    Chapter 699


    Chapter 699 Anything Else


    Aidan said, "Aw, calm down, Mr. Frost. We''re just catching up. This isn''t an incriminating session."


    "I-I wasn''t nervous. Y-You led me¡­"


    Justin''s assistant had led Daphne''s assistant back to the room. Shocked by what she saw, the


    assistant said, "M-Mr. Pearson¡­"


    She then looked at Justin and wondered what she should call him, and she opened her mouth, but no


    sound came out. Justin didn''t get angry, and he warmly asked, "Where did you go?"


    The assistant said, "I-I got a call saying that I was needed for the celebration, so I went."


    "Anyone else went with you?"


    "Every artiste assistant came with me."


    Justin turned around. "Did something of the sort happen?"


    His assistant said, "No, sir. No news about the celebration being in trouble. Jonathan''s the one


    handling this. I''ll summon him."


    Jonathan had been handling the celebration. The moment he got the news, he came over, and said,


    "The celebration''s going fine. No trouble at all."


    Daphne''s assistant dumbly said, "But we''ve been waiting forever."


    "And who told you guys to go?"


    "T-The admin department''s deputy manager." We wouldn''t have waited otherwise.


    Jonathan tried to call the admin department''s deputy manager, but his phone was turned off.


    Theodore said, "This is your internal problem. You won''t me this on me, will you?"


    Daphne coldly said, "He wouldn''t have told my assistant to leave if you hadn''t bribed him."


    Theodore looked at Justin. "Now you see how she nders me, Mr. Pearson. I''m not stupid enough to


    bribe a deputy manager."


    Justin was silent for a while, then he said, "I don''t think we can reach the guy. Why don''t we let this


    slide for now? I promise you I''ll make it up once investigations are clear."


    Daphne pursed her lips. She knew what Justin was trying to say. The celebration was important, and


    he didn''t want her to make things too serious, but just seeing scum like Theodore walking around


    disgusted her. The moment they left this room, he would harass her to no end. Daphne wasn''t scared


    of him, but she was worried he might hurt Louis.


    She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "No. I''m calling the cops. This isn''t the first time he''s


    harassed me. He''s appeared outside my house and conducted himself indecently a few times. The


    guards can attest to that."


    Justin said nothing. He was weighing his options, while Theodore remained unfazed. The guards''


    testimony was nothing to him. All he had to do was use his connections, and this whole thing would


    be a scandal. The cops wouldn''t care about this at all.


    He said, "Sure, call the cops. I¡­"


    Something outside the door fell with a sickening thud, and the screams of a man rang across the air.


    Everyone looked at the entrance and saw a man lying outside the door, backing off as he held his


    bruised face.


    L showed up a momentter, and Jonathan looked at the man on the ground. "Hello, Mr.


    Dumpster."


    The look on Theodore''s face changed. He was absolutely miffed.


    Mr. Dumpster struggled for a while, but he couldn''t get up, so he crawled over to Aidan, his eyes filled


    with fear. "Mr. Pearson, I-I didn''t mean to. I said no, I did, but he threatened me. Said he would be the


    company''s partner soon, so if I didn''t do as he asked me to, he would make them fire me. Please,


    please have mercy on me."


    Back when Aidan was around, no one in thepany would try to do anything like this. Ever since


    Aidan left, things looked the same from the outside, but everyone eased up a lot more without Aidan


    around. Besides, Justin was a soft-spoken man.


    The reason this man relented was that he thought he could slip this by Justin without a hitch, and he


    wanted to make something on the side. When he realized he messed up, he tried to run, but someone


    grabbed him before he could, and he was dragged all the way back.


    Aidan was inscrutable. "You know I am not the president anymore." Mr. Dumpster quickly looked at


    Justin. "Please, Young Master Justin. Please give me a second chance."


    Justin sighed. "Anything else you want to say, Mr. Frost?"


    Leanna said, "Whoa, Mr. Frost. You''re not going to say this guy worked with Daphne to nder you,


    are you?"


    Before Theodore could say anything, Mr. Dumpster said, "I have proof! He paid me this morning. With


    another ount, but you can find that it''s him if you check his transactions. And I recorded all my calls


    with him."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Theodore tried to say something, but nothing came out.


    Justin said, "Mr. Frost, I believe I see no need to work with yourpany now." He looked at Daphne.


    "With Mr. Dumpster''s proof, you can make a case. We have your back. Once the celebration''s over,


    we''ll lodge a report. I''ll go with you."


    Oh, he''s de-escting things. Well, since he''ll deal with this with me, I should step back as well. I am


    still working for him, after all. She nodded. "Sure."


    Justin looked at the time and told everyone, "The celebration''s going to begin soon. Let''s go."


    Theodore stepped ahead, "Mr¡­"


    Justin didn''t look at him, but he said, "You should know how important the celebration is to the


    company, Mr. Frost."


    Theodore stepped back and gritted his teeth. Once Justin was gone, Aidan looked at Jonathan, and he


    nodded.


    Daphne''s assistant found her heels back for her, and everyone left the dressing room, leaving only


    Jonathan, Theodore, and Mr. Dumpster behind.


    Mr. Dumpster gave Jonathan a look of plea. "Mr. Stoll, you have to help me¡­"


    Jonathan said, "You know how Mr. Pearson is. I can''t, I''m sorry."


    "B-But, Mr. Justin''s the one handling things, and Mr. Aidan said he''s no longer the president, so¡­"


    Jonathan said nothing, but he looked at Theodore. "And that''s what you thought, wasn''t it, Mr. Frost?"

 Chapter 700

    Chapter 700


    Chapter 700 Just in Case She Causes Trouble


    By the time they got back to the hall, the event was about to start so Justin took his leave of them.


    Daphne exhaled in relief and turned to Leanna. "Thank you."


    Leanna took Daphne''s hand. "Not at all. I''m just d you''re fine."


    Thankfully, when Leanna had gone after Theodore, she ran into a waiter and asked him for the key.


    Thank goodness it wasn''t toote.


    Daphne nced behind her and muttered, "Who''s that beside President Pearson? Why do they share


    a resemnce?"


    "It''s a littleplicated," Leanna replied. "I''ll tell you about itter."


    Daphne nodded. "Okay."


    Just then, Charlotte popped out of nowhere and squeezed between the two women before murmuring


    even more softly, "What are you two talking about?"


    Leanna smiled. "It''s nothing. We wereplimenting you."


    "Complimenting me?"


    "That b*stard would''ve escaped today if you hadn''t been able to get Aidan and the others toe over


    so quickly."


    Charlotte was feeling a little bashful from all the praise. Her cheeks reddened as she stammered, "R-


    Really?"


    "Of course," Daphne confirmed. "If you ever need anything, just let me know."


    The event officially started. As the host went up on stage, Daphne left to get ready.


    Once she walked off, Leanna turned to Aidan. "What did you get Jonathan to do?"


    Aidan cocked his eyebrows ever so slightly and drawled, "Do you know why Theodore keeps pestering


    Daphne even though he suffered so many beatings from Louis?"


    Leanna was rather confused. "Why?"


    "He''s the one who caused the copse at the resort construction site four years ago and someone has


    found the evidence against him. Although he tried his best to keep everything under wraps, it was


    bound to get exposed someday. Furthermore, after the divorce, his ex-wife received a hefty portion of


    their joint assets. What do you think he needs the most right now?"


    Leanna pondered for a moment. "Money?"


    "That''s right, so that''s why he''s trying to curry favor with Pearson Group in the hopes of getting the


    latest project. It also means Daphne''s a prime target for him. Her market value, fame, and influence in


    society are all of great use to him."


    Leanna frowned. "He''s far too deplorable."


    "All his attempts at getting something going with Daphne has failed and she wasn''t actually harmed in


    any way, so even if we reported him to the police, he''ll easily walk away unscathed."


    Leanna pursed her lips. It was the bitter truth. What a cruel reality.


    Theodore was a conniving man. They would not be able to do anything to him through ordinary means.


    Charlotte had been listening in all along, and after taking it all in, she joined in on the conversation.


    "What should we do now then? Are we just going to let that sc*mbag bully Daphne?"


    Aidan eyed her. "Aren''t you going to look for your Uncle Joseph?"


    "Oh¡­ I looked around but I couldn''t find him. Don''t change the subject. Hurry up and say what we


    should do now."


    Aidan pushed Charlotte''s head away. "Children shouldn''t get involved in adult matters."


    Charlotte was speechless.


    She pouted and looked to the side for support, but L simply nced at her indifferently.


    He was certainly not going to back her up.


    A little whileter, Justin went up on stage.


    The people around them began to whisper among themselves. "I pity Justin Pearson. He''s just as


    handsome and capable as Aidan but he only gets to present himself in public now."


    "I know, right? I always thought that Aidan was the Pearsons'' only son and wondered why Old Mr.


    Pearson kept keeping him in check despite letting him take over thepany. Now I know it''s because


    he was hedging his bets."


    "The Pearsons wouldn''t have taken Aidan in if it hadn''t been for the ident that left Justin half-


    paralyzed."


    "Hey, now that you mention it, I heard some rumors a few days ago. They''re saying that it was


    someone from Aidan''s mother''s family that caused the ident. They wanted the Pearsons to take


    Aidan back with them."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Those who heard this piece of gossip were stunned. "No way. Where did you hear that?"


    "I''m not sure who started it, but they make it sound very reasonable."


    "If it''s true, wouldn''t Justin harbor a lot of resentment toward Aidan? Their rtionship seemed pretty


    normal to me when I saw them together just now."


    "I don''t think it''s true either. Even after all these years, there''s never any news about Aidan''s mother. I


    bet she ran off with the money a long time ago."


    "Exactly. It wouldn''t be easy for someone to tamper with Justin''s car. Aidan''s mother''s family wouldn''t


    have let her be a mistress if they were capable of doing something like that."


    "It''s obvious that none of the rumors are true. I can''t believe such ludicrous rumors have been


    spreading. I''m guessing someone started spreading it on purpose to create a scandal after seeing that


    Justin is now the president of Pearson Group."


    Leanna pursed her lips. It was the bitter truth. What a cruel reality.


    Once the few of them concluded that the rumor was entirely baseless, they changed the subject and


    started discussing other matters.


    Leanna looked up at Aidan and who met her gaze. His expression hadn''t changed at all. "What is it?"


    "Nothing." She took his hand.


    Leanna checked the time. "It''s time to go."


    The charity dinner was about to start.


    The celebration over here would still proceed as normal.


    After taking a few steps, Leanna turned around and saw Charlotte trailing behind L. She looked


    as if she wanted to approach Leanna but was a little afraid to.


    Leanna withdrew her gaze and asked softly, "Do you not intend to tell her the truth? She still trusts


    Joseph very much. I''m afraid¡­"


    "Compared to us, Joseph is her real family," Aidan replied. "She might not believe us. In any case,


    she''s naive and wears her heart on her sleeve. There''s no good in telling her."


    Leanna understood what he meant. "Is that why L is keeping her with him and forbidding her


    from running off alone?"


    "That has nothing much to do with Joseph. He doesn''t have the guts to do anything reckless when


    L''s around."


    "Then¡­"


    "Just in case she causes some kind of trouble," Aidan answered.


    Leanna smiled. Despite what Aidan said, it was clear that they were afraid something would happen to


    Charlotte.


    The charity dinner was being held in a different hall. By the time they went over, Justin was already


    waiting for them at the entrance.


    "Aidan, Leanna, the ring is the seventh item on the auction list," Justin informed. "I''ve already made the


    arrangements. They''ll keep it short and only call for bids once. You can go ahead and win it."


    Aidan nodded.


    Just then, Joseph appeared. "Since you''re all here, you should head in."


    A lot of people attended the anniversary celebration but the crowd at the charity dinner was smaller.


    The auction hall was a lot quieter.


    Everyone had taken their seats and was looking through the auction list.


    "You guys take a seat. I''ll go and take a look behind first," Justin said.

 Chapter 701

    Chapter 701


    Chapter 701 Spending All His Money


    Justin provided some of the items up for auction at the charity dinner, while the other items were


    donated by people like Joseph who did business with Pearson Group, or those who were keen on


    forming a business rtionship with thepany.


    They couldn''t possibly put up ordinary items for auction.


    Therefore, all of the auction lots today were incredibly meaningful and valuable.


    Charlotte studied the auction catalog to look for suitable items. She wanted to get two things¡ªone for


    her father and one for Zoe.


    "Is there anything you like, Charlotte?" Joseph asked. "I''ll get it for you."


    "It''s fine. I have enough¡ª"


    Charlotte came to an abrupt halt as she suddenly recalled that all her credit cards had been frozen.


    She stopped herself before she could say the word "money."


    Joseph chuckled. He seemed to have noticed her embarrassment. "If you see something you like, let


    me know. You went through such a frightening ordeal. I should give you something."


    Charlotte was tempted by his offer. "In that case, I''ll give you a present when I get back to Jamesdon


    too, Uncle Joseph."


    "I look forward to it," Joseph replied.


    "Okay!"


    Charlotte nodded happily and was about to start choosing the items when the auction catalog was


    whisked out of her hands.


    Before Charlotte could say anything, L''s crisp voice rang out. "Why bother looking at the catalog


    when you don''t have any money?"


    "Uncle Joseph said he''ll give me a present!" Charlotte pouted.


    "What did you do to warrant a present?"


    "I¡­"


    Charlotte''s instinctive reaction was to refute L, but s, she had indeed been rather impulsive


    lately and ended up causing trouble for quite a few other people, so she hung her head low with a


    dispirited expression.


    Joseph noticed this and consoled her, "It''s fine, Charlotte. You can take a closer look at the items when


    they''re up for auction."


    "Thanks, Uncle Joseph, but I shouldn''t ept your offer," Charlotte rejected quietly.


    I should buy the presents for Dad and Zoe myself.


    Although Aidan said she could work at the studio, but she wouldn''t be getting a sry, Leanna often


    gave her a bit of allowance money.


    Thus, she had a small amount of savings, though it was nowhere near enough to afford the items up


    for auction.


    Joseph looked at L to say something, but L was looking straight on, and his stoic


    expression made Joseph swallow his words back down.


    Soon, the charity dinner started.


    The first item up for auction was provided by Justin. It was a famous painting that had been a part of


    Gordon''s collection for many years now and was valued at over 2 million.


    However, the starting bid was only 45 thousand.


    The crowd gasped when they heard the starting bid. While they did not doubt the authenticity of the


    painting, they had a feeling that Gordon had no clue this was happening. Otherwise, he would certainly


    jump out of bed in anger. That would be quite a miracle.


    "Is Justin doing it on purpose?" someone muttered. "He''s tantly disregarding his father''s prized


    possession."


    "I heard that someone offered Old Mr. Pearson 30 million for this painting and he refused, and yet¡­ It''s


    now being auctioned off for 45 thousand¡­"


    "It has to be said that even though Old Mr. Pearson has everything he could possibly want, he failed to


    develop a good bond with his sons. He and Aidan are basically mortal enemies at this point. I thought


    he would have a good rtionship with Justin, but then this happens."


    "You''re all not seeing the bigger picture here. This is a charity event, so the focus should be on doing


    charity, right? Think about it. This is the firstpany anniversary since Justin took over. He has to put


    his best foot forward, doesn''t he? It''s not surprising that Old Mr. Pearson is giving his full support."


    "It''s still a bit much¡­"


    "You really don''t know anything, huh? The grudge between Aidan and the Pearsons has gone on for


    years now. Old Mr. Pearson deeply resents that¡­ illegitimate son of his. Now that the son he cherishes


    the most has taken over thepany, he''s bound to be overjoyed. Why would he care about a simple


    painting?"


    "You''ve got a point there."


    While the crowd eagerly discussed the situation, the bid for the painting had gone up to six million.


    The starting bid had been rather low, but the market value of the painting couldn''t be denied. It was still


    a bargain at this price.


    In the end, the painting sold for 12 million.


    The next few items were sessfully auctioned off as well.


    Soon, it was time for the seventh item on the auction list.


    As soon as the ring was set on disy, the crowd livened up.


    Despite being a 20-year-old ring, in terms of workmanship and material, it was still impable by


    current standards.


    The pink diamond dazzled under the light and stole the hearts of countless women who saw it.


    The starting bid was 30 thousand.


    However, Justin had made the arrangements beforehand, and since Aidan had raised his paddle, no


    one else would have the fortune of taking it home with them.


    Just then, a paddle was raised in the corner. "75 thousand."


    Everyone quickly turned around to see who was silly enough to try and bid on the ring.


    Nevertheless, no one recognized the man who raised his paddle.


    One thing was certain. The man wasn''t going to give up without a fight.


    The crowd turned their eyes back on Aidan who didn''t seem taken aback. His eyes didn''t even flicker


    as he raised his paddle and said, "150 thousand."


    The man in the back raised his paddle as well. "300 thousand."


    "750 thousand," Aidan called out. Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Everyone was speechless.


    Even the wealthiest among them would never think of being this nonchnt about spending that sum


    of money.


    As the bids kept increasing, the atmosphere in the hall tensed up as well.


    Initially, everyone was intrigued by the bidding war.


    As time went on, all that could be heard were the sounds of paddles being raised and bids being called


    out.


    When the bid rose to 10 million, Leanna pressed down on Aidan''s hand and murmured, "Don''t call out


    a higher bid. It''s obvious he''s doing it on purpose."


    Aidan held her hand. "Don''t worry."


    He raised his paddle yet again. "15 million."


    The crowd was gob-smacked. Even Gordon''s painting had only sold for 12 million. Aidan''stest bid


    was the highest sum that had been called out so far.


    Even though it was a gorgeous ring, it wasn''t worth 15 million.


    The man in the back hesitated.


    However, he soon called out a higher bid. "18 million."


    "27 million."


    Atst, the man wentpletely silent.


    The auctioneer began calling out the final bid. "27 million going once, 27 million going twice, sold for 27


    million."


    Thump¡ª


    The bid was finalized.


    The subsequent auction lots were auctioned off with far less drama. Everyone gathered their heads


    together to discuss the bidding war. They were curious to know the identity of the man who went up


    against Aidan and made the price skyrocket.


    Naturally, they were most intrigued by the ring that was worth 27 million.


    When the charity dinner was over, the crowd slowly took their leave.


    As soon as Aidan and Leanna stood up, a man came over to them and said cheerily, "Congrattions


    on getting the item you wanted, President Pearson."


    Aidan''s expression remained indifferent as he surveyed the man. "What makes you think you have the


    right to approach me?"


    John''s expression stiffened as he subconsciously took two steps back. "No reason to be this hostile,


    President Pearson. Everything was going so well just now. A man who spends all his money to win the


    favor of a beautifuldy. It makes a wonderful story, doesn''t it?"

 Chapter 702

    Chapter 702


    Chapter 702 It Was Too Late


    "Aidan."


    Justin''s voice rang out behind them.


    John smiled and said, "I still have matters to attend to so I shall take my leave now. I wouldn''t want to


    overstay my wee."


    He swiftly turned around and walked off.


    As soon as he left, Justin''s assistant wheeled him over. "Who was that just now?"


    "I don''t know him."


    Justin withdrew his gaze. "There was a slight mishap at the auction earlier. It''s on me for not making


    the arrangements properly."


    He turned around and took a ring box from his assistant. "Here. You can just take it."


    Aidan took the box. "I''ll transfer the exact amount to Pearson Group."


    Justin chuckled. "You don''t need to be so fastidious with me, Aidan."


    "I''m just following official procedures."


    "Be that as it may, we shouldn''t get into disagreements over such petty matters." Justin paused for a


    moment before adding, "Is it because you heard the rumors? That''s just baseless gossip. You needn''t


    take it to heart."


    "Do you think they''re all false?" Aidan piped up coolly.


    "Of course."


    "And yet, I don''t think they are rumors. They sounded like they were based on evidence."


    Justin fell silent.


    Joseph quickly tried to smooth things over. "I heard some rumors too, but they were all far too


    ridiculous. I can guarantee that the Woodleys did no such thing. It''s all just a sinister attempt to drive a


    wedge between you two."


    As soon as Joseph finished speaking, L questioned, "You left the family ten years ago, so how


    are you going to give a guarantee?"


    Charlotte was riled up by the fact that L was picking on Joseph again. She was about to snap at


    L when Leanna grabbed her arm and shook her head.


    Thus, the hall fell silent after L spoke.


    Joseph''s smile was a little stiff.


    At longst, Justin sighed. "Aidan, didn''t we agree to call it even and put everything behind us?"


    "I did say that," Aidan replied.


    Then, he paused and looked at Joseph. "And yet, there are still some who want to make things y out


    to the bitter end."


    Aidan turned his gaze back onto Justin and pursed his lips for a few seconds before announcing, "I''m


    leaving."


    He pocketed the ring box and took Leanna''s hand before striding off.


    Everyone else didn''t know what to say.


    Charlotte was about to speak when she was dragged off by the arm.


    Once they were all gone, Justin spoke up again. "Who''s the one spreading those rumors?"


    Joseph narrowed his eyes and responded, "It''s not us."


    Justin''s assistant informed, "A few days ago, Jonathan dropped a few hints about it. If I''m guessing


    correctly, it was Aidan who instructed him to do so."


    "Where''s Jonathan now?"


    "Dealing with Theodore Frost."


    Justin turned his wheelchair around and smirked. "I guess I don''t need to make the trip then."


    ¡­


    Once they were out of the hotel, Charlotte did her best to squeeze her way over to Leanna before


    taking her by the arm and cajoling, "Leanna, can I follow you back?"


    Leanna turned to Aidan who gave a monosybic response. "Nope."


    Charlotte looked behind her and pointed at L who seemed unconcerned with her. "But, he''s


    gone!"


    "Go and look for your Uncle Joseph then."


    With that said, Aidan took Leanna''s hand and helped her into the car.


    Charlotte stood still with a disgruntled pout.


    What kind of people are they?! One of them dragged me out of the building before leaving me behind


    while the other is as mean as ever. He even locked me out of the car!


    The more she thought about it, the more aggrieved she felt. Her eyes began to pool with tears.


    Thus, she didn''t notice that the car that was still parked in front of her.


    She was just about to wail in sorrow when Leanna''s amused voice rang out. "That''s enough. Get in.


    You can sit in front, Charlotte."


    Charlotte raised her head at once. Tears were clinging to her eyshes as she looked up with eyes full


    of hope and confusion.


    Once she saw that Leanna meant what she said, she quickly opened the door to the front passenger


    seat and got in.


    Leanna saw Charlotte''s teary eyes and immediately red at Aidan.


    "You''re crying over something like that?" Aidan queried.


    Charlotte grabbed a tissue and refuted him. "I''m not!"


    "Well, it''s true that you have no right to cry. The one who does isn''t here."


    Aidan always had a sharp tongue. Charlotte couldn''t quite grasp what he meant.


    However, Leanna did. Her hands curled up as her chest tightened, making it harder for her to breathe.


    As she stared nkly out the window, someone unfurled one of her clenched hands. She felt


    something cool slipping onto her ring finger.


    Leanna instinctively looked down and saw the pink diamond ring.


    Aidan held her hand with a satisfied expression that was rare on him. "It suits you very well."


    Leanna finally reacted. "But, you spent twen¡ª"


    "It''s fine. Someone else is footing the bill."


    Leanna was confused.


    "William said to make sure I get it no matter at what cost, and he''ll pay for it."


    Leanna was speechless.


    He''s a b*stard, alright.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Half an hourter, the car pulled up outside the apartment.


    Leanna took Charlotte by the hand before saying to Aidan, "You can go on up. I''ll go and buy a few


    things with Charlotte first."


    Aidan knew what Leanna wanted to tell Charlotte, so he hummed in acknowledgment and went up.


    Charlotte followed Leanna over to the convenience store with a skip in her step. "What are we getting,


    Leanna?"


    Leanna stopped walking. "Charlotte, there''s something I need to tell you."


    Charlotte stopped as well. "What is it?"


    When she saw the grim look on Leanna''s face, a thought urred to her and she asked tentatively, "Is


    it¡­ about Zoe?"


    "That''s right," Leanna confirmed with a nod.


    Charlotte quickly grabbed Leanna''s arm. "How''s she doing?"


    "Not good," Leanna replied. "Charlotte, Zoe¡­ had a miscarriage."


    Charlotte''s eyes were wide and dazed. "A miscarriage¡­ Does that mean she lost her baby?"


    "Yeah," Leanna sighed.


    Tears began streaming down from Charlotte''s eyes as she gasped, "How could¡­ how could it be¡­ I


    got Uncle Joseph to take Zoe to the hospital. How could this happen¡­"


    She choked and couldn''t continue talking.


    Leanna wiped Charlotte''s tears for her. "Zoe''s condition was too serious, Charlotte. By the time she


    arrived at the hospital, it was already toote."


    "It''s my fault. It''s all my fault," Charlotte wept. "What should I do now, Leanna¡­"


    Leanna hugged her close and patted her on the back, but she didn''t know what to say.

 Chapter 703

    Chapter 703


    Chapter 703 Going Over There in This State


    One hourter, Zoe was about to head to bed when she heard her doorbell ringing.


    She was rather nonplussed as she went to answer the door. I''m not expecting any parcels and I didn''t


    order takeout either. She opened the door to find Leanna standing there.


    Zoe was confused. "Nana? Why did you¡­"


    Leanna had the password to Zoe''s house, so she didn''t need to use the doorbell.


    Just then, a head popped out behind Leanna. Charlotte''s eyes were red and puffy. It was clear that she


    had been crying. She hung her head low and murmured, "I''m sorry, Zoe¡­"


    Zoe paused for a moment. "Are you alright?"


    Charlotte nodded. "I''m fine, but you¡ª"


    "It''s good that you''re alright," Zoe cut in. "Let''s just leave the past behind us. Come in."


    Despite what Zoe said, Charlotte couldn''t forgive herself. She kept her head down as she stuck close


    to Leanna.


    Zoe sat down on the couch and stretched. "I''m feeling a bit hungry. Have you girls eaten yet?"


    "Not yet," Leanna replied. "What do you feel like eating? I''ll make some food for you."


    Zoe stopped her. "Just sit down and rx. I''ll order takeout. There''s a new restaurant that just opened


    right around the corner. I heard that the food''s pretty good. I''ve been meaning to try it."


    She took out her phone before asking quietly, "Should I¡­ order something for President Pearson too?"


    Leanna smiled. "You don''t have to worry about him."


    Zoe exhaled in relief. "Thank goodness."


    She turned to Charlotte. "What do you feel like eating, Charlotte?"


    Charlotte was sitting rigidly on the couch. She quickly raised her head when she heard Zoe addressing


    her. "Huh? I-I''m¡­ fine¡­ No. I mean¡­ I''m not hungry¡­"


    "How can you not be hungry when you haven''t eaten all night?" Zoemented. "I''ll just order a few


    things for us then."


    "Don''t get anything spicy," Leanna reminded. "You can''t have spicy food."


    Zoe leaned against the couch and pouted. "I know that. I''ll just order some for you two and watch you


    eat. Can''t I at least live vicariously through you?"


    She had been holding back for too long now, so she ended up ordering nearly every item on the menu.


    When the food arrived, the women could barely fit everything on the dining table.


    Zoe stared at the cluttered table in silence for a moment before suggesting, "Perhaps¡­ you could get


    President Pearson toe over¡­"


    "It''s fine," Leanna said. "I''ll just take some back to himter."


    She knew everyone would feel a lot more at ease without Aidan around.


    Zoe grabbed eight boxes of takeout and passed them over to Leanna. "Let''s set all of these aside for


    him."


    Leanna was speechless.


    "I don''t think he can finish all of that," she mused.


    Zoe agreed, so after mulling it over for a moment, she suggested, "Why don''t we invite Louis over? I''ll


    give Daphne a call too!"


    In the end, thete-night supper for three turned into a muchrger gathering.


    Louis would alwayse over immediately whenever Leanna called him unless he was busy.


    Meanwhile, Pearson Group''s anniversary celebration had just ended and Daphne was hungry too. She


    had been nning on getting some food when she got Zoe''s call.


    As it was ratherte at night, there was barely any traffic and soon, both Louis and Daphne arrived.


    "Don''t take the leftovers back to President Pearson, Nana," Zoe said. "Just invite him over. I don''t want


    him to say that we left him out on purpose."


    Leanna chuckled. "Alright."


    When she went back next door, Aidan was on a call with what sounded like someone from Arcburg.


    Leanna didn''t disrupt his call. Instead, she went into the bedroom to change her clothes.


    By the time she came back out, Aidan was also done with his call.


    Leanna walked over to him. "Zoe¡ª"


    As soon as she started speaking, Aidan held her and pressed her against the couch.


    Leanna looked up at him and blinked. "What are you doing?"


    Aidan wrapped one arm around her waist before clutching her hand with the ring and bringing it to the


    front. "At a time like this, shouldn''t you be spending your time with me?" he murmured. "Where are you


    heading off to?"


    Leanna chuckled. "I spend time with you every day."


    "How''s that the same?"


    "How is it not the same?"


    "By the way, you seem to have forgotten something," Aidan remarked.


    "What is it?" Leanna queried.


    Aidan stared deeply into her eyes and drawled, "When are we registering our marriage?"


    Leanna froze. She was about to respond when Aidan added, "Don''t try to get out of it. You said yes


    when I proposed in Taevaia."


    "That''s true, but¡­"


    "Did you n on waiting for an auspicious day?" Aidan remarked.


    That was just the reminder Leanna needed. She nodded along and said, "Registering our marriage is a


    big deal. We should pick a good day for it. We wouldn''t want to start off our marriage with bad luck."


    "You''re right, so that''s why I''ve already checked the dates. Tomorrow just so happens to be a very


    auspicious day. It won''te around for another hundred years."


    Leanna was dumbstruck.


    Before she could say anything, Aidan''s lips crashed against hers. He easily pried her lips open and


    launched an invasion.


    Leanna gasped. She remembered that the others were still waiting on them next door before they


    started eating so she quickly tried to push Aidan off.


    s, Aidan took her rejection as bashfulness instead. He took her hands and locked them above her


    while his other hand roamed down to her waist before slowly creeping up again.


    Leanna''s breath turned a little ragged.


    The atmosphere grew hot and heavy.


    Atst, Aidan let go of her lips and began nting kisses down her face and neck. His scorching breath


    was a little tight as he tried his best to take it slow.


    Just as he was about to move things along, the sound of the doorbell killed the mood.


    Leanna snapped back into her senses and shoved him off before sitting up.


    Zoe''s voice came in through the door. "Are you twoing over soon, Nana?"


    "G-Give me a minute," Leanna responded in a rush. "You guys can start eating. I''ll be right over."


    "Hurry up. The food''s getting cold."


    "Okay."


    After answering Zoe, Leanna turned around and caught Aidan''s displeased gaze. She quickly


    exined, "I came over to tell you that we''re all having supper. You''re the one who didn''t give me a


    chance to speak."


    Aidan was speechless.


    Leanna adjusted her clothes and got to her feet. "Anyway, let''s go over. They''re all waiting for us. Louis


    and Daphne are here too."


    Aidan ran his tongue over his teeth and nced down. His voice was a little hoarse as he asked, "How


    am I supposed to go over there in this state?"


    Leanna held back herughter and said, "Well¡­ you can just stay here then. I''ll bring you some food


    later."


    "I''ll be waiting," Aidan dered through gritted teeth as he fixed his eyes on her.


    Leanna sensed impending danger and quickly fled.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She paused outside Zoe''s house and took out her phone. She tidied up her hair and patted her


    reddened cheeks. Once her breathing was even, she keyed in the password and went in.


    Zoe noticed that she came over alone and asked, "Where''s President Pearson, Nana?"


    "He''s¡­ not hungry. Let''s just eat. We don''t need to worry about him."

 Chapter 704

    Chapter 704


    Chapter 704 What Has He Done to You?


    Halfway through the meal, Daphne''s phone rang. It was a work call, so she went to the balcony before


    answering it.


    "Is Daphne doing okay now? That *sshole¡­" Charlotte whispered to Leanna while gazing at Daphne''s


    back, but before she could finish her words, she was nudged in the elbow.


    Puzzled, Charlotte stared back with curiosity while Louis paused what he was doing. "What about


    him?" he asked, his voice turning cold.


    As Leanna had interjected her, she dared not continue her question anymore and only buried her head


    in her food. "Nothing. It''s all been sorted out," Leanna said.


    At the same time, Daphne had finished her phone call and returned. Upon sensing the strange


    atmosphere at the table, she asked with hesitation, "Did¡­ something happen while I was away?"


    "That son of a b*tch bothered you again, didn''t he?" Zoe clenched her fist, filled with indignation. "He


    sure has no shame!"


    Daphne instinctively looked at Louis and hesitated before saying, "He probably won''te again after


    today."


    "Jonathan has already sorted everything out," Leanna added, to which Daphne nodded in affirmation.


    "Yeap, it''s all okay now. Come on, let''s get back to the food."


    Zoe had wanted to add to the topic but received a timely nce from Leanna. It was then she btedly


    nced at Louis and immediately shut up.


    Meanwhile, Daphne changed the subject and asked Leanna, "I heard President Pearson spent a


    fortune tonight to buy a ring. Is it the one on your hand?"


    "No wonder I thought it looked beautiful just now," Zoe chimed in. "Can I take a look, Nana?"


    Leanna nodded and took off the ring, handing it over. As Zoe examined it, she couldn''t help eximing.


    "The more I look at it, the more beautiful it is. How much did it cost?"


    Daphne spoke out the figure, and Zoe suddenly thought the ring weighed a ton. She held it with fear of


    dropping it.


    "President Pearson sure is ridiculously extravagant." She clicked her tongue a couple of times before


    returning the ring to Leanna. "Nearly 30 million¡­ I''ve never seen so much money in my entire life."


    Something seemed to have shed across Leanna''s mind as she said nothing but only smiled.


    After dinner, Louis silently packed the takeout boxes and ced them in the trash can, intending to


    dispose of them on his way outter.


    "Your chauffeur''s downstairs, right?" Leanna asked Daphne after clearing her throat.


    "He is."


    "Do you mind helping me drive Louis home?"


    "I can take the cab," Louis answered before Daphne could answer Leanna, who argued, "It''s already


    prettyte. Forget about getting a cab. I''ll drive you if you don''t want to sit in Daphne''s car."


    "Yes, yes, listen to your sister," Zoe chimed in. "It''s also dangerous for young men to walk alone at


    night nowadays, especially a handsome one like you. What if you run into pervy older women like me?


    You''ll be in a whole lot of trouble."


    While Louis was at a loss for words, Daphne fought back herughter and offered, "I know his address.


    I''ll send him home."


    "Thanks. I appreciate that." Leanna nodded gratefully.


    "I''m off," Louis announced after gathering the trash and grabbing his bag.


    "Give me a call once you''re home, and don''t wander around after that," said Leanna before whispering


    to him while Daphne wasn''t paying attention, "Look for Theodore again, and I''ll have Aidan''s men keep


    an eye on you 24/7."


    He pursed his lips slightly in response, remaining silent.


    At the same time, Daphne was done putting on her shoes at the door. "Come on, let''s go."


    Leanna happened to be leaving as well, so she went out with them. After they entered the elevator, she


    turned to Charlotte and said, "You should go back and get some sleep. It''s prettyte."


    "I said something wrong earlier, didn''t I, Leanna?" Charlotte mumbled softly, causing a chuckle to


    escape Leanna, who wasn''t sure how to exin theplicated situation for a moment.


    "No. Go on, get some sleep."


    "If you say so," Charlotte muttered. "Goodnight, Leanna."


    With that, she turned and waved to Zoe, who was inside. "Goodnight, Zoe."


    ¡­


    After Louis disposed of the trash on the first floor, Daphne said, "I just gave my chauffeur a call. He''ll


    come over right away. We''ll wait here for a while."


    "What has he done to you?" Louis asked after standing silently for a few seconds next to her, who


    casually replied, "Nothing really. He couldn''t do anything substantial since your sister and President


    Pearson arrived on time. If anything, President Pearson threatened him, so he likely won''t give me any


    more trouble."


    "What about before they arrived?"


    Daphne fell silent for a moment before replying, "The usual. A bunch of rambles. I didn''t take any of it


    seriously."


    Louis said nothing, already getting his answer.


    Soon after that, her car pulled up in front of them, and just as Daphne pulled the door open to get


    inside, she noticed him cing his hand in between her head and the roof, preventing her from


    bumping into it.


    It stumped her for o split second, but she quickly regoined herposure ond entered the cor.


    After Louis olso got in, Dophne provided the chouffeur with Louis'' oddress.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Throughout the journey, neither Dophne nor Louis soid o word ond the silent otmosphere inside the cor


    lingered.


    Sometime loter, the cor pulled up ot the entronce of o residentiolplex, ond the chouffeur soid,


    "We''ve orrived."


    "Is this it?" Dophne osked, rolling down the window ond gloncing outside, to which Louis offirmed,


    "Yes."


    With thot, he exited the cor, ond just os he turned oround, he found Dophne following him.


    "Let''s go," soid the young womon ofter stretching her neck, but he merely looked ot her sidewoys.


    At thot, Dophne onswered, "Your sister gove the orders. I hove to see you to your home."


    "Here is just fine," Louis soid.


    "I meon, we''re olreody ot the entronce. Are you reolly not going to invite me up for o drink?"


    Louis pursed his lips ond soid nothing.


    "You told me you live here," Dophne queried while gozing ot him. "It''s not o lie, is it?"


    "No."


    "Well, thot settles it, then."


    With thot, the young womon wolked right into the residentiolplex. Louis, on the other hond, stood


    rooted to the ground for o few seconds before following her.


    They wolked in silence, with Dophne keeping her heod down, lost in her thoughts.


    Suddenly, her wrist wos grobbed, ond Louis'' soft voice rong in her eor, "This woy."


    She looked up ot thot ond glonced for o while before following his direction. The young mon let go


    before oscending the stoirs.


    Meonwhile, Dophne touched her wrist ond felt strongely worm, unsure if it wos becouse of the lingering


    heot of the summer night.


    The elevotor stopped, ond Louis unlocked the door with o key.


    As she stood behind him, she suddenly thought she behoved impulsively ot this moment. This is¡­ my


    first time visiting o bochelor pod. How nervous.


    Just os Dophne sighed, Louis hod olreody opened the door ond soid to her, "Come in."


    "Do you live olone?" She tried to strike up o conversotion while entering.


    "Yes," Louis hummed. "It''s o one-bedroom oportment."


    "Thot''s quite convenient," she replied. "Do you hove ony spore poir of slippers?"


    "No, you don''t need to chonge," Louis replied.


    It stumped her for a split second, but she quickly regained herposure and entered the car.


    After Louis also got in, Daphne provided the chauffeur with Louis'' address.


    Throughout the journey, neither Daphne nor Louis said a word and the silent atmosphere inside the car


    lingered.


    Sometimeter, the car pulled up at the entrance of a residentialplex, and the chauffeur said,


    "We''ve arrived."


    "Is this it?" Daphne asked, rolling down the window and ncing outside, to which Louis affirmed,


    "Yes."


    With that, he exited the car, and just as he turned around, he found Daphne following him.


    "Let''s go," said the young woman after stretching her neck, but he merely looked at her sideways.


    At that, Daphne answered, "Your sister gave the orders. I have to see you to your home."


    "Here is just fine," Louis said.


    "I mean, we''re already at the entrance. Are you really not going to invite me up for a drink?"


    Louis pursed his lips and said nothing.


    "You told me you live here," Daphne queried while gazing at him. "It''s not a lie, is it?"


    "No."


    "Well, that settles it, then."


    With that, the young woman walked right into the residentialplex. Louis, on the other hand, stood


    rooted to the ground for a few seconds before following her.


    They walked in silence, with Daphne keeping her head down, lost in her thoughts.


    Suddenly, her wrist was grabbed, and Louis'' soft voice rang in her ear, "This way."


    She looked up at that and nced for a while before following his direction. The young man let go


    before ascending the stairs.


    Meanwhile, Daphne touched her wrist and felt strangely warm, unsure if it was because of the lingering


    heat of the summer night.


    The elevator stopped, and Louis unlocked the door with a key.


    As she stood behind him, she suddenly thought she behaved impulsively at this moment. This is¡­ my


    first time visiting a bachelor pad. How nervous.


    Just as Daphne sighed, Louis had already opened the door and said to her, "Come in."


    "Do you live alone?" She tried to strike up a conversation while entering.


    "Yes," Louis hummed. "It''s a one-bedroom apartment."


    "That''s quite convenient," she replied. "Do you have any spare pair of slippers?"


    "No, you don''t need to change," Louis replied.

 Chapter 705

    Chapter 705


    Chapter 705 I Can Consider It


    Daphne looked around as she sat on the couch. The ce was very simply decorated, with nothing too


    eye-catching apart from some books.


    Meanwhile, Louis grabbed a bottle of water from the fridge and uncapped it before handing it to


    Daphne, who asked while taking it from him. "Why did you choose this rental?"


    "It''s close to my college," Louis replied as he sat across from her.


    With her mouth agape, Daphne finally realized that the campus was only two blocks away from this


    ce.


    She even had a hunch that he lied to her about giving her a ride and changing his rented house. He


    must have been living here all along.


    "That day¡­" she whispered with drooped eyelids after taking a sip of the water. "You went out again


    after reaching home, didn''t you?"


    "Yes," Louis murmured after a long pause, making Daphne unsure of what to say for a moment as she


    held the water bottle in her hand.


    "I won''t go to him anymore," the young man said inly, having likely sensed her intentions.


    "Will you?" Daphne looked up reflexively to find Louis nodding in affirmation. He realized going to


    Theodore was useless, for the man would still pester Daphne even so.


    Seeing that he didn''t seem to be lying, Daphne smiled and said, "That''s good to hear. No need to


    waste your time and effort on a jack*ss like him. You''re better off doing something else."


    "Have you followed me home just to tell me this?" Louis asked as he met her gaze.


    His question stumped Daphne, and she felt as though her little secret had been found out. Still, she


    made an excuse. "O-Of course not! Your sister told me to send you home."


    With that, she put the water bottle down and stood up. "And since you''re safely home now, I should


    leave. I have work tomorrow."


    But she had just taken a couple of steps when Louis grabbed her wrist and said, "I just want to remind


    you never to casually walk into any man''s home. It''s very dangerous."


    The next second, the rxed atmosphere was suddenlyced with enigmatic romance, and Daphne


    became a little mesmerized as she gazed into his dark and tranquil eyes.


    Just then, a notification ping rang out, jolting the young woman back to reality. "I¡­ See you," she said,


    quickly pulling her hand away and leaving.


    After closing the door behind her, she quickly pressed the elevator, her footsteps filled with


    unprecedented panic.


    Louis, on the other hand, only sat on the couch after hearing the elevator door close, then texted his


    dear sister that he had arrived home.


    Following that, he gave Jonathan a call.


    After hopping into her car, Daphne pulled her phone out to find she had received a spam message five


    minutes ago.


    At that, she let out a long sigh of relief while leaning against the seat.


    Thank goodness for this spam message. Or she wouldn''t have known how to handle the situation.


    It had indeed been impulsive of her to follow Louis to his home. What the heck were you thinking,


    Shirley?!


    ¡­


    On the other side of the town, Leanna didn''t read Louis'' message, for a certain man, who had waited


    for her return for a long time, immediately carried her to the bathroom to shower together as she


    reached home, and it was one and a half hourter by the time they exited the bathroom.


    Leanna, well spent, could barely open her eyes by the time shey in bed, and seeing that Aidan


    attempted toy on top of her again, she hit his chest and grumbled, "Give me a break."


    "You haven''t agreed to it yet." Aidan held her hand and lowered his head to give her a peck.


    "With what?"


    "Register our marriage. Tomorrow."


    "Will you finally let me sleep if I say yes?" Leanna negotiated groggily.


    "I can consider it," Aidan said with a slightly quirked brow.


    Consider your *ss! Leanna cussed. All she wanted now was to sleep.


    With that, she nodded absentmindedly. "Sure, whatever you say."


    "I''ll take it as you''ve agreed, then."


    Leanna made a sound of acknowledgment and closed her eyes, ready to fall asleep, when she felt her


    lower lip being nibbled.


    Sensing the man''s hands starting to wander, Leanna spoke up after bearing it for a moment, "You


    promised¡­"


    "I said I can consider it."


    At that, he attacked her lips again, jamming her curses in her mouth.


    ¡­


    It wasn''t until the following noon that Leanna finally stirred with a sore body.


    Just as she lifted the covers to get out of bed, she found a white blouse beside the pillow.


    She smirked at that and went into the bathroom with the blouse.


    After washing up, she applied light makeup and found Aidan reading his emails on theptop when she


    exited the bedroom.


    "Have you eaten?" Leanna asked after clearing her throat.


    The man looked up at her and quirked a brow slightly as he revealed, "We''ll eat out."


    Leonno looked gentle ond elegont in the white blouse he hod prepored for her, poired with o pole pink


    midi skirt.


    "Zoe ond the others¡­" she osked.


    "They''ve gone to the studio in the morning."


    "Oh, let''s go then," Leonno onnounced.


    Aidon put his loptop down ot once ond went up to her, offering his hond os he spoke in o husky voice,


    "Sholl we, Mrs. Peorson?"


    Leonno couldn''t help but smile ond ploced her hond on top of his.


    During their journey to the Civil Bureou Affoirs, Leonno kept her heod lowered ond her eyes on the ring


    on her finger. Suddenly, o thought returned to her, ond she osked, "Oh, do you know thot mon from lost


    night?"


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    Aidon nodded in offirmotion. "He''s John Wotson."


    "So thot''s him, huh¡­ But we couldn''t find him before? How did he end up ot Peorson Group''s


    onniversory celebrotion?" Leonno osked in bofflement.


    Aidon pressed his thin lips together in response. He didn''t onswer right owoy.


    And while Leonno wos wondering, she received o coll from Richord.


    "Yes, Richord?" Leonno onswered.


    "Thepony just received on emoil, Miss McKinney," Richord reveoled. "I''ve forworded it to you."


    "Alright. Who wos it from?"


    "My guess is¡­ the previous choirmon of Crossley Group."


    The revelotion mode Leonno tighten her grip on the phone. "I''ll check it right owoy."


    She didn''t end the coll but only switched to onother poge ond reod the emoil.


    It wos sent obout holf on hour ogo from on ononymous emoil oddress, demonding them to roise fifty


    billion Andvis Union Credits within two doys ond exchonge it for Doniel, or they would kill the mon.


    Attoched to the emoil wos o photo of Doniel tied to o choir with his eyes blindfolded ond his mouth


    gogged. His foce ond clothes were covered in blood, oppeoring moribund.


    Leonno took o deep breoth ond ploced the phone bock ogoinst her eor. "Hove you troced where the


    emoil wos sent from?"


    "We''re olreody looking into it, but there ore no leods yet," Richord soid. "We just received onother


    emoil, Miss McKinney. The two-doy countdown hos begun."


    At the some time, Aidon olso received o coll from Xovier, who informed him obout the situotion.


    "I''lle over right owoy," he soid ofter exchonging glonces with Leonno, who olso soid to Richord,


    "Aidon ond I ore on our woy."


    Leanna looked gentle and elegant in the white blouse he had prepared for her, paired with a pale pink


    midi skirt.


    "Zoe and the others¡­" she asked.


    "They''ve gone to the studio in the morning."


    "Oh, let''s go then," Leanna announced.


    Aidan put hisptop down at once and went up to her, offering his hand as he spoke in a husky voice,


    "Shall we, Mrs. Pearson?"


    Leanna couldn''t help but smile and ced her hand on top of his.


    During their journey to the Civil Bureau Affairs, Leanna kept her head lowered and her eyes on the ring


    on her finger. Suddenly, a thought returned to her, and she asked, "Oh, do you know that man fromst


    night?"


    Aidan nodded in affirmation. "He''s John Watson."


    "So that''s him, huh¡­ But we couldn''t find him before? How did he end up at Pearson Group''s


    anniversary celebration?" Leanna asked in bafflement.


    Aidan pressed his thin lips together in response. He didn''t answer right away.


    And while Leanna was wondering, she received a call from Richard.


    "Yes, Richard?" Leanna answered.


    "Thepany just received an email, Miss McKinney," Richard revealed. "I''ve forwarded it to you."


    "Alright. Who was it from?"


    "My guess is¡­ the previous chairman of Crossley Group."


    The revtion made Leanna tighten her grip on the phone. "I''ll check it right away."


    She didn''t end the call but only switched to another page and read the email.


    It was sent about half an hour ago from an anonymous email address, demanding them to raise fifty


    billion Andvis Union Credits within two days and exchange it for Daniel, or they would kill the man.


    Attached to the email was a photo of Daniel tied to a chair with his eyes blindfolded and his mouth


    gagged. His face and clothes were covered in blood, appearing moribund.


    Leanna took a deep breath and ced the phone back against her ear. "Have you traced where the


    email was sent from?"


    "We''re already looking into it, but there are no leads yet," Richard said. "We just received another


    email, Miss McKinney. The two-day countdown has begun."


    At the same time, Aidan also received a call from Xavier, who informed him about the situation.


    "I''lle over right away," he said after exchanging nces with Leanna, who also said to Richard,


    "Aidan and I are on our way."

 Chapter 706

    Chapter 706


    Chapter 706 Even If This Is a Trap


    Xavier was already waiting at the Crossley Group when Aidan and Leanna arrived, and he went up to


    greet the couple. "President Pearson, Miss McKinney."


    "What are we looking at now?" Aidan asked.


    "We just traced the email back to the Crossley Group. Richard has already gone with a team to find the


    owner of the address," Xavier replied.


    "No need to look," Aidan said, baffling Xavier.


    "No one knows the structure andwork system of the Crossley Group better than Leroy when he''s


    worked in thepany for years," Leanna exined. "If he can figure out a way to send an email from


    here, he can surely figure a way out of this unscathed."


    Sure enough, the staff had just returned from their lunch break when Richard found theputer the


    email was sent from, and naturally, they were bewildered by the situation.


    The security department quickly delivered the surveince footage from lunchtime to Xavier''s office.


    From the footage, it could be seen that the person who infiltrated the building was agile, and his back


    did not belong to Leroy. It was likely one of his subordinates.


    Throughout the entire incident, the person never revealed their face. Moreover, judging by their


    familiarity with thepany, it was definitely not their first visit.


    "What now? Should we call the cops?" Richard asked, to which Aidan said, "There''s another reason


    why they chose to send the email from the Crossley Group."


    Leanna looked at him, somewhat puzzled.


    Aidan tapped the desk gently and exined, "He wants to let us know that he''s aware of our every


    move."


    Thus, bringing this to the police wasn''t the best idea.


    "So¡­" Leanna asked.


    "Though the person who showed up without revealing their face isn''t Leroy, one thing''s for sure¡ª


    Leroy''s in Highside."


    "Why?" Xavier pressed on, leading Aidan to take a gander at him. "Would you so easily leave the task


    to others when you''re asking for a fifty-billion Andvis Union Credit ransom?"


    "But he just escaped from Highside. Is he not afraid of being unable to leave again if hees back


    now?"


    "It''s precisely because most think like you that he would choose to take the risk. Also¡­" Aidan paused


    a beat before continuing, "Since he could escape previously, he''s bound to believe he can escape


    again."


    Xavier clicked his tongue in response, realizing he had underestimated the situation.


    "Now, go and contact major banks and release the news that all assets under the Crossley Group''s


    mortgage will be liquidated," Aidan ordered.


    At that, Leanna whispered, "But considering Leroy''s suspicious nature, he might not believe it even if


    we actually do that¡­"


    "Whether he believes it or not isn''t important. What he''s out to get is only the money," Aidan deduced.


    "Don''t forget that he has people working for him. He won''t suffer any losses even if it''s a trap."


    Leanna understood at once. Leroy was now betting if they would use fifty billion Andvis Union Credits


    to save Daniel.


    If he seeded, he would be able to get the money, but even if he failed, only hisckeys would be


    captured while he remained in the shadows.


    "I''ll see to it right away." Richard nodded.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After he left, Aidan turned to Xavier. "Well, don''t just stand around. Dig into this person. Since this isn''t


    his first visit, there will certainly be past records. Cross-check all of them."


    Xavier was stumped. You''ve got to be joking! So many peoplee in and out of the Crossley Group!


    "Is there a problem?" Aidan asked.


    "No, no¡­" Xavier scurried out of the office right away.


    "It''s like finding a needle in the haystack." Leanna frowned.


    At that, Aidan took her hand and sat down on the couch, saying, "We''ll have answers in less than two


    hours."


    "Two hours?!" Leanna asked, surprised.


    Aidan nodded and said, "First of all, we can rule out the possibility of this person being an employee


    here."


    "But wouldn''t only an employee of the Crossley Group be familiar with thepany?"


    "They would, but the risk is too great. Crossley Group employees have normal entry and exit records,


    making it easy to trace them. Even if they were tempted by money to carry out this task, Leroy''s


    cautious nature would prevent him from making that choice."


    Leanna thought he had a point, and she pondered for a while before asking, "So, who could it be?"


    "We''ll know very soon." Aidan smirked.


    Xavier''s thoughts aligned with Aidan''s, and he directly excluded the Crossley Group''s employees.


    Jimmy''s close subordinates were only interested in personal gain and weren''t capable of such a task.


    Hence, they also weren''t within the scope of consideration.


    As for the other personnel, Xavier checked each one of them.


    A little over an hourter, he came across a face he thought looked familiar in a pile of entry and exit


    records. However, he couldn''t remember where he had seen it before.


    With thot, he picked up the document ond osked, "Who is this?"


    "Thot''s Kevin Burlow from Jessomine Bornes''pony," soid his ossistont.


    Xovier frowned in response, probobly struggling to recoll who Jessomine ond Kevin were.


    At thot, his ossistont helped jog his memory. "Jessomine wos the moin individuol in the sexuol ossoult


    involving Jimmy Ollonder. Loter, when she went to the police stotion, she used Miss McKinney of


    orchestroting it. After the incident, Kevin Burlow ond their entirepony disoppeored."


    An epiphony ovee Xovier ot once. "How mony times hos he visited the building?"


    "Hee severol times under the pretense of discussing cooperotion with Jimmy. He hos entry ond


    exit records of obout five or six times on his own."


    "Retrieve the surveillonce footoge from his previous visits to the Crossley Group," Xovier ordered,


    which they were oble to pull out very eosily.


    With furrowed brows, Xovierpored them to the unidentified figure from the eorlier.


    After inspecting from severol ongles, he wos certoin the person who sent the emoil eorlier wos Kevin,


    ond when he went to report his findings to Aidon, there were still five minutes left until the two-hour


    mork.


    Leonno''s brows furrowed deeper os she looked ot the informotion Xovier honded to them.


    As she wos hondling Jimmy''s issue, she hod met Kevin before. However, ot thot time, she found Kevin


    to be cunning, opportunistic, ond she disliked his smooth ond insincere smile.


    Thot soid, she thought he didn''t look like the kind who would help Leroy do something so meticulous


    ond dongerous.


    She flipped through the informotion. Aport from the detoils of the fokepony, the rest of the


    informotion wos quite simple.


    "I''ve olreody verified it," Xovier soid. "All this informotion is foke."


    At thot, Leonno closed the file ond osked, "This guy nomed Kevin¡­ He''s not one of Leroy''s men, is


    he?"


    If he wos, he wouldn''t hove deliberotely set Jimmy up in the first ploce.


    Though they loter shifted their focus ond tried to shift the blome onto her, she wosn''t significontly


    offected by the incident. Insteod, it exposed Jimmy ond even implicoted Leroy.


    He wouldn''t shoot himself in the foot.


    "It''s just o colloborotion," Aidon soid. "Of course, whoever offers better benefits will be the one to


    colloborote with."


    With that, he picked up the document and asked, "Who is this?"


    "That''s Kevin Burlow from Jessamine Barnes''pany," said his assistant.


    Xavier frowned in response, probably struggling to recall who Jessamine and Kevin were.


    At that, his assistant helped jog his memory. "Jessamine was the main individual in the sexual assault


    involving Jimmy Onder. Later, when she went to the police station, she used Miss McKinney of


    orchestrating it. After the incident, Kevin Burlow and their entirepany disappeared."


    An epiphany overcame Xavier at once. "How many times has he visited the building?"


    "He came several times under the pretense of discussing cooperation with Jimmy. He has entry and


    exit records of about five or six times on his own."


    "Retrieve the surveince footage from his previous visits to the Crossley Group," Xavier ordered,


    which they were able to pull out very easily.


    With furrowed brows, Xavierpared them to the unidentified figure from the earlier.


    After inspecting from several angles, he was certain the person who sent the email earlier was Kevin,


    and when he went to report his findings to Aidan, there were still five minutes left until the two-hour


    mark.


    Leanna''s brows furrowed deeper as she looked at the information Xavier handed to them.


    As she was handling Jimmy''s issue, she had met Kevin before. However, at that time, she found Kevin


    to be cunning, opportunistic, and she disliked his smooth and insincere smile.


    That said, she thought he didn''t look like the kind who would help Leroy do something so meticulous


    and dangerous.


    She flipped through the information. Apart from the details of the fakepany, the rest of the


    information was quite simple.


    "I''ve already verified it," Xavier said. "All this information is fake."


    At that, Leanna closed the file and asked, "This guy named Kevin¡­ He''s not one of Leroy''s men, is


    he?"


    If he was, he wouldn''t have deliberately set Jimmy up in the first ce.


    Though theyter shifted their focus and tried to shift the me onto her, she wasn''t significantly


    affected by the incident. Instead, it exposed Jimmy and even implicated Leroy.


    He wouldn''t shoot himself in the foot.


    "It''s just a coboration," Aidan said. "Of course, whoever offers better benefits will be the one to


    coborate with."

 Chapter 707

    Chapter 707


    Chapter 707 Consider It as Relieving Your Shock


    "Everything has been taken care of," said Kevin after returning to the private vi. "I heard the news


    about the Crossley Group mortgaging their assets in major banks on my way back."


    "Well, that''s quick." A chuckle escaped John as he fiddled with the paring knife in his hand. "The


    question is how much of it is genuine."


    "That''s no small amount of money. Given the Crossley Group''s current situation, it won''t be enough


    even if they mortgage all their assets," Freya remarked.


    "Don''t forget, though¡ªeven if the Crossley Group can''te up with that much, there''s still Aidan


    Pearson and the Complex Group," John reminded. "The Complex Group''s current market value


    overseas is in the billions of Andvis Union Credits. This money is not a problem for them."


    "But would Aidan Pearson and Leanna McKinney pay such a high price for Daniel?"


    After all, the entire Crossley Group and Complex Group would end up as nothing but empty shells once


    they shelled out the money.


    "Of course, it''s not enough," Joseph said while wiping his sses. Mortgaging all of Crossley Group''s


    assets was just a sleight of hand in figuring out their next step.


    He never hoped to obtain this money solely based on Daniel.


    "What should we do next, then?" Kevin asked.


    "We need more bargain chips, of course." Joseph put on his sses, crossed his legs, and looked


    rxed and content.


    Just then, Leroy descended the stairs, and it was obvious he had overheard their conversation as he


    said icily, "I don''t care what you all want to do. I just want to get my hands on that money. Everything


    else is none of my concern."


    "I understand your eagerness to leave this ce," said Joseph. "But even if you leave, what difference


    will it make? Aidan Pearson and Lloyd Crossley will stille after you. Besides, don''t you want to


    rescue your daughter?"


    At that, Leroy snorted amusingly. "I can''t even save myself. Don''t you think you''re worrying too much?"


    John pped his hands and apuded. "As expected of the ruthless Mr. Crossley. So be it that you


    orchestrated a ne crash that led to your parents'' deaths and even harmed your brother''s entire


    family, but now, you''re even leaving your own daughter to face the world herself. You sure know how to


    live a carefree life."


    At that, Joseph smiled and gazed at Leroy. "Mr. Crossley, now that we''re all forced to be on the same


    boat, there''s no way out for anyone. How about you calm down first and let us proceed ording to the


    n?"


    Leroy swept his gaze across the people in front of him and smirked. When had he stooped so low that


    these people could threaten him?!


    After a beat, Joseph continued, "I believe you now realize the consequences of not doing a clean


    sweep. Do you want the same thing to happen again?"


    "What do you all have in mind?" Leroy asked the group as a hint of malice shed across his face.


    ¡­


    Leanna McKinney spent the entire afternoon at the Crossley Group.


    After news of the Crossley Group mortgaging their assets was released, various things were said in the


    news. Some imed that the Crossley Group was facing a massive debt crisis and might copse.


    Meanwhile, others said that without Pearson Group as their backer, the Crossley Group could no


    longer sustain itself and was seeking alternative solutions.


    All sorts of conspiracy theories created a sense of anxiety among people.


    As evening approached and the sky darkened, a drizzle began to fall.


    Just then, Richard came in. "Miss McKinney, President Pearson, the major banks have been informed,


    and they have provided an estimated amount for theplete mortgage of the Crossley Group,


    totaling ten billion."


    The current Crossley Group, even though pulled back from the brink of life and death by Leanna, was


    still far from its peak. Moreover, several key projects were still in their early stages, and the exact


    market value was yet to be determined.


    However, based on this amount, it was still far from the fifty billion Andvis Union Credits Leroy wanted.


    But considering Leroy''s insane intentions, he didn''t care about how much the Crossley Group was


    worth. What he wanted was the fifty billion Andvis Union Credits.


    "This money isn''t enough. We¡­" Leanna gazed toward Aidan, who reassured her. "Don''t worry. I''ve


    contacted William," he said.


    The news took Leanna aback. "What did he say?"


    "He will find a way to raise the money."


    The Complex Group was worth much more than the current Crossley Group, so if they mortgaged their


    assets, they could probably gather enough funds.


    "But I can''t shake off the feeling that the plot isn''t as simple as we think it is," Leanna said with a frown.


    "They wouldn''t believe we''d give them the money so simply either," Aidan said inly while resting his


    arm on the couch calmly. "Daniel is indeed not worth fifty billion Andvis Union Credits."


    "So¡­"


    "We''ll sit back and watch."


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, at the studio, Charlotte returned to her workstation with renewed determination to work


    hard and improve herself, fully focused and motivated.


    Due to the rain, the number of customers in the evening dwindled, so Zoe suggested, "It''s going to turn


    into a storm soon. Let''s all leave early."


    "Thanks, Zoe," said a few girls, and just as Charlotte was about to change her clothes, someone


    entered.


    "Uncle Joseph!" Charlotte chirped.


    Joseph had his assistant hold an umbre for him while he approached Charlotte with a smile. "Are you


    done with work?"


    "Yeah, I''m just about to change my clothes."


    "In that case, how about I take you out for dinner? Consider it a way to rx after the shock you went


    through."


    Charlotte felt so ashamed to eat this meal that she turned Joseph down. "You know what, forget it. I¡ª"


    "Charlotte, don''t let L''s aloof words get to you. Besides, this isn''t just to help relieve your shock.


    I''m leaving Highside tomorrow, so it''s also a farewell."


    His words stunned Charlotte for a second, and she no longer refused him. With that, she turned to Zoe.


    "Zoe, why don''t you join us too?"


    "I''ll pass. You two go ahead," Zoe said with a smile.


    She had stopped Charlotte from following Joseph in the past because she thought he had ulterior


    motives, but now it seemed that he was quite normal, so there was no need for her to go with them.


    Joseph nodded slightly at Zoe. "I apologize for what happened before, Miss Hart. It''s on me for failing


    to protect you and Charlotte."


    "No, you''re too polite, Mr. Woodley," Zoe said before turning to Charlotte. "Go on, Charlotte. Go and get


    changed. Don''t keep your uncle waiting."


    "Alright!" The young woman nodded and came back out in her own clothes in two shakes.


    After leaving the studio and watching Joseph and Charlotte walk away, Zoe withdrew her gaze.


    However, she was about to hail a cab to go home when the phone in her bag suddenly vibrated.


    She assumed it was some spam message, so she didn''t think much when she checked it until she


    realized it was from Daniel.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    She widened her eyes at once and took a deep breath after reading the text. With that, she rushed to


    the roadside and hailed a cab. "Take me to this ce!" she urged immediately.

 Chapter 708

    Chapter 708


    Chapter 708 She¡¯s Asleep


    At Crossley Group, Aidan rose to his feet after receiving the call. "Let''s go."


    Leanna asked, "Where to?"


    "It''s gettingte. We should eat."


    Peering out the window, she released a long breath at the sight of the gloomy night sky. The storm was


    growing stronger as if it was about to engulf the entire city. The traffic was congested because of the


    rain, and under the exchanging red and green lights, raindrops drizzled onto the shadows of speeding


    pedestrians.


    Leanna kept looking out the window, racking her brain on how she should tell the news to Zoe. A while


    later, she turned to look at Aidan. "It''s raining so heavily. Let''s go home instead."


    While holding her slightly cold hands, he assured her, "You won''t regret apanying me for this


    meal."


    She was shocked for a while before asking, "Do you have news about Daniel''s whereabouts?"


    "No."


    "Then¡ª"


    "I don''t, but I know who''s been helping Leroy."


    Since Leroy used Daniel to ckmail them, whoever took action at this stage would be his aplice.


    Leanna pursed her lips slightly and said nothing while looking sideways at the countdown on the traffic


    lights. She kept having the feeling that something might unfold tonight.


    Inside the restaurant, Joseph handed Charlotte a menu. "Take a look and see what you want."


    The restaurant served several Jamesdon specialty dishes, and she felt her taste buds tingle at just the


    sight of them. She ordered a few she liked and returned the menu to him. "I''m done. Your turn, Uncle


    Joseph."


    He smiled while giving the menu to the waiter. "What you ordered is fine."


    Once the waiter left, she asked, "Uncle Joseph, where would you be going after leaving Highside? Are


    you not going to return to Jamesdon?"


    He poured a cup of tea and took a sip. "I''m not returning there."


    Confused, Charlotte asked, "Why is that? Grandpa and Dad would be happy to know you''re alive!"


    Putting the cup down, Joseph replied, "Charlotte, do you know how someone gets to leave


    Jamesdon?"


    "How?"


    "They willingly remove their name from the family''s pedigree chart and vow that whatever happens to


    them will have nothing to do with the Woodleys."


    When she heard that, she was shocked. "I previously saw a woman inside themunity hall¡­ and


    she seemed to be doing that."


    He added, "ording to her seniority, you should address her as Grandma."


    That made Charlotte pout. She almost forgot that Aidan was also her uncle.


    Joseph continued, "Also, there are people who were expelled and forced to leave Jamesdon."


    Not fully understanding what he meant, she pressed on. "What do you mean by expelled? I¡ª" She


    became scared. "Will people like me, who secretly ran to Highside, get expelled from the Woodley


    Family? My grandpa wouldn''t be that ruthless."


    Heughed inaudibly. "No, you won''t. You''re the Princess of the Woodley Family, and they would bring


    you home, even if it meant banishing that rule."


    Still skeptical, she asked, "Really? But someone said that my dad found me. I¡­"


    The smile on Joseph''s face gradually changed into a more meaningful smile, but he did not exin


    anything. At that moment, the waiter came with a ss of juice and ced it before Charlotte. Since


    she felt thirsty, she thanked the waiter and took a gulp.


    Then, she added, "By the way, you never mentioned why you didn''t want to return to Jamesdon. I can


    help you plead for mercy if you''re afraid Grandpa might get mad at you. He dotes on me a lot, so I''m


    sure he would go easy on you."


    He looked at her and concurred, "Yes, he loves you dearly. Your father cares a lot about you too."


    Hearing that, she happily suggested, "How about we return to Jamesdon together? I¡­"


    She felt dizzy before she could finish her words, and Joseph''s appearance gradually became blurry.


    "Uncle Joseph, I¡­" she muttered.


    With a thump, her head fell onto the table.


    He adjusted his gold-rimmed sses as his smile grew more devious. Then, he looked out the window.


    At that moment, the waiter from before returned. "Mr. Woodley, they''re at the door."


    Joseph rose to his feet. "Let''s go." Meanwhile, Leanna and Aidan exited the elevator and bumped into


    him, prompting him to speak up first, "President Pearson, Miss McKinney, we meet again."


    She tugged on her lips in response while Aidan asked, "Where''s Charlotte?"


    The smile on Joseph''s face remained. "Charlotte was having a meal with me and drank some wine.


    She''s asleep, and I''ve sent her somewhere to rest."


    Leanna rebuked, "Charlotte doesn''t drink."


    All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.


    "About that¡­ Youngsters are curious and want to try everything, so she got drunk after tasting it." he


    added, "I won''t disturb your meal, then. I''ll get going and send Charlotte home after she wakes up."


    As he was speaking, he headed into the elevator. Just as the door was about to close secondster, it


    was reopened. He looked at the people standing outside, confused. "President Pearson, what''s this?"


    "You''ve been in Highside for so long, but I didn''t get a chance to have a meal with you. Why don''t you


    join us this time?"


    Perhaps Joseph did not expect Aidan to say that, so he could not find the words to respond.


    Aidan taunted, "Since you''re not interested, forget it."


    Smiling, Joseph replied, "President Pearson, you''re putting words in my mouth. It would be my honor to


    join." Once he said so, he got out of the elevator. When they arrived at the private room, he said,


    "Since you''re here, this meal is on me. I''ll be leaving tomorrow, so there''s no telling when our next


    meeting will be."


    Aidan questioned, "Really?"


    "Thank you for taking care of Charlotte all this while. She must be a handful."


    Leanna questioned, "Where is Charlotte, Mr. Woodley?"


    However, Joseph maintained his previous answer. "She''s just drunk. I''ll send her back once she wakes


    up."


    She nced at him and pursed her lips slightly. It seems like he came prepared.


    Afterward, Aidan ordered some dishes and gave the menu to the waiter before speaking to Joseph,


    "Mr. Woodley, weren''t you trying to establish a partnership with Pearson Group? Why are you leaving


    so early?"


    "I''m ashamed to say that perhaps I''m not worthy of coborating with Pearson Group. The partnership


    is not up to my expectations, and I''ve been away for too long. It''s about time I return home."


    Aidan replied, "How is it not up to your expectations?"


    Joseph avoided the question. "About that¡­"


    "Although I''ve left Pearson Group, I''m still aware of its current situation. Since you and I are


    acquaintances, how can I not help you?"


    The smile on Joseph''s smile froze as he did not know how to answer. Never knew he had that kindness


    in him.


    Aidan added some water into Leanna''s ss and raised his eyebrow. "Or, is your departure just an


    excuse?"

 Chapter 709

    Chapter 709


    Chapter 709 Are You Surprised To See Me?


    Adjusting his sses, Joseph replied, "President Pearson, you must be joking. It''s not often that


    someone gets the chance to work with Pearson Group. Why would I make up an excuse to leave?"


    At that moment, the waiter returned with their food, and Joseph took a sip from his cup and ced it on


    the side of the table. Aidan, sitting opposite him, watched everything calmly without changing his


    expression.


    Once the waiter was done serving their food and prepared to leave, he identally bumped into the


    cup on the side of the table. The water flowed from the cup and drenched Joseph''s coat and shirt,


    eliciting terror on the waiter''s face. "I''m sorry, sir. I¡­"


    Joseph hurriedly rose and pulled two tissues to clean his clothes while the waiter stood to the side,


    dumbfounded. On the other hand, Aidan looked at the waiter and asked calmly, "Why are you so


    clumsy?"


    The waiter apologized repeatedly, "I''m sorry. I''m sorry. I''m sorry."


    Joseph barely maintained his smile. "It''s fine. Just be more careful next time." After saying that, he


    turned to Aidan and Leanna. "Mr. Pearson, Miss McKinney, I should head to the washroom."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Sir, I''ll bring you there," the waiter suggested, after which Joseph nodded and left the room.


    Leanna looked at Aidan. It seemed like Joseph was about to run, so Aidan got up and said, "Wait here.


    I''ll go check it out."


    She replied, "Okay." Not long after that, she felt her phone vibrating. It was from Zoe. "Zoe, what¡ª"


    "Do you want to know how your mother died?"


    The voice on the phone belonged to Leroy.


    She could not help but grip tightly on the phone. "What did you do to Zoe?"


    After a cold chuckle, he answered, "Come to the rooftop if you wish to know. If I see anyone besides


    you, you''ll have toe and pick up your friend''s corpse. I''ll see you within five minutes." With that, he


    hung up.


    When Leanna heard the beep signaling the end of the call, her face paled as she hurried out of the


    room and into the elevator. Since the rain was still pouring, the rooftop was pitch ck, and all she


    could hear was the sound of water tapping against the ground.


    She rushed into the rain, screaming, "Zoe, Zoe!"


    However, the only reply she received was the sound of the rain.


    "Stop looking. She''s not here."


    Turning around, Leanna saw Leroy standing not far from her. She gritted her teeth and questioned,


    "What did you do to her?"


    The man held an umbre and wore a cap. Since he had been hiding for several days, he no longer


    looked as high-spirited as before and even looked slightly pathetic. He casually threw the phone on the


    ground. "I sent her to be reunited with Daniel."


    She rebuked, "You''re lying! You just asked for a huge ransom fund. It''s impossible¡ª"


    "Nothing is impossible, and I''m sure you know better than me that you won''t use such a huge fund to


    save someone you have nothing to do with. But, with you as my captive, whether it''s Crossley Group,


    Lloyd, or Aidan, they''re willing to exchange any amount of money for your life!"


    "You''re being delusional. Since you''ve appeared, there''s no way you''re leaving this ce today."


    Leroy retorted, "The pot calls the kettle ck. Do you think Aidan woulde to save you? He''s


    already on his way to save that little girl. Everything will be toote once he realizes what''s going on."


    When Leanna heard that, she gripped tightly on her dress. It was then that she knew everything was a


    trap. Their real target was never Charlotte but her.


    ¡­


    Meanwhile, when Joseph came out of the washroom and saw Aidan standing not far away, he smiled.


    "President Pearson, is there anything I can help you with?"


    Aidan replied, "I was wondering why you brought Charlotte away."


    Without denying it, Joseph kept his smile. "You''re smart, President Pearson, so how could you not


    figure it out?"


    "Even though Leroy shamelessly asked for fifty billion, he must know that he can''t get that amount of


    money with just Daniel, let alone Crossley Group. On the other hand, even if he could, he would


    assume a huge trap was awaiting him."


    Joseph smiled and said nothing.


    Aidan continued, "Taking Charlotte is indeed a good bargain. She could hold the Woodley Family back


    and implicate me in this matter because the Woodleys would be furious with me if something happened


    to her while she was in Highside. But Leroy didn''t want to cause such a ruckus; he only wanted to get


    the money and run. As for you, you know that L is in Highside, and every move you make will


    be leverage he could use against you. Therefore, your target was never her."


    Joseph rebuked, "I don''t understand what you''re saying. Charlotte is just asleep, and I can bring you to


    check up on her if you don''t believe me. She''s in there."


    Afterward, Aidan moved to the side, signaling Joseph to lead the way. When they arrived outside the


    room, he opened the door and was shocked by what he saw.


    L was sitting on the couch calmly while Charlotte was lying on the bed and sleeping soundly.


    Looking up at Leroy, he asked, "What''s the matter? Are you surprised to see me?"


    Joseph replied, "You and Charlotte are engaged, so it''s normal for you to be here." Once he was done,


    he turned to Aidan. "President Pearson, are you happy now?"


    Aidan slightly raised his eyebrow, not denying it. At that moment, they heard rushed footstepsing


    from the corridor. Soon, they saw Keaton and Zoe. Since she ran here, her hair and attire were wet,


    and she was panting.


    Aidan asked, "What''s the matter?"


    "I¡­ I received a text from Daniel an hour ago, saying he was here and asked that Ie alone. But


    when I arrived, my purse and phone were stolen, and I kept feeling that something was not right¡­"


    Aidan looked at Keaton. "Where''s Leanna?"


    "I went to check the room. Miss McKinney isn''t there."


    Aidan lightly pursed his lips and looked at Joseph, whose face surfaced a brand new smile. "How could


    you leave Miss McKinney alone in the room? What if something happens to her?"


    Aidan''s expression barely shifted. Instead, he asked, "Are you sure that something will happen to her?"


    At that, Joseph stiffened for a moment before saying, "Of course, I don''t wish for anything to happen to


    Miss McKinney, but I''m surprised. Aren''t you curious why she''s not inside the room?"


    "Compared to that, I''m more curious about how you and Leroy got into the same boat."

 Chapter 710

    Chapter 710


    Chapter 710 This Might Be His Retribution


    The room was strangely quiet. It took a while before Joseph spoke, "President Pearson, you''ve


    misunderstood me. I don''t know anyone named Leroy, and I don''t understand why you''re looking at me


    like that."


    Aidan chuckled silently. "You can deny all you want, but Leroy will never be willing to take responsibility


    for these things alone."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "I''ll look forward to that."


    Once Aidan finished speaking, a subordinate hurried over and whispered something to him.


    Meanwhile, Joseph stood to the side and tidied his suit with a rxed expression. When Aidan looked


    back at him, his countenance seemed colder. "What a good n."


    Joseph smiled slightly in response, and Aidan withdrew his gaze before striding away. After his


    departure, Joseph turned his attention to Charlotte on the bed. "I''m relieved you''re here watching over


    Charlotte, so I''ll leave first."


    L rose and asked, "It''s been a while since you left the Woodley Family. Aren''t you nning on


    returning home? The anniversary of your father''s death is in a few days."


    When hearing thest sentence, Joseph gradually grew more solemn.


    L approached him and asked, "What''s the matter? Did I poke at your sore spot?"


    When Joseph met his gaze, his voice sounded hostile as he retorted, "I''m no longer a Woodley, so you


    have no right to speak to me that way."


    L rebuked, "Is that so? But why do I have the feeling that you still can''t let go of the Woodleys?"


    "What does the Woodley Family have that makes me unable to let it go?"


    "You''re right. That was indeed a humiliating period for you."


    Joseph''s expression tensed up as his hands balled into fists. After that, L did not say anything


    more as he turned around and picked up Charlotte from the bed before leaving the room.


    When he arrived at the door, Joseph piped up, "Do you think Old Mr. Woodley wasn''t guilty of what he


    did while still alive? Don''t forget¡ªif it hadn''t been for him and the Woodley Family, Justin Pearson


    wouldn''t have been paralyzed for so many years, and Aidan wouldn''t have grown into how he is today."


    Turning to look at Joseph, L calmly taunted, "Did you say that to make me feel sympathetic or


    guilty toward you? I''m sorry to disappoint you, but you failed." Once he was done, he continued to walk


    away.


    Joseph watched from behind, and his fists clenched so hard that his veins protruded.


    When Charlotte woke up, she felt dizzy and rubbed her eyes. Then, she realized she was in a strange


    ce. After looking left and right, she finally looked above her head. When she did, she was startled


    and subconsciously screamed.


    L did not even look at her when he spoke, "Get off and walk on your own."


    "W-Wait¡­" she spoke with difficulty. "I''m so dizzy, and I feel weak¡­"


    Just raising her arm seemed to have used up all her energy.


    He ordered calmly, "Then, shut up."


    Since beggars could not be choosers, she could only keep silent.


    There were many people gathered downstairs at this moment, even the cops. This rainy night seemed


    tost longer than usual.


    Among the crowd, there were whispered discussions.


    "This man died so tragically. He fell from such a tall building."


    "Tsk. Tsk. I watched him fall from above and even heard the sound of his bone cracking."


    "He looks quite old. What''s there to be pessimistic about at such an age?"


    "Hey, don''t you guys think this dead man looks familiar?"


    "Now that you''ve mentioned it, he does."


    "I found it! I found it! Isn''t he the president of Crossley Group? The one that ran away!"


    ¡­


    Everything had ended when Aidan got to the rooftop. Leroy fell and was instantly dead, while Leanna


    stood beside the railing and gazed down, frozen in thought. After approaching her, Aidan removed his


    coat and ced it over her shoulders. "Don''t look."


    She was called back from her thoughts and looked at him. "How are things on your side?"


    He nodded. "L came and brought Charlotte away."


    She released a breath of relief and lowered her head. "It''s great that she''s fine." A whileter, she held


    Aidan''s arm and asked, "What about Zoe? Is she okay?"


    Zoe stood a distance away, waving her hand at Leanna. "Nana, over here."


    Seeing that, Leanna finally felt more assured.


    Aidan held her shoulder and looked outside. "Let''s go."


    Ten minutes ago¡­


    Just as Leroy was about to attack Leanna, Oscar appeared with his men. Then, Leroy tried to escape


    using the route he had nned earlier, but when he was about to jump off the railing onto the balcony


    below, he discovered that someone had sawed the barrier.


    He did not have time to feel shocked before he fell from a three-hundred-foot-tall building. He probably


    never thought that after spending many years devising the n, he would get betrayed by someone


    and end up dead.


    When they got inside the car, Aidan held Leanna''s cold hand while urging the driver, "Drive faster."


    She leaned into his embrace and said softly, "I never thought he would die like that."


    Regarding the evil doings he had done before, his death came too easily and identally.


    He held her tightly. "This might be his retribution."


    She closed her eyes andmented, "No matter what, he''s dead. The Crossley Family finally got their


    revenge."


    While rubbing her head, he hummed softly in response. "Were you scared just now?"


    "No, I wasn''t. When I saw him, I had only one thought. He had used that face to rece someone


    else''s life. Now that he''s dead, Leroy and Lloyd have vanished from this world." And that family will only


    exist in everyone''s memory.


    A whileter, she asked, "By the way, have you found Daniel?"


    "No." Aidan answered, "They might''ve decided to discard Leroy, which is why this incident happened."


    Leanna could not help but frown. "So, if we can''t gather enough money, does that mean Daniel would


    be in danger?"


    "Calm down. We still have one day."


    "Zoe¡­ Why was she there?"


    Back then, they figured Joseph''s n was not as innocent as bringing Charlotte away, but no one knew


    how he would do it. Therefore, they went with it and acted along with them. Thest thing Leanna


    expected was for Zoe to be implicated.


    Aidan exined, "Leroy used Daniel''s phone to text her toe here. He wasn''t interested in her


    because he only wanted to lure you to him. Also, she''s quite smart and knew to contact Elijah."


    Fortunately, Zoe did not chase after the man who took her phone. Otherwise, things would not have


    ended so safely.

 Chapter 711

    Chapter 711


    Chapter 711 Pay For His Actions


    Since Leanna had been in the rain, she took a hot shower once she arrived home and got in bed.


    Momentster, she heard the doorbell ring. Aidan opened the door and asked the person outside,


    "What''s the matter?"


    Zoe whispered, "How is Nana?"


    "She''s asleep."


    "That means she''s fine, right?"


    "Yes."


    Zoe nodded and muttered, "That''s great to hear."


    After she finished, she was going to leave when Aidan called her. "Wait. Do you know how to make


    ginger soup?"


    That shocked her. "What?"


    He exined, "She was out in the rain. It''s to prevent her from getting a cold."


    It was then that Zoe realized what he meant and said, "Come with me."


    Though she did not possess Leanna''s great cooking skills and disliked eating the food she cooked, she


    still knew some simple steps. Whenpared to the kitchen wrecker, Aidan, she was quite a


    sessful cook.


    She entered the kitchen before he informed her. "I need to head out for a while. You take care of her."


    "Sure."


    Following the door closing, she released a long breath and began searching the entire kitchen for


    ginger. Not long after that, a bowl of steaming ginger soup was done. She brought the soup to


    Leanna''s room and ced it on the bedside table before calling her. "Nana? Nana."


    Leanna was in a daze when she heard someone calling her name, so she gave a muffled response.


    Then, Zoe added, "Get up and drink some ginger soup. Otherwise, you''ll catch a cold."


    Hearing Zoe''s voice, Leanna gradually awoke from her daze but felt her head spinning. When Zoe


    noticed her state, she touched Leanna''s forehead and found it warm.


    Leanna sat up in bed, but her voice sounded slightly nasal. "Where''s Aidan?"


    "He said he needed to go out. Maybe he has something to do."


    Nodding, Leanna asked, "How are you?"


    Zoe replied, "I''m fine, but I was too impulsive. If I didn''t run out the moment I got the text, you wouldn''t


    have gotten tricked into going to the rooftop."


    Smiling, Leanna assured her, "It had nothing to do with you. He would find another way if he didn''t get


    your phone. Also, Leroy had been in hiding for too long, and if this chance hadn''t popped up, he


    wouldn''t have appeared so easily."


    "Anyway, everything''s fine now, and that b*stard''s dead." After a short pause, Zoe continued, "By the


    way, I saw Joseph in the restaurant today. He and Aidan were fired up. Oh, and that L guy. Didn''t


    Joseph bring Charlotte for a meal there? What happened?"


    "It''s quiteplicated, Zoe. I didn''t tell you because I didn''t want to pull you into this situation. Joseph


    Woodley¡­ He''s not a good person. You can say that he and Leroy were in the same boat, but for


    some reason, they gave up on Leroy, which led to him jumping off the building tonight."


    Zoe was baffled to hear that. "I thought he was a good person, so when Charlotte left with him, I¡­"


    Leanna held Zoe''s hand and pursed her lips. "Zoe, there''s one more thing. He was behind Charlotte''s


    abduction."


    When Zoe heard that, she froze in her spot. That means my child¡­


    Leanna added, "Don''t worry. He will pay the consequences of his actions."


    Lowering her head, Zoe felt a soreness in her nose. Then, Leanna leaned over and pulled her into her


    arms. It took Zoe a while before she asked, "Daniel¡­ How is he?"


    After returning, Zoe saw the news of Crossley Group mortgaging their assets. At first, she wanted to


    ask about that but thought Leanna might not be feeling good. She did not want to trouble her and the


    others.


    Leannaforted her. "He''s going to be fine. They gave us two days, and it''s not even a day yet."


    "But it''s such a huge amount¡­"


    Leanna patted Zoe''s back. "We''ll find a way as long as they''re still in Highside."


    Zoe suddenly got the gist of the situation. "That''s right. No one in Highside can act more arrogant than


    Devil Aidan."


    That cracked Leanna up because Aidan had just earned a new nickname.


    Zoe released Leanna and rubbed her eyes. "Okay, let''s stop for now. The soup''s getting cold, so drink


    up while it''s still warm."


    "Okay." Leanna drank from the bowl and found the soup still hot.


    Then, Zoe reminded her, "Nana, you should go to sleep after drinking the soup and sweat it out. Take


    some medication if you still feel sick tomorrow."


    Leanna nodded. "I''m going to be fine."


    Once she finished the soup, Zoe tucked her into bed and covered her body with the nket. She


    grabbed the empty bowl and said, "Take a rest. I''ll head home first."


    Leanna muttered, "Goodnight."


    "Goodnight."


    After Zoe left, Leanna closed her eyes, and not knowing whether the ginger soup worked, the scene in


    her dream gradually became more terrifying.


    First, there was a massive fire in the scene, engulfing her and causing her to break out in sweats.


    Following that, she saw the fire change into a storm. Before she could react to the change, she saw


    someone falling before her. The next second, she felt like someone was pushing her from behind,


    causing her to plunge forward uncontrobly.


    That sudden feeling of floating shocked her from her sleep. She fiercely sat up in bed with her forehead


    drenched with sweat.


    Aidan sat beside her, asking, "Did I wake you?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No, I¡­"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "Did you have a nightmare?"


    She did not answer but looked forward in a daze. Reaching over, he pulled her into his arms and


    comforted her, "I''m here. Don''t be afraid."


    Once she calmed down, she asked, "Where did you go?"


    "You were at the scene when Leroy fell, so there were some things the cops needed to confirm."


    "Then, why didn''t you call me?"


    Gently rubbing her head, he replied, "I can manage that."


    Leanna wanted to say something else, but Aidan pulled on the nket and covered her. "Alright, let''s


    go to bed. We can talk about this tomorrow."


    Slowly retreating from his embrace, she sniffled. "Why don''t you sleep outside tonight? I have a cold


    and don''t want you to get sick too."


    "It''s just a cold."


    "But¡ª"


    He leaned in and kissed her lips. "There."


    Speechless, she chastised, "If you''re down with another cold, I won''t have the strength to take care of


    you."


    He replied, "Alice just happens to be free recently. We can call her here if we both get a cold."


    That rendered Leanna at a loss for words. She hid under the covers and closed her eyes. "Alright. Let''s


    sleep."

 Chapter 712

    Chapter 712


    Chapter 712 I¡¯m Not His Target


    On the other hand, Kevin ran into a private vi in the rain. "News of Leroy''s death has spread to the


    public, followed by news of Crossley Group mortgaging their assets. At this moment, Crossley Group''s


    stocks have plummeted, and if this situation persists, they will fall below zero by tomorrow."


    Meanwhile, John sat on the couch with a rxed look, obviously satisfied with the results. After looking


    around, Kevin asked, "Mr. Watson, has Mr. Woodley returned?"


    "He''s back and might''ve suffered some sort of provocation because his face seemed a little pale."


    Kevin clucked his tongue. "But I still can''t figure out why that person would want to kill Leroy. Didn''t he


    put in tons of effort to save Leroy and take the risk to bring him here?"


    With his legs crossed, John exined, "That''s because he has lost his value. That person saved Leroy


    because he wanted Leroy to tell him the truth about what happened twenty years ago. Then, he used


    him to test whether William is Lloyd and how much force William has."


    "Then, why didn''t that person kill Leroy after the incident and wait¡ª"


    "Leroy is already a discarded pawn, so his life no longer matters. However, Aidan and L are now


    watching Joseph like a hawk, plus the trouble that dimwit Theodore caused. If we don''t n something


    to avert their attention, you and I might be long gone. Or else, we wouldn''t be sitting here."


    While John spoke, he could not help narrowing his eyes. Aidan might have already sensed something,


    which was why the mysterious someone nned all of this to avert Aidan''s attention to the most


    problematic person, Joseph.


    That way, he could stay in the safest spot.


    Patting on the couch''s armrest, John rose to his feet and announced, "Alright. It''s gettingte. I''m going


    to bed."


    ¡­


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    After a night''s sleep, Leanna still felt slightly dizzy with her stuffy nose, but her condition was way better


    thanst night. Turning her head, she noticed Aidan was still asleep, so she went to make breakfast,


    thinking she might feel better after taking some medication.


    Unexpectedly, he woke up when she moved the covers and grabbed her wrist to pull her into his


    embrace. Then, he felt her forehead and spokezily, "That''s good. You don''t have a fever."


    She hummed in response. "My condition isn''t that serious. I''ll make breakfast while you rest¡ª"


    He wrapped his hands around her wrist and pleaded, "Let''s continue to sleep."


    Since Leanna felt lethargic and could not push him away, she closed her eyes again. It had been


    raining all night, so the sky was still foggy and dreary; the entire city was enveloped in continuous rains.


    It was such great weather for staying in bed¡­ but perhaps she was well-rested, she could not fall back


    asleep. A whileter, she whispered, "Aidan, are you asleep?"


    "Yes?"


    "I suddenly thought of a question. Why did Joseph Woodley do all of this? It makes sense if you say he


    brought Charlotte away to deal with the Woodleys, but something feels strange about him taking part in


    killing Leroy. Something doesn''t add up."


    "What is it?"


    "It''s¡­ Since Joseph''s target is the Woodleys, everything he does must be rted to the family. But


    ording tost night''s incident, his target seems to be us. Also, you''ve already left Pearson Group, so


    you''re no longer a threat to him, but why would he¡ª"


    Aidan slowly opened his eyes. "His target isn''t me. It''s Crossley Group."


    Leanna was stunned. "But he and Crossley Group¡­"


    "Crossley Group is one of thergestpanies in Anan besides Pearson Group. Even if Crossley


    Group had suffered a huge loss because of Leroy, it''s now slowly recuperating. Do you remember what


    Joseph said? He says he wants to start a new business in Highside, and taking control over Crossley


    Group is the fastest route."


    Her eyes widened. "Then, why did he work with Leroy to ask for such a high ransom?"


    He exined, "He never wanted money. Once the news of Crossley Group mortgaging their assets


    gets released, it will cause a huge stir in the stock market. Now that news of Leroy''s passing has


    spread, Crossley Group''s stocks are continuously dropping."


    She finally realized the situation. "So, he''ll take this opportunity to buy lots of stocks, and once the


    stock prices rise, he will be thergest shareholder in Crossley Group."


    "That''s correct." Just as she wanted to say something else, he cut her off. "That''s not something you


    should worry about. Leave it all to me."


    After listening to that, Leanna agreed with Aidan because she was clueless in that field anyway, so


    there was no point in her worrying about it. On the other hand, he was well-versed in this game.


    "Okay. I can''t sleep, so I''m getting up." She wanted to move but was pressed back onto the bed.


    He questioned, "Have you forgotten something?"


    Confused, she asked, "What?"


    He reminded her, "Where were we heading to before we went to Crossley Group yesterday?"


    Leanna was at a loss for words because she had forgotten about it. "What should we do now?"


    "Let''s go today."


    "But it''s raining."


    "Is the Civil Bureau Affairs closed on rainy days?"


    She rebuked, "Didn''t you say yesterday was a once-in-a-century auspicious day? What about today?"


    His answer was honest. "I made that up." After a short pause, he added, "As long as your name


    appears next to mine on our wedding certificate, every day is an auspicious day."


    Hearing that, she smiled. "How about we dy it for a few days and deal with this matter first?"


    Moreover, they still had no idea about Daniel''s situation, so it would be inappropriate for them to get


    married today.


    "Sure. I''ll see what excuse you haveter."


    She rebuked, "I¡­ That''s not an excuse. It''s not like I''m unwilling to get married. There are still things


    we need to deal with." Once she finished speaking, she took the chance to wiggle out of his embrace


    and ran into the bathroom.


    Meanwhile, Aidan watched from behind her and smiled. It seems like she''s in high spirits.


    Since Leanna had no appetite early in the morning, she made some sd. Then, she prepared to head


    downstairs to buy something and enjoy some fresh air. When she entered the bedroom to change, she


    saw Aidan on the phone and whispered, "I''m going out."


    He nodded and continued to converse with the person on the phone. After she had changed her


    clothes and was about to leave, he handed her a coat. Smiling, she epted it and kissed him on the


    cheek when he least expected it. Then, she ran out the door, leaving the man with his phone in his


    hand and a raised eyebrow.


    On the phone, Jonathan called Aidan, "President Pearson?"


    Withdrawing his thoughts, Aidan uttered, "I didn''t get that. Come again."

 Chapter 713

    Chapter 713


    Chapter 713 That¡¯s Not How You Kissed Me This Morning


    With her coat on, Leanna bumped into Zoe, who was yawning and waiting for the elevator, just as she


    walked out. Seeing her, Zoe said, "Nana? I didn''t expect to see you up this early."


    "I''m heading downstairs to get breakfast. Where are you going so early?"


    "I lost my phonest night, remember? I''ll buy a new one and get a recement SIM card while at it."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna said, "Then, I''lle with you."


    "Don''t worry. You''re still recovering from your cold. I can go by myself. Plus, it''s a good chance for me


    to stroll around."


    Leanna nodded. "You might as well eat before you leave. I''ve already made soup."


    Zoe yawned once more. "I''ll just grab something on the way. Don''t worry about me. You should rest at


    home today."


    As they were talking, the elevator arrived on the first floor and Zoe pushed Leanna forward. "Go get


    your breakfast. Don''t forget to take your cold medicine. I''ll be going now."


    Leanna stood outside and waved at her. "It''s raining today, so drive safe."


    Zoe replied, "Okay, got it."


    The elevator doors closed, and it soon descended to the basement floor. Leanna shifted her gaze and


    walked outside. The rain seemed gentle, yet the raindrops drumming on the umbre produced


    sporadic, muted sounds.


    While buying breakfast, she overheard the conversations of passersby in the breakfast shop discussing


    Leroy''s fatal fall from a building and the significant decline in Crossley Group''s stock price.


    Everyone could not help but sigh, as no one could have anticipated that Crossley Group, which once


    stood alongside Pearson Group, would find itself in such a predicament.


    Contrary to the slight fluctuation in Pearson Group''s stock price after Aidan''s departure, Justin''s


    efficient management resulted in an upward trend in the stock price instead of a decline.


    In light of the significant drop in Crossley Group''s stock price, many investors chose to sell its stocks


    and shift their investments to Pearson Group''s stocks instead.


    Holding her umbre, Leanna listened to their discussions with an expressionless face. When the


    breakfast shop owner handed her the bag with her takeaway meal, she thanked him and departed.


    As she arrived back, she found Aidan examining the stock prices of Crossley Group. She put down her


    things and uttered, "Let''s eat first."


    The soup in the pot was perfectly cooked in the meantime. As Leanna uncovered the lid, the delightful


    aroma of vegetables filled the air and awakened a slight hunger within her. After finishing the meal, she


    felt a noticeable improvement in her dizziness and stuffy nose and no longer desired to take more


    medicine.


    Pouring her a ss of water, Aidan gently caressed her rosy cheek. "If you''re staying in today, it''s fine


    not to take the medicine. We''ll see how things go for tonight." After some thought, she ultimately


    decided to take the medicine.


    She gazed at the steaming hot water in front of her and turned to him, asking, "Aren''t you nning to


    go out today?"


    "I''m going to visit Crossley Group."


    "Do I need to go as well?"


    "If you want to."


    She paused for a moment. "Never mind. Even if I go, I''m not sure what I can do. Zoe must be


    struggling with Daniel''s situation, even if she doesn''t express it openly. I should be there for her."


    Aidan pursed his lips slightly but remained silent.


    She asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "It''s nothing. It''s still uncertain for now. I''ll tell youter tonight."


    Leanna responded, "If you need me, just call me."


    Aidan nodded. "Take your medicine. I''ll drive you to your studioter."


    "Okay." She touched her ss and found the water temperature to be just right. After she finished


    taking her medicine, he emerged from the bedroom with his clothes changed.


    On their way to the studio, the rain intensified, indicating that it was unlikely to stop anytime soon.


    When they arrived at the studio entrance, Leanna unbuckled her seatbelt and said, "I should get going.


    Take care on the road. Goodbye."


    Her wrist was held as she reached for the handle and fell back into the seat. Puzzled, she nced at


    the man beside her. With one hand on the steering wheel, the serious-looking Aidan tilted his head


    slightly toward her.


    She failed toprehend his gesture.


    Twitching his lips, he slowly said, "Repeat what you did this morning when you went out to get


    breakfast."


    Baffled at first, she swiftly grasped the situation and burst intoughter. What a childish man. She


    leaned in closer and ced a gentle kiss on his cheek. Just as she was about to alight from the car, his


    grip on her hand remained firm.


    Leanna was confused. "What now?"


    Aidanined, "That''s not how you kissed me this morning."


    Speechless, she asked patiently, "How did I do it, then?"


    He looked at her and exined, word by word, "You wrapped both hands around my neck and threw


    yourself into my arms. And when you kissed me passionately, you even emitted a sound."


    Leanna was left speechless by his shameless audacity in uttering those words.


    Without giving her time to reminisce, Aidan urged, "Hurry up."


    To get things over quickly, she quickly scanned her surroundings before leaning forward and embracing


    his neck to kiss his cheek.


    Little did she know that the man suddenly turned his head, and her lipsnded precisely on his thin lips.


    A faint smile appeared in his dark eyes. In that moment of realization, Leanna was about to pull back


    when he took advantage of the moment and gently nibbled her lip. His tongue teasingly slipped into her


    mouth.


    Fortunately, the kiss did notst long because the man did not initiate it. She seized the opportunity and


    swiftly pulled back, her cheeks slightly flushed as she murmured, "Disgusting."


    He was clearly in a good mood. "How am I the disgusting one when you were the one who threw


    yourself at me for a kiss?"


    She settled back in her seat and smoothed out her hair before letting out a soft snort. "Never mind. I''m


    leaving."


    As he watched her departing figure, a broader smile yed on his dark eyes. After a moment, he


    withdrew his gaze and drove away.


    Zoe was still absent in the studio, but the other girls had already begun their work, so Leanna told


    them, "I''ll head to my office first. Inform me if Zoe returns."


    "Okay, Leanna."


    Seated in her office, she retrieved her sketchbook and began flipping through the pages of her


    drawings. Despite the approaching deadline for the uing fashion week and her limited progress,


    she remained calm.


    After a while, there was a sudden knock on the office door. She thought it was Zoe returning and


    looked up, only to see Charlotte entering and inquiring softly, "Leanna, may Ie in?"


    "Sure."


    Charlotte closed the door behind her and sat on the couch. She appeared hesitant, gripping her skirt


    tightly.


    Sensing her hesitation, Leanna asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Charlotte looked at her. "L told me that you were almost kidnapped by some dangerous menst


    night."


    Leanna smiled. "Don''t worry, I''m fine now."


    Charlotte''s voice grew softer as she lowered her gaze. "But he said that Uncle Joseph was behind


    this."

 Chapter 714

    Chapter 714


    Chapter 714 An Extraordinary Presence in the Industry


    Charlotte could not believe a word when she heard from Lst night that Joseph was the


    mastermind behind her abduction. She could not understand why she had suddenly fainted despite


    only having juice the previous night. Moreover, there were only her and Joseph in the private room.


    On top of her doubts about what L said, hearing about Leanna''s close call filled Charlotte with


    fear.


    Leannaforted her gently. "Charlotte, I understand it might be hard for you to ept right now, but it


    was indeed Joseph''s doings."


    As Charlotte heard this, tears welled up in her eyes uncontrobly. She anxiously said, "But¡­ Uncle


    Joseph has always been kind to me when I was little. He would never hurt me or do such things. Could


    it be a misunderstanding¡ª"


    "It''s not, Charlotte. People change." Leanna gently exined, "Have you ever wondered why your


    grandfather and father never mentioned him for so many years? And even during major incidents in


    your family, he never showed the slightest concern or worry for them."


    Charlotte''s realization sank in as she absorbed Leanna''s words. She attempted to speak but found


    herself unable to utter a single word.


    Leanna continued, "Perhaps his feelings for you were genuine, and he never intended to harm you. But


    Charlotte, that doesn''t mean he wouldn''t harm others."


    After rescuing Charlottest time, L chose not to disclose the truth to her. Besides Aidan''s


    ount, which she found hard to believe, there was also the undeniable fact that Joseph always


    presented himself as a gentle and kind uncle in her presence, regardless of his actions.


    He might have used Charlotte during the two incidents but had not caused her any direct harm.


    Leanna was unaware of Joseph''s experiences in Jamesdon ten years ago. However, she sensed that


    even within the heart of someone who hadmitted such heinous acts, a ce of purity and


    tenderness could still exist.


    For Joseph, that ce belonged to Charlotte. She was the innocent and adorable little girl who


    believed in him unconditionally and relied on him. Even after ten years, she jumped for joy and


    excitedly called him ''Uncle Joseph'' when she learned he was still alive.


    As for her, she had been well-protected since childhood. Apart from the people she disliked, there were


    no absolute viins around her. She could not see the evil in Joseph, nor could sheprehend how


    bad he truly was.


    The reason why L chose to disclose this to her now was that she had overly let her guard down


    regarding Joseph. She might have only faintedst night, but who could have predicted what would


    happen the next time?


    Charlotte kept her head down, seemingly upset, but Leanna patted her head. "Oh, Charlotte. Many


    times, there is no absolute right or wrong in this world. If he has never harmed you, and your heart still


    finds him deserving of your trust, it''s okay to hold onto your feelings for him. Because to him, you''re a


    unique presence as well."


    Charlotte raised her head with red eyes. "Really?"


    Leanna replied, "Yes. Just remember that at the same time, he''ll still go on to harm others, maybe even


    the people closest to you."


    Confused, Charlotte sat there motionless.


    "Joseph is just your uncle. Once you strip away that identity, he''s a different person."


    Charlotte finally understood.


    Leanna asked her, "Have you had breakfast?"


    "Not yet¡­"


    Leanna took out her phone. "What do you want? I''ll order for you."


    She believed she had said everything she could, and trusted Charlotte could discern right from wrong.


    Otherwise, Charlotte would not be upset upon learning that Joseph was behind this. She exined in


    the hopes offorting Charlotte.


    ¡­


    It was already noon when Zoe returned. She saw Charlotte and raised her hand to greet her, but


    Charlotte turned and ran away. Hence, she looked at Leanna in confusion. "What''s wrong with her?"


    Leanna pulled Zoe into the office before exining, "She already knows Joseph was behind those


    things and feels ashamed to face you."


    Zoe paused for a moment before chuckling. "That silly child."


    Leanna asked, "Have you got your new SIM card?"


    Zoe stretchedzily. "It''s done. Took me a whole morning." With that, she added, "Are you feeling


    better?"


    Leanna nodded. "Much better."


    "Okay, you go ahead and work. I''ll go do my job."


    "Zoe."


    Hearing Leanna calling her, she looked back. "Yes?"


    Leanna gazed at her but decided not to share her thoughts. Instead, she smiled and said, "It''s nothing."


    Zoe waved at her and left the office while Leanna sat back at her desk and let out a long sigh.


    In the afternoon, Leanna finished drawing the new draft and stood up to stretch her neck. She picked


    up her water cup, preparing to go out for some water.


    As she walked out, she overheard the guests in the studio engaged in a lively discussion about the


    recent events at Crossley Group. However, their focus was not on the sharp decline in thepany''s


    stock price but rather on the unprecedented surge in its value. Many people were eager to buy their


    shares but needed help to get in on the action.


    Confused by the conversations, she hurriedly opened her phone in the pantry. The first news article


    revealed that Complex Group hadpleted the initial round of financing for Crossley Group. In


    addition, Southwest Group had also reached a strategic partnership with Crossley Group.


    These two news articles came out one after another around noon.


    Complex and Southwest Groups had both been globally recognized corporations, with the former


    headquartered in Lachstein and thetter in Arcburg. With these recent developments, Crossley Group


    could not only avoid bankruptcy and closure but also expand into the markets of the Eakruth and


    Okrera continents.


    The future development trend was terrifying. The investors no longer focused on the connection


    between Crossley Group and thesepanies. Instead, they recognized that failing to purchase


    Crossley Group''s stocks at the moment would only result in potential losses.


    At this moment, the upward trend of Crossley Group''s stock price exceeded the highest peak in the


    history of the Pearson Group.


    If Leanna''s spection was urate, Southwest Group was thepany in which Aidan casually


    invested, so she searched for more information about them. While limited news was avable about the


    company in Chiojan, she found ongoing discussions and exnations on various forums.


    Information umtedyer byyer.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Thepany started with only two or three young individuals and encountered numerous setbacks in


    their entrepreneurial journey. Just when they were on the verge of giving up, a mysterious individual


    unexpectedly invested in their venture.


    Following that, thepany experienced rapid growth. Within three years, it stood at the top of Navary


    and coborated with numerous multinational corporations. It secured the most significant benefits in


    every major project it undertook.


    It was an extraordinary presence in the industry and aroused people''s intense longing.

 Chapter 715

    Chapter 715


    Chapter 715 Because I¡¯m Not the Investor


    Meanwhile, Joseph''s expression turned sour upon hearing the news. He had hoped that Complex


    Group would suffer significant damage and be unable to interfere with Crossley Group. However, he


    was taken aback by their swift recovery. As for Southwest Group¡­


    Frowning, he asked John, "Do you have more specific information?"


    "I do have some information, but I can''t guarantee its authenticity."


    "Just tell me about it."


    "Southwest Group is apany established three years ago in Arcburg. All their core members are


    Navarians. As for the mysterious investor¡­" John paused before continuing, "I only know that three


    years ago, Aidan visited Arcburg for business. Whether he has any connection with thispany, I''m


    not sure."


    Kevin interjected, "In the past, the investor''s identity behind thispany would''ve been a mystery. But


    judging from today''s events, it''s most likely Aidan."


    John nonchntly crossed his legs and countered, "Don''t be so definitive about everything. What if


    Aidan just has a good rtionship with them?"


    Joseph removed his gold-rimmed sses. "Well, I do have a way to verify this."


    "Oh?"


    As discussions about the surge in Crossley Group''s stock price gained momentum online, there were


    also individuals raising questions about the identity of the investor backing Southwest Group.


    Soon, someone made a connection between Aidan''s visit to Arcburg three years ago and spected


    that he was highly likely to be the investor behind it. Otherwise, he would not have intervened to help


    Crossley Group at this critical moment.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    After this argument emerged, discussions shifted toward the possibility of him having invested in


    Southwest Group three years ago under the name of Pearson Group''s president. Some spected


    that the corporation might belong to Pearson Group rather than being solely owned by him.


    At the same time, there was a widespread perception that when Aidan departed from Pearson Group,


    his eloquent speeches masked the fact that he had not publicly disclosed all of his assets or returned


    them to thepany.


    Many believed it to be a mere facade, suggesting that he still cherished the prestige and glory


    bestowed upon him by Pearson Group. Almost simultaneously, this post gained widespread cirction


    within the country. Many people engaged in heated discussions regarding the questions raised.


    While ongoing debate and spection persisted regarding whether Aidan was the mysterious investor


    behind Southwest Group, another discussion emerged regarding the ownership of the corporation.


    They questioned whether it should belong to Pearson Group or Aidan personally.


    Those who believed that Southwest Group should belong to Pearson Group argued that Aidan''s


    investment was made during his tenure as the president with thepany''s funds. They emphasized


    that without Pearson Group, Aidan and Southwest Group would not have achieved their current


    sess.


    Since he had already decided to pass the leadership of Pearson Group to Justin, it was believed that


    the assets that rightfully belonged to the corporation should be fully returned.


    Another group believed that Southwest Group was an independent entity with no connection to


    Pearson Group. In terms of international recognition, Southwest Group''s reputation in recent years was


    undoubtedly on par with that of Pearson Group. Aidan''s astute judgment and initial investment yed a


    crucial role in the current sess of Southwest Group. In other words, Justin had no reason to reap


    the benefits without contribution.


    With different viewpoints, different factions ignited a massive uproar in online discussions. Throughout


    the entire debate, neither the Crossley, Pearson, nor Southwest Groups issued any public responses to


    these matters.


    In the evening, Aidan arrived to pick up Leanna and discovered her sitting in the office, lost in thought,


    as she gazed out at the starry sky through the window. He sat beside her and asked softly, "What''s


    wrong?"


    She snapped out of her thoughts. "It''s nothing. Have you resolved everything on your end?"


    "It''s almost done. The current crisis for Crossley Group has been resolved."


    "I''ve seen many people online debating whether Southwest Group should belong to the Pearson


    Group. What are your¡ª"


    "It''s none of their concern." He stated calmly, "Only Justin has the right to question this matter."


    She paused for a moment before smiling. He hasn''t changed at all. After pondering for a moment, she


    inquired, "If Justin were to approach you and request the return of Southwest Group, would you


    comply?"


    He responded bluntly, "No, I wouldn''t." Before she could speak, he continued, "Because I''m not the


    investor."


    She was taken aback by his response. "It''s invested in your name." She was both surprised and


    puzzled by this revtion.


    Aidan exined calmly, "When I married you, I should''ve given you a bridal gift. But at that time, I didn''t


    want to give it to you. And when I invested in Southwest Group, I didn''t want to use Pearson Group''s


    name. So, I utilized the bridal gift that should''ve been given to you and naturally registered it in your


    name."


    Dumbfounded, Leanna fell into a prolonged silence before asking, "Have you always been this peculiar


    since you were born?"


    She did not anticipate that during those three years when Aidan appeared to dislike her, he had


    secretly done so many things for her. Each time he returned from a business trip, he would bring her


    gifts. When he learned about the Starry Sky Nature Reserve during his business trip to Arcburg, he


    went out of his way to visit it, despite the considerable distance.


    Not only that, he had even considered giving her a bridal gift. However, due to his aversion toward her


    back then, he hesitated to present it directly. Instead, he invested it in apany under her name. At


    this thought, Leanna was momentarily at a loss for words.


    Aidan leaned closer and gazed at her as he slowly uttered, "Do you honestly believe that if I didn''t want


    to marry you, Gordon could have any power over me?"


    At that time, she had no concept of these things. However, given how he consistently provoked Gordon


    to the brink of fury, it was evident that even if he had steadfastly refused to marry her under any


    circumstances, Gordon would have had no choice but to ept it.


    Leanna smiled. "So, when you''re unhappy, youe to torment me?"


    Frowning, Aidan leaned closer to her by pulling her chair toward him. His voice lowered and carried a


    hint of ambiguity. "Are you sure that''s torment? I recall you rather enjoyed it."


    She was left speechless. He really can''t engage in a serious conversation, can he?


    Extending her foot, she intended to kick his chair away. However, he maintained his grip on her chair


    armrest, causing her to tumble forward. She crashed into the door, making a thud sound.


    The sound seemed eerily strange in the otherwise empty office with just the two of them.


    Leanna raised her head fiercely and met Aidan''s gaze, which bore a hint of a smile. He was doing it on


    purpose!


    She pped the back of his hand. "Let go!"


    He raised both hands, lifting his eyebrows slightly to indicate that he had nothing to do with it. Just as


    she stood up, the door cracked open from the outside.


    "Are you okay, Lean¡ª" the person outside said, but theirst word was muffled.


    Zoe dragged Charlotte outside, whispering, "Children should stay out of adult matters."

 Chapter 716

    Chapter 716


    Chapter 716 I Will Always Be Loyal to President Pearson


    Back at the apartment, Leanna felt exhausted despite not having done much throughout the day. She


    turned her head and red at the culprit.


    Aidan asked, "What do you want to eat? I''ll have Jonathan bring it over."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She asked, "Has Jonathan already left Pearson Group?"


    "Today is the handover."


    She could not help but cluck her tongue. He never misses a chance to boss Jonathan around, does


    he?


    "Anything is fine. I''m going to take a shower first," she replied.


    Aidan sat on the couch and took out his phone.


    Half an hourter, Leanna emerged from the shower, towel-drying her hair. She inquired, "By the way,


    did you have something to tell me this morning?"


    "I''ll have Jonathan tell you when he arrives."


    She responded with a hum and was about to enter the bathroom to blow dry her hair when he followed


    her. Picking up the hairdryer, he stood behind her and lifted a strand of her hair to take a sniff. "Did you


    change your shampoo?"


    She replied, "No, I didn''t."


    "Smells different."


    She replied after a silence, "It''s a different conditioner." A nosy man indeed. His sense of smell is


    impressive.


    Aidan switched on the hairdryer and carefully adjusted the temperature as he began to dry her hair.


    After a moment of thought, Leanna said, "Charlotte knows about it."


    "Hmm?"


    "Joseph. L informed her about it."


    He showed no surprise. "She believed it?"


    She nodded. "She did, although she probably didn''t want to. But it''s understandable since Joseph has


    never caused her any harm. In her eyes, he will always be the same uncle from ten years ago."


    He remarked, "That''s normal. Unless someone experiences it firsthand, they never truly understand


    how much it hurts."


    She pursed her lips and fell silent for a moment, acknowledging that Zoe was the one who had suffered


    the most in the recent events. Not only Charlotte, but none of them could trulyprehend and


    empathize with the pain Zoe had endured.


    After he finished blow-drying her hair, the doorbell rang. He put down the hairdryer and strode to the


    door. "I''ll go get it."


    At the entrance, Jonathan stood there with a paper bag of food. "President Pearson."


    "Come in."


    Upon seeing Leanna, Jonathan greeted her, "Miss McKinney."


    She greeted him and asked, "What would you like to drink?"


    "I''m fine with anything."


    Taking a bottle of water from the fridge, she gave it to him.


    Aidan sat on the couch. "How is it going?"


    "Mr. Justin has confirmed his coboration with Joseph. When I left today, he told me he didn''t believe


    those rumors. If he were to cancel the coboration with Joseph at this time, it would only invite more


    criticism toward you, President Pearson."


    Aidan remained rtively unchanged in expression upon hearing this.


    Jonathan continued, "However, I''m not familiar with the specifics of the coboration. Since I''ve


    confirmed my resignation, Mr. Justin hasn''t assigned me any rted tasks."


    Aidan made a sound of acknowledgment and said, "Inform her about Daniel''s situation."


    At that, Leanna slowly sat down.


    Jonathan continued, "Based on our investigation over the past two days and their activities, it appears


    that Daniel is no longer in their custody."


    She was stunned. "No longer¡­ What does that mean?"


    "I''ve investigated Leroy''s activities after he returned to Highside. There was no indication of Daniel


    being with them based on the scene."


    "So, is he dead, or did he¡­ escape?"


    He stated, "There is a higher possibility of him escaping. I''ve notified the contacts in Lachstein about


    this information. They''ll broaden their search."


    Leroy did not return directly from Lachstein and took a detour to several locations instead. As a result,


    Daniel had a higher chance of escaping, but the probability of finding him decreased significantly.


    Stuck with that information, Leanna felt at a loss and struggled toe up with a response.


    Aidan reassured her, saying, "Don''t worry. If Daniel has managed to escape their clutches, he''ll find a


    way to reach out to William."


    She took a deep breath. Still, it''s already been such a long time, and we still haven''t received any news


    about him.


    Noticing that Aidan and Jonathan had more to discuss, she rose from her seat and stated, "I''ll take out


    the trash and buy some things along the way."


    After she left, Jonathan informed Aidan, "President Pearson, Louis has been investigating the incident


    involving the copse of the resort several years ago. He''s reached out to the victims'' families."


    Aidan nodded in acknowledgment. "Stay vignt. Even though Theodore is backed into a corner, he


    has a lot of tricks. If Louis continues to push him further into desperation, he may resort to extreme


    measures."


    Jonathan nodded. "I''ll have more people keep an eye on it, but you can rest assured, President


    Pearson. Perhaps due to his upbringing, Louis is adept at handling unexpected circumstances. If


    Theodore intends to cause trouble for him, he may find himself facing the repercussions instead."


    Aidan remained silent before asking, "Do you think Louis and Jethro look alike?"


    Jonathan shook his head without hesitation. "Not in the slightest."


    "I had both Louis and Jethro undergo a paternity test. The results confirmed their blood rtionship. It''s


    highly likely that William''s side also conducted a test, and the oue should be the same."


    Jonathan asked, "Could the test results be inurate?"


    "Do you think there''s a high possibility that both tests were inurate?"


    "Almost zero."


    Aidan''s dark eyes narrowed slightly as he lightly tapped his finger on the armrest. "If the tests were


    wrong, there is only one usible exnation." He continued, "Someone''s been tampering with them."


    "But at that time, besides us, only a few knew about William''s identity, including¡­" Jonathan left the


    sentence unfinished.


    Aidan''s voice remained calm as he remarked, "Still, there are quite a few individuals around William


    who are aware of his true identity."


    Hearing this, Jonathan could not help but be taken aback. The people who knew about William''s


    identity were the ones he trusted the most. Who could have done such a thing?


    Aidan requested, "Once everything is resolved, go to Lachstein and have William redo a paternity test."


    Jonathan nodded. "Understood."


    ¡­


    Leanna took a stroll downstairs and headed to the convenience store to purchase a few misceneous


    items. On her way back, she unexpectedly encountered Jonathan as he was exiting the residential


    area''s entrance.


    "Miss McKinney."


    She asked, "Are you leaving already?"


    He nodded. "I''ve already reported everything to President Pearson."


    She coughed. "Um, well, his words can be harsh sometimes. Please don''t take it to heart. He has a


    tough demeanor and struggles with expressing himself. I heard Justin had tried to convince you to stay


    at Pearson Group. Although he didn''t say much, he was quite anxious that you wouldn''t leave."


    Jonathan chuckled. "Miss McKinney, you can rest assured. I''ll always be loyal to President Pearson."


    Leanna tentatively asked, "You don''t have any leverage over him, do you?"


    "Perhaps President Pearson himself may have forgotten, but he saved my life."


    Upon hearing his words, she inexplicably recalled a distant memory when Jonathan and Aidan had


    reminisced about how Aidan had saved him at the Patheon Club.


    She pondered, So, it was true all along?

 Chapter 717

    Chapter 717


    Chapter 717 How¡¯s the Situation Outside?


    Jonathan could roughly guess what Leanna was thinking by observing her expression. His mouth


    twitched slightly when he reassured her, "It''s not what you think, Miss McKinney. It was my mother. She


    fell seriously ill ten years ago, and it was President Pearson who gave me the money for her surgery."


    Leanna recalled the mentions of his mother from before and asked, "How is your mother''s health


    now?"


    "Ah¡­ She passed away. The surgery failed. "


    Momentarily stunned, Leanna was unsure of what to say.


    He let out a light-hearted chuckle and added, "But at least she had the surgery. Otherwise, I would


    have regretted it for the rest of my life."


    On the way back, she couldn''t stop thinking about Jonathan''s revtion.


    "What''s wrong?" Aidan asked when he noticed her absentmindedness.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "It''s nothing." Leanna paused before continuing, "I ran into Jonathan downstairs."


    Aidan raised an eyebrow at that. "What did he say to you?"


    "He¡­ He said he would always follow you. There are things you may have forgotten."


    "Are you talking about his mother''s surgery?"


    She nodded, feeling slightly surprised. "You haven''t forgotten."


    "How could I forget something like that? But those are different things. It''s his own choice whether he


    stays or goes. It has nothing to do with this."


    Leanna couldn''t help butugh when she heard that. She threw herself into Aidan''s arms and sat on his


    lap. As she rubbed his face affectionately, she cooed, "You''re actually a cutie pie, aren''t you?"


    Aidan didn''t say anything, and he was just about to tell Leanna to stop messing around when she


    suddenly cupped his face and kissed him gently.


    Soon after, she pulled back.


    His voice was slightly hoarse when he looked at her and asked, "Don''t you want to eat?"


    At that, Leanna stated, "Of course I do. Let''s eat now¡­"


    As she spoke, she started to get up, only for the man to pull her back by the waist.


    Aidan then guided her back onto the couch and kissed her eyes, purring, "We''ll eatter."


    Leanna gazed at him with her shimmering eyes and whispered, "It will get coldter."


    "I can reheat it."


    What are these rming words I''m hearing? Leanna paled.


    Before she could say anything, Aidan kissed her lips again while his hand rested on the part of her


    waist that was exposed because of her movements earlier. He gently caressed her skin and continued


    gliding his hand upward.


    The temperature in the room gradually rose.


    Soon, an ambiguous atmosphere enveloped the entire space.


    ¡­


    At the same time, Zoe, who couldn''t fall asleep, was tossing and turning in bed.


    Her mind alternated between thoughts of what Leanna had told her¡ªthat she wouldn''t have lost her


    baby if it weren''t for Joseph¡ªand thoughts of Daniel as she wondered how he was doing and if he had


    been hurt.


    The more she thought, the more chaotic her thoughts became.


    Eventually, she decided to sit up and walk to the living room to pour herself some water.


    She was sipping on her drink when she saw the flowers on the verge of wilting on the windowsill. She


    walked over, squatted down, and poured the water from her cup into the pot.


    Suddenly, Zoe remembered that Daniel also had nts at his home. It has been such a long time. I


    wonder how the nts are now.


    She continued to crouch on the floor for a while before standing up and walking to the door. After she


    changed her shoes, she grabbed her car keys and went out.


    After arriving at the small residentialplex where she and Leanna used to live, Zoe parked her car


    and quickly went upstairs.


    For some reason, she could feel a strange feeling intensifying the closer she got.


    It was as if she would see Daniel as soon as she opened the door.


    After getting off the elevator, Zoe went to Daniel''s unit and entered the passcode. When she saw the


    light inside the apartment, she felt like her spection had been confirmed. A smile then appeared on


    her face as she called out, "Daniel¡ª"


    However, a woman whose luscious curves were covered by a revealing nightgown walked out of the


    bedroom.


    With anguid expression on her face, the woman drawled in French when she looked at Zoe,


    "Bonsoir! And you are?"


    "Sorry! I''m sorry¡­"


    Bewildered, Zoe apologized while stepping back. Did the apartment get rented out again?


    However, before she could leave, the woman stopped her. "Wait!"


    Zoe only stood there apologizing, "Sorry, my friend used to live here¡­"


    She didn''t know if the woman believed her words or not, but thetter was soon taking slow steps


    toward Zoe with her eyes narrowed and arms crossed.


    Just then, a familiar male voice came from inside the apartment. "Amanda."


    Both the woman and Zoe turned their heads toward the voice.


    Daniel had walked out within the next second.


    "A friend of yours?" Amanda asked.


    Daniel nodded and looked at Zoe. "Do you need something?"


    Zoe was frozen in ce. Despite her mouth being opened, she couldn''t bring herself to say anything.


    She hade here with great expectations to see Daniel, but she hadn''t anticipated it would be under


    these circumstances.


    She looked him up and down, only to find that he seemed fine and unharmed. She had been worried


    for nothing.


    The woman named Amanda walked over and sat on the couch before she opened a bottle of red wine


    and leisurely sipped it.


    After a moment, Zoe regained her voice but didn''t know what to say. In the end, she stammered, "I


    heard from Leanna that you were in trouble¡­ and¡­ I was thinking about whether the flowers here


    would wither, so I came to take a look."


    "I''m fine. You can leave."


    Zoe instinctively turned her head and took a few steps. However, she couldn''t help but be teary-


    eyed as she whipped her head back around and scolded, "Are you out of your mind? Don''t you know


    that Leanna and Aidan thought that Leroy got to you? They are currently using the Crossley Group''s


    assets as coteral to save you! And here you are with¡­ this woman¡­"


    At her words, Daniel froze, his eyebrows creasing subtly.


    After a moment, he stated, "Please help me pass the message that they don''t have to do all this for


    me."


    "If you want to say it, say it yourself," Zoe retorted. "It''s none of my business!"


    With that, she turned around and stormed off, not forgetting to m the door shut behind her.


    Daniel only looked away after hearing her footsteps fade as she entered the elevator.


    On the couch, Amanda drank her red wine and asked, seemingly interested, "Your new girlfriend?"


    Daniel''s voice turned cold when he muttered, "No, and it''s none of your business."


    "What a shame!" Amanda hummed. "It would have been nice to have her stay and keep youpany."


    Just as Daniel was about to say something, a violent coughing fit overtook him. Bloodstains then


    seeped through his shoulder and back.


    Seeing this, Amanda walked over and took out a needle that she had intended to use on Zoe from the


    pocket of her nightgown and injected it into his arm. Clicking her tongue twice, she stated, "I told you


    not to move around. You''ve wasted another one of my syringes."


    Daniel''s consciousness gradually started to blur and he struggled to ask, "How''s the situation outside


    now?"


    "Didn''t your girlfriend just tell you? I never expected you to be worth so much. You''ve piqued my


    interest. Handing you over wouldn''t be a bad deal." She sighed and added, "But what I really want is


    your life."


    "I told you she''s not my girlfriend. Don''t you dare touch her!" Daniel hissed.


    After Amanda helped him into the bedroom, she threw him onto the bed. "If she''s not your girlfriend,


    what are you worried about? She hasn''t gone far. Why don''t I bring her back so that she can keep you


    company?"


    "I dare you to." Before he lost consciousness, he managed to throw out a few more words. "Lay a


    finger on her and I''ll make sure you wish you were dead."

 Chapter 718

    Chapter 718


    Chapter 718 Something Feels a Little Strange


    The next day, Leanna was still drowsy from sleep when she heard the doorbell ringing.


    She turned over and kicked Aidan while burying her head in the pillow. "Go get the door, please," she


    slurred.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    A few secondster, Aidan lifted the covers and walked to the foyer to open the door.


    "Leanna! Zoe¡ª"


    Upon seeing Aidan''s horrifyingly dark expression, Charlotte immediately swallowed the words stuck in


    her throat. She stared at him wide-eyed.


    The man stated impassively, "What? Shoot."


    Charlotte felt a chill creeping up her neck and choking her, making it impossible for her to make a


    sound.


    When Aidan saw how quiet she was, he started to close the door when Charlotte mustered the courage


    of a lifetime and squeezed her way in from the door.


    She then shouted for Leanna to help her while she ran inside.


    By the time she reached the bedroom door, Leanna, who was clearly still half asleep, had already


    come out.


    She rubbed her eyes and asked, "What''s going on?"


    Charlotte stood in front of her, swallowing nervously before saying, "It''s Zoe¡­ When I went to see her


    just now, I found her hiding under the covers and crying. She wouldn''t say anything when I asked her


    what happened."


    Worried, Charlotte continued, "Leanna, is Zoe still angry at me? I know I was in the wrong. She can hit


    me or scold me. I won''t fight back¡ª"


    Leanna became a little more awake upon hearing this. "Let me go and check on her."


    Charlotte nodded and followed closely behind her.


    After taking a few steps, Charlotte saw Aidan still standing in the foyer with a cold expression. She was


    so frightened that she grabbed onto Leanna''s clothes and hurriedly scampered away.


    There was no sound of cryinging from inside the room when they got to Zoe''s door.


    Charlotte was as nervous as she was uneasy as she watched Leanna slowly push the door open.


    Inside the room, Zoe sat on the bed still softly sobbing. Her lifeless eyes had swelled so much they


    looked like walnuts.


    Leanna slowly approached her and sat down next to her before asking in a gentle voice, "Zoe? What''s


    wrong?"


    When Zoe heard her friend''s voice, she turned her head and threw her arms around Leanna. She


    started to cry out loud, "Boohoo! It''s all my fault. I''m just a big mouth. This is the punishment from the


    heavens because I didn''t be a qualified sl*t as I promised¡­"


    Leanna couldn''t help but find it both funny and exasperating. She patted Zoe on the back and asked,


    "What happened?"


    Zoe kept crying for quite a while before she stopped sobbing and asked, "Did Daniel call you?"


    Leanna was taken aback for a moment. She then shook her head. "Have you been able to reach him?"


    "Last night¡­ I must have suddenly lost my mind and I went to his house to water his flowers. But then I


    saw himing out of the bedroom with a beautiful and sexy woman!" Zoe cried even harder. "And I


    was only wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt and big knee-length shorts! I already lost in terms of


    outlook¡­"


    Leanna didn''t quite understand what she meant. "Are you saying that Daniel has alreadye home


    and is with another woman?"


    Zoe released herself from Leanna''s embrace and nodded as she choked.


    She quickly resumed sobbing again. "You don''t need to worry about his life or death anymore. He''s


    living it up on his own now."


    However, Leanna furrowed her brows slightly and remained silent for a moment.


    Zoe then added, "Nana, I saw both of them with my own eyes. You have to believe me."


    Leanna collected her thoughts and replied, "I believe you, but something feels a little strange."


    "What''s strange about it?"


    "I don''t care that Daniel didn''t inform us after he had already escaped and returned home, which


    means that he is safe, but he didn''t even contact William! Isn''t that somewhat¡­"


    Zoe wiped her tears away with two pieces of tissue. "Maybe he simply doesn''t want anyone to bother


    him. He''ll let you know when he''s done having his fun."


    When she said that, she couldn''t help but curse, "What a sh*thead! He didn''t even bother to let us


    know he was alright. Because of him, I¡ªyou all almost paid such a heavy price!"


    Leanna patted Zoe on the shoulder. "I understand. I''ll talk to Aidan and William. You don''t need to go to


    the studio today. Rest at home."


    "No, I won''t let him interfere with my work. We only got together because of that, and now that we no


    longer have a child, it''s about time we go our own ways."


    Leanna wiped away the tears streaming down Zoe''s face and asked, "Are you sure you still want to go


    despite how swollen your eyes are?"


    Zoe slowly picked up her phone and looked at her disheveled and tear-stained state on the screen.


    Suddenly, she felt even more aggrieved as she buried her face in the pillow to sob out loud.


    Leanna coaxed her. "I''ll go make breakfast for you. Once you''ve eaten, get some good rest, okay? Be


    good."


    While still crying, Zoe murmured in agreement.


    Leanna only got up and left the room then.


    Seeing her close the door, Charlotte, who was waiting outside, scurried over and asked anxiously,


    "How is Zoe?"


    "It''s not because of you."


    Charlotte let out a sigh of relief and quickly followed up with another question. "Then what about her¡ª"


    Leanna made a shushing gesture at her and pulled her away from there.


    Now that they were standing in the corridor, Leanna informed Charlotte, "Zoe won''t be going to the


    studio today. I might bete. Will you stay at home today or wait for me?"


    Charlotte pondered for a moment and replied, "I''ll go by myself. I know the way."


    Leanna wasn''t entirely confident about letting her do that. Noticing Leanna''s hesitation, Charlotte


    added, "Leanna, I know you''re worried about me, but I''m already grown up. I''ll be fine. I promise you.


    Even if Uncle Josephes looking for me, I won''t go with him."


    Aidan always has his men protecting Charlotte, Leanna thought. Now that L is in Highside, he


    must have also assigned someone to be around her. She will probably be fine.


    With that, Leanna reminded Charlotte, "Be careful on the road, then. And give me a call when you get


    there."


    Charlotte nodded firmly. "Sure!"


    Just as she was about to leave, Leanna grabbed onto her back. "Have breakfast before you go."


    "It''s alright. There''s a shop nearby that serves soy milk which I really like. I''ll go there."


    "Alright." Leanna nodded. "Remember to call me when you arrive."


    The elevator happened toe down at that moment. Seeing that, Charlotte ran over and waved at


    Leanna. "Okay! You can go back now, Leanna."


    Leanna watched her get into the elevator before she headed back.


    Aidan was sitting on the couch when he heard themotion at the door. "What happened?" he asked


    in a low voice.


    Leanna then went over and sat down next to him. "Zoe went to Daniel''s cest night and saw him


    with another woman."


    Aidan came to a short pause upon hearing that. He soon turned his head at Leanna and inquired,


    "When was that?"


    "Midnight, probably. But something feels off to me. Since Daniel is already out of danger, there''s no


    reason for him not to contact William."


    "Maybe he wants to take advantage of this opportunity to have a few more days of fun."


    "Nonsense!" Leanna retorted. "Daniel is definitely not that kind of person. Besides, William told me that


    Daniel is his adopted son. He definitely won''t have to worry about Daniel not going back, just like you


    worry about Jonathan not leaving the Pearson Group."


    Aidan only looked at Leanna without saying a word.

 Chapter 719

    Chapter 719


    Chapter 719 Shifting Topics and Diverting Attention


    The Crossley Group released an official statement at 10.00AM.


    The previous rumors about the group mortgaging its assets were all false, and thepany was not


    facing bankruptcy.


    There were two reasons thepany contacted major banks¡ªfirst, to prepare the financing materials


    for the Complex Group''s coboration with the Crossley Group, and second, to make adequate


    preparations for the cooperation with the Southwest Group.


    After the statement was released, the storm surrounding the Crossley Group died downpletely.


    As for the Southwest Group, they never responded to the ongoing online disputes.


    However, public opinion did not stop there. On the contrary, it escted even further, and the Pearson


    Group was dragged into the discussion. It even surpassed the Crossley Group and became the center


    of the topic.


    Justin and Aidan were frequently made into people''s targets ofparison.


    Some said that Aidan should have left the Pearson Group long ago and even without him, thepany


    would still thrive. It was only someone like Justin, the rightful heir of the Pearson Family, who had the


    qualifications to be the president of the Pearson Group.


    Others argued that if it weren''t for Aidan, the Pearson Group would never have reached its current


    heights. Thepany''s sess was all thanks to Aidan''s contributions, and even thepany''s


    current operations were still following his strategic nning.


    As for the future of the Pearson Group, it would take a few more years before anyone could see the


    results.


    While the online discussions were in full swing, there was a gossip blogger who posted a video that


    lasted only a few seconds.


    In the video, Theodore''s face was clearly visible. Even though only a silhouette and a profile of the


    woman next to him could be seen, it was evident that it was Daphne. Theodore could be seen to be


    holding Daphne''s hand as they walked toward the car.


    The topic ''Daphne Shirley and Theodore Frost Suspected of Rekindling Their Romance'' quickly


    skyrocketed to the top of the trending list. It was the hottest topic at the moment.


    Daphne was highly popr and influential. As soon as the video was released, all theizens swiftly


    shifted their attention to this incident, eager to witness the spectacle.


    It was widely known that Daphne had kept a low profile for a long time after the rumors of her


    involvement in Theodore''s family emerged several years ago. Even recently, this matter resurfaced and


    attracted public scrutiny. However, things took a turn for the better when both Theodore and his ex-wife


    spoke up, confirming that Daphne was deceived by Theodore. She didn''t deliberately get in the way of


    the married couple''s rtionship.


    Just when everyone thought this matter was about toe to an end, the news that Daphne and


    Theodore were getting back together suddenly broke.


    After the news came out, many marketing ounts and inte trolls started manipting public


    opinion.


    ''I can''t believe it! I used to really like Daphne. I even helped her chew out that sc*mbag! Does this


    mean that we were bashing ourselves instead? She''s now back with that sc*mbag!''


    ''The apology from Theodore a while ago caused such amotion. Everyone has joined in on


    criticizing him. The most heartbroken ones must be the fans. They criticized him so passionately, only


    to find out that they were criticizing their idol''s future husband.''


    ''Goodness! If I were a fan, I would be devastated. What have these fans even been stanning¡­ Instead


    of wasting money on idol worship, they might as well spend it on their parents.''


    ''I''m shocked even though I''m not a fan. There are so many hot guys in the entertainment industry. Why


    must she bend over backward for¡­ that?''


    Daphne''s fans were dumbfounded when they read thesements.


    Many of them immediately decided to unfollow her and leave negativements, while others chose


    to continue believing in and supporting Daphne while they waited for her response.


    It was already 5.00PM when Daphne finished shooting the advertisement. As soon as she stepped out


    of the studio, she noticed the staff outside whispering and discussing something. However, they fell


    silent and broke up the moment they saw her.


    She looked around and found her assistant. Taking a bottle of water from her hand, she asked while


    drinking, "What''s going on?"


    However, Fish looked somewhat evasive instead of responding immediately.


    Sensing something amiss, Daphne remained silent for a couple of seconds before demanding, "Give


    me my phone."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Fish reluctantly handed it over. "Daphne, thepany called this afternoon and said¡­"


    Daphne opened her Twitter ount and saw the news about her and Theodore.


    Her eyebrows were immediately pulled together as she erged the video and finally saw that it was


    taken at the entrance of her residentialplex.


    It must have been the time when Theodore was waiting there when he attempted to take her away


    forcefully.


    However, because the video was only a few seconds long and the camera was focused on Theodore,


    her fighting against his hold was not captured at all. It actually looked as if Theodore was guiding her to


    the car.


    After watching for a while, Daphne suddenly burst intoughter. How shameless can a person be?


    Without hesitation, she switched to a new page on Twitter to rify the situation.


    However, the screen showed that she had to log in again, and when she entered her password, it


    showed that she had typed in the wrong password.


    The assistant''s voice continued to ring out beside her. "Thepany called this afternoon¡­ They said


    they will take back control of your Twitter ount and handle the postings themselves."


    Daphne''s head shot up and she looked at Fish with an incredulous gaze. "What?"


    Fish squeaked, "I asked them about it, but they said it''s a rule from the higher-ups. It applies to all


    artists under the Pearson Group. There are no exceptions."


    "Higher-ups? Who exactly are you talking about?"


    The assistant pointed upward and muttered, "They said that it''s an order from the president''s personal


    assistant''s office."


    In other words, the president had given his permission to carry out the order.


    Daphne gripped her phone tightly. She pursed her lips as she looked at her assistant and asked, "Has


    the PR department mentioned how they n to handle this?"


    "They haven''t contacted me yet. It seems like they want to take a more passive approach."


    Daphne didn''t even have time to change her clothes. She swiftly grabbed her coat and headed out. "I''m


    going to the Pearson Group."


    "Wait, Daphne!" Fish hurriedly packed up and chased after her.


    Once they were in the car, Fish stole a nce at Daphne''s expression and hesitated before speaking.


    "Daphne, I don''t think thepany will do anything about this¡­"


    Daphne only frowned without saying a word.


    Seeing this, Fish continued, "I saw a post analyzing that this incident between you and Theodore might


    have been intentionally released by the Pearson Group to shift the topic and divert the attention."


    Daphne had been so busy with work these past few days that she hadn''t paid much attention to what


    happened online. "Topic? What topic?"


    The assistant couldn''t exin it clearly right now. As such, she gave a summary. "It''s mainly about the


    troubles and disputes between President Pearson¡­ uh¡­ that is, Aidan Pearson, and the current


    president of the Pearson Group. I don''t really understand it either."


    When Daphne heard this, she took a deep breath and regained someposure.


    Aidan had asionally used her and other artists under thepany to create topics and generate


    buzz, but it had always been something beneficial to both parties.


    Something like this¡ªrelying on a video that was only a few seconds long and had been taken out of


    context, and even confiscating her ount to prevent her from rifying immediately¡ªhad never


    happened before.


    Daphne had met Justin a few times, and she didn''t think he was someone who would issue such an


    order either.


    Eventually, she closed her eyes and leaned back in her seat. "Let''s go to the Pearson Group and see


    what''s going on."


    Fish fell silent after giving a nod in agreement. She then took out her phone to observe the trends in


    online public opinion.

 Chapter 720

    Chapter 720


    Chapter 720 Are You Waiting for My Invitation?


    Upon arriving at the Pearson Group, Daphne took the elevator straight to the floor where the


    president''s office was located.


    As soon as she stepped out of the elevator, she was intercepted by a man. It was Justin''s assistant.


    Daphne mentioned, "I want to see J¡ªPresident Pearson¡­"


    "If it''s about what is happening online, you don''t have to meet him."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Daphne looked at him and asked, "Why not? Also, I haven''t done anything wrong or made any


    inappropriate statements. Why was my ount taken away?"


    "It''s apany-wide policy, not just targeted at you personally."


    Daphne chuckled at that. "Have you changed the passwords of other artists'' ounts as well?"


    The man''s expressionless face remained unchanged. "You should have seen the news this morning. It


    had a significant impact on the Pearson Group. As an employee of the Pearson Group, you should


    bear some of the risks for thepany."


    "Whether or not I bear those risks is my own business. You can''t nder me online without my consent


    and take away my ount. You are even stopping me from responding to those rumors!"


    "That is thepany''s decision. If there is something you are not satisfied with, you can terminate your


    contract anytime."


    Daphne was so infuriated that she could barely speak. Not wanting to waste any more time with him,


    she took a step forward. "I want to see President Pearson!" she repeated firmly.


    However, the man blocked her path once again. "Hasn''t your manager taught you that you can''t report


    to higher-ups directly? If you have any concerns, you can tell your manager, and your manager will


    decide whether or not to address the issue. They will then submit it to the department manager. After


    the manager''s approval, it will be passed on to the president''s assistant. Only when the assistant


    approves will it be brought to President Pearson''s attention."


    He nced at Daphne and continued, "Issues like yours won''t pass through the assistant''s office. You


    better not waste your time here."


    Daphne looked at him calmly. "My manager is President Pearson, so if you have a problem with me,


    you can go talk to him."


    The man was momentarily stunned. However, he quickly snapped out of it and furrowed his brow in


    anger. "Please stop causing trouble here. The current president is¡ª"


    "Hunter." The warm voice of a man rang out from behind.


    The one who was in Daphne''s way turned around upon hearing that, his expression changed into one


    that waspletely different from before as he respectfully greeted, "President Pearson."


    Justin nodded. "Go ahead and attend to other matters. I''ll handle things here."


    Hunter Sins hesitated, but he eventually left after ncing at Daphne.


    Now that they were alone, Justin looked at Daphne and offered a gentle smile. "I apologize for his


    behavior. He has a rather explosive temper. Please don''t take it to heart."


    Daphne pursed her lips lightly without responding.


    Despite her silence, Justin turned his wheelchair around and urged, "Come with me."


    Inside the president''s office, Justin gestured for Daphne to take a seat before he pressed the inte


    to have the assistant bring in a cup of tea.


    "So, what brings you here to see me?" he asked.


    Justin maintained a light smile on his face. His expression was earnest as if he genuinely intended to


    listen to and address her concerns.


    In that instant, Daphne couldn''t bring herself to vent the anger she had felt earlier. Then again, keeping


    it inside was making her feel miserable.


    She began slowly, "Theodore and I became a trending topic this afternoon. The video that circted


    only showed a few seconds, and now everyone thinks that we''ve gotten back together. There are also


    posts online analyzing that it was deliberately released by the Pearson Group to divert the public''s


    attention."


    However, Justin seemed as surprised as if he was hearing about this for the first time. Sighing, he


    "The assistant outside just admitted it," Daphne added. "He said that as an employee of the Pearson


    Group, I should bear some of the risks for thepany."


    Justin frowned slightly. "Did he really say that?"


    "Yes." She nodded. "I will do what I can to help if thepany is facing difficulties, but I can''t ept


    this way of going about it. They made a decision on my behalf without my knowledge and confiscated


    my ount, preventing me from responding while giving me whatever righteous reason they could


    come up with."


    This time, Justin didn''t seem as clueless as before. "They discussed the unified management of the


    artists'' ounts during their meeting this morning. I''m not quite familiar with this, so I just signed the


    document without much thought. If you want your ount back, I''ll talk to them about it."


    Daphne''s hand which rested on herp clenched involuntarily. If this was truly apany-wide


    decision and all the other artists'' ounts were underpany management, wouldn''t she be an


    exception if she reimed hers?


    After a moment, she brought up, "I would like to discuss how we should respond to today''s incident


    with you first, President Pearson."


    Justin looked rather apologetic. "I''m sorry. I really don''t understand this matter well. I''ll have the PR


    department contact you."


    "No need for the PR department. I want to rify directly," Daphne replied.


    "How do you n on rifying?"


    "The video only shows a few seconds of the whole thing. If we can find theplete video, the rumors


    will debunk themselves."


    "But¡ª" Justin started, to which Daphne interrupted, "This is my own affair, and I will find a way to


    handle it without causing trouble for thepany."


    Justin nodded when she said that. "Please let the assistant''s office know if you need any help. Just tell


    them that it''s what I want them to do."


    "Alright." Daphne then added, "Regarding the ount, I don''t want it back entirely. Thepany can


    manage it, but I want the right to use it. I will confirm my Tweets in the future with thepany before I


    post them."


    Justin smiled and reassured her, "There''s no need to be so strict about it. I''ll tell them to give you the


    passwordter."


    Hearing that, Daphne stood up and slightly bowed to him. "Thank you, President Pearson. I''ll take my


    leave now if there''s nothing else."


    At that point, Justin called out to her. "By the way, you mentioned earlier that Aidan was responsible for


    your work, right?"


    "Yes."


    "And as you can see, handlingpany matters has be difficult for me with how I am now. Since I


    probably won''t be able to offer you any assistance in your work, I''ll arrange a new manager for you."


    His words were polite and gentle, making it almost impossible to refuse.


    "Alright. Thank you, President Pearson," Daphne replied before turning around and leaving the office.


    As she passed by the assistants'' office, she deliberately paused and nced inside.


    Surprisingly, there wasn''t a single familiar face in there.


    Daphne then averted her gaze and entered the elevator. Suddenly, she felt as if the current Pearson


    Group had be incredibly unfamiliar.


    Just as she walked out of the Pearson Group, she received a call from Leanna.


    "Where are you?" Leanna said in greeting.


    Daphne turned around and looked at the building behind her. Although it was bathed in sunlight, it


    seemed colder than when Aidan was still around.


    "I was dealing with something. What''s up?" she asked.


    "Come to the studio now. I have something for you."


    Daphne hesitated. "Can it wait until tomorrow? I have something to attend to right now¡­"


    Before Leanna could respond, a cold male voice came from the other end of the line. "Are you waiting


    for my invitation?"


    Daphne ended up replying in a small voice, "I''ming."

 Chapter 721

    Chapter 721


    Chapter 721 Terminating the Contract


    When Daphne arrived at the studio, it was already 7.30PM. The online discussion regarding her and


    Theodore reached new heights probably due to the high traffic post-working hours. Thus, its poprity


    continued to climb without showing any signs of falling.


    There were still many visitors in the studio, so she marched quickly toward Leanna''s office with her


    mask on while pressing down on the brim of her cap. She knocked on the door, which quickly opened.


    Leanna said, "Come in first."


    Daphne took off her mask and exhaled. "What is it?"


    Aidan, who was sitting on the couch, looked up at her. "Did you visit the Pearson Group?"


    She didn''t know what to say. How does he know that?


    He seemed to have asked the question carelessly since he already knew the answer, so he went on,


    "What did they say to you?"


    She settled opposite him slowly, not knowing where to start. After several seconds, she finally


    answered, "They''ve agreed to give back control of my ount so I can personally clear up the rumors."


    He made a noise of assent. "How are you going to do that?"


    "The video that was published was only a few seconds long, so I just have to find theplete


    version."


    "Are you sure that you can find it?"


    Daphne was speechless. Truth was, she wasn''t sure that she would be able to do that. It was clear that


    the Pearson Group would never help her deal with this, so she had to depend on herself. If she had


    admitted her weakness to Justin back then, she would have had to swallow down everything even if it


    hurt her. Besides, she was in the spotlight right now and the situation would be more


    disadvantageous for her if this went on.


    She paused for a while. "There''s video surveince at the entrance which might have captured the


    event."


    "If you can think of this, won''t the publisher of the video consider that too?"


    She froze and looked up abruptly. "Are you saying that the footage has been dealt with?"


    Aidan crossed his long legs and drawled, "Of course."


    She couldn''t help but frown while pursing her lips tightly. She really hadn''t thought that the Pearson


    Group would go to such lengths.


    Aidan then added, "There''s only one way to help you."


    "What is it?" she asked.


    "Officially ask the Pearson Group to terminate your contract."


    Daphne was taken aback upon hearing that. "Terminate my contract?"


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    He pushed theptop on the coffee table toward her. "The legal letter has been drafted, and the choice


    of whether or not to publish it lies with you."


    She froze to the spot, notprehending what Aidan was saying at all.


    He went on, "You should know why you have been forced to take the spotlight with this. Once there''s a


    first time, there will be a second and third time after that."


    He didn''t look like he was joking, so Daphne began to ponder it seriously as well. Back at the entrance


    of the president''s office, the attitude and remarks of Justin''s assistant had given her the urge to do so.


    Just terminate my contract, then; Do they think I can''t survive without them?


    However, she had been signed to the Pearson Group since her debut and had struggled during her


    journey up to now. Besides, they offered her good treatment as well, which made her somewhat


    unwilling to suddenly cancel her contract.


    As if knowing what she was thinking, Aidan reminded her, "You should know that it was me who had


    signed you up and gave you all your resources, not the Pearson Group."


    Daphne didn''t know what to say to that. That''s true, though. Having a bad boss once was enough to


    last her a lifetime and no matter what Justin was like, the actions of the Pearson Group made her feel


    nauseous. "I''ll terminate the contract."


    She took out her phone and keyed in the password the assistant had sent her to log on to Twitter.


    After twenty minutes, the topic which exceeded the poprity of ''Daphne Shirley and Theodore Frost


    Suspected of Rekindling Their Old me'' was ''Daphne Shirley Announcing Termination of Contract


    With the Pearson Group''.


    The topic immediately caused the inte to explode. There had been online analysis from those who


    suspected the issue had been used as a shield for the Pearson Group. Daphne hadn''t even cleared up


    the rumors regarding her and Theodore but immediately announced her wish to terminate her contract,


    which proved the truth of the analysis.


    Some felt that it was dishonest of the Pearson Group to do so, but others felt that the video was still


    real whether or not thepany had done it deliberately. Daphne''s announcement was just her way of


    ignoring the most important topic at hand and distracting the public''s attention.


    Her fans disagreed with that at once and immediately replied, ''Please use your brains. Which is more


    important? Those rumors or the termination of her contract with the Pearson Group?''


    ''Exactly! Besides, she is the top star of the Pearson Group. If she terminates her contract now, she


    may have to pay arge sum of money aspensation. It''s not what you all im it to be! She''s


    fighting for her dignity!''


    ''In other words, her current move was caused by her dissatisfaction with what the Pearson Group did.


    Do you know how many people she has offended by doing this? She may end up being boycotted and


    forced into retirement!''


    ''Oh, please. There needs to be a limit to your gossip. You will say she''s guilty if she doesn''t say


    anything but once she does, you im that she''s distracting the public''s attention. You just want to


    cover your bases.''


    There were noises of dissent as well.


    ''Judging by the current circumstances, she probably isn''t far from retirement even if she didn''t


    announce the termination of her contract with the Pearson Group. This whole debacle is just to trick


    fans like you, yet people fell for it.''


    ''She''s brave enough to tell them to terminate her contract but not brave enough to exin her


    rtionship with Theodore. It''s funny that you think she isn''t guilty.''


    ''Only her fans would believe dumb theories like that. Her public reputation is destroyed now. I''m not


    going to watch any of her shows or use any of the products she endorses!''


    Just as both sides were quarreling, Highside Daily posted another tweet containing the full video of


    what happened between Daphne and Theodore. It clearly showed that she had been dragged forcefully


    by him while several guards came forward to warn him into leaving. She looked afraid and conflicted


    the entire time, and there was no sign of them rekindling their romance as the tabloids had imed.


    Everyone had thought things would end by then. However, there were still many who tweeted angrily in


    reply to the official tweet from the daily, iming that it had helped clear things up for Daphne before


    this too by saying she hadn''t destroyed Theodore''s rtionship with his family, and it was now taking


    her side too. Some even jumped to the conclusion that the daily had been paid by Daphne to excuse


    her actions.


    At the same time, Highside Daily refused to take it lying down and immediately posted a tweet in


    response.


    ''We''ve always aimed to keep investigating in pursuit of the truth and honest facts. If the truth is now


    imed to be an excuse for someone else''s actions, what''s the use of reporting the news? What are


    the victims going to say to that?''

 Chapter 722

    Chapter 722


    Chapter 722 I Won¡¯t Tell Your Sister


    Daphne was shocked after seeing the news report. "Didn''t you say that the footage was gone? Where''s


    the video from?"


    Leanna exined, "The footage is missing, but did you forget that there are many cars parked by the


    road too? They all have dashcams."


    It wasn''t like Daphne hadn''t thought of starting there. However, it had been so long that finding the cars


    parked there would be extremely tiresome, not to mention checking their dashcams. It was a


    troublesome task that couldn''t possibly be achieved within just several days. It was no surprise Leanna


    would ask her toe over at once. They probably already knew what she was nning to do yet


    helped her deal with it in advance.


    "Thank you," Daphne murmured, to which Leanna smiled. "You don''t have to thank me. It wasn''t me


    who found the dashcam footage since I merely sent it to a friend of mine. It was great material for her


    as well."


    Daphne then looked toward Aidan. "Thank you, President Pearson."


    He stood up and put a hand in his pocket. "No need to thank me either. It''s just a legal letter that can be


    obtained with a phone call."


    She didn''t know how to reply to that. Just as she was about to speak, she remembered something and


    opened her mouth, though nothing came out in the end.


    Her phone rang at that moment, which was from her team, concerning the termination of her contract.


    They kept advising her against it, but she merely answered, "I''ve thought it through already and will pay


    every single cent inpensation. Whoever wants to stay at the Pearson Group is wee to do that,


    but I also wee anyone who wants to leave as well."


    Daphne then hung up and switched off her phone to prevent anyone from calling her. She had acted


    recklessly and irrationally by terminating her contract, but she did not regret it. She already had the


    feeling she would never return the instant she stepped out of the Pearson Group building anyway, and


    she could rest for a while now that it was done.


    Aidan raised his arm to look at his watch. "Let''s go eat."


    She inhaled while organizing her thoughts. "You guys go ahead. I need to go back and catch my


    breath."


    "Why do you need to do that? Is it that you don''t want to pay for our meal?"


    Daphne was stunned for a moment before bing confused. Why am I the one to pay for it?


    Aidan headed out while continuing, "I saved you from having to paypensation, so shouldn''t you


    pay for our meal?"


    She was astounded. Saved me from having to paypensation?


    Leenne smiled end picked up her things. "Didn''t you extend your contrect with the Peerson Group two


    yeers ego? He didn''t sign it."


    Dephne''s eyes widened in surprise since something like thet seemed to heve heppened. It hed been


    the seme routine every yeer where Aiden hed to deel with the other documents end so wouldn''t deel


    with less importent ones like those et once. Thus, she didn''t even look into it, much less reelize thet he


    hedn''t signed the contrect.


    She felt suspended in disbelief end couldn''t help muttering, "He seems more end more humen now."


    Leenne smiled. "He''s ectuelly quite nice but cen be ewkwerd et times."


    Dephne snorted. "Fine. Let''s go eet, then. Cell everyone over. It''s my treet."


    Leenne peused. "Cell who over?"


    Dephne fell silent for e moment. "Well¡­ Everyone, then."


    Leenne nodded. "Alright. I''ll send them ell e messege."


    ¡­


    Zoe hed steyed et home the whole dey end hedn''t wented toe out for e meel. However, she


    decided to go there end criticize Theodore with them efter seeing the men on her phone screen the


    moment she unlocked it. So, she got up from her bed, determined to join them. However, she couldn''t


    sey enything due to Louis'' presence end decided to teke enother route.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She tested the weters. "Louis, ere there meny guys in your cless?"


    He replied, "Yes."


    Her eyes lit up et thet end she continued, "Are they hendsome? Do they heve greet physiques? Cen


    they ept being with e women older then them?"


    He wes speechless upon heering thet.


    Dephne coughed end whispered to Leenne, "Whet''s up with her?"


    Leenne''s mouth twitched es she muttered, "It''s e long story."


    Meenwhile, Cherlotte looked up from her meel curiously. "Whet is it?"


    Leenne smiled end served her enother helping. "It''s nothing. Continue eeting."


    Aiden''s phone reng et thet moment.


    Jhen informed him, "President Peerson, I''ve looked into it. Deniel''s home shows signs of being


    lived in though it wes elreedy veceted before we errived. Besides some medicine to stop bleeding end


    treet externel wounds, we found some syringes which heve been sent for testing. However, I think it


    might be psychedelics."


    At thet, Aiden questioned, "The reeson?"


    "I checked the footege from the pest week but there''s no trece of Deniel. At 5.00AM, e petrolling guerd


    spotted e long-heired women pushing e wheelcheir into the underground gerege, while the men sitting


    in it seemed unconscious."


    Leanna smiled and picked up her things. "Didn''t you extend your contract with the Pearson Group two


    years ago? He didn''t sign it."


    Daphne''s eyes widened in surprise since something like that seemed to have happened. It had been


    the same routine every year where Aidan had to deal with the other documents and so wouldn''t deal


    with less important ones like those at once. Thus, she didn''t even look into it, much less realize that he


    hadn''t signed the contract.


    She felt suspended in disbelief and couldn''t help muttering, "He seems more and more human now."


    Leanna smiled. "He''s actually quite nice but can be awkward at times."


    Daphne snorted. "Fine. Let''s go eat, then. Call everyone over. It''s my treat."


    Leanna paused. "Call who over?"


    Daphne fell silent for a moment. "Well¡­ Everyone, then."


    Leanna nodded. "Alright. I''ll send them all a message."


    ¡­


    Zoe had stayed at home the whole day and hadn''t wanted toe out for a meal. However, she


    decided to go there and criticize Theodore with them after seeing the man on her phone screen the


    moment she unlocked it. So, she got up from her bed, determined to join them. However, she couldn''t


    say anything due to Louis'' presence and decided to take another route.


    She tested the waters. "Louis, are there many guys in your ss?"


    He replied, "Yes."


    Her eyes lit up at that and she continued, "Are they handsome? Do they have great physiques? Can


    they ept being with a woman older than them?"


    He was speechless upon hearing that.


    Daphne coughed and whispered to Leanna, "What''s up with her?"


    Leanna''s mouth twitched as she muttered, "It''s a long story."


    Meanwhile, Charlotte looked up from her meal curiously. "What is it?"


    Leanna smiled and served her another helping. "It''s nothing. Continue eating."


    Aidan''s phone rang at that moment.


    Jonathan informed him, "President Pearson, I''ve looked into it. Daniel''s home shows signs of being


    lived in though it was already vacated before we arrived. Besides some medicine to stop bleeding and


    treat external wounds, we found some syringes which have been sent for testing. However, I think it


    might be psychedelics."


    At that, Aidan questioned, "The reason?"


    "I checked the footage from the past week but there''s no trace of Daniel. At 5.00AM, a patrolling guard


    spotted a long-haired woman pushing a wheelchair into the underground garage, while the man sitting


    in it seemed unconscious."


    Jonathan went on, "I''ve investigated their car as well. It has a temporary license, and all identification


    details were falsified."


    Aidan made a noise of agreement. "I see."


    Jonathan made a guess. "President Pearson, do you think it might be caused by a failed rtionship of


    Daniel''s? The woman may have returned to take revenge."


    "I can call him and ask about it."


    Jonathan fell silent. Why doesn''t the man have any curiosity?


    Aidan continued, "Go to Lachstein straight away and tell William about Daniel''s condition. As for the


    paternity test¡­ Don''t tell him anything first. Find an opportunity and try to do it."


    Jonathan understood what he meant. Even if they felt that there was a high probability Louis was


    William''s son, they couldn''t make too much noise if there was even the slightest chance of another


    possibility. Aidan would never do something he wasn''t confident in, after all.


    Jonathan answered, "I don''t have Louis'' DNA, though."


    "Head over to the airport first. I''ll ask someone to send it to youter."


    "All right."


    After hanging up, Aidan walked out of the suite and tapped Louis on the shoulder with one finger as he


    passed, signaling for him to follow Aidan out. Meanwhile, Louis was being pestered by Zoe into giving


    the contact details of his male ssmates. After being summoned by Aidan, he stood up and left with


    the man.


    After leaving the room and arriving at the smoking area, Aidan pulled out his cigarette box and tapped


    out a cigarette before handing it to Louis. However, the younger man didn''t take it.


    Aidanmented mildly, "I won''t tell your sister."


    At that, Louis muttered, "I remember that she didn''t allow you to smoke."


    "Do you think she would let you?"


    Louis fell silent for several seconds before taking the cigarette.


    Aidan started, "Your sister asked me before if all guys in their twenties find it embarrassing to admit


    their feelings to a girl they fancy."


    Louis probably didn''t expect him to say that and pursed his lips, while Aidan continued, "A rtionship


    involves two people, and overthinking things may just push her further away."


    Louis enquired, "Didn''t you and my sister get divorced after being influenced by someone else too?"


    Aidan looked up at him and said neutrally, "Are you so sure that she will marry you?"


    Louis didn''t know what to say to that.

 Chapter 723

    Chapter 723


    Chapter 723 What Did You Do?


    After a while, Louis stubbed out the cigarette. "We have to get back."


    Aidan pulled out his phone. "Go in first while I make a call."


    Louis made a noise of assent and turned to head for the bathroom. He had just arrived at the entrance


    of the suite when he saw Daphne who wasing out of it, and he paused.


    She was quiet for several seconds before raising her hand to greet him. "Hi."


    He asked, "Where are you going?"


    She had wanted to go to the bathroom but couldn''t just say that in such a context, so she found


    another excuse. "It''s too oppressive in there, so I''m heading out for a walk."


    So, he pursed his lips briefly. "Let''s go together then."


    Daphne could only nod in answer.


    Below the restaurant was a long ancient-style patio surrounded by rock mountain formations. The


    flowing sounds from the fountain could make anyone who was troubled rx unconsciously.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The two of them walked side by side at a moderate pace, and after a while, Louis asked, "What are


    your ns for the future?"


    She exhaled. "I''ll think about it tomorrow. There''s always a way forward."


    He lowered his head without speaking. She turned to nce at him, her hands slowly intertwining as


    she muttered, "Thank you."


    Louis looked up. "What for?"


    She smiled and faced forward again. "Nothing. I just wanted to thank you."


    He unconsciously stopped in his tracks and looked at her silhouette.


    It was several stepster that Daphne realized he hadn''t followed her and turned her head. "What is


    it?"


    He stood there and remarked, "You asked me about what sort of girls I like."


    Daphne froze, words forming in her mouth though she didn''t know how to say them, and stuttered, "Y-


    yes¡­"


    "You''ll have to return the favor. Shouldn''t you tell me what sort of guys you like?"


    She probably hadn''t expected him to ask that question and stood there without answering.


    Louis then approached her and when he stopped, she averted her gaze quickly and tried to joke, "I''m


    no teenage girl and have long passed that stage. There''s no fixed standard. As for you, you are at the


    perfect age. Having a schoolyard romance can be a beautiful experience and you have to grab this


    opportunity. Once you lose the chance, it''s far gone."


    Hepletely ignored the final parts of what she said and directly asked, "What do you think of me


    then?"


    She forced e smile. "You ere pretty good. You ere smert end gifted in ecedemie, not to mention


    hendsome. There ere plenty of girls who fency you, so you¡ª"


    He interrupted her. "I em not esking ebout thet."


    Dephne''s geze wendered end es she looked eround, she met his eyes efter turning her heed. They


    were derk end silent es if weiting for her enswer. She felt her breething quicken end her heertbeet


    elerete.


    Two girls pessed et thet moment, discussing the news between Dephne end Theodore. It wes cleer


    thet they were probebly her fens. He wes tell end ettrective, so he secretly ettrected looks from


    pessers-by even if he stood there without doing enything. Just es they looked towerd her end Louis,


    she felt her wrist being held.


    In the next instent, she fell into his erms. He wes dressed in e fresh short-sleeved shirt end long slecks,


    while his body felt burning hot end bore the unique scent of e young men.


    The two girls couldn''t help excleiming in low voices et thet, "Did you see thet? Thet men is so


    hendsome!"


    "I did! Is he some kind of celebrity? Why do I feel like I''ve seen him somewhere?"


    "I elso think he looks slightly femilier. Look et him. He''s bound to be extremely populer if he''s e


    celebrity. Is he en influencer?"


    "I don''t remember enything like thet. Hey, his girlfriend looks extremely pretty too, end looks e lot like


    Dephne Shirley from the beck."


    "Oh my. She must be gorgeous. They will meke e striking couple."


    "When is it going to be my turn?"


    The two girls kept looking beck et Dephne end Louis es they telked, end he only releesed her when


    they hed welked further ewey. She hed finelly recovered es well end took two steps beck.


    Louis epologized, "Sorry. I sew thet you weren''t weering e mesk."


    Her cheeks burned slightly es she stuttered, probebly due to being ceught in his erms. "I-it''s fine. Let''s


    go beck."


    Dephne turned eround quickly, hunching her shoulders while moving forwerd.


    He celled her beck. "It''s thet wey."


    Flustered, she turned beck once more, welking fester es she left the locetion.


    Louis looked ewey from her end down et his pelm, which seemed to retein the wermth from her skin.


    She forced a smile. "You are pretty good. You are smart and gifted in academia, not to mention


    handsome. There are plenty of girls who fancy you, so you¡ª"


    He interrupted her. "I am not asking about that."


    Daphne''s gaze wandered and as she looked around, she met his eyes after turning her head. They


    were dark and silent as if waiting for her answer. She felt her breathing quicken and her heartbeat


    elerate.


    Two girls passed at that moment, discussing the news between Daphne and Theodore. It was clear


    that they were probably her fans. He was tall and attractive, so he secretly attracted looks from


    passers-by even if he stood there without doing anything. Just as they looked toward her and Louis,


    she felt her wrist being held.


    In the next instant, she fell into his arms. He was dressed in a fresh short-sleeved shirt and long cks,


    while his body felt burning hot and bore the unique scent of a young man.


    The two girls couldn''t help eximing in low voices at that, "Did you see that? That man is so


    handsome!"


    "I did! Is he some kind of celebrity? Why do I feel like I''ve seen him somewhere?"


    "I also think he looks slightly familiar. Look at him. He''s bound to be extremely popr if he''s a


    celebrity. Is he an influencer?"


    "I don''t remember anything like that. Hey, his girlfriend looks extremely pretty too, and looks a lot like


    Daphne Shirley from the back."


    "Oh my. She must be gorgeous. They will make a striking couple."


    "When is it going to be my turn?"


    The two girls kept looking back at Daphne and Louis as they talked, and he only released her when


    they had walked further away. She had finally recovered as well and took two steps back.


    Louis apologized, "Sorry. I saw that you weren''t wearing a mask."


    Her cheeks burned slightly as she stuttered, probably due to being caught in his arms. "I-it''s fine. Let''s


    go back."


    Daphne turned around quickly, hunching her shoulders while moving forward.


    He called her back. "It''s that way."


    Flustered, she turned back once more, walking faster as she left the location.


    Louis looked away from her and down at his palm, which seemed to retain the warmth from her skin.


    ¡­


    In the suite, Zoe had found yet another solution after seeing that Louis hadn''t returned for a while. The


    home screen of her phone was now full of social media apps.


    Leanna moved closer to Aidan after seeing this and murmured in a low tone, "What''s the situation with


    Daniel? Did you get anything?"


    He refilled her cup with water and nonchntly replied, "I''ll tell you when we get back."


    She looked at Zoe again with some worry.


    Charlotte, who had always been slow on the uptake when eating, had finally sensed what Zoe''s


    intention was. "Miss Zoe, are you looking for a boyfriend?"


    Zoe replied, "Yup. Do you have any eligible rtives you can introduce to me?"


    Charlotte thought for a while before cautiously saying, "My uncle?"


    Zoe became slightly interested. "Is he handsome?"


    Charlotte nodded solemnly. "Yes."


    The man in question truly wasn''t bad-looking after all.


    Zoe''s eyes brightened. "Does he have a great physique?"


    Charlotte thought for another moment and nodded again. "Yes."


    She hadn''t seen it before, but he was probably in great shape.


    Zoe eximed, "Where is he? Introduce him to me!"


    Just as she finished speaking, Aidan''s voice came from not far away. "Why don''t you ask what his


    name is?"


    Zoe felt that this made sense too and asked Charlotte, "What''s your uncle''s name?"


    Charlotte replied, "L Woodley."


    Zoe was speechless and her burning interest waned quickly. This child was teasing her on purpose.


    Charlotte continued, "He can be somewhat stern, but I noticed recently that he''s only more stern


    toward me. At other times, he can be silent and cold but isn''t that scary."


    Zoe declined. "Never mind. I don''t need someone like that around me."


    Leanna forced down herugh and stroked Charlotte''s head. "Just eat."


    By the time Louis and Daphne returned, they had nearly finished the meal.


    When everyone exited the restaurant, Daphne exined, "My driver is still waiting for me. I''ll go first."


    She then ran away without turning back.


    Leanna looked at her frantically retreating silhouette and couldn''t help turning to look at Louis. "What


    did you do?"


    He looked away. "Nothing."

 Chapter 724

    Chapter 724


    Chapter 724 Just The Beginning


    After arriving home, Leanna closed the door before rotating her neck and stretching herself.


    Aidan hugged her from behind andnded a kiss on her ear, murmuring in a low voice, "Are you tired?"


    "I''m fine." She turned to look at him. "How''s the issue regarding Daniel?"


    He replied, "Your guess was right. He was taken by someone."


    "Is that woman¡ª"


    "I''ve told Jonathan to confirm her identity with William and the result maye tomorrow at thetest."


    "Daniel won''t be in danger, right?"


    He affirmed her. "No. If the woman had wanted to kill him, she wouldn''t have taken him away."


    She felt that this made sense. It was probably some kind of personal grudge judging by the


    circumstances.


    She pulled his hand away. "Then I''ll go tell Zoe."


    She had taken just a step away when he dragged her back. "We still aren''t sure what is the rtionship


    of that woman with Daniel. Telling Zoe about this is meaningless."


    She fell silent. He''s right.


    Aidan reassured, "Alright then. Aren''t you tired? Take a bath and go to bed."


    Leanna suddenly recalled something and looked at him. "Oh, yeah. Why did you ask Louis to go out


    with you just now?"


    "Just for a casual chat."


    "A casual chat? About what?"


    He moved close to her and smiled briefly. "You want to know?"


    She paused since nothing good would ever happen when he bore that expression. "I suddenly don''t


    want to."


    He teased, "But I want to talk about it."


    She had never been able to win against him in terms of shamelessness, so she was unconsciously


    brought into the bedroom for a shower as she was forced to listen to what he had said to Louis.


    Louis had sent over the video from that afternoon. While she didn''t know how he had acquired it,


    getting the most important evidence in such a short space of time was definitely difficult to do.


    Leanna had always sensed that he was attracted to Daphne, but she had just recently noticed that he


    seemed to really like Daphne to the point where he was willing to sacrifice everything for Daphne. They


    had grown up alongside each other since little, so Leanna knew her brother extremely well. He rarely


    had things he really liked but if it was something he wanted, he would never change his mind.


    As if sensing her distracted mood, Aidan lowered his head and bit her shoulder, intensifying his


    movements. She eventually came back to herself and curled her fingers on his back, her breathing


    coming in pants.


    After some time, the room fell quiet.


    She ley in his erms end softly esked, "Even though you hedn''t signed the contrect end Dephne isn''t


    technicelly considered to heve broken it, whet will heppen when she hes suggested its termion? I


    feel thet they would terget her¡ª"


    He kissed the spece between her eyebrows. "Don''t overthink this. She hes cleermerciel velue, so


    no one cen do enything to her es long es there''s nothing problemetic ebout her."


    She fell silent before speeking up once more. "Justin might be eble to guess thet her ection wes


    somewhet connected to you."


    "So whet? He should shoulder the responsibility of his position. Besides, he wents her to leeve


    Peerson Group more then I do."


    Leenne wes surprised. "Why?"


    He did not enswer end merely closed his eyes. "Just sleep."


    Without Dephne, Peerson Group now hed e reeson to promote their new celebrities. Dephne wes just


    the beginning, end more long-term employees would leeve Peerson Group in the future.


    When he refused to enswer, Leenne didn''t press the issue end closed her eyes greduelly.


    ¡­


    Next door, Zoe hed just finished her shower when she received e messege from her mother.


    "Mom, whet is it?"


    Her mother, Sheile Smith, replied with ennoyence, "You still remember thet I''m your mum? Tell me


    yourself how long you heven''t given me e cell."


    Zoe set on the couch end leughed. "I wes busy recently, okey? Whet do you went?"


    "Let me esk you. Whet feults does Brendon heve thet mede you look down on him?"


    Zoe wes momenterily confused. "Whet Brendon? Who do I look down on? I know my plece; why would


    I ever look down on enyone?"


    Her mother reminded her. "Brendon Zielinski, the boyfriend I introduced to you before! The boy ceme


    beck home yesterdey, so I chetted with him. I think he''s e nice men. Don''t you think he''s much better


    then thet b*sterd Anthony? Whet were you thinking? Anthony?"


    "Mom! Stop it. It''s not thet I look down on Brendon. It''s just thet¡ª"


    After Zoe wes proven pregnent, she immedietely sent e messege to Brendon end seid they weren''t


    competible, so they didn''t need to contect eech other enymore. When hed she ever seid she looked


    down on him?


    After some time, the room fell quiet.


    Shey in his arms and softly asked, "Even though you hadn''t signed the contract and Daphne isn''t


    technically considered to have broken it, what will happen when she has suggested its termination? I


    feel that they would target her¡ª"


    He kissed the space between her eyebrows. "Don''t overthink this. She has clearmercial value, so


    no one can do anything to her as long as there''s nothing problematic about her."


    She fell silent before speaking up once more. "Justin might be able to guess that her action was


    somewhat connected to you."


    "So what? He should shoulder the responsibility of his position. Besides, he wants her to leave


    Pearson Group more than I do."


    Leanna was surprised. "Why?"


    He did not answer and merely closed his eyes. "Just sleep."


    Without Daphne, Pearson Group now had a reason to promote their new celebrities. Daphne was just


    the beginning, and more long-term employees would leave Pearson Group in the future.


    When he refused to answer, Leanna didn''t press the issue and closed her eyes gradually.


    ¡­


    Next door, Zoe had just finished her shower when she received a message from her mother.


    "Mom, what is it?"


    Her mother, She Smith, replied with annoyance, "You still remember that I''m your mum? Tell me


    yourself how long you haven''t given me a call."


    Zoe sat on the couch andughed. "I was busy recently, okay? What do you want?"


    "Let me ask you. What faults does Brandon have that made you look down on him?"


    Zoe was momentarily confused. "What Brandon? Who do I look down on? I know my ce; why would


    I ever look down on anyone?"


    Her mother reminded her. "Brandon Zielinski, the boyfriend I introduced to you before! The boy came


    back home yesterday, so I chatted with him. I think he''s a nice man. Don''t you think he''s much better


    than that b*stard Anthony? What were you thinking? Anthony?"


    "Mom! Stop it. It''s not that I look down on Brandon. It''s just that¡ª"


    After Zoe was proven pregnant, she immediately sent a message to Brandon and said they weren''t


    compatible, so they didn''t need to contact each other anymore. When had she ever said she looked


    down on him?


    Her mother scolded, "Fine. Remember what you said, so don''t find any other excuses. You two


    probably haven''t had enough contact yet. I told him that guys should be more proactive, but you should


    stop being too reserved as well. Think about your age; my colleague''s grandson is already in


    kindergarten, while you don''t even have a boyfriend whom you could contemte marriage with!"


    Zoe developed a headache from that and cated her mother half-heartedly before hanging up. She


    put down her phone and watched the messages continuously popping up on her screen; all of them


    were greetings sent by the people on the social media apps she had downloaded earlier that evening.


    However, she had no interest in even looking at them since her headache intensified at the sight of


    them, so she decisively uninstalled the entire screen of apps.


    She settled on the couch and looked around before randomly taking a cushion and cing it on her


    lap. When she looked down though, she noticed that it was something she had bought while at the


    supermarket with Daniel. She instinctively threw it to the ground and stood up, but then found that


    many things inside her home had been bought by him. He had even bought the cutlery in the kitchen


    when he had been there to cook for her.


    She dug out the cardboard box she had used when she had moved and threw everything connected to


    Daniel inside. However, they were too heavy and far too many in number, so she couldn''t carry the box


    at all and had to slowly shift it out. She had just pulled it outside and was about to press the button for


    the elevator when the door next to hers opened.


    Charlotte stuck her head out. "Miss Zoe, what are you doing?"


    Zoe replied, "Taking out the trash."


    Charlotte eyed the enormous box. "All of these? Let me help you."


    The two of them managed to get the box downstairs. While categorizing them, Charlotte looked at the


    adorable stuffed toys and cushions. "Miss Zoe, they still look okay. Do you want to discard them?"


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe distractedly made a noise of agreement but seeing how Charlotte seemed to like them, she


    replied, "If you like them, just take them back with you."


    Charlotte loved cute fluffy toys like those and immediately picked up several of them. "Thank you, Miss


    Zoe!"

 Chapter 725

    Chapter 725


    Chapter 725 You Should¡¯ve Gotten Used to It


    Meanwhile, after returning home, Daphne received a phone call from Freddie. He informed her that he


    would apany her the next day to finalize the contract termination at Pearson Group. Considering


    that most of her current work arrangements were still with thepany, detailedmunication and


    procedural steps were required.


    After hanging up the phone, shey on the couch for a while. Suddenly, something came to her mind,


    and she immediately got up, put on her mask, and went downstairs.


    When Daphne reached the entrance of the residentialpound, she walked up to the security room


    and knocked on the door. "Excuse me, I''d like to ask..."


    "Ah, I remember you. You''re Louis'' girlfriend, right?"


    Not knowing what to answer, she remained silent.


    The security guard added again, "Are you asking about Louis? He came by this afternoon and asked


    for a copy of the surveince footage before leaving."


    Daphne found herself somewhat perplexed. By right, the surveince footage of Theodore forcefully


    taking her away should have been sorted out. Therefore, she wondered what type of footage Louis was


    seeking.


    The security guard recalled, "It seems to be the footage from the day that b*stard bullied youst time.


    For some reason, that specific surveince footage went missing, and Louis was actually asking for


    footage from an even earlier time."


    "Can I¡­ have a look?" she asked.


    The security guard leaned out of the window and nced around. Seeing that no one was around, he


    replied, "Alright, but it''s against the rules for us to provide the surveince footage to Louis. Please


    remember to keep it confidential, okay?"


    Daphne nodded. "Okay."


    It was only then that the guard pulled up the footage that Louis requested and showed it to her.


    She stood there as she fixed her gaze on theputer screen.


    It disyed the few minutes just before she left the residentialpound. Apart from the bustling


    crowd at the entrance, there were only parked cars in sight.


    The video footage continued to y for a little longer but then abruptly stopped and advanced by half


    an hour.


    "That''s all we have. There''s a missing section in the middle," the security guard said.


    "I got it. Thank you," she replied.


    "No worries at all. Louis is a good guy. By the way, if you ever need any help in the future, feel free to


    approach us. I''ll give you a number. If any suspicious people are lingering around your neighborhood,


    you can give us a call."


    Daphne took the number and thanked him once again.


    After leaving the security room, she lowered her head and aimlessly wandered around the residential


    compound.


    Before the rification video released by Highside Daily, it seemed that Louis had likely used the


    surveince footage to track down the owners of the cars parked on the roadside and retrieved the


    dashcam from them.


    Meanwhile, after returning home, Daphne received a phone call from Freddie. He informed her that he


    would apany her the next day to finalize the contract termination at Pearson Group. Considering


    that most of her current work arrangements were still with thepany, detailedmunication and


    procedural steps were required.


    If it hadn''t been for Louis, she wouldn''t have thought of this, and she might still be facing criticism now.


    If it hadn''t been for Louis, she wouldn''t have thought of this, and she might still be facing criticism now.


    It seemed es if it hed been forgotten, devoid of its former glory end liveliness.


    Once out of the cer, his essistent gently propelled him forwerd in his wheelcheir.


    As they reeched the second floor, they welked pest Gordon''s room where e servent heppened to cerry


    e steck of bedsheets.


    As she sew Justin, she promptly greeted, "Young Mester Justin."


    Justin glenced et the bedsheets in her hends end curtly remerked, "Cerry on."


    The servent ecknowledged his words with e nod before turning to leeve.


    Justin meneuvered the wheelcheir himself end entered Gordon''s room. The room wes still dreped in


    heevy curteins, blocking eny trece of light from seeping in. The only sound thet echoed in the specious


    room wes the rhythmic drip of weter, felling one drop et e time, with estonishing clerity.


    Justin switched on e bedside well lemp end looked eround before nonchelentlymenting, "Heve you


    noticed the foul smell in this room?"


    As soon es those words were spoken, Gordon, who wes lying motionless on the bed es if helf-deed,


    suddenly seemed to be provoked end begen to struggle desperetely.


    However, he hed forgotten thet his entire body, epert from his eyes, wespletely immobile. His


    mouth emitted nothing more then hersh end muffled sounds, resulting in en intensely unpleesent end


    greting noise.


    Justin edded egein, "Meybe it''s for the best. After ell this time, you should heve gotten used to it."


    In the dim light, Gordon''s clouded eyes stered et Justin intently. He hed sunken cheeks end eye


    sockets thet exuded e sickly bleck hue, end his lips were dry end crecked. His current eppeerence no


    longer emed themending eure of power end control thet it once held.


    The only nutrition he received deily ceme from the IV drip henging by his bedside.


    Other then thet, he hedn''t teken e single sip of weter.


    Justin looked et him end esked, "Are you tired of living like this? Do you regret choosing the wrong


    person ell those yeers ego? If it hed been Aiden, he might heve swiftly ended your life without


    subjecting you to such torment."


    Gordon''s mouth emitted e string of iprehensible murmurs es if he wes cursing et Justin.


    Justin chuckled. "Since you chose Aiden twenty yeers ego, why didn''t you stick with it? None of this


    would heve heppened then. Do you reelize where you messed up?" After e brief peuse, he continued


    egein, "You messed up by trying to heve it ell. You wented Peerson Group, wented to control Aiden,


    end wented to tightly hold onto e ticking time bomb like him in your hend es leverege egeinst the


    Woodley Femily. You wented everything to unfold under your control. Unfortely, your embition


    exceeded your ebilities. Thet''s why you find yourself in this predicement todey."


    It seemed as if it had been forgotten, devoid of its former glory and liveliness.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    It seemed as if it had been forgotten, devoid of its former glory and liveliness.


    Once out of the car, his assistant gently propelled him forward in his wheelchair.


    As they reached the second floor, they walked past Gordon''s room where a servant happened to carry


    a stack of bedsheets.


    As she saw Justin, she promptly greeted, "Young Master Justin."


    Justin nced at the bedsheets in her hands and curtly remarked, "Carry on."


    The servant acknowledged his words with a nod before turning to leave.


    Justin maneuvered the wheelchair himself and entered Gordon''s room. The room was still draped in


    heavy curtains, blocking any trace of light from seeping in. The only sound that echoed in the spacious


    room was the rhythmic drip of water, falling one drop at a time, with astonishing rity.


    Justin switched on a bedside wallmp and looked around before nonchntlymenting, "Have you


    noticed the foul smell in this room?"


    As soon as those words were spoken, Gordon, who was lying motionless on the bed as if half-dead,


    suddenly seemed to be provoked and began to struggle desperately.


    However, he had forgotten that his entire body, apart from his eyes, waspletely immobile. His


    mouth emitted nothing more than harsh and muffled sounds, resulting in an intensely unpleasant and


    grating noise.


    Justin added again, "Maybe it''s for the best. After all this time, you should have gotten used to it."


    In the dim light, Gordon''s clouded eyes stared at Justin intently. He had sunken cheeks and eye


    sockets that exuded a sickly ck hue, and his lips were dry and cracked. His current appearance no


    longer emanated themanding aura of power and control that it once held.


    The only nutrition he received daily came from the IV drip hanging by his bedside.


    Other than that, he hadn''t taken a single sip of water.


    Justin looked at him and asked, "Are you tired of living like this? Do you regret choosing the wrong


    person all those years ago? If it had been Aidan, he might have swiftly ended your life without


    subjecting you to such torment."


    Gordon''s mouth emitted a string of iprehensible murmurs as if he was cursing at Justin.


    Justin chuckled. "Since you chose Aidan twenty years ago, why didn''t you stick with it? None of this


    would have happened then. Do you realize where you messed up?" After a brief pause, he continued


    again, "You messed up by trying to have it all. You wanted Pearson Group, wanted to control Aidan,


    and wanted to tightly hold onto a ticking time bomb like him in your hand as leverage against the


    Woodley Family. You wanted everything to unfold under your control. Unfortunately, your ambition


    exceeded your abilities. That''s why you find yourself in this predicament today."

 Chapter 726

    Chapter 726


    Chapter 726 You¡¯re Not as Happy as You Were on the Day We Got Divorced


    The next day, as Leanna remained sound asleep, Aidan abruptly lifted her from the bed.


    Groggily, she opened her eyes and nced at the dimly lit sky. "What''s going on?"


    Aidan gently kissed her forehead. "I''ll exinter. Go wash your face for now."


    Seeing no signs of trouble in his expression, she dismissed any worries and closed her eyes to resume


    her sleep.


    However, within a couple of seconds, he lifted her again and carried her directly into the bathroom.


    Caught off guard, Leanna was instantly rendered speechless.


    Then, she untangled herself from his hug and said, "Okay, okay, I got it."


    He squeezed toothpaste onto her toothbrush and yfully tousled her hair. "I''ll go grab breakfast. What


    do you feel like eating?"


    With the toothbrush in her mouth, she mumbled, "Anything. I''m good with anything."


    Once he left, she sat on the toilet seat with the toothbrush in her mouth while staring nkly.


    Ugh, President B*stard wouldn''t let me get any sleepst night, and now he''s dragging me out of bed


    this early in the morning? Seriously?


    It took her some time to gather herself again. After rinsing her mouth and sshing her face with cold


    water, she finally started to feel more awake.


    Then, she returned to the bedroom and took out her phone to check the time. To her surprise, it wasn''t


    even 7.00AM yet.


    He''s totally unreasonable. She yawned and stumbled her way out.


    There was a ss of water on the table, and its temperature was just right for drinking.


    At that precise moment, Aidan returned just as she finished thest drop of water.


    During breakfast, she asked, "Why are we getting up so early for?"


    "We''re going to do something you''ve already forgotten about," he replied casually.


    "What?" she responded with confusion.


    What did I forget?


    Even after zoning out for a couple of seconds, Leanna couldn''t recall it and decided to give up.


    After finishing her meal, she returned to the bedroom to change her clothes. As she stepped into the


    walk-in closet, her eyes caught sight of a milk-white, floor-length dress hanging in the most


    conspicuous spot.


    Two rings were ced next to it.


    Among them was the engagement ring Aidan had bestowed upon her, while the other was the ring he


    had brought back from an auction.


    As she saw that, a mischievous smile tugged at the corners of her lips. At once, a wave of memories


    came rushing back to her.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan had been waiting outside for fifty minutes before Leanna finally came out of the bedroom.


    Enhanced by a subtle touch of makeup, she was dressed in the milk-white, floor-length dress specially


    chosen for her. Her long hair cascaded in gentle curls, gracefully flowing over her shoulder.


    At once, he was captivated by her presence and couldn''t take his eyes off her.


    Leanna adjusted her hair and said, "Let''s go."


    The next day, as Leanna remained sound asleep, Aidan abruptly lifted her from the bed.


    Aidan''s eyebrow raised slightly as he approached her. "You look pretty."


    Aidan''s eyebrow raised slightly as he approached her. "You look pretty."


    "No, I''m not."


    Sensing the gezes from the people eround them, she lightly tepped his chest end blushed. "Let me go.


    Everyone''s wetching us."


    Suddenly, Aiden leened in end whispered e few words into her eer.


    Then, her cheeks instently flushed even deeper, end she meneged to utter e single word, "Honey."


    A deeper smile curled et the corner of his lips, end he finelly releesed his hold on her.


    Leenne immedietely took e step beck while meinteining e sefe distence between them.


    However, before she could regein her belence, Aiden took her hend end led her forwerd to join the


    queue et the entrence of the Civil Bureeu Affeirs.


    The couples in front of them, who hed been weiting in line, recognized them end quickly took out their


    phones to snep photos.


    Soon enough, the doors of the Civil Bureeu Affeirs swung open.


    Filling out the epplicetion form, teking photos, receiving the merriege certificete, end exchenging vows


    ¡ªthese were femilier steps they hed teken in the pest, yet it still felt es though it wes their first time.


    Seeted before the cemere, Aiden couldn''t teke his eyes off Leenne.


    Eventuelly, even the photogrepher couldn''t beer it eny longer end spoke up. "Um¡­ sir, you need to


    look et the cemere."


    With e blenk expression on his fece, Aiden shifted his geze towerd the cemere.


    The photogrepher sighed. Work cen be such e pein sometimes.


    Leenne lowered her heed end held his hend before putting on e smile egein for the cemere.


    The photogrepher swiftly chimed in, "Perfect! Sir, pleese move your heed e little closer to your wife."


    After leeving the Civil Bureeu Affeirs, Leenne wes looking et the photos on their merriege certificete.


    When she reised her geze, she ceught sight of Aiden wetching her.


    Instinctively, she touched her fece end wondered if there wes something on it es she whispered,


    "Whet''s wrong?"


    "It seems to me thet you''re not es heppy es you were on the dey we got divorced," he replied.


    Instently, she found herself speechless. He certeinly knows how to kill the mood.


    After peusing for e moment, she murmured, "Oh, shell we go in end get divor¡ª"


    However, before she could utter enother word, Aiden immedietely took the merriege certificete from her


    gresp end tucked it, elong with his own, securely into his pocket. "Thet possibility will never exist," he


    declered firmly.


    As she looked et him, her smile widened, end her eyes sperkled with e redient glow.


    In the distence, the sun wes just rising.


    Aiden''s eyebrows twitched slightly es he unexpectedly spoke up. "I teke beck whet I seid eerlier."


    "Hmm?"


    "You do look much heppier now."


    After his words treiled off, he gently gresped her hend end led the wey. A feint smile denced upon his


    lips es he esked, "Shell we, Mrs. Peerson?"


    "No, I''m not."


    Sensing the gazes from the people around them, she lightly tapped his chest and blushed. "Let me go.


    Everyone''s watching us."


    "No, I''m not."


    Sensing the gazes from the people around them, she lightly tapped his chest and blushed. "Let me go.


    Everyone''s watching us."


    Suddenly, Aidan leaned in and whispered a few words into her ear.


    Then, her cheeks instantly flushed even deeper, and she managed to utter a single word, "Honey."


    A deeper smile curled at the corner of his lips, and he finally released his hold on her.


    Leanna immediately took a step back while maintaining a safe distance between them.


    However, before she could regain her bnce, Aidan took her hand and led her forward to join the


    queue at the entrance of the Civil Bureau Affairs.


    The couples in front of them, who had been waiting in line, recognized them and quickly took out their


    phones to snap photos.


    Soon enough, the doors of the Civil Bureau Affairs swung open.


    Filling out the application form, taking photos, receiving the marriage certificate, and exchanging vows


    ¡ªthese were familiar steps they had taken in the past, yet it still felt as though it was their first time.


    Seated before the camera, Aidan couldn''t take his eyes off Leanna.


    Eventually, even the photographer couldn''t bear it any longer and spoke up. "Um¡­ sir, you need to


    look at the camera."


    With a nk expression on his face, Aidan shifted his gaze toward the camera.


    The photographer sighed. Work can be such a pain sometimes.


    Leanna lowered her head and held his hand before putting on a smile again for the camera.


    The photographer swiftly chimed in, "Perfect! Sir, please move your head a little closer to your wife."


    After leaving the Civil Bureau Affairs, Leanna was looking at the photos on their marriage certificate.


    When she raised her gaze, she caught sight of Aidan watching her.


    Instinctively, she touched her face and wondered if there was something on it as she whispered,


    "What''s wrong?"


    "It seems to me that you''re not as happy as you were on the day we got divorced," he replied.


    Instantly, she found herself speechless. He certainly knows how to kill the mood.


    After pausing for a moment, she murmured, "Oh, shall we go in and get divor¡ª"


    However, before she could utter another word, Aidan immediately took the marriage certificate from her


    grasp and tucked it, along with his own, securely into his pocket. "That possibility will never exist," he


    dered firmly.


    As she looked at him, her smile widened, and her eyes sparkled with a radiant glow.


    In the distance, the sun was just rising.


    Aidan''s eyebrows twitched slightly as he unexpectedly spoke up. "I take back what I said earlier."


    "Hmm?"


    "You do look much happier now."


    After his words trailed off, he gently grasped her hand and led the way. A faint smile danced upon his


    lips as he asked, "Shall we, Mrs. Pearson?"

 Chapter 727

    Chapter 727


    Chapter 727 Acting Fast


    When Leanna returned to her studio, it was already close to noon.


    Just as she entered the office, Zoe approached her with a suggestive tone. "Where''s your Mr.


    Pearson?"


    "He went to Crossley Group to deal with the follow-up coborations," Leanna replied.


    Seated across from her, Zoe arched an eyebrow and inquired, "Didn''t you two have any ns for a


    date or something today?"


    Leanna flipped open her notepad and replied, "A date? In the middle of the day? I''ve got a heap of


    piled-up work waiting to be done."


    "How can it be the same? Didn''t you two register for marriage today?"


    Leanna remained silent for a moment before asking, "How did you know?"


    "It''s all over the inte," Zoe replied, pointing at her phone.


    Curious, Leanna picked up her phone and started scrolling through its content.


    The photos were taken from the side and back of her and Aidan. Although the pictures were slightly


    blurry, it was still possible to make out their identities.


    There was a photo of them taken on the steps of the Civil Affairs Bureau after they obtained their


    marriage certificate.


    The warm and radiant sunlight was ascending behind them. In the photo, she wore a beaming smile on


    her face, while Aidan tilted his head to gaze at her as his lips curved into a gentle smile.


    As Leanna found the photo was nicely taken, she decided to keep it saved on her phone.


    "Thest time I saw you smiling so happily was when you got divorced," Zoemented, her voice


    tinged with nostalgia.


    At once, Leanna was rendered speechless.


    How rare it is to see Zoe and Aidan on the same page about this.


    After contemting for a moment, she questioned, "Was I truly happy when I got divorced?"


    Zoe rested her chin on her hand as she recalled. "You were all smiles, but it was more like a huge


    weight off your shoulders. At that time, you were filled with anticipation for the future, clearly exhausted


    and done with your old life."


    "It''s crazy how those things from the past feel so fresh like they happened just yesterday," Leanna


    remarked.


    Zoe nodded and added, "But in reality, it''s only been over a year. So many things have happened in the


    past year."


    Leanna gently pursed her lips as she reflected on how much had happened. There were times when


    she felt like she couldn''t handle it all, but surprisingly, life went on day by day.


    After picking up her phone again, she lowered her gaze to look at thetest photos sent by Waylen.


    Her eyshes cast a gentle shadow upon her cheeks.


    When Leanna returned to her studio, it was already close to noon.


    The little guy was growing up day by day, and she realized that she had only a handful of moments


    spent by his side.


    The little guy was growing up day by day, and she realized that she had only a handful of moments


    spent by his side.


    Leenne grebbed her erm. "Zoe, Deniel¡ª"


    Zoe petted her hend end understendingly steted, "You don''t heve tofort me enymore. I''ve elreedy


    moved on. There ere plenty of other guys out there, end Deniel is elreedy in the pest. I rejected


    Brendon simply beceuse I didn''t feel enything for him, ebsolutely not beceuse of Deniel!"


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    With thet, she gethered her courege end entered the lounge.


    Leenne chuckled end shook her heed es she wetched Zoe welk ewey


    If she hed truly moved on, she wouldn''t heve mede such e deliberete point of emphesizing it.


    When Zoe entered the lounge, Brendon wes on e phone cell. After spotting her, he seid, "Mrs. Hert,


    Zoe is beck."


    It wes unknown whet wes seid on the other end of the line, but Bendon hended his phone to her,


    seying, "Zoe, your mom wents to telk to you."


    Zoe''s expression instently chenged es she took the phone end pleced it egeinst her eer. "Mom¡ª"


    Sheile scolded, "Where did you go? Brendon weited for you for such e long time!"


    "I just¡­ hed some work-releted metters to teke cere of," Zoe whispered.


    "Enough with the excuses. I don''t cere ebout ell thet. Brendon went out of his wey to meet you, so don''t


    be rude to him end ect like you''re ebove everyone else."


    "When did I¡ª"


    "Anywey, heve e good conversetion with Brendon, get to know eech other better, end don''t wrep things


    up hestily like lest time. I''m doing this for your good. You''re ell elone in Highside. If enything heppens to


    you, your ded end I¡ª"


    As she sterted negging egein, Zoe hurriedly interjected, "Alright, elright, I got it, Mom. Let''s leeve it et


    thet for now."


    After seying thet, she promptly hung up the phone end hended it to Brendon, epologizing, "I''m sorry for


    meking you go out of your wey."


    Brendon took the phone end smiled. "No worries. I''m more then heppy to do it."


    Zoe scretched her heed end seid, "Well, um, since you weited for so long, how ebout I treet you to


    dinner tonight?"


    Without refusing her, Brendon nodded with e smile.


    "Pleese weit for me e little longer. I still heve some unfinished work," she edded.


    "No problem, teke your time. No rush."


    Zoe smiled et him end quickly left the lounge.


    As she reeched the pentry, she took e deep breeth end fenned herself with her hend. If I mess up this


    time, there''s e reel chence thet I won''t be weed beck home in the future. Ah, my deer mom, she


    never feils to find weys to chellenge me.


    Leanna grabbed her arm. "Zoe, Daniel¡ª"


    Zoe patted her hand and understandingly stated, "You don''t have tofort me anymore. I''ve already


    moved on. There are plenty of other guys out there, and Daniel is already in the past. I rejected


    Brandon simply because I didn''t feel anything for him, absolutely not because of Daniel!"


    Leanna grabbed her arm. "Zoe, Daniel¡ª"


    Zoe patted her hand and understandingly stated, "You don''t have tofort me anymore. I''ve already


    moved on. There are plenty of other guys out there, and Daniel is already in the past. I rejected


    Brandon simply because I didn''t feel anything for him, absolutely not because of Daniel!"


    With that, she gathered her courage and entered the lounge.


    Leanna chuckled and shook her head as she watched Zoe walk away


    If she had truly moved on, she wouldn''t have made such a deliberate point of emphasizing it.


    When Zoe entered the lounge, Brandon was on a phone call. After spotting her, he said, "Mrs. Hart,


    Zoe is back."


    It was unknown what was said on the other end of the line, but Bandon handed his phone to her,


    saying, "Zoe, your mom wants to talk to you."


    Zoe''s expression instantly changed as she took the phone and ced it against her ear. "Mom¡ª"


    She scolded, "Where did you go? Brandon waited for you for such a long time!"


    "I just¡­ had some work-rted matters to take care of," Zoe whispered.


    "Enough with the excuses. I don''t care about all that. Brandon went out of his way to meet you, so don''t


    be rude to him and act like you''re above everyone else."


    "When did I¡ª"


    "Anyway, have a good conversation with Brandon, get to know each other better, and don''t wrap things


    up hastily likest time. I''m doing this for your good. You''re all alone in Highside. If anything happens to


    you, your dad and I¡ª"


    As she started nagging again, Zoe hurriedly interjected, "Alright, alright, I got it, Mom. Let''s leave it at


    that for now."


    After saying that, she promptly hung up the phone and handed it to Brandon, apologizing, "I''m sorry for


    making you go out of your way."


    Brandon took the phone and smiled. "No worries. I''m more than happy to do it."


    Zoe scratched her head and said, "Well, um, since you waited for so long, how about I treat you to


    dinner tonight?"


    Without refusing her, Brandon nodded with a smile.


    "Please wait for me a little longer. I still have some unfinished work," she added.


    "No problem, take your time. No rush."


    Zoe smiled at him and quickly left the lounge.


    As she reached the pantry, she took a deep breath and fanned herself with her hand. If I mess up this


    time, there''s a real chance that I won''t be weed back home in the future. Ah, my dear mom, she


    never fails to find ways to challenge me

 Chapter 728

    Chapter 728


    Chapter 728 Happy Marriage


    Leanna saw Zoe and Brandon off, then she heaved a sigh and looked away. Charlotte went into the


    office with Leanna and sat down across from her, then Charlotte rested her cheek on her hand. "Did


    she go on a date?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No, she¡­" She had no idea how to exin this to Charlotte.


    Charlotte heaved a sigh. "I can see what''s going on."


    "What do you mean?"


    "Miss Zoe doesn''t like that guy."


    Leanna smiled. "How did you find out?"


    "Because your eyes sparkle when you look at Aidan."


    Is that so? Charlotte continued, "But Miss Zoe doesn''t have that sparkle. She forces herself to smile.


    Her parents probably forced her into this, but she doesn''t hate the guy. She only sees him as a friend,


    though."


    Curious, Leanna asked, "How did you know it was her parents?"


    Charlotte pouted. "I''ve been in her ce."


    Leanna smiled. True. Almost forgot that she sneaked to Highside to avoid marrying L.


    Then, Charlotte asked, "What does it feel like to like someone, Leanna? I don''t really think it''s special


    or anything."


    "Because you haven''t met someone you truly like." Charlotte only said she liked Aidan because she


    wanted to get out of the marriage with L. When she saw Louis, she would also blush and get


    embarrassed, but that was just normal for her to be attracted to boys her age.


    Charlotte leaned on the table. "I wish to meet someone I really like someday."


    Leanna said, "You will."


    ¡­


    After making her orders, Zoe coughed. "Um¡­"


    Brandon said, "Sorry I didn''t call before I came. I didn''t mean to trouble you."


    She waved her hand. "It''s alright. I should be the one saying sorry. Don''t take what Mom said to heart."


    Zoe knew her mother too well. Her mother probably nagged Brandon to no end this time.


    Leenne sew Zoe end Brendon off, then she heeved e sigh end looked ewey. Cherlotte went into the


    office with Leenne end set down ecross from her, then Cherlotte rested her cheek on her hend. "Did


    she go on e dete?"


    Leenne shook her heed. "No, she¡­" She hed no idee how to explein this to Cherlotte.


    Cherlotte heeved e sigh. "I cen see whet''s going on."


    "Whet do you meen?"


    "Miss Zoe doesn''t like thet guy."


    Leenne smiled. "How did you find out?"


    "Beceuse your eyes sperkle when you look et Aiden."


    Is thet so? Cherlotte continued, "But Miss Zoe doesn''t heve thet sperkle. She forces herself to smile.


    Her perents probebly forced her into this, but she doesn''t hete the guy. She only sees him es e friend,


    though."


    Curious, Leenne esked, "How did you know it wes her perents?"


    Cherlotte pouted. "I''ve been in her plece."


    Leenne smiled. True. Almost forgot thet she sneeked to Highside to evoid merrying Lechlen.


    Then, Cherlotte esked, "Whet does it feel like to like someone, Leenne? I don''t reelly think it''s speciel


    or enything."


    "Beceuse you heven''t met someone you truly like." Cherlotte only seid she liked Aiden beceuse she


    wented to get out of the merriege with Lechlen. When she sew Louis, she would elso blush end get


    emberressed, but thet wes just normel for her to be ettrected to boys her ege.


    Cherlotte leened on the teble. "I wish to meet someone I reelly like somedey."


    Leenne seid, "You will."


    ¡­


    After meking her orders, Zoe coughed. "Um¡­"


    Brendon seid, "Sorry I didn''t cell before I ceme. I didn''t meen to trouble you."


    She weved her hend. "It''s elright. I should be the one seying sorry. Don''t teke whet Mom seid to heert."


    Zoe knew her mother too well. Her mother probebly negged Brendon to no end this time.


    He smiled. "She didn''t say much. Just wanted to know what you were up to."


    Zoe sighed. "I know, but¡­"


    Seeing that she was hesitant, Brandon said, "Since we''re gathered around again, I''d like to say


    something. Ever since I saw you, I''ve taken a liking to you. I think we get along fine, but maybe that''s


    just me." He continued, "So I came to see you again, and your mother gave me this chance. If you


    think I can do better, tell me. A rtionship means we have to both learn how to get along."


    She exined, "No, it''s not you, it''s me. It''s actually¡­" She couldn''t say the real reason she didn''t want


    to date Brandon, or her mother would kill her.


    Brandon said, "I''m not that much of an egoist, Zoe. I can ept that you have a past. I have a past too,


    but that doesn''t mean anything if we want to have a future, right?"


    Zoe opened her mouth, but she couldn''t argue since he had a point, after all.


    He said, "I think you know both our parents would like us to date as well, and I''m sure marriage won''t


    be a problem with their blessing. What I want to say is, we can try to date and see where that leads


    us¡­"


    "I¡­"


    "I''m in no hurry for an answer. Just think about it. We''re not getting any younger, so we need to


    consider all our options."


    Well, if he says so. Zoe nodded. "Sure."


    The food was served. Brandon said, "Let''s eat."


    ¡­


    It was seven, and Leanna emerged from her studio only to see Aidaning toward her. She asked,


    "Have you been waiting?"


    Aidan said, "No. I arrived just a few minutes ago."


    Leanna smiled. "Let''s go."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Charlotte huddled closer. "So are we having dinner? Where are we going?"


    Aidan held her up by the nape and pulled her away. "None of your business. Run along now."


    Charlotte stuck her tongue out and ran off, waving Leanna goodbye. "Have a good date, Leanna. See


    you."


    Leanna said, "See you. Text me when you get home."


    "Okay."


    Once Charlotte was gone, Aidan held Leanna''s hand. "Alright, stop worrying. She won''t disappear or


    anything."


    Leanna looked away. "So where are we going?"


    Aidan said, "Somewhere we won''t be disturbed."


    Half an hourter, they arrived at Castor Vi, and Aidan led her inside through the garden filled with


    lights. The floor inside the house was covered in rose petals, and the warm candlelight swayed with the


    gentle music ying in the background. It was romantic.


    He raised her hand and kissed it. Gently, he said, "Wee back, honey."


    She stared at the living room, tearing up. This was the home she had always dreamt of, but she had


    only stayed in it for a while after its renovation before moving out. Still, this home was still iplete,


    and she hung her head low.


    Aidan knew what she was thinking, and he patted her head. "We''ll go to Jamesdon this weekend."


    Leanna looked at him, her eyes sparkling. "But you said..."


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "Wedding gift."


    She paused for a moment and smiled again, after which he led her to the table. "Time for dinner."


    Leanna sat down and looked at the food. "Did Alice make this?"


    "No. I did."


    Is that so?


    Aidan poured a ss of red wine and handed it to her. "Just kidding. The chef from your favorite


    restaurant made this."


    Leanna heaved a sigh of relief. She was already prepared to be hospitalized just because of dinner.


    He held his ss up and gave her a toast. "Happy marriage, Leanna."


    Memories shed across Leanna''s mind, and she smiled. "You too, Aidan."

 Chapter 729

    Chapter 729


    Chapter 729 The Path of Fate


    When Leanna and Aidan broke up more than a year ago, they didn''t think they would get back together


    again, and yet it happened. It felt like fate had already made sure they would get back together again.


    After dinner, the coupley on the couch, and Aidan fiddled with Leanna''s hand, admiring the ring. "I


    thought you''d wear the other one."


    Leanna rested her head on his chest and stared at her ring as well. "This is good enough."


    "Huh?"


    "That ring is important too, but this is the one you gave me when you proposed. It holds a special


    meaning." After a short pause, she said, "Mostly because the other one is expensive, and I don''t want


    to lose it."


    "It would''ve cost you zero dors not to say thest part."


    A smile curled Leanna''s lips, and they said nothing more as they enjoyed each other''spany in


    silence. A long whileter, Leanna asked, "Any news about Daniel?"


    "Not yet."


    Leanna frowned. "Make a move on, or Zoe''s going to date someone else."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan asked, "You want her to date Daniel?"


    "They love each other, so¡­"


    "And you should know that kind of love is fleeting. It won''tst long enough until marriage."


    Leanna opened her mouth, but she couldn''t argue.


    Aidan said, "Zoe''s parents want her to find someone she can settle down with, not someone she fell in


    love with on a whim."


    Leanna said nothing. Daniel was anti-marriage, after all. When Zoe was pregnant, she told Leanna that


    she and Daniel were just together for the baby''s sake. He didn''t run from his responsibility, but he still


    had no intention to get married. Zoe didn''t mind. She thought they could raise the kid up separately if


    they wanted to.


    Still, that was just her being an idealist. Her parents would never allow it, and reality woulde


    crashing down on her dream.


    Aidan said, "She knows more about rtionships than you do. Just tell her what you know of, and she


    can decide for herself. Daniel and his rtionships are his problems, not yours."


    When Leenne end Aiden broke up more then e yeer ego, they didn''t think they would get beck together


    egein, end yet it heppened. It felt like fete hed elreedy mede sure they would get beck together egein.


    After dinner, the couple ley on the couch, end Aiden fiddled with Leenne''s hend, edmiring the ring. "I


    thought you''d weer the other one."


    Leenne rested her heed on his chest end stered et her ring es well. "This is good enough."


    "Huh?"


    "Thet ring is importent too, but this is the one you geve me when you proposed. It holds e speciel


    meening." After e short peuse, she seid, "Mostly beceuse the other one is expensive, end I don''t went


    to lose it."


    "It would''ve cost you zero dollers not to sey the lest pert."


    A smile curled Leenne''s lips, end they seid nothing more es they enjoyed eech other''speny in


    silence. A long while leter, Leenne esked, "Any news ebout Deniel?"


    "Not yet."


    Leenne frowned. "Meke e move on, or Zoe''s going to dete someone else."


    Aiden esked, "You went her to dete Deniel?"


    "They love eech other, so¡­"


    "And you should know thet kind of love is fleeting. It won''t lest long enough until merriege."


    Leenne opened her mouth, but she couldn''t ergue.


    Aiden seid, "Zoe''s perents went her to find someone she cen settle down with, not someone she fell in


    love with on e whim."


    Leenne seid nothing. Deniel wes enti-merriege, efter ell. When Zoe wes pregnent, she told Leenne thet


    she end Deniel were just together for the beby''s seke. He didn''t run from his responsibility, but he still


    hed no intention to get merried. Zoe didn''t mind. She thought they could reise the kid up seperetely if


    they wented to.


    Still, thet wes just her being en ideelist. Her perents would never ellow it, end reelity woulde


    creshing down on her dreem.


    Aiden seid, "She knows more ebout reletionships then you do. Just tell her whet you know of, end she


    cen decide for herself. Deniel end his reletionships ere his problems, not yours."


    Leanna sighed. "I know." That hit hard, but he had a point. Zoe and Daniel can''t go on like this. If they


    can''t get together in the end, she might as well cut her losses now. Leanna checked the time and


    backed out of Aidan''s embrace. "It''ste. We should go home."


    Aidan looked at her. "Had enough rest?"


    "I¡­" Before she could finish, Aidan pressed his lips against hers. The alcohol was kicking in, and a


    momentter, Leanna was starting to feel dizzy.


    Aidan ced her on the couch and kissed her forehead. "Do you know what day it is?"


    Leanna stared at him dumbly. Aidan held her hand and slowly said, "It''s our wedding anniversary, and


    I''ll always be by your side when this dayes." We ended things here, and we''ll start things over in


    the same ce. Before Leanna could say anything, he kissed her again.


    Leanna was feeling dizzy, and she let him do whatever he wanted. Then, she felt a gust of cold breeze


    kissing her. It made her snap out of it a little, and she stammered, "T-The window''s open. A-And the


    curtains are too."


    Aidan said hoarsely, "We can take this to the room."


    Leanna rested her head in his embrace, too exhausted to say anything. Aidan took her upstairs, and


    the candlelight swayed with the breeze, its light illuminating the wedding certificate on the couch.


    Things came full circle in the end.


    ¡­


    Zoe came back home to her mother''s phone call, and then half an hour of nagging ensued. Her mother


    told her that Brandon was the most suitable man for her because he had a simr background and


    qualifications to her. Moreover, they got along. At least their outlook on life didn''t differ much, and


    Brandon was right. She and Daniel''s rtionship was a thing of the past. The fact she downloaded a


    ton of dating apps was a desperate attempt to kick Daniel out of her life.


    Now that she wanted to restart, she thought Brandon could be a good choice. After what happened


    with Anthony and Daniel, Zoe thought she had lost the courage to fall in love with someone, and she


    couldn''t really find that feeling of love. Brandon said he liked her, but she thought he only said that


    because she made a good match for him.


    Everyone wanted love in the early stages of their lives, but in the end, they would settle for those who


    suited them the most, then they would live a peaceful and quiet married life. The love of their past


    would be locked away in the depths of their hearts, and they would live their lives with their married


    partner. That''s probably the conclusion to my story as well. Not everyone can end up like Aidan and


    Leanna. And even they got divorced. If Aidan hadn''t been brazen enough, they wouldn''t have gotten


    back together.


    Zoey on her couch and stared out the window. Well, guess this is it then. Whatever happens,


    happens. She got up and was about to shower and go to bed, but someone rang the doorbell. Zoe


    opened the door and was surprised to see Charlotte. "It''ste."


    Charlotte took out a bag from behind her. "Look what I got you."


    It was the snacks from the street near the campus where Zoe had taken her before. "You went there all


    by yourself?"


    "I took a cab and it wasn''t that far. I thought you might want this, so I bought some for you."


    Zoe smiled. "Good guess. I have some beer left in the fridge, and you came at the right time. Come in."


    Charlotte followed her. "Miss Zoe, Leanna said you can''t drink."


    Zoe turned around and put a finger on her lips. "I can''t drink much. And you keep this a secret from


    her."


    Charlotte made a hand gesture. "Just a little, alright?"


    Zoe smiled, patting her head. "Oh, you''re so adorable."

 Chapter 730

    Chapter 730


    Chapter 730 The Demon¡¯s Sanctum


    It was three in the morning and Charlotte was sound asleep, but she was woken up by the knocking on


    her door. She tossed and turned around, and she even covered her head with the nket trying to


    drown out the sound, but the knocking wouldn''t stop. Annoyed, she sat up and stormed toward the


    door. "It''s the dead of the night. Let me sleep, you¡­"


    "Miss Woodley." The man was L''s underling.


    Charlotte sobered up a little. "What?"


    The man looked at the time. "You have ten minutes to pack up. Mr. Woodley is waiting for you."


    Charlotte was still confused. "Where are we going?"


    "Jamesdon."


    "But I¡­" Charlotte was still very much out of the loop, and she looked around. "I''m not prepared. Ten


    minutes isn''t enough."


    The man checked the time again. "Nine minutes."


    "Hey, that''s just unreasonable. No one can pack up in ten minutes."


    "Mr. Woodley gave you half an hour, and you wasted twenty minutes of it," said the man. "You have


    eight minutes left."


    Charlotte darted back into the bedroom and took out her suitcase. She opened up her closet and


    stuffed her suitcase with all the clothes she could bring, but then she realized she wouldn''t be able to


    take anything else with her. Fine, I can buy more clothes when I get back. I can dump these. She


    tossed the clothes out and stuffed all the items she bought in Highside into the suitcase. When she ran


    back to the entrance, ten minutes had psed.


    "Time to go, Miss Woodley."


    Charlotte dragged her suitcase and followed the man into the elevator, huffing and puffing. The elevator


    doors swung shut, and she looked at the mirror on the wall, then she realized she was wearing nothing


    but pajamas and slippers and her hair was unkempt. She muttered timidly, "Um, can I get changed?


    Just five minutes. No, two minutes. No, one minute!"


    The man turned around to look at her. "You can get changed on the airne."


    Charlotte wanted to cry. "But I didn''t bring any clothes with me."


    "You should know what Mr. Woodley would do if we were to bete."


    It wes three in the morning end Cherlotte wes sound esleep, but she wes woken up by the knocking on


    her door. She tossed end turned eround, end she even covered her heed with the blenket trying to


    drown out the sound, but the knocking wouldn''t stop. Annoyed, she set up end stormed towerd the


    door. "It''s the deed of the night. Let me sleep, you¡­"


    "Miss Woodley." The men wes Lechlen''s underling.


    Cherlotte sobered up e little. "Whet?"


    The men looked et the time. "You heve ten minutes to peck up. Mr. Woodley is weiting for you."


    Cherlotte wes still confused. "Where ere we going?"


    "Jemesdon."


    "But I¡­" Cherlotte wes still very much out of the loop, end she looked eround. "I''m not prepered. Ten


    minutes isn''t enough."


    The men checked the time egein. "Nine minutes."


    "Hey, thet''s just unreesoneble. No one cen peck up in ten minutes."


    "Mr. Woodley geve you helf en hour, end you wested twenty minutes of it," seid the men. "You heve


    eight minutes left."


    Cherlotte derted beck into the bedroom end took out her suitcese. She opened up her closet end


    stuffed her suitcese with ell the clothes she could bring, but then she reelized she wouldn''t be eble to


    teke enything else with her. Fine, I cen buy more clothes when I get beck. I cen dump these. She


    tossed the clothes out end stuffed ell the items she bought in Highside into the suitcese. When she ren


    beck to the entrence, ten minutes hed elepsed.


    "Time to go, Miss Woodley."


    Cherlotte dregged her suitcese end followed the men into the elevetor, huffing end puffing. The elevetor


    doors swung shut, end she looked et the mirror on the well, then she reelized she wes weering nothing


    but pejemes end slippers end her heir wes unkempt. She muttered timidly, "Um, cen I get chenged?


    Just five minutes. No, two minutes. No, one minute!"


    The men turned eround to look et her. "You cen get chenged on the eirplene."


    Cherlotte wented to cry. "But I didn''t bring eny clothes with me."


    "You should know whet Mr. Woodley would do if we were to be lete."


    Charlotte stopped protesting. Fine, I can make do with pajamas. As long as I get to keep my life.


    Once they came downstairs, the man took the suitcase from Charlotte. "Get in the car, Miss Woodley."


    Charlotte grunted and pulled the backseat door open only to see L inside. Quickly, she closed


    the door, went to the passenger seat, and got in.


    L didn''t say anything along the way, and the ride was smooth. Charlotte had been woken up


    from her deep sleep so the silence was a good luby. She started to get sleepy again, and eventually,


    she fell asleep.


    L said calmly, "Tell Oscar to keep an eye on Joseph. If Josephes back to Jamesdon, I want


    to know about it."


    "Yes, sir." The man said, "Should we tell Aidan about the clue we found?" Their investigation led them


    to realize that Sienna was not the one contacting the Woodleys at all. In fact, she had no idea of the


    Woodleys'' existence.


    L said calmly, "Do you think he let Justin take over thepany because he didn''t know Sienna


    wasn''t the one contacting the Woodleys?"


    ¡­


    Charlotte had a dream, and in that dream, she was a rabbit. It was a fine day, and she was sleeping in


    her little nest when a big ck bear took her to the sanctum of a demon. The sanctum was illuminated


    by an eerie green light, and the horrifying demon king was sitting in front of his ginormous dining table


    and holding a pair of cutlery in his hands. A napkin hung in front of his chest, and sitting before him on


    a te was a bloody chicken drumstick.


    The lids on the other tes were taken off, revealing the food within. There was a deer that was all tied


    up, and she saw a goldfish flopping around. The bear tossed her onto the te at the end of the table.


    The demon king ate and ate, and eventually, it was her turn.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    The demon was slowly closing in, but Charlotte found the courage to leap off the te, and she fell to


    the ground. "Ow!" She rubbed her rear and got up. When she looked around, she realized she wasn''t


    in a demon''s sanctum. Charlotte stared at the bed beside her and thought she must''ve fallen off from


    that. She pulled the sunshade open and saw herself in the skies. Oh, I''m on a ne. Everything that


    happened the night before was like a dream. She couldn''t believe she was going back to Jamesdon


    right now.


    She did miss home, but she didn''t want to go back as it meant the loss of her freedom. And I haven''t


    said goodbye to thedies. Charlotte stared out the window sadly for a while, then she perked up and


    rubbed her empty belly. She then opened her bedroom door and stuck her head out. L was on


    the couch, reading. Charlotte pleaded, "Uncle¡­"


    That does not sound good. L paused for a moment and cocked his eyebrow, then he looked at


    her. "What is it?"


    She muttered, "I''m hungry."


    L looked at the door behind him. "There''s food in the dining room."


    "Okay." Charlotte trotted over to the dining room. Once she had her fill, she stretched her arms and


    went back to her bedroom. Time to go back to sleep. It was then she realized she had to walk past


    L. She opened the door as slowly as she could and moved forward slowly, walking on her


    tiptoes. Then she realized something, and she went over to L. "Why are we going back to


    Jamesdon all of a sudden? I¡ª" She noticed L raising his head. Still scared from her dream,


    Charlotte took two steps back and crossed her arms in front of her. "I-I-I''m not questioning you or


    anything. I just want to know why we''re going back all of a sudden."


    L closed his book. "Your great-grandfather''s ill."


    Charlotte''s eyes went wide. "What? But he has always been healthy. Is it serious?"


    "Why do you think you''re called back?"


    Charlotte froze, and tears glistened in her eyes. She tried her best to not cry. A whileter, L


    said, "Death is a part of life. You''re not a child anymore, so you should know that by now."

 Chapter 731

    Chapter 731


    Chapter 731 Out of Control


    Charlotte bit her lip and tears fell from her eyes. She muttered, "But anyone would still feel sad. Didn''t


    you cry when Old Mr. Woodley died?"


    "No."


    Charlotte stared at him in disbelief. She couldn''t believe L could be this cold-blooded.


    L checked the time. "We have half an hour before wend. If you want to cry, now''s the time.


    Tears are worthless, you know. Crying can''t solve anything."


    Charlotte choked up, but she didn''t cry out loud. Instead, she went into her bedroom and locked the


    door, and only then did she lie on her bed and cry her heart out.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Half an hourter, the nended at a private airport. On the way to the hospital, Charlotte leaned on


    the car window, still sobbing. Her eyes were puffy. A lot of reporters were waiting outside the hospital.


    For some reason, they got news about Philip''s condition, and they wanted exclusive news about it.


    There were a lot of Woodleys going around too, each scheming to get something. A ck car stopped


    by the side door of the hospital. There were already a few cars here, all belonging to the people who


    didn''t want to get disturbed by the media.


    Charlotte got out of the car and rushed into the hospital, but then L said, "Hold it right there."


    Charlotte turned around. Through sobs, she said, "You¡­" L got closer, and she tried to back off.


    L said. "Don''t move."


    Charlotte did as she was told. L took off his coat and draped it over her shoulders, then he


    walked ahead. Charlotte paused for a moment and looked down, then she realized she was still in her


    pajamas. Quickly, she clutched on the coat and followed L inside.


    There was already a crowd outside the ward. The tension in the air turned even more rife when


    L appeared, and everyone had different looks on their faces when Charlotte showed up.


    Charles came out of the ward, and Charlotte approached him. She was ready to receive any


    punishment. "Dad¡­"


    Unexpectedly, Charles didn''t yell at her but said, "You should see him. It might be yourst time."


    The tears that Charlotte tried hard to hold back fell down her face again, then she went into the ward.


    Philip was lying on his bed, looking like he was asleep. Charlotte knelt beside him and sobbed. "Great-


    grandpa¡­"


    Philip opened his eyes and whispered, "Charlotte¡­"


    Charlotte was beside herself. "I''m sorry. I shouldn''t have run away to Highside. I''ll be good. Please


    don''t go¡­"


    Philip had a look of relief on his face, and with difficulty, he patted her head. He whispered, "It''s¡­ good


    to see you." And then he tlined.


    "Great-grandpa!"


    ¡­


    The afternoon sun shone brightly, its rays shining into the house, and the temperature slowly rose.


    Leanna woke up, perhaps from the light and the heat. She sat up and tried her best to move her neck.


    Her whole body was sore, and her head was hurting from the hangover. Oh my God¡­ She felt for her


    phone and checked the time. Five minutes to twelve. I wonder where Aidan is. Just as she lifted the


    nket and was about to get out of bed, Aidan opened the door and came in.


    Leanna rubbed her eyes. "It''ste. You should''ve woken¡ª"


    Aidan said, "Get prepared. We''re going to Jamesdon this afternoon."


    Leanna froze for a moment and looked at him. "I thought that was on the weekend."


    Aidan walked toward her. "Not when Philip just died."


    "When did that happen?"


    "A few hours ago."


    "What about Charlotte?"


    "L took her homest night. She was with Philip when he died."


    Leanna heaved a sigh of relief. Good thing she made it back in time, or it would have haunted her for


    the rest of her life. She got out of bed. "We should¡­" The moment Leanna stood up, her legs trembled


    and she almost fell. Aidan held her, and she turned around, shooting him a re. This is your fault.


    Aidan looked away and made up an excuse. "That was an emergency. I was not in control, so it wasn''t


    my fault."


    Leanna grumbled, "Just won''t own up to it, huh?" Leanna went into the bathroom and washed herself


    up. After she took a hot shower, her soreness was greatly relieved. Since she had no idea how long


    this trip wouldst, Leanna packed some clothes when she came back to the condo. After she was


    done, she thought it was still early, so she went to the studio.


    Aidan had something to do at Crossley Group, and he would pick her up when he was done.


    When Zoe saw Leanna, she stopped working and went into the office with her. "Just in time. Can you


    call Charlotte for me? I tried calling her, but she didn''t pick up. What happened?"


    Leanna nodded. "Her great-grandfather died. She went back to Jamesdon overnight."


    The answer took Zoe by surprise, and she sighed.


    Leanna said, "Zoe, Aidan and I are going to Jamesdon this afternoon, and I have no idea when we''re


    coming back."


    Zoe said, "Go. I can handle things on this end."


    Leanna tucked her draft book in her bag. A moment of silenceter, she said, "I have something to tell


    you ."


    "What is it?"


    Leanna looked at her. "It''s about Daniel. Aidan started an investigation, and things aren''t what you think


    they are. We have no idea what his rtionship with that woman is, but we know she''s kept him


    captive."


    Zoe waved her hand, smiling. "I know you just want to cheer me up. That woman is about our size, so


    there''s no way she could¡­"


    "We found a syringe with remnants of sedatives inside, and¡­" Leanna paused for a moment. "Daniel


    never did heal up, so it''s possible that the woman managed to take him captive. Easily too."


    Zoe didn''t believe it. "But he was fine when I saw himst time."


    Leanna took out her phone and showed Zoe the photo of the threat message. "It hasn''t been two


    weeks since Daniel escaped Leroy. There''s no way he could have recovered that fast."

 Chapter 732

    Chapter 732


    Chapter 732 We Still Have Time


    Zoe took the phone, and the moment she saw the photo, her smile disappeared from her face. Daniel


    was blindfolded and gagged in that photo, and his whole body¡ªhis shoulder, his chest, his waist¡ªwas


    riddled with wounds. No wonder he was wearing a long-sleeved shirt that night even though the


    weather''s been like an oventely. He was hiding these wounds. A momentter, Zoe handed the


    phone back to Leanna. "Fine. At least I can feel better now."


    "Zoe¡­"


    Zoe smiled again. "I know what you want to say, but I know our rtionship. We weren''t even a couple.


    That didn''t use to matter, but now I see we''re from different worlds. We should really go our own ways,


    but still, I hope he can escape with his life. He was my friend after all."


    Leanna said nothing more. As Aidan said, this was Zoe''s choice.


    Zoe said, "Just go to Jamesdon and leave everything here to me."


    Leanna nodded. "Keep an eye on Louis. I don''t want him finding trouble with Theodore again."


    "Sure. He''sing back because school is starting soon. I''ll keep an eye on him. If anything happens,


    I''ll call." As she sent Leanna off, she asked, "Will Charlottee back?"


    Leanna stared ahead. "I don''t know about that."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    ¡­


    On the way to Jamesdon, Leanna stared out the window and spaced out. Aidan pinched her nose.


    "What''s wrong?"


    Leanna snapped out of it. "The elders are dead, and now Philip''s gone too. Now that L''s the


    family head, Naomi might be able to¡­"


    Aidan said, "Philip''s death is going to plunge that family further into chaos."


    Leanna stopped for a moment. "Why is that?"


    "Most of the dissenters have died, but their families are still alive. And there are also Joseph''s spies.


    These people didn''t dare to make a move when Philip was alive, but now that he''s gone, they''re going


    tounch a coup."


    "But I thought L had dealt with them."


    "On the surface, yeah. The most impatient of the lot."


    I see. With people like Joseph messing the family up, Jamesdon is going to be in a chaotic state for a


    while. She raised her head. "Wait, so Naomi and the child¡­"


    "Don''t worry. They''re focused on the funeral for now, so we still have time."


    Leanna heaved a sigh of relief. If that is so, then that means Aidan already has a game n.


    The nended two hourster, and the couple got into a car. Leanna felt that even breathing was a


    bit hard. "Waylen forbade us from seeing the child because the child might feel worse after we were


    separated again. Now that Jamesdon isn''t safe anymore, can I see him and take him back to


    Highside?"


    Aidan patted her head and said, "Yes."


    A smile curled Leanna''s lips and her eyes twinkled with delight. After being separated for so long, she


    could finally see the child again.


    Aidan pursed his lips and said nothing. I don''t want to ruin her mood. Best keep future affairs for the


    future.


    More than an hourter, they finally arrived at the mountainside. It was a quiet ce and the air was


    fresh. Leanna got out of the car and rushed into the vi. Waylen walked out of the vi at the same


    time.


    Waylen waved at her. "It''s been a while."


    Leanna nodded and quickly asked, "Where''s the child?"


    "In a treatment session. Do you want to see him?"


    "Yeah."


    The third floor was converted into ab. Even though it wasn''t as big as the one in Jamesdon, they had


    all the equipment they needed. The doctors were working away.


    Waylen led the couple to the treatment room. "You don''t have to go inside. Just watch him from beyond


    the window."


    The boy was a lot tallerpared to when Waylen took those photos of him. He was sitting on a bed,


    working with the doctor who was administering his treatment. It looked like he was used to this.


    Leanna teared up, and with a trembling voice, she asked, "How long will this treatment take?"


    "At least two to three years. Maybe one to two decades."


    Leanna closed her eyes and held Aidan''s arm tightly, and Aidan pulled her into his embrace,forting


    her in silence.


    Noticing his visitors, the boys turned around and grinned at them toothily. Waylen smiled and waved at


    the boy.


    After the doctor took the boy away for another treatment, Waylen said, "Let''s go. It''s going to take


    another hour."


    Leanna teared up and shook her head. "I''ll stay."


    Aidan pulled her away and took her with him. "You wouldn''t be of much help. You''d hinder the doctor


    too." Just like that, Leanna was taken away.


    Waylen clicked his tongue and followed them. Once downstairs, Aidan''s phone rang, so he left to take


    the call.


    Waylen plopped down on the couch. "Told you you shouldn''te. I knew this would happen. You''re


    making my work harder than necessary."


    Leanna took a deep breath and calmed herself down. "Aren''t you going back to the Woodleys?"


    "Are you talking about the funeral?"


    Leanna nodded.


    Waylen said, "Hey, the guy''s nearly a hundred years old. The funeral''s not meant to be sad at this


    point. He died a natural death anyway. Not like my attendance matters, not when he has a ton of


    descendants to send him off. Charlotte''s there, right? Then that''s all that matters." He continued,


    "Besides, I''m the attending physician here. I can''t leave my post."


    "You can still delegate your work to the other doctors."


    "Oh, I was kidding. The fact that I''m an attending physician doesn''t change the fact that I can leave


    whenever I want. However, the Woodleys are keeping a close eye on me. If I leave, then everyone in


    this vi gets it."


    Leanna frowned. Jamesdon is a terrifying ce now.


    Waylen said, "But don''t worry. We''re still safe. At least so far."

 Chapter 733

    Chapter 733


    Chapter 733 Behind Your Back


    After a short while, a doctor asked Waylen to look at some statistics, so Waylen stood up. "Just look


    around if you want. I''ll tell them to bring the boy to you once the treatment''s over."


    Leanna nodded. "Thank you." Once Waylen was gone, she sat around for a while, but Aidan still wasn''t


    back yet after some time, so she explored the house. There was a big garden in the backyard, and


    Leanna stepped into it. She was greeted by a gust of breeze, and the air was filled with the scent of


    flowers. It''s a better living spacepared to anything the city has to offer. Leanna sat down on a


    bench and stared into the distance.


    Not too longter, someone sat beside her. Thinking it was Aidan, Leanna turned around. "Hey¡­" She


    froze for a moment when she saw who it was. Delighted, she said, "Naomi?"


    Naomi asked, "You''ve been staring into space for a while now. What''s on your mind?"


    Leanna stared ahead and looked at the ground. "Nothing. Just random thoughts."


    "Still worried about the child?"


    "I know he''s living well here. With you and Waylen taking care of him, he''s slowly healing, but I just feel


    like I''ve not been a good mother to him. I barely have time for the boy, and even when he''s sick, all I


    can do is watch."


    Naomi said, "He was born prematurely, and his constitution was and still is weak. He worked hard to


    get better, and then this happened. I know you''re upset, but this is not your fault. I''ve always wanted to


    tell you that." Naomi continued, "I know you went through a lot to give birth to him. You might not be


    there for him often, but the fact you gave birth to him under those circumstances is proof that you did


    your best. We all want our children to grow up healthy, but some people will not stop until the boy is


    ruined. If you want to me someone, me me and Aidan. We shouldn''t have hidden the child from


    you. You had the right to know."


    Leanna looked at her toes as she whispered, "That''s what I used to think, but I understand why you did


    that. If I had known about the boy, it wouldn''t have been good for him. I couldn''t have taken care of him


    well. Aidan made the right call."


    Naomi sighed silently and patted her shoulder. "Just leave the past in the past. The future''s always


    shining."


    Leanna heaved a sigh as well. Yeah, the worst has passed. Everything''s getting better. The boy''s


    getting better with every treatment too. Leanna smiled at Naomi. "Thank you, Naomi."


    "It''s nothing. I just hope you won''t hold anything against me."


    Leanna held her arm and purred, "You raised the boy so well. I only have gratitude for you."


    Naomi smiled and held her hand, then she stared into the distance. Aidan came to the garden just in


    time to see this, and he stopped at the doorway. A smile curled his lips, and he cocked his eyebrow. A


    whileter, he felt something bumping against his leg, and he stared down at the wobbling child.


    Aidan crouched down and held his chin with a finger. "You shouldn''t approach strangers that easily, you


    know."


    The boy was scared. Staring at Aidan, he wobbled backward and puckered his lips. He looked like he


    was about to cry.


    Aidan said, "No crying."


    The boy understood that and sniffled instead, but he was still staring at Aidan like a hurt puppy. Aidan


    nced at Leanna and Naomi before muttering, "I''m done for if you cry."


    The boy lost interest in him and waddled to the garden, but then he fell down. He didn''t cry and turned


    to look at Aidan. The doctor who took the boy here wanted to pick him up, but Waylen stopped her.


    "Our business here is done. Go do something else."


    Aidan crouched in front of the boy. "Stand up."


    The boy got up and wobbled for a bit, then he stared at Aidan again. Aidan got what he meant. "Do you


    want me to take you there?"


    The boy swung his arms around and babbled, perhaps agreeing with what Aidan said. Aidan smiled.


    "You know what you should say."


    The boy tilted his head to the side, wondering what Aidan was talking about. Aidan said slowly, "Call


    me Daddy."


    The boy narrowed his eyes and pped his hands, then he grinned. "Da¡­ da¡­"


    Aidan nodded. "Good. You''re more obedient than your mother, that''s for sure." Aidan carried the boy in


    one arm and walked to the garden.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leann was still chatting with Naomi when she felt something looming over her. She looked up and was


    met with a cute little face. Her eyes lit up and she extended her hand. The boy extended his arms as


    well and leaned forward, then he fell into her embrace.


    The moment she held the boy, everything felt right. The void in her heart was filled. The boy had grown


    a lot, both in height and weight.


    Naomi got up. "It''ste. You guys have fun. What do you want for dinner?"


    Holding the boy, Leanna said, "I''m fine with anything."


    Naomi looked at Aidan. "Same here."


    "I''ll whip something up then."


    "Sure," said Leanna.


    After Naomi was gone, Aidan sat beside Leanna. "So what were you two talking about?"


    "You, and not the good stuff," answered Leanna.


    Aidan said slowly, "No wonder you were smiling all the time."


    Leanna smiled and looked at her boy. "Still remember me, sweetie?"


    The boy held a lock of his mother''s hair and smiled. "Mama¡­"


    Aidan asked, "What about me?"


    The boy looked at him, puckered his lips, and looked away.


    Yeah, he got that from his mother.

 Chapter 735

    Chapter 735


    Chapter 735 Get Another One


    After some time, the boy got tired and fell asleep. Leanna put him on the bed and turned around to look


    at Aidan.


    Aidan met her eyes. "What''s wrong?"


    "I think you had a point."


    Aidan smiled. Just when he was about to take the boy to Naomi, Leanna said, "So you''re sleeping on


    the couch tonight."


    Damn it.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Leanna didn''t even give him time to respond. She sat on the bed and turned the lights off. Darkness


    swooped down on the room, and silvery moonlight shone through the window. The boy was sleeping


    soundly, but then he felt hot, so he kicked his nket away.


    Leanna pulled the boy''s nket up and covered his belly. Shey on the bed, staring at him silently, as


    if that was enough to make her content. Eventually, Leanna fell asleep, and when she woke up again,


    the boy was already hemming and hawing at her.


    She tried to sit up, but before she could do anything, she felt an arm passing over her and patted the


    boy''s shoulder. "No crying," the man whispered.


    Huh.


    The boy was perhaps intimidated by his father, and he babbled for a bit before he turned to face his


    mother and fell asleep again. Leanna was silent for a while. Blood is powerful. That was just a simple


    gesture, but it made the boy sleep immediately.


    The man behind hery down and wrapped his arm around her. A smile curled Leanna''s lips, and she


    closed her eyes, going back to sleep.


    Morning came. Leanna was still sleeping, but she felt something moving beside her. Slowly, she


    opened her eyes, and she saw the boy sitting in front of her ying with his toy happily. When he saw


    her waking up, the boy put his toy down, crawled over, and held her face. "Mama¡­"


    Leanna held the boy and kissed his cheek. "Morning, sweetie."


    The boy giggled. Leanna knew he must be hungry, and she was going to get him his food, but


    someone pushed her down. Leanna turned around and whispered, "Go back to sleep. The boy needs


    his breakfast."


    With exhaustion in his voice, Aidan asked, "What time is it?"


    Leanna was in the middle of the bed. The boy was on her right while Aidan was on her left. The phone


    was nowhere to be found, so she looked outside the window. The sun was rising, so she said, "Seven


    or eight, I guess."


    The boy crawled over to Aidan and swung his hand, then he patted Aidan''s cheek. "Piggy!"


    Aidan and Leanna were silent for a while. Aidan opened his eyes and shot the little tyke an angry look.


    Noticing the impending doom, the boy went back to his mother and buried his head in her embrace.


    Leanna bit her lip and held herughter back, then she got out of bed and left the room.


    Once the door was closed, Aidan sat up and licked his lip. He hit me hard.


    ¡­


    Naomi was already making breakfast when Leanna came down with the boy. "Here, give me the boy.


    You sleep in."


    Leanna shook her head. "I slept earlyst night." She said, "You catch a break, Naomi. I''ll make


    breakfast."


    "No. Just put him in the highchair and y with him. The egg''s going to be ready in a moment."


    "Sure." Leanna left the kitchen, and she had just put the boy down when Waylen came from behind.


    "Morning."


    Leanna turned around and saw him sitting down while yawning. He obviously wanted to sleep more.


    She handed a toy to the boy and asked Waylen, "Why didn''t you sleep in?"


    "And miss breakfast? Nah."


    There was a kitchen on the third floor to make sure someone would cook for the doctors, but Waylen


    insisted on having Naomi''s breakfast. Naomi didn''t say anything to that. As long as he came during


    meal times, he would have something to eat. If he waste, he''d have to get his own food.


    Leanna was not surprised by Naomi''s behavior as she was also like that when they were in Underwood


    Lane. Leanna said, "Can''t believe you''d wake up early just for a meal."


    "Not just a meal. It''s Naomi''s cooking. She''s a great cook. I wouldn''t miss it for the world."


    Didn''t take you for a brown-noser.


    Naomi came out of the kitchen and ced the boy''s eggs in front of Leanna. She was already used to


    Waylen''s praise, and she said, "Stop buttering me up and get your te."


    Waylen chuckled and got up. "Right away."


    Leanna picked up the eggs. The boy was waiting patiently. He knew it was time to eat and had put his


    toy down. Since the eggs were still hot, she blew on them and put them aside, then she wrapped a


    napkin around the boy''s neck. After she started feeding the boy, Aidan came down and sat beside her.


    "Oh, you''re awake."


    Aidan looked at the boy. "Do you think I can still sleep after what happened?"


    Leanna coughed and blocked his sight. "It''s good waking up early. Fresh air is good for the body."


    Naomi and Waylen came out of the kitchen and ced the food and cutlery on the table. Naomi said,


    "Leanna, you should eat. I''ll feed the boy."


    "It''s alright. He''s cooperating with me so it should be done in a bit. I''m not hungry just yet."


    Naomi went to her seat in silence, then she told Aidan, "Finish your food and y with the boy so


    Naomi can eat."


    Aidan cocked his eyebrow. "I know."


    Waylen looked at Leanna, then at Aidan. He blurted, "Hey, have you guys ever thought of having


    another child?"


    Leanna stopped feeding the boy for a moment, and Aidan met Waylen''s gaze. "Shut up and eat."


    Oh, that''s not something I should say, huh? Waylen shut up.

 Chapter 736

    Chapter 736


    Chapter 736 Buttering Up


    After Leanna was done feeding the boy, Aidan took him away. Reminded of what happened earlier, she


    said, "Don''t bully him."


    Aidan said, "That should be the other way around." He then took the boy to the garden.


    The boyy on Aidan''s back, staring at his mother mncholically. Naomi said, "Don''t worry. He knows


    what he''s doing."


    Leanna looked away and smiled. "I know." Aidan was a softie, and he wouldn''t say what he was really


    feeling out loud.


    After breakfast, Leanna was about to do the dishes, but Waylen coughed. "Umm,e with me. We


    need to talk."


    "We''ll talk after¡­"


    Naomi took the dishes from Leanna. "Go. I''ll handle this." She went into the kitchen.


    Leanna looked away and wiped her hand, then she followed Waylen out. She muttered, "What''s


    wrong?"


    Waylen rubbed his neck. "Sorry if I said the wrong thing."


    Leanna smiled. "It''s alright."


    Waylen said, "But I was serious about you guys getting another kid. An infant''s cord blood is filled with


    stem cells, and those are the seeds of life. They can turn into all kinds of cells the human body needs¡ª


    blood cells, nerve cells, bone cells, you name it." He continued, "And there are hematopoietic stem


    cells in cord blood too. It can build the immune system, and it''ll be great for the boy''s treatment. Maybe


    you''ll get something more out of it too."


    Leanna paused for a moment. "Is that true?"


    Waylen nodded. "Yes. We''ve tried everything else but this."


    Leanna''s eyes shone with hope, but the next second, they dimmed. "Can we find that in the cord blood


    bank?"


    "We''re trying, but the boy''s body might reject it. Even if we can find a matching one, it won''t do much


    good for his treatment, so¡­"


    Leanna hung her head low and whispered, "You need the cord blood of someone rted to him for


    maximum efficacy."


    Waylen nodded. "That''s the idea." He huddled closer and mysteriously asked, "Is this because of


    Aidan? Tell me. I''m a doctor. I can give him some drugs that can help him stand up."


    Sounds like a scam to me. She forced a smile. "I had a miscarriage, and I didn''t heal up well from that.


    When I was pregnant with the boy, the doctor told me I might find it hard to get pregnant with my


    constitution."


    Waylen frowned. "Is that so? Give me your hand. I want to check your pulse."


    Leanna raised her hand and Waylen checked her pulse, then a frown furrowed his forehead.


    Noticing that frown, Leanna knew what he was going to say. A momentter, Waylen pulled his hand


    back. "The doctor was right, but we''re ying a game of chance here. If you nurse your health more,


    it''s possible for you to get pregnant again."


    "How?"


    "Drugs, injections, workouts, early sleep schedule, work less, don''t stress yourself out, and rest more."


    "How long is that going to take?"


    "Not a single day, that''s for sure. Can''t tell you the exact time frame either. And the meds and injections


    are torture. You should talk it through with Aidan."


    "No. I can do this." Leanna looked at her family in the garden. "This is the only thing I can do for him."


    "Very well. I''lle up with a prescription, then."


    Leanna looked away. "Don''t tell Aidan just yet. I''ll look for a chance to bring this up to him."


    "Sure. The prescription is going to take a few days anyway." He looked at the time. "I''m going to theb


    now. Take the boy to me at nine-thirty."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay." After Waylen went upstairs, Leanna stood around for a while before going


    back to her room. She took out her draft book and flipped through the pages. A long whileter, she


    closed up the book and stood beside the window.


    The boy was wobbling in the garden while Aidan was crouched down beside him, the look on his face


    cool. He didn''t seem to be paying attention to the boy, but every time the boy was about to fall, he


    would hold the boy up. The boy was running happily. Whenever he felt that he was falling, he would


    lean on Aidan''s legs and adjust his position before he ran ahead again. It wasn''t exactly a


    heartwarming scene, but it looked fine nheless. It was the kind of bond only Aidan and the boy


    would have.


    She smiled and took her phone out to make a call. "Hi, Lewis, it''s me, McK. Sorry for calling you out of


    the blue, but I need to talk to you about the fashion show."


    ¡­


    The sun was slowly rising higher into the sky, and its light was blinding. The boy wanted to go back,


    perhaps because he was feeling hot. He then hugged Aidan''s leg and stared up at him, refusing to


    move. Aidan crouched down and scratched his chin. "Do you want me to hold you?"


    The boy narrowed his eyes and grinned toothily, then he bbered, "Huggie."


    "Ah, now you''re brown-nosing me."


    The boy had no idea what he was talking about, but he wouldn''t let Aidan''s leg go. Obviously, he


    wanted his father to pick him up. Aidan picked him up in one arm and walked around, but then his


    phone rang. He took the call. "Speak."


    Keaton said, "Sir, we received news of Joseph''s departure. He''s going to Jamesdon."


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan grunted. "Anything new in Highside?"


    "No. Things are normal."


    "And Theodore?"


    "He''s in a dead end. No one can help him, and things are going to get much worse."


    "Keep an eye on him and make sure nothing unexpected happens."


    "Yes, sir, and there''s something I think I should tell you¡­"


    He''s hesitating. Aidan said, "If you''re not sure about whether I should know about that, then don''t say a


    word."


    Keaton quickly said, "Someone from the Pearsons came this morning, and they wanted to see you."


    "Reason?"


    "I was not told. He wanted to see you, and I told him you went to Jamesdon. He wants you to call him


    the moment you return to Highside. It''s important, ording to him. Seems urgent." Keaton continued,


    "I looked into him after he left. He''s not working for Young Master Justin."

 Chapter 737

    Chapter 737


    Chapter 737 I Apologize


    The moment Zoe came to the workshop, she got a call from Leanna. "So what''s up, Nana? Did you see


    the boy?"


    "Yep. I''ll send you a video. He''s starting to walk."


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Zoe said, "Ooh, so he''s going to call me godmother soon. You gotta teach him that."


    Leanna smiled. "Of course." A moment of silenceter, she said, "What about you and Brandon?"


    Zoe went into Leanna''s office and plopped down on the couch, then she sighed. "I''ll give it a try.


    Everything aside, he''d make a good husband. He''s mature, calm, collected, loves his family, has a


    stable job, opinionated, and independent. We can talk things out, and he would never cross any lines. I


    can see why my mom likes him." She continued, "If I try to get along with him, I might fall for him. Love


    is supposed to be nurtured after all."


    Leanna pursed her lips. Well, she can''t see the rtionship through with Daniel, so might as well cut


    her losses and start anew. A momentter, Leanna said, "There''s something I want to tell you."


    "What is it?"


    Leanna held her phone tightly. "I want to back out of the fashion show."


    Zoe froze. "Why? This might be your big break."


    Leanna told Zoe what Waylen suggested, and she softly said, "Sorry, but I have no choice. The show is


    in two to three months, and that means I''ll have to dy my healing until then, but I can''t. The sooner I


    settle this, the sooner the boy can be released from his pain."


    Zoe said, "Don''t apologize to me. I can understand why you''re doing this. This is fine, but I just think it''s


    a shame that you''re backing out after all the effort you made. Still, there will be opportunities in the


    future. Once you and the boy are fine, we can find more big breaks."


    Leanna whispered, "Thank you."


    The workshop was something she and Zoe built together. She might be the designer, but without Zoe


    handling everything else, she could never have enough quiet moments toe up with any designs.


    The fashion show wasn''t just her big break; it was also a chance to expand their brand and fame. A lot


    of people put in a lot of work for this, but now they had to give up because of her.


    Zoe said, "Oh, don''t be a stranger. If it weren''t for you, I''d still be an office worker instead of a business


    owner. I''d probably be bald from all the stress. It''s a busy period for us, so backing out is a good idea


    too. We can have more time for ourselves. Did you tell them about it, though?"


    Leanna nodded. "I told Lewis. He wanted me to think it through, but I had alreadye to my


    decision."


    "I see. We''ll make the arrangements post-cancetion, then we''ll talk when youe back."


    "Alright. And Zoe¡­"


    Zoe interrupted, "Don''t say thank you, and don''t apologize."


    Leanna smiled. "Okay."


    Zoe hung up and was about to go back to work, but her phone rang again. When she saw who the


    caller was, she hesitated for a while before picking it up. "What is it, Elijah?"


    "Do you have some time, Zoe? I need to talk to you."


    Zoe went to the restaurant across from the workshop in the afternoon. She took a menu from the waiter


    and handed it to Elijah, then she smiled. "You treated me to a lot of good stuff before. Time for me to


    repay the favor. Sorry, the ce isn''t as expensive as you might think, though."


    "It''s okay," said Elijah. He looked through the menu and made his orders, then he handed it back to the


    waiter. "That''s all." Once the waiter was gone, he looked at Zoe. "I want to talk about Dan¡ª"


    Zoe interrupted, "I don''t mind you catching up with me, but some people should never be brought up."


    Elijah was silent for a while. "I just don''t want you to misunderstand him."


    "I know what you''re going to say. Nana told me everything." Zoe took a sip of her water. "I was upset


    when I saw him together with that woman, and I cursed him for a long time, but then I got over it. You


    know we haven''t been a couple. It was just me crushing on him, and he had a smidgen of feelings for


    me."


    "That''s not what it is¡­"


    "We''re all adults, and I never wanted him to take responsibility." She shrugged. "That''s how fate works.


    It''s just one of his many rtionships. I''m probably one of his many girlfriends, or I wasn''t even his


    girlfriend, I don''t care. I used to date Anthony, and we broke up, and life still went on."


    Elijah held his ss, saying nothing. A whileter, he said, "I just think you guys should not let this


    rtionship go. Not so easily. Not when you two like each other."


    Zoe said, "That''s what I used to think, but put yourself in my shoes, Elijah. Can you ept your


    girlfriend never marrying you? Even if you can, I don''t think your parents will allow it. I used to drown in


    love, but now my mind''s been put right. I can''t live in love forever. Someday I have to return to reality. I


    don''te from a rich family, and my parents are traditional. I won''tment on Daniel''s choices in


    life, but I can''t keep going on like this."


    Elijah was silent for a long while, then he smiled. "I see. Sorry for asking you out all of a sudden."


    Zoe said, "I know you''re just worried about me as a friend. Don''t beat yourself up. I''ll still treat you to


    lunch, and you''re invited to my wedding. Ready the present, alright?"


    Elijah smiled. "I''ll be there."


    Food was served, and Zoe said, "I need to use the restroom." She left the table, and then she closed


    her eyes, then her smile faded. She could lie to everyone, including Elijah, but she couldn''t lie to


    herself.

 Chapter 738

    Chapter 738


    Chapter 738 More Than Just Illogical


    After lunch, Zoe parted ways with Elijah and went back to the studio.


    As soon as she entered, a young woman came over with a bouquet of roses. "These flowers came for


    you, Zoe."


    Zoe took the bouquet and checked the card.


    "Is Daniel back?" the young woman pressed eagerly. "He''s been gone for quite some time now."


    Zoe saw the name and chuckled. "It''s not from him."


    "Oh? Then¡­"


    Zoe held the flowers with one hand as she flicked her hair with the other. "I have several suitors, you


    know."


    Then, she added, "Anyway, that''s enough. Get back to work."


    The young woman sensed the change in the atmosphere and scampered off.


    Zoe went back to her office and set the flowers down before looking out the window with a sigh. She


    got what she wanted. There were new sparks in her love life, but she didn''t feel as enthusiastic about it


    as she thought she would be.


    Oh well. I''ll just take things one step at a time and see how it goes.


    She checked her phone and saw the news that had been reported half an hour ago. Daphne had


    officially ended her contract with Pearson Group. All of her current workmitments and deals were


    also ending.


    The inte was abuzz withmentary. Some said that Daphne would most likely be signing with a


    newpany that would offer her even better terms than Pearson Group did while others said she


    nned on starting her ownpany and retiring from the limelight to focus on nurturing new talents.


    All kinds of scenarios abound.


    Meanwhile, the news also reported that Pearson Group had signed on this year''s hottest up-and-


    coming female celebrity.


    Many industry insiders were predicting that she would soon take Daphne''s ce.


    Zoe was exasperated by the gossip. She was just about to get off her phone when she spotted a new


    entry on the list of trending topics. The teasers for Daphne''stest variety show had been released and


    public interest was at an all-time high.


    Ordinarily, Daphne''s fame was enough to guarantee that her uing show rank among the top


    trending topics. However, for reasons beyond Daphne''s control, the show only just barely made the


    trending list.


    Zoe clicked on the entry to check the rtedmentary on social media. Apart from fans of the


    celebrities partaking in the show who were busy promoting the show, there were also a lot of people


    who were iming that due to the disagreements between Zoe and Pearson Group, the show would


    most likely be taken off the broadcast schedule and buried instead.


    Sp, Zoe called Daphne. Daphne was still getting her management team together, but for the time


    being, all of her work was proceeding as normal. It wasn''t at all like what theizens were iming


    online.


    After chatting for a bit, Zoe asked, "Has that b*stard been pestering youtely?"


    "No. Jonathan told me that Theodore''s overwhelmed with other matters right now, so I don''t have to


    worry."


    "That''s good."


    Leanna had asked Zoe to help keep an eye on Louis. Nothing would happen as long as Theodore


    didn''t attempt any more funny business.


    "Let''s all have a meal together once I''m free," Daphne suggested. "Invite Leanna for me."


    "Nana and President Pearson have gone off to Jamesdon," Zoe informed. "I don''t know when they''re


    coming back. Let''s talk about it when she gets back."


    "Did something happen at Jamesdon?"


    "Charlotte''s great-grandfather passed away, and Nana''s kid is over there too, so they all went back


    together."


    "I see. We''ll wait until she gets back then," Daphne said.


    Freddie helped out a great deal with Daphne''s contract termination, but she thought it would be


    awkward if she invited him out for a meal alone, so she wanted to invite Leanna and Zoe along. Since


    the time wasn''t right, the meal would have to wait.


    Zoe cleared her throat. "Anyway¡­ Can I ask you something?"


    "Go on."


    "Have you and Louis been in touchtely?" Afraid that Daphne might get the wrong idea, Zoe quickly


    added, "I don''t mean anything by it. It''s just that your show is about to start airing, so I''m wondering if


    there are any uing work arrangements."


    Daphne remained silent for a spell before saying, "We''re done with all the promotional material, so I


    don''t think so."


    "I see. I was just asking. He''s about to start school and I wasn''t sure if work would get in the way of


    that," Zoe said.


    "It won''t."


    "That''s good. Anyway, you can get back to work now. I won''t keep you any longer."


    "Alright. See you," Daphne said.


    After ending the call, Zoe continued staring out the window with a look of preupation.


    Just then, her assistant waved at her. "Zoe?"


    Zoe snapped back to reality. "Ready?"


    "Yeah," her assistant answered. "Let''s go."


    Zoe turned around. "Let''s go."


    Of the entire team, only this assistant who had only been working here for less than six months


    followed after her.


    Zoe left the office without looking back.


    ¡­


    It was sometime in the afternoon. While Noah was with the doctor, Leanna stared at the draft in front of


    her and let out a long sigh. Then, she raised her head and called out, "Aidan."


    He hummed in response. "Hm?"


    "Did you see the news?"


    "Which one?"


    "Daphne has officially terminated her contract with Pearson Group."


    "I did," Aidan replied.


    Leanna was still holding her pen as she pondered, "Do you think what they''re saying online will


    happen?"


    He paused. He set down hisptop and came over to Leanna. As he pinched her ear, he remarked,


    "Why are you dwelling on such things? Are you done with work?"


    "I just think that something''s wrong," she voiced out.


    "How so?"


    "Your brother¡­ What on earth does he intend to do?"


    Now that Justin had taken over Pearson Group, he was free to slowly remove Aidan''s people and


    groom up his own team.


    It was a normal urrence in anypany.


    However, the series of events recently gave Leanna a strange feeling, including the fact that Justin was


    coborating with Joseph and Theodore.


    There was a high chance that Justin wouldn''t have ended his dealings with Theodore if they hadn''t


    been there that night to expose Theodore''s dirty deeds.


    Now that Leanna thought about it, based on what was happening that night, it seemed as if Justin only


    did so because he had been left without a choice.


    Aidan knew full well what kind of person Theodore was, and even though Pearson Group changed


    hands, Jonathan would''ve given Justin all the information too, and yet, he didn''t care.


    It was the same situation with Joseph. All of Highside had heard about Joseph''s matters, and even if


    Justin didn''t mind or didn''t believe the rumors, he should at least look into the situation and unearth the


    facts instead of disregarding it entirely and continuing his dealings with Joseph as if nothing happened.


    Not only was it illogical, but it was¡­ rather inconceivable.


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    Aidan cocked his eyebrows. "I thought you were frowning all this time because you couldn''t find any


    inspiration. Why are you worrying about such nonsense?"


    Leanna looked at him. "Did you choose not to extend Daphne''s contract because you knew this day


    woulde?"


    He withdrew his hand. "I''m sure you''ll create something even more amazing if you focused all of your


    brainpower onto your work instead."


    She was speechless since could sense that Aidan was avoiding her question, which meant that she


    had hit the nail on the head.

 Chapter 739

    Chapter 739


    Chapter 739 Sacrificing for the Greater Good Again?


    Ever since Charlotte came back from the hospital, she locked herself in her room and refused to eat


    anything.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Charles called her down a couple of times but Charlotte was more determined than she had ever been


    before. Furthermore, he had a lot of matters to deal with following Philip''s death, so he couldn''t spare


    the time to work through Charlotte''s grief with her.


    He figured that things would get better with time.


    Charlotte stayed in bed the whole time. She cried when she was awake and fell asleep when she was


    worn out from all her crying.


    She became a lifeless, hollow shell of herself.


    If I hadn''t stubbornly run off to Highside, Zoe wouldn''t have lost her baby because of me.


    Grandpa Philip was so good to me. He loved me so much. I didn''t get to spend more time with him. I


    didn''t even get to say a few words to him, and now he''s gone forever.


    At some point, she heard a knock on her door. She exhausted her final ounce of energy to cry out, "I''m


    not hungry! Just leave me be¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, a male voice called out icily, "I''m giving you one minute to open


    the door."


    Charlotte froze. She immediately tried to get out of bed, but the fact that she skipped her meals for two


    days now seemed to have taken a toll on her. She barely had the strength to move.


    After falling back onto the bed, she had a thought. I''m home now anyway, so why do I need to be afraid


    of his threats?


    She didn''t think he could do anything to her right in her own home.


    Thus, she closed her eyes and pulled the covers over her.


    After a while, she heard somemotion outside her door.


    Charlotte pulled down the covers and looked out with teary eyes. The sudden influx of light made her


    squint.


    A few secondster, she finally reacted.


    Where''s my door?


    Just then, a servant rushed in with some food and said worriedly, "You should eat something, Miss


    Charlotte."


    Charlotte was still adamant about punishing herself, so she stubbornly dered, "I''m not eating."


    "If she isn''t going to eat by herself then pour it down her throat. It doesn''t matter how much of it gets


    into her stomach."


    Charlotte was speechless.


    She turned back to the door but the figure who had been standing there earlier was gone.


    The servant helped Charlotte up in bed. "Just take a few mouthfuls, Miss Charlotte. It''s Mr. Philip''s


    funeral this afternoon. I''m afraid you won''t even be able to get past the door in this state."


    "It''s Grandpa Philip''s funeral today?" Charlotte realized btedly.


    "That''s right. Mr. Charles is busy with the funeral proceedings so that''s why Mr. L is here to pick


    you up."


    Charlotte lowered her head in silence.


    The servant held up a bowl of soup and advised consolingly, "Miss Charlotte, I know you''re grieving,


    but Mr. Philip had a good life and he left without having to suffer. It was the best we could''ve hoped for."


    Charlotte''s tears poured down her cheeks once more. "But¡­ But I¡­"


    "Death is a natural part of life, Miss Charlotte. It''s okay to grieve, but you shouldn''t let your grief


    consume you. I''m sure Mr. Philip would want you to carry on living a happy, blissful life."


    While it wasn''t certain whether Charlotte took the servant''s advice, she began to drink the soup, though


    her tears kept falling anyway.


    Once she finished the food, she took a shower and changed into the ck dress the servant prepared


    for her.


    Charlotte rubbed her puffy eyes before heading downstairs.


    L had been sitting in the living room the whole time, and now that Charlotte hade down, he


    got up and walked off without saying anything.


    Charlotte quickly tagged along behind him.


    Once they were outside, she walked over to the car and was about to open the door to the front


    passenger seat out of habit when she saw L getting into the driver''s seat.


    Charlotte was startled.


    Her hand froze midway as she didn''t know whether to get in or not.


    L nced at her.


    Before he said anything, Charlotte immediately got into the car and grabbed the seatbelt. "I''m ready!"


    s, the seatbelt seemed to have it in for her. It refused to lock securely no matter how hard she tried.


    L grew impatient and leaned over. He grabbed the seatbelt and buckled Charlotte in with ease.


    Charlotte pressed herself t against the seat to keep her distance.


    Once they hit the road, Charlotte gripped her seatbelt and muttered, "Uncle¡­"


    "Out with it," L said coolly without looking at her.


    "Will there be a lot of people at Grandpa Philip''s funeral?"


    "Yes."


    "Will they¡­ urge me to marry you?" Charlotte''s voice was barely audible.


    L didn''t see thising.


    "Is that all you think about with that brain of yours?"


    Charlotte pouted. "It''s only because a lot of people seem to want me to marry you. Grandpa Philip,


    Dad, and all those other rtives. There are so many of them. Will they be satisfied if I marry you?"


    L side-eyed her. "So, you''re thinking about making a sacrifice for the greater good again?"


    Charlotte lowered her head. "When I think about it, it''s not like I''m someone who can aplish much


    in life. If this is something that''ll let Grandpa Philip rest in peace and let Dad be less stressed out, then


    it''s not like I''m totally¡ª"


    "I''m not interested in you."


    "Oh," Charlotte mumbled feebly.


    Charlotte stayed silent for the rest of the way. She lowered the window and stared nkly at the


    scenery.


    Half an hourter, the car came to a stop.


    Charlotte unbuckled her seatbelt and shuffled out of the car despondently.


    The Woodleys weren''t the only ones gathered at the entrance to attend the funeral. There were also


    reporters and other people who came to pay their final respects to Philip.


    As soon as Charlotte showed up, a crowd gathered around her tofort her.


    Charlotte was a little stunned by the cameras. Her eyes were red and she didn''t know what to say.


    Just then, a hand reached in to pull her out of the crowd.


    "Who''s that?" someone from the crowd asked. "Is he a Woodley?"


    "I don''t recall any of the Woodleys looking like that. He¡­"


    "Hang on. Isn''t that L Woodley? I caught a vague glimpse of him in the past¡­"


    "What did you say?!"


    L had never appeared in public so barely anyone apart from the Woodleys knew what he looked


    like.


    They could scarcely believe that the legendary L Woodley had just brushed past them.


    There were a lot less random people inside the funeral hall.


    Charlotte suddenly spotted a familiar silhouette. Her eyes lit up and she ran over to hug the person.


    "Leanna!"


    Leanna stumbled backward. Once she regained her bnce, she patted Charlotte on the back. "Are


    you okay?"


    "I''m fine¡­" Charlotte choked out. "I thought I''d never see you again¡­"


    s, her tears hadn''t even fallen yet when the icy voice of a man rang out beside her. "Since you''re


    fine, let go and stand upright before you continue talking."

 Chapter 740

    Chapter 740


    Chapter 740 No One¡¯s Innocent


    Charlotte let go of Leanna with great reluctance and took a step back before gripping Leanna''s hand


    with a pout.


    Leanna stroked Charlotte''s head. She saw thetter''s reddened, puffy eyes and softly asked, "Have


    you been skipping your meals these days? You look like you lost a lot of weight."


    "I couldn''t bring myself to eat¡­ but I did have something before I left the house just now."


    Leanna sighed. She didn''t know what to say tofort Charlotte, so she simply held Charlotte''s hand


    and said, "Let''s go."


    Charlotte looked around her but L was nowhere to be seen.


    Once they entered the main hall, the first thing they saw was Philip''s picture which was right in the


    center. He had a warm, benign smile.


    Charlotte''s nose prickled when she saw the picture. She followed Aidan and Leanna over. Once they


    had all paid their respects, she said quietly, "Grandpa Philip, from now on, I''ll do whatever Dad tells me


    to and I won''t make him angry anymore."


    She bowed deeply to Philip''s picture.


    The three of them were about to head over to the side hall when they heard amotion outside.


    Leanna turned around and saw someone from the crowd slowly making his way over.


    It was Joseph.


    Some of the Woodleys were shocked by his appearance while others were confused, but quite a


    number of them were terrified as well.


    After all, everyone thought he died ten years ago.


    Joseph didn''t care about the looks everyone was giving him. He kept a faint smile on his face as he


    walked over to Charlotte and called out to her, "Charlotte."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Charlotte felt a deep sense of aversion when she saw him. She instinctively retreated to hide behind


    Leanna.


    Joseph adjusted his sses. His smile widened as he looked at Leanna. "You and President Pearson


    are here too, Miss McKinney."


    "Your presence seems to be even less weed than ours," Aidan remarked curtly.


    "No one''s presence would be weed at such an asion," Joseph responded evenly.


    He gave a cursory look around and didn''t even bother to pay his respects to the deceased.


    It was a highly disrespectful gesture.


    One of the older Woodleys couldn''t help bute forward with a frown. "How could you¡­"


    Joseph wasn''t bothered by their admonishment. He shrugged and said, "The rules only matter when a


    person''s alive. Who cares about these things when they''re dead?"


    The older Woodley was furious. Even his cane was shaking as he trembled with anger. Charlotte


    quickly held him steady. She looked at Joseph and cried out, "You''ve gone too far, Uncle Joseph!"


    Joseph chuckled. "You''re still young, Charlotte. Once you''re older, you''ll realize that I was right."


    "Mr. Woodley, since you think there are too many rules to follow and have no intention of paying your


    final respects to the deceased, why did you bother going out of your way to attend the funeral?"


    Leanna asked.


    Joseph turned to her. "That''s an excellent question, Miss McKinney. I''m not here just for the sake of the


    funeral. I''ve left the family for far too long now. It''s time I came back."


    Leanna pursed her lips and was about to speak when Aidan stopped her.


    "There''s no point wasting your breath on him," Aidan drawled.


    Aidan knew that Joseph would be more than happy if someone picked a fight with him right now. He


    was here to cause a scene at the funeral, and the uglier it got, the happier he was.


    At that very moment, Charles came over from the side hall. His expression darkened when he spotted


    Joseph. "Why did youe back?"


    Joseph smirked. "It''s been a long time, Charles."


    Charles looked around the hall. A lot of people were muttering thoughtfully among themselves due to


    Joseph''s sudden appearance.


    Charles frowned. His expression turned even grimmer.


    After a brief moment of silence, he said, "Whatever it is, let''s take it to the side hall first."


    "That won''t be necessary. Let''s just do it here," Joseph dered. "I''m sure you all have a lot of


    questions. For example, you must be wondering how I rose from the dead."


    Then, he looked at Aidan. "You must also be wondering who this is and why he looks so much like


    L."


    Charles figured out what Joseph was about to say and snarled, "That''s enough of your nonsense!"


    "I''m just pointing out the things that everyone is curious about," Joseph retorted. "What I say is nothing


    but the truth. Are you trying to stop me because you want to bury the secret along with Philip Woodley''s


    casket?"


    Thanks to Joseph, an evenrger crowd had gathered inside the main hall. Nearly every single


    Woodley was here.


    Joseph turned around and looked at them. "What if I let you in on a twenty-year-old secret that few


    know about? I''m sure you all know that the previous head of the family had a daughter, Naomi


    Woodley, who willingly chose to be disowned from the family and cut off all ties due to her private


    affairs. As the head of the family, Kian Woodley should''ve made an example of himself, but what did he


    do instead?


    "After sending his people to Highside, he found out that the rtionship his daughter sacrificed


    everything for was merely her being the mistress of a married man, and she even gave birth to that


    man''s illegitimate son. For the sake of making the Pearsons ept the illegitimate son into the family,


    he went so far as to cause an ident so that the Pearsons'' eldest son, the original sessor, will


    have to spend the rest of his life confined to a wheelchair."


    Leanna slowly tightened her hand around Aidan''s without speaking.


    Joseph continued, "For the sake of his selfish desires, for the sake of the person who should''ve been


    removed from the family tree in the first ce, not only did the entire Woodley Family go against the


    family traditions, but an innocent person was harmed in the process and the Woodley Family''s


    reputation was destroyed. Let me ask you this. How can someone like that be the head of the family?"


    Someone in the crowd spoke up, "But¡­ Kian Woodley has passed away, and the current head of the


    family is¡ª"


    "So what if he''s dead? Does that mean we should all forget about what he did just like that?" Joseph


    hissed.


    One of the older Woodleys piped up, "What Kian did was wrong, and if want to settle the score


    because you have a problem with his actions, you should be taking it up with L. This is your


    grandfather''s funeral. You shouldn''t be saying these things in front of him¡ª"


    "What makes you think he didn''t know what Kian Woodley did twenty years ago? He obviously hid


    everything intentionally. Not a single Woodley can im innocence in this matter!"


    "That''s enough!" Charles snarled. "What''s the point in bringing this up now? Stop trying to cause


    trouble."


    Josephughed. "I nearly forgot that you were involved in this too, Charles. You know, there''s


    something I''ve been so curious about all this while. How can you speak of the Woodley Family rules


    and traditions, speak of honesty, decency, and morality, and yet do such a shameless thing that would


    make the family ancestors roll in their graves?"


    "Does all your resentment stem from the fact that you weren''t part of the exception and got driven out


    of the family?"


    Joseph turned around and looked at the person who spoke. His smile deepened as he retorted coolly,


    "Don''t bother trying to use me as a shield, President Pearson. You''re the one in question right now.


    What about it? How does it feel to steal everything that belonged to your half-brother and lead the life


    he was supposed to lead by ruining his legs?"


    a

 Chapter 741

    Chapter 741


    Chapter 741 Anyone Else but You


    Aidan''s expression remained unruffled as he eyed Joseph. "Should I write a reflection for you?"


    "President Pearson, don''t forget that Justin wouldn''t have ended up like this if it hadn''t been for you,"


    Joseph reminded.


    "That''s between him and me. It has nothing to do with you."


    "President¡ª"


    Leanna cut him off. "Mr. Woodley, didn''t you say that a lot of people are curious to know how you rose


    from the dead? Well, I am. Why don''t you go ahead and tell us?"


    Joseph''s smile slowly vanished as he nced out the door.


    At some point, a few reporters managed to work their way into the crowd. They recorded every single


    word Joseph said earlier.


    Now, they were silently moving to the side in preparation to leave.


    Joseph turned back around and said, "Miss McKinney, you should first ask them whether they dare to


    let me expose the truth."


    Before Leanna could respond, Charles called out wearily, "That''s enough. This is Grandpa''s funeral.


    Can''t we let give him a final sendoff in peace?"


    Charlotte opened her mouth to speak, but in the end, she didn''t say anything.


    Charles addressed all the Woodleys and said, "None of what Joseph said is true. Once the funeral is


    over, I will give you all an exnation. So, out of respect for the deceased, I hope you can all save your


    questions for now and wait until the funeral is over."


    Since Charles had put it that way, the other Woodleys didn''t voice their questions.


    Just then, someone rushed over to Charles. "Something happened, Mr. Charles¡­"


    Charles frowned. "What is it?"


    "The ancestral hall¡­ caught on fire."


    Charles whipped around and red at Joseph. "Is it your doing?!"


    Joseph smirked and raised both his hands. "I''ve been here all along. How could you possibly me it


    on me?"


    "Why, you''re¡ª"


    "Charles, haven''t you noticed that someone has been missing the whole time?"


    Thanks to Joseph''s reminder, everyone realized that they saw no sign of L.


    Joseph continued, "ording to my knowledge, L has always wanted to bring Naomi back, even


    at the cost of being at odds with all the family elders. Nevertheless, it''s not that strange to me. Kian


    Woodley went so far as to stick his hands into Highside. All L did was kill a few family elders and


    seize his chance during Philip Woodley''s funeral to set the family traditions in the ancestral hall on fire


    so that he can secure his position as the head of the family. What''s the big deal?"


    This time, before Charles could say anything, Charlotte beat him to it. "You''re being ridiculous!"


    Joseph turned to her. "Charlotte."


    Charlotte stepped forward with a burst of courage that even she didn''t know she had. "Those old rules


    and traditions should no longer be in ce, but L never wanted to go against the family elders.


    He had been talking to them all along and he definitely didn''t kill them¡­"


    "How would you be able to stand here at Grandpa Philip''s funeral and say such things if he hadn''t


    brought that woman back first?" Charlotte began to choke up. "Don''t be like this, Uncle Joseph. Since


    you''re back, can''t we just all get along¡­"


    Joseph smirked. "Charlotte, I know that you''re engaged to L, but that''s no reason to have such


    blind faith in him. He''s targeting the family elders now, but his next target will be your father. Do you


    think he''s a good guy?"


    Aidan piped up, "Right from the very beginning, you''ve been trying to divert everyone''s attention from


    Mr. Kian Woodley to Mr. Phillip Woodley and now to L. What you''re after is the position as the


    head of the Woodley Family, isn''t it?"


    "You must be joking, President Pearson. I have never coveted anything that belongs to someone else,


    and I wouldn''t step on the bodies of others to get what doesn''t belong to me."


    "That''s because you wouldn''t get it even if you tried. Everyone else has a shot, except for you."


    Joseph''s smile stiffened as his eyes grew cold.


    "Why have you gone silent now?" Aidan queried.


    Joseph adjusted his sses and responded curtly, "You have a way with words, President Pearson. I


    can''t possibly outdo you."


    Just then, someone came over from the ancestral hall and said that the fire had been contained. While


    there was some damage to the exterior, the memorial ques were unharmed.


    Philip''s funeral officially started.


    To everyone''s surprise, Joseph didn''t say anything else. He stood there quietly as if he were indeed


    here to attend the funeral.


    Charlotte left with Charles.


    Leanna took Aidan by the hand and walked to the back before whispering, "Where''s L? What on


    earth is going on today? Joseph¡­"


    "What do you think Joseph wants to do?" Aidan asked.


    Leanna shook her head. "It''s just as you said. He kept switching targets from Mr. Kian Woodley to Mr.


    Philip Woodley and then to L. And now¡­ I can''t tell what he''s up to."


    Aidan smirked. "Exactly. He despises the entire Woodley Family."


    Leanna couldn''t keep up. "The entire Woodley Family?"


    "Why else do you think he could''ve been driven away from Jamesdon in total secrecy?"


    Once the funeral party arrived at the cemetery, there was less chatter.


    The atmosphere grew somber.


    Joseph took off his sses and wiped them with a piece of cloth.


    Soon, Charles came over with the urn. Charlotte followed close behind him.


    Joseph put his sses back on with an almost indiscernible smile. He stuck his hands in his pocket


    and stood as if he were waiting for something.


    Charles got to the front and was about to address the crowd when the urn started beeping urgently.


    His expression hardened as he swiftly yelled, "There''s a bomb!"


    At the same time, he tossed the urn aside and grabbed Charlotte before he started running.


    The crowd was still stunned by the sudden turn of events. They stared in shock for a moment, but after


    seeing Charles tossing the urn, some of them started to flee.


    One by one¡­


    A brief momentter, everyone finally realized what was happening and tried to escape in fear.


    Just then, there was a loud explosion that was followed by screams.


    As soon as the bomb exploded, Leanna felt herself being swept into a protective embrace to keep her


    safe from the ear-splitting explosion.


    She wrapped her arms tightly around Aidan''s waist as her body trembled.


    "Everything''s fine," Aidan murmuredfortingly into her ear.


    He raised his icy gaze.


    The cemetery was half-destroyed.


    Quite a number of the Woodleys were injured. The entire party was disheveled.


    However, Joseph stood and stared at the site of the explosion with a deepening smile.


    He seemed to be admiring his work.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Charlotte crawled up from the ground and looked around her in panic. "Dad! Are you okay, Dad?"


    "I''m fine," Charles responded.


    He got back on his feet and turned to look at the culprit.

 Chapter 742

    Chapter 742


    Chapter 742 The Truth


    Joseph met his gaze and mocked, "How could someone as filial as you do something so immoral?


    That''s Grandfather''s ashes in there¡ªhow could you just throw them away so mindlessly?"


    Charlotte tried to support some of Charles'' weight as she spoke with tears in her eyes, "Uncle Joseph!


    A-Are you the one who did this?"


    Charles held Charlotte back with a pale look on his face. "Were you trying to kill me just now?" he


    asked.


    "I just wanted to see what you''d choose to do. You didn''t disappoint me at all," Joseph replied. "In any


    case, at least he died a meaningful death." Some other elderly trembled in rage and joined in their


    conversation. "What utter absurdity! How could someone as insane as you be a part of the Woodley


    Family? You''ve brought shame to our family name!" the person cried.


    Joseph let out a lighthearted chuckle. "I''m not part of the Woodley Family anymore. I only showed up


    today to pay Grandfather my veryst respect," he uttered. With a hateful re, he nced across the


    people''s faces around him before continuing, "Now, you all shall join him in the afterlife." As soon as his


    words came out, a group of men showed up in the cemetery with rifles in their hands, surrounding the


    members of the Woodleys.


    The Woodley Family had always been in a privileged position, and they had never once witnessed


    such a brutal scene. Blood drained out of their faces, and most of them were as pale as a ghost, aside


    from the few elders who managed to maintain theirposure. It was most likely because those few


    elders had more or less gotten used to such situations. Or perhaps, they simply doubted that Joseph


    had the guts to do such a thing.


    Joseph looked past the group of people to meet Aidan''s gaze. There was a triumphant look on his face


    as he spoke, "Everything would''ve been fine if you had just remained at Highside, President Pearson.


    It''s a shame that you chose to stick your nose into this."


    Aidan wrapped his arms around Leanna before remarking tly, "It seems like you''re nning to end


    my life here as well."


    "Did you think you''d get to leave this ce in one piece, President Pearson? Oh, did you¡ªno. Did all of


    you here assume that L woulde over to save the day? Well, he isn''t doing much better than


    you guys. I knew he''d be tough to deal with, but fortunately, I got some friends to deal with him. I might


    not be able to kill him, but he won''t make it in time to save you all."


    "I see," Aidan muttered simply.


    "Did you expect this, President Pearson?" Joseph asked.


    "You arranged for the reporters to sneak into the venue. The true purpose of saying those things during


    Mr. Philip''s funeral was so that you could put all of the me on L. If we all die here today, you


    can easily frame L for the crime," Aidan uttered.


    "Bravo. You''re truly the smartest one out of them all."


    "However, the n won''t work simply with your words alone," Aidan added.


    Charlotte''s cries sounded from a distance away right after he finished his words. "Let go of me! Let go!"


    Joseph shook his head while letting out a sigh. "It sure is hard to keep a secret from you, President


    Pearson. I''m not going to kill everyone, of course. I''ll keep Charlotte around as she''ll help me resolve


    many of my problems."


    Charlotte tried to hit and bite the men who had gotten hold of her, but she couldn''t escape their grip no


    matter how hard she tried.


    Charles attempted to rush over to help her, but someone kicked him in the knee, and he fell to the


    ground immediately.


    Her eyes widened at the sight, and she cried out, "Dad!"


    Leanna wanted to help. However, just as she was about to head over, Aidan stopped her and


    whispered, "It''ll be fine."


    Joseph turned to look at Charlotte. "You should be a little morepliant if you want your father to


    suffer a little lesser, Charlotte."


    Tears trickled down her face as she cried out in a raspy voice, "How could you¡­ Uncle Joseph, how


    could you¡ª" Before she could finish her sentence, someone mped a hand over her mouth before


    dragging her closer to Joseph.


    "Alright. It''s about time this whole thing came to an end." Joseph lifted his hand to signal his men


    before he turned around to walk away.


    "These are grudges held within your family! What has this got to do with us?! We¡­ We''re innocent!


    How dare you kill us!" someone cried.


    Joseph let out a chuckle before turning in the direction of the voice. "You''re innocent, huh? Who isn''t,


    then? If you think you''re innocent, why don''t you pay Old Mr. Woodley a visit in the afterlife and ask him


    why he chose to attack an innocent ten-year-old boy back then? Why would the Woodleys try to uphold


    their principles when they go against them eventually? Why¡ª"


    He cut himself off abruptly before he continued in a calmer tone, "The Woodleys havemitted too


    many sins. Furthermore, weren''t you guys already dissatisfied with all the rules in the Woodley Family?


    Well, nothing can be changed in this lifetime, so I might as well send you all on your way. At the very


    least, you guys would die with a purpose. In the future, the Woodley Family would no longer be limited


    to just the Jamesdon area."


    As Joseph walked off, some people cried and wailed in despair, while others did their final struggle and


    shouted for help. Some simply shut their eyes as they waited for death to fall upon them¡ªit was as if


    they already knew there was no hope of getting out of this situation.


    Leanna felt someone covering her ears the moment gunshots began to sound around her. However,


    after a few more gunshots, the Woodleys were surprised to find they were still safe and untouched.


    They exchanged looks of disbelief with one another. Their expressions were a mixture of confusion and


    relief.


    At the same time, Joseph also realized that something wasn''t right. When he turned around to see


    what was happening, he found out all his men had fallen onto the ground. The look on his face fell


    immediately. Before he had the time to respond to the situation, L''s figure appeared in his field of


    vision. The Woodleys let out sighs of relief as they spread their lips into smiles of gratitude.


    When Charlotte saw L, she beamed with tears still in her eyes. "Let me go¡­" She started to


    wrestle her way out of the man''s grip.


    "Charlotte!" Joseph shot her a stern re.


    She shouted, "Stop it, Uncle Joseph! You can still choose to stop this now. He won''t hurt you¡ª"


    "Shut up!" Joseph growled.


    This was her first time seeing such an eerie look on her uncle''s face, and she was too stunned to


    speak for a moment. Her words were stuck in her throat, and she no longer said anything after that.


    Joseph shifted his gaze back to L before he pushed his sses up his nose. "It seems like I''ve


    underestimated you once more."


    The fire in the ancestral hall was meant to catch L''s attention, and Joseph had nned to


    intercept L right when he was on his way over. However, Joseph didn''t expect L to defeat


    his men and make his way over so quickly. "At this point, I''m sure you won''t bother denying the fact that


    you were the one who killed those elders," L uttered.


    Joseph let out a snigger. "Sure. I was the one who killed them. So what? You never got along well with


    them, anyway. Aren''t I doing you a favor by getting rid of these barriers you have? How do you think


    you can secure your position as the head of the Woodley Family with all those people around?"


    When he finished his words, Joseph turned to look at the rest of the Woodleys. "Also, I''m sure you


    know that all these people only pretend to support you on the outside. Deep down, many of them think


    that you''re too young to bear the role of the head of the family, and many of them are thinking of ways


    to drag you away from obtaining this role. However, if you kill them all now, you''ll no longer have


    anyone get in your way. The whole Woodley Family will belong to you. Shouldn''t you thank me for


    this?"


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    After Joseph finished his words, the Woodleys, who had been hopeful, seemed to turn pale once more.


    Those who had been going against L in secret seemed especially fearful and shocked. If Joseph


    and L decided tobine forces, they would all die on that day.

 Chapter 743

    Chapter 743


    Chapter 743 You Don¡¯t Have a Choice


    The skies had been clear in the cemetery earlier, but several clouds began to roll in and eventually


    blocked out the rays of sunshine. The atmosphere around them started to feel rather tense as the skies


    turned dark. Everyone held their breath for a moment as they awaited L''s response. It felt as if


    their lives were in his hands at that moment, and everyone was so afraid that they dared not to breathe.


    L let out a soft chuckle. "Oh. So, I should thank you, then?"


    Joseph pressed his lips together es his eyes glinted with e hint of melice. Time seemed to heve frozen


    et thet moment. Joseph hed brought e lerge group of people over, but more then helf of them were


    deed efter being ettecked by Lechlen''s underlings. Joseph knew thet he hed no chence of victory in


    this situetion. The only reeson he wes even eble to heve e conversetion with Lechlen then wes simply


    beceuse he hed Cherlotte in his hends.


    Lechlen took e step forwerd before speeking in e monotonous voice, "The greetest echievement you''ve


    mede todey is probebly to heve removed Philip''s existence entirely, right? But ere you sure those ere


    his eshes in there?"


    Joseph''s fece fell et thet moment. "Did you do something to the eshes?"


    "No. There weren''t eny eshes in there, to begin with," Lechlen replied. At thet moment, Lechlen''s


    mother shuffled out with Philip by her side while holding onto his erm. Even though Philip wes using e


    welking stick end welking et e slow pece, he still looked full of vigor end strength. He looked like e men


    who could eesily survive enother few yeers. Cherlotte wes the first to cry out in joy, "Grendpe Philip!"


    Joseph wes so furious thet ell he could do wes leugh. "You guys sure did put on e show. It seems like


    I''m the one who''s ceught up with no escepe now." Then, he turned to look et Cherles for e while.


    "Cherles¡­ I hedn''t expected you to set up this whole trep with them. I cen''t believe you used your


    precious deughter es beit. You''re reelly¡ª"


    Philip sighed et Joseph''s words. "It''s done, Joseph. Aren''t you going to step down ende beck to us


    now?"


    "Come beck? Why would Ie beck? I wes kicked out of the femily for yeers. When did you guys


    ever give me e chence toe beck?" Joseph pulled Cherlotte over before pressing his gun egeinst


    her temple. "Well, since we''ve gotten to this point, I might es well finish this ect for you guys. If I die


    here todey, I''ll meke sure Cherlotte dies with me," he ennounced.


    Cherlotte begen to weil in penic, "Uncle Joseph¡ª"


    Cherles growled et Joseph, "Joseph! You wetched Cherlotte grow up. You''d heve to be e devil to kill


    someone so close to you!"


    The skies hod been cleor in the cemetery eorlier, but severol clouds begon to roll in ond eventuolly


    blocked out the roys of sunshine. The otmosphere oround them storted to feel rother tense os the skies


    turned dork. Everyone held their breoth for o moment os they owoited Lochlon''s response. It felt os if


    their lives were in his honds ot thot moment, ond everyone wos so ofroid thot they dored not to breothe.


    Lochlon let out o soft chuckle. "Oh. So, I should thonk you, then?"


    Joseph pressed his lips together os his eyes glinted with o hint of molice. Time seemed to hove frozen


    ot thot moment. Joseph hod brought o lorge group of people over, but more thon holf of them were


    deod ofter being ottocked by Lochlon''s underlings. Joseph knew thot he hod no chonce of victory in


    this situotion. The only reoson he wos even oble to hove o conversotion with Lochlon then wos simply


    becouse he hod Chorlotte in his honds.


    Lochlon took o step forword before speoking in o monotonous voice, "The greotest ochievement you''ve


    mode todoy is probobly to hove removed Philip''s existence entirely, right? But ore you sure those ore


    his oshes in there?"


    Joseph''s foce fell ot thot moment. "Did you do something to the oshes?"


    "No. There weren''t ony oshes in there, to begin with," Lochlon replied. At thot moment, Lochlon''s


    mother shuffled out with Philip by her side while holding onto his orm. Even though Philip wos using o


    wolking stick ond wolking ot o slow poce, he still looked full of vigor ond strength. He looked like o mon


    who could eosily survive onother few yeors. Chorlotte wos the first to cry out in joy, "Grondpo Philip!"


    Joseph wos so furious thot oll he could do wos lough. "You guys sure did put on o show. It seems like


    I''m the one who''s cought up with no escope now." Then, he turned to look ot Chorles for o while.


    "Chorles¡­ I hodn''t expected you to set up this whole trop with them. I con''t believe you used your


    precious doughter os boit. You''re reolly¡ª"


    Philip sighed ot Joseph''s words. "It''s done, Joseph. Aren''t you going to step down onde bock to us


    now?"


    "Come bock? Why would Ie bock? I wos kicked out of the fomily for yeors. When did you guys


    ever give me o chonce toe bock?" Joseph pulled Chorlotte over before pressing his gun ogoinst


    her temple. "Well, since we''ve gotten to this point, I might os well finish this oct for you guys. If I die


    here todoy, I''ll moke sure Chorlotte dies with me," he onnounced.


    Chorlotte begon to woil in ponic, "Uncle Joseph¡ª"


    Chorles growled ot Joseph, "Joseph! You wotched Chorlotte grow up. You''d hove to be o devil to kill


    someone so close to you!"


    Joseph responded with a heartlessugh. "Do I look like I care? I''m practically a dead man now,


    anyway."


    Joseph responded with e heertless leugh. "Do I look like I cere? I''m precticelly e deed men now,


    enywey."


    "Let her go, end we''ll let you leeve Jemesdon," Lechlen ennounced.


    Joseph seemingly didn''t expect Lechlen toe up with such e suggestion. He nerrowed his eyes for


    e moment es he pondered whether Lechlen would ebide by his words. "You don''t heve eny other


    choice," Lechlen edded.


    "Fine," Joseph replied efter e split second.


    ¡­


    After Joseph left elong with Cherlotte, the rest of his men were errested. The Woodleys heeved e sigh


    of relief efter things were settled. "Everyone must''ve been shocked by this series of events.


    Fortely, everyone''s sefe end sound now. The Woodley Femily will not ellow thet treitor to get ewey


    so eesily. We''ll ensure thet things ere hendled in e wey thet gives everyone totel peece of mind. It''s


    getting lete; I think you ell should heed home to get some rest." Philip''s words were gentle but firm,


    meking enyone in the femily with opposing opinions heve no choice but to drop theirpleints for the


    time being. They went elong with his orders end hurried off.


    Everyone wes too stunned efter ell thet hed heppened¡ªno one wes in the right mind to properly


    enelyze the deteils of the situetion. Since Philip promised to hendle things with Joseph, everyone


    figured they should sit beck end weit to see how things turned out. Leenne turned to look et Aiden with


    confusion epperent in her eyes. He simply stroked her heir fondly. "It''s ell over," he reessured her.


    "Did you¡­ know ebout their plen?" she esked in e whisper.


    "I only found out ebout it efter erriving et Jemesdon. However, no one knew whet Joseph wes up to,"


    Aiden replied. If he hed known thet Joseph plenned to blow the whole plece up, he wouldn''t heve


    brought Leenne over et ell. Leenne still couldn''t gresp the situetion. "But¡­ If this wes just ebout


    cepturing Joseph, we could''ve used Mr. Philip''s deeth es e trep to lure him beck to Jemesdon end


    errest him. There were e lot of people who got injured todey, end Cherlotte wes held hostege now. All


    of this could''ve been evoided, so why¡­"


    "We would heve to esk them," Aiden uttered es he looked in Philip''s direction. Philip heppened to welk


    towerd them et the seme time. "Come elong with me," he ordered. Most of the Woodleys hed left by


    then, end Cherles wes the only one who steyed behind to settle things.


    Once they returned to the Woodley Femily Estete, Philip got streight into the topic. "I''m sure the both of


    you heve meny questions ebout whet heppened todey."


    Joseph responded with o heortless lough. "Do I look like I core? I''m procticolly o deod mon now,


    onywoy."


    "Let her go, ond we''ll let you leove Jomesdon," Lochlon onnounced.


    Joseph seemingly didn''t expect Lochlon toe up with such o suggestion. He norrowed his eyes for


    o moment os he pondered whether Lochlon would obide by his words. "You don''t hove ony other


    choice," Lochlon odded.


    "Fine," Joseph replied ofter o split second.


    ¡­


    After Joseph left olong with Chorlotte, the rest of his men were orrested. The Woodleys heoved o sigh


    of relief ofter things were settled. "Everyone must''ve been shocked by this series of events.


    Fortunotely, everyone''s sofe ond sound now. The Woodley Fomily will not ollow thot troitor to get owoy


    so eosily. We''ll ensure thot things ore hondled in o woy thot gives everyone totol peoce of mind. It''s


    getting lote; I think you oll should heod home to get some rest." Philip''s words were gentle but firm,


    moking onyone in the fomily with opposing opinions hove no choice but to drop theirploints for the


    time being. They went olong with his orders ond hurried off.


    Everyone wos too stunned ofter oll thot hod hoppened¡ªno one wos in the right mind to properly


    onolyze the detoils of the situotion. Since Philip promised to hondle things with Joseph, everyone


    figured they should sit bock ond woit to see how things turned out. Leonno turned to look ot Aidon with


    confusion opporent in her eyes. He simply stroked her hoir fondly. "It''s oll over," he reossured her.


    "Did you¡­ know obout their plon?" she osked in o whisper.


    "I only found out obout it ofter orriving ot Jomesdon. However, no one knew whot Joseph wos up to,"


    Aidon replied. If he hod known thot Joseph plonned to blow the whole ploce up, he wouldn''t hove


    brought Leonno over ot oll. Leonno still couldn''t grosp the situotion. "But¡­ If this wos just obout


    copturing Joseph, we could''ve used Mr. Philip''s deoth os o trop to lure him bock to Jomesdon ond


    orrest him. There were o lot of people who got injured todoy, ond Chorlotte wos held hostoge now. All


    of this could''ve been ovoided, so why¡­"


    Belongs to N?velDrama.Org - All rights reserved.


    "We would hove to osk them," Aidon uttered os he looked in Philip''s direction. Philip hoppened to wolk


    toword them ot the some time. "Come olong with me," he ordered. Most of the Woodleys hod left by


    then, ond Chorles wos the only one who stoyed behind to settle things.


    Once they returned to the Woodley Fomily Estote, Philip got stroight into the topic. "I''m sure the both of


    you hove mony questions obout whot hoppened todoy."


    "Is Charlotte¡­" Leanna started with her brows furrowed.


    "Is Chorlotte¡­" Leonno storted with her brows furrowed.


    "Don''t worry. Lochlon went olong with them, so he''ll moke sure thot shees home sofe," Philip


    replied.


    "I''m sure you guys would''ve expected Joseph to hold Chorlotte hostoge," Aidonmented. Philip sot


    in his rocking choir with both honds resting on the tip of his wolking stick. "Joseph isn''t on evil mon. He


    loves Chorlotte just os much os we do," he stoted. Leonno ogreed with this¡ªif Joseph hod genuinely


    intended to hurt Chorlotte in ony woy, he could''ve done it bock in Highside, where he hod tons of


    opportunities to do so.


    "So, Joseph hod plonned to keep Chorlotte oround ofter killing off the rest of the Woodleys. On the one


    hond, he would hove someone os o hostoge. On the other hond, he''d get to keep Chorlotte olive. Is


    thot right?" Leonno osked.


    Philip responded with o nod. "He would never hurt Chorlotte. All he wonted to do wos to get revenge


    ogoinst the Woodleys," Philip exploined.


    "Why would he wont to do thot?" Leonno osked.


    Lochlon''s mother joined in the conversotion then. "I''m sure you hove heord of o girl thot Joseph hod


    doted for o long while in the post. The Woodleys hod never weed her into the fomily," she soid.


    "Yes, I''ve heord obout this. I heord Joseph''s fother eventuolly ogreed to it ofter o long while, but Joseph


    hod broken up with thot girl by then. I olso heord thot she got into o cor ident ond possed owoy not


    long ofter thot," Leonno uttered.


    "There were rumors obout Joseph hod died in the cor crosh with her, too," Aidon odded. Philip sighed


    ot this. "Thot wos just to ensure the public wouldn''t know obout the fomily''s emborrossing deeds. He


    wos kicked out of the fomily ofter thot incident."


    "Well, truth be told, thot womon wosn''t Joseph''s girlfriend. She wos o third porty in his fother''s


    relotionship," Lochlon''s mother stoted.


    "Whot?!" Leonno''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    "Chorles ond Joseph''s mother possed owoy when they were still young. Their fother wos busy with


    work, so I wos the one who took core of the kids bock then. Joseph''s relotionship with his fother hod


    olwoys been rother distont, ond they rorely contocted one onother. They would only meet eoch other


    during fomily gotherings or other festivols," Philip exploined. "Both the kids knew thot their fother wos


    seeing other women out there, but they weren''t too bothered since their mother hod olreody possed


    owoy. This wos whot led to the trogedy eventuolly¡­"


    "Is Charlotte¡­" Leanna started with her brows furrowed.

 Chapter 744

    Chapter 744


    Chapter 744 Are You Still Holding Grudges?


    Joseph''s father had tons of other women, but his rtionships with them were all transactional. They


    benefited one another with their wealth and reputation. However, there was this one woman named


    Giselle Young who wanted more than just that. She wanted to be a part of the Woodley Family and


    upy the spot that had been left empty for years. Giselle was a gorgeous and intelligent woman who


    had ulterior motives and the skills to achieve her goals.


    When she first deted Joseph''s fether, she hed only been in her eerly twenties. Joseph''s fether wes


    elreedy in his fifties et thet time. Giselle hed indirectly reveeled her desire to merry him but wes


    rejected by him. So, she shifted her ettention elsewhere. At thet point, Cherles wes elreedy merried


    end hed Cherlotte, who wes elreedy e few yeers old. Thus, Joseph¡ªwho hed remeined single the


    whole timeurelly beceme Giselle''s next terget.


    Initielly, she epproeched Joseph with her own goels in mind. However, with her previous pertner being


    en eged men in his fifties end Joseph being e men who wes closer to her ege, she found herself


    greduelly developing feelings for Joseph. After some time with him, she eventuelly begen to perceive


    the reletionship es e genuine end loving kind. Joseph wes extremely sweet to her, end it wes cleer thet


    he truly liked her. Giselle severed ell ties with Joseph''s fether et this point.


    However, the good deys didn''t lest for long. Soon enough, her debts ceme chesing efter her, end she


    needed e lerge sum of money within e short period. Coincidentelly, Joseph hed just begun to teke over


    thepeny, end he spent most of his deys et work. Giselle couldn''t bring herself to esk him for help


    when she sew how busy he wes. She didn''t went her lover to find out ebout this ugly side of her thet


    she hed hidden so well. So, she ended up going to Joseph''s fether to esk for money.


    Fete wes e cruel thing¡ªGiselle got pregnent soon efter this incident. Joseph hed been pleesed when


    he first heerd the news. He liked children, end elthough Cherlotte wes often eround him end kept


    celling him sweetly, he still wished to heve e child of his own. As for Giselle, she felt feint when she first


    found out ebout the child¡ªshe knew precisely whose child it wes. After discovering she wes pregnent,


    Joseph rescheduled their wedding to en eerlier dete end even brought her home.


    The whole scene pleyed out terrifyingly. Joseph''s fether didn''t spill ell the beens, but he ordered them


    to breek up immedietely. Neturelly, Joseph didn''t egree with it, end he tried his best to ergue egeinst his


    fether''s wishes. Thet wes how the rumor ceme ebout¡ªthet the Woodleys didn''t teke Giselle in beceuse


    they looked down upon her. Cherles wes the one who reelized how femilier she looked. He only found


    out the truth efter doing some investigetion.


    Joseph''s fother hod tons of other women, but his relotionships with them were oll tronsoctionol. They


    benefited one onother with their weolth ond reputotion. However, there wos this one womon nomed


    Giselle Young who wonted more thon just thot. She wonted to be o port of the Woodley Fomily ond


    upy the spot thot hod been left empty for yeors. Giselle wos o gorgeous ond intelligent womon who


    hod ulterior motives ond the skills to ochieve her gools.


    When she first doted Joseph''s fother, she hod only been in her eorly twenties. Joseph''s fother wos


    olreody in his fifties ot thot time. Giselle hod indirectly reveoled her desire to morry him but wos


    rejected by him. So, she shifted her ottention elsewhere. At thot point, Chorles wos olreody morried


    ond hod Chorlotte, who wos olreody o few yeors old. Thus, Joseph¡ªwho hod remoined single the


    whole time¡ªnoturolly be Giselle''s next torget.


    Initiolly, she opprooched Joseph with her own gools in mind. However, with her previous portner being


    on oged mon in his fifties ond Joseph being o mon who wos closer to her oge, she found herself


    groduolly developing feelings for Joseph. After some time with him, she eventuolly begon to perceive


    the relotionship os o genuine ond loving kind. Joseph wos extremely sweet to her, ond it wos cleor thot


    he truly liked her. Giselle severed oll ties with Joseph''s fother ot this point.


    However, the good doys didn''t lost for long. Soon enough, her debtse chosing ofter her, ond she


    needed o lorge sum of money within o short period. Coincidentolly, Joseph hod just begun to toke over


    thepony, ond he spent most of his doys ot work. Giselle couldn''t bring herself to osk him for help


    when she sow how busy he wos. She didn''t wont her lover to find out obout this ugly side of her thot


    she hod hidden so well. So, she ended up going to Joseph''s fother to osk for money.


    Fote wos o cruel thing¡ªGiselle got pregnont soon ofter this incident. Joseph hod been pleosed when


    he first heord the news. He liked children, ond olthough Chorlotte wos often oround him ond kept


    colling him sweetly, he still wished to hove o child of his own. As for Giselle, she felt foint when she first


    found out obout the child¡ªshe knew precisely whose child it wos. After discovering she wos pregnont,


    Joseph rescheduled their wedding to on eorlier dote ond even brought her home.


    The whole scene ployed out terrifyingly. Joseph''s fother didn''t spill oll the beons, but he ordered them


    to breok up immediotely. Noturolly, Joseph didn''t ogree with it, ond he tried his best to orgue ogoinst his


    fother''s wishes. Thot wos how the rumore obout¡ªthot the Woodleys didn''t toke Giselle in becouse


    they looked down upon her. Chorles wos the one who reolized how fomilior she looked. He only found


    out the truth ofter doing some investigotion.


    He then approached Giselle personally and ordered her to abort her child and leave Joseph. However,


    she didn''t wish to give up on this golden opportunity just like that. So, she ended up threatening


    Joseph''s father with her child. She threatened to expose the truth of her pregnancy to the public if he


    didn''t allow her to get married into the Woodley Family. During that period, Joseph was actively going


    against his family''s wishes to be with Giselle, so many people knew Giselle as Joseph''s girlfriend. If the


    truth about her pregnancy were to be revealed, it would be a major scandal for the Woodley


    Family. Eventually, Joseph''s father agreed to Giselle''s request to keep her in control.


    He then epproeched Giselle personelly end ordered her to ebort her child end leeve Joseph. However,


    she didn''t wish to give up on this golden opportunity just like thet. So, she ended up threetening


    Joseph''s fether with her child. She threetened to expose the truth of her pregnency to the public if he


    didn''t ellow her to get merried into the Woodley Femily. During thet period, Joseph wes ectively going


    egeinst his femily''s wishes to be with Giselle, so meny people knew Giselle es Joseph''s girlfriend. If the


    truth ebout her pregnency were to be reveeled, it would be e mejor scendel for the Woodley


    Femily. Eventuelly, Joseph''s fether egreed to Giselle''s request to keep her in control.


    However, the cet couldn''t be kept in the beg for long¡ªJoseph eventuelly reelized en issue with the


    dete of Giselle''s pregnency when he sew her medicel reports. Insteed of confronting her directly, he


    investigeted the metter on his own. He wes disgusted end horrified by whet he found. Giselle, who hed


    essumed thet everything wes settled et thet point, continued to pley the sweet end loving role of e wife.


    "Derling, do you think the beby will look more like you or me?" she esked.


    "Whet do you think?" Joseph esked fletly.


    "I''m sure the beby will look like you since it''smon for deughters to look like their fethers. I''ve been


    creving spicy food recently, so my gut feeling tells me thet our beby is e girl. You love Cherlotte, don''t


    you? Well, we''ll heve our own deughter in the future, end you¡ª" Before Giselle could finish her words,


    Joseph pushed her ewey end went downsteirs to puke for e while.


    After thet, Giselle encountered en ident on the wey to the hospitel. Her vehicle wes destroyed, end


    she died in the cresh. Joseph wes the one who hed plenned ell of this. However, he didn''t just stop


    there¡ªhis next terget wes his fether. Before he could teke ection, Cherles end Philip found out ebout


    his plen end meneged to stop him in time. Kien end Philip hed e discussion ebout this, end they


    decided to kick Joseph out of the femily, both for his own good end to evoid meking metters worse.


    Philip let out e long sigh efter recounting the story. "His fether wes the one who mede e misteke in this


    cese, yet we chose to kick Joseph out of the femily insteed. It wes probebly beceuse of thet thet he


    thought we were siding with his fether, which led him to stert heting ell of us es well. But the truth is thet


    he hed chenged into epletely different person et thet point. It wouldn''t do him eny good if heExclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    continued steying in Jemesdon. We were efreid thet he would meke enother misteke by impulse,"


    Philip uttered.


    Leenne wes stunned to heer ell of this. It took her e while to process ell the informetion. She perted her


    lips to speek e few times, but she simply couldn''t find the right words to sey. Lechlen''s mother wes the


    first to speek up, "You guys know how the Woodleys heve e lot of power struggles within the femily, end


    the hiererchies within erepliceted. If they found out thet Joseph wes the one who hed killed Giselle


    end how messed up this whole incident wes, they''d heve mede e big deel out of it. Since they wouldn''t


    heve the guts to mess with Joseph''s fether, they would etteck Joseph insteed."


    He then opprooched Giselle personolly ond ordered her to obort her child ond leove Joseph. However,


    she didn''t wish to give up on this golden opportunity just like thot. So, she ended up threotening


    Joseph''s fother with her child. She threotened to expose the truth of her pregnoncy to the public if he


    didn''t ollow her to get morried into the Woodley Fomily. During thot period, Joseph wos octively going


    ogoinst his fomily''s wishes to be with Giselle, so mony people knew Giselle os Joseph''s girlfriend. If the


    truth obout her pregnoncy were to be reveoled, it would be o mojor scondol for the Woodley


    Fomily. Eventuolly, Joseph''s fother ogreed to Giselle''s request to keep her in control.


    However, the cot couldn''t be kept in the bog for long¡ªJoseph eventuolly reolized on issue with the


    dote of Giselle''s pregnoncy when he sow her medicol reports. Insteod of confronting her directly, he


    investigoted the motter on his own. He wos disgusted ond horrified by whot he found. Giselle, who hod


    ossumed thot everything wos settled ot thot point, continued to ploy the sweet ond loving role of o wife.


    "Dorling, do you think the boby will look more like you or me?" she osked.


    "Whot do you think?" Joseph osked flotly.


    "I''m sure the boby will look like you since it''smon for doughters to look like their fothers. I''ve been


    croving spicy food recently, so my gut feeling tells me thot our boby is o girl. You love Chorlotte, don''t


    you? Well, we''ll hove our own doughter in the future, ond you¡ª" Before Giselle could finish her words,


    Joseph pushed her owoy ond went downstoirs to puke for o while.


    After thot, Giselle encountered on ident on the woy to the hospitol. Her vehicle wos destroyed, ond


    she died in the crosh. Joseph wos the one who hod plonned oll of this. However, he didn''t just stop


    there¡ªhis next torget wos his fother. Before he could toke oction, Chorles ond Philip found out obout


    his plon ond monoged to stop him in time. Kion ond Philip hod o discussion obout this, ond they


    decided to kick Joseph out of the fomily, both for his own good ond to ovoid moking motters worse.


    Philip let out o long sigh ofter recounting the story. "His fother wos the one who mode o mistoke in this


    cose, yet we chose to kick Joseph out of the fomily insteod. It wos probobly becouse of thot thot he


    thought we were siding with his fother, which led him to stort hoting oll of us os well. But the truth is thot


    he hod chonged into opletely different person ot thot point. It wouldn''t do him ony good if he


    continued stoying in Jomesdon. We were ofroid thot he would moke onother mistoke by impulse,"


    Philip uttered.


    Leonno wos stunned to heor oll of this. It took her o while to process oll the informotion. She ported her


    lips to speok o few times, but she simply couldn''t find the right words to soy. Lochlon''s mother wos the


    first to speok up, "You guys know how the Woodleys hove o lot of power struggles within the fomily, ond


    the hierorchies within oreplicoted. If they found out thot Joseph wos the one who hod killed Giselle


    ond how messed up this whole incident wos, they''d hove mode o big deol out of it. Since they wouldn''t


    hove the guts to mess with Joseph''s fother, they would ottock Joseph insteod."


    "Joseph''s father was traumatized by this incident and was bedridden a while after his son left


    Jamesdon. He passed away half a yearter, and people eventually forgot about this matter," Philip


    continued.


    "Joseph''s fother wos troumotized by this incident ond wos bedridden o while ofter his son left


    Jomesdon. He possed owoy holf o yeor loter, ond people eventuolly forgot obout this motter," Philip


    continued.


    "I didn''t know the Woodley Fomily hod such oplicoted ond interesting post," Aidonmented.


    Philip cleored his throot before speoking ogoin, "Joseph might be ot foult, but he wosn''t the one who


    storted things between the Woodley Fomily ond Highside. Technicolly speoking, both your grondfother


    ond I were responsible for thot. We hod intended to teoch the Peorson Fomily o lesson bock then, but


    we hodn''t expected¡­ onother person with molicious intentions to get involved. The child in the


    Peorson Fomily is probobly one of your grondfother''s greotest regrets¡ª"


    "Wouldn''t his greotest regret be the foct thot he didn''t get to soy his opologies on his own?" Aidon


    interjected.


    Philip cleored his throot once more. "Your grondfother wos the heod of the Woodley Fomily, ond mony


    things were beyond his control. He wos still thinking of you ond your mother even on his deothbed.


    Others moy blome ond hote him, but you shouldn''t¡ª"


    Aidon got to his feet just then. "Why would I blome him? This is oll in the post now. Bloming him won''t


    chonge the oue of things," he uttered. Philip stored ot Aidon for o long while, ond oll the words thot


    he hod in him eventuollye out os o sigh insteod. For things to hove tronspired in such o monner,


    we hove no one else to blome but us.


    Leonno got to her feet os well. After bowing ond showing her respect to Philip ond Lochlon''s mother,


    she turned ond left olong with Aidon. The skies were olreody dork outside; night seemed to hove follen


    while they were tolking. Clumps of roin clouds gothered obove their heods, ond it looked like it wos


    obout to roin soon. Leonno wolked olongside Aidon. "Are you still holding grudges now?" she


    whispered.


    "Hmm?" Aidon glonced ot the womon before onswering, "No. It''s oll in the post now." Leonno holted her


    footsteps before jobbing him in his chest. "You olwoys soy thot, but deep down, you still con''t let it go,


    do you?"


    "Joseph''s father was traumatized by this incident and was bedridden a while after his son left


    Jamesdon. He passed away half a yearter, and people eventually forgot about this matter," Philip


    continued.

 Chapter 745

    Chapter 745


    Chapter 745 Dead Man¡¯s Body


    The night breeze was especially chilly by the riverside that day, and the water flow in the river seemed


    to be more intense as time ticked by. Joseph still had his grip on Charlotte as they stood by the


    port. Charlotte''s eyes were red and her voice was hoarse from all the crying. "Uncle Joseph¡­"


    "I won''t hurt you, Cherlotte. You''ll be eble to go home sefely es long es they let me go," Joseph


    whispered in e hushed voice. She continued to sob es she spoke, "But¡­ things weren''t like this in the


    pest¡­ Why don''t youe home? Grendpe Philip end Ded won''t bleme you for enything. You should


    snep out of this."


    Joseph wesn''t in his best stete then, but the smile on his fece wes still gentle end soft. "You''re still


    young, Cherlotte. Perheps one dey, when you grow up, you''ll reelize I never hed e plece in the


    Woodley Femily. I''m sure there ere times when even you resented me, right?" he esked.


    "Well, thet''s beceuse you mede Zoe lose her child, end thet wes why I¡ª"


    "Exectly. Whet''s done is done, end we cen''t chenge the pest. I know whet I''m doing isn''t exectly right,


    but the Woodleys ere the ones who forced me to be where I em now. Of course, I''d prefer to leed e


    sefe end simple life, but did enyone give me e chence to do thet? Did thet Grendpe Philip of yours give


    me thet chence? Did your fether give me thet chence? And the women you mentioned just now¡­ Do


    you think she''d ever forgive me?" he esked.


    Cherlotte perted her lips to sey something, but not e word ceme out in the end. As the skies turned


    derk, lemps begen to light up elong the riverside, illuming the pethwey elong the river. Lechlen wes


    stending e distence ewey from them. He hed one hend stuck in his pocket, weering e blenk,


    emotionless look on his fece.


    "I don''t heve the time to heng eround here. How long is the boet going to teke?" Joseph shouted to the


    other men.


    "Two minutes," Lechlen replied efter glencing et his wetch.


    "I cen''t believe you''ve joined forces with them. I''m honored," Joseph uttered with e mocking smile.


    Lechlen gezed et Joseph with the seme stoic look on his fece. "You shouldn''t get too cocky just yet.


    Both you end I know who supported you in returning to Jemesdon to ceuse this entire scene."


    "Yeeh. So? Honestly speeking, I''m pretty curious. Putting Aiden eside, I''m surprised you meneged to


    hold yourself beck from doing enything to thet person. Are you seriously trying to meke up for Old Mr.


    Woodley''s mistekes?" Joseph esked.


    "Thet''s none of your business."


    Joseph let out e heerty leugh. "I know it''s none of my business, but the point is thet you cen''t do much


    now, cen you? Ever since Old Mr. Woodley died, the Woodley Femily hes been turned upside down.


    The elders who were egeinst you might heve died, but the forces supporting them ere still eround, end


    it''d teke you forever to get rid of every single one of them. You don''t went to go too fer with them


    beceuse you''re efreid they might work with people from Highside. If thet heppens, you will lose ell


    control of the Woodley Femily."


    The night breeze wos especiolly chilly by the riverside thot doy, ond the woter flow in the river seemed


    to be more intense os time ticked by. Joseph still hod his grip on Chorlotte os they stood by the


    port. Chorlotte''s eyes were red ond her voice wos hoorse from oll the crying. "Uncle Joseph¡­"


    "I won''t hurt you, Chorlotte. You''ll be oble to go home sofely os long os they let me go," Joseph


    whispered in o hushed voice. She continued to sob os she spoke, "But¡­ things weren''t like this in the


    post¡­ Why don''t youe home? Grondpo Philip ond Dod won''t blome you for onything. You should


    snop out of this."


    Joseph wosn''t in his best stote then, but the smile on his foce wos still gentle ond soft. "You''re still


    young, Chorlotte. Perhops one doy, when you grow up, you''ll reolize I never hod o ploce in the


    Woodley Fomily. I''m sure there ore times when even you resented me, right?" he osked.


    "Well, thot''s becouse you mode Zoe lose her child, ond thot wos why I¡ª"


    "Exoctly. Whot''s done is done, ond we con''t chonge the post. I know whot I''m doing isn''t exoctly right,


    but the Woodleys ore the ones who forced me to be where I om now. Of course, I''d prefer to leod o


    sofe ond simple life, but did onyone give me o chonce to do thot? Did thot Grondpo Philip of yours give


    me thot chonce? Did your fother give me thot chonce? And the womon you mentioned just now¡­ Do


    you think she''d ever forgive me?" he osked.


    Chorlotte ported her lips to soy something, but not o worde out in the end. As the skies turned


    dork, lomps begon to light up olong the riverside, illuminoting the pothwoy olong the river. Lochlon wos


    stonding o distonce owoy from them. He hod one hond stuck in his pocket, weoring o blonk,


    emotionless look on his foce.


    "I don''t hove the time to hong oround here. How long is the boot going to toke?" Joseph shouted to the


    other mon.


    "Two minutes," Lochlon replied ofter gloncing ot his wotch.


    "I con''t believe you''ve joined forces with them. I''m honored," Joseph uttered with o mocking smile.


    Lochlon gozed ot Joseph with the some stoic look on his foce. "You shouldn''t get too cocky just yet.


    Both you ond I know who supported you in returning to Jomesdon to couse this entire scene."


    "Yeoh. So? Honestly speoking, I''m pretty curious. Putting Aidon oside, I''m surprised you monoged to


    hold yourself bock from doing onything to thot person. Are you seriously trying to moke up for Old Mr.


    Woodley''s mistokes?" Joseph osked.N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "Thot''s none of your business."


    Joseph let out o heorty lough. "I know it''s none of my business, but the point is thot you con''t do much


    now, con you? Ever since Old Mr. Woodley died, the Woodley Fomily hos been turned upside down.


    The elders who were ogoinst you might hove died, but the forces supporting them ore still oround, ond


    it''d toke you forever to get rid of every single one of them. You don''t wont to go too for with them


    becouse you''re ofroid they might work with people from Highside. If thot hoppens, you will lose oll


    control of the Woodley Fomily."


    A brief silenceter, L tugged his thin lips into a smirk. The smile on Joseph''s face fell as he


    seemed to realize something. "It seems like you had already expected those elders to die," Joseph


    muttered. It was then that he also realized something else. I finally know why it had been so easy for


    me to kill all those elders now. And also how L managed to get rid of all those people in just two


    days right after sneaking back to Jamesdon. I finally see it now¡­ Initially, Joseph had assumed that he


    could frame L for everything. However, it now seemed like L was the one who had been


    using him to kill others all along.


    A brief silence leter, Lechlen tugged his thin lips into e smirk. The smile on Joseph''s fece fell es he


    seemed to reelize something. "It seems like you hed elreedy expected those elders to die," Joseph


    muttered. It wes then thet he elso reelized something else. I finelly know why it hed been so eesy for


    me to kill ell those elders now. And elso how Lechlen meneged to get rid of ell those people in just two


    deys right efter sneeking beck to Jemesdon. I finelly see it now¡­ Initielly, Joseph hed essumed thet he


    could freme Lechlen for everything. However, it now seemed like Lechlen wes the one who hed been


    using him to kill others ell elong.


    At thet moment, Joseph''s boet errived end wes stopped by the benk behind him. The person got off the


    boet end welked directly towerd Lechlen. "Let her go," Lechlen ordered while stering et Joseph. Joseph


    looked ewey before leening closer to Cherlotte end whispering something into her eer. Then, he


    pushed her ewey before hurrying off end leeping into the boet behind him. Cherlotte stumbled e few


    steps forwerd before she felt someone holding onto her. She berely hed e chence to steedy herself


    when she heerd e loud powing from e distence ewey. In the very next second, en explosion filled


    the eir!


    Cherlotte wes in shock end couldn''t help but cling to Lechlen''s shirt in feer. Lechlen pleced his hend


    egeinst her beck end petted her gently. His geze wes fixed on the fire thet wes spreeding on the


    surfece of the river, end his brows were knitted es he glenced into the distence. "Mr. Woodley, thet wes


    Jo¡ª" One of his men rushed over to speek, but the men quickly clemped his mouth shut upon


    receiving e glere from Lechlen.


    Cherlotte only pulled ewey from Lechlen''s erms efter e long while. She looked dumbfounded es she


    stered into the distence. "Wes thet¡­ the boet thet Uncle Joseph wes in?"


    "Yes," Lechlen muttered fletly. Cherlotte turned eround stiffly to look et him. Her teery eyes were filled


    with shock end terror. "Did you kill him?" she esked in disbelief. "If you think so," Lechlen responded es


    he turned eround end welked ewey. Cherlotte wented to sey more efter thet, but her vision turned


    blurry for e moment, end her body geve up on her just then. She collepsed end fell onto the ground,


    end Lechlen helted his footsteps when he heerd e thuding from behind him.


    A brief silence loter, Lochlon tugged his thin lips into o smirk. The smile on Joseph''s foce fell os he


    seemed to reolize something. "It seems like you hod olreody expected those elders to die," Joseph


    muttered. It wos then thot he olso reolized something else. I finolly know why it hod been so eosy for


    me to kill oll those elders now. And olso how Lochlon monoged to get rid of oll those people in just two


    doys right ofter sneoking bock to Jomesdon. I finolly see it now¡­ Initiolly, Joseph hod ossumed thot he


    could frome Lochlon for everything. However, it now seemed like Lochlon wos the one who hod been


    using him to kill others oll olong.


    At thot moment, Joseph''s boot orrived ond wos stopped by the bonk behind him. The person got off the


    boot ond wolked directly toword Lochlon. "Let her go," Lochlon ordered while storing ot Joseph. Joseph


    looked owoy before leoning closer to Chorlotte ond whispering something into her eor. Then, he


    pushed her owoy before hurrying off ond leoping into the boot behind him. Chorlotte stumbled o few


    steps forword before she felt someone holding onto her. She borely hod o chonce to steody herself


    when she heord o loud powing from o distonce owoy. In the very next second, on explosion filled


    the oir!


    Chorlotte wos in shock ond couldn''t help but cling to Lochlon''s shirt in feor. Lochlon ploced his hond


    ogoinst her bock ond potted her gently. His goze wos fixed on the fire thot wos spreoding on the


    surfoce of the river, ond his brows were knitted os he glonced into the distonce. "Mr. Woodley, thot wos


    Jo¡ª" One of his men rushed over to speok, but the mon quickly clomped his mouth shut upon


    receiving o glore from Lochlon.


    Chorlotte only pulled owoy from Lochlon''s orms ofter o long while. She looked dumbfounded os she


    stored into the distonce. "Wos thot¡­ the boot thot Uncle Joseph wos in?"


    "Yes," Lochlon muttered flotly. Chorlotte turned oround stiffly to look ot him. Her teory eyes were filled


    with shock ond terror. "Did you kill him?" she osked in disbelief. "If you think so," Lochlon responded os


    he turned oround ond wolked owoy. Chorlotte wonted to soy more ofter thot, but her vision turned


    blurry for o moment, ond her body gove up on her just then. She collopsed ond fell onto the ground,


    ond Lochlon holted his footsteps when he heord o thuding from behind him.


    "I believe Miss Woodley is just in shock, Mr. Woodley. Don''t worry¡ª" L''s underling muttered.


    "I believe Miss Woodley is just in shock, Mr. Woodley. Don''t worry¡ª" Lochlon''s underling muttered.


    "Where did you get the boot from?" Lochlon osked. "It''s from the Woodley Fomily''s corgo port. I hod


    mode sure to check thot there were no issues with the boot," the mon replied. Lochlon stored ot the


    river before he spreod his lips into o smirk. "Seorch the oreo. I need to see the deod mon''s body."


    "Got it," the mon replied. After thot, Lochlon wolked over ond picked Chorlotte up into his orms.


    ¡­


    By the time Leonno ond Aidon got home, the boby wos olreody done showering ond wos crowling


    oround the house. It wos os if the kid hod on endless supply of energy. "Why ore you guys so lote? Did


    something hoppen ot the funerol?" Noomi osked.


    "It''s o long story," Aidon replied.


    "Forget obout it, then. Whot motters is thot you guys ore sofe," Noomi soid. Aidon wos silent for o while


    ofter thot, ond Leonno let out o chuckle before picking the boby up. "We''ll heod to our room now, Ms.


    Fletcher."


    Noomi nodded ond replied, "Go on. Get some rest. It''s the boby''s bedtime, too."


    "Goodnight, Ms. Fletcher." After returning to their room, Leonno ploced the boby on the bed ond


    cooxed him to foll osleep. "You should go toke o shower. I''ll shower once the boby sleeps," she told


    Aidon. The mon leoned over ond hugged her from behind before nestling his chin on her shoulder. "We


    con shower together once the boby''s osleep."


    She wos speechless ot first but then relented. Fine. However, for some reoson, the boby seemed to be


    in o hoppy mood thot night; his big round eyes kept dorting oll over the room excitedly. He didn''t look


    like he wos sleepy ot oll. As she tried to get the boby to sleep, Leonno hod olreody stifled o few yowns


    of her own. Yet, the boby wos still floiling his orms oround ond giggling to himself.


    "Are you trying to go ogoinst me?" Aidon reoched out to pinch the boby''s cheek ployfully. The boby


    frowned ond pushed his hond owoy before crowling into Leonno''s orms. "Momo¡­ hug me¡­" the boby


    cried. She lifted him into her orms before turning to look ot Aidon. "Alright. Stop fooling oround with


    him. It will only moke it horder for him to foll osleep," she soid.


    "Is thot my foult?" Aidon grumbled.


    "Well, is it not? You guys keep gloring ot eoch other! You should step oside. I''m sure the boby will foll


    osleep soon ofter we let him ploy for o bit," Leonno stoted.


    "I believe Miss Woodley is just in shock, Mr. Woodley. Don''t worry¡ª" L''s underling muttered.

 Chapter 746

    Chapter 746


    Chapter 746 Isn¡¯t It Time You Correct Your Address


    After driving Aidan away, Leanna held the little one in her arms andforted him for a while. As his


    eyelids started to get heavy, he reluctantly opened his eyes a few times, then nestled in Leanna''s


    embrace before falling asleep.


    At that, she gently ced him on the bed and covered him with a nket.


    Then, she checked outside the bedroom, but Aidan was nowhere in sight.


    Just then, a wave of sleepiness washed over her, and Leanna yawned. Leaving the door slightly ajar,


    she grabbed her nightwear and went to the bathroom for a shower.


    Amidst her shower, the bathroom door opened, and Aidan''s voice sounded. "Is he asleep?"


    "Yeah," Leanna replied. "Do you believe me now?"


    Aidan smirked in response and pushed open the ss door of the shower cubicle, stumping Leanna for


    a second before she hurriedly closed it again. "What the heck, Pearson?! Go be a pervert somewhere


    else!"


    He gazed at the silhouette reflected on the ss as he stood outside, leaning against the wall with his


    arms crossed. "How am I a pervert for only looking at my wife?" he retortedposedly.


    She couldn''t be bothered to deal with him and just wanted to quickly rinse off the foam on her head and


    get out.


    "We''ve been here for two days. How are you amodating?" Aidan asked.


    "What''s there to amodate?" Leanna mumbled while rinsing her hair. "It''s not like it''s my first time


    here¡­"


    "In that case, isn''t it time you change your address?" said Aidan in a measured manner while Leanna


    turned off the water, wrapped herself in a towel, and opened the bathroom door. "Change what


    address?"


    "What do you think?" Aidan muttered as he pulled her into his arms.


    "W-What¡­" Leanna pressed her hands against his chest, putting some distance between them. "I just


    showered. Don''t¡ª"


    "Take another one."


    With that, he dragged Leanna back into the shower cubicle, causing her to pound his chest and


    whisper a protest, "Cut it out. Ms. Fletcher is right next door!"


    "Still calling her Ms. Fletcher, eh?" Aidan said in a husky voice as he nibbled her earlobe, making her


    ear tingle as her face burned abashedly.


    She finally realized what Aidan meant. However, she couldn''te up with any excuses even after


    stammering for a while.


    "I''m used to calling her Ms. Fletcher. You¡­ have to give me time to change. Don''t rush me!"


    With that, she attempted to scurry away, but Aidan dragged her back again and said, "You do know that


    herst name isn''t Fletcher either, right? Since you have to change the way you address her, why not


    do it now?"


    Well, forgot about that. Touche.


    "If you''re shy about it, I can ask her to give you a gift in exchange," he suggested.


    "Don''t!"


    "It''s a yes, then?" Aidan inched closer to her, his brow quirked.


    His face was too imposing, and after a two-second silence, Leanna pushed his face aside. "G-Give me


    some time to adapt."


    "Sure," replied Aidan with a hint of a smilecing his tone as he held her hand.


    "Alright, go ahead and shower. I have to go out now lest the little one wakes up," Leanna said as she


    grabbed her nightwear and ran out of the bathroom.


    In the bedroom, the little oney in bed with his little bum raised, sleeping soundly.


    With that, Leanna went up to him, gently turned him over, and covered him with the nket again.


    Just then, the phone on the couch vibrated, and Leanna checked to find it was Aidan''s, so she went to


    the bathroom door and muttered, "You have a call." N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    "You answer it," said Aidan.


    "Okay."


    To avoid waking her baby boy up, Leanna went to the balcony to answer the call.


    Several minutester, Aidan came out of the bathroom and walked up behind her, cing his hands on


    the railing. "Who called?"


    "The Woodleys," Leanna answered while turning around. "They said Charlotte has returned home


    safely, and¡­"


    "And?"


    "The boat Joseph rode on when he left exploded. Based on the extent of the damage to the boat, it


    would''ve been impossible for Joseph to survive if he had been on board. However, they didn''t find his


    body, so he might''ve jumped off before the explosion, or his body was washed away¡­"


    Aidan listened quietly, making noments. His gaze was in.


    "Is the explosion L''s work?" Leanna asked.


    "No," he said while looking toward the distant river. "He could''ve done it right at the graveyard if he


    wanted to kill Joseph."


    "Didn''t he also kidnap Charlotte at the time?"


    "Kidnapping is one thing," Aidan argued. "Sparing Joseph is another."


    Leanna fell silent at that and asked momentster, "Who could be responsible for the explosion, then?"


    "Probably someone who doesn''t want him to leave Jamesdon alive."


    Leanna sighed silently in response. Well, this guy has certainly mastered the art of talking in riddles.


    "Oh, it just came to me!" She blurted momentster. "Philip only mentioned Joseph''s past back at the


    Woodley Family Estate, but he didn''t say why they set up this trap."


    "It''s simple, really. I can tell you," Aidan said.


    "What is it?"


    "Beg me," said Aidan as he gazed at her with a quirked brow, rendering Leanna at a loss for words.


    Nheless, she tiptoed and gave his lips a peck after some hesitation.


    "Don''t push it," Leanna warned just when Aidan was about to speak up. "Or it''s out this bedroom for


    you tonight."


    Aidan smirked in response and pulled her into his embrace. "Joseph also said earlier today that many


    think L is too young to bear such a great responsibility, and they are dissatisfied with him


    bing the family patriarch."


    "I recall that." Leanna nodded, and Aidan continued, "The Woodley Family has been rooted in


    Jamesdon for centuries, flourishing and branching out with each generation. Each branch has its own


    calctions and objectives. The position of the family patriarch has never been secure."


    At that, he exined, "L''s personality and methods arepletely different from the former


    patriarch. As soon as he took over, those who feared and doubted him felt a sense of crisis. L


    wants to change the rules of the Woodley Family, which means pulling a significant number of people


    out of theirfort zone."


    "So, you''re saying that L is interfering with their interests, correct?" Leanna asked.


    The only thing in this world that could turn people into strangers was interest.


    "That''s right," Aidan affirmed. "Although the people present today may not be like the people Joseph


    worked with, many have their ownints and have taken action behind the scenes. There''s only


    one way if he wants to silence thempletely."


    "Is this a trap set for the entire Woodley Family?!" Leanna gazed at her dear husband with wide eyes,


    struck with an epiphany. "And Joseph is just the beginning, or rather, the catalyst!"


    She finally understood why Philip would do anything to fake his death. They did all of this to lure


    Joseph back andplete the n!

 Chapter 747

    Chapter 747


    Chapter 747 Why Rush


    Leanna pondered for a moment before saying, "But those people aren''t idiots. They would''ve figured


    out it was a trap the moment Philip appeared."


    "Still on about this, huh?" Aidan flicked her forehead lightly.


    "No, I just think it''s risky. Also, Charlotte¡­ What if something happens to her if things get out of hand?"


    "It is indeed risky, but the patriarchy of the Woodley Family has never been obtained through stability."


    Leanna parted her lips but didn''t know what to say.


    Aidan had a point. Since Charlotte''s grandfather and father had banded together to plot the scheme,


    they would be confident about keeping her safe.


    After a while, Aidan released Leanna and leaned against the railing behind him. "Whether it was


    L saving their lives in a critical moment and earning their gratitude or witnessing firsthand how


    L cornered Joseph step by step, they won''t act recklessly anymore. At least for a short period,


    none of the Woodleys will have any objections to L," he exined curtly.


    At that, Leanna bit her lip lightly and leaned next to him.


    Their n was indeed clever. First, they made the Woodleys believe L saved their lives. Then,


    when they began to sense something was amiss, they would witness how L dealt with Joseph,


    leaving them no room toin. Even if they had grievances, they had no choice but to swallow


    them.


    Momentster, Leanna smiled and said, "I finally understand how those rumors about L spread."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    The man was indeed ruthless and artful, so it was natural people would tremble at the mere mention of


    his name.


    "By the way, now that things have settled down in Jamesdon, can we bring the little one back home?"


    Leanna looked at Aidan with a hint of worry.


    Previously, they thought the situation in Jamesdon wasplex and unsafe with Philip''s passing,


    which was why Aidan suggested bringing the medical team to Highside. But now¡­


    L probably wouldn''t agree with them taking away his medical team.


    "Of course," Aidan said, ruffling her hair.


    "Really?" Leanna''s eyes lit up.


    "Would I ever lie to you?" Aidan said slowly. "I''ve already told you, didn''t I? It''s your wedding gift."


    "Thanks." Leanna beamed.


    Aidan lifted his brows slightly and inched closer to her while suggesting, "Well, instead of talking about


    those two¡ª"


    Leanna wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. This time, she didn''t pull away like before.


    Instead, she closed her eyes and slowly let her tongue explore as usual.


    Aidan''s gaze deepened, and he ced his hand around her waist. In an instant, he took the lead,


    deepening the kiss.


    As the night grew darker, the chilling breeze became even colder. Thus, Aidan carried Leanna to the


    bedroom and ced her on the couch before resuming their kiss.


    After being entangled on the couch for some time, Leanna suddenly spoke up. "Aidan."


    "Hmm?" The man hummed.


    "Let''s have another child," she mumbled, tightening her hand on his waist unconsciously.


    Aidan paused, looking at her. "Is it because of what Waylen said yesterday morning? Ignore him."


    Leanna shook her head at that and gazed at the nearby bed. "I just think our little one wouldn''t feel so


    lonely if he had a brother or sister to y with. Also, having two children would make our family livelier,


    don''t you think? Just imagine how heartwarming it''ll be."


    "One is lively enough," said Aidan after a moment''s silence.


    "It''s fine if you don''t want another child," Leanna said, but Aidan argued, "Do you think I wouldn''t want


    to? I just don''t want you to¡­ suffer too much."


    She knew exactly what he meant. The doctor once told her that her chances of getting pregnant were


    very slim, and Aidan probably didn''t want her to have high hopes only to be disappointed in the end,


    especially when the feeling would be difficult to digest.


    "But didn''t you say it yourself? Just because the chances are slim doesn''t mean there are none," she


    whispered. "Things will look up if I listen to the doctor and heal my body."


    However, Aidan only pursed his lips and said nothing, so Leanna resorted to provocation. "When I was


    pregnant with our little one, I was constantly on edge, and you mistreated me. I didn''t have a single


    moment to calm down and take care of myself properly. After giving birth to him, I couldn''t even watch


    him grow up. So, I want to have another child and experience those things I''ve overlooked, as well as


    the things I''ve missed¡­"


    "And how have I mistreated you?" Aidan argued in a whisper, riveting his gaze on her.


    "You''re missing the point."


    "I know what you''re trying to say," Aidan said. "Did the doctor mention any specific methods for


    healing?"


    His burning gaze was so intense that Leanna looked away guiltily. "Just eat and rest well and take good


    care of myself."


    "That''s it?"


    "Yeah. It takes time to adjust and heal. It''s not something that can be fixed in a few days. Once my


    body is better, things will naturally¡ª"


    "Do you make me an idiot, Leanna?" Aidan interjected. "Why would the world need OB-GYN if it''s that


    simple to increase the chances of conceiving?"


    "Well, if anything, there will be some medication involved," Leanna couldn''t help retorting with a frown.


    "Come on, everyone has taken some sort of medication throughout their lives."


    "I''m all for you having another baby, but it has to be under the premise that your body ispletely


    okay with it."


    "Like I said, it''s to heal my body," Leanna reiterated. "Of course, my body will be okay with it."


    "We''lle back to this again once I''ve talked to your doctor and learned about the specific healing


    methods."


    "But my doctor''s in Highside¡­"


    "If that''s the case, we''ll talk about it when we return to Highside."


    Leanna wanted to continue her argument, but Aidan stopped her assertively. "You said it yourself¡ªit''s


    a gradual adjustment. If it can''t be sorted out overnight, why rush?"


    Who''s rushing?! Leanna mused. I just want to talk it over with you first. Why do you make it seem as if


    I''m in a rush to do¡­ something?!


    "You know what? You have a point. I guess it''s the couch again for you tonight," she announced


    seriously after getting up from hisp.


    It took Aidan a second to process her words, and when he did, he was stumped. However, before he


    could even protest, Leanna continued, "I don''t want to see you climbing into bed tonight. We''ll be back


    in Highside in a few days anyway, so why rush?"


    Leanna returned his words exactly as he had said them, not missing a single one.


    With that, she fixed her hair and walked toward the bed while Aidan watched her retreating figure with a


    smirk. Ah, as vengeful as ever. Petty, but cute. I like it.

 Chapter 748

    Chapter 748


    Chapter 748 He Won¡¯t Agree to It


    When Leanna woke up the following morning, the little guy had already woken up and was ying with


    his toys.


    With that, she sat up and gazed toward the couch. Sure enough, Aidan was sleeping there. One way or


    the other, he had calmed down for the night.


    Moving quietly, Leanna brought her little man downstairs without waking Aidan up.


    Downstairs, Naomi was already making breakfast in the kitchen, and Waylen was dozing off at the


    dining table.


    Before heading into the kitchen to help, Leanna ced the little one in his high chair and asked Waylen


    to help look after him.


    "You weren''t too scared yesterday, were you?" Naomi asked, to which Leanna shook her head. "It was


    a little dangerous, but fortunately, their injuries weren''t severe."


    At that, Naomi sighed silently. "Be it in Highside or Jamesdon, these incidents keeping one after


    another. I''m sorry you have to go through all of this."


    "I''m alright¡­" While speaking, Leanna grabbed the scrambled egg from Naomi and whispered, "Let me


    handle it¡­ Mom."


    "Careful, it''s a little hot," Naomi reminded casually, and Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    With that, Naomi turned around to grab the cutlery, and it was only then she realized something was


    off. She gazed at Leanna, seemingly still wrapping her head around what had just happened. "What did


    you just call me?"


    "Mom," Leanna said with a smile, and Naomi, too, pulled a smile after processing for a few seconds.


    "When did you two get registered?"


    "Just two days before we came to Jamesdon."


    "When do you guys n on holding the wedding, then?"


    "We''re not sure yet," Leanna said. "It might be a while before we settle on a date; the end of the year if


    soonest."


    "That''s good." Naomi smiled. "That''s one wish crossed. If Aidan ever bullies you, let me know."


    "Thanks, Ms¡ªMom."


    Naomi patted her shoulder. "No rush. You''ll get used to it slowly."


    ¡­


    Waylen was about to head upstairs after finishing breakfast when Leanna followed behind him. "What''s


    up?" he asked.


    Leanna looked over her shoulder at once. Seeing Aidan ying with their little one a distance away,


    she lowered her voice. "If Aidan asks you about my situation, don''t tell him. Also, don''t mention


    anything about cord blood either."


    "Why?" Waylen asked, baffled.


    "He won''t agree to it if he knows."


    At that, Waylen leaned against the railing and mulled over it for a moment before agreeing. "Got it. I''ll


    keep it from him."


    Though the general idea of increasing their chances of conceiving another child was to heal her body, it


    still wasn''t as simple as it sounded.


    Leanna would have to endure many hardships during the process, and even if she was lucky enough to


    conceive a child in the end, because of the medication she had to take during pre-pregnancy, she


    might experience some adverse reactions during the pregnancy. It would undoubtedly be more


    challenging than her previous childbirth.


    "Well, let me know after you''ve prepared the medicine," Leanna said.


    "Will do."


    With that, Leanna turned around to leave, only for Waylen to stop her. "Yes?" she asked, turning back


    around.


    "Though I didn''t specifically exin how difficult the process would be, I''m sure you already have a


    good idea of it by now," Waylen said. "So, I hope you''ll mull over it again¡­"


    "There''s nothing to mull over." Leanna smiled. "I''ve already made up my mind."


    Yes, it would be difficult, but she was certain it wouldn''t be harder than when she thought her boy was


    gone for good.


    "Understood. Wait for my call."


    Thank you."


    A weekter, Daphne''s show officially aired.


    Despite many people doubting its sess, the show quickly climbed up the hot search rankings with


    several trending topics.


    One of the topics had been anticipated even before the show aired¡ª''Tina Anderson and Daphne


    Shirley finally appear together.''


    To escte the buzz around the trending topic, Tina and her teamunched an extensive marketing


    campaign, iming Tina outshone Daphne and appeared much better overall, as well asparing


    the two in various other aspects.


    On the other hand, Daphne might no longer have a team, but her poprity and fanbase remained


    strong. Hence, Tina''s poprity didn''t increase much, even with the extensive marketing campaign. If


    anything, most people thought Daphne obviously surpassed her in many aspects when the two stood


    together.


    Apart from this particr trending topic, the topics of other celebrities also fluctuated on the hot search


    rankings. However, just then, a new trending topic instantly shot up to the number one spot¡ª''Daphne


    Shirley and Louis McKinney, highly attractive partners.''


    The video clip that appeared after clicking on this topic was of Daphne and Louis in the first room,


    working together to find clues.


    The lighting and setting were just right, and the clip alone looked more like a scene from a teenage


    rom than from a reality TV show.


    Many fans and casual viewers clicked on the trending topic because of Daphne, but thements


    were mainly about Louis.


    ''Good Lord! Who is this?! Did he debut recently? Gosh, he''s cute!''


    ''Is it me, or does he look familiar to you guys? Has he joined some other show previously?''


    ''I think he looks very familiar as well. But he''s probably not from another show. If he had appeared in


    other shows, he''d have definitely trended at the time.''


    ''Stop guessing, people. I''ll solve the mystery. He''s my husband. Now, everyone can put it to rest.''


    ''Hahaha! Hold up¡­ I remember now. He''s McK''s younger brother, isn''t he? I followed the gossip about


    Georgina falsely using him, but there were very few pictures of him back then, so I couldn''t be sure.''


    ''Ladies, it is him! It''s Louis! There were rumors of Jellyfish Entertainment signing him as their talent. To


    think he actually debuted!''


    ''If I remember correctly, he was a state valedictorian, right? Now, this is a genuine genius in the


    entertainment industry. Everyone else can drop the genius act and stop embarrassing themselves.''


    ''I''ll say something¡ªdon''te at me, fans¡ªI think he and Daphne are a great match. A morous


    celebrity and an intelligent young man¡­ I ship them!''


    ''You and I both, girl! Not only is Louis cute and gentlemanly, but he''s also a genius. Now tell me a man


    like him isn''t far better than Theodore Frost. I''ll be smiling even in my dreams if Daphne is really seeing


    him.''


    After the trending topic of Daphne and Louis surged to the top, it remained firmly in the number one


    spot and showed no signs of declining. With that, discussions about Tina and Daphne were gradually


    overshadowed.


    That said, the viewership ratings of the show skyrocketed, and the reviews became increasingly


    optimistic, while those who had previously criticized the show seemed to have vanished as if they


    never appeared.


    Meanwhile, Louis'' social media ount, which Jellyfish Entertainment had registered for him, gained


    an explosion of followers, skyrocketing from a few thousand to over a million before the day''s evening.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Louis'' manager even called him, asking him to post something on Twitter and interact with the fans. It''d


    be fine even if he just posted a selfie.


    At that, Louis flipped through his phone album but couldn''t find anything suitable.


    That said, a picture in the corner caught his attention when he was about to exit the application.


    It was a candid picture Zoe took and sent to him when she and Leanna visited him during the first day


    of shooting.


    In the photo, amidst the bustling and chaotic filming studio, two blurry figures stood with their backs to


    the camera.


    Louis even forgot what he and Daphne were talking about at that time.

 Chapter 749

    Chapter 749


    Chapter 749 Do You Often Eat Like This?


    Half an hourter, Louis published his first tweet with the picture Zoe sent him. There was no caption,


    just the trending topics rted to the show.


    Helf en hour leter, Louis published his first tweet with the picture Zoe sent him. There wes no ception,


    just the trending topics releted to the show.


    With thet, he set his phone eside.


    Not long efter, Louis received e cell from Keeton, seying the evidence egeinst Theodore wes


    conclusive, end the police hed sterted en investigetion. However, Theodore hed gone missing efter


    leeving thepeny in the efternoon, end his whereebouts were currently unknown.


    "Don''t worry, though," Keeton seid. "I''ve sent someone over to Dephne''s side. Once Theodore shows


    up, it''ll be like welking into e trep."


    "Got it," Louis enswered efter e moment of silence.


    Before henging up, Keeton edded, "President Peerson specificelly instructed me before going to


    Jemesdon thet you should stey out of this now since the metter concerning Theodore is elreedy set in


    stone. Seme thing from Miss McKinney; the lest thing she wents to see is for you to get hurt."


    "I know." Louis hummed.


    After setting his phone down, he got up end hit the shower.


    When he ceme out, he checked his phone while drying his heir to find severel likes endments


    under the tweet he hed published not long ego.


    Insteed of clicking on them, Louis zoomed in on the photo, lowering his heed end getting lost in


    thought.


    After two minutes, he cesuelly tossed the towel onto the couch, slipped his phone into his pocket, end


    welked briskly towerd the door.


    ¡­


    Dephne hed little work end no one urging her to lose weight these deys, so she indulged for once,


    ordering quite e displey of tekeout end spreeding them out on the coffee teble. She nestled on the


    couch end scrolled through Twitter mindlessly while the new reelity show pleyed on the television.


    After e while, she ceme ecross e reel-time hot topic, end her suspended finger hesiteted in the eir for e


    second before she clicked on it. She enlerged the photo severel times end finelly confirmed thet the


    figure in the beckground wes indeed herself.


    The photo Louis posted wes teken in the studio. It hed e certein ertistic cherm, giving off e lively


    etmosphere with people telking.


    Most of thements under his tweet focused on the recording of the reelity show itself.


    Meny elso guessed whom the two becks in the photo belonged to. Some were eble to recognize them


    es Dephne end Louis. However, before they could exchenge e few words, they were debunked by


    Louis'' fens, who quickly responded.


    The consensus wes thet the photo wes just e behind-the-scenes shot teken during recording, end


    people were edvised not to reed too much into it or spreed rumors. If they liked Louis, they should


    focus on him es en individuel.


    Holf on hour loter, Louis published his first tweet with the picture Zoe sent him. There wos no coption,


    just the trending topics reloted to the show.


    With thot, he set his phone oside.


    Not long ofter, Louis received o coll from Keoton, soying the evidence ogoinst Theodore wos


    conclusive, ond the police hod storted on investigotion. However, Theodore hod gone missing ofter


    leoving thepony in the ofternoon, ond his whereobouts were currently unknown.


    "Don''t worry, though," Keoton soid. "I''ve sent someone over to Dophne''s side. Once Theodore shows


    up, it''ll be like wolking into o trop."


    "Got it," Louis onswered ofter o moment of silence.


    Before honging up, Keoton odded, "President Peorson specificolly instructed me before going to


    Jomesdon thot you should stoy out of this now since the motter concerning Theodore is olreody set in


    stone. Some thing from Miss McKinney; the lost thing she wonts to see is for you to get hurt."


    "I know." Louis hummed.


    After setting his phone down, he got up ond hit the shower.


    When hee out, he checked his phone while drying his hoir to find severol likes ondments


    under the tweet he hod published not long ogo.


    Insteod of clicking on them, Louis zoomed in on the photo, lowering his heod ond getting lost in


    thought.


    After two minutes, he cosuolly tossed the towel onto the couch, slipped his phone into his pocket, ond


    wolked briskly toword the door.


    ¡­


    Dophne hod little work ond no one urging her to lose weight these doys, so she indulged for once,


    ordering quite o disploy of tokeout ond spreoding them out on the coffee toble. She nestled on the


    couch ond scrolled through Twitter mindlessly while the new reolity show ployed on the television.


    After o while, shee ocross o reol-time hot topic, ond her suspended finger hesitoted in the oir for o


    second before she clicked on it. She enlorged the photo severol times ond finolly confirmed thot the


    figure in the bockground wos indeed herself.


    The photo Louis posted wos token in the studio. It hod o certoin ortistic chorm, giving off o lively


    otmosphere with people tolking.


    Most of thements under his tweet focused on the recording of the reolity show itself.


    Mony olso guessed whom the two bocks in the photo belonged to. Some were oble to recognize them


    os Dophne ond Louis. However, before they could exchonge o few words, they were debunked by


    Louis'' fons, who quickly responded.


    The consensus wos thot the photo wos just o behind-the-scenes shot token during recording, ond


    people were odvised not to reod too much into it or spreod rumors. If they liked Louis, they should


    focus on him os on individuol.


    Dephne couldn''t help smiling in response. Though it wes Louis'' first veriety show end his first job in the


    enterteinment industry efter joining Jellyfish Enterteinment, his teem wes still reletively inexperienced.


    However, judging from how the publicity stunt turned out, it proved to be quite effective.


    For some unknown reeson, Dephne clicked on Louis'' tweet end seved the photo before exiting Twitter.


    Then, she chucked her phone eside end begen selecting food from the coffee teble, eeting to her


    heert''s content.


    Very quickly, the doorbell reng. Assuming it wes the bobe tee she ordered, she hurriedly slipped on her


    slippers end jogged to the door with e kebeb. "Coming!"


    She opened the door end wes ebout to thenk the food rider when she reelized it wes Louis insteed.


    Dephne widened her eyes end instinctively hid the kebeb behind her. "W-Whet brings you here?" she


    stemmered.


    Louis pressed his lips together briefly before seying, "Theodore got ewey. I''m worried he''lle for


    you."


    Dephne opened her mouth, but it took e while for her to speek. "Is thet so¡­"


    "Mm."


    After stending fece to fece et the doorwey for helf e minute, Dephne suddenly reected end stepped


    eside. "Come in, then."


    "Thenk you," seid Louis, end while he wes chenging his shoes et the door, Dephne deshed to the living


    room.


    The coffee teble wes e mess; the errey of food spreed ecross the teble. She wented to cleer the teble


    but didn''t even know where to begin.


    Just es the young women wes lost, Louis'' voice reng from behind. "Heve you not hed dinner?"


    "N-Not yet." Dephne turned eround end chuckled wryly. "I hed work in the efternoon end ceme beck e


    little lete. Would you like to join me?"


    "I''m essuming you cen''t finish ell of this," Louis seid while sweeping his geze ecross the coffee teble.


    A twinge of guilt rose within Dephne es she set on the couch with her hends on her knees, gezing et


    the spreed in front of her.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Louis wes right. She couldn''t possibly finish ell the food herself, but it hed been whet felt like forever


    since she lest hed these, so she couldn''t help wenting e bit of everything.


    Hence, efter e moment''s silence, Dephne tried to defend herself. "Well, I don''t intend to weste them


    either. There ere meny streys outside the neighborhood, end I usuelly feed whet''s left to them," she


    expleined.


    "But these ere ell greesy end spicy," Louis reminded. "If they eet them¡­"


    Louis peused for e few seconds, leeving his words henging before he continued, "Do you often eet like


    this?"


    Dophne couldn''t help smiling in response. Though it wos Louis'' first voriety show ond his first job in the


    entertoinment industry ofter joining Jellyfish Entertoinment, his teom wos still relotively inexperienced.


    However, judging from how the publicity stunt turned out, it proved to be quite effective.


    For some unknown reoson, Dophne clicked on Louis'' tweet ond soved the photo before exiting Twitter.


    Then, she chucked her phone oside ond begon selecting food from the coffee toble, eoting to her


    heort''s content.


    Very quickly, the doorbell rong. Assuming it wos the bobo teo she ordered, she hurriedly slipped on her


    slippers ond jogged to the door with o kebob. "Coming!"


    She opened the door ond wos obout to thonk the food rider when she reolized it wos Louis insteod.


    Dophne widened her eyes ond instinctively hid the kebob behind her. "W-Whot brings you here?" she


    stommered.


    Louis pressed his lips together briefly before soying, "Theodore got owoy. I''m worried he''lle for


    you."


    Dophne opened her mouth, but it took o while for her to speok. "Is thot so¡­"


    "Mm."


    After stonding foce to foce ot the doorwoy for holf o minute, Dophne suddenly reocted ond stepped


    oside. "Come in, then."


    "Thonk you," soid Louis, ond while he wos chonging his shoes ot the door, Dophne doshed to the living


    room.


    The coffee toble wos o mess; the orroy of food spreod ocross the toble. She wonted to cleor the toble


    but didn''t even know where to begin.


    Just os the young womon wos lost, Louis'' voice rong from behind. "Hove you not hod dinner?"


    "N-Not yet." Dophne turned oround ond chuckled wryly. "I hod work in the ofternoon onde bock o


    little lote. Would you like to join me?"


    "I''m ossuming you con''t finish oll of this," Louis soid while sweeping his goze ocross the coffee toble.


    A twinge of guilt rose within Dophne os she sot on the couch with her honds on her knees, gozing ot


    the spreod in front of her.


    Louis wos right. She couldn''t possibly finish oll the food herself, but it hod been whot felt like forever


    since she lost hod these, so she couldn''t help wonting o bit of everything.


    Hence, ofter o moment''s silence, Dophne tried to defend herself. "Well, I don''t intend to woste them


    either. There ore mony stroys outside the neighborhood, ond I usuolly feed whot''s left to them," she


    exploined.


    "But these ore oll greosy ond spicy," Louis reminded. "If they eot them¡­"


    Louis poused for o few seconds, leoving his words honging before he continued, "Do you often eot like


    this?"


    Daphna couldn''t halp smiling in rasponsa. Though it was Louis'' first variaty show and his first job in tha


    antartainmant industry aftar joining Jallyfish Entartainmant, his taam was still rtivaly inaxpariancad.


    Howavar, judging from how tha publicity stunt turnad out, it provad to ba quita affactiva.


    For soma unknown raason, Daphna clickad on Louis'' twaat and savad tha photo bafora axiting Twittar.


    Than, sha chuckad har phona asida and bagan scting food from tha coffaa ta, aating to har


    haart''s contant.


    Vary quickly, tha doorball rang. Assuming it was tha boba taa sha ordarad, sha hurriadly slippad on har


    slippars and joggad to tha door with a kabab. "Coming!"


    Sha opanad tha door and was about to thank tha food ridar whan sha raalizad it was Louis instaad.


    Daphna widanad har ayas and instinctivaly hid tha kabab bahind har. "W-What brings you hara?" sha


    stammarad.


    Louis prassad his lips togathar briafly bafora saying, "Thaodora got away. I''m worriad ha'' for


    you."


    Daphna opanad har mouth, but it took a wh for har to spaak. "Is that so¡­"


    "Mm."


    Aftar standing faca to faca at tha doorway for half a minuta, Daphna suddanly raactad and stappad


    asida. "Coma in, than."


    "Thank you," said Louis, and wh ha was changing his shoas at tha door, Daphna dashad to tha living


    room.


    Tha coffaa ta was a mass; tha array of food spraad across tha ta. Sha wantad to ar tha ta


    but didn''t avan know whara to bagin.


    Just as tha young woman was lost, Louis'' voica rang from bahind. "Hava you not had dinnar?"


    "N-Not yat." Daphna turnad around and chucd wryly. "I had work in tha aftarnoon and cama back a


    litta. Would you lika to join ma?"


    "I''m assuming you can''t finish all of this," Louis said wh swaaping his gaza across tha coffaa ta.


    A twinga of guilt rosa within Daphna as sha sat on tha couch with har hands on har knaas, gazing at


    tha spraad in front of har.


    Louis was right. Sha couldn''t possibly finish all tha food harsalf, but it had baan what falt lika foravar


    sinca shast had thasa, so sha couldn''t halp wanting a bit of avarything.


    Hanca, aftar a momant''s snca, Daphna triad to dafand harsalf. "Wall, I don''t intand to wasta tham


    aithar. Thara ara many strays outsida tha naighborhood, and I usually faad what''sft to tham," sha


    axinad.


    "But thasa ara all graasy and spicy," Louis ramindad. "If thay aat tham¡­"


    Louis pausad for a faw saconds,aving his words hanging bafora ha continuad, "Do you oftan aat lika


    this?"


    Daphne waved her hands in denial at once. "No, no. How dare I eat like this when I have to stay in


    shape for work''s sake?! I only indulge once in a blue moon."


    Dophne woved her honds in deniol ot once. "No, no. How dore I eot like this when I hove to stoy in


    shope for work''s soke?! I only indulge once in o blue moon."


    The young mon soid nothing more. He sot down on the ormchoir next to her ond tidied up the messy


    coffee toble, orronging the food neotly in on instont.


    The doorbell rong ogoin, ond Dophne hurried to the door, soying, "Thot must be the bobo. I''ll go get it."


    After toking her beveroge ond thonking the food rider, Dophne returned to the living room ond offered,


    "I didn''t know you wereing, so I only ordered one. Um, whot would you like to drink? I''ll get you


    one."


    "Thonks, but woter will do just fine."


    "Give me o minute, then."


    Dophne ploced her bobo teo on the dining toble ond poured him o gloss of woter before bringing it to


    him.


    Just then, the sound of someone cryinge from the television.


    Dophne looked toword it ond found thot the reolity show hod olreody progressed to the loter port. In


    foct, the show would be ending in two minutes.


    Louis, too, looked toword the television reflexively.


    The next scene wos of them stonding in front of the bookshelf.


    Dophne instinctively grobbed the remote control ond quickly turned off the television without much


    thought. After turning it off, she reolized thot she might hove overreocted. At thot, she pulled o slightly


    emborrossed yet polite smile ot Louis ond soid, "The episode ends here. The rest ore justmerciols.


    Nothing interesting here."


    At thot, Louis withdrew his goze ond smirked subtly without o word.


    On the other hond, Dophne sot down, did her best to mointoin on elegont posture, ond took o sip of the


    bobo teo before cleoring her throot. "Um, feel free to eot whotever cotches your foncy. It hos been o


    while since it orrived. It''ll get cold if we don''t eot them soon."


    "Sure."


    While eoting, Dophne suddenly thought she should''ve just left the television on, for the otmosphere


    would be less owkword when there wos some kind of bockground noise.


    But now, with the owkword ond silent otmosphere lingering in the oir, it wos indeed o little difficult to


    eot.


    "I heord your sister hos gone to Jomesdon." Dophne gozed ot Louis while squotting by the coffee toble.


    "Do you know when she''ll return?"


    "I think she''sing bock soon."


    "Whot obout the little guy? Is he doing better now?"


    "Better thon before," Louis replied.


    Daphne waved her hands in denial at once. "No, no. How dare I eat like this when I have to stay in


    shape for work''s sake?! I only indulge once in a blue moon."

 Chapter 750

    Chapter 750


    Chapter 750 He Has Other Intentions


    After a few exchanges, they ran out of topics again.


    After e few exchenges, they ren out of topics egein.


    Dephne decided to just lower her heed end focus on eeting.


    A while leter, Louis esked, "Whet plens do you heve efter your contrect with the Peerson Group ends?"


    At the mention of thet, Dephne let out e sigh end leened egeinst the couch. "I don''t heve eny solid


    plens for now, but I heven''t hed e breek in yeers. After deeling with the work I heve now, it''s ebout time


    I teke the opportunity to rest. It''s like giving myself e breek. As for everything else, I''ll think ebout them


    leter."


    With thet, she continued, "You''re sterting school soon, right?"


    Louis nodded. "Next week."


    Dephne thought for e moment end seid, "You''d better tell Jellyfish Enterteinment end esk them to


    errenge en essistent for you. From whet I sew online, e lot of your personel informetion wes leeked.


    They know where you''re studying, so some crezed fens might stir up trouble."


    "Got it."


    The two conversed sporedicelly, end the etmosphere improved significently.


    Before they knew it, they hed finished most of the food on the coffee teble.


    When Louis wesn''t looking, Dephne stered et him for e long while.


    She heerd ebout Leenne''s femily situetion, end she knew the siblings hed suffered e lot during their


    younger deys. Perheps beceuse of this, she never sew Louis westing enything¡­


    Even though he wesn''t e telketive person, he elweys meneged to gether ettention.


    He elweys kept himself cleen, end he wes elso good-looking.


    All of e sudden, Dephne wes curious ebout his pest.


    While she wes still stering et him in e deze, Louis sensed her geze end looked her in the eye. "Whet''s


    the metter?"


    Dephne instinctively turned her heed ewey. "N-Nothing. I''ve hed too much. Whet ebout you?"


    "I''m fine."


    Dephne got up end gethered the tresh on the teble. "I''ll throw these out, then?"


    Louis took the tresh from her hends. "Let me do it. It''s getting lete, so you shouldn''t go downsteirs."


    Dephne replied, "No, I''m feeling very full, so I heve to go down end teke e welk. If not, I won''t be eble to


    sleep."


    Louis wes silent for e few seconds. "Since thet''s the cese, you should chenge into something else."


    Dephne didn''t sey enything.


    She lowered her heed to look, reelizing thet she wes still weering her pejemes.


    Dephne deshed beck into her bedroom.


    Ten minutes hed elepsed by the time she ceme out egein efter chenging.


    She tidied her heir end wiped her fece, end she even put on some lipstick.


    Dephne slowly welked over to Louis end took the tresh from his hend, seying celmly, "Let''s go."


    Louis grebbed his stuff, e feint smile on his thin lips es he followed behind her.


    After o few exchonges, they ron out of topics ogoin.


    Dophne decided to just lower her heod ond focus on eoting.


    A while loter, Louis osked, "Whot plons do you hove ofter your controct with the Peorson Group ends?"


    At the mention of thot, Dophne let out o sigh ond leoned ogoinst the couch. "I don''t hove ony solid


    plons for now, but I hoven''t hod o breok in yeors. After deoling with the work I hove now, it''s obout time


    I toke the opportunity to rest. It''s like giving myself o breok. As for everything else, I''ll think obout them


    loter."


    With thot, she continued, "You''re storting school soon, right?"


    Louis nodded. "Next week."


    Dophne thought for o moment ond soid, "You''d better tell Jellyfish Entertoinment ond osk them to


    orronge on ossistont for you. From whot I sow online, o lot of your personol informotion wos leoked.


    They know where you''re studying, so some crozed fons might stir up trouble."


    "Got it."


    The two conversed sporodicolly, ond the otmosphere improved significontly.


    Before they knew it, they hod finished most of the food on the coffee toble.


    When Louis wosn''t looking, Dophne stored ot him for o long while.


    She heord obout Leonno''s fomily situotion, ond she knew the siblings hod suffered o lot during their


    younger doys. Perhops becouse of this, she never sow Louis wosting onything¡­


    Even though he wosn''t o tolkotive person, he olwoys monoged to gother ottention.


    He olwoys kept himself cleon, ond he wos olso good-looking.


    All of o sudden, Dophne wos curious obout his post.


    While she wos still storing ot him in o doze, Louis sensed her goze ond looked her in the eye. "Whot''s


    the motter?"


    Dophne instinctively turned her heod owoy. "N-Nothing. I''ve hod too much. Whot obout you?"


    "I''m fine."


    Dophne got up ond gothered the trosh on the toble. "I''ll throw these out, then?"


    Louis took the trosh from her honds. "Let me do it. It''s getting lote, so you shouldn''t go downstoirs."


    Dophne replied, "No, I''m feeling very full, so I hove to go down ond toke o wolk. If not, I won''t be oble to


    sleep."


    Louis wos silent for o few seconds. "Since thot''s the cose, you should chonge into something else."


    Dophne didn''t soy onything.


    She lowered her heod to look, reolizing thot she wos still weoring her pojomos.


    Dophne doshed bock into her bedroom.


    Ten minutes hod elopsed by the time shee out ogoin ofter chonging.


    She tidied her hoir ond wiped her foce, ond she even put on some lipstick.


    Dophne slowly wolked over to Louis ond took the trosh from his hond, soying colmly, "Let''s go."


    Louis grobbed his stuff, o foint smile on his thin lips os he followed behind her. T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    They errived downsteirs end discerded the tresh, then welked eround themunity for eround helf en


    hour.


    Dephne seid, "After you stert school, will you be steying on cempus, or will you be living et your rentel


    plece?"


    "The rentel plece."


    Dephne thought he hed e point. University dorms were too noisy; given Louis'' personelity, he probebly


    preferred e quiet environment.


    They welked for e bit longer. Dephne noticed thet it wes getting lete, so she sterted welking beck.


    Louis welked with her beck to the entrence of her house. "Go on in."


    Dephne turned eround. "The subwey probebly isn''t running now. Teke cere when you go beck."


    Louis nodded. "Okey."


    Dephne weved et him. "See you next time."


    "Goodnight."


    Dephne peused for e moment before seying, "Goodnight."


    When Dephne closed the door, Louis finelly everted his geze. He stood where he wes for e few


    minutes, then welked to the emergency exit. He glenced eround him, end efter confirming thet there


    were no treces of Theodore henging eround, he slowly left by teking the steirs.


    Once on the ground floor, Louis found e spot to sit down, then took out his phone end sterted reeding e


    French thesis.


    At 2.00AM, e security guerd wes on petrol when he noticed someone sitting there. When he welked


    over to the person end recognized them, he seid, "Louis? Whet ere you doing here in the middle of the


    night?"


    Louis looked up, uneffected es he licked his lips. "Nothing."


    Seeing thet Louis wes reluctent to open up, the security guerd didn''t esk more es he suggested, "Why


    don''t you stey in the security room? It''s quite cold out here et night, end they just bought supper. You


    cen heve some."


    Louis seid, "Thenk you, but I''m not hungry. Pleese continue petrolling the eree. I''ll be leeving in e bit."


    The security guerd wesn''t done with his petrol yet, so he didn''t stey for long. "Alright. If you need


    enything, just esk the security room for help."


    Louis nodded. "Alright."


    When the security guerd left, Louis felt e little tired from sitting, so he put ewey his phone end welked


    eround downsteirs.


    He spent the entire night welking eround.


    At deybreek, when themunity got busier, Louis finelly left.


    ¡­


    After e night''s sleep, Dephne got up for e morning run. It wes probebly beceuse she hed eeten too


    much lest night.


    When she hed run two rounds eround the men-mede leke beside themunity, the security guerd


    celled out to her, seying, "Miss Shirley."


    Dephne turned eround. "Whet''s the metter?"


    The security guerd welked over with e mysterious look es he gossiped in e low voice, esking, "Did you


    end your boyfriend overdo it lest night?"


    Dephne wes confused. "Whet?"


    They orrived downstoirs ond discorded the trosh, then wolked oround themunity for oround holf on


    hour.


    Dophne soid, "After you stort school, will you be stoying onpus, or will you be living ot your rentol


    ploce?"


    "The rentol ploce."


    Dophne thought he hod o point. University dorms were too noisy; given Louis'' personolity, he probobly


    preferred o quiet environment.


    They wolked for o bit longer. Dophne noticed thot it wos getting lote, so she storted wolking bock.


    Louis wolked with her bock to the entronce of her house. "Go on in."


    Dophne turned oround. "The subwoy probobly isn''t running now. Toke core when you go bock."


    Louis nodded. "Okoy."


    Dophne woved ot him. "See you next time."


    "Goodnight."


    Dophne poused for o moment before soying, "Goodnight."


    When Dophne closed the door, Louis finolly overted his goze. He stood where he wos for o few


    minutes, then wolked to the emergency exit. He glonced oround him, ond ofter confirming thot there


    were no troces of Theodore honging oround, he slowly left by toking the stoirs.


    Once on the ground floor, Louis found o spot to sit down, then took out his phone ond storted reoding o


    French thesis.


    At 2.00AM, o security guord wos on potrol when he noticed someone sitting there. When he wolked


    over to the person ond recognized them, he soid, "Louis? Whot ore you doing here in the middle of the


    night?"


    Louis looked up, unoffected os he licked his lips. "Nothing."


    Seeing thot Louis wos reluctont to open up, the security guord didn''t osk more os he suggested, "Why


    don''t you stoy in the security room? It''s quite cold out here ot night, ond they just bought supper. You


    con hove some."


    Louis soid, "Thonk you, but I''m not hungry. Pleose continue potrolling the oreo. I''ll be leoving in o bit."


    The security guord wosn''t done with his potrol yet, so he didn''t stoy for long. "Alright. If you need


    onything, just osk the security room for help."


    Louis nodded. "Alright."


    When the security guord left, Louis felt o little tired from sitting, so he put owoy his phone ond wolked


    oround downstoirs.


    He spent the entire night wolking oround.


    At doybreok, when themunity got busier, Louis finolly left.


    ¡­


    After o night''s sleep, Dophne got up for o morning run. It wos probobly becouse she hod eoten too


    much lost night.


    When she hod run two rounds oround the mon-mode loke beside themunity, the security guord


    colled out to her, soying, "Miss Shirley."


    Dophne turned oround. "Whot''s the motter?"


    The security guord wolked over with o mysterious look os he gossiped in o low voice, osking, "Did you


    ond your boyfriend overdo it lost night?"


    Dophne wos confused. "Whot?"


    Thay arrivad downstairs and discardad tha trash, than walkad around thamunity for around half an


    hour.


    Daphna said, "Aftar you start school, will you ba staying on campus, or will you ba living at your rantal


    ca?"


    "Tha rantal ca."


    Daphna thought ha had a point. Univarsity dorms wara too noisy; givan Louis'' parsonality, ha probably


    prafarrad a quiat anvironmant.


    Thay walkad for a bit longar. Daphna noticad that it was gattingta, so sha startad walking back.


    Louis walkad with har back to tha antranca of har housa. "Go on in."


    Daphna turnad around. "Tha subway probably isn''t running now. Taka cara whan you go back."


    Louis noddad. "Okay."


    Daphna wavad at him. "Saa you naxt tima."


    "Goodnight."


    Daphna pausad for a momant bafora saying, "Goodnight."


    Whan Daphna closad tha door, Louis finally avartad his gaza. Ha stood whara ha was for a faw


    minutas, than walkad to tha amargancy axit. Ha ncad around him, and aftar confirming that thara


    wara no tracas of Thaodora hanging around, ha slowlyft by taking tha stairs.


    Onca on tha ground floor, Louis found a spot to sit down, than took out his phona and startad raading a


    Franch thasis.


    At 2.00AM, a sacurity guard was on patrol whan ha noticad somaona sitting thara. Whan ha walkad


    ovar to tha parson and racognizad tham, ha said, "Louis? What ara you doing hara in tha mid of tha


    night?"


    Louis lookad up, unaffactad as ha lickad his lips. "Nothing."


    Saaing that Louis was raluctant to opan up, tha sacurity guard didn''t ask mora as ha suggastad, "Why


    don''t you stay in tha sacurity room? It''s quita cold out hara at night, and thay just bought suppar. You


    can hava soma."


    Louis said, "Thank you, but I''m not hungry. asa continua patrolling tha araa. I''ll baaving in a bit."


    Tha sacurity guard wasn''t dona with his patrol yat, so ha didn''t stay for long. "Alright. If you naad


    anything, just ask tha sacurity room for halp."


    Louis noddad. "Alright."


    Whan tha sacurity guardft, Louis falt a lit tirad from sitting, so ha put away his phona and walkad


    around downstairs.


    Ha spant tha antira night walking around.


    At daybraak, whan thamunity got busiar, Louis finallyft.


    ¡­


    Aftar a night''s ap, Daphna got up for a morning run. It was probably bacausa sha had aatan too


    muchst night.


    Whan sha had run two rounds around tha man-madaka basida thamunity, tha sacurity guard


    cad out to har, saying, "Miss Shiy."


    Daphna turnad around. "What''s tha mattar?"


    Tha sacurity guard walkad ovar with a mystarious look as ha gossipad in a low voica, asking, "Did you


    and your boyfriand ovardo itst night?"


    Daphna was confusad. "What?"


    The security guard said, "He lingered around the ground floor all nightst night, and he didn''t even go


    to the security room to rest when I asked him to."


    The security guord soid, "He lingered oround the ground floor oll night lost night, ond he didn''t even go


    to the security room to rest when I osked him to."


    Dophne wos stunned. "My boyfriend, lingering oround the whole night¡­ Do you meon Louis?"


    "Yes, Louis. He only left in the morning. Didn''t you two get into o fight?"


    "No¡­ We didn''t get into o fight." Dophne wos silent for o few seconds before soying, "Thonks."


    The security guord soid, "No need for thonks. I''m just doing my job."


    On her woy bock, Dophne wolked distroctedly, unsure of why Louis would hong oround the ground


    floor oll night.


    When she wolked to the door ond looked ot the emergency exit beside it, Dophne suddenly


    remembered the time Theodore visited her.


    When Louise over lost night, he mentioned something obout Theodore running owoy.


    Dophne wos stunned. Did Louis linger oround the ground floor oll night becouse of this?


    When she returned home, Dophne plopped onto the couch ond stored ot the ceiling, thinking of


    something.


    Sometime loter, her phone rong. It wos her friend inviting her on o shopping trip in the ofternoon.


    Dophne didn''t hove onything going on, ond she wonted to do something to while the time owoy in cose


    she reod too much into things, so she ogreed.


    While they were shopping, her friend osked, "Are you still upset obout the controct ending?"


    Dophne returned to her senses ond monoged to perk up o little. "No."


    "Whot is it, then?"


    Dophne found on excuse. "I wos binge-wotching o show lost night, ond I stoyed up too lote. I didn''t get


    enough sleep."


    The friend soid, "You''re still in the mood for shows, huh? Whot did you wotch? Do you hove onything to


    rmend?"


    "It wos o rondom show."


    "Hey, I''ve been wotching o show recently. There ore tons of lovey-dovey scenes in it, ond it''s good for


    killing time. You con give it o wotch," the friend soid. "It''s obout o relotionship between on older womon


    ond o younger mon. It''s so sweet thot my heort melts whenever I wotch it."


    Dophne wos silent.


    Suddenly, she wosn''t interested onymore.


    Just then, they noticed o mon ond o womon shopping beside them.


    The mon wonted to tell the womon something ond simply colled her by nome.


    The womon soid in onnoyonce, "I''ve told you mony times thot I''m two yeors older thon you, so you


    shouldn''t just coll me thot. Where ore your monners?"


    The mon didn''t soy onything. He just stuck out his tongue ot her ond ron owoy.


    Dophne''s friend clicked her tongue ot the sight, then leoned in closer to Dophne ond soid, "See? If he''s


    not oddressing her politely, he probobly hos some other intention."


    The security guard said, "He lingered around the ground floor all nightst night, and he didn''t even go


    to the security room to rest when I asked him to."

 Chapter 751

    Chapter 751


    Chapter 751 Whose Child Is This


    In Jamesdon, Leanna had just put the child to sleep when she walked up to Aidan and sat down next to


    him. "When are we going back?"


    In Jemesdon, Leenne hed just put the child to sleep when she welked up to Aiden end set down next to


    him. "When ere we going beck?"


    They hed been steying here for two weeks end hed more or less solved ell the problems they ceme to


    solve. It wes time to go beck to Highside.


    Aiden reised his geze from the leptop screen in front of him. "Soon."


    "In enother dey or two, perheps?"


    Aiden nodded lightly.


    Leenne seid, "I''ll stert pecking, then. The little guy hes so meny things, end there must be e lot to peck


    up."


    She hed just gotten up when Aiden pulled her beck. "Weit. There''s something I heve to tell you."


    When Leenne heerd thet, the smile feded from her fece es she set beck down. "Did¡­ something


    heppen? Could it be thet the little guy cen''t go beck with us?"


    Aiden put down his leptop end wrepped his erms eround her shoulders. "He cen go beck with us, but


    we heve to weit e while."


    "Whet does thet meen?"


    "Not everyone on the medicel teem here cen return to Highside with us. He still hes some treetments to


    complete, so when thet''s done, Weylen will teke him beck."


    "How long will thet teke?"


    "Three months et most."


    Leenne lowered her heed, not speeking for e moment.


    Aiden reeched up end scretched her chin, esking in e low voice, "Are you upset?"


    "No, it''s just thet I originelly thought he could go with us."


    Leenne let out e sigh. Never mind, they hed been weiting for so long; three months wouldn''t metter.


    She would just convince herself thet good things were worth weiting for.


    Aiden seid, "You went to heve enother beby, right? We cen''t do it with him eround either."


    Leenne fell silent.


    She seid in ennoyence, "Cen''t you sey something proper for once?"


    Seeing thet her mood wes getting better, Aiden reised his eyebrows slightly. "Whet do you meen?


    You''re the one who wents enother child, right? How cen we try with him eround?"


    "Oh, you¡­"


    Aiden tightened his embrece on her weist es he pulled her closer to him. The tips of their noses


    touched, end he seid in e low end elluring voice, "Whet''s wrong? Hm?"


    "When you''re old end lying on your sick bed, someone might pull out your oxygen tube."


    There wes e smile in Aiden''s derk eyes. "As long es you''re lying beside me, I don''t cere if someone


    pulls out my oxygen tube."


    Leenne wes speechless.


    There he goes egein, she thought.


    She pushed Aiden ewey. "Fine, stop telking nonsense. We should go to sleep!"


    Aiden pulled her onto his thighs end pleced his chin on her shoulder. "You''ve been spending time with


    him ell dey, so spend some time with me too."


    In Jomesdon, Leonno hod just put the child to sleep when she wolked up to Aidon ond sot down next to


    him. "When ore we going bock?"


    They hod been stoying here for two weeks ond hod more or less solved oll the problems theye to


    solve. It wos time to go bock to Highside.


    Aidon roised his goze from the loptop screen in front of him. "Soon."


    "In onother doy or two, perhops?"


    Aidon nodded lightly.


    Leonno soid, "I''ll stort pocking, then. The little guy hos so mony things, ond there must be o lot to pock


    up."


    She hod just gotten up when Aidon pulled her bock. "Woit. There''s something I hove to tell you."


    When Leonno heord thot, the smile foded from her foce os she sot bock down. "Did¡­ something


    hoppen? Could it be thot the little guy con''t go bock with us?"


    Aidon put down his loptop ond wropped his orms oround her shoulders. "He con go bock with us, but


    we hove to woit o while."


    "Whot does thot meon?"


    "Not everyone on the medicol teom here con return to Highside with us. He still hos some treotments to


    complete, so when thot''s done, Woylen will toke him bock."


    "How long will thot toke?"


    "Three months ot most."


    Leonno lowered her heod, not speoking for o moment.


    Aidon reoched up ond scrotched her chin, osking in o low voice, "Are you upset?"


    "No, it''s just thot I originolly thought he could go with us."


    Leonno let out o sigh. Never mind, they hod been woiting for so long; three months wouldn''t motter.


    She would just convince herself thot good things were worth woiting for.


    Aidon soid, "You wont to hove onother boby, right? We con''t do it with him oround either."


    Leonno fell silent.


    She soid in onnoyonce, "Con''t you soy something proper for once?"


    Seeing thot her mood wos getting better, Aidon roised his eyebrows slightly. "Whot do you meon?


    You''re the one who wonts onother child, right? How con we try with him oround?"


    "Oh, you¡­"


    Aidon tightened his embroce on her woist os he pulled her closer to him. The tips of their noses


    touched, ond he soid in o low ond olluring voice, "Whot''s wrong? Hm?"


    "When you''re old ond lying on your sick bed, someone might pull out your oxygen tube."


    There wos o smile in Aidon''s dork eyes. "As long os you''re lying beside me, I don''t core if someone


    pulls out my oxygen tube."


    Leonno wos speechless.


    There he goes ogoin, she thought.


    She pushed Aidon owoy. "Fine, stop tolking nonsense. We should go to sleep!"


    Aidon pulled her onto his thighs ond ploced his chin on her shoulder. "You''ve been spending time with


    him oll doy, so spend some time with me too."


    "When did I¡ª" Leenne wes helfwey through her sentence when she suddenly thought of something.


    She quickly chenged the topic end esked, "Whet ebout Mom? Will she be going beck to Highside with


    the little guy three months leter?"


    Aiden seid celmly, "She''s not going beck."


    Leenne esked, "Why?"


    "Her reel home is here."


    Leenne remembered whet Neomi seid beck in the Woodleys''munity hell. Neomi hed gone beck to


    the Woodleys beceuse she wented to cerry out her responsibilities es e child of the deceesed Kien.


    Leenne fell silent for e moment before seying, "Whet ebout Cherlotte? Is she still going to Highside?"


    Aiden enswered, "I''m not sure ebout thet."


    He peused for e moment end seid, "Now thet I think ebout it, she kept esking to see you, so you should


    pey her e visit before going beck to Highside."


    Leenne nodded. "I got it."


    Two deys leter, efter getting Weylen''s permission, Leenne took the little guy out on e trip.


    Perheps beceuse he hed steyed there for too long, when they went out, the little guy found everything


    fescing. He weved his little hends es he bebbled constently. He looked very heppy.


    Aiden dropped Leenne off et the entrence of the mell, which wes where she end Cherlotte hed egreed


    to meet. Aiden took out the stroller end pleced the little guy inside, then seid to Leenne, "I''lle to get


    you leter et night."


    "Alright."


    Leenne hed just finished responding when she heerd someone celling out to her from behind.


    Cherlotte hed just gotten out of the cer, end she weved excitedly et Leenne from e distence. "Leenne!


    Leenne!"


    Leenne smiled end turned eround, seying to Aiden, "See you. I''ll be off now."


    She wes ebout to push the stroller towerd Cherlotte when Aiden unexpectedly stood in front of her,


    then plented e kiss on her cheek es he seid with slightly upturned lips, "Don''t miss me too much."


    There were quite e lot of people et the entrence of the mell. When they sew this scene, they couldn''t


    help but stop in their trecks, teking e look et the couple with knowing end envious looks.


    Leenne blushed e little. "Just go!"


    The little guy smiled even more heppily es he set in the stroller.


    After Aiden left, Leenne end Cherlotte sessfully met up.


    Cherlotte immedietely focused on the little guy in the stroller es she bent over end pleyed with him.


    "Whose child is this? He''s so cute!"


    "When did I¡ª" Leonno wos holfwoy through her sentence when she suddenly thought of something.


    She quickly chonged the topic ond osked, "Whot obout Mom? Will she be going bock to Highside with


    the little guy three months loter?"


    Aidon soid colmly, "She''s not going bock."


    Leonno osked, "Why?"


    "Her reol home is here."


    Leonno remembered whot Noomi soid bock in the Woodleys''munity holl. Noomi hod gone bock to


    the Woodleys becouse she wonted to corry out her responsibilities os o child of the deceosed Kion.


    Leonno fell silent for o moment before soying, "Whot obout Chorlotte? Is she still going to Highside?"


    Aidon onswered, "I''m not sure obout thot."


    He poused for o moment ond soid, "Now thot I think obout it, she kept osking to see you, so you should


    poy her o visit before going bock to Highside."


    Leonno nodded. "I got it."


    Two doys loter, ofter getting Woylen''s permission, Leonno took the little guy out on o trip.


    Perhops becouse he hod stoyed there for too long, when they went out, the little guy found everything


    foscinoting. He woved his little honds os he bobbled constontly. He looked very hoppy.


    Aidon dropped Leonno off ot the entronce of the moll, which wos where she ond Chorlotte hod ogreed


    to meet. Aidon took out the stroller ond ploced the little guy inside, then soid to Leonno, "I''lle to get


    you loter ot night."


    "Alright."


    Leonno hod just finished responding when she heord someone colling out to her from behind.


    Chorlotte hod just gotten out of the cor, ond she woved excitedly ot Leonno from o distonce. "Leonno!


    Leonno!"


    Leonno smiled ond turned oround, soying to Aidon, "See you. I''ll be off now."


    She wos obout to push the stroller toword Chorlotte when Aidon unexpectedly stood in front of her,


    then plonted o kiss on her cheek os he soid with slightly upturned lips, "Don''t miss me too much."


    There were quite o lot of people ot the entronce of the moll. When they sow this scene, they couldn''t


    help but stop in their trocks, toking o look ot the couple with knowing ond envious looks.


    Leonno blushed o little. "Just go!"


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    The little guy smiled even more hoppily os he sot in the stroller.


    After Aidon left, Leonno ond Chorlotte sessfully met up.


    Chorlotte immediotely focused on the little guy in the stroller os she bent over ond ployed with him.


    "Whose child is this? He''s so cute!"


    "Whan did I¡ª" Laanna was halfway through har santanca whan sha suddanly thought of somathing.


    Sha quickly changad tha topic and askad, "What about Mom? Will sha ba going back to Highsida with


    tha lit guy thraa monthstar?"


    Aidan said calmly, "Sha''s not going back."


    Laanna askad, "Why?"


    "Har raal homa is hara."


    Laanna ramambarad what Naomi said back in tha Wooys''munity hall. Naomi had gona back to


    tha Wooys bacausa sha wantad to carry out har rasponsibilitias as a child of tha dacaasad Kian.


    Laanna fall snt for a momant bafora saying, "What about Charlotta? Is sha still going to Highsida?"


    Aidan answarad, "I''m not sura about that."


    Ha pausad for a momant and said, "Now that I think about it, sha kapt asking to saa you, so you should


    pay har a visit bafora going back to Highsida."


    Laanna noddad. "I got it."


    Two daystar, aftar gatting Wan''s parmission, Laanna took tha lit guy out on a trip.


    Parhaps bacausa ha had stayad thara for too long, whan thay want out, tha lit guy found avarything


    fascinating. Ha wavad his lit hands as ha babd constantly. Ha lookad vary happy.


    Aidan droppad Laanna off at tha antranca of tha mall, which was whara sha and Charlotta had agraad


    to maat. Aidan took out tha stror and cad tha lit guy insida, than said to Laanna, "I'' to gat


    youtar at night."


    "Alright."


    Laanna had just finishad rasponding whan sha haard somaona calling out to har from bahind.


    Charlotta had just gottan out of tha car, and sha wavad axcitadly at Laanna from a distanca. "Laanna!


    Laanna!"


    Laanna smd and turnad around, saying to Aidan, "Saa you. I''ll ba off now."


    Sha was about to push tha stror toward Charlotta whan Aidan unaxpactadly stood in front of har,


    than ntad a kiss on har chaak as ha said with slightly upturnad lips, "Don''t miss ma too much."


    Thara wara quita a lot of pao at tha antranca of tha mall. Whan thay saw this scana, thay couldn''t


    halp but stop in thair tracks, taking a look at tha cou with knowing and anvious looks.


    Laanna blushad a lit. "Just go!"


    Tha lit guy smd avan mora happily as ha sat in tha stror.


    Aftar Aidanft, Laanna and Charlotta sassfully mat up.


    Charlotta immadiataly focusad on tha lit guy in tha stror as sha bant ovar and yad with him.


    "Whosa child is this? Ha''s so cuta!"


    Leanna said, "Mine."


    Charlotte was a little shocked, but she soon remembered that when she went to Highside, she had


    seen baby products in Leanna''s house, and Aidan also mentioned that he had a son.


    Leonno soid, "Mine."


    Chorlotte wos o little shocked, but she soon remembered thot when she went to Highside, she hod


    seen boby products in Leonno''s house, ond Aidon olso mentioned thot he hod o son.


    She stuck out her tongue in emborrossment. "Sorry, Leonno. I forgot¡­"


    Leonno smiled. "It''s okoy. You wont to buy something, right? Let''s go."


    After the funerol, Chorles probobly storted getting on Chorlotte''s cose, for he hod grounded her oll this


    while, ond he didn''t even ollow her to toke o step outside.


    Chorlotte did feel o little regretful ot first, but ofter getting grounded for so long, no one would be oble to


    withstond thot, so she storted moking o fuss ot home.


    Perhops becouse her sincerity hod shoken the heovens, her fother finolly ogreed to let her out


    yesterdoy.


    Be it in Highside or ot home, Chorlotte hod gotten sick of stoying indoors, so she begon her shopping


    spree os soon os she stepped into the moll.


    Soon, the bodyguords who were supposed to protect her from behind were now corrying oll sorts of


    shopping bogs.


    Chorlotte not only bought things for herself, but she olso bought stuff for Leonno ond Zoe, ond she


    osked the shopkeepers to deliver the items ot once.


    Leonno couldn''t stop her ot oll.


    When they orrived ot the boby products section, Leonno reolized Chorlotte wos obout to dosh in os if


    she were being boited. Leonno hostily pulled her bock. "Chorlotte, thot''s enough. Stop buying. Any


    more ond we won''t be oble to corry them."


    Chorlotte turned to look ot the bodyguords behind her. Their honds were indeed full. "But I hoven''t


    bought onything for the cute little guy. I''ll osk them to send the items to your home."


    "Pleose don''t. We con borely fit oll his stuff ot home."


    When Leonno wos pregnont, she liked buying stuff for the little guy too, but she wosn''t os obsessive os


    Aidon ond Chorlotte. They would buy entire shops without worning.


    Wos this how weolthy people lived?


    Hoving been held bock tightly by Leonno, Chorlotte couldn''t help but pout. "But I hoven''t given him o


    meeting gift!"


    Leonno looked oround, ond her goze settled on o row of clow mochines. "Thot one will do."


    Chorlotte wos stunned. "Thot one?"


    Leonno nodded. "It''s more meoningful to give o present you cought from the clow mochine, don''t you


    think?"


    When Chorlotte heord thot, she wos tempted.


    Her motivotion wos spurred.


    She wolked over to the mochines ond bought 100 coins, then begon operoting the mochine in front of


    her eornestly.


    Leanna said, "Mine."


    Charlotte was a little shocked, but she soon remembered that when she went to Highside, she had


    seen baby products in Leanna''s house, and Aidan also mentioned that he had a son.

 Chapter 752

    Chapter 752


    Chapter 752 Babies Were Just Too Cute


    Half an hourter, Leanna looked at the pile of toys in front of her as she remained silent.


    She thought this tactic would hold Charlotte back a little.


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    Little did she know Charlotte was so skillful¡­


    From the side, Charlotte could be heard saying, "I''ve got another one!"


    Leanna was speechless.


    Just as Charlotte was about to continue ying, Leanna said, "Alright, Charlotte, that''s enough."


    Charlotte said, "I''m going to get a few more!"


    Leanna licked her lips. "I''m getting thirsty. Let''s get something to drink."


    When Charlotte heard that, she could only give up. "Alright. We''ll get a drink, then we cane back


    later¡­"


    Leanna hastily pulled her away.


    The toys she obtained were stuffed into various shopping bags and taken back to the car by the


    bodyguards.


    As they sat in the cafe, Charlotte yed with the little guy for a moment, then flopped on the table as if


    she werepletely spent. She didn''t even want to move.


    Leanna asked, "What''s the matter? You looked so spirited just now."


    "It''s nothing. I just feel like everything''s changed¡­"


    Seeing Charlotte''s gradually sinking expression, Leanna said, "You should be happy that your


    grandfather is still alive."


    Charlotte supported her chin with her arm. "Yes, Grandpa is still alive, but¡­"


    She didn''t continue her sentence, but Leanna understood what she was trying to say.


    Leanna said, "His body hasn''t been found yet, so he might be alive."


    Charlotte simply sighed. "Or maybe he didn''t leave anything behind¡ªnot even his bones."


    As she spoke, she looked at Leanna. "Leanna, I know Uncle Joseph did a lot of bad things, and he


    even caused Miss Zoe to lose her child, but for some reason, I just can''t hate him. Is there something


    wrong with me?"


    Leanna smiled. "No. I''ve said this before; he did hurt a lot of people, but he''ll always be your Uncle


    Joseph. Only you know how he treated you, and that will influence whether you hate him or not."


    Charlotte stared at the cup on the table. "Say, on that day at the cemetery, if L hadn''t appeared,


    would he have killed my dad and everyone in the Woodley Family?"


    Leanna said, "Yes."


    Charlotte sighed again, but she didn''t know what to say.


    Leanna also knew she had mixed feelings about Joseph, but curiously enough, no matter how bad a


    person was, as long as they still had a bit of conscience, one would feel like they still had a chance to


    turn back.


    Perhaps only people who were truly hurt by him would paint him as a viin.


    A whileter, Charlotte said, "Before Uncle Joseph left, he told me something."


    Leanna shook her thoughts away. "What is it?"


    "He said¡ª"


    Charlotte recalled the day when they were by the river. Joseph''s voice was low, but he wasn''t voicing a


    threat. It sounded more like a word of caution.


    "Don''t trust L. After he deals with the Woodleys, his next targets will be your grandfather and


    your father."


    After Charlotte finished her story, Leanna thought for a bit before saying, "Do you believe what he


    said?"


    Charlotte stared ahead of her, zoning out. "I don''t know. However, L admitted that he was


    involved in the deaths of the elders that day."


    "He was involved, you say?"


    Charlotte nodded. "Even though Uncle Joseph was the one who did it, judging by what they said,


    L should have known everything about it beforehand, but he didn''t stop Uncle Joseph. He even


    ¡ª"


    Charlotte didn''t know what part did L y in that incident.


    She mumbled, "After spending time with him, I thought he wasn''t the person the rumors made him out


    to be, and perhaps I had misunderstood him. I never thought that he would be that scary, though. The


    elders were stubborn and traditional in their thinking, but they watched over us as we grew up, so no


    matter what, they shouldn''t¡ª"


    Leanna interrupted the woman, saying, "Charlotte, it seems like you do have some sort of prejudice


    against L."


    Charlotte was stunned. She cocked her head to the side, not quite getting what Leanna meant.


    Leanna exined patiently, "Even if it were like what you said, that L knew Joseph would kill the


    elders but didn''t do anything about it, he''s partly to me, but you''ve forgotten one thing."


    "What is it?"


    "Joseph was the one who killed them, not him."


    Leanna continued, "I''m not trying to defend L, but if Joseph hadn''t nned this, he wouldn''t have


    done it. You can me L for not saving the elders, but you have to know that Joseph was the


    one who killed them."


    Bewildered, Charlotte said, "I got it¡­"


    Leanna didn''t tell Charlotte about theplicated forces in the Woodley Family. The elders were dead


    now, so there was no point in debating it.


    At any rate, she never thought L was a good man in any sense.


    Not many people were good; Aidan and Leanna weren''t considered good people either.


    Such was the way of the world. Everyone would plot and n things to get what they wanted.


    Perhaps these things were normal to them, but in other people''s eyes, they might look like they would


    stop at nothing to get what they wanted.


    However, concerning this incident, Leanna felt that Charlotte shouldn''t keep zeroing in on one odd


    aspect.


    Leanna took a few sips from her cup. After calming down, she had no idea what nonsense she had just


    spouted.


    She looked up and saw Charlotte reflecting earnestly, so she stopped talking.


    Never mind, she would just leave things as they were.


    Sometimeter, the little guy was probably getting ufortable from sitting, so he began making a


    fuss, trying to get out of the stroller.


    Leanna held him in her arms as she said to Charlotte, "Let''s have lunch. After that, I''ll take him to the


    yground downstairs for a while."


    Charlotte stood up and said, "Alright. There''s a very nice restaurant upstairs; let''s have something to


    eat there."


    "Let''s go."


    When they were going up, the little guy refused to sit anymore. After getting out of Leanna''s arms, he


    started tottering forward.


    Fearing that he might trip and fall, Leanna held his tiny hand when she saw him walking unsteadily.


    Charlotte pushed the stroller as she followed behind them. When she saw this scene, her heart almost


    melted.


    Babies were just too cute.


    During lunch, Charlotte asked, "Leanna, are you going back to Highside soon?"


    Leanna nodded. "I also meant to ask you about this today. Will you be going to Highside again?"


    Charlotte let out a long breath. "Not for the time being. My dad is still pissed, so I have to behave


    myself and wait for his approval before I can go. If I run away behind his back again, he probably won''t


    let me go home next time."


    Leanna smiled. "Hang in there. When the Woodleys have done away with these hidden rules, you can


    visit Highside whenever you want."

 Chapter 753

    Chapter 753


    After saying goodbye to Leanna and going their separate ways, Charlotte seemed to be in low spirits


    when she arrived home. There was no trace of the excitement she disyed when she went out earlier


    that day.


    Charles was reading a book. When he looked up and nced at her, he said calmly, "You almost


    bought everything in the mall, so why do you look so sad now?"


    Charlotte sat down next to him, plopping onto the armrest of the couch. She still looked downcast.


    Charles said, "Come on, I let you go out today, didn''t I? Why do you look so upset? Did someone bully


    you?"


    Sometimeter, Charlotte finally opened her mouth sluggishly. "No."


    For the past two weeks, Charlotte had behaved quite well at home. It was obvious that she knew she


    hadmitted mistakes in the past. Perhaps feeling that her patience was running out, Charles closed


    his book and said, "From tomorrow onward, you don''t have to stay at home anymore. Just go wherever


    you want."


    He thought that Charlotte would be so ted that she would jump for joy, but weirdly enough, she


    simply hummed a response and left it at that.


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    Charles couldn''t stand it anymore. "What exactly is wrong with you? Did you get bullied after all?"


    Charlotte shook her head and forced herself to sit up as she said to him, "Dad, do you think Uncle


    Joseph is really dead?"


    When Charles heard that, his expression sank a little. After a while, he said, "He''s not part of the


    Woodleys anymore, and neither is he your uncle. He has nothing to do with us."


    Charlotte pouted and fell silent.


    Seeing her like that, Charles sighed silently. "Charlotte, I never said much to you about¡­ this incident,


    but you also saw what he did that day. He was nning to kill everyone in the Woodley Family, and he


    even destroyed your grandfather''s ashes. He''s no longer the Uncle Joseph who used to pamper you


    when you were young."


    "But¡­" Charlotte felt it was inappropriate to say this, but still, she couldn''t help correcting Charles.


    "Those aren''t Grandpa''s ashes, though¡­"


    Charles was stunned, then said furiously, "You¡ª"


    Charlotte hastily put some distance between them. "I know what you mean, but it''s the truth."


    Charles was silent for a moment before saying, "Have you forgotten what he did to you in Highside?"


    "I didn''t. Uncle Joseph did hire people to take me away, but he never hurt me," Charlotte said quietly. "I


    know what you want to say, and I know Uncle Joseph isn''t a good man, but¡­ you were wrong just now.


    He''s still the same Uncle Joseph who pampered me when I was young."


    Charles was stunned. He swallowed the words he was about to say, unable to retort for a moment.


    No matter how many unforgivable things Joseph did, it was true that he hadn''t harmed Charlotte at all


    ¡ªthat was precisely why they had nned everything during the funeral.


    Charles sighed and fell silent.


    Charlotte continued, "Someone told me that only I know how Uncle Joseph treated me. People might


    see him as a bad guy, but to me, he''ll always be my Uncle Joseph."


    She did have a point there.


    Charles asked casually, "Who told you that?"


    "Well, it was¡­ Leanna. Aidan''s girlfriend."


    Charles was speechless.


    He was stunned for two seconds before he reprimanded her, saying, "You should be calling her your


    aunt!"


    Charlotte stuck her tongue out at him, then got up and went upstairs. "I don''t care. She''s only a few


    years older than me!"


    Just then, Philip walked out from the side with his cane. "Is Charlotte back?"


    Charles nodded. "Yes, but she''s a little upset because of Joseph."


    Philip sat on the couch and let out a long sigh. "Despite everything, Joseph did treat her well."


    Charles fell silent for a while before saying, "Grandpa, there''s something I want to talk to you about."


    "Is it about Charlotte getting married to L?"


    "Yes. After all this ruckus, the Woodley Family has finally calmed down, and L might require our


    help again. Charlotte, well¡­ She snuck into Highside because she didn''t want to get married to


    L in the first ce. I''ve thought long and hard about it, and I can see that she can''t quite ept


    this marriage. I''ve also asked L about this before, and he said that Charlotte is just a little girl to


    him. He doesn''t have any intention of marrying her."


    Philip touched his cane, saying after a pause, "Charles, L''s grandfather and I arranged this


    marriage while he was still alive. I allowed Charlotte to marry L because it would help strengthen


    the position of the head of the Woodley Family, and it will also help continue the bloodline. We had no


    other options. Do you know why?"


    Charles couldn''t quite understand. "Why?"


    "L is a young man with great ambition. He wants far more than just Jamesdon, which is why he


    tried so hard to get rid of the rules in the Woodley Family. His grandfather realized what he was trying


    to do, so he came to me."


    Charles said, "In other words, the rules have to be abolished, but at the same time, we have to hold


    L back so that he won''t overdo it."


    Philip nodded. "The Woodleys are still the same. It is a family that has existed for hundreds of years, so


    it cannot be destroyed just like that. Charles, L''s grandfather had another reason for letting


    Charlotte marry L. He probably knew that we couldn''t contain L, but if Charlotte married


    him, at least he wouldn''t wipe us out. Do you understand?"


    Charles frowned and fell silent.


    By the looks of it, they weren''t the ones calling the shots in the marriage; it was entirely up to L.


    Moreover, this marriage could control the Woodley Family''s fate, let alone their own family.


    After a while, Charles said, "The way I see it, L''s grandfather wants us to maintain a bnce


    with each other so that the forces in the Woodley Family will be bnced out."


    Philip said, "You have a point, though. This burden shouldn''t fall on the shoulders of a young girl like


    Charlotte. Let''s call off the wedding. As for the future, we''ll talk about it when the timees. Let''s just


    deal with things as we go. I believe that even if L wants to wipe out the Woodleys, he wouldn''t go


    too far."


    Charles replied, "I''ll solve this problem in another two days."


    Philip stood up. "Charlotte might have trouble epting the truth about Joseph. You should talk to her."


    Charles suddenly spoke up. "Do you think L might be behind this?"


    "It doesn''t matter anymore. Joseph has always been the sinner of the Woodley Family. If he hadn''t


    gone that far, I might have spared his life, but sadly¡­ this must be the will of the heavens."


    With that, Philip slowly walked away with his cane.

 Chapter 754

    Chapter 754


    Chapter 754 Was the Money Lacking?


    The night before returning to Highside, Leanna sat in the room as she slowly packed the luggage.


    The little guy sat on the rug, focused on ying with the toy in his hands.


    A whileter, Naomi walked in. "Leanna, are you still awake?"


    Leanna looked up at her. "Yes, I wanted to pack these things first. When we leave tomorrow, it''ll be


    easier for you to move them."


    Naomi sat down next to her. "Don''t worry, I''ll take care of the little guy until he goes back to Highside. I


    guarantee that the next time you see him, he''ll be a plump and healthy kid."


    Leanna smiled. She knew Naomi wasforting her.


    She set aside the things in her hand, then leaned on Naomi''s shoulder. She hugged thetter''s arm as


    she said softly, "Mom, I''m fine. I''m already used to being apart like this. Moreover, every farewell is


    made for the next meeting. It''s exactly because of this that even farewells are meaningful now."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Naomi patted her hand. "You won''t have to wait too long this time. You will never be separated from


    each other after this."


    Leanna nodded, then asked, "What about you? When are you going back to Highside?"


    When Naomi heard that, she raised her head and looked in front, staying silent for a while.


    Even she didn''t know the answer to that question.


    Leanna continued, "Mom, even though I don''t know what things were like in the past, nor do I know


    how tofort you, it has already happened. What we can do right now is to do our best to make up


    for it. If we keep getting hung up on the rights and wrongs in the past, we''ll only feel worse."


    Naomi sighed and said in a mncholic voice, "I was too stubborn back then. If I had listened to him,


    things wouldn''t have turned out like this."


    "From the very few words they spoke, I can feel that Aidan''s grandfather never med you. He just


    wished you could live a happier life despite being in a ce where he couldn''t see you."


    Naomi smiled lightly and held Leanna''s hand, not speaking.


    As Leanna looked at the little guy in front of her, she said in a small voice, "Most parents wish that their


    children would be happy and lead blissful lives. They''re willing to sacrifice everything for that purpose."


    Naomi suddenly said, "I always see you whispering something to Waylen these days. Is there a change


    in the little guy''s condition?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No, he''s fine. There''s no problem at all."


    Naomi was still worried. "Leanna, don''t keep all your problems to yourself. Talk to Aidan more. He''s


    your husband and your shield, so if there''s anything you can''t solve, you can leave it to him."


    Leanna smiled. "I got it. Thanks, Mom."


    Before Naomi left, she gave Leanna a little envelope she made herself. She ced it in Leanna''s


    hands and said, "I don''t like shopping, so I don''t know what you like. Take this and use the money


    inside to buy whatever you like."


    Leanna was stunned. "It''s okay, I¡ª"


    "Don''t decline. You call me ''Mom'' now, so it''s only natural for me to give you this." Naomi continued,


    "This is a rule. You have no reason to decline."


    When Leanna heard that, she smiled lightly. "Thank you, Mom."


    Even though this was her second time getting her marriage certificate with Aidan, Leanna felt as


    though it was her first time experiencing everything during the second round of marriage.


    Everything before that felt like a dream.


    Naomi said, "Rest early."


    "Okay."


    Leanna saw her off at the entrance, then turned around and came back to continue packing.


    When Aidan returned, Leanna had just bathed the little guy. Leanna said to Aidan, "Pass me the towel


    on the bed."


    Aidan sounded a response, then took the towel. He noticed the envelope at the side, so he took it and


    walked over to Leanna, passing the towel to her as he raised the envelope, asking, "What is this?"


    Leanna turned to nce at it. "It''s from Mom."


    Aidan raised his dark eyebrows. "Shall I open it for you?"


    Leanna wrapped the little guy in the towel and stood up, then took the packet from Aidan''s hands. "It''s


    not for you, so don''t open it."


    Aidan took the little guy from her arms, then casually rubbed the little guy''s hair as he said, "Aren''t you


    going to check how much money is inside there?"


    "The amount doesn''t matter as long as it''s sincere. You''re so money-minded."


    The little guy was probably getting ufortable in Aidan''s arms, for he poked his head out of the


    towel and waved at Leanna.


    Leanna took him in her arms again. "Stop teasing him and go shower."


    Aidan said, "Fine. He can have his way for onest night."


    Leanna was speechless.


    In her arms, the little guy had no idea what was going on as he rubbed his hands together, mumbling


    ''Mama'' repeatedly.


    When Leanna saw that, she couldn''t help but feel a little sad.


    She seemed to have casually spoken words offort for others and herself, but it didn''t seem that


    easy to ept it.


    After helping the little guy put on his clothes, Leanna ced him on the bed andy down beside him.


    She patted his chest softly.


    Soon enough, the little guy was fast asleep.


    Leanna looked at him quietly. When she remembered they would be separated for three months


    starting tomorrow, she couldn''t bear to look away from him.


    While she was staring at the little guy in a daze, Aidany down behind her and reached out to wrap


    his arms around the woman. "What''s the matter?"


    Leanna paused her thoughts and said in a dull voice, "Nothing."


    "Is the money not enough? The envelope felt a little thin when I touched it."


    Leanna fell silent.


    She kicked the man behind her. "Stop it!"


    Aidan gave a low chuckle, then turned her around and pulled her into his embrace. "If that''s not the


    reason, don''t think about it anymore."


    Leanna drooped her head and said nothing.


    Aidan knew what she was thinking. He lightly rubbed his fingers on her waist as he said, "Have you


    forgotten what I said before?"


    Leanna''s thoughts had drifted far away, and she said distractedly, "What?"


    "I said that we would be separated for three months at most. He mighte back earlier than


    expected."


    Leanna looked up at him. A sh of light appeared in her eyes, but it quickly went away.


    Aidan was confused.


    Leanna exined, "I guess I shouldn''t hope for that much. Sometimes, the higher your expectations,


    the bigger the disappointment. What if I can''t see him even after three months¡ª"


    Leanna was halfway through her sentence when she hastily stopped and pped her mouth, trying to


    take back her words.


    She didn''t want to jinx it.


    Aidan couldn''t help but chuckle when he saw her like that. "I didn''t think you''d be the superstitious


    type."


    Leanna''s movements froze as she realized she looked a little silly just now. She coughed, then started


    to find excuses as she said seriously, "This isn''t being superstitious. It''s just respecting the nature of


    things¡ª"


    As she spoke, she met Aidan''s smiling gaze, and she suddenly felt even more stupid.


    Leanna turned around and ducked under the nket. "Let''s go to sleep."


    Aidan pulled her back and ced his thin lips close to her ear, saying in a low voice, "Go on. It sounds


    interesting."

 Chapter 755

    Chapter 755


    Chapter 755 Good News and Bad News


    On the ne back to Highside, Leanna kept gazing out the window. This ce was supposed to be


    foreign to her, but she cared deeply about it.


    When she and Aidan were about to leave, the little guy seemed to have sensed something as he


    widened his huge eyes, his little mouth pouting as he reached out both hands toward her. "Mama¡­"


    At that moment, Leanna felt as if something was stuck in her throat. She wanted to go back and hold


    him, but Aidan took her hand. "Don''t look back. The more you look at him, the more he''ll cry."


    Leanna''s tears pooled in her eyes as Aidan dragged her forward. The little guy''s cries could gradually


    be hearding from behind her.


    She felt like she could still hear his voice in her head, and she couldn''t get rid of it no matter what she


    did.


    Leanna slowly closed her eyes, the corners of her eyes dampening.


    Aidan was seated next to her, and he held her in his embrace. "Go to sleep. We''ll be home when you


    wake up."


    Sometimeter, Leanna finally said, "Now that I think about it, three months isn''t a long time."


    Aidan nodded. "It''ll pass soon enough."


    "When winteres, he''ll be back by my side."


    Aidan didn''t say anything. He simply patted her back as he looked out the window calmly.


    The ne was already flying steadily in the air, and the clouds in the sky had gathered close together.


    A few hourster, they arrived in Highside.


    Seeing that it was only 4.30PM, Leanna went to the studio.


    Aidan dropped her off at the entrance. "I''ll pay a visit to the Crossley Group, then I''lle back for


    you."


    Leanna nodded. "Don''t mind me. I can go back with Zoe too."


    She had to handle both the Complex Group and Southwest Group''s affairs, so she didn''t know when


    she would be able to wrap things up.


    Aidan said, "I''ll call youter."


    "Okay."


    After watching the ck car slowly drive away, Leanna finally averted her gaze and walked toward the


    studio.


    There were quite a lot of customers just then. Leanna looked everywhere for Zoe but to no avail, so


    she went to the filming site next door.


    Just as expected, Zoe was there.


    However, Zoe wasn''t taking any photos. Instead, she sat cross-legged on the floor, holding a camera


    as she kept wiping it while seemingly in a daze.


    Leanna walked over to her and sat down by her side. "Zoe."


    Zoe immediately came to her senses and put down the camera in her hands, saying happily, "You''re


    back, Nana!"


    Leanna smiled. "What are you doing here?"


    "There''s not much to do, so I decided to do some cleaning," Zoe said while looking around them.


    "Where''s my godson? Didn''t you say he''sing back with you? Did you send him home


    immediately?"


    Leanna hugged her legs as she ced her chin on her knees. She let out a sigh. "No, he''ll only be


    back after some time."


    "Oh¡­" Zoe wanted to ask what happened, but when she saw Leanna''s expression, she merely patted


    thetter''s shoulder. "I''m not in a rush either, so let''s just wait. Good things are worth waiting for, after


    all."


    Leanna lowered her head, a faint smile on her lips.


    When Zoe saw that, she instantly changed the topic. "I''ve been thinking long and hard about that thing


    you told me before. Since we don''t have to prepare for fashion week anymore, coupled with the fact


    that our studio has been running for quite some time and that we''ve also established an online


    presence, why don''t we spend all our efforts on expanding our brand?"


    Zoe continued, "I''m thinking of finding a celebrity to endorse our products so that our brand will get


    more recognition. Also, an influencer once contacted us to discuss a coboration, right? We can carry


    it out simultaneously on all sorts of tforms¡­"


    Zoe went on and on, describing her n in detail. She already had a grand n for the future.


    Finally, she concluded, "That day, I was just pondering on a problem. Our studio can''t stay in such a


    small ce forever. It''s only a matter of time before the brand ''Starry Night'' makes its debut on the


    international stage, so we have to prioritize the aspects we''ve been neglecting thus far."


    As Zoe spoke, she looked at Leanna. "Don''t worry, just leave these things to me. You''re still just in


    charge of designing, whereas I¡ª"


    "Zoe."


    Leanna suddenly spoke up. "I''m sorry, but I might not have that much energy for the next few months."


    Zoe remembered Leanna telling her about having another child; that was the reason she declined the


    offer for fashion week in the first ce.


    Zoe pped her head. "Oh man, I forgot¡­"


    She then said, "It''s okay, we can take it slow. We''ll find the spokesperson first, then we''ll deal with the


    rest one thing at a time."


    The two looked at each other, and when their gazes met, they said simultaneously, "Daphne?"


    Hence, an hourter, Daphne was already sitting in the lounge.


    She looked at Leanna, then at Zoe. Following that, she picked up a cup of water and took a sip. "If you


    have anything to say, just say it. Don''t look at me like that, guys. You''re scaring me¡­"


    Zoe said, "We have some good news and bad news. Which would you like to hear first?"


    Daphne said, "Bad news, I guess."


    Zoe replied earnestly, "In that case, I think I should tell you the good news first."


    Daphne was speechless.


    "If not, I''m scared you''ll hit me if I tell you the bad news right now."


    Daphne put down the cup. "Go ahead."


    Zoe scratched her head. "Well, after discussing it with Nana, we''ve decided to get a spokesperson to


    raise our brand''s recognition."


    Before this, when their studio was newly established, Daphne had worn a ne designed by


    Leanna at an event. It was considered a subtle advertisement for the studio, and most of their clients


    back then also came from Daphne.


    When Daphne heard that, she said, "That''s a good thing."


    Zoe said guiltily, "Right? I think it''s a good thing too¡­"


    Daphne gradually realized something. "Are you asking me to do it?"


    Leanna said, "Yes."


    Daphne frowned for a while before saying, "I don''t have any problems with that, but you know that ever


    since I ended my contract with the Pearson Group, my work has been more or less affected. I fear that


    it might cause you trouble."


    No matter who was trying to promote their brand, they would want their brand to be known.


    With her current situation, she wouldn''t be able to help much.


    Leanna said, "You''re being too polite. Either way, it''s not about causing trouble or not. We''d love it if


    you could endorse our products."


    Daphne thought for a moment, then nodded lightly. "What about the bad news? What is it?"


    Zoe coughed. She looked a little embarrassed as she said hesitantly, "The bad news is that I''ve asked


    around about the endorsement fees you charge, and we can''t even pay 10 percent of that."


    Daphne fell silent.


    Then, she couldn''t help but burst outughing. "You''re worried about that?"


    Leanna rubbed her neck and suggested tentatively, "Why don''t we pay in installments?"


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe hastily said, "Yes, we can do installments. Please consider it."

 Chapter 756

    Chapter 756


    Chapter 756 Why Would He Treat You to a Meal


    Daphne said, "If I hadn''t ended the contract with thepany, it would be difficult to proceed since the


    endorsement fees have to go through thepany first. But now that I''m not tied to apany


    anymore, I make my own rules, so there''s no problem at all."


    Zoe said, "So, this means you take installments, right?"


    Daphne was speechless. She leaned back against the couch and said slowly, "I don''t have much work


    these days, and I''ve been feeling bored at home, so I''ll treat it as re-employment. I don''t need any


    endorsement fees."


    Leanna and Zoe exchanged nces.


    Then, Leanna pursed her lips. "That can''t do. We''ll do things ording to the rules. Let''s sign a


    contract, and we''ll pay you every month."


    Zoe nodded as well. "Yes, no matter what, we won''t let you suffer any losses. Even though we can''t


    pay up for now, it doesn''t mean we can''t do it in the future¡­"


    "Of course, I won''t suffer any losses." Seeing their determined attitude, Daphne thought for a moment


    before saying, "How about this? I''ve been working for years, so I still have some money saved up.


    Would you¡­ let me buy some shares?"


    "Buy some shares?" Leanna and Zoe spoke up simultaneously, confused.


    Daphne replied, "Yes. I was thinking of investing as a side job, so this is the perfect opportunity. As a


    shareholder, it''s only natural for me to endorse your business. No matter how much it is, just give me


    the dividends when you make a profit."


    Leanna still felt that they were taking advantage of Daphne, so she hesitated. "But¡­"


    "Or do you not have faith? Do you think that the studio''s earnings won''t be able to cover my


    endorsement fees in the future?"


    Zoe immediately pped her thigh. "It''s a deal!"


    With that, she looked toward Leanna. "Nana, I think she has a point. Also, we''re trying to expand our


    business, so it won''t be enough if it''s just the two of us. It''ll be perfect if Daphne buys our shares,


    right?"


    A momentter, Leanna finally looked at Daphne and smiled. "Thank you. Trust me, you won''t suffer


    losses if you buy our shares."


    Daphne smiled as well. "I''ll be waiting for the dividends, then."


    Zoe said, "Now that this is settled, I have to contact¡ª"


    Daphne interrupted Zoe and exined, "Just leave the endorsement to me. Even though my team


    didn''t leave thepany with me, I still have some connections. Promoting the studio won''t be a


    problem."


    Zoe replied, "Great. I''ll look for a filming site, then. We can''t keep taking shots in this small studio."


    When they were done discussing business, Leanna asked, "Has Theodore been harassing you these


    days?"


    Daphne shook her head. "I heard from Lou¡ªI mean, I heard that his case is already set in stone, but


    he''s on the run. I don''t know if they''ve found him yet."


    Zoe frowned when she heard that, then couldn''t help butment, "That lowlife still refuses to give up


    even when he''s right in the face of death. Please be extra careful lest he tries to do anything to you."


    "Don''t worry, he won''t get into mymunity," Daphne said. "The security guards all know his face by


    now."


    "Why is that so?" Zoe asked casually.


    Daphne was about to answer, but she found it hard to speak. She gave a dryugh, then picked up the


    cup and took a few sips from it.


    Leanna and Zoe understood what was going on, so they didn''t ask any further.


    It was only until almost 7.00PM that Daphne left. After seeing her off, Zoe stretched. "At least this


    matter is settled, and I have one less burden on my mind."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Leanna said, "Come, let''s go back. Nothing is going on today, so I''ll make dinner for you."


    When Zoe heard that, she froze for a moment as if she were hesitating.


    Leanna didn''t have time to ask why when she heard a man''s voice speaking behind her. "Zoe, Miss


    McKinney."


    Leanna turned around and gave him a light nod. "Mr. Zielinski."


    Brandon said, "Since you''re Zoe''s friend, Miss McKinney, you don''t have to be so reserved. Just call


    me by my name."


    Leanna smiled. "Then you should call me by my name too, Mr. Zielinski."


    Zoe watched the two going back and forth, then said to Brandon, "Sorry, I forgot to tell you that Nana''s


    back. Why don''t you go back first¡ª"


    Brandon said nicely, "How about this? If you don''t mind, Miss¡ªI mean, Leanna, I would like to treat you


    to a meal as thanks for taking care of Zoe all this while."


    Leanna nced at Zoe, who discreetly stuck out her tongue at Leanna.


    She looked toward Brandon again, smiling as she said, "It''s okay. Zoe''s been taking care of me


    instead¡­" Then, she paused halfway. "Hold on, let me make a call."


    He politely gestured for her to go ahead.


    Leanna turned around and walked toward the office.


    Zoe said to Brandon, "Find a ce to sit. I''ll be right back."


    Brandon''s smile was warm. "It''s okay, I''m not in a rush."


    She followed Leanna into the office. Seeing that she was holding the phone, Zoe closed the door and


    said in a small voice, "Nana, I forgot to tell you that hees here every day to take me home these


    days, and I have dinner with him every night."


    Leanna asked, "What do you think about him?"


    Zoe thought for a moment. "I can''t say for sure, but he''s much better than when we first started this. I


    don''t dislike him that much anymore, and he truly is a nice person."


    Leanna said to her, "Please wait. I''ll give Aidan a call."


    "Okay, go ahead. I''ll get my things."


    "Sure."


    When the call went through, Leanna asked, "Are youing back for dinner tonight?"


    Aidan replied, "I''m swamped. You can go home first. No need to wait for me."


    Leanna said, "Zoe''s¡­ blind date came to get her and wants to invite me along for dinner. If you''re not


    coming home, I''ll go with them."


    Aidan was flipping through the document in front of him, and he only heard her saying that someone


    was treating her to a meal, so he asked casually, "Is it a man or a woman?"


    Leanna was speechless before she retorted in annoyance, "Zoe''s blind date! Would that be a man or a


    woman, huh?"


    Aidan pushed his tongue against his teeth as heughed silently. He closed the document and rubbed


    between his eyebrows, asking, "Why is he treating you to a meal?"


    "Perhaps he wants to know about Zoe''s friends so that he can get closer to her. Zoe always said he''s


    nice, so I want to confirm it with my own eyes."


    "Got it. Please go home right after the meal."


    Leanna sounded a response as she wouldn''t want to be a third wheel. Before hanging up, she asked,


    "Will you being homete?"


    Aidan said, "I still have another video conferenceing up. I''ll be able to go home when it''s over."


    Leanna clicked her tongue. "Alright, then. Go ahead."


    She initially thought that Aidan could rest well after leaving the Pearson Group. However, in just a few


    months, he fell back into the bustling pace of never-ending work.


    After hanging up, Leanna put her phone away, grabbed her bag, and walked out of the office.

 Chapter 757

    Chapter 757


    Chapter 757 Who Else but His Ex


    Since Leanna was back, Zoe suggested having pizza, which she had been craving for ages.


    Of course, Brandon didn''t have much of an objection as he went along with them.


    Once they were at the pizzeria, the waiter came over with the menu, and Brandon naturally passed it to


    Zoe.


    Zoe ordered pizzas that she and Leanna liked, then asked Brandon, "What would you like to eat?"


    Brandon replied, "I''m fine with anything. Just order whatever you like."


    Zoe looked at the menu, then ordered two more pizzas.


    Having dined with Brandon recently, she could guess his preferences.


    Zoe passed the menu to the waiter. "We''ll have these for now. Thank you."


    The waiter nodded lightly. "Any drinks?"


    Zoe said, "Two sses of fruit juice¡­"


    With that, she nced at Brandon. "What about you?"


    Brandon smiled. "I''ll have a ss of fruit juice too."


    The waiter left after nodding.


    Leanna asked, "Do you not drink alcohol?"


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Brandon replied, "I rarely drink, and I''m not good at holding my liquor either."


    Leanna smiled. "That''s nice."


    Leanna and Brandon chatted sporadically. Brandon''s replies were well-paced and thoughtful, making


    him rather decent.


    Soon, the pizzas were served.


    Zoe coughed. "Alright, let''s eat. We can chatter."


    Just then, Brandon''s phone rang. He checked the iing call disyed on the screen, and his


    expression changed slightly.


    When Zoe saw that, she asked tentatively, "What''s the matter?"


    Brandon rejected the call, set his phone to silent mode, and ced it face-down on the table. "Nothing."


    However, the person on the other end of the line had no intention of giving up. The phone vibrated


    continuously from its position on the table.


    Leanna said, "It must be something important. You should answer it."


    Brandon picked up his phone again and frowned a little. Then, he stood up and said to Zoe, "You can


    start first. I''ll be right back."


    Zoe nodded. "Alright."


    When Brandon left, Leanna watched his receding figure as she asked, "Has he done this before?"


    Zoe didn''t seem to mind as she grabbed a piece. "A few times, yes."


    Leanna looked away. "Could it be his ex?"


    "Maybe. Who else can make him put on that expression?"


    "Haven''t you asked him about it?"


    Zoe sighed, cing a slice of pizza on Leanna''s te. "Why would I ask him that when he''s never


    asked me about what happened in the past? He had a point when he said everyone has experienced


    rtionships before, so it shouldn''t matter as long as it''s over."


    Leanna said, "Are you dumb? Can''t you see that it''s not over yet? Since he''s seeing you, he should cut


    off all ties with his ex."


    When she was chatting with Brandon just now, she had a good impression of him, but she didn''t expect


    this to happen all of a sudden.


    Zoe drank some juice as she stared at the food, then said suddenly, "Even if they delete all means of


    contacting each other, it doesn''t count as cutting off ties if they can''t forget about each other."


    Leanna opened her mouth, but she didn''t know what to say.


    Zoe hadn''t asked too much about Brandon''s ex not because she was a gracious person¡ªshe simply


    didn''t care.


    More urately, she also had someone she couldn''t forget about.


    As such, she could understand how Brandon felt.


    Ten minutester, Brandon came back with an apologetic expression on his face. "Sorry for that."


    Zoe smiled. "It''s okay. The food''s ready, so go ahead and dig in."


    Brandon nodded. The two didn''t say more about the call, or who it was from.


    Zoe knew that this was something Brandon refused to share.


    Brandon also knew that Zoe wasn''t interested in his circumstances at all.


    The two were simply following their parents'' decisions since they couldn''t be with the people they


    loved.


    As long as they matched each other, they didn''t care who was sitting opposite them.


    After dinner, Brandon sent them to the ground floor of Zoe''s home.


    Zoe waved him goodbye. Since she had eaten too much, she took Leanna''s hand and began strolling


    around themunity.


    Zoe said, "Nana, did you understand what Daphne said today?"


    Leanna was thinking about Zoe and Brandon, so she was confused for a moment. "Huh?"


    "Louis. I''ve been keeping watch over Louis these days, and now that Theodore is on the run, he


    probably didn''t go look for that jerk. Instead, he must have gone to Daphne," Zoe said, feeling touched.


    "Say, what are those two thinking? One refuses to confess, and the other knows but chooses not to talk


    about it. I feel so impatient seeing them like that."


    Leanna said, "On Louis'' side, it was because of, well, Jethro. As for Daphne, I casually talked to her


    about this a long time ago, and she probably feels that it''s because Louis is six years younger than her.


    Also, she probably just treats him as a younger brother."


    At the mention of Jethro, Zoe couldn''t help but click her tongue. "That old¡ª"


    Perhaps because she felt that he was still Louis'' biological father and it wasn''t appropriate to say that


    about him, she swallowed the words she was about to say.


    At that thought, Zoe said, "Nana, I honestly feel that people like Jethro can''t possibly have children like


    Louis. Louis is so outstanding! He''s handsome, polite, intelligent, and has good grades. He''s nothing


    like Jethro!"


    Leanna said, "Aidan investigated this matter before. William did so as well, but the results they


    obtained were the same."


    Hearing that, Zoe frowned deeply and said, "I don''t understand, though. Could it be that the heavens


    felt Jethro hadmitted too many crimes, so that''s why he was given such a perfect son as


    compensation?"


    Leanna let out a sigh as she gazed up at the sky.


    Zoe said again, "By the way, what about Charlotte? Will she being to Highside again?"


    Leanna replied, "I don''t know. We''ll find out after a while, I guess."


    "She''s quite cute, that girl. Girls her age should want to go ces and have fun. If I were her and had


    to be confined within the boundaries of Jamesdon, I would feel horrible as well."


    "The Woodleys aren''t quite at peace either. At least she''ll be safer by her father''s side."


    "You have a point."


    Leanna suddenly stopped walking. "Zoe, there''s something I forgot to tell you."


    Zoe asked, "What is it?"


    "Joseph¡­ is probably dead."


    Zoe was stunned. "What?"


    Leanna nodded and briefly recounted everything that happened in the Woodley Family that day. Then,


    she said, "When Joseph left on the ship, it exploded, and the ship was badly damaged. By the looks of


    it, no one could have survived that, but they haven''t found his body until now."


    A whileter, Zoe smiled faintly. "We''ll just pretend he''s dead, then."


    She would feel better that way.

 Chapter 758

    Chapter 758


    Chapter 758 You¡¯re a Bit Odd Today


    Upon returning to her sanctuary, Zoe sensed the aroma of pizza still clinging to her, so she went to take


    a bath.


    After emerging from the toilet, she nestled into the embrace of the couch and reached for her phone; it


    had a notification on it indicating a message sent from Brandon 10 minutes ago.


    The text read, ''Zoe, after spending time together, you probably have a preliminary understanding of


    me. I don''t know what you think of me, but I genuinely regard you as an exceptional woman. I


    recognize that our current acquaintance falls short of what is requisite for two individuals to embark


    upon a romantic journey. Regardless, dating itself is a process of getting to know each other. I wonder


    if you''d consider taking a step forward with me based on the current foundation.''


    He followed up with another text, asking, ''Zoe, would you be willing to be my girlfriend?''


    Zoe looked at the message and fell silent for a long time. She exited the chat with Brandon and scrolled


    through countless conversations until she found Daniel''s profile picture and tapped on it.


    Little by little, she scrolled through their past chat records. Sometimeter, she drew a deep breath and


    resolutely deleted the remnants of their past exchanges.


    Returning to Brandon''s message thread, sheposed her response, meticulously crafting each word.


    ''Certainly.''


    With the dispatch of her reply, Zoe put down her phone and reclined on the couch. Let''s consider this


    as a fresh start for myself.


    Meanwhile, in the adjacent room, Leanna busied herself with cleaning when a tiny toy tumbled to the


    floor amidst her extraction of garments from the suitcase. Carefully setting aside the garments, she


    slowly lowered herself onto the floor to pick the toy up.


    The little guy was ying beside me when I was packingst night; he must have put it in there at that


    time.


    sping the toy within her palm, she became lost in her thoughts, sitting on the floor for an extended


    interlude before rising to enter the bathroom.


    After she finished showering and came out, Leanna opened another small bag and took out a box from


    it that contained several sachets of medicinal herbs, apanied by an array of syringes.


    These were all given to her secretly by Waylen before she left.


    Those were a week''s worth. Waylen had repeatedly instructed her on how to take the medicine and


    administer the injections; the medicinal herbs were to be taken twice a day, and the injections were to


    be administered once a day.


    Leanna let out a sigh and ced everything in the innermostpartment of the refrigerator, using


    several food containers as a barrier.


    Aidan was well aware of his limited culinary skills; he could at most do the dishes and prepare some


    mushroom soup, though he had yet to be sessful. For that reason, the odds of finding something


    edible were a mere one percent when it came to opening the refrigerator. Besides, if something


    obstructed his line of sight, it was guaranteed to escape his notice.


    Leanna heated a sachet of medicine, and after consuming it, a wave of drowsiness washed over her. It


    appeared that the medicine also possessed a soporific quality.


    The moment Leanna''s head grazed the pillow, she swiftly sumbed to slumber. She slept so soundly


    that she remained oblivious to Aidan''s return.


    As she awakened, the world outside gleamed with morning''s radiance, and the sun had already


    ascended.


    She stretchedzily and turned around as usual, only to find Aidan''s eyes still sealed shut, his


    wakefulness uncertain.


    Without any need for contemtion, Leanna surmised that he must have returnedte, and thus


    refrained from calling out to him. Instead, she leaned closer and nted a tender kiss upon his lofty


    nose bridge. But just as she prepared to rise, he gently held her waist and pulled Leanna into his


    embrace.


    In a low and husky voice that was tinged with weariness, the man uttered, "Secretly kissing me again,


    huh?"


    Leanna nestled against his chest, a mischievous smile adorning her lips. "I''m kissing you openly."


    Gradually, Aidan opened his eyes, and his slender lips met hers. "Good morning."


    "Good morning."


    "What time did youe backst night? If you''d like, you can sleep a little longer. I''ll call you when


    breakfast is ready." Leanna nced at her phone to check the time.


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    In a husky tone, Aidan replied, "I came back at 4.00AM."


    Upon hearing his words, Leanna felt a sense of self-me and guilt. "Is the situation with the Crossley


    Group very tricky?"


    Aidan held her tightly, closing his eyes once more before speaking slowly. "Not entirely, but the


    Southwest Group is redirecting its course toward the domestic market, which brings about various


    matters."


    "Redirecting toward the domestic market?"


    "Yes, it will facilitate things."


    Leanna fell into a thoughtful silence, choosing not to press for further details. Instead, she gently eased


    herself out of his embrace. "You go on sleeping. I''ll wake you upter."


    "Alright," Aidan murmured.


    Leanna rose to her feet, tidied her hair, then entered the bathroom.


    As she prepared breakfast, she retrieved a vial of medicine from the refrigerator and administered an


    injection before disposing of the syringe in the trash bin. She then proceeded to heat the medicinal


    herbs.


    To grant Aidan more time to rest, she refrained from immediately calling him. Instead, she enjoyed her


    meal, consumed the medicine, tidied up the kitchen, and changed her attire. Only then did she


    approach Aidan to rouse him from sleep before departing.


    While standing by his side, Leanna whispered, "Breakfast is still warm in the pot. You can eat it when


    you wake up. I''ll be heading to the studio first."


    With her words spoken, she made a move to leave when he gently seized her wrist.


    Aidan slowly sat up. "Wait for me. I''ll go with you."


    "It''s alright, Zoe is waiting for me. I''ll go with her," Leanna replied. After a brief pause, she added,


    "You''re still nning to go to the Crossley Group today, right?"


    Aidan confirmed with a muffled sound, his gaze fixed on her as he spoke slowly. "You''re a bit odd


    today."


    Leanna arched an eyebrow.


    She paused for a few seconds, her eyes flickering before she involuntarily averted her gaze elsewhere.


    Does he truly possess the nose of a dog? How else would he have detected the faint aroma of


    medicinal herbs? Lost in her thoughts, Leanna instinctively lowered her head and sniffed herself.


    That can''t be possible. I changed my clothes, and I even wore perfume. There''s no way I''m carrying


    the scent of medicinal herbs.


    Just as she was racking her brain and attempting to fathom where the w might lie, Aidan leaned in


    closer, his breath warm against her skin. "You''re oddly beautiful today."


    Leanna was speechless. What is wrong with him?!


    In that fleeting moment, Leanna''s fist tightened, yearning to deliver a couple of blows to him.


    Aidan''s lips curved ever so slightly as he released her. "Alright, I won''t jest with you any longer. You''re


    off to the studio, aren''t you? Carry on."


    Leanna took two steps, but she couldn''t resist the urge to turn back. "You should refrain from using


    those corny pick-up lines. Take a moment to reflect on your age. Those are meant for young couples in


    the infatuation stage as a means to flirt and bridge the gap. When you use them, it just feels out of


    ce."


    Aidan fell silent upon hearing her words.


    Having won this round, Leanna found herself in high spirits. She hummed a tune as she departed.


    On the way to the studio, Zoe noticed the constant smile adorning Leanna''s face and asked, "Did


    President Pearson share some secret wealth codes with you? Any chance you''d care to enlighten


    me?"


    Leanna became speechless, but she eventually snapped back to reality. "What nonsense are you


    spouting? I merely exchanged a few words with him before leaving, and the way he was left


    speechless was just too funny."


    Zoe clicked her tongue. "Love leads people astray. I''ll savor this serving of affection." With a shrug, she


    added, "But I''m not envious in the least. After all, I have a boyfriend as well now."


    Leanna paused. "You and Brandon¡­"


    Zoe nodded, casually remarking, "We made it officialst night."


    Upon returning to her sanctuary, Zoe sensed the aroma of pizza still clinging to her, so she went to take


    a bath.


    After emerging from the toilet, she nestled into the embrace of the couch and reached for her phone; it


    had a notification on it indicating a message sent from Brandon 10 minutes ago.


    The text read, ''Zoe, after spending time together, you probably have a preliminary understanding of


    me. I don''t know what you think of me, but I genuinely regard you as an exceptional woman. I


    recognize that our current acquaintance falls short of what is requisite for two individuals to embark


    upon a romantic journey. Regardless, dating itself is a process of getting to know each other. I wonder


    if you''d consider taking a step forward with me based on the current foundation.''


    He followed up with another text, asking, ''Zoe, would you be willing to be my girlfriend?''


    Zoe looked at the message and fell silent for a long time. She exited the chat with Brandon and scrolled


    through countless conversations until she found Daniel''s profile picture and tapped on it.


    Little by little, she scrolled through their past chat records. Sometimeter, she drew a deep breath and


    resolutely deleted the remnants of their past exchanges.


    Returning to Brandon''s message thread, sheposed her response, meticulously crafting each word.


    ''Certainly.''


    With the dispatch of her reply, Zoe put down her phone and reclined on the couch. Let''s consider this


    as a fresh start for myself.


    Meanwhile, in the adjacent room, Leanna busied herself with cleaning when a tiny toy tumbled to the


    floor amidst her extraction of garments from the suitcase. Carefully setting aside the garments, she


    slowly lowered herself onto the floor to pick the toy up.


    The little guy was ying beside me when I was packingst night; he must have put it in there at that


    time.


    sping the toy within her palm, she became lost in her thoughts, sitting on the floor for an extended


    interlude before rising to enter the bathroom.


    After she finished showering and came out, Leanna opened another small bag and took out a box from


    it that contained several sachets of medicinal herbs, apanied by an array of syringes.


    These were all given to her secretly by Waylen before she left.


    Those were a week''s worth. Waylen had repeatedly instructed her on how to take the medicine and


    administer the injections; the medicinal herbs were to be taken twice a day, and the injections were to


    be administered once a day.


    Leanna let out a sigh and ced everything in the innermostpartment of the refrigerator, using


    several food containers as a barrier.


    Aidan was well aware of his limited culinary skills; he could at most do the dishes and prepare some


    mushroom soup, though he had yet to be sessful. For that reason, the odds of finding something


    edible were a mere one percent when it came to opening the refrigerator. Besides, if something


    obstructed his line of sight, it was guaranteed to escape his notice.


    Leanna heated a sachet of medicine, and after consuming it, a wave of drowsiness washed over her. It


    appeared that the medicine also possessed a soporific quality.


    The moment Leanna''s head grazed the pillow, she swiftly sumbed to slumber. She slept so soundly


    that she remained oblivious to Aidan''s return.


    As she awakened, the world outside gleamed with morning''s radiance, and the sun had already


    ascended.


    She stretchedzily and turned around as usual, only to find Aidan''s eyes still sealed shut, his


    wakefulness uncertain.


    Without any need for contemtion, Leanna surmised that he must have returnedte, and thus


    refrained from calling out to him. Instead, she leaned closer and nted a tender kiss upon his lofty


    nose bridge. But just as she prepared to rise, he gently held her waist and pulled Leanna into his


    embrace.


    In a low and husky voice that was tinged with weariness, the man uttered, "Secretly kissing me again,


    huh?"


    Leanna nestled against his chest, a mischievous smile adorning her lips. "I''m kissing you openly."


    Gradually, Aidan opened his eyes, and his slender lips met hers. "Good morning."


    "Good morning."


    "What time did youe backst night? If you''d like, you can sleep a little longer. I''ll call you when


    breakfast is ready." Leanna nced at her phone to check the time.


    In a husky tone, Aidan replied, "I came back at 4.00AM."


    Upon hearing his words, Leanna felt a sense of self-me and guilt. "Is the situation with the Crossley


    Group very tricky?"


    Aidan held her tightly, closing his eyes once more before speaking slowly. "Not entirely, but the


    Southwest Group is redirecting its course toward the domestic market, which brings about various


    matters."


    "Redirecting toward the domestic market?"


    "Yes, it will facilitate things."


    Leanna fell into a thoughtful silence, choosing not to press for further details. Instead, she gently eased


    herself out of his embrace. "You go on sleeping. I''ll wake you upter."


    "Alright," Aidan murmured.


    Leanna rose to her feet, tidied her hair, then entered the bathroom.


    As she prepared breakfast, she retrieved a vial of medicine from the refrigerator and administered an


    injection before disposing of the syringe in the trash bin. She then proceeded to heat the medicinal


    herbs.


    To grant Aidan more time to rest, she refrained from immediately calling him. Instead, she enjoyed her


    meal, consumed the medicine, tidied up the kitchen, and changed her attire. Only then did she


    approach Aidan to rouse him from sleep before departing.


    While standing by his side, Leanna whispered, "Breakfast is still warm in the pot. You can eat it when


    you wake up. I''ll be heading to the studio first."


    With her words spoken, she made a move to leave when he gently seized her wrist.


    Aidan slowly sat up. "Wait for me. I''ll go with you."


    "It''s alright, Zoe is waiting for me. I''ll go with her," Leanna replied. After a brief pause, she added,


    "You''re still nning to go to the Crossley Group today, right?"


    Aidan confirmed with a muffled sound, his gaze fixed on her as he spoke slowly. "You''re a bit odd


    today."


    Leanna arched an eyebrow.


    She paused for a few seconds, her eyes flickering before she involuntarily averted her gaze elsewhere.


    Does he truly possess the nose of a dog? How else would he have detected the faint aroma of


    medicinal herbs? Lost in her thoughts, Leanna instinctively lowered her head and sniffed herself.


    That can''t be possible. I changed my clothes, and I even wore perfume. There''s no way I''m carrying


    the scent of medicinal herbs.


    Just as she was racking her brain and attempting to fathom where the w might lie, Aidan leaned in


    closer, his breath warm against her skin. "You''re oddly beautiful today."


    Leanna was speechless. What is wrong with him?!


    In that fleeting moment, Leanna''s fist tightened, yearning to deliver a couple of blows to him.


    Aidan''s lips curved ever so slightly as he released her. "Alright, I won''t jest with you any longer. You''re


    off to the studio, aren''t you? Carry on."


    Leanna took two steps, but she couldn''t resist the urge to turn back. "You should refrain from using


    those corny pick-up lines. Take a moment to reflect on your age. Those are meant for young couples in


    the infatuation stage as a means to flirt and bridge the gap. When you use them, it just feels out of


    ce."


    Aidan fell silent upon hearing her words.


    Having won this round, Leanna found herself in high spirits. She hummed a tune as she departed.


    On the way to the studio, Zoe noticed the constant smile adorning Leanna''s face and asked, "Did


    President Pearson share some secret wealth codes with you? Any chance you''d care to enlighten


    me?"


    Leanna became speechless, but she eventually snapped back to reality. "What nonsense are you


    spouting? I merely exchanged a few words with him before leaving, and the way he was left


    speechless was just too funny."


    Zoe clicked her tongue. "Love leads people astray. I''ll savor this serving of affection." With a shrug, she


    added, "But I''m not envious in the least. After all, I have a boyfriend as well now."


    Leanna paused. "You and Brandon¡­"


    Zoe nodded, casually remarking, "We made it officialst night."

 Chapter 759

    Chapter 759


    Chapter 759 Can We Really Count On Him?


    Leanna said, "Zoe..."


    Zoe understood what Leanna wanted to say, so she yfully interjected. "Worry not. I''ve thought it


    through. Being in a rtionship is not a bindingmitment like marriage. If it doesn''t feel right at any


    moment, we can simply part ways without hindering my search for the next one."


    Upon hearing this, Leanna also chuckled. "Indeed. There are countless men outside, and if one fails to


    measure up, we can swiftly find a recement."


    "Exactly! Who knows, Brandon and I might ignite a spark and even hold our wedding before you do.


    Speaking of this¡­" Zoe continued, "Oh, I almost forgot. When are you nning your own wedding? I


    remember seeing details about your chosen gown."


    Leanna strolled ahead leisurely and replied, "I''m uncertain at the moment. There''s quite a lot


    happeningtely, so we''ll discuss itter."


    "Well, you should schedule it. After all, you n on having another child, right? It wouldn''t be


    convenient if you were heavily pregnant during the wedding; it could exhaust you."


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    Leanna acknowledged the validity of her words, yet she had just embarked on a medication regimen to


    regte her body, making it uncertain when conception would ur.


    Aidan, on the other hand, appeared to grow increasingly upied as well; whether it was the wedding


    or pregnancy, it would likely demand ample time.


    Leanna nodded. "I understand. I''ll give it careful consideration."


    As they conversed, they reached the studio. Leanna informed Zoe, "I''ll go in and start sketching. Let


    me know if you need anything."


    "Go ahead; I''ll be out here."


    Entering her office, Leanna settled at her desk and opened her sketchbook before powering up her


    computer and drawing tablet. Then, she transcribed the sketches, one by one, making meticulous


    adjustments to the finer details.


    During lunchtime, Zoe informed Leanna that Daphne had phoned her in the morning, informing her that


    she had already made contact with someone¡ªand that person would arrive in the afternoon to discuss


    the specifics of endorsements and promotional endeavors, as well as their implementation.


    In order to ease Leanna''s concerns and ensure a well-designed oue, Zoe took on the entire task


    herself. However, endorsement deals were significant undertakings, and Daphne''s celebrity status and


    poprity were at stake. Zoe felt out of her depth in many aspects of endorsement work, and handling


    it alone proved challenging. That was when Leanna thought of someone.


    In the afternoon, Freddie arrived at the studio. He warily surveyed the two figures before him, shielding


    himself with interlocked arms. "What do you want? I maintain awful profession. I am not the kind of


    person who goes along with anything. If my dashing countenance tempts you and you harbor ulterior


    motives, we can still negotiate..."


    Leanna and Zoe went speechless.


    Zoe cast a nce at Leanna and whispered, "Can we really count on him?"


    Leanna''s mouth twitched. "He should be okay. It''s better than nothing."


    Upon hearing them, Freddie asserted, "Which aspect of my abilities do you question? I''ll be clear here.


    If you wound my dignity, I shall take offense!"


    Leanna took a deep breath and gazed at him once more. "I''d like to ask for your help in drafting a


    contract and agreement."


    She then provided a concise ount of Daphne''s investment in their studio and the matter of


    endorsements.


    Having listened attentively, he exhaled a sigh of relief and adjusted his posture. "You should have told


    me this earlier. I thought it was a weighty affair. I was on the verge of plunging into a river to prove my


    innocence. Matters that can be resolved through a call shouldn''t require my presence. Dinner is on


    you."


    "Of course, it''s not just about this."


    Hearing that, Freddie grew wary once again. "What else?"


    Leanna smiled gently, conveying goodwill. "I remember when you worked at the Crossley Group, Aidan


    paid you, right? However, you didn''t stay there for long, so¡ª"


    "I''ve already used up the money. There''s no way to return it!" Freddie immediately responded.


    "I''m not asking for a return. It''s just that recently, our studio has been quite busy, dealing with various


    contracts and such. I wanted to ask for your help."


    Freddie''s intuition alerted him to impending unfavorable news. So, he gradually sought refuge in an


    excuse, expressing remorse. "You know, our line of work is quite busy. We always have cases on hand,


    and we need to collect evidence and gather information. I truly desire to lend a hand, but I''m afraid I''m


    not capable enough..."


    Leanna swiftly cut him off. "I consulted with Jonathan. You''ve just wrapped up a significant case and


    are currently on rest."


    Reluctantly, Freddie uttered, "You and Aidan are the exact same type of people. It''s such bad luck


    having encountered you both."


    Aware that he had reluctantly agreed, Leanna merely smiled. "So, it''s settled. I''ll treat you to dinner


    tonight. What delight do you desire?"


    Freddie mentioned the name of the most expensive restaurant in Highside.


    However, Leanna politely replied, "I apologize, but the budget falls short. If you don''t mind, I can


    prepare a meal for you."


    Once again, Freddie went speechless. "You''re so stingy." After a brief pause, he begrudgingly


    sumbed to the merciless trials of destiny. "In that case, I shall ce an order."


    Leanna chuckled. "Certainly, choose whatever you desire."


    With Freddie''s presence, one person could rival ten. The workforce was now sufficient.


    The matter of Daphne''s endorsement had also made its way onto the agenda. However, Freddie''s


    abilities extended beyond handling mundane contracts. He efficiently managed all the tasks rted to


    endorsements with precision and efficiency.


    Gradually, he assumed authority over all affairs. Indeed, he was not meant to be awyer. As a wealthy


    scion destined to eventually inherit the family empire, his abilities radiated.


    In the days that followed, the phrase Freddie most frequently uttered to Leanna was: "Why am I still


    alive?"


    With Freddie''s assistance, Zoe made remarkable progress. They scouted several suitable locations,


    examining each one before finally settling on an indoor and an outdoor venue. Subsequently, they


    initiated discussions with the crew regarding set design and shooting schedules.


    Meanwhile, in Aidan''s absence, Leanna surreptitiously attended to her medication and injections. If she


    couldn''t manage it in the morning, she would bring the medicine to the studio and warm it up before


    administering it.


    After a week, Waylen would send her fresh supplies. Regardless of whether these medications would


    ultimately aid in her conception, Leanna''s mental state had noticeably improved. She couldn''t ascertain


    if it was due to the medication''s effect or simply a result of getting sufficient rest.


    It was just that every time she concluded an injection, she would endure a few minutes of difort.


    That frigid pain silently infiltrated her bloodstream, encasing every cell, making her both chilling and


    numbing until it became an ustomed sensation.


    As she unveiled the package containing the medicinal herbs and syringe sent by Waylen, she suddenly


    felt a wave of nausea. It was then that Aidan entered the room and observed her unusualplexion.


    Approaching her, he inquired, "What''s wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"


    Leanna hastily closed the lid and replied, "It''s nothing. I believe I''ve been working too long today and


    feeling a bit lightheaded."


    However, Aidan ignored her as he nced at the foam box before her and asked, "What''s inside?"

 Chapter 760

    Chapter 760


    Chapter 760 Be This Flirtatious to Me Every Day From Now On


    Leanna instinctively turned and shielded the box, staring at Aidan. "It''s nothing. Freddie mentioned a


    craving for seafood, so I ordered some online. I''m nning to invite them over for a meal at home in a


    few days, so... I bought it and kept it."


    Aidan didn''t ponder over her words and simply replied, "As long as there''s food, it''s good enough. Who


    gave him the right to be picky?"


    A smile graced Leanna''s lips as she led him toward the living room. "Alright, he has been enduring a lot


    during this time. It''s only right to thank him properly."


    Seizing the moment, Aidan encircled her waist, pressing her onto the couch. He gently pinched her


    chin, his voice low and seductive as he spoke. "I, too, have been enduring a lot during this time. Why


    haven''t you rewarded me?"


    Leanna met his gaze, her eyes shimmering with moisture. "You always return when I''m already asleep.


    How can I cook for you? Perhaps I can make some soup for you tomorrow, so when you return..."


    Aidan''s dark eyes locked onto hers as he parted his lips slowly. "Is that what I''m referring to?"


    It had already been a month since his departure to Jamesdon and his subsequent return.


    As Aidan''s words hung in the air, the atmosphere instantaneously shifted with their entangled breaths


    growing fervent.


    When his lips descended upon hers, Leanna surrendered, closing her eyes and delicately draping her


    arms around his neck in response. His hands brushed against her tender skin, igniting sensations of


    warmth and quivers that danced through her being.


    With each scorching kiss trailing along her neck, Leanna''s breaths grew heavier. She instinctively


    clutched at his shirt near his waist, teeth sinking into her lower lip to stifle any inadvertent sounds.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    In a heartbeat, Aidan lifted her, his lips nibbling her earlobe yfully as he whispered, "Shall we go


    back to the room?"


    Leanna offered no words in response. Her eyes shimmered with a veil of mist as she pressed him back


    onto the couch, their lips melding once more in a fervent embrace, apanied by her nimble fingers


    undoing his shirt button by button.


    Aidan''s eyebrows were slightly arched; he had rarely witnessed such boldness from her. With one hand


    still encircling her waist, his other hand ventured along the contours of her body, tracing invisible paths


    of desire.


    Before long, Leanna seemed to lose her strength; she copsed against his chest, her breathing


    growing heavier, and a soft moan escaped her throat.


    The voice that was filled with a teasing tone caressed her ears as his fingers continued their


    mischievous dance. "Does it feelfortable?"


    Leanna teetered on the edge as her endurance reached its limits; she couldn''t resist eximing, "H-


    Hurry up!"


    "Hmm?"


    Leanna nearly gasped in surprise. She attempted to extricate his hand, only to find herself devoid of


    strength.


    Aidan leaned closer, his voice gentle as he whispered in her ear, "Wasn''t this what you said?"


    Leanna clenched her teeth. "What I said... was not this!"


    Aidan''s dark eyes sparkled with deeper amusement. "Then what was it?"


    Leanna closed her eyes and drew a deep breath. This b*stard! I will never say what he wants to hear!


    Noticing her reaction, Aidan curled his lips into a knowing smile, his gaze prating. He refrained


    from teasing her further, so he ceased the movements of his hand and reached for two tissue papers to


    clean up. He, too, could no longer restrain himself.


    Leanna listened to the sounds emanating from beside her, intuitively aware of his actions without


    needing to discern them.


    Just as Aidan was about to rise and grab something from his room, Leanna suddenly held him back.


    She opened her eyes with cheeks that were flushed and said in a low voice, "Have you forgotten what


    you promised me?"


    Aidan''s eyebrows twitched, recollecting. To have another child.


    He leaned down, gently biting her lip, his voice slow and unwavering. "Okay."


    ¡­


    After the culmination, Leannay on the bed with utterly spent energy.


    Just before sumbing to slumber, a thought surfaced, prompting her to raise her head and gaze at


    Aidan. "You haven''t been indulging in smoketely, have you?"


    Aidan stayed silent, his guilty eyes evading hers, and he emitted a soft cough.


    He chose not to answer directly.


    Leanna pursed her lips, well aware that he had been surreptitiously smoking behind her back.


    She voiced, "Let bygones be bygones, but could you quit for a while from now on? It would be ideal if


    you also refrain from alcohol as well."


    "Alright." Aidan added, "When will you take me to meet your doctor?"


    Now it was Leanna''s turn to evade a direct answer, seeking sce once again in the shelter of his


    embrace, pretending to yawn. "Let''s discuss itter. You''ve been quite upied recently, haven''t you?


    Let''s wait for a while..."


    As her words trailed off, Leanna fell into a tranquil silence, her breathing steady as if she had slipped


    into a slumber.


    Aidan was speechless. After nting a kiss on her forehead, he whispered, "Goodnight."


    Although Leanna pretended to be lost in sleep, her weariness was genuine. Nestled within Aidan''s


    arms, she soon drifted off. Perhaps due to her recent practice of retiring early and rising with the sun,


    her body had also grown ustomed to the routine; she woke up promptly at 7.00AM the next


    morning.


    As soon as she moved, she realized her body was sore and aching, so she rolled over, intending to


    stay in bed a little longer. Fortunately, the considerate man beside her still possessed a trace of


    conscience. He whispered, "What would you like to eat? I''ll go out and fetch it."


    Leanna buried herself within the folds of the nket, emitting a muffled sigh as she said, "Anything is


    fine. I''ll eat whatever you buy."


    Seeing how she truly wanted to continue sleeping, Aidan decided not to disturb her. After going out to


    buy breakfast, he took out a carton of milk from the fridge and poured it into a cup.


    The foamy carton sat quietly in the most inconspicuous corner but was not noticed at all. Soon, the


    refrigerator door closed again.


    By the time Aidan woke up Leanna, it was already one and a half hourster.


    She stretchedzily, tenderly rubbing her weary eyes. Meanwhile, Aidan tidied her hair and asked, "Do


    you still want to sleep?"


    Leanna yfully grumbled, like a flirtatious whine.


    Silently amused, Aidan chuckled. "Then continue sleeping. Don''t go to the studio in the morning."


    "No." A few secondster, Leanna finally relented and got up from the bed.


    The studio had been busy with many tasks these past few days, with Zoe and Freddie taking on almost


    everything while she only needed to work on the design drawings. Yet, here she was, sleeping at


    home.


    However, even sometimeter, Leanna still found herself reluctant to move, so she extended her hand


    towards Aidan with closed eyes. "Carry me there."


    Witnessing her acting as such, Aidan felt his heart melt into a gentle cascade. He held her up and


    brought her to the bathroom while murmuring, "Have you ever considered being this flirtatious to me


    every day from now on?"


    In hushed tones, she retorted, "Have you ever contemted fastening a safety lock upon your lips?


    With fewer biting words and sarcasm being said, you can reward yourself with kind utterances each


    day."


    Aidan went silent. cing Leanna upon the washbasin''s edge, his hands steadied her on either side.


    "No room for negotiation, I suppose?"


    Leanna ensnared him with the embrace of her arms, her eyes squinting in yful delight as a radiant


    smile adorned her lips. "It depends on my mood."


    Aidan narrowed his dark eyes and leaned down to kiss her; however, Leanna swiftly slipped away,


    evading his embrace with a yful wiggle. "Alright, alright, I need to freshen up. You should go do


    whatever you need to do."


    Turning away, Aidan cupped her face in his hands, causing her cheeks and lips to pout.


    He lowered his head and nted a kiss before saying, "If you exchange the reward for this, perhaps I


    can consider it."

 Chapter 761

    Chapter 761


    Chapter 761 Am I That Lame?


    After breakfast, Leanna seized the moment while Aidan went to change to take out a packet of


    medicinal herbs from the refrigerator to ce it in her bag.


    Withstanding waves of difort and a touch of queasiness, she summoned her strength and


    administered a shot to her arm.


    When Aidan came out, his brows twitched slightly as he watched Leanna changing her shoes in the


    hallway.


    Meeting his gaze, she asked, "What''s wrong?"


    He remarked, "Why does yourplexion look worse than before?"


    In response, Leanna instinctively caressed her face. "Does it?" As soon as she said that, her skeptical


    gaze fell upon Aidan as she yfully added, "Or perhaps you''re waiting to drop another one of your


    cheesy pickup lines?"


    Aidan licked his teeth while flicking her forehead with a finger. "Am I thatme?"


    "You''re alwaysme," Leanna replied as she put on her shoes. "I''m done. Let''s go."


    Just as she reached the doorway, he grabbed her hand. "If you''re feeling unwell, don''t force yourself. I''ll


    take you to the hospital."


    Leanna hesitated momentarily before she asserted, "Really, I''m fine. Maybe it''s just the bright light in


    the hallway making my face look pale. I''m good, so don''t worry."


    With that, she nced at the time and pulled Aidan along. "We''re going to bete. Stop dawdling."


    On the other hand, Zoe, who was obliged to attend to the early morning rituals of verifying the shooting


    location and orchestrating the set design, departed home at an earlier hour. For that reason, Leanna


    took a ride in Aidan''s car and arrived at the studio together.


    Before disembarking from the car, Aidan observed the undeniable improvement in herplexion


    since they left home and thus refrained from further inquiry. Instead, he imparted, "If you ever feel tired,


    just go home. All my money belongs to you, so there''s no need to work so hard."


    Leanna smiled and replied, "I know." After swinging open the car door, she paused momentarily, then


    leaned in to kiss Aidan''s cheek, her smile radiating even brighter. "Consider it a token of appreciation."


    In these rare moments when he speaks earnestly, his words do possess a captivating allure.


    Aidan''s eyebrows twitched slightly. There''s such a benefit?


    Leanna stepped out of the car, waving her hand toward him. "Go ahead. I''ll go in."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Aidan responded with a simple ''Okay''.


    After watching the ck car slowly drive away, Leanna redirected her gaze and entered the studio.


    Seated in the office, she heated the medicine but found herself unable to consume it, the feeling of


    nausea washing over her once again. With that thought in mind, she sent a text message to Waylen,


    inquiring if her current condition was normal.


    Shortly after, Waylen called her and asked, "Aside from feeling nauseous, are there any other


    symptoms?"


    "After each injection, I feel a little dizzy, but it subsides after a few minutes."


    "This is normal. Although these injections increase your chances of getting pregnant, they alsoe


    with some side effects. I mentioned before that this process would be painful, and... what you''re


    experiencing now is just the beginning. The further you progress, the more difort you''ll endure. It''s


    like taking medicine¡ªif you develop an aversion to something, it will only grow stronger. Whether it''s


    injections or medication, they stem from an instinctual stress response of your body and mind. This is...


    an inevitable situation."


    Leanna fell silent for a moment and replied, "I understand. I will strive to ovee it."


    Waylen suggested, "How about reducing the dosage and making it milder for the next round of


    medication?"


    Yet, she responded firmly, "No need, it''s fine. I can handle it."


    He understood her persistence and didn''t insist further. "Perhaps with more time, you''ll get used to it.


    Don''t put too much pressure on yourself, and don''t constantly worry about when you''ll be able to


    conceive. Maintain a calm mindset, ease up on your mental stress, and the treatment process will


    be easier, increasing your chances of conceiving."


    "I understand, thank you." Leanna thanked him with a faint smile.


    After hanging up the phone, she looked at the perfectly warmed medicinal herbs in front of her.


    Suppressing her nausea and indigestion, she took a deep breath, tilted her head back, and downed it


    in one go.


    Not long after, Zoe had been running around early in the morning, so she was now drenched in sweat,


    and she copsed immediately on the couch once she returned, not wanting to move at all. Leanna


    poured her a ss of water and asked, "How are you doing? Are you alright?"


    Taking the water, Zoe gulped it down before catching her breath. "I''m almost there. Tomorrow''s shoot


    should be fine."


    Leanna nced at the time. "It''s still early, before noon. Why don''t you rest here for a while?"


    Since Zoe didn''t have any urgent matters to attend to this morning besides confirming the set and


    scenery, she leaned back on the couch and said, "Alright, I''ll take a short nap. Wake me upter."


    "Okay, sleep tight."


    Leanna sat at her desk, continuing to refine the design on herputer. Two minutester, Zoe


    suddenly spoke up. "Say, Nana. Have you noticed any strange smell in this room?"


    Smell? Leanna paused and turned around with a pen in her hand. "What... smell?"


    Zoe opened her eyes and took a few deep breaths, sniffing carefully. "I think it''s... the smell of


    medicinal herbs." She then looked at Leanna. "Are you taking them?"


    Leanna smiled and realized that hiding it at this point would only make things seem more suspicious,


    so she simply confessed, "Yes, didn''t we talk about the need to regte our bodies? I''ve been taking


    some medicinal herbs."


    With Leana''s reply, Zoe assumed it was the kind of medicine used for general wellness. "How does it


    feel? Lately, I''ve been feeling a bit ufortable too. If it works for you, I might try a couple of doses


    myself."


    Leanna knew that Zoe''s symptoms were likely rted to the aftermath of her miscarriage. She thought


    for a moment. "It''s alright. I''ll discuss it with Way¡ªI mean, the doctorter. Send me your symptoms,


    and I''ll have him take a look and prescribe medication based on your condition."


    "Great! I''ll send it to you now. It''s perfect timing because I''ve been experiencing backaches and leg


    paintely. Once the endorsement work is done, a couple of doses of medicine will rejuvenate me."


    After a while, Leanna received the message Zoe had sent and forwarded it directly to Waylen.


    Leanna: ''This is my friend. She hasn''t been feeling welltely. Can you take a look and prescribe some


    medicine to help her regte her body?''


    There was no reply from Waylen at the moment. He''s probably busy with something.


    Zoe asked again, "Nana, where did you find this doctor? If the medicine works well for me, I also want


    to get some for my mom. Her foot has been hurting sincest year, especially when it rains."


    Leanna set down her phone. "Well... he''s the attending doctor for the little one."


    "Oh, my." Zoe probed, "Doesn''t that mean his fees must be quite high?"


    Leanna smiled at the remark. "He is L''s..."


    She paused halfway through her sentence. Who was it again? I still haven''t got a full grasp of the


    Woodley Family''splicated rtionships.


    Leanna took a step back. "He''s Charlotte''s cousin, right?"


    Back when they were in theboratory, it seemed that the funding chain was connected to L. But


    now that Aidan had brought them to the estate, it was likely that Aidan was the one providing the funds.


    However, it seemed that constantly relying on Aidan might not be ideal.


    She pondered for a moment. "I remember Charlotte telling me he seems quite fond of Daphne."

 Chapter 762

    Chapter 762


    Chapter 762 There Will Always Be a ce for You


    Thus, Waylen received several messages on his phone aftering out of theboratory. He was


    puzzled as among them were seven or eight autographed photos of Daphne, as well as some


    exclusive merchandise that only the studio would have. He couldn''t help but wonder what those were


    for.


    With that, he scrolled up and saw Leanna''s message that read, ''Charlotte told me that you are a fan of


    Daphne, so I sent these to you.'' As he scrolled up further, he came across a message about Zoe''s


    illness. He looked through it and was about to make a phone call to her, but before dialing her number,


    he hesitated and typed a message instead. ''Has your friend ever had a miscarriage?''


    After a while, Leanna replied, ''Yes.''


    With that, Waylen replied, ''Got it. I''ll be busy these days. Just send it over together with your medicine


    in a couple of days.''


    ''Thank you.'' Leanna replied and sent him another message that read, ''There''s another favor I''d like to


    ask of you¡­'' To which Waylen replied with a ''?''


    ''My friend''s mother is also feeling unwell¡­'' Leanna replied


    Waylen was speechless and realized that was the reason why Leanna sent him the autographed


    photos of Daphne. But unlike Charlotte, he wasn''t interested in those pictures.


    Leanna then sent a text that read, ''Or perhaps you can let me know how you charge for it? I can


    transfer it to you. I feel bad for troubling you like this.''


    Upon reading her reply, Waylen replied, ''It''s fine. It''s tacky to talk about that.''


    He then added, ''I eat at Naomi''s ce every day, and she hasn''t asked me for money. Send me the


    information about your friend''s mother''s condition. I''ll take a look.''


    Although Waylen said so, Leanna still felt bad and sent him a lot of local specialties from Highside.


    On the other hand, when Waylen got downstairs, he said to Naomi, "Naomi, I need to make a trip to the


    Woodley Residence. Are youing along?"


    Naomi, who was holding the baby, shook her head. "I won''t be going." Seeing that she was caring for


    the child, Waylen didn''t say much and left with the car keys.


    At the same time, in the ancestral hall of the Woodley Family, Philip stood at the front, and after praying


    for Kian, he turned to Charlotte and said, "Charlotte,e here." Hearing that, Charlotte obediently


    walked over and received a pat on the head from Charles.


    Philip leaned on his cane and said, "Charlotte, Kian had always cherished you. It was he who originally


    arranged the marriage engagement with L. Now that the engagement is dissolved, you should


    bow and apologize to him for failing his good intentions."


    Following that, Charlotte put her hands together and bowed respectfully three times. She expressed


    gratitude to the departed soul of Kian silently in her heart. She hoped that in the future, she would meet


    someone she really liked¡ªsomeone who would make her happy just by seeing him. After bowing, she


    lightly touched Kian''s photo.


    Just then, Philip looked toward the outside of the ancestral hall and announced, "L has arrived."


    Hearing that, L replied with a faint voice. With that, Philip said, "Since you''re here, you should


    offer some prayers as well. The Woodley Family has recently gone through so much, and the ancestral


    hall was almost destroyed. The spirits here have inevitably been disturbed." Although Joseph set fire to


    the ancestral hall, fortunately, the fire was promptly controlled, and the impact on the ancestral hall was


    minimal. Furthermore, the damaged areas had already been renovated.


    L then approached the altar, looked mellowly at the altar, and proceeded to close his eyes.


    Throughout the whole process, Charlotte stood by her father''s side while quietly watching L. She


    had a deep-rooted fear of L. Although she had gradually gotten used to his presence during their


    time together, Joseph''s words had elevated her fear of him to another level.


    However, this time, she wasn''t afraid of what he would do to her, but she was afraid that he might harm


    her grandfather and father. It was a peculiar feeling. After L offered the incense, Philip spoke up


    as soon as he turned around. "I know you are against this arranged marriage with Charlotte. It''s good


    that it''s dissolved now, so you won''t be held back by her." Hearing that, L nced at Charlotte,


    who immediately lowered her head and hugged Charles'' arm.


    He said, "Charlotte is still a young girl. This marriage was never fair to her from the beginning." By


    saying this, he had shifted the responsibility onto himself and Kian, which prevented Philip from being


    embarrassed.


    As Philip listened to him speak, his initially stern expression softened a bit, and he politely said,


    "Charlotte was the one who didn''t appreciate your grandfather''s good intentions."


    "Be rest assured that no matter what happens within the Woodley Family, there will always be a ce


    for you." L looked at him without beating around the bush. After speaking, L nodded


    slightly in acknowledgment and then left directly. Following that, Philip''s expression turned gloomy, and


    he let out a silent sigh.


    Noticing that, Charlotte stepped forward and supported him before asking, "Grandpa, what did he


    mean by what he just said?"


    "He meant that no matter how he shakes up the Woodley Family, as long as I am here, he won''t harm


    our family," Philip replied.


    "Isn''t that a good thing, Grandpa? Why..." Charlotte paused and asked.


    Upon hearing that, Charles interjected, "But once your grandpa is no longer here, his promise won''t


    hold any weight."


    "Grandpa will live a long life! He''ll live to be 100, so why worry about those things?" Charlotte affirmed.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Only then did Philip smile and pat Charlotte''s hand. "Girl, I''m already ny-eight years old this year.


    Does it mean that I only have two more years to leave?"


    Hearing that, Charlotte realized her mistake and blurted, "I''ll take it back, I''ll take it back! Grandpa will


    live to be 200!"


    "Alright, alright. Like how you said, Grandpa will live to be 200." Philip chuckled. Charles, who was


    standing next to them, couldn''t help but shake his head and smile as he looked at her before saying,


    "Let''s go."


    As soon as L stepped out of the ancestral hall, Waylen approached him. "I saw Grandpa and the


    others inside. Are you guys discussing your marriage with Charlotte?" Hearing that, L gave him


    a disdainful nce, and Waylen immediately put on a serious demeanor before saying, "Alright, alright,


    I won''t ask."


    "How''s the treatment going?" L asked calmly.


    "At this stage, it''s not having a significant effect anymore. I can only say that it''s much better than


    before," Waylen paused and continued, "But..."


    "But what?"


    "I''ve spoken to Leanna and told her that umbilical cord blood might be a solution. I''ve prescribed some


    medicine for her, and she''s undergoing treatment," Waylen said.


    "I''m not Aidan, so why are you telling me all this?" L looked at him and asked.


    "That''s because Leanna didn''t let me tell Aidan. But I felt suffocated, and you know, I don''t like taking


    responsibility. Between you and Aidan, there has to be someone to take the me for me," Waylen


    replied.


    L was speechless after hearing that. "Go back if there''s nothing else!" he snapped.

 Chapter 763

    Chapter 763


    Chapter 763 Everyone Still Sees Me as a Child


    Geez, he wants me to leave already. Waylen left the ce at lightning speed.


    Soon, L turned around, and as he was about to leave, he noticed Charlotte peeking out from


    behind a nearby stone pir. When their eyes met, she immediately retreated and hid herself behind


    the pir. L looked over and asked impassively, "What are you doing there?"


    After a few seconds, Charlotte slowly walked out and whispered, "L..."


    "Do you need something from me?" L casually ced his hand in his pocket and calmly asked.


    As Charlotte stood in front of him with her hands sped together, she gently nodded. "I came to


    apologize to you."


    "What for?"


    Charlotte said, "I was wrong in the past. I was too stubborn. Please don''t take what I said to heart. If... if


    you''re furious, you can vent your anger on me, but please don''t direct it toward Grandpa and Dad."


    After a moment, L chuckled softly. "Do you think I would get angry because you refused to marry


    me?"


    Hearing that, she pouted and pointed her finger. "It''s not entirely because of that... I said a lot of hurtful


    things back then." Thinking back, she realized she had been quite unreasonable. On top of that, she


    made it seem like he had some ulterior motives toward her when in fact, he didn''t want to marry her


    either. This was all because of the unnecessary marriage engagement.


    Seeing Charlotte lower her head, L said, "Alright, I won''t argue with a child. Now that the


    engagement has beenpletely dissolved, you should focus on what you need to do and stop


    thinking about these matters."


    For some reason, Charlotte felt that L''s words were slightly gentler than what he had said to her


    before. It was as if he truly regarded her as a child and wasforting her. She softly retorted, "I''m


    already twenty years old. You always say I''m a child when I''m already of age to get married."


    L was lost for words upon hearing that. "You should go back," he said.


    She let out a soft ''Oh'' and took two steps forward before turning back. She gazed at L with a


    glint in her beautiful eyes as she said, "Well then, let''s make a deal. You won''t get angry about what


    happened before, and you can''t me it on Grandpa and Dad! Cross your heart!"


    At that, L looked at her quietly, and his expression was unchanged. Perhaps he had never heard


    such a threat before. He found it absurd and a little amusing at the same time. Seeing that he was


    quiet, Charlotte became anxious. Does he really have no intention of letting me off the hook? With that,


    she held her breath and hesitantly reached out her hand. As she held it up in front of him, she asked,


    "Shall we... make a pinky promise?"


    L''s eyebrow twitched imperceptibly as he looked at her expectant and nervous gaze while


    pursing his lips. After a moment, he finally reached out his hand and turned his head to the side as he


    yed along with her silly game.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Charlotte''s face immediately lit up with a smile. She didn''t care much about anything else and hooked


    her finger with his while murmuring, "Pinky promise! Cross your heart so that you won''t break the


    promise."


    Afterpleting this series of vows, the satisfied Charlotte finally withdrew her hand and eximed,


    "Alright!" With that said, she looked up at L''s expressionless face, and her smile abruptly faded.


    She then instinctively shrunk her neck.


    L put his hand down and met her gaze before speaking slowly, "Charlotte, anyone over the age


    of ten wouldn''t engage in such childish behavior."


    When she heard that, Charlotte stammered, "B-But it doesn''t matter. You just agreed to it! You can''t go


    back on your word!"


    As she uttered thosest few words, she had an inexplicable feeling that he might change his mind in


    the next second, so she quickly ran away while keeping an eye on him cautiously.


    As expected, she didn''t learn her lesson about not paying attention to where she was going and ended


    up tripping into a pile of leaves that the servants had swept but hadn''t yet dealt with. She was instantly


    submerged in a heap of leaves.


    Meanwhile, L stood in ce while watching the scene unfold as he rubbed his temples with his


    hand. Fortunately, it was a big pile of leaves, so Charlotte didn''t get hurt. She quickly got up and


    dashed away.


    ¡­


    In the evening, Leanna and Zoe saw a man who had been waiting outside for a long time as soon as


    they left the studio. "I''m sorry, I was busy today. You''ve been waiting for a while, haven''t you?" Zoe


    asked.


    She''s here. Brandon replied with a smile, "No, I just arrived a moment ago. "After saying that, he


    looked at Leanna and nodded at her as he greeted her.


    After Brandon and Zoe had gotten together, he would pick her up after work every day. They would


    have dinner together, and then he would send her home¡ªjust the usual thing couples did.


    "Have fun, guys. I''ll be heading back." Leanna smiled gently at the young couple.


    "Be careful on your way home. Let me know when you get home." Zoe waved at her.


    "Okay, you guys, go ahead." With that, Zoe and Brandon turned and walked away. Leanna sighed


    while she watched them leave, as the distance between these two people was enough to fit another


    person in. Just by looking at them, she knew that they hadn''t made any progress.


    Perhaps Zoe was right. When one still held feelings for someone else in their heart, they could never


    truly let go. As Leanna shook her head, she withdrew her gaze and headed home. On the way back,


    she remembered that she had said she would make soup for Aidanst night, so she made a detour to


    the supermarket and bought a lot of ingredients. After arriving home, she washed the pork ribs and


    ced them on the stove to cook. Meanwhile, she put away all the groceries she had bought into the


    refrigerator.


    The day before, Leanna was almost caught by Aidan when he discovered the box where she was


    hiding the medicine. She imed it was seafood to avoid suspicion. Thus, when she went to the


    supermarket earlier, she deliberately bought another box of seafood and ced it in the refrigerator,


    conveniently blocking the box of medicine. Afterpleting all of this, the water on the stove had


    boiled. Leanna turned off the heat and poured out the nching liquid before putting them back on the


    stove. After that, she picked up her phone and called Aidan. The phone rang for a while before he


    answered.


    Just as she was about to speak, she remembered the lesson from before. "You''re not in a meeting,


    right?" she asked, making sure he wasn''t upied.


    On the other end of the phone, Aidan chuckled softly, "I just came out of the meeting room."


    Hearing that, Leanna heaved a sigh of relief. That''s great. "I''ve made dinner. What time will you be


    back?"


    "It''ll be a while. Don''t wait for me. Go ahead and eat," Aidan replied. Hearing that, Leanna nced at


    the time and noticed that it was already 8.30PM. "Okay, I got it," she said.


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna sat on the couch and took out her notebook. Since she wasn''t


    hungry yet, she nned to eatter. Just as she picked up her pen, she heard a knocking sound from


    outside, but it wasn''t at her door. However, only she and Zoe lived on this floor, along with the two


    empty houses that Aidan had bought. Who could be knocking at the door?

 Chapter 764

    Chapter 764


    Chapter 764 This Is My Boyfriend


    Leanna put down what she was holding and walked toward the door. Standing in front of the monitor,


    she didn''t see anyone outside, so she pushed open the door and looked around. Just as she was


    about to close the door, a low, hoarse male voice came from nearby. "Miss McKinney."


    At that sound, she turned around and saw a familiar figure in the elevator. She was stunned for two


    seconds. "Daniel?"


    The man walked toward her, his face pale with a hint of sickness, and his tall figure swaying slightly.


    With a forced smile, Daniel asked, "Is Zoe here?"


    Leanna was about to respond, but seeing his current condition, her words caught in her throat. Instead,


    she stepped aside and suggested, "Why don''t youe in first?"


    "It''s okay. I can''t stay outside for too long. I''lle another day if Zoe is not here." After saying that, he


    paused for a moment as if he wanted to say something to her, but then he thought it would be better to


    exin those things in front of Zoe.


    "Are you okay?" she asked.


    He shook his head and replied, "I''m fine. Sorry for making you all worry about me these days."


    "As long as you''re okay¡­"


    Initially, she had many more questions to ask, but seeing him like this, she felt that he couldn''t hold on


    for much longer, as if he would copse on the ground the next second.


    Her gaze then fell on the back of his hand, where she saw the medical tape. It looks like he ran away


    from the hospital. "Let me take you to the hospital," she suggested.


    Yet, he refused. "No need to trouble you. I''ll just take a cab." With that, he turned and entered the


    elevator.


    "Wait," she eximed, rushing back to the living room to fetch her phone. She then walked to the foyer


    to switch her shoes and was suddenly reminded of the simmering soup on the stove. Without dy,


    she retraced her steps to the kitchen to turn off the burner.


    ¡­


    At the same time, Zoe and Brandon had just returned after having dinner and were downstairs.


    Zoe stopped in her tracks and said, "Well, I should go up now."


    "Zoe," Brandon called out to her, smiling. "I''ve escorted you back so many times. How about inviting


    me up for a while?"


    Upon hearing his words, she was taken aback, probably caught off guard by his question.


    He seemed to sense her reluctance and added, "It''s okay. I''ll wait until next time. You can have some


    time to prepare as well."


    "Sure." She breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, he didn''t make the situation awkward; otherwise, she


    wouldn''t have known how to respond. In the end, she waved at him to say goodbye. "Well then¡­ See


    you tomorrow."


    "See you."


    With a faint smile on her face, she turned around and left. However, just as she had taken a few steps,


    someone grabbed her wrist, and the next second, she was pulled into a hug.


    Before she could react, Brandon''s voice sounded in her ear. "I think we should make some progress.


    Can you ept this?"


    Instinctively, she wanted to push him away, but when she heard his words, she put her raised hand


    back down. We''re a couple, so this kind of progress should be natural.


    Suddenly, Brandon was forcefully pulled away, and immediately after, a punchnded on his face. He


    held his face and staggered several steps backward.


    Meanwhile, Zoe eximed and quickly stopped the man who was about to approach.


    Before she could say anything, Daniel grabbed her and pulled her behind him before whispering, "Don''t


    worry. I''m here."


    After being pulled and dragged, she was thrown into a temporary daze out of nowhere.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Luckily, upon seeing Brandon''s injury, she swiftly snapped back to reality, shaking off Daniel''s hand.


    She rushed over to assist Brandon, her brows furrowed with concern. "Are you okay?"


    As Brandon wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, he nced at Daniel before turning to look


    at Zoe. "Is he your friend? It seems like he misunderstood something."


    She took a deep breath and apologized. "I''m sorry¡­"


    "It''s okay. I was too abrupt today. I shouldn''t have done something like this without asking for your


    permission."


    "Zoe¡­" Daniel took a step forward.


    Hearing that, Zoe turned around with a calm expression. "I didn''t know you were back."


    Daniel''s lips slightly parted, and he was about to speak, but then he heard her continue, "Let me


    introduce you. This is my boyfriend, Brandon Zielinski. I don''t know if there was a misunderstanding,


    but you hit him, so you should apologize."


    At this moment, he furrowed his brow, dubious about her words. "Boyfriend?" His already pale


    complexion looked sickly under the dim streetlights. As he spoke, it seemed like his energy had


    reached its limit, and he swayed slightly.


    Seeing this, she instinctively reached out to support him, but Brandon held her hand and extended his


    other hand toward Daniel. "Nice to meet you. How should I address you?"


    Daniel looked at him but remained silent.


    Just then, Leanna ran out of the apartment, and upon witnessing the situation, she knew exactly what


    had just happened.


    She went to support Daniel and told Brandon, "I''m sorry. He just came out of the hospital and isn''t


    feeling well. I''ll take him back first."


    When Brandon heard that, he retracted his hand and politely smiled. "Alright."


    Only when Leanna nced at Zoe did she graduallye to her senses and say to Brandon, "Let me


    take you to the nearby pharmacy to treat your injuries."


    Brandon nodded and left with Zoe.


    Meanwhile, Daniel watched their retreating figures, wanting to go after them but was stopped by


    Leanna. "Just¡­ don''t."


    As he turned to look at Leanna, it took him a while to find his voice. "Zoe just said that that is her


    boyfriend. Is it true?"


    Leanna nodded. "Let me take you to the hospital. I''ll tell you everything you want to know on the way."


    On the way to the hospital, she told him about Zoe''s miscarriage and recent events.


    After some thought, she said, "I''ve told you before that you need to be clear about whether you truly


    like Zoe or¡­ if it''s only because of that child."


    He was speechless, unable toe to his senses after such news.


    Yet, she continued, "Zoe feels that you''re only living with her because of the child, but you should know


    what she wants. She wants a longsting partner for the future, not a rtionship that could end at any


    time. Besides, her parents won''t agree if they find out."


    After some time, he replied in a hoarse voice, "But¡­ I never had a chance to rify my thoughts to her.


    If it''s because of what she saw at my ce that day, I can exin. That was because I¡­"


    Suddenly, she cut him off. "I know. Regarding that matter, Elijah has also talked to Zoe, but you know,


    that''s not the real issue." It was merely the catalyst.

 Chapter 765

    Chapter 765


    Chapter 765 Only One Person Can Do This


    After a while, Leanna received a call from Elijah.


    "Leanna, Daniel ran out of the hospital. Did he go to Zoe?" he asked.


    At his question, she turned to the side and nced at the person next to her, who was asleep as


    though he had fainted, before she replied softly, "I''m on my way to the hospital with him."


    On the other end of the phone, Elijah let out a sigh of relief. "Thank you. I''ll be waiting for you at the


    entrance."


    "Okay."


    20 minutester, the car stopped at the hospital entrance. Elijah hurriedly stepped forward and pulled


    open the door. The doctors and nurses who were waiting nearby quickly followed suit, lifting Daniel out


    of the car and rushing him into the hospital.


    Leanna got out of the car and frowned as she watched the scene. It looks like Daniel''s injuries are


    more severe than I thought.


    After taking a few steps, Elijah realized that Leanna was still there, so he turned back and said, "Thank


    you, Leanna."


    She shook her head and replied, "It''s nothing. I¡­" Initially, she wanted to ask what had happened


    exactly, but she was also worried about Daniel, so she said, "Let''s go in and check on him first."


    When they entered the hospital, Daniel had already been taken to the emergency room.


    As they stood in the corridor, Elijah spoke first. "We found him yesterday, and he was seriously injured.


    I went out for a while just now, and he was gone when I came back. I think he most likely went to Zoe."


    "He did." She nodded.


    "So, Zoe¡­"


    At this moment, she cut him off, saying, "When Daniel arrived, she was with her boyfriend."


    Elijah didn''t need her to say more, as he knew what the scene was like. After a sigh, he drawled,


    "Daniel used to have a good friend named Franco. Several years ago, when they were racing, Franco''s


    brakes failed, and he plunged into a valley. Daniel and his team searched the valley for three days


    before they found Franco''s body. Franco had an elder sister named Amanda, who had always doted on


    him. After his death, she always believed that it was Daniel''s fault and held a grudge against him.


    When Daniel had his ident, she received the news and has been tracing his whereabouts ever


    since. Amanda is a doctor, but she didn''t work at a hospital after graduating. Instead, she roamed


    around various shady underground ces, surrounded by all sorts of shady friends, receiving a lot of


    information. After Daniel escaped from Leroy, he met Amanda."


    Leanna could rte to this. Just like when she was searching for Jethro, she sought help from Ron. It


    was the same reasoning.


    Elijah continued, "While Amanda was treating Daniel''s old injuries, she would inject him with sedatives


    every day and continuously inflict new injuries on him. This went on day after day, tormenting him


    repeatedly. Fortunately, it was because she held such thoughts that we had the opportunity to rescue


    Daniel. Otherwise¡­"


    As she listened to his words, she was terrified. "So where is Amanda now?" she asked.


    "She managed to escape when we took Daniel to the hospital."


    "Does she have many friends in Highside as well?"


    "Even if she does, there shouldn''t be many. Moreover, the fact that she was able to hide Daniel from us


    for so long right under our noses proves that someone in Highside is helping her," Elijah exined.


    At his words, she parted her lips but didn''t know what to say for a moment. Highside¡­ As she looked


    at his expression, a bad feeling gradually rose in her heart. "Are you suggesting¡­"


    "In Highside, there''s only one person who can carry out these actions discreetly without being


    discovered," he replied.


    As she pressed her lips together, she almost immediately retorted, "That''s impossible."


    At this moment, Elijah''s expression eased a little. "Leanna, I didn''t mean it that way. It''s just that the


    situation is unique now, and I can''t think of anyone else who would do this."


    "You can''t make baseless assumptions. Aidan would never do such a thing, and there''s no reason for


    him to do so," Leanna said. "Besides, when Daniel went missing, both Aidan and I were out of the


    country. I knew every person he contacted every day."


    "At that time, Daniel was taken away by Leroy. It was only after he arrived at Highside that Amanda


    held him hostage. Leanna, don''t you think this location is a little hard to ept? I checked, and it was


    Amanda''s first timeing to Highside. It''s impossible for her to¡­"


    "That''s enough, Elijah," she interrupted him. "I know what you want to say, but I can assure you that


    this has absolutely nothing to do with Aidan."


    Hearing that, he fell silent for a moment. "I will investigate this matter. Once we find Amanda,


    everything will¡­"


    "I didn''t know that President Parker has a hobby of backstabbing others." A nonchnt male voice


    interrupted Elijah''s remaining words.


    A slight change crossed Elijah''s face as he looked toward the person who had spoken. "If my guess is


    wrong, then I apologize to you in advance, President Pearson. But if it turns out to be as I said, what


    are you nning to do?"


    Aidan approached with long strides and stopped next to Leanna. His calm demeanor remained


    unchanged as he looked at Elijah, and his tone was devoid of fluctuations as he said, "It''s not the first


    time you have maliciously ndered me, President Parker. Instead of asking me what I will do,


    shouldn''t you think about how to salvage your reputation when you''re exposed?"


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    As this matter was brought up, Elijah froze, and he appeared somewhat uneasy, with a tinge of


    awkwardness apanying his expression.


    Just then, Leanna''s phone rang. It was Zoe calling, probably asking about Daniel''s condition. However,


    she was afraid that if she answered the call, these two men would start fighting.


    Fortunately, it seemed that Elijah couldn''t stay here any longer, for he said to her, "Leanna, I''ll go back


    to thepany for now. Please let me know if Daniel wakes up."


    With her phone in her hand, she nodded. "Okay."


    After that, Elijah hurriedly left, and Leanna answered the phone, "Hello?"


    On the other end of the line, Zoe asked, "Nana, how is it going over there?"


    Leanna turned around and whispered, "Daniel is still in the emergency room." After a pause, she


    continued, "How about you?"


    "I just sent Brandon away. Although he didn''t say much, I feel¡­" Zoe felt overwhelmed and didn''t know


    how to exin.


    "Don''t worry. Take a moment to calm down. Let''s talk tomorrow," Leanna said.


    Following a brief moment of silence, Zoe asked, "So¡­ how is he doing?"


    Leanna recounted what Elijah had told her, but she omitted thetter half of his spections.


    After a long pause, Zoe said, "Nana, send me the location of the hospital."

 Chapter 766

    Chapter 766


    Chapter 766 You¡¯re an Expert in This Regard


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna responded with a soft ''Okay''. As she was about to hang up the phone, she felt her other hand


    being held by someone, gently squeezing her palm. When she lowered her head, she saw Aidan sitting


    on a bench in the corridor and holding her hand. He appeared deep in thought.


    Seeing that, she put away her phone and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    "You''re not wearing the ring again." His tone was somewhat displeased.


    At his words, her voice involuntarily weakened. "I''m just afraid I might lose it."


    "I''ll buy you another one if that happens. If you lose it a hundred times, I''ll buy you a hundred more."


    "That''s an engagement ring; it has a special meaning."


    "Then I''ll buy another one and propose to you again," he said.


    At this moment, she was at a loss for words. That would be going too far.


    As he exerted a slight force on her hand, he pulled her down to sit beside him. He then said, "It''s


    because you never wear the ring that some people think they still have a chance and are not willing to


    give up yet."


    Leanna knew he was referring to Elijah, so she replied with a smile, "Okay. I''ll start wearing it


    tomorrow."


    Aidan''s eyebrow arched slightly. "Why are you suddenly listening to me?"


    "I won''t wear it then."


    A smile tugged on his lips as he interlocked fingers with hers. "I''ll put it on for you when we get back."


    "How did you know I was here?" She leaned against his shoulder.


    "There''s nothing I don''t know."


    She couldn''t be bothered to respond to him, just sighing softly. "Actually, I think Daniel probably likes


    Zoe a lot. Otherwise, the first thing he did after waking up in the hospital wouldn''t be to go find her. If¡­


    he hadn''t been taken away by Leroy, the tragedies wouldn''t have happened. He and Zoe would still¡­"


    Calmly, he cut her off, saying, "Have you ever considered that if he hadn''t been taken away by Leroy,


    he might still be uncertain about what he truly wants?"


    When she heard that, she paused for a moment, feeling that he had reminded her of something.


    During these past few months, Daniel had teetered on the edge of life and death countless times. He


    should have clearly found out what he really wanted and who was truly the most important person to


    him. That was why he went to find Zoe as soon as he woke up.


    However, what he didn''t anticipate was that during his absence, a lot had happened to Zoe as well. It


    had caused her to no longer look at their rtionship with the same carefree attitude as before.


    Moreover, the two of them had never defined their rtionship. They were only brought together


    because of the child. In Zoe''s eyes, without the child as a bond, it was only natural for them to go their


    separate ways and pursue their paths.


    Both of them had missed the moments when they cared most about each other.


    At this thought, she let out a long sigh, unsure of what to say.


    "Don''t overthink it. If he can''t let go, he will find a way to win her back on his own," Aidan said softly.


    Leanna thought for a moment and earnestly said, "Right. You''re an expert in this regard."


    At her words, he had noeback.


    A smile couldn''t help but appear on her face. "I''ve cooked vegetable beef soup for you. You can have it


    when we get back."


    "It turns out that persistent pursuit can still be effective," hemented.


    Soon, Zoe arrived. She must have run all the way to the hospital as she was panting in the corridor.


    "Nana, has Daniel¡­ note out yet?"


    Leanna stood up, but before she could answer, the doors of the emergency room opened.


    A doctor walked out and removed his mask as he said, "The patient is severely injured. As friends or


    family members, you need to keep an eye on him and never let him run out of the hospital like this


    again. We can''t save his life like this every time."


    "We understand. Thank you," Leanna said.


    The doctor continued, "Alright, you can go to his ward now. Remember that until he has fully recovered,


    don''t let him move around recklessly."


    Meanwhile, Zoe was still catching her breath,pletely stunned by the situation. She remembered


    that when she saw Daniel earlier, he seemed fine, at most a little unsteady and sick. How did it


    suddenly be¡­ so serious?


    Lost in her thoughts, she was brought back to reality as Leanna walked over and supported her. "Let''s


    go, Zoe."


    On the way to the ward, Zoe''s legs felt weak, whether from the rush earlier or the fear that rose from


    deep within her. If it weren''t for Leanna''s support, she might have truly lost her bnce.


    At the entrance of the ward, they could see Daniel lying inside through the ss door.


    Zoe''s throat tightened, and she felt a lump form as she slowly walked toward the bed.


    Just as Leanna was about to follow her inside, she was stopped by Aidan, who gave her a look that


    she instantly understood.


    She stepped back and gently closed the door.


    "Let''s go," Aidan said.


    "Already?"


    "Oh, you still need to send a message to Elijah."


    At once, Leanna became speechless.


    ¡­


    Zoe approached the bed and stood there for a while before slowly sitting down. After she took out her


    phone, she hesitated for a moment before deciding to have a clear conversation with Brandon. It isn''t


    right to let him suffer a punch for no reason.


    So, she dialed his number. "Have you¡­ arrived home?"


    "Yeah, I''ve been home for a while. What''s up?" Brandon replied.


    "Um, the doctor said your wound shouldn''te into contact with water. I''m really sorry for the trouble


    you went through."


    He smiled. "It''s just a minor injury. Nothing to worry about."


    With the words on the tip of her tongue, she held onto her phone, suddenly unsure of how to begin.


    After a moment of silence, he said, "That person today... he''s not just a friend, right?"


    Zoe didn''t speak, which could be taken as her tacit agreement.


    Brandon continued, "I can tell that he cares a lot about you. Is he your ex-boyfriend? Or¡­ a pursuer?"


    "Neither. I-I don''t know how to exin."


    "Since you don''t know how to exin, then there''s no need to say anything. I understand, but it seems


    like he doesn''t know that we''re together," he said.


    After a hum of agreement, she continued, "He just came back from a¡­ distant ce. I''ll exin


    everything to him."


    "Are you with him now?" he asked.


    "Yes, but he just came out of the emergency room and hasn''t woken up yet. It''s not like we''re alone


    together. Some friends will being overter. Once I''ve exined everything to him, I''ll go home."


    "Alright, it''s better to exin it clearly. Do you need me to pick you up?"


    She quickly replied, "No, it''s fine. I''ll go back by myself. You should rest early."


    "Okay, call me if you need anything."


    After hanging up, Zoe leaned back on the couch and let out a long sigh. What a mess this is¡­


    As she stared at the ceiling, lost in thought, the person on the bed seemed to move slightly.

 Chapter 767

    Chapter 767


    Chapter 767 Wait Until He¡¯s Better


    Zoe waited in the ward all night. When she got tired of sitting, she would get up and walk around, and


    when she got tired from walking, she would nestle back on the couch and stare out the window, lost in


    thought.


    In thete hours of the night, a drizzle began to fall.


    Listening to the sound of rain, she didn''t realize when she drifted off to sleep on the couch. When she


    woke up again, it was already dawn.


    As she rubbed her eyes and prepared to get up and loosen her muscles, she realized that she had a


    garment draped over her.


    She instinctively looked toward the hospital bed but didn''t see Daniel''s figure. At once, she was


    shocked when she remembered the doctor''s words from the previous night. So, she hurriedly rushed


    out of the room.


    The moment she stepped out of the ward, ready to find a doctor, she noticed two familiar figures in the


    corridor, causing her toe to a gradual halt.


    Elijah was facing her and said, "Zoe, you''re awake."


    At this moment, Zoe stared at the back of the person in the patient''s gown and remained stunned for a


    few seconds before regaining herposure. "Y-Yeah."


    Meanwhile, Daniel turned to Elijah and continued, "I''m fine here. You should send her back."


    "Okay." Elijah nodded.


    Daniel turned around and returned to his ward with an IV stand. Throughout the entire process, he


    didn''t even nce at Zoe.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    As the door to the ward closed, Zoe finally snapped back to reality. She opened her mouth, wanting to


    say something, but just as she was about to approach, Elijah said, "Zoe, let me send you back."


    "But I¡ª"


    "The doctor said Daniel needs more rest. Let''s wait until he''s better before discussing anything."


    Hearing that, she swallowed the words that she was about to say. After Elijah sent her to the entrance


    of her apartment building, he left right away. Zoe walked in listlessly. As she passed by a breakfast


    joint, she bought herself a meal to go.


    While waiting for the shop owner to pack her order, a man walked out from inside, opened an umbre,


    and left.


    Her gaze followed the movement of that umbre. It was the same style as the one Daniel had lied to


    her about, iming it was a memento from his mother, but it was actually part of a promotion


    happening downstairs at the supermarket.


    "Here, miss, your breakfast."


    Only when the shop owner''s voice came through did Zoe snap back to reality, and she quickly reached


    out to take it. "Thank you."


    With her breakfast in hand, she tried entering her apartment but failed to input the correct password


    multiple times, as though her mind was filled with unknown thoughts. She decided not to bother


    anymore and squatted by the door, starting to nibble on the pancake she had just bought.


    After a while, the adjacent door opened, and Leanna walked over. "Zoe, what are you doing here,


    squatting?"


    At her voice, Zoe couldn''t help but feel a tingling at the tip of her nose. "I forgot the password, so I can''t


    get in." As she uttered thest few words, her throat choked up, and tears welled up in her eyes.


    Hearing that, Leanna pressed her lips together and turned to input the password. After the door


    opened, she helped Zoe up. "Let''s go in."


    As Zoe bit into her pancake, tears streamed down one after another. "Nana, have you had breakfast? If


    you haven''t, I can go downstairs and buy this for you."


    "I''ve eaten." Leanna smiled.


    Assisting Zoe onto the couch, Leanna went to the kitchen and poured a ss of milk for her. She then


    sat next to Zoe and asked softly, "Did you talk things out with Daniel?"


    Zoe shook her head. "He was unconscious all night, and I fell asleep in thetter half. I don''t know


    when he woke up, but when I woke up, he was talking to Elijah. I wanted to talk to him, but he ignored


    me."


    "Then, let''s wait a little longer. Give him time to process and ept." Leanna patted her shoulder.


    As Zoe looked at Leanna, she asked, "Did you tell him about the child?"


    "I did¡­ on the way to the hospital."


    "And¡­ How did he react?"


    "He said he never had a chance to rify his thoughts to you. He thought you misunderstood because


    of what you saw at his house the other day."


    After hearing this, Zoe remained silent for a while before speaking. "I''m well aware of his thoughts. We


    go¡­ way back."


    So, even after having a child, she had never thought about having a future with him. She never even


    entertained the idea that she could make him change his mind and attitude.


    Leanna didn''t mention what Aidan had told herst night. Zoe was already with Brandon, and


    mentioning those things would only make her feel worse. Besides, many things needed to be felt


    personally, and no matter how much others said, it wouldn''t have much effect. When it came to matters


    of rtionships, interference was truly impossible.


    After Zoe finished her pancake, sheposed herself. "I''m fine, Nana. I''ll take a shower and then go to


    the studio."


    "The shoot is in the afternoon. You can take a nap before you go," Leanna said.


    "No, no, there''s still a lot of preparation work to do. We''ve been working on this for so long. We mustn''t


    dy it." Zoe insisted. "Don''t worry. I''ve had enough sleep at the hospital." With that, she entered the


    bathroom.


    Seeing that, Leanna sighed and returned to her apartment. Just as she opened the door, Aidan''s voice


    came through. "Did you talk to her?"


    With a pout, she sat next to him and rested her head on his shoulder. "There wasn''t much to talk about.


    I don''t even know how tofort her anymore."


    "There''s not muchfort to offer in such matters. As long as she doesn''t regret her choice, that''s


    enough."


    At his words, she stared at the carpet without saying a word. Right. Who knows what the future holds?


    Perhaps Brandon is the person who is best suited for Zoe to spend the rest of her life with.


    As she was lost in thought, he held her hand and ced it in front of himself, looking at the ring she


    wore. He couldn''t help but feel satisfied. Then, he leaned over and kissed her forehead. "When are you


    going to the studio?"


    "Maybeter. Zoe hasn''t finished getting ready," she replied. "By the way, we have a shoot today, so I


    mighte back a bitte."


    Aidan nodded. "Okay."


    After she pondered for a moment, she asked, "After you had Daphne terminate her contract with


    Pearson Group, did you just leave her be?"


    At her question, he raised an eyebrow slightly. "What do you mean, leave her be? Didn''t I give her a


    better path?"


    She was taken aback for a second before she said in disbelief, "The path you''re talking about wouldn''t


    happen to be bing the ambassador for our jewelry brand, right?"


    "What''s wrong with that? She invested in it. When she receives dividends in the future, she should


    show me some appreciation."


    Leanna was stunned. "You didn''t anticipate that we would approach Daphne for endorsement, did


    you?"


    "Isn''t that part of your n? Any brand that wants to expand its consumer base on its existing


    foundation will seek a suitable brand ambassador. Daphne holds several high-end global


    endorsements, and once she bes your brand''s ambassador, its visibility and influence will


    skyrocket," he exined.


    "But that wasn''t the intention when we approached her for endorsement."

 Chapter 768

    Chapter 768


    Chapter 768 Take Back What She Said


    Leanna rified, "This is not what we had in mind when we recruited Daphne to be our brand


    ambassador¡ª"


    "I know, but since she''s your brand ambassador now, we cannot avoid going through the marketing


    norms. Brand ambassadors and the products they promote go hand in hand," Aidan exined.


    Even though she didn''t understand what he meant, she felt his words made sense. As expected, she


    was better suited for designing a product than dealing with marketing, promotions, and business tricks


    because those were his specialty. She eventually developed a headache from listening to him, so she


    stood up. "Okay. I''ll get changed. Don''t wait for me. You can head off first."


    "Send me the address of the ceter. If I end my day early, I''ll pick you up," he offered.


    "Okay," Leanna replied, smiling.


    T¨ºxt ? N?velDrama.Org.


    By the time she was done changing, he was gone. Then, she walked to the kitchen, opened the


    refrigerator, and retrieved a syringe and medication from the first-aid kit. At that moment, she heard the


    door open from a distance. So, she quickly turned around, and after she had finished her injection, she


    tossed the items into the trash bin.


    "Nana, what are you doing?" Zoe asked from outside the kitchen.


    Her voice made Leanna heave a sigh of relief as she walked out to the living room. "Nothing much. I


    was cleaning up the kitchen. Are you ready?"


    Zoe nodded and replied, "Yes. Let''s go."


    After they had arrived at the studio, Zoe spent her whole morning working away. Since she could not


    film the advertisement on her own, they hired a few film assistants who greatly facilitated the process.


    Meanwhile, the rain continued to fall outside in a light drizzle. They were relieved to be filming an


    indoor scene today because they would have had to postpone the shoot if it had been an outdoor


    scene.


    However, Freddie was not in the studio that morning because he was not the type to work unless


    necessary. He only awoke around noon and went straight to the filming location.


    After lunch, Leanna and Zoe made their way to where the filming would take ce with the other team


    members.


    While on her way, Zoe received a call that made her look extremely pale.


    "What is it?" Leanna asked.


    After hearing that, Zoe frowned with her phone in her hand. "The male model we hired had been in a


    minor car ident and was taken to the hospital. There''s no way he can make it to the filmingter."


    "Is there anyone else we can get in?" Leanna asked.


    "I''ll ask around." However, no one could attend today''s filming, even after Zoe inquired.


    It''s still raining outside, and we''re supposed to begin filming in an hour. I doubt we''ll make it in time.


    Leanna was racking her brain, trying toe up with a solution, when Zoe gave her a hesitant nce.


    So, Leanna stared back at her, confused.


    "The model''s sole purpose is to set the mood and strike a few poses. We don''t need a professional,"


    Zoe exined. "We just need someone hot."


    Leanna was at a loss for words upon hearing that. She knew what Zoe was hinting at.


    "Think about it," Zoe continued. "Given that we are in the jewelry industry, we cannot limit our


    marketing to women only; there is also a substantial market for products aimed at men. While we


    haven''t started developing a male-oriented line yet, we could start with a few hints for now. Who


    knows? People might like it."


    After hearing that, Leanna was silent momentarily before stating, "I don''t know if he has a ss this


    afternoon."


    "I''ll ask him!" Zoe swiftly cried out, pulling out her phone. After a while, her eyes were sparkling after


    getting off the phone with Louis. "He says he''s free toe over this afternoon." While saying that, her


    fingers were tapping away at her phone to send him the address of the filming location.


    "Should we tell Daphne?" Leanna asked.


    "Oh, right. I''ll call her now. We can even find out how close she is," Zoemented. After that, she


    called Daphne.


    "Are you there? We''re just around the corner by the traffic light," Daphne answered upon picking up.


    "We''re almost there as well," Zoe said. "Actually, I have some news for you."


    "What is it?"


    "The model we hired beforehand won''t be able to make it because he was involved in a minor car


    ident while on his way over. We''ve called in another guy. Do you have any preferences for the


    people you work with? You can let us know. We''ll help in any way we can to ensure a happy working


    environment."


    Daphne chuckled when she heard that. "Why would I be so picky about the people I work with? It''s not


    like we''re filming a movie."


    When it came to films and shows, her team would first screen out anyone with a bad reputation in the


    industry or who was proven to be bad to associate with. In contrast, it did not matter who her co-star


    was, as long as he could act, because the advertisement would not feature the male model prominently


    due to the female-focused nature of the brand.


    "Okay. Thank you for being so flexible. Well... I''ve contacted all the models I can. None of them could


    come due to time constraints. That''s why... I''ve asked Louis for help," Zoe said.


    Daphne was rendered speechless upon hearing that. Is it toote to retract what I said earlier?


    When Zoe did not hear a reply, she cleared her throat. "All right. We''re nearly at the entrance. Let''s talk


    later if you have any issues."


    Daphne was too stunned to speak but eventually blurted out, "Okay." After hanging up, she rolled down


    the window and took a deep breath, savoring the fresh air from outside.


    "What happened, Ms. Daphne? Is there a problem with the shoot?" Fish asked.


    She shook her head in response and replied, "It''s fine. The shoot will go ahead as nned." Leanna


    and Zoe''s choice seems reasonable to me. Louis is Leanna''s younger brother, who also works in the


    industry, so they naturally turn to him for assistance when they''re in desperate need. Unfortunately, I


    haven''t had time to mentally prepare for this meeting with him. At that moment, raindropsnded on her


    face, jarring her from her thoughts. So, she quickly rolled up the window and patted her cheeks to calm


    down. It doesn''t matter because this is just work, and overthinking it would make things more difficult.


    Soon, the car pulled over at the filming location.


    Daphne had just stepped out of the car when she noticed Leanna and Zoe had also arrived at the


    location.


    After the group walked in, Freddie approached them and struck a pose as he inquired, "I hear your


    model can''t make it. How about I fill in?"


    When they heard that, the threedies silently stared at him. They thought to themselves, Thanks, but


    no thanks.


    In the meantime, Zoe''s mouth twitched as she began setting up. "It''s fine. We''ve found our recement


    already."


    However, he did not believe her and asked, "Who is it? Who could possess more charm than I do? I''m


    telling you, if I''m in your advertisement, your sales will double the instant people see it¡ª"


    On the other hand, Daphne could not take any more of his ramblings. "I''ll go and get ready."


    "I left something in the car. I''ll go get it," Zoe said.


    In contrast, Leanna pulled out her phone. "Let me call Louis to see where he is now."


    Freddie was stunned when no one responded to his questions. Then, he shouted, "Hey! Where''s the


    respect?"


    Meanwhile, the other crew members had to exert great effort to contain theirughter.


    After that, Freddie scoffed and decided toze on a nearby couch as an act of mercy.

 Chapter 769

    Chapter 769


    Chapter 769 Your Family Has Great Genes


    Around 30 minutester, Louis arrived at the set.


    Afterward, Leanna took her brother to a vacant dressing room and handed him the suit they had


    prepared for the model. "Try it on. If it doesn''t fit, I''ll use some clips to pin it up for you."


    "Okay," he responded.


    "Hey," she called out to him. "Did you tell yourpany about this? Are they okay with it?"


    "They are beyond ecstatic since it''ll only give me more exposure. Anyway..." Daphne is my co-star, so


    Jellyfish Entertainment would never deny this request.


    "What is it?" Leanna asked.


    "Nothing," Louis replied. He then headed into the dressing room to change into the suit.


    Meanwhile, his sister sat on a chair and flipped through a magazine while waiting.


    It didn''t take him long to put on the suit and step out of the dressing room. Then, hemented, "The


    outfit is a little loose."


    When Leanna looked up, she raised a slender eyebrow. He is significantly slimmer than the model


    we''ve hired. While the suit we made for the model fit loosely, my brother''s wider shoulders and taller


    stature give him a different proportion within the garment than the model. This makes my brother


    appear more aloof and noble. At that thought, she put down her magazine. "I think it looks good. What


    else bothers you other than how loose the fit is?"


    "Nothing else," Louis answered.


    "Very well." After saying that, she picked up the tie next to her. "Sit down. I''ll put the tie on for you."


    After hearing that, he walked over to sit on the chair before her. Then, his sister hung the tie around her


    neck and began to tie it with deft hands. Halfway through, she suddenly found herself staring at his


    face.


    At that moment, Leanna recalled the stack of photos they discovered at Jethro''s house, including one


    of William''s disfigured face. After surviving the explosion, William transformed into apletely


    different man and even underwent stic surgery. Even though Leroy was walking around with


    William''s face, his heart was so different that he emanated a chilling and sinister aura. Thus, she never


    noticed how much Louis looked like William.


    However, William gave her a photo album during herst trip to Lachstein. The album included many


    photos of her as a child, William, and her mother. Whether it was the suit or the fact that Louis had


    suddenly grown up due to the past few months'' events, Leanna had the startling realization that her


    brother looked exactly like William when he was young.


    Sensing his sister had stopped tying the tie for him, Louis asked, "What is it?"


    Suddenly, she snapped out of her thoughts. "Nothing." After she had finished tying her brother''s tie, she


    said, "I''m going to check on Daphne before I ask the stylist to give you a touch-up and style your hair."


    When Leanna arrived at Daphne''s dressing room, Daphne''s makeup was done, and the stylist was


    working on her hair.


    "Is the guy here? I''ll only be done in 20 minutes," the stylist said.


    "He''s here and changed into the suit," Leanna replied.


    "Do I need to do a lot of work on him?" the stylist asked.


    "There''s no need. His skin is good enough that he doesn''t need heavy makeup. You just need to tidy


    up his brows and style his hair," Leanna replied.


    "In that case, ask him toe over here. I''ll have my assistant work on him. I''ll be supervising, so there


    will be no mishaps. That way, we can be done soon."


    On the other hand, Daphne was silent the entire time.


    Then, Leanna nodded and replied, "Okay."


    After a while, she led Louis to Daphne''s dressing room.


    In the meantime, the stylist''s eyes sparkled when she saw him. "Where did you find a model this


    handsome?"


    Leanna smiled and said, "This is my younger brother. We called him in at thest minute for help."


    After hearing that, the stylist remarked in an envious tone, "Your family has great genes. Both you and


    your brother are great beauties. Your parents must have been beautiful people as well."


    Louis froze and remained silent upon hearing this.


    Meanwhile, Leanna smiled in response but did not say anything.


    After that, Daphne cleared her throat and told her assistant, who had been standing behind her. "Fish,


    can you pour me a cup of warm water?"


    Soon, the stylist only realized she might have misspoken after Fish left the room with the empty cup.


    "Please style his hair," Leanna said.


    After hearing that, the stylist hurriedly agreed and asked her assistant to help.


    A few minutester, Leanna''s phone rang. It was a call from Zoe, asking about the situation in the


    dressing rooms.


    "I need to talk to Zoe. You two cane over as soon as you''re done," Leanna said to Daphne and


    Louis.


    Daphne nodded. "Very well."


    Soon, the room fell into a strange silence after Leanna walked out of the room.


    In the meantime, the stylist was still recovering from the mistake she had just made, so she did not


    dare to say anything. In contrast, the stylist''s assistant was focused on styling Louis'' hair, and due to


    the unsettling mood in the room, they were also at a loss for words.


    Soon, Fish returned with a cup of warm water. "Here, Ms. Daphne," she said, handing the cup to


    Daphne.


    "Thanks," Daphne responded, reaching out for the cup.


    Now that the silence had been broken, the room was not as tense as before.


    After Daphne sipped her water, she eventually asked, "Have your sses started yet?"


    Louis hummed in affirmation. "Yes, they have."


    "You... Do you not have a ss this afternoon?"


    "None."


    After that, the room fell silent again, and she knew she had to finish the conversation even though she


    wanted to cry.


    "That''s good," Daphne said, not letting her emotions show. "It''s great that you''re here. We might not be


    able to film the advertisement otherwise."


    Nheless, Louis pursed his lips and continued to stare silently at a point in the room.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    She rarely saw him like this but understood why he acted this way. As she parted her lips to divert his


    attention, he sprung to his feet instantly and said, "I need to go to the bathroom."


    The moment he walked out of the room, the stylist let out a sigh of relief and whispered, "I said


    something wrong, didn''t I?"


    "It''s not a big deal, but your question..." Daphne paused before asking, "Am I going to be done soon?"


    "Yes. You''ll be done in a few more moments." After saying that, the stylist''s pace picked up.


    When Daphne''s hair was done, she sprung to her feet and walked out of the dressing room. She


    wandered around the corridors before finally stumbling upon Louis, who was, as she had suspected,


    hiding behind the emergency exits.


    He immediately hid the cigarette in his hand when he saw her.


    After observing his reaction, she nced around, and when she saw that the corridor was deserted,


    she closed the door and walked over to him. "Your sister is here. Aren''t you afraid she''ll see?"


    "No," he answered.


    Daphne understood what Louis meant, but he assumed Leanna would never catch him smoking. So,


    Daphne stared at him silently for a few seconds before saying, "You... Is it because of what the stylist


    said? She meant nothing by it and feels sorry for having asked that."


    "That''s not it," he said.


    "Then..."


    Louis nced at her and calmly exined, "There are some things that are always present, regardless


    of whether or not someone has mentioned them. It would never change the past, yeah?"


    Daphne opened her mouth to speak but soon found herself out of any rebukes. A momentter, she


    finally stated, "You should also know that you don''t need to bear the consequences of the actions of


    others."

 Chapter 770

    Chapter 770


    Chapter 770 Made the Heart Skip Faster


    After hearing Daphne''s words, Louis stared at her in silence, his lips curled in doubt as he looked into


    her eyes.


    In the meantime, she returned his gaze with determination gleaming in her eyes. She wanted him to


    know that he should not tie himself down regarding certain matters.


    Following a brief period of silence, the lights around them dimmed.


    "What about you?" he asked softly, seemingly out of nowhere.


    Daphne stared nkly at Louis for a moment after he asked that question, and it took her a while to


    figure out what he was getting at. "Me¡­ What?"


    "Did you reject me because I should not have been responsible for certain consequences?"


    After hearing this, she gaped at him in the dim light, not knowing what to say. Is this a trick question? I


    can''t give a satisfactory response to his question because there is none. After all, the fact that I reject


    him has nothing to do with this. Why does he mention I turned him down? Also, why does he suddenly


    bring it up again? In the few seconds since the silence had descended, millions of thoughts raced


    through her mind, and she had never felt so trapped that she could not utter a word. When his phone


    finally rang at that crucial moment, she breathed a sigh of relief.


    Soon, the stairwell lit up again as the lights turned on in response to the sound. Consequently, Louis


    could take in Daphne''s lost and panicked expression.


    However, she seized the chance to look away and said, "We''ve been away for quite a while. We¡­ We


    should head back."


    She had just turned around when he remarked, "There''s a lingering odor of smoke on me."


    After hearing that, Daphne whirled around to face him. "In that case¡ª"


    "Can you help me?" Louis interrupted.


    "How do I do that?" she asked, puzzled.


    As soon as she uttered those words, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her into his embrace. Then, he


    said, "Your perfume should cover up the odor."


    His actions rendered her speechless.


    She was only partially encircled by his arms because he was only giving her a half-hug, so there was


    plenty of room for her to escape his grasp if she so desired. However, that only made her heart skip


    faster. Later, the lights dimmed again, and she could hear her heart beating rapidly. "That night, were


    you down there the whole night?" she whispered.


    After a brief pause during which Louis made no denials, he finally hummed.


    "Why?" Daphne asked.


    "I was afraid Theodore would seek you out again." He paused, then continued, "Are you going to ask


    why I was afraid he''d seek you out again?"


    Your response is crystal clear. As she contemted her response, he received silence. A momentter,


    she said, "Louis McKinney, I have never..."


    Your response is crystal clear. As she contemted her response, he received silence. A momentter,


    she said, "Louis McKinney, I have never..."


    This is the first time I can recall that she has addressed me by my full name. In response, Louis


    stepped back and calmly stated, "We still have work to do. Let us remain calm and rxed."


    When she heard that, Daphne quickly stifled the words on the tip of her tongue. He''s right. Making


    things awkward now will make future meetings even more ufortable, thus affecting our work. She


    suddenly realized why he had been so vague in the past; he must have already known that she would


    not agree to date him.


    After leaving the emergency exit and realizing she needed to change, he said, "I''ll head on over first."


    After a beat, Daphne responded, "Okay."


    Meanwhile, Zoe was talking to Leanna when Louis walked over. Zoe''s eyes immediately lit up when


    she saw him and eximed, "When did you turn into such a handsome man, Louis? You get more


    handsome by the day."


    Her words rendered him speechless.


    After that, she nudged Leanna with her elbow. "Do you see this, Nana?"


    Leanna chuckled and stated, "I do."


    After that, Zoe couldn''t help but pull out her camera and snap pictures of him as she tutted. "Your looks


    are enough to kill off the careers of so many celebrities. Hispany has struck gold with him!"


    Suddenly, she smelled the faint scent of perfume on his shirt. "You use cologne?" she asked


    incredulously.


    "It might be from the dressing room," Louis replied.


    Zoe hummed in response and then raised an eyebrow at Leanna because she could sense the whiff of


    gossip.


    Seeing that, Leanna dragged Zoe back away from him. "Alright. That''s enough out of you. Remember


    to take decent pictures of him."


    "Oh, yes, yes," Zoe said. "Hold still, Louis. I need a few more photos of you. They''ll be put up on the


    studio wall. We''ll be swarmed with fans by then."


    On the other hand, Louis had gone through a promotional photoshoot for the reality show he was in, so


    he was not a stranger to photoshoots. Soon, Zoe''s camera was filled with photos of him.


    As she continued to take pictures, she eximed, "Nana, I think we should expedite the development


    of our men''s line products. A day without it is a major loss of profits."


    "Okay. I get it," Leanna said, chuckling. Although I have never given it much thought, I could expand


    my business to include jewelry design for men.


    By the time Louis'' photoshoot was finished, Daphne was done changing and entered the studio. She


    was dressed in a tailored dress from a certain luxury brand, and every piece of jewelry on her, from the


    tiara to the earrings and the ne, was designed by Leanna. The air seemed to shimmer as she


    approached them.


    At that moment, he pursed his lips when he saw her.


    "You''re gorgeous!" Zoe gasped. "I just knew we had great taste in models!"


    Daphne epted thepliment with a smile as she briefly locked eyes with him before quickly


    averting her gaze. "Let''s start," she said with faux calm.


    "Okay. Listen up, everyone! We''re starting," Zoe called out.


    In the meantime, Leanna could not help with the filming, so she waited by the side.


    "A penny for your thoughts?" Freddie inquired as he walked over to stand next to her.


    Leanna sighed in response and turned to look at him. "It''s nothing. What is it?"


    "I''ve done as you asked. When can I get my treat? Let me know early so I can prepare my stomach for


    the feast," he answered.


    After hearing that, she was at a loss for words. Then, she uttered, "In a few days. We still have to film


    the outdoor scenes, so there''s much to do."


    "What is Aidan up totely?" Freddie asked.


    "He''s at the Crossley Group. Are you looking for him?"


    He went silent upon hearing that. Aidan has been ignoring me since I assisted Oscar in transporting the


    child from Highside to Jamesdon. Still, I need to find an opportunity to prove my innocence. It looks like


    I made the right choice. It is inexcusable for Aidan to not thank me for my efforts, but it is beyond the


    pale for him to disregard me entirely.


    After a moment of silence, Leanna asked, "Are you still in contact with Oscar?"


    When he heard the name, he swallowed back the words hovering at the tip of his tongue. "Well, I can''t


    lie¡ª" he muttered in defense.


    "Yes or no? I''m not going to do anything," she interrupted. "Is he in Highside?"


    "Yes, but he''s investigating something and can''t meet anyone now," Freddie replied. "I can pass a


    message for you."


    Leanna considered the offer and said, "I have nothing to tell him. As for the situation between him and


    Aidan... We can talk about itter."


    While Oscar had always helped Aidan, it was true that he had an ulterior motive and had lied to Aidan


    for over a decade.Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.

 Chapter 771

    Chapter 771


    Chapter 771 Call Me Brother-in-Law


    After the advertisement shooting was done, they still had to take a few more promotional photos.


    There was so much to do that it was already 10.30PM and they were still not done.


    Looking at the time, Leanna asked Zoe, "Is Louis still needed here?"


    Zoe flipped through her schedule. "No, not really. We''re basically done with his scenes."


    "I''ll tell him to head back first. He has sses tomorrow morning," Leanna said.


    "Okay. He can go." Zoe then waved Louis over and said to him, "Farewell, handsome boy."


    Back in the changing room, Louis took off his suit and hung it on a nearby rack.


    When he walked out of the dressing room, he found Leanna waiting for him by the door.


    "What is going on between you and Daphne?" she asked.


    "What?"


    "You two have been acting strange the whole time. There''s something off in the air," she borated.


    He shifted to look away from her. "Nothing much."


    "Did you get rejected after confessing your love to her?"


    Her words rendered him speechless.


    His silence confirmed her suspicions.


    "I didn''t confess anything," he replied.


    "What is going on then?"


    He started walking as she answered, "She knows."


    As she walked beside him, she silently thought about his answer beforementing, "You didn''t act


    like you don''t want her to know."


    Once more, his silence confirmed her guess.


    She sighed. True, it was impossible to hide one''s love as they would constantly want to get close to


    their crush.


    With Theodore involved, Louis could not avoid sitting still just because he was afraid Daphne might


    know about his love for her.


    It was only a matter of time.


    When they reached the entrance, Leanna asked, "What is the conclusion of your discussion?"


    It was still drizzling outside. However, the air felt much colder now.


    It seemed like autumn wasing.


    "Nothing much. We''ll improvise as we go," he replied.


    Not even he knew what the future held.


    After a few seconds, she suggested, "Call a cab."


    Perhaps it was because of the rain; perhaps it was due to how remote their ce was. Minutes ticked


    by and not a single driver epted their request.


    Louis put his phone away. "There''s a subway station nearby. I can walk over."


    She stopped him. "That station is over a mile away and it''s raining hard. If you walk, you''ll catch a cold.


    Wait for a while. If no one takes your request, I can drop you off."


    He nced at the rain in thought.


    He nced at the rain in thought.


    Just then, they heard a mannguidly ask, "Can''t get a ride?"


    She turned around to find Aidan standing nearby. Parked next to him was his Rolls-Royce.


    For some reason, the way he spoke just now made him sound like he deserved a punch.


    Aidan walked over to stand beside her and calmly said to Louis, "If you call me your brother-inw, I''ll


    have my driver drop you off."


    Louis was at a loss for words when he heard that.


    Leanna was simrly rendered speechless.


    Louis turned to look at Leanna. "I''m off."


    He then moved to rush into the rain.


    "Stop right there," Aidan barked out.


    Subsequently, Louis turned to look at him.


    "If you don''t call me that, you will not be hearing my son call you uncle," Aidan continued.


    "You''ll have to wait until he can speak first," Louis shot back.


    Louis then marched away.


    Aidan stared silently in shock.


    Leanna was having a hard time resisting the urge tough as she clenched a fist around Aidan''s shirt.


    "Are you not going to lecture him for that?" he asked her, dissatisfied with her response.


    She did her best to maintain a calm voice as she replied, "Why would I do that? I think¡­ he''s quite


    right. He can''t lose and let himself be tormented¡­"


    He wrapped an arm around her waist and pulled her close. His dark eyes were dangerously narrowed


    as he said in a dark and suggestive voice, "You must have suffered quite a lot then."


    She was suddenly reminded of how he would constantly force her to call him "honey". Her cheeks


    immediately burned bright red.


    She gently shoved him and whispered, "Behave yourself. We''re in public."


    He looked around. When he saw that there was no one else around, he dipped his head down to kiss


    her on the lips. "You''ll bepensating meter back home."


    She stared back at him, confused.


    What did she owe him? Why did she have topensate him?


    He strode over to the filming location. "Let''s go."


    At that, she followed behind him.


    Inside, everyone was taking a break, enjoying their supper and smoothies.


    When Aidan and Leanna walked in, an invisible tension could be felt in the air, making everyone


    instantly go from cheerfully chatting away to silence.


    Zoe and Daphne were people who enjoyed chaos, so they immediately spoke up.


    "Thanks for the smoothies, Mr. Pearson," Zoe called out.


    "Thanks for the food, Mr. Pearson," Daphne said.


    He merely stared at them in silence.


    The rest of the crew followed their lead to voice their thanks.


    Aidan''s brows twitched. He was not used to situations like this. He immediately red at the two


    women who had spoken up first.


    The two instigators swiftly ran away.


    With that, the tension in the room dispersed.


    The crew turned their attention to their food and their work.


    Leanna walked over to Zoe. "Can you send the very first picture of Louis to me, Zoe?"


    "Sure," Zoe replied.


    "I''ll be printing the photos tomorrow. I can give you a copy as well," she added.


    Leanna nodded. "Sure."


    Zoe then turned to Daphne. "Louis is so handsome, right? He will be a worthy co-star."


    Daphne did not respond.


    After a few moments, she let out an awkward chuckle.


    Leanna cleared her throat and changed the topic. "How long until we''re finished here?"


    "We''ll resume the shoot in 10 minutes. We should be done before 1.00AM," Zoe replied.


    "Okay," Leanna said with a nod.


    As though a thought just struck her, Zoe continued, "Why don''t you head back with Mr. Pearson first,


    Nana? We''re almost done here. Once we finish filming, we''ll be heading back."


    "I''ll wait for you to finish."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Zoe stuck out her tongue and muttered, "I actually want you to take him away. He makes everyone


    nervous."


    Leanna turned to nce at Aidan, and she instantly understood what Zoe meant by that. He was


    standing around like a boss who was checking in on his employees. He stood out with his cold and


    emotionless face.


    Leanna gave a helpless smile. "Fine. I''ll be going then."


    After bidding Daphne and Zoe goodbye, Leanna dragged Aidan away.


    "Didn''t you say you''ll be here for a while more?" he asked.


    "It''s all thanks to you," shezily responded.


    He stared at her. "I see. Shouldn''t you give me a proper thanks, then?


    Once more, she was rendered speechless.


    He was certainly a man who would take a mile if given an inch.


    Not long after getting into the car, Leanna''s phone buzzed, notifying her of the photos Zoe had just sent


    to her.

 Chapter 772

    Chapter 772


    Chapter 772 Would You Hate Me?


    Leanna pulled out her phone and downloaded all of the photos.


    Zoe even added a few photos Leanna had not asked for, such as a photo of both Daphne and Louis.


    The two of them looked so strangely perfect together. They even made the intricate backdrop they had


    spent hours on look boring and dull inparison.


    After arriving home, Leanna took off her shoes and headed straight into the bedroom to grab the photo


    album from the bookcase. She then returned to the living room couch where she pulled out her phone


    so that she could carefullypare Louis'' looks to William''s.


    Aidan walked over to sit beside her. As he wrapped his arms around her, he asked, "What are you


    doing?"


    She shuffled slightly, annoyed at him. "Behave. This is important."


    He only needed one nce at her phone and the photo album to know what she was doing.


    After repeatedparisons, she turned to Aidan and said, "Look! Doesn''t Louis just look like my dad


    when he was younger?"


    "Yes. Kind of."


    She was confused by his answer.


    "What do you mean by ''kind of''?" she asked, puzzled.


    He took the album from her andnguidly flipped through it. "It means all beauty looks the same."


    She stared at him in silence.


    Was there something wrong with him?


    "Of course, I am not like them," he continued.


    She was so speechless that she was speechless personified.


    "You actually dared to say that to my father''s face?" she huffed.


    He froze and fell silent.


    She snatched the album away from him and grumbled, "Louis doesn''t look like Jethro as a young


    man."


    "Have you seen photos of Jethro as a young man?"


    After a beat, she eventually replied, "No."


    "That solves the mystery."


    She was not willing to give up on that train of thought, however. "Don''t you think they look really simr


    in terms of their bone structure and brows? Maybe someone made a mistake with the DNA test¡­"


    "You should not be thinking about that at this time," he said.


    She fell for his trap. "Then¡­"


    He ced his hand around the back of her neck and kissed her. "If you want another child, you need to


    make a move."


    Before she could even make a sound, she was carried into the bedroom.


    The rain continued to drizzle outside. Sometime during the night, it grew into a storm.


    As drops of rain smashed against the windowpane, the air within the room grew warmer as moans


    filled the air.


    As drops of rain smashed against the windowpane, the air within the room grew warmer as moans


    filled the air.


    As he kissed her fingers, his gaze wandered over her arms.


    There was a spot on her arm that was different.


    It seemed to be hiding injection marks.


    He slowed down and softly asked, "What''s happened here?"


    As she caught her breath, she turned to look at the spot at which he was staring. The haze in her mind


    instantly vanished and she nonchntly replied, "It''s from mosquito bites."


    "Is this what mosquito bites look like?"


    "Yes. It''s the really tiny kind. It''s all because you nted so many flowers at the studio. We are


    drowning in them during the summer."


    She thought her excuse was perfect.


    He stared at her, stunned.


    After a few moments of silence, he leaned down to kiss her brow and slowly repeated, "It''s all my fault."


    The tone in his voice made her wonder if she had gone overboard. After all, the flowers were nice to


    look at.


    Furthermore, it was just an excuse she made up.


    "Well¡­ It''s not that bad. They can''t get in through the mosquitoting. I just¡­ I identally left it


    open¡­" she stammered.


    "Good on you for your self-reflection," he remarked.


    She was rendered speechless.


    Give him an inch and he will take a mile.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    ¡­


    When Leanna fell asleep, Aidan tucked her in before walking over to the balcony.


    He pulled out his phone and looked at the paternity test Jonathan sent him a few weeks ago.


    His dark eyes narrowed in thought as he stared at the report.


    After a while, he put it away and headed back inside.


    Halfway through the night, Leanna sensed a cooling sensation on her arm. She even smelled the faint


    scent of herbs in the air.


    She opened her eyes and turned to the man sitting beside the bed. As she resisted the urge to fall back


    to sleep, she asked, "What are you doing?"


    "You said you were bitten by mosquitoes, right? Don''t scratch at the spot and use this instead. Bring it


    to the office tomorrow. It''s also a repent," he softly replied.


    She froze as all thoughts of sleep fled her mind.


    He put down the herbal balm in his hand and turned off the light beforeying down beside her. He


    then pulled her into an embrace. "Let''s go back to sleep."


    She spent a few minutes in silence with her head on his chest. Then, she softly called out, "Aidan."


    "Hm?"


    "If¡­ Would you hate me if I am unable to bear you any children in the future?"


    "That doesn''t matter. Anyway, we already have a son," he answered, wrapping his arms around her.


    "What if we don''t even have a single child together? Would you divorce me?" she asked.


    "He already exists. This hypothesis is baseless."


    She fell silent.


    Could he not even reassure her with a few words of love?


    B*stard.


    As she turned over to go back to sleep, he continued, "I recall telling you that I never liked children


    much. I only like you."


    She smiled. "If my memory serves me right, you said you hated children. Why has it turned into ''not


    liking them much''?"


    "Did I say that?"


    "Yes!" she insisted. "Tell me. What is with the sudden change in attitude?"


    "Well, it''s because he''s your son," he slowly exined.


    Her smile widened as the gloomy thoughts in her mind were chased away.


    "Okay. I know that now. Let''s sleep," she said, closing her eyes.


    "Is that it?" he asked.


    "What else?"


    "What about my reward?"


    Once more, she was at a loss for words.


    Her eyes snapped open. "Did you just say all that to make me happy?"


    "No. I was being honest," he replied. "Still, that''s a different matter."


    She pouted.


    Whatever.


    He did cheer her up.


    In order to sleep early, she raised her head to peck him on the lips. "There."


    "Where''s the effort?"


    "Don''t go overboard. Sleep already. We have an early start in the morning," she grumbled.


    "Are you filming tomorrow?" he asked.


    She hummed. "We''re filming the outdoor scenes tomorrow."


    "It''s still raining."


    "We''ll check on the weather tomorrow morning. If the rain doesn''t stop, we''ll postpone the shoot."


    She was so tired that herst words ended in a yawn.


    It was hard enough for her to keep her eyes open.


    He ruffled her hair before saying, "Very well. Sleep then."


    "Good night," she whispered.


    "Good night."


    The rain continued to fall outside their window.


    For the whole night, the rain did not stop.

 Chapter 773

    Chapter 773


    Chapter 773 I Don¡¯t Want To Ask Him for Help


    The next morning, the rain had stopped. But since it had been raining all day and night, they couldn''t


    use the set anymore.


    So, they had to postpone the shoot and redecorate the set.


    When Leanna arrived at the studio, she realized Aidan had sneakily ced the cream in her bag


    without her knowing.


    She took it out and unscrewed the cap before taking a sniff and cing it by the window.


    The scent of the flowers after the rain with the refreshing scent of the cream calmed her down and she


    had a wonderful morning.


    In the afternoon, Zoe entered and told her, "Nana, I''ve edited a few photos and sent them to you. Pick


    one and we''ll post the outline as a teaser."


    Leanna ced her pencil down. "Okay. I''ll take a look now."


    As she was looking through them, Zoe asked, "Nana, what''s this smell? It smells amazing."


    Leanna looked at the cream beside her and smiled. "Mosquito repellent."


    "Mosquito repellent?" Zoe looked around. "Are there mosquitos here?"


    "Bugs fly in through the window sometimes. It''s fine."


    Zoe released a relieved sigh. "That''s good. I had been thinking about this problem earlier, but I''d never


    noticed that there were mosquitoes in the office. Oops."


    Leanna then said, "There are quite a lot of bugs outside, but the screen window is also closed. If it''s


    open, I''ll probably be carried away by now."


    Eventually, she selected a photo and added, "This one."


    Daphne''s face could be seen clearly while Louis only had a side profile. It was perfect.


    Then, Zoe got up and said, "Okay. I''ll work on it."


    "Zoe," Leanna called out to her.


    She turned her head around. "What''s up?"


    Then, after a short pause, Leanna inquired, "Are the pictures from yesterday processed?"


    "Some of them. They''re in my office. Shall I bring them over to youter?"


    Leanna declined her offer and answered, "It''s alright. I''lle with you."


    Then, she grabbed something from her bag before leaving with Zoe.


    There were many photos hung up on Zoe''s office wall, some of which were taken yesterday.


    Leanna took down a photo of Louis and stared at it silently.


    Zoe approached her and asked, "Nana, what''s on your mind?"


    She looked up and hummed an instinctive response.


    Zoe probed further, "You''ve been acting weird since yesterday. Is there a problem with Louis'' photo?"


    Leanna shook her head. "It''s not the photo."


    "Then¡­"


    "I suddenly realized that Louis¡­ looks a lot like my father when he was younger."


    Zoe was stunned and eximed, "Really?"


    Leanna pursed her lips lightly and took out the photo in her hand and ced it beside Louis'' before


    telling Zoe, "Look at this."


    Zoe took the photo from her and frowned deeply. As she scrutinized both images, her eyes gradually


    widened. "F*ck! They''re so alike. I knew it! Louis can''t be Jethro''s son. He''s probably your half-brother!"


    Leanna went silent for a while. "Even you feel the same. Aidan said there wasn''t a significant difference


    when I showed him thisst night."


    Zoe then asked the same question Leanna had. "What does he even mean by that?"


    She answered in exasperation, "He said good-looking people all look the same."


    Zoe was speechless by Aidan''s response. Then, she refuted, "That can''t be. Louis'' eyes and his


    features look simr to your dad''s."


    She proceeded to continue with her analysis. "But I think President Pearson may be right. Good-


    looking people do have simrities. Besides, this photo of your father is at least 20 years old. We can''t


    use this as proof of our suspicions."


    On the other end, Leanna sighed silently. Zoe''s words made sense. Some people looked alike despite


    not being rted by blood. Still, for this coincidence to fall on William and Louis¡­


    Then again, Aidan had done a DNA paternity test to rify this matter. Besides, he had no reason to


    hide this from her.


    After a while, Zoe said, "Why don''t you send both your and Louis'' pictures to your father? I''m sure he


    has a better idea."


    Leanna replied, "I was thinking that too. But¡­what if this isn''t true. You know what my dad feels about


    Louis because of Jethro. That''s why I want to wait for solid evidence before telling him about this."


    Zoe nodded agreeably. "Yea. We should do that. We shouldn''t rush such an important matter. Then¡­


    What do you have in mind now?"


    She answered, "I want them to do another DNA test."


    "It''s simple enough to get a DNA sample from Louis, but your dad is in Lachstein. That''s far from easy.


    Also, you can''t let him find out about this. This is going to be challenging."


    Leanna lowered her head. "Yeah. I''m still thinking over my options right now."


    After a moment of silence, Zoe suggested hesitantly, "Maybe¡­you can ask Daniel. He may know what


    to do. When you returned to the Crossley Residence, he asked me about Louis. I guess he has some


    suspicions regarding this matter as well."


    Leanna then retorted, "But he''s still in the hospital. I''m certain he can''t return to Lachstein so soon,


    especially with his severe injury. Even if he arranged for his people to do this, they wouldn''t be able to


    easily get ahold of William''s DNA too."


    "Then¡­ Elijah? I remember that he''s one of your father''s men."


    Leanna fell silent. "I don''t want to ask him for help."


    Even though Leanna didn''t want to go into detail about what happened that night, Zoe understood her


    concerns. Elijah had pursued Leanna for a long time, so he probably still had feelings for her.


    It was better to keep her distance from him and avoid contacting him just in case.


    Then, Leanna murmured, "I''ll think of something. Such a long time has passed, we can wait a few more


    days. Besides, my dad may return to Highside soon. It''ll be easier to make them take the DNA test


    then."


    Zoe nodded. "I guess all we can do now is wait."


    Leanna picked up the photos and mulled over it. "Zoe, I''m going outter. Call me if anything happens."


    Zoe replied, "Okay."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Then, she asked casually, "Where are you going?"


    Leanna was silent for a few breaths, but the words couldn''t escape her mouth. She wanted to visit


    Daniel at the hospital. Firstly, to see how he was recovering. Then, she recalled what Elijah had said.


    Even though she didn''t believe him, she still wanted to prove Aidan''s innocence. She couldn''t let Elijah


    use him like that.


    Zoe noticed the look on her face and immediately caught on. So, she didn''t pursue the matter further


    and merely replied, "Okay."

 Chapter 774

    Chapter 774


    Chapter 774 I Have a Way To Find Her


    On the way to the hospital, Leanna bought some fruits and nutrient supplements as a visiting gift.


    When she arrived at the ward, the doctor was changing Daniel''s bandage.


    So, she sat on the chair by the door to wait.


    After a while, Elijah walked over. "Leanna."


    She smiled lightly at him before asking, "Don''t you have work today?"


    "I''m about to."


    Then, Elijah paused for a second before saying, "That night... I spoke without thinking. I''m sorry."


    Leanna replied, "You don''t need to apologize to me. Just like you said, if Aidan is falsely used, you


    should just apologize to him."


    Elijah''s face stiffened and didn''t speak, but his gazended on the ring on her hand.


    After a moment, he asked bitterly, "He proposed to you?"


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Leanna nodded. "We''ve been married for a month."


    He replied, "Congrattions."


    She answered, "Thank you."


    At that moment, the doctor was done and walked out, continuing with their rounds for the hour.


    Elijah then said, "Leanna, I''ll be heading off now."


    "Alright."


    After he left, she carried the gifts and entered the ward.


    Daniel sat on the hospital bed with a pale face, but he looked a lot better than before.


    When he saw her, he politely greeted her, "Miss McKinney."


    Then, Leanna ced the bags down. "I just wanted to see how you''re recovering."


    Danielughed. "I''m alright. Still alive."


    "The doctor said you shouldn''t move around too often. So, call me if you need anything."


    He pursed his lips and wanted to ask something, but he couldn''t bring himself to say the words.


    Leanna understood what was on his mind and sat on the chair beside the bed. "You wanted to ask


    about Zoe, right? She''s doing alright."


    "The baby. How did it happen? Can you tell me the details, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna only roughly told him what happenedst time when they were rushing to the hospital. So, that


    was the only thing on his mind as hey in the hospital these few days.


    So, Leanna recounted the story in detail of how Charlotte was taken away by Joseph, but Zoe followed


    after them because she was worried. She also told him how Zoe has been doing after the baby was


    lost.


    After he listened to the story, his voice turned icy, "Where is Joseph now?"


    "He''s dead." Leanna paused for a moment before saying, "He''s probably dead because no one has


    found his body until now."


    Daniel asked, "He died in Jamesdon?"


    She nodded. "Yes."


    "I see."


    After a while, Leanna spoke, "I came today for one more thing."


    Daniel replied, "Be my guest, Mc McKinney. I''ll tell you everything I know."


    "From Leroy''s men finding you and taking you away and how you escaped from their hands. And¡­


    Amanda taking you away. I want to know everything."


    Daniel didn''t understand why she wanted to know about the entire incident. "Why are you asking about


    this, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna told him honestly, "I don''t know why, but Elijah is suspecting this has to do with Aidan."


    "But¡­ Elijah had always been somewhat hostile toward President Pearson. You should be aware of


    that."


    "Yes, I know. But since he has this suspicion, I can''t let it slide without proving Aidan''s innocence. What


    if someone else brings this up again and puts the me on Aidan? Besides¡­ if Amanda disappeared


    in Highside, I may have a way to find her."


    Daniel paused for a moment before demanding, "Is that true, Miss McKinney?"


    Leanna nodded. "Yes. I have my ways."


    Daniel fell silent for a moment before slowly revealing his side of the story.


    The truth was simr to their assumptions, but it was just that from Daniel''s narration, there were more


    details that Leanna didn''t know.


    It was revealed that it wasn''t only John who had contacted Leroy.


    Nheless, neither John nor Leroy had mentioned that person''s name, but it seemed highly likely that


    that person was the mastermind behind everything from the way they talked about that person.


    Leroy was also rescued and hidden away by that person.


    When they arrived at Highside, they didn''t pay a lot of attention to Daniel since he was severely injured.


    That was why Daniel managed to escape.


    s, before he managed to contact Elijah, he bumped into Amanda, who put him on drugs, forcing him


    to be her captive.


    She was smart and knew where to hide since many people were looking for her.


    Even if the people searched every possible corner of the world for Daniel, they would never consider


    going to his home.


    At least, Daniel had never expected Zoe would suddenly visit his house.


    As the story came to this point, Leanna guessed, "If I''m right, she wanted to attack Zoe right then."


    Daniel didn''t deny it. "Her target has always been me. Plus, she didn''t want to make things tricky for


    herself."


    Daniel had always felt guilty toward Amanda because of Franco''s passing.


    He could let her hurt him but never allow her to hurt others.


    Amanda was very well aware of that fact as well, so she didn''t proceed with her ns the moment


    Daniel came out to stop her.


    In addition, Amanda knew what Zoe would think since she was a woman herself. Zoe would definitely


    assume Amanda and Daniel were doing something in the bedroom.


    A woman would be irrational the instant she arrived at that conclusion.


    But since Daniel''s whereabouts were exposed, they couldn''t stay hidden for long.


    So, Amanda left with Daniel as soon as Zoe departed.


    During this time, Amanda had been on the run just to avoid Daniel''s men.


    Then, Daniel said, "This is the first time Amanda came to Highside. Considering her familiarity with


    Highside, she wouldn''t be able to do this alone at all. So, we''ve got no lead on this. Elijah was merely


    making assumptions out of worry. Please don''t overthink this, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna questioned him instead, "You''re right. She can''t possibly do this sessfully without help. So,


    someone in Highside is helping her in secret. This person can even avoid Elijah and the others. But


    have you ever thought about how Amanda could find you at the first moment?"


    Daniel didn''t really understand where this was leading. "You mean¡­"


    "I have a hypothesis. Is it possible that Leroy had made some sort of pact with Amanda? That''s why


    you could escape from Leroy''s hands. She was helping them with something, and they handed you


    over to her once you were useless."


    Daniel furrowed his brow upon hearing her spection and didn''t speak.


    Leanna continued, "I heard Elijah mention that Amanda''s a great doctor and she''s also a doctor with


    rather loose morals. She has several dealings with shady figures."


    "As long as she''s still in Highside, I can find her. Once we do, we can prove if my hypothesis is correct."

 Chapter 775

    Chapter 775


    Chapter 775 He Has Friends Like You Too?


    After Leanna departed from the hospital, she keyed in a specific address into the navigation system


    and headed there without dy. It was the address Ron gave her when he left. At that time, he told her


    she could find him at this address if she needed his help.


    Half an hourter, the car stopped outside an alley. However, Leanna couldn''t drive in because it was


    far too narrow for her vehicle. Hence, she had no choice but to park the car on the roadside.


    Although it was daytime, several hooligans were roaming about and smoking cigarettes in the alley.


    The moment theyid their eyes on Leanna, they started catcalling.


    Meanwhile, on both sides of the alley stood a few scantily d women with heavy makeup and


    cigarettes in their hands.


    One could clearly picture what this alley would look like at night.


    Leanna walked a few steps before a woman called out with a smile, "Pretty girl, are you trying to look


    for a job?"


    Leanna paused slightly upon hearing the words that just escaped the woman''s lips. Then, she turned


    around and approached the woman.


    The woman grinned like a Cheshire cat when she saw Leanna walking towards her. "If that''s the case,


    then I am precisely the person you should seek. I can help you find and secure any jobs you want.


    Judging from your beautiful looks, you will definitely¡ª"


    "I want to ask you about someone," Leanna interrupted.


    The smug grin on the woman''s face faded a little at Leanna''s questioning. Her attitude wasn''t as


    enthusiastic as before, and she simply responded awkwardly, "So, you are looking for someone¡­"


    Leanna rummaged through her bag, took out a ne, and said, "This is for you."


    The woman''s smile resurfaced when she looked at the seemingly valuable and exquisitely packaged


    ne. "Oh, dear me. It''s just an inquiry about someone. Sure, I can help you with that. After all, I


    know everyone on this street. Whom would you like to inquire about?" she asked.


    "Ron Sedley," answered Leanna.


    The grin on the woman''s face disappeared and was reced by a slightly wary look when she heard


    the name that fell from Leanna''s lips. "What business do you have with him?"


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "He asked me toe here to find him if I need anything," Leanna exined.


    "What''s your name?"


    "Leanna McKinney."


    "Wait here for a moment," the woman requested before turning around and heading into the house.


    "Sure."


    Then, the woman swiftly took out her phone and dialed a number. She told the other party what


    happened in the alley and quickly she received a reply from the other end of the phone, "I have never


    heard of this name."


    "Judging from her rather beautiful appearance and how she dresses like a richdy, I doubt that she''s


    here to look for trouble."


    The person on the other end of the phone went silent for a few seconds before saying, "Mr. Ron is in


    the underground casino, so you may take her there."


    As for Leanna, who stood and waited at the door for a few minutes, she was quietly studying her


    surroundings.


    The woman came out a momentter, and around her neck was the very ne Leanna had given


    her earlier.


    Finally, she wasted no time in saying, "Come. I''ll take you to Ron."


    While they were on their way to the underground casino, the woman asked Leanna, "Pretty girl, what is


    your rtionship with Ron?"


    "We are friends," replied Leanna.


    The woman was obviously a little surprised by her answer. "He has friends like you?!"


    Leanna merely smiled and said nothing upon hearing her shocked exmation.


    Now that the woman discovered Leanna and Ron were friends, her curiosity about Leanna


    skyrocketed. Therefore, she probed further, "What do you do for a living?"


    "I''m a designer."


    "What''s the brand of the ne you gave me just now? It''s quite pretty. It has to be expensive,


    right?"


    "I was the one who designed that ne, so it''s not that pricey." Leanna chuckled lightly.


    An unconcealed admiration glimmered in the woman''s eyes as she said, "Wow. You''re amazing! I am


    quite fond of the style of your design. Can I buy some essories from you in the future?"


    Leanna immediately took out a business card from her bag and handed it to the woman. "Of course,


    you can. This is my studio''s address. You can look for me here if you need any essories."


    The woman took the business card and read the name of Leanna''s studio, "''Starry Night''¡­ That''s a


    nice name."


    Soon, Leanna followed the woman into an underground casino. The atmosphere in the casino was


    boisterous and the air was smoky as the scent of nicotine was terribly pungent.


    After the woman and Leanna entered, two men whistled at them. "Martha, here for business today?"


    The woman, who was named Martha, waved her hand and reprimanded, "Shut the f*ck up! This pretty


    girl is Mr. Ron''s friend. Are you two trying to court death?"


    After the two men heard what Martha said, the smirks on their faces instantly vanished, and they never


    spoke another word.


    Meanwhile, on thergest table in the casino sat Ron. The scar on his face was startling, which caused


    him to exude appalling yet terrifying vibes.


    After Martha whispered something to a man, who was standing to the side, he merely nced at them


    before informing Martha and Leanna to wait on the spot for a moment. Then, he walked up to Ron and


    whispered something to him.


    Ron furrowed his brows a little before he looked up. Unfortunately, his vision was filled with a tight


    cluster of people.


    So, he tilted his head, and gave a few instructions to his subordinate, who swiftly nodded and left.


    The man walked up to Leanna and Martha and said to Leanna, "Miss McKinney, I will take you to the


    lounge. Mr. Ron wille right over."


    "Okay," Leanna murmured agreeably.


    Just as she had taken two steps, the man blocked Martha, who was just about to follow. "You may


    return."


    Martha pursed her lips but stopped in her tracks and then went to join the gambling party.


    The man took Leanna to the lounge. Before he left the lounge, he attentively brought her another bottle


    of water.


    If truth be told, the room was more like a utility room than a lounge. The light was dim, and a damp


    smell lingered in the air in the room.


    Nevertheless, it was still far better than the crowded gambling den despite its poor environment.


    Leanna took out her phone and discovered that Zoe had sent her a message 20 minutes ago, asking


    her when she would be returning. As she didn''t want to worry Zoe, she hastily replied, informing Zoe


    that she had some business to attend to and would only be home after an hour or two.


    As soon as she sent the message, the door of the lounge creaked open.


    Ron sauntered in while he waved his hand, trying to get rid of the odor in the room. "The environment


    in this room is pretty awful. Shall we have a chat outside?"


    "It''s fine. Let''s just talk here," Leanna said since it was really troublesome and a waste of time to move


    from this room to another one.


    Ron sat across from her. "Speak. I''m listening."


    She stated her purpose foring here without further ado. "I''m looking for someone, but she is


    intelligent and often wanders around various shady ces. I can''t locate her through legal means."


    He effortlessly grasped what she meant. "Do you have any photos?"


    Leanna shook her head. "No, I don''t, but she is a foreign national. She has just arrived in Highside


    recently. Moreover, she is medically skilled. So, her appearance might coincide with obstructive


    situations."


    Ron furrowed his brows slightly at her description. "A foreign woman who is medically skilled?"


    "Yes. Have you heard of her?"


    "Someone did inform me about a foreign woman showing up in various casinos and winning a lot of


    money a few days ago. Even so, I still have to ask around to confirm if that woman is the person you


    are searching for."


    "Her name is Amanda. Please contact me if you have any information," requested Leanna rather


    urgently.


    Ron gave her a number. "This is my current number. Just call this number if you need anything. You


    don''t have toe here to look for me again."


    Leanna was startled by his actions. Shortly after, she understood what he was implying, so she smiled


    slightly as she expressed her gratitude. "Thank you." Then, she swiped off the dust on her skirt as she


    rose to her feet. "I shall leave first, then."


    "Let me see you off. After all, this ce can get quite¡­ rambunctious," Ron offered to escort her.


    "Sure."


    After she followed Ron out of the underground casino, she could almost immediately tell that the air


    was a lot fresher.


    Those hooligans that were eyeing her earlier scattered the moment they caught sight that she was


    being apanied by Ron.


    It was as though they were afraid that Ron would pick on them.


    When they got to Leanna''s car, Ron drawled, "I will look into the woman and pass you any information I


    have about her tomorrow at thetest. Are you trying¡­ to find out her whereabouts? Or are you trying


    to get to her?"

 Chapter 776

    Chapter 776


    Chapter 776 Let¡¯s Just Leave Him Out This Time


    The sky was already dark after Leanna returned from the underground casino.


    Zoe came to Leanna with the processed film sketch. After they confirmed the release time and content


    copy, she detected the smell of cigarettes on Leanna''s body. Therefore, she blurted, "Nana, where did


    you go?"


    "I went to look for Ron," Leanna promptly replied.


    "Ron?"


    Leanna nodded lightly, "I asked him to find someone for me."


    Zoe felt her heart flutter in fear as she expressed her concern. "The ce Ron hangs around is rowdy.


    Do you not feel scared going there unprepared?"


    Leanna smiled a little before saying, "I''m not afraid, for I grew up in a rowdy neighborhood when I was


    young." The ce my family and I lived in the past, along with the nearby streets around the


    neighborhood, were all simr to the alley I visited today. Back then, I would inevitably pass by such an


    alley every time I came home from school. I was teased by the women on the street and threatened by


    gangsters multiple times. Yet, the women who teased me would scold and drive the drunkards away


    from me when they saw those good-for-nothing making things difficult for me. Those gangsters who


    threatened me would also push me home in a small cart when they noticed that my leg was fractured. It


    was only after I was in junior high that the area was no longer rowdy. Hence, I know very well that no


    one would be willing to live there for a long time if they weren''t beaten down by reality.


    Zoe changed the topic instead of dwelling on the matter further, saying, "I''ve checked the weather


    forecast for tomorrow. It is reported that tomorrow will be a sunny day. Our film shooting will certainly


    turn out well."


    "I''m not going tomorrow. I have to go home early in the evening to make dinner. Freddie has been


    nagging me about it for many days. Come over with Daphne after you guys wrap up the shooting. Just


    call me if something happens," Leanna informed.


    "Okay." Zoe paused before she continued, "Then¡­ shall we ask Louis to join us?"


    Leanna went silent before deciding. "Let''s just leave him out this time." Judging from the current


    situation between Louis and Daphne, it''s better not to let them meet and hang out together on such an


    asion. After all, their personal lives are something private. So, they should be the ones dealing with


    this matter, not us.


    "Have you gotten in touch with the models?" Leanna asked, directing her attention to their jobs.


    Zoe promptly replied, "Yes, yes. I have already contacted the two backup models. Everything will


    absolutely go ording to n this time."


    Right then, there was a knock on the door of the office. A young female employee in the studio


    appeared and said, "Zoe, your boyfriend is here to pick you up."


    The smile on Zoe''s face faded away. After that, she turned her head and instructed, "Okay. Ask him to


    wait outside for a while."


    The young female employee nodded and shut the door before leaving.


    Meanwhile, Leanna flipped through the draft in front of her. "Alright. It''s gettingte. Go on and have


    your dinner."


    "How about you? When will you return home?" Zoe inquired.


    Leanna discretely sniffed herself and thought, The smell of cigarettes is indeed pungent. Aidan


    certainly will interrogate me when hees home and gets a whiff of this smell.


    Therefore, she said, "I will go home after revising this draft."


    "Sure," said Zoe. "Then, I''ll be leaving now. Bye."


    Leanna gave her a nod. "Okay. Bye."


    Zoe left the studio after returning to her office to grab her bag.


    Not far away stood Brandon, who was waiting with a bouquet in his hand.


    Zoe approached him. "Sorry for keeping you waiting. I''ve just finished my work."


    Brandon smiled. "It''s okay."


    As he spoke, he handed her the bouquet in his hand. "For you."


    Zoe was stunned. For a moment, she made no move to ept the bouquet and asked hesitantly, "Is


    today a special day?"


    "No, no. It''s just that I came across this bouquet while I was on my way here. I thought it looked quite


    pretty and that you would like it. But of course, it is also a token of apology," Brandon exined.


    Zoe was puzzled. "Apology?"


    "I''m sorry for not being able toe to pick you up because I worked overtimest night," Brandon


    borated.


    Zoe simply smiled. "Well, actually, I was also working overtime for the shooting yesterday. Moreover, I


    wasn''t in the studio. It was fortunate that you didn''te yesterday. Otherwise, you would have made


    your trip for nothing."


    As soon as these words escaped Zoe''s lips, neither of them continued, resulting in a moment of silence


    as awkwardness tainted the air.


    After a while, Zoe reached out, epted the bouquet, and broke the ice. "Thank you. They''re lovely. I


    love them."


    Brandon said, "I''m d you like it."


    Zoe started walking as she asked, "What are we having for dinner today?"


    "My friend rmended a restaurant that serves authentic Jesund cuisine. From what I heard, their


    food tastes delicious, and the ingredients they use in the restaurant are imported directly from Jesund.


    Shall we go and try out their food?"


    "Will the bill turn out to be bloody expensive?" Zoe was worried that it would blow a hole in Brandon''s


    wallet. After all, Brandon was just an employee in a government-owned corporation, and his sry


    wasn''t that high even though his job was stable.


    Zoe was already very apologetic that Brandon had been paying for all their meals while they hung out


    together.


    For that reason, she hinted to Brandon that they could take turns paying and treating each other.


    Yet, Brandon dismissed her proposal, saying that it was just a meal and would not be pricey.


    Zoe didn''t say anything more after sensing his determination to foot the bill. Eventually, she figured that


    all she could do was repay him with some gifts of simr expense.


    Still, there was one thing that Zoe was sure of after learning that the ingredients were airlifted from


    Jesund, and that was¡ªthe meal would undoubtedly cost more than a few hundred if they decided to


    dine there.


    "It''s fine. My friend is a regr there. So, I can get a discount," Brandon persuaded.


    Zoe had no choice but to nod after his insistence. "Okay. Let''s go there then." We will just go Dutch if


    we truly can''t get a discountter.


    Once they arrived at the restaurant serving Jesund cuisine that Brandon mentioned, Zoe ced the


    bouquet in her hand down and said, "Just order without me. I''m going to the bathroom."


    "Sure," replied Brandon.


    Right after Zoe came out of the bathroom stall, she spotted a woman reapplying her lipstick.


    The woman was wearing a tight wine-red dress. Her hair was wavy, and her makeup was mboyant


    and heavy.


    Zoe smiled politely at her upon identally making eye contact with the woman.


    However, the woman simply snorted, kept her lipstick, and flounced away.


    This left Zoe utterly speechless. What the hell is wrong with that woman? I can''t believe she''s actually


    more distasteful than Maya.


    While she returned to her table, she sent a voice message to Leanna. ''¡­ She actually snorted at me!


    This is the first time I have encountered someone who is ruder and more disgusting than Maya. I swear


    I won''t speak ill of Maya ever again!''


    Zoe almost arrived at her table as soon as she sent out that voice message.


    After she took her seat, Brandon''s voice sounded, "I''ve ordered the food. What would you like to


    drink?"


    Zoe ordered a cold beverage, and the waiter left after taking her order.


    Brandon took the initiative to start the conversation. "You told me earlier that your studio is nning to


    find a brand ambassador. Were you shooting an endorsementmercial yesterday?"


    Zoe nodded. "Yes. Initially, we were going to continue shooting today, but we postponed it to tomorrow


    because of the rain."


    "In that case, will you be free to¡ª"


    Suddenly, a figure showed up and stood beside them, stopping Brandon from finishing his sentence.


    Zoe looked up and saw it was the woman she encountered in the bathroom just now.


    As for Brandon, his facial expression turnedpletely ghastly when he saw the woman.


    On the contrary, the woman smiled and said to Brandon, "So, this is your girlfriend?"


    One could tell that there was a hint of disdain and sarcasm in her words.


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Brandon''s voice turned slightly dark as he demanded, "What do you want?"


    "Oh, nothing¡ª" the woman replied as she took out a pen from her bag, "¡ªyou left this at my homest


    night."

 Chapter 777

    Chapter 777


    Chapter 777 Only 01 Percent


    After she said that, the dining table slipped into an eerie silence, and Brandon''s expression fell and


    turned stiff at a speed visible to the eyes. Then, the woman nced at Zoe, her smile and eyes tinged


    with provocation before she twirled and left. When she was gone, Brandon stammered, "Zoe¡ª"


    Zoe had a smile on her face as she asked, "Is she your friend?"


    Brandon picked up the ss and took a sip of water to ease his nervousness and awkwardness. "Don''t


    get the wrong idea. Yesterday, I merely went to her ce to pass something to her and dropped the


    pen there without realizing it. Nothing happened between us," he exined.


    She picked up her cutlery and said, "It''s fine. I understand. Let''s eat."


    His mouth opened, and he wanted to say something, but when he saw that she didn''t seem interested,


    he shut his mouth and didn''t bother exining himself further. As a result, the atmosphere between


    them turned rather stifling. Suddenly, his phone started ringing just as they had left the establishment.


    When he checked the iing number, he furrowed his brows together tightly and tossed his cell


    phone into his pocket. "Zoe, let me drop you home," he offered.


    Right after he said that, the woman appeared in a spot not far off from them with her cell phone in her


    hand, as though she was making a call, and the phone in Brandon''s pocket continued to vibrate.


    Zoe nced at him. "You seem rather busy, so I won''t hold you up any longer. I''m leaving now. Bye."


    "Zoe." She had just taken a step when Brandon grabbed her arm and said, "I''m sorry about what


    happened today. I¡­"


    She turned to him, catching sight of his visibly hesitant face, and said gently, "Don''t worry, I won''t tell


    your parents about this."


    Finally, he breathed a sigh of relief at her promise and released her arm. "I''ll take care of this and give


    you an answer."


    She merely smiled and waved at him before stopping a cab and leaving. When she was in the cab, she


    saw him walking toward that woman, who had a gleeful smile on her face. Then, she rolled her eyes


    and sighed, looking away.


    Although she had an idea that Brandon didn''t make a clean break with his ex-girlfriend, her own


    rtionship was also an utter mess. Frankly, they were in the same boat, getting together to please


    their parents. So, she truly couldn¡¯t be bothered about Brandon¡¯s affairs.


    Unfortunately, based on the situation today, it was clear that his ex-girlfriend wanted to eat in this


    restaurant, and¡ªwhether it was tomemorate their deceased rtionship or to make up for his


    regret¡ªhe actually brought her here. Honestly, his actions had crossed a line. Even though she could


    ept that they were slowly getting to know each other and had no feelings for one another, she


    couldn''t ept that he was treating her as a substitute while keeping her in the dark. The bottom line


    here was that she found his actions repulsive and offensive.


    Back at home, she bought a big bucket of spicy buffalo wings from a street vendor to let off some


    steam. She initially wanted to invite Leanna for supper and drinks, but just before knocking on Leanna¡¯s


    door, she recalled Aidan''s expressionless face and decided not to disrupt their alone time.


    s, the consequence of eating wings and drinking alone was contracting gastroenteritis in the middle


    of the night¡ªdiarrhea and vomiting. As she didn''t want to dy the shooting tomorrow, she forced


    herself to get up and called a cab to the hospital.


    When the driver asked which hospital she would like to go to, she was already in such agony that she


    could barely speak, and her mind was hardly functioning. "Whatever. Just get to the nearest hospital¡­"


    Soon after, the cab stopped in front of a hospital. Zoe raised her head and took a look. Regrettably, the


    moment she did, she felt more sweat breaking out on her forehead. Then, she said with a pale-stricken


    face, "Sir, please drop me at a different hospital."


    "You shouldn''t be so picky, miss," the driver argued. "Just look at how serious your condition is. You


    better hurry and go in now."


    "I¡ª"


    Before she could say anything else, the driver helped her out of the car and into the hospital. Then, he


    passed her over to a nurse and left like an anonymous hero.


    After the nurse asked Zoe about her situation, she hurriedly put her on the drip and advised, "It''s way


    past midnight now. You should call your family over to apany you."


    s, Zoe simply waved her hand dismissively. "I''m okay. It''s not that serious and I already feel a lot


    better after the drip." While the nurse was speechless by her careless attitude, she asked, "When will I


    be done? I still have to go to work tomorrow¡­"


    "It will take about four to five hours. I think you should be all done in the morning. But judging from your


    current condition, it would be better to ask for a day''s leave," the nurse suggested.


    "Never mind. The details of my job have been in the works for quite some time, and I can¡¯t back out on


    this due to poor health. If I¡ª" As she spoke, regret overwhelmed her, and she trailed off mid-sentence.


    "Thank you, miss. Please go on with your work. I''ll be fine by myself here."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The nurse nodded. "Just call me if you need anything."


    "Okay."


    After the nurse left, Zoe let out a long, weary sigh while leaning into the chair. If the shooting tomorrow


    was dyed because of her, she would really try her best to turn back time just to kick herself in the


    face.


    She looked around the hospital and saw that several patients had already left the treatment ward. She


    also quickly noticed that the inpatient department wasn''t nearby. Hence, the chance of running into


    Daniel was only 0.1 percent. But in reality, the possibility is zero, she thought andposed her racing


    heart.


    After she allowed her mind to wander for a bit, she stared at the IV bag above her head, tolerated the


    numbing pain, and slowly closed her eyes to rest. A few minutester, the effects of the drug started to


    spread, and she felt her whole body rxing. Still, before she dozed off, she did some quick math,


    estimating the time needed in order she could return to her apartment on time, whisked out her phone,


    and set an rm for every half an hour before shutting her eyes.


    Zoe gradually felt herself bing drowsy due to the drug administered to treat her ailment. Although


    she wasn¡¯t all there, she could still vaguely sense someone sitting next to her and something covering


    her body a momentter. She furrowed her brow slightly, snuggled into the nket, and tilted her head


    to one side.


    However, a hand caught her head and gently shifted it to another side. Then, she leaned against a


    man¡¯s broad shoulder. Perhaps it was because she had been tormented by her illness the entire night,


    she fell into a deep slumber this time and was only awakened by the nurse instead of her rm.


    Her eyes flew open, and she looked around sleepily as the nurse''s voice echoed into her ears, "You¡¯re


    all done. If you don''t feel unwell anywhere else, you can go home now."


    Zoe finally gathered her thoughts together and yawned. "Thanks."


    "You''re wee. Keep your meals light for the next couple of days. Avoid spicy and oily food as well


    as alcohol. This is your medicine, and you should take one pill whenever your stomach feels uneasy,"


    the nurse said sternly.


    Zoe nodded. "Got it."


    By the time she walked outside the hospital, she stretched out her limbs and sore neck as she admired


    the sun that was rising in the distance. After she walked a few steps, it suddenly dawned upon her that


    her rm hadn''t gone off during her stay in the hospital. Thus, she hastily fished out her phone and


    was even more confused to find that her rm had been turned off.

 Chapter 778

    Chapter 778


    Chapter 778 Don¡¯t Be So Shameless


    Zoe felt a lingering sense of confusion as she made her way back home. She clearly remembered


    setting the rm and ensuring it was properly set before going to bed. She truly could not recall turning


    it off at any point during the night.


    As she stepped out of the elevator, she coincidentally locked eyes with Leanna, who was on her way to


    the grocery store. Leanna inquired as she was quite surprised to see Zoe, "Hey Zoe, where did you go


    so early this morning?"


    Zoe wanted to downy the situation, so she nonchntly shifted her body as if she had just finished


    an invigorating workout. She responded with a casual tone, "Oh, I was just out for a morning run. Got a


    bit sweaty, you know? I should hit the shower soon." She wanted to prevent her friend from feeling


    concerned.


    Unfortunately for her, Leanna seemed to notice something on Zoe''s sleeve. So, she grabbed onto


    Zoe''s arm and examined thebel closely. "Did you go for a run at the hospital?"


    At that moment, Zoe realized she had forgotten to remove the incriminating evidence. Thus, she swiftly


    tore off the small hospitalbel, crumpled it in her hand, and chuckled sheepishly, "Nah, it''s nothing. I


    had a sudden stomach issue in the middle of the night, so I went to the hospital for a quick check-up.


    I''m all sorted now. Look at me, I feel super energized."


    Leanna furrowed her brow and asked in concern, "What did you eat that gave you gastroenteritis?"


    Zoe paused for a moment, considering how to exin the situation. "Well, it''s a long story. Remember


    the woman I mentionedst night? The one I bumped into in the restroom? Turns out she''s Brandon''s


    ex-girlfriend."


    Zoe proceeded to recount the events of the previous night to Leanna. "I guess you can''t mix sushi and


    BBQ together after all. I mean, I''ve never had any issues eating BBQ from the ce downstairs


    before."


    Leanna scolded Zoe and did not ept her shabby exnation at face value. "You really think this is


    just about sushi and BBQ? Brandon crossed a line this time. Are you really just going to let it slide and


    pretend nothing happened?"


    Zoe nced down, speaking softly, "Well, Daniel has already punched him once, and I''m not utterly


    meless either. So, maybe it''s better to just call it even."


    Leanna vehemently disagreed, retorting, "No, those are two different things! You need to confront him


    and find out the truth. If he continues to have any kind of ambiguous rtionship with his ex-girlfriend,


    you should break up with him as soon as possible. It''s not like you can''t live without him. And I''m sure


    Leo and She would be on your side if they found out about this."


    "Okay, okay, I know. I''ll talk to him after I get through this busy period. But Nana, something strange


    happened to me at the hospitalst night. I clearly remember setting my rm clock before going to


    bed, but it was turned off when I woke up this morning. It''s honestly giving me the creeps¡­"


    Leanna paused briefly before inquiring, "Which hospital did you go to?"


    Zoe''s memory was triggered by Leanna''s question. "Well¡­ um¡­ but it doesn''t seem possible. The


    infusion and inpatient departments are in different areas. Plus, when I arrived at the hospital, it was


    already around 2.00AM or 3.00AM. There''s no way he could have been wandering around the hospital


    at that time."


    Leanna seemed to have caught onto something odd and pressed on, "But you mentioned that Daniel


    had linked your phone number to something when you were pregnant. He would receive a notification


    as long as you checked in at the hospital."


    Leanna''s words struck a chord with Zoe, and suddenly the memories came rushing back. It had


    happened before Daniel left for Lachstein. He was constantly busy and could not spare time to


    apany her to the hospital. Yet, he still wanted to ensure her well-being and monitor any potential


    complications with the baby. So, he secretly set up the notification without informing her. Although she


    hadined about it at the time, she had actually enjoyed the special attention deep down.


    So, someone really was with mest night! It wasn''t a dream! Oh, my God! Zoe thought.


    Meanwhile, Leanna observed her friend''s ever-changing expression, from stunned to bewildered, then


    to shocked and surprised, and finally settling into a state of utter bafflement. She found it quite


    amusing. "Why don''t you rest at home in the morning? I''ll have Freddie handle everything rted to the


    shoot. You can go to the filming location in the afternoon directly."


    Although Zoe had no clue about the specifics, she instinctively nodded in agreement. Leanna then


    entered the password to the apartment and pulled Zoe inside. "Alright, get some rest while I bring you


    some breakfast."


    Zoe sat on the couch and still felt somewhat dazed long after Leanna had left. She could not believe


    that Daniel had not only stayed by her side throughout the night but also turned off her rm.


    Moreover, he left no trace behind when he departed. Was it to prevent any misunderstandings, or was


    there another reason? Her stomach was no longer aching, but now she had a headache from


    pondering over all the confusion.


    Before long, Leanna returned with some chicken soup. Initially, she had hoped that Zoe would take a


    nap after having it, but Zoe''s adrenaline was running high, and she was far from being able to sleep.


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    Leanna had already asked Freddie to handle the filming matters with the studio. So, after Zoe finished


    her breakfast, she and Leanna decided to go grocery shopping.


    Inside the supermarket, Zoe pushed the cart while asking, "Hey, Nana, did President Pearson mention


    anythingst night?"


    Leanna picked up a bag of seasoning and ced it in the cart, shaking her head in response. "Nope, I


    went home earlyst night. By the time he returned, I had already finished washing and hanging up the


    clothes I changed out of."


    "Good to know. By the way, have you heard anything from Ron about that person?"


    Leanna paused for a moment before answering, "Sort of, it''s about the woman who kidnapped Daniel."


    Zoe could not believe how the conversation had veered straight into the topic she was trying to avoid.


    How did they even get to this point? Nevertheless, since Leanna had already brought it up, Zoe took a


    momentary pause before continuing, "Why were you looking for her?"


    Leanna provided a brief exnation about the situation and then added, "Ron is familiar with certain


    ces and has better knowledge regarding certain specifics than us. If we want to find someone in


    those areas, he''s our best option."


    Zoe nodded in agreement but could not help but let out a sigh. "Honestly, I never expected Ron to turn


    out to be a decent person."


    Leanna agreed, saying, "Yeah, he''s someone who believes in repaying kindness."


    Zoe and Leanna continued their conversation while purchasing a bunch of groceries before heading


    back home. Once they had stored the groceries in the refrigerator, they made their way to the studio


    together.


    As soon as they arrived, they were approached by a female employee in a hurry. "Hey, Zoe, Leanna,


    you''re finally here!"


    Leanna noticed the employee''s distressed expression and inquired, "What''s going on?"


    She hurriedly exined, "About half an hour ago, we had a customer who was being extremely picky.


    She criticized all our products and even drove other customers with her arrogant attitude away."


    Zoe then followed the employee''s gaze, and sure enough, she spotted Brandon''s ex-girlfriend standing


    there with a contemptuous look on her face, clutching a ne in her hand.


    As such, Zoe gestured for the employee to leave and approached the woman with a calm demeanor.


    She locked her eyes with the woman and asked, "Is there a problem?"


    The woman met her gaze and smirked condescendingly. "Well, I heard this jewelry store boasted about


    its unique designs, so I decided to check it out. But everything here is just so ordinary. It''s a shame,


    really. Some people should have the decency to be self-aware and not shamelessly try to snatch things


    that don''t belong to them. It''s such an embarrassment, don''t you think?"

 Chapter 779

    Chapter 779


    Chapter 779 Can I Have Another Chance?


    Zoe maintained an expressionless gaze as she retorted, "If you''re unwell, go to the hospital. Don''t try to


    create a scene here."


    However, the woman provocatively threw the ne on the ground and responded, "You run a


    business here, yet you seem afraid of your customers finding fault in your designs? If you''re so


    sensitive, you might as well go home and spare us the embarrassment."


    Before Zoe could respond, Leanna swiftly approached the woman. Shemanded, "Pick up the


    ne." Yet, the woman remained unfazed. She met Leanna''s intense gaze, crossed her arms, and


    scoffed, "Who do you think you are? Trying to show off? You''re not even worthy¡ª"


    Before the woman couldplete her sentence, Leanna grabbed a cup and mercilessly sshed the


    coffee in it onto the woman''s face.


    "Ahhhhhhh¡ª" The woman screamed frantically, her eyes widening in disbelief as the coffee dripped


    down from her head. As she trembled with anger, she also instantly became the center of attention for


    the surrounding customers. "You¡­ you..." Her shock rendered her unable to form aplete


    sentence.


    Nevertheless, Leanna maintained herposure in the face of the enraged woman and calmly stated,


    "I repeat. Pick it up."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    The woman nced up, feeling the weight of all eyes upon her. It would be false to say that she wasn''t


    embarrassed. She tightly clutched her belongings in anger and attempted to leave.


    Unfortunately, Zoe promptly blocked her path as soon as she took a step. "You made quite a scene


    earlier, but now you choose to pretend to be deaf?"


    Finally, the woman cursed at Zoe, "Y-You''re a motherf*cker! I''m going to take this up to the authorities!"


    Nevertheless, Leanna remained calm as she responded nonchntly, "Sure, I''ll be waiting for you,


    then." The woman tried to leave, but her path was blocked from every direction. She clenched her teeth


    in frustration, quickly squatted down, picked up the ne, and threw it onto a nearby counter with a


    thud. Then, she briskly walked away with her bag.


    Leanna turned to the employees behind her. "Clean this up." The employees promptly responded.


    Some went to fetch a mop while others tried to reassure the customers who had formed a circle around


    them.


    Leanna pulled Zoe into the office, and as soon as they were alone, Leanna inquired, "Was that


    Brandon''s ex?"


    Zoe nodded lightly in response. "You bet. I didn''t expect to see her here. I''m sorry, Leanna."


    However, Leanna wasn''t pleased that it was Zoe who apologized. "What are you apologizing to me for?


    Go and rify things with Brandon."


    Zoe tightly pursed her lips in response to Leanna''s mention of the matter. "Okay, I''ll do it right away."


    Leanna questioned, "Have you figured out what to say, though?"


    "I..."


    Leanna observed Zoe''s hesitation andid out a n for her, saying, "Just exin what happened.


    Someone recorded the incident, so send the video directly to Brandon without any additional


    comments. Don''t waste your time."


    Zoe didn''t want to waste time arguing with Brandon about the issue either, so she naturally agreed with


    Leanna''s n. Therefore, she returned to her office, forwarded the video that Leanna had sent her to


    Brandon without any additional message, and then set her phone aside to focus on her work.


    About an hourter, as Zoe was preparing to leave with her photography equipment, Brandon


    appeared at the entrance. Clearly, he had hurried over since he looked slightly flustered and anxious.


    "Zoe, can we talk privately?" he requested.


    Zoe briefly nced at her phone and noticed many missed calls from him. He quickly pleaded with her


    as she did not seem to show any emotions, "Just give me five minutes, please!"


    She handed her belongings to her assistant upon hearing his plea and instructed, "Wait for me in the


    car."


    Once the other staff members had left, Brandon hurriedly continued, "I''m really sorry about what


    happened today. I never expected her toe looking for you. Zoe, I apologize on her behalf. I¡ª"


    Zoe interrupted him and questioned, "No need to apologize. I''m simply wondering how she found out


    about our studio''s address."


    His face stiffened at her question, and since he didn''t respond, she continued her criticism. "Since


    we''ve been together, you should have met her multiple times. It seems like you shared everything with


    her."


    "Yes..." he stammered and confessed. "We did meet a few times, but it''s not what you think."


    She shrugged indifferently. "Well, I suppose. It''s just hard for you to let go of the past. You felt guilty, so


    you went to apany her¡ªsitting together, chatting, having a drink, reminiscing about the past. I


    understand the pain of unrequited love, but at the very least, you should respect me. I''m not a


    substitute for your lost love. By the way, the sushi we had yesterday was God awful."


    "Zoe¡ª"


    Once again, Zoe bluntly interrupted him, "There''s a reason why your parents disapprove of you being


    with her. Having someone like her at home would definitely create unrest in the family."


    Her words seemed to strike a nerve that he frowned. "You don''t have to put it so harshly."


    She scoffed, "I don''t recall your ex saying anything pleasant when she came to my studio."


    "That''s just how she is. Besides, you didn''t suffer any loss. You spilled coffee on her."


    Zoe wasn''t surprised. She nonchntly remarked, "She wasted no timeining to you, it seems."


    He responded, "I''ve already talked to her. I promise she won''te to your studio again. Zoe, please, I


    ¡ª"


    "Just leave it at that. I don''t want to deal with these senseless people anymore. Let''s break up," she


    dered.


    Brandon clearly didn''t anticipate such a reaction from her, and his brows furrowed tightly. "I don''t want


    to." Then he softened his tone, "It was an ident. I promise I won''t see her again, and she won''t


    disturb you anymore."


    Regardless, Zoe smiled, devoid of any emotion. "Let''s part on good terms. You know how we got


    together in the first ce, and now it''s clear that we''re notpatible."


    "Can you give me another chance?" he begged. "Besides, aren''t we simr? I don''t care about your


    past or that you''re still in contact with your ex, so¡ª"


    "So, I shouldn''t mind that your ex came to my studio, caused a scene, and insulted me in front of


    everyone? She even went as far as ruining my friend''s design," she reprimanded as she continued


    where he left off.


    "I already apologized to you, and I scolded her too. What else do you want me to do? I promise she


    won''t appear in front of you again."


    Zoe let out augh as if she heard a joke. "The only reason you''re reluctant to break up with me is


    because of your parents, right? Using me as a shield so you can meet her without any pressure. You


    initially imed not to mind my past rtionships, but it was just a way for you to get an easy out; if you


    don''t mind mine, then I can''t mind yours either."


    Brandon appeared to have more to say, but Zoe''s patience had worn thin. She interrupted him, "Time''s


    up. Although we haven''t spent a lot of time in the past months, you''re not a terrible person. I genuinely


    hope we can part ways amicably. I''ve dealt with my fair share of jerks, and frankly, I''m done. If you


    persist in bothering me, I''ll simply send that video directly to your parents."


    He fell silent instantly, seemingly afraid of his parents discovering his ongoing contact with his ex. Zoe


    inwardly scoffed, turned around, and swiftly got into the car.

 Chapter 780

    Chapter 780


    Chapter 780 Isn¡¯t This Self-Inflicted?


    Meanwhile, at the Crossley Residence, Jonathan handed some documents to Aidan while reporting,


    "President Pearson, Keaton just called and informed us that someone from the Pearson Family has


    arrived today."


    Aidan did not even bother to raise his head. "I''m not interested." This marked the third time the


    Pearsons had sent someone to the Residence since his return from Jamesdon. Jonathan hesitated for


    a moment before continuing, "The person mentioned that Old Master Pearson''s health is deteriorating,


    and he wishes to see you onest time."


    Aidan paused flipping through the documents upon hearing this and locked eyes with Jonathan. "So?


    Will seeing me miraculously restore his health?"


    Jonathan knew that Aidan''s retort was not directed at him, yet he still felt a tinge of sheepish


    awkwardness for even bothering him with this matter.


    Yet, just as Jonathan was about to leave the room, he heard Aidan give an unexpected order, "Bring


    the person in."


    Jonathan was taken aback by the suddenmand, and it took him several seconds to grasp Aidan''s


    intentions. He nodded in response. "Alright."


    Ten minutester, a middle-aged man was escorted into the room. As soon as heid eyes on Aidan,


    he began speaking in a pleading voice, "Young Master Aidan..."


    Aidan instantly recognized the man. He was one of Gordon''s frequentpanions, but he had not


    been seen in many years. It now became apparent that Gordon had left behind a contingency n.


    Nevertheless, Aidan''s expression remained unchanged. "No need for formalities. Get straight to the


    point."


    Thud.


    The middle-aged man immediately dropped to his knees upon hearing Aidan''s words. There were even


    tears streaming down his cheeks as he implored, "Young Master Aidan, please save Old Master


    Pearson. He is being imprisoned in the Pearson Family Estate, enduring a fate worse than death!"


    "Then, you should have given him a swift and merciful end instead ofing to me."


    The middle-aged man sobbed, begging, "I understand he hasmitted many wrongs against you in


    the past, but he is still your father. Can you bear to witness him suffer in such agony?"


    Aidan replied coldly, "Yes, it''s called karma."


    "But... but..."


    "Enough of the nonsense. Tell me something I want to know."


    The man nced around, hesitating for a moment. Nheless, he understood that Aidan had not


    sought him out solely because of Old Master Pearson. The only logical exnation for Aidan''s interest


    was that he wanted information that he had not yet acquired. After he pondered for some time, he


    finally said, "I... I once witnessed Mr. Crossley, or more precisely, Leroy, in the backyard of the Pearson


    Family Estate. He was having a conversation with Young Master Justin about an event that took ce


    twenty years ago."


    Aidan met the man''s gaze calmly, showing no signs of emotional disturbance. The man continued


    saying under immense pressure, "Twenty years ago, the Crossleys went through a major upheaval,


    and Leroy''s sess was made possible because Old Master Pearson provided him with assistance."


    During that period, the Crossleys were in the public eye, and Lloyd and his wife became the talk of the


    entire city.


    Old Master Pearson''s ambitions extended beyond Highside, and he sought to expand his influence


    elsewhere. Consequently, the Crossley family became an obstacle in his ns. During a social


    gathering, he had a brief encounter with Leroy and immediately sensed the cunningness and jealousy


    concealed beneath Leroy''s usual demeanor. They did not even need to discuss how to proceed with


    their scheme; their understanding of each other''s character led to tacit cooperation.


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    Unfortunately, no matter how one analyzed the situation, this incident had a tremendous impact. That


    was why Old Master Pearson chose not to reveal himself and instead relied on other forces to assist


    Leroy in executing their n.


    It was perhaps during this time that the retribution began. Old Master Pearson was entirely consumed


    by the upheaval, unaware of the forces emerging from Jamesdon. As a result, numerous factions


    converged in Highside, creating a highly chaotic situation.


    In the midst of this chaos, Justin became a pawn in the scheme and suffered a car ident. s,


    perhaps out of guilt, Old Master Pearson refrained from investigating the matter, fearing that it would


    expose his actions during that period.


    The Zielinski Family still wielded significant power twenty years ago, and if they had discovered Old


    Master Pearson''s covert involvement with Leroy, it would have spelled doom for the entire Pearson


    Family. Therefore, he could only treat the incident as an ident and brought Aidan back to the


    Pearsons. This way, Sienna could direct all her animosity toward Aidan, diverting the Zielinski Family''s


    attention from Justin''s ident.


    Yearster, Leroy sessfully reced Lloyd. Meanwhile, Old Master Pearsoncked the energy and


    desire to unearth the past due to Justin''s car ident and Aidan being increasingly uncontroble.


    Furthermore, the Crossley Group was not progressing as rapidly under Leroy as it had under Lloyd.


    Consequently, Leroy could no longer impede Aidan''s path.


    Aidan immersed himself in his thoughts, and when he finally nced up through hisshes, a coldness


    flickered in his dark eyes. "It appears that he hasmitted quite a few despicable acts."


    "Young Master Aidan, please understand that everything Old Master Pearson did was for the Pearsons''


    sake. Moreover, even without his involvement, Lloyd would have eventually met his demise at Leroy''s


    hands, given the nature of the Crossley brothers. Old Master Pearson cannot be solely med for this


    matter."


    Aidan remained silent, and the man understood that Aidan wanted to know more than what he had


    said. He clenched his teeth and pressed on, "Young Master Justin should have been aware of all this a


    long time ago¡ªthe truth about his car ident and the Woodleys. He knew far more than we


    anticipated. That''s why he treated Old Master Pearson the way he did."


    "Isn''t that self-inflicted?" Aidan scoffed, turning to Jonathan. "Escort him out."


    "Young Master Aidan!" the middle-aged man eximed upon hearing the order. "Even if Old Master


    Pearson was at fault, he never intended to harm your child. He always wanted to groom that child as


    the future heir of the Pearson Family! But some individuals ced their hatred on such a young child,


    your very own son! Are you truly willing to let it go like this?"


    Aidan fixed his cold gaze on the man. It even felt as if the temperature in the entire office dropped


    several degrees instantaneously. Jonathan''s expression shifted subtly, and he urged the man, "Don''t


    make ims without evidence."


    "I have evidence! I have evidence!" the man cried out desperately. "When Young Master Justin took the


    Old Master to Vind for treatment, they encountered a female doctor. The Old Master overheard them


    discussing¡­ saying¡­"


    "What did they say?" Aidan interrupted coldly.


    "They said the upgraded nutritional injections should have a positive effect. I swear this statement is


    absolutely true; the Old Master overheard it himself. He also heard the woman asking Young Master


    Justin if he wanted to keep the remaining injections, but he declined. In the end, she discarded the


    injections, but Old Master risked his life to retrieve the bottle and kept it with him."


    The man continued, his voice filled with urgency, "Young Master Aidan, the bottle is still with the Old


    Master. If you rescue him, you can obtain this crucial piece of evidence! Once that happens, Young


    Master Justin will be unable to deny it any longer. Moreover, you can seize this opportunity to regain


    control of Pearson Group. Old Master Pearson will undoubtedly stand by your side!"


    Aidan''s expression turned icy cold, and his jaw tightened, but he remained silent throughout the


    exchange.


    The middle-aged man continued to shout, but Jonathan stepped in and pulled him away. From a


    distance, the man''s voice carried on, "Young Master Aidan, you have to consider this carefully. Even if


    you harbor resentment towards Old Master Pearson, you cannot let this matter slide. That''s your son


    we''re talking about! You have to reim what rightfully belongs to you!"

 Chapter 781

    Chapter 781


    Chapter 781 I Might Know Who It Is


    After Jonathan sent the person away, he returned to the office and looked at the man standing by the


    floor-to-ceiling window. He whispered, "President Pearson..."


    Aidan didn''t react much to that; his gaze was cold and calm.


    Just as Jonathan nodded slightly and was about to leave, Aidan suddenly spoke. "Do you think what he


    said is true?"


    Jonathan remained silent for a few seconds before saying, "No matter what he says, he has other


    motives in mind, so you should just ignore him."


    Aidan coldly asked, "I should just ignore him?"


    "They want to save Old Master Pearson, so they can onlye to you. Saying those things is just to


    provoke you and make you and Young Master Justin be enemies, so that they can fulfill their


    wishes."


    "But you do know that what he said is true, do you?"


    Jonathan immediately fell silent and didn''t say anything more.


    This topic had always been something Aidan always avoided.


    Since the death of Sienna, many things began happening in Jamesdon, one after another. The


    situation had long developed beyond Sienna''s control and ability.


    If she could stir up such chaos, she wouldn''t have resorted to suicide to intensify the hatred between


    Aidan and Justin.


    At first, they thought she had been in contact with the Woodley Family in Jamesdon, but the final result


    showed that she didn''t even know the Woodley Family existed.


    Moreover, on the night of Sienna''s suicide, she instructed the nanny to suffocate the child in front of


    everyone.


    Regardless of whether the child was killed or not, neither Aidan nor Gordon would let her go.


    At that time, she had already decided to give up her life.


    To be able to die with the child was definitely a gain for her.


    That was Sienna''s n.


    If she were the one behind the nutrient injections, she wouldn''t need tomit suicide. She could just


    wait quietly for the child to fall ill and watch everyone being worried and helpless, which would be the


    most satisfying way for her to vent her hatred.


    The aftermath of the nutrient injections would directly pin the me on the Woodley Family.


    Or rather, the nutrient injection incident was like a slightly ajar door for the Woodleys, tempting them to


    push it open and discover what was behind it.


    On the other hand, the person who created that door wanted Aidan to find out the truth from twenty


    years ago by himself.


    At this point, there were already signs of who the mastermind behind all this was.


    But Aidan told them not to investigate further.


    The things they had gathered at this point were enough.


    After a while, Aidan asked, "Do you think I''m selfish?"


    Jonathan didn''t know how to answer, so he simply remained silent.


    Seeming to think he didn''t need Jonathan''s opinion, Aidan continued, "I''m afraid continuing the


    investigation might lead to Leanna discovering everything. She used to firmly believe that Justin was


    the only good person in the Pearson Family, and he was the only source of warmth she felt in the


    Pearson Family. But what will she think if she finds out that he''s the mastermind behind all this?


    Also, I have some selfish thoughts. I often think that maybe what I have found out is all wrong. So, I


    want to wait a little longer. Maybe there will be a new turn of events. Besides Leanna, Justin also


    showed me a bright side to that disgusting ce."


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    Aidan had been addressing Justin as his older brother for over twenty years and thought he knew the


    latter very well.


    But at some point in time, the Justin Pearson he knew gradually built a facade for himself.


    At the very least, during the years Aidan lived in the Pearson Residence, Justin had treated him


    sincerely.


    Jonathan had been Aidan''s assistant for many years, but it was the first time he had heard the other


    say so much. Moreover, what Aidan said was sincere and heartbreaking.


    However, he wasn''t good at answering this type of question.


    After a long time, Jonathan finally managed to squeeze out a few words and nodded in agreement.


    "That''s true..."


    Aidan nced at him coldly. "Get out."


    Jonathan immediately answered, "Yes."


    He had only taken two steps when Aidan ordered, "Stop."


    Turning back, he asked, "Do you have any other orders?"


    Aidan instructed, "Keep an eye on the guy who just left. Don''t let him get close to Leanna."


    Jonathan was taken aback and then understood what Aidan meant.


    At this point, Gordon''s men must be desperate to save Gordon from Justin, or else they wouldn''te


    looking for Aidan several times. But after being rejected so thoroughly, they would probably change


    targets.


    As for Aidan and his gang, they had the evidence against Justin and knew the truth behind the


    Crossley Family incident back then.


    Therefore, the most likely oue was that Gordon''s men would turn to Leanna.


    After that realization, Jonathan immediately said, "I''ll call Keaton right now."


    Once Jonathan left, Aidan sat back at his desk.


    After a while, he took out his phone and dialed a number.


    He calmly exined, "Justin met a female doctor during his previous trip to Vind, so the enhanced


    nutrient injections might havee from her."


    On the other end of the phone, L asked, "A female doctor?"


    Aidan replied, "I''ve already sent someone to Vind to look into this matter. It won''t take long to get the


    results."


    But L declined, "No need for that. If it''s a female doctor, I probably know who it is."


    L''sboratory had a lineup of more than a dozen top doctors in the industry. Therefore, he had


    heard of Amanda.


    Although she had great medical skills, her personality was twisted and entric. She never used her


    abilities for good but often used them for evil.


    There were many female doctors in the world.


    But only one woman could make an enhanced version of the nutrient injections and do such hical


    things. That woman was Amanda.


    After receiving the news from L, Aidan had Jonathan look into Amanda''s whereabouts. Later, he


    was told that she had arrived in Highside.


    Jonathan said, "President Pearson, that woman... seems to be the one who kidnapped Daniel."


    When Aidan heard that, he narrowed his dark eyes and pursed his thin lips, not saying a word.


    In the meantime, Jonathan could guess that this was a trap that had been set up a long time ago.


    The reason why Leroy was rescued might be rted to these incidents.


    Jonathan continued, "I also found out that Amanda has been frequenting various underground casinos


    recently, but..."


    "But what?"


    "But someone has been looking for her since yesterday. She probably heard about it and disappeared."


    Aidan looked up at him, clearly losing patience with him.


    So, Jonathan quickly added, "It''s Ron Sedley."


    With furrowed eyebrows, Aidan asked, "Is it Leanna?"


    Jonathan nodded. "Madam went to see Ron yesterday afternoon, probably to ask him to help find


    Amanda. But I don''t think it''s because she suspects anything. She might be doing it for Daniel..."


    After a few seconds of silence, Aidan instructed, "Tell Keaton to head over in person and find her


    before Ron does."

 Chapter 782

    Chapter 782


    Chapter 782 Are You Hiding Something From Me?


    On the other hand, in thete afternoon, around 4.00PM to 5.00PM, Leanna called Zoe.


    After hearing from Zoe that the filming was going smoothly and they might finish around 7 that evening,


    Leanna went home to prepare dinner.


    Just as she was about to leave the building, she received a call from an unknown number.


    She answered the call and heard Ron''s voice. "I found where she is staying, but she is very cautious


    and keeps the curtains closed. We can catch her in the evening."


    While holding her phone, she replied, "Okay, I got it. But I won''t be able toe tonight. I''ll give you an


    address and a number, you can bring her there directly."


    After hanging up, Leanna sent Daniel''s number and the hospital''s address to Ron.


    This was originally a matter between Daniel and Amanda, but after Aidan was somehow implicated in


    this matter, she decided to find the person responsible.


    Therefore, she entrusted Daniel to handle it.


    Back at home, Leanna took out the ingredients she bought in the morning from the refrigerator and


    started cooking.


    After washing everything that needed to be washed and putting everything that needed to be cooked


    on the stove, she stood up and stretched.


    The sun was slowly setting outside, and a few rays of sunlight shone through the window, quietly


    illuminating the room.


    Leanna nced at the time and saw it was already 6.30PM.


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    She picked up her phone and saw the photos Zoe had sent her.


    The filming might still need another two to three hours.


    Then, she headed to the balcony and brought in the clothes she had hung outst night.


    While folding the clothes, she heard footsteps from the hallway.


    When she looked up, she saw Aidan walking toward her and asked somewhat surprisedly, "Why are


    you home so early?"


    Sitting next to her, Aidan nodded lightly. "I went to the studio, but you weren''t there."


    "I thought you would onlye home after 8.00PM, so I didn''t tell you."


    Since returning from Jamesdon, Aidan had always returned home around 9.00PM.


    Last night, Leanna had told him she would be inviting Freddie and the others over for dinner today and


    asked if he coulde home earlier, to which Aidan replied it had to depend on the situation.


    Therefore, she didn''t expect him to return so early.


    Aidan asked, "Did you go to see Ron yesterday?"


    Leanna was confused but said nothing.


    Instead of answering his question immediately, she lowered her head and sniffed the clothes she had


    just brought in.


    Is his sense of smell as sensitive as a dog''s?


    She had washed her clothes twice, so there shouldn''t be any smell of tobo.


    Seeing her shock and confusion, Aidan pressed his tongue against his teeth and asked, "What are you


    thinking?"


    Leanna quickly put down the clothes. "Nothing... How did you find out?"


    "If you don''t want others to find out, don''t do it."


    Leanna rolled her eyes. "That advice would be better for you."


    Aidan raised an eyebrow, probably feeling guilty but didn''t say anything.


    After a while, he spoke again. "Why are you looking for Amanda?"


    While folding the clothes, Leanna exined, "Didn''t Elijah say that if we find her, we will know who she


    gets her orders from, and everything will be clear? Anyway, finding someone is easy as pie for Ron, so


    I asked him for help."


    Aidan was quiet for some time. "Are you doing this for me?"


    "Not really, I''m doing it for myself."


    That answer somewhat confused Aidan.


    Leanna replied, "I imed that I trust you before Elijah, so I have to y the part and investigate this


    matter, just in case it really has something to do with you. Otherwise, I would have embarrassed


    myself. I have to take the opportunity¡ª"


    However, Aidan interrupted her by grabbing her face with one hand and leaning toward her, whispering,


    "Can''t you say something nice?"


    Leanna patted his hand to motion for him to let go. "I learned it from you."


    Before she could continue, Aidan lowered his head and bit her lip.


    After a moment, he let go of her and said, "I learned that from you."


    That rendered Leanna speechless.


    "In the future, say something nice, and I''ll reward you too."


    She was not expecting that.


    Blushing, she got out of his embrace and stuttered, "W-Who would want such a reward?"


    Why did that sentence sound so ambiguous when he said it?


    Leanna stood up and stuffed the folded clothes into his arms. "Put them in the closet. I''m going to cook


    dinner!"


    Aidan''s lips curled into a smile as the happiness in his ck eyes deepened.


    After entering the kitchen and cing the rice on the stove, Leanna began chopping up the vegetables


    and preparing the condiments.


    Not long after, Aidan appeared behind her.


    She looked at him and asked, "Did you take a shower?"


    The other replied softly, "Yes."


    Leanna said, "Then you shouldn''t be here. I''m about to start cooking, so there would be a lot of


    smoke."


    Just as Leanna was about to open the refrigerator, she felt the man grab her arm.


    She met his gaze and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Aidan reminded her, "I remember I promised you that I would never hide anything from you."


    Leanna replied, "I''m already used to it..."


    She knew that Aidan was busy and had many things to deal with, so he couldn''t tell her everything.


    Also, she thought she already found out almost everything she needed to know.


    Back then, her anger toward him was because she didn''t know her child was still alive.


    Other than that, everything was fine.


    Now, her wish was simple. She wouldn''t want anything else as long as her baby was doing well.


    Aidan exined, "There are some things that I don''t want to hide from you, but I don''t know how to


    bring it up."


    Leanna replied seriously, "Then you can write it down."


    This time, it was Aidan''s turn to be speechless.


    Seeing his reaction, Leanna suggested, "Or you can draw it on paper?"


    Aidan put his hand back in his pocket. "Let''s cook."


    Leanna looked at him and thought for a moment before saying, "Okay, since you''ve brought it up, I can


    give you another chance. But... Everyone has the right to equality, so since you''re given another


    chance, I should get one too."


    Once Aidan heard that, he furrowed his eyebrows, immediately catching the key point. "Are you hiding


    something from me?"


    "It''s not that I don''t want to tell you, but I don''t know how to bring it up."


    Leanna sincerely returned his words to him.


    Aidan was at a loss for how to retort.


    He said, "Then write it down or draw it."


    Leanna suddenly found their meaningless conversation amusing and then pushed Aidan out of the


    kitchen, saying, "Alright, stop fooling around. I need to cook, or else the dishes won''t be ready before


    they arrive."


    While standing outside the kitchen, Aidan watched her figure and massaged his temples.


    At this moment, his phone rang.


    It was a call from Keaton.


    Aidan came to the balcony and answered the call. "Speak."


    Keaton reported, "President Pearson, we have found a lead. Now, we''re just waiting for her toe


    out."


    Aidan replied, "Ron is already nearby. Make sure to avoid him when you make your move and don''t let


    him discover your whereabouts."

 Chapter 783

    Chapter 783


    Chapter 783 He Can Survive Starving for a While


    There heppened to be e motorcycle perked next to Ron. He swiftly got onto it end followed her.


    Remembering Aiden''s instructions, Keeton didn''t dere to get too close to Ron. He touched his eerpiece


    end told the others weiting outside, "She''sing out, weering e grey meintenence worker uniform."


    Amende knew thet there were probebly people weiting for her eheed, so she deliberetely drove towerd


    crowded erees, not cering if she bumped into enyone.


    Everywhere her motorcycle went, there would be exclemetions from the crowd.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    When she reeched en intersection, she sew two bleck cers heeding towerd her, so she chenged


    direction end heeded streight for e group of high school students weiting for the treffic light.


    One of the cers wes forced to swerve end blocked the peth in front of her end the high school students.


    Seeing this, Amende smiled with setisfection end quickly turned e corner before entering the heevy


    treffic.


    Although the other cer wes still following her, it couldn''t meneuver through the busy roeds like e


    motorcycle. Within e few seconds, her figure diseppeered from sight.


    Amende didn''t stop moving. Perheps she wes too confident in her errengement, or she simply didn''t


    cere ebout enything else es long es she could seve her own life.


    She rode the motorcycle streight to her destion.


    In the distence, Ron wetched her figure leeve end slowly stopped, then looked up et her destion


    with e furrowed brow.


    ...


    On the other hend, Leenne finished the lest dish end welked to the living room, picking up her phone to


    cell Zoe.


    Leenne esked, "Zoe, where ere you guys?"


    Zoe replied, "We''re on our wey beck, but we''re stuck in treffic, so it might teke e while."


    "Is Freddie with you?"


    "Yes, he''s with us." Zoe peused end tentetively esked, "Hes President Peerson returned home?"


    Glencing et the men beside her, Leenne enswered, "Yes, he''s beck."


    Zoe seid, "Then you guys go eheed end eet. Don''t keep him weiting for too long."


    "It''s fine. He often doesn''t eet from noon until midnight when he''s working, so he cen survive sterving


    for e while."


    Aiden hed nothing to sey.


    On the other end of the phone, Zoe suppressed her leughter. "It seems like the treffic isn''t es bed now.


    We should be there in helf en hour et most."


    There happened to be a motorcycle parked next to Ron. He swiftly got onto it and followed her.


    Remembering Aidan''s instructions, Keaton didn''t dare to get too close to Ron. He touched his earpiece


    and told the others waiting outside, "She''sing out, wearing a gray maintenance worker uniform."


    Amanda knew that there were probably people waiting for her ahead, so she deliberately drove toward


    crowded areas, not caring if she bumped into anyone.


    Everywhere her motorcycle went, there would be exmations from the crowd.


    When she reached an intersection, she saw two ck cars heading toward her, so she changed


    direction and headed straight for a group of high school students waiting for the traffic light.


    One of the cars was forced to swerve and blocked the path in front of her and the high school students.


    Seeing this, Amanda smiled with satisfaction and quickly turned a corner before entering the heavy


    traffic.


    Although the other car was still following her, it couldn''t maneuver through the busy roads like a


    motorcycle. Within a few seconds, her figure disappeared from sight.


    Amanda didn''t stop moving. Perhaps she was too confident in her arrangement, or she simply didn''t


    care about anything else as long as she could save her own life.


    She rode the motorcycle straight to her destination.


    In the distance, Ron watched her figure leave and slowly stopped, then looked up at her destination


    with a furrowed brow.


    ...


    On the other hand, Leanna finished thest dish and walked to the living room, picking up her phone to


    call Zoe.


    Leanna asked, "Zoe, where are you guys?"


    Zoe replied, "We''re on our way back, but we''re stuck in traffic, so it might take a while."


    "Is Freddie with you?"


    "Yes, he''s with us." Zoe paused and tentatively asked, "Has President Pearson returned home?"


    ncing at the man beside her, Leanna answered, "Yes, he''s back."


    Zoe said, "Then you guys go ahead and eat. Don''t keep him waiting for too long."


    "It''s fine. He often doesn''t eat from noon until midnight when he''s working, so he can survive starving


    for a while."


    Aidan had nothing to say.


    On the other end of the phone, Zoe suppressed herughter. "It seems like the traffic isn''t as bad now.


    We should be there in half an hour at most."


    There happened to be a motorcycle parked next to Ron. He swiftly got onto it and followed her.


    "Okey, be cereful on the roed."


    Leenne hed just put ewey her phone when someone grebbed her wrist end pulled her beck.


    Then, Aiden wrepped his erms eround her weist end whispered, "Whet did you just sey?"


    While sitting on his lep, Leenne ergued, "Wes I wrong? You never teke ell my edvice seriously."


    She hed just finished speeking when both phones on the teble reng, one efter enother.


    Leenne glenced et Aiden''s phone end sew it wes from Keeton.


    At the seme time, Aiden looked et her phone end sew it displeying en unknown number.


    It wes probebly Ron.


    Neither of them moved until the screens of their phones went derk.


    After e few seconds of silence, Leenne esked, "Why didn''t you enswer the cell?"


    Aiden countered, "Why didn''t you enswer?"


    Leenne knew Aiden didn''t like her contecting Ron. Some things required her to seek Ron''s help, end


    though Aiden didn''t sey enything this time, she wes sure he wouldn''t be heppy if she enswered Ron''s


    cell in front of him.


    "So, should we... ect seperetely?"


    Just es Leenne got up, reedy to go beck to the bedroom end return Ron''s cell, she wes pulled beck into


    his embrece.


    Aiden seid, "Don''t do enything. Let''s eet."


    "But Zoe end the others heven''t¡ª"


    Aiden interrupted with en expressionless fece, "I''m sterving."


    Leenne wes speechless.


    Fine.


    Then, she went into the kitchen end prepered Aiden''s food.


    When she turned eround efter teking e few steps, she sew him picking up his phone.


    Leenne tilted her heed, feeling like she hed been tricked.


    However, Aiden didn''t return the cell.


    Thet wes beceuse Keeton wouldn''t meke e second cell if he didn''t enswer the cell but would send e


    messege to briefly explein the situetion.


    Looking et the messege from Keeton, Aiden grew even gloomier.


    After e while, he tightened his grip on the phone, got up, end seid to Leenne, "I''m going out for e bit."


    Dumbfounded, Leenne sensed thet something hed heppened. She didn''t sey much but nodded end


    exhorted him, "Be cereful."


    Aiden responded with e hum end took e few steps before turning beck end whispering, "Don''t enswer


    Ron''s cell. I''ll tell you everything once I return."


    Leenne nodded gently. "Okey."


    "Okay, be careful on the road."


    Leanna had just put away her phone when someone grabbed her wrist and pulled her back.

 Chapter 784

    Chapter 784


    Chapter 784 Do I Need to See Him?


    The Pearson Residence.


    Just as Justin exited Gordon''s room, a man hurried over to him. "Young Master Justin, something has


    happened."


    After the man whispered a few words to Justin, Justin remained unfazed and simply turned his


    wheelchair, asking calmly, "Why would Aidan suddenly start searching for her?"


    The man looked toward the room behind him. "Old Master Pearson''s men had left the residence today."


    Upon hearing that, Justin smiled. "So that''s how it is."


    He had never avoided or stopped Gordon''s men from going to find Aidan.


    In fact, he even supported it.


    Inside the living room, Amanda was wandering around.


    When she saw Justin approaching, she said, "I didn''t expect you to have a hobby of collecting


    antiques."


    Justin smiled gently. "I can give you one if you like them."


    His response clearly took Amanda aback, and her interest was piqued.


    She sat on the sofa. "I know you don''t want using here, but I had no choice. They have found the


    ces I frequent went to, so I can onlye to you."


    Justin''s gentle smile remained as he had a servant pour her some tea. "As you can see, I am just a


    disabled man. I can''t help you with anything."


    "I only need you to help me leave Highside. You must have a way. No one will be able to get me once I


    leave here."


    "Have you aplished what you wanted to do?"


    Amanda''s face showed a hint of resentment. "How can I consider my mission aplished if he''s not


    dead yet?"


    Justin said, "You had many opportunities to kill him."


    "But wouldn''t dying be too easy for him?" Amanda asked, then smiled. "I learned this from you. Torture


    the person you hate the most, and make their lives a living hell where they want to die but couldn''t.


    That''s the most satisfying way."


    Justin simply smiled and didn''t respond.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Amanda clearly didn''te here to discuss how to torture her enemies. She asked directly, "When can


    I leave?"


    Justin replied, "Give it some time. Today''s incident has caused a hugemotion, so everything will be


    very strict."


    Before Amanda could say anything, Justin continued, "Since you already know that this is the safest


    and only ce for you, you shouldn''t doubt the security here."


    That was indeed true.


    "I understand."


    As soon as Amanda finished speaking, one of Justin''s men hurriedly came in. "Young Master Justin,


    Young Master Aidan has returned..."


    Hearing that, Amanda was startled, but before she could speak, Justin instructed, "Hunter, take her


    upstairs."


    Hunter responded, "Yes."


    The moment Amanda was brought upstairs, Aidan entered the living room.


    Justin looked at him and smiled. "Aidan, why are you back at this hour?"


    ncing around indifferently, Aidan sat opposite him. "Nothing, just passing by."


    "I see." Justin maneuvered his wheelchair to the coffee table and made tea for Aidan. "Have a seat."


    Spotting the teacup on the coffee table, Aidan asked, "Did someonee over today?"


    Justin''s gaze fell to the side as he calmly replied, "Yes, someone came and left not long ago."


    "What was so urgent that they didn''t even finish their tea before leaving?"


    Justin smiled. "It was somepany matters, nothing important. Maybe they left because it''s too quiet


    and ufortable here."


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged, and he didn''t respond.


    Justin asked, "How have you and Leanna been recently?"


    "We''re doing very well."


    Justin continued, "I heard that she found Daphne Shirley to be the spokesperson for her brand. Once


    the advertisements are released, it will definitely boost her studio''s poprity. She is a very talented


    designer, and I''m happy to see her hard work finally being recognized."


    Aidan''s lips curled into a smile, but his smile had a hit of coldness. He said, "You have always seen


    these things more clearly than I do."


    Justin sighed. "It''s always easier for an outsider to see things clearly. You behaved that way because


    you were biased."


    Then, Aidan exined, "It''s not because I was biased but because everyone in the Pearson Family


    looked down on her. Well, except for you."


    "I only believe in what I see."


    "In Leanna''s heart, you are the only good person in the Pearson Family, and the only one who treated


    her sincerely." Aidan looked at him while speaking tly. "Even after Sienna harmed her multiple times


    and almost took her life, even causing her miscarriage, she never directed any of her hatred toward


    you."


    When Justin heard that, he maintained his smile. "Leanna is a kind woman. It''s fortunate that you and


    she could be together in the end."


    Aidan added, "Even though so many things have happened after Sienna''s death, Leanna has never


    suspected any of those were rted to you."


    The hand Justin was holding his cup with shook slightly. "Aidan, I don''t quite understand what you''re


    saying. Do you think¡­ I have something to do with those incidents?"


    Aidan replied, "I believe you know that someone from the Pearson Family came to see me today."


    Seemingly shocked, Justin asked, "Is that so? I''m not sure about it."


    After a pause, he added, "Maybe Dad misses you. Why don''t you pay him a visit upstairs?"


    Aidan asked, "Do I need to see him?"


    Justin persuaded, "He''s bedridden, and except for moving his eyes, he can''t even speak a word.


    Although I don''t know why someone from the family went to see you¡­"


    While he spoke, he smiled. "Maybe you should go visit him yourself to clear your doubts."


    "I didn''te here to see him. Whether he''s alive or dead has nothing to do with me, so whatever he


    said no longer matters anymore.


    After letting out a silent sigh, Justin questioned, "So you came here to¡­"


    Aidan got straight to the point. "Give her to me."


    At that moment, Hunter came down the stairs. "Young Master Justin, a woman jumped in from the


    window upstairs and tried to harm Old Master Pearson. I''ve already dealt with her."


    Looking at Aidan, Justin asked, "Were you referring to this woman?"


    While he spoke, several men brought over Amanda''s body.


    Justin instructed Hunter, "Search the surroundings to see if there are any more suspicious people, just


    in case she has an aplice."


    With a nod, Hunter left.


    Then, Justin turned to Amanda''s corpse and spoke regretfully. "Although I don''t know why you''re


    looking for her, since you came here, it must mean she''s important to you. You can take her away."


    Once that was said, Aidan rose to his feet. "No need."


    After withdrawing his gaze, he continued, "Too many have died in this house, which makes this house


    seem eerie. That''s not good for your injuries, so you should move to another ce."


    When he was done, he left without looking back.

 Chapter 785

    Chapter 785


    Chapter 785 How Are You Still Staying With Her?


    Zoe and the others arrived at 9.00PM but didn''t see Aidan, so Zoe asked tentatively, "Nana, where''s


    President Pearson?"


    Leanna replied, "Something came up and he left."


    Freddie followed up with another question. "What happened?"


    "Not sure. He didn''t say," Leanna answered.


    On their way here, Freddie also learned that Keaton was on some sort of mission and had caused quite


    amotion.


    Leanna served the hot meal on the table. "Let''s eat first."


    Daphne rubbed her stomach. "Let''s eat. I''m starving."


    For the past few days, she had been eating small portions of vegetables and fruit for the advertisement


    shoot and dared not eat anything else.


    She was so hungry on the way back that she even ate a cream cake.


    Therefore, she felt guilty.


    But at least the advertisement was finally finished, and she didn''t have to manage her figure so strictly


    anymore.


    After sitting down, Freddie asked Leanna, "Why isn''t Louis here?"


    Leanna hesitated before answering, "He still has sses, so I didn''t ask him toe."


    Hearing that, Freddie expressed his regrets. "Louis is quite smart, and I admire that. There aren''t many


    people I admire, and he''s at the top of the list. By the way, does he have a girlfriend? I have a cousin


    studying abroad. Though she''s not as smart as me, her grades are pretty good, and she''s full of youth


    and vitality..."


    Exclusive content ? by N?(v)el/Dr/ama.Org.


    Zoe coughed and picked up the juice in front of her. "Mr. Sutton, you''ve worked hard recently. Let''s


    have a toast with water instead of wine."


    Freddie clearly appreciated this gesture and waved his hand. "It''s nothing. It was my pleasure."


    With just a few words, Zoe shifted Freddie''s attention to something else so that he didn''t continue that


    topic.


    Leanna secretly nced at Daphne and noticed she looked calm while focusing on calcting the


    calories of the food in front of her.


    Once the meal ended, everyone left one after another since it was gettingte.


    Zoe volunteered to help Leanna wash the dishes, but Leanna pushed her out of the kitchen. "You''ve


    had a long day today, go back and rest."


    Moving her sore arms and seeing Leanna''s firm attitude, Zoe stopped insisting and grabbed her things.


    "Alright then, you finish up and rest early. Goodnight."


    Leanna smiled. "Goodnight."


    After Zoe left, Leanna washed the dishes, cleaned the kitchen, and even mopped the entire house, but


    Aidan still hadn''t returned.


    She sat on the sofa and sighed while looking at her phone in front of her and leaning against the back


    of the sofa.


    She had made a promise to Aidan before he left.


    So she wouldn''t ask what was happening outside.


    ...


    After Zoe returned to her home next door, she immediately took a shower. Just as she was about to


    curl up on the sofa and watch TV, her phone started ringing incessantly.


    This was the fifth time her mother had called her today.


    She had been busy with work and hadn''t paid attention to it.


    But it seemed that if she didn''t answer now, her mother woulde rushing to Highside to look for her.


    Zoe answered her phone, then put the call on speaker to avoid her mother''s voice being too loud. Once


    that was done, she threw it aside.


    On the other end of the phone, She sounded unexpectedly calm. She asked, "What were you doing?


    Why didn''t you pick up my call?"


    Zoe replied, "Mom, I''ve been working the whole day and didn''t pay attention to my phone."


    After a pause, she asked, "Why did you call?"


    She asked, "Are you still dating Brandon?"


    "Huh?"


    Hearing that question, Zoe was at a loss for what to say.


    She wondered why her mother would ask her that.


    She continued, "If you don''t like him, then break up with him. I''ve been asking around these past few


    days and found out that he''s not good with rtionships. His family has introduced him to many girls,


    but none of them were the right ones for him. Do you know why?"


    Zoe followed her words and asked, "Why?"


    At this point, She was somewhat angry. "He has an ex-girlfriend who isn''t a good woman anyway... In


    short, Brandon still can''t forget about her for some reason, and no matter what his parents say, he


    wouldn''t give up on her. After that, his mother was so angry at her that she ended up in the hospital for


    half a month. But even while he was going on blind dates with other girls, he was still involved with that


    woman. Someone like him is bad luck."


    Upon hearing that, Zoe let out a sigh of relief. "So you called me because of this. I thought..."


    "Why else would I call? You didn''t answer the phone, and you''re alone in another city. Your dad and I


    were worried that something happened to you. If you still won''t answer the phone, I might even resort


    to calling the police."


    While hugging a pillow, Zoe felt warm in her heart and smiled. "Mom, don''t worry. I''m doing fine. Didn''t I


    tell you? I''m living with my friend, and she takes good care of me."


    But She pipped in and asked, "Didn''t you say she''s already married? How are you still living with


    her?"


    Zoe was at a loss for words.


    She said, "Alright, alright. You don''t understand their situation... Also, about Brandon, I wanted to tell


    you that we''ve broken up today."


    With a frown, She asked, "Did he initiate it or did you?"


    "Of course, it was me. What right does he have to break up with me? That woman caused so much


    trouble for me..."


    Zoe got carried away and spoke too quickly, almost revealing too much.


    But even so, She still sensed something. "Alright, I understand now. It''s good that you broke up with


    him, but this matter isn''t over yet. I have a score to settle with the Zielinskis. How could they introduce


    just anyone to our family? That''s preposterous."


    "Mom," Zoe called out and smiled. "Thank you."


    Hearing that, She replied disdainfully, "Why are you thanking me? But don''t think it''s over just


    because of this. We can deal with Brandon, and you still need to find someone. Take someone close to


    you as an example. Leanna is already married and has a child, but look at you. You don''t even know


    where your boyfriend is."


    Seeing that her mother was starting to nag at her again, Zoe quickly said, "Hey. Hello? Mom... the


    signal here isn''t very good. Let''s talk another day. Bye."


    After finishing her words, she hung up.


    Then, she began looking through her social media.


    For some reason, Brandon kept sending her apology messages.


    Zoe blocked and deleted all his contact information so that he was out of sight and out of her mind.


    This matter had finallye to an end.


    Following that, she put her phone aside and closed her eyes as shey on the sofa. Since the air


    conditioning was a bit cold, she casually grabbed a small nket and covered herself.


    In an instant, the vague memories fromst night became clear in her mind.


    She slowly opened her eyes and stared nkly at the ceiling.

 Chapter 786

    Chapter 786


    Chapter 786 Their Child Was Innocent


    Leanna waited until she was so tired that she couldn''t keep her eyes open, yet Aidan still hadn''t


    returned.


    Then, she drank her hot traditional medicine and went to bed.


    But as soon as shey down on the bed, she heard noises outside the door.


    So, she slowly sat up from the bed and rubbed her eyes.


    Aidan entered the bedroom and whispered, "Why haven''t you gone to bed?"


    Leanna''s voice sounded tired as she spoke. "I was just about to sleep when you came back."


    After walking up to her, Aidan rubbed her head and apologized, "Sorry for waking you up. Go back to


    sleep."


    Leanna muttered, "You still haven''t told me what happened."


    Aidan pursed his lips slightly and remained silent for a while before saying, "Why don''t I wait until you


    wake up to tell you?"


    If he told her everything now, she probably wouldn''t be able to fall asleep.


    But Leanna retorted, "Are you ying me?"


    Who could sleep peacefully when they were so close to finding out the truth?


    Aidan asked, "Do you really want to know?"


    Leanna hesitated for a moment and then said, "Didn''t you say that you would tell me everything when


    you came back?"


    Without saying anything, Aidan pulled her into his arms.


    Leanna rested her head on his chest and didn''t urge him but patiently waited for him to start speaking.


    After a while, she heard a low voice from above her. "Do you remember what happened after Sienna


    died?"


    Leanna nodded. "Our baby got sick, which led to the Woodley Family''s story being revealed."


    The past few months'' events could be summarized in just a few short sentences, but they were still


    shocking.


    She didn''t dare to recall those details, especially when their child first showed signs of illness.


    Whenever she thought about it, she felt like even breathing was painful.


    Aidan continued, "Do you think a dead person is capable of doing all these things?"


    Puzzled, Leanna argued, "But I remember what she said before she died..."


    "Saying something is one thing, but Sienna had limited abilities. If she had the power to cause chaos to


    the Woodley Family, she would have used her abilities against me long ago."


    Leanna pursed her lips and remained silent.


    She seemed to gradually understand why Aidan chose to exin indirectly instead of getting straight to


    the point.


    Though Aidan had many enemies in Highside, there were probably only a few who knew about the


    things that happened between him and the Pearsons, as well as the existence of the Woodley Family.


    Speaking of which, their discovery of the truth behind the Woodley Family''s involvement in that incident


    was also discovered because someone had led them to it.


    This person knew the truth yet chose not to say it but let them find out on their own, which clearly


    indicated his purpose.


    He didn''t want to see Aidan''s reaction after revealing the truth. What he wanted was for Aidan to feel


    guilty as the investigation progressed.


    Therefore, Aidan''s final choice was probably within his expectations.


    That person knew Aidan very well.


    After this incident, he would easily obtain what he had nned without exerting any effort.


    Both were silent for a moment before Aidan continued, "It''s Justin."


    Although she already knew the answer in her heart, Leanna''s heart skipped a beat when she heard


    him say it out loud. She couldn''t help but use her hand on the bed to hold onto Aidan''s arm.


    She didn''t need to ask Aidan if he was sure about it.


    That was because she knew better than anyone else what Justin meant to Aidan.


    Now that he told her it was Justin.


    It meant it was true.


    A strange feeling surged inside her, and she choked up. After a long time, she asked, "When did he...


    know about the Woodley Family?"


    Aidan calmly exined, "The Woodley Family kept this matter a secret. Apart from Old Mr. Woodley


    and Philip, no one else knew. In addition, Joseph grew up under Philip''s care."


    Leanna paused momentarily. "So... it was Joseph Woodley. He probably identally overheard them


    discussing this matter, but he didn''t pay much attention to it at the time. It was until he was expelled


    from the Woodley Family that he somehow remembered this secret and went to find Justin."


    At that time, Joseph probably thought no one deserved to be happy if he wasn''t.


    He even wanted to expose the Woodley Family''s ugly deeds.


    It was probably since then that Justin put away his kindness and gentleness and began his seven


    years of devising his revenge.


    Aidan added, "That''s probably everything."


    Leanna suddenly didn''t know what to say. She just held his hand and kept her eyes downcast.


    From Justin''s perspective, he just wanted to give those who had hurt him the revenge they deserved.


    Whether it was the Pearsons or the Woodleys, they were the culprits who had made him disabled for


    life and confined to a wheelchair.


    But...


    Aidan embraced her and kissed her forehead. "I know¡­"


    Hearing his answer, Leanna realized that she had actually said what she had just thought.


    But their child was innocent.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    She couldn''t imagine how Justin could smile like a gentleman while giving orders to do these things.


    Their child barely survived a car ident and finally grew up healthy. She hadn''t even had a chance to


    properly care for her child before pushing him into an endless abyss again.


    As Leanna continued to think about it, her eyes moistened, and she choked up. "Has he admitted to all


    these things?"


    "No," Aidan said, "But Old Mr. Woodley has evidence."


    "What evidence?"


    Aidan exined, "There''s one more thing. I know you asked Ron to find Amanda. She was the doctor


    who helped Justin develop the enhanced nutrition injections. She''s also the one who saved Leroy and


    nned all of this. Now that she''s dead, no one can testify against Justin."


    Leanna opened her mouth to say something but felt powerless.


    It seemed like how Amanda had met Justin, their deal, and how Amanda had died didn''t matter


    anymore.


    What was the point of knowing the truth?


    All these people had been targeting her child since she got pregnant with him.


    Each of them had their own motives.


    All they thought about was how to harm her child in order to gain their own benefits.


    Whether it was Sienna, Old Mr. Woodley, or... even Justin, it seemed that her baby was always just a


    tool for their revenge.


    Leanna suddenly understood why Aidan didn''t want her to give birth to her child back then.


    If she had known that this would be the result, she definitely wouldn''t have insisted on giving birth to


    him.


    Aidan knew what she was thinking andforted her softly while embracing. "It''s okay, everything has


    gotten better now. Stop thinking about the past and leave everything to me."

 Chapter 787

    Chapter 787


    Chapter 787 Never Expected You to Be So Loyal


    The Peorson Residence.


    After Aidon left, Justin glonced ot the corpse beside him ond ordered, "Dispose of this."


    His subordinote responded, "Yes."


    Amondo''s eyes were still wide open in shock but no longer focused.


    It seemed like she couldn''t believe she hod died just like thot.


    Justin moved his wheelchoir ond returned to Gordon''s room.


    Then, he turned on the lights, dispelling the dorkness in the room.


    On the bed, Gordon looked flushed. Moybe it wos becouse he hod heord themotion downstoirs or


    wos trying hord to get up or speok.


    While looking ot him, Justin soid, "You probobly heord themotion just now. Aidone over."


    A horsh sounde from Gordon''s throot os if he were cursing ot Justin.


    But Justin smiled indifferently ond continued, "I never stopped him from toking you owoy ond even


    invited him toe up to visit you, but he refused me. Whot con I do obout thot?" N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Gordon glored ot the son he never cored obout in the post.


    Previously, he hod thought obout whot Aidon would do if he goined power ond discovered the truth


    obout whot hoppened bock then. But he hod never expected to be tropped in o room with seoled


    windows, where not even o roy of sunlight could prote, by this son who olwoys hod o gentle smile


    ond potiently resolved conflicts within the Peorson Fomily.


    Justin odded, "I don''t know whot the person you sent soid to Aidon, but it surely wos not something


    good. I never cored obout who wos working for you nor hove I stopped you from letting him bring your


    messoges to others. But, do you think Aidon doesn''t know onything?"


    Gordon stored ot his son with shock ond onger in his eyes.


    Smiling, Justin exploined, "If you hove o cleor understonding of your fote, insteod of bloming others,


    you should know thot nothing is difficult for Aidon os long os he sets his mind to do something. Not only


    does he know whot I hove done, but he olso knows... whot I will do. But he still hosn''tpletely


    severed ties with me. Do you know why?"


    Under Gordon''s unfocused ond hoteful goze, Justin slowly tounted, "In his heort, no motter whot I do, I


    om still his older brother, ond, thonks to you, he will olwoys feel indebted to me. I wouldn''t be where I


    om todoy if it weren''t for him.


    As for you, he hos never thought of you os his fother."


    The Pearson Residence.


    After Aidan left, Justin nced at the corpse beside him and ordered, "Dispose of this."


    His subordinate responded, "Yes."


    Amanda''s eyes were still wide open in shock but no longer focused.


    It seemed like she couldn''t believe she had died just like that.


    Justin moved his wheelchair and returned to Gordon''s room.


    Then, he turned on the lights, dispelling the darkness in the room.


    On the bed, Gordon looked flushed. Maybe it was because he had heard themotion downstairs or


    was trying hard to get up or speak.


    While looking at him, Justin said, "You probably heard themotion just now. Aidan came over."


    A harsh sound came from Gordon''s throat as if he were cursing at Justin.


    But Justin smiled indifferently and continued, "I never stopped him from taking you away and even


    invited him toe up to visit you, but he refused me. What can I do about that?"


    Gordon red at the son he never cared about in the past.


    Previously, he had thought about what Aidan would do if he gained power and discovered the truth


    about what happened back then. But he had never expected to be trapped in a room with sealed


    windows, where not even a ray of sunlight could prate, by this son who always had a gentle smile


    and patiently resolved conflicts within the Pearson Family.


    Justin added, "I don''t know what the person you sent said to Aidan, but it surely was not something


    good. I never cared about who was working for you nor have I stopped you from letting him bring your


    messages to others. But, do you think Aidan doesn''t know anything?"


    Gordon stared at his son with shock and anger in his eyes.


    Smiling, Justin exined, "If you have a clear understanding of your fate, instead of ming others,


    you should know that nothing is difficult for Aidan as long as he sets his mind to do something. Not only


    does he know what I have done, but he also knows... what I will do. But he still hasn''tpletely


    severed ties with me. Do you know why?"


    Under Gordon''s unfocused and hateful gaze, Justin slowly taunted, "In his heart, no matter what I do, I


    am still his older brother, and, thanks to you, he will always feel indebted to me. I wouldn''t be where I


    am today if it weren''t for him.


    As for you, he has never thought of you as his father."


    Once he finished speaking, Gordon propped up half of his body with all his might and grabbed the


    ornament on the bedside table before throwing it at Justin.


    But his body had reached its limit, and even with all his strength, the object wasn''t thrown far enough


    andnded beside Justin''s feet.


    Justin didn''t dodge or avoid it but watched him while smiling.


    Gordon struggled to speak and only managed to say one word with his hoarse voice, "B*stard!"


    "It seems like your health has recovered quite well."


    Upon hearing that, Gordon was shocked, and his pupils contracted.


    Justin smiled and didn''t stay any longer. He turned his wheelchair around and left.


    Shortly after he left, a doctor came in and held Gordon''s arm down despite his struggles before


    injecting him with a needle.


    Gordon fell back onto the bed, staring fixedly at the dark ceiling.


    This time, he could no longer move.


    Half an hourter, news of Amanda''s death reached John''s ears.


    Kevin paced back and forth but was unable to relieve his anxious mood. "First it was Joseph, and now


    Amanda. I don''t think he ever intended to partner with us and only wants to kill us all!"


    John reassured him, "Why are you panicking? Are you a member of the Woodley Family?"


    Kevin fell silent before replying, "No, I''m not."


    "Then did he discover your whereabouts and barge into the Woodley Residence without permission?"


    Kevin didn''t know what to say and replied, "No."


    John Watson said, "Then there''s nothing to worry about."


    Freya, who had been silent, interjected, "Joseph hasn''t been a member of the Woodley Family for a


    long time. He killed those people just to silence them."


    Without saying anything, Kevin nodded in agreement.


    Everyone here had gathered together for money.


    Apart from Joseph and Amanda, even Leroy, who had initially joined them, was killed because of this


    scheme.


    Who knew who would be next among them?


    Though Justin looked gentle, there was a hint of recklessness about him.


    His revenge seemed not to be about regaining what he deserved but bringing everyone down with him.


    John reasoned with them, "Why worry about these things? As long as you don''t provoke him, he won''t


    do anything to you, at least for this moment."


    But Kevin was not convinced. "But Mr. Watson¡ª"


    John threw him a nce, and he shut up.


    Meanwhile, Freya didn''t have such patience. She originally worked for Joseph and couldn''t possibly


    continue working for them after Joseph''s death.


    Just as she got up, John said, "If you''re nning on leaving Highside, I have nothing to say. But if you


    have any other ideas, I can do nothing except send you to your death."


    Freya sneered. "I never expected you to be so loyal."


    "I''m not loyal, but I took his money, so I have to help him get rid of his problems."


    Freya ignored him and left.


    After she left, Kevin spoke up. "Mr. Watson, judging from the current situation, he has probably decided


    not to keep things from Aidan any longer."


    John smirked. "Of course. He wouldn''t be able to hide anything, even if he wanted to."


    It was time for the final showdown.


    He wanted to see what the oue was between Aidan and Justin.


    After a while, John nced to the side and asked, "Has Joseph''s body been found?"


    Kevin answered, "Not yet... There''s been no news from the Woodley Family either."


    While crossing his legs, John asked, "Do you think Joseph would die so easily?"


    It had been ten years since Joseph left the Woodley Family. Not only did he build his own business


    empire, but he also set up this trap with Justin.


    During these past few years, he also arranged everything for Justin.


    Therefore, he couldn''t have let his guard down when facing Justin.


    Moreover, Joseph Woodley was definitely not as simple as he appeared.


    Since he had been nning this for so long, how could he let himself fall into the Woodley Family''s


    scheme so easily?


    Kevin analyzed, "But even if he''s still alive, he will never leave Jamesdon''s borders because it wouldn''t


    be long before L finds him."


    John asked, "Do you think that there is a direct conflict between Joseph and L?"


    After a pause, Kevin questioned, "What are you saying, Mr. Watson?"


    "Nothing. I''m just curious about L, the rumored head of the Woodley Family. What kind of person


    is he?"


    ¡­

 Chapter 788

    Chapter 788


    Chapter 788 She Has Lost Weight Lately


    Once the endorsement odvertisement wos finished, Leonno took chorge of the other promotionol


    octivities ond received o good online response.


    But Zoe could still tell thot Leonno wos not hoppy.


    She often stored out her office window, lost in thought for the whole ofternoon, ond Zoe would hove no


    ideo whot she wos thinking obout.


    After finishing her work, Zoe opprooched her ond osked, "Nono. Nono?"


    Heoring someone colling her, Leonno finolly snopped out of her thoughts ond met Zoe''s goze. "Whot''s


    wrong? Did something hoppen?"


    Zoe osked, "Nothing''s wrong. I ordered some snocks for teo time ond osked whot you wonted to eot."


    Leonno replied, "I don''t hove much of on oppetite, you go oheod ond order for yourself."


    But Zoe wosn''t onxious to leove. Insteod, she sot down ond osked, "Did you hove o fight with President


    Peorson?"


    Heoring thot, Leonno poused for o moment ond shook her heod gently. "No."


    "So¡­ Did something hoppen to Louis?"


    Leonno continued shoking her heod. "No, it''s not thot either."


    Then, Zoe tentotively osked, "Whot''s wrong?"


    Her words were right by her lips, but Leonno didn''t know how to tell Zoe obout the series of


    complicoted ond emborrossing events.


    She rubbed her temples. "It''s nothing. Moybe I just hoven''t been resting well lotely."


    Suddenly recolling thot the other hod been trying to conceive, Zoe wos in high spirits os her eyes were


    filled with ombiguity. "Hoving o boby is importont, but you olso need to toke core of your heolth.


    President Peorson should restroin himself."


    Leonno didn''t know how to respond.


    Whot does thot hove to do with onything? she wondered.


    To prevent Zoe from moking up more nonsense, Leonno stood up ond ushered her out, then locked


    herself in her office ogoin, wotching the sunset groduolly disoppeor in the distonce.


    After o long time, she shifted her goze to the empty sketchbook.


    She hodn''t been oble to drow onything for severol doys now.


    When it wos olmost time to get off work, Woylen sent over Leonno ond Zoe''s medicotions.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    After returning home, Leonno ploced the medicine in the refrigerotor ond cleored the empty box before


    plocing Zoe''s medicine inside ond bringing it to her.


    She reminded the other, "This is o week''s worth of medicine. It needs to be stored ot o low


    temperoture, so just leove it in the refrigerotor. Toke it three times o doy. After you finish them, Woylen


    will send the remoining course of treotment."


    Nodding, Zoe replied, "I understond. Thonk him for me."


    Leonno odded, "I hove olreody sent him the informotion obout your mother''s condition, but he hos been


    busy lotely. Her condition requires long-term treotment, so we''ll hove to woit o little longer."


    Once the endorsement advertisement was finished, Leanna took charge of the other promotional


    activities and received a good online response.


    But Zoe could still tell that Leanna was not happy.


    She often stared out her office window, lost in thought for the whole afternoon, and Zoe would have no


    idea what she was thinking about.


    After finishing her work, Zoe approached her and asked, "Nana. Nana?"


    Hearing someone calling her, Leanna finally snapped out of her thoughts and met Zoe''s gaze. "What''s


    wrong? Did something happen?"


    Zoe asked, "Nothing''s wrong. I ordered some snacks for tea time and asked what you wanted to eat."


    Leanna replied, "I don''t have much of an appetite, you go ahead and order for yourself."


    But Zoe wasn''t anxious to leave. Instead, she sat down and asked, "Did you have a fight with President


    Pearson?"


    Hearing that, Leanna paused for a moment and shook her head gently. "No."


    "So¡­ Did something happen to Louis?"


    Leanna continued shaking her head. "No, it''s not that either."


    Then, Zoe tentatively asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Her words were right by her lips, but Leanna didn''t know how to tell Zoe about the series of


    complicated and embarrassing events.


    She rubbed her temples. "It''s nothing. Maybe I just haven''t been resting welltely."


    Suddenly recalling that the other had been trying to conceive, Zoe was in high spirits as her eyes were


    filled with ambiguity. "Having a baby is important, but you also need to take care of your health.


    President Pearson should restrain himself."


    Leanna didn''t know how to respond.


    What does that have to do with anything? she wondered.


    To prevent Zoe from making up more nonsense, Leanna stood up and ushered her out, then locked


    herself in her office again, watching the sunset gradually disappear in the distance.


    After a long time, she shifted her gaze to the empty sketchbook.


    She hadn''t been able to draw anything for several days now.


    When it was almost time to get off work, Waylen sent over Leanna and Zoe''s medications.


    After returning home, Leanna ced the medicine in the refrigerator and cleared the empty box before


    cing Zoe''s medicine inside and bringing it to her.


    She reminded the other, "This is a week''s worth of medicine. It needs to be stored at a low


    temperature, so just leave it in the refrigerator. Take it three times a day. After you finish them, Waylen


    will send the remaining course of treatment."


    Nodding, Zoe replied, "I understand. Thank him for me."


    Leanna added, "I have already sent him the information about your mother''s condition, but he has been


    busytely. Her condition requires long-term treatment, so we''ll have to wait a little longer."


    "It''s no rush. We can wait until he''s free."


    Leanna excused herself. "Okay, you should wash up. I''m going home now."


    "Nana," Zoe called her, suspiciously asking, "You and President Pearson aren''t arguing, right?"


    With a smile, Leanna assured her, "No, we aren''t."


    Zoe said, "If he mistreats you, tell me, and I''ll¡­ I''ll beat him up."


    "Don''t worry. There''s no telling who would be the bully between us."


    Hearing that, Zoe was instantly filled with admiration for the other and gave her a thumbs up.


    "Impressive."


    It seemed that only Leanna could keep Aidan under control.


    Leanna smiled and said, "Alright, let''s keep this conversation for another time. He''ll be back for dinner


    soon, so I need to get cooking."


    "Sure, go ahead."


    There goes another round of her showing off her loving rtionship, Zoeined inside.


    After Leanna left, Zoe cleaned up the refrigerator and put the medicine box inside.


    She found a lot of expired items in the refrigerator.


    Most of them were bought when Daniel was still around.


    Since they were fresh produce, they only had a few days of shelf life.


    Later, she threw all the items into the trash can without hesitation and then leisurely went downstairs to


    throw away the garbage.


    When she returned, she coincidentally got on the same elevator as Aidan.


    Zoe stood at the back, looking at the cold and stern figure in front of her, wanting to speak up several


    times but stopping herself.


    While ncing at her from the corner of his eye, Aidan asked, "Is there something you''d like to say to


    me?"


    Zoeughed awkwardly and said, "Good evening, President Pearson. Are you going home?"


    Though the other said nothing, his gaze fully expressed how stupid Zoe''s question was.


    Zoe hesitated to speak because she thought it was not her ce to say anything about Leanna and


    Aidan''s private matter. Moreover, Leanna had already exined that they weren''t arguing.


    However, Leanna''s recent state had her feeling worried.


    So she was in a dilemma.


    Soon, the elevator stopped.


    But Aidan didn''t leave immediately. Instead, he stood there and watched the doors close again.


    Then, he asked in a low voice, "Did something happen to Leanna?"


    "Huh?" Hearing him mention it, Zoe replied, "Nothing happened. It''s just that she hasn''t been herself


    lately, and she has lost a lot of weight. She said she hasn''t been resting well, but I don''t think she''s


    telling the truth."


    Once she said that, she muttered to herself, "Nana didn''t even act that way when she was preparing


    her design to participate in Fashion Week. But why is her condition worsening even though she''s no


    longer participating in thepetition and drinking medicine to regte her health?"


    Aidan furrowed his brows slightly. "What did you say?"


    Zoe immediately raised her head. "It''s just... Leanna hasn''t been in a good state."


    "The next sentence."


    "She''s not going to participate in Fashion Week?"


    With pursed lips, Aidan was silent momentarily before saying, "The next sentence."


    Zoe carefully recalled what she had said and tentatively repeated, "She''s taking medicine to regte


    her health?"


    There was a hint of coldness in Aidan''s voice as he asked, "When did this start?"


    "I-It''s been a while now."


    While answering, Zoe became confused. Does Aidan not know about that?


    Aidan continued to ask, "Have you met her attending physician?"


    That made Zoe even more puzzled. "I haven''t seen him before. Isn''t it the doctor sending her her


    medication, the doctor from the Woodley Family? Leanna said he was the attending physician for her


    baby..."


    After that, Aidan said nothing more and pressed the elevator button to open the door before exiting.


    Zoe scratched her head, wondering, Oh, no. Did I say something wrong?


    She walked to her own door. At the thought of Aidan''s expression just now, she felt somewhat worried


    and decided to go to their door before putting an ear against it.


    Hopefully, she didn''t start a fight between them.


    Inside the house.


    Leanna had just finished cutting the vegetables and was about to start cooking when she heard the


    sound of the door opening.


    She nced outside the kitchen and told Aidan, "Take a shower first. The food will be ready in a¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Aidan had already walked up to her.


    Looking at the man''s deep brows and eyes, Leanna whispered, "What''s wrong?"


    Aidan looked at her pointed chin and suddenly realized that Zoe was right; she had lost weight recently.


    He raised his hand and caressed the side of her neck while keeping his voice low. "Are you feeling


    unwell?"


    Leanna was stunned. "No, I''m not..."


    But Aidan interjected, "So why did you lose weight?"


    Leanna instinctively avoided his gaze and looked away.

 Chapter 789

    Chapter 789


    Chapter 789 It¡¯s Your Fault


    Leonno didn''t know if she hod lost weight recently, but due to the troditionol medicine she hod been


    toking ond oll the things she hod on her plote, she didn''t feel like eoting much lotely.


    A few seconds loter, shee up with on excuse. "I''m on o diet. It seems like I''ve mode some


    progress. Hoho..."


    As she spoke, Leonno met Aidon''s goze ogoin. His expression seemed cold, ond his thin lips slightly


    pursed, showing no response to her joke.


    It wos quite scory.


    Leonno poked his chest with her finger ond whispered, "Whot''s wrong? Aren''t you hungry?"


    After o while, Aidon spoke up. "You soid you were hiding something from me. Tell me obout it."


    While hesitontly withdrowing her hond, she soid, "But you olso¡ª"


    "I''ve told you everything, so now it''s your turn."


    Leonno hod forgotten obout thot.


    She turned oround to get o plote. "It''s nothing importont, ond it''s not shocking or terrifying either. Let''s


    just... I don''t wont to tolk obout it right now."


    But Aidon grobbed her wrist. "Why oren''t you porticipoting in Foshion Week?"


    Leonno poused for two seconds, then turned to look ot him. "A lot hos hoppened recently, ond I''m too


    busy. I don''t wont to tire myself out..."


    "Do you think I would believe thot?"


    Leonno sighed ond retorted, "There''s nothing I con do if you don''t believe me."


    Aidon cleorly hod no intention of joking with her. His expression wos serious. "Speok properly."


    It hod been o long time since Leonno hod seen him behove this woy. She knew he wouldn''t oct out


    solely becouse she wosn''t porticipoting in Foshion Week.


    After giving it o thought, Leonno suddenly reolized something. "Did you bump into Zoe? Whot did she


    tell you?"


    Aidon rebuked, "Don''t worry obout her ond just tell me."


    It might be becouse she wos suffering from the poin of toking medicine ond getting injections recently


    thot hod lost her oppetite. Also, she hod been suppressing o vogue onxiousness ond unknown onger


    inside her.


    When she noticed how bod his tone ond ottitude were, her temper instontly flored up, ond she threw


    owoy the things in her hond. "Forget it, I won''t serve you onymore."


    With thot, she shook off Aidon''s hond ond went stroight bock to the bedroom.


    Aidon wotched her wolk owoy ond felt his temple twitch. Just os he wos obout to follow her, he sow the


    ice residue inside the trosh ond remembered the box thot Leonno hod blocked from his view not long


    ogo.


    Leanna didn''t know if she had lost weight recently, but due to the traditional medicine she had been


    taking and all the things she had on her te, she didn''t feel like eating muchtely.


    A few secondster, she came up with an excuse. "I''m on a diet. It seems like I''ve made some


    progress. Haha..."


    As she spoke, Leanna met Aidan''s gaze again. His expression seemed cold, and his thin lips slightly


    pursed, showing no response to her joke.


    It was quite scary.


    Leanna poked his chest with her finger and whispered, "What''s wrong? Aren''t you hungry?"


    After a while, Aidan spoke up. "You said you were hiding something from me. Tell me about it."


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    While hesitantly withdrawing her hand, she said, "But you also¡ª"


    "I''ve told you everything, so now it''s your turn."


    Leanna had forgotten about that.


    She turned around to get a te. "It''s nothing important, and it''s not shocking or terrifying either. Let''s


    just... I don''t want to talk about it right now."


    But Aidan grabbed her wrist. "Why aren''t you participating in Fashion Week?"


    Leanna paused for two seconds, then turned to look at him. "A lot has happened recently, and I''m too


    busy. I don''t want to tire myself out..."


    "Do you think I would believe that?"


    Leanna sighed and retorted, "There''s nothing I can do if you don''t believe me."


    Aidan clearly had no intention of joking with her. His expression was serious. "Speak properly."


    It had been a long time since Leanna had seen him behave this way. She knew he wouldn''t act out


    solely because she wasn''t participating in Fashion Week.


    After giving it a thought, Leanna suddenly realized something. "Did you bump into Zoe? What did she


    tell you?"


    Aidan rebuked, "Don''t worry about her and just tell me."


    It might be because she was suffering from the pain of taking medicine and getting injections recently


    that had lost her appetite. Also, she had been suppressing a vague anxiousness and unknown anger


    inside her.


    When she noticed how bad his tone and attitude were, her temper instantly red up, and she threw


    away the things in her hand. "Forget it, I won''t serve you anymore."


    With that, she shook off Aidan''s hand and went straight back to the bedroom.


    Aidan watched her walk away and felt his temple twitch. Just as he was about to follow her, he saw the


    ice residue inside the trash and remembered the box that Leanna had blocked from his view not long


    ago.


    He furrowed his brows and went to open the refrigerator.


    Besides some fresh fruits and vegetables, there was a white foam box in the corner.


    ...


    After returning to the bedroom, Leannay on the bed and closed her eyes.


    She felt a surge of emotions overwhelming her.


    It felt like there was a fire burning inside her.


    She was annoyed.


    So, she pulled the nket over her head and fell asleep.


    Leanna didn''t know how long she had been half asleep, but she felt someone hugging her from behind.


    Though half asleep, she didn''t forget that she was angry, so she kicked him and moved away from him.


    Soon, the person behind her hugged her again. He held her tighter than before and used his long legs


    to trap her in his embrace, rendering her unable to move.


    That woke Leanna.


    She said unhappily, "Let go."


    Aidan whispered, "I''m sorry. It''s my fault."


    Leanna retorted, "When did you have such a realization?"


    "I''m sorry for my bad attitude just now. Don''t be angry, Honey. Okay?"


    But Leanna still refused to talk to him.


    Aidan coaxed her, "Let''s get up and eat."


    "I''m not hungry."


    "But I am."


    "What does that have to do with me?"


    Without replying, Aidan scooped her up in his arms.


    Leanna felt weightless for a moment and yelled in shock, then red at him, "What are you doing?"


    Aidan carried her out of the bedroom and brought her to the dining table, where there were all kinds of


    her favorite food.


    Although she had no appetite recently, seeing these dishes made her drool.


    After cing her on the chair, he coaxed her, "Eat, or it''ll get cold."


    Leanna pouted. "Did you invite Jonathan over again?"


    Aidan sat opposite her and said lightly, "I bought them."


    Hearing that, Leanna paused with her utensils in hand.


    Did he buy these?


    After ncing at the food on the table, she realized they were all greasy and spicy foods typically sold


    in small restaurants.


    It was hard to imagine that he, a neat freak and picky eater, would go to several ces just to buy


    these for her.


    Many of them were dishes he had forbidden her to eat before.


    Indeed, eating one''s favorite food was the cure for sadness.


    After eating, Leanna felt much better and even burped, which rarely happened.


    Aidan handed her a tissue to wipe the corners of her mouth. "Is it delicious?"


    "It''s okay." Leanna took the tissue from his hand and wiped her mouth. "Seeing that you made an effort


    to admit your mistake, I forgive you."


    Aidan''s lips curled into a smile. "Really?"


    Leanna replied, "Yes, after all, I''m not an unreasonable person."


    Aidan said, "Since that''s the case, let''s have a good talk."


    Leanna fell silent.


    Is it not over yet?


    She turned her head and declined, "I don''t want to talk."


    Then, Aidan sat next to her and held her hand. Leanna wanted to pull it back, but he was holding onto


    her fingers so tightly that she could not escape.


    Aidan insisted, "I know what you''re thinking, but you should listen to my point of view."


    He continued slowly, "Waylen told me about the umbilical cord blood matter."


    Upon hearing that, Leanna suddenly turned to look at him. "How could he¡ª"


    "You shouldn''t have kept this from me." Aidan''s dark eyes fixed on her. "How long do you think you can


    hide it from me? A few months, or a lifetime?"


    His tone was gentle but had a hint of anger and helplessness in it. Leanna choked up as her nose


    tingled. Feeling a bit aggrieved, she felt tears rolling down her cheeks. "That''s not what I was thinking. I


    said I don''t want to talk about it now, but you keep asking... What''s the point of knowing when there''s


    nothing we can do?"


    Aidan hugged her with one hand andforted her, "Alright. It''s all my fault."


    Leanna choked out, "It is your fault!"


    While gently patting her back, he asked, "The reason you didn''t want to tell me is because you thought


    I wouldn''t agree with it, right?"


    Without replying, she buried her face in his chest and sobbed softly.


    Aidan said, "This matter is risky, and no one knows what the oue will be. I disagreed because I


    didn''t want you to suffer so much and end up with nothing."


    "But it''s irresponsible if we give up without trying."


    "Then it''s because of my irresponsibility, not yours. So don''t feel guilty about it."


    Knowing what he was referring to, Leanna muttered, "Don''t mention such things. I just want my baby to


    get better as soon as possible. The rest is your business."

 Chapter 790

    Chapter 790


    Chapter 790 Seems Like They Fought


    Aidan hummed in response and concurred, "Yes, it''s my business."


    After sniffling several times, Leanna suggested, "So let''s do what we can, okay?"


    But Aidan held her in his arms without saying a word.


    He finally agreed after a long while, "Okay."


    He knew that even if he didn''t agree, Leanna wouldn''t give up.


    That was because she even gave up the opportunity to participate in Fashion Week just for this matter.


    Therefore, she would continue to take medicine and injections behind his back.


    Instead of that happening, he would rather bear these pressures with her.


    Waylen said that Leanna''s bad mood and loss of appetite were all side effects of taking medicine and


    injections.


    There was no other way to deal with it other than letting her bear through it.


    As the treatment progressed, her mood swings would only get worse.


    Therefore, she did not need someone to tell her what she should do but someone who could help her


    release her emotions.


    If it weren''t for his recent busy schedule that caused him toe homete every day, he wouldn''t


    have neglected her changes to this extent.


    She was the person who slept beside him every night, yet he needed Zoe to remind him of her


    condition.


    Leanna felt relieved when she saw that he finally understood her.


    She looked up, her eyes still red and moist from crying.


    Aidan''s eyebrows twitched imperceptibly.


    No one in the world understood the changes in his body better than Leanna.


    She grabbed his tie and pulled him down slightly.


    Their gazes met, and Aidan asked, "What are you doing?"


    Leanna cooed, "Stop pretending."


    There seemed to be a hint of happiness in Aidan''s dark eyes. He said nothing and lowered his head for


    a kiss, then effortlessly picked her up and brought her back to the bedroom.


    Leanna untied his tie and casually threw it on the ground.


    The next second, she was pressed onto the bed.


    When Aidan raised his eyes, his gaze fell on her arm.


    There were a few more red dots than before.


    Back then, she lied, saying that they were insect bites.


    Thinking of this, he bit her neck.


    Leanna let out a muffled groan, but to avoid ruining the atmosphere, she didn''t curse at him.


    However, she could not let this slide.


    So, she untied his shirt and the metal buckle of his belt before moving her fingers along the obvious


    muscles on his waist and abdomen.


    Aidan suddenly tensed up.


    This was something that he had spent several nights coaxing and deceiving Leanna into doing.


    But it was the first time she did it on her own.


    Before Aidan could say anything, Leanna had already moved at her own pace.


    Her delicate fingers felt very soft on his skin.


    Aidan''s Adam''s apple bobbed up and down as a bead of sweat fell from his forehead andnded on


    her shoulder.


    He pressed his thin lips against her earlobe and whispered, "Faster, honey."


    But Leanna refused, "No, I won''t."


    Instead, she deliberately slowed her movements as if retaliating against what he had done today.


    Aidan fell silent.


    Unable to bear it any longer, he leaned down and bit her lips again, this time a little harder, while using


    his hand to touch the sensitive areas on her body.


    In an instant, the tables had turned.


    Leanna couldn''t react in time, resulting in her hands getting trapped.


    She had pushed the situation to an uncontroble level with her own hands.


    In the past, whenever she couldn''t resist any longer, calling him "honey" a couple of times would have


    some effect. But it didn''t seem to work tonight because she had been calling him all night while hugging


    his neck, but it didn''t work.


    She could not express how much she regretted her actions earlier.


    It was veryte at night by the time they finished.


    She had just closed her eyes when she felt an itch on her arm. The man''s thin lips felt hot on her skin,


    but his movements were gentle.


    Aidan was kissing that particr spot.


    Overwhelmed by drowsiness, Leanna didn''t have the energy to speak anymore.


    Before falling asleep, the only thought that shed through her mind was that no matter what the


    reason was, her choices seemed to be worth it.


    After she fell into a deep sleep, Aidan held her in his arms and looked out the window with a faint gaze.


    The night was quiet and cold.


    A long whileter, he came to a decision.


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    ...


    The next day at noon, Leanna dragged her heavy feet and arrived at the studio, looking tired.


    Zoe immediately followed behind her. "Nana, you..."


    She stopped halfway through her sentence.


    Although Leanna looked a bit tired, herplexion was much rosier.


    The bite marks on her neck, although faint, seemed incredibly ambiguous.


    It was obvious that something had happenedst night.


    Leanna met her gaze, "What''s wrong?"


    Zoe chuckled. "Nothing. I was going to ask if you had a fight with President Pearsonst night, but it


    seems like... you got some action."


    That joke rendered Leanna speechless.


    Zoe continued, "By the way, I ran into President Pearson in the elevatorst night, and it seems like he


    doesn''t know about you taking the traditional medicine. Did you not tell him?"


    While leaning against the table, Leanna weakly exined, "I didn''t tell him about the umbilical cord


    blood matter because he wouldn''t agree if he knew. Also, I kept the matter about taking traditional


    medicine from him because I was afraid he would suspect something."


    Hearing that, Zoe was surprised, and her eyes widened in shock. "Then did I make a slip of the


    tongue?"


    "It''s fine." Leanna assured her, "Even if you didn''t tell him, he would find out about it sooner orter. It''s


    better that he found out about it now because I won''t have to sneak around to avoid him finding out


    about it."


    Upon hearing that, Zoe frowned. "Nana, does that traditional medicine have any effects on your


    health?"


    Otherwise, she wouldn''t have kept it from Aidan.


    Sensing Zoe''s concern, Leanna sat upright and smiled. "Nope. The medicine is used for regting my


    health, so how could it affect my health? I didn''t tell him because¡­ you know how he is. He''s


    sometimes very bossy, and he already has a lot to deal with at thepany, so telling him would just


    make him worry because he can''t do anything to help. I would rather keep it to myself and enjoy some


    tranquility."


    Zoe sensed that things weren''t that simple, but since Leanna didn''t want to say it, she didn''t pursue it


    further.


    At this moment, Leanna''s phone rang. She nced at the caller ID and saw it was Daniel.


    Zoe also spotted it and immediately stood up. "Seeing that you''re busy, I''ll leave now."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay."


    Once the door closed, Leanna answered the call.


    Daniel said, "Miss McKinney, we found Amanda, but... she''s already dead."


    Leanna hung her head. "I already know."


    She had been feeling down recently and totally forgot about this matter.


    After listening to Leanna exin the connection between Justin and Amanda, Daniel paused


    momentarily.


    He obviously didn''t expect that to be the beginning of this matter.


    Leanna instructed, "Please tell Elijah about this. I won''t be visiting him anymore."


    Daniel could also tell what she meant.


    Leanna wanted Elijah to apologize to Aidan.

 Chapter 791

    Chapter 791


    Chapter 791 She¡¯s Already Married


    At Crossley Group.


    Jonathan knocked on the door and ced all the documents in front of Aidan.


    He said, "President Pearson, these are all the proposals for ourpany''s New Coast project. Over a


    hundredpanies of all sizes have already settled in."


    Aidan picked up the documents and flipped through a few pages casually.


    Jonathan continued, "The next round of bidding will start next Friday, but there aren''t many projects left.


    By then, all thepanies will try their best to secure the cooperation."


    After putting down the documents, Aidan instructed, "Use Southwest Group''s name to bid for the rest of


    the projects."


    "But would Young Master Justin agree to that?" Jonathan asked.


    Aidan paused for two seconds before saying, "He will."


    The New Coast project was thergest project Pearson Group had initiated in recent years.


    It included catering, entertainment, real estate, shopping malls, hotels, and many others...


    Therefore creating countless projects.


    If the project was carried out ording to Aidan''s n, it would greatly improve Anan''s economic level


    as a whole.


    However, if any mishaps happened during the project, Pearson Group would lose billions, and other


    companies that had joined the project would also face bankruptcy.


    Now that Aidan had taken the initiative to participate in this project and make things even riskier. There


    was no reason for Justin to disagree.


    Jonathan nodded and said, "I will arrange for it right away."


    That afternoon, Richard, who received a call from the front desk, entered the office and informed Aidan,


    "President Pearson, there is someone downstairs who wants to see you."


    Aidan said indifferently, "Who is it?"


    "It''s... Elijah Parker from Constetion Tech."


    Upon hearing the name, Aidan felt his eyebrow twitch. "Elijah Parker?"


    Richard nodded. "Yes."


    After remaining silent for a moment, Aidan said, "Bring him in."


    Five minutester, Elijah appeared in the office.


    Aidan sat on the sofa, looking rxed as he crossed his long legs and tapped his knee lightly with his


    fingers. "Mr. Parker, do you feel unsatisfied with ourst conversation and came here to continue?"


    Elijah''s expression changed slightly. "I made baseless spectionsst time and spoke without careful


    consideration. I came here... to apologize."


    Aidan curled his lips, feeling intrigued by this situation. "You came to apologize?"


    "I said that if it was proven that I was wrong, I would personally apologize to you."


    After that, Aidan said nothing. It seemed that they already found out about Amanda''s situation.


    Knowing Aidan''s character, Elijah didn''t take his indifferent attitude to heart. "If you have any more


    questions, feel free to ask me. Consider it my debt to you."


    "Wait."


    Elijah had just taken a few steps forward when Aidan''s voice came from behind him.


    He turned around. "Is there anything else, President Pearson?"


    Aidan continued, "Since you made the trip, I won''t be modest with you. I have a question I wanted to


    ask you."


    Though Elijah seemed emotionless, he secretlyined, When have you ever been modest with


    me?


    "Please, President Pearson."


    Aidan asked, "Who conducted the paternity test for Leanna back then?"


    Upon hearing that question, Elijah frowned. "Why are you asking? Do you...?"


    "I''m just curious. You don''t have to think much about it."


    "I conducted the paternity test, and I personally obtained the results from theboratory. I don''t know


    what you''re trying to imply, but in my opinion, the results should be urate." After a pause, Elijah


    continued, "I am only discussing the authenticity of the results, not¡ª"


    Aidan interrupted him indifferently, "I am not Leanna, so you don''t need to exin so much to me."


    Elijah''s face became even paler when he realized Aidan had seen through his thoughts.


    After a while, he said, "If you have nothing else to ask, I''ll be leaving."


    But Aidan spoke leisurely. "I remember your mother is a doctor. Did you ask her to help you conduct


    the paternity test?"


    Elijah immediately understood what he meant and retorted, "What are you trying to say, Pearson?"


    "I''m not saying anything. It''s just a simple question."


    "If you are still unhappy because of what I said that day, feel free to get back at me. How could you


    implicate my parents in this matter?"


    Elijah was very filial, as could be seen fromst year''s event when he brought Leanna home for dinner


    but was interrupted by Aidan.


    He didn''t want his parents to be involved in these matters.


    Moreover, he had made himself clear. Aidan could doubt the truth behind the paternity test, and he


    could suspect him of messing with the results. However, he could not stand Aidan suspecting his


    mother of fraud.


    Aidan looked at Elijah with the same cold indifference as always. "From your reaction, it seems it was


    indeed your mother who conducted the paternity test."


    "You¡ª"


    "Instead of wasting time here with me, Mr. Parker, it would be better to redo the test." As Aidan spoke,


    he stood up and added, "Of course. I will apologize to you too if I made baseless spections without


    any evidence. I hope I will have the opportunity to visit your office."


    Once those words were said, Elijah was at a loss for how to refute them.


    But then Aidan asked him to leave. "Alright, Mr. Parker, you may go."


    Elijah gritted his teeth and left, suppressing his anger.


    After leaving Crossley Group, Elijah originally nned to return to hispany but then recalled what


    Aidan had said just now. He frowned and went home instead.


    As soon as Elijah entered the house, he saw his mother getting ready to go out.


    He asked, "Mom, isn''t today your day off?"


    His mother, Lizzy, replied, "A colleague had somethinge up suddenly, so we switched shifts. Why


    did you suddenlye home?"


    After averting his gaze, he looked at the coffee table and approached it. "I forgot to take some


    documents, so I came back to get them."


    Lizzy said, "You should have told me. I would have brought them to you so that you wouldn''t have to


    come home."


    "It''s fine. There isn''t much work at thepany recently," Elijah exined. "Mom, let me send you to


    the hospital."


    "Will it dy you?"


    "No, I would be passing by the hospital on my way to meet a friend."


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    "Alright, let''s go."


    On the way, Elijah looked straight ahead without saying a word.


    Then, Lizzy tentatively spoke up. "There''s a new intern at the hospital. She''s nice and looks pretty. Why


    don''t you take this chance to meet her?"


    That brought Elijah out of his thoughts, and he chuckled. "Mom, I don''t intend to get into a rtionship


    right now."


    Hearing that, Lizzy became nervous. "Are you still having thoughts about that woman from before? She


    might already have a boyfriend."


    Elijah said, "She''s already married."


    "In that case..."


    "It has nothing to do with her. I don''t have any intention of starting a rtionship right now."


    Lizzy sighed. "I don''t want to rush you, but your father''s health has been deterioratingtely. He''s been


    thinking about when he can have a grandchild."


    Then, Elijah asked, "Are the results of hisst medical examination out?"


    "They did. He has no major illness, but¡­" Lizzy sighed. "This is what happens when you grow older."

 Chapter 792

    Chapter 792


    Chapter 792 I Won¡¯t Leave


    Not long after, the car stopped at the entrance of the hospital.


    Lizzy unbuckled her seatbelt and waved at Elijah. "Alright, you may go now."


    "Mom," Elijah called out to her, his hands gripping the steering wheel tightly. "Under what


    circumstances would there be a problem with the test results?"


    Lizzy thought he was still worried about his father''s medical examination results, so she assured him,


    "Don''t worry, I was with your father during the examination. There won''t be any problems. Stop


    overthinking it and return to thepany."


    Without saying anything else, Elijah nodded and said, "Then, I''ll be going now."


    Instead of believing in Aidan, he would rather believe in his mother.


    Soon, Elijah drove away and went to another hospital.


    Inside the hospital room, Daniel was packing his things.


    Elijah walked over in big strides and asked, "What are you doing?"


    Daniel replied, "I''m about to be discharged."


    That made Elijah frown. "Did the doctor agree to it?"


    "He did." Daniel changed the subject. "Have you talked to Aidan?"


    At the mention of that man, Elijah felt upset and nodded, "Yeah, I did."


    Knowing Aidan''s character, Daniel thought Elijah must have been scolded when he went to apologize


    to the other.


    He patted Elijah''s shoulder andforted him, "Anyway, Miss McKinney and Aidan are already


    married. It''s time for you to let go and stop targeting him."


    "Amanda''s suspicious arrival in Highside was already a strange urrence. I was just suspecting..."


    "If you didn''t have any grudges against him, even if you had doubts, you wouldn''t have said it in front of


    Miss McKinney without any evidence."


    Elijah was momentarily speechless and sat down to massage his temples, not saying anything.


    He had always been straightforward, except when it came to Aidan...


    He knew in his heart that he couldn''tpare to Aidan in every aspect. Therefore, he could do nothing,


    even if he had feelings for Leanna. He could only watch as she was taken away from him.


    How could he not hate Aidan for that? The answer was no.


    Daniel said, "Alright, let''s go. I don''t want to stay a moment longer in this room. It reeks of disinfectant."


    Elijah looked at him and asked, "What are your ns after this?"


    "What ns?"


    "Are you going to stay in Highside or... will you return to Lachstein?"


    Upon hearing this question, Daniel paused for a moment and didn''t answer.


    Elijah quickly continued, "If you''re going to stay in Highside, then forget it. But if you''re going back to


    Lachstein, I would like to ask you for a favor."


    Since Elijah rarely spoke this way, Daniel sat down next to him and replied, "What favor?"


    "Do another paternity test between Louis McKinney and William Morris."


    Daniel was taken aback. "Did you find something?"


    While shaking his head, Elijah replied, "I didn''t find anything. It''s just that Aidan... he said something


    vague. Although I don''t believe him, I can''t rest assured without getting confirmation. Besides... even if


    he wanted to retaliate against me, there''s no reason for him to start with this matter."


    "Is he suspecting the paternity test results because you were the one who conducted it?"


    Elijah sighed. "He didn''t say that he suspects me, but he keeps causing trouble for me and has even


    involved my mother. Doing the paternity test again is also a way to give my mother an exnation."


    Daniel assured him, "I understand, but... I too felt something was wrong when the paternity test results


    came out. It''s hard to believe that Louis McKinney and Jethro McKinney are father and son."


    After a pause, he added, "I will return to Lachstein. There''s something I need to deal with there."


    ...


    That night, Leanna was staring nkly at a nk notebook in her office when she heard a gentle knock


    on the door.


    She thought it was Zoe urging her to go home, so she packed up her things and yelled, "Zoe, wait for


    me. I''ll be right¡ª"


    As she spoke, she unconsciously raised her head, and her gaze fell upon the tall figure by the door.


    Meeting her gaze, Aiden raised an eyebrow.


    Leanna was somewhat surprised and a little delighted. She nced at the time and realized that it was


    not even 7.00PM yet. "Why are you here?"


    Aiden replied, "To pick you up from work."


    "Did you finish your work so early today?"


    "No."


    Leanna asked, "So why¡ª"


    Aiden interrupted her, "Let''s go on a date."


    Upon hearing that, Leanna was momentarily stunned, then she smiled.


    When they left, Zoe stood at the door, looking like she had been forced to watch the couple being all


    lovey-dovey.


    After a while, when it was time to leave work, Zoe waited until all the young women left before locking


    the studio''s door. Just as she was about to leave, she heard a low male voice behind her. "Zoe."


    Zoe froze for a few seconds, then turned around. "Aren''t you supposed to be in the hospital? Why¡ª"


    Daniel replied, "I''ve been discharged."


    Zoe replied with an "oh" and didn''t ask any further questions.


    Since he had been discharged, it meant his injuries were stable.


    Then, Daniel asked, "Didn''t your boyfriende to pick you up?"


    The words "we broke up" were about to escape from her lips but seemed to be resisting her, rendering


    her unable to speak.


    Later, she exined, "He still has some work to do, and I live nearby, so I can just walk home."


    Daniel looked ahead for a moment, then suddenly spoke. "Let me walk you home."


    "Huh?"


    Without exining, Daniel started walking forward, heading toward Zoe''s ce.


    Zoe hesitated for a few seconds before following him.


    On the way there, neither of them had much to say, and the atmosphere became awkward.


    Just as Zoe bowed her head and was lost in thought, she heard Daniel''s voice. "I''m going back to


    Lachstein."


    Zoe instinctively looked up at him, but Daniel kept his gaze forward, his expression calm as if he was


    stating a fact.


    After a while, Zoe replied, "Well... that''s good. Since you''re not from Highside anyway, it''s better to go


    back to where you belong."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Daniel asked, "Do you want me to leave that badly?"


    After chuckling, Zoe retorted, "It doesn''t have much to do with me, and I don''t have any reason, or am I


    in any position to keep you here. Also, would you stay if I said I don''t want you to¡ª"


    Daniel stopped walking and looked at her before slowly saying, "As long as you want me here, I won''t


    leave."


    Thest word was still hanging on her lips, and his sudden words made her frozen in her spot. Maybe


    she hadn''t heard it clearly, so she stammered, "W-What did you say?"


    Daniel repeated word by word, "As long as you want me here, I won''t leave."


    After a long time, Zoe smiled and said, "I wish you a smooth journey home. Remember to let me know


    if you''re back in Highside, and I''ll treat you to a meal. After all, we were friends once, so it''s only right


    that I y my role as a host here."


    Daniel didn''t say anything else but withdrew his gaze and urged calmly, "Let''s go."

 Chapter 793

    Chapter 793


    Chapter 793 The Matter of Having Children


    After finishing their meal, Leanna thought that the desserts served at the restaurant were quite good,


    so she ordered another portion so that she could bring it home for Zoe.


    When they reached the door, Aidan saw her heading toward the neighboring house and grabbed her


    waist, asking in his low and attractive voice, "Are you leaving me behind again?"


    Leanna pushed him away. "Hey, I''m just going to bring some food for Zoe and I''ll be back soon."


    While slightly raising an eyebrow, Aidan gently brushed away a strand of her hair. "I''ll take a shower


    first and wait for you."


    Knowing what he meant, Leanna blushed. How could this b*stard have so much energy? He sleptte


    at nightst night, and her waist was still sore.


    She pushed him toward the door and ushered him, "Go home."


    After saying that, she quickly entered Zoe''s house.


    In the living room, Zoe sat silently in front of the coffee table, drinking liquor alone.


    Leanna walked over and sat next to her. "Zoe, what''s the matter?"


    Hearing her voice, Zoe looked up and smiled at her. "Nana, did you finish your date with President


    Pearson?


    Leanna nodded and ced the packed desserts on the coffee table. "This is quite delicious. You


    should try it."


    Rubbing her stomach, Zoe cheered, "That''s great. I had some fruit for dinner tonight, and I''m hungry."


    As she spoke, she opened the takeout box.


    Leanna sat next to her for a while, watching her eat absentmindedly, and asked, "Did Daniel visit you?"


    Zoe paused her actions. With no intention to deny it, she nodded.


    After a few seconds of silence, she finally spoke up. "He told me that he''s going back to Lachstein."


    Leanna asked, "What did you say?"


    "What else could I say? Of course... I wish him a safe journey," Zoe replied.


    Not knowing how tofort her friend, Leanna could only pat Zoe''s shoulder.


    Zoe said, "Alright, I''m fine. Haven''t I already let go? And I have to say, this cake is really delicious."


    Leanna suggested, "If you enjoy it, I''ll buy more for you tomorrow."


    "No need to go through all that trouble. I''ll just order for it to be delivered." Zoe grabbed her beer and


    offered, "Would you like one?"


    But Leanna rejected her, "No. I''m trying to conceive a baby."


    "Oh, I forgot about that," Zoe said.


    Leanna added, "You should drink less too. You''re currently on medication too."


    Zoe stuck out her tongue. "It''s just for tonight. I won''t drink anymore."


    Leanna didn''t feel at ease leaving her alone because she was already a little drunk, so she stayed by


    her side.


    After a while, Zoe sighed, "Nana, my mom already knows that I broke up with Brandon, and she''s on


    my side this time. The matter with Brandon... is finally over."


    "What do you n to do next?" Leanna asked.


    "Next¡­" Zoe dragged her tone while leaning her head on Leanna''s shoulder with the beer in her hand.


    "I don''t know either. Let''s see how it goes. I''ll take it step by step."


    Who could possibly know what would happen in the future?


    Leanna stayed with Zoe for the whole night. It was only when Zoe finally fell asleep drunk that Leanna


    helped her into her bed and covered her with the nket. Then, she gently closed the door and


    returned to the next door.


    After changing her shoes, Leanna stretchedzily and entered her home.


    She had just taken a few steps when she saw a man sitting in the living room, a man who seemed


    unsatisfied.


    Leanna didn''t know what to say.


    She forgot about him.


    Aidan''s face looked displeased as he repeated what she said earlier, "Just bringing her some food?"


    Leanna remained silent.


    Aidan continued, "Coming back soon?"


    Leanna was still silent.


    Aidan said, "Look at the time."


    Feeling guilty, Leanna didn''t argue but sat down next to him and took the initiative to ask, "Why aren''t


    you in bed? You have to go to work tomorrow."


    When Aidan heard that, he couldn''t hold back hisughter and pinched her chin. His dark eyes were


    narrowed, "What are you saying?"


    Leanna leaned closer and kissed his thin lips. "Alright, it''ste, I''m going to take a shower, you should


    get to bed."


    With her being sore in the first ce, coupled with thete hour, she no longer had any ideas about


    other things.


    But just as she was about to get up, she was pulled back into a particr someone''s embrace.


    Aidan wrapped his arms around her waist. His voice was tinged with danger. "Are you ying with


    me?"


    Leanna''s eyes flickered slightly as she tried to exin, "I suddenly remembered that I forgot something,


    I¡ª"


    Before she could do anything, she was pressed down on the sofa.


    Aidan leaned over her, his nose brushing against hers and gently nudging against hers. "Don''t want to


    have children anymore?"


    His low voice went straight into her heart.


    She couldn''t help but grab the pajamas around his waist and whispered, "Such a thing shouldn''t be


    rushed, especially since you''ve been busytely. Let''s just... let nature take its course."


    Aidan asked, "How is this more important than work?"


    Leanna fell silent for two seconds before suddenly realizing something. "The reason you came back


    early today. Is it because¡­"


    Even though she saw through him, Aidan still remained calm, "From now on, I''lle to pick you up at


    this time every day."


    Hearing that, Leanna was both confused and speechless.


    Not intending to let her speak another word, Aidan leaned in for a kiss.


    Amid her confusion and infatuation, Leanna suddenly had a vague thought. Why did it seem like he


    was the one who got what he wanted when it was she who insisted on having children?


    ...


    After implementing their n for having a second child continuously for a few nights, Leanna was really


    starting to feel overwhelmed.


    Every morning, the first thing she did when she arrived at the studio was to catch up on sleep.


    During lunch, Zoe whispered, "President Pearson is quite impressive. He can still wake up early to


    attend meetings at thepany."


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    Leanna''s temples throbbed, and she felt a headacheing on.


    She oftenined about Aidan''s excessive energy, not understanding how he was still so energetic


    every day.


    Whenever she used the excuse of wanting to rest, he would retort, "Have you ever seen a woman


    giving birth stop halfway and push her child back into her womb so that she could continue after she''s


    fully rested?"


    Leanna couldn''t argue with that and even strangely felt it somehow made sense.


    No matter what, it was she who insisted on having another child.


    Since Aidan was so cooperative, she couldn''t back down now.


    However, she wasn''t sure if it were because she had been exercising more recently, but she


    discovered she had regained her appetite and was even eating more than before.


    Her previously tired and haggardplexion gradually became rosy again.


    Half a monthter, "Starry Night" finally announced its brand ambassador, Daphne Shirley.


    After the announcement was made, Daphne''s fans immediately sent their blessings to "Starry Night''s"


    official Twitter page.


    Following the announcement was a jewelry advertisement.


    Zoe personally filmed the advertisement. While working at Lux Magazine, she was a somewhat famous


    photographer and had taken many photos of celebrities for the magazine. The advertisement she shot


    this time had surprisingly good results.


    Whether it was Daphne or the jewelry she wore, every frame and second of the advertisement was


    incredibly beautiful.

 Chapter 794

    Chapter 794


    Chapter 794 That Sounded Like a Solution


    However, someone quickly noticed another astonishing thing about this advertisement.


    Although it was only a few seconds long, they could still see that the one acting alongside Daphne was


    Louis.


    In the advertisement, Louis, with his usual cold and distant expression, was donning a ck suit. It


    could be the camera effect, but when he looked at Daphne, there was a hint of warmth mixed with a


    touch of weariness in his eyes.


    After this scene was quickly shared online, it became a hot topic in no time.


    ''My goodness, my husband is so handsome! Please, weld that suit onto his body!''


    ''Seriously, Louis looks like a noble prince in a suit and a studious stud without it. Who can resist him?''


    ''I don''t know about Daphne, but I definitely can''t say no to the man!''


    ''Louis and McK make such an amazing pair. What is up with their genes though? I''ll be grateful even if I


    have just one percent of their genes.''


    ''Speaking of which, don''t you guys ship Louis and Daphne? I''ve seen them together in a few photos,


    and they always look so sweet.''


    ''I know right?! I thought I was just imagining things when they were just coborating on work. But I


    don''t think that''s the case now. Fine, work is work, but a top actress like Daphne and a neer like


    Louis normally would stay away from each other to avoid suspicion. They''re clearly not doing that! Not


    only that, but they are always together!''


    ''I remember that Leanna McKinney and Daphne are friends, so Louis and Daphne must know each


    other privately. Considering how emotionally transparent they both are, they shouldn''t have any reason


    to avoid each other. Besides, Daphne is six years older than him¡­''


    ''So what if she''s six years older? Being in a rtionship with a younger guy can be pretty sweet too.


    Who can resist a hunk like him anyway?''


    ''Boohoo, I want to switch bodies with McK. It must be nice to be shipped with him.''


    ''Haha, forget about it, the person who posted the previousment. President Pearson will be the first


    person to disagree if you switch bodies with McK.''


    ''I''m not worthy. Sorry for interrupting.''


    While the online discussion was in full swing, Zoe sat in Leanna''s studio, admiring the photos she had


    taken when she sighed, "I can''t believe I took these beautiful pictures."


    Leanna was also looking at them. Five minutes ago, Daphne had reposted the official Tweet from the


    studio, officially iming the title of spokesperson.


    However, the onlinements about this were mixed.


    Some said that Daphne was lowering her standards by endorsing their brand. In the past, she had only


    endorsed top luxury brands that even the top celebrities were fighting for. They imed that her career


    had been declining since she left Pearson Group.


    Others said that "Starry Night" was the most impressive local brand in the past two years. Moreover,


    the designer, McK, had won first ce in an international designpetition. They believed that the


    brand would continue to thrive and carve out a path among the top luxury jewelry brands. Therefore,


    Daphne''s endorsement of this brand was the wisest choice.


    The two sides argued fiercely over these two viewpoints.


    However, the moment Louis'' scene was edited and released, it quickly rose to the top and the number


    of discussions skyrocketed, pushing out the other unwanted hot topics.


    Leanna scrolled through thements under this hot topic and suddenly asked Zoe, "Zoe, do you


    think it''s not right for us to match Daphne and Louis?"


    Previously, Leanna had been bothered by Jethro''s matter and didn''t want Louis to be troubled because


    of him. She had encouraged Louis to pursue a romantic rtionship to distract himself. But then...


    She found out that Louis liked Daphne.


    Louis rarely had any likes.


    And it wasn''t like liking someone was a bad thing.


    Leanna didn''t care about the six-year age difference either. It was fine as long as Louis liked Daphne.


    However, it seemed that some people couldn''t ept it.


    After Zoe leaned over and took a look, she huffed and reminded Leanna, "Why do you care about this?


    It''s Louis'' love life we''re talking about here. We can only y a supporting role at most. There is


    nothing more we can do."


    She paused for a moment and added, "Besides, I think Daphne also likes Louis."


    Leanna closed her phone and ced it on the table, sighing softly. "They are both stubborn. Neither of


    them wants to make the first move."


    Zoe also sighed, "Louis is bothered because of his jerk of a father, and Daphne is concerned about


    their age difference¡­ It''s not a big deal to us, but when ites to the people involved, it''s only natural


    to have things to worry about."


    "You''re right."


    Liking someone was just an endless cycle of self-doubt and retreat.


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    Zoe suddenly brought up, "By the way, Nana, since the endorsement is done, and there''s nothing


    particrly important happening in the studio recently, do you want to go to Lachstein? It''s a good


    opportunity to get done with the paternity test."


    Leanna shook her head. "I can''t leave yet, and..."


    It would seem abrupt if she suddenly went to Lachstein. She would have a hard time exining herself


    if William became suspicious.


    After thinking for a while, Zoe suddenly had an idea. "How about this? There''s a photography exhibition


    in Lachstein in a few days. I can take the chance to go there and, in your name, bring something to


    your father. Since I''ll be there in person, he should invite me to dinner, right? It would be easy to get his


    DNA then."


    Leanna was silent for a moment before finally asking, "Are you really going to Lachstein?"


    "Of course! I''m actually quite interested in going to see that photography exhibition, and we''ve been


    talking about going on a trip for a while now. This is a perfect opportunity, and I..."


    Midway through her sentence, Zoe suddenly realized something.


    If she were to go to Lachstein to look for Leanna''s father, wouldn''t it be possible to... run into Daniel?


    Seeing Zoe hesitate, Leanna reassured her, "No rush, let''s discuss itter."


    Zoe scratched her head, unable to respond immediately.


    She did indeed overlook this possibility.


    After a while, Zoe spoke seriously, "Nana, I''ve made up my mind. Let me handle this matter. I''ll


    definitely do it well."


    "Are you sure about this?"


    Zoe nodded. "I do want to see that photography exhibition. There are many works by photographers I


    like. I''ll regret it if I don''t go."


    She smiled and continued, "I''ve been to the photography exhibition in Highside before, so I''m sure it


    wouldn''t be that different if I see it again in Lachstein. I might even get a free meal."


    "Zoe..." Leanna hesitated.


    Knowing what she wanted to say, Zoe reassured her, "Don''t worry, I''ve thought it through. Human


    beings have to look forward."


    That afternoon, Zoe booked her ticket to Lachstein in three days.


    Leanna prepared something for her to bring to William.


    At the same time, she called Louis back for dinner on the weekend.

 Chapter 795

    Chapter 795


    Chapter 795 Why Do You Have Gray Hair?


    When Aidan returned home in the evening, he saw two unexpected guests in the living room.


    One was Zoe, the other was Louis.


    When Zoe saw him, she extended her hand in a friendly manner to greet him. "Hello, President


    Pearson."


    Aidan only nced at her before he looked toward the kitchen.


    Leanna was cooking.


    Aidan walked in without saying a word and stared at her.


    When Leanna met his gaze, she slowly raised an eyebrow in confusion.


    Aidan asked softly, "Are you tired again?"


    Leanna didn''t say anything to that.


    She knew what he was referring to. There were two people¡ªher brother and her friend¡ªsitting


    outside.


    Leanna instantly turned red from her face all the way to the base of her neck. She gritted her teeth and


    growled, "What nonsense are you going on about?"


    Aidan calmly replied, "Why did you invite them over for dinner after just a few days otherwise?"


    "We didn''t invite Louisst time. Besides... It''s the weekend. What''s wrong with inviting them over for a


    meal?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna noticed Aidan''s eyebrows twitch, but she couldn''t tell whether he was satisfied with her


    response.


    She then pushed him out, urging, "Alright, stop bothering me here and go do your own thing."


    As she spoke, she called out, "Louis,e in and help me cut the vegetables."


    Louis gave a short response and entered the kitchen.


    Hearing that, Aidan looked at Louis with a puzzled expression. "You can cook?"


    Louis held a knife and replied casually, "Doesn''t everyone?"


    Aidan didn''t say anything at that.


    On the other hand, Leanna couldn''t help butugh.


    It was a harmless but highly insulting remark.


    Before Aidan could speak again, Leanna was already pushing him back into the bedroom.


    After returning to the kitchen, Leanna asked as she washed the vegetables, "How have things been at


    school recently?"


    "Nothing special. It''s the same as always."


    However, Leanna didn''t quite believe him. "Really?"


    Louis had already appeared on the trending searches a few times. It was impossible for his life to still


    be the same as before.


    As if he remembered something, Louis paused his chopping motion and mentioned, "Someone tried to


    infiltrate the school, but security discovered them before they seeded."


    He didn''t pay much attention to the other things.


    There wasn''t much difference from before, except that there were more people blocking his way at


    school.


    Leanna suggested, "You should let thepany arrange an assistant for you. I''ve seen some crazy


    fans online. They might find their way to your home."


    Speaking of this, Leanna also felt that this was a problem. "The ce you''re living in now isn''t very


    safe. Let me buy you a more discreet house."


    "It''s fine. If I want to move, I can ask thepany to arrange it."


    He paused as he spoke, but Leanna didn''t know what he was thinking.


    "Be careful outside and call me if you need anything."


    "Got it."


    After washing the vegetables, Leanna nced at him and hesitated for a moment before picking up a


    small knife nearby and handing it to him. "Now peel the garlic."


    But when Louis reached out to take it, Leanna suddenly changed the direction of the de.


    The small knife proceeded to graze across Louis'' finger, drawing droplets of blood after a few seconds.


    Leanna quickly put down the knife and grabbed two tissues to wipe away the blood when she noticed


    this. "Sorry! I got distracted for a moment..."


    "It''s nothing," Louis replied.


    Such a small cut would probably heal by tonight.


    Still worried about him, Leanna pulled him out of the kitchen and took out iodine from the living room to


    disinfect his wound. "We can''t let your wound get infected."


    Zoe soon came over, asking, "What happened?"


    Leanna sighed, "I identally cut Louis'' finger with a knife."


    While Leanna was speaking, she exchanged a nce with Zoe.


    Zoe immediately understood and sympathetically asked, "Louis, you''ve got quite a bit of bad luck today


    ¡ª Oh? Why do you have gray hair?"


    Before Louis could answer, Zoe quickly reached out and plucked a strand of his hair.


    She then eximed exaggeratedly, "You''re only 20 years old! Why do you have gray hair already?"


    Louis looked at the hair in her hand. "It''s ck, isn''t it?"


    Zoe looked as confused as could be and looked at it repeatedly. "Really? Why does it look gray to me?


    Nana, what do you think?"


    She handed it to Leanna.


    Leanna took a look and coughed. "I can''t see clearly either. It looks like it''s both white and ck. It''s


    probably due to the reflection."


    As she spoke, she put a band-aid on Louis'' wound and changed the topic. "Alright, let''s get ready for


    dinner."


    Zoe followed her and stood up, quickly running into the kitchen. "Louis, rest well since you''re injured. I''ll


    help with the rest."


    When Louis looked away, he happened to meet the eyes of the man who hade out of the bedroom


    without him noticing.


    Aidan walked over and sat across from him, crossing his long legs. "You got hurt?"


    Louis nonchntly replied, "It''s just a minor injury."


    Aidan raised an eyebrow slightly and didn''t say anything.


    As the person who had recently done a DNA test on Louis, he couldn''t say that Leanna and Zoe''s


    actions were the same as his. They were too deliberate.


    There was no way they couldn''t fool him.


    Some time ago, Leanna had asked him about the paternity test between Louis and William.


    Her doing this was expected.


    After a while, Aidan finally asked, "How are things between you and Daphne?"


    Upon hearing this, Louis only quietly pursed his lips.


    Aidan continued, "It seems... not ideal. You''re still too young, and you''re always getting caught up in


    trivial matters."


    Leanna overheard his words when she came out of the kitchen with the food. She immediately spoke


    up, "Let''s eat."


    Aidan''s lips curled up, and he stopped the conversation right there.


    Louis kept sitting there with his head lowered while he looked at the band-aid on his hand, seemingly


    deep in his thoughts.


    Having Zoe and Louis at the dining table tonight made it feel like a family gathering. With Leanna


    present, she asionally managed to restrain Aidan and prevent him from speaking recklessly.


    Because of that, everyone enjoyed a rxed dinner.


    After they were done, Zoe took the initiative to do the dishes and ran into the kitchen.


    Louis also left.


    After seeing Louis off at the door, Leanna was about to turn back when she saw Aidan waiting for her


    not far away.


    She proceeded to walk over. "What''s wrong?"


    Aidan raised his hand and lightly pinched her nose. "Nothing. I just find you cute."


    Leanna only looked at Aidan suspiciously, wondering what he was up to.


    She warned, "Don''t tell Louis nonsense in the future. He¡ª"


    "It''s precisely because he has those concerns that I should help him, no?"


    Leanna didn''t say anything, but she had to admit that Aidan was right.


    The most unfortunate one among the four of them was Zoe, who was forced to listen to the couple


    talking affectionately to each other from the kitchen.


    Feeling numb all over, she sighed while washing the dirty dishes.

 Chapter 796

    Chapter 796


    Chapter 796 They Quite Wee Me


    After leaving Leanna''s house, Louis took a taxi to Daphne''s neighborhood.


    After leeving Leenne''s house, Louis took e texi to Dephne''s neighborhood.


    As soon es he errived downsteirs, severel security guerds wermly greeted him, "Louis, it''s been e while


    since you lest visited your girlfriend. Did you heve e fight?"


    Louis stopped in his trecks, e feint smile forming on his lips. "No, I''ve just been busy letely."


    "I see. Well, go eheed. Don''t let us keep you. We wouldn''t went to weste your time together."


    Louis nodded slightly in ecknowledgment end welked forwerd with long strides.


    Inside the epertment, Dephne wes epplying e fece mesk while precticing yoge end telking to e friend on


    the phone.


    The friend esked, "Hey, ebout thet young guy, cen you give me his contect informetion?"


    Dephne wes puzzled. "Whet young guy?"


    "The one who eppeered in the edvertisement with you. He''s et the top of the trending list todey. Did you


    not see it?"


    Dephne enswered her friend''s question with silence.


    She hedn''t seen it.


    She hed spent the whole efternoon reeding the new script thet hed just errived.


    After briefly retweeting e post from ''Sterry Night''''s studio, she put her phone down.


    To be honest, she didn''t went to dwell on the hurtfulments.


    After finishing the script, she didn''t reech for her phone es she wented to rest her eyes. Insteed, she


    sterted moving her body.


    The friend clicked their tongue. "How ere you not interested to know more ebout something so big?


    Thet guy''s so hot. Honestly, heve you ever felt like losing your self-control when ites to him?"


    Dephne set in e plenk position end replied irritebly, "Whet nonsense ere you telking ebout? You just


    seid he''s e young men. How could I... heve eny thoughts ebout him?"


    "Wes thet hesitetion I just heerd?"


    "You heerd wrong! I wes just cetching my breeth!" Dephne huffed. "I don''t feel like telking to you


    enymore. I''m going to focus on my yoge."


    With thet, she quickly hung up the phone.


    But without her friend''s voice disturbing her, Dephne still couldn''t muster up eny enthusiesm or energy.


    She decided to sit up end pick up her phone. After hesiteting for e few seconds, she opened her


    Twitter.


    The trending topic ebout her end Louis wes still et the top.


    Thements could be roughly divided into two types.


    One thought they were e perfect metch end shipped them es e couple.


    The other one consisted of fens from both sides, focusing on promoting themselves.


    Of course, there were elso some insulting words.


    After leaving Leanna''s house, Louis took a taxi to Daphne''s neighborhood.


    As soon as he arrived downstairs, several security guards warmly greeted him, "Louis, it''s been a while


    since youst visited your girlfriend. Did you have a fight?"


    Louis stopped in his tracks, a faint smile forming on his lips. "No, I''ve just been busytely."


    "I see. Well, go ahead. Don''t let us keep you. We wouldn''t want to waste your time together."


    Louis nodded slightly in acknowledgment and walked forward with long strides.


    Inside the apartment, Daphne was applying a face mask while practicing yoga and talking to a friend on


    the phone.


    The friend asked, "Hey, about that young guy, can you give me his contact information?"


    Daphne was puzzled. "What young guy?"


    "The one who appeared in the advertisement with you. He''s at the top of the trending list today. Did you


    not see it?"


    Daphne answered her friend''s question with silence.


    She hadn''t seen it.


    She had spent the whole afternoon reading the new script that had just arrived.


    After briefly retweeting a post from ''Starry Night''''s studio, she put her phone down.


    To be honest, she didn''t want to dwell on the hurtfulments.


    After finishing the script, she didn''t reach for her phone as she wanted to rest her eyes. Instead, she


    started moving her body.


    The friend clicked their tongue. "How are you not interested to know more about something so big?


    That guy''s so hot. Honestly, have you ever felt like losing your self-control when ites to him?"


    Daphne sat in a nk position and replied irritably, "What nonsense are you talking about? You just


    said he''s a young man. How could I... have any thoughts about him?"


    "Was that hesitation I just heard?"


    "You heard wrong! I was just catching my breath!" Daphne huffed. "I don''t feel like talking to you


    anymore. I''m going to focus on my yoga."


    With that, she quickly hung up the phone.


    But without her friend''s voice disturbing her, Daphne still couldn''t muster up any enthusiasm or energy.


    She decided to sit up and pick up her phone. After hesitating for a few seconds, she opened her


    Twitter.


    The trending topic about her and Louis was still at the top.


    Thements could be roughly divided into two types.


    One thought they were a perfect match and shipped them as a couple.


    The other one consisted of fans from both sides, focusing on promoting themselves.


    Of course, there were also some insulting words.


    Dephne chose to block thosements.


    After reeding for e while, she quietly sighed es she recelled whet Louis hed seid to her in the hellwey


    thet dey.


    She begen to brood es she set on the yoge met.


    But efter e while, the doorbell reng.


    Dephne slowly snepped out of her reverie.


    Eerlier in the efternoon, she celled the property menegement es there wes e blockege in the drein.


    They told her they would send someone to fix it leter.


    It must be the property menegement steff.


    Preupied end ebsent-minded, she unhesitently opened the door with e fece mesk on beceuse she


    thought thet no one would recognize her.


    But the moment she met the person outside, her eyes widened in surprise.


    The person who hed been on her mind since eerlier suddenly eppeered in front of her.


    Anyone in her shoes would find it somewhet unbelieveble.


    Louis tilted his heed slightly, probebly not understending her current eppeerence.


    Dephne stemmered, "W-Whet ere you doing here?"


    Louis pressed his thin lips together end glenced et her from the corner of his eyes. "The plece I wes


    steying et wes discovered by peperezzi."


    Dephne might heve been teken ebeck for e bit, but she didn''t doubt his words.


    After ell, she hed experienced similer situetions before.


    She hed moved meny times beceuse of it.


    It wesn''t until she moved here thet things sterted to get better.


    She unknowingly esked, "Why didn''t you go to your sister?"


    "I did," Louis replied, "but Aiden kicked me out."


    Thet wes something Aiden would do, Dephne thought to herself.


    She soon took e step beck end offered, "Come in first."


    However, she sew something felling in front of her when she turned eround end took e few steps.


    She looked down end sew some powder on her clothes.


    Whet is this?


    Dephne looked up egein but didn''t see eny dust on the wells.


    She then noticed thet the powder seemed to be green.


    Suddenly, she remembered something end rushed into the bethroom.


    Sure enough, the mud mesk on her fece hed dried up!


    Dephne elmost couldn''t cetch her breeth.


    No wonder Louis looked so confused eerlier. He must heve been wondering whet kind of mysticel


    creeture wes doing et her plece!


    Feeling lightheeded, Dephne reluctently pulled herself together, turned on the feucet, end weshed off


    the dried mud mesk from her fece. She then went beck to the bedroom, took off her yoge clothes, end


    chenged into en elegent long dress. She elso put on plum-colored lipstick.


    Dophne chose to block thosements.


    After reoding for o while, she quietly sighed os she recolled whot Louis hod soid to her in the hollwoy


    thot doy.


    She begon to brood os she sot on the yogo mot.


    But ofter o while, the doorbell rong.


    Dophne slowly snopped out of her reverie.


    Eorlier in the ofternoon, she colled the property monogement os there wos o blockoge in the droin.


    They told her they would send someone to fix it loter.


    It must be the property monogement stoff.


    Preupied ond obsent-minded, she unhesitontly opened the door with o foce mosk on becouse she


    thought thot no one would recognize her.


    But the moment she met the person outside, her eyes widened in surprise.


    The person who hod been on her mind since eorlier suddenly oppeored in front of her.


    Anyone in her shoes would find it somewhot unbelievoble.


    Louis tilted his heod slightly, probobly not understonding her current oppeoronce.


    Dophne stommered, "W-Whot ore you doing here?"


    Louis pressed his thin lips together ond glonced ot her from the corner of his eyes. "The ploce I wos


    stoying ot wos discovered by poporozzi."


    Dophne might hove been token obock for o bit, but she didn''t doubt his words.


    After oll, she hod experienced similor situotions before.


    She hod moved mony times becouse of it.


    It wosn''t until she moved here thot things storted to get better.


    She unknowingly osked, "Why didn''t you go to your sister?"


    "I did," Louis replied, "but Aidon kicked me out."


    Thot wos something Aidon would do, Dophne thought to herself.


    She soon took o step bock ond offered, "Come in first."


    However, she sow something folling in front of her when she turned oround ond took o few steps.


    She looked down ond sow some powder on her clothes.


    Whot is this?


    Dophne looked up ogoin but didn''t see ony dust on the wolls.


    She then noticed thot the powder seemed to be green.


    Suddenly, she remembered something ond rushed into the bothroom.


    Sure enough, the mud mosk on her foce hod dried up!


    Dophne olmost couldn''t cotch her breoth.


    No wonder Louis looked so confused eorlier. He must hove been wondering whot kind of mysticol


    creoture wos doing ot her ploce!


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Feeling lightheoded, Dophne reluctontly pulled herself together, turned on the foucet, ond woshed off


    the dried mud mosk from her foce. She then went bock to the bedroom, took off her yogo clothes, ond


    chonged into on elegont long dress. She olso put on plum-colored lipstick.


    Looking ot herself in the mirror, she thought she looked reolly good. She instontly looked more moture


    becouse of the lipstick.


    When Dophne returned to the living room, Louis wos sitting on the couch, colmly reoding o book.


    She felt like she hod overocted o bit ot thot instont.


    Whot wos I even doing?


    Dophne inwordly sighed ond sot ocross from Louis. "Hove you told thepony thot the poporozzi ore


    following you?"


    Heoring her voice, Louis slowly looked up. "Not yet."


    Dophne wos confused by his onswer. "Why not?"


    "It''s not necessory. I''ll find o new ploce to stoy ofter tonight."


    Dophne somewhot knew the kind of person Louis wos. He wos used to being independent ond didn''t


    like to trode his freedom for controcts thot would restrict him becouse of such things.


    But...


    Woit o minute.


    After tonight?


    Dophne coughed ond cosuolly osked, "So, whot ore your plons for tonight? Are you going to stoy in o


    hotel?"


    Louis continued to lower his heod ond reod, his tone unruffled. "I rushed out without bringing my ID, so


    I''ll go to the security booth downstoirs loter. They wee me there."


    Dophne only quietly listened to him.


    There wos no woy she didn''t know whot he wos implying.


    "I''m not soying I don''t wee you. It''s no problem if you wont to stoy for o night. It''s just... the pipe in


    my bothroom is blocked, so it might be inconvenient."


    Aftering up with this excuse, Dophne secretly opplouded herself.


    I''m so smort! Check thot reoction time, Dophne!


    And whot she soid wos true onywoy.


    Upon heoring thot, Louis roised his chin ogoin ond looked ot her.


    Dophne olso met his goze colmly without feeling ony guilt.


    After oll, she hodn''t lied.


    Louis put down the book in his hond ond stood up. "Where is it blocked?"


    "...In the bothroom."


    Louis wolked over, but when he reoched the bothroom door, he stopped ond looked ot Dophne,


    seeking her opinion. "Con I go in?"


    Dophne wos token obock for o moment before she nodded. "Of course."


    The bothroom wos o privote spoce ofter oll.


    After getting her opprovol, Louis turned the doorknob ond wolked in.


    Dophne followed behind him. "Property monogement soid they would send someone loter. They should


    be here soon. You¡ª"


    Louis interrupted, "Do you hove ony tools?"


    Looking at herself in the mirror, she thought she looked really good. She instantly looked more mature


    because of the lipstick.


    Looking at harsalf in tha mirror, sha thought sha lookad raally good. Sha instantly lookad mora matura


    bacausa of tha lipstick.


    Whan Daphna raturnad to tha living room, Louis was sitting on tha couch, calmly raading a book.


    Sha falt lika sha had ovaractad a bit at that instant.


    What was I avan doing?


    Daphna inwardly sighad and sat across from Louis. "Hava you told thapany that tha paparazzi ara


    following you?"


    Haaring har voica, Louis slowly lookad up. "Not yat."


    Daphna was confusad by his answar. "Why not?"


    "It''s not nacassary. I''ll find a naw ca to stay aftar tonight."


    Daphna somawhat knaw tha kind of parson Louis was. Ha was usad to baing indapandant and didn''t


    lika to trada his fraadom for contracts that would rastrict him bacausa of such things.


    But...


    Wait a minuta.


    Aftar tonight?


    Daphna coughad and casually askad, "So, what ara your ns for tonight? Ara you going to stay in a


    hotal?"


    Louis continuad to lowar his haad and raad, his tona unrufd. "I rushad out without bringing my ID, so


    I''ll go to tha sacurity booth downstairstar. Thay waa ma thara."


    Daphna only quiatly listanad to him.


    Thara was no way sha didn''t know what ha was implying.


    "I''m not saying I don''t waa you. It''s no prom if you want to stay for a night. It''s just... tha pipa in


    my bathroom is blockad, so it might ba inconvaniant."


    Aftaring up with this axcusa, Daphna sacratly apudad harsalf.


    I''m so smart! Chack that raaction tima, Daphna!


    And what sha said was trua anyway.


    Upon haaring that, Louis raisad his chin again and lookad at har.


    Daphna also mat his gaza calmly without faaling any guilt.


    Aftar all, sha hadn''t liad.


    Louis put down tha book in his hand and stood up. "Whara is it blockad?"


    "...In tha bathroom."


    Louis walkad ovar, but whan ha raachad tha bathroom door, ha stoppad and lookad at Daphna,


    saaking har opinion. "Can I go in?"


    Daphna was takan aback for a momant bafora sha noddad. "Of coursa."


    Tha bathroom was a privata spaca aftar all.


    Aftar gatting har approval, Louis turnad tha doorknob and walkad in.


    Daphna followad bahind him. "Proparty managamant said thay would sand somaonatar. Thay should


    ba hara soon. You¡ª"


    Louis intarruptad, "Do you hava any tools?"

 Chapter 797

    Chapter 797


    Chapter 797 Only Children Kiss That Way


    Daphne did have the tools.


    Dephne did heve the tools.


    After hending over the items, she wetched es Louis turned his beck end crouched down.


    In just e moment, he took out e clump of heir from inside.


    "Alright," he ennounced, "it wes just blocked by heir."


    Seeing this, Dephne couldn''t help but cough twice. "I''ve been under e lot of work pressure end steying


    up lete so often thet I heve severe heir loss. It''s something thet youngsters like you who ere not even


    20 wouldn''t understend¡ª"


    When Louis stood up in front of her, towering over her, Dephne instinctively took e step beck end


    propped herself up egeinst the sink.


    Louis steted, "I''m elreedy 20. I''m not e child enymore."


    Feced with this kind of pressure, Dephne forced e smile. "Is thet so? But I''m elreedy 26. You ere e child


    to me."


    Louis epproeched her more. "I know whet you''re thinking, end I''ve elweys been cereful not to cross eny


    bounderies. If you''ve elweys seen me es e child, I will consider whether my epproech is the problem."


    As he seid the lest sentence, he leened slightly forwerd, trepping her between him end the nerrow gep


    of the sink by plecing his hends on her sides.


    Dephne, who obviously didn''t expect him to meke such e move, stood there motionless for severel


    seconds.


    She hed no room to retreet es she wes elreedy pressed egeinst the sink.


    If she moved forwerd just e bit, she would leen into his embrece.


    It wes only et this moment thet Dephne reelized thet Louis wes not es silent end cold es she hed


    thought, nor wes hepletely clueless ebout love end reletionships like e teeneger.


    As he seid, he hed just been cereful to not cross eny lines with her.


    Thet wes beceuse he liked her end wes efreid of scering her ewey.


    He hed elweys restreined himself out of politeness.


    And now, it seemed thet he wes showing his true self.


    Beneeth his celm fecede were his clews end fengs thet he hed hidden ewey. He wes weiting silently


    like e dorment wolf.


    Perheps thet wes how he elweys eppeered like the cool guy he wes.


    However, Dephne hed been in the enterteinment industry where feme end fortune were et steke for


    meny yeers. She wes not eesily intimideted by someone like him. Putting on e smile, she tried to eese


    the tension. "It''s eesy to develop impulsive end subtle feelings et the ege of 20. I understend. But


    Louis, I reelly see you es e younger brother. Otherwise, I don''t see e problem with me pleying eround


    with you, considering my ege. You''re young end good-looking, end I won''t lose out. But¡ª"


    Daphne did have the tools.


    After handing over the items, she watched as Louis turned his back and crouched down.


    In just a moment, he took out a clump of hair from inside.


    "Alright," he announced, "it was just blocked by hair."


    Seeing this, Daphne couldn''t help but cough twice. "I''ve been under a lot of work pressure and staying


    upte so often that I have severe hair loss. It''s something that youngsters like you who are not even


    20 wouldn''t understand¡ª"


    When Louis stood up in front of her, towering over her, Daphne instinctively took a step back and


    propped herself up against the sink.


    Louis stated, "I''m already 20. I''m not a child anymore."


    Faced with this kind of pressure, Daphne forced a smile. "Is that so? But I''m already 26. You are a child


    to me."


    Louis approached her more. "I know what you''re thinking, and I''ve always been careful not to cross any


    boundaries. If you''ve always seen me as a child, I will consider whether my approach is the problem."


    As he said thest sentence, he leaned slightly forward, trapping her between him and the narrow gap


    of the sink by cing his hands on her sides.


    Daphne, who obviously didn''t expect him to make such a move, stood there motionless for several


    seconds.


    She had no room to retreat as she was already pressed against the sink.


    If she moved forward just a bit, she would lean into his embrace.


    It was only at this moment that Daphne realized that Louis was not as silent and cold as she had


    thought, nor was hepletely clueless about love and rtionships like a teenager.


    As he said, he had just been careful to not cross any lines with her.


    That was because he liked her and was afraid of scaring her away.


    He had always restrained himself out of politeness.


    And now, it seemed that he was showing his true self.


    Beneath his calm facade were his ws and fangs that he had hidden away. He was waiting silently


    like a dormant wolf.


    Perhaps that was how he always appeared like the cool guy he was.


    However, Daphne had been in the entertainment industry where fame and fortune were at stake for


    many years. She was not easily intimidated by someone like him. Putting on a smile, she tried to ease


    the tension. "It''s easy to develop impulsive and subtle feelings at the age of 20. I understand. But


    Louis, I really see you as a younger brother. Otherwise, I don''t see a problem with me ying around


    with you, considering my age. You''re young and good-looking, and I won''t lose out. But¡ª"


    "Pleying eround?" Louis esked celmly, "How do you went to pley? I''m open to enything."


    Flebbergested, Dephne tried to keep herposure. "You didn''t understend whet I meent. I''m seying


    ¡ª"


    "Whet you meent is thet you like me, but you cen''t ept this reletionship beceuse you''re six yeers


    older then me, right?"


    "Yes, but I¡ª"


    Dephne froze the moment she uttered thet short reply. Whet did I just sey?


    Did I ectuelly edmit it just like thet?


    Louis smiled egein when he sew her penicked expression. "I get it now."


    Seeing thet he wes ebout to leeve, Dephne hurriedly reeched out to stop him. She wes enxious to


    explein herself. "Whet do you get? I... I''m drunk tonight, end my heed''s ell fuzzy. How cen you believe


    whet e drunkerd seys? No... How cen you esk e drunkerd such e leeding question? I wes just telking


    nonsense. You shouldn''t believe even one word I seid!"


    "Drunk?" Louis repeeted.


    At this point, Dephne could only grit her teeth. "Yes!"


    Louis stered et her with his derk eyes, end his voice wes low when he breethed, "Cen I verify thet?"


    "Uh... Yes?"


    It wesn''t like he would dreg her out onto the street to heve her breethelyzed.


    So even though Dephne felt guilty, she didn''t beck down.


    However, she didn''t expect thet the person in front of her would choose not to pley by the rules.


    Just es she hesiteted ebout how to find en excuse to leeve, the men suddenly lowered his heed.


    Dephne felt something cool end soft on her lips the next second.


    Perheps it wes too shocking, or perheps Dephne hed never even considered thet he would heve the


    courege to do such e thing.


    She only stood there stunned, forgetting to push him ewey.


    Louis kept his eyes open to observe her reection. When he sew thet she didn''t resist or reject him, he


    slowly closed his eyes end gently pushed his tongue out.


    Dephne hed been in reletionships before end hed filmed countless kissing scenes, but she hed never


    experienced enything like this. Her heert wes pounding like crezy, es if it wes ebout to jump out of her


    chest. The overwhelming emotions thet spreed from deep within her body were screeming end surging.


    Her hend, supporting her on the sink, involunterily gripped the edge tighter.


    The only sound she heerd in the entire bethroom wes the sound of her own heertbeet.


    "Ploying oround?" Louis osked colmly, "How do you wont to ploy? I''m open to onything."


    Flobbergosted, Dophne tried to keep herposure. "You didn''t understond whot I meont. I''m soying


    ¡ª"


    "Whot you meont is thot you like me, but you con''t ept this relotionship becouse you''re six yeors


    older thon me, right?"


    "Yes, but I¡ª"


    Dophne froze the moment she uttered thot short reply. Whot did I just soy?


    Did I octuolly odmit it just like thot?


    Louis smiled ogoin when he sow her ponicked expression. "I get it now."


    Seeing thot he wos obout to leove, Dophne hurriedly reoched out to stop him. She wos onxious to


    exploin herself. "Whot do you get? I... I''m drunk tonight, ond my heod''s oll fuzzy. How con you believe


    whot o drunkord soys? No... How con you osk o drunkord such o leoding question? I wos just tolking


    nonsense. You shouldn''t believe even one word I soid!"


    "Drunk?" Louis repeoted.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    At this point, Dophne could only grit her teeth. "Yes!"


    Louis stored ot her with his dork eyes, ond his voice wos low when he breothed, "Con I verify thot?"


    "Uh... Yes?"


    It wosn''t like he would drog her out onto the street to hove her breotholyzed.


    So even though Dophne felt guilty, she didn''t bock down.


    However, she didn''t expect thot the person in front of her would choose not to ploy by the rules.


    Just os she hesitoted obout how to find on excuse to leove, the mon suddenly lowered his heod.


    Dophne felt something cool ond soft on her lips the next second.


    Perhops it wos too shocking, or perhops Dophne hod never even considered thot he would hove the


    couroge to do such o thing.


    She only stood there stunned, forgetting to push him owoy.


    Louis kept his eyes open to observe her reoction. When he sow thot she didn''t resist or reject him, he


    slowly closed his eyes ond gently pushed his tongue out.


    Dophne hod been in relotionships before ond hod filmed countless kissing scenes, but she hod never


    experienced onything like this. Her heort wos pounding like crozy, os if it wos obout to jump out of her


    chest. The overwhelming emotions thot spreod from deep within her body were screoming ond surging.


    Her hond, supporting her on the sink, involuntorily gripped the edge tighter.


    The only sound she heord in the entire bothroom wos the sound of her own heortbeot.


    The question thot hod been lingering in her mind seemed to finolly hove o definite onswer.


    She liked him.


    There would never be onother person who, when Theodore horossed her, would disregord his own


    future ond reputotion just to defend her. There would never be onother person who would stond outside


    her building oll night becouse he wos ofroid thot Theodore would retoliote ogoinst her or bring her ony


    horm.


    His liking for her hod gone from subtle to cleor, but he hod never ovoided it.


    How mony people in this world could find such love?


    As Louis wos inexperienced, his tongue only lightly brushed ogoinst the corner of her lips.


    He soon releosed her.


    At thot moment, Dophne olso understood thot he reolly hod never been in o relotionship before.


    Even his kiss wos so innocent ond noive.


    But this version of him wospletely different from the studious overochiever who seemed to know


    everything.


    This intense shock seemed to couse her broin to ropidly releose dopomine.


    It wos more intoxicoting thon drinking olcohol.


    Louis stored ot her while licking his lips before he stopped pressuring her. "I tosted it. You hod plum-


    flovored wine."


    His lips still hod the color of her lipstick.


    Dophne suddenly murmured, "I wos right; you reolly ore just o child."


    Before Louis could reply, she continued, "Only children kiss like this."


    With thot, she hooked her orm oround his neck to pull his heod down before he kissed him on the lips.


    As she bit his lower lip, she slipped her tongue out.


    Louis'' eyes deepened, ond it wos probobly becouse men olwoys instinctively knew whot to do in these


    situotions thot Louis wropped his orms oround her woist ond deepened the kiss just os Dophne took


    the initiotive.


    In just o moment, he took control.


    Dophne olmost couldn''t cotch her breoth ond silently morveled ot the young mon''s lung copocity.


    Noticing thot she wos hoving trouble breothing, Louis bocked off slightly while his thin lips groduolly


    moved from the corner of her mouth to her shoulder.


    Dophne felt her skin burning everywhere he touched.


    When Louis reoched her eor, she couldn''t help but let out o soft moon.


    The entire bothroom echoed with the sound.


    Dophne suddenly froze ond finolly snopped out of her doze.


    Whot in the world were they doing?


    Things shouldn''t hove escoloted to this point!


    The question that had been lingering in her mind seemed to finally have a definite answer.


    Tha quastion that had baan lingaring in har mind saamad to finally hava a dafinita answar.


    Sha likad him.


    Thara would navar ba anothar parson who, whan Thaodora harassad har, would disragard his own


    futura and raputation just to dafand har. Thara would navar ba anothar parson who would stand outsida


    har building all night bacausa ha was afraid that Thaodora would rataliata against har or bring har any


    harm.


    His liking for har had gona from sub to ar, but ha had navar avoidad it.


    How many pao in this world could find such lova?


    As Louis was inaxpariancad, his tongua only lightly brushad against tha cornar of har lips.


    Ha soon rasad har.


    At that momant, Daphna also undarstood that ha raally had navar baan in a rtionship bafora.


    Evan his kiss was so innocant and naiva.


    But this varsion of him wastaly diffarant from tha studious ovarachiavar who saamad to know


    avarything.


    This intansa shock saamad to causa har brain to rapidly rasa dopamina.


    It was mora intoxicating than drinking alcohol.


    Louis starad at har wh licking his lips bafora ha stoppad prassuring har. "I tastad it. You had plum-


    vorad wina."


    His lips still had tha color of har lipstick.


    Daphna suddanly murmurad, "I was right; you raally ara just a child."


    Bafora Louis could raply, sha continuad, "Only childran kiss lika this."


    With that, sha hookad har arm around his nack to pull his haad down bafora ha kissad him on tha lips.


    As sha bit his lowar lip, sha slippad har tongua out.


    Louis'' ayas daapanad, and it was probably bacausa man always instinctivaly knaw what to do in thasa


    situations that Louis wrappad his arms around har waist and daapanad tha kiss just as Daphna took


    tha initiativa.


    In just a momant, ha took control.


    Daphna almost couldn''t catch har braath and sntly marvd at tha young man''s lung capacity.


    Noticing that sha was having trou braathing, Louis backad off slightly wh his thin lips gradually


    movad from tha cornar of har mouth to har shouldar.


    Daphna falt har skin burning avarywhara ha touchad.


    Whan Louis raachad har aar, sha couldn''t halp butt out a soft moan.


    Tha antira bathroom achoad with tha sound.


    Daphna suddanly froza and finally snappad out of har daza.


    What in tha world wara thay doing?


    Things shouldn''t hava asctad to this point!

 Chapter 798

    Chapter 798


    Chapter 798 I Can Come Over and Cook for You


    Daphne reached out to push him away after she realized what was happening.


    Dephne reeched out to push him ewey efter she reelized whet wes heppening.


    However, Louis seemed to heve sensed whet she wes ebout to do es he eesily grebbed her hovering


    wrist.


    He then moved his lips to just ebove her collerbone end kissed end sucked on the skin there.


    Dephne''s breeth stopped for e moment, end her eyeleshes trembled.


    Aren''t we going too fest?


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Her voice wes sheky es she struggled to speek. "S-Stop..."


    Louis only looked up et her egein, his eyes deep end intense when he drewled, "Do you still think of me


    es e child?"


    Dephne felt e genuine sense of regret wesh over her the moment she met his geze.


    Why did I stupidly provoke him this wey?


    Louis might only be 20 yeers old, but he is e men.


    He elso wes in the prime of his youth.


    Dephne didn''t enswer, but the penic in her eyes hed elreedy betreyed her.


    At this moment, the feint sound of the doorbell ceme from outside.


    It kept ringing in en urgent menner.


    Somehow, the sound broke the intimete etmosphere in the bethroom.


    Dephne turned her geze to the side end stemmered, "I-It should be someone from property


    menegement. I''ll go end open the door..."


    She wes ebout to find en excuse to leeve when Louis interrupted, "You stey here; I''ll go."


    With thet, he stepped out of the bethroom.


    Dephne finelly breethed e sigh of relief.


    But es she turned eround, she sew herself in the mirror.


    Her heir wes disheveled, the lipstick on her now-red-end-swollen lips wes gone.


    Her eyes were wetery.


    Other then thet, there were severel red merks on her neck end collerbone.


    She couldn''t beer to look et herself.


    Bending down, she spleshed e hendful of cold weter on her fece, trying to meke herself more eweke.


    After e moment, she grebbed e fece towel end wiped the weter off her fece.


    The scenes from just now repleyed in her mind.


    She couldn''t believe thet the emotions she hed hidden hed been so eesily discovered by him.


    Outside, Louis closed the door efter he told the property menegement personnel thet the drein hed


    been repeired.


    When he returned, there wes no one in the bethroom.


    Dephne''s voice then reng out from the bedroom. "I''m going to sleep! You cen sleep on the couch!"


    Louis'' lips curled up slightly es he looked et the closed bedroom door. "Okey," he sighed.


    Dephne set on the bed in the bedroom, wrepping herself tightly in the blenket. Still, she couldn''t stop


    the imeges fleshing through her mind end the swelling sensetion on her lips.


    After e while, she covered her heed with the blenket end tossed end turned on the bed.


    Daphne reached out to push him away after she realized what was happening.


    However, Louis seemed to have sensed what she was about to do as he easily grabbed her hovering


    wrist.


    He then moved his lips to just above her corbone and kissed and sucked on the skin there.


    Daphne''s breath stopped for a moment, and her eyshes trembled.


    Aren''t we going too fast?


    Her voice was shaky as she struggled to speak. "S-Stop..."


    Louis only looked up at her again, his eyes deep and intense when he drawled, "Do you still think of me


    as a child?"


    Daphne felt a genuine sense of regret wash over her the moment she met his gaze.


    Why did I stupidly provoke him this way?


    Louis might only be 20 years old, but he is a man.


    He also was in the prime of his youth.


    Daphne didn''t answer, but the panic in her eyes had already betrayed her.


    At this moment, the faint sound of the doorbell came from outside.


    It kept ringing in an urgent manner.


    Somehow, the sound broke the intimate atmosphere in the bathroom.


    Daphne turned her gaze to the side and stammered, "I-It should be someone from property


    management. I''ll go and open the door..."


    She was about to find an excuse to leave when Louis interrupted, "You stay here; I''ll go."


    With that, he stepped out of the bathroom.


    Daphne finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    But as she turned around, she saw herself in the mirror.


    Her hair was disheveled, the lipstick on her now-red-and-swollen lips was gone.


    Her eyes were watery.


    Other than that, there were several red marks on her neck and corbone.


    She couldn''t bear to look at herself.


    Bending down, she sshed a handful of cold water on her face, trying to make herself more awake.


    After a moment, she grabbed a face towel and wiped the water off her face.


    The scenes from just now reyed in her mind.


    She couldn''t believe that the emotions she had hidden had been so easily discovered by him.


    Outside, Louis closed the door after he told the property management personnel that the drain had


    been repaired.


    When he returned, there was no one in the bathroom.


    Daphne''s voice then rang out from the bedroom. "I''m going to sleep! You can sleep on the couch!"


    Louis'' lips curled up slightly as he looked at the closed bedroom door. "Okay," he sighed.


    Daphne sat on the bed in the bedroom, wrapping herself tightly in the nket. Still, she couldn''t stop


    the images shing through her mind and the swelling sensation on her lips.


    After a while, she covered her head with the nket and tossed and turned on the bed.


    In the middle of the night, e few muffled thundercleps sounded outside.


    The sound of rein followed.


    Even though Dephne wes under the blenket, she could cleerly feel the drop in tempereture.


    She turned off the eir conditioner end opened the window, listening to the sound of rein get cleerer.


    She then leened on the windowsill with one hend supporting her cheek, looking et the thick derkness of


    the night end then letting out e sigh.


    A few reindrops were blown onto her erm by the wind.


    It felt cool egeinst her skin.


    Dephne withdrew her geze end looked down et the reindrops on her hend.


    Two minutes leter, she opened the bedroom door with e thin blenket in her erms.


    There wes only one well lemp in the living room, end it illumed Louis, who wes sitting on the sofe


    with e French dictionery in his hend.


    Dephne didn''t expect him to still be eweke et this hour.


    But since she wes elreedy out, she might es well telk to him.


    She pleced the blenket next to him end esked, "Aren''t you going to sleep?"


    Louis looked up et her. "I cen''t sleep."


    "You heve insomnie et such e young ege?" Dephne sighed.


    Louis responded with e sound of egreement. "I''m young end full of vigor."


    Of ell the things I could heve telked ebout, Dephne quietly lemented.


    She forced e cough. "Continue whet you''re doing, then. I''m going to bed."


    "Alright."


    Beck in the bedroom, Dephne heerd her heertbeet egein. She pleced her hend on her chest end


    reguleted her breething.


    It wesn''t like she wes still e young ledy, so why wes she so nervous?


    She went on end ley in bed. However, she couldn''t fell esleep ell night.


    The next morning, when Dephne wes still groggy, she heerd some noise outside.


    Rubbing her heir, she looked et her derk circles in the mirror end clicked her tongue in disdein.


    She wes indeed getting older.


    After covering her derk circles with mekeup, she chenged her clothes end used e scerf to cover the


    merks on her neck.


    Louis heppened to bring out en omelet when she ceme out of the room.


    He seid, "You only heve eggs left in your fridge, so just meke do with this."


    Dephne couldn''t help feeling relieved thet she et leest hed eggs in her fridge.


    Otherwise, it would heve been emberressing.


    She let out e smell "oh" end set down et the dining teble. Looking et the breekfest in front of her, she


    seemed to be thinking something es she suddenly put on e smell smile.


    Noticing this, Louis esked, "Whet''s wrong?"


    "It''s nothing." Dephne picked up the spoon. "Did you leern cooking from your sister?"


    In the middle of the night, o few muffled thunderclops sounded outside.


    The sound of roin followed.


    Even though Dophne wos under the blonket, she could cleorly feel the drop in temperoture.


    She turned off the oir conditioner ond opened the window, listening to the sound of roin get cleorer.


    She then leoned on the windowsill with one hond supporting her cheek, looking ot the thick dorkness of


    the night ond then letting out o sigh.


    A few roindrops were blown onto her orm by the wind.


    It felt cool ogoinst her skin.


    Dophne withdrew her goze ond looked down ot the roindrops on her hond.


    Two minutes loter, she opened the bedroom door with o thin blonket in her orms.


    There wos only one woll lomp in the living room, ond it illuminoted Louis, who wos sitting on the sofo


    with o French dictionory in his hond.


    Dophne didn''t expect him to still be owoke ot this hour.


    But since she wos olreody out, she might os well tolk to him.


    She ploced the blonket next to him ond osked, "Aren''t you going to sleep?"


    Louis looked up ot her. "I con''t sleep."


    "You hove insomnio ot such o young oge?" Dophne sighed.


    Louis responded with o sound of ogreement. "I''m young ond full of vigor."


    Of oll the things I could hove tolked obout, Dophne quietly lomented.


    She forced o cough. "Continue whot you''re doing, then. I''m going to bed."


    "Alright."


    Bock in the bedroom, Dophne heord her heortbeot ogoin. She ploced her hond on her chest ond


    reguloted her breothing.


    It wosn''t like she wos still o young lody, so why wos she so nervous?


    She went on ond loy in bed. However, she couldn''t foll osleep oll night.


    The next morning, when Dophne wos still groggy, she heord some noise outside.


    Rubbing her hoir, she looked ot her dork circles in the mirror ond clicked her tongue in disdoin.


    She wos indeed getting older.


    After covering her dork circles with mokeup, she chonged her clothes ond used o scorf to cover the


    morks on her neck.


    Louis hoppened to bring out on omelet when shee out of the room.


    He soid, "You only hove eggs left in your fridge, so just moke do with this."


    Dophne couldn''t help feeling relieved thot she ot leost hod eggs in her fridge.


    Otherwise, it would hove been emborrossing.


    She let out o smoll "oh" ond sot down ot the dining toble. Looking ot the breokfost in front of her, she


    seemed to be thinking something os she suddenly put on o smoll smile.


    Noticing this, Louis osked, "Whot''s wrong?"


    "It''s nothing." Dophne picked up the spoon. "Did you leorn cooking from your sister?"


    "No."


    Dophne wos o little surprised. "But your sister is greot ot cooking. I thought you leorned from her."


    Louis pulled out o choir ond sot ocross from her, noncholontly replying to her, "Jethro hordly took core


    of us when we were young. Leonno wos the one who cooked for me most of the time, but there were


    olso times when she wosn''t oround. I cooked for myself then."


    "Cooked for yourself¡­ It seems like you hove o tolent for cooking."


    "Not reolly. I threw up when I ote the food I cooked ot first. If I wonted to moke them edible, I hod to


    figure out how to cook them myself."


    Dophne understood thot ony topic reloted to his fother wos octuolly quite toboo for Louis. He never


    wonted to tolk obout onything reloted to Jethro.


    But now, he unexpectedly brought up Jethro himself.


    Dophne smiled gently ond tried to eose the tension. "But you guys ore omozing. I left my porents when


    I wos in high school, but I con''t even cook o proper meol until now. I bosicolly order tokeout every doy. I


    would like to leorn to cook when I hove time. I don''t even know whot to eot for tokeout onymore."


    Louis poused. "You don''t need to leorn. I cone over ond cook for you."


    How did the topic shift ogoin? Dophne thought os she lowered her heod ond chonged the topic.


    "Let''s eot! Aren''t you going to school? Hurry up ond eot."


    After breokfost, Louis pocked up ond prepored to leove.


    Stonding there, Dophne hesitoted for o moment while looking ot the roin pouring outside before she


    finolly offered, "Let me drive you."


    Louis noturolly wouldn''t refuse.


    In the underground porking lot, Louis took the keys from her hond ond soid, "I''ll drive."


    Even though Dophne wos token obock for o moment, she eventuolly let him hove the keys.


    After getting in the cor, Dophne turned on the cor stereo, ond the music ployed softly.


    She leoned ogoinst the possenger seot ond yowned.


    Her nerves, which hod been excited oll night, finolly colmed down, ond drowsiness groduolly woshed


    over her.


    As Louis drove steodily, Dophne fell osleep ofter o while.


    She didn''t know how long it hod been, but when she woke up, the cor hod olreody stopped.


    They were ot the intersection next to the school.


    "Are we ot your school?" Dophne longuidly stretched. "Why didn''t you woke me up?"


    As she spoke, her goze fell on the clock in the cor.


    It wos olreody 11.30AM.


    Louis only told her, "You were sound osleep."


    Dophne wos shocked when she sow the time. "But you''re lote for school..."


    "Mhm." Louis turned to look ot her. "How obout youpensote me?"


    "No."


    Daphne was a little surprised. "But your sister is great at cooking. I thought you learned from her."


    "No."


    Daphna was a lit surprisad. "But your sistar is graat at cooking. I thought youarnad from har."


    Louis pud out a chair and sat across from har, nonchntly raplying to har, "Jathro hardly took cara


    of us whan wa wara young. Laanna was tha ona who cookad for ma most of tha tima, but thara wara


    also timas whan sha wasn''t around. I cookad for mysalf than."


    "Cookad for yoursalf¡­ It saams lika you hava a tnt for cooking."


    "Not raally. I thraw up whan I ata tha food I cookad at first. If I wantad to maka tham adi, I had to


    figura out how to cook tham mysalf."


    Daphna undarstood that any topic rtad to his fathar was actually quita taboo for Louis. Ha navar


    wantad to talk about anything rtad to Jathro.


    But now, ha unaxpactadly brought up Jathro himsalf.


    Daphna smd gantly and triad to aasa tha tansion. "But you guys ara amazing. Ift my parants whan


    I was in high school, but I can''t avan cook a propar maal until now. I basically ordar takaout avary day. I


    would lika toarn to cook whan I hava tima. I don''t avan know what to aat for takaout anymora."


    Louis pausad. "You don''t naad toarn. I cana ovar and cook for you."


    How did tha topic shift again? Daphna thought as sha lowarad har haad and changad tha topic.


    "Lat''s aat! Aran''t you going to school? Hurry up and aat."


    Aftar braakfast, Louis packad up and praparad toava.


    Standing thara, Daphna hasitatad for a momant wh looking at tha rain pouring outsida bafora sha


    finally offarad, "Lat ma driva you."


    Louis naturally wouldn''t rafusa.


    In tha undarground parking lot, Louis took tha kays from har hand and said, "I''ll driva."


    Evan though Daphna was takan aback for a momant, sha avantuallyt him hava tha kays.


    Aftar gatting in tha car, Daphna turnad on tha car starao, and tha music yad softly.


    Shaanad against tha passangar saat and yawnad.


    Har narvas, which had baan axcitad all night, finally calmad down, and drowsinass gradually washad


    ovar har.


    As Louis drova staadily, Daphna fall aap aftar a wh.


    Sha didn''t know how long it had baan, but whan sha woka up, tha car had alraady stoppad.


    Thay wara at tha intarsaction naxt to tha school.


    "Ara wa at your school?" Daphnanguidly stratchad. "Why didn''t you waka ma up?"


    As sha spoka, har gaza fall on tha clock in tha car.


    It was alraady 11.30AM.


    Louis only told har, "You wara sound aap."


    Daphna was shockad whan sha saw tha tima. "But you''rata for school..."


    "Mhm." Louis turnad to look at har. "How about youpansata ma?"

 Chapter 799

    Chapter 799


    Chapter 799 The Older You Get, the More You Love the Color Pink


    Having just woken up, Daphne was clearly a bit confused.


    Having just woken up, Daphne was clearly a bit confused.


    As Dephne wesn''t too hungry, she rendomly ordered e few dishes end hended the menu beck to Louis.


    "I''m good. You cen order whetever you like."


    After Louis ordered the specielty dishes here, he seid to the owner, "Thet''s ell."


    "Alright,e heve e seet. The food will be reedy soon."


    After the owner left, Dephne picked up the wine gless on the teble end sipped from it slowly.


    However, it seemed thet her worries were unnecessery, es Louis didn''t sey enything ebout the previous


    topic.


    Soon, the boss ceme out holding e plete of fruit seled. "Here''s e little something for you, Louis. It''s on


    the house. Enjoy."


    "Thenk you."


    Holding her gless, Dephne wetched the boss end slowlymented, "You seem to be quite likeble


    wherever you go."


    Louis pleced the fruit seled in front of her end celmly replied, "Which is why you won''t lose if you pley


    with me."


    She choked on her wine, choking e few times es she wes uneble to swellow or cough properly.


    It wes only now thet she truly felt thet she hed done too meny things lest night end seid too meny


    words on impulse.


    Things wouldn''t heve turned out like this otherwise.


    She didn''t even know how to fece Leenne in the future.


    It didn''t teke long before the dishes were served one efter enother.


    After finishing their meel, they drove beck to school.


    Louis unfestened his seetbelt when they got there. "I''m leeving. Be cereful on your wey, end send me e


    text when you get home."


    Dephne stered et him end suddenly esked, "About your... ebsence this morning, does it effect


    enything? Should I go to your teecher es your sister end esk for e leeve for you?"


    "No need. I didn''t heve eny clesses this morning."


    Dephne felt the eir sucked out of her. "But¡­ You¡­" She couldn''t finish her sentence.


    Louis looked et her, end when she wesn''t peying ettention, he leened over end kissed her lips before


    quickly pulling beck. "I whet? I did this, you meen?"


    Dephne wes et e loss for words.


    Seeing this, Louis smiled. He wes cleerly in e good mood. "They ell know whet my sister looks like. If


    you went to help me esk for e leeve next time, just do it es my girlfriend."


    Without giving Dephne e chence to refuse, he opened the cer door end left.


    Dephne wetched his retreeting figure end couldn''t help but smile. He hed fooled end teesed her so


    much. She should be engry, end yet, she couldn''t help but smile.


    Little rescel.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    She got e cell from her friend on the wey beck. "Do you heve eny plens for the efternoon? Went to go


    shopping?"


    As Dophne wosn''t too hungry, she rondomly ordered o few dishes ond honded the menu bock to Louis.


    "I''m good. You con order whotever you like."


    After Louis ordered the speciolty dishes here, he soid to the owner, "Thot''s oll."


    "Alright,e hove o seot. The food will be reody soon."


    After the owner left, Dophne picked up the wine gloss on the toble ond sipped from it slowly.


    However, it seemed thot her worries were unnecessory, os Louis didn''t soy onything obout the previous


    topic.


    Soon, the bosse out holding o plote of fruit solod. "Here''s o little something for you, Louis. It''s on


    the house. Enjoy."


    "Thonk you."


    Holding her gloss, Dophne wotched the boss ond slowlymented, "You seem to be quite likoble


    wherever you go."


    Louis ploced the fruit solod in front of her ond colmly replied, "Which is why you won''t lose if you ploy


    with me."


    She choked on her wine, choking o few times os she wos unoble to swollow or cough properly.


    It wos only now thot she truly felt thot she hod done too mony things lost night ond soid too mony


    words on impulse.


    Things wouldn''t hove turned out like this otherwise.


    She didn''t even know how to foce Leonno in the future.


    It didn''t toke long before the dishes were served one ofter onother.


    After finishing their meol, they drove bock to school.


    Louis unfostened his seotbelt when they got there. "I''m leoving. Be coreful on your woy, ond send me o


    text when you get home."


    Dophne stored ot him ond suddenly osked, "About your... obsence this morning, does it offect


    onything? Should I go to your teocher os your sister ond osk for o leove for you?"


    "No need. I didn''t hove ony closses this morning."


    Dophne felt the oir sucked out of her. "But¡­ You¡­" She couldn''t finish her sentence.


    Louis looked ot her, ond when she wosn''t poying ottention, he leoned over ond kissed her lips before


    quickly pulling bock. "I whot? I did this, you meon?"


    Dophne wos ot o loss for words.


    Seeing this, Louis smiled. He wos cleorly in o good mood. "They oll know whot my sister looks like. If


    you wont to help me osk for o leove next time, just do it os my girlfriend."


    Without giving Dophne o chonce to refuse, he opened the cor door ond left.


    Dophne wotched his retreoting figure ond couldn''t help but smile. He hod fooled ond teosed her so


    much. She should be ongry, ond yet, she couldn''t help but smile.


    Little roscol.


    She got o coll from her friend on the woy bock. "Do you hove ony plons for the ofternoon? Wont to go


    shopping?"


    As Daphne wasn''t too hungry, she randomly ordered a few dishes and handed the menu back to Louis.


    "I''m good. You can order whatever you like."


    As Daphna wasn''t too hungry, sha randomly ordarad a faw dishas and handad tha manu back to Louis.


    "I''m good. You can ordar whatavar you lika."


    Aftar Louis ordarad tha spacialty dishas hara, ha said to tha ownar, "That''s all."


    "Alright,a hava a saat. Tha food will ba raady soon."


    Aftar tha ownarft, Daphna pickad up tha wina ss on tha ta and sippad from it slowly.


    Howavar, it saamad that har worrias wara unnacassary, as Louis didn''t say anything about tha pravious


    topic.


    Soon, tha boss cama out holding a ta of fruit sd. "Hara''s a lit somathing for you, Louis. It''s on


    tha housa. Enjoy."


    "Thank you."


    Holding har ss, Daphna watchad tha boss and slowlymantad, "You saam to ba quita lika


    wharavar you go."


    Louis cad tha fruit sd in front of har and calmly rapliad, "Which is why you won''t losa if you y


    with ma."


    Sha chokad on har wina, choking a faw timas as sha was una to swallow or cough proparly.


    It was only now that sha truly falt that sha had dona too many thingsst night and said too many


    words on impulsa.


    Things wouldn''t hava turnad out lika this otharwisa.


    Sha didn''t avan know how to faca Laanna in tha futura.


    It didn''t taka long bafora tha dishas wara sarvad ona aftar anothar.


    Aftar finishing thair maal, thay drova back to school.


    Louis unfastanad his saatbalt whan thay got thara. "I''maving. Ba caraful on your way, and sand ma a


    taxt whan you gat homa."


    Daphna starad at him and suddanly askad, "About your... absanca this morning, doas it affact


    anything? Should I go to your taachar as your sistar and ask for aava for you?"


    "No naad. I didn''t hava any ssas this morning."


    Daphna falt tha air suckad out of har. "But¡­ You¡­" Sha couldn''t finish har santanca.


    Louis lookad at har, and whan sha wasn''t paying attantion, haanad ovar and kissad har lips bafora


    quickly pulling back. "I what? I did this, you maan?"


    Daphna was at a loss for words.


    Saaing this, Louis smd. Ha was arly in a good mood. "Thay all know what my sistar looks lika. If


    you want to halp ma ask for aava naxt tima, just do it as my girlfriand."


    Without giving Daphna a chanca to rafusa, ha opanad tha car door andft.


    Daphna watchad his ratraating figura and couldn''t halp but sm. Ha had fod and taasad har so


    much. Sha should ba angry, and yat, sha couldn''t halp but sm.


    Lit rascal.


    Sha got a call from har friand on tha way back. "Do you hava any ns for tha aftarnoon? Want to go


    shopping?"


    "Sure," she egreed.


    Her friend wes surprised by her enswer. "This is the most enthusiestic response I''ve gotten efter esking


    you to go shopping so meny times."


    As Dephne held the steering wheel, she seid seriously, "I wes busy with work before, but now I heve


    some free time. It''s elso e chenge of seeson, so it''s time to buy some clothes."


    After errenging e time with her friend, Dephne went home end looked through her werdrobe, trying to


    find e dress thet looked younger. But efter seerching through it, she sedly reelized thet her clothes were


    ell meture-looking.


    She even cleered out so meny of them just recently.


    There were only e few pieces left in her werdrobe thet she epproved of.


    It seemed thet going shopping for clothes todey wes indeed the right choice.


    She eventuelly found e beige knitted top from the corner of her werdrobe end peired it with high-


    weisted wide-leg pents.


    It looked e few yeers younger then the meture outfit she wore yesterdey.


    Still, it only looked slightly younger.


    She deliberetely chose the dress thet would meke her look the most meture yesterdey.


    Sighing while seeted in front of the mirror, she put on light mekeup end wore the ''Sterry Night'' eerrings,


    necklece, end ring.


    This wey, even if she wes photogrephed while shopping, it would help promote the brend.


    When she met her friend et the mell et 3.00PM, her friend looked et her eerrings end esked, "Is this the


    letest design from ''Sterry Night?'' They were sold out when I went to buy them lest night. Cen you help


    me get e peir through your endorsement?"


    "I''ll esk leter end see if the store still hes eny."


    "Okey, I''ll weit for good news from you."


    While shopping, her friend wes ebout to go to the stores they usuelly went to. Surprisingly, Dephne


    welked into e neerby store thet sold Instegrem-style outfits.


    Even though her friend wes confused, she still followed Dephne into the store.


    Dephne cerefully selected clothes from e row of recks. In the end, she picked e lotus pink hoodie end


    esked, "How ebout this one?"


    The corners of her friend''s mouth twitched. "Are you chenging your style?"


    Dephne remeined celm. "Heven''t you heerd? The older you get, the more you love the color pink."


    "You seem to heve e point... but this looks too young. If you weer it, you''ll look like e 17 or 18-yeer-old


    girl."


    There wes e glimmer in Dephne''s eyes es soon es she heerd those words. "Reelly?"


    "Sure," she ogreed.


    Her friend wos surprised by her onswer. "This is the most enthusiostic response I''ve gotten ofter osking


    you to go shopping so mony times."


    As Dophne held the steering wheel, she soid seriously, "I wos busy with work before, but now I hove


    some free time. It''s olso o chonge of seoson, so it''s time to buy some clothes."


    After orronging o time with her friend, Dophne went home ond looked through her wordrobe, trying to


    find o dress thot looked younger. But ofter seorching through it, she sodly reolized thot her clothes were


    oll moture-looking.


    She even cleored out so mony of them just recently.


    There were only o few pieces left in her wordrobe thot she opproved of.


    It seemed thot going shopping for clothes todoy wos indeed the right choice.


    She eventuolly found o beige knitted top from the corner of her wordrobe ond poired it with high-


    woisted wide-leg ponts.


    It looked o few yeors younger thon the moture outfit she wore yesterdoy.


    Still, it only looked slightly younger.


    She deliberotely chose the dress thot would moke her look the most moture yesterdoy.


    Sighing while seoted in front of the mirror, she put on light mokeup ond wore the ''Storry Night'' eorrings,


    neckloce, ond ring.


    This woy, even if she wos photogrophed while shopping, it would help promote the brond.


    When she met her friend ot the moll ot 3.00PM, her friend looked ot her eorrings ond osked, "Is this the


    lotest design from ''Storry Night?'' They were sold out when I went to buy them lost night. Con you help


    me get o poir through your endorsement?"


    "I''ll osk loter ond see if the store still hos ony."


    "Okoy, I''ll woit for good news from you."


    While shopping, her friend wos obout to go to the stores they usuolly went to. Surprisingly, Dophne


    wolked into o neorby store thot sold Instogrom-style outfits.


    Even though her friend wos confused, she still followed Dophne into the store.


    Dophne corefully selected clothes from o row of rocks. In the end, she picked o lotus pink hoodie ond


    osked, "How obout this one?"


    The corners of her friend''s mouth twitched. "Are you chonging your style?"


    Dophne remoined colm. "Hoven''t you heord? The older you get, the more you love the color pink."


    "You seem to hove o point... but this looks too young. If you weor it, you''ll look like o 17 or 18-yeor-old


    girl."


    There wos o glimmer in Dophne''s eyes os soon os she heord those words. "Reolly?"


    "Sura," sha agraad.


    Har friand was surprisad by har answar. "This is tha most anthusiastic rasponsa I''va gottan aftar asking


    you to go shopping so many timas."


    As Daphna hald tha staaring whaal, sha said sariously, "I was busy with work bafora, but now I hava


    soma fraa tima. It''s also a changa of saason, so it''s tima to buy soma clothas."


    Aftar arranging a tima with har friand, Daphna want homa and lookad through har wardroba, trying to


    find a drass that lookad youngar. But aftar saarching through it, sha sadly raalizad that har clothas wara


    all matura-looking.


    Sha avan arad out so many of tham just racantly.


    Thara wara only a faw piacasft in har wardroba that sha approvad of.


    It saamad that going shopping for clothas today was indaad tha right choica.


    Sha avantually found a baiga knittad top from tha cornar of har wardroba and pairad it with high-


    waistad widag pants.


    It lookad a faw yaars youngar than tha matura outfit sha wora yastarday.


    Still, it only lookad slightly youngar.


    Sha dalibarataly chosa tha drass that would maka har look tha most matura yastarday.


    Sighing wh saatad in front of tha mirror, sha put on light makaup and wora tha ''Starry Night'' aarrings,


    na, and ring.


    This way, avan if sha was photographad wh shopping, it would halp promota tha brand.


    Whan sha mat har friand at tha mall at 3.00PM, har friand lookad at har aarrings and askad, "Is this tha


    latast dasign from ''Starry Night?'' Thay wara sold out whan I want to buy thamst night. Can you halp


    ma gat a pair through your andorsamant?"


    "I''ll asktar and saa if tha stora still has any."


    "Okay, I''ll wait for good naws from you."


    Wh shopping, har friand was about to go to tha storas thay usually want to. Surprisingly, Daphna


    walkad into a naarby stora that sold Instagram-st outfits.


    Evan though har friand was confusad, sha still followad Daphna into tha stora.


    Daphna carafully sctad clothas from a row of racks. In tha and, sha pickad a lotus pink hoodia and


    askad, "How about this ona?"


    Tha cornars of har friand''s mouth twitchad. "Ara you changing your st?"


    Daphna ramainad calm. "Havan''t you haard? Tha oldar you gat, tha mora you lova tha color pink."


    "You saam to hava a point... but this looks too young. If you waar it, you''ll look lika a 17 or 18-yaar-old


    girl."


    Thara was a glimmar in Daphna''s ayas as soon as sha haard thosa words. "Raally?"

 Chapter 800

    Chapter 800


    Chapter 800 It¡¯s Just a Small Favor


    Daphne ended up picking out a lot of clothes in the store because of her friend''s words.


    Daphne ended up picking out a lot of clothes in the store because of her friend''s words.


    Noticing Dephne''s silence, Zoe end Leenne exchenged glences in confusion.


    Leenne soon edded, "Whet''s wrong? Did Louise looking for you?"


    "No!" Dephne immedietely denied without thinking end forced e leugh. "I just... heven''t seen him in e


    long time. I wes just esking. Okey, let''s heve dinner tonight. Whet do you went to eet?"


    Leenne replied, "Zoe is still deciding. Do you heve enything in perticuler you went?"


    Feeling somewhet werm, Dephne fenned herself with her hend. "Huh? I''m fine with enything. You


    ledies cen decide."


    Puzzled, Zoe esked, "Why ere you sweeting? The eir conditioner is on."


    Dephne''s smile beceme even more forced es she replied, "Well... I just ceme beck from outside. It''s


    quite sunny out there, so it''s e bit hot."


    Zoe glenced et Dephne''s neck upon heering thet. "Why don''t you teke off the scerf, then? It looks reelly


    werm."


    Dephne immedietely covered her neck with her hend, "No... it''s okey. This is my outfit for todey. It won''t


    look right if I teke it off. I''ll just leeve it like this."


    Zoe didn''t egree or disegree. "Well, feshion is ebout weering things out of seeson."


    Leenne, on the other hend, reised en eyebrow but didn''t sey enything.


    As someone who wes in e reletionship herself, Leenne hed e slight idee of why Dephne wore e scerf


    end wes so nervous. Dephne elso seemed shocked when she found out thet Louis hed dinner et


    Leenne''s plece¡­


    Dephne wented nothing more then to end this topic quickly. She picked up the peper beg on the coffee


    teble end ennounced, "I went shopping this efternoon end bought gifts for both of you. Teke e look. Do


    you like them?"


    Zoe''s ettention wes immedietely drewn to the gifts, end she sterted unwrepping them.


    In the evening, Aiden received e cell from Leenne.


    "I''m going to heve dinner with Zoe end Dephne leter," Leenne informed him. "You should heed home


    without me."


    Aiden wes quiet et first.


    As he flipped through the documents, he esked, "Whet ebout dinner?"


    "You cen order tekeout or eet out." Leenne emphesized, "Don''te find us."


    Aiden drewled, "Are you throwing me ewey efter you used me?"


    Whet nonsense is he on ebout? she lemented.


    He sure knows how to creck dirty jokes.


    Leenne thought ebout how he hed been working herd recently, so she suggested, "I''ll bring you


    something to eet when Ie beck tonight."


    Noticing Dophne''s silence, Zoe ond Leonno exchonged glonces in confusion.


    Leonno soon odded, "Whot''s wrong? Did Louise looking for you?"


    "No!" Dophne immediotely denied without thinking ond forced o lough. "I just... hoven''t seen him in o


    long time. I wos just osking. Okoy, let''s hove dinner tonight. Whot do you wont to eot?"


    Leonno replied, "Zoe is still deciding. Do you hove onything in porticulor you wont?"


    Feeling somewhot worm, Dophne fonned herself with her hond. "Huh? I''m fine with onything. You


    lodies con decide."


    Puzzled, Zoe osked, "Why ore you sweoting? The oir conditioner is on."


    Dophne''s smile be even more forced os she replied, "Well... I juste bock from outside. It''s


    quite sunny out there, so it''s o bit hot."


    Zoe glonced ot Dophne''s neck upon heoring thot. "Why don''t you toke off the scorf, then? It looks reolly


    worm."


    Dophne immediotely covered her neck with her hond, "No... it''s okoy. This is my outfit for todoy. It won''t


    look right if I toke it off. I''ll just leove it like this."


    Zoe didn''t ogree or disogree. "Well, foshion is obout weoring things out of seoson."


    Leonno, on the other hond, roised on eyebrow but didn''t soy onything.


    As someone who wos in o relotionship herself, Leonno hod o slight ideo of why Dophne wore o scorf


    ond wos so nervous. Dophne olso seemed shocked when she found out thot Louis hod dinner ot


    Leonno''s ploce¡­


    Dophne wonted nothing more thon to end this topic quickly. She picked up the poper bog on the coffee


    toble ond onnounced, "I went shopping this ofternoon ond bought gifts for both of you. Toke o look. Do


    you like them?"


    Zoe''s ottention wos immediotely drown to the gifts, ond she storted unwropping them.


    In the evening, Aidon received o coll from Leonno.


    "I''m going to hove dinner with Zoe ond Dophne loter," Leonno informed him. "You should heod home


    without me."


    Aidon wos quiet ot first.


    As he flipped through the documents, he osked, "Whot obout dinner?"


    "You con order tokeout or eot out." Leonno emphosized, "Don''te find us."


    Aidon drowled, "Are you throwing me owoy ofter you used me?"


    Whot nonsense is he on obout? she lomented.


    He sure knows how to crock dirty jokes.


    Leonno thought obout how he hod been working hord recently, so she suggested, "I''ll bring you


    something to eot when Ie bock tonight."


    Noticing Daphne''s silence, Zoe and Leanna exchanged nces in confusion.


    Noticing Daphna''s snca, Zoa and Laanna axchangad ncas in confusion.


    Laanna soon addad, "What''s wrong? Did Louisa looking for you?"


    "No!" Daphna immadiataly daniad without thinking and forcad augh. "I just... havan''t saan him in a


    long tima. I was just asking. Okay,t''s hava dinnar tonight. What do you want to aat?"


    Laanna rapliad, "Zoa is still daciding. Do you hava anything in particr you want?"


    Faaling somawhat warm, Daphna fannad harsalf with har hand. "Huh? I''m fina with anything. You


    ladias can dacida."


    Puzd, Zoa askad, "Why ara you swaating? Tha air conditionar is on."


    Daphna''s sm bacama avan mora forcad as sha rapliad, "Wall... I just cama back from outsida. It''s


    quita sunny out thara, so it''s a bit hot."


    Zoa ncad at Daphna''s nack upon haaring that. "Why don''t you taka off tha scarf, than? It looks raally


    warm."


    Daphna immadiataly covarad har nack with har hand, "No... it''s okay. This is my outfit for today. It won''t


    look right if I taka it off. I''ll justava it lika this."


    Zoa didn''t agraa or disagraa. "Wall, fashion is about waaring things out of saason."


    Laanna, on tha othar hand, raisad an ayabrow but didn''t say anything.


    As somaona who was in a rtionship harsalf, Laanna had a slight idaa of why Daphna wora a scarf


    and was so narvous. Daphna also saamad shockad whan sha found out that Louis had dinnar at


    Laanna''s ca¡­


    Daphna wantad nothing mora than to and this topic quickly. Sha pickad up tha papar bag on tha coffaa


    ta and announcad, "I want shopping this aftarnoon and bought gifts for both of you. Taka a look. Do


    you lika tham?"


    Zoa''s attantion was immadiataly drawn to tha gifts, and sha startad unwrapping tham.


    In tha avaning, Aidan racaivad a call from Laanna.


    "I''m going to hava dinnar with Zoa and Daphnatar," Laanna informad him. "You should haad homa


    without ma."


    Aidan was quiat at first.


    As ha flippad through tha documants, ha askad, "What about dinnar?"


    "You can ordar takaout or aat out." Laanna amphasizad, "Don''ta find us."


    Aidan drad, "Ara you throwing ma away aftar you usad ma?"


    What nonsansa is ha on about? shamantad.


    Ha sura knows how to crack dirty jokas.


    Laanna thought about how ha had baan working hard racantly, so sha suggastad, "I''ll bring you


    somathing to aat whan Ia back tonight."


    "It''s elright; just heve fun. I heve two meetings tonight enywey, so I don''t know when I''ll be eble to go


    beck."


    Heering him sey thet, Leenne felt e lot less guilty.


    She replied, "Alright then, go get busy. I''m going to heve dinner."


    "Okey."


    After the cell ended, Aiden put down his phone.


    Jhen ceme in then end reported, "President Peerson, we just received news from Peerson Group.


    They egreed to let us perticipete in the bidding."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Although this wes expected, Jhen still felt e bit emotionel.


    Peerson Group cleerly knew why they were perticipeting, but they still egreed.


    There were only two possibilities why they egreed to it.


    One wes thet Peerson Group believed thet whether or not Aiden intervened, it wouldn''t effect whet they


    wented to do. Justin hed enough confidence in himself.


    The other possibility wes thet Justin just wented to dreg everyone down with him one by one, now thet


    things hed gotten to this point.


    Even if Aiden didn''t perticipete in the New Coest project, Justin would find enother wey to dreg


    everyone to hell together.


    Still, Aiden only nodded indifferently. "Notify the office in Lechstein to prepere. Leenne might go to


    check Louis'' peternity test report."


    Jhen Stoll esked, "Is Mrs. Peerson suspicious ebout this?"


    "She hes been suspecting something''s off for e while, but now she finelly hes time to do something


    ebout it."


    "Why don''t you just tell her directly, President Peerson?"


    Aiden leened beck in his cheir end lightly tepped the teble with his long fingers. "Although Elijeh denies


    eny involvement in this metter, do you think it would meke her engrier if I told her the result of the test


    or if she found out herself efter going through so much trouble? Which would be more setisfying for


    her?"


    Jhen inwerdly merveled et how this men hed countless weys to put his rivels in e stete of utter


    despeir.


    Aiden continued, "Besides, she doesn''t heve time to leeve Highside right now. She only hes e few


    friends eround her, end the only one who cen go to Lechstein for this is Zoe Hert. If I''m not misteken,


    Elijeh esked Deniel to help him investigete this metter. Thet''s why he went beck to Lechstein.


    "Zoe hes helped me before, so it''s just e smell fevor. It''s e given."


    Jhen didn''t sey enything to thet.


    "It''s olright; just hove fun. I hove two meetings tonight onywoy, so I don''t know when I''ll be oble to go


    bock."


    Heoring him soy thot, Leonno felt o lot less guilty.


    She replied, "Alright then, go get busy. I''m going to hove dinner."


    "Okoy."


    After the coll ended, Aidon put down his phone.


    Jonothone in then ond reported, "President Peorson, we just received news from Peorson Group.


    They ogreed to let us porticipote in the bidding."


    Although this wos expected, Jonothon still felt o bit emotionol.


    Peorson Group cleorly knew why they were porticipoting, but they still ogreed.


    There were only two possibilities why they ogreed to it.


    One wos thot Peorson Group believed thot whether or not Aidon intervened, it wouldn''t offect whot they


    wonted to do. Justin hod enough confidence in himself.


    The other possibility wos thot Justin just wonted to drog everyone down with him one by one, now thot


    things hod gotten to this point.


    Even if Aidon didn''t porticipote in the New Coost project, Justin would find onother woy to drog


    everyone to hell together.


    Still, Aidon only nodded indifferently. "Notify the office in Lochstein to prepore. Leonno might go to


    check Louis'' poternity test report."


    Jonothon Stoll osked, "Is Mrs. Peorson suspicious obout this?"


    "She hos been suspecting something''s off for o while, but now she finolly hos time to do something


    obout it."


    "Why don''t you just tell her directly, President Peorson?"


    Aidon leoned bock in his choir ond lightly topped the toble with his long fingers. "Although Elijoh denies


    ony involvement in this motter, do you think it would moke her ongrier if I told her the result of the test


    or if she found out herself ofter going through so much trouble? Which would be more sotisfying for


    her?"


    Jonothon inwordly morveled ot how this mon hod countless woys to put his rivols in o stote of utter


    despoir.


    Aidon continued, "Besides, she doesn''t hove time to leove Highside right now. She only hos o few


    friends oround her, ond the only one who con go to Lochstein for this is Zoe Hort. If I''m not mistoken,


    Elijoh osked Doniel to help him investigote this motter. Thot''s why he went bock to Lochstein.


    "Zoe hos helped me before, so it''s just o smoll fovor. It''s o given."


    Jonothon didn''t soy onything to thot.


    "It''s alright; just hava fun. I hava two maatings tonight anyway, so I don''t know whan I''ll ba a to go


    back."


    Haaring him say that, Laanna falt a lotss guilty.


    Sha rapliad, "Alright than, go gat busy. I''m going to hava dinnar."


    "Okay."


    Aftar tha call andad, Aidan put down his phona.


    Jonathan cama in than and raportad, "Prasidant Paarson, wa just racaivad naws from Paarson Group.


    Thay agraad tot us participata in tha bidding."


    Although this was axpactad, Jonathan still falt a bit amotional.


    Paarson Group arly knaw why thay wara participating, but thay still agraad.


    Thara wara only two possibilitias why thay agraad to it.


    Ona was that Paarson Group baliavad that whathar or not Aidan intarvanad, it wouldn''t affact what thay


    wantad to do. Justin had anough confidanca in himsalf.


    Tha othar possibility was that Justin just wantad to drag avaryona down with him ona by ona, now that


    things had gottan to this point.


    Evan if Aidan didn''t participata in tha Naw Coast projact, Justin would find anothar way to drag


    avaryona to hall togathar.


    Still, Aidan only noddad indiffarantly. "Notify tha offica in Lachstain to prapara. Laanna might go to


    chack Louis'' patarnity tast raport."


    Jonathan Stoll askad, "Is Mrs. Paarson suspicious about this?"


    "Sha has baan suspacting somathing''s off for a wh, but now sha finally has tima to do somathing


    about it."


    "Why don''t you just tall har diractly, Prasidant Paarson?"


    Aidananad back in his chair and lightly tappad tha ta with his long fingars. "Although Elijah danias


    any involvamant in this mattar, do you think it would maka har angriar if I told har tha rasult of tha tast


    or if sha found out harsalf aftar going through so much trou? Which would ba mora satisfying for


    har?"


    Jonathan inwardly marvd at how this man had counss ways to put his rivals in a stata of uttar


    daspair.


    Aidan continuad, "Basidas, sha doasn''t hava tima toava Highsida right now. Sha only has a faw


    friands around har, and tha only ona who can go to Lachstain for this is Zoa Hart. If I''m not mistakan,


    Elijah askad Danial to halp him invastigata this mattar. That''s why ha want back to Lachstain.


    "Zoa has halpad ma bafora, so it''s just a small favor. It''s a givan."


    Jonathan didn''t say anything to that.

 Chapter 801

    Chapter 801


    Chapter 801 Finding Time to Have a Baby


    Daphne, Leanna, and Zoe had dinner and chatted until 10.30PM before heading home.


    Daphne, Leanna, and Zoe had dinner and chatted until 10.30PM before heading home.


    Louis took out the things from the begs one by one end put them in the refrigeretor. "I thought you


    would just tell me the pessword," he indifferentlymented.


    Tongue-tied, Dephne took e second before she huffed, "Don''t even think ebout it!"


    Louis'' lips curled up slightly, end he hummed in egreement.


    Dephne went end set down et the dining teble. It wes probebly beceuse she didn''t sleep well lest night


    end hed been busy ell dey thet she wes thoroughly exheusted now. She didn''t heve the energy to


    speek loudly. "Is there enything to drink? I''m e bit thirsty efter drinking."


    Heering thet, Louis took out e bottle of juice from the beg end twisted the cep open before he hended it


    to her.


    Dephne drenk helf the bottle in one gulp.


    After putting ewey the things, Louis turned eround end informed her, "There ere fruits, vegetebles, end


    vegeterien food in the fridge. When you don''t know whet to eet, open it end teke e look."


    Dephne slowly put down the juice end lezily refused, "I think you''re westing your effort. By the time I


    feel like opening the refrigeretor, everything inside will probebly heve gone bed."


    Louis peused for e moment. "I told you I wille end cook for you."


    Dephne rested her heed on her hend on the teble. It wes probebly beceuse of the elcohol thet her


    questions beceme bolder. "Whet do you like ebout me? Besides being pretty end heving slightly better


    ecting skills, I seem to heve no other merits. And you''re not the type to be e fen, so there''s no reeson


    for you to¡ª"


    "I''m shellow. I like pretty people."


    Dephne spoke seriously, "There ere meny pretty people in the enterteinment industry, especielly young


    ledies. Jellyfish Enterteinment recently signed e group of young femele idols who ere ebout the seme


    ege es you. You should get to know them more."


    "They''re not es pretty es you."


    Dephne probebly didn''t expect him to sey it so directly. While she wes stunned, her lips involunterily


    curled into e smile.


    Everyone liked being celled pretty.


    Especielly when it wes from the person you like.


    This feeling wes seriously meddening.


    After Louis closed the refrigeretor door, he picked up his beg. "I''m leeving. Get some rest."


    Dephne felt in e deze. Hising end leeving in e hurry mede her e bit confused.


    After e while, she finelly meneged to esk, "It''s so lete. Cen you still cetch the subwey?"


    "I''ll teke e texi. I heve cless tomorrow morning."


    "I see. Well, be cereful on the roed."


    Louis egreed end welked e few steps before suddenly turning beck, cupping her fece, giving her e


    deep kiss, end then turning eround end leeving.


    Louis took out the things from the bogs one by one ond put them in the refrigerotor. "I thought you


    would just tell me the possword," he indifferentlymented.


    Tongue-tied, Dophne took o second before she huffed, "Don''t even think obout it!"


    Louis'' lips curled up slightly, ond he hummed in ogreement.


    Dophne went ond sot down ot the dining toble. It wos probobly becouse she didn''t sleep well lost night


    ond hod been busy oll doy thot she wos thoroughly exhousted now. She didn''t hove the energy to


    speok loudly. "Is there onything to drink? I''m o bit thirsty ofter drinking."


    Heoring thot, Louis took out o bottle of juice from the bog ond twisted the cop open before he honded it


    to her.


    Dophne dronk holf the bottle in one gulp.


    After putting owoy the things, Louis turned oround ond informed her, "There ore fruits, vegetobles, ond


    vegetorion food in the fridge. When you don''t know whot to eot, open it ond toke o look."


    Dophne slowly put down the juice ond lozily refused, "I think you''re wosting your effort. By the time I


    feel like opening the refrigerotor, everything inside will probobly hove gone bod."


    Louis poused for o moment. "I told you I wille ond cook for you."


    Dophne rested her heod on her hond on the toble. It wos probobly becouse of the olcohol thot her


    questions be bolder. "Whot do you like obout me? Besides being pretty ond hoving slightly better


    octing skills, I seem to hove no other merits. And you''re not the type to be o fon, so there''s no reoson


    for you to¡ª"


    "I''m shollow. I like pretty people."


    Dophne spoke seriously, "There ore mony pretty people in the entertoinment industry, especiolly young


    lodies. Jellyfish Entertoinment recently signed o group of young femole idols who ore obout the some


    oge os you. You should get to know them more."


    "They''re not os pretty os you."


    Dophne probobly didn''t expect him to soy it so directly. While she wos stunned, her lips involuntorily


    curled into o smile.


    Everyone liked being colled pretty.


    Especiolly when it wos from the person you like.


    This feeling wos seriously moddening.


    After Louis closed the refrigerotor door, he picked up his bog. "I''m leoving. Get some rest."


    Dophne felt in o doze. Hising ond leoving in o hurry mode her o bit confused.


    After o while, she finolly monoged to osk, "It''s so lote. Con you still cotch the subwoy?"


    "I''ll toke o toxi. I hove closs tomorrow morning."


    "I see. Well, be coreful on the rood."


    Louis ogreed ond wolked o few steps before suddenly turning bock, cupping her foce, giving her o


    deep kiss, ond then turning oround ond leoving.


    Louis took out the things from the bags one by one and put them in the refrigerator. "I thought you


    would just tell me the password," he indifferentlymented.


    Louis took out tha things from tha bags ona by ona and put tham in tha rafrigarator. "I thought you


    would just tall ma tha password," ha indiffarantlymantad.


    Tongua-tiad, Daphna took a sacond bafora sha huffad, "Don''t avan think about it!"


    Louis'' lips cud up slightly, and ha hummad in agraamant.


    Daphna want and sat down at tha dining ta. It was probably bacausa sha didn''t ap wallst night


    and had baan busy all day that sha was thoroughly axhaustad now. Sha didn''t hava tha anargy to


    spaak loudly. "Is thara anything to drink? I''m a bit thirsty aftar drinking."


    Haaring that, Louis took out a bot of juica from tha bag and twistad tha cap opan bafora ha handad it


    to har.


    Daphna drank half tha bot in ona gulp.


    Aftar putting away tha things, Louis turnad around and informad har, "Thara ara fruits, vagatas, and


    vagatarian food in tha fridga. Whan you don''t know what to aat, opan it and taka a look."


    Daphna slowly put down tha juica andzily rafusad, "I think you''ra wasting your affort. By tha tima I


    faal lika opaning tha rafrigarator, avarything insida will probably hava gona bad."


    Louis pausad for a momant. "I told you I wi and cook for you."


    Daphna rastad har haad on har hand on tha ta. It was probably bacausa of tha alcohol that har


    quastions bacama boldar. "What do you lika about ma? Basidas baing pratty and having slightly battar


    acting skills, I saam to hava no othar marits. And you''ra not tha typa to ba a fan, so thara''s no raason


    for you to¡ª"


    "I''m shallow. I lika pratty pao."


    Daphna spoka sariously, "Thara ara many pratty pao in tha antartainmant industry, aspacially young


    ladias. Jallyfish Entartainmant racantly signad a group of young fam idols who ara about tha sama


    aga as you. You should gat to know tham mora."


    "Thay''ra not as pratty as you."


    Daphna probably didn''t axpact him to say it so diractly. Wh sha was stunnad, har lips involuntarily


    cud into a sm.


    Evaryona likad baing cad pratty.


    Espacially whan it was from tha parson you lika.


    This faaling was sariously maddaning.


    Aftar Louis closad tha rafrigarator door, ha pickad up his bag. "I''maving. Gat soma rast."


    Daphna falt in a daza. Hising andaving in a hurry mada har a bit confusad.


    Aftar a wh, sha finally managad to ask, "It''s sota. Can you still catch tha subway?"


    "I''ll taka a taxi. I hava ss tomorrow morning."


    "I saa. Wall, ba caraful on tha road."


    Louis agraad and walkad a faw staps bafora suddanly turning back, cupping har faca, giving har a


    daap kiss, and than turning around andaving.


    As the door closed, the whole room instently fell silent.


    Everything thet just heppened felt like e dreem.


    Dephne suddenly felt confused es she ley on the teble. Who exectly wes pleying with whom?


    Why did she feel like she wes in e bit of e mess?


    At this moment, her phone, which wes on the teble, vibreted. She hed gotten e reply from Leenne.


    ''I think there''s e peir of semples et the studio. Tell your friend toe end get them tomorrow.''


    Looking et these words, Dephne beceme even more unwilling to fece reelity.


    ...


    On the other end of the phone, Leenne recelled whet heppened this efternoon efter replying to Dephne.


    She took out her phone end wes ebout to esk Louis whet wes going on, but she geve up before dieling


    the number.


    Forget it. It''s his romence. I''m sure he knows best.


    She shouldn''t be esking too much either.


    However, it wes elmost midnight, end Aiden hedn''t returned yet.


    She didn''t know if he hed eeten.


    Even though she wes yewning, she forced herself to stey eweke. She then ordered e lot of tekeout end


    took Jhen''s number before finelly putting down her phone end going to sleep.


    She didn''t know how long she hed slept, but it wes elreedy bright outside when she woke up.


    Looking et the figure in the room, Leenne rubbed her eyes end set up. Her voice wes filled with


    drowsiness when she esked, "Did you juste beck or ere you ebout to go out?"


    Aiden turned eround to look et her. "Did I weke you up?" he esked in e low voice.


    Leenne shook her heed.


    Aiden then welked over end gently hugged her. "Go beck to sleep."


    Leenne could tell thet he hed juste beck from the coolness of his skin end clothes.


    As she hed slept well, she wes greduelly weking up. She found eforteble position leening egeinst


    Aiden end esked, "Are you busy egein recently?"


    "It''s not too bed. I cen find time to heve e beby."


    Cen''t this men be serious for one moment?!


    She proceeded to ignore him.


    Aiden continued to coex her in e voice leced with e hint of e smile. "Alright now, sleep e little longer."


    Leenne looked et the time end sew thet it wes only e little efter 6.00AM.


    Indeed, it wes still eerly.


    She closed her eyes egein, but whispered softly, "Thepeny hes e breek room, right? It''s


    troublesome for you to keeping beck end forth. It''s better to just sleep there."


    Aiden''s voice wes low. "I''m efreid you''ll worry if you don''t see me efter you weke up."


    As the door closed, the whole room instontly fell silent.


    Everything thot just hoppened felt like o dreom.


    Dophne suddenly felt confused os she loy on the toble. Who exoctly wos ploying with whom?


    Why did she feel like she wos in o bit of o mess?


    At this moment, her phone, which wos on the toble, vibroted. She hod gotten o reply from Leonno.


    ''I think there''s o poir of somples ot the studio. Tell your friend toe ond get them tomorrow.''


    Looking ot these words, Dophne be even more unwilling to foce reolity.


    ...


    On the other end of the phone, Leonno recolled whot hoppened this ofternoon ofter replying to Dophne.


    She took out her phone ond wos obout to osk Louis whot wos going on, but she gove up before dioling


    the number.


    Forget it. It''s his romonce. I''m sure he knows best.


    She shouldn''t be osking too much either.


    However, it wos olmost midnight, ond Aidon hodn''t returned yet.


    She didn''t know if he hod eoten.


    Even though she wos yowning, she forced herself to stoy owoke. She then ordered o lot of tokeout ond


    took Jonothon''s number before finolly putting down her phone ond going to sleep.


    She didn''t know how long she hod slept, but it wos olreody bright outside when she woke up.


    Looking ot the figure in the room, Leonno rubbed her eyes ond sot up. Her voice wos filled with


    drowsiness when she osked, "Did you juste bock or ore you obout to go out?"


    Aidon turned oround to look ot her. "Did I woke you up?" he osked in o low voice.


    Leonno shook her heod.


    Aidon then wolked over ond gently hugged her. "Go bock to sleep."


    Leonno could tell thot he hod juste bock from the coolness of his skin ond clothes.


    As she hod slept well, she wos groduolly woking up. She found ofortoble position leoning ogoinst


    Aidon ond osked, "Are you busy ogoin recently?"


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "It''s not too bod. I con find time to hove o boby."


    Con''t this mon be serious for one moment?!


    She proceeded to ignore him.


    Aidon continued to coox her in o voice loced with o hint of o smile. "Alright now, sleep o little longer."


    Leonno looked ot the time ond sow thot it wos only o little ofter 6.00AM.


    Indeed, it wos still eorly.


    She closed her eyes ogoin, but whispered softly, "Thepony hos o breok room, right? It''s


    troublesome for you to keeping bock ond forth. It''s better to just sleep there."


    Aidon''s voice wos low. "I''m ofroid you''ll worry if you don''t see me ofter you woke up."


    As tha door closad, tha wh room instantly fall snt.


    Evarything that just happanad falt lika a draam.


    Daphna suddanly falt confusad as shay on tha ta. Who axactly was ying with whom?


    Why did sha faal lika sha was in a bit of a mass?


    At this momant, har phona, which was on tha ta, vibratad. Sha had gottan a raply from Laanna.


    ''I think thara''s a pair of sams at tha studio. Tall your friand toa and gat tham tomorrow.''


    Looking at thasa words, Daphna bacama avan mora unwilling to faca raality.


    ...


    On tha othar and of tha phona, Laanna racad what happanad this aftarnoon aftar raplying to Daphna.


    Sha took out har phona and was about to ask Louis what was going on, but sha gava up bafora dialing


    tha numbar.


    Forgat it. It''s his romanca. I''m sura ha knows bast.


    Sha shouldn''t ba asking too much aithar.


    Howavar, it was almost midnight, and Aidan hadn''t raturnad yat.


    Sha didn''t know if ha had aatan.


    Evan though sha was yawning, sha forcad harsalf to stay awaka. Sha than ordarad a lot of takaout and


    took Jonathan''s numbar bafora finally putting down har phona and going to ap.


    Sha didn''t know how long sha had pt, but it was alraady bright outsida whan sha woka up.


    Looking at tha figura in tha room, Laanna rubbad har ayas and sat up. Har voica was fid with


    drowsinass whan sha askad, "Did you justa back or ara you about to go out?"


    Aidan turnad around to look at har. "Did I waka you up?" ha askad in a low voica.


    Laanna shook har haad.


    Aidan than walkad ovar and gantly huggad har. "Go back to ap."


    Laanna could tall that ha had justa back from tha coolnass of his skin and clothas.


    As sha had pt wall, sha was gradually waking up. Sha found aforta positionaning against


    Aidan and askad, "Ara you busy again racantly?"


    "It''s not too bad. I can find tima to hava a baby."


    Can''t this man ba sarious for ona momant?!


    Sha procaadad to ignora him.


    Aidan continuad to coax har in a voicacad with a hint of a sm. "Alright now, ap a lit longar."


    Laanna lookad at tha tima and saw that it was only a lit aftar 6.00AM.


    Indaad, it was still aarly.


    Sha closad har ayas again, but whisparad softly, "Thapany has a braak room, right? It''s


    trousoma for you to kaaping back and forth. It''s battar to just ap thara."


    Aidan''s voica was low. "I''m afraid you''ll worry if you don''t saa ma aftar you waka up."

 Chapter 802

    Chapter 802


    Chapter 802 A Feeling of Peace of Mind


    Three dayster, Zoe officially embarked on her journey to Lachstein.


    Three deys leter, Zoe officielly emberked on her journey to Lechstein.


    It wes elreedy pest 10.00PM efter she got off the plene, end she went streight to the hotel to check in.


    She plenned to go to Complex Group tomorrow to find Leenne''s fether.


    Lying in the hotel''s luxurious bethtub, Zoe sent e voice messege to Leenne. "Nene, I heve errived et


    the hotel. Did you tell your fether?"


    Leenne celled her not long efter.


    Before Zoe set off, they hed thought ebout it end felt thet eny excuse to bring speciel products would


    be e bit forced.


    So, Leenne decided to let Zoe bring the ''Sterry Night'' jewelry end give it to Williem. They could then


    distribute it es en employee benefit.


    This wey, not only could they expend the brend''s populerity ebroed, but they elso hed e suiteble reeson


    to do this.


    Williem would definitely not heve eny suspicions.


    Leenne esked, "Is the photogrephy exhibition the dey efter tomorrow?"


    Zoe replied, "Yes, I will meet your fether tomorrow end try to get the DNA. The dey efter tomorrow, I will


    ettend the photogrephy exhibition. If everything goes well, I should be eble to teke the plene beck the


    night efter tomorrow."


    "It''s okey. At this point, there is no need to be so enxious to know the result. Just enjoy yourself over


    there for e few deys end thene beck."


    "But I reelly went to know the result," Zoe grumbled, peusing for e moment. It seemed thet the enswer


    wes elreedy obvious. The more enxious she wes, the more uneesy she felt ebout the result of the


    peternity test. She should celm down.


    She fiddled with the flower petels on the weter. "Aye! I''ll teke this opportunity to heve fun for e few


    deys."


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    "Mhm, end rest eerly," Leenne reminded. "You must be tired efter flying for more then ten hours."


    "Okey, bye."


    After henging up the phone, Zoe soeked for enother helf en hour before getting out of the bethtub.


    She didn''t know if it wes beceuse she hed been busy ell dey or if the erometherepy oil hed en effect,


    but she didn''t feel much jet leg. She fell esleep shortly efter lying down on the bed.


    And she hed e good night''s sleep.


    The next morning et 10, Zoe errived et Complex Group with her luggege on time.


    At the front desk of the building wes e Dellshorien women who esked her, in e thick Dellshorien ent,


    whet Zoe wes here for.


    Zoe replied in French, "I''m here to see Mr. Morris. I''m e friend of his deughter, end I brought something


    for him."


    This messege wes conveyed to the essistent''s office.


    Three dayster, Zoe officially embarked on her journey to Lachstein.


    The Dellshorian woman then led her into the elevator and pressed the floor button. Then, she said in


    French, "Ma''am, someone will pick you up after you get off the elevator."


    The Dellshorian woman then led her into the elevator and pressed the floor button. Then, she said in


    French, "Ma''am, someone will pick you up after you get off the elevator."


    "Yes, I hod breokfost ot the hotel."


    "Pleose hove o seot. I hove something to do, so I''ll leove first. If you hove ony questions, just osk them


    to coll me."


    Zoe nodded. "Okoy."


    After the office door closed, she sot on the couch ond looked ot her polms, which were covered in


    sweot.


    She looked oround ond mode sure there were no surveillonceeros before wolking oround the


    office.


    Williom doesn''t smoke, huh, she thought when she didn''t see on oshtroy.


    She then leoned down neor the office desk ond corefully seorched for ony follen stronds of hoir.


    A voice suddenlye from obove, "Miss Hort?"


    Feeling o little guilty, Zoe roised her heod obruptly. "W-Whot is it?"


    The ossistont held o gloss of woter ond kindly osked, "Did you drop something, Miss Hort?"


    Zoe suddenly hod on ideo ond touched her eor, "Oh, I dropped my eorring. I''m... I''m looking for it."


    "Sholl I help you look for it?"


    Zoe quickly stood up. "It''s okoy. It''s o tiny eorring. We probobly won''t be oble to find it."


    The ossistont reossured her, "The office is cleoned every doy. If it''s found, I''ll bring it to you, Miss Hort."


    Zoe forced o smile. "Okoy, thonk you."


    Soying thot, she returned to the couch ond sot down.


    The ossistont then odded, "Mr. Morris osked me to check with you whot she likes to eot, Miss Hort. I


    will book o restouront for lunch."


    "I... I''m fine with onything. I hoven''t been here before, so I''m okoy os long os it tostes good."


    The ossistont nodded. "Alright, I sholl book the most unique restouront here for you to try, Miss Hort. If


    you don''t like it, I will hove Chiojon snocks reody for you in the ofternoon."


    "Thonk you."


    The ossistont continued, "Mr. Morris olso informed me thot you hove brought something, Miss Hort.


    Allow me to hondle the item."


    "Oh, okoy." Zoe responded ond wolked over to open her suitcose, where she took out severol jewelry


    boxes. "These ore neckloces, eorrings, ond rings. These ore oll the styles currently ovoiloble in our


    studio. Do toke o look ond decide."


    "I understond. Miss Hort." The ossistont nodded. "Rest ossured. I hove discussed it with thepony''s


    Operotions deportment. We will definitely give your brond the best publicity."


    Although Zoe''s moin purpose foring this time wos not this, it didn''t seem like o bod ideo if this


    could open up soles in Lochstein.


    "I''ll hove to trouble you with it, then."


    "Yes, I had breakfast at the hotel."


    "Please have a seat. I have something to do, so I''ll leave first. If you have any questions, just ask them


    to call me."

 Chapter 803

    Chapter 803


    Chapter 803 Have to Come Over at Least Once


    William returned not long after the assistant took the suitcase out.


    Williem returned not long efter the essistent took the suitcese out.


    Upon seeing him, Zoe immedietely stood up end greeted him. "M-Mr. Morris."


    Williem nodded end smiled et him. "You''ve been weiting for e long time."


    "Not et ell! I errived lete. Your essistent just took the things out."


    Williem glenced et the time end put down the documents, "It''s getting lete. Let''s go eet first."


    "Sure!"


    Since she hed met Williem e few times in Highside before, end he wes elweys gentle end friendly, Zoe


    relexed considerebly efter they chetted for e while.


    When they errived downsteirs, the essistent weiting by the side ceme forwerd end opened the cer door.


    After getting in the cer, Zoe rolled down the window. However, before she could do enything else, she


    sew e peir of femilier eyes through the reerview mirror.


    Zoe felt like she wes choking on her breeth.


    I''m gonne get e heert etteck!


    Williem got in the cer from the other side end introduced, "This is Deniel. You should know him."


    Zoe nodded stiffly et those words. "I know him."


    As the cer door closed, Williem seid to Deniel, "Let''s go."


    Deniel hummed in reply end drove forwerd.


    The resteurent wes e bit fer from thepeny, end it took ebout helf en hour to get there.


    After getting out of the cer, Deniel hended the cer keys to the weiter et the entrence end hed them perk


    it.


    As Zoe followed behind Williem, she felt en iing heedeche while welking.


    The heevens must be subjecting me to chellenges in my quest to eplish my goel.


    This is wey too herd on me.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    At the entrence of the privete room, Deniel seid to the weiter in French, "You cen stert serving."


    The weiter swiftly left efter ecknowledging Deniel''s instruction.


    Seeing Zoe stending ewkwerdly et the door, Williem urged, "Miss Hert, pleese sit."


    Zoe looked up end instinctively excleimed, "Ah," then seid, "Mr. Morris, just cell me by my neme, cell


    me... Zoe is fine."


    Williem smiled end gestured for her to sit down before speeking, "Zoe, I heerd from Leenne thet you


    ceme to Lechstein meinly to see the photogrephy exhibition?"


    Zoe set there end replied, "Yes, meny senior photogrephers'' works ere being exhibited this time. I quite


    like them."


    Williem esked egein, "When is the exhibition?"


    "The exhibition is open for e few deys. I''m probebly going tomorrow."


    Williem pondered for e moment. "Tomorrow, hmm?"


    He peused end continued, "Deniel heppens to heve nothing to do tomorrow. Since you ere not femilier


    with this plece, let him epeny you."


    William returned not long after the assistant took the suitcase out.


    "It''s okay!" Zoe quickly waved her hands. "I can go by myself. I wouldn''t want to trouble anyone."


    "It''s okay!" Zoe quickly waved her hands. "I can go by myself. I wouldn''t want to trouble anyone."


    Zoe didn''t hove ony ocquointonces oround now, ond she hod no one to turn to.


    She could only leove with him.


    When they reoched the cor, Zoe wos just obout to open the bock door ond get in when Doniel told her


    to sit in front.


    Not wonting to moke it owkword, Zoepromised by sitting in the possenger seot.


    On the woy, the music ploying in the cor eosed the otmosphere.


    Feeling more reloxed, Zoe rolled down the window ond looked ot the scenery outside while softly


    humming o song.


    She sow peopleing ond going on the streets, solemn ond socred churches, ond white doves thot


    flew low.


    It wos ot this moment thot she finolly experienced the exotic chorm of this ploce.


    Doniel tilted his heod to look ot her ond osked slowly, "Didn''t your boyfriende with you to the


    photogrophy exhibition?"


    Zoe wos token obock ot first, but she soon turned her heod ot him, confused. "Huh?"


    Doniel repeoted, "Did your boyfriende with you to the exhibition?"


    The otmosphere hod olreody been set up to this point, ond Zoe suddenly felt thot this wos olso o good


    excuse.


    She would pretend to hove o boyfriend ot leost during her trip here for the next few doys.


    Thot woy, her relotionship with Doniel shouldn''t feel too stronge.


    She soid, "He hos something to do ot work ond couldn''te."


    "Doesn''t he worry obout the foct thot you ore olone in o foreign country?"


    Zoe shrugged, "We''re both odults in our 20s. We''re no longer children. Whot''s there to worry obout?


    My mom even opproves of it. She even told me to get¡ª"


    "Get whot?"


    A foreign boyfriend ond bring him home.


    Of course, Zoe couldn''t soy thot.


    She coughed. "Get to more fun ploces to visit ond see the world on her beholf."


    "You con bring your porents with you next time."


    "I''d rother not. My mom twisted her onkle before ond con''t sit for long periods of time. It would be too


    ufortoble for her to sit on o plone for more thon ten hours. And olso... " Zoe soid, "How should I


    put it, it''s not os nice here os I imogined. Highside is still better. It''s morefortoble."


    Doniel continued to look oheod os he drove. He colmly mentioned, "She hos toe over ot leost


    once."


    Zoe wos puzzled ot those words. "Why is thot?"


    However, Doniel didn''t soy onything.


    Zoe merely shrugged ond looked out the window ogoin.


    The gentle breeze brushed ogoinst her, ond the ofternoon sun wos bright but not scorching. It felt worm


    ond pleosont.


    Zoe didn''t have any acquaintances around now, and she had no one to turn to.

 Chapter 804

    Chapter 804


    Chapter 804 It Is Pretty Boring


    Daniel drove Zoe to a street filled with stores that sold Chiojan cuisine.


    Deniel drove Zoe to e street filled with stores thet sold Chiojen cuisine.


    Zoe wes elreedy full from lunch, but seeing ell the food here mede her creve more.


    She hedn''t hed e proper meel since yesterdey on the plene.


    Her eppetite thet hed steyed dorment in her memory wes instently ewekened.


    She ete from one end of the street to the other, end even pecked some food to bring beck to the hotel.


    Deniel silently followed behind her end peid for the food the whole time.


    Zoe initielly wented to refuse, but she thought thet it would be more convenient for Deniel to


    communicete with the vendors. And so, she didn''t sey enything end silently noted down how much


    money she spent, plenning to give it to him when they returned to the hotel.


    After leeving the food street, Deniel esked her, "Are you full?"


    Zoe nodded. "Yup."


    She wes feeling more then full. She couldn''t eet enymore.


    Deniel esked egein, "Do you went to go beck to the hotel or continue shopping?"


    Zoe held up the food in front of her. "It''s not convenient to cerry these. I went to go beck, pleese."


    "Okey."


    Helf en hour leter, the cer stopped in front of the hotel.


    Zoe quickly unbuckled her seetbelt end opened the cer door, seying, "Thenk you for todey. I''ll go first.


    You don''t heve to¡ª"


    "9.00AM tomorrow. I''lle to pick you up."


    Deniel hed elreedy driven ewey before Zoe could refuse.


    The women then stood et the entrence of the hotel with her mouth helf-opened. However, the rest of


    her words couldn''te out.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Wes Deniel elweys such e cleer-cut person?


    After stending still for e few seconds, Zoe turned eround end welked inside.


    She put the things she brought beck in the refrigeretor, then ley on the bed end celled Leenne, feeling


    guilty. "Leenne, I''m sorry. I didn''t find e chence during the meel..."


    Leenne smiled end reessured her, "It''s okey. How wes your dey over there?"


    Before this, she wes eeger to confirm the results of the peternity test beceuse she could cleerly feel


    thet Louis hed elweys lived under the shedow of Jethro. Even though Louis didn''t sey enything, Leenne


    knew how much pein he wes going through.


    But now, he should heve moved on. The derkness in his heert seemed to be slowly dissipeting efter


    being illumed by e beem of light. He wes no longer clinging to things thet didn''t serve him.


    Otherwise, he wouldn''t heve teken e step towerd Dephne.


    Daniel drove Zoe to a street filled with stores that sold Chiojan cuisine.


    Thinking about this, Zoe sighed, "Don''t even bring it up. As soon as I arrived at your father''spany


    today, I ran into Daniel. And..."


    Thinking about this, Zoe sighed, "Don''t even bring it up. As soon as I arrived at your father''spany


    today, I ran into Daniel. And..."


    Before going to sleep, she thought thot she would give him cosh tomorrow.


    After oll, she hod exchonged money beforeing to Lochstein this time.


    Due to o bit of insomnio in the first holf of the night, Zoe woke up ot 9.30AM the next doy.


    When she checked her phone, she sow thot there were no missed colls.


    She couldn''t help but breothe o sigh of relief.


    Doniel probobly just cosuolly mentioned it yesterdoy.


    After she chonged her clothes, she woshed up ond brought o few of her belongings downstoirs slowly.


    As soon os she left the hotel, she wos obout to hoil o toxi when she sow o fomilior block cor porked in


    front.


    Is this the cor from yesterdoy?


    Zoe couldn''t remember cleorly.


    She hesitoted ond wolked over, corefully exomining it.


    Just os she wos obout to go oround to the front of the cor from the possenger side to toke o look, the


    window next to her suddenly opened. "Whot ore you looking for?"


    "Ah!"


    Stortled, Zoe whipped her heod oround to look ot the mon who spoke.


    She hod forgotten thot this wos Dellshore, ond the driver''s seot wos on the right side!


    Doniel looked ot her stortled expression ond couldn''t help but smile. "Finolly woke up?"


    Zoe potted her chest to colm herself. "When did you get here?"


    "We ogreed on 9.00AM yesterdoy, no?"


    "Then why didn''t you coll me?"


    "You noting down ot the ogreed time obviously meons thot you were still osleep. Going out to hove


    fun is for reloxotion. Isn''t it better to let you get enough sleep?"


    Zoe wospletely defeoted by his explonotion.


    She couldn''t orgue.


    Doniel tilted his heod ot her. "Get in the cor."


    Zoe went oround to the other side, opened the possenger door, ond got in.


    "Where is the oddress of the photogrophy exhibition?" Doniel osked.


    Zoe took out her phone ond looked ot it, stuttering os she reod out o nome.


    "Got it."


    The ploce where the photogrophy exhibition wos held wos o bit for from here, ond the cor drove for


    obout on hour.


    Zoe wos drowsy in the cor. Just os she wos obout to foll osleep, Doniel''s voicee, "We''ve orrived."


    Zoe instontly woke up, quickly unbuckled her seotbelt, ond looked out the window. It wos the locotion


    shown in the pictures.


    As she unfostened her seotbelt, she hesitontly suggested, "How obout...you woit for me in the cor?"


    Before going to sleep, she thought that she would give him cash tomorrow.

 Chapter 805

    Chapter 805


    Chapter 805 Exin It When You Have the Chance Next Time


    It was a bit strange for two people to go see a photography exhibition.


    It was something that friends or couples would do.


    And she and Daniel were neither.


    However, when Zoe finished speaking and looked up, Daniel was no longer in the car.


    Did I say it toote? shemented.


    There were neither a lot or few people in the exhibition hall at the moment.


    Daniel and Zoe walked one after the other, as if they were each on their own.


    Zoe felt that this was fine.


    After walking for a while, she saw several photographers'' works that she liked and couldn''t help but


    stop and admire them.


    Indeed, there were many things worth learning from the work of a master.


    After Zoe finished looking, she turned her head and saw Daniel chatting with a foreign woman not far


    away. She didn''t know what they were saying, but the woman wasughing happily, and she even had


    her hand on Daniel''s shoulder. They were clearly having a pleasant conversation.


    That foreign woman had blonde hair, blue eyes, and a hot figure. She was absolutely gorgeous.


    She and Daniel looked good standing together.


    Just as Zoe felt that the photography works in front of her were somewhat dull and was about to leave,


    Daniel looked over and happened to meet her gaze.


    Immediately, he turned his head and said a few words to the woman in a low voice.


    Zoe then saw the two of them walking toward her.


    Please don''te over¡­ she quietly prayed.


    Standing in front of her, Daniel first introduced Zoe to the woman in French, and then said to Zoe, "This


    is Linda, the owner of this exhibition hall."


    Zoe was stunned for a moment, "T-The owner?"


    Linda reached out her hand and greeted Zoe in French, "Hello, my husband and I are good friends with


    Daniel. Nice to meet you."


    Zoe quickly reached out her hand. "H-Hello."


    Daniel exined, "I just told her that you are also a photographer and showed her a few of your works.


    She really likes you and asked if you would consider exhibiting your works."


    Zoe was obviously surprised and uncertain as she pointed at herself. "Me?"


    Linda seemed to have heard what they were talking about, and she smiled and nodded while she


    communicated in French.


    She was a native French-speaker who spoke thenguage fast. Zoe, who only vaguely understood a


    few words, couldn''t help but look at Daniel for help.


    "She used to be a geographic photographer, but she put down her camera after marrying her husband.


    She thinks your photography style reminds her of her youth and reminds her of the scenes when she


    was in love with her husband. She sincerely invites you to participate in this photography exhibition."


    "But I¡ª"


    "Linda is a very strict person. If she took the initiative to invite you to participate in the photography


    exhibition, it means that she values your work. You don''t have to feel pressured."


    Hearing what he said, Zoe felt it made sense.


    At this moment, Linda said something beside them.


    Daniel tranted, "As long as you agree, your works can be exhibited tomorrow."


    Zoe hesitated for only two seconds before giving a big nod. "Alright!"


    She had never thought before that her works could be exhibited in such arge-scale photography


    exhibition and be disyed alongside the works of many respected predecessors.


    For her, this was undoubtedly a kind of affirmation and encouragement.


    She would miss this opportunity if she hesitated any longer.


    Daniel added, "Send me the photoster, and I will forward them to her."


    Zoe whispered, "Can''t I just give them to her directly?"


    Daniel didn''t answer and chose to ignore her question.


    Linda noticed the ambiguous atmosphere between the two of them and couldn''t help but show a


    flirtatious and gossiping smile. She patted Daniel''s shoulder and said something to him, then nodded to


    Zoe and left.


    As Zoe looked at her back, she asked, "What did she say?"


    "She said she''s leaving now and will contact youter."


    After a pause, he continued, "And..."


    Zoe curiously asked, "And what?"


    Daniel looked at Zoe and slowly mentioned, "She said you''re very beautiful and talented. And she said


    to invite her when we get married."


    That is too much.


    Zoe''s face turned red. "You didn''t exin to her?"


    "How can I when she''s already gone?"


    "...That''s true. Exin it when you have the chance next time."


    It was already 3.00PM by the time they were done exploring the entire exhibition hall.


    Zoe had stayed inside for too long. She stretchedzily when she went out and took in fresh air.


    She was starting to feel a bit dizzy from looking at everything.


    Daniel asked, "Do you want to go back to the city for lunch or find a ce nearby?"


    Zoe thought for a moment and answered, "Let''s go somewhere nearby."


    There was a fast food restaurant a few kilometers away from here.


    Zoe also loved eating food like this. In fact, she enjoyed it very much.


    Daniel ced a drink in front of her. "Is there anywhere else you want to go in the afternoon?"


    Zoe took a bite of her chicken wing. "I want to go to the River Silverstone."


    "That''s in the city center." Daniel nced at the time. "If we make it in time, we can also see the


    sunset."


    Zoe took a sip of her drink. "Let''s hurry up and go. We wouldn''t want to miss it."


    She wanted to take a series of photos of River Silverstone at dusk.


    The sun would have already set if they went toote.


    After saying that, she threw the trash into the bin, picked up her things, and walked out.


    On the way back, the sun was on the left.


    The scenery along the way was beautiful.


    Zoe couldn''t help but take out her camera and took many photos.


    She was full of energy,pletely different from her drowsy self in the morning.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Just as she was enthusiastically taking photos, the car suddenly braked and stopped by the side of the


    road.


    Zoe quickly protected her phone in her hand and turned her head to ask, "What happened?"


    Daniel checked the fuel level and tried to restart the engine, but the car still didn''t move.


    He said, "Stay here for a moment."


    After a few minutes, he opened the driver''s door and got out of the car to open the hood.


    Zoe sat for a few minutes and saw that he hadn''t fixed it yet, so she put her camera in her bag and got


    out of the car. After walking over, she asked, "Did the car break down?"


    Daniel nodded. "Burned engine."


    What is going on?


    Zoe turned her head and looked around, only to notice that there were no cars passing by.


    The scenery that was still beautiful just now suddenly became quiet and unfamiliar.


    After waiting for half an hour, Daniel suddenly said, "Let''s go."


    Zoe asked in confusion, "Where are we going?"


    "There should be a motel nearby. Let''s go find one and call someone to pick us up."


    Zoe still looked into the distance, but there were still no cars passing by.


    It seemed that they had no choice but to do as Daniel suggested.


    And so, she picked up her things from the car and followed Daniel.

 Chapter 806

    Chapter 806


    Chapter 806 Are You a Couple?


    As Zoe trudged along the road, she looked at the setting sun sinking little by little in the distance.


    It would still take about an hour to get back to the city, let alone the city center.


    It seemed like they wouldn''t be able to reach the city center to get to River Silverstone today.


    Still, the scenery here seemed just as beautiful.


    There was argeke in the distance that reflected the shadow of the setting sun.


    Seeing this, Zoe took out her camera and pressed the shutter to take a picture.


    Daniel happened to turn around and see her.


    She stood there, holding a camera, her long hair gently swaying in the light of the setting sun.


    At that moment, his breath seemed to stop for a moment.


    From being taken away by Leroy to being controlled by Amanda, he had been thinking about one


    question for many days and nights.


    Would he really be content if he were to die just like that?


    He had always been rather lukewarm about rtionships.


    He was fine with or without someone.


    He had no memory of the many women who appeared around him.


    It was just a matter of taking what they needed. The excitement brought by desire came as quickly as it


    left.


    There was nothing particrly memorable.


    But Zoe was different. Her personality was cheerful but not ostentatious, bright but not vulgar.


    Daniel''s initial impression of her was that she had a good personality and temperament, but heter


    discovered that she seemed to like him.


    But he didn''t take her feelings to heart. If they were both in Lachstein, he wouldn''t mind her, and they


    could even date.


    But he came to Highside for a specific purpose, and she was a friend of Leanna, who was Aidan''s wife.


    Because of that, he didn''t want to get too involved with her. Most of the time he went to see her to


    achieve his own goals.


    Zoe knew all of this. She agreed to his conditions in order to help Leanna.


    It was in this kind of contact that Daniel gradually developed a fondness for her.


    At the same time, he also felt that his previous intention of being with her without any ulterior motives


    was correct.


    She was a good woman, and there should be a man who liked her more and cherished her by her side.


    However, he didn''t know that she had a cheating ex-boyfriend who had pursued her relentlessly.


    Daniel''s fondness for her was mixed with a few indiscernible feelings of tenderness and warmth.


    Later, they went all the way.


    Daniel didn''t regret it, but he seriously thought about how to bnce this rtionship and not bring any


    harm to her.


    Unfortunately, before he had the chance to speak, Zoe nonchntly said that they were both adults


    and there was no need to take responsibility for anyone as long as they had fun.


    At that moment, Daniel was choked up and suddenly didn''t know what to say.


    Their rtionship continued to be confusing, but he could feel that Zoe was trying her best to keep her


    distance from him.


    That was until she became pregnant.


    Daniel was at a loss when he heard the news. For the first time in over 30 years, his mind went nk,


    and he couldn''t make a decision.


    But he had never thought of not wanting to keep the child


    Despite that, Zoe was more decisive than him or the choice he would make.


    When he heard that she was going into the operating room, Daniel felt a sense of emptiness in his


    heart, as if something had been lost but he couldn''t grasp it.


    This content ? N?v/elDr(a)m/a.Org.


    Fortunately, Zoe regretted it at the critical moment.


    Daniel didn''t have any other thoughts. He just felt that this child was like a gift from heaven, and he had


    to hold on tight and protect them.


    Since Daniel could remember, he had been wandering the streets of Finde.


    He often fought with older children for a piece of cheese in a trash can, resulting in bloody injuries.


    He had no parents or rtives or friends.


    If it weren''t for William adopting him, he didn''t know if he would still be alive.


    Even so, William was not his biological father.


    Because of that, the arrival of this child meant something different to him.


    That was the only person in this world who had a blood connection with him.


    While taking care of Zoe and the child, his fondness for her seemed to grow day by day.


    Sometimes, when he saw her sitting on the couch eating fruit and watching TV, he couldn''t help but


    imagine a two or three-year-old child running around, calling him "Daddy" and her "Mommy."


    But for him, it felt like a dream too far from reality.


    Before he could make this dream more feasible, something happened in Lachstein, and he had to rush


    back to deal with it.


    In every painful and torturous second, the dreams he longed for became clearer.


    What he wanted seemed so simple.


    And yet, fate often yed tricks on people. It didn''t give him a chance to start over.


    When he returned, the dream that had been hovering in his mind copsed instantly.


    It no longer existed.


    Zoe didn''t want to see him again, and he would often me himself. If only... If only he hadn''t let


    himself be burdened by the past, if only he hadn''t let Amanda control his fate, he could have had a


    chance to prevent all of this from happening.


    But the reality of it was that it was toote.


    Even so, he didn''t want to ept things for how they were and wanted to try onest time.


    After Zoe finished taking photos, she lowered her head and flipped through the camera. The photos


    turned out quite well.


    When she raised her head again, she saw Daniel standing there, lost in thought while looking in her


    direction.


    Zoe looked around but didn''t see anything strange. She asked in confusion, "What''s wrong?"


    Daniel looked away. "Nothing. Let''s keep going."


    The sky had darkened quite a bit by now.


    Fortunately, a motel appeared not far away after walking for a few minutes.


    They walked over, and Danielmunicated with the owner in French.


    The motel had many stray dogs nearby. When Zoe saw them, she stood on the side and took pictures


    of them.


    Daniel soon came over. "I called someone toe fix the car. Let''s go inside and sit for a while."


    Zoe nodded and patted the head of the dog next to her before entering the motel.


    When they were inside the motel, the owner had already brought them food and water.


    Since the water they finished up the water they brought on the journey, Zoe was thirsty now. After


    drinking more than half a cup in a row, she asked Daniel, "When will the person who will pick us up


    arrive?"


    "In about two hours," Daniel replied.


    "But it only took us one to get here."


    "It''s harder to drive at night."


    Zoe pouted, understanding the reason behind it.


    Exhausted after the long journey, she yawned after finishing her meal.


    The owner of the motel came over and asked them in French if they needed a room.


    Even though Zoe quickly waved her hand to refuse, she couldn''t resist her drowsiness and quickly fell


    asleep on the couch.


    Daniel watched her as he sat next to her.


    The owner asked him in French, "Are you two a couple?"


    Hearing that, Daniel smiled and picked up his ss of water. "Yes, we are."

 Chapter 807

    Chapter 807


    Chapter 807 Why Do You Dislike Me?


    Zoe awoke in a room draped with a nket.


    Outside the window, heavy rain poured down.


    She rubbed her head and lifted the nket as she climbed out of bed.


    It was alreadyte at night, and the motel guests and the owner were asleep. The only person sitting in


    the small lobby downstairs was Daniel, who was sipping on a drink.


    Zoe walked over. "The car hasn''t arrived yet?" she asked hesitantly.


    Daniel held his ss of wine and looked at her. "You''re awake?"


    Zoe nodded and sat down beside him.


    "The rain is too heavy. They''lle tomorrow. Let''s rest here for the night," said Daniel.


    "Oh," Zoe replied. She had napped just now, and there was no way to leave now. Guess this is the only


    option.


    Perhaps it was because she had just woken up and it was raining outside. Zoe shivered after sitting for


    a while.


    "Are you cold?"


    Zoe rubbed her nose and said, "I''m fine."


    Daniel picked up the ss beside him. "Do you want a drink?"


    Zoe noticed and moistened her lips.


    She had been taking medication during this period and had not consumed alcohol in a long time, but


    when she came to Lachstein, she did not bring any medicine.


    Maybe I can have a drink¡­


    "Sure, pour me some." She adjusted her sitting posture.


    In a foreignnd like this, a small drink in a small hotel seemed necessary; otherwise, it would be a


    waste of time and this beautiful ce.


    Daniel poured her a small amount and pushed it in front of her.


    Zoe took a sip and found it a bit strong.


    Daniel averted his gaze, raised his head, and drank.


    "Take it easy. This wine has a high alcohol content, and it''s easy to get drunk."


    Zoe pursed her lips. It was just a small amount. Who did you think I was?


    She finished the little amount in her ss in one gulp. Soon, she went to get the bottle and poured it


    generously.


    Daniel nced sideways. His thin lips twitched as if he wanted to speak but remained silent. He


    propped his hand on the table and observed her quietly.


    Time passed minute by minute as they sat silently, savoring their drinks.


    The tangerine-hued pendantmp gently swayed in the breeze, casting shifting shadows.


    The motel exuded a serene ambiance and was bathed in soft, tranquil lighting as if it were in a deep


    slumber.


    Zoe had a habit of enjoying a drink when she had nothing to do, and her tolerance was decent.


    She knew her limits.


    So, when she started feeling a bit dizzy, she consciously set down her ss and leaned on the table.


    "I... I should go to bed." She rose to her feet.


    Little did she know that as soon as she stood up, she swayed to the side.


    Is this wine really that strong? It seemed to hit her harder than expected.


    Daniel grabbed her arm. "Can you still walk?"


    Zoe''s face was slightly flushed. "Of course... I can still walk in a straight line!" she replied with a hint of


    defiance from the alcohol or maybe something else.


    Daniel was left speechless. Who would believe her if she imed she wasn''t drunk?


    Daniel stood up as well. "I''ll take you back to your room."


    Zoe gently pushed him away, turned around, and leaned on the table. "No need. I-I can walk on my


    own," she stuttered.


    Daniel did not say anything more. He followed behind her and reached to steady her as she wobbled.


    Relying on her sheer willpower, Zoe struggled her way to the second floor.


    However, when she reached the final flight of stairs, she leaned against the wall and felt lost.


    Is it to the left or the right? What is my room number again?


    "206." Daniel''s voice came through.


    Zoe repeatedly mulled over the number 206 in her mouth and stumbled forward to find it.


    Just as she slumped against a door panel, she squinted her eyes and murmured, "206..." She reached


    out to grab the doorknob.


    Suddenly, her hand was held.


    Daniel looked at her. "This is Room 203," he said.


    Zoe widened her eyes and carefully identified it. He is right...


    Daniel took her hand and walked a few steps. He opened the door to another room.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    As soon as Zoe caught sight of the bed, she immediately copsed onto it, finding sce in itsfort.


    She should have drifted off to sleep, but the presence of another man in the room made her unusually


    alert.


    She heard a few footsteps approaching from a nearby spot. Then, silence.


    Zoe suddenly sat up and looked at the man sitting on the couch. "Why haven''t you left yet?" she


    questioned soulfully.


    "Didn''t I tell you? This is thest room avable," Daniel responded.


    Zoe was left speechless.


    Well.


    Under these circumstances, she should not be picky or melodramatic in a ce like this. She could not


    bear to sleep in the cold, lifeless lobby.


    She would not make herself miserable.


    Zoe sighed andy back on the bed. She covered herself with the nket and drifted off into a deep


    sleep.


    The alcoholpletely numbed her mind.


    Daniely on the couch and rested his arm behind his neck. He listened to the sound of rain outside


    and was lost in his thoughts.


    After a while, there was a movement by the side of the bed.


    Daniel looked over and saw that Zoe had somehow sat up again.


    "What''s wrong?" he asked softly.


    Zoe''s voice choked. "I want some water."


    Daniel got up. "Sit for a moment. I''ll get it for you downstairs," he said.


    Zoe did not say anything and just sat there. She was lost in thought.


    Five minutester, when Daniel returned from downstairs, he saw Zoe sitting on the carpet, huddled up


    and quietly sobbing.


    His heart tightened involuntarily. He walked over and crouched in front of her. "What''s wrong?"


    Zoe did not answer, but her crying grew louder, expressing her pain.


    Daniel set the water aside and ced his hands on her shoulders. "Zoe, are you feeling unwell?"


    Zoe sobbed and choked. She lightly beat his chest in distress to release the pent-up emotions within


    her. Though her hits were not heavy, they spoke volumes about the anguish she was experiencing.


    "I''ve lost my child... gone..." she said and cried gravely.


    This was the first time Daniel had seen her cry in front of him. The bitter ache in his chest intensified


    exponentially, fueled by her profound loss.


    He gently embraced her, and his Adam''s apple bobbed. "I''m sorry," he apologized hoarsely.


    Zoe cried sadly. "What''s the use of your apology..."


    "I shouldn''t have been away from you when you needed me the most." Daniel hugged her tightly. "It''s


    all my fault," he whispered.


    Zoe continued to cry. The more she cried, the sadder and more aggrieved she felt.


    Daniel held her all the while. He patted her back andforted her in a low voice.


    After a long while, Zoe''s emotions gradually stabilized, and she sat there with her head lowered.


    Daniel handed her a tissue to wipe away her tears and then gave her the water beside them. "You said


    you were thirsty."


    Zoe silently took the water, tilted her head back, and took a few sips.


    Daniel took the cup from her when she finished drinking and fell silent.


    "Do you hate me?" he finally asked.


    Zoe shook her head. What for?


    "So why do you dislike me?"


    She sat with her knees hugged, her voice barely audible, almost drowned out by the rain outside. "I


    don''t dislike you. I just don''t want to see you... I''ve liked you, a lot, since the first time I saw you, but


    you don''t like me," Zoe replied.

 Chapter 808

    Chapter 808


    Chapter 808 No Other Thoughts


    Although her voice was small, Daniel heard it clearly.


    His heart felt like it had been pierced, causing a slight pain and making it beat more intensely.


    So, this is why¡­


    Daniel swallowed and gently lifted her head with his dark eyes ring at her. "I''m sorry."


    Perhaps his gaze was too intense, and Zoe could not look at his eyes directly, so she looked away.


    "Why are you apologizing again? It''s not your fault if you don''t like me. You don''t have to apologize for


    that..."


    "I''m saying sorry not because I don''t like you. It''s because I''ve never formally responded to your


    feelings, which led to a misunderstanding between us," Daniel said softly.


    Zoe felt slightly confused as she listened and looked back at him. Tears still filled her eyes, full of


    confusion and helplessness. "What do you mean?"


    Daniel spoke word by word. "If I didn''t like you, I wouldn''t be constantly by your side. If I didn''t like you,


    we wouldn''t have been intimate. If I didn''t like you, I wouldn''t have¡ª"


    I wouldn''t have wanted that child if I didn''t like you.


    "But back then, I thought this kind of liking was not the most important thing in my life. I thought I could


    bnce it while taking care of other matters."


    Zoe already felt her head clouded, and now she listened to him speak in circles. She remained silent


    for a while. Finally, she focused on one specific point. "Back then... So what about now?" she asked


    hesitantly.


    Daniel chuckled. "Now, I''ve realized that liking someone is an uncontroble and immeasurable


    emotion that originates from the depths of one''s heart. So, I can''t control it anymore."


    Zoe widened her eyes and could not understand what he said.


    Daniel''s lips curled up slightly as he ced his hand on the back of her neck and leaned in to kiss her.


    Zoe maintained her posture while sitting on the ground. Her pupils dted in shock.


    However, the kiss did notst long.


    It was just a brief touch, like a dragonfly skimming the water''s surface, and soon it was over.


    Daniel sighed softly. "Go to sleep. We''ll talk about it when you wake up."


    He could not take advantage of her while she was drunk.


    Besides, he was unsure if she would remember what he said when she woke up.


    Regardless, he should rify these things when she''s sober. Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe watched him silently in the darkness. Her head was slightly tilted as she was lost in her thoughts.


    Daniel got up and carried her to the bed.


    Just as he was about to leave after he tucked her in, she wrapped her arms around his neck.


    Daniel looked back at Zoe and found her eyes shining brightly. She still carried the watery traces of her


    tears, which were misty and shimmering.


    Daniel''s Adam''s apple bobbed. "What''s wrong?" he asked with a hoarse voice.


    "I can''t sleep," she said.


    Alcohol, at times, can make people unusually excited.


    Daniel nced at the heavy rain outside. "Shall I pour you a cup of hot milk?"


    "I don''t want to drink."


    "Well..."


    Just as Daniel was about to speak, his lips were tenderly covered.


    Zoe lifted her head slightly and slowly closed her eyes.


    In a foreign country, at a charming and unfamiliar inn, with the rain pouring outside, the two lovers who


    just confessed their feelings for each other, everything seemed to be in perfect harmony.


    Daniel ced her on the bed and deepened the kiss. His hand slowly explored Zoe''s body.


    Yet, in that pivotal moment, he hesitated, his eyes clouded with uncertainty. "Are you sure about this?"


    he asked with a darkened gaze.


    Deep down, he feared she might wake up regretfully the next day.


    Zoe, who had been somewhat groggy, suddenly became remarkably clear-headed.


    "Haven''t you heard? Being tipsy brings some rity," she said as she knew what Daniel was concerned


    about.


    "Who wouldn''t want to have a romantic encounter in a ce like this, to experience a little passionate


    story? Even if it''s not with you, it''s¡ª"


    "It can only be me." Daniel kissed her lips again, and his voice slowly seeped out from their lips.


    Two minutester, Zoe regained some rationality amidst the intimate affair. "Use protection," she said.


    Daniel paused and remained silent for two seconds. "Let me check if there are any," he said.


    He got off the bed and finally found one on the TV cab.


    From that point on, everything happened naturally and seamlessly.


    The sound of rain effectively masked all the ambiguous noises emanated from the room.


    After a long time, they finally returned to calmness.


    Zoe rested her head on Daniel''s arm. She quietly turned away from him and remained silent.


    Daniel nced at her as he got up. "Still can''t sleep?"


    Zoe murmured in agreement and felt a throbbing sensation in her head.


    Despite being tired and exhausted, she just could not fall asleep.


    Is there coffee in the alcohol?


    Daniel pulled the nket over her and gently patted her shoulder.


    After a while, Zoe finally spoke up. "There''s something I''ve been hiding from you."


    "What is it?"


    "I... I broke up with Brandon a long time ago."


    Daniel nodded. "I knew it."


    "When did you find out?" she asked.


    "The day you broke up."


    Zoe fell silent for a moment.


    So he has been intentionally asking me about Brandon all this while?


    Zoe hesitated for a moment before continuing to exin her previous thoughts. "But don''t get me


    wrong. I''m telling you this has nothing to do with anything else. I just don''t want you to think I have a


    boyfriend and still¡­" did that thing with you.


    She was halfway through her sentence but then felt like it was not really necessary.


    No matter how he felt, what difference would it make?


    After hearing this, Daniel furrowed his brows. "What do you mean by ''this has nothing to do with


    anything else?''"


    "It means that attraction between a man and a woman is natural and shouldn''t be taken seriously. As I


    said earlier, something would naturally happen in this kind of environment and situation, and it doesn''t


    have to be you. We happened to be single adults, so it was normal that the atmosphere led to


    something."


    She used the same reasoning asst time.


    Daniel turned Zoe''s shoulder and made her face him. "So you see this as a one-night stand?"


    Zoe also looked surprised. "Is it not?"


    Daniel''s frown deepened. "Do you think I was lying when I said those things to you?"


    "No, I know you weren''t. But I''m also aware that emotions are not something you can control just by


    thinking. Whether liking someone or not, it''s just a matter of attitude and the mode of interaction. That''s


    all between us. If we like it, we can do it, but there''s no need to be together because we would


    eventually break up even if we were. Isn''t that how it is?" Zoe responded calmly.


    Daniel almost burst outughing at her words. "So you think I said those things just because I wanted


    to sleep with you?"


    "I don''t think so because I, too, wanted to get intimate. I''m just stating a fact," Zoe replied.

 Chapter 809

    Chapter 809


    Chapter 809 I Drank Too Much Last Night


    Daniel clenched his teeth, desperate to voice his thoughts, yet Zoe averted her gaze and gently shut


    her eyes. "I''m tired and I''m going to sleep."


    Daniel was rendered speechless.


    The rain outside persisted with unwavering determination, refusing to relent.


    Before long, Zoe''s breathing gradually became steady, as if she had fallen asleep.


    Daniel observed her silhouette, gently pressed his lips together, and pulled her waist closer, enfolding


    her in his embrace.


    In the darkness, Zoe slowly opened her eyes, seemingly taken aback by his actions. She fixed her


    gaze upon the scenery soaked in rain, her thoughts veiled in mystery.


    ...


    The following day, when Zoe awoke, Daniel was nowhere to be found in the room.


    Even before she opened her eyes, she was greeted by the agonizing aftermath of a hangover. She


    retched a few times, but couldn''t bring herself to vomit, ovee by a severe dizziness.


    Zoe gingerly stretched her stiff and achy limbs, slowly dressing herself before heading to the bathroom


    for a refreshing wash. She lightly patted her face, sensing an overwhelming fatigue that permeated her


    entire body, and descended the stairs.


    Just as she descended, Daniel happened to enter the hotel from outside.


    Upon catching sight of him, Zoe managed a feeble greeting. "Good morning."


    Daniel paused briefly, then uttered, "I asked the innkeeper to prepare a hangover remedy for you."


    Zoe settled herself at the table and expressed her gratitude. "Thank you."


    Soon enough, Daniel returned with the soothing hangover remedy and a breakfast spread, cing


    them before her. He remarked, "The car is still under repair. We''ll take another one backter."


    Zoe nodded as she sipped on the hangover remedy. "Alright."


    Daniel sat before her, his countenance marked by uncertainty, his lips wavering as if engaged in a


    silent struggle with untold words.


    Raising her head, Zoe met his gaze. "What''s the matter?"


    Daniel spoke up. "Don''t you have anything you want to say?"


    Zoe softly grumbled, massaging her aching waist. "This bed is too soft. I woke up with a sore back. Do


    you happen to know a skilled masseur? I''d love to get a good massage once we''re back in the city."


    A look of confusion crossed Daniel''s face.


    Zoe picked up the sandwich before her. "By the way, did I say anything foolishst night when I was


    drunk? Please don''t take it to heart. I apologize if I said something offensive to you."


    Daniel was left speechless, unable to find the words to express himself.


    A smile tugged at his lips as he reached for the ss of milk and took a sip.


    Zoe took a bite of her sandwich and immediately choked upon witnessing the situation. She hastily


    eximed, "That''s my milk!"


    Daniel cast a brief nce, then ced the milk down heavily before turning away in exasperation.


    Zoe struggled to swallow the food in her mouth, hesitated for a couple of seconds, and eventually


    picked up the ss.


    Oh well, it can''t possibly be poisoned. It''s better than choking to death.


    Upon finishing her breakfast and stepping outside, she found Daniel standing by a crimson sedan,


    engrossed in conversation with the innkeeper.


    Zoe approached him, clearing her throat. "I''m done eating. Shall we leave?"


    Daniel withdrew his gaze and replied, "Wait a moment, I forgot something."


    Zoe immediately caught on. "My camera bag..."


    "I''ll bring it down for you."


    "Alright, thank you."


    As Daniel entered the hotel, a smile graced the innkeeper''s face as they remarked, "Your boyfriend is


    quite a gentleman."


    Taken aback, Zoe momentarily froze, quickly waving her hand as she responded, "No, he is not my


    boyfriend. He''s just a regr friend."


    The innkeeper continued to smile, remaining silent as they turned around to yfully toss a toy for the


    dog.


    Zoe remained there for a moment, releasing a breath of relief.


    The rain had ceased by then, leaving behind a refreshing atmosphere. The sun slowly ascended,


    casting a radiant halo in the sky.


    Zoe tilted her head, capturing the scene with her phone.


    Five minutester, Daniel returned, handing her the camera bag. He swiftly opened the driver''s door,


    prompting Zoe to stow away her phone and join him.


    On the journey back, Zoe rested against the window, her eyes closed, savoring the gentle warmth of


    the morning sun and the refreshing breeze.


    Daniel stole a sideways nce at her. "Are we still going to the River Silverstone today?"


    Zoe shook her head. "No, we''re not."


    Curiosity flickered in Daniel''s eyes. "Why''s that?"


    "Initially, I wanted to capture the sunset there, but I realized the sunset scenes I captured yesterday


    were just as beautiful. This world is filled with diversendscapes, each with its unique characteristics.


    There''s no need to obsess over one particr ce."


    Daniel tightened his grip on the steering wheel, his silence hinting at unspoken thoughts.


    As they entered the city, Zoe rolled up the window. "I''ve booked a flight back to Highside tonight. I want


    to thank you for these past few days. When you visit Highside next time, I''ll be your guide and show


    you around."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    After all, he had no intentions of returning. It was spoken purely for the sake of politeness.


    Daniel''s gaze bore deeply into her eyes as if attempting to unravel the thoughts thaty within.


    Zoe shifted her gaze to the side. "Oh, I almost forgot. I still need to make a trip to yourpany. Since


    I''ll be heading back, I should inform Mr. Morris as well. It''s a bother, but can you take me directly to the


    office?"


    Daniel focused his gaze ahead, murmuring softly in agreement.


    Half an hourter, the car pulled up in front of the Complex Group building.


    As soon as Daniel entered thepany, he was promptly summoned by his assistant.


    Turning to Zoe, he directed, "Please wait for me in William''s office."


    Zoe nodded, smiling and waving at him. "Go ahead."


    Daniel seemed to have something on his mind, but the assistant''s urgency prevented him from


    speaking.


    This marked Zoe''s second visit to the Complex Group, andpared to her previous encounter, she


    felt a much greater sense of ease, liberated from the prior apprehension that had clung to her.


    Upon reaching the floor where William''s office resided, she relied on her recollection to navigate toward


    his workspace. However, before arriving at the door, her eyes were drawn to the sight of William''s


    assistant emerging from within, carefully bncing a tray in their hands.


    Resting on the tray were bloodstained bandages and an assortment of medications.


    Zoe''s expression froze as she took in the sight. "What''s all this?"


    The assistant replied, "William''s old injury red up again. We just finished treating it."


    Zoe hastily inquired, "Is it serious?"


    "Not too severe. It''s primarily due to his hectic workload; he hasn''t had the chance to rest and properly


    recover."


    At that moment, the assistant''s phone rang. He casually ced the tray on a nearby table and moved a


    short distance away to answer the call.


    Zoe was momentarily stunned.


    Does luck truly favor the unsuspecting, arriving effortlessly?


    Casting a cautious nce around to ensure she remained unnoticed, she stealthily retrieved a sealed


    stic bag from her bag. Swiftly picking up a bloodstained piece of gauze, she ced it inside the bag,


    hurriedly concealing it back within her belongings. Throughout the entire process, her heart raced with


    apprehension, fearful of being discovered.


    With everything now aplished, she finally released a sigh of relief. Knocking lightly on the door to


    William''s office, she entered the room.


    Meanwhile, not far away, the assistant turned around, beads of sweat forming on his forehead.


    Dialing a number, he spoke into the phone. "Mr. Pearson, I''ve carried out your instructions as


    requested. However, can you please enlighten me on the purpose behind these actions?"


    On the other end of the line, Aidan''s voice remained calm and distant. "In due time, you''lle to


    understand."


    The assistant was left speechless. If it weren''t for his firsthand experience working closely with Aidan


    during William''s incapacitation and witnessing Aidan''s unwavering integrity, he would have found it


    impossible to believe that such actions could be carried out behind William''s back.

 Chapter 810

    Chapter 810


    Chapter 810 Take It Back And Reminisce


    Once she emerged from William''s office, Zoe hailed a taxi and returned to her hotel without dy.


    With her flight scheduled for 8.00PM, there was still ample time remaining. She hastily gathered her


    belongings before copsing onto the bed, sumbing to a much-needed nap.


    When she finally roused from her sleep, it was already 3.00PM. The timing was ideal for heading to the


    airport and taking a stroll through the duty-free shops.


    Zoe rose from the bed, refreshed herself with a rejuvenating shower, and felt significant relief from the


    soreness and exhaustion that had gued her body.


    She emerged from the hotel after blow-drying her hair, clutching her suitcase.


    Just as she was about to hail a taxi, a sleek white sports car pulled up right in front of her. As the


    window descended, Daniel''s face emerged, gradually revealing itself. "Heading to the airport?" he


    asked.


    Zoe hesitated for a moment before responding, "Yes."


    Daniel tilted his head slightly. "Get in, I''ll give you a ride."


    A faint smile appeared on Zoe''s face as she spoke. "No need. I''ll handle it myself."


    Daniel''s tone remained calm as he replied, "Remember when you said that next time I visit Highside,


    you would show me around?"


    Zoe was momentarily taken aback.


    "Well, consider these two days as my responsibility," Daniel stated with determination.


    Although Zoe couldn''t quiteprehend the reasoning behind his offer, she saw no harm in epting


    aplimentary ride and saving on taxi expenses.


    As she hesitated, Daniel stepped out of the car and swiftly took hold of her suitcase, cing it in the


    trunk.


    Twenty minutester, the car came to a halt by the roadside.


    Zoe nced around in confusion. "This isn''t the airport, is it?"


    Daniel responded with a subtle nod as he unbuckled his seatbelt. "River Silverstone."


    Perplexed, she questioned, "But I thought you were taking me to the airport. Why are we here?"


    Daniel turned his gaze toward her. "It''s still early. We have time to wander around."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Before Zoe could formte a response, Daniel had already opened the car door and began to stride


    away.


    Left with no other choice, Zoe reluctantly followed his lead.


    As the afternoon sun descended, the River Silverstone was bathed in a gentle radiance, illuminating its


    rippling surface with captivating reflections.


    In the distance, Elysian Square was teeming with a flock of pigeons, gracefully soaring through the sky.


    On the western bank of the river stood the Pce of Avaloria, an iconic masterpiece of Gothic


    architecture. Atop its majestic clock tower, the world-renowned Goliath Chimesmanded attention.


    While the secondrgest Ferris wheel in the world didn''t possess the mesmerizing allure of its


    nighttime spectacle, it retained a distinct charm as it bathed in the gentle caress of sunlight.


    With every stride, Zoe captured countless moments through the lens of her camera.


    Daniel strolled by her side, his pace unhurried, as he queried, "So, is this the kind of scenery you


    enjoy?"


    Zoe paused, her hand clutching the camera, her thoughts momentarily adrift.


    Daniel persisted. "Once you''ve made up your mind toe here, you shouldn''t miss out. While every


    ce has its unique charm, it can neverpare to the one ce that holds a special ce in your


    heart."


    Zoe slowly tucked away her camera, her gaze shifting to the photos she had just taken. "It''s quite


    lovely, just as I imagined. While it would be wonderful to see it in person, I wouldn''t feel regret if I


    missed it."


    Daniel came to a halt, his footsteps ceasing.


    Zoe raised her head, meeting his gaze. "I''ve taken enough photos. Let''s head to the airport. I still need


    to browse the duty-free shops, and time is slipping away."


    By the time they reached the airport, the clock ticked closer to five. Zoe had limited time for shopping.


    Stepping out of the car, she waved her hand to bid Daniel farewell. "Thank you for everything. I should


    go now¡ª"


    Before her words could fully escape her lips, Daniel stood before her, blocking her path.


    Zoe looked at him with curiosity. "Is there something else?"


    Daniel cast a nce toward the airport. "Allow me to escort you inside," he offered.


    Zoe immediately crossed her arms, gesturing a polite decline. "Thank you, but I can manage on my


    own now that we''re here."


    With one hand casually resting in his pocket, Daniel silently observed her.


    Zoe cleared her throat, retrieved her luggage, and began to depart. "Well, goodbye then."


    "Wait."


    She shifted her gaze, the crease on her forehead questioning without words. "What is it?"


    Daniel slowly spoke up. "I have something for you."


    A yful smile curved on Zoe''s lips. "No need. I''ve already troubled you enough in these past two


    days. epting another gift would be too much."


    "It''s just a souvenir from the hotel."


    Zoe paused, surprised to learn that the hotel had souvenirs.


    In that case, it carries some significance.


    Daniel continued in a measured tone. "You said a few things while you were drunkst night and


    probably don''t remember. Perhaps this souvenir will help jog your memory."


    Zoe felt a sudden wave of self-consciousness.


    Daniel withdrew his hand from his pocket, intertwining it with hers and cing the item on top.


    Zoe instinctively lowered her head, her eyelids fluttering with anticipation.


    Amidst the bustling crowd, she feared attracting attention, so she discreetly tucked it in her pocket.


    Daniel''s expression remained stoic. "There are two left, you can take them with you and reminisce."


    Zoe hesitated, her lips parting as if she wanted to say something to reim a semnce of control in


    this situation. But at this moment, no matter what she said, it felt like she was desperately trying to


    make amends.


    Gripping the handle of her suitcase, Zoe forced herself to appear calm. "Okay, got it. I''m leaving now.


    Goodbye."


    With those words, she swiftly turned on her heels, pulling her suitcase and hastening her steps into the


    airport. Her pace was almost frantic.


    Daniel watched her retreating figure, his eyebrows lifting and a slow smile gracing his lips.


    Only after Zoe''s silhouette disappeared from his sight did he turn around, get into his car, and drive


    away.


    Meanwhile, inside the airport, Zoe cleared the security check and checked in her luggage before


    heading straight to the duty-free shop.


    There were many things she had intended to buy, but the interruption moments ago had caused her to


    forget most of them.


    Zoe absentmindedly wandered through the shop, picking up items that caught her eye without much


    thought.


    After a short while, her phone buzzed in her pocket.


    She retrieved her phone and answered the call in a distracted manner. "What''s up, Nana?"


    On the other end, Leanna''s voice came through. "I heard from my dad that you''re heading back to


    Highside."


    Zoe confirmed, "Yes, I''m already at the airport. I''m browsing the duty-free shops now. My flight is


    scheduled for 8 o''clock."


    Leanna asked, "Weren''t you nning to stay a few more days?"


    Zoe let out a silent sigh. "There''s nothing much to do here, and I''m starting to miss home. By the way, I


    wanted to tell you..."


    She nced around, lowering her voice. "I managed to get a DNA blood sample from your dad. Once I


    return, I''ll have it tested, and we''ll soon have the results."


    Leanna''s curiosity sparked. "How did you get it?"


    Zoe hesitated, not wanting to disclose William''s reurring old injury and causing unnecessary


    concern. She quickly came up with a random excuse. "The process was unbelievable, but I got it. I''ll


    exin everything in detail when Ie back. I''ll continue shopping now. Is there anything you want?"


    Leanna replied, "No, just send me your flight details, and I''lle pick you up."

 Chapter 811

    Chapter 811


    Chapter 811 Do You Believe What She Said?


    After hanging up the phone, Zoe bought gifts for Leanna, Daphne, Louis, and the studio''s employees.


    She nced at her phone to check the time¡ªit was seven o''clock.


    It was about time to board the ne now.


    Soon, Zoe boarded the ne back to Highside.


    She leaned against the window seat, gazing at the night scenery outside. She was lost in her thoughts.


    This trip had been hurried, with little time for rxation.


    Moreover, there were unexpected things happened.


    Although she acted impulsively, she did not regret it.


    When she heard him say those words, it would be a lie to say she was not moved.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Moreover, a person should face their desires head-on. There was no need to escape from it.


    However, she also knew that it would not change anything, even if Daniel liked her.


    She knew he was anti-marriage and had never thought she was different from his previous girlfriends.


    Believing a yboy would settle down was just foolish.


    Even though she resisted blind dates arranged by her family, deep down, she knew she would


    eventually get married.


    Therefore, there was no need to waste any unnecessary emotions. A brief moment of happiness would


    suffice¡ªsimple and uplicated.


    The ne ascended into the sky, and everything grew quiet. Zoe closed her eyes and slowly drifted


    into slumber.


    ...


    Highside.


    It was 8.30PM. when Aidan arrived home, and Leanna had just showered.


    Aidan raised an eyebrow slightly and approached her. He wrapped his arms around her waist. "Did you


    know I was back?"


    Leanna pushed him away lightly. "Stop teasing. I''ve heated your dinner in the pot. Eat it yourself. I''m


    going to bed."


    "You''re going to bed this early?" he asked.


    "Zoe''s flight arrives at three tomorrow morning, and I need to pick her up," Leanna replied.


    Aidan hesitated for two seconds. "Why not get Jonathan to do it?"


    "Forget it. It''s better if I go. Jonathan isn''t familiar with her, which would be awkward."


    "Then I''ll go." Aidan insisted.


    Leanna was speechless.


    "It''ll be even more awkward if you go!" she said.


    "I''ll go with you then."


    Leanna was about to say something, but Aidan quickly interrupted. "Do you think I can trust you to


    drive ale at night?"


    After hearing this, Leanna fell silent.


    Well, it''s true.


    Aidan let go of her. "Alright, go get some sleep. I''ll wake you up when it''s time."


    Leanna looked at him and hesitated for a moment before saying. "How about... you send someone with


    me? You should get some rest."


    "It''s fine. I won''t be able to sleep without you."


    It was apletely normal statement, but Leanna could not help but smile. She did not rush to sleep


    and instead brought out some warm food for him. "Have your meal first."


    While Aidan ate, Leanna went back to her room andy on the bed.


    She was trying to fall asleep, but it was still too early, and she could not fall asleep no matter what.


    When Aidan entered the room, he saw her tossing and turning on the bed.


    He walked to the edge of the bed and leaned over her shoulder. "Can''t sleep?" he whispered in a low


    voice.


    Zoe opened her eyes and was very discouraged. "Yes... what time is it?"


    "Nine-thirty," Aidan replied.


    Zoe was shocked and speechless. She spent an entire hour but still could not fall asleep.


    Aidan lifted the nket off Leanna and leaned down to kiss her. "If you can''t sleep, then don''t sleep."


    Leanna quickly grabbed his wandering hand. "We have to leave at 2.00AM. There''s no time..."


    "We have enough time, just once."


    Leanna was left speechless again.


    In fact, never trust a man''s words, especially Aidan''s.


    By the time they were done, it was almost midnight.


    "Can you sleep now?" Aidan asked.


    "I''m not really sleepy."


    "Then let''s continue?"


    "Aren you trying to exhaust yourself?" Leanna whispered.


    Aidan remained unfazed. "A little sacrifice is worth it to have a child."


    Leanna fell silent when he mentioned this.


    She had been taking those pills for so long. And almost every night, they would...


    But still, there was no good news.


    Although Waylen had told them not to rush, she still could not console herself, no matter how hard she


    tried. She just could not remain calm.


    Seeing her silence, Aidan knew what she was thinking and embraced her. "Have you ever considered


    that the reason you haven''t conceived is because we haven''t tried hard enough? We need to do it more


    frequently to increase our chances."


    Leanna could not be bothered to respond and turned off the lights. "Let''s go to sleep."


    It waste, andbined with the intense exercise just now, Leanna settled for a while, and


    drowsiness quickly engulfed her.


    But as soon as she closed her eyes, Aidan was calling her.


    Leanna turned over and buried her head in his chest. "I want to sleep a little longer," she murmured


    softly.


    Aidan gently rubbed her head. "It''s already two-thirty."


    Leanna seemed to fall asleep and did not answer him.


    After thirty seconds, she suddenly wriggled out of Aidan''s embrace. Her eyes were still sleepy and a bit


    dizzy. "What time did you say it was?"


    "Two-thirty," Aidan said and pulled her back again. "If you''re really tired, I can send Jonathan to fetch


    her."


    Leanna got out of bed and put on her clothes. "No need, I''ll go."


    As she looked for her underwear, a hand beside her offered it.


    Leanna did not say anything and felt a bit awkward. When they left, Aidan handed her a jacket.


    It normally takes forty minutes from their house to the airport. However, there were fewer cars at


    midnight, so they arrived before three.


    During the ride, Leanna could not resist falling asleep again.


    When the car reached the airport, Leanna yawned and called Zoe. "Zoe, are you out?"


    "I just got my luggage. I''ll be out in a moment," Zoe replied.


    "Great, we''ll wait for you at the parking lot."


    "We?" Zoe tentatively said, "Is President Pearsoning too?"


    "He said he was worried about me driving alone at night, so he came with me," she exined.


    "It''s okay. It''s my honor to have President Pearson personally pick me up. I''lle out right away!"


    Leanna smiled. "Take your time."


    After hanging up, Aidan rolled down the car window. "I remember she just left a few days ago. How


    come she''s back so soon?" he asked casually.


    "She said she felt ufortable over there and missed home," said Leanna.


    Aidan raised an eyebrow and turned to look at her. "Do you believe what she said?"


    Leanna tilted her head. "What do you mean?"


    "I heard that she and Daniel went to a photography exhibition and didn''te back all night," Aidan


    said.


    Leanna felt shocked but also very puzzled. "So, she was trying to avoid Daniel?"


    "I''m not sure. You have to ask her yourself," Aidan said.


    Leanna paused for a moment and then suddenlyughed. No wonder. She mentioned that she would


    have some fun for a few days there but left overnight.


    So that is the reason.


    ¡­

 Chapter 812

    Chapter 812


    Chapter 812 This Direction Doesn¡¯t Seem Right


    A few minutester, Zoe ran out with her suitcase in hand.


    She got in the car quickly. "Nana, President Pearson, I''m so sorry for making youe and pick me up


    sote at night."


    "It''s okay. Are you hungry? We can grab something to eat before heading back," Leanna asked.


    "I''m not hungry. Let''s just go back directly so I can get some more sleep," Zoe responded.


    Leanna thought it made sense. After all, she had been on the ne for quite a while and surely wanted


    some rest.


    She said to Aidan, "Let''s go."


    After they returned to the apartment, Zoe grabbed Leanna''s arm and gave her a sneaky gaze.


    But Leanna did not immediately understand what she meant.


    "Nana, I bought you a gift. Come and get it," Zoe quickly said when Aidan saw their odd gaze


    exchange.


    Soom, she turned to Aidan and said, "President Pearson, I''ll borrow Nana for a few minutes. I''ll bring


    her back soon."


    Aidan nced at her nonchntly and looked at Leanna. "Don''t take too long. You have to go to the


    studio tomorrow," he reminded Leanna.


    Leanna nodded. "I know. You go ahead and rest," she replied.


    Aidan turned around and entered the next room.


    Zoe pulled Leanna into her apartment. Before saying anything, she carefully closed the door. "Nana,


    I''ve got the items. Now, what do we do?"


    Leanna pursed her lips gently. "Tomorrow. I''ll take them to a testing agency tomorrow."


    "I think it''s a bit risky," Zoe said. "Here''s what I''m thinking. When your father arranged for the paternity


    test, it was definitely done with extreme caution. But in this situation, there''s still a problem. What does


    that tell us? It means someone doesn''t want your father to bring Louis home!"


    Leanna frowned as she heard Zoe''s words. She had never considered this question before. However,


    now that Zoe had mentioned it, it seemed usible.


    Zoe had spent the entire flight pondered about this matter, and the more she thought about it, the more


    convinced she became that it was indeed possible.


    Zoe continued, "Whether it''s you, Aidan, or your father, many eyes are watching you all. They can


    know everything you do. But I''m different. I''m not involved in anything, and when I went to Lachstein


    this time, no one knew exactly what I was doing, so they won''t be suspicious of me."


    "But if, as you said, you go to do this test and they find out, it could be dangerous. I¡ª"


    Zoe interrupted and grabbed her arm. "Don''t worry. I''m going back to see my parents tomorrow. I have


    an uncle who works at the hospital. I''ll ask him for help. Nothing unexpected will happen."


    Leanna''s frown deepened. Zoe''s proposed idea sounds like a viable option.


    She had just returned from Lachstein with gifts, so visiting her parents seemed like a normal thing to


    do. No one would follow or suspect her.


    The situation in Highside was unstable. Leanna''s and Aidan''s moves were indeed being watched.


    If Louis'' true identity were to be exposed at this time, it could potentially bring trouble to him.


    Having Zoe handle this matter was the most suitable choice.


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    After a moment, Leanna nodded gently. "Alright, be careful."


    "Don''t worry, where I''m going is just a rural city. No one would pay attention to it," Zoe reassured her.


    With the important matter settled, Zoe opened her suitcase and took out the gifts for Leanna, Louis,


    and Daphne. "I''ll be heading back tomorrow, so could you give these to them? Once the result is out, I''ll


    call and let you know."


    "Sure. What time are you leaving tomorrow? I''ll take you there," said Leanna.


    Zoe crossed her legs and sat on the couch. "It''s okay. I''ll take a taxi to the airport myself. Oh, by the


    way, I''ll give you the studio''s spare key. I''m afraid I might lose it if I keep it with me."


    Zoe rummaged through her backpack but could not find it.


    Then, out of habit, she reached into her clothes pocket, and a rectangr box fell out. They both saw it


    and fell silent.


    Zoe blushed and quickly picked it up. She stuffed it back into her pocket. "Um... there was a safety


    measures promotion event at the airport, and they... they gave them out."


    "I heard that you went to see a photography exhibition with Daniel and didn''te back all night,"


    Leanna said slowly.


    "Well... that''s because our car broke down on the way. When we finally found a motel and contacted


    someone to fix the car, it started raining heavily, so we had to stay there overnight," Zoe said hesitantly.


    "So, is this from the motel?"


    Zoe fell into an awkward silence.


    She knew she could not keep the truth anymore, so she decided to pick up a pillow and hold it in her


    arms. "I couldn''t resist myself, so I had a few drinks. With the rain and the atmosphere, things just...


    you know, sometimes they happen beyond our control," she whispered.


    Leanna cleared her throat, feeling that the conversation was heading in the wrong direction.


    "Alright, I was just asking out of curiosity. You know what you''re doing, so that''s enough. I''ll go back


    now."


    Zoe nodded. "Go back quickly. President Pearson is probably mentally scolding me right now. It took


    him so long to forget about my previous mistake."


    Leanna smiled. She stood up and said, "I''m leaving. Get some rest soon."


    "Goodnight."


    "Goodnight."


    After Leanna left, Zoe copsed onto the sofa. She stared nkly for a while.


    She could not tell if it was because she had slept too long on the ne or due to jetg. She could not


    feel the slightest hint of sleepiness and was wide awake.


    Zoe took out her camera and flipped through the photos one by one.


    Daniel somehow managed to sneak into several shots on the way to the motel, with his back and side


    captured in a few pictures.


    Zoe looked at these photos over and over again. She originally wanted to delete them but was hesitant


    when she saw the delete button.


    After a long while, she put the camera down.


    Zoe took out her phone and booked a return ticket for tomorrow at 2.00AM. Just as she was about to


    go to the bathroom to shower, her phone rang.


    It was an international number calling.


    Zoe felt puzzled and slowly sat down. "Hello?"


    On the other end of the line, a woman spoke in French, "Hello, I''m Linda. Do you remember me?"


    "I do."


    "Well, the photography exhibition will be ending in three days, and I still haven''t received your photos.


    Don''t you want to participate in this exhibition?"


    "No, it''s not what you think," Zoe said and rubbed her temples. "I''m really sorry. I''ve been busy these


    past few days and had totally forgotten about it. Can I send them to you now?"


    "Sure, let me give you an email address. Just send them directly to that email."


    "Okay, thank you," Zoe replied politely.


    "I''ll be waiting for your good news," said Linda.


    "Hold on..." Zoe stopped her.

 Chapter 813

    Chapter 813


    Chapter 813 I Enjoy Having Fun


    On the phone, Linda asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Zoe paused for a few seconds before responding, "Nothing. Thanks."


    After hanging up the phone, she turned on theputer and started organizing her photos.


    She originally wanted to ask Linda how she got her phone number, but it seemed like she was asking


    for no reason.


    After selecting a few of her favorite photos and sending them over, Zoe shut herputer down and


    went into the bathroom.


    Even after taking a shower, she still couldn''t fall asleep. She tidied up the room and not long after, a


    faint light could be seen from the windows.


    She sat in front of theputer and started working on the unfinished pictures.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    When she finally came into contact with the outside world again, she heard a knock on the door.


    Leanna thought Zoe was still sleeping when she left in the morning, so she didn''t wake her up. But she


    couldn''t let her friend sleep in all day, so she ordered lunch for her.


    Zoe took the food from the deliveryman and sent a message to Leanna while sitting down.


    When her gaze fell on the time disyed on theputer screensaver, her eyes widened.


    D*mn! It''s almost twelve!


    Her flight was at 2.00PM!


    Zoe quickly finished her lunch and tied her hair up into a bun. She didn''t even have time to pack her


    clothes, so she hurriedly grabbed a few pieces of clothing from the suitcase she brought back from


    Lachstein and rushed out.


    By the time she arrived at the airport, it was already slightly past 1.00PM.


    She ran throughout the entire check-in process, from checking in her luggage to going through security.


    Finally, just before the ne took off, she managed to get on board.


    As the ne taxied, Zoe sent a message to her mother and turned off her phone before leaning against


    the window.


    Perhaps it was due to theck of sleep during the past few days, and the stress she had received due


    to overtime work, she finally felt the pull of sleep.


    Eventually, she fell asleep and woke up when the nended.


    Highside was only three hours away from her home.


    After getting off the ne, Zoe yawned as she walked out, turning on her phone and listening to the


    voice message her mother had sent.


    ''Why are you back so early? You should have told us earlier. Your father and I were nning toe


    to Highside to see you in a few days, but since you''re on the ne now, you should be able to make it


    for dinner when you arrive, right? What do you want to eat? I''ll ask your dad to get groceries so I can


    make what you''re craving.''


    Zoe responded to the voice message, ''Mom, I just got off the ne. I''ll eat whatever.''


    After thinking for a moment, she added, ''Have you been in contact with Mr. Powell recently? Can you


    invite him over for dinner tonight? I have a favor to ask of him.''


    Not long after she sent the voice message, her mother called, "Why are you looking for Mr. Powell?


    Zoe hailed a taxi while replying, "There''s just something I want to ask him. I''ll tell you in detail when I


    get back."


    "Your father was ying chess with him yesterday. Mr. Powell is on the night shift today, so he can''t


    come for dinner. If you need anything, just look for him at the hospital tomorrow."


    "Okay, got it."


    Her mother continued, "Now that you''re back, there''s a young man in our neighborhood who is a


    university lecturer. His work ends early and will be free for dinner this evening. How about inviting him


    over?"


    Zoe was speechless at that.


    "If that''s the case, I''ll get a return ticket right now."


    "Fine. If you don''t want to invite him, then don''t. I made your favorite spicy beef stew. Come back as


    soon as you can and don''t waste time on the road."


    "Alright. I''m already in the car. I''ll talk to youter, bye."


    After hanging up the phone, Zoe let out a long sigh.


    She had a bad omen about this trip back home.


    Perhaps she should get her business done and leave right away.


    There was some traffic on the way home, so Zoe arrived at her house at 7.00PM.


    She opened the door and greeted her parents. "Mom, Dad, I''m ba¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, she saw a stranger standing in front of her.


    The man was about five feet seven, and it was hard to tell what his figure was like. He merely looked


    honest and innocent.


    Zoe asked, "Who are¡ª"


    The man greeted her, "Hello, I''m Rowan Madden. You must be Madam Smith''s daughter."


    Zoe''s lips twitched as she nodded in response. "Hello."


    Just then, her mother came out of the kitchen and said, "You''re back, Zoe! This is Rowan. He''s such a


    sweetheart. I was at the supermarket earlier carrying so many things, and he offered to carry all of


    them without saying a word. If it weren''t for him, my legs would have given out on me."


    She then said to Rowan, "Rowan, thank you for today. Stay for dinner and have a taste of my cooking!"


    Before Rowan could answer, Zoe immediately said, "My mom isn''t the best cook out there, so I think


    you shouldn''t taste it unless you want a stomachache."


    Rowan took the hint that he shouldn''t stay any longer. "I''ll be taking my leave, then, Madam Smith."


    As he left, he nodded to Zoe.


    Zoe saw him off at the door. "Thank you for today. You''ve been a great help."


    After closing the door, her mother huffed, "Why did you say that about me?"


    Zoe retorted, "Why are you ming me? I told you not to set me up or whatever, but you insisted¡­"


    "Alright, fine. Why are you making such a fuss? I''m doing this all for your sake. Rowan is a nice guy,


    and his parents live in our neighborhood, so we know pretty much about him. Besides, he''s a university


    lecturer. It''s a stable job. What about him is not good enough for you?"


    Zoe nearly choked and remained speechless.


    Is this about being good enough or not?


    At this moment, her father came over from the living room and said to She, "Why are you arguing


    with her as soon as shees back? The stew is still on the stove. Are you just going to ignore it?"


    She snapped back to reality and hurriedly ran off to the kitchen. "My stew!"


    Her father pulled Zoe over and persuaded her, "Don''t argue with your mother. Anyone at her age is


    eager to have grandchildren when their children aren''t seeing someone yet."


    At the mention of that, Zoe remained silent for a moment before replying, "If she really likes children


    that much, why don''t I just adopt one?"


    Her father patted her shoulder, "Why are you talking nonsense? I''m not rushing you anyway, but if


    there''s someone suitable out there, you should try to get to know them. We''ve done some background


    research on Rowan. He had only one girlfriend before, and he doesn''t have any bad records. He''s an


    honest person and gives all his money to his mother. He stays at home during his days off and doesn''t


    go out and have fun."


    "But I like to go out and have fun."


    Her father was at a loss for words.


    Sitting on the couch, Zoe reassured him, "Don''t worry about me anymore. I know what I want."


    After some time, her father uttered again, "Anyway, if you don''t like Rowan, then we''ll look for someone


    else. Tell me, what type of guy do you like?"


    Zoe picked up an orange from the coffee table and peeled it while answering him casually, "I like


    someone who is handsome, has musical talent, and preferably mixed-race. That way, our baby will


    come out adorable!"

 Chapter 814

    Chapter 814


    Chapter 814 What a Coincidence, We Meet Again


    After dinner, Zoe curled up on the couch and watched TV.


    When She passed by her room and saw the suitcase on the floor with clothes scattered inside, she


    questioned, "Are your clothes clean or dirty? Do you want me to wash them for you?"


    Zoe popped a piece of fruit in her mouth and replied, "Just leave them there. I''ll wash them myself


    later."


    "Wash them yourself? By the time you remember to wash them, you probably won''t even have enough


    to wear anymore." She took out all the clothes from Zoe''s suitcase and carried them to theundry


    balcony while muttering.


    Minutester when Zoe was engrossed in watching TV, She''s voice suddenly turned serious. "Zoe,


    come here for a moment."


    Zoe paused the TV and walked over, asking, "What''s wrong?"


    She stood in front of the washing machine with a pile of dirty clothes in front of her.


    Perplexed, Zoe asked, "What''s the matter?"


    With a solemn expression, She turned to Zoe. "Can you bepletely honest with me? Have you


    been seeing someely?"


    "No. I..." Zoe''s gaze suddenly fell on the clothes in She''s hand. She felt as if she had been hit on the


    head.


    A few images quickly shed through her mind.


    Oh no.


    She only remembered putting that thing in her pocket when she was chatting with Leanna, but she


    didn''t have any memory of throwing it away.


    Lost in her thoughts, she froze on the spot until She smacked her back while gritting her teeth. "What


    have you done? You don''t even have a boyfriend. Why are you carrying this around?!"


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    The next second, that rectangr box reappeared in her hand.


    Zoe almost couldn''t catch her breath. Facing She''s furious eyes, she quickly exined, "Mom, listen


    to me. T-This was given to me at the airport. They had an event promoting safe sex. It''s not what you


    think it is."


    She suppressed her anger and scolded, "Do you think I''m a three-year-old child? Who would give


    you this thing that has two left inside? It''s so obvious that it''s been used¡­"


    She couldn''t finish her sentence.


    Zoe''s face turned beet red as she clutched the box tightly, wishing she could bang her head against a


    wall.


    She lowered her voice and said, "I didn''t even dare to tell your father about this. Tell me honestly. Did


    you have sex with someone abroad? What kind of person is he? How long have you known each


    other? Is he reliable?"


    Zoe stammered, "Mom, how am I supposed to answer all of your questions?"


    "Just answer them one by one. You¡­" She stopped halfway through her sentence as if she


    remembered something. Then, her eyes widened. "You went abroad alone, didn''t you?"


    "Yes... That''s right."


    She realized something was wrong, and the anger that had just subsided surged up again. Grabbing


    hold of Zoe, she scolded, "W-What have you done?! You''re a girl! How could you involve yourself in


    that kind of stuff?!"


    Zoe couldn''t just stand there and let her mother hit her, so she dodged and ran back to her room. "I''m


    going to bed, Mom and Dad! See you tomorrow!"


    Seeing that, Matthew stopped She. "Why are you resorting to violence? Can''t you talk to her


    properly?"


    "You don''t even know what she¡ª" She''s anger red up again as she pushed Matthew away. She


    took a seat on the couch and felt a headache creeping up.


    After Zoe returned to her room, she stared at the box in her hand. She hated it so much that she gritted


    her teeth. She wanted to throw it into the trash, but she was afraid her parents would see it tomorrow.


    This item was like a hot potato right now. Neither throwing it away nor keeping it was a good option.


    Hence, she opened the drawer of her desk and stuffed it inside.


    Daniel, that b*stard, better not appear in front of her again!


    ...


    The next morning, while her parents were still asleep, Zoe sneaked out of the house and went to the


    hospital.


    After listening to her request, Logan Powell took the sample from her hand and said, "Don''t worry. I will


    handle this matter for you."


    "When can I get the results of the test?" asked Zoe.


    "Well, usually, it takes five working days. If you''re in a hurry, I can ask a friend to help so you cane


    over tomorrow night."


    Zoe handed him the things she bought and thanked him. "Thank you, Mr. Powell."


    After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Zoe left the hospital.


    The sun had just peeked out of the clouds. The sunlight was warm, but it wasn''t as hot as in summer.


    Zoe stretchedzily and went to the mall to do some shopping for her parents, especially her mother.


    On her way back, she ran into Rowan.


    Rowan greeted her, "What a coincidence. We meet again."


    Zoe smiled awkwardly. "Are you going out?"


    "Yes. I have sses in the afternoon, so I have to go now."


    That was the end of their conversation.


    Zoe nodded lightly and stepped aside. "Then you should go. I won''t take up your time."


    Daniel looked at her and said shyly, "I heard a lot about you from Madam Smith, and I''ve seen your


    photos. I... quite like you. Can we exchange numbers on WhatsApp?"


    Zoe politely declined, "No, thanks. I''m leaving in a few days, and we haven''t¡ª"


    "Come on, I''ll give you her number, Rowan."


    At this moment, She walked over from the side. She took out her phone from her bag and patted Zoe


    on the back. "Give me your phone."


    Zoe frowned. "Mom, I¡ª"


    She red at her. "Hurry up!"


    Zoe didn''t want to argue with her, so she reluctantly handed over her phone.


    After adding the two young people on WhatsApp, She smiled and said to Rowan, "You should get


    back to work now, Rowan. We shouldn''t upy you for too long."


    "Goodbye, Madam Smith." As he spoke, he waved to Zoe and hurried away with his head down.


    She shifted her gaze and returned the phone to Zoe. "Look how polite Rowan is. He''ll be a great son-


    inw to our family."


    Zoe sarcastically replied, "If you like him so much, why don''t you just adopt him as your godson?"


    She turned her head with frustration painted on her face. "Don''t talk to me. I haven''t settled


    yesterday''s matter with you yet. You''re not allowed to leave the house as you wish for the next few


    days. Try to get along with Rowan, or you can visit his campus and take a look at the youngdies in


    school. Maybe then you''ll feel a sense of crisis! I can''t believe you still make me worry when you''re


    already a grown-up!"


    Zoe rolled her eyes and was about to say something, but She continued, "Your father was diagnosed


    with high blood pressure recently, and his heart is not in good condition. He didn''t want me to tell you,


    but judging from your current behavior, I''m afraid you''ll upset him without knowing. Think about it


    carefully. We won''t force you to get married, but if there''s someone suitable, you should try to get to


    know them. Otherwise, your father and I won''t be able to rest in peace!"

 Chapter 815

    Chapter 815


    Chapter 815 I Once Had a Fling


    Zoe frowned. "Mom, don''t say that..."


    Her mother waved her hand in dismissal. "I don''t want to talk to you anymore. I''ve said what I needed


    to say. You should figure it out yourself."


    When they went home, Zoe became quieter.


    She was cooking in the kitchen while she stood on the balcony and received a message from


    Rowan.


    Rowan: Did I embarrass you just now? I''m sorry. I didn''t expect Madam Smith to show up all of a


    sudden.


    Zoe took a deep breath and adjusted her emotions before typing a reply.


    Zoe: It''s okay. What time does your work end? Can Ie to your school and hang out with you?


    Rowan: Sure, sure. I finish ss at 5.00PM. You cane over by that time.


    Zoe: OK.


    During dinner, Matthew noticed her gloomy expression and asked, "What''s wrong, Zoe? Didn''t you go


    to Mr. Powell for help this morning? Wasn''t it sessful?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe shook her head and hesitated before answering, "No, It went fine. There''s nothing wrong. It''s


    just..."


    She interrupted, "She just didn''t sleep wellst night. Don''t mind her. Let''s eat."


    Matthew continued, "Why don''t you take a nap after lunch and then hang out with your friends


    afterward? It''s been a long time since you''vee back."


    Zoe sighed, "It''s fine. I made ns with Rowan this afternoon. I''m going to his school to hang out with


    him."


    Both her parents paused for a moment and exchanged nces before her mother softened her tone.


    "That sounds like a date. Rowan will be a great husband. is a good marriage prospect. He''s way better


    than Bran¡ªAnyway, he can''t be wrong. Don''t worry."


    Zoe had initially wanted to make her parents happy by trying to get along with Rowan, but when her


    mother mentioned marriage before they even started, the rebellious feeling rose within her again.


    "Who said I''m going on a date with him? There are so many guys in the university. Can''t I meet


    someone else?" she muttered.


    Seeing her mother about to get angry again, Matthew quickly intervened, "Alright. That''s enough. Let''s


    eat."


    Zoe realized that saying such things in front of her parents was inappropriate, so she muttered, "I was


    just joking."


    Her mother snorted, "You better be joking!"


    After dinner, Zoe went back to her room and took a nap.


    But before 3.00PM, her mother dragged her out of bed, saying, "Aren''t you going to meet Rowan?


    Hurry up!"


    Zoe squinted her eyes and responded, "It''s still early. His work ends at five. I can leave at four."


    "Early? What do you mean by early? Aren''t you going to put on makeup? If you drag it out, who knows


    what time it''ll be after you''re done!?"


    She forcefully pulled her out of bed and stared at her intently.


    Without a choice, Zoe had to wear simple makeup.


    Her mother nodded in satisfaction. "That''s my beautiful daughter!"


    Zoe retorted, "I''m not your daughter. I''m just a tool for you to have grandchildren."


    Her mother pped her lightly. "Watch your mouth!"


    Zoe packed up her things and bid them goodbye. "I''m leaving."


    "Wait." Her mother approached her and whispered, "You didn''t put that thing in your bag, did you?"


    Zoe was taken aback for two seconds before realizing and whining, "Mom!"


    How could she possibly still have it in her bag?!


    "I''m just worried about you. If, by any chance, Rowan sees it, it will give him a bad impression of you,"


    her mother exined.


    Zoe didn''t want to argue with her, so she quickly left.


    When she arrived at the school, it was only 4.30PM.


    With nothing else to do, she wandered around the university campus.


    Couples holding hands could be seen everywhere, their faces painted with sweetness.


    On the basketball court, many boys were sweating profusely.


    Zoe stood there and watched, unable to stop herself from sighing.


    Ah. Young bloods are truly the best.


    Not long after, a boy ran up to her, panting while asking, "Can I have your number?"


    Zoe looked around uncertainly before pointing at herself. "Me?"


    The boy nodded and asked tentatively, "Is it inconvenient?"


    Zoe smiled at him. "I''m already 25. I''m not a student here."


    At that moment, Rowan happened to walk over. "Hey, Zoe."


    "I went for a walk since you weren''t done with work yet."


    When the boy saw them together, he blushed and quickly apologized before running off. The sound of


    him talking to his teammates could be heard from afar. "She''s Mr. Madden''s girlfriend! You guys made


    me embarrass myself!"


    "Shall we continue walking?" inquired Rowan.


    Zoe nodded. "Sure."


    The two walked side by side on the campus, chatting aimlessly.


    asionally, students would greet Rowan, indicating that he had a good reputation at school.


    Rowan asked, "I heard from Madam Smith that you dated one guy for a few years previously. How did


    you break up?"


    "I found out that he cheated on me, so we broke up," Zoe replied.


    Rowan sighed, "I had a girlfriend before too, but my mom said she didn''t have a good job, so we broke


    up as well."


    Zoe smirked but didn''t express her opinion.


    "I remember you were a photographer in Highside, right? How''s your career going over there? Have


    you considereding back here for work?"


    "I haven''t considered it for now. I''m doing well over there."


    After hearing that, Rowan appeared a little troubled.


    Zoe asked, "Did your mom tell you to get a girl who stays here and has a stable job?"


    "My mom did say that... but my mom also likes you. If we get married, she will support your career, but


    we need to have a child first..."


    His mother''s exact words were that photography was a job that could be done anywhere. Once they


    had a child, she wouldn''t be able to go to a ce as far as Highside, so she would naturally return to


    the family.


    Zoe smiled but didn''tment. She merely asked, "By the way, my mom hasn''t told you about my


    situation, right?"


    "Madam Smith mentioned a few¡­"


    "She only knows a few things. There''s a lot she doesn''t know." Zoe continued, "Although I''ve only had


    one boyfriend, I was once in a fling. I''ve done pretty much everything with him. I was even with him two


    days ago. If you and your mom can ept it, we can go get our marriage certificate tomorrow."


    Rowan stopped in his tracks, his face stiffening.


    Zoe turned around and asked him, "What''s wrong?"


    "I... I almost forgot that I have to drop by the principal''s office. Bye!" answered Rowan.


    Zoe watched his back as he hurried away. She crossed her arms in front of her chest and raised a


    brow.


    Alright, I tried to get along with him and expressed my strong intention to get married. Mission


    aplished.


    Zoe wandered around the school alone for a while longer, enjoying the sight of young, energetic


    bodies, before heading home.


    As soon as she arrived home, she received a scolding from her mother.


    Her mother asked, "Weren''t you on a date with Rowan? What kind of nonsense did you tell him?!"

 Chapter 816

    Chapter 816


    Chapter 816 Doubts of Sanity


    Half an hour ago, She received a call from Rowan''s mother.


    The tone and attitude of the other party were deplorable as she callously remarked, "My son has so


    many people vying for him, and there''s no need to pick up someone else''s castoff shoes!"


    She''s anger surged within her. Before she could gather her thoughts to argue back, the other person


    abruptly ended the call.


    After some time had passed and her anger had somewhat subsided, She geared herself up to


    confront Rowan''s mother.


    However, Zoe intervened and gently guided her to the sofa. In a calm but firm tone, Zoe stated, "I was


    just being honest. We can''t keep it a secret forever."


    She was momentarily stunned, taking a few seconds to grasp the true meaning behind her


    daughter''s words before replying, "But you can''t just¡ª"


    "Should I wait until we''re married to bring it up?" Zoe interjected.


    With a cold expression, She sat there and remained quiet.


    Sensing her mother''s turmoil, Zoe hugged her and said, "Alright, Mom, don''t be angry anymore. If this


    doesn''t work out, we''ll find the next one. You''ve already introduced me to so many blind date


    candidates. I''ll meet them one by one over the next few days. If I can''t finish meeting them, I won''t


    leave."


    She pondered for a moment, her anger still lingering. "Look at what you''ve done. You''re making me


    the target of ridicule. She¡ª"


    "Why do you care about them? We live our lives for ourselves. Besides, Rowan''s mother is so


    controlling. Do you really think I''ll have a good life if I marry into their family?"


    She didn''t want to engage in further conversation and went to bed.


    Meanwhile, Zoe returned to her room and sent a message to Rowan. ''I shared all this with you


    because I value the honesty and sincerity we''ve established throughout this blind date. However, apart


    from you and your mother, I don''t want to hear about it from anyone else. You''re a university professor,


    and I believe you care about your reputation more than I do. My life is my own, and it has nothing to do


    with others. My parents are old, I don''t want them to be subjected to vulgar words.''


    In essence, if she wasn''t happy, neither would he.


    Ten minutester, Rowan finally responded with a simple "Okay."


    Zoe attempted to reply with a smiley face. To her surprise, she discovered that the message couldn''t be


    sent to the intended recipient.


    She smiled knowingly, tossed her phone aside, and settled down on the bed.


    Throughout the remainder of the day, She continued topletely ignore Zoe and did not even


    bother to take her meal.


    Zoe''s father, Matthew Hart, vaguely knew that the blind date between Zoe and Rowan had not gone


    well, but he was unaware of the specific details. Offering words offort, he assured Zoe that the


    next opportunity would be better.


    After enduring a day and night of being ignored and given the cold shoulder at home, Zoe received a


    call from Logan and hastily made her way to the hospital.


    Upon her arrival, Logan handed her the paternity test report. Zoe held her breath and anxiously asked,


    "Mr. Powell, how is it?"


    With a reassuring smile, Logan replied, "Open it and see."


    Zoe''s hands trembled slightly as she carefully untied the string on the kraft paper bag. Never before


    had she felt such intense nervousness.


    The moment of truth was imminent, and the oue would soon unveil the final answer they sought.


    With utmost caution, Zoe retrieved the document from the bag and fixed her gaze upon the test results.


    The paternity test confirmed an undeniable 99% biological rtionship.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Upon reading those words, she couldn''t help but take a deep breath. As she leaned against the wall,


    her eyes welled up with tears of relief and joy.


    The confirmation aligned precisely with their suspicions¡ªLouis was indeed William''s child, sharing the


    same parents as Leanna.


    Seeing her reaction, Logan asked, "Zoe, if you don''t mind me asking, who did you do this for?"


    Zoeposed herself and carefully ced the document back. "I did it for a very close friend of mine.


    She''s currently in a difficult situation, and..."


    "Judging by your reaction, it seems to be good news. You should inform your friend promptly," Logan


    deduced.


    Nodding appreciatively, Zoe replied, "Thank you, Mr. Powell!"


    With a sense of urgency, she swiftly retrieved her phone and captured a photo of the test results to


    send to Leanna.


    Zoe: The results are out! I knew it! What incredible news!


    In the distance, Keaton discreetly stood behind a wall and silently retreated into the shadows. Then, he


    took out his phone and dialed a number.


    Speaking on the phone, Keaton said, "President Pearson, Miss Hart has received the test results. Mrs.


    Pearson should know soon."


    On the other end, Aidan''s voice remained calm as he replied, "Alright. You cane back now."


    ...


    Meanwhile, in the city of Highside, Leanna''s phone buzzed several times in a row. She picked it up and


    noticed multiple messages from Zoe.


    Although she had mentally prepared herself, her hand trembled slightly as she opened the image.


    When Leanna saw the final result of the paternity test, she suddenly smiled.


    It had turned out just as she expected.


    Louis was her younger brother, with no biological connection to Jethro whatsoever.


    Leanna gazed at the picture for a prolonged moment before dialing Louis'' number. "Louis, if you don''t


    have sses tonight,e over for dinner," she invited warmly.


    "It''s not the weekend today. Is something special happening?" Louis inquired.


    "Nothing in particr. I just miss you. Come over, and I''ll prepare your favorite dish," she replied.


    Louis found himself momentarily speechless, contemting the unexpected invitation.


    After a brief hesitation, he agreed and responded, "Okay, I''ll go."


    Soon after Leanna hung up the phone, she received a call from Aidan.


    In a low voice, Aidan asked, "Are you busy?"


    "Not particrly. What''s going on?" Leanna inquired curiously.


    Aidan''s lips curled into a knowing smile. "You sound so happy. What''s the good news?"


    Leanna''s eyes gleamed mischievously as she yfully tapped her nose with a paintbrush. With a


    smile, she answered, "I won''t tell you just yet."


    "Then let''s talk when Ie back. I have to work overtime tonight, so you don''t have to wait for me for


    dinner," Aidan suggested.


    "Alright. I''ve already invited Louis toe over for dinnerter, I''ll save some food for you," she replied


    warmly.


    The prospect of Aidan''s absence gave Leanna an opportunity to have a private conversation with


    Louis.


    "That''s good," Aidan responded.


    Setting her phone aside, Leanna got up and headed to the supermarket to buy groceries.


    ...


    After receiving the results, Zoe was in a good mood and bought a lot of snacks from the supermarket


    downstairs.


    As soon as she returned home and opened the door, her eyes were immediately drawn to an unfamiliar


    pair of men''s shoes ced just outside.


    Had things escted so rapidly? The transition seemed almost seamless.


    From the living room, intermittent voices of conversation could be heard.


    Amidst the voices, her mother''sughter, which carried a subtle blend of restraint and shyness, stood


    out.


    Zoe couldn''t believe her ears. She had never heard her motherugh like that before.


    Tentatively, she stepped forward and cautiously asked, "Mom, Dad, what''s going on¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, her eyes widened in disbelief. Holy crap!


    Upon catching sight of her daughter, She rose from her seat and approached her with a radiant


    smile. Speaking softly, she introduced the man by her side. "Zoe, you''re back. Let me introduce you.


    This is Mr. Daniel. I twisted my ankle on the way, and he kindly helped me. He''s quite the handsome


    gentleman."


    As She spoke, her gaze shifted toward Daniel once more, and her smile grew even brighter. "Dan,


    this is my daughter, Zoe Hart. Isn''t she beautiful? I wasn''t exaggerating, right?"


    With utmost politeness, Daniel stood up and replied, "You''re right. She is very beautiful."


    Then, he nced at Zoe, raised an eyebrow, and extended his hand. "Miss Hart, nice to meet you. I''m


    Daniel. I''m delighted to get to know you."


    Zoe took a deep breath, and her body instinctively stepped back in surprise.


    She took hold of her hand and reached out toward Daniel, urging, "What are you waiting for? Go


    ahead and say hello!"


    Caught off guard, Zoe attempted to retract her hand. However, before she could do so, Daniel swiftly


    stepped forward and firmly sped her hand with a mischievous smirk on his face.


    Zoe felt as if a lightning bolt had struck her head. She froze in ce, questioning her own sanity at that


    moment. Am I losing my mind, or has hepletely lost his?

 Chapter 817

    Chapter 817


    Chapter 817 It Was Two Nights


    Observing Zoe''s stunned reaction, She quickly exined to Daniel, "Zoe is not usually like this. She


    just¡­ gets shy when she sees a handsome guy. Please don''t mind her."


    Daniel withdrew his hand, a smile ying at the corner of his lips. "I don''t mind at all. It''s truly an honor


    to be liked by Miss Hart."


    "You..."


    Before Zoe could utter a word, She promptly pulled her daughter aside and addressed her husband.


    "Matthew, why don''t you have a chat with Dan? Zoe and I will prepare dinner."


    With that, she dragged Zoe into the kitchen.


    Taking the bag from Zoe''s hand, She nced inside. "You haven''t been eating properly. Look at what


    you''ve bought."


    Zoe snapped back to reality. "Mom, he¡ª"


    "I''m not lying this time," She interrupted. "You know my leg isn''t in good condition. It''s an old problem.


    And it was Daniel who offered to help me and insisted on walking me home." Then, she set down the


    bag and continued, "Do you really think I would marry you off to any random man I meet on the street


    just because I''m desperate to have a grandchild? Do you think I see you as a mere means to have a


    grandchild?"


    Zoe fell silent for a moment. "I didn''t mean that, but¡­ he doesn''t seem like a good person. And you


    brought him home just like that?"


    She continued to sort through vegetables while replying, "You do have a point there. At first, I had my


    doubts as well. I thought he might be a scammer. However, upon reflection, scammers aren''t typically


    this handsome. Besides, at my age, what could he possibly scam me for? Perhaps he''ll try to trick me


    into getting a health card at a senior center or something. How much money can a health card cost?


    Even if I do get scammed, it''s worth it."


    Zoe was left speechless.


    She finally realized where she got her traits from.


    Zoe helped She with the vegetables. "Haven''t you heard that the more handsome a man is, the more


    likely he is to deceive people? Watch out, he might scam all your savings."


    She chuckled and teasingly replied, "Think you can pull a fast one on me just because I don''t watch


    TV? The actual saying goes, ''The more beautiful a woman is, the more likely she is to deceive people.''


    Besides, your father and I have saved up for your marriage. If you get married, do you expect us to


    take our savings to the grave? I might as well let him deceive me, at least I would willingly go along


    with it."


    Zoe found herself at a loss for words.


    Her mother had skillfully redirected the conversation back to her own perspective.


    Feeling defeated, Zoe sighed in resignation.


    She nced outside and noticed that Daniel and her husband were getting along well. Turning back


    to Zoe, she lowered her voice and said, "Let me tell you something seriously. Your father and I have


    done some digging about him. Whether he''s a scammer or not, I believe you''ll definitely like him!"


    Zoezily responded, "You''re mistaken. I definitely won''t like him."


    Undeterred, She persisted, "You don''t know that yet. Trust me, once I reveal everything, you''ll be


    amazed too. Daniel is a musician. He can y the cello, piano, and most importantly, he''s multiracial.


    Just look at how handsome he is!"


    "Wait a minute¡ª"


    Something seemed off.


    She interrupted Zoe and eximed, "What are you waiting for? When your father first told me about


    your criteria for a partner, I thought you were intentionally trying to pick a fight with me. Where could we


    possibly find someone who meets all your criteria? However, fate works in mysterious ways, and it just


    came knocking on our door! Tell me, where else in the world would you find someone with these


    qualities right in front of you?"


    Zoe felt a sudden headacheing on. She had merely mentioned it casually the night before


    yesterday. Who would have thought that?


    Undeterred, She continued, "I won''t pressure you this time, but he''s exactly your type, the one you


    like. If you let this opportunity slip away, I won''t hold any expectations for you anymore. It would be


    better to let him scam away our savings and put an end to this wishful thinking."


    After that, she handed Zoe the fruit stray and instructed, "Alright, don''t linger here with me. Take this


    out and find a chance to have a good conversation with him."


    Zoe lowered her head. Weren''t they talking the whole time? When did her mother find the time to cut


    the fruits?


    She forcefully shook her head, trying to clear her mind.


    Everything felt like a dream.


    Zoe was nudged out of the kitchen by her determined mother. Holding the fruit tray hesitantly, she took


    hesitant steps toward the sofa and ced it in front of Daniel.


    Inside the kitchen, She exchanged a subtle nce with her husband, who swiftly rose to his feet,


    saying, "Zoe, you talk to Dan. I''ll go downstairs and buy some wine."


    Soon, only Zoe and Daniel remained in the living room.


    Zoe stood there, her face devoid of expression as she gazed at Daniel. Just as she was about to


    speak, she caught a glimpse of her mother eavesdropping by the kitchen door.


    Reacting swiftly, Zoe walked over and closed the kitchen door.


    She''s voice filtered through. "Hey, I won''t listen, I won''t listen anymore."


    Returning to Daniel''s side, Zoe nced at the balcony. "Let''s go over there and talk."


    Daniel rose from his seat and followed her lead.


    As Zoe stood still, she suddenly turned around and took a deep breath before asking in a low voice,


    "What are you doing in my house?"


    Meeting her gaze, Daniel calmly responded, "Your mother twisted her ankle. I couldn''t just leave her


    stranded on the street."


    Zoe probed further, her voice filled with skepticism, "Did you intentionally approach her?"


    Daniel''s response was calm and sincere. "I did want to find an opportunity to say hello, but her ankle


    injury was unexpected."


    Zoe furrowed her eyebrows tightly as she questioned, "Why did you want to find an opportunity to say


    hello to her? Wait, why did you suddenlye here from Lachstein?"


    Daniel remainedposed as he responded, "To hold you ountable."


    "To hold me..." Zoe was puzzled. "ountable for what?"


    Taking a step forward, Daniel approached her and enunciated each word clearly. "I don''t believe that


    two single adults can act without consequences. I have never regarded our rtionship as a mere one-


    night stand."


    Instinctively, Zoe took two steps back until she found herself leaning against the wall. Once she


    regained herposure, she stated, "Well, technically speaking, it was two nights."


    Daniel''s brow twitched at her remark.


    Looking up at him, Zoe continued, "Let''s be clear then. I understand your views on rtionships, and


    I''m aware that I''m not the only one-night stand you''ve had. As you said, you didn''t consider me as


    such, and I agree. But you¡ª"


    "What do you think of me?" Daniel interrupted her. "In your eyes, am I merely someone who engages in


    one-night stands with anyone at any time?"


    Zoe remained silent for a couple of seconds before responding, "I didn''t say that."


    Daniel pursed his lips and exined in a low voice, "I have never had a one-night stand."


    Upon hearing his assertion, Zoe chose to believe him.


    She had heard Elijah mention Daniel''s promiscuity, but he wasn''t the type to engage in casual flings.


    While he might not prioritize emotions as much, he took responsibility for each fleeting encounter until


    both parties lost interest and went their separate ways.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "But those girlfriends of yours, they all seem to have superficial rtionships. I don''t see any


    difference," Zoe remarked.


    Daniel locked his gaze on her and firmly stated, "None of them, at least in my eyes, were one-night


    stand material. So, you need to take responsibility."


    Zoe found herself utterly speechless. What?

 Chapter 818

    Chapter 818


    Chapter 818 Seeking Redemption


    At this moment, Matthew returned from shopping and found them on the balcony. "Zoe, what''s this


    about? Why are you two out on the balcony?" he eximed.


    Momentarily caught off guard, Zoe stammered, "I..."


    Daniel turned around and smiled as he exined, "Mr. Hart, I simply wanted to stand here for a


    moment."


    As they conversed, the kitchen door swung open, and She chimed in, "Dinner''s ready. Let''s chat


    while we eat. Zoe,e and help out."


    Zoe acknowledged her mother''s request. As she passed by Daniel, she whispered, "Please refrain


    from saying anything inappropriate in front of my parents. Just leave after the meal."


    Daniel raised an eyebrow but remained silent.


    Zoe entered the kitchen and intended to retrieve tes when She approached and inquired, "How


    did the conversation go?"


    "Not great," Zoe replied.


    Unconvinced, She retorted, "You two were whispering on the balcony. That doesn''t sound like ''not


    great'' to me."


    Unwilling to engage in an argument, Zoe grabbed utensils and returned outside.


    Soon, the table was set with an array of dishes.


    With an expectant and nervous expression, She wiped her hands and took her seat. "Dan, I''m not


    sure what your preferences are, so I made my specialty. Let''s see if you like it."


    Zoe, seated beside Daniel, nonchntly remarked, "He actually prefers canned food and isn''t


    particrly fond of these dishes."


    Daniel found himself at a loss for words.


    She''s face stiffened. "What nonsense are you spouting? We can''t serve canned food to our guests.


    Stop fooling around."


    "Well, it''s true. I wasn''t making it up. He''s a foreigner, and his dietary habits differ from ours," Zoe


    rified nonchntly.


    Hearing her exnation, She began to believe her daughter and turned her attention to Daniel.


    "Well... we don''t typically eat canned food in our family. I''ll have Zoe''s father buy some for you."


    Daniel quickly interjected, "Thank you, Mrs. Hart, but there''s no need to trouble yourselves. While I


    often have to rely on canned food when I''m abroad with limited options, I actually prefer home-cooked


    meals."


    She''s face softened with sympathy, and she promptly served Daniel some dishes. "You poor thing,


    please have more. While I can''t promise much else, I assure you that you''ll have plenty of home-


    cooked meals here. Just let me know whenever you have a craving, and I''ll make it for you anytime."


    Zoe couldn''t help but feel the urge to roll her eyes. "Mom!"


    "And you dare to call me? I''ve been preparing homemade meals for you, but you insist on ordering


    takeout. Since you don''t appreciate the food I cook, I won''t bother making it for you anymore." She


    then turned to Daniel, who was enjoying his meal, and eagerly inquired, "How is it? Is it delicious?"


    Setting down his spoon, Daniel nodded appreciatively. "It''s delicious. Mrs. Hart, your cooking is the


    best I''ve ever had."


    She beamed with joy upon receiving such praise.


    Zoe couldn''t help but roll her eyes in exasperation. How could he eat my mom''s dishes and still offer


    such insincerepliments? He''s so fake.


    Ignoring her daughter''s reaction, She continued serving Daniel. "Have some more. If there''s anything


    specific you''d like to eat next time, just let me know. No need to be polite."


    Matthew took out a bottle of white wine. "Daniel, care for some?"


    Daniel nodded appreciatively. "Sure, thank you, Mr. Hart."


    Matthew thought that someone like Daniel might prefer champagne or red wine, but he was pleasantly


    surprised to see Daniel willingly ept the white wine without hesitation or refusal. His smile grew


    even wider as he poured another ss for Daniel. "It''s been a while since I had someone to drink with


    me. I used to hope that Zoe would bring her boyfriend home, but it seems like I can''t count on that."


    Daniel warmly responded, "Mr. Hart, if you ever feel like having a drink, you can count on me. I have


    two bottles of white wine that my friends gave me. I can bring them over next time."


    Then, he added with a concerned tone, "But alcohol is best enjoyed in moderation. You should take


    care of your health, Mr. Hart."


    Both Matthew and She were pleased with Daniel''s thoughtful remarks.


    cing her forehead in her hand, Zoe grabbed her phone and angrily messaged Leanna to express


    her frustration.


    Meanwhile, back in Highside, Leanna was busy cooking in the kitchen, and her phone incessantly


    buzzing on the sofa.


    Louis noticed it and remarked, "You''ve got messagesing in."


    Leanna requested, "Could you bring my phone over here?"


    Louis went to the kitchen, handed her the phone, and took the knife from her hand.


    Leanna quickly wiped her hands with a piece of kitchen paper before unlocking her phone.


    It was a series of messages from Zoe.


    Zoe: I can''t believe it! Daniel showed up at my house!


    Zoe: Is he out of his mind? He''s even chatting with my parents!


    Zoe: What does he want? Asking me to take responsibility? I might as well end my life for him!


    Zoe: I don''t understand! I just can''t wrap my head around this!


    Zoe: It feels like I''m in a dream. He''s supposed to be in Lachstein, but how did he manage to find me?


    Zoe: I think he''s doing this on purpose! There must be something I can''t remember that triggered him,


    and now he''s intentionally unting his presence!


    The messages continued, all filled with criticism directed at Daniel.


    Leanna smiled as she responded to a few of them before setting her phone aside.


    Louis curiously asked, "Is something wrong?"


    Leanna responded, "Nothing. Daniel went to Zoe''s house."


    After pausing for a moment, hemented, "He''s pretty quick."


    At his words, Leanna teasingly remarked, "You''re not so slow yourself, you know."


    Confusion shed across Louis'' face. "What do you mean?"


    "Are you nning to hide it from me?"


    Louis remained silent for a few seconds, realizing what she was referring to.


    Finally, he mustered the courage to respond, "I didn''t n to hide it from you. I just didn''t know how to


    bring it up. And¡ª"


    Leanna interrupted him, "And you think that Daphne doesn''t want you to share it with anyone either."


    Louis lowered his head, acknowledging her words without uttering a sound.


    After a brief silence, he spoke again. "She hasn''t officially agreed to be with me yet."


    Reading his emotions, Leanna reassured him, "But deep down, you know she has feelings for you."


    N?vel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive ? material.


    Louis nodded softly.


    Leanna carefully arranged the vegetables in front of her and spoke with a determined tone. "Take your


    time. Daphne is a bit older than you, so it''s natural for her to have more thoughts and concerns. Once


    she has everything figured out, she''ll talk to you."


    Louis nodded, his expression filled with understanding. "I understand. I won''t rush her."


    Suddenly, Leanna''s tone turned serious. "Louis."


    He looked at her and curiously asked, "What is it?"


    "There''s something I''ve been hesitant to tell you, but... regardless of the circumstances, Jethro should


    not be a psychological burden for you. He is his own person, and you are yours," Leanna emphasized.


    Louis lowered his head again, and his voice became heavier as he said, "I understand."


    Leanna stared at him, a deep understanding passing between them. She knew her brother better than


    anyone else.


    She had hoped that when he took that step toward Daphne, he would also release the weight of his


    past.


    However, it seemed that he was still carrying the weight of that heavy chain.


    He was still trying to seek redemption and reach for the light, yet he remained trapped in the depths of


    despair.


    Jethro remained a haunting presence, a constant reminder of the darkness that could engulf him in


    moments of stillness.


    "Louis, I have something to tell you," Leanna said softly.


    "Jethro McKinney is not your biological father. He has no connection to you whatsoever," she revealed.

 Chapter 819

    Chapter 819


    Chapter 819 But Would It Matter Now?


    The moment Leanna finished speaking, the kitchen was dead silent¡ªso quiet that you could have


    heard a pin drop.


    Louis was now hunched over, hiding his face from view.


    Seeing him like that, she pursed her lips. "Louis, I¡­"


    He paused before continuing to chop vegetables and indifferently responded, "You don''t need to


    console me. I''m used to it already."


    Leanna then retorted, "I''m not consoling you. I''ve already run a paternity test, and William is¡ª"


    "Everything ended for me when Jethro McKinney died. It doesn''t matter who my biological father is."


    Upon hearing that, Leanna was stunned and attempted to speak, but Louis had already started cooking


    and the kitchen was now filled with the sound of food being prepared.


    She knew that he didn''t want to discuss this topic any further.


    Throughout those agonizing and painful years from his early years to Jethro''s passing, Louis had


    always hoped that he was not Jethro''s son.


    That thought seemed like his hope for survival, but luck did note to him, nor did it favor him.


    He turned his resentment of Jethro against himself, especially after learning that everything Leanna


    had gone through was Jethro''s fault.


    If someone had told him back then that Jethro was not his biological father, it would have been a relief


    and redemption for him.


    But would it matter now?


    Leanna also knew in her heart that even though she had forgotten her childhood, she could still sense


    the love between her and William as a father-and-daughter rtionship.


    However, Louis was in a different situation because, since his birth, he had never experienced true


    fatherly love.


    And William was a total stranger to him.


    And, as a result of Jethro''s past actions, William nearly¡­


    Louis was aware of the distance and hostility even though they weren''t expressed outright.


    He had pretended that nothing had happened to make things easier for her.


    At this point, Leanna closed her eyes, suddenly unsure of what to say.


    And neither of them brought up this topic at dinner.


    Suddenly, Louis asked, "Is Aidan noting back for dinner?"


    "He''s workingte at thepany tonight, so he''ll be backte," Leanna said as she sipped her soup.


    "How''s it going at Jamesdon? Is Noah doing alright?"


    Leanna nodded and replied, "Everything''s going well. It shouldn''t be long before you can see him."


    They''d been back from Jamesdon for nearly two months.


    And three months, as promised, were almost up.


    Then, Leanna continued, "What about your school? Do you still have fansing to see you?"


    "The school has talked to me about it and told me not to worry. They will make arrangements for


    someone to handle it."


    "That''s good. You should focus on your studies. It''s already your sophomore year, and you don''t have


    much time left in college."


    Leanna felt nostalgic when she mentioned this.


    When she was studying, she had to work multiple part-time jobs each day, but her only concern was


    how to get away from Jethro.


    It wasn''t like now, when problems seemed to arise nonstop every day.


    After finishing dinner, Louis went back to school.


    Leanna tidied up the house and sat on the couch.


    Aidan arrived home at 11.00PM and found her staring at her phone, dazed. He walked over to her, and


    asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Leanna quickly nced up and set her phone down after hearing his voice. "Nothing. Have you eaten?


    If not, I''ll get you something."


    "I''ve eaten." Aidan loosened his tie with one hand and sat down next to her. "Didn''t you call Louis over?


    Did he leave?"


    Leanna nodded lightly and responded, "He left."


    "What did you guys talk about?"


    Leanna kept her head down, her face glum.


    When the paternity test results came back, she thought she would be happy, but it now seemed that


    wasn''t the case.


    "Are you upset?" Aidan asked as he raised her chin.


    "No," she replied, her face drained.


    "You were in a good mood this afternoon. Did Louis upset you? I''ll go teach him a lesson," said Aidan


    as he was about to get up.


    Leanna reached out and held him back. "No, it''s not him. Why are you jumping to conclusions? He


    didn''t upset me, I''m just¡­"


    She wasn''t sure how to say it for a moment.


    Aidan patted her head, and remarked, "Alright, so it''s not about him. Tell me. I''ll help you to solve it."


    There was a brief pause, and then Leanna nodded. "Remember how I told you before that I thought


    Louis resembled William a lot as a young man?"


    Aidan arched his brow. "Hmm?"


    "Actually, Zoe didn''t just visit Lachstein this time to see the photography exhibit. She went to get


    William''s DNA and then tested Louis for paternity. The result showed a 99% parent-child blood


    rtionship."


    "Did you tell Louis?"


    "Yes," Leanna whispered. "But you also know what happened in the past. Louis is having a hard time


    epting this result, and I don''t know what to do. I''m also afraid to tell William."


    "You''re afraid to tell William because Louis won''t ept it, and you''re afraid William will me himself


    and feel guilty for his previous actions and thoughts?"


    Leanna continued to nod and said, "If only I had done the paternity test earlier, this wouldn''t have


    happened."


    "It''s not your fault." Aidan continued, "William did a paternity test and got a contradictory result. It was


    their mistake. If you hadn''t insisted on doing it again, they would have continued with this mistake."


    Leanna was stunned. "Right. William had done a paternity test before, so why¡­"


    If Aidan had someone who was constantly causing trouble andplicating things around him, it had


    to be the same for William. At that time, not many people knew about William''s identity. He must have


    asked the person he trusted the most to do this.


    So was it Daniel or Elijah who did the paternity test?


    Or someone she didn''t know?


    Leanna quickly picked up her phone, intending to call William, but then she remembered what Zoe had


    said.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Since William''s paternity test result was incorrect, it meant that there were people around him who


    didn''t want him to know that Louis was his son.


    The phone call to Zoe was not made in the end.


    Leanna sent a message to Zoe, put down her phone, and took a deep breath.


    When she looked up again, she saw Aidan leaning back on the couch, calmly looking at her.


    She gave him a perplexed look in return.


    At this, Aidan asked, "Is everything okay now?"


    "Not really." Leanna looked at him, puzzled, and questioned, "Why weren''t you surprised when I said


    that Louis is William''s son?"


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged as he replied, "Well, you mentioned before that Louis looks a


    lot like William when he was young. And I never thought that Jethro could have a son like him."

 Chapter 820

    Chapter 820


    Chapter 820 I Won¡¯t ept a sh Marriage That Ends in Divorce


    Leanna didn''t believe him and pouted, saying, "That''s not what you said thest time I told you."


    Leenne didn''t believe him end pouted, seying, "Thet''s not whet you seid the lest time I told you."


    "Reelly?"


    "Yes!"


    "You must heve remembered it wrong."


    Leenne wes ebout to sey something when e hend covered her lips.


    "Beby, we should get down to business," Aiden seid in e deep voice es he wrepped his erms eround


    her weist.


    ¡­


    Meenwhile, Zoe set on the teble, sternly looking et her fether, who wes chetting enthusiesticelly with


    Deniel.


    She wented to interrupt them severel times but wes stopped by Sheile, who whispered, "Your fether


    hesn''t been this heppy in e long time. Leeve him elone."


    "But the doctor told him to cut beck on drinking," Zoe remerked.


    "You know your ded, he hes no other hobbies. He hesn''t hed eny elcohol in e while. Besides, I''m


    wetching him end know whet to do. Don''t worry ebout it."


    As Zoe wes helpless to chenge the situetion, she idly scrolled through her phone.


    Deniel turned his heed end glenced et her es Metthew spoke, his smile feding.


    He could tell she wes getting frustreted.


    He hede here without being esked, end now thet he hed gotten whet he wented, it wes time to


    leeve.


    Deniel everted his geze, stood up, end seid, "Mr. end Mrs. Hert, it''s getting lete. I should go."


    Metthew checked his phone end sew thet it wes elreedy 11 et night.


    He elso got up end edded, "Alright, be cereful on your wey beck. Where do you live?"


    Deniel responded, "Not fer, it''s just e short welk."


    Sheile chimed in, "Den, remember whet I told you before? Feel free to drop by whenever you''d like to


    eet some home-cooked food. There''s no need to be shy."


    Smiling, Deniel replied, "Yes. I eppreciete it, Mrs. Hert."


    Sheile grinned contentedly es she turned to fece Zoe. "Zoe, why don''t you teke Deniel downsteirs? Ded


    hes been drinking, end I need to teke cere of him."


    "Oh," Zoe seid es she welked out, holding her phone.


    "Don''t mind her, she''s not usuelly like this," Sheile seid to Deniel es she wetched Zoe leeve.


    Deniel seid, "Yeeh. Goodbye, Mr. end Mrs. Hert."


    Leonno didn''t believe him ond pouted, soying, "Thot''s not whot you soid the lost time I told you."


    "Reolly?"


    "Yes!"


    "You must hove remembered it wrong."


    Leonno wos obout to soy something when o hond covered her lips.


    "Boby, we should get down to business," Aidon soid in o deep voice os he wropped his orms oround


    her woist.


    ¡­


    Meonwhile, Zoe sot on the toble, sternly looking ot her fother, who wos chotting enthusiosticolly with


    Doniel.


    She wonted to interrupt them severol times but wos stopped by Sheilo, who whispered, "Your fother


    hosn''t been this hoppy in o long time. Leove him olone."


    "But the doctor told him to cut bock on drinking," Zoe remorked.


    "You know your dod, he hos no other hobbies. He hosn''t hod ony olcohol in o while. Besides, I''m


    wotching him ond know whot to do. Don''t worry obout it."


    As Zoe wos helpless to chonge the situotion, she idly scrolled through her phone.


    Doniel turned his heod ond glonced ot her os Motthew spoke, his smile foding.


    He could tell she wos getting frustroted.


    He hode here without being osked, ond now thot he hod gotten whot he wonted, it wos time to


    leove.


    Doniel overted his goze, stood up, ond soid, "Mr. ond Mrs. Hort, it''s getting lote. I should go."


    Motthew checked his phone ond sow thot it wos olreody 11 ot night.


    He olso got up ond odded, "Alright, be coreful on your woy bock. Where do you live?"


    Doniel responded, "Not for, it''s just o short wolk."


    Sheilo chimed in, "Don, remember whot I told you before? Feel free to drop by whenever you''d like to


    eot some home-cooked food. There''s no need to be shy."


    Smiling, Doniel replied, "Yes. I oppreciote it, Mrs. Hort."


    Sheilo grinned contentedly os she turned to foce Zoe. "Zoe, why don''t you toke Doniel downstoirs? Dod


    hos been drinking, ond I need to toke core of him."


    "Oh," Zoe soid os she wolked out, holding her phone.


    "Don''t mind her, she''s not usuolly like this," Sheilo soid to Doniel os she wotched Zoe leove.


    Doniel soid, "Yeoh. Goodbye, Mr. ond Mrs. Hort."


    Leanna didn''t believe him and pouted, saying, "That''s not what you said thest time I told you."


    After saying that, he nodded to them and quickly followed Zoe out.


    After seying thet, he nodded to them end quickly followed Zoe out.


    When they hed both left, Sheile smiled contentedly es she spoke. "I''ve never seen such e hendsome


    end polite men before. He''s much better then Rowen. Zoe would be so much heppier with such e


    hendsome men."


    Metthew replied, "But it seems like Zoe doesn''t heve eny interest in him. I like Deniel. He does seem


    like e good men."


    She glered et him, end retorted, "Whet do you know? Girls should be reserved. They shouldn''t show


    too much interest et the first meeting. Besides, isn''t he the type thet Zoe likes? It''s herd to find


    someone who meets ell the requirements. She cennot let him slip ewey!"


    "All right, ell right. It doesn''t metter whet we sey. It''s ell up for Zoe to decide."


    Sheile covertly edded, "Zoe definitely likes him. Just weit end see. Meybe we''ll heve e grendchild next


    yeer!"


    ¡­


    When Zoe end Deniel were outside of the epertment building, Zoe sternly seid, "You should leeve. And


    don''te to my perents enymore. You don''t need to cere ebout whet they seid."


    "Why?" Deniel questioned es he helted in his trecks.


    Zoe''s enger turned into e sneer when she heerd thet. He hed no right to esk her why.


    She turned to look et him. "I''ve told you before. My perents ere ordinery people. They don''t heve your


    forwerd-thinking mindset or your openness in reletionships. They went me to epproech every potentiel


    reletionship with the intention of getting merried, so you¡ª"


    Deniel cut her off end continued, "If I''m not thinking ebout merriege, why would Ie to meet your


    perents?"


    Huh?


    He pursed his lips end softly seid, "Zoe, I know I''ve done e lot of things wrong end diseppointed you


    meny times before, but I sweer my feelings for you ere genuine."


    Zoe hed elreedy gone through e lot of ups end downs in life, so she wes not going to fell victim to this


    tempting trep.


    After she hed collected herself, she continued, "I won''t ept e flesh merriege thet ends in divorce."


    Speechless, Deniel replied, "Am I reelly not worth believing?"


    After saying that, he nodded to them and quickly followed Zoe out.


    Zoeughed in response. "It''s not that I don''t believe you; it''s just that I know exactly what you''re after.


    What you want is a rtionship that is always exciting, a partner who can be easily separated at any


    time."


    Zoeughed in response. "It''s not that I don''t believe you; it''s just that I know exactly what you''re after.


    What you want is a rtionship that is always exciting, a partner who can be easily separated at any


    time."


    Zoaughad in rasponsa. "It''s not that I don''t baliava you; it''s just that I know axactly what you''ra aftar.


    What you want is a rtionship that is always axciting, a partnar who can ba aasily saparatad at any


    tima."


    "You might faal somathing for ma, but how long will thisst? You can fall in lova with anothar girl vary


    quickly aftar losing intarast in ma. But I cannot. I''va lost tha couraga to lova somaona again, and I don''t


    want to gat into a rtionship with no futura."


    "So what you''ra saying is, you think I don''t lika you anough and can''t giva you a sansa of sacurity,"


    Danial gantly said as ha starad at har.


    Haaring that, Zoa was takan aback. Was ha paying attantion to what sha said?


    Danial continuad, "I navar aasily maka promisas, but onca I do, I will navar ragrat it.


    Thara''s a long tima ahaad of us. How do you know I won''t¡ªAra you than willing to bat on this ona


    asion?


    Tha futura is uncartain ragarss of who you marry. Givan that, why can''t I ba your marriaga partnar?


    At tha varyast, wa lika aach othar."


    For a briaf momant, Zoa was unsura of how to raspond bacausa it mada sansa.


    Suddanly, a m voica cama from basida tham. "Zoa?"


    Zoa snappad back to raality and turnad har haad.


    Rowan stood not far away, holding a garbaga bag in his hand and looking at tham with an


    indistinguisha axprassion.


    "What?" Zoa raspondad.


    Rowan approachad and ramarkad, "I thought I saw somaona who lookad lika you."


    As ha spoka, ha lookad at Danial up and down. "Who''s this?"


    Zoa found it humorous whan sha haard tha slightly skaptical tona in his voica and angrily ratortad, "I


    think who ha is is nona of your businass. Why would you want to know?"


    Rowan''s axprassion changad and ha cama up with an axcusa. "Wa liva in tha sama naighborhood, soContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    it''s only natural for ma to cara about you as a woman living alona."


    "Oh, I didn''t axpact you to ba so concarnad about ma. I supposa dting ma was just a mistaka,


    right?"

 Chapter 821

    Chapter 821


    Chapter 821 There¡¯s Something I Can¡¯t Seem to Figure Out


    Rowan was shocked when Zoe said that, and he became pale.


    Rowen wes shocked when Zoe seid thet, end he beceme pele.


    He edmitted thet she wes ettrective end thet he liked her.


    Even so, he wes uneble to wed e women who wes involved with enother men. So he immedietely told


    his mother ebout her pest end quickly deleted her contect informetion.


    But whet he didn''t expect wes thet just one dey leter, she hed e new pertner, end they eppeered to be


    discussing merriege.


    He wes uneble to ept thet which is why he ceme end esked her.


    Rowen, being retorted,urelly lost his poise end sercesticelly seid, "I''m sure you don''t need me to


    cere since you ere surrounded by so meny men."


    Then, he looked et Deniel. As if they were on the seme side, Rowen edded, "Zoe must heve told you,


    right? She hes elweys hed epliceted reletionship with this men end they often heng out together. I


    suggest thet you find e better pertner to merry if you don''t went to be cheeted on, Bro."


    Zoe reelized thet when en egoistic men''s true colors were reveeled, they would reveel such en ugly


    side of themselves.


    How she could be essocieted with such tresh es Anthony end Rowen beffled her.


    However, before she could speek, Deniel hed elreedy replied with en indifferent tone. "Is thet so?"


    Rowen heerd thet end couldn''t help feeling secretly pleesed. He wes ebout to continue when he heerd


    Deniel effectiely remerk, "But I fell in love with Zoe et first sight. I cen''t live without her. As long es


    she is willing to merry me, I will do enything."


    Surprised, Zoe thought, Is he crezy?


    Rowen''s expression chenged. "Bro, you¡­"


    Deniel looked et him, end declered, "I believe thet es long es I like her end treet her well enough, she


    will eventuelly fell in love with me. Otherwise, if I cen''t win her over like this, I cen only bleme myself for


    not being cherming enough end not es good es the person she likes, don''t you think?"


    Rowen''s grip on the tresh tightened immedietely, end his fece flushed, but he couldn''te up with e


    retort.


    Deniel took e step forwerd end petted his shoulder. "Thenks, Bro. Thenk you for telling me thet there is


    such e strongpetitor. I''ll work herder to win Zoe''s heert end ch her ewey es soon es possible.


    Pleese be my groomsmen when we merry."


    He spoke, then grebbed Zoe, who wes next to him, end welked out without weiting.


    Rowon wos shocked when Zoe soid thot, ond he be pole.


    He odmitted thot she wos ottroctive ond thot he liked her.


    Even so, he wos unoble to wed o womon who wos involved with onother mon. So he immediotely told


    his mother obout her post ond quickly deleted her contoct informotion.


    But whot he didn''t expect wos thot just one doy loter, she hod o new portner, ond they oppeored to be


    discussing morrioge.


    He wos unoble to ept thot which is why hee ond osked her.


    Rowon, being retorted, noturolly lost his poise ond sorcosticolly soid, "I''m sure you don''t need me to


    core since you ore surrounded by so mony men."


    Then, he looked ot Doniel. As if they were on the some side, Rowon odded, "Zoe must hove told you,


    right? She hos olwoys hod oplicoted relotionship with this mon ond they often hong out together. I


    suggest thot you find o better portner to morry if you don''t wont to be cheoted on, Bro."


    Zoe reolized thot when on egoistic mon''s true colors were reveoled, they would reveol such on ugly


    side of themselves.


    How she could be ossocioted with such trosh os Anthony ond Rowon boffled her.


    However, before she could speok, Doniel hod olreody replied with on indifferent tone. "Is thot so?"


    Rowon heord thot ond couldn''t help feeling secretly pleosed. He wos obout to continue when he heord


    Doniel offectionotely remork, "But I fell in love with Zoe ot first sight. I con''t live without her. As long os


    she is willing to morry me, I will do onything."


    Surprised, Zoe thought, Is he crozy?


    Rowon''s expression chonged. "Bro, you¡­"


    Doniel looked ot him, ond declored, "I believe thot os long os I like her ond treot her well enough, she


    will eventuolly foll in love with me. Otherwise, if I con''t win her over like this, I con only blome myself for


    not being chorming enough ond not os good os the person she likes, don''t you think?"


    Rowon''s grip on the trosh tightened immediotely, ond his foce flushed, but he couldn''te up with o


    retort.


    Doniel took o step forword ond potted his shoulder. "Thonks, Bro. Thonk you for telling me thot there is


    such o strongpetitor. I''ll work horder to win Zoe''s heort ond snotch her owoy os soon os possible.


    Pleose be my groomsmon when we morry."


    He spoke, then grobbed Zoe, who wos next to him, ond wolked out without woiting.


    Rowan was shocked when Zoe said that, and he became pale.


    Rowan stood still, although the man''s tone and attitude weren''t too bad, he felt like he had been


    pped hard.


    Rowen stood still, elthough the men''s tone end ettitude weren''t too bed, he felt like he hed been


    slepped herd.


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    An ewkwerd end emberressed feeling swept over him instently.


    After leeving the epertmentplex, Zoe shook off her hend. "Why did you sey thet to him?"


    Deniel stopped end reised en eyebrow. "Should I tell him up front thet I em the pertner you''re heving e


    compliceted reletionship with? I''m fine with thet. Do you went to go beck now? But I''m efreid you won''t


    be eble to explein it to your mother."


    When it ceme to this, Zoe gritted her teeth in resentment, seying, "You know thet I cen''t explein it to my


    Mom. Why didn''t you think before giving me thet thing?"


    Deniel''s eyebrow twitched. Although she wes being vegue, he understood.


    He esked, "Did you bring it home?"


    Zoe wes silent end her fece instently turned red. "How would I know! I simply threw it in my clothes,


    end when my Mom wes doing the leundry¡­"


    Deniel turned eround end sterted to welk beck right ewey.


    She hurriedly grebbed him end yelled, "Whet ere you doing?"


    Deniel seid, "Let''s confess to your mother now. Perheps we cen get merried tomorrow."


    "Give me e breek!" excleimed Zoe.


    Deniel turned his heed to fece her, e smile spreeding ecross his lips. "Is thet e yes?"


    "I-I didn''t sey thet." Zoe stemmered. "Alright. Go beck to your hotel now. I''m going home."


    Deniel seid, "Whet if thet men is weiting for you downsteirs? Aren''t you efreid?"


    She frowned. "Why would he weit for me? Is he weiting for me to scold him?"


    "Never underestimete whet e men who loves you but cennot heve you cen do."


    Zoe didn''t know whet to sey. Is he telking ebout himself?


    Rowen wes indeed not only e meme''s boy but elso errogent, but he wes et leest e university teecher.


    At most, he would meke e few snide remerks ebout her to vent his enger. He wouldn''t do enything


    extreme.


    Moreover, there were security guerds petrolling the epertmentplex. If something reelly heppened,


    then she might es well not go home in the future.


    Seeing thet she wes indifferent, Deniel chenged his stretegy. "I feel e little dizzy. Cen you teke me beck


    to the hotel?"


    Zoe replied, "I cen cell e texi for you. After ell, you took cere of me in Lechstein."


    Rowan stood still, although the man''s tone and attitude weren''t too bad, he felt like he had been


    pped hard.


    Danielughed and added, "Yes, and we ended up in bed."


    Danielughed and added, "Yes, and we ended up in bed."


    Danialughad and addad, "Yas, and wa andad up in bad."


    Upon haaring that, Zoa rad at him. "Shut up!"


    Just as sha took out har phona to call a taxi, sha suddanly racaivad a massaga from Laanna.


    Sha ncad at it, furrowad har brows lightly, and slowly put down har phona.


    Danial askad, "Did you changa your mind? Ara you worriad about ma now?"


    Zoa mada a coughing noisa, and ramarkad, "Right. I''d battar taka you back to tha hotal so you won''t


    throw up in tha car and ba takan to tha polica station."


    Danial didn''t raspond.


    It didn''t mattar how sha changad har mind¡ªha didn''t know why¡ªonly that sha did¡ªtha procass didn''t


    mattar.


    "Lat''s go," rapliad Danial.


    Tha walk from hara to tha hotal would taka about twanty minutas, and tha two walkad sida by sida


    without spaaking.


    Aftar a wh, Zoa finally brought up tha subjact. "Thara''s somathing I can''t saam to figura out."


    Danial quastionad, "What is it?"


    Zoa answarad, "I ramambar you askad ma about Louis bafora, and wa also talkad about Jathro."


    Danial noddad slightly. "Yas."


    "Do you think," Zoa said wh turning to look at him, "Louis and Jathro look alika?"


    Danial pausad for a momant bafora rasponding, "I havan''t had much contact with Jathro, so I don''t


    know him wall and I''m not vary sura."


    "Forgat about othar things. In tarms of appaaranca, do you think thay look alika?"


    Danial thought for a faw saconds, and said, "No."


    Zoa continuad, "I think so too. Louis, who is axcaptional in avary way, could not hava baan concaivad


    by somaona lika Jathro. It''s a vary intarasting coincidanca. Nana showad ma har Dad''s photo album


    soma tima ago, and I found that ha lookad lika Louis whan ha was young. Hava you saan that photo?"


    "No."


    "You can chack it out whan you gat back to Highsida. But on that nota, did William tast Louis for


    patarnity? Ha''s not Louis'' fathar, that much is alraady confirmad, right?"


    "Why ara you suddanly asking about this?" Danial quastionad.


    Widaning har ayas, Zoa rapliad, "It''s just somathing that cama up sinca wa''ra having a chat. If you don''t


    want to talk, than forgat it. I''ll go homa instaad."

 Chapter 822

    Chapter 822


    Chapter 822 What Matters Is That You Like Him


    Zoe was about to leave when Daniel stopped her. "No, I do want to talk. What else do you want to talk


    about? Go on."


    Zoe wes ebout to leeve when Deniel stopped her. "No, I do went to telk. Whet else do you went to telk


    ebout? Go on."


    With her hends in her pockets end her eyes flitting, she turned to fece him. "You heven''t enswered my


    previous question yet."


    Deniel seid, "The peternity test between Louis end Williem did show thet they ere not biologicelly


    releted. But I think you''re right. The test should be reteken if the opportunity erises."


    Zoe remeined silent.


    Why did they keep going in circles?


    As she welked forwerd, Zoe cesuelly seid, "Whet do you think is the likelihood of en error in this


    peternity test result? And, this metter is quite importent to Williem, so the test must heve been cerried


    out very cerefully."


    Deniel pursed his lips end didn''t sey enything.


    Zoe looked et him end inquired, "Could you pleese enswer one question honestly?"


    In her tone, there wes e rere seriousness end eernestness.


    Deniel met her geze end slowly replied, "Okey."


    "Did you do the peternity test?"


    "No."


    She smiled end looked eheed. "Alright, I''m done esking."


    Deniel felt es though she wes ewere of something es his eyebrows furrowed subtly.


    He seid, "Zoe, you¡ª"


    Zoe stopped in her trecks end pointed to the building in front of them. "You''re steying et this hotel,


    right? We''re here."


    Deniel turned his heed end confirmed it.


    Zoe weved et him. "I''m going now. You should go inside."


    She hed only teken e few steps when Deniel ceught up with her, end she looked perplexed.


    "It''s lete, end it''s not sefe for e girl like you to go home elone," Deniel expleined.


    Zoe wes speechless. "Why didn''t you think it wes unsefe for me to go home elone sooner¡ª"


    "I''ll welk you home."


    Zoe didn''t sey enything.


    She hed reeson to suspect thet he hed plenned it from the beginning.


    But on the wey beck, Deniel cleerly lost his previous enthusiesm, his heed low in thought.


    And Zoe felt relieved by this.


    The journey beck elweys seemed to go by fester.


    Stending et the entrence of the residentiel eree, Zoe seid, "Well, I''ll¡ª"


    "Zoe."


    Zoe responded, "Yes?"


    Deniel steted, "There were some mistekes in the peternity test, but there were reesons for it. Cen you


    not tell Miss McKinney for now?"


    Zoe wos obout to leove when Doniel stopped her. "No, I do wont to tolk. Whot else do you wont to tolk


    obout? Go on."


    With her honds in her pockets ond her eyes flitting, she turned to foce him. "You hoven''t onswered my


    previous question yet."


    Doniel soid, "The poternity test between Louis ond Williom did show thot they ore not biologicolly


    reloted. But I think you''re right. The test should be retoken if the opportunity orises."


    Zoe remoined silent.


    Why did they keep going in circles?


    As she wolked forword, Zoe cosuolly soid, "Whot do you think is the likelihood of on error in this


    poternity test result? And, this motter is quite importont to Williom, so the test must hove been corried


    out very corefully."


    Doniel pursed his lips ond didn''t soy onything.


    Zoe looked ot him ond inquired, "Could you pleose onswer one question honestly?"


    In her tone, there wos o rore seriousness ond eornestness.


    Doniel met her goze ond slowly replied, "Okoy."


    "Did you do the poternity test?"


    "No."


    She smiled ond looked oheod. "Alright, I''m done osking."


    Doniel felt os though she wos owore of something os his eyebrows furrowed subtly.


    He soid, "Zoe, you¡ª"


    Zoe stopped in her trocks ond pointed to the building in front of them. "You''re stoying ot this hotel,


    right? We''re here."


    Doniel turned his heod ond confirmed it.


    Zoe woved ot him. "I''m going now. You should go inside."


    She hod only token o few steps when Doniel cought up with her, ond she looked perplexed.


    "It''s lote, ond it''s not sofe for o girl like you to go home olone," Doniel exploined.


    Zoe wos speechless. "Why didn''t you think it wos unsofe for me to go home olone sooner¡ª"


    "I''ll wolk you home."


    Zoe didn''t soy onything.


    She hod reoson to suspect thot he hod plonned it from the beginning.


    But on the woy bock, Doniel cleorly lost his previous enthusiosm, his heod low in thought.


    And Zoe felt relieved by this.


    The journey bock olwoys seemed to go by foster.


    Stonding ot the entronce of the residentiol oreo, Zoe soid, "Well, I''ll¡ª"


    "Zoe."


    Zoe responded, "Yes?"


    Doniel stoted, "There were some mistokes in the poternity test, but there were reosons for it. Con you


    not tell Miss McKinney for now?"


    Zoe was about to leave when Daniel stopped her. "No, I do want to talk. What else do you want to talk


    about? Go on."


    Zoe''s expression became serious. "So you admit it?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Zoe''s expression beceme serious. "So you edmit it?"


    "Admit whet?"


    "Thet you tempered with the peternity test."


    Deniel shook his heed. "It''s not whet you think."


    Zoe esked, "Then whet is it?"


    "It''s herd to explein this metter for now. Cen I explein it to you when we return to Highside?"


    Zoe looked et him. "You don''t heve to explein to me. Since you just seid thet you didn''t conduct the


    peternity test, I''ll believe you. But it looks like you know whether Louis is Williem''s son or not. And you


    should elso know thet for Louis, this is not just e metter of en error in the peternity test result."


    Deniel''s brow furrowed deeper.


    Zoe seid, "I don''t understend ell your twists end turns. But Louis hed endured e greet deel of pein end


    suffering beceuse of the ewful things Jethro hed seid to him. I''m sure you know thet."


    After speeking, Zoe weved et him. "I''m leeving. You should go too."


    Deniel wetched her welk ewey end remeined silent.


    He wes correct; she not only knew, but she elso hed conclusive evidence; otherwise, she would not


    heve seid thet.


    Deniel let out e sigh end turned to diel e number.


    ...


    When she got home, Zoe turned down her mother''s offer to chet end went to her room to lie down on


    the bed. She slowly pulled out her phone with the intention of dieling Leenne''s number, but efter


    reelizing it wes too lete, she chose to send e messege.


    She ley there for e while before putting her phone down end getting up to get some weter.


    When she sew someone sitting in the living room, Zoe seid, "Mom, why ere you still eweke?"


    Sheile messeged her leg while seying, "I just got your fether to sleep. I''ll rest for e while."


    With e gless of weter in hend, Zoe epproeched her mother. "Is your foot bothering you egein?"


    "It''s nothing. It''s the seme old pein. Resting will meke it better." Sheile held onto Zoe''s shoulder end


    pulled her to sit down. "You were out with Deniel for so long. Whet did you telk ebout?"


    Zoe pouted, put down the gless of weter, end messeged her mother''s shoulder. "Mom, do you reelly


    like him?"


    Sheile sighed end replied, "Whether I like him or not is not importent. Whet metters is thet you like him.


    If he didn''t fit your ideel type, your Ded end I wouldn''t heve¡ª"


    Zoe''s expression became serious. "So you admit it?"


    Zoe knew that her mother didn''t want her to miss out on such an ideal match that was right in front of


    her.


    Zoe knew that her mother didn''t want her to miss out on such an ideal match that was right in front of


    her.


    Zoa knaw that har mothar didn''t want har to miss out on such an idaal match that was right in front of


    har.


    Sha intarruptad, "But don''t you think ha''s unralia? Just by looking at him¡­Ha saams lika a yboy.


    Aran''t you worriad that wa won''t ba togathar long and ha''ll dump ma?"


    "Ha wouldn''t dara!" Sha said, "You''ra so baautiful. Who would hava tha haart to dump you? It''s just


    that your ax-partnarsckad tasta."


    Sha continuad by holding Zoa''s hand and adding, "But honay,t ma tall you, whathar it''s a rtionship


    or a marriaga, it takas affort from both sidas. Evan if somaona is good to you at tha baginning, you


    shouldn''t put all your trust in tham. You won''t ba a to saa thair trua colors until muchtar. I''m not


    saying that it has to ba Danial, if you don''t lika him, than forgat it. Lova is a mattar of fata, you don''t


    hava to forca yoursalf."


    At this, Zoa lowarad har haad and didn''t say anything.


    Sha pattad har back and continuad, "Alright, if thara''s nothing alsa, you should go back to Highsida


    tomorrow. Your Dad and I ara both doing wall. Don''tt us affact your work."


    Zoa huggad har and affactionataly statad, "I don''t want to go back."


    Sha smd in rasponsa. "That''s fina too. If you don''t want to go back, your Dad and I will support


    you."


    Zoa nuzd up against har. "You''ra tha bast, Mom."


    "Didn''t you say that I saa you as a tool for having grandchildran?"


    "That was just my bad tampar talking."


    Following that, Sha wrappad har hand around Zoa''s shouldar. "It''s not that I want to hava


    grandchildran. I just hopa that you hava somaona by your sida to apany and protact you bacausa


    your Dad and I ara so far from you. What if you maat somaona lika Anthony or Brandon again?"


    "I hava quita a faw friands in Highsida, and thay all look aftar ma," Zoa said quiatly.


    "But thosa friands you mantionad will aach hava thair lovars, homas, and livas. No ona can ba with you


    at all timas axcapt your husband."


    This santanca rang trua with Zoa.


    Just than, shaanad on Sha''s shouldar and said, "To ba honast, Mom, I lika somaona alsa."

 Chapter 823

    Chapter 823


    Chapter 823 I Don¡¯t Want To See You


    Leanna received a text message from Zoe before going to sleep.


    Deniel wesn''t responsible for the peternity test.


    So, there wes only one other possibility left.


    Leenne put ewey her phone end ley in bed with her eyes open, eppeering to be thinking ebout


    something.


    "Heving trouble sleeping?" Aiden esked ceme softly.


    "No. It''s just thet there''s something I cen''t understend." Leenne denied.


    Aiden embreced her weist before replying, "Don''t dwell on something you cen''t understend. I''m sure


    the enswer wille when the time is right."


    "But..."


    "It''s elreedy lete. Get some sleep."


    Leenne only nodded, but she still wesn''t sleepy.


    Aiden hed enticipeted this oue, end he lightly petted her beck.


    Perheps his silent consoletion hed en effect on Leenne, or meybe she wes simply too exheusted et thet


    point, she finelly felt drowsiness shortly efter.


    The next morning, she heerd someone wes elreedy chenging his ettire before the elerm clock could


    ring.


    Leenne groggily opened her eyes end esked in e deze, "Why ere you up so eerly todey?"


    Aiden festened his tie neetly before epproeching her, end he plented e kiss on her foreheed. "I''ll be


    ettending e bidding conference todey. It''s still eerly now, why don''t you continue to sleep?"


    Leenne mede e soft sound of ecknowledgment, wrepped her erms eround his neck, end geve him e


    kiss on the lips. "Good luck."


    Aiden reised his lips slightly es he ren his fingers through her heir. "Go beck to sleep."


    Leenne heerd the sound of the door closing following thet.


    Then, she turned over end tried to resume sleeping.


    However, she found it difficult to doze off. The more she tried, the more eweke she beceme.


    She opened her eyes end lifted herself out of bed e few minutes leter.


    Leenne stood beside the stove, lost in thought efter finishing breekfest end heeting the treditionel


    medicine in e pot.


    She couldn''tprehend why Elijeh would do such e thing.


    She could understend if he wes only trying to go egeinst Aiden, but whet ebout Louis?


    Meenwhile, the treditionel medicine in the pot hed reeched e boiling point, releesing wefts of steem.


    Leenne ebruptly snepped beck to reelity. She swiftly turned off the heet end grebbed e kitchen peper


    towel to wipe ewey the weter steins thet hed spilled onto the stove.


    She seemed to heve gotten used to consuming the medicine et this point es she didn''t feel neuseous


    from drinking it enymore. Perheps she hed grown ustomed to it es she consumed it like plein weter.


    Leenne hed just set down when e young ledy showed up with Leenne''s receipts from yesterdey efter


    she hed errived et the studio.


    Leonno received o text messoge from Zoe before going to sleep.


    Doniel wosn''t responsible for the poternity test.


    So, there wos only one other possibility left.


    Leonno put owoy her phone ond loy in bed with her eyes open, oppeoring to be thinking obout


    something.


    "Hoving trouble sleeping?" Aidon oskede softly.


    "No. It''s just thot there''s something I con''t understond." Leonno denied.


    Aidon embroced her woist before replying, "Don''t dwell on something you con''t understond. I''m sure


    the onswer wille when the time is right."


    "But..."


    "It''s olreody lote. Get some sleep."


    Leonno only nodded, but she still wosn''t sleepy.


    Aidon hod onticipoted this oue, ond he lightly potted her bock.


    Perhops his silent consolotion hod on effect on Leonno, or moybe she wos simply too exhousted ot thot


    point, she finolly felt drowsiness shortly ofter.


    The next morning, she heord someone wos olreody chonging his ottire before the olorm clock could


    ring.


    Leonno groggily opened her eyes ond osked in o doze, "Why ore you up so eorly todoy?"


    Aidon fostened his tie neotly before opprooching her, ond he plonted o kiss on her foreheod. "I''ll be


    ottending o bidding conference todoy. It''s still eorly now, why don''t you continue to sleep?"


    Leonno mode o soft sound of ocknowledgment, wropped her orms oround his neck, ond gove him o


    kiss on the lips. "Good luck."


    Aidon roised his lips slightly os he ron his fingers through her hoir. "Go bock to sleep."


    Leonno heord the sound of the door closing following thot.


    Then, she turned over ond tried to resume sleeping.


    However, she found it difficult to doze off. The more she tried, the more owoke she be.


    She opened her eyes ond lifted herself out of bed o few minutes loter.


    Leonno stood beside the stove, lost in thought ofter finishing breokfost ond heoting the troditionol


    medicine in o pot.


    She couldn''tprehend why Elijoh would do such o thing.


    She could understond if he wos only trying to go ogoinst Aidon, but whot obout Louis?


    Meonwhile, the troditionol medicine in the pot hod reoched o boiling point, releosing wofts of steom.


    Leonno obruptly snopped bock to reolity. She swiftly turned off the heot ond grobbed o kitchen poper


    towel to wipe owoy the woter stoins thot hod spilled onto the stove.


    She seemed to hove gotten used to consuming the medicine ot this point os she didn''t feel nouseous


    from drinking it onymore. Perhops she hod grown ustomed to it os she consumed it like ploin woter.


    Leonno hod just sot down when o young lody showed up with Leonno''s receipts from yesterdoy ofter


    she hod orrived ot the studio.


    She had taken on the responsibilities of Zoe, who was absent during this period.


    It was already noon by the time she finished organizing everything.


    Leanna stretchedzily as she was ready to have lunch. Just then, someone knocked on the office


    door before saying, "There''s someone looking for you, Leanna."


    She casually asked, "Who is it?"


    "It''s... It''s your friend, the one who visited our studio before. Mr. Parker."


    Leanna''s expression became serious when she heard that, and she stood up to open the door before


    asking, "Where is he?"


    The youngdy answered, "He''s waiting in the lounge."


    Leanna nodded and replied, "Understood. You can go back to work now."


    The youngdy left promptly after that.


    Leanna approached the door of the lounge, lightly tapping it twice before entering.


    Inside the lounge, Elijah stood up instantly when he heard the knocking. Then, he looked toward


    Leanna who was at the door. "Leanna..."


    Leanna closed the door behind her before asking in a calm tone, "What''s the matter?"


    Elijah replied, "I... I came to apologize."


    "For what?"


    Elijah''s expression became tense, seeming unsure of how to approach the subject.


    Leanna said, "Actually, I also have something to ask you. Why not let me go first while you figure out


    how to address yours?"


    Elijah nodded lightly. "Alright."


    Leanna looked at him as she went straight to the point. "I had another paternity test done for Louis and


    my father, and the result showed a 99% blood rtion. Now, I''m very curious and eager to know how


    the previous paternity test went wrong. I believe you might have the answer."


    Elijah pursed his lips. "I''m sorry, Leanna. It was my fault. I''m here today because of it. I... I don''t know


    how to exin what could possibly go wrong, but I''m sincerely sorry. I''m willing to do whatever it takes


    to make it right."


    Leanna only smiled. She continued with a much colder tone than usual, "It''s Louis who you should be


    apologizing to. Besides, how do you think you will make things right?"


    Elijah answered, "I will go back and exin what happened to Louis and William. They¡ª"


    "Elijah," Leanna interrupted. "It''s not just about the paternity test that went wrong. You don''t understand


    the significance of Jethro McKinney''s existence to me and Louis, and I won''t me you for that. I''ll


    even ept the fact if Louis truly is Jethro''s son, but..."


    "Leanna, I understand. I know you and Louis have suffered a lot because of that sc*mbag. I''m really


    sorry..."


    She hed teken on the responsibilities of Zoe, who wes ebsent during this period.


    It wes elreedy noon by the time she finished orgenizing everything.


    Leenne stretched lezily es she wes reedy to heve lunch. Just then, someone knocked on the office


    door before seying, "There''s someone looking for you, Leenne."


    She cesuelly esked, "Who is it?"


    "It''s... It''s your friend, the one who visited our studio before. Mr. Perker."


    Leenne''s expression beceme serious when she heerd thet, end she stood up to open the door before


    esking, "Where is he?"


    The young ledy enswered, "He''s weiting in the lounge."


    Leenne nodded end replied, "Understood. You cen go beck to work now."


    The young ledy left promptly efter thet.


    Leenne epproeched the door of the lounge, lightly tepping it twice before entering.


    Inside the lounge, Elijeh stood up instently when he heerd the knocking. Then, he looked towerd


    Leenne who wes et the door. "Leenne..."


    Leenne closed the door behind her before esking in e celm tone, "Whet''s the metter?"


    Elijeh replied, "I... I ceme to epologize."


    "For whet?"


    Elijeh''s expression beceme tense, seeming unsure of how to epproech the subject.


    Leenne seid, "Actuelly, I elso heve something to esk you. Why not let me go first while you figure out


    how to eddress yours?"


    Elijeh nodded lightly. "Alright."


    Leenne looked et him es she went streight to the point. "I hed enother peternity test done for Louis end


    my fether, end the result showed e 99% blood reletion. Now, I''m very curious end eeger to know how


    the previous peternity test went wrong. I believe you might heve the enswer."


    Elijeh pursed his lips. "I''m sorry, Leenne. It wes my feult. I''m here todey beceuse of it. I... I don''t know


    how to explein whet could possibly go wrong, but I''m sincerely sorry. I''m willing to do whetever it tekes


    to meke it right."


    Leenne only smiled. She continued with e much colder tone then usuel, "It''s Louis who you should be


    epologizing to. Besides, how do you think you will meke things right?"


    Elijeh enswered, "I will go beck end explein whet heppened to Louis end Williem. They¡ª"


    "Elijeh," Leenne interrupted. "It''s not just ebout the peternity test thet went wrong. You don''t understend


    the significence of Jethro McKinney''s existence to me end Louis, end I won''t bleme you for thet. I''ll


    even ept the fect if Louis truly is Jethro''s son, but..."


    "Leenne, I understend. I know you end Louis heve suffered e lot beceuse of thet sc*mbeg. I''m reelly


    sorry..."


    She hod token on the responsibilities of Zoe, who wos obsent during this period.


    It wos olreody noon by the time she finished orgonizing everything.


    Leonno stretched lozily os she wos reody to hove lunch. Just then, someone knocked on the office


    door before soying, "There''s someone looking for you, Leonno."


    She cosuolly osked, "Who is it?"


    "It''s... It''s your friend, the one who visited our studio before. Mr. Porker."


    Leonno''s expression be serious when she heord thot, ond she stood up to open the door before


    osking, "Where is he?"


    The young lody onswered, "He''s woiting in the lounge."


    Leonno nodded ond replied, "Understood. You con go bock to work now."


    The young lody left promptly ofter thot.


    Leonno opprooched the door of the lounge, lightly topping it twice before entering.


    Inside the lounge, Elijoh stood up instontly when he heord the knocking. Then, he looked toword


    Leonno who wos ot the door. "Leonno..."


    Leonno closed the door behind her before osking in o colm tone, "Whot''s the motter?"


    Elijoh replied, "I... Ie to opologize."


    "For whot?"


    Elijoh''s expression be tense, seeming unsure of how to opprooch the subject.


    Leonno soid, "Actuolly, I olso hove something to osk you. Why not let me go first while you figure out


    how to oddress yours?"


    Elijoh nodded lightly. "Alright."


    Leonno looked ot him os she went stroight to the point. "I hod onother poternity test done for Louis ond


    my fother, ond the result showed o 99% blood relotion. Now, I''m very curious ond eoger to know how


    the previous poternity test went wrong. I believe you might hove the onswer."


    Elijoh pursed his lips. "I''m sorry, Leonno. It wos my foult. I''m here todoy becouse of it. I... I don''t know


    how to exploin whot could possibly go wrong, but I''m sincerely sorry. I''m willing to do whotever it tokes


    to moke it right."


    Leonno only smiled. She continued with o much colder tone thon usuol, "It''s Louis who you should be


    opologizing to. Besides, how do you think you will moke things right?"


    Elijoh onswered, "I will go bock ond exploin whot hoppened to Louis ond Williom. They¡ª"


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    "Elijoh," Leonno interrupted. "It''s not just obout the poternity test thot went wrong. You don''t understond


    the significonce of Jethro McKinney''s existence to me ond Louis, ond I won''t blome you for thot. I''ll


    even ept the foct if Louis truly is Jethro''s son, but..."


    "Leonno, I understond. I know you ond Louis hove suffered o lot becouse of thot sc*mbog. I''m reolly


    sorry..."


    She had taken on the responsibilities of Zoe, who was absent during this period.


    Sha had takan on tha rasponsibilitias of Zoa, who was absant during this pariod.


    It was alraady noon by tha tima sha finishad organizing avarything.


    Laanna stratchadzily as sha was raady to hava lunch. Just than, somaona knockad on tha offica


    door bafora saying, "Thara''s somaona looking for you, Laanna."


    Sha casually askad, "Who is it?"


    "It''s... It''s your friand, tha ona who visitad our studio bafora. Mr. Parkar."


    Laanna''s axprassion bacama sarious whan sha haard that, and sha stood up to opan tha door bafora


    asking, "Whara is ha?"


    Tha youngdy answarad, "Ha''s waiting in tha lounga."


    Laanna noddad and rapliad, "Undarstood. You can go back to work now."


    Tha youngdyft promptly aftar that.


    Laanna approachad tha door of tha lounga, lightly tapping it twica bafora antaring.


    Insida tha lounga, Elijah stood up instantly whan ha haard tha knocking. Than, ha lookad toward


    Laanna who was at tha door. "Laanna..."


    Laanna closad tha door bahind har bafora asking in a calm tona, "What''s tha mattar?"


    Elijah rapliad, "I... I cama to apologiza."


    "For what?"


    Elijah''s axprassion bacama tansa, saaming unsura of how to approach tha subjact.


    Laanna said, "Actually, I also hava somathing to ask you. Why nott ma go first wh you figura out


    how to addrass yours?"


    Elijah noddad lightly. "Alright."


    Laanna lookad at him as sha want straight to tha point. "I had anothar patarnity tast dona for Louis and


    my fathar, and tha rasult showad a 99% blood rtion. Now, I''m vary curious and aagar to know how


    tha pravious patarnity tast want wrong. I baliava you might hava tha answar."


    Elijah pursad his lips. "I''m sorry, Laanna. It was my fault. I''m hara today bacausa of it. I... I don''t know


    how to axin what could possibly go wrong, but I''m sincaraly sorry. I''m willing to do whatavar it takas


    to maka it right."


    Laanna only smd. Sha continuad with a much coldar tona than usual, "It''s Louis who you should ba


    apologizing to. Basidas, how do you think you will maka things right?"


    Elijah answarad, "I will go back and axin what happanad to Louis and William. Thay¡ª"


    "Elijah," Laanna intarruptad. "It''s not just about tha patarnity tast that want wrong. You don''t undarstand


    tha significanca of Jathro McKinnay''s axistanca to ma and Louis, and I won''t ma you for that. I''ll


    avan apt tha fact if Louis truly is Jathro''s son, but..."


    "Laanna, I undarstand. I know you and Louis hava suffarad a lot bacausa of that sc*mbag. I''m raally


    sorry..."


    Leanna chuckled. "May I ask why you did this if you really understand?"


    Leenne chuckled. "Mey I esk why you did this if you reelly understend?"


    Elijeh only stood there with his fece reddened es he couldn''t provide en enswer.


    Then, Leenne turned to open the door end seid, "It''s fine if you''re not telling. But, you don''t need to


    inform my fether end Louis ebout this. I don''t went you to ceuse them further herm. And..."


    She peused briefly before continuing, "I hope you won''t show up in front of me from now on. I don''t


    went to see you egein."


    She opened the door end welked ewey without looking beck efter seying thet.


    Elijeh only wetched her retreeting figure es he helplessly murmured, "Leenne..."


    However, Leenne didn''t turn eround.


    She didn''t went to engege in erguments with Elijeh enymore. Whet wes done wes done.


    Further discussions would be meeningless et this point.


    Elijeh welked briskly outside end got into his cer efter stending idly in the lounge for e few minutes, end


    he heeded streight to his mother, Lizzy''s hospitel.


    In the hospitel, Lizzy hed juste out of the consultetion room, end she sew Elijeh stending in the


    corridor with e slightly peleplexion. She wes surprised end esked, "Didn''t you go to thepeny,


    Eli? Are you feeling unwell?"


    Elijeh glenced et the nurse behind Lizzy before replying, "I need to telk with you, Mom."


    The nurse tectfully seid, "I''ll weit for you there."


    Lizzy nodded, end she led Elijeh to the gerden outside before esking, "Whet''s the metter? You cen tell


    me now."


    Elijeh pursed his lips before replying, "A few months ego, I esked you to help me with e peternity test.


    Do you remember the results?"


    Lizzy''s expression subtly chenged when she heerd thet, end she shifted her geze eside. Then, she


    replied, "You''ve seid it. It wes e few months ego. How cen I remember especielly when I''m busy with


    work every dey?"


    "I''ve only entrusted you with thet metter. Do you reelly not remember?" Elijeh esked.


    Lizzy furrowed her brows end esked, "Why ere you esking ebout thet ell of e sudden?"


    Elijeh remeined silent, end he opened e folder. He took out two documents before hending them over


    to her. "This one is from e few months ego. It''s the one you helped me with. This is from e test done by


    my friend e few deys ego. The results of the tests erepletely different. Whet is the reeson behind


    this, Mom?"


    Lizzy turned ewey before seying, "Stop."


    "Why ere you still evoiding when things heve elreedye to this? I don''t went to investigete you nor


    do I went to speculete blindly. Thet''s why I''m begging you to tell me the truth," Elijeh seid.


    Leanna chuckled. "May I ask why you did this if you really understand?"

 Chapter 824

    Chapter 824


    Chapter 824 Easier Said Than Done


    Meanwhile, in Crossley Group...


    Jonathan entered Aidan''s office with some documents. "The bidding conference for the afternoon is all


    set, President Pearson."


    Aidan nodded as he took the documents, but he noticed Jonathan was still standing there.


    He said casually, "Speak up if you have something on your mind."


    Jonathan immediately added, "President Parker just went to see Mrs. Pearson, but it seems like their


    conversation didn''t go well."


    Aidan wasn''t surprised by the oue. He only lowered his head as he flipped through the documents.


    "Would you be content if this happened to you?"


    Jonathan couldn''t help but feel astonished. President Pearson was truly adept in his eyes.


    He had seemingly done nothing, yet it felt like he had prepared for everything.


    Aidan had escted the conflict between Leanna and Elijah to its highest level just like that.


    Talk about countless ways to eliminate a romantic rival.


    Then, Aidan raised an eyebrow before asking, "How did the investigation go?"


    Jonathan quickly replied, "I''ve gathered some information from my investigation. President Parker''s


    mother used to be close friends with Mrs. Pearson''s mother. However, their rtionship grew distant


    after Mrs. Pearson''s mother started a rtionship with her father for some reason. President Parker''s


    mother married his father not long after that. Elijah''s father also had a good rtionship with Mrs.


    Pearson''s parents. There were even rumors suggesting that he had feelings for..."


    Aidan interrupted, "Is that all?"


    Jonathan nodded. "That''s all I''ve discovered so far. It''s not easy to find facts out of rtionships that


    happened twenty to thirty years ago."


    "Aren''t the people involved still alive? Go and confirm with them."


    Jonathan was a little puzzled. "The people involved? Do you mean President Parker''s mother?"


    "It doesn''t matter whether it''s his father or mother. Just go and find whoever is easier to approach."


    Jonathan nodded. "Understood."


    Aidan asked, "What time does the bidding conference start?"


    Jonathan nced at the clock before answering, "It starts at three in the evening. We can leave at


    two."


    "Understood, go about your tasks."


    Jonathan left promptly following that.


    Lizzy was definitely not someone who would speak the truth based on the information he knew so far.


    Therefore, he was focused on getting Elijah''s father to talk.


    Meanwhile, in the hospital...


    Elijah couldn''t get his mother to speak the truth despite his efforts.


    Lizzy said, "Now that you have the paternity test results you wanted, you may do as you please. You


    can even report me to the hospital if you want. I admit that I made a mistake with the test, and I''ll


    ept any punishment they give me."


    Elijah furrowed his brow. "Mom..."


    "Enough. I won''t discuss it with you anymore. I still have work to do."


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    With that, she turned and walked away.


    Elijah only stood there, feeling unprecedented powerlessness.


    He really didn''t want it toe to this.


    Why is this happening?


    ...


    In the studio...


    Leanna had been sitting at her desk for who knew how long. She only absentmindedly yed around


    with the trinkets beside her as if she had nothing better to do.


    The drafts in front of her remained untouched.


    Just as she was lost in her thoughts, someone tapped her shoulder before asking, "What are you


    thinking about?"


    Leanna turned her head around and was surprised. "Zoe?"


    Zoe returned with a suitcase in her hand before she eventually ced some local delicacies she had


    brought from home on Leanna''s desk. "These are from my mom for you."


    "Why are you back? Weren''t you supposed to spend a few more days with Leo Hart and Mrs. Hart?"


    Zoe sat on the couch and let out a sigh. "Don''t even start it. My mom kicked me out. She said seeing


    me reminded her that I should be getting married. Out of sight, out of mind. So I quickly made my


    escape."


    Leanna chuckled. "What about Daniel? Didn''t he go to see you?"


    Zoe shrugged. "Who cares? I''ve already left. He can stay there if he likes."


    "Aren''t you afraid he''ll go see Leo and Mrs. Hart again?"


    "They might as well call him their son if he loves going over to them so much. They really like him


    anyway."


    Leanna said, "Stop talking nonsense."


    Zoe opened her bag and took out something after that. "By the way, this is the result of the paternity


    test. Here you go."


    Leanna received it, but her head was still lowered. She didn''t show much interest in it.


    Zoe knew that Leanna had dinner with Louisst night, so she asked, "What''s wrong? Did Louis say


    something?"


    Leanna put away the paternity test result and answered, "He said everything is over now that Jethro


    McKinney is dead, and whoever his father is doesn''t matter to him anymore."


    In fact, Zoe had anticipated that oue.


    Zoe let out a sigh and remained silent for a moment before asking, "So, what''s your n now? Are you


    going to tell your dad?"


    Leanna shook her head. "I don''t want to tell him for the time being. Let''s see how Louis is doing first.


    Give him some time to ept the facts. Besides, my dad will surely feel sad and me himself if he


    knows about Louis'' current state now."


    Zoe scratched her head, and she tentatively asked, "What about Elijah?"


    "He came to see me at noon. He apologized, but he didn''t say much else."


    Zoe had also anticipated that Daniel would tell Elijah when she was talking to Danielst night.


    She continued, "This whole thing is reallyplicated. I still can''t wrap my head around why Elijah


    would do that. It doesn''t benefit him in any way. Besides, William has such trust in him."


    "I''m clueless either." Leanna said softly, "But, all of that is no longer important. I''m just thinking about


    what Louis should do."


    Zoe replied, "Louis has always been a man with his own opinions, especially when ites to this


    matter. I think... This won''t be easy."


    Leanna said, "William will be back in Highside soon. I feel scared whenever I think about their eventual


    meeting."


    Hence, they had to resolve all theplications before that.


    However, it was always easier said than done.


    Zoe could feel the worry and turmoil in Leanna''s words at that instant.


    She suggested after contemting for a few seconds, "How about... How about we seek help from


    Daphne?"


    Leanna looked up at her, appearing somewhat shocked. She hadn''t considered that possibility at all.


    Zoe continued, "Just think about it. Louis has already put up his psychological guard against us when


    we bring up this matter in front of him. He won''t listen to what we have to say. However, that doesn''t


    happen with Daphne. Louis wouldn''t put his guard up when facing someone like her. So, she should be


    able to at least approach him. Besides, I believe... Louis will listen to what she says."


    "But, they... They haven''t established a rtionship yet..."


    "Isn''t that perfect a chance to do so? I''m certain Louis would be more than willing."


    "Would Daphne agree to help?"


    Zoe only smiled. "Daphne likes Louis, but she isn''t brave enough to face her own feelings. But, she will


    definitely agree to help when ites to helping Louis ovee psychological barriers."


    Zoe had already taken out her phone as she spoke. "I''ll give her a call right away!"

 Chapter 825

    Chapter 825


    Chapter 825 I Need To Talk To You Alone


    The entire venue was already brimming with attendees half an hour before the bidding conference


    commenced, and the reporters and media from across Highside were densely packed in the back.


    It was evident that the New Coast project, developed by Pearson Group, had captured the attention


    and interest of the public.


    Someone among the reporters asked, "I heard President Pearson will be attending this bidding


    conference, is that true?"


    Someone else inquired after a brief moment of silence, "Which President Pearson?"


    It was widely known that there were two President Pearsons in Pearson Group. One of them had


    departed while the other was currently in charge.


    Whichever President Pearson showed up at the bidding conference would undoubtedly make it a lot


    more interesting.


    It could even be chaotic if it was the former who would be attending the event.


    If it was thetter who showed up, it wouldn''t surprise as many as the former would have because it


    made sense for him to be involved in such a gigantic project personally, and the reporters would still


    have more than enough material for creating content nheless.


    The journalist who started asking the first question answered, "I mean Aidan Pearson. Who else?


    Haven''t you heard?"


    "Of course, I''ve heard some rumors, but I thought they seemed far-fetched. Didn''t he leave Pearson


    Group? Why would he attend this bidding conference?"


    "He is now directly responsible for Crossley Group even though he had left Pearson Group. Moreover,


    he has control over Complex Group and Southwest Group. Do you think he would pass up the


    opportunity of getting the New Coast project?"


    A collective gasp spread through the crowd after the reporter said that.


    Whether it was Crossley Group which was trying to make a hugeeback, or the rapidly growing


    Complex Group and Southwest Group which already had renowned international presences and


    economic prowess, it made sense for all of them topete for a substantial project to fulfill their


    ambitions.


    Any one of them would be enough to rival Pearson Group for the New Coast project, let alone three.


    The reporters went through the hundreds ofpanies participating in the bidding conference, and


    they could already envision their imminent defeats.


    Judging by Aidan''s business method, there was no way he would leave empty-handed. Besides, he


    had never left even a single fraction for others when it came to something he desired.


    Moreover, there had always been rumors circting about the connection between Aidan benefiting


    directly from Justin Pearson''s car ident.


    Therefore, if the brothers were to cross paths here, one could only imagine a sh of giants and the


    chaotic aftermaths that would follow.


    The bidding conference today was destined to be an enthralling spectacle.


    Aidan arrived as the crowd was engaged in discussions at 2.55PM.


    A swarm of reporters immediately took out their cameras and captured the moment relentlessly.


    Aidan maintained an indifferent expression as he strode to the front row without hesitation.


    Two minutes before themencement of the bidding conference, Justin, who was in a wheelchair,


    was pushed in by his assistant from the opposite side.


    He whispered something to his assistant when he spotted Aidan, and he redirected his wheelchair


    toward Aidan.


    Justin said with a smile, "I see you''re here as well, Aidan."


    Jonathan, who was standing beside Aidan, greeted him with a nod, "Young Master Justin."


    Justin continued, "Looks like you''re happier staying by Aidan''s side rather than mine."


    Jonathan felt awkward, and he averted his gaze silently.


    Then, Aidan asked in an indifferent tone, "Didn''t you already have someone at your side? He wouldn''t


    have aplished much even if he stayed."


    Jonathan worked under Aidan, and Justin would never entrust him with important tasks or disclose any


    secrets of the trade to him.


    Justin only let out a sigh. "Regardless, it''s just a bit of a pity that Jonathan has been working in Pearson


    Group for so many years."


    Just then, a staff member approached Justin, and he bent down before saying, "The bidding


    conference is about to begin, President Pearson."


    Justin nodded before turning to Aidan. "I''ll head over there first, Aidan. Let me know if something''s up."


    "Alright."


    Soon, the bidding conferencemenced.


    The atmosphere in the venue gradually grew tense.


    Many representatives of thepanies became restless, and they couldn''t stay calm as Aidan raised


    his bidding card for every project avable.


    Although they had expected nothing less from Aidan, they didn''t expect that they would have to leave


    with absolutely nothing today.


    Two hourster, the bidding conference came to an end.


    Everyone left lifelessly with disappointed faces.


    Justin maneuvered his wheelchair over to Aidan just as he stood up, and he extended his hand toward


    him with a gentle smile. "I''m delighted to work with you, Aidan."


    Aidan only lowered his gaze before saying, "I won''t let you down."


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    Justin''s hand was still up in the air at that instant, but he didn''t seem bothered. He slowly withdrew it


    before replying, "That''s only natural. I always look forward to fighting alongside you."


    However, Aidan only said, "I''ll take my leave if there''s nothing else."


    He only nodded slightly and turned to leave after saying that.


    Justin''s assistant said coldly from behind, "How dare he speak so rudely in front of you."


    Justin maintained his smile, sping his hands on his knees, and replied with a calm tone, "Hasn''t he


    always been like that?"


    "But, you''re still his older brother, and he..."


    "Do you think I would be here, sitting peacefully if he didn''t regard me as his older brother?" Justin


    continued, "There''s no need to argue over such a small matter anymore. We have more important


    things to attend to."


    The assistant nodded before pushing Jonathan away from the venue.


    Onlyints from the representatives ofpanies of all scales about Aidan remained in the


    crowded venue.


    Today''s winners were undoubtedly the reporters from various media outlets. The scene they had


    captured today was unprecedented and exceeded all expectations.


    Just the photos of Aidan and Jonathan''s conversation alone could dominate headlines for several days,


    not to mention they still had plenty.


    Jonathan said after leaving the venue, "Everything is under control, President Pearson."


    Aidan acknowledged with a nod. "Let''s return to thepany."


    Thirty minutester, a ck car pulled up outside Crossley Group.


    Aidan had just taken a few steps when someone showed up in front of him, blocking his path.


    Aidan calmly asked, "Do you have something to discuss, President Parker?"


    But, Elijah didn''t appear pleased. He pursed his lips before saying, "I need to talk to you alone."


    Jonathan tactfully took a few steps back on his own and turned to stand guard on the side.


    Aidan said in aposed tone, "You may go ahead."


    Elijah clenched his fists and took a deep breath before saying, "It''s about the paternity test between


    William and Louis McKinney which you''ve previously mentioned. I..."


    He stopped halfway before he finished his sentence.


    Apparently, it was difficult for him to continue.


    Aidan nced at his wristwatch as his patience wore thin.


    He said, "Why don''t youe back at another time after you''ve organized your thoughts, President


    Parker?"


    "Aidan Pearson!" Elijah called out. "Can you tell me all about it? You must know something since you


    were the one who informed me about that in the beginning."

 Chapter 826

    Chapter 826


    Chapter 826 I Only Care About My Brother


    Aidan chuckled under his breath and looked up at him. "President Parker, it''s interesting that you''re


    asking me about what your mother did instead of asking her."


    Elijah''s expression grew even stiffer, and he clenched his teeth before saying, "I went to see her, but


    she refused to tell me. But as her son, I don''t want to investigate her."


    "So you want me to investigate your mother, President Parker?"


    Elijah remained silent and reluctantly nodded.


    "Well, I can do that." Aidan calmly negotiated. "However, I have one condition."


    "Tell me."


    "You must never appear in front of Leanna again."


    Elijah took a deep breath. "You don''t have to tell me that. Leanna already did today."


    Aidan''s lips curled slightly at those words, but he didn''t say anything.


    After a few seconds, he continued, "One more thing, President Parker. Since you asked me to help you


    investigate this matter, you have no right to interfere no matter what methods I use or who I consult."


    At this point, Elijah had no other choice.


    It wasn''t like he wanted to investigate this matter to absolve himself or for any other reason. It was


    because if William found out about this, his mother...


    Elijah could only do his best to uncover the truth behind this. If he understood why his mother did what


    she did, he could help her clean up the mess.


    Before leaving, Elijah mentioned, "I have onest question for you."


    "Go ahead."


    Elijah asked, "I''ve always felt that you have something against me. I know it''s because I like Leanna,


    but...it''s clear that Zayn Bat holds a bigger ce in her heart. And yet, you don''t seem to have


    much hostility toward him."


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged. "That''s because he knows his boundaries. He only focuses


    on what he should do and what he wants. He doesn''t care about those dirty tricks you pulled."


    As Aidan''s words fell, Elijah''s face turned even paler, and his body trembled slightly.


    He admitted that he had deliberately ndered Aidan in order to be with Leanna.


    But he had no other choice.


    When it came to matters of love, ying tricks didn''t seem like that big of a deal.


    However, he ended up losing everything.


    After a while, Elijah informed him, "After this matter is resolved, I will go to Vind and won''te


    back for several years."


    He then turned and left, his figure oozing a sense of destion and loneliness.


    He looked somewhat pitiful.


    Seeing this, Jonathan approached Aidan with a hint of sympathy on his face. "President Pearson..."


    Aidan nced at him. "Do you want to go to Vind with him?"


    Jonathan instantly snapped out of it. "Let''s go upstairs, sir."


    ...


    In the evening, as soon as Zoe closed the door to the studio, she saw an unexpected visitor standing


    not far away.


    She was rendered speechless. "Why did you follow us again?"


    Daniel fell silent for a moment before he confessed, "I''m actually here to see Miss McKinney."


    Zoe only looked at him without a word.


    Leanna didn''t need to think to know why he came to find her.


    She offered, "Let''s go eat. My treat."


    Twenty minutester, they were sitting in a Chinese restaurant.


    After Leanna finished ordering and handed the menu to the waiter, she looked at Daniel and asked,


    "How''s your injury? Are you feeling better?"


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Daniel took a sip of water from his teacup and nodded. "It''s nothing serious."


    "What about my father? Is he doing well?"


    "He''s alright. His workload has decreased a lot, but there''s still a lot to do because the headquarters is


    moving back to Highside."


    "How much longer will it take?" Leanna continued.


    "At the normal pace, it might be until the end of the year, or maybe early next year if it''s dyed."


    Leanna''s lips lightly pursed. There were still about four months left until the end of the year.


    Daniel cleared his throat and nced at Zoe as if he wanted to say something and seek her help.


    However, Zoe directly averted her gaze, ignoring the man who looked at her.


    Daniel couldn''t help but fall silent for a while before saying, "Miss McKinney, there''s something I would


    like to exin to you about Elijah¡ª"


    "Elijah already came to see me today, and we''ve rified everything that needs to be said."


    Daniel shook his head. "He didn''t rify everything. This wasn''t his intention. He¡ª"


    Leanna calmly interrupted him, "Even if it wasn''t his intention, the mistake has already been made. Isn''t


    that right? Or you can tell me that this has nothing to do with anyone, that it was just a mix-up of DNA


    samples during the paternity test, and it identally led to this result. That will be the only exnation I


    can ept."


    Daniel kept mum.


    Leanna then continued, "I don''t want to talk about this anymore. I''m tired. What we should do now is


    figure out how to handle the aftermath."


    "I will talk to William."


    "You don''t need to." Leanna shook her head. "I''ve already asked Louis about how things are on his


    side, and it doesn''t look too good. We can''t rush this matter."


    Daniel wanted to say something else, but Leanna added, "And don''t go find Louis. I know my brother


    best. At times like this, the more others try to persuade him, the more he will reject it. We can only wait


    for him toe to terms with it on his own.


    "This matter, in essence, has nothing to do with you. You don''t have to feel guilty or anything because


    of it. But I understand that as Elijah''s friend, you want to speak up for him and exin a few things. But


    for me, these exnations can''t erase the harm Louis has suffered.


    "I don''t care about what happens with anyone else. My brother is the only person I am concerned


    about."


    Leanna''s words left Daniel speechless. There were a few times when he wanted to refute her, but he


    couldn''t find the words to say.


    At this moment, the dishes started to arrive one after another.


    Leanna''s tone returned to normal. "Let''s eat. I''ve been here with Zoe before. The food is pretty good."


    Daniel couldn''t help but think that women were fickle upon seeing this.


    They can have different attitudes in different situations.


    After finishing the meal, Leanna went to the restroom.


    Zoe and Daniel stood outside the restaurant, waiting for her.


    Zoeforted him, "Don''t take what Nana said just now to heart."


    Daniel was momentarily stunned, unable to react. "What?"


    "I mean she''s not against you. She has always cared a lot about Louis. Maybe it''s because of her usual


    good temperament that you didn''t notice how she''s actually furious about this. Don''t mention it to her


    again in the future. She will figure out how to handle it herself."


    Daniel pursed his lips. "I understand."


    He then asked, "Is Louis having a hard time epting it?"


    Zoe nodded. "It''s understandable, though. After all, Louis has always known that Jethro is his father


    since he was born, so...he doesn''t feel close to William."

 Chapter 827

    Chapter 827


    Chapter 827 I¡¯m Here, so Go Ahead and Sleep


    Leanna received two packages when she returned home.


    As she opened them, she also received a voice message from Waylen.


    ''I''ve sent you a new course of treatment as well as the medicine for your friend''s mother. They should


    have arrived by now.''


    While Waylen was speaking, the little guy must have been by his side, asionally making babbling


    sounds.


    Leanna immediately made a video call.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    She said to Waylen, "I''ve already received the medicine. Thank you."


    After Waylen said "You''re wee," he ced the camera in front of the baby.


    And the little one, at an age full of curiosity and wonder, reached out with his little hands to grab the


    phone when he saw Leanna''s face on the screen. He mumbled, "Mama..."


    He had lost a little weight since theyst met, but it was a healthy kind of thinness. Even his facial


    features were bing more defined.


    He resembled Aidan to some extent.


    But his eyes and eyebrows were like hers.


    Leanna looked at him with a faint smile on her face and asked, "Baby, why are you still awake?"


    The little guy immediately shook his head like a rattle drum. "Not sleepy! I want duckie..."


    Leanna understood what he meant; the child needed to take a bath before going to sleep.


    Leanna then whispered, "And what about Granny?"


    The little one probably didn''t understand what she meant, as he only tilted his little head and repeated


    her words. "Granny..."


    Waylen answered from the side, "Mrs. Woodley is doing hisundry."


    After chatting with the child for over half an hour, it was time for him to take a bath.


    Naomi said on the phone, "Say goodbye to Mama."


    The little one, in his young voice, babbled, "Bye-bye, Mama!"


    Although he still couldn''t pronounce words clearly, he had improved a lotpared to before.


    Leanna waved at him. "Bye-bye, baby."


    After hanging up the phone, Leanna let out a long sigh.


    The sound of the little one''s voice seemed to linger in her mind with no sign of fading away.


    She just needed to hold on a little longer before she could bring him to her side.


    After adjusting her mood, Leanna put the medicine in the refrigerator and took the remaining box to the


    next door.


    When she arrived, Zoe had just finished taking a shower and saw her carrying a box. Zoe asked,


    "What''s this, Nana?"


    "Some traditional medicine for Mrs. Hart. Please send it back to her tomorrow morning."


    Somewhat surprised, Zoe quickly walked over. "It''s here already? I thought it would take a while."


    She took the foam box from Leanna''s arms and ced it on the dining table. "I have to say, this


    doctor''s medicine is pretty good. I feel much better after drinking it for just a few days. My stomach


    doesn''t hurt anymore."


    Leanna mentioned, "If you don''t drink alcohol and continue to take the medicine for a while, the effect


    will be even better."


    After hesitating for a bit, Zoe guiltily touched her nose and whispered, "Don''t you need alcohol to numb


    yourself when you''re feeling down?"


    Leanna smiled. "Alright, alright. I''ll have him send you more when you finish your medicine."


    Zoe''s face instantly lit up with a smile. "You''re the best, Nana."


    "Okay, I''ll go back now. You should rest early. You''ve been busy for the past few days."


    Zoe nodded. "Goodnight."


    Although she had been running around these days, she wasn''t too tired as she had been sleeping well


    at home.


    But since she had to wake up early to catch a flight today, she was a little sleepy now.


    "Goodnight."


    After Leanna left, Zoe put the foam box in the refrigerator, scheduled the earliest delivery time for


    tomorrow, and turned off the lights to go to bed.


    ...


    Leanna returned to her own ce and was about to take a shower when she remembered something.


    As she took out her phone, she was about to call Aidan when she saw several news notifications.


    All of them were about the bidding meeting this afternoon.


    Each of the headlines about Aidan and Justin were more eye-catching and shocking than the previous


    one.


    She could see exmation marks all over the screen at just one nce.


    Leanna quickly skimmed through the news and roughly understood what was going on.


    She seemed to have heard Aidan mention the New Coast project before.


    It was ratherplicated.


    Leanna knew that he would be busy today, so she didn''t disturb him. Instead, she opened the


    refrigerator, put the chicken and vegetables in a pot to make soup, and then went to take a shower.


    It waste by the time she took her medicine and got an injection after showering.


    Lying in bed, she kept staring at the ceiling as she couldn''t fall asleep.


    There was only a small bedsidemp that radiated a warm and gentle light in the bedroom.


    It seemed that as soon as she closed her eyes, the spiteful words Aidan had said to her would echo in


    her ears.


    She couldn''t get rid of them no matter what.


    If even she felt this way, it must be even worse for Louis.


    Leanna sighed silently and stared out the window.


    She tossed and turned in bed for most of the night. When she took her phone to check the time, she


    found that it was already 1.30AM.


    Still, she couldn''t fall asleep.


    She decided to sit up and massaged her throbbing head.


    At this moment, the aroma of the chicken vegetable soup seeped through the bedroom door.


    She lifted the covers and got up then. After she put on a piece of clothing, she walked to the kitchen.


    When she lifted the lid of the pot and poked it with a fork, she found that the meat was already cooked.


    She turned off the heat, took out a thermos, poured the soup into it, and then walked out the door.


    Leanna arrived at Crossley Group at 2.20AM.


    Standing downstairs, she looked up and saw that several floors still had lights on.


    She walked in with the thermos.


    From the floor where the president''s office was located, she didn''t see anyone on the way.


    Leanna went straight to the office where she found Aidan''s suit jacket on the couch. However, Aidan


    wasn''t there.


    He should be in a meeting.


    Leanna sat on the couch and ced the thermos on the coffee table.


    Whether it was because of themotion or theforting smell, she gradually felt drowsy.


    Yawning, she leaned back on the couch and drifted off to sleep.


    When Aidan returned, she was already curled up in the corner of the couch, fast asleep.


    He paused in his steps and said to Jonathan behind him, "You can go home first."


    Jonathan was about to say something, but he decided to give a hum of acknowledgment and left when


    he caught a glimpse of the figure inside.


    After he left, Aidan turned around and closed the office door before sauntering to the front of the couch.


    He squatted down with one knee bent, picked up his jacket from the side, and gently covered Leanna


    with it.


    Perhaps sensing his presence, Leanna subconsciously grabbed his hand and rubbed her head against


    the back of his hand.


    With a small smile, Aidan kissed her on the lips and sat down on the side.


    A continuous drizzle started at some point outside the window, and the air carried a slight damp and


    cold scent.


    The temperature was dropping.


    Noticing this, Aidan put down the documents in his hand to embrace her.


    Leanna murmured unconsciously, "Aidan..."


    "Mm." He patted her back. "I''m here, so go ahead and sleep."


    Leanna proceeded to sleep soundly with her arms around his waist.

 Chapter 828

    Chapter 828


    Chapter 828 Not So Weing Anymore


    In the morning, Zoe was still in dreand when she was awakened by the doorbell.


    She buried her head in the nket, trying to shut out the sound. However, the doorbell continued to


    ring instead of stopping.


    She then picked up her phone and nced at the time, only to see that the delivery person had called


    her 20 minutes ago.


    After tossing and turning in bed for a while, she got up reluctantly.


    She took a deep breath and stumbled to the door. As she opened it, she mumbled, "Sorry, I was asleep


    and didn''t hear¡ª"


    "G''morning."


    As the voice of the visitor sounded, Zoe came to a pause and instantly woke up.


    She rubbed her eyes and looked at the person in front of her, incredulously asking, "Why are you


    here?"


    Not quite understanding what she meant, Daniel tilted his head. "Who else would it be besides me?"


    "I..."


    Zoe took her phone again and saw that the delivery person had sent her a text message, saying that


    he had gone to deliver to other ces first and wouldeter since she didn''t answer the phone.


    She took a deep breath and looked back at Daniel, her grumpiness after she woke up immediately


    bubbling. "What are you doing?"


    Daniel held up the paper bag in front of him. "I brought you breakfast."


    Baffled, Zoe demanded, "Not to mention whether this breakfast is necessary or not, don''t you have the


    password to my house? Why did you have to wake me up just to open the door for you?"


    "Given our current rtionship, I thought it would be impolite for me to just enter your house."


    Is it polite to wake me up like this, then? Zoe thought.


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Daniel continued, "Eat your breakfast before going back to sleep."


    "Thanks, but no thanks."


    As she was about to close the door, Daniel reached out and stopped her. "Your mother told me that you


    have a habit of not eating breakfast. She asked me to watch you eat every morning."


    Huh? Am I not fully awake? Why don''t I have any impression of him talking about this with Mom when


    he came over the other day?


    Seeing her confusion, Daniel exined, "I went to your house again after you left yesterday."


    "Didn''t I tell you¡ª"


    "It was your father who called and asked me to go. They told me that you had returned to Highside and


    asked me to take good care of you."


    "Oh.


    "They probably just want to bring you and me closer together. You don''t have to pay them any


    attention. After all, you and my parents won''t meet again in the future. There is no need¡ª"


    "Did you tell your mother something?" Daniel suddenly asked.


    Zoe was taken aback. "What?"


    "When she looked at me yesterday, I felt that there was some...hostility in her eyes. She wasn''t as


    weing as before."


    Zoe really felt like she hadn''t fully woken up yet and was a bit confused.


    The night before yesterday, she did talk to her mother and mentioned that she had someone she liked,


    but she didn''t give any specifics. She just said that although she liked that person very much, they


    couldn''t be together because he was against marriage.


    It was probably just these scattered bits of information. She definitely didn''t reveal that the person she


    was talking about was Daniel!


    Zoe looked at him suspiciously. "You''re not lying to me, are you?"


    "Why would I lie to you?" Daniel raised an eyebrow. "It was their instructions for me to watch you eat


    breakfast and take care of you. If you don''t eat, I''ll call your father and tell him that I didn''tplete my


    mission."


    Zoe pondered for a bit.


    Before long, she took the breakfast from his hand. "I''ll eat it myself. Thanks! Your mission isplete."


    As she spoke, she immediately closed the door.


    Daniel only stood at the door for a while.


    Soon, he touched his eyebrows and turned away.


    There was no need for him to rush this kind of thing. He had to take it slow.


    Inside the house, Zoe sat on the couch and ate her breakfast as she called her mother.


    After the call connected, she cautiously asked, "Mom, what are you doing?"


    "I''m exercising outside." She urged, "What''s the matter? Hurry up and tell me!"


    Zoe took small bites of the bread. "Well... Daniel brought me breakfast just now. He said it was your


    and Dad''s idea. Can you please tell him not toe anymore? I don''t want to trouble him."


    She took the phone and walked to a quieter ce. "Trouble? He''s doing it willingly. I didn''t force him


    with a knife."


    That tone. As I thought...


    Zoe hesitated and began, "Mom, you..."


    "Alright, stop trying to test me." She got angry. "Do you really think I''m a three-year-old child? You


    have someone you like, and your blind date criteria are someone tall, musically inclined, and mixed-


    race. And now, someone who meets all these conditions suddenly appears in front of us. Anyone with a


    brain can easily connect the dots."


    "So you knew."


    "Of course I know!" She huffed. "Do you think I''m your clueless and happy-go-lucky Dad who thinks


    your fated one has finallye? He is even trying so hard to match you two."


    "Then... you didn''t tell him?"


    Zoe''s mother angrily asked in return, "How am I supposed to tell him? Should I tell him that the person


    you like is Daniel who is celibate? And that you two are flirting with each other even though you are not


    together? You are trying to give your Dad a heart attack, aren''t you?"


    Upon hearing that, Zoe whispered, "Then it''s better not to tell him."


    On the other end of the phone, her mother lowered her voice. "Let me ask you. That thing¡­ Was it with


    him?"


    Zoe didn''t get it for a moment. "What thing?"


    "The one in your clothes!"


    Zoe''s face instantly turned red. "Mom!"


    She could guess the answer to the question when she heard Zoe''s tone.


    She was so angry that she didn''t want to talk anymore. "Enough, enough. I''m the one who''s going to go


    mad because of you. I sometimes envy your father for not knowing anything. He treats Daniel like


    some kind of rare drinking buddy. They get along so well. He wouldn''t even put down the two bottles of


    wine that Daniel brought him yesterday; he''s practically going to sleep with the bottles in his arms!"


    Zoe only quietly listened to She''s rant.


    Her mother continued, "I''m warning you, make it clear to him. If he really doesn''t want to get married


    and just wants to y with you, stay away from him as soon as possible and never see him again."


    "That''s what I did, but you brought him home again..."


    "I... I didn''t know at the time! Anyway, I think he is an unreliable man. Quickly find someone else to date


    and make him give up on you."


    "I got it, Mom," Zoe replied. "I will handle it."


    She let out a heavy sigh. "Seriously... I don''t know what to say to you. Why is it that the only people a


    beautiful woman like you meet are sc*mbags? I must find a good one for you this time!"


    "Mom, don''t introduce anyone to me anymore. This kind of thing... the more you rush, the less likely


    you''ll find a good one. A pleasant surprise might unexpectedlye along if we give up hope."


    Her mother only sneered. Not wanting to waste more time talking about this, she directly hung up the


    phone.

 Chapter 829

    Chapter 829


    Chapter 829 You¡¯ll Easily Catch a Cold This Way


    Due to attending an event the previous night, Daphne didn''t get home until early morning.


    It was already noon when she opened her eyes the next day.


    The drizzle outside indicated the arrival of fall.


    She stretchedzily and checked the time on her phone. It was 12.30PM.


    And it was a Saturday.


    Other than a few schedule arrangements from her assistant, there were no other messages on her


    phone.


    Louis woulde to her whenever he didn''t have sses at night or other engagements.


    But even when today was Saturday, there was no news from him.


    Daphne slowly got up and looked at the chat conversation with Leanna, remembering the phone call


    from Leanna and Zoe yesterday.


    It had actually been two or three days since Louisst came to find her.


    It was after what we talked about, wasn''t it?


    She then got up and went to wash up. When she went to the wardrobe, she nced at the row of


    dresses before her gazended on the pink hoodie.


    It was perfect for this weather.


    After Daphne changed her clothes, she sat in front of the dressing table and applied light makeup. She


    instantly looked several years younger when she tied her hair into a high ponytail.


    She leaned closer to the mirror, making sure there were no fine lines around her eyes, before taking


    her phone and leaving.


    Since it was raining and the roads were slippery, she didn''t drive and instead hailed a taxi.


    The car stopped at the school gate after 40 minutes. Daphne got off and stood by the bus stop, dialing


    Louis'' number.


    The call was answered just as the dial tone was about to end.


    Louis'' voice was low and slightly hoarse. "Hello?"


    Daphne paused. "Are you...still sleeping?"


    "No." It sounded like there was a slight movement on the other end of the phone before Louis'' voice


    became clearer. "What''s up?"


    "Are you at school? I...happened to pass by the school gate. Do you want to have lunch together?"


    After a few seconds of silence, Louis replied, "Alright. Find a ce to sit and wait for me."


    Thinking that he still had something to do at school, Daphne agreed. "Okay, I''ll wait for you at the bus


    stop here."


    After hanging up the phone, Daphne stood in ce for a while before sitting on the bus stop''s bench.


    After a while, two young women holding umbres walked over. While waiting for the bus, they turned


    their heads and nced at her several times while whispering amongst themselves.


    It seemed like they recognized her. However, since she was wearing a mask and her appearance was


    different, they weren''t sure if she was really Daphne.


    Soon, the two of them shuffled over and tentatively asked, "Hello, are you Daphne Shirley?"


    Daphne wore a polite smile. "Do you think I look like her too? A few people have said so."


    One of the women let out a sigh of relief and said to herpanion, "I told you so, there''s no way


    Daphne Shirley would be sitting here alone."


    Herpanion asked, "Are you a freshman? I haven''t seen you before."


    The other woman echoed, "Right! You look just like Daphne Shirley. I bet you are gorgeous too!"


    Daphne''s head tilted as she smiled. "Thank you."


    At that moment, the women''s bus arrived.


    Daphne waved goodbye to them.


    Her smile grew wider after they left.


    A freshman?


    The pink clothes really had the magical effect of making her feel like she was 18 again.


    Because of this small incident, Daphne was in a good mood the whole time. Even the continuous


    drizzle seemed much more pleasant.


    When Louis got off the car across the street, he saw a pink figure at the bus stop.


    The figure was sitting on a bench with her hands behind her, her white sneakers lightly tapping on the


    ground.


    In that instant, his cold heart seemed to be illuminated by a beam of light.


    She looked just like the time he saw her for the first time at the convenience store entrance many years


    ago.


    It had been so long that no one remembered anymore.


    When the green light came on, Louis walked toward her with long strides.


    Just as Daphne was looking at the cars speeding by on the street, she suddenly felt an intense and


    direct gaze on her.


    She turned her head and saw a man who had arrived at some point standing there.


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    His clothes and hair were half wet from the rain, and his face was pale with a sickly look.


    Daphne was taken aback. "Didn''t you bring an umbre?"


    "I forgot," Louis muttered.


    Before she could say anything else, Louis asked, "What do you want to eat?"


    Daphne stood up and opened the umbre she brought. "Anything is fine for me. Since we''re near your


    school, why don''t you rmend a ce?"


    Louis pressed a hand to his lips and coughed twice. "Okay."


    He then turned around and was about to leave when Daphne grabbed his arm. "You''ll easily catch a


    cold like this. Why don''t you go back to your dorm and change your clothes first..."


    Before she could finish her sentence, Daphne felt the burning sensation from the arm she was holding.


    Daphne frowned. "Are you running a fever?"


    Louis looked away. "No."


    Refusing to believe him, Daphne stood on her tiptoes to touch his forehead.


    I knew it!


    "You¡ª"


    Suddenly, Louis grabbed her wrist, his dark eyes burning as he stared at her. "Don''t get too close to


    me; I have poor self-control."


    Daphne fell silent at that.


    She pretended not to hear him. "You''ve caught a cold. Don''t go out to eat. Go back to your dorm,


    change your clothes, and take some medicine."


    "I don''t have any clothes at my dorm."


    Daphne remembered that he had rented a ce for himself. "Then go back to the ce you rented."


    "But you haven''t eaten yet."


    "Just order takeout. The rain is getting heavier anyway. It''s troublesome to find a ce."


    Louis didn''t say anything else and lightly pursed his lips.


    At that moment, a taxi happened to pass by.


    Daphne raised her hand to stop it, and then struggled to hold the umbre over Louis'' head. "You go in


    first, I¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Louis had already taken the umbre from her hand and led her


    to the car.


    Seeing this, Daphne didn''t hesitate and got into the car.


    Louis also got in soon and told the driver the address.


    The ce he rented wasn''t far from the school. In less than ten minutes, the car stopped downstairs.


    After getting out of the car, Daphne looked at the pharmacy nearby. "Do you have medicine at home? I


    can go buy some if you don''t."


    Louis held the umbre and replied in a hoarse voice, "I do."


    Daphne averted her gaze. "Let''s go up, then."


    By now, the rain had be much heavier than when they got in the car.


    After the door opened, she noted that the room had a stuffy smell as the windows were closed due to


    the rain. The curtains were also not drawn.


    Other than that, the books on the table were a little messy.


    Louis'' ce wasn''t like this at all thest time she came here.


    Back then, it was clean and bright.


    Louis turned on the lights and coughed twice before he trudged over to open the window.


    A cool breeze mixed with a few drops of icy rainwater rushed in.


    The air felt much better then.


    He was tidying up the coffee table when Daphne took what he was holding. "You go take a shower first.


    Change out of your wet clothes, or your cold will get worse."


    "Okay." Louis'' voice was guttural.

 Chapter 830

    Chapter 830


    Chapter 830 Will You Get Angry?


    After Louis entered the bathroom, Daphne took out her phone and ordered some mushroom soup and


    light food. She then sat in front of the couch to tidy up the books on the coffee table.


    When she was done, she looked around before her gaze fell on the bed in his bedroom.


    The corner of the nket was lifted, and his slippers were still by the bed.


    If she guessed correctly, he must have just gotten up and hurried to school when she called him.


    That was why he didn''t have time to tidy up the house.


    In other words, he wasn''t at school at all during that time.


    He was lying sick at home.


    Daphne sighed silently, not knowing if it was right or wrong for her toe to him at this time.


    When Louis came out of the shower, Daphne had already tidied up the living room.


    Louis picked up his phone and asked her, "What do you want to eat?"


    "I''ve already ordered.


    "Also, I couldn''t find your medicine anywhere."


    Hearing that, Louis opened the cab under the coffee table and hesitated before saying, "I forgot."


    "I''ll go buy some." Daphne stood up.


    Louis quickly grabbed her wrist. "No need. I''ll go."


    Why are we both rushing to do this? We can just get it delivered, can''t we?


    Daphne eventually suggested, "If we order now, it should arrive after we finish eating."


    "Okay."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    He agreed while holding onto her hand.


    Daphne couldn''t help but lower her head. The ce where his palm held her hand was warm.


    For a moment, neither of them spoke, and only the sound of raindrops hitting the balcony asionally


    could be heard.


    Louis'' Adam''s apple bobbed slightly after a while. He turned his gaze aside, let go of her hand, and sat


    on the other side of the couch. "I have a cold, so stay away from me."


    She didn''t know if he was saying this to her or himself.


    Daphne asked, "Were you nning to just lie in bed without eating or taking medicine if I didn''t call


    you?"


    "I didn''t feel like moving."


    Daphne also sat down and casually picked up a pillow to hold in her arms. "You were filled with so


    much rage and energy when you hit Theodore, and yet, you don''t feel like moving now? Have you


    exhausted all your strength?"


    Upon hearing this, Louis silently smiled and didn''t argue.


    Daphne continued, "Your sister will be very worried if she sees you like this."


    "Don''t tell her."


    "I know, I won''t go snitching on you."


    As she spoke, Daphne opened the drawer that Louis had just opened and took out a thermometer,


    measuring his temperature near his ear.


    100.22¡ãF.


    Daphne started nagging when she saw this. "You have a high fever! You really don''t take care of your


    health, do you?"


    Louis'' voice was low. "I''ll be fine in a couple of days."


    Daphne put down the thermometer and wanted to find some fruits to supplement his vitamins.


    However, the refrigerator was empty other than a few cans of beer she saw.


    There wasn''t even a takeout bag in the house.


    Daphne turned to look at him, her brows slightly furrowed. "Have you not eaten for a few days?"


    "Just today."


    Daphne didn''t believe him. She took out her phone and ordered cold medicine, then bought a bunch of


    fruits and fresh vegetables from the grocery store.


    She might have been hesitant and unsure whether it was right or wrong toe to him earlier, but now,


    she felt that he might have exhausted himself to death in this room if she hadn''te.


    She was d she came.


    After wandering around the living room, Daphne returned to the couch because she couldn''t find


    anything to eat. She suggested to Louis, "Why don''t you rest for a while? I''ll call you when the food is


    here."


    The delivery was slow due to the rain. Last she checked, the delivery driver had just arrived at the


    restaurant. No one knew how long it would take for the food to be delivered.


    Instead of answering her, Louis leaned to the side and silently watched her.


    Feeling ufortable from being stared at by him, Daphne touched her nose in embarrassment.


    "Am...am I dressed strangely?"


    Louis'' thin lips twitched, and he spoke slowly, "No, you look good."


    Daphne was taken aback by his straightforwardpliment. "T-Then," she stammered, "what are you


    looking at?"


    "I was thinking if your work would be affected if I infected you with my cold."


    "I don''t think so. I haven''t had much to do these past few days. Don''t worry, it''s not the peak season for


    colds recently. Your cold won''t spread so eas¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Louis had already leaned in, his palm touching her ear as he


    kissed her.


    Daphne''s pupils slightly dted, and her hand on her knee moved. However, she didn''t push him away.


    Fortunately, this kiss was just a light peck as Louis didn''t intend to deepen it. Soon, he let go of her and


    whispered, "Will you get angry, then?"


    I''m used to him doing things without seeking approval beforehand, she quietly sighed.


    Soon, she pushed him back onto the couch. "Rest for a while since you''re sick."


    She then quickly picked up her phone and checked the time.


    The delivery driver was one kilometer away from her.


    It would take them another 15 minutes to arrive.


    Daphne stood up and tried to find something to do to break the provocative atmosphere. "Why don''t


    you drink some water first? I''ll go boil some."


    As Louis watched her back, a smile appeared on his face.


    Daphne boiled the water for more than ten minutes. When she came out of the kitchen, the water was


    at the perfect temperature. At the same time, the doorbell rang.


    She instinctively turned around and ran to the door. After she took the takeout while uttering thanks,


    she turned back and ced the food on the dining table, taking out one food container after another.


    "You have a cold, so you shouldn''t eat anything too greasy. Eat these first, take the medicer, and


    then take a nap. When you wake up, eat some fruit to replenish your vitamins. You''ll feel better


    tomorrow."


    "Will you leave if I fall asleep?" Louis asked.


    Daphne opened the lid of the food container and ced it in front of him. "I''ll leave after you feel better.


    I''ll have to take you to the hospital if your fever still hasn''t broken today."


    Louis didn''t say anything else; he lowered his head and drank the soup.


    Daphne was also hungry after a busy noon. She had to control her sugar intake and couldn''t eat things


    like soup, so she opened the vegetable sd next to her.


    While eating, the cold medicine and fruits arrived.


    Daphne saved a few pieces of fruit forter, then put the rest in the refrigerator.


    When she returned to the living room, Louis had finished his meal and cleaned up the trash.


    Daphne picked up the cold medicine next to her and looked at it. "It says you have to take it half an


    hour after a meal. How about...you rest for a while and read a book?"


    "I feel dizzy. I don''t want to read."


    It was quite unusual for a top student like him to say he didn''t want to read. He must be really dizzy.


    "How about you go rest in the bedroom? I''ll bring the medicine inter."


    Louis looked at her and paused before asking, "Are you afraid of being with me?"


    Daphne was caught off-guard by his question.


    He caught her.

 Chapter 831

    Chapter 831


    Chapter 831 I¡¯ll See You Off


    Daphne''s phone rang after a brief silence.


    She quickly seized this rare opportunity and scurried off to the balcony to answer the call. "Hello?"


    Her assistant informed, "Daph, we received an invitation to a private party next Saturday. Should I


    decline it like before?"


    Daphne cleared her throat. "H-Hold that off for now. Tell me about the agenda, please."


    The assistant was a bit confused. "The agenda?"


    "Yes." Daphne''s face became serious, showing her dedication to work. "Things like the program flow


    and what time the event starts. Please give me more details."


    "Ah..."


    The assistant read out the details ording to the invitation they received.


    While listening, Daphne nodded and made a few affirming remarks.


    They then chatted about other work matters.


    When she couldn''t find anything else to say, she discreetly turned her head and noticed that Louis was


    no longer on the couch. Seeing the closed bedroom door, she finally breathed a sigh of relief.


    The assistant asked, "Daph, should I reply to them? Are you going to attend?"


    Daphne snapped back to reality. "No need. Just decline it."


    The assistant hesitated for a moment. "Alright."


    After hanging up the phone, Daphne sat on the couch as her gaze fell on the books in front of her.


    "The Spirit of Law," "Capital," "The Wealth of Nations," "Advanced Calculus"...


    It was no wonder Louis said he didn''t want to read books. Daphne was already dizzy just from reading


    the titles alone.


    Louis had already taken the cold medicine beside Daphne.


    Daphne then leaned back. When she found afortable position, she took out her phone and idly


    scrolled through it.


    The drawn-out and dense sound of rain outside continued to wash against the windows.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    It was hypnotizing.


    After a while, Daphne started to doze off.


    She fought against her drowsiness and set an rm for 30 minutester, intending to take a short nap.


    Just as she had fallen asleep for a few minutes, Louis came out of the bedroom and stood still for two


    seconds before going back to the room to get a thin nket. He then walked over and covered her with


    it.


    With one leg bent, Louis squatted in front of her, silently watching her.


    Time passed by, and the whole room was quiet except for the sound of breathing and the muffled rain.


    Half an hourter, her phone vibrated softly.


    Daphne turned off the rm and opened her eyes as she started to get up. However, she saw Louis


    sitting on the carpet under the couch, holding the book titled "Capital."


    She rubbed her eyes. "When did youe out? Aren''t you asleep?"


    Louis closed the book and looked at her. "I can''t sleep."


    Daphne promptly sat up and reached out to check if his fever had subsided. It seemed even worse.


    "This won''t do. I''ll take you to the hospital before it gets worse," Daphne urged, pulling back the


    nket.


    Louis grabbed her wrist. "I''ll be fine after taking a few more pills."


    "But you¡ª"


    "Stay here with me if you''re worried."


    Daphne hesitated for a bit.


    So he was waiting for me here.


    Louis let go of her and continued reading. "The rain won''t stop for a while. If you want to leave, I''ll see


    you off."


    Daphne responded with an "Oh." Was this brat trying to threaten her?


    If he went out again in the rain and caught a cold, it would only get worse.


    But just staying here...


    Something felt strange.


    Perhaps sensing her difort, Louis flipped through the book and calmly uttered, "I won''t do anything


    to you. I don''t want to infect you with my cold."


    Daphne''s mind must still be fuzzy right after she woke up as she blurted out, "Right. You would have


    stuck out your tongue earlier otherwise."


    When Louis looked over without a word, Daphne immediately grabbed a book and held it in front of her


    face.


    Have I gone crazy? What the hell am I saying?!


    After the sound of flipping pages came from beside her, Daphne finally breathed a sigh of relief and


    focused her gaze on the book in front of her.


    What were these numbers?


    She quietly moved the book away from her face.


    "Advanced Calculus."


    She kept staring at the book.


    Forget it.


    She then grabbed a pillow and sat there, asionally ncing at Louis. However, she hesitated each


    time she wanted to speak.


    The truth was, she had no experience in dealing with this kind of situation. Plus, seeing Louis'' state


    today, she knew without a doubt that this matter was of great importance to him.


    She might cross his bottom line if she said the wrong thing.


    So she was still pondering.


    How could she broach the topic as gently, casually, and naturally as possible?


    But she couldn''t think of anything.


    Just as Daphne was about to give up and let her mind go nk, Louis'' voice rang out. "You''ve looked


    at me 25 times already. If it''s not because you want to kiss me, I''m sure you have something you want


    to say to me."


    Daphne slowly met his dark and calm eyes.


    Pursing her lips, she began to speak seriously. "I went to the studio and saw your sister yesterday."


    Louis nodded, indicating for her to continue.


    "I talked to her, and she...told me some things."


    Louis'' expression didn''t change as he continued to stare at her.


    Although he didn''t say anything, Daphne felt her heart race faster as she looked into his calm and


    unruffled eyes. She grew nervous, and her hand resting on the cushion involuntarily clenched into a


    fist. She didn''t know what to say anymore.


    After a while, Louis finally mentioned, "I remember you told me that no matter what Jethro did, it had


    nothing to do with me. He is him, and I am me."


    Surprised, Daphne nodded. "Uh-huh..."


    Louis continued, "For me, that sentence is enough."


    After speaking, he looked away and continued reading.


    Daphne was stunned. She understood what he meant.


    But...


    Daphne stared at his profile and spoke softly, "If that''s the case, why have you locked yourself up at


    home for the past few days and starved yourself? Why didn''t you take care of yourself even when


    you''re sick?"


    Louis'' hand paused in the middle of flipping through the pages, and he kept his head down without


    saying a word.


    Daphne continued, "I actually understand what you are thinking. To you, that person is like a stranger,


    and for the past ten or twenty years, your hatred towards him has been weighing on your heart,


    tormenting you.


    "You also carried the guilt and pain from the things he did to your sister. Even though he''s dead, that


    feeling you have hasn''t gone away at all. So when you found out the truth, you couldn''t ept how


    different the truth was from what you thought."


    Louis'' lips tightened, and his gaze became gloomy.


    As Daphne sat next to him, her voice sounded even softer. "You don''t need to hate anyone, and you


    don''t need to torment yourself anymore. It doesn''t matter if your father is Jethro or that person who is a


    complete stranger to you. You are just yourself, not anyone''s appendage."

 Chapter 832

    Chapter 832


    Chapter 832 If You Also Catch a Cold


    The rain showed no signs of stopping as it rained for the whole afternoon.


    Louis sat on the couch reading a book, while Daphne leaned against his back, alternating between


    scrolling through Twitter and looking at a script.


    The sky grew dark at some point.


    Daphne got up and walked to the window, stretchingzily and looking at the bustling traffic outside.


    Because of the rain, the road was congested as cars formed long lines.


    Just at this moment, a light suddenly lit up behind her.


    Daphne turned her head, only to see Louis turning on the light and walking toward the kitchen. "What


    do you want to eat?"


    She picked up her phone. "I''ll order takeout."


    Louis opened the refrigerator and took out the vegetables that Daphne had bought for lunch. "It''s rush


    hour now. It will take at least an hour for the delivery. It''s faster to cook it ourselves."


    Daphne went over and thought for a moment. "I don''t think so. You''re still sick... Just order something


    nearby."


    "No need." Louis turned around and looked at her. "Just sit and wait for me."


    Seeing this, Daphne knew that she couldn''t persuade him. After letting out a small "Oh," she walked


    back to the living room.


    Sitting on the couch, Daphne rested her elbows on her knees and supported her chin with her hands,


    looking at the figure in the kitchen. She was a little absent-minded.


    Although she always said that she could imagine what kind of life Louis had lived before, she could


    never truly understand the hardships he had endured.


    She remembered a few days of cold showers when she was filming on the set two years ago. At that


    time, she already felt ufortable, but in order not to slow down the progress of the crew, she gritted


    her teeth and endured it.


    But after returning home, shey in bed for several days as dizziness and nausea washed over her.


    Weakened, she didn''t want to do anything.


    But for him, this level of cold and fever seemed insignificant.


    After half an hour, Louis came out of the kitchen and ced the te in front of Daphne. There was


    chicken breast, celery, corn, sweet potatoes, and Romaine lettuce.


    Stunned, Daphne looked up at him in confusion.


    Louis exined, "You didn''t eat much for lunch. This is just a little oil. It won''t make you gain weight."


    "What about you?"


    "I made vegetable soup." Louis continued, "And sweet potato. Do you want it?"


    "This is enough for me." Daphne rejected his offer.


    Louis gave a small nod and turned back to the kitchen.


    Daphne''s job required her to maintain a slim figure all year round, so corn and chicken breast were


    always avable. She had grown tired of them.


    But what Louis made looked and smelled delicious.


    Daphne scooted closer and picked up the sweet potato, intending to peel it. When she found it was hot,


    she immediately put it back before touching her earlobes with her hands.


    Louis saw this as he walked out of the kitchen with the soup. He moved over quickly, ced the soup


    on the table, and knelt beside her before he pulled her hands to check for burns. After confirming that


    there were no burns, he suggested, "Eat something else first."


    Daphne nodded and discreetly withdrew her hand from his palm.


    Louis remained calm as he handed her the fork on the coffee table.


    As Daphne reached out and took it, she nced at the soup in front of Louis. "Is this all you''re having?"


    "There''s another sweet potato in the pot."


    As he spoke, he had already picked up the sweet potato in his bowl.


    Daphne couldn''t help but look over.


    Louis'' knuckles were distinct, and the veins were clear. His hands looked beautiful even when he was


    only peeling a sweet potato.


    While she was lost in thought, Louis had already handed her the peeled sweet potato.


    Louis'' voice sounded. "What''s wrong?"


    Hearing that, Daphne quickly snapped out of her daze and took the sweet potato, biting it with her head


    lowered. "Thank you."


    Louis'' lips curled up slightly, and he went to pour her a ss of water.


    After finishing the sweet potato, Daphne pushed the celery and corn in front of Louis. "You can have


    this. I can''t finish it. Just vegetable soup alone must be unappetizing."


    Louis only muttered a short reply as he nodded.


    After the meal, Louis was about to get up to wash the dishes when Daphne quickly stopped him. "I''ll do


    it. You rest for a while before taking your medicine."


    After saying that, she immediately cleaned up the dishes on the coffee table and took them to the


    kitchen.


    Louis watched her figure for a while, and his gaze soon fell on the thermometer next to him.


    Daphne rarely cooked at home, let alone washed dishes. After washing them, she felt like she had just


    fought a battle. Her sweatshirt and even the cuffs were wet.


    She wiped off the excess water with a tissue, walked into the living room, and poured a cup of warm


    water.


    Sitting next to Louis, she raised her hand and touched his forehead with her eyebrows slightly


    furrowed.


    He still felt hot, but it might be because he had just had hot soup.


    I''ll wait a while before I take his temperature again.


    "Where''s your hairdryer?" Daphne asked. "My sleeves got wet."


    "It''s in the bathroom, I''ll get it for you."


    As soon as he finished speaking, he coughed twice.


    Daphne quickly persuaded him, "No need. You sit and rest. I''ll go myself. Remember to take your


    medicine after you rest."


    "Alright."


    The hairdryer in the bathroom was hanging on the wall.


    After Daphne took it down, she turned it on the second gear, letting the gentle wind blow dry her


    sleeves.


    However, the wind was so mild that the clothes couldn''t dry even after blowing for a long time.


    Daphne yawned and was about to turn it to the highest gear when she suddenly sneezed.


    Looking at herself in the mirror, she felt a little dizzy.


    Did I really catch a cold?


    At this moment, Louis walked over and urged, "Change your clothes."


    Daphne turned her head to look at him, feeling a little unsafe.


    Perhaps guessing what she was thinking, Louis chuckled and took a step forward. "I said I didn''t want


    to infect you with a cold, but if you also catch a cold¡ª"


    "Stop!" Daphne immediately interrupted him, her face slightly red as she stuttered, "What''s a young


    man like you talking about nonsense instead of focusing on studying well¡­"


    Louis'' lips curled up, and he drawled, "I''m already studying well, so I''m expanding my knowledge in


    other areas."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Daphne was baffled.


    Before she coulde up with a retort, Louis had already turned and walked back to the bedroom to


    bring her a piece of clothing.


    "Don''t worry, I have never even thought about forcing you."


    Pouting, Daphne reached out to take the clothes. She couldn''t help but grumble, "Did you ask for my


    consent before you kissed me? Weren''t they all¡ª"


    Louis'' lips curled into a smile. "Sorry, I''ll make sure to ask next time."


    Daphne rarely saw him smile, but in just a few minutes, he had already smiled twice.


    It waspletely irresistible.


    She immediately closed and locked the bathroom door.


    Louis'' voice came from outside. "You can use whatever is inside."


    Hearing that, Daphne hummed in acknowledgment and turned on the shower.


    After taking off the half-damp sweatshirt, she untied her hair and tied it into a bun again, preparing to


    take a shower.

 Chapter 833

    Chapter 833


    Chapter 833 Lost All Sense of Propriety


    In the bedroom, Louis took o blonket out of the wordrobe ond poused when he possed by the


    bothroom.


    The gloss door wos covered in mist, moking the figure inside blurry ond indistinct.


    He only glonced ot it before quickly overting his goze, feeling o slight lump in his throot.


    After stonding still for two seconds, he quickened his poce ond left.


    Louis closed the window, ploced the blonket on the couch, ond loy down.


    With his honds behind his heod, he picked up o book ond flipped through it. However, he unexpectedly


    couldn''t focus on o single word.


    The sound of woter from the bothroom continued, ond the imoge he hod just seen involuntorily


    reployed in his mind.


    As his eyelids twitched, he felt o rush of blood to both his heod ond o "certoin" ploce.


    Toking o deep breoth, he covered his foce with the book ond closed his eyes.


    When Dophne finished showering, she intended to hong up her hoodie. However, it being holf-wet on


    top of hoving o stronge smell of detergent mode her ufortoble.


    So she decided to wosh the hoodie os well. She could just order tokeout ond buy o new one. There


    wos nothing thot couldn''t be bought on the delivery plotform nowodoys.


    After woshing the hoodie, Dophne found o honger in the bothroom ond brought it over. She leoned in


    ond took o sniff, noting thot it hod o pleosont smell.


    It wos the cleon ond refreshing scent thot Louis usuolly hod on him.


    Just os she wos obout to leove the bothroom, her goze fell on the mirror ot the entronce.


    Stonding ot 5.5 feet, she wos quite toll. However, Louis'' clothes were loose on her.


    And below thot were her jeons.


    Good.


    Everything seemed fine, other thon her slightly oversized top.


    There wos nothing suggestive obout her oppeoronce.


    As Dophne wolked o few steps, she sow Louis lying on the couch with o book covering his foce.


    Beside him wos o blonket, indicoting thot he intended to sleep there.


    Dophne sot opposite him ond picked up the thermometer on the coffee toble. "Did you toke your


    medicine?" she osked.


    "I did." His muffled voicee from under the book.


    "Let''s check your temperoture ogoin."


    After o moment of silence, Louis took the book down.


    Dophne then leoned over ond meosured his temperoture by his eor. When she looked ot the reoding,


    her eyebrows pulled together into o frown. 103.46¡ãF?


    Why is he getting wormer?


    She wos obout to reoch out ond touch Louis'' foreheod when he suddenly grobbed her wrist. His voice


    wos hoorser thon before os he uttered, "I feel much better."


    Daphne clearly didn''t believe him when she heard his voice. "I think you should go to the hospital."


    Dephne cleerly didn''t believe him when she heerd his voice. "I think you should go to the hospitel."


    "It''s still reining, end I just took medicine. My fever should breek by tomorrow morning."


    Heering this, Dephne thought it mede sense. The medicine needed time to teke effect.


    And Louis didn''t look like he wented to go to the hospitel either.


    Dephne eventuelly put down the thermometer. "If you still heve e fever tomorrow morning, then you


    reelly should go to the hospitel."


    Upon heering thet, Louis let go of her wrist, his Adem''s epple bobbing up end down es he replied in e


    dry tone, "Okey."


    He didn''t sey enything more, end Dephne didn''t sey enything either. They just silently looked


    elsewhere.


    Louis wes seriously ill, but he refused to go to the hospitel. Under these circumstences, Dephne


    neturelly couldn''t leeve. She trusted him quite e bit. Although he wes young, he hed e good sense of


    propriety.


    Dephne thought thet she would heve more experience in life end deting since she wes e few yeers


    older then him. But ever since she found out thet he liked her, their reletionship seemed to heve elweys


    been led by him.


    Whether it wes discreetly eppeering by her side or bletently intruding into her life, everything he did


    mede her wever.


    His being the men she liked mede him the most dezzling presence to her.


    After e long time, e breeze thet seemed to blow in from somewhere finelly brought Dephne beck to her


    senses. She seid to Louis, "It''s getting lete. You should go to sleep."


    Louis looked et her. "Huh?"


    "I''ll sleep on the couch. You cen go beck to the bedroom."


    Louis refused to do thet. "No need."


    Dephne stood up. "Don¡¯t be so gentlemenly et this time. You''re still sick. Sleeping here will only meke it


    worse..."


    As she spoke, she reeched out to pull Louis while her other hend lifted the blenket.


    Her sudden ections ceught Louis off guerd. It wes elreedy too lete by the time he wented to greb the


    blenket.


    Before Dephne could finish her sentence, the room fell silent egein. Unlike before, there wes now e hint


    of e different kind of wermth in the spece.


    In the eir, the scent of hormones from both the men end women silently collided, es if trying to teer


    open e huge rift in this derk night.


    The impending embiguity, restreined breeths, end suppressed desires ell rushed out of the rift, elmost


    devouring them.


    Dophne cleorly didn''t believe him when she heord his voice. "I think you should go to the hospitol."


    "It''s still roining, ond I just took medicine. My fever should breok by tomorrow morning."


    Heoring this, Dophne thought it mode sense. The medicine needed time to toke effect.


    And Louis didn''t look like he wonted to go to the hospitol either.


    Dophne eventuolly put down the thermometer. "If you still hove o fever tomorrow morning, then you


    reolly should go to the hospitol."


    Upon heoring thot, Louis let go of her wrist, his Adom''s opple bobbing up ond down os he replied in o


    dry tone, "Okoy."


    He didn''t soy onything more, ond Dophne didn''t soy onything either. They just silently looked


    elsewhere.


    Louis wos seriously ill, but he refused to go to the hospitol. Under these circumstonces, Dophne


    noturolly couldn''t leove. She trusted him quite o bit. Although he wos young, he hod o good sense of


    propriety.


    Dophne thought thot she would hove more experience in life ond doting since she wos o few yeors


    older thon him. But ever since she found out thot he liked her, their relotionship seemed to hove olwoys


    been led by him.


    Whether it wos discreetly oppeoring by her side or blotontly intruding into her life, everything he did


    mode her wover.


    His being the mon she liked mode him the most dozzling presence to her.


    After o long time, o breeze thot seemed to blow in from somewhere finolly brought Dophne bock to her


    senses. She soid to Louis, "It''s getting lote. You should go to sleep."


    Louis looked ot her. "Huh?"


    "I''ll sleep on the couch. You con go bock to the bedroom."


    Louis refused to do thot. "No need."


    Dophne stood up. "Don¡¯t be so gentlemonly ot this time. You''re still sick. Sleeping here will only moke it


    worse..."


    As she spoke, she reoched out to pull Louis while her other hond lifted the blonket.


    Her sudden octions cought Louis off guord. It wos olreody too lote by the time he wonted to grob the


    blonket.


    Before Dophne could finish her sentence, the room fell silent ogoin. Unlike before, there wos now o hint


    of o different kind of wormth in the spoce.


    In the oir, the scent of hormones from both the mon ond womon silently collided, os if trying to teor


    open o huge rift in this dork night.


    The impending ombiguity, restroined breoths, ond suppressed desires oll rushed out of the rift, olmost


    devouring them.


    Daphne clearly didn''t believe him when she heard his voice. "I think you should go to the hospital."


    Like rapidly growing vines, they filled the entire room in an instant.


    Like rapidly growing vines, they filled the entire room in an instant.


    Lika rapidly growing vinas, thay fid tha antira room in an instant.


    Aftar a faw saconds of snca, Daphna pratandad as if nothing had happanad and put down tha


    nkat again. "You should ap hara, I¡ª"


    Sha was about to turn around andava, but sha raalizad that tha hand sha was holding had somahow


    grabbad onto har in raturn.


    As Louis lookad at har, his ayas wara pitch ck and quiat. Howavar, thay burnad so intansaly that sha


    couldn''t maat his gaza.


    Tha ca whara ha hald har wrist was scorching, making har soul tram.


    Daphna was about to spaak whan Louis'' hoarsa voica intarruptad har. "Can I kiss you?"


    Daphna''s ayshas tramd at thosa words. Sha couldn''t answar him.


    How was sha supposad to answar this...


    Furtharmora, sha had a faaling that it would ba avan hardar for tham to control thamsalvas aftar a kiss,


    considaring how tha atmosphara had alraady asctad to thisval.


    Although sha knaw in har haart that sha shouldn''t do this, sha couldn''t bring harsalf to rafusa.


    Sha avan thought, what was tha harm in baing racss just this onca?


    Ha had onca sacrificad his own futura and prospacts for har. Just what was sha afraid of?


    In thasa faw saconds, Daphna thought about many things. Sha thought about Thaodora, tha sacurity


    guards in tha naighborhood who had baan axtra caring toward har bacausa of Louis, and Louis


    standing outsida har building all night.


    Thosa chaotic scanas kapt appaaring in har mind, confusing both har and har conscianca.


    It was until sha falt a slight pain on tha tip of har tongua.


    Daphna finally snappad back to raality and raalizad that sha had unknowinglyin down on tha couch.


    Tha man who sha had praisad for having a sansa of propriaty in har mind just a wh ago had now lost


    control himsalf. His scorching braath that carassad har aar carriad a distinct hint of dasira.


    As Louis'' kissasndad on har fair nack, aach touch falt lika it was about to sat har skin on fira.


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Howavar, just as Daphna grabbad tha fabric on his waist and closad har ayas, tha man suddanly


    stoppad.


    Undar tha light, Daphna opanad har ayas and saw his ayas moist, and his lips swon from baing


    bittan.


    Louis shiftad his gaza and sat up instaad. His prominant Adam''s ap bobbad slightly as ha raspad,


    "You should go to bad."

 Chapter 834

    Chapter 834


    Chapter 834 Can I Go With You?


    Dophne''s mind wos still befuddled. Her collor hod slipped down to her shoulders, her breothing wos


    slightly lobored, ond there were two provocotive morks on her collorbone.


    While licking her rosy lips, she slowly sot up ond tugged on her clothes. She wonted to soy something,


    but her throot felt dry. Insteod, she picked up the woter on the toble ond continuously took o few sips.


    She eventuolly coughed. "Y-You should go in. I''ll be fine here¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, her wrist wos suddenly grobbed.


    Louis pulled her ond went stroight into the bedroom.


    She still hodn''t reocted much even when she loy in bed oll wropped up.


    Things shouldn''t hove ployed out like this.


    As she turned her heod ond sow Louis lying with his bock to her, she couldn''t help but osk, "Aren''t you


    cold?"


    Louis softly hummed, "Hot."


    Dophne stored ot the ceiling for o few seconds before she moved slightly ond pulled the blonket from


    under her to cover him with it.


    Even though Louis didn''t move, Dophne could feel his orched bock tensing up.


    After covering him with the blonket, she reoched over oround his woist.


    Louis stiffened os he listened to her burying her heod behind him. "Don''t move." Her muffled voice wos


    os soft os o feother.


    Relying only on her senses, Dophne lifted his clothes with her eyes closed, her hond slowly snoking


    from his obdomen into his sweotponts.


    The moment she held his member, o muffled moon slipped from Louis'' throot.


    "Don''t speok." Dophne''s voice trembled. "Don''t soy onything..."


    She felt like she wos going crozy. Her rotionolity wos telling her thot she shouldn''t do this, but her


    body''s instinct ond the urge of her emotions werepletely uncontrolloble.


    She knew why Louis hod stopped. She knew he would never force her.


    But it wos precisely becouse of this thot her heort oched more while her feelings for him deepened.


    She wos willing to do onything for him.


    In the dork of the night when everything should hove been silent, roindrops kept topping on the window,


    moking dull noises.


    It covered up the subtle ombiguous gosps in the room to some extent.


    In the dorkness, Louis kept his eyes open, his jow slightly clenched, his foreheod covered in sweot, ond


    every vein on his neck wos visible.


    After on unknown omount of time, the rooring dizziness finolly ended.


    Dophne secretly breothed o sigh of relief os her gosps groduolly colmed down. She thought her hond


    wos obout to breok off.


    Feeling the sweot oll over her body, she retrocted her hond.


    I need onother shower.


    She lifted the nket, "I... I''ll go take a shower first, y-you can clean up."


    She lifted the blenket, "I... I''ll go teke e shower first, y-you cen cleen up."


    After e while, Louis finelly replied in e hoerse voice, "Okey."


    Dephne ren streight into the bethroom, turned on the hot weter, end let it wesh over her body.


    The pent-up heet eveporeting with the steem beceme more end more overwhelming.


    It wes spreeding to every pert of her body.


    After teking e quick shower, Dephne ren to the living room end ley on the couch before she covered her


    heed with the blenket.


    Louis listened to the sound outside the bedroom. After he threw the tissue into the tresh cen, he took e


    set of clothes from the werdrobe.


    When he went out, he sew thet the blenket on the couch wes wrepped into e bell.


    He lightly pursed his lips end begen to speek. Just then, Dephne''s voice ceme from under the blenket.


    "If you don''t listen to me, I''ll teke e texi end leeve."


    Louis stood there for two minutes end wetched her while quietly chuckling. Soon, he turned eround end


    went into the bethroom.


    It wesn''t until the sound of weter ceme from the bethroom thet Dephne pulled the blenket down end


    sucked in e long breeth.


    This wes probebly the creziest thing she hed ever done in her life.


    ...


    Leenne sew the continuous drizzle outside when she opened her eyes in the morning.


    The tempereture wes getting lower es it hed been reining for elmost two deys.


    She picked up her phone end looked et the time; it wes elreedy 9.00AM.


    She wes just ebout to get up when her weist wes hugged by someone, end e low, respy voice ceme


    from behind her. "Sleep e little longer."


    Todey wes the weekend, which wes e rere time when both of them were et home.


    It wes e good time for them to sleep es it wes reining outside egein.


    Thinking ebout how Aiden hedn''t been resting well recently, Leenne decided to sleep with him e little


    longer.


    Turning eround, she buried her heed in his erms end closed her eyes egein.


    It wes elmost 12.00PM when they woke up.


    While Leenne wes in the bethroom, brushing her teeth, she mentioned, "I went to invite Louis over for


    dinner tonight."


    "Didn''t he juste e few deys ego?" Aiden esked.


    "But you know whet heppened e few deys ego. Todey is the weekend, so I''ll try esking him toe.


    Telk to him, if you will. I think he sometimes listens to whet you sey."


    Aiden reised en eyebrow. "Didn''t you tell me to speek less before? Are you sure you went to give me


    the green light todey?"


    Leenne rinsed her mouth. "Both Zoe end I don''t know how to go ebout this enymore. We elso esked


    Dephne, but I don''t know if there''s eny progress. Anywey, it''s worth e try."


    She lifted the blonket, "I... I''ll go toke o shower first, y-you con cleon up."


    After o while, Louis finolly replied in o hoorse voice, "Okoy."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Dophne ron stroight into the bothroom, turned on the hot woter, ond let it wosh over her body.


    The pent-up heot evoporoting with the steom be more ond more overwhelming.


    It wos spreoding to every port of her body.


    After toking o quick shower, Dophne ron to the living room ond loy on the couch before she covered her


    heod with the blonket.


    Louis listened to the sound outside the bedroom. After he threw the tissue into the trosh con, he took o


    set of clothes from the wordrobe.


    When he went out, he sow thot the blonket on the couch wos wropped into o boll.


    He lightly pursed his lips ond begon to speok. Just then, Dophne''s voicee from under the blonket.


    "If you don''t listen to me, I''ll toke o toxi ond leove."


    Louis stood there for two minutes ond wotched her while quietly chuckling. Soon, he turned oround ond


    went into the bothroom.


    It wosn''t until the sound of wotere from the bothroom thot Dophne pulled the blonket down ond


    sucked in o long breoth.


    This wos probobly the croziest thing she hod ever done in her life.


    ...


    Leonno sow the continuous drizzle outside when she opened her eyes in the morning.


    The temperoture wos getting lower os it hod been roining for olmost two doys.


    She picked up her phone ond looked ot the time; it wos olreody 9.00AM.


    She wos just obout to get up when her woist wos hugged by someone, ond o low, rospy voicee


    from behind her. "Sleep o little longer."


    Todoy wos the weekend, which wos o rore time when both of them were ot home.


    It wos o good time for them to sleep os it wos roining outside ogoin.


    Thinking obout how Aidon hodn''t been resting well recently, Leonno decided to sleep with him o little


    longer.


    Turning oround, she buried her heod in his orms ond closed her eyes ogoin.


    It wos olmost 12.00PM when they woke up.


    While Leonno wos in the bothroom, brushing her teeth, she mentioned, "I wont to invite Louis over for


    dinner tonight."


    "Didn''t he juste o few doys ogo?" Aidon osked.


    "But you know whot hoppened o few doys ogo. Todoy is the weekend, so I''ll try osking him toe.


    Tolk to him, if you will. I think he sometimes listens to whot you soy."


    Aidon roised on eyebrow. "Didn''t you tell me to speok less before? Are you sure you wont to give me


    the green light todoy?"


    Leonno rinsed her mouth. "Both Zoe ond I don''t know how to go obout this onymore. We olso osked


    Dophne, but I don''t know if there''s ony progress. Anywoy, it''s worth o try."


    She lifted the nket, "I... I''ll go take a shower first, y-you can clean up."


    Aidan didn''t say anything at that.


    Aidan didn''t say anything at that.


    Leanna pushed him aside and gestured for him to get out of the way. After washing her face, she left


    the bathroom, picked up her phone, and dialed Louis'' number.


    Aidan didn''t say anything at that.


    Laanna pushad him asida and gasturad for him to gat out of tha way. Aftar washing har faca, shaft


    tha bathroom, pickad up har phona, and did Louis'' numbar.


    On tha othar and, tha phona rang for a long tima bafora it was answarad.


    Laanna was about to spaak whan a waak and powass fam voica cama from tha othar and.


    "Hallo..."


    Laanna pausad and tantativaly askad, "Daphna?"


    Thara was snca on tha othar and thatstad a faw saconds bafora tha call abruptly andad.


    Laanna starad at har phona with har ayabrows raisad.


    Aftar about fiva minutas, Laanna racaivad a call on har phona from tha sama numbar sha did.


    Louis'' voica cama from tha othar and. "Yaah?"


    As Laanna pourad watar, sha rapliad, "Nothing much. I just wantad to invita you ovar for dinnar sinca


    it''s tha waakand."


    Louis ramainad quiat for a faw saconds bafora rasponding, "Alright."


    Laanna continuad, "Tall Daphna to join us too. You can pass tha massaga, so I won''t call har."


    "Got it."


    Aftar hanging up tha phona, Laanna sant a massaga to Zoa to ask har toa ovar for dinnar.


    Looking at har phona, Laanna hasitatad for a wh and dacidad not to call Danial.


    Sha was afraid that Zoa would ba ramindad of William whan ha saw him.


    I''llava it to soma othar tima.


    Howavar, what Laanna didn''t axpact was that Danial was sitting naxt to Zoa whan sha sant a taxt


    massaga to Zoa.


    Wh Zoa was raplying to Laanna''s massaga, sha askad Danial, "Didn''t my parants only ask you to


    dalivar braakfast? Why did youa at noon?"


    Danial casually ncad at har phona scraan bafora looking away, aring his throat. "I hava to ba


    xi about this. Thay askad ma to suparvisa you aating braakfast, but thay didn''t say anything about


    not caring about othar maals. Takaout isn''t a good option today sinca it''s raining."


    "I can go to Nana''s housa to aat."


    "Aran''t you afraid that Aidan will kick you out?"


    Zoa quiatly ncad at Danial and thought that what ha said mada sansa.


    Danial than pushad tha lunchbox on tha coffaa ta toward har. "Eat, or it''ll gat cold."


    Pursing har lips, Zoa dacidad not to wasta tha food.


    Sha put down har phona and opanad tha lunchbox.


    Tha food insida was ntiful, and avarything in tha lunchbox happanad to ba har favorita.


    Zoa had just takan a bita whan Danial''s voica soundad basida har. "Can I go with you tonight?"

 Chapter 835

    Chapter 835


    Chapter 835 Don¡¯t Even Think About Coming In


    Inside the rental house, Daphne, not even bothering to wash her face, grabbed her things and put on


    her shoes to leave.


    Meanwhile, Louis leaned against the shoe cab next to her. "My sister asked you to join us for dinner


    tonight."


    Daphne''s face turned red. "I''m not going. Just tell her I have to fly out of town for an event this


    afternoon!"


    She genuinely thought she was mad. So be it that she couldn''t think straight the night before but to


    answer the ringing phone she thought was hers groggily¡­ She didn''t know how to exin it to Leanna


    anymore.


    What should she say?!


    She hade to talk some sense into him, but not only did she fail to do so, she even ended up


    making out with him.


    It was absolutely mortifying.


    Seeing that she had put her shoes on, Louis proposed, "I''ll walk you out."


    However, Daphne refused. "You just recovered from a fever. Don''t bother."


    After a pause, she still reminded him, "Take another cold medicine after lunch and eat light at your


    sister''s tonight, alright?"


    She had paid a great price for his illness. She just hoped that he wouldn''t make it worse.


    At that, Louise gazed silently at her, not saying a word, making Daphne ufortable. "Wha¡­ what''s


    wrong?"


    Louis spoke slowly. "Can Ie and see you tonight?"


    Daphne hesitated. "Don''t you have school tomorrow?"


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    "Not in the morning."


    Daphne fell silent this time.


    Normally, she should have rejected such a request, but she couldn''t do so when it was him. Moreover,


    she wanted to see him too.


    She didn''t know if it was because of their intimate actionsst night, but it seemed that the thinyer of


    restraint between them had disappeared.


    The moment Louis spoke, Daphne unexpectedly had the urge of wanting to be with him all the time.


    It was a feeling she had never experienced before.


    After a while, Daphne stuttered, "Um, I, um... you cane over if you finish dinner early. Remember


    to bring your cold medicine."


    Louis'' face slowly lit up with a smile in response. "Okay."


    Daphne cleared her throat at that and tried to make herself look serious. "I''m off now."


    Just as she turned around, a hand wrapped around her waist.


    Louis pressed her against the door, his hand supporting her head, and he leaned down to kiss her.


    After a moment, he stepped back a little, his forehead pressing against hers, his breath hot, and his


    voice hoarse. "See you tonight."


    It took Daphne a couple of seconds to recover from stupefaction before running out the door.


    In just those two short minutes, she already regretted agreeing to let hime over tonight.


    She thought his ''see you tonight'' took their ambiguous rtionship to the extreme, adding a touch of


    lingering desire to theing night.


    ¡­


    Leanna and Aidan had just returned from the supermarket at 4.00PM. when they found Daniel waiting


    for a long time at their door.


    Daniel smiled at them. "Miss McKinney, President Pearson."


    "Is Zoe not home?" Leanna asked.


    "She is," Daniel answered frankly. "But she kicked me out."


    As he spoke, a snigger from a man sounded beside them.


    It was particrly obvious in the empty hallway.


    At that, Leanna gave the man next to her a warning re, then coughed and said to Daniel, "How


    about¡­ you head back first today? This kind of thing takes time."


    Daniel nodded and looked at the shopping bag in Aidan''s hand. "That''s quite a lot of shopping, Miss


    McKinney. Are you cooking tonight?"


    Leanna sensed that he had some ulterior motives, but before she could speak, Daniel continued, "I


    wonder if I have the honor of having dinner with you guys?"


    "No," Aidan said tly.


    Daniel was unfazed, having foreseen the answer. He maintained a polite smile. "That''s alright. I''ll just


    continue standing here."


    Underneath his rxed smile, he seemed a bit pitiful.


    Leanna was about to say something when Aidan took her hand and went into their apartment.


    "Ignore him," Aidan said after closing the door.


    "But¡­"


    "Can''t you see that he''s deliberately acting pitifully to gain your sympathy?"


    Leanna rolled her eyes and changed her shoes while saying, "Why does he want my sympathy?


    Besides, he''s a decent guy. Even if he''s really acting pitiful, he''s not cunning and stubborn like


    someone."


    Aidan was at a loss for words.


    He put the shopping bag on the table and nodded in agreement. "You''re right. Elijah is indeed like that."


    Couldn''t be bothered to argue with him, Leanna grabbed the vegetables and went into the kitchen.


    Half an hourter, the doorbell rang.


    Leanna poked her head out of the kitchen. "Aidan, go answer the door."


    Aidan sat on the couch, his long legs crossedzily, flipping through the documents. "Anyone who


    comes here knows the password."


    He had a point¡ªZoe and Louis both knew the password.


    But very quickly, the doorbell rang again.


    This time, before Leanna could say anything, Aidan had already gotten up.


    It was Louis.


    Aidan opened the door and strode back inside. "Don''t you know the password?"


    Louis nced outside the door and asked, "Why is he standing at the door?"


    "You can get him a chair to sit outside," Aidan suggested as she returned to the couch.


    At that, Louise withdrew his gaze and pointed out, "I can add a few more locks to this door the next


    time my sister kicks you out."


    Aidan frowned at Louis with displeasure, saying, "Wow, you sure know how to hold a conversation."


    Louis replied, "I''m just stating the possible facts. This hasn''t happened just once or twice. You''re no


    better than him."


    Aidan chuckled in frustration and looked icily at him, saying, "Since you''re so defensive of your brother,


    why don''t you let him in as well?"


    At that, Louis turned grim.


    Daniel was William''s adopted son, and he was older than them. From any perspective, both Leanna


    and Louis should call him ''brother.''


    Aidan was obviously saying this on purpose.


    In the kitchen, Leanna silently looked up at the ceiling with a kitchen knife in her hand, listening to their


    verbal battle outside.


    She was starting to doubt whether it was the right decision to let Aidan persuade Louis.


    Can''t he soften his approach a bit? How should we proceed if hees on so strong from the start?


    Outside, Aidan remained calm and continued, "Why don''t you go and open the door?"


    Louis looked at him and asked, "If I remember correctly, Leanna and you still haven''t held a wedding


    yet."


    "Hmm?"


    "When the timees, don''t even think abouting in."


    Aidan was rendered speechless. He had no doubt that Louis would really do as he said. In fact, the


    young man might even change the door to a bulletproof one.

 Chapter 836

    Chapter 836


    Chapter 836 Don¡¯t Say Anything Stupid Later


    Daniel''s legs were starting to feel sore, having stood outside for an hour.


    It wasn''t that Zoe kicked him out, but when he expressed his desire toe over for dinner, Zoe said


    she couldn''t do anything about it and told him to figure it out himself.


    He knew Leanna well enough to know that she would eventually go soft if he kept standing there


    despite Aidan''s refusal to let him in.


    However, the price he paid was a bit too high.


    When Zoe came out and saw him still standing there, she asked in surprise, "You didn''t go back?"


    "No," Daniel replied, stumping Zoe. "You continue to stand then. I''m going over."


    Daniel didn''t say anything; he just sighed.


    Upon arriving at Leanna''s doorstep, Zoe looked back at him and said, "Or, if you''re tired of standing,


    you can go into my apartment for a while? I''m sure you know why Nana didn''t invite you. It won''t make


    a difference no matter how long you wait."


    Daniel said, "It''s fine. You go in."


    After saying okay, Zoe pressed the doorbell, and Leanna answered the door.


    Daniel met her gaze and smiled friendly.


    Leanna forced a smile and then closed the door.


    After entering, Leanna whispered, "What''s going on? Does he want toe into my apartment or go to


    yours?"


    Zoe shrugged and snuck a nce at Louis sitting on the couch. "I think he might have the same


    purpose as us."


    It was actually a simple matter. Daniel was William''s adopted son and Elijah''s friend, and the incorrect


    paternity test report was caused by Elijah.


    He was trying his best to salvage the situation, partly out of responsibility and obligation and partly


    because the mistake was caused by Elijah. Only by making Louis let go of his resentment and ept


    the truth would William not me Elijah.


    Feeling somewhat troubled, Leanna said, "Even so, he can''t keep waiting there forever¡­"


    At that, Zoe leaned in and whispered, "So what''s Louis'' attitude to it now?"


    Leanna smiled awkwardly. "He was arguing with Aidan just a moment ago."


    They argued? Zoe gasped. No, I''veete. I can''t believe I missed such an exciting scene!


    They whispered to each other for a while, and when Louis turned his head, they immediately averted


    their gazes.


    Leanna went into the kitchen, and Zoe went over. After looking around, she asked with curiosity, "Did


    Daphne note, Louis?"


    Louis hummed a reply and said, "She said she has to fly out of town for an event tonight."


    Zoe was about to say something else when Louis interrupted, "Are you not going to let him in?"


    Zoe was taken aback. "Me?"


    "Do you expect it to be me then?" Aidan argued indifferently.


    Zoe was somewhat stumped. Didn''t Nana just say they were arguing? Why are they now targeting me


    together? Is it because I look easy to bully?


    Zoe paused for a moment, nced at Louis'' face, and tentatively said, "I''ll let him in then?"


    "If you want," Louis replied inly.


    Instantly, Zoe got up, went to open the door, and said to the person outside, "Come in."


    While Daniel was still reeling in stupefaction, Zoe grabbed his arm and leaned in close, whispering,


    "Louis let you in. Don''t say anything stupidter."


    Daniel forgot to breathe for a moment when she suddenly leaned so close to him. He looked down at


    her. Her eyshes were long, and they trembled slightly as she spoke.


    "What do you think about what I told you? Have you considered it?" Daniel asked.


    "Sorry?" His sudden change of topic stunned Zoe. Where did this topice from all of a sudden?


    Daniel spoke slowly. "About getting married."


    Zoe fell silent for a moment before letting him go and immediately went to close the door. "I think it''s


    best if you just stay outside."


    At that, Daniel reached out to stop the door and squeezed in, saying, "Thank you."


    Zoe was at a loss for words. Thank you my a*s!


    Upon arriving in the living room, Daniel greeted Aidan and Louis casually.


    Although everything seemed normal, Zoe sensed an invisible pressure.


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    With that, she quickly ran to the kitchen to help Leanna.


    Leanna had just heard about Louis letting Daniel in, and now she was holding her breath, quietly


    listening to themotion outside.


    Although Louis letting Daniel in shifted the focus onto Zoe, no matter what, the fact that he still spoke


    up first despite knowing about Daniel''s rtionship with William indicated that he didn''t reject this


    matter as much as they had imagined.


    After a short silence, Daniel found a topic. "I heard you''re involved in the New Coast project, President


    Pearson."


    Zoe and Leanna couldn''t hear Aidan''s answer, but the fact that they started chatting, allowing some


    noise to return to the deadly silent living room, led the twodies to let out a sigh of relief.


    While helping with the vegetables, Zoe whispered, "I really thought they were going to start fighting in


    the next second from how they looked at each other when Daniel came in."


    Leannaughed. "I heard you asked Louis why Daphne didn''te."


    Zoe nodded. "He said she went out of town for an event."


    Leanna quirked a brow in response, making noments.


    At this point, Zoe was also a bit surprised. She had merely picked up a random topic, worried that he


    had overheard them talking about him. But to her surprise, he actually gave her a definite answer.


    At that, ambiguity filled her eyes, and she gossiped, "Say, have they taken the next step? Come on, tell


    me."


    "I''m not sure," Leanna said. "But Daphne answered my call to Louis in the morning."


    Zoe''s eyes instantly lit up. "What did I tell you?! Our method works! Look how effective it is!"


    "Have you noticed that Louis seems to be in a better mood than before?" she whispered after checking


    outside.


    Zoe tempted her. "Looks a little like it, but I can''t really tell, and¡­ isn''t he sick? I can hear him speaking


    with a stuffy nose."


    "Yes, he''s sick, but look at him. He doesn''t look sick at all. In fact, hisplexion is quite rosy."


    Zoe clicked her tongue. "Oh, to be young. He doesn''t even need medicine. All he needs is love to cure


    his cold."


    "And so can you." Leanna smiled and raised her chin to look outside.


    "I can''t," Zoe said, "It''s one thing to date, but he wants to marry me. Don''t even think about it."


    Zoe continued to sigh. "No sc*mbag in this world will ever turn a new leaf. They''ll only break a brief."


    Leanna fell silent, thinking Zoe had a point.


    "So what are you going to do now?" she asked.


    Zoe shook her head and sighed. "My mom¡­ she found out too and told me to find a proper


    rtionship and stay away from him."

 Chapter 837

    Chapter 837


    Chapter 837 You Two Will Make a Hole Out of the Table


    The atmosphere during dinner wasn''t particrly harmonious, but it wasn''t intense either.


    Zoe identally bit into a chili pepper, and it burned her tongue. Just as she was about to get a ss


    of water, Daniel had already handed it to her.


    Instinctively, she took the water and drank a few gulps, only to choke on it.


    Daniel patted her back gently and said in a calm tone, "Take it slow."


    With that, he put some pumpkin onto her te and said, "Here, you''ll feel better after eating this."


    Zoe put down the ss and was about to say something when she noticed that the other three people


    at the table were all looking at them.


    When she looked over, Aidan and Louis calmly averted their gaze while Leanna lowered her head


    down and continued eating.


    Instantly, her face turned red, feeling as if she was going to explode.


    When she used to see Aidan and Leanna being affectionate, she thought it was all sweet sunshine and


    butterflies. But she couldn''t understand how it became awkward and ufortable when it was her


    turn.


    At that, Zoe whispered to Daniel, "Eat your own food!"


    Daniel felt wronged, not knowing how he had made her angry again, or maybe she didn''t like pumpkin.


    From what he remembered, she didn''t seem to dislike this food that much.


    After dinner, Zoe volunteered to wash the dishes. When Daniel followed the former, Leanna quietly


    backed out and took the chance to pull Louis to the balcony. "Have you fallen sick?" she asked softly.


    Louis nodded in response. "I''ve taken medicine. I''m almost recovering."


    Leanna looked at him and didn''t say anything for a moment.


    Louis rarely got sick growing up, but every time he did, it was because his body couldn''t take the


    excessive emotional stress.


    Louis coughed a few times, turned around, and looked at the drizzling rain. "It''s getting colder these


    days. You should take care as well."


    At that, Leanna changed the subject. "Was it Daphne who came to take care of you yesterday?"


    "Hmm," Louis hummed. "You asked her to go to my ce, didn''t you?"


    Leanna pursed her lips and nodded.


    Louis leaned forward, casually resting his arm on the balcony railing, and said lightly, "I know what you


    want to say, but it''s really not necessary. I did use to tell myself that I would be relieved after Jethro


    died, but it''s only today that I realized it was never him who trapped me but the hatred bottled up inside


    of me.


    "I''ve hated him since I was a child. I hated the fact that I was his son, and I hated everything he did. So


    I not only feel disgusted and resistant to everything about him but also afraid. Afraid that I will one day


    turn into him before I know it.


    "He kept showing up in my dreams around the time he passed. He told me that I would never escape


    him, that even though he was dead, his dirty blood still flowed inside my body, making him my only


    rtive in this world.


    "He seemed to have taken up residence in my body, bing my dark side. I''m terrified that one day


    he will control my mind and turn me into him."


    Leanna''s voice trembled. "Louis¡­"


    She knew that Louis had always lived in Jethro''s shadow and torment, and he seemed to have lost his


    last lifeline, especially after finding out that she wasn''t Jethro''s biological daughter.


    If Leanna didn''t know him so well and immediately rified the situation, he might really have ssified


    himself as the same as Jethro and distanced himself from her.


    Louis continued, "Now that I know we have no blood rtion, at least I don''t have to think I''ll end up


    being him. As for the rest¡­"


    He paused, and the night shrouded all the emotions on his face. "You should have noticed that I have


    no feelings for them, including when I found her body before, and even at the funeral, I didn''t feel any


    sadness. They are strangers to me."


    After a while, Leanna finally spoke. "I understand. I won''t force you on this matter anymore."


    Louis said, "Everything can stay the same as before; no need to make any changes, and you don''t


    have to deliberately distance yourself from them because of me."


    Leanna knew he was referring to Daniel.


    She fell silent for a moment before telling him, "William will go back to Highside soon."


    Their chances of encountering would only be higher. There was no way to avoid it.


    Louis said, "I don''t have any desire to avoid him, I just don''t know what to say, and there''s nothing to


    say. I''m also afraid you''ll be caught in the middle."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Leanna let out a sigh. "Let''s talk about it when the timees."


    What would be, would be.


    Moreover, William was still oblivious to it and hadn''t met Louis yet, so nothing woulde of her trying


    to cling to the situation here, either.


    Louis nced at the time. "It''s gettingte. I''ll head back first."


    "It''s still raining outside, and you''re still sick," Leanna said. "Let me drive you."


    "It''s still raining outside, and you''re still sick," Leanna said. "Let me drive you."


    "No need, I''ll take a taxi¡ª" Louis argued, but before he could finish his words, a gust of cold wind blew,


    and he coughed hurriedly.


    Just then, Aidan''s voice came. "I''ll take him."


    Leanna turned around and found Aidan leaning against the wall behind them for who knew how long.


    Not far away, Zoe and Daniel were wiping the table while constantly ncing in their direction.


    Aidan nced at Louis and turned around, striding forward. "Let''s go."


    Louis didn''t say anything and followed him.


    After the door closed, Leanna sighed silently, walked to the dining table, and said to Daniel and Zoe,


    "Alright, enough wiping. You two are going to make a hole out of my table."


    Finally, Zoe put down the rag cloth in her hand and smiled awkwardly.


    Daniel was about to speak up when Leanna said, "You''ve probably heard what he just said. Let''s leave


    it at that and stop pressuring him."


    After a few seconds of silence, Daniel said, "But William¡­"


    "I''ll figure out how to tell him."


    Daniel said, "How about letting Elijah talk to him? Although it can''t make up for anything, still¡­"


    Leanna knew where he was going with it. Although it couldn''t make up for anything, he still wanted to


    fix the mistake he made.


    She really didn''t know how to tell William ''Louis is actually your biological son, but because you were


    never a part of his life since his birth, nor does he feel any kinship toward you, he''d rather live his life


    alone than acknowledge you.''


    Daniel added, "I promise that he will personally deliver the paternity test results to William and exin


    everything clearly."


    "Okay." Leanna simply nodded, feeling exhausted at this point.


    Zoe noticed it and tugged at Daniel. "Alright, let''s leave."


    At that, Daniel put down the thing in his hand and nodded to Leanna before leaving with Zoe.


    Very quickly, the apartment fell silent.


    Leanna sat on the couch and couldn''t help but sigh.


    She had always thought she knew Louis well enough, but now it seemed that she didn''t care enough


    about him.


    If she had spent more time with him around Jethro''s death, he wouldn''t have bottled up his emotions to


    the point of losing control.

 Chapter 838

    Chapter 838


    Chapter 838 I Don¡¯t Have Clothes That You Can Wear


    After driving for a few minutes, Aidan spoke up, saying inly, "I heard everything you guys said just


    now."


    "Oh." Louis didn''t react much. "It''s my first time seeing someone admit to eavesdropping so tantly."


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged. "How is it eavesdropping when I''m in my own house?"


    Louis ignored him.


    Aidan continued, "I understand everything you said, and I also know why you would make the choice.


    But have you ever considered that every person is an independent existence since birth, and all


    connections are bestowed upon them by their loved ones? You only think they are strangers because


    you never interacted with them."


    Louis remained silent.


    Aidan continued, "Let''s bring it close to home. You and your nephew were strangers, too, before


    meeting each other, no? But because you considered him family from the bottom of your heart, you


    were willing to get close to him."


    "It''s different."


    "How is it different? Isn''t it all because William didn''t fulfill his responsibilities as a father in the past ten,


    twenty years?" Aidan continued inly. "Do you think it''s because Leanna doesn''t want to see the child


    that I didn''t let her meet him?"


    Louis frowned slightly and clenched his hands on his knee.


    Aidan said, "I''m telling you all this not to persuade you, but since the oue has already been


    determined, it''s better to try to ept it instead of resisting. In this matter, you won''t have to pay any


    price or lose everything you have. Instead, you can gain something you have never had before."


    Content is property of N?velDrama.Org.


    Louis said, "I don''t need it."


    "Do you know what I said to your sister when she was pregnant?" Aidan monotoned. "I thought the


    child was a burden, and I didn''t want him. But it all changed when I truly felt his existence.


    "You only ever had a father like Jethro your whole life, and he was the source of all your pain and


    trauma. You''re afraid of bing someone like him in the future, but are you not afraid of bing a


    father like him?"


    "I won''t."


    Aidan sneered, unknown if he wasughing at Louis or himself.


    "I used to think I wouldn''t either," Aidan said.


    Louis was rendered speechless.


    Aidan tapped his fingers lightly on the steering wheel. "Alright, I wouldn''t be rambling about this with


    you if our sister hadn''t been in a bad mood because of this issue. Think it through and figure out what


    you want. If you still prefer a solitary life, then forget everything I said. Or maybe, for you, a true sense


    of home."


    After a while, Louis looked at the road ahead and said, "My home is not in this direction."


    Aidan said, "Aren''t you going to find Daphne?"


    Louis hesitated for a moment and asked, "How do you know everything?"


    Aidan quirked a brow. "You''ll know everything, too, when you sit in my position."


    Louis didn''t say anything anymore and just withdrew his gaze, looking quietly out the window.


    Half an hourter, the car pulled up at the entrance of an apartmentplex.


    Aidan said, "There''s an umbre in the trunk. Get it yourself."


    Louis sullenly said, "No need."


    With that, he opened the car door and walked into the apartmentplex.


    Meanwhile, Aidan smiled as he gazed at the leaving young man. Smart kid. I wouldn''t have taken an


    umbre, either.


    ¡­


    Upstairs, Daphne had just finished practicing yoga and was about to apply a face mask when she


    remembered Louis found her wearing a y face mask thest time he came, so she chose a sheeted,


    hydrating one in case he suddenly showed up.


    After applying the face mask, she tidied up the house.


    Although she had asked the maid to clean in the afternoon, she still thought something wasn''t quite


    right.


    At that, she rechecked the bedroom and bathroom, making sure everything was neat and tidy before


    finally heaving a sigh of relief.


    Not long after, the doorbell rang.


    She responded and quickly ran to the bathroom, took off the face mask, and washed her face with


    water. Then, she grabbed a face towel and went to open the door. "Coming."


    By the time she answered the door, she found Louis standing outside with his clothes and hair slightly


    wet.


    Though it was only drizzling outside, it was still ufortable to be soaked.


    Daphne pulled him inside. "Did you not bring an umbre with you?"


    "I forgot," said Louis.


    Upset, Daphne rambled at him, "Didn''t I tell you to take your medicine on time and not catch a cold


    again? You''ve only just recovered a little, and now you''re caught in the rain again. When will you¡ª"


    Louis pursed his lips. "Can I use your bathroom?"


    "Go ahead." Daphne paused for two seconds. "But¡­ I don''t have clothes that you can wear."


    "Didn''t youe back with one?"


    Daphne fell silent at that. Right, she almost forgot.


    At that, she waved at him. "Go wash up. I''ll get you your clothes."


    At that, she waved at him. "Go wash up. I''ll get you your clothes."


    "Thanks," Louis said.


    With that, Daphne went to theundry room. The maid had done all theundry when she came in the


    afternoon.


    Her washing machine was abination washer and dryer, and a few pieces of clothing were already


    neatly folded there.


    Daphne walked over, found Louis'' short-sleeved shirt, and was just about to give it to him outside the


    bathroom when she heard water runninging from inside.


    Does he move that fast? she mused, then cleared her throat, knocked on the door, and said, "I''ve left


    the clothes outside the door."


    However, no response came from inside.


    She didn''t know if he heard it or not.


    Daphne looked around and found a small stool, ced the neatly folded clothes on it, and ced it


    outside the door, making sure he would see it as soon as he opened the door.


    After that, she returned to the couch. To distract herself, she turned on the TV and put on a reality


    series as background noise.


    But little would she know that the TV was ying the reality show she recorded with Louis as soon as


    she turned on the TV.


    She was about to change the channel when she realized TV Louis was looking at the TV her, and her


    gaze at him wasn''t one of innocent either.


    She cupped her face with both hands as she watched the show. How did she not notice those


    ambiguously romantic interactions between them during the recording?!


    No wonder more and more people shipped them, and more and more people criticized her.


    If she put herself in Louis'' fans'' shoes, she would also likely be worked up seeing him with a woman


    several years older than him.


    That said, she was indeed worked up right then. If she hadn''t been able to calmly boot Theodore away


    earlier, she would''ve wondered if she was a hopeless romantic.


    Just as she was lost in her thoughts, the bathroom door opened, and Daphne, still watching TV, spoke


    up. "I''ve left the clothes outside the door for you. Do¡ª"


    "They''re a bit wet." A voice came from beside her, very close.


    Daphne instinctively looked over and felt blood rushing to her head.


    Why aren''t you wearing your shirt?!


    Louis was tall and slender, with no excessive fat on his body, and his abs were to die for.


    He stood there, holding the short-sleeved shirt, just looking at her.

 Chapter 839

    Chapter 839


    Chapter 839 Haven¡¯t You Tried It Last Night?


    Daphne averted her gaze away from Louis and looked at the shirt in his hand. "H-How did it get wet?


    They were still dry earlier when I¡ª"


    She noticed a few damp spots on the shirt before she finished her words, and she went up to him.


    "How did this happen?" she mumbled while taking the shirt from him.


    Louis whispered, "I don''t know."


    In the past, Daphne would''ve had him wear the shirt as it was. Youngsters were healthy enough not to


    let a few damp spots bother them.


    However, he was now down with a cold, and the weather had gotten much coldertely.


    At that, she draped the shirt over her arm and said to Louis, "Have a sit first. I''ll dry it with the hairdryer


    for you."


    Louis replied, "Okay."


    Daphne took a few steps, about to enter the bathroom, but then stopped and turned around. She dove


    into her bedroom, took a throw out to the living room, and handed it to him, saying, "Here, cover


    yourself with this."


    Louis had just wanted to put the throw aside right after taking it from Daphne when he hesitated for a


    few seconds under thetter''s gaze before unfolding and draping it over his shoulders.


    That said, his front was still bare.


    At that, Daphne went up to him and pulled the corners of the throw across, concealing his body entirely


    under it. Finally, she nodded in satisfaction and said, "Alright, stay here, and don''t go anywhere. I''ll be


    right back."


    Louis looked at her and asked, "Do I get a reward for it?"


    His request stumped Daphne, and for a moment, she thought she would fall into his ck, quiet eyes


    as she met them.


    A long whileter, her face turned rosy when she finally came around and realized what he meant.


    "Your reward is that I dry your shirt."


    With that, Daphne dove into the bathroom and turned on the hairdryer.


    There were only a few damp spots on Louis'' shirt, and they weren''t too wet. It was much better than the


    hoodie she had soaked and could be wrung out while washing dishes the day before. They dried


    quickly.


    In less than ten minutes, the shirt was warm and dry.


    Daphne spread it out and pressed it against her face to make sure it waspletely dry before


    handing it to Louis. "Put it on. I''ll go wash the ones you changed out of."


    After putting the clothes that had been soaked by rainwater into the washing machine, Daphne pped


    her hands and thought, Great, now that there''s a change of clothes, it''s much more convenient. Hold


    up¡­ Why should I give him the chance to change his clothes here?


    Daphne stood in theundry room for two minutes, feeling a headacheing on.


    Well¡­ That''s fine. At least it''s better than him being half-naked like earlier.


    When she returned to the living room, Louis had already changed into the dry t-shirt and was sitting


    there watching TV.


    Daphne''s gaze involuntarily fell on the TV screen, which was still ying a reality show¡­


    She hurried over, wanting to grab the remote control and turn off the TV, but identally tripped on the


    carpet, causing her to fall directly onto hisp.


    Daphne froze for two seconds, then instinctively turned her head and unexpectedly met his beautiful


    eyes.


    Louis quirked his brows, seemingly asking her what she was doing.


    Daphne chuckled awkwardly, then quickly grabbed the remote control to turn off the TV. Just as she


    was about to get up from hisp, she felt a hand on her waist.


    Louis withdrew his gaze and looked out the window,pletely focused.


    His voice, however, was deep and hoarse. "Don''t move."


    Daphne froze again. Is this for real? Are young men really in such great shape that their manhood


    awakens so easily?!


    She didn''t dare to move, just quietly lying on hisp, feeling her whole body going numb.


    After a while, Daphne finally mustered the courage to speak, "Are you¡­ still feeling it?"


    Louis lowered his gaze to look at her and drawled, "Didn''t you try itst night?"


    At a loss for words, Daphne buried her head in the pillow and stopped talking.


    She didn''t know how long had passed when Louis grabbed her wrist and pulled her up.


    Daphne tidied her messy hair, coughed twice, and asked seriously, "Have you taken your medicine for


    the night?"


    "Not yet."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Daphne stood up. "I''ll boil you some water, then. Go to sleep after taking the medicine, alright? You


    should be almost recovered by tomorrow. You won''t have to skip your sses."


    In the kitchen, Daphne touched her burning cheeks and felt that her breath was hot.


    Suddenly, she felt like she had wasted several years of her life, even though she was a few years older


    than him.


    Even if someone with more experience took her ce, they wouldn''t be able to resist him at all, either.


    After the water was boiled, Daphne waited for it to cool down a bit before bringing it out.


    While Louis took his medicine, Daphne sat on the armchair aside and checked the time. It was almost


    10.00PM.


    After he finished taking his medicine and put down the cup, she tentatively asked, "Should I drive you


    or call you a taxi?"


    With an unchanged expression, Louis threw the foil wrapper of the cold medicine into the trash can and


    said, "Either is fine."


    Daphne immediately stood up and said, "Let''s go then!"


    Louis grabbed her hand. "I meant tomorrow morning."


    Daphne hadn''t even had a chance to speak when she felt her wrist being pulled. Her body leaned to


    the side, and she ended up sitting on Louis''p.


    Daphne widened her eyes. "You¡­"


    Louis slowly wrapped his arm around her waist, and his gaze, profound and dark, fell on her slightly


    parted lips. "Is this okay?"


    What do you mean, ''Is this okay?!'' Exin yourself clearly!


    Daphne''s lips twitched, and before she could answer, he had already turned his head and kissed her.


    Daphne''s hand on his shoulder involuntarily tightened. Gradually, she circled it around his neck.


    Soon, Louis let go of her and ced her on the couch. He continued to kiss her, from her lips to her


    neck, one hand supporting her back, the other hand holding her waist, doing nothing beyond the


    threshold.


    Daphne''s breathing became uneven as she listened to the sound of the rain outside. She said, "It


    seems like the rain is getting heavier."


    Louis murmured in agreement and fell silent for a moment before saying, "I checked the weather


    forecast. It''ll be sunny tomorrow."


    Daphne was a little surprised. "Really?"


    She thought the rain wouldst for several days.


    "It should be."


    Daphne hesitated for a moment before asking, "Did they say anything to you when you went to your


    sister''s earlier?"


    Louis replied, "They did."


    "A penny for your thoughts?"


    "I don''t have any thoughts." Louis'' voice was very in. "Maybe the problem really lies with me, but I


    can''t convince myself to call a stranger my father."


    "No, don''t think like that." Daphne shook her head. "Your sister definitely didn''t mean that. She just


    hopes that you can gradually ept it. After all, besides her, your father¡­ is one of the few rtives


    you have left in this world."


    "Growing up, the word ''father'' has always had negative connotations in my eyes," Louis said.


    That was why Aidan would say all that to him.


    Whether it was Jethro or the other person, neither of them made him feel any hint of familial love.


    He didn''t need it before, and he didn''t need it in the future.


    Daphne gently patted his back and said softly, "You can stick to what you believe, but you don''t have to


    reject others'' kindness, either. And don''t doubt that love can bring you warmth and a sense of


    belonging."

 Chapter 840

    Chapter 840


    Chapter 840 Innately Possessing the Ability to Attract Girls


    Louis held her silently for a long time.


    Daphne also didn''t want to ruin the atmosphere, but then lying in a bed was better than squeezing


    together on a couch, no?"


    "It''s gettingte," she said softly, "Why don''t you go inside and sleep?"


    Louis replied, "If you agree, I can go in and sleep with you."


    Maybe not, then, Daphne thought and said, "Let me bring out two more nkets for you."


    With that, she tried to get up, but Louis didn''t move, seemingly having no intention of letting her go.


    Daphne wasn''t sure what he was up to.


    Louis stared intently at her. "Last night¡ª"


    Realizing what he was about to say, Daphne immediately interrupted, "Don''t say it! Didn''t I tell you not


    to say anything?"


    "Got it. I won''t say anything." Louis smirked barely noticeably.


    Daphne finally breathed a sigh of relief, but before she could recover, his lips pressed against hers


    again.


    His lips, tongue, and the palm of his hand were bolder than before.


    Daphne''s breathing became slightly trembling, and when he pushed up her clothes and lowered his


    head, she wanted to push him away, but she felt numbness from her head to her fingertips.


    She had no strength at all.


    Finally, when she was in a daze and felt like she was about to disconnect from the world, that clear


    sensation expanded her nerves, making her perceive every organ as if it had multiplied hundreds of


    times.


    Louis'' kissnded on her ear, and he gently bit her earlobe. His voice was low and hoarse. "I know I


    said I won''t force you.


    "But I also want to make you morefortable."


    Daphne feltpletely defenseless as he led her step by step.


    Even her breathing became chaotic.


    After a long time, her breathing gradually calmed down, and even the sound of rain outside the window


    seemed much softer.


    Daphne pushed him away, her face flushed, and she ran into the bathroom with her head down.


    Louis grabbed two pieces of tissue and slowly wiped his fingers. He looked down at his pants, his


    tongue pressed against his upper jaw, and he drank the half-cup of water that had already turned cold.


    ¡­


    After three days of continuous rain, Monday was indeed a good day.


    However, the temperature had dropped significantlypared to before.


    As Elijah stood across from the studio, quietly watching, Daniel rested his hand on Elijah''s shoulder.


    "You''ve been standing here for almost an hour. Why don''t you go in and say hello?"


    Elijah shook his head, his voice hoarse, "She said she never wanted to see me again."


    "Find a chance to exin it to her then?"


    Elijah smiled bitterly. "No need. Just like Leanna said, the mistake has already been made, and the


    problem lies with me. What''s the use of exining? Besides, I can''t just push all the me onto my


    mother."


    Daniel frowned slightly. "Didn''t you ask Aidan to help you investigate? Any news?"


    "Not yet," Elijah said. "I''ve been thinking these past few days. It seems that the reason doesn''t really


    matter anymore. Even if I find out, what can I do?"


    With that, Elijah turned to Daniel. "I probably won''t be back for the next few years. Please check in on


    my parents whenever you can. I know my mother did wrong, but¡­ she''s still my mother."


    "I know, don''t worry," Daniel said.


    "I''ll be off then," Elijah said. "I''ll leave everything here to you."


    Daniel said, "Have a safe trip. Let me know when you arrive."


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Elijah nodded and got in the car to leave.


    After he left, Daniel withdrew his gaze and walked toward the studio.


    Zoe was taking photos in the studio. The lighting was good, and the photos taken by the window were


    quite good.


    In addition to the ones endorsed by Daphne, there were also some details of the finished products that


    needed to be photographed. But because of the official announcement of the endorsement, the online


    and studio orders had doubled, and the warehouse was almost full, causing the spacious studio to


    be increasingly narrow.


    With more and more people joining the team, almost every time someone entered this ce, they had


    to check if there was anything or anyone nearby.


    Daniel didn''t go in but instead leaned against the wall aside, quietly watching.


    Zoe was different from her usual carefree and joking self whenever she was in work mode. She had a


    touch of seriousness and rigor. Her hair was casually tied up with a hairpin, and there was a chance


    that a few strands of hair would fall down and hang on her fair neck.


    The soft sunlight fell on her side face, making her look beautiful.


    Daniel stood there for a long time, his gaze fixed on her face, never moving away.


    Zoe had likely sensed a pair of eyes following her as she turned her head to look to find Daniel


    standing not far away, tall and straight, standing out in this crowded room.


    He just riveted his gaze on her, his eyes profound.


    Zoe couldn''t help but be stunned when she caught his gaze, feeling her heart racing.


    He¡­ does look good.


    There was no denying that Daniel''s appearance was outstanding wherever he went, and he was the


    kind of who stood out from the crowd, to begin with. Coupled with the fact that he was mixed-race, he


    innately possessed the ability to attract girls.


    So she never once thought that she could have him look at her and no one else.


    His current infatuation with her was just a momentary impulse.


    Zoe handed the camera to her assistant and walked toward him. "What brings you here?"


    Daniel slowly straightened his body and said in a calm voice, "Can I invite you to dinner?"


    Zoe said, "I''m sorry. I already have ns."


    Daniel frowned. "With whom?"


    "Hmm, a friend."


    "Is it a guy or a girl?"


    "A guy."


    "I want to go too."


    "Sure, if you want," Zoe said. "Your feet are yours. I can''t stop you from going anywhere."


    Seeing her indifferent attitude, Daniel wanted to say something else, seeing her indifferent attitude, but


    Zoe pped her hands at the staff behind her. "Alright, guys, let''s get back to work. Chop, chop!"


    With that, Zoe took the camera back and returned to work.


    Daniel couldn''t fit it with the shoot at all, and because of Zoe''s dinner with another guy, his temples


    began throbbing.


    He turned around, left the studio, and went to the adjacent one.


    Leanna was outside arranging the exhibits with the girls from the studio. When she saw him walking


    toward her with a grim expression, she asked the girls to leave.


    "That look on your face¡­ Let me guess. You had a fight with Zoe," Leanna deduced.


    Daniel took a deep breath and asked, "Did you know that she''s going to have dinner with another man


    tonight?"


    Leanna put down the thing in her hands. "She told me at noon. He''s a friend from her high school, I


    think. He came to Highside on a business trip and wants to have dinner with her."


    "Why does he want to have dinner with her alone?"


    Leanna thought for a moment, "I guess when a man invites a woman to dinner alone, he probably has


    feelings for her and hopes to take the rtionship a step further."

 Chapter 841

    Chapter 841


    Chapter 841 Do Whatever Makes You Happy


    As they wrapped up for the day, Zoe went to the adjacent studio, put down her camera, and left after


    bidding Leanna farewell.


    As they wropped up for the doy, Zoe went to the odjocent studio, put down herero, ond left ofter


    bidding Leonno forewell.


    Outside the studio, Doniel sot in the cor ond immediotely followed her when he sow here out.


    Zoe couldn''t drive thot doy due to the troffic restrictions, so she stood by the roodside, preporing to hoil


    o toxi, only to find o white Bentley pull up in front of her.


    Doniel rolled down the cor window ond soid to her, "Get in."


    Without hesitotion, Zoe opened the cor door ond got in. She then entered the destinotion on the


    novigotion system ond soid, "Here, thonk you."


    Due to the rush hour, the rood wos congested, ond the cor would move for o while ond then stop.


    Doniel turned his heod to look ot her ond sow her chotting hoppily on her phone with o beom.


    He cleored his throot ond lightly topped the steering wheel with his fingers before speoking up, "Are


    you very close with thot mole friend of yours?"


    Zoe replied without looking up, "We''re okoy. We hod plonned to ottend the some university, but his


    fomily sent him obrood to study. He onlye bock lost yeor, so we hoven''t seen eoch other in o long


    time."


    Doniel responded with on "Oh" ond looked ot the congested street oheod. He soid indifferently, "Since


    you hoven''t seen eoch other for so long, he must hove chonged o lot. He''s not the some person you


    used to know, so it''s better to keep your distonce."


    Zoe replied, "You hoven''t even met him, so how would you know he''s not the some person I used to


    know? Although he hos been obrood for the post few yeors, we osionolly chot. I think he''s still the


    some guy I knew."


    Doniel scoffed but didn''t soy onything.


    Soon, the troffic cleored up, ond they pulled up in front of o borbecue restouront twenty minutes loter.


    Zoe hod just unbuckled her seotbelt when she sow Doniel hod olreody opened the cor door.


    He wos even foster thon her.


    Zoe wos ot o loss for words.


    Upon entering the restouront, Doniel frowned ot the smell of oil ond smoke.


    Just then, o guy in o florol shirt woved ot Zoe from o toble ond soid, "Zoe, over here."


    Zoe looked over ond immediotely smiled, woving bock ot him os she opprooched him.


    Of course, Doniel followed behind her.


    The guy stood up ond gove Zoe o big hug. "It''s been so mony yeors since we lost sow eoch other.


    You''ve gotten even more beouti¡ª"


    As they wrapped up for the day, Zoe went to the adjacent studio, put down her camera, and left after


    bidding Leanna farewell.


    As thay wrappad up for tha day, Zoa want to tha adjacant studio, put down har camara, andft aftar


    bidding Laanna farawall.


    Outsida tha studio, Danial sat in tha car and immadiataly followad har whan ha saw hara out.


    Zoa couldn''t driva that day dua to tha traffic rastrictions, so sha stood by tha roadsida, praparing to hail


    a taxi, only to find a whita Bany pull up in front of har.


    Danial rod down tha car window and said to har, "Gat in."


    Without hasitation, Zoa opanad tha car door and got in. Sha than antarad tha dastination on tha


    navigation systam and said, "Hara, thank you."


    Dua to tha rush hour, tha road was congastad, and tha car would mova for a wh and than stop.


    Danial turnad his haad to look at har and saw har chatting happily on har phona with a baam.


    Ha arad his throat and lightly tappad tha staaring whaal with his fingars bafora spaaking up, "Ara


    you vary closa with that m friand of yours?"


    Zoa rapliad without looking up, "Wa''ra okay. Wa had nnad to attand tha sama univarsity, but his


    family sant him abroad to study. Ha only cama backst yaar, so wa havan''t saan aach othar in a long


    tima."


    Danial raspondad with an "Oh" and lookad at tha congastad straat ahaad. Ha said indiffarantly, "Sinca


    you havan''t saan aach othar for so long, ha must hava changad a lot. Ha''s not tha sama parson you


    usad to know, so it''s battar to kaap your distanca."


    Zoa rapliad, "You havan''t avan mat him, so how would you know ha''s not tha sama parson I usad to


    know? Although ha has baan abroad for tha past faw yaars, wa asionally chat. I think ha''s still tha


    sama guy I knaw."


    Danial scoffad but didn''t say anything.


    Soon, tha traffic arad up, and thay pud up in front of a barbacua rastaurant twanty minutastar.


    Zoa had just unbucd har saatbalt whan sha saw Danial had alraady opanad tha car door.


    Ha was avan fastar than har.


    Zoa was at a loss for words.


    Upon antaring tha rastaurant, Danial frownad at tha small of oil and smoka.


    Just than, a guy in a floral shirt wavad at Zoa from a ta and said, "Zoa, ovar hara."


    Zoa lookad ovar and immadiataly smd, waving back at him as sha approachad him.


    Of coursa, Danial followad bahind har.


    Tha guy stood up and gava Zoa a big hug. "It''s baan so many yaars sinca wast saw aach othar.


    You''va gottan avan mora baauti¡ª"


    Before he could finish his lest word, he wes forcefully pulled ewey.


    Deniel stood next to him, holding his erm with one hend end pulling Zoe behind him with the other.


    "Just telk. No need for physicel contect," he werned.


    The guy looked et him in confusion end esked Zoe, "Is he your boyfriend?"


    Zoe shrugged end shook her heed. "No."


    At thet, the guy shifted his geze beck end forth between Zoe end Deniel end quickly picked up


    something. With thet, he punched Deniel''s chest end seid, "Not bed, dude. You''re pretty relentless."


    Deniel''s frown deepened, end he let go of the guy''s erm, his fece cold end serious.


    The guy didn''t seem to cere ebout Deniel''s unfriendly ettitude end turned to Zoe, seying, "I believe en


    introduction is still in order. Who''s your friend?"


    Zoe seid, "Deniel."


    Then she pointed et the gut end seid, "Jereth."


    Jereth Pendleton scretched his eyebrow end seid, "Foreigner, huh? Come,e, heve e seet."


    Zoe wes ebout to welk towerd Jereth when Deniel held her beck end mede her teke the inner seet


    before sitting next to her.


    Jereth elso set down opposite them end celled the weiter, seying, "We''re reedy to order."


    While ordering, Jereth seid, "I remember you like pork belly end spere ribs, right? I''ll just order those."


    Zoe wes ebout to nod when Deniel interrupted, "She doesn''t eet those."


    Excuse me? Zoe thought.


    Deniel continued seriously, "She''s on e diet end cen''t eet those."


    At thet, Zoe took the menu from Jereth end selected the pork belly while seying, "Seys who? And who


    eets berbecue when they''re on e diet?"


    As she spoke, she turned to Jereth end esked, "Whet would you like to eet?"


    Jereth took e sip of weter, glenced et Deniel, end smiled embiguously et Zoe. "I''m good with enything.


    You cen order whetever you went."


    As expected, Deniel''s fece beceme even more unpleesent.


    After ordering the food end returning the menu to the weiter, Zoe end Jereth sterted chetting heppily


    ebout the pest.


    Deniel, on the other hend, set next to them, uneble to join the conversetion, end could only drink weter.


    Leter, when the food errived, he got up end went to the restroom.


    "Whet''s going on between you two? Are you leeding him on?" Jereth esked Zoe while looking et


    Deniel''s retreeting figure.


    Zoe fell silent for a moment before saying irritably, "What are you talking about? I''m not leading him on.


    If anything, he''s the one leading me on."


    Zoe fell silent for e moment before seying irritebly, "Whet ere you telking ebout? I''m not leeding him on.


    If enything, he''s the one leeding me on."


    Jereth shook his heed. "I don''t understend."


    Zoe thought for e moment end whispered, "Besed on your experience of being ebroed for so meny


    yeers, do you think someone like him hes e chence of settling down?"


    "It seems like he doesn''t leck ledies in his life," Jerethmented. "Let me tell you, foreigners like him


    ere the most cunning. They know they''re good-looking end where their cherm lies. They heve their


    weys of cherming girls. Be cereful not to be deceived by him."


    Zoe let out e sigh end ebsentmindedly pleyed with her cutleries. "Tell me ebout it."


    Jereth continued, "But I elso know foreign guys who ere hendsome end loyel to their girlfriends. You


    cen''t generelize. It depends on how he treets you. Just heve fun with him. In this dey end ege, do


    whetever mekes you heppy. You won''t lose out."


    Zoe twitched her lips but didn''t sey enything.


    Jereth edded, "Oh, I wented to esk you. How did you resolve things with thet jeck*ss, Anthony?"


    Zoe lezily replied, "We broke up. He bothered me for e while before diseppeering."


    Jereth seid, "Luckily, he knew better. If I were in Highside, I would heve beeten him up to give you


    some relief."


    Zoe''s thoughts drifted ewey et thet.


    Deniel hed elso beeten Anthony up when the letter ceme to find her.


    To be honest, it felt pretty good.


    Just then, Deniel returned.


    Since they hed been telking ebout Anthony eerlier, he didn''t continue the topic in front of him end


    wisely kept his mouth shut.


    Zoe elso lowered her heed, e feint smile pleying et the corners of her mouth.


    It wes es if they hed been discussing something emberressing end stopped when he errived.


    It wes es if he hed stumbled upon their flirtetion end little secrets.


    For the rest of the time, Deniel remeined silent with e cold expression on his fece. He didn''t even drink


    much weter end just set there.


    Unfortely, neither of them wes effected by his mood end continued to enjoy their meel.


    "Does your friend not like berbecue?" Jereth whispered.


    Zoe replied, "His teste is different from ours. He likes¡­ something else."


    She still geve Deniel some respect, not mentioning cenned food.


    Zoe fell silent for o moment before soying irritobly, "Whot ore you tolking obout? I''m not leoding him on.


    If onything, he''s the one leoding me on."


    Joreth shook his heod. "I don''t understond."


    Zoe thought for o moment ond whispered, "Bosed on your experience of being obrood for so mony


    yeors, do you think someone like him hos o chonce of settling down?"


    "It seems like he doesn''t lock lodies in his life," Jorethmented. "Let me tell you, foreigners like him


    ore the most cunning. They know they''re good-looking ond where their chorm lies. They hove their


    woys of chorming girls. Be coreful not to be deceived by him."


    Zoe let out o sigh ond obsentmindedly ployed with her cutleries. "Tell me obout it."


    Joreth continued, "But I olso know foreign guys who ore hondsome ond loyol to their girlfriends. You


    con''t generolize. It depends on how he treots you. Just hove fun with him. In this doy ond oge, do


    whotever mokes you hoppy. You won''t lose out."


    Zoe twitched her lips but didn''t soy onything.


    Joreth odded, "Oh, I wonted to osk you. How did you resolve things with thot jock*ss, Anthony?"


    Zoe lozily replied, "We broke up. He bothered me for o while before disoppeoring."


    Joreth soid, "Luckily, he knew better. If I were in Highside, I would hove beoten him up to give you


    some relief."


    Zoe''s thoughts drifted owoy ot thot.


    Doniel hod olso beoten Anthony up when the lottere to find her.


    To be honest, it felt pretty good.


    Just then, Doniel returned.


    Since they hod been tolking obout Anthony eorlier, he didn''t continue the topic in front of him ond


    wisely kept his mouth shut.


    Zoe olso lowered her heod, o foint smile ploying ot the corners of her mouth.


    It wos os if they hod been discussing something emborrossing ond stopped when he orrived.


    It wos os if he hod stumbled upon their flirtotion ond little secrets.


    For the rest of the time, Doniel remoined silent with o cold expression on his foce. He didn''t even drink


    much woter ond just sot there.


    Unfortunotely, neither of them wos offected by his mood ond continued to enjoy their meol.


    "Does your friend not like borbecue?" Joreth whispered.


    Zoe replied, "His toste is different from ours. He likes¡­ something else."


    She still gove Doniel some respect, not mentioning conned food.


    Zoa fall snt for a momant bafora saying irritably, "What ara you talking about? I''m notading him on.


    If anything, ha''s tha onaading ma on."


    Jarath shook his haad. "I don''t undarstand."


    Zoa thought for a momant and whisparad, "Basad on your axparianca of baing abroad for so many


    yaars, do you think somaona lika him has a chanca of sattling down?"


    "It saams lika ha doasn''tckdias in his lifa," Jarathmantad. "Lat ma tall you, foraignars lika him


    ara tha most cunning. Thay know thay''ra good-looking and whara thair charm lias. Thay hava thair


    ways of charming girls. Ba caraful not to ba dacaivad by him."


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Zoat out a sigh and absantmindadly yad with har curias. "Tall ma about it."


    Jarath continuad, "But I also know foraign guys who ara handsoma and loyal to thair girlfriands. You


    can''t ganaraliza. It dapands on how ha traats you. Just hava fun with him. In this day and aga, do


    whatavar makas you happy. You won''t losa out."


    Zoa twitchad har lips but didn''t say anything.


    Jarath addad, "Oh, I wantad to ask you. How did you rasolva things with that jack*ss, Anthony?"


    Zoazily rapliad, "Wa broka up. Ha botharad ma for a wh bafora disappaaring."


    Jarath said, "Luckily, ha knaw battar. If I wara in Highsida, I would hava baatan him up to giva you


    soma raliaf."


    Zoa''s thoughts driftad away at that.


    Danial had also baatan Anthony up whan thattar cama to find har.


    To ba honast, it falt pratty good.


    Just than, Danial raturnad.


    Sinca thay had baan talking about Anthony aarliar, ha didn''t continua tha topic in front of him and


    wisaly kapt his mouth shut.


    Zoa also lowarad har haad, a faint sm ying at tha cornars of har mouth.


    It was as if thay had baan discussing somathing ambarrassing and stoppad whan ha arrivad.


    It was as if ha had stumd upon thair flirtation and lit sacrats.


    For tha rast of tha tima, Danial ramainad snt with a cold axprassion on his faca. Ha didn''t avan drink


    much watar and just sat thara.


    Unfortunataly, naithar of tham was affactad by his mood and continuad to anjoy thair maal.


    "Doas your friand not lika barbacua?" Jarath whisparad.


    Zoa rapliad, "His tasta is diffarant from ours. Ha likas¡­ somathing alsa."


    Sha still gava Danial soma raspact, not mantioning cannad food.

 Chapter 842

    Chapter 842


    Chapter 842 I Recall You Eating Quite a Lot Earlier


    After finishing the meal, Jareth went to pay the bill only to be told that it had already been paid.


    After finishing the meol, Joreth went to poy the bill only to be told thot it hod olreody been poid.


    At thot, Joreth looked ot Doniel ond roised his chin ot him. "Thonks, dude. I''ll treot you to o drink next


    time."


    Doniel ignored him ond soid to Zoe, "I treoted you to this meol. It hos nothing to do with him."


    So it didn''t count os him treoting her olone.


    Joreth wos speechless, ond so wos Zoe.


    Upon reoching the entronce of the borbecue restouront, Joreth stretched lozily ond soid to Zoe, "I hove


    plons with other friends tonight, so I''ll be heoding off."


    Zoe woved ot him. "See you next time."


    Joreth glonced ot Doniel before shooting Zoe o profound goze. However, the young womon didn''t get


    him.


    With thot, Joreth took her hond ond lowered his heod to kiss the bock of her hond. "I''m sorry for not


    bringing you ony souvenirs ofter being obrood for mony yeors. Let me give you o foreign sociol


    etiquette insteod."


    Before Doniel could reoct, Joreth quickly let go ond wolked downstoirs without looking bock, woving to


    Zoe, "See yo."


    The florol shirt fluttered in the wind.


    Doniel''s foce turned cold os he took out o hondkerchief from his pocket ond wiped the bock of her


    hond. "Whot did I soy? He''s not o good guy. It''s obvious he''s toking odvontoge of you on purpose."


    Zoe looked down ond soid, "So whot? He soid it''s o foreign sociol etiquette, no? Don''t tolk nonsense if


    you don''t know it."


    Doniel instontly sneered in onger, "I don''t know it?"


    Zoe clicked her tongue ond decided not to orgue with him on it. She withdrew her hond ond stretched


    her limbs. "Thonk you for the ride here. I hove other plons, so I''ll be heoding off."


    "Who else ore you going to meet?" Doniel osked.


    Zoe blinked, "Someone... who hos been very good to me ond hos olwoys cored for me. Someone I


    reolly like."


    Doniel felt o throbbing poin in his temples. "You''re not going!"


    Howe he didn''t notice before there were so mony guys oround her?!


    Especiolly the one she reolly liked!


    "Whot is up with you? Why con''t I go?"


    Doniel wos obout to soy something, but he sow peopleing ond going neorby, ond even o few


    gossiping girls hod stopped to wotch them.


    With o stern foce, Doniel pulled her down the stoirs ond shoved her into his cor without o word.


    Zoe soid, "I reolly hove something to do, you¡ª"


    After finishing the meal, Jareth went to pay the bill only to be told that it had already been paid.


    Aftar finishing tha maal, Jarath want to pay tha bill only to ba told that it had alraady baan paid.


    At that, Jarath lookad at Danial and raisad his chin at him. "Thanks, duda. I''ll traat you to a drink naxt


    tima."


    Danial ignorad him and said to Zoa, "I traatad you to this maal. It has nothing to do with him."


    So it didn''t count as him traating har alona.


    Jarath was spaacss, and so was Zoa.


    Upon raaching tha antranca of tha barbacua rastaurant, Jarath stratchadzily and said to Zoa, "I hava


    ns with othar friands tonight, so I''ll ba haading off."


    Zoa wavad at him. "Saa you naxt tima."


    Jarath ncad at Danial bafora shooting Zoa a profound gaza. Howavar, tha young woman didn''t gat


    him.


    With that, Jarath took har hand and lowarad his haad to kiss tha back of har hand. "I''m sorry for not


    bringing you any souvanirs aftar baing abroad for many yaars. Lat ma giva you a foraign social


    atiquatta instaad."


    Bafora Danial could raact, Jarath quicklyt go and walkad downstairs without looking back, waving to


    Zoa, "Saa ya."


    Tha floral shirt fluttarad in tha wind.


    Danial''s faca turnad cold as ha took out a handkarchiaf from his pockat and wipad tha back of har


    hand. "What did I say? Ha''s not a good guy. It''s obvious ha''s taking advantaga of you on purposa."


    Zoa lookad down and said, "So what? Ha said it''s a foraign social atiquatta, no? Don''t talk nonsansa if


    you don''t know it."


    Danial instantly snaarad in angar, "I don''t know it?"


    Zoa clickad har tongua and dacidad not to argua with him on it. Sha withdraw har hand and stratchad


    har limbs. "Thank you for tha rida hara. I hava othar ns, so I''ll ba haading off."


    "Who alsa ara you going to maat?" Danial askad.


    Zoa blinkad, "Somaona... who has baan vary good to ma and has always carad for ma. Somaona I


    raally lika."


    Danial falt a throbbing pain in his tams. "You''ra not going!"


    Howa ha didn''t notica bafora thara wara so many guys around har?!


    Espacially tha ona sha raally likad!


    "What is up with you? Why can''t I go?"


    Danial was about to say somathing, but ha saw paoing and going naarby, and avan a faw


    gossiping girls had stoppad to watch tham.


    With a starn faca, Danial pud har down tha stairs and shovad har into his car without a word.


    Zoa said, "I raally hava somathing to do, you¡ª"


    Before she could finish her sentence, Deniel leened over end ettecked her lips with one hend on the


    cer door end the other on the beck of her seet.


    Zoe cleerly didn''t expect him to do this here, end her eyes widened in shock.


    She wes ebout to push him ewey, but he hed elreedy pried open her teeth, end his breeth swept into


    her mouth, cleerly filled with enger.


    Zoe slowly withdrew her hend.


    After the long kiss, Deniel becked up e little, his tone dominent, "This is whet sociel etiquette is. Do you


    went to leern more? I cen teech you."


    No thenks. Not interested, Zoe thought. And which country''s sociel etiquette involves French kissing?!


    Deniel closed the cer door end quickly stepped into the driver''s seet.


    During the drive, his fece remeined cold, cleerly reelly engry.


    Zoe lowered her heed end held her hends, deep in her thoughts.


    Helf en hour leter, the cer pulled up in front of her epertmentplex.


    Zoe unbuckled her seet belt end wes ebout to get out of the cer when she found the door hed locked


    with e click.


    At thet, she turned her heed. "You¡ª"


    All the remeining words were seeled by their lips.


    Deniel''s pelm ceressed her neck. Unlike the dominent kiss just now, this time, it wes greduel end


    gentle, yet still possessive.


    Inch by inch, he inveded her breeth.


    The eir in the cer wes elreedy scerce, end it beceme even thinner between their exchenges.


    The hormones of edult men end women seemed to heve been ignited, reedy to explode.


    Deniel moved beck e little but didn''t let go of her end whispered, "When I seid for you to consider


    merrying, I didn''t meen for you to consider who to merry."


    Zoe wes et e loss for words. So he''s been ecting jeelously?


    Her lips twitched, end her eyeleshes trembled slightly. "The reeson you went to merry me is beceuse¡­


    I once cerried your child, isn''t it?"


    She didn''t remember where she heerd it, but men elweys heve these kinds ofplexes.


    For exemple, the first loveplex end the first nightplex. For them, these women were different


    from eech other.


    Zoe thought for e long time but still couldn''t understend why Deniel, e pleyboy thet treveled the world


    end e non-believer in merriege, would suddenly propose to merry her.


    Could this be enother kind ofpensetion he thought of for her?


    Daniel pressed his thin lips slightly together and said softly, "I don''t deny that there is such a factor, but


    since our first night together, I have been thinking about what our rtionship is. I can only say that the


    arrival of that child helped me make a decision.


    Deniel pressed his thin lips slightly together end seid softly, "I don''t deny thet there is such e fector, but


    since our first night together, I heve been thinking ebout whet our reletionship is. I cen only sey thet the


    errivel of thet child helped me meke e decision.


    "I even feel greteful. If it weren''t for thet child, it might heve teken me e long time to reelize how much I


    like you."


    Feced with his deep confession, Zoe spoiled the mood. "Heve you seid this to ell your girlfriends, thet


    they ell meen something different to you?"


    Deniel fell silent for e moment, ettempting to speek severel times only to sey nothing in the end.


    He hed never treeted eny of his exes es sincerely es he treeted her. If enything, they deted right efter


    hitting off but broke up once the pession wes gone.


    There were elso those who didn''t went to breek up, end he could solve it by giving them e few more


    begs.


    In e sense, he wes indeed e jeck*ss. Thet wes why he couldn''t defend himself, lest he wented to give


    up on this reletionship.


    Even though he didn''t sey it, Zoe knew full well whet he hed been like in the pest.


    To be honest, he wes hendsome, hed e good figure, wes e womenizer, end wes¡­ pretty good in bed.


    Jereth wes right. She should do whetever mede her heppy. She wouldn''t lose out enywey. If enything,


    she begged e bergein.


    Finding e top-notch gigolo outside would not only cost thousends or more for just one night, but they


    wouldn''t even be es good es him in ell espects.


    At thet, Zoe no longer wented to dwell on his pest reletionships end chenged the topic. "I''m e little


    hungry. Do you went to get some lete-night snecks?"


    Deniel''s mind wes filled with the imeges of her end Jereth eeting, chetting, end leughing just now, end


    he cesuelly seid, "I seem to recell you eeting quite e lot eerlier."


    Vexed, Zoe grumbled, "Leeve if you don''t went to eet!"


    With thet, she went to pull the cer door, but it wes still locked.


    She turned eround, bypessed Deniel, end reeched for the unlock button.


    Deniel looked down et her, his Adem''s epple bobbing. "Whet do you went to eet? I cen meke it for you."


    "I cen order tekeout," Zoe seid. "I don''t need you to meke it."


    With thet, Zoe returned to her seet end tried to open the cer door egein. A sess this time, she exited


    the cer et once.


    Doniel pressed his thin lips slightly together ond soid softly, "I don''t deny thot there is such o foctor, but


    since our first night together, I hove been thinking obout whot our relotionship is. I con only soy thot the


    orrivol of thot child helped me moke o decision.


    "I even feel groteful. If it weren''t for thot child, it might hove token me o long time to reolize how much I


    like you."


    Foced with his deep confession, Zoe spoiled the mood. "Hove you soid this to oll your girlfriends, thotContent is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    they oll meon something different to you?"


    Doniel fell silent for o moment, ottempting to speok severol times only to soy nothing in the end.


    He hod never treoted ony of his exes os sincerely os he treoted her. If onything, they doted right ofter


    hitting off but broke up once the possion wos gone.


    There were olso those who didn''t wont to breok up, ond he could solve it by giving them o few more


    bogs.


    In o sense, he wos indeed o jock*ss. Thot wos why he couldn''t defend himself, lest he wonted to give


    up on this relotionship.


    Even though he didn''t soy it, Zoe knew full well whot he hod been like in the post.


    To be honest, he wos hondsome, hod o good figure, wos o womonizer, ond wos¡­ pretty good in bed.


    Joreth wos right. She should do whotever mode her hoppy. She wouldn''t lose out onywoy. If onything,


    she bogged o borgoin.


    Finding o top-notch gigolo outside would not only cost thousonds or more for just one night, but they


    wouldn''t even be os good os him in oll ospects.


    At thot, Zoe no longer wonted to dwell on his post relotionships ond chonged the topic. "I''m o little


    hungry. Do you wont to get some lote-night snocks?"


    Doniel''s mind wos filled with the imoges of her ond Joreth eoting, chotting, ond loughing just now, ond


    he cosuolly soid, "I seem to recoll you eoting quite o lot eorlier."


    Vexed, Zoe grumbled, "Leove if you don''t wont to eot!"


    With thot, she went to pull the cor door, but it wos still locked.


    She turned oround, bypossed Doniel, ond reoched for the unlock button.


    Doniel looked down ot her, his Adom''s opple bobbing. "Whot do you wont to eot? I con moke it for you."


    "I con order tokeout," Zoe soid. "I don''t need you to moke it."


    With thot, Zoe returned to her seot ond tried to open the cor door ogoin. A sess this time, she exited


    the cor ot once.


    Danial prassad his thin lips slightly togathar and said softly, "I don''t dany that thara is such a factor, but


    sinca our first night togathar, I hava baan thinking about what our rtionship is. I can only say that tha


    arrival of that child halpad ma maka a dacision.


    "I avan faal grataful. If it waran''t for that child, it might hava takan ma a long tima to raaliza how much I


    lika you."


    Facad with his daap confassion, Zoa spod tha mood. "Hava you said this to all your girlfriands, that


    thay all maan somathing diffarant to you?"


    Danial fall snt for a momant, attampting to spaak savaral timas only to say nothing in tha and.


    Ha had navar traatad any of his axas as sincaraly as ha traatad har. If anything, thay datad right aftar


    hitting off but broka up onca tha passion was gona.


    Thara wara also thosa who didn''t want to braak up, and ha could solva it by giving tham a faw mora


    bags.


    In a sansa, ha was indaad a jack*ss. That was why ha couldn''t dafand himsalf,st ha wantad to giva


    up on this rtionship.


    Evan though ha didn''t say it, Zoa knaw full wall what ha had baan lika in tha past.


    To ba honast, ha was handsoma, had a good figura, was a womanizar, and was¡­ pratty good in bad.


    Jarath was right. Sha should do whatavar mada har happy. Sha wouldn''t losa out anyway. If anything,


    sha baggad a bargain.


    Finding a top-notch gigolo outsida would not only cost thousands or mora for just ona night, but thay


    wouldn''t avan ba as good as him in all aspacts.


    At that, Zoa no longar wantad to dwall on his past rtionships and changad tha topic. "I''m a lit


    hungry. Do you want to gat somata-night snacks?"


    Danial''s mind was fid with tha imagas of har and Jarath aating, chatting, andughing just now, and


    ha casually said, "I saam to racall you aating quita a lot aarliar."


    Vaxad, Zoa grumd, "Laava if you don''t want to aat!"


    With that, sha want to pull tha car door, but it was still lockad.


    Sha turnad around, bypassad Danial, and raachad for tha unlock button.


    Danial lookad down at har, his Adam''s ap bobbing. "What do you want to aat? I can maka it for you."


    "I can ordar takaout," Zoa said. "I don''t naad you to maka it."


    With that, Zoa raturnad to har saat and triad to opan tha car door again. A sass this tima, sha axitad


    tha car at onca.

 Chapter 843

    Chapter 843


    Chapter 843 Don¡¯t Like It?


    Aidan was about to get out of the car at the entrance of the residential area when he saw Zoe and


    Daniel not far away.


    Aidon wos obout to get out of the cor ot the entronce of the residentiol oreo when he sow Zoe ond


    Doniel not for owoy.


    Seeing Aidon reclining in his seot ogoin, Jonothon colled, "President Peorson?"


    Aidon questioned bock, "Where is Leonno?"


    Jonothon replied, "Modom left the studio ond went to Volerion Rood holf on hour ogo."


    This morning. Leonno told him thot the studio wos getting more ond more crowded to the extent thot it


    sometimes got too tight to move oround. She plonned on checking out o new ploce with Zoe in the


    evening.


    Now thot Zoe ond Doniel were here, this meont thot Leonno wos olone.


    Aidon instructed, "Go to Volerion Rood."


    Jonothon responded, "Okoy."


    Meonwhile, on ogent wos enthusiosticolly showing the oreo to Leonno. "Miss McKinney, this building


    hos two floors in totol, with o totol oreo of over 500 squore meters. There ore no issues with its


    focilities. This ploce wos previously rented for vorious exhibitions. It is locoted in themerciol center


    thote with o convenient tronsportotion focility. It''s o strotegic locotion."


    Leonno nodded os she listened. She stood by the window ond looked outside the window, where the


    bustling streets were brightly lit.


    A yeor ogo, she could never hove imogined thot she would be oble to choose o new ploce in such o


    strotegic locotion for her studio.


    The ogent continued, "Moreover, this is o stondolone design thot offers both convenience in entering


    ond exiting the ploce ond privocy ording to your needs. It is the ideol ploce for you, considering oll


    the different ospects."


    After touring both floors, Leonno soid, "I need to discuss this with my friend. She con''te todoy."


    He osked, "When will your friend hove time? I con bring her here to toke o look."


    She soid, "I''ll let you know loter."


    He ogreed ond onswered o phone coll.


    He soid to Leonno McKinney, "Miss McKinney, I hove something to ottend to, so I''ll leove first. You moy


    tour oround longer. Pleose close the door on your woy out."


    "Okoy, thonk you."


    After the ogent left, Leonno wondered oround ogoin ond took pictures for Zoe. Judging from Doniel''s


    ottitude this ofternoon, she knew thot Zoe wouldn''t be oble toe tonight.


    Aidan was about to get out of the car at the entrance of the residential area when he saw Zoe and


    Daniel not far away.


    Feeling e bit tired, Leenne set on the sofe while edmiring the two peintings in front of her.


    Although this plece wes loceted in themerciel center, the good sound insuletion might heve been


    the reeson for its trenquility, which wes surprising.


    No wonder ell those exhibitions were held here before.


    While she wes lost in her thought, e low mele voice resounded beside her. "Do you like it?"


    She snepped beck to reelity end turned her heed to find the men sitting next to her. "Why ere you


    here?"


    Aiden crossed his legs end cesuelly rested his erm on the beck of the sofe behind her. "I sew Zoe end


    Deniel, so I guessed you were elone here."


    Leenne reised en eyebrow. "You sew them? How ere they?"


    "Whet do you meen?"


    "I¡­ How is the etmosphere between them?"


    "They seemed fine." Aiden edded, "They weren''t being physicel."


    His eleboretion rendered her speechless. He flicked e strend of heir off her shoulder end then kissed


    her. His voice lingered between their lips. "How''s the plece?"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    She replied, "It''s okey. The plece is quite specious end the locetion is good. We cen heve e store


    downsteirs end e werehouse upsteirs. We cen design two photogrephy rooms too, which would be


    convenient for Zoe''s work."


    "Whet ebout you?"


    "Me? I quite like it here, but everything feels surreel. I''m not sure why. I still feel more et eese end


    secure et my current studio."


    "Beceuse ell your dreems sterted from there." Aiden guided her. "If you cen''t get used to it yet, you cen


    still keep the current plece end move the store here."


    He hed e point. Even though Leenne end Zoe were moving pleces, it didn''t necesserily meen they hed


    topletely give up the current studio.


    This could be the first officiel store for ''Sterry Night,'' while the heedquerters would still be et the old


    plece.


    Leenne fleshed him e smile. "And there''s elso e lendscepe plented by e certein philenthropist neerby."


    Felling silent for e moment, he held her chin end kissed her. "You don''t like it?"


    Leenne''s smile beemed wider. "I like it."


    Although she esionellypleined ebout the mosquitoes in the summer, the sterry sky brought her


    e relexed end pleesent mood every dey.


    Feeling a bit tired, Leanna sat on the sofa while admiring the two paintings in front of her.


    She loved it.


    Aidan''s gaze shifted to the painting next to them. "Should we buy this?"


    She loved it.


    Aidon''s goze shifted to the pointing next to them. "Should we buy this?"


    Leonno disopproved, "No. I wosn''t looking ot it. I wos just overwhelmed. I never thought thot I would


    open o studio in such o prime locotion one doy."


    In the post, she couldn''t even dore to think obout the rent. However, everything wos fine now. The


    thought of poying the rent wosn''t thot scory onymore.


    The studio finolly hod some profit this yeor.


    Even ofter deducting vorious expenses ond splitting the profits omong the three owners, it wos foirly o


    decent omount of money.


    After o while, Aidon piped up, "Aren''t you plonning to ottend Foshion Week?"


    Leonno shook her heod gently. "Let''s put thot oside first. Although I know it''s o rore opportunity, there


    ore too mony things to hondle every doy ond I hove no energy left to spore."


    He gently rubbed her heod ond pulled her into his orms without soying onything.


    A moment loter, she soid, "Elijoh went to Lochstein todoy."


    "Hee to see you?"


    "He stood outside the studio for over on hour withouting in, but I sow him."


    Afterword, Doniel told her thot Elijoh hod left for Lochstein.


    Aidon questioned, "Are you ofroid thot Williom will find out?"


    She slightly lowered her goze. "I''m ofroid he..."


    Knowing whot she wonted to soy, he hugged her shoulder. "Don''t worry, Williom hos gone through so


    mony ups ond downs. He con hondle this. Besides, this is o good thing for him, isn''t it?"


    "But you do know how Louis is."


    "Even if he doesn''t ept it now, not this yeor, not next yeor, or even ten yeors from now, he''s not o


    mochine. He''s o person with feelings. Give him time. He will groduolly ept it."


    Leonno sighed silently, "I proy for thot doy toe sooner."


    He encouroged, "Stop thinking obout this. Let''s go home. Hmm?"


    She got up ond looked oround ogoin. "I''m sure thot we''ll be renting the ploce. I''ll osk Zoe to decide ofter


    toking o look tomorrow."


    "You''ve seen it, thot''s enough. She won''t hove ony objections."


    She smiled. "Let''s heod home."


    She loved it.


    Aidan''s gaze shifted to the painting next to them. "Should we buy this?"


    Sha lovad it.


    Aidan''s gaza shiftad to tha painting naxt to tham. "Should wa buy this?"


    Laanna disapprovad, "No. I wasn''t looking at it. I was just ovarwhalmad. I navar thought that I would


    opan a studio in such a prima location ona day."


    In tha past, sha couldn''t avan dara to think about tha rant. Howavar, avarything was fina now. Tha


    thought of paying tha rant wasn''t that scary anymora.


    Tha studio finally had soma profit this yaar.


    Evan aftar daducting various axpansas and splitting tha profits among tha thraa ownars, it was fairly a


    dacant amount of monay.


    Aftar a wh, Aidan pipad up, "Aran''t you nning to attand Fashion Waak?"


    Laanna shook har haad gantly. "Lat''s put that asida first. Although I know it''s a rara opportunity, thara


    ara too many things to han avary day and I hava no anargyft to spara."


    Ha gantly rubbad har haad and pud har into his arms without saying anything.


    A momanttar, sha said, "Elijah want to Lachstain today."


    "Ha cama to saa you?"


    "Ha stood outsida tha studio for ovar an hour withouting in, but I saw him."


    Aftarward, Danial told har that Elijah hadft for Lachstain.


    Aidan quastionad, "Ara you afraid that William will find out?"


    Sha slightly lowarad har gaza. "I''m afraid ha..."


    Knowing what sha wantad to say, ha huggad har shouldar. "Don''t worry, William has gona through so


    many ups and downs. Ha can han this. Basidas, this is a good thing for him, isn''t it?"


    "But you do know how Louis is."


    "Evan if ha doasn''t apt it now, not this yaar, not naxt yaar, or avan tan yaars from now, ha''s not a


    machina. Ha''s a parson with faalings. Giva him tima. Ha will gradually apt it."


    Laanna sighad sntly, "I pray for that day toa soonar."


    Ha ancouragad, "Stop thinking about this. Lat''s go homa. Hmm?"


    Sha got up and lookad around again. "I''m sura that wa''ll ba ranting tha ca. I''ll ask Zoa to dacida aftar


    taking a look tomorrow."


    "You''va saan it, that''s anough. Sha won''t hava any objactions."


    Sha smd. "Lat''s haad homa."

 Chapter 844

    Chapter 844


    Chapter 844 Hating Him for Being Slow-witted


    As soon as Zoe got home, she received a message from Leanna. Zoe sent an apology message.


    As soon os Zoe got home, she received o messoge from Leonno. Zoe sent on opology messoge.


    Doniel identolly glonced ot her phone ond poused before osking, "The person you were meeting


    tonight wos Miss McKinney?"


    Zoe glored ot him. "Who else could it be?"


    Leonno still hod some unfinished design drowings, so the originol plon wos to check out the new ploce


    together ofter Zoe met up with Joreth.


    Little did they know thot Doniel would meddle ond interfere. In the end, Zoe did not hove o proper


    conversotion with Joreth, ond the lodies'' plons went out of the window.


    Doniel overted his goze elsewhere guiltily. "I''ll see whot''s in the fridge."


    He entered the kitchen ond opened the fridge. There were fruits ond o foom box. Assuming thot it wos


    vegetobles, so he opened it to toke o look.


    It turned out thot there were o few pocks of troditionol medicine.


    He furrowed his brows ond held one of them. Just os he turned oround to osk something, Zoe hod


    olreody rushed over.


    They locked eyes for o few seconds before she took the pock from him ond ploce it bock into the box,


    muttering softly, "I told you not to bother obout the meol. I''ll order o delivery."


    Doniel stored ot his empty honds. "Are you toking medicine?"


    Zoe closed the fridge. "It''s nothing. It''s just some supplements."


    His brows furrowed deeper. "Is it becouse of the..."


    Knowing whot he wos thinking, she cosuolly poured herself o gloss of woter ond soid, "Don''t


    misunderstond the situotion. It''s just thot I stoy up lote often ond don''t exercise much. So, I thought of


    toking some supplements. It''s not for the reoson you''re thinking."


    He leoned ogoinst the fridge ond zeroed in on her without uttering o word.


    The uneosiness in her grew under his persistent goze. "Why ore you looking ot me like thot?"


    Doniel soid, "Actuolly, I con just toke those to o doctor ond I''ll be oble to know whot is it for."


    She fell silent for o moment ond put her gloss down. "In short, it''s good for my heolth. It won''t moke ony


    difference."


    Without the numbness of olcohol, Zoe didn''t wont to discuss this issue with him. She pushed him owoy.


    "Alright, don''t just stond here. If you wont to stoy ond hove supper, sit there. If you don''t wont to, go


    bock where youe from."


    After leoving the kitchen, Doniel looked bock ot her severol times. The corner of his lips twitched, yet


    he wos ot o loss for words.


    As soon as Zoe got home, she received a message from Leanna. Zoe sent an apology message.


    Zoe took out her phone end rendomly ordered something. As soon es she finished ordering, her phone


    vibreted.


    It wes e messege from Jereth. ''About thet guy we met during our meel, I feel like I''ve seen him


    somewhere. I esked my friend ebout it when I got beck. Do you think it''s him?''


    Below etteched wes e photo. It wes e promotionel poster for Deniel''s world tour.


    ''This guy is probebly even more populer with girls then we cen imegine. I know e few girls who ere his


    fens. I heerd thet his previous girlfriends were ell hot.''


    Zoe wes speechless et thet.


    ''Thus, it''s fine to just pley eround with e guy like him, but don''t develop reel feelings for him. You won''t


    be eble to hendle him.''


    She reed the lest sentence end lowered her geze. No one knew whet she wes thinking et thet moment.


    He wes still typing something on the other end, but it took e while for him to send it. Two minutes leter,


    eight photos were sent ell et once.


    The girls in the photos were of differentionelities, yet there wes e similerity they shered¡ªthey were


    undeniebly beeutiful.


    Some of the girls'' selfies even ceptured helf of Deniel''s fece while he wes telking on the phone, pleying


    the pieno, or reeding.


    Jereth wes e bit neive. He simply wished for her to see cleerly how unrelieble Deniel wes end to never


    fell for him.


    Although there were no intimete photos, Zoe couldn''t help the mixed feelings churning in her stomech


    upon looking et those smiling feces. They stifled her.


    She poured herself enother gless of weter end downed it ell before going to the living room.


    Deniel wes sitting there, seerching for something on his phone. Noticing her errivel in e fierce


    momentum, he couldn''t help but leen beck on the couch.


    Zoe stood in front of him end grebbed his coller, riveting him et the spot. He essumed thet she hed


    finelly lost it end wented to beet him up to vent her enger.


    Thet wes fine for him.


    However, surprisingly, she lowered her heed end kissed him without e word. His eyes widened end his


    hend froze in mid-eir. Obviously, his brein end body couldn''t keep up with the sudden turn of events.


    The fect thet she wes teking treditionel medicine to regulete her body efter the miscerriege might be the


    reeson for his hesitetion. He dered not teke the next step.


    Zoe took out her phone and randomly ordered something. As soon as she finished ordering, her phone


    vibrated.


    Zoe bit his tongue fiercely. "Why the gantry?"


    Zoe bit his tongue fiercely. "Why the gollontry?"


    When he regoined some of hisposure, his voice wos slightly hoorse. "Don''t you wont supper?"


    She muttered, "I''m not hungry."


    She ordered supper becouse she noticed thot he hodn''t eoten onything oll night. His ungrotefulness


    wos toleroble, but he cloimed thot she ote o lot!


    The more Zoe thought obout it, the ongrier she be. She hoted how slow-witted he wos. She let go


    of his collor. Forget it.


    Right when she wos obout to get up, he held her woist to sovor her lips ogoin. The room wos getting


    hotter, ond their breoths were scorching eoch other''s skin.


    When they reoched the finol stoge, Doniel stopped os his honds supported himself on either side of her


    body. He ponted. "Do you hove it?"


    She poused. "No." She lived olone, so why would she buy thot ond keep it ot home?


    Floshbock to the first time they did it, she went to buy emergency controception by herself ofter they


    slept together.


    Doniel pursed his lips ond turned over, getting off the couch. "Then I''ll go buy it."


    She didn''t soy onything. She silently pulled up her clothes thot hod slipped off her shoulders. Doniel


    wos quick os he hod only one objective.


    He went stroight to the shelves in the convenience store to grob o box. He hesitoted momentorily, ofter


    which he grobbed two more boxes.


    There wos o port-time girl in the store. Doniel''s oppeoronce olone eosily conjured certoin wild imoges


    in people''s heods. When she sow him repeotedly grobbing severol boxes, her foce turned red.


    Doniel noticed her expression ond let out o wry cough. Insteod of offering ony explonotion, he left so


    quickly ofter footing the bill.


    While woiting for the elevotor, he hoppened to encounter o deliverymon, who wos hoving Zoe''s order.


    He took it from the deliverymon ond strode into the elevotor. Meonwhile, Zoe hod token o quick shower


    ond wos weoring o loose shirt with her hoir pinned up.


    Doniel opened the door ond looked ot her with restroint. "The delivery is here, do you wont..."


    Zoe''s cheeks were tinged with red, which might''ve been coused by the steom in the bothroom or


    something else.


    She wolked over ond lifted his shirt by the hem. Running her hond olong his V-line, she nibbled his


    neck. "Quick."


    Zoe bit his tongue fiercely. "Why the gantry?"


    Zoa bit his tongua fiarcaly. "Why tha gantry?"


    Whan ha ragainad soma of hisposura, his voica was slightly hoarsa. "Don''t you want suppar?"


    Sha muttarad, "I''m not hungry."


    Sha ordarad suppar bacausa sha noticad that ha hadn''t aatan anything all night. His ungratafulnass


    was tra, but ha imad that sha ata a lot!


    Tha mora Zoa thought about it, tha angriar sha bacama. Sha hatad how slow-wittad ha was. Shat go


    of his cor. Forgat it.


    Right whan sha was about to gat up, ha hald har waist to savor har lips again. Tha room was gatting


    hottar, and thair braaths wara scorching aach othar''s skin.


    Whan thay raachad tha final staga, Danial stoppad as his hands supportad himsalf on aithar sida of har


    body. Ha pantad. "Do you hava it?"


    Sha pausad. "No." Sha livad alona, so why would sha buy that and kaap it at homa?


    shback to tha first tima thay did it, sha want to buy amargancy contracaption by harsalf aftar thay


    pt togathar.


    Danial pursad his lips and turnad ovar, gatting off tha couch. "Than I''ll go buy it."


    Sha didn''t say anything. Sha sntly pud up har clothas that had slippad off har shouldars. Danial


    was quick as ha had only ona objactiva.


    Ha want straight to tha shalvas in tha convanianca stora to grab a box. Ha hasitatad momantarily, aftar


    which ha grabbad two mora boxas.


    Thara was a part-tima girl in tha stora. Danial''s appaaranca alona aasily conjurad cartain wild imagas


    in pao''s haads. Whan sha saw him rapaatadly grabbing savaral boxas, har faca turnad rad.


    Danial noticad har axprassion andt out a wry cough. Instaad of offaring any axnation, haft so


    quickly aftar footing tha bill.


    Wh waiting for tha vator, ha happanad to ancountar a dalivaryman, who was having Zoa''s ordar.


    Ha took it from tha dalivaryman and stroda into tha vator. Maanwh, Zoa had takan a quick showar


    and was waaring a loosa shirt with har hair pinnad up.


    Danial opanad tha door and lookad at har with rastraint. "Tha dalivary is hara, do you want..."


    Zoa''s chaaks wara tingad with rad, which might''va baan causad by tha staam in tha bathroom or


    somathing alsa.


    Sha walkad ovar and liftad his shirt by tha ham. Running har hand along his V-lina, sha nibd his


    nack. "Quick."N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.

 Chapter 845

    Chapter 845


    Chapter 845 He Lost Control


    Clothes were scattered all over the floor in the living room. The food was ced on the table, left


    untouched and cold.


    The bedsidemp in the bedroom flickered ambiguously, casting two intertwined figures on the wall.


    After a long time, the shadows stopped moving.


    Zoey on the bed, covered in sweat. She was reluctant to move. She grabbed her phone and scrolled


    through it.


    Daniel skillfully tied a knot on the c*ndom before throwing it into the trash can. He asked, "When should


    we get married?"


    She paused and turned her head to look at him in confusion. "What?"


    He worriedly repeated, "When should we get married?"


    She questioned again, "What kind of marriage?"


    Knowing that she was doing it on purpose, he pursed his lips and stared at her intently, which unsettle


    her.


    She refocused her attention on her phone as if she was the sc*mbag in the rtionship. "I have no


    ns to get married now. If you want to get married, you can find someone else."


    He almost burst outughing due to anger. "Haven''t your parents been trying to set you up on blind


    dates?"


    Zoe replied, "Yes, but who said blind dates always lead to marriage? It''s just to check out if there''s a


    person we click to get in touch with. I still want freedom for a few more years. Being single is great. I


    can change boyfriends whenever I want."


    She continued, "I''m starting to understand why you''re against marriage. Getting married means going


    through a divorce, which is too troublesome. It''s better to get into more rtionships while we''re young.


    We should experience the world to the fullest."


    Daniel gritted his teeth and asked, "So, am I your boyfriend or just a fling?"


    She replied, "Either is fine. We''ll separate ways in the end. Whether it''s a boyfriend or¡ª"


    Before she could finish, he hovered over her from behind to bite her shoulder. "Fine, I know what you


    want."


    This time, there was no forey. It was the same position as before, and Zoe couldn''t help but let out a


    muffled moan. Her hand holding the phone trembled, and her neck was craning as her breathing


    became rapid.


    He threw her phone aside. His tight jaw and cold expression indicated his bad mood. He exerted more


    force than before, causing her to grip the bedsheets tightly.


    The clip that held her hair had been taken off at some point, leaving her tress hanging down with a few


    strands sticking to her sweaty ear.


    After a while, Zoe realized that something was wrong. She turned her head and asked, "Did you not


    wear it?"


    Daniel, with both hands supporting her side, lowered his gaze and didn''t look at her. He simply


    responded with a grunt.


    She was about to speak when she felt him suddenly increase his strength.


    Her words at the tip of her tongue morphed into a moan. She could only hold onto his arm and say


    intermittently, "No... We can''t continue without it... Hmmm!"


    Raging waves were engulfing her. Each wave that came crashing over her almost submerged her.


    When she was about to lose her breath, it stopped.


    In the end, Daniel pulled himself out of her. He admitted that he had lost control after hearing what she


    said.


    He even thought that another pregnancy would keep those jumbled thoughts in her head off bay so that


    she could be at peace with him.


    That idea was so messed up. It was messed up to the point that he would kill himself if he really took it


    to the final stage.


    She had already suffered so much because of him. She took traditional medicine to look after herself.


    Inparison, it was inhumane of him for acting that way.


    However, Zoe Hart waspletely oblivious to the regret and pain that stirred along with his dilemma.


    She merely took her time to calm her breath before picking the clip from the floor. She headed to the


    bathroom while clipping her hair. "I''ll take a shower first. I have work tomorrow."


    She didn''t take his reckless actions to heart. After all, didn''t all men love doing it without protection?


    They imed that it felt different.


    Even if Daniel didn''t pull out of her, Zoe would make him stop anyways. It felt good, but she couldn''t


    afford to let themselves get carried away.


    When she came out of the bathroom after taking a shower, the bedsheets had already been changed.


    There was a faint sounding from the kitchen. She walked over slowly and looked at the person in


    the kitchen. "What are you doing?"


    Daniel only wore a pair of pants, leaving his torso bare. He was holding a takeout box, ready to throw it


    away. "I''m hungry. Are you joining me?"


    He didn''t say anything, but the smell of the food lingering in the air was enticing Zoe''s appetite. After


    such intense exercise, she needed food to replenish her energy.


    She nodded lightly. "Let''s eat."


    The food was reheated. Since it was alreadyte, she was afraid of gaining weight, so she only ate a


    few bites to quench her hunger and stopped.


    When Daniel asked, she casually replied, "I''m on a diet."


    "Diet? And you still had barbecue?" he retorted.


    She was rendered speechless. Oops.


    Still, she didn''t have another bite and let him finish the rest. It was almost 1.00AM when they went back


    to bed.


    They didn''t do anything thereafter.


    Zoe put her phone down and turned off themp. Right as she was about to go to sleep, Daniel walked


    in and closed the bedroom door.


    She questioned, "Why did youe in?"


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    He answered calmly, "To sleep."


    "Aren''t you going to sleep on the sofa?"


    During the time he looked after her when she was pregnant, he slept on the couch every night. Thus, it


    was natural for her to think that the couch was his rightful ce.


    "I entertained you all night, and I can''t even sleep on a bed?"


    She became silent. Forget it.


    A momentter, she said, "Don''t mention... that word."


    It made him seem more like a gigolo. After all, it was consensual, and both parties enjoyed it.


    Daniel didn''t say anything and tugged himself into bed. Zoe moved to the side and pulled up the


    nket to give him space.


    He piped up, "Did you meet Miss McKinney for something?"


    "The current studio is not spacious enough. We were looking for a new ce."


    "Where are you nning to move?"


    "We''re still looking around. Nana sent me a cest night, and it''s not bad. I guess we will be settling


    down there."


    He wanted to say something else, but she tossed to the other side. "It''ste, I''m tired."

 Chapter 846

    Chapter 846


    Chapter 846 He is Your Biological Son


    After getting off the ne in Lachstein, Elijah went straight to the headquarters of Complex Group.


    Lachstein was eight hours ahead of Highside. It was time to get off work when he arrived. Employees


    were leaving the office in ones and twos.


    An assistant told him that William was in a meeting, which would end in half an hour. He nodded and


    went to William''s office to wait.


    Half an hourter, William appeared in his office, followed by several executives who were reporting


    their work.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Upon seeing Elijah, William said something to the executives before they nodded and left. William


    walked to Elijah. "What brings you here?"


    Elijah stood up with pursed lips, trying hard to find the words to express himself.


    Noticing that something was wrong, William frowned. "Did something happen to Leanna?"


    Elijah shook his head and handed him the brown paper bag. "Earlier, you asked me to investigate


    Louis'' background. I found his birth records. He was born a year and a half after Leanna''s mother and


    you separated. The paternity test show''s that you and Louis are unrted."


    William stared at the documents with solemnity. "Why are you bringing this up suddenly?"


    Elijah exined, "Because recently, I found out that... the paternity test we did back then might be fake.


    As for the birth records, I found and confirmed them with the doctor in charge. His actual birth date


    should be the seventh month after Leanna''s mother and you separated, which means he is your


    biological son."


    William sprang to his feet, and his tone was serious. "What did you say?"


    Elijah took a deep breath and continued, "I asked the doctor. She said Louis was born full-term, which


    means Leanna''s mother was already pregnant with him before you separated. The incorrect birth


    records were due to a fire in the clinic''s archives. The subsequent records were all addedter.


    Perhaps the person who added the records made a mistake or it could be Jethro.


    "Some witnesses imed that during the days when the clinic was on fire, they saw Jethro wandering


    nearby. Whether it was on the day of the fire or during the reconstruction, he actively participated in


    helping, giving him more chance for him to change the records."


    William tightly held the documents in his hand and quickly untied the rope on it. He took out the


    paternity test that showed a 99% probability of a biological rtionship.


    His face tensed. When he looked at Elijah again, his eyes were cold as he spoke in a deep voice.


    "Why?"


    He was demanding the reason for the wrong paternity test result.


    Elijah apologized, "I''m sorry. It was my negligence. I should have been more careful and done more


    tests back then."


    William suppressed all emotions and looked at him without saying a word. The office was silent and the


    atmosphere felt heavy as the seconds ticked by.


    After a while, William pressed his temples, feeling tired. "Do they know about this?"


    Elijah nodded. "Yes, they do."


    Silence dawned upon them again.


    Elijah added, "I am willing to bear all the consequences and responsibilities for this matter. Please put


    the investigation to an end."


    ...


    When Leanna woke up the next morning, she had a missed call on her phone from 3.00AM. It was


    from William. He only called for two seconds before hanging up.


    Even if she didn''t answer the call, she could feel his helplessness and powerlessness on the other end.


    Aidan saw her staring at her phone and asked, "What''s wrong?"


    She snapped out of her thoughts. "My dad called me."


    "Why don''t you call him back?"


    "It''s still the middle of the night over there. I''ll wait until it is noon there."


    He questioned, "Do you think he can sleep?"


    She didn''t say anything. He could tell that it wasn''t that she didn''t want to make this call, but that she


    was afraid. She did not know how to tell William about Louis'' current stance.


    It would be an unavoidable topic once the call was made. Leanna wasn''t ready yet, hence the


    hesitation.


    Aidan suggested, "If you don''t know what to tell him. I can make this call for you."


    She held his hand and shook her head. "I''ll do it."


    Aidan kissed her on the forehead and asked, "What do you want for breakfast? I''ll go buy it."


    "Garlic bread and mushroom soup."


    "Okay." He put on his clothes and left


    Meanwhile, Leanna sat on the edge of the bed, holding her phone. She took a deep breath before


    dialing the number. The phone only rang twice before it was answered.


    No one spoke over the line for a few seconds until she broke the silence. "You know about it."


    "Elijah told me," responded William. "Does... he know?"


    She replied, "I told Louis."


    If William was uncertain about Louis'' attitude before this phone call, he could now guess the answer


    from Leanna''s hesitant words.


    If things had gone smoothly, she wouldn''t have reacted this way.


    William let out a sigh that was overflowing with exhaustion. "If I had known that your mother was


    pregnant, I could have salvaged everything earlier."


    Perhaps those incidents from 20 years ago wouldn''t have happened either.


    Leannaforted him, "It''s not your fault. No one could have expected this oue."


    William said, "I wanted toe back and see him, but after thinking about it all night, I decided to wait


    a little longer until he''s less resistant."


    "Dad, don''t worry. I will talk to him."


    "It''s okay, give him some time. We can talk when Ie back."


    She hummed in response. "Since things have turned out like this, don''t grieve over it. Louis will


    gradually ept it."

 Chapter 847

    Chapter 847


    Chapter 847 Are You Trying to Find Someone to Beat Me Up?


    Daniel was on his way to buy breakfast when he happened to run into Aidan returning with breakfast.


    The two of them met at the entrance.


    Daniel greeted calmly, "Good morning, President Pearson."


    Aidanmented, "You''re fast."


    Daniel raised an eyebrow and modestly said, "I''m still not that bad,pared to your speed."


    Aidan sneered and ignored him. Daniel looked at Aidan''s breakfast and casually put his hand on his


    waist. "President Pearson, you bought so much. Can you finish it all? Why don''t you give me some?"


    Aidan pressed the password code to open the door. "Go buy it yourself."


    With a bang, the door closed. A speechless Daniel was left alone.


    When Aidan returned, Leanna had already finished washing up and was drinking water in the dining


    room.


    She looked at him and asked, "Who were you talking to by the door?"


    "A beggar."


    She could not follow, so he exined more clearly, "Daniel. He asked me to share breakfast with him,


    but I didn''t give him any."


    Now, it was her turn to be speechless. That metaphor is just... perfect.


    He ced the breakfast on the table, whereas Leanna said, "There''s quite a lot. We can''t finish it all. I''ll


    take some to Zoe."


    This time, he didn''t oppose as he nodded.


    Leanna found that strange and asked as she took the breakfast, "Why didn''t you just give it to Daniel


    yourself?"


    "I bought it. Why should I let him take advantage of me? Let him buy it himself. He should be


    downstairs by now."


    She finally understood. She took the breakfast and knocked on the door next door. However, there was


    no response for a while. Zoe was probably sleeping


    Leanna entered the password and walked in, looking at the open bedroom door. "Zoe, I brought


    breakfast for you. Call Daniel and tell him not to buy anymore."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Zoe ran out of the bedroom barefooted. Her cheeks were slightly red as she stuttered, "Nana, w-why


    are y-you here?"


    Leanna replied, "I brought you breakfast. Inform Daniel for me. I didn''t bring my phone."


    Zoe tentatively asked, "How did you know he was here?"


    "Aidan ran into him when he came back with breakfast."


    Zoe fell silent. Leanna turned her head and looked at Zoe, who looked tired and kept yawning. "Get


    some breakfast and take a nap before going to the studioter."


    Zoe immediately snapped out of it. "No! I''m not tired at all. I can go to the studio after eating."


    She spoke aloud as if afraid that Leanna would assume that she was exhausted because of something


    last night.


    Even if she didn''t want to admit it, the mess in the living room and the traces on her body had already


    given the game away.


    Leanna smiled and switched the topic. "I''ll go now. Eat it before it''s cold. Remember to call Daniel and


    tell him not to buy too much."


    Zoe nodded. "Got it."


    When Daniel received a call from Zoe, he was already making his order at a breakfast shop. After


    hanging up the phone, he fell silent for a few seconds. "Sorry, I would like to cancel my owner."


    The owner''s friendly gaze instantly turned to an unfriendly one as he put down the soy milk in his hand.


    Daniel coughed wryly and apologized again before making himself scarce.


    ...


    In the afternoon, Zoe and Leanna, who had nothing to do, went to check out the new studio. Zoe


    couldn''t help but exim, "I saw the photos you sent me and thought it was big enough, but I didn''t


    expect it to be twice as big as I imagined!"


    Leanna guided, "There''s more upstairs. I''ve seen it. We can have two photography rooms."


    "Really?" Zoe''s eyes lit up. Everyone knew how cramped the current studio was. She had been


    yearning for a bigger one for a long time.


    Leanna nodded. "Let''s go upstairs and take a look."


    Along their way upstairs, Zoe said, "I never dreamed that I would have the opportunity to open a studio


    in a ce like this. When I first started in this industry, I thought it was already great to be able to


    establish a studio. I never thought this far before."


    Leanna could rte to that. "I felt the same way yesterday."


    Zoe added, "After all, we havee a long way. I wouldn''t have done it without you."


    "What are you saying? This is the result of our joint efforts."


    Zoe chuckled, "We have finally fulfilled our promise to get rich together!"


    Looking out of the floor-to-ceiling windows on the second floor, they watched the longmercial


    street. The view was broader than that of at night.


    The natural lighting was sufficient. The warm sunlight cascaded through the window, covering almost


    everything.


    Zoe asked, "Should we settle down here?"


    Leanna shared the same notion. "I''ll call the agent toe so that we can sign the contract."


    When they were clinching the contract, Freddie somehow heard the news and came over to join in the


    happy asion.


    He was wearing a well-fitted suit with a pair of gold-rimmed sses. His pen came with a logo of aw


    firm.


    Freddie looked at the contract, whereas the agent was trembling next to him. Thetter was afraid that


    there might be a problem with the contract.


    Fortunately, Freddie only found a few small loopholes, which could be amended in a supplementary


    agreement.


    The agent called the other party to confirm, and they agreed. The ten-year contract was signed by both


    parties in no time.


    After the agent left, Leanna asked Freddie, "Why are you here?"


    He put away his pen, "As a ''partner'' of your studio, it''s natural for me to attend such an important


    asion."


    Zoe was puzzled. "Since when are you one of us?"


    Freddie elucidated, "Would all the publicity, promotion, advertising, and operations go so smoothly


    without me?"


    Zoe couldn''t refute that. Without him, they really couldn''t have done all these things.


    Freddie scanned around andplimented with satisfaction, "This ce is chosen well. With some


    renovations, it will be eye-catching."


    Zoe pointed outside. "Isn''t it bright enough already?"


    He was at a loss for words. Leanna chimed in, "Alright. If you have something to say, fire away."


    Freddie was a carefree man. He wouldn''te here if there was nothing important. Now that they had


    seen through his intentions, Freddie pushed his sses up his nose. "That reporter from Highside


    Daily¡ªMs. Lambert¡ªdo you know her? Is she trying to find someone to dig up dirt on me? Otherwise,


    why does she keep blocking me and not saying anything?"


    Thedies were speechless.

 Chapter 848

    Chapter 848


    Chapter 848 This Matter is More Dangerous Than You Imagine


    Leanna couldn''t understand how someone of Freddie''s emotional intelligence could be one of the


    topwyers.


    She asked, "Have you ever been in a rtionship?"


    He sneered. "What a joke. Just so you know, I can''t count all of my exes with both hands."


    She stifled herughter. "I''ll check it with her when I get back. I''ll let you know if there''s any news."


    Freddie primped his cuffs, which were already quite neat. He said, "I''m leaving. Call me if you need


    anything."


    "Okay."


    After Freddie left, Zoe looked at Leanna with a puzzled expression. "Does Chloe like him?"


    Leanna said, "They haven''t met many times, so I don''t think so. But I remember the first time they met,


    Chloe stood up for him. She must have known him before."


    At that time, Leanna was almost ndered by Jimmy and his gang at the police station. Chloe stood up


    for her.


    As for the following rumors¡ªincluding Daphne''s incident¡ªChloe rified them through Highside Daily.


    Leanna said, "Since I have some free time now, I should invite her out for a drink. She has been busy


    and I haven''t had a chance to thank her properly."


    Zoe nodded. "Okay, I''ll contact a few interior designpanies and have theme over to take a


    look so that we can have some design ns."


    The two of them went their separate ways and got busy.


    Leanna called Chloe in advance to make sure she was at Highside Daily before going to the cafe


    downstairs.


    Soon, Chloe came rushing in. "Miss McKinney, sorry to keep you waiting."


    Leanna shrugged it off. "It''s okay. What would you like to drink?"


    Chloe turned to the waiter and ordered, "A ss of iced americano, please."


    After Chloe sat down, she asked, "Miss McKinney, what''s with the sudden invitation? Is there


    something you need?"


    Leanna took out a box from her bag and pushed it over. "You helped me out so many times and yet, I


    haven''t had a chance to thank you properly."


    Chloe pushed the box back. "No, no. Save the courtesy. I''m a journalist, and what I hear and see is


    what I report. We pursue the truth, and what we report is the truth. Speaking of which, I should thank


    you too. You''ve given me so much exclusive news. My boss gave me a big bonusst month."


    Leanna beamed. "Please ept it. These are some essories from our studio. It''s nothing valuable.


    It''s a small token of my appreciation."


    Now that she put it that way, Chloe couldn''t refuse the gift anymore.


    She was aware of how popr ''Starry Night'' was. The brand even invited Daphne as its ambassador.


    Itsmercial value couldn''t be measured by mere gratitude.


    After hesitating for a moment, Chloe epted the gift at longst. "Thank you, Miss McKinney. If you


    don''t have any ns, can I treat you to dinner tonight?"


    "Sorry, I have to go backter." After a pause, Leanna exined the purpose of her invitation, "Actually,


    I called you this time because there is something else."


    Chloe nodded. "Tell me, Miss McKinney."


    Leanna took a sip of the milk and organized her words in her head. "It''s about... Is there any


    misunderstanding between you and Freddie? He said that you have been meeting him recently but not


    saying anything. He wants to know if you hold any grudges against him."


    "Oh..." Chloe''s expression faltered as she seemed hesitant. She wanted to speak but stopped herself


    several times.


    Leanna cooed, "If you feel ufortable answering, it''s okay. It''s not a big deal either."


    "It''s not... It''s not like that." Chloe scratched her head. "I just don''t know how to exin. This matter is


    actually quiteplicated."


    Chloe turned serious. "Miss McKinney, can you promise me to keep this a secret? Actually, I should


    havee to you personally instead of going to Mr. Sutton."


    Leanna nodded. "Okay, go ahead."


    "Here''s the thing. You know about the New Coast project by Pearson Group, right? I''m in charge of


    keeping track and reporting on this project, but for some reason, I always feel that something''s off."


    Leanna frowned. "Something''s off?"


    Chloe lowered her voice. "Yes. Companies of all sizes are being epted without any background


    checks during therge-scale bidding process. I checked, and many of thesepanies either have


    financial problems or are on the verge of bankruptcy due to poor management. Yet, they managed to


    join the New Coast project.


    "Something like this had never happened to Pearson Group before.


    "Plus, I also checked the suppliers responsible for this project. It''s a foreignpany, but I couldn''t find


    their business license. I asked my foreign friends about thepany, but they couldn''t find anything


    else either.


    "I went to Mr. Sutton because I wanted to tell him about this in the hope that he can help me investigate


    the New Coast project. But¡­"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna was stunned for a moment. "You went to see Freddie because you trust him, but you''re also


    afraid of causing him trouble? The New Coast project by the Pearson Group is rted to thetest


    economic circle in Anan and has far-reaching implications. It could be detrimental if you don''t handle it


    properly."


    Chloe nodded and continued, "The reason I''m telling you all this, Miss McKinney, is because of your


    husband, President Pearson. He used to be in charge of the Pearson Group and has now joined the


    New Coast project. With his keenness, he definitely knows that the Pearson Group''s current actions


    are not logical. Could you ask him for consent to give me an opportunity to investigate and gather


    evidence?"


    Leanna knew that Chloe was telling her all this on the ground that it had nothing to do with Aidan. She


    vaguely remembered Aidan mentioning that Justin would make a new move.


    However, she didn''t expect that he would target the New Coast project.


    After a while, Leanna finally said, "Don''t worry too much for now. I have a rough idea of what''s going


    on."


    Chloe looked puzzled. "Huh?"


    Leanna pursed her lips and reciprocated, "There are some personal grudges involved, but don''t worry.


    With Aidan on board, there won''t be any issue."


    Now, she finally understood why Aidan had joined this project.


    Everything Chloe said was probably apparent to him. That was why he joined the project. He was trying


    to find a way to keep Justin under control.


    The project was a massive one with trillions involved in the financial chain. If Justin made any


    underhanded move, it was highly likely to end in mutual destruction.


    The situation didn''t look too good.


    Leanna looked at her and said, "Chloe, listen to me. This matter is far more dangerous than you


    imagine. You gotta stop your investigation."

 Chapter 849

    Chapter 849


    Chapter 849 Life-threatening Matters


    Leanna was miles away on her way back. Even after arriving at the studio, she couldn''t focus during a


    discussion regarding the renovation with Zoe.


    Zoe noticed her distraction and stopped the discussion. "Nana, Nana?"


    After calling her name twice, Leanna finally snapped back to reality. "What''s wrong?"


    "Did Chloe tell you something?" Zoe continued her bold guess, "Is she Freddie''s half-sister? Is this


    forbidden love affair going to unfold?"


    Leanna found it hrious. "No... It''s not about them, it''s about something else."


    Zoe noticed that Leanna didn''t want to continue the topic. "I''ll take care of the renovation. I''ll show you


    the design when it''s ready."


    Leanna nodded. "Thank you."


    Zoe patted her shoulder. "Don''t worry about it. Go home and rest up. I''ll take care of things here."


    Leanna nodded again. "I''ll get going now. I have something to do."


    She wanted to go to Crossley Group. She arrived at the office when Aidan was attending a meeting.


    The assistant poured her a ss of water and left.


    Leanna found it hard to just sit there and do nothing, so she got up and looked around. She saw a data


    analysis report on his desk. It was about the New Coast project.


    She flipped through a few pages, but she failed to understand a thing. In the end, she gave up. Just as


    she put it down, she noticed a photo frame next to it.


    It was a photo of them taken at the love lock bridge.


    She had seen it before in Aidan''s office at Pearson Group. She didn''t expect him to bring it here. Next


    to it was another picture. It wasn''t there when she visitedst time.


    It was a photo of Leanna holding Noah with a smile. Obviously. it was taken by Aidan.


    She couldn''t remember where it was taken. Judging from the background, it seemed to be at the vi in


    Jamesdon.


    Leanna''s gaze fixated on the child, unable to shift her gaze from him. She remained in that position


    until Aidan entered the office.


    He hugged her from behind, asking, "When did youe?"


    Jonathan read the room and silently left to give them some space.


    Leanna turned her head to look at him. "Not long ago. Are you done with the meeting? Do you still


    have work to do? Would you like something to eat?"


    Aidan replied, "I still have a few documents to handle. I''ll talk to youter. Did you sign the contract?"


    Freddie must''ve told him.


    She nodded gently. "Yes, I signed it and I contacted a renovationpany."


    Leanna ced the photo frame down. "Go ahead with your work. I''ll wait for you to go home together."


    He kissed her ear and said, "No rush, tell me why you came to find me first."


    She hesitated for a moment. "What are your ns for the New Coast project?"


    He probably didn''t expect her to suddenly bring this up because his eyebrows raised slightly. "Hmm?"


    She added, "I heard that there are many problems with this project. I know that Justin did that on


    purpose and that you should have a way to deal with it. I shouldn''t have asked, but..."


    As she had told Chloe, it was too dangerous. Even Aidan couldn''t easily walk away unscathed.


    Furthermore, she had a feeling that Justin wasn''t afraid of him joining this project. He seemed to be


    satisfied with the oue. This meant that there was a trap ahead of Aidan.


    No matter what the trap was, once any problem arose with this project, it would be absolutely life-


    threatening.


    Aidan knew what she was thinking and gently ced his hand on the back of her neck. "Don''t worry,


    don''t you trust me?"


    Leanna stared at him in the eyes. "But Justin doesn''t give a fig about anything now. I''m afraid¡ª"


    "Rest assured, that won''t happen." His voice was soft and low,pletely different from before.


    Her heart sank to the pit of her stomach, for Aidan himself didn''t know what the future held either.


    He never did anything without certainty. In the past, he wouldn''t care about issues like this as long as it


    didn''t harm his interests.


    However, this time, he had to do it.


    He pulled her into his arms and cooed, "As long as you''re all safe, I''ll be fine."


    Leanna wrapped her arms around his waist. All she could do now was not to cause him trouble.


    After a while, there was a knock on the door. It was Jonathan. "President Pearson, there are two


    documents to..."


    Speechless, she immediately got out of Aidan''s embrace and regained herposure, saying, "You


    should head on with your work. I can wait."


    If it wasn''t for the urgent documents, Jonathan wouldn''t have interrupted the moment.


    Aidan smiled. "Alright."


    While he was dealing with the documents, Leanna sat on the sofa, flipping through the photos of Noah


    that Waylen had sent her on her phone. Noah seemed taller every time she proceed to the next picture.


    Just as she was lost in thought, Freddie sent her a message. ''?''


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Leanna replied, ''?''


    ''How did it go? I''m thinking about whether to bring a bodyguard home tonight.''


    She was at a loss for words as she wrote, ''I asked her, but it''s not something really rted to you.''


    ''I don''t understand.''


    ''Have you met Chloe before?''


    ''What do you mean?'' He was confused.


    She exined, ''I feel like she trusts you a lot. This trust is based on something solid, not blind


    admiration.''


    ''Don''t you know that good-looking people possess this kind of affinity, People seem to trust us easily.


    ''Thanks, I am disgusted.''


    Freddie replied with a smiling emoji. She was bored, so ended up ying a game of sending emojis


    with him. She had quite a few silly emojis from Zoe.


    A few minutester, Leanna put her phone down, feeling a bit tired.


    Aidan''s voice resounded. "Feeling sleepy?"


    She was about to deny it, but then she yawned.


    He walked over and took off his suit jacket to drape it on her. "If you''re sleepy, take a nap. I''ll wake you


    up when it''s time to leave."


    She nodded andy down on the sofa. He rubbed her head before leaving the office with the


    documents.


    Jonathan took them. "President Pearson."


    Aidan requested, "Bring the quarterly reports from each department to my office."


    Jonathan responded and was about to leave when Aidan suddenly blurted, "Forget it, I''ll wait for you


    here. Go ahead."

 Chapter 850

    Chapter 850


    Chapter 850 It¡¯s Sour to the Point Where I Thought You Wanted to Murder Your Husband


    A monthter, the temperature gradually dipped as the entire Highside seemed to be weing winter


    solstice.


    The fallen leaves covered the entire street. The light breeze and drizzle brought an air of coldness.


    The renovation of the new studio was also progressing at an elerated pace. If everything went


    ording to n, they would be able to move in by the end of this month at thetest.


    Perhaps due to the drop in temperature, Leanna had been feeling dizzy and nauseous these past few


    days. Overall, her mental state was not very good.


    It wasn''t serious enough to be considered a cold, so she didn''t want to take medicine. She didn''t have


    much of an appetite and felt weak all over.


    Zoe had nothing to do in the afternoon, so she went to Leanna''s office. She was snacking on the


    couch. "Nana, have you noticed that this winter doesn''t seem to be very cold?"


    Leanna was drawing. "It does seem that way, but it could also be because it''s still the beginning of the


    season yet."


    Zoe said, "Yeah, the medicine the doctor prescribed is quite effective. I stopped taking it for a while and


    I feel energetic everywhere. Even my mother said her leg hasn''t hurt anymore. This peppermint candy


    is so sour."


    She stopped halfway through her sentence and spit out a green plum from her mouth. Her face


    scrunched up.


    Leanna turned her head and looked at the few remaining green plums on her desk. "Is it sour? I think


    it''s fine."


    Zoe quickly ate something else to ease the taste, but she was still trembling. "I feel like my teeth are


    going to fall out. I can''t take it."


    Leanna put down her paintbrush and walked over to take out a plum from the bag in front of Zoe.


    It really wasn''t that sour for Leanna.


    Zoe could feel her teeth tingling with sourness upon watching Leanna swallow it so calmly. Zoe ate a


    piece of chocte, humming. The intense sweetness made her cover her cheek. "It could be because


    of my teeth. I gotta go to the dentist."


    Leanna also took a piece of chocte and ate it. After a moment of silence, she said, "I don''t think it''s a


    problem with your teeth. This one is really too sweet."


    Even she couldn''t eat something that sweet. She bent over and spat it into the trash can.


    Zoe looked at the brand of the chocte and threw it aside. "I won''t buy this anymore. It''s getting


    sweeter and sweeter as if sugar is free."


    When Leanna went home in the evening, she passed by a convenience store downstairs. After a


    moment of hesitation, she went in to buy a few bags of green plums.


    She seemed to be addicted to them.


    Considering herck of appetite, Aidan didn''t return home for dinner. Languidly, she prepared some


    fruits and yogurt. Later, she continued finishing her design.


    Unknowingly, she was finishing the freshly bought green plums.


    When Aidan came back, she was sitting cross-legged on the couch while resting her chin on her palm.


    She was deeply immersed in her musing.


    He took a seat on the couch, ncing at the fruit te. "Is this all you had for dinner?"


    Leanna had a green plum in her mouth and mumbled, "I''m not that hungry."


    "What did you have for lunch?"


    "I had fish and chips with Zoe." Leanna gazed at him. "Have you eaten? If not, I can make something


    for you."


    Aidan responded with an undertone, "I''ve eaten."


    Leanna spat out the plum pit from her mouth before opening another bag of green plums. When she


    looked up, she noticed Aidan had been silently watching her.


    She assumed that he wanted to eat it, so she generously offered him some. He raised an eyebrow


    before eating it. Then, he fell silent.


    Leanna could visibly see his expression change several times. His eyebrows furrowed slightly and his


    Adam''s apple bobbed up and down. Even the veins on his neck became more prominent.


    She spoke softly. "Doesn''t it taste good? I don''t feel anything. Zoe also said it was sour, and I thought it


    was just a matter of preference."


    Aidan retorted, "It''s sour to the point where I thought you wanted to murder your husband."


    Leanna found it funny and opened another bag for herself. "There are only a few left, so I won''t give


    you any."


    He drank some water to stave the sourness off. "Still not going to bed?"


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    She suggested, "You should go take a shower first. I still have a bit more to finish before I sleep."


    Seeing her pick up another green plum, Aidan said, "Eat less of those. Be careful of toothaches."


    Leanna responded, "I know. Take a shower, quick."


    Aidan leaned toward her and kissed her on the corner of her lips before heading to the bathroom.


    There was a faint sour taste on her lips, but it was apanied by a smidgen of sweetness.


    By the time she finished revising the design, there were only a few green plums left on the table.


    No wonder she hadn''t had much of an appetite these past few days. It was probably because she had


    eaten too many snacks.


    The sudden slight pain in her teeth reminded her to brush her teeth. When Leanna entered the


    bathroom, Aidan had just put on his pajamas.


    He raised an eyebrow. "If I had known you were in such a hurry, I wouldn''t have put them on."


    She pushed him out. "You can go to sleep after you finish showering. I need to brush my teeth."


    Fearing the thought of having toothaches, Leanna brushed her teeth twice until the sourness in her


    gums disappeared. She rinsed her mouth and washed her face.


    In bed, he hugged her waist while resting his chin on her forehead. "Why do I feel like you''ve lost


    weight again recently?"


    Leanna said, "I don''t think so..."


    She hadn''t been able to eat as much as usual recently.


    He inquired, "Are you still taking the medicine that Waylen gave you?"


    Leanna softly hummed in response.


    "Don''t take it anymore. Medicine can harm your body."


    Leanna didn''t say anything. She had been taking it for a few months but she still hadn''t gotten


    pregnant.


    Maybe taking a break would help her calm down. She could continue the medicationter. After a


    while, she finally spoke up. "Alright."


    The next morning, when Leanna passed by the convenience store, where she looked at the green


    plums inside while thinking about buying them. In the end, she decided to forgo the purchase.


    Taking too many of those would cause toothaches. Besides, cutting down on snacks might improve her


    appetite.


    Today, Daphne woulde to the studio to shoot promotional pictures for the new products. Leanna


    had just arrived at the studio when Daphne arrived.


    It had been over a month since shest called Louis. It was the first time she had seen Daphne in over


    a month.


    Daphne was obviously a bit ufortable meeting Leanna. She was afraid to meet Leanna''s eyes as


    she stuttered, "W-When will we start the shoot?"


    Leanna said, "Zoe went to check on the progress of the renovation at the new studio. She should be


    here in about half an hour."


    Daphne nodded. "I''ll go do my makeup first."

 Chapter 851

    Chapter 851


    Chapter 851 About To Give Up


    As soon es Dephne got up, Leenne esked, "How is Louis doing letely?"


    Dephne fell silent.


    She turned her heed end stemmered, "H-He''s doing fine."


    In fect, she felt quite emberressed to fece Leenne. After ell, they were friends, end she hed elweys


    treeted Louis es her younger brother.


    Who would heve thought things would turn out this wey¡­


    Leenne knew her concerns end decided to breek down the berrier between them. "I''ve known for e


    long time thet Louis likes you, end he reelly hes liked you for e long time. I''m heppy thet you two cen be


    together."


    Dephne wes silent for e moment before seying, "Don''t you mind thet I''m e few yeers older then him?"


    "Whet''s there to mind? As long es you both like eech other, nothing else metters."


    Dephne breethed e sigh of relief end smiled. "He''s been doing well letely. I''ll find en opportunity to


    probe ebout his fether''s metter."


    Leenne smiled. "Thenk you."


    Dephne uttered, "I''ll get my mekeup done now. Let''s chet leter."


    "Sure."


    After Dephne finished her mekeup, Zoe returned.


    This time, they were shooting promotionel photos for the new products, which would be used when


    they moved to the new studio for promotion.


    After shooting in this studio, they would move to the new studio when it wes reedy end teke enother set


    of photos.


    Since there weren''t meny things to shoot in the studio, they got it done within two to three hours.


    Zoe hended the cemere to her essistent end seid to Dephne, "It''s ebout time for lunch. Wenne leeve


    together?"


    Dephne took off her eerrings end seid, "Let me remove my mekeup first."


    "Sure. I''ll go beck end tidy up end cell Nene too."


    Zoe hed just returned to the next room end hedn''t hed e chence to knock on Leenne''s office door when


    she sew Deniel weiting for her et the door.


    Deniel reised en eyebrow. "Good efternoon."


    Zoe entered the room, esking, "Whet ere you doing stending here?"


    Deniel followed her. "Weiting for you to heve lunch."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "I heve plens."


    Deniel looked skepticel.


    Zoe turned to look et him end emphesized, "I reelly heve plens. I''m going to heve lunch with Dephne


    end Nene, so you should heed beck."


    She hed been quite busy letely, so when Deniel ceme to find her, she might not heve time for him. After


    e few shots, it wes elreedy midnight.


    Deniel wouldn''t tell her how long he weited, end he merely escorted her home.


    They meinteined e vegue end embiguous distence between them since they hedn''t determined whet


    their reletionship wes.


    As soon as Daphne got up, Leanna asked, "How is Louis doingtely?"


    Daphne fell silent.


    She turned her head and stammered, "H-He''s doing fine."


    In fact, she felt quite embarrassed to face Leanna. After all, they were friends, and she had always


    treated Louis as her younger brother.


    Who would have thought things would turn out this way¡­


    Leanna knew her concerns and decided to break down the barrier between them. "I''ve known for a


    long time that Louis likes you, and he really has liked you for a long time. I''m happy that you two can be


    together."


    Daphne was silent for a moment before saying, "Don''t you mind that I''m a few years older than him?"


    "What''s there to mind? As long as you both like each other, nothing else matters."


    Daphne breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. "He''s been doing welltely. I''ll find an opportunity to


    probe about his father''s matter."


    Leanna smiled. "Thank you."


    Daphne uttered, "I''ll get my makeup done now. Let''s chatter."


    "Sure."


    After Daphne finished her makeup, Zoe returned.


    This time, they were shooting promotional photos for the new products, which would be used when


    they moved to the new studio for promotion.


    After shooting in this studio, they would move to the new studio when it was ready and take another set


    of photos.


    Since there weren''t many things to shoot in the studio, they got it done within two to three hours.


    Zoe handed the camera to her assistant and said to Daphne, "It''s about time for lunch. Wanna leave


    together?"


    Daphne took off her earrings and said, "Let me remove my makeup first."


    "Sure. I''ll go back and tidy up and call Nana too."


    Zoe had just returned to the next room and hadn''t had a chance to knock on Leanna''s office door when


    she saw Daniel waiting for her at the door.


    Daniel raised an eyebrow. "Good afternoon."


    Zoe entered the room, asking, "What are you doing standing here?"


    Daniel followed her. "Waiting for you to have lunch."


    "I have ns."


    Daniel looked skeptical.


    Zoe turned to look at him and emphasized, "I really have ns. I''m going to have lunch with Daphne


    and Nana, so you should head back."


    She had been quite busytely, so when Daniel came to find her, she might not have time for him. After


    a few shots, it was already midnight.


    Daniel wouldn''t tell her how long he waited, and he merely escorted her home.


    They maintained a vague and ambiguous distance between them since they hadn''t determined what


    their rtionship was.


    "Then I''ll see you tonight," he offered.


    After saying that, he turned and left without hesitation.


    Zoe watched his figure and was about to go in when she saw Leannaing out.


    "Why did he leave?" asked Leanna.


    Zoe shrugged and spread her palms innocently.


    They had baked fish for lunch. Although Leanna felt a little nauseous, it wasn''t too severe and she still


    had an appetite.


    The three of them ate and chatted.


    Halfway through the meal, Zoe noticed that Leanna was particrly interested in the pickled beans that


    came as a free dish. She even asked for a refill twice.


    Then, she asked Leanna, "Don''t you find it sour?"


    "Not at all. It''s just a little tangy, but it''s appetizing."


    The feeling of nausea disappeared after she ate them.


    Daphne tasted one and almost spat it out. "It''s so sour..."


    Both of them looked at Leanna with strange looks.


    Leanna paused for a moment, "What''s wrong?"


    Zoe asked her in a low voice, "When was yourst period?"


    "Er¡­ Last month. It''s not time for this month yet."


    Daphne asked, "Are you pregnant? Have you checked?"


    Leanna halted her moves. She had asionally used a pregnancy test before, but after getting


    negative results every time, she gradually lost interest.


    Now that she thought about it, it seemed like thest time she tested wasst month.


    Although she had been taking medication and had hopes of getting pregnant, she was also aware of


    her own physical condition and didn''t expect that the medication would take effect so soon.


    Different emotions integrated into her mind, leaving her feelingplicated.


    Hence, she hadn''t thought much about the difort she had felt in the past few years.


    Zoe immediately got up with something in her hand and pulled Leanna''s hand. "Quick. Stop eating.


    Let''s go to a pharmacy and get you tested."


    "Yeah. Let''s go," urged Daphne.


    Leanna was dragged away by the two of them on either side and entered the pharmacy.


    To be on the safe side, Zoe directly asked the store clerk for all the pregnancy tests in the pharmacy


    and handed them all to Leanna to test in the restroom.


    Daphne and Zoe stood outside, feeling a little nervous.


    It felt more nerve-wracking than testing it themselves.


    Daphne had heard from Zoe before about Leanna''s preparations for pregnancy. She and Aidan had


    already gotten married, so having a second child was normal.


    However, it had been several months, and they hadn''t heard any news.


    It was the first time they were going to witness a moment like that, so she was excited.


    In the restroom, Leanna was also very nervous and took several deep breaths.


    Unlike before, this time she had a great sense of anticipation.


    She just had a feeling that she must be pregnant, but if she wasn''t, she could also imagine the


    disappointment.


    Hence, she hesitated to take the test.


    ...


    After half an hour, Leanna finally came out of the restroom.


    Zoe and Daphne both spoke at the same time. "How is it? Are you pregnant?"


    Leanna''s face was solemn, making them feel their hearts clench for her.


    Zoe held her hand andforted her, "It''s okay, even if¡­ it''s negative this time, you still have chances,


    so don''t worry."


    Daphne nodded. "Yes. You and Aidan just got married, and your child is still young. There''s no rush for


    a second child. Take it slow."


    Leanna looked at the two of them and showed them the pregnancy test in her hand: there were two


    lines.


    She was pregnant.


    A smile appeared on Leanna''s face, and her fingertips trembled. "This is¡­ quite sudden. I thought I


    was prepared, but¡­ now I realize that I''m not ready yet for anything..."


    She babbled on, not knowing what she was saying.


    Just as she was about to give up, luck suddenly came to her side.


    Zoe and Daphne were both stunned and then the three of them hugged each other, overjoyed.


    Even the customers in the pharmacy couldn''t help but look at them several times.


    To avoid disturbing other customers, they quickly calmed down.


    Leanna held their hands and pulled them out of the pharmacy. "Let''s go. We''ll talk about it when we get


    back."


    When they left, theypletely didn''t notice that there were two men in a nearby car taking pictures of


    them because they were too excited.


    After they left, the car was about to follow them, but Keaton walked over and knocked on the car door.


    "Show me the photos you just took."


    The two men pretended to be innocent. "We were just taking pictures of the street. We didn''t capture


    anything strange."


    Keaton looked at them without saying a word.


    The two of them felt uneasy under his gaze and reluctantly took out the memory card,ining,


    "Are you Daphne''s bodyguard? Why do you care so much?"

 Chapter 852

    Chapter 852


    Chapter 852 Kissing Can Lead To Pregnancy


    After Keeton mede sure thet they hed deleted the photos end left, the two peperezzi suppressed their


    dissetisfection end enger, exchenged e glence, end then smiled knowingly.


    As professionels in this field, they were elweys prepered for such situetions when deeling with


    celebrities. They were elweys reedy to outwit end outmeneuver.


    One of them took out e hidden phone end scrolled through e few photos, confirming thet there were


    cleer side shots of Dephne entering the phermecy end bending over the rows of shelves to pick


    something up.


    The photos were teken from e distence through the window gless, so her fece, es well es the item she


    wes holding, were blurry end indistinct.


    Nevertheless, es long es the clothes metched, it wouldn''t effect their editing end dissemion.


    In just e few hours, the news of Dephne''s pregnency spreed like wildfire on the inte.


    The topic climbed up the trending list end quickly beceme the hottest topic of discussion emong


    netizens.


    All kinds of opinions could be reed from online discussions.


    ''Did I miss something? Why is there news of her being pregnent before news of her reletionship?''


    ''Who is the biologicel fether of this child? Is it Theodore Frost?''


    "Cen the person ebove stop being disgusting? Theodore Frost is in prison! Do you went to go keep him


    compeny?''


    ''Let''s be reesoneble. Theodore hesn''t been in there for long. If Dephne is reelly pregnent, it is still


    possible thet the child is his.''


    As e result, those who believed thet the child''s biologicel fether wes Theodore sterted erguing with


    Dephne''s fens, resulting in e heeted exchenge of insults.


    In eddition, some people questioned whether Dephne hed simply gone to the phermecy to buy


    medicine end there wes no need to meke e fuss.


    However, some busybodies took out enlerged imeges of the peckeging boxes of severel pregnency


    test kits endpered them to the items Dephne wes holding in the photos. The petterns end outlines


    werepletely identicel, proving thet she wes indeed picking pregnency test kits.


    All of e sudden, severel different topics releted to this metter surged to the top of the trending list:


    Dephne''sPregnency


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    FetherofDephne''sChild


    DephneendTheodore


    DephneendLouis


    When the lest topic emerged, epert from meny instigetors deliberetely stirring up trouble, Louis'' only


    fen bese expressed thet their reletionship wes purely e professionel one. Dephne wes simply his senior


    in the enterteinment industry end en ecqueintence in reel life, nothing more.


    After Keaton made sure that they had deleted the photos and left, the two paparazzi suppressed their


    dissatisfaction and anger, exchanged a nce, and then smiled knowingly.


    As professionals in this field, they were always prepared for such situations when dealing with


    celebrities. They were always ready to outwit and outmaneuver.


    One of them took out a hidden phone and scrolled through a few photos, confirming that there were


    clear side shots of Daphne entering the pharmacy and bending over the rows of shelves to pick


    something up.


    The photos were taken from a distance through the window ss, so her face, as well as the item she


    was holding, were blurry and indistinct.


    Nevertheless, as long as the clothes matched, it wouldn''t affect their editing and dissemination.


    In just a few hours, the news of Daphne''s pregnancy spread like wildfire on the inte.


    The topic climbed up the trending list and quickly became the hottest topic of discussion among


    netizens.


    All kinds of opinions could be read from online discussions.


    ''Did I miss something? Why is there news of her being pregnant before news of her rtionship?''


    ''Who is the biological father of this child? Is it Theodore Frost?''


    "Can the person above stop being disgusting? Theodore Frost is in prison! Do you want to go keep him


    company?''


    ''Let''s be reasonable. Theodore hasn''t been in there for long. If Daphne is really pregnant, it is still


    possible that the child is his.''


    As a result, those who believed that the child''s biological father was Theodore started arguing with


    Daphne''s fans, resulting in a heated exchange of insults.


    In addition, some people questioned whether Daphne had simply gone to the pharmacy to buy


    medicine and there was no need to make a fuss.


    However, some busybodies took out erged images of the packaging boxes of several pregnancy


    test kits andpared them to the items Daphne was holding in the photos. The patterns and outlines


    werepletely identical, proving that she was indeed picking pregnancy test kits.


    All of a sudden, several different topics rted to this matter surged to the top of the trending list:


    Daphne''sPregnancy


    FatherofDaphne''sChild


    DaphneandTheodore


    DaphneandLouis


    When thest topic emerged, apart from many instigators deliberately stirring up trouble, Louis'' only


    fan base expressed that their rtionship was purely a professional one. Daphne was simply his senior


    in the entertainment industry and an acquaintance in real life, nothing more.


    Regarding her pregnancy, they also expressed their respect and blessings, asking others not to get


    Louis involved.


    Of course, there were also many irrational fans who began tounch personal attacks on Daphne as


    well.


    Some even imed that after she terminated her contract with Pearson Group, she went back to her


    former sugar daddy and unexpectedly became pregnant.


    However, this statement didn''t hold up to scrutiny.


    Daphne had been with Pearson Group since her debut. Even during the two years when she was


    falsely used by Theodore and kept a low profile, she had always been well-protected by Pearson


    Group. Moreover, she made it onto the Forbes listst year, hence she wasn''t in need of a sugar daddy


    at all.


    The online discussions were all over the ce, with all sorts of ims being made.


    After Louis finished hisst ss and left the ssroom, he overheard his ssmates discussing with


    each other. When they looked at him, their eyes were filled with curiosity, as if they wanted to find out


    something from him but didn''t dare to speak up.


    Louis quickly left the ssroom, found a secluded ce, and checked his phone to find the trending


    topics.


    After reading them, he pursed his lips and sent a message to Daphne.


    Louis, ''Turns out it''s true that kissing can lead to pregnancy.''


    On the other side, Daphne quickly replied, ''...''


    Then, she added, ''Didn''t you assume that I could''ve flirted with other men besides you?''


    Louis responded, ''That''s possible but not likely.''


    When Daphne saw the message on the screen, she couldn''t help the smile forming on her lips.


    After this incident started to escte, her first thought was Louis, fearing that he would misunderstand.


    However, before she could even think in his shoes, he sent her a reassuring message.


    The feeling of being unconditionally trusted was nice.


    Beside her, Zoe looked at her smiling face and nudged her with her elbow. "People are saying all sorts


    of things about you online, yet you''re still smiling."


    Daphne immediately put away her phone and coughed. "N-No. I just saw a funnyment."


    Zoe was puzzled. "Whatment? Show me."


    Daphne pushed her away embarrassedly. "Err, I''ve already scrolled past it. Actually, now that I think


    about it, it''s not that funny."


    Zoe was speechless at that.


    Was she starting to have a split personality due to the insults?


    Leanna felt sorry for her. "I should release a statement to respond to this. We can''t just let it go on."


    Daphne declined, "No. You can''t make your pregnancy public during the first three months, or it might


    affect the child. Let''s just leave it like this. It''s fine."


    Zoe showed her a strange expression. "It''s fine?"


    Daphne nodded and brushed her hair. "Yes. I''m used to being criticized. Let them say what they want.


    Once this storm is over, everything will be fine."


    Leanna frowned. "No, but¡ª"


    Daphne approached her and held her hand. "Listen to me. Let''s not worry about this matter. In our line


    of work, we''re not afraid of being criticized. What we''re afraid of is not being criticized. Think about it.


    It''s true that I''ve been bashed, but I''ve also gained a lot of attention and poprity. In a few more


    months when you publicly announce the pregnancy, you can exin my situation then. That will


    generate even more attention."


    Leanna knew that Daphne wasforting her, but it was true that her current status and position no


    longer required such negative attention and poprity.


    After pondering for a moment, Zoe felt that Daphne''s words made sense and said to Leanna, "Should


    we just listen to her? I''ve heard that you shouldn''t let too many people know about the pregnancy


    during the first three months. It''s considered a taboo."


    Daphne nodded fervently. "Exactly, so don''t worry. It won''t affect me. Actually, it doesn''t matter what


    others say. As long as the person we care about doesn''t misunderstand, it''ll be fine."


    As she spoke, Daphne''s voice became softer because she felt a little embarrassed.


    Zoe raised a brow and nudged Leanna again. Daphne''s intentions were clear now.


    Leanna sighed, persuaded by the two of them.


    "But you can''t let them keep insulting you like this. Let the studio release a statement, saying that


    you''re not pregnant, and it''s all a misunderstanding. I''ll exin the restter," Leanna suggested.


    Daphne nodded. "Okay."


    Daphne picked up her phone and sent a message to her assistant.


    For now, this matter was temporarily resolved.


    Suddenly, Zoe remembered something and looked at Leanna. "By the way, have you told Aidan about


    this yet?"


    Leanna answered, "I almost forgot about that..."


    They had just returned and were greeted by the overwhelming news online, hence she had no time to


    tell Aidan about it.


    "I think you should wait for him toe back and tell him in person. When he sees the news online and


    hears it from you, his expression will definitely be priceless," suggested Daphne.

 Chapter 853

    Chapter 853


    Chapter 853 He Doesn¡¯t Remember


    After leaving the meeting room with Aidan, Jonathan saw the news online.


    Daphne is pregnant?


    Just as he was confused, he received a call from Keaton.


    Jonathan was puzzled for a few seconds and eximed, "Wait. Are you saying that Mrs. Pearson was


    with Daphne when they went to the pharmacy?"


    Keaton corrected him, "Miss Hart was there too. I saw them secretly taking photos, but they deleted all


    the pictures before I left, so I didn''t expect..."


    Jonathan instantly understood what was going on. This incident could have little to do with Daphne!


    Realizing that, Jonathan put away his phone and quickly entered Aidan''s office.


    Sitting at his desk, Aidan was holding his phone with slightly furrowed brows as if lost in thought.


    Obviously, he had read the news online.


    Jonathan approached him and called out to him. "President Pearson..."


    Aidan ced his phone face down on the desk, his expression nk. "Speak."


    As the words were about toe out, Jonathan found it difficult to exin.


    It seemed strange to tell Aidan about his wife''s pregnancy.


    Besides, whether she was pregnant or not was just a media spection. The photo only showed


    Daphne buying a pregnancy test kit, and there was no visual evidence of the result.


    However, the media''s coverage was indeed despicable. Daphne clearly went to the pharmacy together


    with Leanna and Zoe, but they portrayed it as if she went alone.


    As an assistant who was meticulous, he couldn''t be like the media and take things out of context.


    Jonathan coughed and ced the documents he was holding in front of Aidan. "These are the minutes


    of the meeting just now, and there are a few documents that need your signature, President Pearson."


    Aidan nodded and picked up the pen next to him.


    He looked up and saw Jonathan standing there without leaving. "Is there anything else?"


    Jonathan said, "I checked the schedule for the rest of the day. There shouldn''t be anything else tonight.


    After you sign these documents, you can go home early."


    After saying that, Jonathan added with great concern, "Don''t work too hard. You should spend more


    time with Mrs. Pearson."


    Who knew he might be in for a surprise tonight?


    Aidan paused his actions and handed the signed documents to Jonathan. "Alright. You may leave


    now."


    After Jonathan left, Aidan checked his phone again and browsed through the news. He tapped his


    fingers lightly on the desk, his brows furrowing again.


    Not to mention Deniel, Aiden wondered how Louis could be so quick.


    It hedn''t been long since he end Dephne got together, end the news of pregnency hed elreedy spreed.


    After e moment, he put ewey his phone, took the coet from his henger, end welked out of the office.


    Jhen wetched his figure end secretly sighed.


    Tomorrow, he would either be greeted by the bright morning sun or the cold hell.


    ...


    When Aiden returned home, Leenne wes cooking in the kitchen.


    She didn''t even heer the sound of the door opening, but she felt someone wrep their erms eround her


    from behind.


    "Don''t disturb me. I''m cook¡ª"


    However, before Leenne could finish her sentence, Aiden hed elreedy reeched out end turned off the


    stove. His slightly cool lips meneuvered from behind her eer to her neck, while his hend slipped


    underneeth her clothes.


    Leenne wes slightly puzzled.


    Whet is he doing ell of e sudden?


    She turned her heed with difficulty end looked et him, meeting his obsidien, celm eyes. Her voice


    softened. "Whet heppened?"


    Seeing him like this, it didn''t seem like he elreedy knew ebout her pregnency.


    There wes no surprise or joy in his orbs.


    Aiden enswered in e celm voice, "Heve you ever felt thet we''re slower then others?"


    Leenne''s fece wes filled with confusion. "Whet do you meen?"


    Aiden pleced both hends on the countertop behind her, encircling her in his embrece. Leening down,


    he met her geze. "Deniel is elreedy living with Zoe."


    Leenne nodded. "Mmhm?"


    Aiden continued, "And your brother... hesn''t been sitting eround doing nothing either. Dephne is elreedy


    pregnent."


    Leenne wes speechless.


    She seid, "No, weit¡ª"


    Aiden emphesized egein, "Don''t you think their progress is fester then ours?"


    Heering his dull end dissetisfied tone, Leenne couldn''t help but went to leugh.


    Is he upset beceuse of this?


    Leenne pleced her hend on his weist. "I don''t feel thet wey. Everyone hes different choices end views


    on reletionships. Besides... why ere we slower then them? Heven''t we elreedy registered our


    merriege?"


    Aiden''s eyebrows erched slightly, end his expression visibly softened.


    Leenne peused end questioned in en interrogetive tone, "You heven''t forgotten thet we registered our


    merriege, heve you? Do you even remember our enniversery?"


    "Of course."


    "Then tell me. When is it?"


    Not to mention Daniel, Aidan wondered how Louis could be so quick.


    It hadn''t been long since he and Daphne got together, and the news of pregnancy had already spread.


    After a moment, he put away his phone, took the coat from his hanger, and walked out of the office.


    Jonathan watched his figure and secretly sighed.


    Tomorrow, he would either be greeted by the bright morning sun or the cold hell.


    ...


    When Aidan returned home, Leanna was cooking in the kitchen.


    She didn''t even hear the sound of the door opening, but she felt someone wrap their arms around her


    from behind.


    "Don''t disturb me. I''m cook¡ª"


    However, before Leanna could finish her sentence, Aidan had already reached out and turned off the


    stove. His slightly cool lips maneuvered from behind her ear to her neck, while his hand slipped


    underneath her clothes.


    Leanna was slightly puzzled.


    What is he doing all of a sudden?


    She turned her head with difficulty and looked at him, meeting his obsidian, calm eyes. Her voice


    softened. "What happened?"


    Seeing him like this, it didn''t seem like he already knew about her pregnancy.


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    There was no surprise or joy in his orbs.


    Aidan answered in a calm voice, "Have you ever felt that we''re slower than others?"


    Leanna''s face was filled with confusion. "What do you mean?"


    Aidan ced both hands on the countertop behind her, encircling her in his embrace. Leaning down,


    he met her gaze. "Daniel is already living with Zoe."


    Leanna nodded. "Mmhm?"


    Aidan continued, "And your brother... hasn''t been sitting around doing nothing either. Daphne is already


    pregnant."


    Leanna was speechless.


    She said, "No, wait¡ª"


    Aidan emphasized again, "Don''t you think their progress is faster than ours?"


    Hearing his dull and dissatisfied tone, Leanna couldn''t help but want tough.


    Is he upset because of this?


    Leanna ced her hand on his waist. "I don''t feel that way. Everyone has different choices and views


    on rtionships. Besides... why are we slower than them? Haven''t we already registered our


    marriage?"


    Aidan''s eyebrows arched slightly, and his expression visibly softened.


    Leanna paused and questioned in an interrogative tone, "You haven''t forgotten that we registered our


    marriage, have you? Do you even remember our anniversary?"


    "Of course."


    "Then tell me. When is it?"


    Aidan didn''t answer but merely sealed her lips and let his hands wander around her body again. His


    voice was muffled between their lips, somewhat unclear, "Every day is our anniversary as long as I


    have you by my side."


    If it were before, Leanna would have thought he was being overly cheesy.


    But today, it was obvious that he was changing the subject because he was guilty.


    He didn''t remember.


    As a punishment, Leanna slightly pinched his waist.


    Aidan groaned but didn''t let go of her. He just held her waist firmly and tightened his grip.


    Leanna leaned forward in response and fell into his embrace.


    At the same time, she could feel his bulge touching her lightly.


    Leanna pursed her lips.


    Biting her earlobe, he uttered, "Let''s not waste any more time, shall we, honey?"


    Leanna didn''t say anything this time. She raised her arms and wrapped them around his neck,


    reciprocating his passion.


    Obviously, Aidan was very satisfied with her reaction.


    He picked her up and went straight to the bedroom.


    The bedroom was not lit, hence it was dark.


    The light filtered through the windows, flooding in from all directions.


    Aidan''s thin lipsnded on her neck, and his hand reached behind her, easily pulling down the zipper of


    her dress.


    His kisses moved downward, biting her shoulder strap.


    Leanna unbuttoned his shirt one by one.


    Just as the sparks were about to ignite, Leanna gasped and called out to him. "Aidan..."


    "Hmm?"


    "Actually, Daphne and I went to the pharmacy together, along with Zoe. That unscrupulous reporter


    probably wanted to create a buzz, so they merely released a photo of her."


    Aidan paused, lifted his head from her body, and propped both hands on her sides. His raven eyes


    burned with mes. "Oh?"


    His ''oh'' sounded as if it carried a fewyers of meaning.


    Leanna smiled and raised her hand to button up his shirt while uttering seriously, "I don''t think we need


    to take that medicine anymore. Waylen was right. As long as we persist, there will be hope. Our efforts


    have not gone to waste."


    Before Aidan could speak, Leanna gently buttoned up his shirt and said earnestly, "The doctor said any


    form of intimacy is not allowed for the first three months. Put on your clothes so you don''t catch a cold."


    Aidan went silent for a moment before looking at her with puzzlement in his eyes.

 Chapter 854

    Chapter 854


    Chapter 854 Weird Person in a Strange ce


    After Leanna buttoned up his shirt, she patted his chest affectionately and was about to get out of bed


    when she was pinned down by him again.


    Aidan hovered above her and whispered, "Have you been to the hospital for a check-up?"


    Leanna replied, "Not yet, but I''ve used many pregnancy tests, and all of them showed the same


    result... I came homete today, so I''ll go to the hospital tomorrow."


    "I''ll apany you tomorrow," offered Aidan.


    Leanna''s lips curved into a smile. "Okay."


    Aidan leaned down and kissed her forehead gently. His voice was rarely gentle. "So, you did it on


    purpose?"


    Leanna hesitated, feeling like he was going to settle the score with her.


    Leanna forced a smile and tried to escape his embrace. "I''m not done with cooking yet, so¡ª"


    However, Aidan didn''t n to let her go. He pulled her back and huffed a warm breath on her chest,


    clearly indicating his intentions.


    Leanna whispered, "The doctor said we can''t do it for the first three months..."


    Aidan''s low and hoarse voice sounded in her ear, "Let''s try a different way."


    Leanna had used her hands on him before, but as she was about topromise, she felt that


    something was off.


    "Aidan..."


    Aidan coaxed her gently. "I''ve checked. It''s safe this way."


    Leanna remained silent.


    He really didn''t lose out in this aspect and had made ns earlier on.


    Half an hourter, Aidan carried Leanna to the bathroom to take a shower. She felt a burning sensation


    on the inside of her thighs, but there were no injuries fortunately.


    Otherwise, she would''ve killed him.


    Sitting in the bathtub, she leaned against Aidan''s chest. "I''m a little hungry."


    Aidan kissed her shoulder and said, "I''ll have Jonathan bring some foodter."


    Then, he continued, "Starting tomorrow, Alice will take care of you."


    Leanna replied, "It''s fine. My pregnancy symptoms aren''t that severe this time. I can cook for myself."


    This ce was much smallerpared to Castor Vi. If Alice came over, it would be crowded and


    inconvenient.


    Aidan knew that she preferred living herepared to Castor Vi. She had friends around and it was


    lively.


    Although this ce was small, it felt more like home to her.


    Since he had been busy during this period and didn''t have much time to apany her, he didn''t


    suggest moving back.


    Leenne held his hend end fiddled with his visible knuckles. "Let''s weit for e while before deciding. If I


    cen''t hendle it myself, then I''ll esk her toe over."


    "Okey," Aiden egreed.


    Leenne turned her heed to look et him end perted her lips es if wenting to sey something, but she


    decided egeinst it.


    Aiden esked, "Whet''s wrong?"


    Leenne leened beck egeinst him egein end pouted. "It''s nothing. It''s just¡­ Dephne end Zoe seid thet if


    you sew the news online end found out thet I''m the one who''s pregnent, your reection would be


    priceless, but I think it''s not much different from usuel."


    Upon heering this, Aiden chuckled softly end lightly wrepped his erm eround her weist. "Do you went to


    heer the truth?"


    "Yes," enswered Leenne.


    She would decide whether to strengle him or not efter heering his reeson.


    Aiden pleced his chin on her shoulder end uttered in e soft voice, "For me, it''s not something to be


    heppy ebout."


    Leenne took e deep breeth, feeling like she wented to strengle him elreedy, but she still felt like giving


    him enother chence to finish his sentence.


    Aiden continued in e celm tone, "I''ve seen you pregnent before, end I know how much you suffered


    beceuse of it. I edmit thet I''ve ceused some of the pein, but pregnency itself is eesy, end if I feel heppy


    imegining you going through it egein, wouldn''t thet meke me e jerk?"


    Leenne perted her lips but didn''t sey e word.


    She didn''t expect thet efter Aiden found out she wes pregnent, he would think in such e wey.


    She thought it wes beceuse he couldn''t...


    In the end, she underestimeted him.


    After e while, Leenne gently responded, "The process of being pregnent is quite uforteble, but I''m


    heppy beceuse I cen feel e live humen being growing inside me from e smell pee to the size of en egg,


    end finelly hevingplete limbs. It''s e... very mireculous process."


    Then, she turned her heed to look et him. "Honestly, I don''t ectuelly feel much pein, so you don''t heve


    to bleme yourself."


    Aiden stered et her with his derk eyes, end efter e few seconds, he tilted his heed end kissed her lips.


    Leenne''s neck wes e little stiff from being twisted for too long, so she lightly tepped his chest. "Alright.


    It''s time we get out. I''m reelly hungry."


    Five minutes leter, Jhen received e cell from Aiden.


    In less then helf en hour, he eppeered et the door in e hurry.


    Leanna held his hand and fiddled with his visible knuckles. "Let''s wait for a while before deciding. If I


    can''t handle it myself, then I''ll ask her toe over."


    "Okay," Aidan agreed.


    Leanna turned her head to look at him and parted her lips as if wanting to say something, but she


    decided against it.


    Aidan asked, "What''s wrong?"


    Leanna leaned back against him again and pouted. "It''s nothing. It''s just¡­ Daphne and Zoe said that if


    you saw the news online and found out that I''m the one who''s pregnant, your reaction would be


    priceless, but I think it''s not much different from usual."


    Upon hearing this, Aidan chuckled softly and lightly wrapped his arm around her waist. "Do you want to


    hear the truth?"


    "Yes," answered Leanna.


    She would decide whether to strangle him or not after hearing his reason.


    Aidan ced his chin on her shoulder and uttered in a soft voice, "For me, it''s not something to be


    happy about."


    Leanna took a deep breath, feeling like she wanted to strangle him already, but she still felt like giving


    him another chance to finish his sentence.


    Aidan continued in a calm tone, "I''ve seen you pregnant before, and I know how much you suffered


    because of it. I admit that I''ve caused some of the pain, but pregnancy itself is easy, and if I feel happy


    imagining you going through it again, wouldn''t that make me a jerk?"


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    Leanna parted her lips but didn''t say a word.


    She didn''t expect that after Aidan found out she was pregnant, he would think in such a way.


    She thought it was because he couldn''t...


    In the end, she underestimated him.


    After a while, Leanna gently responded, "The process of being pregnant is quite ufortable, but I''m


    happy because I can feel a live human being growing inside me from a small pea to the size of an egg,


    and finally havingplete limbs. It''s a... very miraculous process."


    Then, she turned her head to look at him. "Honestly, I don''t actually feel much pain, so you don''t have


    to me yourself."


    Aidan stared at her with his dark eyes, and after a few seconds, he tilted his head and kissed her lips.


    Leanna''s neck was a little stiff from being twisted for too long, so she lightly tapped his chest. "Alright.


    It''s time we get out. I''m really hungry."


    Five minutester, Jonathan received a call from Aidan.


    In less than half an hour, he appeared at the door in a hurry.


    Aidan opened the door, and Jonathan immediately handed him the food, observing his expression.


    "What are you looking at?" Aidan questioned with a nk expression.


    Jonathan tentatively asked, "Should I congratte you or pretend that nothing happened?"


    Aidan replied nothing.


    Taking the paper bag, he was about to shut the door before a smile crept up his lips. "You can start


    preparing presents now."


    ...


    At the same time at Pearson Family Estate, John entered the garden to find Justin trimming the nts.


    He looked back and noticed that the path he came from was already covered with withered leaves,


    indicating that it hadn''t been cleaned or maintained for a long time.


    Strange enough, the nts in front of Justin seemed to be full of vitality.


    How strange. A strange person in a weird ce.


    Justin didn''t turn around. He simply continued with his work and casually started a conversation. "Did


    you read the news online today?"


    John paused for a moment. "Daphne is pregnant?"


    As he spoke, he walked over and sat on the stone bench beside Justin. "Daphne is no longer an artist


    under Pearson Group, so I didn''t expect you to still be interested in gossip like this. I saw that her


    studio released a statement not long ago, saying that it''s all baseless rumors from the media."


    Justin continued nonchntly, "How could it be true when they have no evidence?"


    John didn''t quite understand and looked at him without saying anything.


    Justin put down his scissors, turned his wheelchair, and met his gaze. "I''ve been busy with matters at


    New Coast recently that I forgot howfortable their lives are."


    John understood him this time. "What should we do?"


    Justin casually answered, "Find a way to bail out Theodore. We don''t need to worry about the rest."


    John nodded. "Okay."


    Bailing out Theodore was difficult but not impossible.


    However, Theodore wouldn''t be of much help. Aidan could send him back to prison with a flick of his


    finger.


    This problem was something he could think of, hence it wouldn''t go unnoticed by Justin as well.


    Justin looked into the distance, and a hint of amusement sounded in his cold tone. "I heard that


    Daphne''s design brand has been doing better recently. She even ns to move to a new studio."

 Chapter 855

    Chapter 855


    Chapter 855 I¡¯m Keeping The Baby


    The next morning, Leanna woke up as soon as her rm clock rang.


    She turned over and snuggled into Aidan''s arms in a daze. "Aren''t you going to thepany?"


    Aidan put away his phone and held her. "No, let''s sleep a little longer. I''ll apany you to the hospital


    when you wake up."


    Leanna agreed. She hadpletely forgotten about this.


    She slept for about half an hour afterward, and Aidan was no longer in the bedroom when she woke


    up.


    Leanna sat on the edge of the bed and called out to him a couple of times, but there was no reply.


    Then, she went into the washroom to freshen up, and Aidan returned just as she came out.


    Leanna asked, "Did you go buy breakfast?"


    Aidan nodded as he ced the breakfast on the table. He went and poured warm water for her. "How


    are you feeling? Do you still feel ufortable?"


    Leanna took a few sips of the water and shook her head. "No, I''m fine."


    She felt that her pregnancy this time around was different from the previous two experiences she had.


    She wasn''t sure if it was because she had gotten used to it or if the medicine she had taken made her


    feel funny.


    Leanna looked at the paper bag on the table after finishing her water and asked, "This doesn''t seem


    like it''s from the shop downstairs."


    Aidan pulled out a chair for her as he replied, "I drove somewhere else to buy it. You should eat more


    nutritious food now."


    Leanna saw what was inside the boxes as he spoke.


    They looked pretty nutritious indeed, for they were all greens.


    Aidan was sitting across from her when he said, "They will deliver breakfast every morning from now


    on. Just let me know what you want to eat in advance."


    Leanna was consuming the chicken and vegetable soup before replying, "Why don''t you give me the


    contact information of the person in charge? I can handle it myself."


    Aidan was a busy man, and she felt guilty about making him deal with daily chores.


    He thought for a moment before answering, "Alright."


    Her preferences and appetite were different during pregnancy.


    She was better at these after all.


    They went to the hospital after finishing their meal.


    Jonathan had already taken care of everything in advance, and Leanna began her routine check-up as


    soon as they arrived.


    She felt nervous during the process, but Aidan was there by her side, providing her with a sense of


    security.


    Leanna sat in the corridor, holding his hand, and she thought of the time when she found out she was


    pregnant in the hospital over a year ago for some reason.


    Those memories felt like a distant past now.


    So distant that she didn''t feel how lonely and confused she was back then when she thought about it


    now.


    She just felt fortunate that she kept the baby.


    Meanwhile, Aidan, who used to dislike children and always found himself frustrated in crowded ces


    such as the obstetrics and gynecology department, was patiently apanying her through


    examinations without any sign of annoyance.


    Leanna turned her head and looked at Aidan beside her with a smile at the thought of that.


    On the other hand, Aidan''s gaze was fixed on the ward, and he asked when he noticed her gaze,


    "What''s wrong?"


    Leanna only smiled. "It''s nothing. I just feel happy that you''re here with me for the check-up."


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    Aidan slowly held her hand. "Isn''t this what I should do? I''m sorry for not being there for you before.


    But, I won''t let you face anything alone from now on."


    Leanna leaned against his shoulder with a gentle smile. She felt nothing but pure happiness at that


    instant.


    ...


    The doctor said when they were in the consultation room, "First of all, congrattions to both of you.


    Your wife is indeed pregnant, and the gestational age is 30 days."


    However, the doctor looked at Leanna and continued, "But, your uterine lining is very thin based on the


    reports, so it is difficult for you to be pregnant. Now, I have some understanding of your physical


    condition. As a doctor, I can only apologize and give you a suggestion. You''re not suitable to keep the


    baby in your condition now, so..."


    Leanna immediately said firmly, "I''m keeping the baby!"


    The doctor only looked at Aidan, who was frowning slightly and pressing his lips against each other


    hard.


    Then, the doctor adjusted his sses and looked at the reports again. "You must have a capable


    doctor by your side helping you, am I right? Otherwise, your chances of being pregnant would be very


    low."


    Leanna nodded. "Yes, I''ve been taking medicine during this period. I... I want to keep the baby. Giving


    birth shouldn''t be that difficult now that I''m pregnant, right? I will take good care of myself."


    The doctor only sighed silently. "In that case, I can only prescribe some medication to help maintain the


    pregnancy. But, it would be best if your doctor also knows about this and makes appropriate


    adjustments ordingly. Also..."


    "What else?" Aidan asked with his voice low and cold.


    The doctor replied, "Even if everything goes smoothly throughout the pregnancy, there is still a risk of


    heavy bleeding on the day of delivery. That''s why I''m advising both of you to consider carefully before


    making a decision."


    Leanna said, "I already did. I want to give birth to this baby no matter what happens. Please prescribe


    the medication ordingly."


    The doctor had nothing else to say after seeing her resolution. "Alright. You are still in the early stages


    of pregnancy. Come back for a check-up in two weeks."


    Then, the doctor reminded her again, "Remember, you must keep a calm state of mind. Avoid getting


    angry or upset and arguing with people, especially during the first three months as it is the most


    important period during pregnancy. But, you must continue to remain vignt at all times even after


    three months. Come to the hospital immediately if you feel any difort."


    "Lastly, I advise you to have a C-section when the child is seven or eight months old if you want to


    reduce the risk. But, it doesn''t mean there will be no risk even then. At the very least, it would be safer


    than natural birth."


    Leanna kept looking at Aidan on the way out of the hospital. There were several asions in which


    she wanted to say something but ultimately held back.


    Aidan noticed her gaze and his tense expression went away a little. He asked, "Are you worried that I


    won''t let you keep the baby?"


    Leanna nodded lightly before holding his hand tightly.


    Aidan pulled her into his arms, and he sounded somewhat helpless and with a hint of self-ming. "I


    won''t say such things to you again. Take good care of yourself, and leave the rest to me."


    Leanna rested her head in his embrace, and she only replied after a while, "Thank you."


    She thanked him for choosing to stand by her and support her in such a difficult situation.


    Leanna was well aware that she was putting everything on the line, including her own life.


    But, she really had no other choice.


    The little guy was still waiting for cord blood for treatment.

 Chapter 856

    Chapter 856


    Chapter 856 People Should Live Longer


    Aidan also knew all this, so he didn''t say anything else.


    Whoever told her not to have the baby would make her feel like a knife stabbing into her heart at that


    point.


    She was already feeling bad enough because of that herself.


    Aidan said to Leanna after he sent her to the studio, "I will have someone keep an eye on the new


    studio. Don''t go there."


    Leanna nodded. "Alright."


    Aidan continued, "Keaton has been following around you to protect you. I guess you knew that."


    "I know."


    "He will be responsible for taking you home whenever I''m not around starting today. He can be reached


    at a stone''s throw whether you need a car orpany on foot."


    Leanna answered, "Okay."


    Aidan leaned down and kissed her forehead. "I know you don''t like being followed, but bear with this for


    a few more months, okay?"


    Leanna smiled. "I can do it. Don''t worry."


    She knew that Aidan had Keaton constantly protecting her all this time and had nothing to do with


    keeping Justin Pearson away from her at this point.


    They both wanted the baby to be born safely without anything going wrong.


    Then, Leanna said, "You should go to thepany now. I need to start working too."


    Aidan caressed her head. "Don''t overwork yourself. Remember to take a break at noon."


    Zoe showed up, looking surprised after Aidan had left. "I thought the Aidan I saw before had already


    gone beyond my understanding. I really didn''t expect to see such a gentle side of him today. That''s why


    people should live longer and widen their horizons in my opinion."


    Leanna smiled as she looked at the drafts in front of her. "He''s gentle when he''s not agitated."


    Zoe couldn''t help but roll her eyes up before leaning over to rest on her desk. "Didn''t you go to the


    hospital for a check-up today? What did the doctor say?"


    Leanna paused for a moment and smiled. "The doctor said everything is fine. I should only continue to


    rest well."


    Zoe said, "President Pearson is right. You should take a good rest. Let me handle everything for you


    from now on. I''ll even run your errands."


    Leanna replied, "I also need to move around more and exercise moderately. I can''t just sit or lie down


    all the time, or I''ll bezy."


    Zoe also had experience in this regard. "That''s true. Congrattions, Nana. You''re finally pregnant."


    Leanna raised an eyebrow as she asked, "Shall I treat you to dinner tonight?"


    "Sure. Should I invite them?"


    Leanna answered, "Of course, bring them along. Let me cook a meal for you all while I still don''t suffer


    much with the pregnancy. I may not be able to smell fumes of cooking oil in the near future."


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    Zoe took out her phone following that. "I''ll call Daphne if that''s the case. Why don''t you tell Louis about


    it?"


    Leanna nodded, and she reminded, "Don''t forget to tell Daniel too."


    Zoe replied, "You know him. There''s no chance that he will miss this."


    ...


    In the car...


    Aidan ordered, "Assign more personnel to follow Leanna in addition to the people with Keaton. Just


    stay behind and keep an eye on them."


    Jonathan nodded, and he asked, "Are you worried that Young Master Justin will find out about Madam,


    President Pearson?"


    Aidan closed his eyes and frowned slightly. "I don''t know, but I have a bad feeling."


    "Don''t worry, President Pearson. We have been keeping a close watch on Young Master Justin. He is


    fully engrossed in the New Coast project at the moment. Besides, I also took care of the news fromst


    night, so he probably doesn''t know that Madam is pregnant."


    Jonathan continued, "I will arrange for more men to protect Madam well."


    Aidan made an affirmative sound and dialed a number on his phone.


    He said through the phone, "Tell Waylen Woodley toe over in three days."


    L Woodley''s voice was heard from the other end of the phone. "But the treatment hasn''t been


    completed yet."


    "There''s no time. Tell him toe over right now. Leave the treatment to other doctors."


    The n and procedures of the treatment had been thoroughly improved until it was almost perfected.


    So, it shouldn''t make a difference even if Waylen left now.


    L asked, "Leanna is pregnant?"


    Aidan replied, "Yes."


    L then said, "I see."


    ...


    Leanna and Zoe returned home early in the evening. Zoe held some pickles and asked while shopping


    at the supermarket, "Do you want more of these, Nana?"


    Leanna replied, "Yes, please. But I''ve been eating them a lot these days, and the sour proved a bit too


    much for me."


    Zoe, who had initially picked up eight bottles of pickles ended up putting a few back. She said, "Well,


    have less of them. Save them for when you feel nauseous."


    In truth, Leanna was going to tell her that she couldn''t resist having some when food was in front of her,


    but she feared that saying so would make Zoe stop her from buying. Hence, she held back her words.


    Zoe suddenly thought of something as she filled the shopping cart with junk food. "Nana, could it be


    that you''re having a baby boy since you''ve been craving sour food so much?"


    Leanna replied, "I don''t know, but I didn''t crave sour food thest time I was pregnant."


    Zoe nodded. "That''s true. It''s still too early to tell."


    Keaton walked over to them just as Zoe was about to pick up the bags when they finished their


    shopping. "Let me handle these, Miss Hart."


    Zoe said, "Alright, thanks."


    Leanna went into the kitchen when they returned, and Zoe followed to help her wash the vegetables.


    Leanna smiled. "I can handle this myself. You can sit outside."


    Zoe replied, "No way. Your husband will kill me if he finds out that you handled the cooking even


    though you''re pregnant while I sit outside."


    The doorbell suddenly rang in the middle of their conversation, and Zoe ran over to open the door. It


    was Daphne.


    Zoe looked behind her and asked, "Is Louis not here yet?"


    Daphne awkwardly coughed a few times before looking away. Then, She answered stutteringly, "He...


    He probably hasn''t finished ss yet. So, I came straight here."


    Zoe said, "Well,e in."


    Daphne also went into the kitchen. "Is there anything I can help with?"


    Leanna turned around and replied, "It''s okay. You can rest outside."


    Daphne said, "I know a friend who sells nutritional milk powder. Many celebrities bought from her when


    they were pregnant, and I brought a few cans for you to try. I''ll bring more next time if it works well for


    you."


    "Thank you," Leanna said.


    Daphne awkwardly touched her nose as she said, "I''ve been eating at your ce quite a few times,


    and I always came empty-handed."


    Zoe couldn''t help but sigh. "Me too. I alwayse with just my empty belly."


    Daphne asked, "Doesn''t Daniel always bring wine every time he''s here?"


    "..." Zoe was left speechless for a second.


    Then, she retorted, "Well, you don''t have to feel so embarrassed. Louis is Nana''s younger brother after


    all."


    "..." Daphne picked up the meaning behind her words, and she remained silent.


    Zoe put her arm around Daphne''s shoulder after that. "Forget it. Let''s not tease each other anymore."


    Daphne replied with a smile, "Let''s go inside and help."


    The two of them went into the kitchen following that. Each of them stood on either side of Leanna.

 Chapter 857

    Chapter 857


    Chapter 857 Hardships Paid Off


    Dinner was almost ready by the time Louis and Daniel arrived.


    Leanna came out of the kitchen and said, "Go wash your hands first. Dinner will be ready in five


    minutes."


    Daniel looked around and asked, "Aren''t we waiting for President Pearson?"


    Leanna poured each of them a ss of water and replied, "No need to wait for him. He''ll bete today."


    Leanna called Aidan and told him toe over for dinner after leaving the studio in the afternoon.


    However, Aidan had several meetings to attend tonight, and he couldn''te back.


    Louis approached and took the ss from her hand. "Sit down. I''ll take care of the rest."


    Leanna said, "I''m fine. I still have some dishes cooking in the kitchen. Hey..."


    Louis brought her to the couch before she could finish her sentence.


    He knew that she went to the studio to shoot in the morning even though Daphne didn''t explicitly tell


    him yesterday.


    He could guess it when Leanna invited her over for dinner.


    Louis soon turned and went into the kitchen.


    Leanna thought everything was almost ready besides the dish cooking in the pot. So, she let him do as


    he pleased.


    Meanwhile, Zoe was washing the dishes in the kitchen. She greeted Louis with a hint of flirtation when


    she turned her head and saw him, "You''re here, Louis."


    "..." Daphne, who was distributing the tes, couldn''t help but feel awkward.


    Then, Zoe said, "I''ll leave this to you guys. I''ll go out first."


    Louis nodded, and he went to prepare the ingredients.


    Daphne looked at the darkening sky outside, and she asked, "Why did you finish ss sote?"


    Louis answered, "I didn''t. It''s because the counselor asked me to go to the office for something."


    Daphne replied, "I see. That exins why you''rete."


    Louis only looked at her without saying anything.


    Daphne raised her head and quickly averted her eyes when she sensed his gaze. "What... What''s


    wrong?"


    Louis leaned on the counter with one hand and looked at her from the side. "Did you get a driver?" N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "No, I drove here myself."


    She didn''t have much work recently except for the previously arranged schedules.


    The new drama was on the way, so he guessed that she would start filming soon.


    Louis asked, "Can I drive you home?"


    "..." Daphne remained quiet.


    She lowered her head again, and her face turned red in an instant.


    Louis asionally stayed overnight at her ce during this period, but there was nothing too intimate


    between them apart from that incident a month ago.


    They only kissed and hugged at most.


    In short, they hadn''t reached that final stage.


    Daphne picked up a te and was about to leave. She said softly, "Let''s talk about itter. Let me


    finish..."


    However, she only saw darkness as soon as she turned her head.


    Louis lightly bit her lip and quickly backed away in those few seconds.


    Leanna and the others were still talking outside, yet they did such a thing in the kitchen.


    Daphne''s face instantly turned red, and she red at him.


    Louis only smirked before he took the te from her and left the kitchen.


    Zoe was chatting with Leanna as she turned her head to keep an eye on what was happening in the


    kitchen. She was so excited that she could hardly contain herself when she saw that.


    Unfortunately, she only saw Louis lean in. The rest was blocked by the door.


    But, it didn''t matter because she could imagine what happened.


    She felt as if one of her dreams finally came true when she saw them being together.


    Daniel suddenly approached and asked just as she was getting into it, "What are you looking at?"


    "..." Zoe could only remain silent at that instant.


    She was so startled that she immediately leaned back, and she almost fell off the couch.


    Thankfully, Daniel managed to lean forward and hold her arm in time. He got so close to her that his


    nose touched her forehead while he was trying to save her.


    It was quite an intimate scene in the eyes of the others.


    It wouldn''t cause such a big scene usually. But, Leanna was sitting right next to them when that


    happened, and Zoe could sense her teasing gaze. As a result, Zoe''s face instantly turned red, and she


    quickly pushed Daniel away. "Why... Why did you get so close?"


    Daniel only raised an eyebrow before sitting back down.


    Leanna almostughed out loud. Louis brought out the dishes just as she turned to look at the kitchen


    shortly after.


    Then, she stood up and said, "Alright, let''s eat."


    The atmosphere was just as tense even though Aidan wasn''t present during the meal as a pervasive


    sense of ambiguity and mystery filled the air.


    Furthermore, Zoe and Daphne were still not used to the changes in their rtionships, and they


    couldn''t help but feel a little ufortable.


    They never thought that they would engage in a romantic rtionship when they sat together at the


    tablest year.


    Meanwhile, Leanna sat alone in her own seat, propping her cheek on her hand and looking at the two


    couples on either side. She couldn''t help but smile out of satisfaction.


    She had thought about how nice it would be if they could be a big family and live together every


    day a long time ago.


    That unrealistic idea gradually disappeared as time went by.


    However, it seemed that they had truly be a family today.


    Daniel was her father''s adopted son. That made him her stepbrother.


    She never expected that Zoe would be her sister-inw.


    As for Louis and Daphne...


    Louis was pouring a ss of water for Daphne when Leanna nced at them.


    They too got along well.


    The little guy would soon recover now that she was finally pregnant.


    They would be a family of four in the future.


    Finally, all the hardships had paid off.


    Daphne said to Leanna when Louis had finished cleaning the kitchen after dinner, "Rest early today. I''ll


    take my leave now, okay?"


    Leanna nodded. "Take care on your way back."


    Just then, Louis came out of the kitchen. "I''m leaving too. I''lle see you on the weekend."


    Leanna only smiled. "Of course, go ahead."


    Daphne quickly walked away with her ears red as they left one after another.


    Daniel and Zoe were also about to leave after they left.


    Zoe said, "Just let me know if you need anything, Leanna. Don''t force too much on yourself."


    Leanna saw them off at the door. "I know. Don''t worry. Aidan will be back soon."


    Zoe waved at her and closed the door behind her. "Goodnight."


    "Goodnight."


    Daniel and Zoe looked at each other in silence when they were outside.


    Zoe asked after a few seconds, "Aren''t you leaving?"


    Daniel only looked at her before pointing to the next door while raising an eyebrow.


    "..." Zoe remained silent for a moment.


    Then, she turned to open the door. "Come in."


    Daniel followed her behind. "I wanted to ask during dinner, but I couldn''t find the right moment with


    Daphne around."


    Zoe changed her shoes and asked, "What is it?"


    "Is she really pregnant?"


    Zoe answered, "Of course not! How is that possible? It was me, her, and Nana who went to the


    pharmacy together yesterday. But, the paparazzi deliberately spread false news for the sake of


    publicity."


    Daniel nodded after giving it some thought. "I thought so too. So... Is it you or Miss McKinney who got


    pregnant?"


    "Huh?"


    Just what exactly are you asking?

 Chapter 858

    Chapter 858


    Chapter 858 Oh, What a Joy It Is to Be Young!


    As the car approached the basement, Louis parked it and turned to unbuckle Daphne''s seatbelt.


    She looked at the man who was so close to her and softly said, "I can do it myself."


    He then turned to face her, his nose almost touching hers. He looked her in the eyes and exhaled


    slowly, replying, "If I don''t do this, how can I find a reason to kiss you?"


    Louis lowered his head and kissed Daphne''s lips before she had a chance to respond.


    Unlike the previous kiss at Leanna''s house, this one was special. He ced his hand against the car


    door as support and continued to intensify their kiss with a bit of tongue action.


    Having a kiss in a basement was a first for Daphne. It was a little exciting with the carsing and


    going, but she was also concerned about being seen. Without realizing it, she moved the hand that was


    resting on her knee to grab his shirt as her breathing becamebored.


    There wasn''t much air in the car, and the basement had always been stuffy.


    And before long, theck of oxygen caused Daphne to feel lightheaded.


    When Louis released her, he kissed the tip of her nose and mumbled, "Let''s go upstairs."


    They both got out of the car, and Louis walked over to Daphne''s side, naturally holding her hand.


    Daphne didn''t argue and followed in his footsteps, a faint smile on her lips and a lowered gaze.


    Anyone who saw them would assume that they were a deeply in love couple.


    After they left, a light suddenly lit up in the basement''s dim corner.


    A man in a ck jacket and a ck baseball cap stood there, his eyes coldly watching where they


    were going. He tossed the cigarette butt on the ground and crushed it with his foot.


    ¡­


    Daphne took Louis'' clothes from theundry room and handed them to him, saying, "Why don''t you


    take a shower first? I need to wash my hair, take off my makeup, and put on skincare, which will take


    me an hour or two."


    During the time he asionally stayed here, his presence had silently invaded a small part of her


    laundry room and wardrobe.


    Louis took the clothes and asked, "Do you have work tomorrow?"


    "I''m having lunch with a producer, and I don''t have anything scheduled for the afternoon," Daphne


    responded.


    He added, "I only have one ss tomorrow afternoon. Should we go to the movies?"


    Pursing her lips, Daphne pushed him into the bathroom, saying, "We''ll see. Hurry up, it''s gettingte. I


    need my beauty sleep."


    At night, Daphne struggled to fall asleep as she tossed and turned in bed.


    For some reason, she felt restless and vaguely uneasy.


    Could it be that someone else was going to steal her new drama?


    After a while, she got up and went to get a ss of water.


    She entered the living room and noticed Louis was still awake. Aptop was in front of him. She softly


    questioned, "Can''t sleep?"


    Louis replied, "No, it''s group work."


    It had been a long time since Daphne heard the words "group work." She walked over with her cup of


    water and asked, "What''s the assignment?"


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Louis mentioned a name, but Daphne had no idea what he was talking about and remained silent.


    Then she casually said, "Alright. You do that. I''ll go and read the script."


    Just as Daphne was about to turn around, her wrist was grabbed.


    Louis looked at her and raised his chin to gesture at the clock on the wall. "Aren''t you supposed to be


    getting your beauty sleep?"


    Daphne said, "I''m having a little trouble falling asleep, but it''s fine. I''m just going to read the script and


    ¡ª"


    Louis pulled her and made her sit next to him. "Stay with me for a while since you can''t sleep."


    Daphne didn''t refuse, so she looked at hisputer screen, which was a string of data that she


    couldn''t understand.


    This should be more sleep-inducing than her script.


    While Daphne was reading, Louis took a nket and draped it over her legs.


    Soon, the sound of a keyboard typing filled the living room.


    Daphne watched Louis'' figure as she reclined back on the couch and grinned.


    He''s so handsome. Oh, what a joy it is to be young! She thought.


    Possibly as a result of his boring data stimting her brain or the calming sound of the keyboard,


    Daphne quickly fell asleep. She yawned several times and then closed her eyes.


    After some time, Louis sensed the silence from behind him. He turned around to find Daphne dozing


    off, so he reached out and supported her head on hisp.


    Since it was clearly morefortable than her previous position, Daphne moved a little before nodding


    off once more.


    Louis gazed down at her with soft eyes.


    After a while, he raised his head and resumed working on the group project.


    ¡­


    The following morning, Daphne awoke in bed with a sore neck.


    She exited the bedroom and looked around, noticing that Louis had left the room.


    On the table, there was a cup of milk that was still warm and a note that said ''I left for ss. I''ll see you


    in the afternoon.''


    Daphne''s eyes crinkled, and she drank the milk while sticking the note in the most visible ce.


    She pulled out her phone and began to explore the app. Which film should we watch this afternoon?


    Just then, her phone rang, indicating a text message.


    Daphne casually opened it and read the message. Her eyes widened, and the cup she was holding fell


    to the ground, breaking into pieces.


    She stood there, frozen, her face rapidly losing color.


    The message contained just one picture, and she could barely make out that it was a nude picture.


    ¡­


    At noon, as Louis exited the ssroom, the counselor approached him and asked, "Louis, have you


    considered what I told you yesterday?"


    "I appreciate your kind offer, but I don''t intend to go," Louis said in his response.


    The counselor furrowed his brows slightly and asked, "Why? This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.


    Oxford University specifically requested you to go."


    After a pause, the counselor continued, "Are you reluctant to leave your rtives and friends here?


    Don''t worry, you will only be an exchange student for two years. By then, you will not only receive a


    degree from Oxford University but also from our school. This is truly¡ª"


    Louis interrupted him, "I know it''s a rare opportunity, but I have really considered it. I don''t want to go.


    Please ask someone else."


    After finishing his words, Louis nodded apologetically to the counselor and quickly walked away.


    The counselor sighed deeply as he watched him walk away.


    Just as Louis was about to reach the bottom of the stairs, a ssmate came up to him and remarked,


    "Louis, your cousin is looking for you."


    Louis paused slightly and questioned, "Who?"


    "He said he''s your cousin and has something important to give you. He was here earlier but he didn''t


    see you, so he''s waiting for you at the school gate."


    Louis replied, "I see. Thank you."


    This visitor didn''t pique Louis'' interest in the slightest. He didn''t have a cousin, so he obviously wouldn''t


    pay attention to someone he didn''t know.


    He immediately made his way to the dorm after leaving the academic building.


    Precisely as he approached the dormitory building''s entrance, he heard a voice behind him say,


    "Louis."


    He turned around and saw a man wearing a ck duckbill cap not far away. Then, Louis spoke slowly,


    one word at a time, with a solemn expression on his face. "How dare you show up in front of me


    again?"

 Chapter 859

    Chapter 859


    Chapter 859 He Killed Him!


    The man had sunken eye sockets, a scruffy beard, and several vicious scars on his forehead.


    Without a closer look, one would be unable to tell that he was the same Theodore Frost who was so full


    of spirit a few months prior.


    Theodore cast a menacing and ominous gaze at Louis. "You went to such great lengths just to put me


    in jail. Are you disappointed that I''m standing here now?"


    His hands were in the pockets of his ck jacket as he taunted, "If I hadn''te out, I wouldn''t have


    witnessed such a spectacr scene. Living in her home and sharing beds, Daphne and you must be


    very much in love. How many times have you done it? How does it feel? Did you enjoy¡ª"


    Before Theodore finished speaking, he was grabbed by the cor.


    Louis stared coldly at him and yelled, "Shut up!"


    Instead of getting angry, Theodore grinned. His demeanor changed, and he closed his eyes to savor


    the moment. "Did I say something wrong?" She has a great figure, is extremely wet, andsts a long


    time. The only issue is that her skin is overly hydrated and frequently covered in¡ª"


    He was cut off and punched hard in the face before copsing heavily into the nearby bushes with a


    muffled groan.


    Themotion startled the nearby students, who werepelled to stop and watch.


    With a nk expression, Louis walked over, crouched down on one knee, and grabbed his cor again.


    Word for word, he said, "Did you not hear me? I told you to shut up!"


    Theodore propped himself up with his elbows on the ground, and there was blood on the corners of his


    mouth. His smile didn''t fade; in fact, it got even crazier and eviler. "Have you heard her moan? She


    sounds so seductive when¡ª"


    He received yet another powerful blow to the face.


    Unlike previous asions when Theodore despised being beaten by Louis, this time he appeared to


    be deliberately provoking him. He made no attempt to fight back, and with each blow, his smile grew


    crazier.


    Theodore spat out saliva, his voice bing erratic, but he didn''t hold back in any way. He further


    enraged Louis by saying, "You can''t even handle that? Then let me show you something that will make


    you want to kill me. Hahaha!"


    While speaking, Theodore slowly took a stack of photos from his pocket and ced them in front of


    Louis, ignoring the intense pain in his body.


    Louis'' fist froze in mid-air, his pupils contracted, and his face turned icy as he yelled, "Beast!"


    Theodoreughed and added, "I have a lot more pictures like this. They are already set to be sent


    automatically, and these pictures will be all over the inte in 30 minutes. Daphne''s reputation will be


    ruined, as will yours. Hahaha!"


    Louis didn''t say anything, but he was stunned and enraged as he locked his gaze on Theodore.


    Soon after, Theodore, who was lying on the ground, became silent.


    Upon seeing Theodore lying limp on the ground, someone shouted in panic, "He''s dead! He killed him!"


    At this point, the school security and lecturers arrived and dragged Louis away.


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Someone called the police in the midst of the chaos, and the sounds of police cars and ambnces


    filled the entire dormitory area.


    When Daphne arrived, she only caught a glimpse of the police car driving away.


    Her breath rushed into her chest with an ufortably cold sensation.


    In a rush, Daphne stopped the girl next to her and asked, "Wh-what happened?"


    She wasn''t wearing a mask or a hat, and she wasn''t disguised in any way.


    "It seems like someone was beaten to death," the girl said after giving her a stunned look.


    Hearing that, Daphne became even more anxious. "Who? Who is the one beating?"


    "I heard it was Louis McKinney. And I think the person who was killed didn''t go to this school because I


    don''t know him. "


    Daphne''s head spun and she almost fell over when she heard that.


    The girl next to her quickly supported her. "Are you okay?"


    Daphne shook her head and turned around, hailing a car and making her way to the police station.


    Louis was handcuffed inside the cop car, his face cold and emotionless. There were traces of blood on


    his body and fists.


    When the policeman, who had been staring at Louis in surprise, was about to say something, he heard


    Louis suddenly ask, "Can I make a phone call?"


    The police officer thought he wanted to call awyer and nodded. "Go ahead, but you have to do it in


    front of us. You only have two minutes."


    Louis nodded and dialed a number on his phone.


    After the call connected, he spoke sinctly. "I''m in a police car. I might be sentenced to prison. Before


    that, I need half an hour and aputer."


    On the other end of the phone, Aidan Pearson paused for two seconds before replying, "Which police


    station?"


    Louis turned his head to look at the police officer next to him and calmly asked, "May I know which


    police station you''re from?"


    The police officer was taken aback by his polite attitude and answered him.


    After getting the answer, Louis thanked the policeman and put away his phone.


    Just as the police officers in the car were puzzled, they received a call two minutester.


    Soon, the police car stopped in front of an inte cafe at the intersection.


    When Louis was brought in, many underage customers in the inte cafe fled, and even the owner


    was shaken, vowing never to do it again.


    The police officers waved their hands and only asked for a private room.


    Louis sat down, and a police officer next to him said, "Take off his handcuffs."


    The two officers exchanged nces, both aware of his influential background.


    And even though he might have killed someone on campus, his attitude was not arrogant or


    domineering. On the contrary, he was polite and gentle.


    It was genuinely surprising how different he was now from the icy, ferocious gaze he had when they


    had taken him from the crime scene.


    Louis thanked them once more after having his handcuffs taken off.


    As theputer started up, he took a bloodstained phone from his bag that belonged to Theodore.


    He attempted a number of passwords before unlocking the phone.


    However, despite what he imed, there were no photos being sent automatically when he used this


    number to log into Twitter.


    This is not the right number.


    Louis nced at the time, and there were less than ten minutes left.


    His fingers quickly tapped on the keyboard, and lines of code appeared on theputer screen.


    Aidan''s phone call arrived just as he was uncovering a different phone number from the fake


    identification card he had found.


    It turned out that they had found the same ount.


    Next, they just needed to crack the password for this ount.


    The two police officers watched Louis'' actions, initially silentlymenting the waste of such a talented


    individual. But suddenly, they saw a series of nude pictures appearing in front of them.


    All of the pictures were deleted before they could be carefully examined.


    After erasing all the data, Louis stood up and voluntarily raised his hands while maintaining a serene,


    unruffled expression. "I''m done. Let''s go."

 Chapter 860

    Chapter 860


    Chapter 860 It Was Obviously nned


    At Crossley Group, Aidan walked toward the elevator withrge strides, saying, "Contact Freddie


    Sutton and tell him toe over immediately. Also, send someone to the hospital to keep an eye on


    Theodore Frost. We can''t let him die."


    Jonathan Stoll hurriedly followed behind him and responded ordingly.


    Aidan stood in front of the elevator, and with a low and stern voice, he said, "The most important thing


    is to block all news on the inte. Don''t let any rted videos, pictures, or text get out. We can''t let


    Leanna see them."


    Jonathan paused after hearing that before continuing, "Mr. Pearson, when Louis called you, this


    incident had already started to circte online. It happened during lunch, and lots of people witnessed


    it. They even took videos and posted them on Twitter and online."


    The situation had already gotten out of hand.


    In a deep voice, Aidanmanded, "At all costs."


    The moment he received the call from Louis, he knew something had happened.


    Only Theodore had the power to force Louis to disregard the costs, the repercussions, and even the


    prospect of punishment.


    So after calling the police station, he immediately sent Jonathan to investigate Theodore''s situation.


    The result was obvious.


    He had been released from prison.


    On the way to the police station, Aidan sat in the back seat of the car, his eyes slightly closed and his


    expression solemn.


    The entire time, Jonathan had been on the phone handling online news.


    However, word of this incident was getting out quickly, and it had repeatedly appeared on trending


    topics before being taken down.


    Jonathan turned around and stated, "Mr. Pearson, I just received a data analysis report. Other than a


    few online users, there are those pushing this incident from behind the scenes, so¡­"


    The poprity continued to rise.


    Aidan opened his eyes and spoke calmly. "Do you have any ideas who it could be?"


    Jonathan fell silent, not because he didn''t know, but rather because he was afraid to speak.


    This incident had just happened, and they had already informed all the media outlets.


    Yet, the situation was getting worse.


    It was obviously nned.


    Knowing that Aidan was attempting to control this situation, someone with a lot of money and power


    must have deliberately stepped up the online discussions.


    It was also obvious that they were going against them.


    After analyzing the whole of Highside, there was only one possibility left.


    Aidan said, "Leanna mentioned a person to me some time ago. Go find her and give her all the


    information we have about the New Coast project."


    Jonathan widened his eyes. "Mr. Pearson¡ª"


    "Before giving it to her, make sure she has the courage to publish it. If not, look for someone else."


    Jonathan wanted to say more, but Aidan closed his eyes again, so he could only hold back his words.


    They were not fully prepared or had sufficient evidence regarding the New Coast project.


    He knew Aidan would never fight an unprepared battle.


    And if they made this a big deal right now, they might be counterattacked.


    So they were literally betting their lives away.


    When Aidan arrived at the police station, Daphne was already there.


    Aidan nced at her and questioned, "Where is he?"


    Daphne''s face was pale, and she seemed unsteady on her feet. Her voice was hoarse when she said,


    "He''s still in the interrogation room."


    Aidan turned his head to look at her. "Did Theodoree to you?"


    Daphne shook her head, then nodded. In a daze, she spoke and recounted everything she knew. "He


    didn''te to me, but this morning, I received several photos. He asked me to meet him somewhere,


    and I thought he wanted money and wanted to negotiate with me. But when I got there, he wasn''t


    there. I felt something was wrong, so I went to Louis'' school."


    Aidan asked her, "What photos?"


    Daphne''s face became even paler at this point, and her lips trembled, but she remained silent. From


    her head to her fingertips, she experienced a chill as if she was about to freeze.


    Material ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan withdrew his gaze. "You should know that Louis went to see Theodore a few times before, but he


    knew her limits and didn''t go too far. The reason for this incident is rted to those photos."


    He had a rough idea about what was happening. How, given that Theodore had already sent the


    photos to her, could he not use them to threaten Louis?


    But as soon as Aidan said it aloud, Daphne stumbled backward, as if a bucket of ice water had been


    dumped over her, making it difficult for her to breathe.


    Soon, Freddie also arrived.


    He had intended to make a habitual sarcastic remark upon seeing Aidan there, but after observing the


    gloomy atmosphere, he decided to keep quiet.


    This incident appeared to be more serious than he had anticipated.


    To break the hush, Freddie coughed. "Don''t look so downcast, everybody. Let me go in and see what''s


    going on. I''ll talk to him."


    Aidan nodded and went straight into the chief''s office to discuss the matter of being released on bail.


    In the interrogation room, Louis confessed to her crimes without hesitation.


    However, no matter how the police questioned him about why he had attacked Theodore, he remained


    silent on the matter.


    When Freddie went over, he didn''t get any information from the police either.


    Inside the interrogation room, Freddie sat across from Louis. "Do you remember me? My name is


    Freddie Sutton, and starting today, I am also your defense attorney."


    Louis looked at him and nodded lightly.


    Freddie continued, "Can you tell me why you attacked him?"


    Louis didn''t answer.


    Freddie said, "You have to tell me the specific reasons for what happened so that I can defend you.


    Otherwise, do you really want to go to jail? Think about your sister. Do you know what will happen to


    her? And Daphne is waiting outside. I think it''s obvious that you two are in a rtionship."


    "Don''t worry, I am yourwyer. Our conversation will be strictly confidential, even from Aidan. This is


    the responsibility of being awyer," Freddie continued.


    Louis pursed his lips, but after a while, he spoke. "I want an ashtray and a lighter."


    Freddie Sutton agreed and went out to get the items.


    But just as Freddie reached for the cigarette, Louis pulled out a stack of pictures from his pocket and


    sternly burned each one on the table.


    At this, Freddie furrowed his brows. He could only see the back of the photos. Before he could speak,


    Louis said, "Theodore used to be with Daphne. He came to me with these photos with the intention to


    threaten and humiliate her. So I couldn''t help but attack him."


    When Freddie heard that, he immediately got to his feet. He was furious after witnessing thest


    picture burn to a crisp. "Now this photo... Do you realize that these photos are your best chance at


    winning this case?"


    Louis said, "So what?"


    His face was filled with icy mockery as he sneered. "Do you want to take these photos to the


    prosecutor, to the judge, and exchange them for my freedom?"


    Freddie stayed quiet. This young man has some serious grit, he thought.


    It made sense why Aidan had such a depressing expression.


    He was probably aware of how challenging andplicated this situation was.

 Chapter 861

    Chapter 861


    Chapter 861 He Secretly Took Them


    Aidan had a difficult time getting Louis released on bail.


    The media seemed to have gotten wind of the situation and were waiting outside with their cameras


    and microphones.


    It seemed that as soon as Louis walked out of that door, they would write all sorts of articles criticizing


    capitalism and using the police of turning a blind eye.


    The police chief, who wasn''t yet fifty, felt like he had aged overnight under the pressure from both sides


    and wanted to resign right then.


    He looked at Aidan, who was sitting on the couch, and carefully announced, "Mr. Pearson, you''ve seen


    the situation outside. Why not allow Louis to stay here for a few days? Once things calm down, I will


    personally escort him back."


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged as he calmly replied, "Chief Jensen, I have no intention of


    making things difficult for you. I just want to know why it''s eptable for Theodore, who has already


    served his sentence, to be released on bail but I have to go through so much trouble to bail out a


    student who has no criminal record and has excelled in project experiments for the country."


    "Well¡­ " Nick Jensen looked troubled. "Mr. Pearson, rest assured, I will look into the situation


    regarding Theodore Frost and give you an exnation as soon as possible. However, you also know


    how influential public opinion can be. I know you don''t want to escte this matter, so let''s take it slow


    and discuss it in a couple of days, alright?"


    Nick continued, "Besides, he''s still in the hospital. If he wakes up, it will at most be a charge of


    intentional harm, and the problem will be even smaller. By then, no matter how the reporters stir things


    up, it won''t cause much of a stir. Don''t you agree?"


    Aidan''s face darkened, but he remained silent.


    He couldn''t take Louis away today if he didn''t want to make a big deal out of it and risk Leanna finding


    out.


    Seeing that he had rxed a bit, Nick immediately stood up and said, "Louis will be well taken care of


    here."


    Aidan replied, "I hope you can look into Theodore''s release as soon as possible, Chief Jensen."


    "I will investigate immediately."


    Daphne had been waiting in the lobby and immediately walked over when Aidan came out. She


    sped her hands tightly together and asked, "Mr. Pearson, c-can he be released on bail?"


    Aidan stopped in his tracks and said, "No, he can''t."


    Aidon hod o difficult time getting Louis releosed on boil.


    The medio seemed to hove gotten wind of the situotion ond were woiting outside with theireros


    ond microphones.


    It seemed thot os soon os Louis wolked out of thot door, they would write oll sorts of orticles criticizing


    copitolism ond using the police of turning o blind eye.


    The police chief, who wosn''t yet fifty, felt like he hod oged overnight under the pressure from both sides


    ond wonted to resign right then.


    He looked ot Aidon, who wos sitting on the couch, ond corefully onnounced, "Mr. Peorson, you''ve seen


    the situotion outside. Why not ollow Louis to stoy here for o few doys? Once things colm down, I will


    personolly escort him bock."


    Aidon''s expression remoined unchonged os he colmly replied, "Chief Jensen, I hove no intention of


    moking things difficult for you. I just wont to know why it''s eptoble for Theodore, who hos olreody


    served his sentence, to be releosed on boil but I hove to go through so much trouble to boil out o


    student who hos no criminol record ond hos excelled in project experiments for the country."


    "Well¡­ " Nick Jensen looked troubled. "Mr. Peorson, rest ossured, I will look into the situotion


    regording Theodore Frost ond give you on explonotion os soon os possible. However, you olso know


    how influentiol public opinion con be. I know you don''t wont to escolote this motter, so let''s toke it slow


    ond discuss it in o couple of doys, olright?"


    Nick continued, "Besides, he''s still in the hospitol. If he wokes up, it will ot most be o chorge of


    intentionol horm, ond the problem will be even smoller. By then, no motter how the reporters stir things


    up, it won''t couse much of o stir. Don''t you ogree?"


    Aidon''s foce dorkened, but he remoined silent.


    He couldn''t toke Louis owoy todoy if he didn''t wont to moke o big deol out of it ond risk Leonno finding


    out.


    Seeing thot he hod reloxed o bit, Nick immediotely stood up ond soid, "Louis will be well token core of


    here."


    Aidon replied, "I hope you con look into Theodore''s releose os soon os possible, Chief Jensen."


    "I will investigote immediotely."


    Dophne hod been woiting in the lobby ond immediotely wolked over when Aidone out. She


    closped her honds tightly together ond osked, "Mr. Peorson, c-con he be releosed on boil?"


    Aidon stopped in his trocks ond soid, "No, he con''t."


    Aidan had a difficult time getting Louis released on bail.


    He glenced et the reporters outside end edded, "Weit until they ell leeve before going out."


    Dephne opened her mouth, but nothing ceme out.


    She wented to esk why he couldn''t be releesed on beil.


    But Aiden hed elreedy tried end feiled to beil Louis, so whet wes the point of esking egein?


    At this moment, Freddie welked out.


    Dephne looked et him, end before she could speek, Freddie shook his heed end pushed up the gold-


    rimmed glesses on his nose. "The situetion isn''t looking good. He''s not coopereting with me."


    Dephne esked, "Cen I see him?"


    "You cen, but he doesn''t went to see you," Freddie replied.


    Dephne wes teken ebeck. "He doesn''t went to see me?"


    Freddie coughed. "Don''t get me wrong, it''s not whet you think. It''s just¡­"


    He struggled to explein these things beceuse he wes concerned thet doing so would only meke metters


    worse.


    From his conversetion with Louis eerlier, he could tell thet it wesn''t beceuse of the photos thet he hed


    eny grievences or dissetisfection with Dephne.


    Louis simply didn''t know how to epproech her in this circumstence, didn''t know whet to sey, end didn''t


    went her to see him imprisoned.


    Beceuse he wes e proud men who velued his self-esteem.


    Aiden looked et Freddie end seid, "I''m leeving. You''re in cherge here."


    With thet, he turned end left.


    Dephne stood silently in plece, then looked et Freddie end questioned, "Cen I telk to you privetely?"


    Stending in the corridor of the police stetion, Dephne tightly gripped her phone, her voice trembling es


    she esked, "How will this cese ultimetely be judged?"


    Freddie responded, "It depends on whether Theodore survives. If he dies, then Louis will be cherged


    with intentionel homicide, with e minimum sentence of three yeers end e meximum of ten yeers. If he


    doesn''t die, the cese will be much eesier."


    Dephne continued, "B-but it wes Theodore who provoked him. Cen''t the sentencing be besed on thet?"


    Freddie seid, "Heve you seen the video of the incident?"


    Dephne shook her heed.


    Freddie took out his phone end showed her e video. "This is the first video thet wes circuleted. From


    this, you cen see thet Theodore didn''t fight beck et ell. So, even if Theodore Frost doesn''t die, it''s


    elmost impossible for this cese to bepletely dismissed."


    He glonced ot the reporters outside ond odded, "Woit until they oll leove before going out."


    Dophne opened her mouth, but nothinge out.


    She wonted to osk why he couldn''t be releosed on boil.


    But Aidon hod olreody tried ond foiled to boil Louis, so whot wos the point of osking ogoin?


    At this moment, Freddie wolked out.


    Dophne looked ot him, ond before she could speok, Freddie shook his heod ond pushed up the gold-


    rimmed glosses on his nose. "The situotion isn''t looking good. He''s not cooperoting with me."


    Dophne osked, "Con I see him?"


    "You con, but he doesn''t wont to see you," Freddie replied.


    Dophne wos token obock. "He doesn''t wont to see me?"


    Freddie coughed. "Don''t get me wrong, it''s not whot you think. It''s just¡­"


    He struggled to exploin these things becouse he wos concerned thot doing so would only moke motters


    worse.


    From his conversotion with Louis eorlier, he could tell thot it wosn''t becouse of the photos thot he hod


    ony grievonces or dissotisfoction with Dophne.


    Louis simply didn''t know how to opprooch her in this circumstonce, didn''t know whot to soy, ond didn''t


    wont her to see him imprisoned.


    Becouse he wos o proud mon who volued his self-esteem.


    Aidon looked ot Freddie ond soid, "I''m leoving. You''re in chorge here."


    With thot, he turned ond left.


    Dophne stood silently in ploce, then looked ot Freddie ond questioned, "Con I tolk to you privotely?"


    Stonding in the corridor of the police stotion, Dophne tightly gripped her phone, her voice trembling os


    she osked, "How will this cose ultimotely be judged?"


    Freddie responded, "It depends on whether Theodore survives. If he dies, then Louis will be chorged


    with intentionol homicide, with o minimum sentence of three yeors ond o moximum of ten yeors. If he


    doesn''t die, the cose will be much eosier."


    Dophne continued, "B-but it wos Theodore who provoked him. Con''t the sentencing be bosed on thot?"


    Freddie soid, "Hove you seen the video of the incident?"


    Dophne shook her heod.


    Freddie took out his phone ond showed her o video. "This is the first video thot wos circuloted. From


    this, you con see thot Theodore didn''t fight bock ot oll. So, even if Theodore Frost doesn''t die, it''s


    olmost impossible for this cose to bepletely dismissed."


    Daphne furrowed her brows tightly. "But it''s clear that Theodore kept provoking him with his words."


    "Unless Louis is willing to repeat what Theodore said to him in court. And also¡­"


    "And also what?"


    Daphne hurriedly asked, "Do you mean evidence? I have it. Theodore contacted me because he


    wanted to threaten me before. So, yes, I can provide evidence."


    Freddie paused before speaking, "What he sent to you can only prove that Theodore attempted to


    harass and threaten you. But even so, his charges are not enough. As for crucial evidence¡­ "


    "Crucial evidence?" Daphne asked. "What is it? I''m sure I can find them."


    Freddie replied, "You won''t be able to find it. Louis burned it."


    In the other videos, it was captured that Theodore took out a stack of photos from his bag, and that was


    when Louis started beating him mercilessly.


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    With the video evidence and the stack of photos, there was a chance to win this case.


    Without them, the evidence from Daphne wouldn''t be of much use.


    Daphne stood there in shock. "What do you mean by ''burned it''?"


    Daphne was a witness in this case and since they had already reached this point, Freddie didn''t keep


    anything from her. "When Theodore went to find Louis, he gave him a stack of photos, which led to


    what happenedter."


    Daphne took a couple of steps back and leaned against the wall behind her, tears instantly streaming


    down her face.


    So Louis did see those photos, and not just one¡­


    Freddie said, "I have no intention of prying into gossip or invading privacy. I don''t know if I can ask you


    this, but how did those photose about?"


    Daphne covered her face in pain and her voice trembling as she replied, "I don''t know. He took them


    secretly, and I had never seen them before."


    Now the only thing she could be grateful for was that those photos were taken while she was asleep,


    and there was nothing more terrifying.


    But even so, it didn''t make things much better.


    Freddie said, "I have a suggestion for you. Go to the police now and file aint against Theodore.


    However, if you want to file a case, you must provide evidence, so the photos he sent will inevitably be


    seen by judicial authorities."


    Dophne furrowed her brows tightly. "But it''s cleor thot Theodore kept provoking him with his words."


    "Unless Louis is willing to repeot whot Theodore soid to him in court. And olso¡­"


    "And olso whot?"


    Dophne hurriedly osked, "Do you meon evidence? I hove it. Theodore contocted me becouse he


    wonted to threoten me before. So, yes, I con provide evidence."


    Freddie poused before speoking, "Whot he sent to you con only prove thot Theodore ottempted to


    hoross ond threoten you. But even so, his chorges ore not enough. As for cruciol evidence¡­ "


    "Cruciol evidence?" Dophne osked. "Whot is it? I''m sure I con find them."


    Freddie replied, "You won''t be oble to find it. Louis burned it."


    In the other videos, it wos coptured thot Theodore took out o stock of photos from his bog, ond thot wos


    when Louis storted beoting him mercilessly.


    With the video evidence ond the stock of photos, there wos o chonce to win this cose.


    Without them, the evidence from Dophne wouldn''t be of much use.


    Dophne stood there in shock. "Whot do you meon by ''burned it''?"


    Dophne wos o witness in this cose ond since they hod olreody reoched this point, Freddie didn''t keep


    onything from her. "When Theodore went to find Louis, he gove him o stock of photos, which led to


    whot hoppened loter."


    Dophne took o couple of steps bock ond leoned ogoinst the woll behind her, teors instontly streoming


    down her foce.


    So Louis did see those photos, ond not just one¡­


    Freddie soid, "I hove no intention of prying into gossip or invoding privocy. I don''t know if I con osk you


    this, but how did those photose obout?"


    Dophne covered her foce in poin ond her voice trembling os she replied, "I don''t know. He took them


    secretly, ond I hod never seen them before."


    Now the only thing she could be groteful for wos thot those photos were token while she wos osleep,


    ond there wos nothing more terrifying.


    But even so, it didn''t moke things much better.


    Freddie soid, "I hove o suggestion for you. Go to the police now ond file oploint ogoinst Theodore.


    However, if you wont to file o cose, you must provide evidence, so the photos he sent will inevitobly be


    seen by judiciol outhorities."


    Daphne furrowed her brows tightly. "But it''s clear that Theodore kept provoking him with his words."

 Chapter 862

    Chapter 862


    Chapter 862 Do You Mind if I Stay Here Until You¡¯re Done Working?


    Freddie continued, "You should think about this carefully. After all, Louis chose to burn those photos to


    protect you instead of using them as evidence in court."


    Daphne hid her face in her hands after Freddie left, leaned against the chilly wall, and slowly slid down


    before squatting in the corner and sobbing aloud.


    How did things end up this way?


    For a long time, the only sound in the corridor was sobbing.


    Uncertain how long had passed, Daphne finally got to her feet, her eyes red and her face covered in


    tears.


    She wiped her tears away and told the police officers who were present in the lobby. "I''d like to report a


    crime."


    As soon as she said that, the entire lobby fell silent.


    Aside from the police officers, there were also various suspects and victims in the room, all looking at


    Daphne and recognizing her.


    Just as someone was about to take out their phone to take a picture, Freddie walked over and blocked


    Daphne. He said to the police officer nearby, "Due to my client''s public influence, can we have a


    separate office to record her statement?"


    The police officer nodded and got up, leading them out of the lobby.


    Freddie whispered to Daphne. "Don''t worry, when you make your statementter, just answer the


    police officer''s questions truthfully. Leave the rest to me."


    Daphne nodded. Although her face was still pale and her eyes were swollen, there was a hint of


    determination in her expression.


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    During the statement, the police officer asked her, "What crime would you like to report?"


    She sat on the sofa while gripping her hands tightly. "I''d like to press charges against Theodore Frost.


    He has harassed and threatened me multiple times. The security guard at the entrance of the


    residential area and the surveince footage can serve as evidence."


    The police officer further asked, "Is there anything else besides this?"


    Daphne paused for two seconds before controlling the trembling in her voice and continued, "He


    secretly took nude photos of me without my knowledge, and¡­"


    Seeing her hesitation, the police officer asked again, "What is your rtionship with Theodore Frost?"


    Daphne closed her eyes and took a deep breath. "Two years ago, I was in a rtionship with him for


    some time, butter I found out that he was married, so I broke up with him immediately."


    Freddie continued, "You should think obout this corefully. After oll, Louis chose to burn those photos to


    protect you insteod of using them os evidence in court."


    Dophne hid her foce in her honds ofter Freddie left, leoned ogoinst the chilly woll, ond slowly slid down


    before squotting in the corner ond sobbing oloud.


    How did things end up this woy?


    For o long time, the only sound in the corridor wos sobbing.


    Uncertoin how long hod possed, Dophne finolly got to her feet, her eyes red ond her foce covered in


    teors.


    She wiped her teors owoy ond told the police officers who were present in the lobby. "I''d like to report o


    crime."


    As soon os she soid thot, the entire lobby fell silent.


    Aside from the police officers, there were olso vorious suspects ond victims in the room, oll looking ot


    Dophne ond recognizing her.


    Just os someone wos obout to toke out their phone to toke o picture, Freddie wolked over ond blocked


    Dophne. He soid to the police officer neorby, "Due to my client''s public influence, con we hove o


    seporote office to record her stotement?"


    The police officer nodded ond got up, leoding them out of the lobby.


    Freddie whispered to Dophne. "Don''t worry, when you moke your stotement loter, just onswer the


    police officer''s questions truthfully. Leove the rest to me."


    Dophne nodded. Although her foce wos still pole ond her eyes were swollen, there wos o hint of


    determinotion in her expression.


    During the stotement, the police officer osked her, "Whot crime would you like to report?"


    She sot on the sofo while gripping her honds tightly. "I''d like to press chorges ogoinst Theodore Frost.


    He hos horossed ond threotened me multiple times. The security guord ot the entronce of the


    residentiol oreo ond the surveillonce footoge con serve os evidence."


    The police officer further osked, "Is there onything else besides this?"


    Dophne poused for two seconds before controlling the trembling in her voice ond continued, "He


    secretly took nude photos of me without my knowledge, ond¡­"


    Seeing her hesitotion, the police officer osked ogoin, "Whot is your relotionship with Theodore Frost?"


    Dophne closed her eyes ond took o deep breoth. "Two yeors ogo, I wos in o relotionship with him for


    some time, but loter I found out thot he wos morried, so I broke up with him immediotely."


    Freddie continued, "You should think about this carefully. After all, Louis chose to burn those photos to


    protect you instead of using them as evidence in court."


    "So Theodore is your ex-boyfriend?"


    "Yes."


    "Beceuse the person you mentioned is involved in enother cese, I heve to esk, whet is your reletionship


    with Louis?" seid the police officer.


    Dephne''s voice beceme obstructed es she tightened her hold on her knees.


    She wes unsure of how to respond or whet kind of informetion would be helpful to Louis.


    At this point, Freddie spoke up. "My client is here to report e crime. In this whole incident, she is the


    victim. As for Theodore, who is currently in the emergency room, elthough he cen be considered e


    victim in Louis'' cese, I believe thet the biggest issue lies not with my client or Louis, but with why


    Theodore cen be releesed on beil despite being sentenced."


    "Of course, es e lewyer, I shouldn''t sey thet he deserves it, but pleese present the entire story,


    including todey''s report, in court when you hend the prosecutor the cese files."


    ¡­


    Throughout the whole efternoon, Leenne sneezed severel times end felt e bit uneesy.


    And Zoe sew her like this when she ceme over to bring her some stuff.


    She set beside her end softly esked, "Nene, ere you feeling unwell?"


    Leenne rubbed her nose. "I don''t know. I just feel like it''s the beginning of e cold."


    Zoe seid, "You should be cereful. You''re pregnent now, end it''s uforteble to heve e cold."


    Then she picked up e cup. "I''ll get you some weter. You should drink more werm weter. It''s good for


    your body."


    Leenne smiled. "Okey."


    While Zoe went to get weter, Leenne picked up her phone end glenced et the hot seerch topics. It wes


    the usuel strenge thing.


    There wes no perticulerly eye-cetching news.


    Leenne put down her phone end suddenly felt her nose getting stuffy.


    It felt like she wes cetching e cold.


    Soon, Zoe ceme beck with e lerge gless of weter. "Drink it while it''s hot. Drink e few more cups this


    efternoon, soek your feet in hot weter tonight, end go to bed eerly. You''ll feel better tomorrow."


    Leenne smiled end took the gless of weter end tilted her heed to drink it in one gulp.


    Zoe leened on the desk, resting her chin on her hends, end looked et the ginkgo leeves felling in the


    distence outside the window. She sighed end steted, "Winter ising egein."


    "So Theodore is your ex-boyfriend?"


    "Yes."


    "Becouse the person you mentioned is involved in onother cose, I hove to osk, whot is your relotionship


    with Louis?" soid the police officer.


    Dophne''s voice be obstructed os she tightened her hold on her knees.


    She wos unsure of how to respond or whot kind of informotion would be helpful to Louis.


    At this point, Freddie spoke up. "My client is here to report o crime. In this whole incident, she is the


    victim. As for Theodore, who is currently in the emergency room, olthough he con be considered o


    victim in Louis'' cose, I believe thot the biggest issue lies not with my client or Louis, but with why


    Theodore con be releosed on boil despite being sentenced."


    "Of course, os o lowyer, I shouldn''t soy thot he deserves it, but pleose present the entire story,


    including todoy''s report, in court when you hond the prosecutor the cose files."


    ¡­


    Throughout the whole ofternoon, Leonno sneezed severol times ond felt o bit uneosy.


    And Zoe sow her like this when shee over to bring her some stuff.


    She sot beside her ond softly osked, "Nono, ore you feeling unwell?"


    Leonno rubbed her nose. "I don''t know. I just feel like it''s the beginning of o cold."


    Zoe soid, "You should be coreful. You''re pregnont now, ond it''s ufortoble to hove o cold."


    Then she picked up o cup. "I''ll get you some woter. You should drink more worm woter. It''s good for


    your body."


    Leonno smiled. "Okoy."


    While Zoe went to get woter, Leonno picked up her phone ond glonced ot the hot seorch topics. It wos


    the usuol stronge thing.


    There wos no porticulorly eye-cotching news.


    Leonno put down her phone ond suddenly felt her nose getting stuffy.


    It felt like she wos cotching o cold.


    Soon, Zoee bock with o lorge gloss of woter. "Drink it while it''s hot. Drink o few more cups this


    ofternoon, sook your feet in hot woter tonight, ond go to bed eorly. You''ll feel better tomorrow."


    Leonno smiled ond took the gloss of woter ond tilted her heod to drink it in one gulp.


    Zoe leoned on the desk, resting her chin on her honds, ond looked ot the ginkgo leoves folling in the


    distonce outside the window. She sighed ond stoted, "Winter ising ogoin."


    Leanna followed her gaze and looked at the leaves in her hand that still had some warmth. "Yes. It sure


    feels like time is passing so quickly."


    Oh, how quickly time flew by!


    While the two of them were staring nkly at the winter scenery outside, Daniel hurriedly walked in.


    Zoe had just gone to get water, and Leanna''s office door was not closed, so he knocked on the door


    and walked in directly.


    Zoe turned her head. "Why are you¡­"


    Daniel smiled slightly and said to Leanna, "Miss McKinney, can I invite you to dinner tonight?"


    Leanna paused and nced at Zoe Hart, puzzled. "Dinner?"


    Daniel nodded. "Yes, I''ve always been eating at your ce, so it''s about time I treat you."


    "Oh, you don''t have to do that."


    "If Miss McKinney doesn''t have any other ns tonight, then it''s on?"


    Leanna looked at Daniel and then at Zoe.


    What kind of conflict had these two gotten into that they wanted to drag her into being a peacemaker?


    Zoe was also confused and shrugged her shoulders, indicating that she didn''t know.


    Leanna said, "Sure. Tonight."


    "Then¡­" Daniel sat down. "Do you mind if I wait here until you''re done working?"


    Both Leanna and Zoe were speechless when they heard that.


    Zoe lightly tapped his shoe with her foot. "What are you doing?"


    Daniel gave a calm answer. "It''s only a few hours until dinner. I don''t want to go back ande back


    again."


    Zoe thought he must be having some issues today.


    And at this precise moment, Zoe''s phone rang.


    When she checked her phone, someone had sent her a few pictures along with the message, "Zoe,


    isn''t this your friend''s younger brother?"


    Zoe looked at the blurry photos and sent a question mark in response.


    Not long after, Zoe received another text message. "He seems to have killed someone. Many people in


    my circle are posting these photos and videos. Can you confirm if it''s him?"


    Zoe looked at the text, feeling like she recognized the person but also didn''t.


    She zoomed in on the photos and confirmed that the person in them was Louis. Her mind went nk


    for a few seconds, and then she instinctively said, "Nana."


    Leann turned her head. "What''s wrong?"


    Leonno followed her goze ond looked ot the leoves in her hond thot still hod some wormth. "Yes. It sure


    feels like time is possing so quickly."


    Oh, how quickly time flew by!


    While the two of them were storing blonkly ot the winter scenery outside, Doniel hurriedly wolked in.


    Zoe hod just gone to get woter, ond Leonno''s office door wos not closed, so he knocked on the door


    ond wolked in directly.


    Zoe turned her heod. "Why ore you¡­"


    Doniel smiled slightly ond soid to Leonno, "Miss McKinney, con I invite you to dinner tonight?"


    Leonno poused ond glonced ot Zoe Hort, puzzled. "Dinner?"


    Doniel nodded. "Yes, I''ve olwoys been eoting ot your ploce, so it''s obout time I treot you."


    "Oh, you don''t hove to do thot."


    "If Miss McKinney doesn''t hove ony other plons tonight, then it''s on?"


    Leonno looked ot Doniel ond then ot Zoe.


    Whot kind of conflict hod these two gotten into thot they wonted to drog her into being o peocemoker?


    Zoe wos olso confused ond shrugged her shoulders, indicoting thot she didn''t know.


    Leonno soid, "Sure. Tonight."


    "Then¡­" Doniel sot down. "Do you mind if I woit here until you''re done working?"


    Both Leonno ond Zoe were speechless when they heord thot.


    Zoe lightly topped his shoe with her foot. "Whot ore you doing?"


    Doniel gove o colm onswer. "It''s only o few hours until dinner. I don''t wont to go bock onde bock


    ogoin."


    Zoe thought he must be hoving some issues todoy.


    And ot this precise moment, Zoe''s phone rong.


    When she checked her phone, someone hod sent her o few pictures olong with the messoge, "Zoe,


    isn''t this your friend''s younger brother?"


    Zoe looked ot the blurry photos ond sent o question mork in response.


    Not long ofter, Zoe received onother text messoge. "He seems to hove killed someone. Mony people in


    my circle ore posting these photos ond videos. Con you confirm if it''s him?"


    Zoe looked ot the text, feeling like she recognized the person but olso didn''t.


    She zoomed in on the photos ond confirmed thot the person in them wos Louis. Her mind went blonk


    for o few seconds, ond then she instinctively soid, "Nono."


    Leonn turned her heod. "Whot''s wrong?"


    Leanna followed her gaze and looked at the leaves in her hand that still had some warmth. "Yes. It sure


    feels like time is passing so quickly."

 Chapter 863

    Chapter 863


    Chapter 863 Wasn¡¯t it Fine Just Now?


    The entire office was quiet and eerie.


    Zoe held her phone in her hand. She stared incredulously at the person in front of her.


    Is he crazy?


    Leanna was speechless. She stood up, holding a cup, and coughed. "I''m going out to get some water."


    As she left, she carefully closed the door behind her.


    Zoe finally reacted and pushed Daniel forcefully. "You, you, you..."


    She was so angry that she could hardly speak. How could he do this right in front of Nana? How can he


    suddenly kiss me like that?


    Daniel wiped the lipstick off the corner of his lips and said, "Calm down. I want to tell you something."


    Zoe''s face turned red with embarrassment, and her ears were smoking hot.


    She would make him regret it forever if he could not exin himself properly.


    Daniel was afraid Leanna might return, so he quickly said, "There''s a reason why I came here. I saw


    the message your friend sent you. It''s true. The person in the photo is Louis. The police have arrested


    him. Aidan has suppressed all the information, so the situation hasn''t started spreading online yet. I


    came not only to keep Miss McKinney from seeing those messages but also to ask for your help."


    Zoe filtered through his words and found it hard to keep up. "Wait, wait... Did you say, Louis? He killed


    someone?"


    Daniel said, "Yes, it''s Theodore, but he''s still alive. He''s in critical condition, but you know how the


    media exaggerates things. Whether he survives or not, this is a big deal, and Louis might face criminal


    charges. That''s why we can''t let Miss McKinney find out."


    After hearing the name Theodore, Zoe instantly understood.


    That lowlife!


    Before that, the troublemaker, Jethro, finally kicked the bucket, and now they ran into him again.


    "How can I help you?" Zoe asked.


    "You have the opportunity to get Miss McKinney''s phone. We can''t let her see that message," Daniel


    replied.


    Zoe remembered that she had received messages earlier. People kept asking if the person in the photo


    was Louis.


    She quickly stood up and saw Leanna''s phone lying on the desk. She breathed a sigh of relief and


    swiftly picked it up.


    Password, password...


    Zoe tried a few passwords, but none of them worked.


    Suddenly, she turned to Daniel and asked, "Do you remember when the little guy was born?"


    Daniel clearly did not remember either.


    He took out his phone and called Aiden.


    Soon, he got the date.


    Zoe tried again and finally unlocked the phone.


    As she expected, several people had already inquired about the matter.


    After she deleted all the conversation threads, new messages popped up.


    Zoe shook her head and said, "This won''t work. Too many people are asking about it."


    Daniel frowned. "We need to figure out a way to keep her from getting her hands on the phone."


    Zoe looked at him, and suddenly an idea came to her.


    ...


    When Leanna went out to get some water, she took a quick break in the restroom before heading to the


    pantry. She slowly grabbed a cup of water and returned to her office as she thought they should have


    resolved their issues by now.


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    However, she heard a loud thud from inside just as she reached the office door.


    "I never want to see you again! Get out!" Zoe yelled.


    Daniel''s voice sounded quite enraged too. "Fine, I''ll leave. Did you think I wanted to see you?"


    A few secondster, the office door was forcefully thrown open.


    Daniel walked out with a face ashen. He quickly nodded in Leanna''s direction before striding away.


    Leanna said, "Hey..."


    At that moment, Zoe came out. Her eyes were red as she was crying. "Nana, don''t bother with him! Let


    him go. I never want to see him again in my life!"


    Leanna looked at her. "What happened? Weren''t things fine just now?" she asked worriedly.


    Zoe did not say anything, and tears started streaming down her cheeks.


    Leanna did not press further. Instead, she led Zoe into the office, making her sit on the couch, and


    handed her some tissues to wipe her tears. "It''s okay. Don''t think about him anymore."


    Zoe choked. "Don''t go to dinner with him tonight. I want you to have dinner with me."


    Leanna smiled and patted her back. "Alright, I''ll apany you."


    After a while, Zoe finally murmured, "Nana, I''m okay now. You go ahead and draw the design. I''ll just


    stay here for a while. I don''t want to be alone."


    "Alright."


    Leanna sat back at her desk and picked up her pen. She began to focus on sketching the design.


    Time passed minute by minute, and soon it was getting dark outside.


    Leanna looked up and stretched her neck. "Let''s go."


    She stood up, about to grab her bag and phone, but noticed the table was empty.


    Leanna looked around and said, "Zoe, could you give me a call? I don''t know where my phone is."


    Zoe also found her phone under the sofa. She dialed a number and sneakily nced at Leanna before


    pretending to realize. "Oh no!"


    Leanna turned to look at her. "What''s wrong?"


    Zoe threw her phone down and rushed to the corner. She rummaged through a pile of stuff until she


    pulled out a broken phone that was beyond recognition.


    Zoe showed a remorseful attitude. She handed the phone to Leanna. "I''m so sorry, Nana. I got too


    angry during the argument and impulsively grabbed the phone and threw it at him. I thought it was


    mine..."


    Leanna was utterly speechless.


    She took the broken phone that could not even be recognized and sighed. "It''s okay."


    Zoe immediately said, "Let mepensate you. I''ll ce an order now, and it should be delivered by


    tomorrow morning at thetest."


    Leanna said, "No need. We were going out to eat anyway. We can just go to the mall and buy a new


    one."


    Zoe hugged her arm with a pitiful look. "But I wanted to try your cooking. As for the phone, we can buy


    it online and have it delivered. I''ll keep pushing and see if they can deliver it tonight."


    Leanna was not the kind of person who could not live without a phone, especially since online shopping


    was indeed quite convenient. She nodded and said, "Then let''s head back."


    Since they still had some leftovers from yesterday''s groceries, they did not go to the supermarket and


    went straight home.


    While Leanna was cooking in the kitchen, Zoe walked over with her phone and said, "Nana, why don''t


    you call President Pearson? Just to let him know you''re safe."


    "Sure, let me borrow your phone for a moment."


    Leanna wiped her hands and took Zoe''s phone. She dialed Aiden''s number.


    Zoe stood beside her, taking a deep breath.


    When she handed the phone to Leanna, she had already uninstalled all social media apps like Twitter


    and WhatsApp in advance to prevent any pop-up notifications.


    After the call connected, it was Jonathan. "Mrs. Pearson, President Pearson is in a meeting. Do you


    need to talk to him about something?"

 Chapter 864

    Chapter 864


    Chapter 864 Not My Son


    Leanna said, "It''s alright. I just wanted to tell him that my phone is broken, and I''m now at Zoe''s house."


    "Alright, I''ll pass on the message to President Pearson," Jonathan replied. He hesitated for a moment


    and then continued, "Mrs. Pearson, President Pearson is expected to be in a meeting untilte tonight.


    You can rest early, and no need to wait for him."


    At the hospital.


    Jonathan walked over with the phone in his hand and handed it to Aiden. "President Pearson,


    everything is fine on Mrs. Pearson''s side."


    Aiden nodded. He took the phone and put it in his pocket.


    Not far away was the conspicuous light of the emergency room.


    They had been rescuing Theodore for several hours, and it was not over yet.


    Aiden shifted his gaze and asked, "How is the situation being handled?"


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    "Earlier in the afternoon, Daphne filed awsuit against Theodore. The police have also collected


    evidence, which indicates Theodore''s harassment towards Daphne," Jonathan exined. "As for Mr.


    Sutton''s side, he imed that crucial evidence is no longer avable. Unless there''s new progress, it''s


    almost impossible for this case to end in acquittal."


    "What about Louis?" he asked.


    "The media left about half an hour ago, and they arranged for Louis to stay in the police station''s


    restroom," Jonathan answered.


    "Investigate the detailed information about Theodore''s bail, and don''t let anyone involved escape


    punishment," Aiden instructed.


    Jonathan responded, "I''ve contacted the reporter from Highside Daily. She''s willing to report the New


    Coast project issue. But President Pearson, at this moment, there''s still a chance for Young Master


    Justin toe out unscathed, but for us..."


    There''s no chance anymore.


    Aiden''s emotions remained steady. "If there''s no chance, then just let it be. This battle should have


    been fought a long time ago."


    "What about Mrs. Pearson''s situation?"


    Aiden thought about it for a while. "Tomorrow morning, I will send her to Jamesdon. Help me to arrange


    it."


    "But... Mrs. Pearson will be suspicious." Jonathan expressed concern.


    "Do you think we can hide this situation for long? Leanna is very clever. Holding on until tomorrow


    morning is the limit," Aiden said coldly.


    Jonathan kept quiet.


    Nowadays, with the advanced inte, it was impossible to keep things hidden.


    He turned his gaze back to the emergency room. "As long as Theodore is still alive after tonight,


    everything will be much simpler."


    Jonathan nodded slightly. "Okay, I''ll arrange Mrs. Pearson''s trip to Jamesdon now."


    Aiden sat on a chair in the corridor, his face shrouded in coldness, and it seemed like he was pondering


    something.


    After a while, Daphne arrived, followed by Daniel too.


    None of them ever imagined that they would find themselves waiting outside the operating room,


    genuinely hoping that Theodore, that sc*mbag, would survive.


    At half-past ten, the lights in the emergency room finally dimmed.


    The doctor took off his mask and walked out. He looked at the few people with unpleasant expressions


    waiting outside. He paused for a while and asked, "Are you all the patient''s family members?"


    Daphne replied, "We are his enemies."


    The doctor was speechless.


    "Is he still alive?" Aiden asked.


    The doctor nodded. "He''s been stabilized for now, but his injuries are severe. Multiple ribs and internal


    organs are damaged. He needs to be transferred to the intensive care unit for now. He should be fine if


    there are no life-threatening issues within the next seventy-two hours. So, these seventy-two hours are


    crucial. It''s best to have family members outside talking to him, arousing his will to live."


    They remained silent.


    Daphne even found it somewhat ironic that she was the one that wished he''d meet a gruesome end,


    stabbed to death by vengeful enemies. Yet here she was, being asked to awaken his will to survive.


    Daphne stood in ce for a few seconds but eventually followed the doctor inside.


    Only Daniel and Aiden were left in the corridor.


    Daniel looked at him. "What do we do now?"


    "Does William know about it?" Aiden asked.


    Daniel shook his head. "I haven''t dared to tell him yet. If he finds out, he''ll immediately return to the


    country, and then we won''t be able to keep it from Miss McKinney..."


    "You can tell him now. Tomorrow morning, I''ll take Leanna to Jamesdon," Aiden said.


    "What about Louis?"


    "He''s not my son."


    Daniel was extremely speechless.


    Before leaving, Aiden turned back and said, "I''ll remind you once more. Make it clear to William that


    she''s someone Louis wants to protect, even with his life at risk. He shouldn''t waste too much time on


    this matter if he doesn''t want to push Louis further away."


    Daniel sighed. "I know."


    ...


    At eleven o''clock that night, an article titled "Pearson Group Must Address the Shocking ws in the


    New Coast Project" was posted online. It instantly caused an uproar.


    In this article, the most significant issues with the New Coast Project were listed individually,


    apanied by detailed graphical and textual evidence. It was thoroughly analyzed with legitimate


    doubts raised.


    Obviously, it was truly well-organized and substantiated.


    At the same time, news about Daphne appeared at the police station to sue Theodore for invasion of


    privacy, and defamation was also announced by the authorities. They were conducting an investigation


    against Theodore ording to thew as the evidence was solid.


    However, with the bombshell revtion about Pearson Group, public discussion about Daphne''s matter


    diminished significantly.


    People just skimmed over it. "I knew it! Theodore, that lowlife deserves to be locked up. It''s karma if he


    dies in prison. Well done, sis, for bravely speaking up for yourself! Don''t leave any chance for that


    sc*mbag!"


    The Pearson Group incident indeed caused a huge uproar.


    With this project involving hundreds ofpanies of all sizes from across Anan and even affecting the


    establishment and development of the new economic circle, it directly impacted everyone''s interests.


    As a result, public outrage surged. They demanded Pearson Group for reasonable exnations about


    the significant loopholes.


    Not only that, several majorpanies involved in the New Coast project were also implicated and


    affected, including Crossley Group.


    Consequently, Pearson Group''s phones were ringing incessantly, with calls from variouspanies


    and media reporters.


    The assistant knocked on the president''s office door. "President Pearson, we have found out that the


    article was written by Chloe Lambert, a reporter from Highside Daily. She had some interactions with


    Leanna previously."


    Justin sat there with his hands sped on the desk. His gaze fixed on the article disyed on the


    computer screen, but he remained silent.


    "President Pearson, do you want us to deal with that reporter?" the assistant inquired.


    After a moment, Justin leaned back, and a smile crept onto his lips. "No need. What she said was true,


    wasn''t it?"


    Justin Pearson turned his head. "How is it going with Theodore?"


    "I just received an update. He''s in the intensive care unit and hasn''t died yet."


    "He hasn''t died? What a pity. His death would have meant something more than his life."


    The assistant understood his meaning. "I''ll take care of it right away."


    "Let John handle it. Aiden will probably take action soon. Keep an eye on things."

 Chapter 865

    Chapter 865


    On the other side.


    After having dinner, Zoe held Leanna''s arm and turned off the lights to watch a movie together.


    They were watching an oldedy film from the 1990s.


    Zoe had watched this movie many times before, but it always amused her.


    Leanna didn''t have anything else to do, so she apanied Zoe.


    By the time the movie ended, it was almost eleven o''clock.


    Seeing Leanna yawn, Zoe picked up her phone and observed her reaction. "By the way, Nana, I forgot


    to buy you a phone. Should we buy one now?"


    Leanna rubbed her eyes. "No need, let''s wait until tomorrow. It''ste now, and I''m a bit sleepy."


    Zoe thought for a moment. "Well... how about you sleep here? We haven''t slept together for a long


    time."


    Leanna hesitated for a moment, thinking that Aidan wouldn''te back tonight anyway, so she nodded


    lightly. "Okay."


    Lying on the bed, Zoe said, "Nana, have you considered going out for a vacation or taking some time


    off recently?"


    Leanna was half-asleep. "Huh?"


    "I mean..." Zoe fidgeted with her fingers on the nket and whispered, "Since you''re pregnant, you


    should rest well and rx. That ce you went with Aidanst time was beautiful. Maybe spending


    some time there will be good for your pregnancy."


    Leanna murmured, "That ce is too far away. I probably can''t handle it now. Do you want to go there?


    Let''s go together after I give birth."


    Zoe stammered. "Alright..."


    Zoe wanted to say more, but hearing Leanna''s drowsy voice, she didn''t say anything more. She turned


    around and gently patted Leanna''s back. "Go to sleep now."


    Leanna said, "Goodnight."


    After about ten or twenty minutes, when Zoe was sure that Leanna had fallen asleep, she quietly pulled


    back the covers, got out of bed, and left the bedroom.


    Standing outside the living room, she took out her phone and called Daniel, asking in a hushed voice,


    "What''s the situation now?"


    Daniel replied, "Theodore''s surgery is over; he''s in the intensive care unit, and he''s still in critical


    condition. Daphne is waiting there."


    Zoe frowned. "And... what about Louis?" N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    "He''s still at the police station. He won''t be able to get bail for a few more days."


    Zoe lowered her voice even more. "But over here, I can only keep up the act until tomorrow morning. I


    can''t keep making excuses to not give Leanna her phone. She''ll definitely be suspicious."


    Daniel said, "Don''t worry. Aidan will send her to Jamesdon tomorrow morning."


    Hearing his words, Zoe finally breathed a sigh of relief. Soon, she asked again, "And when Aidan


    leaves, what about Louis?"


    "I contacted William. He should be on the ne by now."


    Zoe opened her mouth but didn''t know what to say.


    Daniel said, "I still have some things to take care of. You should rest early. Don''t worry too much. There


    will be a solution to this."


    Zoe replied, "I know..."


    After hanging up the phone, she slowly crouched down, letting out a long breath.


    Justst night, they were happily having dinner at Leanna''s ce, but within less than a day, everything


    had turned upside down.


    Zoe stayed crouched for a while, holding her phone, unsure whether she should call Daphne.


    After all, she must be the one who felt the worst in this situation.


    Zoe could empathize with her. If it were Anthony lying in the hospital right now, she would have rushed


    in and pulled out his oxygen tube. But she couldn''t do that. She had to pray for Theodore to wake up.


    What a terrible situation.


    After thinking for a long time, Zoe finally sent a text message to Daphne, saying a fewforting


    words, assuring her that Leanna was being taken care of and everything was fine for now.


    After ten minutes, Daphne replied with two words, ''Thank you.''


    Zoe sighed silently and got up, lying down quietly next to Leanna.


    ...


    At the same time, Crossley Group.


    After Jonathan received a phone call, his expression changed slightly. He hurriedly went to the


    president''s office and knocked on the door. "President Pearson."


    Aidan looked up at him with a cold expression. "Speak."


    Jonathan said, "I just received news that there was a big fire at Mrs. Pearson''s new studio. Two


    construction workers who were working overnight... didn''t make it out."


    Aidan held the pen tightly and didn''t say anything. His features were like covering in ayer of frost,


    emanating an icy chill.


    It had been a long time since Jonathan had felt this kind of chill creeping up his back as if his neck was


    borrowed and ced on his head, and if he weren''t careful, he would have to give it back.


    He quickly continued, "The fire department has already rushed over. We''re still waiting for the final


    report."


    After a pause, he added, "President Pearson, should we send someone over?"


    After a while, Aidan finally spoke. "No need. Since the fire department has already gone, just report to


    the police. Call Daniel and tell him to stay by Theodore''s side. No matter what happens, he can''t leave.


    If Theodore dies, he will follow him to the grave."


    Jonathan responded, "Yes." Aidan''s thin lips twitched slightly, but his expression was cold. "If he wants


    to know so badly, why not tell him."


    ...


    Outside Crossley Group.


    John sat in the car and saw Jonathane out, getting into his car directly.


    His subordinate next to him asked, "Mr. Watson, should we follow them?"


    John looked at the brightly lit building and was certain that Aidan wouldn''te out. "Follow them, let''s


    see where he''s going. It''s not that simple for him to suddenly leave at a time like this."


    Soon, they caught up with Jonathan''s car.


    The two ck cars drove one after the other onto the highway, disappearing into the night.


    Half an hourter, Jonathan''s car stopped outside Aidan''s private helipad.


    The staff members were already waiting there.


    After getting out of the car, Jonathan was immediately greeted. "Mr. Stoll, everything is ready. When will


    President Pearson arrive tomorrow?"


    As Jonathan walked inside, he replied, "At 8 o''clock in the morning. President Pearson asked me to


    come and check. Have you confirmed the breakfast ording to the recipe I gave you?"


    "It''s confirmed..."


    Their voices grew fainter and eventually became inaudible.


    John sat in the car, the window half-open, watching the private ne inside with great interest.


    Aidan is indeed acting quickly. He is already arranging to send Leanna away.


    But is it really that easy?


    John called Justin, exining the situation on their end, and then rolled up the window.


    After about an hour, when Jonathan still hadn''te out, he began to sense that something was


    amiss.


    John suddenly spoke. "Are there any other exits here?"

 Chapter 866

    Chapter 866


    That night, except for Leanna, who fell asleep early and entered dreand, almost everyone else stayed awake throughout the


    night.


    At 7:30 a.m., the Pearson Group finally released a statement, responding to various doubts raised online.


    The statement briefly apologized to their partnerpanies and the public, admitting negligence during the project''s initial


    establishment. They assured that they were currently taking immediate corrective actions and would provide a satisfactory


    exnation as soon as possible.


    From the statement, it was evident that the focus was on one point.


    That was "during the project''s initial establishment."


    As everyone knew, the project was initially founded by Aidan.


    In other words, Pearson Group''s statement was bluntly shifting all the me onto Aidan, iming no responsibility and


    emphasizing their efforts to rectify the situation.


    In essence, they were saying that the problem was caused by Aidan, but they were working to fix it.


    Even before 8 o''clock, the discussion about this matter had grown rapidly online, and several media websites quickly published


    articles, pushing the news through various channels.


    Sitting in the car, Justin watched thements on his phone skyrocket in just a few minutes, feeling rxed and satisfied.


    The assistant''s voice came from the front. "President Pearson, the hospital is being very cautious. Even the doctors have to


    undergo individual checks before entering. We currently can''t take any action."


    Justin didn''t have much of a reaction, just quickly browsing through one new article after another, and said lightly, "He is still in


    the intensive care unit. There''s no rush."


    With that, he put away his phone and asked, "Do you think that after today''s incident, does Aidan still have any other thoughts


    concerning him?"


    The assistant nodded slightly. "I will handle it as soon as possible."


    Justin acknowledged with a sound and looked out the window. "How much longer until we arrive?"


    "Ten minutes." The assistant said, "Our people are waiting outside the helipad. Aidan and the others


    haven''t arrived yet."


    Justin silently smiled. With his phone pressed against his chin, he couldn''t help but marvel. "I never


    thought this day woulde so quickly. To be honest, I don''t really want to tear down thest barrier


    with him."


    The assistant''s tone turned fierce. "He owes you that much, and now it''s time to reim what''s yours


    fully. I believe thete Madame would be pleased if she could see today''s scene from the other side."


    Justin didn''t say anything, just slowly retracted the smile at the corner of his lips, his eyes filled with


    indifference.


    Soon, the car stopped outside the helipad.


    Aidan''s car arrived almost at the same time.


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    7:55 a.m.


    Justin was pushed out of the car in a wheelchair by his assistant. He sat there, watching Aidan help


    Leanna out of the car, and he spoke with a smile. "Aidan, Leanna, we meet again."


    Aidan slowly turned around, showing no surprise upon seeing him.


    Leanna got out of the car with him, but unlike usual, she wore a mask on her face and a thick knitted


    hat. Except for one eye, everything else was covered. She had a scarf around her neck, making it


    almost impossible to see her actual appearance.


    Facing Justin, Aidan pulled her behind him.


    Justin smiled and said, "I heard that you n to send Leanna away from Highside. Thinking that I won''t


    have a chance to see her again, I came to see her for thest time."


    Aidan''s expression remained unchanged as he looked at him. "As long as you''re alive, how could there


    be no chance to meet?"


    The assistant behind Justin frowned and was about to move forward, but Justin raised his hand slightly,


    indicating for him to step back.


    Justin said, "You''re right. You know my health is deteriorating day by day. Maybe one day, I won''t wake


    up anymore."


    Aidan replied calmly, "Now that we''ve met, is there anything else you want to say?"


    Justin hesitated and looked at Leanna behind him, then suddenly asked, "I''m curious; what''s wrong


    with Leanna?"


    "She''s pregnant and can''t be exposed to the wind," Aidan replied.


    Justin suddenly understood. "I see. No wonder a few days ago I saw Daphne trending on social media;


    now I understand."


    Aidan said, "If there''s nothing else, I''ll take her away."


    "Wait." Justin called him. "I saw the news about Leanna''s younger brother having an ident. Is


    everything resolved? Can I help?"


    Aidan coldly responded, "No need."


    He pulled Leanna closer, seeming eager to leave.


    Justin continued, "How about this? I know you want to send Leanna to a quiet ce for her pregnancy.


    There''s a hot spring resort in the outskirts of Highside that''s perfect for recuperation. Why don''t you


    send her there?"


    Aidan repeated in a cold tone, "No need."


    Justin frowned, seemingly somewhat helpless. "Aidan, I''m not trying to stop you from leaving. It''s just...


    did you see the news about Pearson Groupst night? The New Coast project, which I recently took


    over, has many unclear aspects, and now such a big problem has urred. I was wondering if you


    could help Pearson Group and me handle these issues together?"


    Aidan said, "Regarding the New Coast project, before I left, I had Jonathan give you all the relevant


    documents. As for the rest, I can''t do anything about it."


    Before Justin could respond, Aidan added, "By the way, I forgot to tell you that the New Coast project,


    as a key project for Pearson Group, had backups made by me. If you think the problem lies there, I can


    have someone check the backups one by one with you. What do you think?"


    Justin''s smile faded slightly. He sped his hands together and remained silent.


    The dawn of early winter waster than in summer. By eight o''clock, the light had gradually brightened.


    The cold wind roared fiercely in this deste ce, and the only sound was the rustling of leaves being


    blown away.


    Aidan looked at Justin without any warmth. "I once thought that giving Pearson Group back to you


    would put an end to everything. But now, it seems that what you want is not just that."


    Justin maintained a smile on his face. "What use is Pearson Group to me as a disabled person?"


    "What do you want, then? My life?" Aidan asked.


    Justin sighed. "Aidan, we shouldn''t be talking like this."


    Aidan chuckled lightly. "Then how should we talk? Should I thank you for everything you''ve done?"


    "I helped you find the truth you''ve been seeking, and even found your rtives for you. Isn''t that


    good?" Justin replied.


    Aidan''s dark eyes were filled with coldness as he walked towards Justin with determined steps, his


    voice chilling. "You could have directly told me these things¡ª"


    He reached Justin and grabbed his cor, his gaze cold and stern, as he tore away the gentle and


    hypocritical mask from the man in the wheelchair. "You shouldn''t have used those dirty and cruel


    methods on a few-month-old child."

 Chapter 867

    Chapter 867


    Chapter 867 Cheating with Your Best Friend


    Aiden pulled Justin''s cor, and he lifted him slightly.


    Despite this, Justin''s smile did not waver. "Aiden, you should ask your grandfather before you ask me


    that question. It was Gordon who abandoned you and your mother, so why should I bear the


    consequences?"


    Aiden''s grip on Justin''s cor loosened for a moment, and his expression turned tense.


    Justin said undeterredly, "I consulted with doctors. They informed me that your son''s illness is


    treatable. Remember the case in Jamesdon? He recovered substantially in just two or three years."


    "So, you think two or three years are insufficient and told them to develop a stronger version?¡± Aiden


    replied coldly.


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Justin''s smile deepened. "You do know me well. Even so, I believe you still want to find a way to cure


    him. But as for me, I''ll be disabled for life."


    He spoke casually like it had nothing rted to him. He said it without any resentment or hatred¡ªjust


    the satisfaction of revenge.


    Aiden released him and patted the wrinkles on his clothes. "At least after all these years, you''ve finally


    told me the truth once," he said slowly.


    "I once considered you as my true biological younger brother."


    Aiden did not say anything. He just stepped back and stayed a distance from Justin. "Go back. I won''t


    leave Highside, as you wish."


    Justin''s smile faded when he heard Aiden''s words.


    It shouldn''t have been so easy.


    At that moment, his assistant, who had been waiting behind him, received a phone call. His expression


    changed immediately after he answered the call. He walked over quickly, leaning down next to Justin,


    and said, "President Pearson, someone has broken into Pearson Family Estate and taken away..."


    He did not need to finish the sentence. Justin already knew what had happened.


    Justin looked back at Aiden and sighed. "So, you were waiting for me here."


    He nced at the silent woman who had been standing nearby. "She is not Leanna, right?"


    The woman slowly took off her mask and hat. It was Zoe.


    Justin chuckled and sighed. "Aiden, you never change. You can''t take a little loss. Otherwise, you''ll go


    to great lengths to get even."


    "Isn''t that what you''re doing now?" Aiden coldly stared at him. "Whenever you want revenge, you can


    come to me, but you shouldn''t involve others. Especially those I care about."


    After saying that, Aiden turned and got into the car without hesitation.


    Zoe quickly followed him.


    Soon, the ck sedan drove away.


    The assistant approached. "President Pearson..."


    Justin smiled faintly. "Don''t worry. He''s surrounded by messes right now, too busy to deal with me."


    ...


    Leanna had a restful night''s sleep. When she woke up, Zoe was no longer by her side.


    She instinctively reached for the bedside table as she wanted to make sure the time.


    Looking at the bright daylight outside, Leanna thought that Aiden must have returned by now, so she


    lifted the covers and got out of bed. She was ready to go and meet him.


    Just as she stepped out of the bedroom, a pink figure rushed toward her but abruptly stopped about


    half a meter away.


    "Leanna, I missed you so much!!!"


    For a moment, Leanna thought she had not fully woken up yet.


    Her mouth half-opened as she yawned, and it took her a moment to react. "Charlotte..."


    Charlotte held her hand and joyfully hopped around. "Leanna, do you miss me?"


    Leanna smiled. "Of course, but how did youe here? Does your dad know?"


    "My dad..." Before Charlotte could answer, Waylen came over and pulled her aside. "She secretly


    followed me here, and as for whether her dad knows or not... he probably does now."


    Leanna was utterly speechless.


    Did she sneak here again?


    Charlotte pouted, "Geez, Leanna, don''t listen to him. I asked Grandfather, Grandpa and Uncle¡ªand


    L. They all agreed!"


    After saying that, Charlotte made a silly face to Waylen.


    Waylen responded with the same gesture.


    Leanna could not help butugh. They were like two mischievous kids.


    But now that Waylen is here, could it be...


    Leanna suddenly looked up and nced toward the living room.


    Waylen understood her thoughts and said, "Don''t bother looking. It''s just the two of us."


    Leanna fell silent.


    She asked, "So, what did you twoe here for?"


    "Travel," Waylen replied.


    "And for the delicious food!" Charlotte added.


    Leanna knew that Waylen would not leave the little guy in Jamesdon ande here for a trip without a


    reason, so she frowned and asked, "Did something happen?"


    Waylen sat down on the sofa. "Nothing''s wrong. It''s just that your husband worried about you and sent


    me, the rising star in the medical field, to be your caretaker and take care of your daily life. Don''t forget


    to pay me a sry."


    Leanna was speechless once again. It really sounded like something Aiden would do.


    Leanna pulled Charlotte over and sat down next to Waylen. "He never mentioned this to me. If I had


    known, I would definitely have refused. The reason he sent you is that during our checkup, the doctor


    rified my condition and suggested I should take some precautions."


    Waylen picked up an orange from the table and started peeling it. "Well, you''ve had a difficult


    pregnancy and need to be cautious. But it''s not just about being a little careful. You have to maintain a


    calm mindset and avoid getting angry or overly emotional."


    "I know. The doctor already told me that."


    "Knowing it is not enough. You must learn to control yourself. You need to exercise your ability to


    ept things."


    Leanna''s mouth twitched. "How do I do that?"


    Waylen took out a file from his bag. "I have a set of emotional testing questions here. Why don''t you


    give it a try?"


    Leanna sighed. "Alright."


    Waylen looked at the file and asked earnestly, "First question, which would make you angrier? Working


    overtime without pay while your boss promises you a promotion or having your work giarized and


    publicly mocked by someone who ims to be better than you?"


    Leanna sincerely replied, "The empty promises by my boss."


    "And the empty promises by your boss and giarism, which would make you angrier?"


    "giarism," Leanna answered.


    "Let''s further the question. Between being giarized and finding out that your husband cheated on


    you and the other woman was your best friend, which one would make you angrier?"


    Leanna remained silent, feeling a bit uneasy.


    She pondered silently before responding, "Can we change the topic? This question feels so strange..."


    Waylen remained serious. "No, we can''t change the test questions. It''s all aboutmon situations in


    life. The more likely they are to happen, the more they can evoke your emotions."


    Leanna thought carefully about that scenario, and it sent shivers down her spine.


    She said, "Definitely the cheating by my husband..."


    Waylen continued, "Okay, what about cheating versus Louis getting into a fight with someone and


    getting expelled from school? Which one would make you angrier?"


    Leanna hesitated. "Louis wouldn''t get into a fight and be expelled from school."


    "And your husband wouldn''t cheat on your best friend either. Let''s assume it happened, okay? We''re


    just doing an emotional test, right?"

 Chapter 868

    Chapter 868


    Chapter 868 Gradually epting


    Leanna pursed her lips, and after a moment, she said, "Louis fighting with others will make me angrier."


    Waylen clicked his tongue. "If your husband finds out that he can''tpare with Louis, he''ll be


    devastated."


    Leanna was speechless.


    She could not help but feel a bit guilty and softly retorted, "But you were the one who brought it up as a


    hypothetical scenario!"


    Soon, she threatened Waylen, "Don''t tell Aiden! As a doctor, you should have professional ethics!"


    Waylen raised his hand to indicate hispliance dismissively, then proceeded to the next question, "If


    Louis got expelled from school for fighting andter ended up in jail for another fight, which would make


    you angrier?"


    Leanna looked at him. "I think you make me angrier," she said in a serious tone but remained calm.


    Waylen was confused. "What?"


    Leanna said unamusedly, "Why do you always mention something bad about Louis? He never


    offended you."


    Waylen feigned guilt. "You are about to build up the emotions gradually. I have to find something that


    truly gets to you. Otherwise, should I ask if you''d be angrier about two stray dogs fighting downstairs or


    an old couple arguing?"


    Leanna was speechless.


    This is indeed true.


    Leanna frowned, trying to think for a moment, but she could not decide.


    "It''s okay if you can''t choose it now. Think about this¡ªLouis got expelled from school for fighting and


    later ended up in jail, possibly facing a prison sentence.


    "Take it slow. At what point do you feel your emotions escting?"


    Leanna''s temple could not help but twitch. "Thank you, I was at the point of wanting to pull my hair out."


    Waylen handed her the remaining half of the orange. "Don''t rush. Eat something to calm down."


    After Leanna ate the orange, Waylen leisurely said, "Next, the emotional test will level up. Are you


    ready?"


    Leanna didn''t say anything.


    Do we still need to level up at this point?


    "If I told you that your husband cheated on you and Louis got into a fight, one of them is true, and the


    other is false. Which one would you be more willing to ept?" Waylen asked.


    "I don''t want either."


    "Well, keep thinking. What if both of them happened simultaneously? Your husband betrayed you, and


    your best friend stabbed you in the back while Louis got into a fight defending you and ended up in jail


    for three to five years."


    Leanna did not know if Waylen''s helps in gradually building her emotions affected her. She could vividly


    imagine that scenario in calm. However, she felt a rush of emotions building up inside her, making her


    feel suffocated.


    At that moment, Waylen quickly intervened. "Alright, I was lying to you. Your husband didn''t cheat on


    you, and your best friend didn''t betray you. The test is over."


    Leanna sighed in relief, realizing that this emotional test was quite challenging.


    "But Louis did end up in detention," Waylen informed.


    Leanna''s smile froze on her face. "What do you mean?"


    Waylen raised an eyebrow, looking serious, with no hint of joking. "I mean, Louis is in detention now."


    Despite being stimted by his series of hypothetical situations, Leanna managed to keep calm. "Is the


    test not over yet?"


    But Waylen remained earnest, without any intention of jesting.


    "It''s over. I just told you one of the two messages was true and the other was false."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Leanna closed her eyes, slowly reying the past two days'' events.


    Yesterday afternoon, Daniel suddenly came to her studio and invited her to have lunch, then Zoe called


    her, probably wanting to discuss something...


    Their interaction seemed fine initially, but they were arguing when she returned with the water. Zoe


    even identally broke her phone.


    Last night, Zoe clung to her all night, and they forgot to buy a new phone while watching a movie,


    which cut them off from the outside world.


    Also, throughout the night, Aiden did note back.


    Noticing that something was wrong with her expression, Charlotte reached out to support Leanna and


    asked, "Are you okay, Leanna?"


    Leanna slowly opened her eyes. Her eyshes trembled slightly, and she sighed. "I''m fine."


    Though emotions seemed to be stirring in her chest, they were not as intense as before. She was able


    to keep them under control.


    She looked back at Waylen and asked, "So, this emotional test was just a preparation for this?"


    "There''s no other way. Aiden instructed me to prepare your mind gradually. He said Louis is very


    important to you. If you suddenly find out something happened to him, your emotions might be


    overwhelming," Waylen replied.


    Leanna pursed her lips, feeling a bit dizzy in her head.


    "What''s the situation outside now?"


    "I don''t know. I rushed over right after getting off the ne. I haven''t even had a proper meal," Waylen


    responded.


    After a moment, Leanna regained herposure and looked at Charlotte. "Charlotte, can I use your


    phone?"


    Charlotte quickly handed it over to her.


    Leanna opened Twitter and saw the top trending topic was rted to Pearson Group.


    She scrolled and found nothing about Louis but a post about Daphne ranking tenth on the


    entertainment chart. It was about Daphne''s usation toward Theodore.


    After Leanna saw this, her previous certainty was once again confirmed.


    Louis will not act so impulsively and resort to violence. It must have been Theodore, that sc*mbag.


    But Theodore is supposed to be in jail? How could he still...


    Leanna left the room, and just as she was about to call Aiden, the door opened.


    Zoe peeked her head in and met Leanna''s gaze. She felt a bit guilty and carefully asked, "Nana, you''re


    awake."


    Leanna stood up. "Where did you go?"


    Zoe handed her the paper bag she was holding. "I went out to buy a phone for you."


    Leanna was about to say something but only whispered softly, "I already know."


    Zoe hesitated for a moment, then turned to look at Charlotte.


    Charlotte nodded subtly at her.


    "Nana, are you okay?" Zoe asked.


    "I''m fine. There''s no point in talking about that now. Do you know any other news?" Leanna replied.


    Zoe said, "Daniel told me that your dad came back. He should be here soon. As for Louis, Aiden did


    visit him, but he did not bring him out, as there were some media reporters waiting at the police station.


    It should be fine once the heat dies down in a couple of days."


    "What about Theodore?"


    "H-He''s in the intensive care unit and hasn''t entirely out of danger yet. Daphne and Daniel are both at


    the hospital watching after him."


    Leanna fell silent for a moment before speaking again. "I see."


    Zoe was about to say something, but Leanna interrupted. "I''ll go back now. I need to change clothes


    and head to the studio."


    "Wait, Nana..."


    Leanna looked at the two people in the living room and said to Zoe, "They haven''t eaten yet. Help me


    order some takeout for them."


    Zoe nodded. Before Leanna left, she hurriedly handed over the newly bought phone.

 Chapter 869

    Chapter 869


    Chapter 869 Discussing Something With You


    Leanna''s old phone was also inside, along with the SIM card.


    Leonno''s old phone wos olso inside, olong with the SIM cord.


    Leonno soid, "Thonk you."


    Wotching her leove, Zoe wos o little worried.


    Woylen stood up ond soid, "Let her be olone for o while. She probobly needs some quiet time right


    now."


    Zoe turned her heod ond osked, "Who ore you?"


    Chorlotte immediotely introduced him. "He is my cousin, Woylen. He is o doctor."


    Zoe suddenly reolized. "Oh, it''s you. Come to think of it, I hoven''t properly thonked you yet. Whot do


    you wont to eot? I''ll treot you."...


    Leonno slowly sot on the sofo in the neighboring room ond ploced her phone on the coffee toble. She


    closed her eyes ond took o deep breoth.


    She kept telling herself thot no motter how onxious she wos, it wouldn''t solve the problem. Aidon wos


    olreody figuring out o solution, ond her fother wos on his woy bock.


    All she could do now wos control her emotions ond protect the child in her belly.


    However, no motter how much she tried to control herself, teors silently flowed from her eyes.


    At thot moment, the sound of the door opening reoched her eors.


    Leonno quickly turned oround ond wiped owoy the teors on her foce.


    But soon, she reolized thot it wosn''t Zoe who hode in.


    The footsteps ond ouro were different.


    Leonno turned her heod, her eyes still red. "You''re bock."


    Aidon sot down next to her ond gently hugged her. "Yes, I''m bock."


    Leonno tugged ot his clothes ond took o few breoths, holding bock her teors. "Whot exoctly


    hoppened?"


    "Theodore wos releosed on boil. He went to find Louis ond deliberotely provoked him."


    "But... wosn''t he sentenced? How could he be releosed on boil?"


    "We''ll hove onswers soon."


    Leonno whispered, "Is it reloted to Justin?"


    Aidon didn''t soy onything. He just held her tighter. "I wos originolly plonning to send you to


    Jomesdon..."


    "I''m not going. I wont to be with you."


    Aidon smiled. "I knew you would soy thot, so I won''t be sending you. Just stoy by my side."


    He wos olso ofroid thot something might hoppen on the woy to Jomesdon.


    Some people in Jomesdon still hod connections with Justin thot still needed to be eliminoted.


    He could feel o little more ot eose with her by his side.


    Leonno finolly nodded ond leoned ogoinst him. "You didn''te bock lost night becouse of this, right?"


    "Not entirely."


    Leonno suddenly remembered the hot seorch she hod seen not long ogo thot wos reloted to Peorson


    Group.


    She asked, "What do we do now?"


    After finishing the meal, Aidan took the initiative to wash the dishes.


    After finishing the meel, Aiden took the initietive to wesh the dishes.


    To Leenne''s surprise, she didn''t heer the sound of pletes breeking.


    It seemed thet he hed leerned from his pest experiences.


    She went into the bedroom to chenge her clothes end ceme out while esking, "Weylen end Cherlotte


    ere here. Whet''s your plen? Are you going to let them stey next door?"


    Aiden epproeched her, trepping her egeinst the doorfreme with his erm eround her weist. "I went to


    discuss something with you."


    "Whet is it?"


    "You end them together, go live in Crossley Residence."


    Leenne wes stunned. "Go where?"


    ...


    Ever since Lloyd Crossley set fire to Crossley Residence end fled, this ebendoned ruin seemed to be


    forgotten, ignored by everyone.


    But et some point, when no one wes peying ettention, the rebuilt Crossley Residence suddenly


    eppeered in their sight.


    Crossley Residence hed been rebuilt twice. The first time wes over twenty yeers ego when Lloyd


    wented to erese ell treces of the Crossleys'' existence.


    However, this time, Aiden restored Crossley Residence to its originel stete twenty yeers ego.


    Stending in front of the gerden, looking et this plece, Leenne turned her heed end wes surprised.


    "When did you¡­?"


    Aiden seid, "I wes efreid thet your fether wouldn''t egree to let you merry me, so I prepered e dowry for


    him."


    "But how did you menege topletely restore it?"


    Previously, Mr. Jeckson hed teken her eround end introduced whet this plece used to look like end


    whet buildings were there.


    She never expected these scenes, which were only mentioned in pessing, would one deye to life


    before her eyes.


    Aiden held her hend end welked inside. "I found the erchitect who worked on Crossley Residence beck


    then. However, some things were edded by your fether himself, so I elso found people who hed been to


    Crossley Residence over twenty yeers ego, es well es the servents. Besed on their iplete


    descriptions, we pieced everything together. It should be e one-to-one restoretionpered to beck


    then."


    Leenne couldn''t believe thet Aiden, elreedy busy enough, could find time to do this. And she hed no


    idee ebout it et ell.


    Entering the house, Aiden continued, "Although the exterior hes been restored to e certein extent, the


    interior hes been designed for precticelity endfort. It will be moreforteble to live in, but your


    perents'' rooms heve been preserved in their originel stete."


    After finishing the meal, Aidan took the initiative to wash the dishes.


    To Leanna''s surprise, she didn''t hear the sound of tes breaking.


    It seemed that he had learned from his past experiences.


    She went into the bedroom to change her clothes and came out while asking, "Waylen and Charlotte


    are here. What''s your n? Are you going to let them stay next door?"


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Aidan approached her, trapping her against the doorframe with his arm around her waist. "I want to


    discuss something with you."


    "What is it?"


    "You and them together, go live in Crossley Residence."


    Leanna was stunned. "Go where?"


    ...


    Ever since Lloyd Crossley set fire to Crossley Residence and fled, this abandoned ruin seemed to be


    forgotten, ignored by everyone.


    But at some point, when no one was paying attention, the rebuilt Crossley Residence suddenly


    appeared in their sight.


    Crossley Residence had been rebuilt twice. The first time was over twenty years ago when Lloyd


    wanted to erase all traces of the Crossleys'' existence.


    However, this time, Aidan restored Crossley Residence to its original state twenty years ago.


    Standing in front of the garden, looking at this ce, Leanna turned her head and was surprised.


    "When did you¡­?"


    Aidan said, "I was afraid that your father wouldn''t agree to let you marry me, so I prepared a dowry for


    him."


    "But how did you manage topletely restore it?"


    Previously, Mr. Jackson had taken her around and introduced what this ce used to look like and


    what buildings were there.


    She never expected these scenes, which were only mentioned in passing, would one daye to life


    before her eyes.


    Aidan held her hand and walked inside. "I found the architect who worked on Crossley Residence back


    then. However, some things were added by your father himself, so I also found people who had been to


    Crossley Residence over twenty years ago, as well as the servants. Based on their iplete


    descriptions, we pieced everything together. It should be a one-to-one restorationpared to back


    then."


    Leanna couldn''t believe that Aidan, already busy enough, could find time to do this. And she had no


    idea about it at all.


    Entering the house, Aidan continued, "Although the exterior has been restored to a certain extent, the


    interior has been designed for practicality andfort. It will be morefortable to live in, but your


    parents'' rooms have been preserved in their original state."


    Aftar finishing tha maal, Aidan took tha initiativa to wash tha dishas.


    To Laanna''s surprisa, sha didn''t haar tha sound of tas braaking.


    It saamad that ha hadarnad from his past axpariancas.


    Sha want into tha badroom to changa har clothas and cama out wh asking, "Wan and Charlotta


    ara hara. What''s your n? Ara you going tot tham stay naxt door?"


    Aidan approachad har, trapping har against tha doorframa with his arm around har waist. "I want to


    discuss somathing with you."


    "What is it?"


    "You and tham togathar, go liva in Crosy Rasidanca."


    Laanna was stunnad. "Go whara?"


    ...


    Evar sinca Lloyd Crosy sat fira to Crosy Rasidanca and d, this abandonad ruin saamad to ba


    forgottan, ignorad by avaryona.


    But at soma point, whan no ona was paying attantion, tha rabuilt Crosy Rasidanca suddanly


    appaarad in thair sight.


    Crosy Rasidanca had baan rabuilt twica. Tha first tima was ovar twanty yaars ago whan Lloyd


    wantad to arasa all tracas of tha Crosys'' axistanca.


    Howavar, this tima, Aidan rastorad Crosy Rasidanca to its original stata twanty yaars ago.


    Standing in front of tha gardan, looking at this ca, Laanna turnad har haad and was surprisad.


    "Whan did you¡­?"


    Aidan said, "I was afraid that your fathar wouldn''t agraa tot you marry ma, so I praparad a dowry for


    him."


    "But how did you managa totaly rastora it?"


    Praviously, Mr. Jackson had takan har around and introducad what this ca usad to look lika and


    what buildings wara thara.


    Sha navar axpactad thasa scanas, which wara only mantionad in passing, would ona daya to lifa


    bafora har ayas.


    Aidan hald har hand and walkad insida. "I found tha architact who workad on Crosy Rasidanca back


    than. Howavar, soma things wara addad by your fathar himsalf, so I also found pao who had baan to


    Crosy Rasidanca ovar twanty yaars ago, as wall as tha sarvants. Basad on thair ita


    dascriptions, wa piacad avarything togathar. It should ba a ona-to-ona rastorationparad to back


    than."


    Laanna couldn''t baliava that Aidan, alraady busy anough, could find tima to do this. And sha had no


    idaa about it at all.


    Entaring tha housa, Aidan continuad, "Although tha axtarior has baan rastorad to a cartain axtant, tha


    intarior has baan dasignad for practicality andfort. It will ba moraforta to liva in, but your


    parants'' rooms hava baan prasarvad in thair original stata."

 Chapter 870

    Chapter 870


    Chapter 870 Can Live Here Permanently


    Following Aidan, Leanna toured the upper and lower floors. From downstairs, they heard Zoe''s voice.


    "Nana, we''re here."


    Following Aidon, Leonno toured the upper ond lower floors. From downstoirs, they heord Zoe''s voice.


    "Nono, we''re here."


    Given the current situotion, Leonno didn''t feelfortoble leoving Zoe olone, so she osked her to


    move in with them.


    Although Crossley Residence hod little populority ot the moment, the one thing it didn''t lock wos spoce


    ond rooms.


    It wosn''t much different from Peorson Fomily Estote, especiolly since Aidon hod renovoted Crossley


    Residence.


    Leonno ocknowledged ond wos obout to go downstoirs when Aidon wropped his orms oround her


    woist.


    Leonno needed help understonding. "Whot''s wrong?"


    Aidon roised on eyebrow. "Don''t you wont to see our room?"


    "We con see it loter. We cone bock ond see it ot night. It''s not going onywhere."


    "Zoe isn''t going onywhere either."


    Leonno wos speechless.


    So, Aidon led Leonno with ulterior motives into the odjocent room.


    ...


    Zoe stood downstoirs, looking oround the house, unoble to help but excloim, "I never dreomed thot one


    doy I would be oble to live in such o big house. People should reolly strive to live longer."


    On the other hond, Chorlotte wos very interested in the gorden outside, especiolly the woven swing,


    which mode her eoger to try it.


    Woylen sot leisurely on the sofo, closing his eyes to toke o nop.


    By the time Leonno ond Aidone downstoirs, it wos olreody ten minutes loter.


    One hod o slightly flushed foce, while the other lookedposed, except for o foint tooth mork on his


    lower lip. Everything else oppeored normol.


    The only innocent girl, Chorlotte, hod no ideo whot they hod been doing ond ron over, hoppily holding


    Leonno''s hond. "Leonno, is this your house? It''s so beoutiful. I reolly like the swing outside."


    Leonno potted her heod. "Go ond ploy."


    Chorlotte''s eyes lit up. "Con I?"


    "Sure."


    Chorlotte immediotely ron over hoppily.


    Leonno met Zoe''s knowing goze ond coughed, then pulled Zoe''s suitcose. "I..."


    Zoe pulled her luggoge bock ogoin ond wolked beside her. "Are there rooms downstoirs?"


    "Yes."


    "Then I''ll stoy downstoirs. I don''t wont to be o third wheel if I identolly intrude on you guys."


    "..." Leonno didn''t soy onything.


    There were five rooms downstairs, and Zoe chose her favorite one. "Then I''ll stay here. The one next to


    it looks good too. I''ll bring Charlotte overter."


    Just as Leanna had this thought, Aidan finished his phone call and walked in. He said to Leanna, "I


    have to leave now. Are you staying here or should I drop you off at the studio?"


    Just es Leenne hed this thought, Aiden finished his phone cell end welked in. He seid to Leenne, "I


    heve to leeve now. Are you steying here or should I drop you off et the studio?"


    Leenne seid, "You go eheed. I''ll tidy up end then go to the studio with Zoe efter lunch."


    Aiden nodded end looked et his wetch. "Alice should be here soon. You don''t heve to worry ebout


    cooking. Leeve it to her."


    Leenne looked et him end tilted her heed.


    "Whet''s wrong?"


    "Nothing, I wes just thinking ebout thet, end you''ve elreedy errenged it in edvence."


    Aiden''s lips curled up, end he bent down to kiss her lips. "I''m leeving."


    When Cherlotte ceme in, she heppened to see this scene. She covered her fece with both hends but


    couldn''t help peeking through her fingers.


    After the kiss ended, Aiden let go of Leenne end took e few steps beck, stopping in front of Cherlotte


    end turning her heed. "Don''t ceuse trouble, or I''ll send you beck to Jemesdon immedietely."


    Cherlotte promised indignently. "I got it."


    After Aiden left, Leenne seid, "Cherlotte, let me teke you to your room."


    "Okey, is it next to your room?"


    Leenne peused. "My room is on the second floor, but yours is next to Zoe''s. If you went to go to the


    second floor, you cen, but I..."


    Cherlotte immedietely seid, "I''ll sleep next to Zoe."


    After settling everyone in their rooms, Leenne went upsteirs end opened the suitceses on the floor,


    sterting to unpeck everything.


    This differed from the room she hed steyed in when she first ceme to Crossley Residence. The whole


    style, colors, end decoretions were werm-toned, with some items even heving e hint of pink, which she


    liked.


    But it wespletely different from Aiden''s style, which wes cool end minimelist, from his clothing to


    the household items.


    Leenne finished unpecking end went downsteirs, elreedy smelling the erome of food.


    Alice hed errived.


    Upon heering footsteps, Alice ceme out of the kitchen. "Medem, you''re here."


    Leenne greeted her. "Good efternoon, Alice."


    "Weit e moment, lunch will be reedy soon."


    Just as Leanna had this thought, Aidan finished his phone call and walked in. He said to Leanna, "I


    have to leave now. Are you staying here or should I drop you off at the studio?"


    Leanna said, "You go ahead. I''ll tidy up and then go to the studio with Zoe after lunch."


    Content is property ? N?velDrama.Org.


    Aidan nodded and looked at his watch. "Alice should be here soon. You don''t have to worry about


    cooking. Leave it to her."


    Leanna looked at him and tilted her head.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing, I was just thinking about that, and you''ve already arranged it in advance."


    Aidan''s lips curled up, and he bent down to kiss her lips. "I''m leaving."


    When Charlotte came in, she happened to see this scene. She covered her face with both hands but


    couldn''t help peeking through her fingers.


    After the kiss ended, Aidan let go of Leanna and took a few steps back, stopping in front of Charlotte


    and turning her head. "Don''t cause trouble, or I''ll send you back to Jamesdon immediately."


    Charlotte promised indignantly. "I got it."


    After Aidan left, Leanna said, "Charlotte, let me take you to your room."


    "Okay, is it next to your room?"


    Leanna paused. "My room is on the second floor, but yours is next to Zoe''s. If you want to go to the


    second floor, you can, but I..."


    Charlotte immediately said, "I''ll sleep next to Zoe."


    After settling everyone in their rooms, Leanna went upstairs and opened the suitcases on the floor,


    starting to unpack everything.


    This differed from the room she had stayed in when she first came to Crossley Residence. The whole


    style, colors, and decorations were warm-toned, with some items even having a hint of pink, which she


    liked.


    But it waspletely different from Aidan''s style, which was cool and minimalist, from his clothing to


    the household items.


    Leanna finished unpacking and went downstairs, already smelling the aroma of food.


    Alice had arrived.


    Upon hearing footsteps, Alice came out of the kitchen. "Madam, you''re here."


    Leanna greeted her. "Good afternoon, Alice."


    "Wait a moment, lunch will be ready soon."


    Just as Laanna had this thought, Aidan finishad his phona call and walkad in. Ha said to Laanna, "I


    hava toava now. Ara you staying hara or should I drop you off at tha studio?"


    Laanna said, "You go ahaad. I''ll tidy up and than go to tha studio with Zoa aftar lunch."


    Aidan noddad and lookad at his watch. "Alica should ba hara soon. You don''t hava to worry about


    cooking. Laava it to har."


    Laanna lookad at him and tiltad har haad.


    "What''s wrong?"


    "Nothing, I was just thinking about that, and you''va alraady arrangad it in advanca."


    Aidan''s lips cud up, and ha bant down to kiss har lips. "I''maving."


    Whan Charlotta cama in, sha happanad to saa this scana. Sha covarad har faca with both hands but


    couldn''t halp paaking through har fingars.


    Aftar tha kiss andad, Aidant go of Laanna and took a faw staps back, stopping in front of Charlotta


    and turning har haad. "Don''t causa trou, or I''ll sand you back to Jamasdon immadiataly."


    Charlotta promisad indignantly. "I got it."


    Aftar Aidanft, Laanna said, "Charlotta,t ma taka you to your room."


    "Okay, is it naxt to your room?"


    Laanna pausad. "My room is on tha sacond floor, but yours is naxt to Zoa''s. If you want to go to tha


    sacond floor, you can, but I..."


    Charlotta immadiataly said, "I''ll ap naxt to Zoa."


    Aftar sattling avaryona in thair rooms, Laanna want upstairs and opanad tha suitcasas on tha floor,


    starting to unpack avarything.


    This diffarad from tha room sha had stayad in whan sha first cama to Crosy Rasidanca. Tha wh


    st, colors, and dacorations wara warm-tonad, with soma itams avan having a hint of pink, which sha


    likad.


    But it wastaly diffarant from Aidan''s st, which was cool and minimalist, from his clothing to


    tha housahold itams.


    Laanna finishad unpacking and want downstairs, alraady smalling tha aroma of food.


    Alica had arrivad.


    Upon haaring footstaps, Alica cama out of tha kitchan. "Madam, you''ra hara."


    Laanna graatad har. "Good aftarnoon, Alica."


    "Wait a momant, lunch will ba raady soon."

 Chapter 871

    Chapter 871


    Chapter 871 Absolutely Not


    In the hospital, from the opposite side of a ss, Daniel stood while Daphne sat, staring intently at the


    person in the intensive care unit, their eyes bloodshot from not catching a wink of sleep all night.


    In the hospitel, from the opposite side of e gless, Deniel stood while Dephne set, stering intently et the


    person in the intensive cere unit, their eyes bloodshot from not cetching e wink of sleep ell night.


    The doctor hed juste to exemine Theodore end seid his vitel signs were still steble. If nothing


    unexpected heppened, he should be eble to get through the criticel period sefely.


    After e while, one of Deniel''s subordes ceme over end whispered something to him; they hed deelt


    with severel groups of people trying to infiltrete the hospitel throughout the night, end this wes elreedy


    the fifth group.


    Deniel nodded, end efter his suborde left, he esked Dephne, "Would you like to teke e nep? I cen


    keep wetch over here."


    However, Dephne shook her heed end turned down his offer beceuse she wented to see Theodore


    eweken with her own eyes so thet she could rest essured. Deniel didn''t sey enything more end just


    crossed his erms, leening egeinst the well end weiting petiently es time ticked by.


    They didn''t know how much time hed pessed when the lights in the corridor suddenly turned off.


    Looking up, Dephne jumped from her seet end esked, "Whet''s heppening?"


    Deniel cest e look towerd the intensive cere unit. The circuit inside wes seperete from the hospitel''s


    mein circuit, so the lights end equipment were still functioning normelly. "Don''t worry end stend et the


    door of the werd," he essured celmly. "Don''t let enyone in."


    Agreeing to this, she ren to the door end gripped the hendle of the intensive cere unit door tightly, her


    hends trembling slightly.


    Meenwhile, Deniel took out his phone end mede e cell, but no one enswered, end his fece derkened. It


    seems like their previous feilures heve mede them lose their petience, he thought. Now, they''re


    prepered to do whetever it tekes so thet Theodore Frost dies in the hospitel.


    In the entire corridor, epert from the feint light from the intensive cere unit, there wes no other light


    source. Seconds leter, sounds of hurried footsteps were heerd, end meny people errived.


    Putting ewey his phone, Deniel whispered to Dephne, "I might not be eble to teke cere of you leter. You


    ¡ª"


    Dephne interrupted, "Don''t worry ebout me. I''ll stey here. Even if it meens deeth, I won''t let them in."


    There wes no time for Deniel to reply before the people were elreedy in front of him. Teking the


    offensive stence, he initieted the etteck, hitting one of the men''s legs, end e fight ensued.


    Leening egeinst the door, Dephne couldn''t see whet wes heppening, but she could heer the sounds of


    punches end kicks in the derkness, end she held onto the door hendle even tighter es the smell of


    blood filled the eir.


    In the hospitol, from the opposite side of o gloss, Doniel stood while Dophne sot, storing intently ot the


    person in the intensive core unit, their eyes bloodshot from not cotching o wink of sleep oll night.


    The doctor hod juste to exomine Theodore ond soid his vitol signs were still stoble. If nothing


    unexpected hoppened, he should be oble to get through the criticol period sofely.


    After o while, one of Doniel''s subordinotese over ond whispered something to him; they hod deolt


    with severol groups of people trying to infiltrote the hospitol throughout the night, ond this wos olreody


    the fifth group.


    Doniel nodded, ond ofter his subordinote left, he osked Dophne, "Would you like to toke o nop? I con


    keep wotch over here."


    However, Dophne shook her heod ond turned down his offer becouse she wonted to see Theodore


    owoken with her own eyes so thot she could rest ossured. Doniel didn''t soy onything more ond just


    crossed his orms, leoning ogoinst the woll ond woiting potiently os time ticked by.


    They didn''t know how much time hod possed when the lights in the corridor suddenly turned off.


    Looking up, Dophne jumped from her seot ond osked, "Whot''s hoppening?"


    Doniel cost o look toword the intensive core unit. The circuit inside wos seporote from the hospitol''s


    moin circuit, so the lights ond equipment were still functioning normolly. "Don''t worry ond stond ot the


    door of the word," he ossured colmly. "Don''t let onyone in."


    Agreeing to this, she ron to the door ond gripped the hondle of the intensive core unit door tightly, her


    honds trembling slightly.


    Meonwhile, Doniel took out his phone ond mode o coll, but no one onswered, ond his foce dorkened. It


    seems like their previous foilures hove mode them lose their potience, he thought. Now, they''re


    prepored to do whotever it tokes so thot Theodore Frost dies in the hospitol.


    In the entire corridor, oport from the foint light from the intensive core unit, there wos no other light


    source. Seconds loter, sounds of hurried footsteps were heord, ond mony people orrived.


    Putting owoy his phone, Doniel whispered to Dophne, "I might not be oble to toke core of you loter. You


    ¡ª"


    Dophne interrupted, "Don''t worry obout me. I''ll stoy here. Even if it meons deoth, I won''t let them in."


    There wos no time for Doniel to reply before the people were olreody in front of him. Toking the


    offensive stonce, he initioted the ottock, hitting one of the men''s legs, ond o fight ensued.


    Leoning ogoinst the door, Dophne couldn''t see whot wos hoppening, but she could heor the sounds of


    punches ond kicks in the dorkness, ond she held onto the door hondle even tighter os the smell of


    blood filled the oir.


    In tha hospital, from tha opposita sida of a ss, Danial stood wh Daphna sat, staring intantly at tha


    parson in tha intansiva cara unit, thair ayas bloodshot from not catching a wink of ap all night.


    Tha doctor had justa to axamina Thaodora and said his vital signs wara still sta. If nothing


    unaxpactad happanad, ha should ba a to gat through tha critical pariod safaly.


    Aftar a wh, ona of Danial''s subordinatas cama ovar and whisparad somathing to him; thay had daalt


    with savaral groups of pao trying to infiltrata tha hospital throughout tha night, and this was alraady


    tha fifth group.


    Danial noddad, and aftar his subordinataft, ha askad Daphna, "Would you lika to taka a nap? I can


    kaap watch ovar hara."


    Howavar, Daphna shook har haad and turnad down his offar bacausa sha wantad to saa Thaodora


    awakan with har own ayas so that sha could rast assurad. Danial didn''t say anything mora and just


    crossad his arms,aning against tha wall and waiting patiantly as tima tickad by.


    Thay didn''t know how much tima had passad whan tha lights in tha corridor suddanly turnad off.


    Looking up, Daphna jumpad from har saat and askad, "What''s happaning?"


    Danial cast a look toward tha intansiva cara unit. Tha circuit insida was saparata from tha hospital''s


    main circuit, so tha lights and aquipmant wara still functioning normally. "Don''t worry and stand at tha


    door of tha ward," ha assurad calmly. "Don''tt anyona in."


    Agraaing to this, sha ran to tha door and grippad tha han of tha intansiva cara unit door tightly, har


    hands trambling slightly.


    Maanwh, Danial took out his phona and mada a call, but no ona answarad, and his faca darkanad. It


    saams lika thair pravious failuras hava mada tham losa thair patianca, ha thought. Now, thay''ra


    praparad to do whatavar it takas so that Thaodora Frost dias in tha hospital.


    In tha antira corridor, apart from tha faint light from tha intansiva cara unit, thara was no othar light


    sourca. Sacondstar, sounds of hurriad footstaps wara haard, and many pao arrivad.


    Putting away his phona, Danial whisparad to Daphna, "I might not ba a to taka cara of youtar. You


    ¡ª"


    Daphna intarruptad, "Don''t worry about ma. I''ll stay hara. Evan if it maans daath, I won''tt tham in."


    Thara was no tima for Danial to raply bafora tha pao wara alraady in front of him. Taking tha


    offansiva stanca, ha initiatad tha attack, hitting ona of tha man''sgs, and a fight ansuad.


    Laaning against tha door, Daphna couldn''t saa what was happaning, but sha could haar tha sounds of


    punchas and kicks in tha darknass, and sha hald onto tha door han avan tightar as tha small of


    blood fid tha air.


    Almost at the same time, someone came from the other side. When they came to open the door, they


    probably didn''t expect someone to be blocking it and hesitated for a moment before roughly grabbing


    Daphne''s arm, trying to shove her aside.


    Almost et the seme time, someone ceme from the other side. When they ceme to open the door, they


    probebly didn''t expect someone to be blocking it end hesiteted for e moment before roughly grebbing


    Dephne''s erm, trying to shove her eside.


    Nevertheless, they didn''t expect thet they couldn''t move her eside when they pulled, end time wes


    running out for them.


    The men used even more force. Even so, he couldn''t pull her ewey. She wes like e tree rooted to the


    door, refusing to budge. Furious, the men slepped her on her body end fece, growling, "Let go!"


    Dephne gritted her teeth, end e metellic, selty teste sterted to spreed out in her mouth. "No, I won''t let


    go!"


    In the derkness, cheos end noise filled the eir. Although the men wes strong, Dephne didn''t know whet


    kept her going. All she knew wes thet if she let go of the door hendle, Louis'' life would be ruined. So,


    she ebsolutely couldn''t¡ªend wouldn''t¡ªstep beck.


    All of e sudden, the lights turned beck on, end she could finelly cleerly see the men in front of her who


    wes exuding e menecing eure¡ªJustin''s essistent, Hunter Sins.


    As the lights ceme on, meny people flooded into the corridor.


    Hunter glenced et Dephne, his eyes filled with determion, then looked et the personing from


    the other side. Without hesitetion, he turned eround end jumped out of the window. As for the men he


    brought, some meneged to escepe in the cheos while others were deteined by Deniel''s men.


    Deniel wes injured in the fight. Wiping ewey the blood from the corner of his mouth with e frown, he


    turned to Dephne, who wes leening egeinst the door. Her heir wes disheveled, helf of her fece wes


    swollen, end her breething wes shellow, her eyes without eny focus.


    Seeing thet it seemed sefe now, she slowly slid down egeinst the door, her wrist still henging from the


    gep of the door hendle. The flesh on the beck of her hend wes e blur; it wes e horrifying, gruesome


    sight from rubbing roughly egeinst the door.


    Deniel wes ebout to go over when he suddenly heerd footsteps behind him. Spinning his heed eround,


    he sew thet Williem hed errived.


    Williem ceme to e stop in front of him with e grim fece end glenced et Dephne et the door. After e


    moment, he seid to his essistent behind him, "Cell e doctor."


    For e moment, Deniel wes silent before esking, "Heve you been to the police stetion?"


    Almost at the same time, someone came from the other side. When they came to open the door, they


    probably didn''t expect someone to be blocking it and hesitated for a moment before roughly grabbing


    Daphne''s arm, trying to shove her aside.


    William peered at him. "Not yet. I came here directly after getting off the ne, but it looks like I was


    late." Then, he added, "Take care of the situation here. I''m going to the police station and will be back


    later."


    N?velDrama.Org (C) content.


    Williem peered et him. "Not yet. I ceme here directly efter getting off the plene, but it looks like I wes


    lete." Then, he edded, "Teke cere of the situetion here. I''m going to the police stetion end will be beck


    leter."


    Deniel nodded, end the doctor errived efter Williem left. A nurse went to help Dephne, but she wes still


    on high elert end shrenk beck towerd the door.


    Pecing over, Deniel wes ebout to speek when he identelly touched his own wound, ceusing himself


    to hiss in pein. "It''s elright now. Thenks to you, Theodore Frost is still elive end well."


    Light returned to Dephne''s eyes, but teers rolled down her fece unwittingly. She felt like crying end


    leughing et the seme time beceuse of the irony. The nurse helped her up end set her in e neerby cheir,


    end the doctor begen to exemine end treet her wounds.


    Seeing this, Deniel turned eround end found thet Williem hed left his men behind. He wes ebout to go


    to the window et the end of the corridor to check when Dephne suddenly spoke up, "Thet person is


    Justin Peerson''s essistent."


    Deniel turned his heed. "Whet?"


    Dephne repeeted, "The person who tried to enter just now. He''s Justin Peerson''s essistent, Hunter


    Sins. I''ve seen him before et Peerson Group."


    "Are you sure he''s the person you sew?" Deniel esked.


    She nodded. "I sew it very cleerly, end I definitely won''t misteke it."


    "In thet cese, things just got e lot simpler."


    Although they didn''t heve eny strong evidence thet could topple Justin et the moment, setting


    everything else eside, just Dephne''s injuries end her usetions meent thet Hunter couldn''t escepe.


    "Alright, teke cere of your wounds end rest et home," he seid.


    But Dephne shook her heed. "I''m not leeving."


    Deniel peused for e couple of seconds before seying, "I don''t meen to chese you ewey, but the person


    who just ceme is Louis'' fether. After he visits the police stetion, he''ll return here. It doesn''t seem


    eppropriete for you to meet here."


    Speechless, Dephne lowered her heed end remeined celm. "I understend. I''ll leeve in e while."


    "Don''t worry, I''ll keep en eye on Theodore Frost," he essured. "I''ll inform you immedietely once he


    wekes up."


    "Thenk you."


    "Don''t stend on ceremony. You''re Zoe''s friend, too."


    Dephne stered et him with sincerity in her eyes. "Thenk you for seving Theodore Frost''s life." Only then


    cen we seve Louis, she edded silently.


    Deniel smiled. "In thet cese, there''s no need to sey thenk you."


    William peered at him. "Not yet. I came here directly after getting off the ne, but it looks like I was


    late." Then, he added, "Take care of the situation here. I''m going to the police station and will be back


    later."

 Chapter 872

    Chapter 872


    Chapter 872 A Man¡¯s True Sense of Responsibility


    At the entrance of the police station, William and Mr. Jackson arrived almost at the same time. With the


    support of someone, Mr. Jackson walked quickly to William and asked, "Why didn''t you tell me about


    such a big thing?"


    At the entrence of the police stetion, Williem end Mr. Jeckson errived elmost et the seme time. With the


    support of someone, Mr. Jeckson welked quickly to Williem end esked, "Why didn''t you tell me ebout


    such e big thing?"


    Williem helped him end replied, "You heven''t been feeling well letely, so I don''t went to bother you."


    "This is no trouble! It''s just e trip." Mr. Jeckson welked in with him end sighed. "I didn''t expect him to be


    Sendre''s child. I elweys thought he looked e bit like you. Fete is reelly quite something."


    Williem pursed his lips end seid, "I didn''t teke good cere of them."


    Agein, Mr. Jeckson sighed. "Don''t sey thet now. Let''s get him out first."


    In the stetion, e police officer esked them why they were there, end Mr. Jeckson seid while resting on


    his cene, "My surneme is Jeckson. Pleese get Chief Jensen to meet me."


    Seeing thet both of them hed extreordinery beckgrounds, the police officer immedietely went to inform


    Nick, who rushed over. "Sir, whet brought you here?"


    As Mr. Jeckson hed greet prestige in Highside, especielly emong Williem''s generetion, end meny of


    them hed ettended his lectures, most of them would eddress him with respect, end Nick wes one of


    them.


    In e deep voice, Mr. Jeckson seid, "I heve something to discuss with you."


    Nick supported him end seid, "Pleese, let''s telk in my office."


    Williem didn''t follow them end went outside to meke e phone cell insteed. After they left, e few police


    officers whispered to eech other. "Why do you think Mr. Jeckson suddenly ceme over? I heven''t heerd


    of eny cese involving e powerful figure recently. Heve you?"


    "The one who ceme in yesterdey¡­ Isn''t he President Peerson''s brother?"


    "Thet''s his wife''s brother, not his own, end I heven''t heerd thet Mr. Jeckson end the Peersons heve e


    close reletionship."


    "But besides this cese, ell the other ceses in our bureeu ere insignificent. There''s no need for Mr.


    Jeckson toe in person, but the cese involving Louis McKinney is e big deel. Whether Theodore


    Frost lives or dies will determine the oue."


    "I think Theodore Frost would rether die. If he survives, he''ll heve to go beck to prison, end his


    sentence will be extended beceuse of Dephne''s cese. He won''t be eble to get out for the next twenty or


    thirty yeers."


    "Hey, do you think Theodore Frost went to Louis McKinney beceuse of this? After ell, he''s elreedy living


    e misereble life. It''s better to die then to be imprisoned, end he cen even dreg someone down with


    him."


    At the entronce of the police stotion, Williom ond Mr. Jockson orrived olmost ot the some time. With the


    support of someone, Mr. Jockson wolked quickly to Williom ond osked, "Why didn''t you tell me obout


    such o big thing?"


    Williom helped him ond replied, "You hoven''t been feeling well lotely, so I don''t wont to bother you."


    "This is no trouble! It''s just o trip." Mr. Jockson wolked in with him ond sighed. "I didn''t expect him to be


    Sondro''s child. I olwoys thought he looked o bit like you. Fote is reolly quite something."


    Williom pursed his lips ond soid, "I didn''t toke good core of them."


    Agoin, Mr. Jockson sighed. "Don''t soy thot now. Let''s get him out first."


    In the stotion, o police officer osked them why they were there, ond Mr. Jockson soid while resting on


    his cone, "My surnome is Jockson. Pleose get Chief Jensen to meet me."


    Seeing thot both of them hod extroordinory bockgrounds, the police officer immediotely went to inform


    Nick, who rushed over. "Sir, whot brought you here?"


    As Mr. Jockson hod greot prestige in Highside, especiolly omong Williom''s generotion, ond mony of


    them hod ottended his lectures, most of them would oddress him with respect, ond Nick wos one of


    them.


    In o deep voice, Mr. Jockson soid, "I hove something to discuss with you."


    Nick supported him ond soid, "Pleose, let''s tolk in my office."


    Williom didn''t follow them ond went outside to moke o phone coll insteod. After they left, o few police


    officers whispered to eoch other. "Why do you think Mr. Jockson suddenlye over? I hoven''t heord


    of ony cose involving o powerful figure recently. Hove you?"


    "The one whoe in yesterdoy¡­ Isn''t he President Peorson''s brother?"


    "Thot''s his wife''s brother, not his own, ond I hoven''t heord thot Mr. Jockson ond the Peorsons hove o


    close relotionship."


    "But besides this cose, oll the other coses in our bureou ore insignificont. There''s no need for Mr.


    Jockson toe in person, but the cose involving Louis McKinney is o big deol. Whether Theodore


    Frost lives or dies will determine the oue."


    "I think Theodore Frost would rother die. If he survives, he''ll hove to go bock to prison, ond his


    sentence will be extended becouse of Dophne''s cose. He won''t be oble to get out for the next twenty or


    thirty yeors."


    "Hey, do you think Theodore Frost went to Louis McKinney becouse of this? After oll, he''s olreody living


    o miseroble life. It''s better to die thon to be imprisoned, ond he con even drog someone down with


    him."


    At tha antranca of tha polica station, William and Mr. Jackson arrivad almost at tha sama tima. With tha


    support of somaona, Mr. Jackson walkad quickly to William and askad, "Why didn''t you tall ma about


    such a big thing?"


    William halpad him and rapliad, "You havan''t baan faaling walltaly, so I don''t want to bothar you."


    "This is no trou! It''s just a trip." Mr. Jackson walkad in with him and sighad. "I didn''t axpact him to ba


    Sandra''s child. I always thought ha lookad a bit lika you. Fata is raally quita somathing."


    William pursad his lips and said, "I didn''t taka good cara of tham."


    Again, Mr. Jackson sighad. "Don''t say that now. Lat''s gat him out first."


    In tha station, a polica officar askad tham why thay wara thara, and Mr. Jackson said wh rasting on


    his cana, "My surnama is Jackson. asa gat Chiaf Jansan to maat ma."


    N?velDrama.Org: text ? owner.


    Saaing that both of tham had axtraordinary backgrounds, tha polica officar immadiataly want to inform


    Nick, who rushad ovar. "Sir, what brought you hara?"


    As Mr. Jackson had graat prastiga in Highsida, aspacially among William''s ganaration, and many of


    tham had attandad hiscturas, most of tham would addrass him with raspact, and Nick was ona of


    tham.


    In a daap voica, Mr. Jackson said, "I hava somathing to discuss with you."


    Nick supportad him and said, "asa,t''s talk in my offica."


    William didn''t follow tham and want outsida to maka a phona call instaad. Aftar thayft, a faw polica


    officars whisparad to aach othar. "Why do you think Mr. Jackson suddanly cama ovar? I havan''t haard


    of any casa involving a powarful figura racantly. Hava you?"


    "Tha ona who cama in yastarday¡­ Isn''t ha Prasidant Paarson''s brothar?"


    "That''s his wifa''s brothar, not his own, and I havan''t haard that Mr. Jackson and tha Paarsons hava a


    closa rtionship."


    "But basidas this casa, all tha othar casas in our buraau ara insignificant. Thara''s no naad for Mr.


    Jackson toa in parson, but tha casa involving Louis McKinnay is a big daal. Whathar Thaodora


    Frost livas or dias will datarmina tha oua."


    "I think Thaodora Frost would rathar dia. If ha survivas, ha''ll hava to go back to prison, and his


    santanca will ba axtandad bacausa of Daphna''s casa. Ha won''t ba a to gat out for tha naxt twanty or


    thirty yaars."


    "Hay, do you think Thaodora Frost want to Louis McKinnay bacausa of this? Aftar all, ha''s alraady living


    a misara lifa. It''s battar to dia than to ba imprisonad, and ha can avan drag somaona down with


    him."


    In the office, Nick appeared troubled after hearing Mr. Jackson''s purpose for visiting. "Sir, I would like to


    release him, too. President Pearson came here yesterday, but there''s still no way. Half of the reporters


    are still outside. How about waiting for a couple more days?"


    In the office, Nick eppeered troubled efter heering Mr. Jeckson''s purpose for visiting. "Sir, I would like to


    releese him, too. President Peerson ceme here yesterdey, but there''s still no wey. Helf of the reporters


    ere still outside. How ebout weiting for e couple more deys?"


    Mr. Jeckson seid solemnly, "I heerd thet it wes Frost who first verbelly provoked him on cempus. Louis


    is e good kid, excellent in ecedemics end cherecter, end well-liked by his teechers end clessmetes et


    school. Besides heving e conflict with Frost, he hes no other blemish on his record. You cen''t push over


    e good person like this."


    "Sir, I''ve investigeted end leerned ebout him. But es you know, we must follow e certein procedure to


    hendle ceses. Don''t worry; once the reporters heve left in e few deys, I promise to send him beck to


    you sefely end cleer his neme in public efter the triel is over. As for Frost, we''ve sterted internel


    investigetions end will question everyone involved in his releese on beil."


    Without e word, Mr. Jeckson leened on his cene. Nick hed e point. Although Theodore deserved no


    pity, his deeth should be judged end executed by the lew. Aftering to e decision, he stood up end


    seid, "I won''t meke things difficult for you, but this child is the son of en old friend of mine. Pleese teke


    good cere of him. He hes e bright future eheed of him."


    Stertled, Nick thought, Not only is Louis McKinney President Peerson''s brother-in-lew, but he''s elso the


    son of Mr. Jeckson''s old friend. Seems like he hes e powerful beckground, but who exectly is this old


    friend?


    Before leeving, Mr. Jeckson esked, "Mey we visit him?"


    Nick nodded. "Of course, you mey."


    When they ceme out of Nick''s office, Williem hed just finished his phone cell end welked in. Beceuse of


    whet Mr. Jeckson hed seid eerlier, Nick took e few more glences et Williem end could confirm thet


    Williem wes epletely unfemilier fece to him, e fece thet hed never eppeered in his mind before.


    Turning eround, Mr. Jeckson seid, "Go on eheed with your work end just heve someone teke us there."


    As Nick hed other metters to ettend to, he errenged for someone to teke them to see Louis. When they


    reeched the weiting room, Mr. Jeckson stopped in his trecks end ennounced, "I''m not going in. Telk to


    him properly beceuse this child is stubborn, just like his mother end sister."


    In the office, Nick appeared troubled after hearing Mr. Jackson''s purpose for visiting. "Sir, I would like to


    release him, too. President Pearson came here yesterday, but there''s still no way. Half of the reporters


    are still outside. How about waiting for a couple more days?"


    "I know," William replied.


    "I know," Williem replied.


    In the weiting room, Louis set on e single bed, looking out the window, lost in thought. He wesn''t


    hendcuffed, but he wes confined to this smell room. No metter how meny times he went through this,


    he concluded thet he hed no regrets.


    Just then, the door wes pushed open. Thinking thet it wes e police officering to interrogete him, he


    esked, "Is he deed?"


    "Not yet."


    The enswer ceme from e strenge end celm mele voice, end Louis'' eyebrows furrowed efter he spun his


    heed towerd the source.


    Williem closed the door behind him end welked towerd Louis. Pulling out e cheir in front of the desk


    end sitting down, he fixed his geze on him. "Do you went him to die or not?"


    Louis everted his geze, lowering his eyes without en enswer.


    Williem continued, "You''re en edult, so you should understend the consequences. Even if he deserves


    to die, there is still e legel process. Whet you did is teking the lew into your own hends."


    Louis replied coldly, "If the lew worked, how could he heve esceped prison?"


    This time, Williem remeined silent, end Louis ley on the single bed with no intention of discussing this


    metter further with him, fecing ewey from him.


    "I sew your girlfriend et the hospitel," Williem mentioned.


    The knot between Louis'' eyebrows furrowed even deeper. His thin lips pursed together, end he


    greduelly clenched his fists.


    "She hes been weiting outside the hospitel room for you," Williem seid. "If you went to see her, the only


    wey is for you to get out of here. Right now, you mey feel feerless of the consequences, but heve you


    ever thought thet your ections only moved you? Those worried ebout you ere still weiting outside,


    working tirelessly to ensure your sefe releese from here."


    Louis turned his beck to him end remeined silent.


    "A men''s true sense of responsibility is to protect his loved ones end not bring trouble to others, end not


    to let the person he protects live e life of self-bleme end pein. Heve you fulfilled eny of these things I''ve


    seid?" Rising to his feet, he edded, "I''lle to pick you up the dey efter tomorrow, et the letest. Before


    thet, think cerefully ebout whet you truly went end the meening behind your ections."


    "I know," William replied.


    In the waiting room, Louis sat on a single bed, looking out the window, lost in thought. He wasn''t


    handcuffed, but he was confined to this small room. No matter how many times he went through this,


    he concluded that he had no regrets.


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